Book Reviews by Kids - October 2005

Hope was Here

by Joan Bauer

Deena Yancey only ever gave her daughter two things, her name (which she threw away) and her talent for waitressing (which she keeps). At the age of twelve, Tulip changes her name to Hope, because "hope is something everyone needs", especially her. Given away to her aunt Addie by her mother, not knowing who her father is, and always having to move, Hope has every reason to give up. But, inspired by her aunt Addie, a new friend named G. T. Stoop, and herself, Hope stands strong through everything that life throws her. 

This has become one of my favorite books of all time. Funny, sad, and inspiring all at the same time, "Hope was Here" is truly a story for our times, because, after all, everyone can use a little hope. I would recommend it to anyone that...well, just anyone! 

Reviewed by Princess Toenails - age 15

Witch Week

by Diana Wynn Jones

In a world of modern times where witches are still burned, a note is found by a teacher that says, “Someone in this class is a witch!” The note is found to be true as secret acts of witchcraft are done. Will the witch be able to evade the police and stay away from the bonfires? This book is very exciting not allowing you to even blink in fear of missing something important. One thing I like is that it gives you clues to who the witch is but never tells you for sure who it is, so you have to figure it out on your own. Everything about this book is great.

Reviewed by Dude Man - Age 13

Carry On Mr. Bowditch

by Jean Lee Latham

I usually don't like books that tell you about someone's life, like books about George Washington or Abe Lincoln, but in the book CARRY ON MR. BOWDITCH there are conversations that may have been like the conversations way back when Mr. Bowditch was alive. The book is very exciting. If you like books with raging seas and sinking boats this is the book for you.

Reviewed by Peach - Age 10

Bears on Wheels

by Stan Berenstain and Jan Berenstain

This book is about bears on wheels. First there is one bear on one wheel than at the end 21 bears crashed into each other and it's silly. You should read it.

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 8