The Key to the Golden Firebird, Maureen Johnson

The Key to the Golden Firebird by Maureen Johnson, reviewed by Eleanor

Author: Maureen Johnson's Website

Publisher: HarperCollins Publisher

Buy this book: Amazon uk/Amazon us

Number of pages: 297

What is this book about?

As three teenage sisters struggle to cope with their father's sudden death, they find they must reexamine friendships, lifelong dreams, and their relationships with each other and their father. (goodreads)

Who should read this book?
If you like Sarah Dessen, you'll definitely like Maureen Johnson.

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Would you have tea with the protagonist? Yeah, I guess. Although she's pretty busy holding her family together to do anything for fun.

Would you fall for the main love interest? No, Pete is sweet but a bit too annoying for me.

Would you want to 'strain' the main antagonist? The books I have been reading recently have had a severe lack of obvious antagonists. I'd say May's nemesis is her past. And yes, I would strain it.

Were the characters three dimensional? Yep.

Do you like the authors flavour of writing? It kept me reading so yes.

Was the writing strong or weak? It was an easy read.

Was the ending to your taste? At the very end it was but there were a couple of things that happened towards the end that I didn't really care for.

If this cover were tea, would you drink it? No.

Favourite Quote: "The funny thing about stop signs is that they're also start signs.”

Overall: This is a good read, written in a style similar to Sarah Dessen's novels. I preferred it to '13 Little Blue Envelopes', (the first book I reviewed!) just because I liked May more than Ginny, but they are both great books. I read this fairly quickly, in about a day I think, so it's not a difficult read at all and the ending is nice!

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Unrest, Michelle Harrison

Unrest by Michelle Harrison, reviewed by Eleanor

Author: Michelle Harrison's Website

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK

Buy this book: Amazon uk/Amazon us

Number of pages: 375

What is this book about?

Seventeen-year-old Elliott hasn't slept properly for six months. Not since the accident that nearly killed him. Now he is afraid to go to sleep. Sometimes he wakes to find himself paralysed, unable to move a muscle, while shadowy figures move around him. Other times he is the one moving around, while his body lies asleep on the bed. According to his doctor, sleep paralysis and out of body experiences are harmless - but to Elliot they're terrifying. Convinced that his brush with death has opened up connections with the spirit world, Elliott secures a live-in job at one of England's most haunted locations, determined to find out the truth. (blurb)

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Would you have tea with the protagonist?
No. He's a bit boring to be honest.

Would you want to 'strain' the main antagonist?
There isn't a main antagonist in this book but I would definitely want to strain all the restless ghosts that won't leave Elliott alone as well as overprotective Hodge.

Were the characters three dimensional?
They were.

Do you like the authors flavour of writing?
Yes.

Was the writing strong or weak?
Strong.

Was the ending to your taste?
No, not at all. I really enjoyed the book until the last 15-20%.

If this cover were tea, would you drink it?
No. It's quite a creepy cover.

Overall: I was really really enjoying this book until, as I have mentioned above, I got close to the end and just didn't like where the story was going anymore. The characters were actually great, okay a little boring but I still really liked them, and I thought that the relationships between them were interesting and realistic. I think the main problem for me was that I can read very fantastical books and I can also read very real life books, but this book was a little bit too much 'in between' for my liking. I am not superstitious at all and so, no matter how realistic an out of body experience might feel, I would not ever think that it was anything other than my mind doing crazy things. I started this book in that mind set and so when it became clear that the dreams in this book were in fact something other than just a mind playing tricks, in my eyes it became unbelievable and a little silly. I know that this is a fiction book and so ghosts being real is absolutely fine but, for me, it didn't really work. Saying all that, up until the end I really was hugely enjoying this book and the twist at the end (not the ghost one) was really surprising, which was great, so I would still recommend this if it sounds like your sort of thing.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The One Plus One, Jojo Moyes

The One Plus One by Jojo Moyes, reviewed by Eleanor


Author: www.jojomoyes.com/
Publisher: Penguin
Pages: 516
Buy this book: Amazon uk/Amazon us
What is this book about?

One single mum...With two jobs and two children, Jess Thomas does her best day after day. But it's hard on your own. And sometimes you take risks you shouldn't because you have to. One chaotic family...Jess's gifted, quirky daughter Tanzie is brilliant with numbers, but without a helping hand she'll never get the chance to shine. And Nicky, Jess's teenage stepson, can't fight the bullies alone.
Sometimes Jess feels like they're sinking. One handsome stranger...Into their lives comes Ed Nicholls, a man whose life is in chaos, and who is running from a deeply uncertain future. But he has time on his hands. He knows what it's like to be lonely. And he wants to help...One unexpected love story. (goodreads)

Who should read this book? If you've enjoyed other books by Jojo Moyes, this is yet another brilliant one.

Star Rating: 3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Nicky. He's a really interesting character that you don't get to learn all that much about. Also, he starts to blog in the book. And I blog. Crazy.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Marty. He doesn't help to support his children at all, leaving Jess working constantly to hold the three of them up despite the fact that Nicky isn't even biologically hers.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I really like hand drawn covers and this one is so beautiful.

Question 4. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twists in the plot?
Saying that the ending wasn't predictable would be a lie however, this did not detract from the enjoyability factor of the novel.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“Everyone I've ever met who was worth knowing was a bit different at school. You just need to find your people'
'Find my people?'
'Your tribe”

Overall: I read this on the way home from Portugal and it was a really good book for a plane. It didn't cause me to sit and sob my heart out, provoking air hostesses to ask if I was okay, nor did it make me laugh out loud so loud that the other passengers looked at me funny. But, it did make me smile a huge amount. The plot was twisty enough to keep you reading but predictable enough that you reach the end feeling satisfied. This book isn't quite Jojo Moyes' 'Me Before You', which is quite possibly my absolute favourite book, but it is still an enjoyable read and I loved the characters dearly.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Comeback Season, Jennifer E Smith

The Comeback Season by Jennifer E Smith reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?

The last place Ryan Walsh should be this afternoon is on a train heading to Wrigley Field. She should be in class, enduring yet another miserable day of her first year of high school. But for once, Ryan isn't thinking about what she should be doing. She's not worried about her lack of friends, or her suffering math grade, or how it's been five whole years since the last time she was really and truly happy. Because she's finally returning to the place that her father loved, where the two of them spent so many afternoons cheering on their team. And on this -- the fifth anniversary of his death -- it feels like there's nowhere else in the world she should be. And of course, a boy is involved.

Who should read this book?

Anyone who has previously loved the work of Jennifer E Smith, or is a big fan of the Cubs. Sarah Dessen fans will love the work of Jennifer E.Smith

How long is this book?
256 pages, quite a short book.

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyablilty: 3/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Ryan was a really interesting character to read about. Like most teen novels she came with her own big bag of problems. However usually as the reader, you feel you know a lot about your protagonist and she's just closed off with the people they interact with. For some reason I almost felt like Smith created a character who was closed off from everyone including the reader. I'd quite like to have tea with Ryan just to get to her open up.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Sydney. She may become a "better" person but she annoyed me for the large majority of the book and I don't let go of my grudges that quickly.


Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
For a photo cover, I'm tempted to say I like this cover. It's actually really sweet. Smith doesn't have me converted that easily though.


Question 4. What do you think of the title?

 I really like the title "The Comeback Season," and obviously it has a double meaning in the book which I like. It's not as good as "The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight," but to be fair to Smith I think that's my favourite book title of all time.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
“Hi,' he says.
'Hi,' she says back, and then to her great surprise, she begins to cry.
'You know,' Nick says as he hands her a tissue from the bedside table,' for all this talk about how you don't cry, you sure are sprouting a lot of water.”
Overall: For a really, really simple book I didn't quite get the ending. If what I think is happening, what Smith seems to suggest, I'm not a very happy young lady. However, Smith's writing is again one of my favourite things to read and reminds me most of what I love about 3rd person writing. I am getting so excited about "This Is What Happy Looks Like." Only another month to go! (At time of writing- March 2nd)

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Underworld, Jessica Sorenson

The Underworld (Fallen Star, #2) by Jessica Sorenson, reviewed by Bronte

Warning, this book may contain spoilers of the first book.

The Fallen Star

What is this book about?
Gemma thought her mind was gone, but she was wrong. And now she is left trying to figure out the truth to what Stephan is planning to do with her and the star, before it's too late. But finding out the truth is hard, especially since Gemma doesn't know who she can trust. There may be only one person who Gemma can turn to for answers, but that means having to go to the one place no one wants to go-The Underworld.

Who should read this book?
If you read The Fallen Star and enjoyed it. It is a fantasy book for young adults.

How long is this book?
390 pages, an average sized book.

Marks:
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyablilty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character has remained the same pot of tea?
I think that Gemma is still a very naïve person that can't see things that are balancing on the end of her nose. However I like the fact that she is more of a stronger heroin and starts to think that people can't push her around like in The Fallen Star so voices her opinion more often, which I like.

Question 2. Which character has a whole new flavour?
Alex is quite different in that he finally starts treating people with the respect that he didn't give them in the first book. You also find out more of his past with Gemma so you start to feel sorry for him. I also have to put Lalyan in the equation as you see a lot more of him and his character in this book.

Question 3. Which characters would have the most awkward conversation whilst drinking tea?
Probably Stephan and Alex because they are father and son, but completely different and would have a really awkward conversation for reasons that you have to read the book to find out.

Question 4. What book would you prefer to read while drinking tea?
Umm, I'm not sure because I still haven't decided if I hate this series or love it! However there has to be something that is keeping me coming back to read some more!

Question 5. Favourite quote!
'Everyone will hurt you if you let them in'

Overall: Like I said, I still don't know if I love this series or hate it, but I am currently reading the 3rd so there has to be something that I like. I think that the characters are a lot more, alive? In the sense that you find out more about them and they are more expressive so you feel for them more. However there are things that are so plainly obvious to me that I would have thought anyone would be able to solve the mystery, that isn't so mysterious. Saying that, this book had a lot more twists and turns that I didn't guess than the first book.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Slated, Teri Terry

Slated by Teri Terry, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Kyla's memory has been erased, her personality wiped blank, her memories lost for ever. She's been Slated.
The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance -as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla's mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth? (blurb)

Who should read this book?
Young Adult, dystopian

How long is this book?
439 pages, fairly long

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Ben, he's so sweet (even if he did really annoy me in some places of the book!)

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Kyla's 'Mum'. She's so cold towards Kyla at the beginning and it's mean.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's okay although you can see all of the person's face which I don't like on covers.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
Slated is a good title, it's simple.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"It is one thing to ask questions; what do you do with the answers?"

Overall: This book was good, really good. The main character is smart, she worked things out before I did which made the book quite unpredictable, I had no idea where it would go next and this was definitely a good thing. The story line kept me wanting to read on and on and on. The only thing that annoyed me was that I was left with a lot of questions and barely any answers. I know there’s a sequel but the amount of unanswered questions made the book quite confusing in a lot of places, especially at the end where I had little idea what was going on. But I enjoyed this book a lot and definitely recommend it!

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Fallen Star, Jessica Sorensen

The Fallen Star (Fallen Star #1) by Jessica Sorensen, reviewed by Bronte

What is this book about?

For eighteen year-old Gemma, life has never been normal. Up until recently, she has been incapable of feeling emotion. And when she's around Alex, the gorgeous new guy at school, she can feel electricity that makes her skin buzz. Not to mention the monsters that haunt her nightmares have crossed over into real-life. But with Alex seeming to hate her and secrets popping up everywhere, Gemma's life is turning into a chaotic mess. Things that shouldn't be real suddenly seem to exist. And as her world falls apart, figuring out the secrets of her past becomes a matter of life and death.

Who should read this book?

I think anyone 12+ can read this book and enjoy it. I think anyone over 20 would find it a little unrealistic, but then it is fantasy. But even for a fantasy book sometimes I still found my self saying 'reeeaally?'

How long is this book?
449 pages, an average size

Marks:
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Laylen! Because he seemed lovely for the small part of the book that he was in, I wish he was in more. He probably has a lot of interesting stories to tell and he is really funny. However I don't think he drinks tea because he is a vampire.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Well the obvious answer here is Stephan because of who he is, what he is planning and what he does. However I have to consider Sophia and Marco because although they were protecting Gemma, who could possible just blank out someone for 14 years! But then there is Alex who's personality changes like the wind, and he is often mean to Gemma for no reason other than the fact she doesn't understand. I'm pretty undecided on this question.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I think the cover is really cool. How its all white and then the startling violet colour of her eye is boldly put in the centre.

 Question 4a. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twist in the plot?
To be perfectly honest I figured out what was going on quite early in the book, I often questioned how naïve Gemma could get; but maybe if I was in the situation I would struggle to see what was, quite frankly, under her nose. Or maybe I'm just super duper clever in solving the puzzle. Comments to anyone who has read the book, did you figure it out, or am I a detective in the making?

Question 5. Favourite quote!

'I was in love with the lyrics, the rhythm, and the way it could sweep me away to another world.'

Overall: Overall I enjoyed this book. I mean yes, I practically figured it out quite early on and with more and more facts coming out throughout I had to question realistically if Gemma seriously could not see what was happening. However I thought this book was different and the characters well thought out. I would have like to see more of Aislin and Laylen because I liked them. I can see why people would dislike this book, but I can also see how for some people this book is the bee's knees. For me its neither, but I will be reading the sequel.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

All These Things I've Done, Gabrielle Zevin

All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
In 2083, chocolate and coffee are illegal, paper is hard to find, water is carefully rationed, and New York City is rife with crime and poverty. And yet, for Anya Balanchine, the sixteen-year-old daughter of the city's most notorious (and dead) crime boss, life is fairly routine. That is until her ex is accidentally poisoned by the chocolate her family manufactures and the police think she's to blame. Suddenly, Anya finds herself thrust unwillingly into the spotlight -at school, in the news and, most importantly, within her mafia family. (goodreads.com)

Who should read this book?
12+, YA dystopian, romance

How long is this book?
351 pages

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Anya's Nana because she was born in 1995 and I was born a year later and that's kinda cool (this book is set in 2082/3)


Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Mr Delacroix. I know he has his reasons for not wanting Anya and Win to be together but I would still throw tea at him because they're a cute couple!

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I'm not so sure about the front cover of the edition I read but I do love the cover of another edition so I'm putting a picture of that up instead.

Question 4. What do you think of the title? Do you think there is an alternative?
I like the title. It's quite catchy after a while and suits the book.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"Should have. Would have. Could have. Didn't."

Overall: I loved the main characters in this book, Anya is a likable protagonist, her older brother, Leo, is so sweet and her younger sister, Natty, is pretty cute. And then there's Win. Although he's no Jace Wayland, I did like his character too. The problem for me was that I found the romance to be rather rushed. One day Anya's not interested in Win, the next she's really not interested in him and then the next she's suddenly kissing him. Hmmm. Also, the book is written as though Anya is writing her life down for the reader (e.g. "N.B. This is foreshadowing, dear readers...") however when she has time for this/why she's doing it is not explained and so I'm not sure if this really worked. Maybe it shall all become clear in the sequel though, which I'll definitely be reading on its release!

This summer I seem to have given rather a lot of 3 stars out in my reviews. Any recommendations for books I'd be able to like enough to give 4 or even 5 stars to?

Revolution, Jennifer Donnelly

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Andi lives in present-day New York and is dealing with the aftermath of her brother's accidental death.
Alexandrine lives in Paris and is desperately trying to save a young boy from the ravages of the French Revolution.
Their paths collide as Andi unlocks a route to the past which might just hold the key to reconciling herself to her own history -and her future blurb

Who should read this book?
14+ historical fiction novel

How long is this book?
471 pages

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Virgil, I want him to sing to me like he sings to Andi

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Louis XVI's cousin -the Duke of Orléans, just because (am I allowed to say that, seem as he was a real person and all?!!!)

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's a nice cover I like how it's mysterious at first until you learn about where this key came from. (I also love the little sparrow on the back cover!)

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I don't think the title is all that great, although the novel is based on the French Revolution I still don't think it really fits.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"When you can write music that endures, bravo. Until then, keep quiet and study the work of those who can"

Overall: This book took me quite a long time to read and this wasn't at all because it wasn't good but just because I could tell how much research had been put into the book and I was determined not to skim over a single detail of it. The book is engaging and although I don't know much about the music the character's in the book like so much, it doesn't matter because Andi's love for music is so strong that I forgot I'd never properly heard any of the songs! The story line is well put together and the 'twist' at the end is good. I haven't given this book any more than 13 out of 20 because it was quite hard to read, however I really like Donnelly's style of writing and definitely recommend this book along with one of the author's other novels, A Gathering Light (A Northern Light)

Did you enjoy this book?

My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece, Annabel Pitcher

My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece by Annabel Pitcher, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Ten-year-old Jamie hasn't cried since it happened. He knows he should have - Jasmine cried, Mum cried, Dad still cries. Roger didn't, but then he is just a cat and didn't know Rose that well, really.
Five years on, it's worse than ever: Dad drinks, Mum's gone and Jamie's left with questions that he must answer for himself. blurb

Who should read this book?
This book can be read by children as well as adults because, despite a quite grown up theme, it is funny and relatable to readers who are just entering the YA bracket.

How long is this book?
221 pages, a fairly short book

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyability: 3/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. Which character would you most likely to have tea with?
Sunya was definitely my favourite character. It's always nice when you find a child (even if she's fictional) who doesn't care what others think of her.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Probably Jamie's Mum, although I can't say why because I don't want to ruin the plot.


Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I quite like the cover of this book on the edition that I read. I like the drawing of the girl, even though I'm not exactly sure what she is supposed to represent (I'm guessing the dead sister, Rose, but I'm not certain) And I like that the title and cover fit nicely together.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I really like long titles (just as I like one-worded titles) and so love this one. It really does make you stop and pick it off the shelf, simply because the title is so different and eye catching.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
“In fact she was quite bad and according to Jas she was naughty at school, but no one seems to remember that now she is all dead and perfect.”

Overall: I enjoyed this book because it was something a bit different. The narrator is lovable and explains things in a way that really emphasises his feelings towards what is taking place in the novel. The book is emotional and brings up some quite controversial themes yet it will be able to reach a much younger audience, which just adds to the cleverness of the book.

What did you think of this book? What's your book blog called? (If you have one!)

Breathe, Sarah Crossan

Breathe by Sarah Crossan, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Oxygen levels have fallen due to deforestation and now, years later, people live in the Pod; a huge structure which has oxygen pumped into it. Society is divided into Premiums, who can afford enough oxygen to live a normal life, and Auxiliaries who can barely breathe each day.

Three teenagers end up outside of the Pod with only two days worth of air. Outside, they begin to wonder if their government back home has been telling the complete truth...

Who should read this book?
This is a young adult book, for anyone who enjoys dystopian/vaguely post-apocalyptic novels

How long is this book?
372 pages

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
I'd say Jazz, she's a nine year old girl in the rebel group and her outlook on life is pretty amusing so it would be quite funny having a cup of tea with her, I think.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Quinn because it's so obvious that his best friend likes him yet he fails to notice. Pffft, boys.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I like the colours on the cover because purple is my favourite colour, it's quite an eye catching picture and it looks very science fiction.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I really like titles that are one word long so I think Breathe is a really good title. And it makes sense that the book would be called this with the low oxygen levels outside, etc...

Question 5. Favourite quote!
 "I cough and cough and before long the cough turns into panicked pants. I'll die here."

Overall: I sometimes find that characters in dystopian books can be quite unlikeable and boring but I really liked the characters in this book. Alina, Quinn and Bea were all interesting to read about, which made the book a lot more enjoyable. Although I wouldn't say this is my favourite dystopian book, the plot is exciting and fast paced and it's worth reading.

What did you think of this book? What should we review next?

Stolen: A Letter to my Captor, Lucy Christopher

Stolen: A Letter to my Captor by Lucy Christopher, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
It happened like this. 
I was stolen from an airport. 
Taken from everything I knew, everything I was used to. 
Taken to sand and heat, dirt and danger. 
And he expected me to love him. 
This is my story. 
A letter from nowhere. –the blurb

Who should read this book?
This is a YA book.

How long is this book?
301 pages

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

There isn't a character in this book that I would like to have tea with and this is just because there are only really two characters we get to know throughout the book. While Gemma is a great character and I admire her strength (in her situation I’m pretty sure I would just break down and cry all of the time) I don’t think I really want to sit down and have tea with her because there isn't really anything that interesting about her.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

It’s obvious to anyone who has already read this book that Ty really needs someone to throw a lot of tea at him. Fine, I get that he has his reasons for kidnapping Gemma and everything but I seriously do not get how taking a sixteen year old girl could be right in any way. I’m a sixteen year old girl and just the thought terrifies me.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

Hmm, I’m not too sure about the cover of the edition that I read. The butterfly is pretty but it’s nothing particularly special or eye catching.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I think Stolen is actually quite a good title for this book. It fits what the book is about and works well for the story.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“How long will you keep me?” I asked.

You shrugged. “Forever, of course.”

Overall: I had my last GCSE exam earlier today and so I got this book out of the library as a beginning to a summer of lots and lots of reading (I also borrowed Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman, as this is another book I have been planning on reading for a long time) After starting the book, I literally did not stop reading it until I had reached the end. The whole book is one long letter from the main character, Gemma, to her captor and as I don’t normally pick up books written in letter format I was surprised at how engaging this book was. Although the story line becomes a bit slow at times, the book is not divided into chapters and this makes it extremely fast paced. I had to keep reading in order to reach the end and find out how Gemma would end her letter because I was just as conflicted as she was about Ty. I really recommend this book just because it’s different and so unlike all the books I read at the moment.

Do you have any requests for reviews? And are there any books you highly recommend? 

Dying to Know You, Aidan Chambers

Dying to Know You by Aidan Chambers reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?
Karl, aged seventeen, is hopelessly in love. But the object of his affections, Fiorella, demands proof, and poses him a series of questions regarding his attitude to the many sides of love. But Karl is dyslexic, and convinced that if Fiorella finds out, she will think he is stupid, and unworthy of her, and leave him.

So Karl asks a local writer to help him construct his replies - and an unlikely, but extremely touching, friendship develops between the two men. They both come to learn a great deal about about life from a very different perspective, and when an act of violence shatters their calm, they find their respective appraisal of life shifting in profound ways (Goodreads)

Who should read this book?
I found it in the "Teen Fiction" section of the Waterstones I was in however I think adults could read this book as well.

How long is this book?
288 pages

Marks
Story Line:  7/10
Well written:  4/5
Enjoyablilty:  3/5
Overall:   14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Karl. Mostly because he's such a sweetheart in the books and I just want to hug him whenever he says anything.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

Fiorella. My gosh this girl bugs me for the entirity of the novel. I think Chambers wants me to find her annoying but her character hit a really raw nerve with me, mostly becuse she reminded me of me at my most annoying and pretentious.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I did not get it at first, but one your half way through the novel you realise why the cover s important and relevant. I like how simple it is, and it caught my eye among the jungle of books in the teen section.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?

I may be wrong but I think this is a Fiorella quote (Dying to Know You) which puts me off it a bit. It makes sense, but I think something to do with art would have been more appropriate and different to other books.

Question 5. Favourite quote! 

"You remember that experiment with iron filings and a magnet the science teacher did at school when you were of an age still easy to amaze? You remember the iron filings, which where scattered like a mess of dust on a sheet of paper suddenly formed into clean strong patterns when the magnet was placed in the middle of the mess...?

Overall: I really enjoyed this book, the writing was beautiful. However I felt like the climax came a bit early and from there on out it was just a downwards spiral. Not to say this book wasn't enjoyable, it was. However I much preferred Chambers work in "This Is All: The Pillow Book Of Cordelia Kenn," which is truly one of the most beautiful pieces of writing I have ever had the fortune of reading.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Why We Broke Up, Daniel Handler

Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?
This book is the story of Ed and Min who fell in love and then broke up. But why did they break up? Min leaves Ed a box of artifacts from their relationship, and meanwhile tells us the story of their break up.

Who should read this book?
Anyone, though I'd say it was a 12+.

How long is this book?
About 350 pages, but the writing is big and there are pictures so it's not a long book.

Marks
Story Line:  7/10
Well written:  4/5
Enjoyablilty:  3/5
Overall:  14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Min is so smart and witty. She's that girl you read about and wish you were because most of her one liners are hilarious. Plus she knows exactly the best way to get revenge on a boy. It may seem slightly melodramatic to give a boy a box of their relationship, but I wish I had the balls to do it, don't you?

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Annette. She's a horrible, catty bitch. Is that bad? I think this blog is supposed to be a bit PG, but you have no idea how much I hate her.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's really nice. I like drawings on the cover. Plus it's not a photo on the cover. THREE CHEERS FOR DAVID AND MOIRA.

Question 4. What do you think of the title?
I like Why We Broke Up, as it's (obviously) a theme repeated throughout the book which I like, though it does constantly remind you that these two are not getting back together which I think is sad because at the beginning you love them as a couple. She's obviously been taking some lessons from Taylor Swift haha.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
“I'm telling you why we broke up, Ed. I'm writing this letter, the whole truth of why it happened. And the truth is that I goddamn loved you so much.” 

Overall: 
I loved David Handler's writing, the short, snappy sentences reminding me a bit of John Green in Looking for Alaska. I thought the pictures really did add something quite special to the book, and added to the experience, especially since I haven't had pictures in a book for awhile. The ending wasn't quite as tied together as I would have liked, or wasn't quite as neat as normal Young Adult. It didn't have any wow factor for me, but I definitely liked the writing style.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld, reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?

In this futuristic world, at the age of 16 everyone is made pretty. This means that everything is equal, which results in no more wars, arguments or unhappiness. The world of the Pretties is perfect. Tally can't wait. But her friend, Shay, realises that the operation doesn't just make you Pretty, and she would rather escape to somewhere you stay individual. Tally is given a choice, either find her friend and turn her into the "police," or never turn Pretty at all.

Who should read this book?

Like so many dystopian novels, Uglies is aimed at teenagers. Yet, like dystopians, Uglies isn't rude and contains no swearing but has a plot which can be enjoyed (and admired) by adults.

How long is this book?

425 pages an average to long book.

Marks

Story Line:   8/10
Well written:    3/5
Enjoyability:   3/5
Overall:  14/20

Star Rating: 3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Definitely Dr Cable. I mean, it would be the most terrifying experience of my life, yet she's so evil in a totally awe inspiring way. You get the feeling, she truly believes she is doing the right thing as well which is interesting and a brilliant development by Westerfeld.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

Tally. While screaming, "GET SOME PERSONALITY PLEASE." Westerfeld created such awesome characters in David and Shay that Tally sort of faded into the background, when it was her story. I hope her character is developed for the rest of the books

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I think it's eye-catching. I want to hug Westerfeld that he didn't put a photo on the front. I'm sorry, I just don't deal well with photos on covers. It bothers me way too much. ANYWAY, Westerfeld appeased me with this cover and I'm a big fan.

Question 4. What do you think of the title?

I like the title. It's short and to the point, and sets him up for the next three in the series. Yet I think the competition of dystopion novels is fierce and for me titles such as, "Divergent," and "The Hunger Games," just make me slightly more interested.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

"What you do, the way you think, makes you beautiful."

Overall:

I cannot fault Westerfeld in the originality of his ideas. As an aspiring authors of sorts the idea behind this book made me seething with envy, and green is not my colour. Lovers of dystopian will adore this book with every fibre of their being. I, as I've made very clear, am not the biggest dystopian fan, and as I often find, I thought the main character was underdeveloped. However, Westerfeld managed to make this better by having very interesting secondary characters. If you love dystopian, read this book, and even if you don't, I'd say read it. It makes you realise the importance of the complete originality of your being.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Fracture, Megan Miranda

Fracture by Megan Miranda, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?

Delaney Maxwell falls through the ice on a frozen lake, and is underwater for eleven minutes before being pulled out. Her heart stops beating, her brain stops working. She's clinically dead. Yet she wakes up.

Although everyone wants Delaney to be okay, she knows that she is no longer normal -as she finds herself drawn to those who are dying. But is her altered brain now predicting death, or could it be causing it?

Who should read this book?

This is a young adult book

How long is this book?

265 pages, an average sized book

Marks

Story Line: 6/10

Well written: 4/5

Enjoyability: 3/5

Overall: 13/20

Star Rating:
3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Decker. He's Delaney's best friend, the one who saves her life by pulling her out of the lake and giving her CPR. He's just so sweet and I loved how he was always there for Delaney, even when they'd had an argument.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

Troy, who can also sense death, is really quite a scary character. Although he's just trying to help Delaney, and he feels punished by his ability, his perspective is really sinister and his tendency to always be where Delaney is is just really creepy. I'd tell him to back off..and then I'd throw tea at him.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

It's a pretty title page, I like the reflection underneath the title and the scene in the background is nice.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?

Fracture is a good title. I like how it has other subtle meanings and isn't just a reference to what the ice did when Delaney stepped on it.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

'The first time I died, I didn't see God. No light at the end of the tunnel. No haloed angels. No dead grandparents...Not even an endless darkness. Nothing.'

Overall:

This was a good debut novel, with a clever story idea -with the whole 'sensing death' thing, and it brought up some interesting topics e.g. the meaning of life and death, etc... but I didn't really like the characters and I found it all a little anti-climatic as I couldn't really see where the story was going and when I reached the end it didn't seem concluded. (Okay, I just google searched it and there may be a sequel, so I guess the lack of an explanation as to why she's so 'drawn to death' is acceptable) This book was still a good read though, and I will definitely be tempted to read the next one.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

13 Little Blue Envelopes, Maureen Johnson

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson, reviewed by Eleanor

What's this book about?
Ginny Blackstone, a 17 year old girl, follows the instructions that she finds in envelopes left by her Aunt, which take her all over Europe.



Who should read this book?
This book is targeted at teen girls, I can't really see anyone else reading it.

How long is this book?
320 pages, an average sized book

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyablilty: 2/5
Overall: 12/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
I would probably have to say Aunt Peg. I think she would have a lot of interesting stories to tell, having been all around Europe.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

As annoying as some of the characters in this book were, I’m going to have to choose someone who is only mentioned in the book but who we don’t actually meet to throw tea at. Ginny Blackstone’s Mum. I mean, yes, it did make a good story and everything, but who actually lets their 17 year old daughter go on a trip around Europe with only a small backpack of belongings, no phone and a brown paper package filled with 12 unopened envelopes. It seems pretty risky to me, but then I’m not a parent, so what do I know?

Question 3. What do you think of the cover? 

It’s okay, not amazing. I prefer the edition with an envelope.

Question 4. What do you think of the title? Do you think there is an alternative?
I think that the title works. It’s catchy and not at all misleading –the book is about ‘13 Little Blue Envelopes.’

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“I’m Keith,” he said, “and you’re...clearly mad, but what’s your name?”

 

Overall:

I did generally enjoy this book. I thought that Ginny’s journey was quite interesting and I love the idea of going on a road trip of some sort, with absolutely no clue as to where you’re going to end up at. The blurb of this book speaks of a meeting with a guy called Keith, posing the question “But will she ever see him again?” and my main problem with the story was that I wasn’t really bothered as to whether they would be 'romantically reunited'. Sorry, but I just didn't care. Other than that, the book was alright, and I was kept engaged by my curiosity as to what would be found in the 13th and final envelope.

 

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?


 

The Summer I Turned Pretty, Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han, reviewed by Izzy

What's this book about?

"Every year Isabel spends a perfect summer at her family friends' house. There's the swimming pool at night, the private stretch of sandy beach . . . and the two boys. Unavailable, aloof Conrad - who she's been in love with forever - and friendly, relaxed Jeremiah, the only one who's ever really paid her any attention.

But this year something is different. They seem to have noticed her for the first time. It's going to be an amazing summer - and one she'll never forget . . ." (Puffin website)

Who should read this book?
Teenage girls, on the beach. Not something you should read if you want meaningful quotes, and it won't be one of those books which makes me cry.  Though, you will want to read the next two, because let's be honest, you need to know who she ends up with.

How long is this book?
288 pages, a short, to medium length book.

Marks
Story Line:   7/10
Well written:   3/5
Enjoyablilty:    4/5
Overall:    14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

This is a toss up between Susannah and Jeremiah. Susannah because I imagine having tea with her would just make you feel amazing. She'd probably compliment you loads and loads, and you would just leave feeling super good about yourself. Also once you read it, there will be obvious reasons why you need to have tea with Susannah. Jeremiah, because I have a thing for the underdogs of the story.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

Belly. I know she had SUCH a difficult life. Three boys are in love with her, and she's so beautiful. She enjoys complaining about this all the time as well. Look if I had three boys chasing after me then I wouldn't be complaining about how this was the "first time they'd ever noticed me." I'd just be enjoying myself. (Not in that way, dirty minds.)

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

The originial cover I wasn't a fan of because I really don't like photos on covers however the version I had I liked. To say I loved it would be an over- exxageraion but it's quite pretty.

Question 4. What do you think of the title?

I like the title, I think it's interesting. Though I find the idea of turning pretty, and then suddenly boys liking you slightly, annoying. Frustrating. Sending out the wrong message in some way? Maybe I'm being over the top.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“Would you rather live one perfect day over and over or live your life with no perfect days but just decent ones?”  - Best "would you rather" ever.

Overall: I feel like this review has been too negative so far so I need to put this out, I enjoyed this book. It's gorgeous, fun, light-hearted and completely all consuming. It has its set backs, as no book is perfect and there are better books in the world. I'm still going to read the next two though.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?