The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

REVIEWED BY RICHARD ROTSTEIN

Bloodthirsty, Blinding, Bewildering - so storms the novel, ‘The Hunger Games’ through the ramparts of your imagination. From the moment you espy the blood stained letters on the cover and the fraught girl staring hypnotically into your eyes, as if daring you to open the book and experience the horror of The Hunger Games, your mind is captured by a sense of fear.
The author, Suzanne Collins has constructed an amazing tale of science fiction set in the futuristic country of Panem. The protagonist, Katniss Everdeen is forced to represent her district with another boy named Peeta Melark in a battle to the death. There is only one rule, to stay alive. Twenty-four children aged from eleven to eighteen representing twelve districts compete for the glory of winning The Hunger Games. The entire bloodbath is televised to the world for their entertainment. Suzanne Collins forces us to follow the vicissitudes of various child gladiators as they kill, or are killed.
Katniss Everdeen is a typical post-modern hero in our book. She is only a teenager but is forced to put food on her family’s table. With a fiery spirit and a non-conformist attitude, she defies the Capitol throughout the book. She has an altruistic nature, volunteering to fight in the Hunger Games in the place of her younger sister, Prim.
Peeta Melark, the boy who is chosen to represent the same district as Katniss, confesses his love for Katniss in a pre-game interview, live on national television, which raises confusing emotions in the arena when they team up. Even more problematic, Katniss and Peeta both know that if they make it to the end, they will eventually have to kill each other.
The ethical dilemmas raised by the plot confront the reader’s sense of morality and create a gripping air of excitement.
The novel ends in a nail biting climax with a brilliant twist which leaves readers blown away. I would recommend this to all teenagers as a novel with important messages that could influence the way that teenagers think and could ultimately reduce violence.
Hunger Games warns us about the dangers of some current trends. They describe the consequences of political authoritarianism and the thoughtless pursuit of selfish pleasures. There is a pressing moral perspective to the story – hedonistic, authoritarian regimes that remain unchallenged can lead to disaster. It may be necessary to bring the existing state to ruins in order to create a better life for all.

Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

REVIEWED BY RUBY STEINBERG

I heard a thud at the door.
“Mummy, are the French policemen here to take us away?” There was no reply, just fear in her innocent eyes.
“It’s the police- open up!” There was no stop to the horrific thudding. It was drilled into my brain. It was like I was trapped in a dark, intimate room, in the middle of nowhere, with no possibility to see the light of day again.
Sarah, a ten-year-old girl, lives peacefully with her Mum, Dad and little brother Michel in Paris, 1942. She is a girl who lives a ordinary lifestyle- attends school and likes to be with her friends- but it all changed that one lonely July night. The French policemen men bombarded Sarah’s family’s home. This is when Sarah took the initiative to hide his brother, Michel, promising she will be back- not knowing what the circumstances were. 60 years later, A journalist, Julia Jarmound, and American immigrant, is given an assignment to research about the Jewish-French people that experienced ‘The Shoah” for the 60th anniversary article in the American magazine company she worked for. Eventually investigating more about this historical event, Julia finds that she has a connection with one of the young girls that were abducted from her Jewish home by the French policemen. Tatiana intertwines the 2 stories exceptionally well throughout the story.
The content in this book is very outstanding. Tatiana de Rosnay is simply like a swan when it comes to writing, smooth and elegant. She has this unique power to write similar chapters, without making them repetitive. This has a large impact on the content itself-which makes it phenomenal. She showed feelings and events extremely well, both in Sarah and Julia’s lives. In Sarah’s case, she was always tired, worrying about her brother who was trapped in the cupboard and questioning the situation. Tatiana did show all this grief that Sarah was going through in a very refined way. With Julia, Tatiana writes a great part for her as she always has interviews for her article and her explains her personal life very thoroughly.
This book is a heart-warming masterpiece, created by Tatiana de Rosnay. Coming from English, French and Russian descent, she grew up with big aspirations- as her father was a scientist and mother was an engineer. From 1984 until 1993, Tatiana was a Paris editor for Vanity Fair. After this, she has written and published ten novels. Sarah’s Key has been published in 38 countries and has sold over three million copies- worldwide. Also, Sarah’s Key has been created into a movie in 2010.
Sarah’s Kay is truly magnificent in so many ways. The historical fiction teaches us about this tragic event that most people have never even heard about. Tatiana really connects the book to the reader which shows that this book has definitely been a best-seller and a lightening but heart-wrenching story.
I quickly raced to my room that I shared with Michel. Mummy told me to pack some clothes for a few days. I also asked mummy where we were going, but she ignored me. Michel had fear in his eyes. He was frightened. I assured him that everything was going to be fine. I decided to leave Michel in our cupboard with water and a torch. Before I left, I went back to lock the cupboard, “I’ll be back, I promise”, and kissed his forehead goodbye.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

REVIEWED BY RYAN KAGAN

“Winning will make you famous. Losing means certain death.” These are perfect words to describe the white-knuckle adventure, of Katniss throughout the Hunger Games. Katniss is a courageous 16-year-old girl who will do anything to ensure her mum’s, her sister’s and her own health and safety in the land of Panem. (District 12)
Panem, once known as North America, is a capital surrounded by 12 different districts. One boy and one girl between the age of twelve and eighteen are chosen from every district to participate in the terrifying fight to death in the Hunger Games. Kill or be Killed is the single rule that applies during the games of pure strength and survival. Death has faced Katniss before, so when she enters the arena in place of her sister, she knows it may be her death sentence.
Gale Hawthorne Katniss’s best friend is a very talented and skilled 18-year-old hunter. Gale is in love and extremely caring towards Katniss although, she doesn’t know this at all times.
The title Hunger Games relates to the book in many ways, but I think a better title could include the key word “survival”, focusing on how the whole book relates to trying to stay alive and keeping your feet throughout the life threatening adventure of the Hunger Games.
I would suggest this book for readers who enjoy adventure and suspense. It was a very intense book that I enjoyed and could not put down. I am in the middle of reading the second book in the hunger games trilogy and can’t wait to see the new adventures that Katniss embarks upon.

Mercy by Jodi Picoult

REVIEWED BY SHELLEY OBOLER

What lengths would you go to, for someone you love? Is there a limit? “Would you lie? Would you leave? Or would you kill?” These are just some of the issues facing the characters in Mercy, which form a web around two cousins who are on different paths, driven to different lengths by the great force of love.
Police chief, of the small Massachusetts town of Wheelock, Cameron McDonald is a tough and hardworking officer. He is also a descendant of his Scottish Clan, and not only has a duty but an honour to the people of his town. Allie, his devoted wife owns a florist shop opposite the Police Station. To Allie, each flower has a different meaning. She is very passionate with the flower arrangements she makes, and puts much care and effort into each one. Mia is a new assistant working for Allie at the florist shop.
When Cam’s cousin, Jamie shows up at the police station with his wife’s lifeless body, Jamie says to cam “My wife here, Maggie, is dead and I’m the one who killed her!” As hard as it was, Cameron immediately handcuffed and arrested him! The situation is very confusing to Cam’s wife, Allie, as Jamie paints a picture of a man who is still madly in love with his wife; who would grant her every wish, even if it meant ending her life.
Jaime is forced to stand trial, and a court case comes into play. It was a lengthy trial with many twists and turns along the way. Allie was assisting Jaime, by going to his friends and neighbours to collect information and evidence that could help him win his case.
Cam was drawn to Mia, and while Allie was away collecting evidence, Cam became more and more infatuated with Mia. They spent a lot of time together and there wasn’t even a thought of how he had betrayed his own wife.
Laced tightly with love and passion and a fast moving story, this book explores some of today’s moral and ethical issues as it leads you onto the verdict of… “When you love someone, where do you cross the line of moral obligation? And how can you commonly define love and devotion to begin with?”
“Mercy” is a great title for this book! It makes me feel like someone is asking for compassion. There is mystery and intrigue and it makes you wonder what the story is about even before you open the cover of the book.
“Mercy” is a very enjoyable story to read. It is truly a page turner and by the end, you’re still thinking about this incredible novel, as well as judging your own personal beliefs about love and compassion! Jodi Picoult’s characters are credible, as she has brought them all to life and given them their own identity. It is rich in detail, making me feel part of the story at times. It made me think about assisted suicide/euthanasia, and the fine line that there is between mercy killing and just killing. It made me think about the dynamics of family and how different we all are, and the different ways we deal and react to different situations and circumstances.
Just a thought: Things are not always what they seem to be.

The Set-Up by Sophie McKenzie

REVIEWED BY TALIA STONE

The Set-Up by Sophie McKenzie is about a boy named Nico, a typical cocky, charismatic teenager. His best friend and the girl of his dreams, Ketty just out of reach and taken by a boy named Billy Martin and soon after a boy named Ed and his school principle and teacher happens to be his unkind stepdad Fergus Fox. Nico’s life may not have been perfect, but he was certainly not expecting to be part of a science experiment called the Medusa Gene where he would soon get the “super power” of telekinesis along with 3 other unknowns with other super human abilities.
When Nico finds out about his telekinesis his stepdad quickly tells him that “the power” he has is evil and that it should not be used. But Nico’s curiosity got the best of him. He soon met up with Dylan, a spunky red head teenage girl that all the boys had their eyes on, who to Nico’s surprise also had the medusa gene but in the form of never being able to get harmed. Later he met Jack Lindon, a serious man who seemed quite sincere in helping Nico improve in his power.
Over the course of the story you find out that though Jack Lindon tells Nico that he is trying to help improve his telekinesis, he is actually trying to sell Nico and his power to an evil man studying the science of the Medusa Gene. As Jack helps in “teaching” Nico more about his power, Nico becomes more and more obsessed with using his power to get the girl of his dreams Ketty.
When he soon finds out that Ed, Ketty’s boyfriend has the Medusa Gene too Nico manages to get Ketty, Ed and himself into a lot of trouble. While locked in a small tight room together scared and afraid of what will happen next they are soon sent to a science laboratory. Unsure of how to get out Fergus Fox comes to the rescue.
Overall, The Set-Up has a mischievous, sneaky and spooky plot that keeps you hooked all the way through to the end. The moral of The Set-Up would have to be to listen to and respect your elders and when they give you advice they are most likely doing it to help you. The book made me think about how people can mislead you and though they seem very nice you shouldn’t get too close and give out personal information to strangers. The title, The Set-Up fits the book perfectly as it is about how Jack was supposedly helping Nico, but turned out to set him up into Jack’s trap. I would rate this book 4 out of 5 stars because at times the book was a bit confusing but overall a must read!

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard

REVIEWED BY TATUM SPICER

The main characters of “THE LYING GAME” are twins Emma and Sutton. Emma is a deranged, miserable teenager who is living her unfortunate years in and out of foster homes. Emma is, good hearted and philosophical, however but not very confident. Sutton, on the other hand, is adopted into a wealthy suburban family and is a popular ring leader of her group of acquaintances. Sutton is the far more superior and privileged twin. Sutton can be cruel to the people around her, obnoxious and arrogant.
They are unaware of each others existence until they become teenagers. Sutton however fails to show up to a reunion that Emma organises. Emma ends up in Sutton's house playing the role of her long lost twin without raising any suspicions. Over time Emma is unsure of Sutton's whereabouts until receiving an anonymous note claiming that Sutton is dead. While remaining in disguise, Emma tries to solve the mystery of her sister’s supposed murder. She grows suspicious of several people but by the end, realizes that she’s going down the utterly wrong path. All this time the ghost of Sutton has been following Emma every move.
Adapting the role of Sutton, Emma has to convey her sister’s poisonous personality. Emma manages to satisfy Sutton’s friends and parents, however weakens in disguise when around an outcast at their school that she can relate to and is interested in. The dead Sutton has had every piece of information on her mysterious past wiped out after her death. She doesn't remember the way she treated people, but gradually learns through Emma's eyes. She feels exceptionally guilty, wishing that she could've been more like Emma.
Emma mistakenly believed that Sutton was murdered by her jealous friends. When she discovers this not to be the case she becomes concerned that her murderer is still on the loose.
In the story, Emma drops everything she possesses, ditches her current foster family, and turns up in a remote area. Hoping to find some answers to her shameful empty life. Without having a moment to breathe or think she gets whisked into an unexpected opposite life. She risks her own existence, feeling obligated to fight for her sister and to get some answers. Therefore the message in the book is on how far one would go to protect another.
The book revolves a lot around personal safety, and how to protect yourself in times of trepidation. Also on trust, the book is entirely based on thinking you know someone when you actually have no idea who they are. Emma deals with finding her true friends, and the people that she can emotionally relate to.
When examining the title of the book “The Lying Game” I had an immediate suspicion that lies and secrets would have a big impact on the story. The story in my opinion is very enjoyable. I was absorbed to the genre and the plot that generates it. However it’s not a very content story as it contains death, gloom, loneliness and individuality.
I would absolutely recommend this book around, as although it isn’t a very uplifting tale, it left my clinging to the seat desperate to know more. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

REVIEWED BY TIMOTHY S. DAVIS

Finally after a great adventure for all potter fans, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows has arrived, and it is the 7th, much awaited and final instalment of the highly successful Harry Potter franchise by J.K Rowling. This book continues from where Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince left off. Voldemort and his Death Eaters are searching for Harry Potter, the boy who lived, while Harry and his best friends Ronald Weasly and Hermione Granger start their search for Voldemorts horcruxes (hidden objects containing parts of voldemorts soul).
This is the first book of the series where the trio of Harry, Ron and Hermione are not at Hogwarts for most of the book.
Throughout the book they are in hiding on their quest for the horcruxes and they meet various obstacles along the way, as well as emotional hurdles. Harry and Hermione go back to where Harrys parents died where they both get quite emotional while for much of the first part Ron becomes jealous of Harry and Hermione spending a lot of time together, seeing as Ron loves Hermione. Harry also becomes obsessed about the Deathly Hallows, which are an undefeatable wand, and invisibility cloak and a resurrection stone. Owning all three at the same time means immortality, something Voldemort is seeking.
There are many exciting and thrilling parts in the book, including Ron’s heroic return, the trio riding a half blind dragon out of a bank run by goblins, Harrys realization that he has to be killed to save his friends and the epic and most anticipated final battle between the Death Eaters against Hogwarts and the even more anticipated duel between Harry and Lord Voldemort which takes place in Hogwarts with the whole school watching! The conclusion is a great finish to the series and there are many shocks along the way including Severus Snapes change of heart and Harry’s thoughts about Snape – one of the main characters in this book who plays a vital role in not just this book, but also the whole series!
It is a very thrilling and entertaining book that excited me the whole way. I have read this book 5 times and never get sick of it and I learn new things every time. An action packed book filled with excitement, anger, happiness and any other emotion that you could think of. A must read for all Potter fanatics.
My Rating for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: 9 ¾ out of a possible 10 (pun intended potter fans)

Destiny’s Right Hand by Michael Wagner

REVIEWED BY ZAC EFRON

When Eddie Innocent meets Destiny, his life is changed forever. “Your hand might not let you take everything back, but it can’t stop me.” These are the words of Eddie Innocent, a 15 year old simple but determined young journalist working for the Junior Herald (a Melbourne paper which is run only by young journalists under the age of 18).
Destiny’s Right Hand is a story about help, trust, friendship, determination and reliance on others in times of need.
This wonderful story is set in the suburban areas of Melbourne. Eddie first meets Destiny in a very normal situation. While Eddie is buying grapes from a small supermarket, he sees Destiny, a beautifully elegant and slender young woman, who he believes is the most amazing thing he has ever seen. But Eddie realises that looks can be deceiving and finds out that Destiny’s right hand, a transplanted hand, is making her steal strange items from stores. Eddie is the only one who believes Destiny, and Destiny is the only one who gives Eddie what he so desperately needs, confidence. After doing some research but getting nowhere, Eddie calls on his colleague, Noah, to help them. Though Noah has Asperger’s syndrome, he is extremely intellectual, and after much discussion, Eddie and Destiny convince Noah to help them solve the mystery of Destiny’s Right Hand.
The title Destiny’s Right Hand is well chosen as it’s meaning can be understood in many different ways. After reading the first few chapters, the reader will find that they will be able to form an understanding of the meaning of the title.
Both Eddie and Destiny change a lot throughout this story and one will find that by the end of the story they will change into completely different people. It is fitting that we can relate to the main characters of the story.
There is an unexpected ending to this story that leaves the reader full of emotion. The reader will be left wanting a sequel. The book is mesmerising, and enjoyable to read. The author, Michael Wagner, has chosen his words very carefully. Wagner has used many descriptive words and has done a terrific job setting the scene for the reader. Wagner has also used diagrams throughout the story to convey certain things to the reader.
The message of the story is to help someone in need of you, because you will find that helping someone else will ultimately help you.
Destiny’s Right Hand is beautifully written and is definitely a great read for the young Melburnian. I hope that the author of the book, Michael Wagner, receives praise for his outstanding efforts in writing this novel.

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis

REVIEWED BY MIA BRAYER

When Parvana starts her journey she doesn’t expect to go through some amazing challenges. While on her journey Parvana met some extraordinary people like Asif, Hassan and Leila who all have different challenges. “Parvana’s Journey” by Deborah Ellis is about Parvana, who is a shy, open-minded kind and caring thirteen year old girl. Asif is one-legged as the result of a bomb, and says that he only comes on the journey to annoy Parvana but really he is afraid to be left behind. Hassan is a baby who Parvana finds alone in a tent and Leila is a little girl Parvana befriends. Leila is kind, determined, and resourceful, although she has a lot to learn. The challenges that Parvana faces on her journey change her inside and out, she changes emotionally and by appearance. The story begins with Parvana and her dad trying to find their family. Parvana’s dad then becomes ill and passes away. After this very emotional bump in the road Parvana moves on with her journey and on the way finds Asif, Hassan and Leila who become like family to her and the children are prepared to go on this journey now not only to find Parvana’s family, but also to survive. If they stay in one place too long they will run out of food. On the journey they face a few challenges such as not enough food to eat, always being dirty, and losing close family and friends. For some of these challenges there is something that can be done to fix the problem but not all the time for example when friends and family die there’s not much someone can do about that.My interpretation of the message is like the quote “when the going gets tough, the tough get going.” That’s exactly what Parvana did. Although she went through all these challenges, she didn’t give up; she persisted even though it was rough and she still had her head held high. The book was based on a real life story and it was really hard to imagine that people actually lived like that. It would have been so hard, especially because they are kids not adults. It also made me think about how bad life actually is in Afghanistan with the Taliban ruling. “Parvana’s journey” is a great title for the book. I think that the title really suits the book and it doesn’t give anything too big away about what’s going to happen. All you know is that a girl named Parvana from a non-western country goes on a journey and the book talks about her and the journey she goes on and what happens on the journey. It’s not like the first Parvana book that talks about the girl and her life in Kabul under the rule of the Taliban.Parvana’s Journey is an enjoyable book and the characters are incredible in the way that they deal with different challenges within themselves. The theme of the book made me think about that really meaningful message. The book was especially rich in detail. It’s like I was there with them, experiencing their journey and suffering. I really enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to those who like a really interesting and informative book.

A Lion called Christian by Anthony Bourke & John Rendall

REVIEWED BY ZACHARY ROSENBAUM

‘A Lion called Christian’ is a remarkable, unique true story that tells the journey of two friends and their unusual and extraordinary pet, Christian. Christian the lion, was born in a zoo called Ilfracombe in Devon and as a young cub was sent to a large department store called “Harrods” to be sold.
Anthony (Ace) Bourke and John Rendall, two university graduates who came to London from Australia in 1969 just happened upon Christian at Harrods. They bought him spontaneously, without thinking about the consequences and the problems that might face them in the future. They were young and they bought Christian because he was such a beautiful lion and he was just so irresistible. He was a good looking lion but the most appealing thing about him was his eyes. His eyes were his most arresting feature. They were expressive and impenetrable and Ace and John couldn’t resist him.
John and Ace had no place for Christian to live but eventually they found an apartment upstairs from a furniture shop called “Sophisicoat” on King’s Road in London. Christian adapted to his new environment very easily and he always came downstairs to the shop to greet people. He was well known on King’s Road. Christian was even tempered, unaggressive, obedient and had a beautiful nature. He was sometimes arrogant and demanding but he was an exceptional lion. He loved to play and subsequently he broke a lot of things in the shop - but the shopkeeper didn’t mind at all.
By April 1970 Christian started to get bored in the apartment. He was already eight months old and he was rapidly outgrowing his home at Sophisicoat. A friend introduced Ace and John to George Adamson who offered them the opportunity for Christian to take part in a project where Christian would live in the wild in Kenya, Africa. George Adamson was featured in the movie “Born Free” and he wanted Christian to live in his compound in Kenya. This was perfect for Christian. John, Ace and Christian flew to Africa on the 22nd of August, 1970. When they got there they were living in small compounds and Christian started to settle in well. George brought two other lions to be rehabilitated with Christian. One was 7 year old Boy and the other 4 month old Katanyia.
It didn’t take long for Christian to start exploring and he really settled in easily. John and Anthony happily went back to England knowing they had done the right thing for Christian. Christian befriended Katanyia and they played together often however he didn’t really like Boy until Katanyia died from an alligator attack around the Tana River and then Boy and Christian became good friends and were inseparable. Tragically, Boy attacked one of the trainers at the camp and George tried to stop him by shooting him in the neck and killing him. Unfortunately, the trainer later died.
In 1971 John and Ace wanted to visit Christian but George warned them that Christian probably wouldn’t remember them, but they decided to visit anyway. When they got to the camp, Christian was at the top of a hill and John and Ace were at the bottom. Christian moved a couple of metres towards them and then a couple more, and when he was about 30 metres away he recognised John and Ace and started to run to them. He jumped up on them and hugged them and licked them - it was the most extraordinary reunion. John and Ace went back to England but visited again in 1972 and again Christian recognised them and they spent more quality time together. Early in 1973 Christian crossed the Tana River to go to a better hunting place and where animals were safer. Christian never returned to the compound and eventually George stopped counting the days of his absence. He was never seen again. It was, in some ways sad, but John, Ace and George all hoped that Christian established his territory, started a pride of his own and lived a long and happy life.
This book is my favourite book. It had a sad ending but also a happy ending as well if we believe like John and Ace that Christian lived a long time. I found it inspirational and at times emotional. I would rate this book 10 out of 10 and I would recommend it to anyone who loves animals and enjoys an exceptional true story. I would also highly recommend watching the YouTube phenomenon which shows of their miraculous and touching reunion.

Vicky Angel by Jacqueline Wilson

REVIEWED BY MELANIE RABINOWICZ

Jacqueline Wilson is the author of a children’s book Vicky Angel, illustrated by Nick Sharratt. After a tragic accident, things start to change between Jade and Vicky, two best friends who have known each other for their whole lives. Although they are best friends, they are two completely different people. Jade is a very sweet, organised and caring person, who never wants to hurt anyone but Vicky, on the other hand, is a very popular and self-absorbed person.
In this story the friendship and love between Jade and Vicky starts to become very complicated. Although at the end, the two friends make up after heaps of fighting and annoyance between each other, nobody knows how this complication was resolved as it is not clear in the book.
In this book there is more than one important message. One of the messages in this book are that you don’t always need your best friend with you all the time, although you feel like you do sometimes you can get through life by yourself and be independent. I think this book has taught me to be independent and don’t rely on anyone to help you get through life.
I think the title relates to the book a lot, when you see the title of the book you think its going to be a calm and sweet story because people think that angles live in heaven and are peaceful people. In the end it ended up being a depressing book.
I would rate this book eight out of ten. The reason I would give this rating to the book Vicky Angel, is because I enjoyed it very much and I thought it was really enjoyable, although it was very different to what I expected, I found that once I started to read this book I couldn’t put it down. I also liked this book because it has a start, middle and end and in the book when there was any problem they always had a resolution to the problem even if they didn’t tell you how it was resolved.

The Life of a Teenage Body Snatcher – Doug MacLeod

REVIEWED BY LYNDON WISE

The Life of a Teenage Body Snatcher is a fantastic book. Doug MacLeod ensured that there was a lot of suspense throughout the book in order to keep the reader fascinated. As I am a very fussy reader I was surprised when I found myself reading this book all the time.Thomas Timewell is a 16 year old smart, fearless, gentleman. Being a doctor, Thomas’ grandfather’s last wish before he died was for Thomas to dig up his body and sell it to science. Thomas, wanting to fulfil his grandfather’s wish, in the middle of the night goes to the cemetery and starts digging. Little does he know that he has company. When Thomas meets Plentitude, a professional body snatcher, his whole life changes. They go on many adventures and encounter the unimaginable, this includes a tattooed gypsy with a meat cleaver, cutthroats and even the Grim Reaper. Thomas finds out secrets and facts about himself that he had never known and was never meant to know. I would describe the plot as a “quirky black comedy that is very interesting and funny at the same time.”
The title of the book, The Life of a Teenage Body Snatcher, definitely suits the book because in the shortest way possible it describes the whole entire book. As well as the title suiting the book, it is an enticing, peculiar sort of title, which makes you really want to read the book. I know that when the school librarian mentioned this book to us, I straight away put my hand up and asked if I could read it, just because the title and blurb sounded so interesting and different to anything that I’ve ever read before.
In my opinion the message of the book is: always expect the unexpected.
In the words of Doug MacLeod (author) the message is: “terrible events can occur when you try to do the right thing.”
On the 25th of March I was very fortunate to have Doug MacLeod come to my school to speak. I found him very interesting and I think that he took a liking to me (as he gave me a free signed copy of this book.) I had a bit of a chat to him and I was very excited when I asked him if there would be a sequel to this book and he told me that he is working on one. All in all I loved this book and would recommend is to anyone and everyone!

Eragon by Christopher Paolini

REVIEWED BY JUSTIN BANCROFT

‘Eragon’ is the first book in the fantasy series called ‘Inheritance’, written by Christopher Paolini. The story is set in the world of Alagaesia, ruled, by the devastatingly evil King Galbatorix. ‘Eragon’ is not only the title of the story; it is also the name of a fifteen-year-old boy, who lives on a farm with his uncle and cousin.
Eragon and his cousin, Roran, treat each other like brothers. They would always go out hunting to supply enough food for the trio. But one day, Eragon decided to go out alone. It was then, when it all started. Bow and quiver in hand, Eragon was cautiously seizing up his prey.
Suddenly, something caught his eye, and next to Eragon, laid an elegant, perfectly shaped, sapphire blue rock. Little did he know, that the stone in his hands, was actually an egg, and inside it lay a dragon; a dragon that King Galbatorix has been craving for years. Sooner than later, the egg hatches for Eragon, and he becomes the second dragon rider at the time.
But then tragedy hits Eragon, in probably the worst and most upsetting ways possible. It is then up to Eragon, to avenge who or what has done this to him. He his dragon, Saphirra, and Brom, the local storyteller must journey throughout the land of Alagaesia, from Carvahall to the Beor Mountains, and even cross the Hadarac Desert. On this journey, however, they encounter elves, dwarves, other humans, the Ra’zac and even the unforgiving Urgals.
The main characters are Eragon, Sapphira, Brom, Murtagh, a man who Eragon meets whilst journeying, and Ajihad, ruler of the Varden.
Eragon does not have any morals, more unexpected twists and turns, which completely blow you away. At one stage, you may assume something is going to happen. The next thing you know, the opposite has happened. This is what I thoroughly enjoyed throughout the whole story.
Christopher Paolini began writing this book at the age of fifteen. It ended up taking him almost three years to complete his masterpiece, after many drafts. At one stage, Paolini could only write a few words, as he had ‘no idea’ where to begin. But once ideas formed, creative descriptions and shocking turns followed.
After a few more years of writing, ‘Eldest’ and ‘Brisingr’, followed, and soon to come, the final book in the series, rumored to be called ‘Inheritance’.
The title, ‘Eragon’, does fill the criteria needed in terms of titles, but I personally would choose something else. I do not exactly agree with naming a book with the name of the main character. Paolini has only used single worded titles, but in my opinion, another possible title for this particular novel could be ‘The Stone’, or even ‘Rider’, as these also do not give any hints away.
Eragon would have to be one of my favourite fantasy novels I have read yet. It is so cleverly written, that you want to stay up all night, reading, and finding out what happens next. The characters are extremely well described, and that causes you to imagine the characters exactly the way Paolini wanted you to. I would definitely recommend Eragon to any fantasy-lover, or anyone who wanted a book full of unthought-of happenings.

21: Bringing Down the House By Ben Mezrich

REVIEWED BY JOSH GARKAWE

They say whatever happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. This story tells the total opposite. The author, Ben Mezrich, explains how a group of six M.I.T. students take the casinos of Las Vegas for millions. The team is commonly known as the M.I.T. blackjack team.
The main characters name is Kevin Lewis. The team would count cards to win the big hands. They used a system called the hi-lo counting system. It involves spotters, lookers and big players. To count cards you must be extremely smart and Kevin is just that. We see changes with him throughout the duration of the book.
The book is written from two perspectives. There are chapters which recall the past in a real sense of happening and range from 1994 to 1998 and there are chapters which are written in the present day, explaining the authors encounters with Kevin and his colleagues about the time he lived a double life.
Whilst going through the pages we see many conflicts between characters. One major problem includes Kevin being thrown into jail. During the week, you wouldn’t be able to suspect that these young adults would be such big high-rollers as during the week they are studying and learning at school. On the weekends they do crazy things that only a handful of M.I.T. students would ever experience. On weekends they stay in large Vegas pent-houses, go to parties with celebrities, get front row seats at big boxing events and much more.
After reading the book I think a bit strangely about the coach and the big mastermind of the team – a man called Micky Rosa. He was an ex card counter himself who has the knowledge to take the team to great extents and new levels of card-counting. Although not much information is given about him, we know that he considered Kevin to be someone just like himself, actually when he speaks to Kevin he says, “……you have the mind I had 20 years ago…..” and “……you’ll do great. I seemed to be just like you when I was your age…..” .
The title, 21: Bringing Down the House, was a great choice of a title by the author. In the game of blackjack the winner is basically the person that manages to get the closest score to 21. That covers the 21 part of the name and for the Bringing Down the House part, every hand that the team managed to win was slowly but surely making big dents in the casinos. The team took millions. For a company any loss is bad, but to lose millions is even worse.
To conclude, I was very pleased with this book. I happened to watch the movie before reading this marvellous book. I partly regret this and also feel a bit happy for this. If it wasn’t for the movie, which so well enticed me, I wouldn’t have stumbled on the book and have spent a large amount of time reading the book. Overall, I recommend it for everyone but mainly for all those people that would love to see how the game of blackjack really works and how it is possible to strategically win whilst playing it.

Overall rating: 8.5 out of 10

Theodore Boone - Young Lawyer by John Grisham

REVIEWED BY JORDAN DAVIS

Theodore Boone, a thirteen year old boy, living in Strattenburg, dreams of being a lawyer. His mother, Marcella, a divorce lawyer, is rarely at home, and when she is she has no time for Theo. His father, Woods, is also a lawyer. He is a big man and he is very strict with Theo. Together, they own a business called Boone & Boone Lawyers. Theo adores his dog, Judge, and plays with him whenever he gets the chance. Theo goes to school like a regular kid, but he is often at the court house, meaning he comes late to school and is forced to come up with excuses about why he is late.
Pete Duffy, who is accused of murdering his wife, is on trial and about to walk, unless proof is found. Theo is dragged into this case, because he knows all about what really happened. Being friends with Judge Gantry, the judge of the trial, is allowed to attend the trial. When a kid at his school tells Theo that his cousin Julio is the only witness who saw what really happened, he is forced to ask his some-what weird Uncle Ike, a lawyer, what he should do. But Julio is also an illegal immigrant, so is afraid to come forward and tell the police what he saw. Theo needs to convince Julio that he should come forward, or a murderer will get away with it. This plot is very intriguing and has lots of twists to it.
There are two very strong messages in this book. The first message is that justice will always prevail. No matter what you do, or how long you try to avoid it, you will always get caught and be punished accordingly. The second message is that you should always follow your dreams. Theo always wanted to be a lawyer and be in a big case, and that’s exactly what he did.
The title of the book gives you a slight hint as to what the story is about. The title ‘Theodore Boone - Young Lawyer’, hints that the book is about a boy, who thinks that he is a lawyer. This is a good title. Another title could possibly be ‘A Murderer on the Loose’
The American author, John Grisham, has written many other well known books, such as ‘A Time to Kill’ and ‘The Firm’. However he very rarely writes children’s books. He is mostly an adult fiction writer. Some of his books have been made into films including ‘A Time to Kill’ and ‘Runaway Jury’.
This is a very enjoyable book that I found very interesting. Theo is the main protagonist in the story and is a very likeable character with a sense of humor. This book has a bit of detail in it, but not too much to make you bored and stop reading.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes an interesting and easy read, with twists along the way. I recommend this to readers between the ages of 10-14. I rate this book an 8 ½ out of 10.

Now by Morris Gleitzman

REVIEWED BY JOEL HERMANN

Now is the third book in the spine-tingling series by Morris Gleitzman. Gleitzman is regarded as one of Australia’s best Authors and his latest book in the series only confirms his reputation. This time it isn’t a holocaust story. It is based on the 2009 Black Saturday bush fires.
Now is a fantastic book that touches on friendship, courage and empathy. It follows the same format as his first two novels, Once and Then, beginning the first sentence of every chapter with “Now”. The book continues the story of Felix’s survival during the days of World War Two although, this time, Felix isn’t a young boy hiding from the Nazis in Europe. He is now a retired surgeon and he has a granddaughter, named after the young seven year old, brave girl who died in the previous book, Zelda, and he lives in country Victoria, in a bushfire prone area.
Zelda is a thirteen year old girl who doesn’t quite believe in herself like the other Zelda did. She often doubts herself and doesn’t believe that she can do dangerous things. This changes throughout the story. During the story she experiences great mental and physical challenges which change her belief of herself and her overall personality.
Zelda’s parents are devoted doctors and they have gone to work in Africa. Like the Zelda in Gleitzman’s previous stories, the Zelda in Now is also a girl who lives her life without her parents close by. In this story, Zelda comes to stay with her Grandfather, Felix, who is still haunted by his terrible memories of the Holocaust. This is when the story begins...
Zelda is forced to go to a new school and she quickly becomes the main attention of the school bullies. She is having trouble making friends at school but she doesn’t want to bother her poor grandfather.
When it is Felix’s birthday Zelda goes to great measures to impress her loving grandfather, but has she gone too far? Is it too dangerous? Will the wind change?
One day, the warnings come out, the sirens sound and all that can be heard through the quiet countryside is the loud roar of the enormous fire, destroying everything in its path. Can Felix and Zelda survive again or has their luck run out?
Read Now to find out what happens.
I must admit that reading can be a bit of a chore for me but from the second I opened the book and started reading I couldn’t put it down, just like the other two books in the series (Once & Then). The descriptive writing used to express the feelings of the characters and the setting is tremendous. Now is a great read for anyone aged ten and above but make sure you read the first two books first. I hope you enjoy reading this fabulous book as much as I did!

Lock Down by Sean Black

Reviewed by Jarryd Shaw

Lock Down is a novel about placing your trust in others when self-hope is diminishing, about prioritising your ethical beliefs over your job requirements, and above all about optimistically believing that you can make a difference. It is not part of a series, yet has the elaboration of an encyclopaedia and the enthralling events of a civil war. Even the title leaves an essence of suspicion and mystery, engaging the reader to imagine a confined space. However, ironically, the locations range from a medical research lab beside the Hudson River to the rooftops of skyscrapers overlooking Times Square. The title also refers to the key protagonist, Ryan Lock.
Ryan is a tough, ex-navy lieutenant who is now hired as head of security, for Meditech, a controversial biotechnological company who has been having recent dilemmas with the animal rights people for their use of primates for testing. At a protest outside the company’s building, the owner, Mr Van Straten, proudly announces the company’s alternative to this form of testing. Suddenly, chaos erupts as Van Straten’s associate, Grey Stokes, is brutally shot down in broad daylight.
Lock instantly rises to the challenge, taking the road less travelled in order to find his culprit. Questioning anyone and everyone, Lock realises that his target had been beside him the whole time. “Finish your story, maybe I’ll catch something that the FBI missed. But if I don’t, will you please leave me alone?” This phrase explains Lock’s philosophy of his life, helping others in need because it is his destiny, as he never looks for problems but lets them come to him.
My favourite character is Ty Johnson, Lock’s side-kick, who not only is involved in the outcome of the story but also has a spirited personality that people can enjoy and also find humour in. He always moves with a sense of confidence, has incredible mental strength and a selective taste in fashionable “rides.” It is interesting to observe how his relationship changes with Lock as the story develops, as initially Lock is disturbed by Ty’s way of life. The two of them make an odd pair, but work phenomenally well together, with their teamwork and communication skills the key to finding their man.
In contrast to other thriller stories I have read, Lock Down takes the reader on a well detailed journey of crime in New york, and is more logical yet unpredictable. Just when you think the plot has fallen into place, a wild turn occurs, sending your thoughts and mind into a swirl of not only confusion, but also disbelief. This book will make hang on to your chair as every sentence leads on to controversy and action.
I highly recommend this book for mature teenagers interested in premeditated crime, action and unthinkable consequences.
Rating: 4/5 stars

Looking for Alaska by John Green

Reviewed by Gabi Bergman

“You spend your whole life stuck in the labyrinth, thinking how you'll escape one day, and how awesome it will be, and imagining that future keeps you going, but you never do it. You just use the future to escape the present.”
Enter the very boring life of 16 year old Miles ‘Pudge’ Halter. No girls, no friends, nothing exciting happening. And his fascination with last words doesn’t really help that. Unusual, tall, incredibly thin and quite nerdy too, Miles doesn’t feel like he fits in.
That all changes when he moves to a school in Alabama. It’s very different to what he’s used to. First of all, it’s too hot, and he’s not used to the types of people he encounters.
There’s Alaska Young, a very unique, secretive and cryptic girl, Chip “The Colonel” and Takumi, also very odd and remarkable figures. Pudge is intrigued by Alaska and her obscure monologues, as well as her beauty and intelligence. Amidst peer pressure, alcohol and pranks, the group became very close. And Pudge falls in love.
Miles’ idyllic existence crumbles to pieces when a tragedy occurs. Words are left regrettably unspoken.
Looking for Alaska is a brilliantly written novel. It’s as a countdown to the climax of the story, and then progresses into the period of time after it. Written in two parts, a “before” and “after” the main event, the story of Miles is focused around a central catastrophe, impacting all the characters’ lives.
John Green, the author, has portrayed each individual character uniquely, with their own talents and features. Alaska is a very smart, beautiful girl, but she has a dark side to her that you find out through the duration of the book. The story is full of the twists and turns, experiences to be had and the struggles that adolescences face as they grow up. The motif of the ‘labyrinth’ is repeated several times. It is used as a metaphor for life as Alaska explains life’s journey.
I think this book would appeal to people who enjoy humorous yet serious books. Part mystery, part humor and part romance, this story has its highlights and its lowlights, but is overall very enjoyable to read. I’d recommend this book to slightly mature readers, considering some of the themes involved.
Overall, it was a thrilling read, and kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. Even if it’s re-read, the book is still just as enthralling as it was the first time. A 10/10.

Un Lun Dun By China Mieville

Reviewed by Emma Freilich

Have you ever been to a place where broken umbrellas have more use then normal ones, a place where the trash cans are your security guards or a place where your old milk carton is someone else’s pet? If you haven’t, then take a trip to Unlondon and you will find the most extraordinary things there, just like Zanna and Deeba.
Zanna and Deeba are just ordinary teens but as soon as Zanna gets messages from strangers saying that she is the “Shwazzy,” Zanna and Deeba find themselves stuck in the heart of Unlondon. Together they find out that “Shwazzy” means ‘The Chosen’ in French. They start getting curios on what is happening. Together with their newly made friend Obaday Fing, they set out to find what’s going on. They soon find out that Unlondon is under attack by the ‘Smog’ and needs help from the ‘Shwazzy,’ but after an attack to Zeena. It’s now Deeba’s job to help the city win and find out all the mysteries behind the war.
The book title, Un Lun Dun is the battle cry for Unlondon, I don’t think the name is that appropriate for the book because Un Lun Dun only comes up a few times in the book and when people would pick up the book it would be confusing for them to know what’s going on after reading the blurb. I think the most reasonable name for the book should be Unlondon because it relates to the book.
Un Lun Dun is a book of mysteries and adventures. It is a great read for children that want to start reading harder books. This book will make you want to read more.
I definitely recommend this book. The story is set out brilliantly and the descriptions of the characters and places are clear and you can really picture yourself there. I rank it 4 stars.

REVOLUTION by Jennifer Donnelly

Reviewed by Alex Salkin

“Two girls, united in a quest to save a young prince, but separated by over two hundred years.”
Andi was sinking into depression after her brother, Truman, died. Her mother is pretty much not there anymore, her father is never around. Her father turns up one day and tells Andi she is going to Paris. In Paris, she meets some people, falls in love, and makes some shocking discoveries. Her life is then changed forever. Andi goes on a terrifying trip to the catacombs of Paris. While she is in Paris, she keeps seeing things and has a panic attack. Once she wakes up, her life changes.
Andi is nearly in depression, and every time she starts getting better, she suddenly goes straight back down. The only way to make her feel better, is playing guitar. Throughout the book, she often plays guitar until she is freezing and her fingers are bleeding. Andi is the main character. She is quiet, shy, reserved, and is reluctant to do anything after the traumatic death of her brother, which she blames on herself.
The plot is incredible. You will think, that one thing might happen, be one hundred percent sure, then suddenly it will change direction. Interesting, exciting, depressing, are words you can use to describe the plot.
When Andi moves to Paris, she discovers a diary. A diary of a girl from the French Revolution. Her name was Alexandrine, and she worked for the royal family and lived nearly two centuries ago. The girls are united, on a mission to save a young boy.
The royal family found Alexandrine performing to make money. Louis Charles saw her and his face lit up. The royal family were astonished. Louis Charles was only a young boy at the time. As his caretaker, Alexandrine needs to make sure he is happy. But at what length will she go to make sure of that? Andi and Alexandrine, have a connection. It doesn’t matter that they lived nearly two centuries apart. You might even go as far as to say that they could be the same person.
Jennifer Donnelly gives you an insight of the French Revolution. What happened, and where. What people might have been thinking, and why. I haven’t read any other of Jennifer Donnelly’s other books, but other reviewers say that nothing can compare to it. It’s an exciting story, of friendship, trust, change and recovery. Her collection includes A Gathering Light, A Northern Light, The tea rose and Humble Pie.
Revolution is an award winning bestseller that captured the hearts of so many. This is an amazing read. I couldn’t put it down.
Enjoy reading!

Oliver Twist By Charles Dickens

Reviewed by Aiden Behrmann

Charles Dickens wrote the novel Oliver Twist during the time when England was expanding and becoming more powerful in the world. It was a time when some people were getting ahead and becoming very rich while others were becoming very poor and jobs were hard to find on the farms where machines were taking their place. Many people moved to the cities to look for work. For those with no work and no money there were few places they could go to get help; and those places were not very caring. Oliver Twist was born at this time in the middle of winter in a workhouse. His father was unknown and his mother died in childbirth; he was alone in the world with no money or hope.
The way Dickens describes the first nine years of Oliver’s life highlights how little value was placed upon poor children at that time. There was very little help for the poor and the people who were supposed to care for them, often abused them.
Oliver grew up in the workhouse under the “care” of Mrs. Mann and the man in charge Mr. Bumble. He was mistreated and unloved and was forced to work long hours for very little food. At age nine, thin and undernourished, Oliver drew the short straw and was sent by the other starving boys to ask Mr. Bumble for a second helping of food. Shaking from fear, Oliver uttered his famous line, “Please, sir, I want some more." Deemed to be ungrateful, Oliver was apprenticed to Mr. Sowerberry, the undertaker, who treats him cruelly. As a result, Oliver ran away towards London.
In London Oliver meets a boy named Jack Dawkins or The Artful Dodger who says that Oliver can live with him at a gentleman’s place where he will be well taken care of. The old gentleman, Fagin, is a notorious criminal who trains young boys to become pickpockets. Oliver, in his innocence, is grateful to join this gang where he feels welcome.
When Oliver is sent out with the Artful Dodger and Charley Bates to pick pockets, he is shocked to learn what is really going on and he is caught and brought before the magistrate who convicts him and sentences him to jail. What happens next makes Oliver happy for the first time in his life, but how long will this last?
After reading the novel Oliver Twist, things that I once took for granted, such as my education and my freedom, I now treasure. I learnt from this book about the lower class, and their resentment and jealousy of the upper class, the upper class, and how most of them took things for granted and how the authorities favoured the upper class.
Oliver Twist is a great and sad story, with a happy ending. It showed that without love, affection, mercy and benevolence, children can not grow up properly, but with that, they can. Dickens knowledge of the times is great; especially how the different classes of people viewed each other and how children can not grow up into proud and successful people without love and someone to care for them.