BOOK REVIEWS

The Boy from Block 66 by Lemar Reqev 
Review by Alexander R Year 7

Plot

A real life story of a boy taken from his home, thrown into a ghetto then transported to numerous concentration camps, got separated from his family and almost died numerous times.  

Your opinion
Amazingly good book. Love every page, amazing read. Recommend it to anyone.  

Recommend?
Yes!!! Great read  - five stars!





The Northern Lights by Phillip Pullman 
Review by Eva W Year 7

Plot

Lyra embarks on an ambitious journey to the north with her demon Pan. The setting, a parallel universe to ours, it is mainly based in the north and London. The main character, Lyra discovers her past and who her parents are and what they stand for and meet some friends on the way. 

Your opinion
The book contains a rich variety of vocabulary, vivid descriptions and an amazing plot line. The characters are very imaginative and have very contrasting backgrounds which makes it very exciting to see how they interact with each other.  

Recommend?
Yes 100%  - five stars!

Kay’s Anatomy by Adam Kay  
Review by Eloise H Year 7

Plot

The book teaches you all about the human body. It tells you how the body works and how amazing it really is. It contains chapters about the different parts like the brain, lungs, heart, kidney and reproductive system. Overall, it gives you an extremely good guide on the body and interesting factors of life that help you survive.

Your opinion
I think this book is a great book for anyone who really likes science or who wants to revise on part of the human body. It contains lots of detail about everything you want to learn and clear chapters so you can focus on certain things.  

Recommend?
Yes - five stars!


The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins  
Review by Matilda P Year 7

Plot

A dystopian future at an event called the reaping one boy and one girl
are picked to participate in the Hunger Games, a fight to the death to remind the 12 districts that the Capital is powerful. 

Your opinion
It’s a very interesting book and I definitely recommend. 

Recommend?
Yes - five stars!




Alisson: Playground to Pitch 
Review by Jack D Year 7

Plot

One of the only goalkeepers that has scored has an emotional backstory. And it shows the story from birth to becoming number 1 goalkeeper in the world. 

Your opinion
It’s a very inspirational book for young players as it shows anything in football is possible. 

Recommend?
Yes to everyone 





The Wizards of Once by Cressida Cowell 
Review by Jacob J Year 7

Plot
Wizards and warriors are rivals and warriors have discovered a type of metal that magic can’t work on. Iron. The warriors made an iron fort, and Wish, the princess, isn’t supposed to leave but she does and meets Xar the wizard. Witches are evil, feathery creatures who got eaten a long time ago, but Xar who didn’t have magic was trying to catch one to give him magic. In the end Xar gets a witch scar, but it slowly poisons him so he has to try and find a way to remove it. 

Your opinion
I like this book and the whole series, (even if it was a while ago when I last read it) and I enjoy fantasy, so if fantasy is your style you will enjoy this book.  

Recommend?
Yes, age gap 9-12 or 13. Four stars.



A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket
Review by Sofia B Year 7


Plot
The Baudelaire children are now orphans but their parents left an
enormous fortune behind. They are immediately sent to their new guardian, Count Olaf, who is wicked and evil. Count Olaf is after the Baudelaire fortune. 

Your opinion
It’s a really good book that has an engaging dilemma which makes you want to read more. 

Recommend?
Yes it’s too good!  Five stars!



How to Save the World by Emma Shevah
Review by Miley Year 7

Plot
This story isn’t just about birds. It’s about secrets, the seaside, how
seagulls can trick worms into thinking it’s raining. It’s about mucus, fudge and dogs needing a variety of sniffs.

Your opinion
I think that this story is good. With its adjectives you can imagine how the story is and picture a picture in my head (or the readers)

Recommend?
Only for people who like animals and mystery



Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by JK Rowling
Review by Coco Year 7



Plot
Three young wizards go on an adventure to find the castles lost
chamber of secrets. They have obstacles to overcome on the way but with the help of their good friend Hagrid and Dumbledore himself they get through it. 

Your opinion
I would definitely recommend. If you enjoy adventure books then this is for you. I love all the characters and the plots keep twisting!



Mashle: Magic and Muscles by Hajime Komoto
Review by Beau Year 7

Characters
Mash Burnelead (main character), Finn Ames (right hand man), Lance Crown (co-main)

Plot
Mash was born into a world of magic but lived in the forest and had developed no powers. To fit in magic school Mash develops his power and tries to become an elite.

Your Opinion
I think Mashle is an amazing book for anime lovers and has an attention catching story to it. It will help you hang on to it making you unable to wait to get to the next book.

Recommend?
Yes to anime and manga lovers



Superheroes: Inspiring Stories of Secret Strength 
by Sophia Thakur
Review by Lleyton Year 7

Plot
There are lots of different stories in one about different black people
who made records around the world.

Your opinion
I think that this book is very good and has lots of strong independent people who have dreams that they have accomplished greatly.

Recommend?
Yes




My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece by Annabelle Pitcher
Review by Honey Year 7

Characters
Sunya, Jamie, Jasmine, Rose, the parents and Roger (the cat)

Plot
After Jamie and Jasmine’s sister dies, their mum leaves, unable to cope with the situation and the dad is left mourning Rose’s death (the sister that died). Will the mum ever come back and can the family overcome the situation?

Your opinion
It’s funny and sad, with lots of twists and drama involved (some of the time). Overall a good book

Recommend?
Yes

Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Review by Kyreece Year 7

Characters
Cop, Chief, Robochief, Dog, The Mayor, Petey/Invisible Petey

Plot
(Comedy, comic book strips)
Cop and Dog had gotten into an accident when they got blown up. They sewed Dog’s head onto Cop’s body and then the new Dog Man was unleashed. He would then go down and capture criminals. His first was Petey… He was pretty easy to catch and was later jailed. But, he escaped… he was sent an invisible spray from the Mayor and broke out of prison undetected and salvaged a lot of stores and robbed them. 

Your opinion
In my opinion Dog Man is a comedy, adventure and enjoyable book to read. The thing I like the most is that it has pictures and it’s displayed like a comic book. It has a lot of fun and sad moments but overall I recommend this to adventure lovers. VERY GOOD!

Recommend?
All ages 5+

★★



Alex Rider by Antony Horowitz
Review by Luke F Year 7


Characters
Alex Rider, Alan, Ian Rider

Plot
Alex Rider is invited to join MI6 as his Uncle and father were .What will happen next?

Your opinion
I loved this series since the start of it. This series is action packed and full of fun. The first book is a masterpiece and pulls you in so much. It made me carry on reading them. Each one is better than the last.

Recommend?
Yes

★★



 Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman  
Review by Rana Year 9


Characters: 
Crosses: Kamal Hadley, Sephy (main), Persephone, Jasmine Hadley, Minerva (Minnie) 

Noughts: Ryan Mcgregor, Callum (main), Jude, Lynette, Maggie 

Plot: 
Noughts and Crosses is a book about Sephy Hadley and Callum Mcgregor. Friends since childhood however it’s a world full of racism and violence. Noughts and crosses are enemies. Against all these odds star crossed lovers choose each other however it doesn’t end right. 

Your opinion: 
This book is very interesting and I recommend it to anyone. It makes me see in the moment about what’s happening in the book and it leaves you wanting to read more and it just makes you addicted. 

Recommend? 
To anyone 


How to Be an F1 Driver by Jenson Button 
Review by Ronnie Year 9 


Characters: 
Not many by there are Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and so on 

Plot: 
How to hold your nerve and it gives tips 

Your opinion: 
My opinion of the book is very good. I like the book because I love F1 and I have done since 2015. It also gives tips on how to keep your cool and how to hold your nerve.  
 
Recommend? 
Yes! For any F1 fans 

★★


Prince of Shadows by Rachel Caine 
Review by Hermione Year 9 


Characters: 
Rosaline, Tybalt, Benvolio 

Plot: 
The plot is talking about the story of Romeo and Juliet but going further into the opinion of Rosaline (Romeo’s first love), Benvolio (Romeo’s cousin), and Tybalt (Juliet’s cousin). 

Your opinion: 
My opinion of the book so far is that it’s really interesting and talks about the life and feelings of the characters that you wanted to know about. 


One of Us is Lying by Karen McManus 
Review by George P Year 9


Characters: 
Bronwyn, Cooper, Nate, Addy, and Simon. 

Plot: 
Simon dies in detention when he drinks some water in detention and then the police get involved and try to figure out who killed him. 

Your opinion: 
I haven’t finished it but so far it is good 

Recommend? 
Yes 

★★



Rashford: From the Playground to the Pitch by Matt Oldfield 
Review by Sebastian Year 9 


Characters: 
Rashford- Football player 

Plot: 
It is about his life and how he got to being a footballer and how he got to playing for Manchester United. 

Your opinion: 
In my opinion the book is very interesting and I would recommend to people who like football 

Recommend? 
Yes 

Dragon Legend by Katie and Kevin Tsang 
Review by Frankie L Year 9 


Characters: 
Billy Chan, Dylan, Billy’s Dragon, The Dragon of Death 

Plot:
Billy starts off living a normal life but all summer he is bonding with his dragon. But his friend gets kidnapped by the dragon of death while travelling through time and Billy tries to find a way to save him. 

Your opinion:  
My opinion on this book is that I get mixed feelings. On the one hand the fantasy side is quite cool with the dragons and travelling through time and stuff. But I believe they could have improved the plot and made it a lot more interesting 

Recommend? 
Yes 

★★


Fing by David Walliams

A review by Matilda O Year 7

Characters:
The Fing

Plot:
A little girl named Myrtle Meek is a real brat.  She asks her parents for everything. Her parents are scared of her so they say yes.  The for her birthday she asks for something impossible - a FING!.  Her parents try and get if for her as they are scared of the punishment.

Your Opinion:
I really like this book as there are kae belive animals in it.  Also, the suspense of seeing if Mr and Mrs Meek get a bad punishment from Myrtle if they bring a FING or not ....

Recommend?
Yes - 100%

★★★★★



Killer Storm by Matt Dickinson
A review by Eva S Year 7

Characters:

Ryan Hart, Tashi, Kami, 

Plot:
A killer attack breaks out at the base camp of Mount Everest and Ryan and his friends are taken hostage.

Your Opinion:
I think this is a really good book.  I especially like the sense of adventure in the book.

Recommend?
Yes

★★★★★



Alex Rider: Snakehead by Anthony Horowitz
A review by Monty Year 8


Characters:
Alex Rider, Jack Starbright, Scooter, X-Ray

Plot:
Alex Rider has been forced into the Australian secret service- his target is the criminal underworld of South East Asia, and the ruthless organization known as Snakehead.

Your Opinion:
Good and interesting and I recommend people beneath the age of 15 to read them.

Recommend?
Yes



Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4 by Sue Townsend
A review by Alfie Year 8


Characters:
Adrian Mole, Pandora Braithwaite, Pauline Mole, Adrian's dad, Bert

Plot:
The dollmaker creates a fragile doll, he gives her a heart. Little did he know of the kind wind and the magic he held within. Can the dollmaker save Krakow, what about the land of dolls?

Your Opinion:
I think it is relatable to poorer people who have problems in life. It is just an amazing book.

Recommend?
To people over 13



The Dollmaker of Krakow by R.M. Romero
A review by Amelia-Rose Year 7


Characters:
Karolina & The Dollmaker

Plot:
The dollmaker creates a fragile doll, he gives her a heart. Little did he know of the kind wind and the magic he held within. Can the dollmaker save Krakow, what about the land of dolls?

Your Opinion:
This book is very good, it entices you from the first sentence, it shows hope and perseverance even in the midst of war.

Recommend?
Yes



I Go Quiet by David Ouimet
A review by Edith Year 7

Characters:
There's not really a main character, it kind of feels like you are the girl

Plot:
The whole story is just about no one understanding, so I don't speak at all.

Your Opinion:
This book makes you feel like you wrote it. I felt that this book read my mind, when no one understands, you prefer to go quiet. You feel different but you're not that different compared to other things that make you look normal.

Recommend?
Yes!


Zom-B by Darren Shan
A review by Javier Year 7

Characters:
Brian Barry, Mr Shannon, Tall Unknown Man, Todd, Daisy

Plot:
A zombie apocalypse happens and people have to survive living across the streets as everyone tries to save themselves. This all happens in Ireland.

Your Opinion:
I think it is a great book, engaging and the drawings look amazing. I would 110% recommend this book without a doubt. So far I haven't read much but so far I have been engaged.

Recommend?
110% yes


Mr Stink by David Walliams
A review by Daisie Year 8

Characters:
Mr Stink, Anabelle, the mum, the dad, Anabelle's sister

Plot:
A girl was going to school and saw a man sitting on a bench. They started to hang out but Anabelle's mum did not like  homeless people.

Your Opinion:
It is a good book however you need to read a little bit before it gets good.

Recommend?
To ages 9-13



Look into my Eyes by Lauren Child
A review by Hayley Year 7

Characters:
Ruby, Brant, Sabina, Clancy, Mrs Digby, Hitch

Plot:
Ruby's house keeper disappears and everything in her house is gone except for the telephone. There is a message left that gives her clues about a mystery. She figures out an underground agency called Spectrum. There are many troubles... Should she tell her best friend? Should she lie about school? Will she succeed? Many mysteries to be solved...

Your Opinion:
I like this book as I like mystery books. I like books that house secrets and it is a series of books with many adventures.

Recommend?
I would recommend it to anyone who likes mysteries.


Warriors- The Last Hope by Erin Hunter
A review by Rhiannon Year 7

Characters:
Jayfeather
Lionblaze
Dovewing

Plot:
The cats in the dark forest are training the forest cats in battle, and preparing to take over the forest in a great battle. The power of 3 prophecy Lionblaze, Jayfeather and Dovewing, and an unknown 4th cat must unite the clans to stop them

Recommend?
I would, but I would recommend reading the other books in the series first.

★★★★★



Below are some great book reviews by Angela, Bryan, Eryk and Millie from our Carnegie Shadowing Group, the Eden Park Readers:


The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys

Reviewed by Angela, Year 8

I really enjoyed this book. It is not my usual type, however, because of Carnegie I read it and fell in love. Before I read it, I thought it would be a “Romeo & Juliet” type of book but it had it’s own twists. The book was unique and I very much recommend to anyone who is more sceptical of reading books like this and to get out of your comfort zone because reading the same books constantly can get boring.


The Girl Who Became a Tree by Joseph Coelho
A review by Bryan, Year 10

The Girl Who Became A Tree is surprisingly a very interesting book. Due to the fact that it doesn’t really have much of a setting, I would have expected the plot to progress too slowly, however, the plot actually moves at a reasonable pace. What also makes the book easier to read is the fact that it is a verse novel, so there aren’t just giant blocks of writing on the page that seems like it’ll take forever to read. I would say that this is a good book, but I feel like the other books may have something better to offer.


Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
A review by Millie, Year 8

Clap when you land is a great book. It is moving, and passionate, and the way it is written it is beautiful. It is very thought provoking and I would recommend it for 13-adult because of some of the content and language. I actually cried at the end!



The Girl Who Speaks Bear by Sophie Anderson
A review by Millie, Year 8

I loved 'The girl who speaks bear'. It was a beautiful book, with amazing artwork and a gripping storyline. I do think that it may have been aimed at younger readers than me, and I would recommend it for 8 and up, because the language is versatile enough for younger ages, and there is no inappropriate content. I would give it a 8.5/10



Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds
A review by Eryk, Year 8

A very powerful book which talks about many problems people face and problems should be solved. The way the story changes so drastically is really surprising and unique. 9/10




Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk
A review by Millie, Year 8

I thought that it was a wonderful book full of excitement and wonder, mystery and magic, beauty and family. It was gripping and descriptive, and the style of writing that was used was exceptional, as if the words flowed on the page. Its language was suitable for readers aged 8 and above, and its topics were suitable of the same ages, but I would recommend that anyone who is 8-10 should read with an adult. I would also recommend it for readers who love mystery, adventure and fantasy. Praise for Lauren Wolk: Anyone can write a story, but only the best can be a wonderful writer. Lauren Wolk is one of those few, and her book 'Echo Mountain' proves my point. 👏

The Girl Who Became a Tree by Joseph Coelho
A review by Eryk, Year 8

The use of Greek Mythology is unique. The story included a lot of emotion. I like the idea of adding puzzles for the reader to solve, it really makes the reader engage with the story feeling part of it. I enjoyed the fact that the story is written in poems, the language used was beautiful. Overall, I would give this book a 7.5/10.



Run, Rebel by Manjeet Mann
A review by Eryk, Year 8

Run, Rebel is a fascinating verse novel. The story of Amber is incredible as she stands up to her abusive father. The book has made me feel incredible empathy, something not many books can achieve. The fact that every idea links to another shows the careful planning the author has done. As it was written in verse, the words are short but powerful which makes the reader feel a huge amount of different emotions. This book is a great read and I would highly recommend it to everyone.


P.S. I Still Love You by Jenny Han
A review by Hermione Year 8

Characters:
Lara Jean Song
Peter Kavinsky
Margo Song
Katherine Song
Chris
John Ambrose

Plot:
It's a book that is about a girl that falls in love with a boy. They have ups and downs in their relationship.

Your Opinion:
It's amazing, interesting and relatable as it is all about a love hate relationship it is really inspiring for girls whoa re going through a toxic relationship with their boyfriend.

Recommend?
I would recommend it for people that like romantic stories

★★★




The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank & Otto Frank
A review by Neve Year 8

Characters:
Anne Frank, her family (mum, dad, sisters and brothers)


Plot:

Anne Frank wrote a diary while hiding away during the war trying not to get caught by Hitler's soldiers

Your Opinion:
I really like this book as it tells you a lot about history and what it was like during the war. You can also tell what it was like for people going to the holocaust.

Recommend?
I would recommend it


Marley: A Dog Like No Other by John Grogan
Reviewed by Paige Year 9


Three great book reviews by Taylan, Luca and Matti from our Carnegie Shadowing Group, the Eden Park Readers:


Girl. Boy. Sea. By Chris Vick.  
Reviewed by Taylan Year 7

I think this book is very emotional and shows two opposites stuck on a boat, trying to survive. The pace is not very fast and there isn't much action during the middle of the book but it shows lots of emotion and you can see a relationship form between strangers. The book is very gripping as you can see them fight for their lives. You also learn a lot about the characters' past and where they came from. Although the book can be slow, you can also learn the true meaning of friendship and survival. I would recommend this book to someone who likes friendship books and survival books.

Girl. Boy. Sea. By Chris Vick.  
Reviewed by Matti Year 10

Girl. Boy. Sea. was engaging form beginning to end with the reader brainstorming solutions and questions continuously page after page.  The bond between two humans who lived on either side of the world before, really emotionally touches a reader as the protagonists experience mental and physical pain.  Whilst at times receiving joy after their successes.

 

The Black Flamingo By Dean Atta  
Reviewed by Luca Year 8

The Black Flamingo is an amazing book about a mixed raced boy's adventure in coming out and finding out that he is gay. It holds many twist and turns and is very well made. It makes sense and is very empowering in helping you find yourself. Well done to the author.


The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

A Review by Ryan Year 9

Characters: 
Hazel Grace, August ‘Gus’, Mr and Mrs Lancaster (Hazel’s parents) Peter Van Houten, Lidewji Vliegenthart, Mr and Mrs Waters (Gus’s parents).

Setting:
One of the places this is set is the Support Group.

Summary:
Two people fall in love, they learn life is for living - just because you are unwell it doesn’t mean you need to stop.

What I liked:
Everything except for how unwell they are.

My favourite part:
Was when they got together and then had a semi-normal life.

This book has been adapted into a film - the rating Ryan gave was 3.5 out of 5 stars.




Hope is Our Only Wing
 by Rutendo Tavengerwei
A Review by Claudia Warmate


Characters:
Shamiso, Tanyaradzwa
Plot:
The story takes place in Zimbabwe.  Shamiso gets sent to a boarding school after her Dad died when she was eight.  She meets Tanyaradzwa, who has cancer, and they become roommates and good friends.

Your Opinion:
I really like this book because it’s based in a different country and it is written from a different point of view.  It has a lot of interesting vocabulary and I can imagine that I’m Shamiso.

Recommend?
Yes
★★★★★

Death Note by Tsugumi Ohba

A review by Dominic Year 7

Characters:
Light Yagium aka Kira, Shimmy Garmi aka Ryux, the god of Death.

Plot:
Death Note, a Japanese manga series, is a horror novel, which follows the adventures of the main character Light Yagium aka Kira. During the book, Light Yagium finds a notebook which he picks up and starts to read the instructions written down.  However, he doesn’t know that a Shimmy Garmi, aka Ryux, the God of Death, is also trying to find the notebook.  Ryux finds the notebook in Light Yagium’s house and Light kills every criminal and fake one.  The real one tries to find out who Kira is.

Recommend?
Yes

Pokemon XY and Pokemon Black & White 
by Hidenori Kusaka
A short review by Dominic Year 7


These books are the boom because they take you back to the old Pokemon games which are called fire red, ocean blue, leaf green and yellow.  These are the names of 4 of the characters: red, blue, green and yellow.

The Red Ribbon by Lucy Adlington

A review by Katie Year 7


Characters:
Ella Marter: The boss of the sewing shop
Ella’s Grandmother
Rose: Ella’s friend
Carter: the main customer

Plot:
This is a book about a 14 year old girl and how she works at a dressmaker shop in Auschwitz, but these clients could be the result of life and death.  Read it and find out ….

Your Opinion:
I think it is a great book because it informs you with lots of information while you are having fun reading it.

Recommend?
I recommend it to WW2 lovers.
★★★★

The Deadly 7 by Gareth Jennings
A review by Archie Year 7

Characters:
Nelson Green, Uncle Pogo, Stan, Miser, Puff, Spike, Nosh, Hoot, Crush, Celeste and Carla

Plot:
Carla has kidnapped Celeste for her magic pendant, which Nelson has.  Nelson discovers a secret laboratory in St Paul’s Cathedral and extracts the seven deadly sins out of himself as monsters, who go with him to rescue Celeste and return the pendant to Carla.

Your Opinion:
I think this book is a good mix of hilarious and goofy to an interesting read.  I would recommend it to everyone wanting a laugh.

Recommend?
Yes

The World of Norm:
May Cause Irritation by Jonathan Meres
A review by Jahmi Year 7

Characters:
Norm, Norm’s Mum, Norm’s Dad, Norm’s sister Lola, Norm’s friend Jack

Plot:
Norm is really bad and lazy and the book is talking about what is happening right now with his life and how he is trying to get through school.

Your Opinion:
I think it is a great book is really funny and I chose it because I love biographies and diaries and it is similar to Tom Gates and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

Recommend?
I recommend it to people who like diaries.

 ★★★★

The Third Wheel (Diary of a Wimpy Kid)
by Jeff KinneyA review by Rihanna Year 8

Characters:
Greg and Rowley, Greg’s BFF

Plot:
Gregg is trying to find a date to the sweethearts dance.  When he finally does he tries to be very fancy and it doesn’t go to plan.

Your Opinion:
I think it’s a very funny book.  It takes a while though to get to the main point of the story and I feel like it does try and look at life from a child’s perspective.

Recommend?
Depends if you like comedy, then yes.

★★★★

Billionaire Boy by David Walliams
A review by Daisie Year 7

Characters:
Joe – richest kid, Bob – Joe’s friend, Raj – shopkeeper, Mr Spud – Joe’s Dad, Miss Spite – Teacher.

Plot:
Joe has everything he wants because his Dad makes worldwide loo rolls.  Joe is worth about £20 billion.  He goes to a very posh school, however he gets bullied and has no friends.

Your Opinion:
I love the book – it is funny and for kids of all ages.

Recommend?
I definitely recommend this book.

★★★★


Ratburger by David Walliams A review by Rihanna HDU

Characters: 
Zoe, Burt (burger man) and Sheila (Zoe’s step mum), Tina  
Plot: 
It’s about a little girl, Zoe, who’s poor and has a horrible step mum.  Her pet hamster died and she found a new pet, who gets taken ….. 

Your Opinion: 

I think it’s a very interesting and a bit of a scary/funny book.  Not only that, it’s definitely an eye opener to kind of see that everyone has difficulties and only loved ones can help you through it and that even if someone is horrible to you it might be because they’re going through the same situation.

Recommend? 
Yes  

★★★★


Trust Me by Malorie Blackman 

A review by Sigourney 8CRO 


Characters:
Andrew, Jayna, Teegan, Morgan (Andrew’s brother) and Julius 
Plot: It’s about a couple going on holiday and Jayna gets hit by a car and wakes up in the middle of the road.

Your Opinion:
 
It is a good book and a heart-breaking one at times and it is a horror as well. 

Recommend? 
Yes  
★★★★


Skellig by David Almond

A review by Benji year 7


Characters

Skellig, Michael, Michael’s Mum and Dad, Michael’s baby sister and Michael’s friends.

Plot

Michael (at the start) is having a hard time because of his baby sister.  His Mum and Dad are having a hard time too.  But when he meets this ‘thing’, his life changes.

Your Opinion

I think this is a fantastic book!  I never get tired of reading it.  I find this book calming and interesting.

Recommend?

Yes !!!

★★★★



The Incredible Ecosystems of Planet Earth by Rachel Ignotsofsky

A review by Nellie year 7


Your opinion
I like it because I really, really, really, really like geography. It also helps with oceans and continents!

Recommend?
Yes

★★★★





The Beast Within by Serena Valentino

A review by Jessica year 7


Characters

Belle

The Beast

The Prince


Plot

A beautiful young girl who loves reading. Her father is captured and then she has an adventure with the beast.


Your opinion

My opinion about this book is that it is really good. Because it is based on the film but in a different type of way.


Recommend?

To people who like romance


The Extinction Trials by S.M. Wilson

A review by Riley Year 8

Characters

Storm Chaser: One of the protagonists of the story who is friends with a dinosaur

Lincoln: Lives in the caves as there is not space anywhere else. His mum and sister have a plague and are slowly dying.

Dell: Storm Chaser’s friend 

ReBan Don: Antagonist, hosts the trials


Plot

There are two continents. Earthasia which is currently so overpopulated people have had to move into the caves, then Piloria which is overrun with dinosaurs. Reban Don is trying to kill the dinosaurs using a genetically modified disease, but to get a sample they start sending people in and not everyone will make it out alive.


Your opinion

I think it’s a great book. It’s got a great plot and is really engaging. I really like the genre and it is a complex read. I would really recommend it as I’m really enjoying it.


Recommend?

Yes

★★★★

Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune 

By Rick Riordan
 
A review by Ruby Year 8
 

Characters: 

Percy Jackson, Nico D’Angelo, Frank, Hazal, Mrs O’Levy 

 

Plot: 

Percy Jackson has lost his memory and arrives at camp Juniper the Roman holy blood camp he had to battle his way to the entrance and he has to try and regain his memory and fulfil a prophecy spoken over 5000 years ago with help from camp holy-blood and camp juniper.

Your opinion: 

I think that this is a great book.  It is very interesting and draws you in the more you read it. The book is not what I expected, because it links into the Percy Jackson series, almost as a sequel. 
Recommend? 
Yes.



Coraline by Neil Gaiman 
A review by Amber Year 8 



Characters:
Coraline Jones, other mother (The Bedlam), other father, Mrs Jones, Mr Jones,
black cat, Miss Forcible and Miss Spinx.


Plot:
A girl called Coraline loves to explore and finds a small door that at night she discovers leads to another door. She has her parents there but they have buttons as eyes.  She soon finds out that the other parents stole Coraline’s real parents and she has to stop them to get her real parents back.


Your Opinion:
It was a great book and I really loved it.  The book has great drama and I couldn’t stop reading it.  My favourite part was when she plays a game with the other mother to find her parents and the lost souls.

Recommend?

Yes! 100%

★★★★★

Super Awkward by Beth Garrod 
A review by Joyra Year 8 


Characters: 
Bella Fisher, Jo, Her mum, Lauren, Rachel  
Plot: 
Bella’s in high school and fails at everything she does. Her mum makes her miss this massive birthday party because she goes camping. Her ex friends show her a picture of a boy kissing another girl and Bella doesn’t know how to
react. 

Your opinion: 
It’s really relatable for our age and is funny and interesting and keeps getting better and better. I’m looking forward to reading on. 

Recommend? 

Yes, because it’s very engaging 

★★★★

Withering Tights by Louise Rennison 
A review by Hannah Year 8 


Characters: 
Tallulah Casey, Dobbins, Kate, Siobhan, Georgina, Vaisy, Gudrun, Ruby 

Plot: 
It’s about a girl called Tallulah who goes to learn drama at Dother Hall. She meets lots of new friends and she ends up finding love near her new college. I think she will graduate from her college and do something in drama after.  

Your opinion: 
So far, this book is very engaging and it is also very funny as the author makes it fun and shows Tallulah’s thoughts really well to be able to almost relate with the reader. It is a good book to read when you are bored.  

Recommend? 

100% recommend this book 

★★★★

The School of Good and Evil by Soman Chainani 
A review by Amelia Year 8 

Characters: 
Sophie, Agatha, Beatrix, Tedros, Hester, Anadil, Dot 
Plot: 
Two girls (Sophie and Agatha) are taken from the village of Gavaldon to go to school - one is the school for good, one for bad. Sophie expects to go to the school for good but when her and her friend Agatha are taken things don’t quite go to plan. 

Your opinion: 
I love this book as it is funny and has already had a major plot twist. The main genre is fantasy, which is my favourite, as it is the perfect escape from real life. 

Recommend? 

Yes 
★★★★

The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien A review by Takuma Year 8 


Characters: 
Smeagol/Gollum, Biobo Baggins, Gandalf, Thorin Oakenshield, Fili, Kili, Bombur, Bolfer and other dwarves 

Plot: 
Bilbo helps the dwarves reclaim their home in the mountains - full to the brim with gold and treasure, however, guarded by a fearsome dragon. 

Your opinion: 
It is a very interesting book full of adventure, fantasy, combat and more. Not only that, but if you liked the book you can read The Lord of the Rings after, meaning you can have a very long and enjoyable read!

Recommend? 

Yes 

★★★★

The Wide Window by Lemony Snicket
A review by Oliver Year 8 

Characters:  
Violet, Sunny, Klaus, Mr Poe, Aunt Josephine, Captain Sham, Count Olaf 
Plot: 
The three Baudelaire orphans (Violet, Sunny and Klaus) lost their parents in a tragic house fire. So their parents’ friend (Mr Poe) organises a guardian to take care of them. Their new guardian, Aunt Josephine, lives on a mountain on top of a lake. However, she is cautious that anything can go wrong. 

Your opinion: 
I am really enjoying this book as you don’t know what will happen next. It also has a great plot which I’m looking forward to. 

Recommend? 

Yes 
★★★★★ 

The Enemy (series) by Charlie Higson
A review by Luca Year 8 

Characters: 
Arron, Maxie, Blue, Jester, David, Little Sam 

Plot: 
Everyone over 14 has turned into what is essentially a zombie.  It is set about a year and a half after the beginning. There are two groups of kids staying in supermarkets - Morrisons and Waitroses. They get found by a boy claiming it is safe at Buckingham so they team up and leave to go there. 

Your Opinion: 

I think it is a very good book because it involves mystery and fighting. Its genre is dystopian and it has love and betrayal.

Recommend? 

Yes! I would recommend it to anyone who loves fighting and zombie but with some twists 

★★★★★ 

The Fever Code by James Dashner 
A review by Jacob Year 8
 


Characters: 
Thomas (main character), Dr Paige (a WICKED doctor), Randall (one of the people in wicked), Minho (test subject), Alby (test subject), Newt (test subject), Teresa (main character) 

Plot: 
Thomas was stolen as a child by a company called WICKED and they are testing him for the blueprints of a cure for a disease that turns people crazy. Thomas is one of few people immune to the disease. He goes through tests and challenges so WICKED can use the results for a cure. 

Your opinion: 
It was a very gripping book with lots of twists that I didn’t expect with lots of exciting and dramatic parts. At the beginning it was a bit confusing because the character had been taken at a young age. 

Recommend? 
Yes 
★★★★ 

13 Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths A review by Alexander Year 8 

Characters:  
Andy, Terry, Jill, Mr Big Nose 

Plot: 
Andy and Terry need to write a book for Mr Big Nose but they forget so they have one day to write a book. They get distracted when they paint a cat into a canary (bird) so it turns into a bird and flies off. They later realise it was their friend Jill’s cat. 

Your opinion: 
It’s a great book with a great plot. It’s fun and interesting. However, it is quite short but it makes up for this because there are so many books. The fact that there are so many books makes it quite interesting and it keeps you reading. 

Recommend? 

Yes 

★★★★

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay
 by Suzanne Collins 

A Review by Violet Year 8 


Characters 
Katniss Everdeen, Primrose Everdeen, Gale Hawthorne, Haymitch, Finnick Odair, Katniss and Primrose’s mum, Peeta Mellark 


Plot: 
It’s the last book in the series and Katniss and her team have to save Peeta and kill President Snow  

Your opinion:  
In my opinion I think that this is a great book and a great series. It’s set in a dystopian future and is filled with action and adventure. 


Recommend? 
YES! 

★★★★

By Royal Command by Charlie Higson A review by Ellis Year 8 


Characters: 
James Bond, Batushka, Roan, Dr Friend, Dandy 

Plot: 
WWII is on the rise and James Bond is wanted dead by a scientist who worked for an evil man selling guns and steroids. He was thought to be dead in a fire but that is not the case. James must choose love or friends and stop a secret Nazi party from winning the war. 

Your opinion: 
I think that By Royal Command is a great captivating book and like every other book in the series, they are the best books I have ever read (but sadly this was the final book in the series). 

Recommend? 

100% yes 

★★★★


Boot Camp by Robert Muchamore

A review by Taylor Year 8 


Characters: 
Jay, Damien, Angie, Alfie, Summer, Lucy, Mr Wei, Joseph, Adam, Theo, Noah, Sadie, Dylan, Babatunde 

Plot: 
This book is about the battle of bands, but Boot Camp is a competition in which only the best bands can compete. There is a heart-warming story of Summer White and her Grandma. Summer is a full-time carer for her grandma. But when it comes to the battle of the bands she has to leave her behind for the summer. She wasn’t happy but her grandma wanted her to go. 

Your opinion: 
I would recommend this book because if you have read the previous book in the series this is a very enticing continuation. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the story. I recommend the whole Robert Muchamore rock war stories. 

Recommend? 
I would recommend this book because it’s so interesting 

★★★★



Max Einstein: The Genius Experiment

by James Patterson
a review by Millie Year 7

Characters:
Max Einstein, Mr Weinstock, Dr Zimm, Ms Kaplan

Plot:
Max is a homeless girl who is a genius, just like her idol, Albert Einstein.  She is so clever that she goes to college!  One day Max is asked to help a mysterious organisation who wants to solve the world's toughest problems using science.  A diverse group of other young geniuses around the world help her on her mission, but a sinister outfit known as the Corporation are after Max.

Your Opinion:
I love this book because it is a mixture of science and adventure and they are my two favourite things!

Recommend?
I recommend this book to 10-14 year olds.

★★★★★

 Bad Dad by David Walliams

a review by Yerime Year 7



Plot:
The book is based on a Dad that was a racing driver champion but one day he had a big crash and it ended his career.  Because of the crash, he could not race any more which means he couldn’t earn money so then he became poor.  His wife was a gold digger although she was rich.  His wife decided to leave him and go off with another man.  The Dad needed a house for his son but he couldn’t find a job so he had to steal ….

Your Opinion:
or me, the best book is a book called Bad Dad by David Walliams.  The reason why I have chosen it is because I enjoyed it so much.

Recommend?
Overall, I would give this book a 5 star review and I will definitely recommend it to you because it’s funny, entertaining and you could learn a lot from it.

★★★★★


Who Was Martin Luther King Jr.?
 by Bonnie Bader
a review by Khalil Year 7

Plot:
The book is about Martin Luther King and the whole point of the story is that Martin sets out for justice and peace between coloured and white.

Your Opinion:
The book is very enjoyable and inspirational because it shows how black people struggled but rose up to fight.  This book is rewarding because I feel like their success is a part of me.

Recommend?
I would recommend this to a friend so they could learn the history of black people.


Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
 by Jeff Kinney
a review by O'Shai Year 7


Your Opinion:
This is a book to entertain you when you're bored and when you have nothing to do.  Jeff Kinney is a
fantastic and creative author, who likes to make stories.

Recommend?
I would recommend this book because it is good for people who want to laugh and it is a good book in general. 



Iniesta: From the Playground to the Pitch by Matt and Tom Oldfield
a review by Frankie Year 7

Characters:
Iniesta, Jose Antonis, Barcelona Scout, Marbel, Victor Hernandez


Plot:
When he got scouted for Barcelona then got into the first team 18 years later. He became one of Barcelona’s best players from a young age. 2 years after he was in the first team he was given the captain’s armband.

Your opinion:
I think it’s a good book because it tells people to never give up and to keep following your dream.

Recommend?
I would recommend it for 8-14 year olds


★★★★

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
a review by Felix Year 7

Characters:
Jack, Silus, The Owens, Bod, Scarlett, Miss Lupescu

Plot:
Silus (Bod’s carer) goes away for a while. Bod has to stay in the graveyard but there is another carer called Miss Lupescu. She made Bod eat things that Bod refused to eat. Miss Lupesco acted like a werewolf. Does that mean Miss Lupesco is a hound of God… !?

Your opinion:
I really enjoy the book because I’m really into horror books and films.

Recommend?
I recommend it

★★★★

Black Berry Blue by Jamila Gavin
a review by Amy Year 7

Characters:
Black Berry Blue, Prince Just, Prince Wolf, Evil Queen, King, Woodcutter, Woodcutter’s Wife, Mum of Black Berry Blue

Plot:
Black Berry Blue was abandoned and a woodcutter and his wife found her and raised her. Then they died and she met her real mother. After, she went to the ball and danced then ran away, came back and married Prince Just and had a baby.

Your opinion:
In my opinion I think this book was very fun and interesting. There’s also different tales in there.

Recommend?
I recommend this book to people who like fairy tales.

★★★★

The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A review by Daisie Year 7

Characters:
Mia, Mr Gianini, Grandmother, Louie

Plot:
Mia’s algebra teacher has a baby with Mia’s mum. However, when her grandmere finds out she goes crazy.

Your opinion:
My opinion is that it is funny, it is good for secondary schools not primary schools. Some bits are good some bits are hard. It is hilarious.

Recommend?
I would recommend it because it is funny
4.5 stars

The Polar Bear Explorers Club 
by Alex Bell
A review by Freya Year 7


Characters:
Stella, Felix, Shay, Ethan, Beanie, Koa

Plot:
Stella loves animals and exploring. She really wants to be a part of the Polar Bear Explorers club but only boys are allowed. But when her father and brother Felix take her on an expedition she is accepted as the first girl in the club. A new adventure starts.

Your Opinion:
I really like this book because it’s fun, funny and scary. It’s a very creative book that takes you into a new world of exploring. It’s probably my favourite series I have every read.

Recommend?
Yes it’s amazing!

★★★★★

The Getaway by Jeff Kinney
a review by Shiloh Year 7


Characters:

Greg, Rowley, Mum, Dad, Manny, Rodrick



Plot:

It is about Greg's life and what he had to go through. It's part of a series and is laid out as a diary. The Getaway is about Greg and his family going on holiday but it turns out that the food is poisonous.

Your Opinion:
It is funny to read; if you want a laugh this is a book for you. And it is a series so you don't have to start with The Getaway you can start on the first one- there are 13 books. 


Recommend?

You're going to love it!

★★★★★

Coraline by Neil Gaiman 
A review by Amber Year 8


Characters:
Coraline Jones, other mother (The Bedlam), other father, Mrs Jones, Mr Jones, black cat, Miss Forcible and Miss Spinx.

Plot:
A girl called Coraline loves to explore and finds a small door that at night she discovers leads to another door. She has her parents there but they have buttons as eyes.  She soon finds out that the other parents stole Coraline’s real parents and she has to stop them to get her real parents back.

Your Opinion:
It was a great book and I really loved it.  The book has great drama and I couldn’t stop reading it.  My favourite part was when she plays a game with the other mother to find her parents and the lost souls.


Recommend?
Yes! 100%

★★★★★

Twitter book review 140 characters
Book Review: The Saboteur of Auschwitz @summerland It's v v good but can b very heart breaking & is a gr8 thriller. Katie 8RGI #BestBooks

Twitter book review 140 characters
Book Review: Tulip Taylor @Anna_Mainwaring. It's really good because it was about someone changing completely. Lucy 8MCA #BestBooks

Twitter book review 140 characters
Book Review: Ballet Shoes #noelstreatfeild is by far the most interesting & quite relatable book to me.  The story of the sisters is v captivating too! Rosemarie 7GDO

Twitter book review 140 characters
Book Review: The Treehouse books by @AndyGbooks are 10/10.  Enjoyable to read cos the pictures make them flow better.  I recommend them! Catherine 8JFO #BestBooks

Twitter book review 140 characters
Book Review: Diary of @wimpykid – I give this book 9/10 cos it’s super funny & unique & kind of weird too, that’s why I like it! - Tommy 7FBE

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Welcome back!

Welcome to 2024 ! Hope you had a good break and enjoyed some brilliant books.  For those of you who need some encouragement, there are some ...