Book Reviews by Kids - March 2005

Mira, Mirror

by Mette Ivie Harrison

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?" We all know the witch who said this, but what of the mirror? In MIRA, MIRROR, the magic mirror is really a witch name Mira, trapped inside a mirror by her evil sister, the wicked witch. This book is the story of Mira's quest to become human again. Along the way, she discovers that being human is not merely the possession of a body, but the love you feel for others.

This story was thrilling from beginning to end. I loved hearing about Mira's struggles and rediscovery of herself, and the adventures of the two girls she meets along the way, Ivana and Talia. This book was a great reminder of what makes us each human and helped me feel a greater appreciation for my own sisters.

Reviewed by Princess Toenails - age 14

The Count of Monte Cristo

by Alexandre Dumas

Edmond Dantes was just returning from a successful voyage on the ship, the Pharaon, when the trouble all started. He was going to marry a beautiful girl named Mercedes, and had just been made captain of the Pharaon. However, there was another man who wanted to marry Mercedes. He and a few other jealous men plotted to get rid of Dantes. Soon, Dantes was arrested for a crime he didn’t do. He was then sent to the Chateau d’if, a prison, where he was meant to die. While in there, he met an old priest who spoke of unlimited treasure on the isle of Monte Cristo. He then spent years of planning to escape, find the treasure, and bring his revenge upon those who sentenced him to lifelong torture. This book is one of the most well written books in the entire world. It is also extremely exciting. If it’s adventure you like, it has it. If you love mystery, this book is full of it. I would highly recommend this book to just about anyone. 

This book has everything you could look for in a good book. It has adventure, excitement, and even a touch of magic. One especially good thing about this book is the description. The author describes the setting and characters so well that you almost feel like you’re inside the book, living the adventure. This is by far one of the best books in the world.

Reviewed by Dude Man - Age 13

Al Capone Does My Shirts

by Gennifer Choldenko

Have you ever wondered how it would feel to live on an island full of murderers? Or to have a mentally disabled sister? Well, that's what Moose had to go through. On top of that, he has to deal with the sheriffs daughter, always trying to get him to do things to get him in trouble. So if you're the kind of kid who loves to read books about kids getting into trouble or criminals, then you should read AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS.

Reviewed by Peach - Age 10

Corduroy

by Don Freeman

There was a bear named Corduroy in a toy store. He was in the store for a long time. Then one day this little girl came to the store and said, “Mom I want that bear.” The next day they bought the bear. but it didn’t have a button. I think it would be weird and funny to be missing a button and I think it would be cool to have a friend like the girl and Corduroy.

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 7