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vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Added Oct 11, 2019
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Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
‘The Waning Age’ by S.E. Grove is a beautifully crafted science
fiction story that plays with emotions and hidden truths. Set in San
Francisco, the author creates a dystopian tale of 'the waning age’, in
which kids will become devoid of feelings and emotions during their
preteen years. The psychology behind the plot is very believable and
rings with a splash of truth that keeps readers strung on.
This book teaches others about selflessness. Although the main
character, Natalia Peña, is supposedly devoid of emotion after her
waning age, she still loves her brother with an astonishing ferocity
that penetrates readers through the pages of the book. In this
storyline, Peña is a fierce, loyal, and determined young girl who will
do anything to get her brother back, and her inner strength should be
idolized by elder sisters all around the world.
S.E. Grove helps readers understand where Natalia Peña is coming from,
her backstory, and her cunning persona. The Waning Age is a fantastic
read, and it keeps you hooked until the very end. Definitely would
recommend for sci-fi lovers and dystopian fans. 'The Waning Age’ is a
unique book who’s storyline aims to show readers the worth of our own
emotions and memories in comparison to a world like in this particular
story, where people constantly play tug of war with their own
feelings. In the present time, where our emotions are free, this book
definitely shows that our spirits are more valuable than they seem.Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
‘The Waning Age’ by S.E. Grove is a beautifully crafted science
fiction story that plays with emotions and hidden truths. Set in San
Francisco, the author creates a dystopian tale of 'the waning…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Johanna Z. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
‘Every Moment After’ by Joseph Moldover depicts the summer after senior year of best friends Matt and Cole. Both having survived a shooting in the first grade that killed most of their other classmates, the event still touches their lives a decade later. I was really intrigued by the premise of this novel, as it is a very original plot. This is also becoming more relevant as there are news about shootings regularly in today’s state of the world.
The story follows Matt as they grapple with relationships, friendships and the beginning of the rest of their lives. Matt and Cole’s perspectives alternate between chapters which made the book very interesting to read. Their strong friendship and contrasting personalities also add a level of entertainment as we watch the events unfold. We get to see how the shooting has shaken up an entire community and the emotional and physical trauma the event left on the lives of many. However, the novel isn’t completely focused on the shooting, as typical summer teenage experiences are also portrayed, adding some comic relief. I really enjoyed reading this novel as it felt like I was experiencing Matt and Cole’s summer along with them. I would definitely recommend this teen read to anyone looking to gain some new perspective!Reviewed by Johanna Z. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
‘Every Moment After’ by Joseph Moldover depicts the summer after senior year of best friends Matt and Cole. Both having survived a shooting in the first grade that killed…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Joseph S. for Teens Read it First
5/5
Bright Star is a wonderfully made novel, with much foreshowing and a Harry Potter vibe. I love the idea of magic, and the style in which the story is presented is extremely well done. The way magic was described in the story was very well done; it kept the story clear. However, as with every story, I believe there are areas of potential improvement. The first thing I would like to point out would be despite Andra’s repeated attempts, she was never truly able to defeat Tormina. Andra was, according to Kael’s mom, more far more powerful than the other sorcerer, because she has not used her magic. However, in the end, she is forced to rely on her peer’s strength to overcome Tormina. I feel that it would more establish Andra as a hero if Andra was able to defeat Tormina without the aid of others, sort of a one on one duel.
Another flaw I find lies with when Andra is taken prisoner after the assassination, and she is tortured with dark magic. During that time, Tormina utilizes something known as jarring, which feels like Apparate in Harry Potter. I feel that this story would benefit from elaborating on jarring.
Overall, I find the story well developed and well written. I highly recommend this book.Reviewed by Joseph S. for Teens Read it First
5/5
Bright Star is a wonderfully made novel, with much foreshowing and a Harry Potter vibe. I love the idea of magic, and the style in which the story is presented is extremely well done. The way…
My Box-shaped HeartMy Box-shaped Heart, Book
by Lucas, RachaelBook - 2019 | First American editionBook, 2019. First American edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
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Reviewed by Leo C. for Teens Read it First
This book has a very unique setting and follows a theme of two great friends with vastly different backgrounds. The book follows two protagonist, Hollly & Ed, both two are people with different personalities and backgrounds, with Holly & Ed being polar opposites. Caught between the two families and becoming friends, the book deals with families and their issues, about finding your true self within your heart. The book deals with a very good amount of friendship, romance and ends off with the entire group dynamic being the strongest together. I will definitely recommend the book to people of any age as it teaches many young life lessons and you will not regret reading it.
4.5 out of 5 stars rating.Reviewed by Leo C. for Teens Read it First
This book has a very unique setting and follows a theme of two great friends with vastly different backgrounds. The book follows two protagonist, Hollly & Ed, both two are people with different…
Amelia Westlake Was Never HereAmelia Westlake Was Never Here, Book
by Gough, ErinBook - 2019 | First U.S. editionBook, 2019. First U.S. edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Alex T. for Teens Read it First
I love it! Don’t be deceived by the book’s pink cover, because “Amelia Westlake Was Never Here” is full of drama and action. At first, I was reluctant to pick up the book as it looked like a generic romantic novel. However, after diving in a few chapters, the comedic and thrilling plot took hold of my attention. In my opinion, the setting was an important reason for this fascinating plot. The prestigious school where teachers have complete authority and great repute; in addition, wealthy and try-hard students that compete over everything. The setting just adds so much more suspense to the atmosphere, and it further stimulates the readers’ curiosity.
Something that is frustrating for me as a boy to read through is all the girl drama. It usually starts with cheating, breaking up, stirring up a hot mess, reuniting, and the cycle starts over again. I understand that in an all-girls school, these disputes do happen, but it was too redundant in the novel. Instead of focusing on girls hating and loving each other, I would like to see more teacher vs student action. The story is about fighting against a corrupted education system and its teachers, not unnecessary gossip and drama. Overall, I would rate this book a 4 out of 5 starsReviewed by Alex T. for Teens Read it First
I love it! Don’t be deceived by the book’s pink cover, because “Amelia Westlake Was Never Here” is full of drama and action. At first, I was reluctant to pick up the book as it looked like a generic…
The Bone CharmerThe Bone Charmer, BookFate Is Predictable ; Choice Is Not
by Shields, BreeanaBook - 2019Book, 2019
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
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Reviewed by Fred D. for Teens Read it First
The Story begins with a special event where all adolescents’ apprenticeship are determined, and Saskia’s (the main character) worst fear comes true, she received an assignment to train as a bone charmer, like her mother. Then during a quarrel afterwards, Saskia breaks her bone, which resulted in the split of her future. From this point on, the story is told in an eccentric way, with two different timelines.
The Bone Charmer is an interesting fantasy about magic and bones, but it is on the verge of a horror story. This book focuses on the problems with trust, love, and betrayal. At some parts of the book, it is too uneventful to keep the reader interested. However, the author took a different approach to writing the book, with split timelines, giving the reader different perspectives. The author did a great job ensuring that the reader understands the split timeline, keeping the two separate yet intertwined. The main character was also thoughtfully developed, with relatable traits. It is a fabulous tale with a dystopian twist.
I would recommend this book to people age 8 and up.
I rate this book 4 out of 5Reviewed by Fred D. for Teens Read it First
The Story begins with a special event where all adolescents’ apprenticeship are determined, and Saskia’s (the main character) worst fear comes true, she received an assignment to train as a bone…
Your Brain Needs A HugYour Brain Needs A Hug, BookLife, Love, Mental Health, and Sandwiches
by Earl, RaeBook - 2019 | First Imprint editionBook, 2019. First Imprint edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by: Cara G. for Teens Read it First
5 stars
Not only is Rae Earl’s brilliant Your Brain Needs A Hug an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about taking care of their mental health, it is engaging and fun to read. Using her own experiences and those of people she knows, Rae provides easy-to-understand, practical advice and information on a variety of mental illnesses—OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression to name a few. What makes this book so great is that Rae is open, honest, and humourous about her own mental health struggles, truly showing her readers that they are not alone. She uses no unintelligible scientific terms, and she also lists resources (websites and hotlines) that could potentially save a life. While this is an informative book, it first and foremost an enjoyable, laugh-out-loud read, and I strongly recommend it to everyone. Yes, everyone—no matter your personal interests or situation, everyone has mental health that needs to be cared for. Read it!Reviewed by: Cara G. for Teens Read it First
5 stars
Not only is Rae Earl’s brilliant Your Brain Needs A Hug an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about taking care of their mental health, it is engaging and fun…
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
‘When The Light Went Out’ is a touching tale about the past and
present intertwined. The author, Ms. Morrissey, focussed the spotlight
onto a girl from the past, Marley, who was accidentally shot and
killed five years ago. The main character is Olivia Stanton, a
sixteen-year-old, super-relatable teenager who mourns for Marley, and
wishes that everything would be the same as it was all those years
ago.
Definitely, at a teenage era of our lives, there are a lot of regrets,
and hopes of wishing we were a child where we did not have to deal
with the messes that we have now. But Ms. Morrissey teaches us of
learning and acceptance. As the reader traverses through the pages of
the story, we eventually hit the point where we too, understand and
accept our lives and the unfortunate things of our past. Ironically,
and purposefully, the author uses Olivia Stanton’s life, one that has
more turmoil than most to create a subconscious comparison between the
reader and Olivia. This book is a reminder to be optimistic like
Olivia had. It teaches to keep going until you pull through.
The moral of the story was meaningful, but another surprising thing
about this book was how it had kept my heart-racing throughout, and
how it had glued my eyes to each of the pages until I finally
completed the story. Such a thriller. When reading, you will
experience plot twists after plot twists, adventure, excitement, and a
well-rounded, fabulous story suitable for anyone.Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
‘When The Light Went Out’ is a touching tale about the past and
present intertwined. The author, Ms. Morrissey, focussed the spotlight
onto a girl from the past, Marley, who was accidentally shot…
American RoyalsAmerican Royals, Book
by McGee, KatharineBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Regan T. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This book was an entertaining read. At first I found it hard to relate to the characters, seeing as most of them were literally royalty. However, as the story progressed, it became easier to understand the characters, as, although they were raised in an aristocratic and noble environment, they all still had to deal with both classism and sexism in life. One of the main protagonists would be the first queen that America would ever have, which meant that there were a lot of people rooting against her. Overall, it was very eloquently written, with beautiful descriptions that make it easy for the reader to imagine what’s going on in each scene. The four main characters each have a very different voice, and each of their personalities jumps out in a different way: one ruthlessly ambitious, another noble and righteous, the third wild and careless, and the fourth cautious and intelligent. It had a fast pace, and even though the actual timeline of events spanned over several months, it definitely didn’t feel that way. However, I do wish they had included more politics in the novel, such as what America’s role would be as a monarchy in today’s modern political society. As well, I felt that there were many loose ends not very well tied up in the story, but then again, the author may also be planning to write a sequel. Hopefully, that’s the case!Reviewed by Regan T. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This book was an entertaining read. At first I found it hard to relate to the characters, seeing as most of them were literally royalty. However, as the story progressed, it became easier to…
The Shortest Distance Between Love & HateThe Shortest Distance Between Love & Hate, Book
by Hall, SandyBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Ryne Z. for Teens Read it First
“The Shortest Distance Between Love and Hate”, by Sandy Hall, is a romance novel about two high school enemies falling in love with each other.
Overall, the book is a pleasant read: the author did a good job at giving the cringeworthy high-school-romance genre a spark of hope. I find the concept of enemies falling in love very creative (although I must say that the book’s genre is not my favorite). The dilemma of struggling between revenge and forgiveness is attractive to me. Furthermore, the setting of the book – high school life – makes the dilemma not as intense, and thus makes the book easier to read. I also enjoyed how the author tries to incorporate a special font to differentiate text messaging between characters and contrast that with their actual thoughts.
However, I must say that although the book is pleasant, it just somewhat stays at that level. Perhaps it is because of my natural distaste for most romance novels and it may be due to the fact that I haven’t read much of the genre to truly enjoy it, but I find the plot of the book rather bland, and the progress rather slow. Nevertheless, such problems don’t detract too much from the book.
I would recommend this book to those who are having a long day and just want to relax and read an easy read. This book gets a 4/5 from me.Reviewed by Ryne Z. for Teens Read it First
“The Shortest Distance Between Love and Hate”, by Sandy Hall, is a romance novel about two high school enemies falling in love with each other.
Overall, the book is a pleasant read: the author did a…
The Traitor's KingdomThe Traitor's Kingdom, Book
by Beaty, ErinBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Elena C. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
I have read the first and second books of The Traitor’s Trilogy before, and this one followed up nicely. However, whereas the first and second books were quite unpredictable, it was quite clear to me early in the beginning how this book would progress. To me, the “traitor” was no surprise. On the other hand, the plot and depth of world building still truly shines in this series. There was a lot of material packed into this book, but it was elegantly woven together into a cohesive plot with no glaring holes. I also love how the author handles Sage and Alex’s relationship. While Sage and Alex want to be near each other, they both realize they have responsibilities that can keep them apart. It is also nice to see that Alex knows Sage will not always listen to him, but he does not seek to change her. It has more political elements about running a kingdom rather than much action/suspense, but personally, I didn’t mind this. Overall, this ending to the Traitor’s Circle is a good, solid conclusion giving readers satisfying closure to an amazing trilogy.Reviewed by Elena C. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
I have read the first and second books of The Traitor’s Trilogy before, and this one followed up nicely. However, whereas the first and second books were quite unpredictable, it was…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Dane M. for Teens Read it First
4/5 stars
“Fan the Fame” takes an interesting approach to bullying and social justice in the current times. Written through multiple perspectives of three different characters, it keeps the story flowing and interesting. Also, seeing how internalized thoughts and externalized actions differ given character interpretation is a very interesting thing and is uniquely seen in books with more than one POV’s. Another benefit of this POV formatting is that no argument is ever one-sided and is often up for interpretation. There is always a realistic counterargument, and sometimes deciding who is right or wrong isn’t as simple as asking if it’s the protagonist or antagonist speaking, because when two opposing characters with equal screen time and relatability argue, taking a side isn’t straightforward. This flowing yet elaborate structure creates a great canvas to paint philosophies and ideas on, and Anna Priemaza snatches a brush and paints effectively and rhythmically. I enjoyed the premise of the book and the setting at a gaming convention, with which it becomes easy to contrast characters in since large-scale events like the “LotS Convention” are far from dull. “Fan the Fame” is never dull either, and with ambition, hunger, love, society and justice as the words which first come to mind when asked to describe the book, I can’t deny that I was always excited to get into bed and continue reading. I rate it 4/5 stars, and would recommend that any fellow teen read it, as there is something to be said for stories that can bring up discussions as easily as this one.Reviewed by Dane M. for Teens Read it First
4/5 stars
“Fan the Fame” takes an interesting approach to bullying and social justice in the current times. Written through multiple perspectives of three different characters, it keeps the story…
Dissenter on the BenchDissenter on the Bench, BookRuth Bader Ginsburg's Life and Work
by Ortiz, VictoriaBook - 2019Book, 2019
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Chloe C. for Teens Read it First
(4/5)
I found this biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg quite fascinating. As a fan of nonfiction, this book appealed to me because I wanted to know more about US law. That being said, having no prior knowledge of law, this book was easy to understand and was not full of law jargon like I feared it would be. It was a concise summary of Ginsburg’s upbringing and several court cases which she was part of. However, I would say that the structure of the book may be a bit confusing at times as it is not linear and jumps around different time periods. This is as the book is split based by case and not based by year. Overall, this was a good book, and I would definitely recommend it to those wishing to learn more about law, particularly the US law system. Moreover, the themes of justice and equality that Ginsburg fights for is wholly applicable to today’s society, thus this book is relevant to people of all ages, races and genders. This book is a reminder that the achievement of justice and equality still remains a struggle today, and thus reading about Ginsburg’s experiences and actions will hopefully urge readers to aspire to creating a fairer society for everyone. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone, as I think we all have something to learn from Ginsburg.Reviewed by Chloe C. for Teens Read it First
(4/5)
I found this biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg quite fascinating. As a fan of nonfiction, this book appealed to me because I wanted to know more about US law. That being said, having no prior…
Life Is Short and Then You DieLife Is Short and Then You Die, BookFirst Encounters With Murder
Book - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Regan T. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This was just one of those books that I could NOT put down! Every story was unique and different, but each was so good! I really liked being able to compare different authors’ writing styles, and it was fascinating to see how each story played out. There were so many ups and downs, and since it was a new writer every time, I was never sure whether the ending to the story would be good or bad. Each and every one of the characters in each story was well-thought-out and the dynamics always worked really well. All had their own motive and each voice was so unique and starkly different it was like a splash of cold water in the face when I ended one story and moved on to the next! I would highly recommend this book, especially since they’re short stories and you don’t have to read them all in one go (even though you probably will end up doing so anyway)!Reviewed by Regan T. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This was just one of those books that I could NOT put down! Every story was unique and different, but each was so good! I really liked being able to compare different authors’ writing styles,…
HEARTS, STRINGS, AND OTHER BREAKABLE THINGSHEARTS, STRINGS, AND OTHER BREAKABLE THINGS, Book
by Firkins, JacquelineBook - 2019Book, 2019
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This book was very fun to read!
The story brings the reader on an adventurous journey as the protagonist, Edie, has to choose between two boys who are both vying for her while she tries to fit into to a new town.
This book is a great YA Fic books that allow readers to really understand the characters and enables us teens to reflect on our own crazy and confusing lives, while adding a twist of romance.
However, some parts of the story line were a bit confusing in my opinion and sometimes I felt as if the book was a bit cliché and unrealistic as the storyline sort of falls into the “girl moves to a new town and falls in love with the soft spoken boy next door while the bad boy in town is also trying to win her heart at the same time” category.
Overall, the book was very enjoyable to read, although I do not feel like the book had a profound effect on me. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a fast read or a book that is light hearted and fun.Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
4/5
This book was very fun to read!
The story brings the reader on an adventurous journey as the protagonist, Edie, has to choose between two boys who are both vying for her while she tries to…
How the Light Gets inHow the Light Gets in, Book
by Upperman, KatyBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Oct 11, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Michelle X. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
Sarah Dessen meets Pretty Little Liars; this is a wonderfully written novel that seamlessly blends the unbreakable bond of sisterhood with tinges of eeriness. Katy Upperman is able to stay true to her contemporary works whilst also introducing undertones of mystery; I found the depiction of seventeen year old Callie Ryan’s grief after losing her sister very realistic. The main character also grapples with guilt, school, and not being the person she used to be, which for me and the people I know, are struggles many teens in the real world face as well.
I was hesitant about reading this book, as it began with Callie’s parents presenting her with the option of spending the summer at a Montana wilderness camp for troubled teens or at her Aunt Lucy’s house in Bell Cove, Oregon — neither of which sounded particularly interesting to me. However, I did manage to enjoy bits and pieces here and there, especially chapters that showcased Tucker, the yard boy hired to help tend to Aunt Lucy’s garden, and Callie’s endearing relationship. This is not the type of book I would actively seek out again, but I am glad I gave it a chance!Reviewed by Michelle X. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4/5
Sarah Dessen meets Pretty Little Liars; this is a wonderfully written novel that seamlessly blends the unbreakable bond of sisterhood with tinges of eeriness. Katy Upperman is able to…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
5/5
This is book does not sugarcoat. It is the complete opposite of books where the so called “bad guys” are being captured and justice is being served. In this book, everyone is fighting for their own survival and trust is a loose line that it easily broken.
This book is not about a girl who is heroic, fierce and strong. This book is about a girl who will do anything to ensure her survival. Nita finds pleasure in dissecting corpses and she understands the consequences of her actions. Along with that, this book touches on having moral codes and boundaries and to not lose yourself by crossing these boundaries.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book as I found it to be very unique; however I will warn other readers that there is quite of lot of violence in this book, which in my opinion adds more to the book but might scare some people. I am so excited for the second book to come out!Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
5/5
This is book does not sugarcoat. It is the complete opposite of books where the so called “bad guys” are being captured and justice is being served. In this book, everyone is fighting for their…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Saoirse A. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Review: This novel takes readers through a journey of love, both old and new, by alternating between the viewpoints of two lesbians: one, Abby Zimet, is a modern teenager, and one, Janet Jones, is a girl in the 1950’s. The alternating points of view show readers how life was like being a lesbian, from then to now, and the dangers that arise from ones sexuality. It tells of how much progress the lgbtq community has gone through, and how much more there still is to go. Robin Talley wonderfully writes about two strong women, who go through different, but equally challenging situationsReviewed by Saoirse A. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Review: This novel takes readers through a journey of love, both old and new, by alternating between the viewpoints of two lesbians: one, Abby Zimet, is a modern teenager, and…
SupermanSuperman, BookDawnbreaker
by de la Peña, MattBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Fin R. for Teens Read it First
4.5 / 5 stars
Superman: Dawnbreaker, in my opinion, was an action-packed suspense novel that I enjoyed immensely. This book had me wanting to keep reading from the start of the book up until the end. There were a few parts of the book I really enjoyed, and one of those was the plot. The book is based around superman as a teen, and I found the plotline quite intriguing. Another thing I like about this book was how the author described the setting. When I was reading I felt like I was living in the same small town as superman, with all the same people. Some things I felt the author could have made better were the character interactions. I found it very difficult to know what emotion each character was feeling It felt like one minute, someone might be sad, and the next they might be ecstatic, with no transition whatsoever. Finally, I found Clark’s romance with Gloria to be unnecessary and noncontributory to the book. All in all, I had a fantastic time reading this book. I rate this book 4.5 / 5 stars, and would recommend it to ages 11-15.Reviewed by Fin R. for Teens Read it First
4.5 / 5 stars
Superman: Dawnbreaker, in my opinion, was an action-packed suspense novel that I enjoyed immensely. This book had me wanting to keep reading from the start of the book up until the end.…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by: Eduardo N. for Teens Read it First
Score: ⅘
Summer of ‘69 follows Lucas, an anti war “hippie”, who looks forward to spending his summer with his friends, smoking drugs and attending the three-day Woodstock Music and Art Fair. However, his summer is ruined when his girlfriend Robin leaves to Canada and he finds himself in danger of being drafted to the war in Vietnam. From then on, his summer
veers off into a series of unforgettable experiences and a truly enjoyable read.
This is the first book I have read taking place in the 60’s, during the Vietnam war, and it was really interesting to learn about what it was like in those times. The main character, Lucas, is a very dynamic character, in which he is self-destructive, yet also self-aware. The rest of the supporting cast of characters are each interesting and unique. And while the book was very enjoyable, there are some aspects that I didn’t particularly enjoy. This book contains a lot of
drug use, which was very common at the time. It also contains a lot sex and swearing, especially during Lucas’s encounters with the free-loving Tinsley. Overall, this book was enjoyable from start to finish, and kept me hooked at all times; a definite ⅘. I absolutely recommend this book to all mature readers who are interested in learning more about the 60’s era.Reviewed by: Eduardo N. for Teens Read it First
Score: ⅘
Summer of ‘69 follows Lucas, an anti war “hippie”, who looks forward to spending his summer with his friends, smoking drugs and attending the three-day Woodstock Music and Art Fair.…
The Tesla LegacyThe Tesla Legacy, Book
by Pérez, KristinaBook - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Alex T. for Teens Read it First
The Tesla Legacy is an intriguing thriller novel that sparks excitement and electricity. The plot was especially amazing due to the unexpected twists and turns. An example would be how Lucy’s parents were actually scientists that “kidnapped” her. These events were gradually clued by K.K. Perez and were foreseeable if the readers connected the dots. During the novel, I had a general idea where the plot was heading, but the ending was breathtaking. I loved how the author made deep connections with Greek Mythology, historical figures, and scientific facts. This novel also reminded me of The Davinci Code by Dan Brown, since they both touch on secret societies and encrypted messages. In my opinion, The Tesla Legacy has more fictional elements which can better complement the mysteriousness.
There were some unclear ideas in the plot. I personally loved the secret societies fighting with each another, but it was hard to tell which is good and which is evil. From my point of view, Lucy’s sophist mother and father kept her away from all the potential chaos she brings. Instead, Lucy chose the Archimedeans because she couldn’t deal with her parents’ lies. However, Ravi has also told many lies and committed many suspicious actions behind Lucy’s back. Maybe there is no good and bad, but a clarification would but helpful. Overall, I would rate this novel a 4 out of 5.Reviewed by Alex T. for Teens Read it First
The Tesla Legacy is an intriguing thriller novel that sparks excitement and electricity. The plot was especially amazing due to the unexpected twists and turns. An example would be how Lucy’s parents…
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Sophie V. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 5/5
In the Woods by Carrie Jones and Steven E. Wedel is a FANTASTIC novel. It was an absolute page-turner, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading it. I loved the storyline and I loved the characters, from the weird Mr. Lawson Smith to the brave Logan Jennings and Chrystal Lawson Smith. I like that each chapter changes from Chrystal’s point of view to Logan’s. Each character had something unique and special about them, which I don’t find in many novels. The book was a nice mix of Romance, Action, Drama, and Thriller. The novel takes place in Oklahoma, and while I have never been there I was able to picture everything in my mind. It is one of those books that, once you start reading you can’t put it down. The way the book was written makes you want more and makes you want the book to never end. This novel could easily become a very good film. I highly suggest it. It’s a great read and once its published I would love a copy.Reviewed by Sophie V. for Teens Read it First
Rating: 5/5
In the Woods by Carrie Jones and Steven E. Wedel is a FANTASTIC novel. It was an absolute page-turner, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading it. I loved…
This Is Not A Love SceneThis Is Not A Love Scene, Book
by Megale, S. C.Book - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
S.E. Meagle incoporates an extensive amount of the characters’ own perspectives throughout the entire book, and this helps to enhance the understanding of the reader. Nothing in this book is perfect for the characters, and even the conclusion to the book is left undecided—and that manages to be a peculiarly satisfying end to the novel, and also a great way to compare a teen’s everyday life with ‘This Is Not A Love Scene’ side by side.
A memorable point of the book is how realistic everything is, from the main character’s crush on a boy she is filming with and eventually to something more for her. This entire book is like a little world to emerge yourself in when you do not want to deal with those same troubles in real life.
One of the best things about this book is that everything through Maeve’s eyes is very authentic and alike to one of a teenager; and the author seems to include her own unique point of view for her main character, and through this, readers get to know the writer a lot more. Maeve has very unique thoughts and motives behind her actions, and I would like to thank the author for sharing this with us.Reviewed by Keisha L. for Teens Read it First
S.E. Meagle incoporates an extensive amount of the characters’ own perspectives throughout the entire book, and this helps to enhance the understanding of the reader. Nothing in this book is perfect…
Bright Burning StarsBright Burning Stars, Book
by Small, A. K.Book - 2019 | First editionBook, 2019. First edition
vpl_teens's rating:
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
3.5/5
Bright Burning stars is an amazing book that illuminates the dark side of competition and how it can tear apart friendships and other important relationship. Set in a highly-competitive ballet school where winners get it all, the protagonists must do everything they can to achieve the top spot in order to realize their dreams.
Although the story is rather short, it provides an incredible insight on the lives of those who face fierce competition on a daily basis. It also teaches readers how important friendships are. Throughout the story, Marine and Kate keep each other going, even on their worst days. They motivate each other, laugh together and share some of their fondest memories together. In the end, the protagonists realize that their friendship is stronger than the destructive competition that tore their lives and relationship apart.
Bright Burning Stars is not just a book about competition and the struggles of teenage life. At its core, it is a story of friendship. A friendship that recovers even after the hardest blows.Reviewed by Sarah W. for Teens Read it First
3.5/5
Bright Burning stars is an amazing book that illuminates the dark side of competition and how it can tear apart friendships and other important relationship. Set in a highly-competitive ballet…
Comment: