Book Reviews by Kids - September 2005

Animal Farm

by George Orwell

George Orwell's novel, Animal Farm, is an allegory of the Soviet Union under Stalin. It is about a farm where the animals, inspired by a dream of one of the pigs, organize an uprising and take the farm over from the humans. At first, under the direction of the pigs, the farm prospers. But eventually, it evolves into a totalitarian system even more oppressive than that of the humans. 

Animal Farm is a classic novel that is read by people all over the world. It has several great messages, such as gaining knowledge, because the ignorant are often used by the learned, as the pigs manipulated the other animals. It is extremely thought-provoking. I enjoyed it, but it is pretty hard to understand and interpret at times, and I would not recommend it to anyone under the age of 14.

Reviewed by Princess Toenails - age 15

Eldest

by Christopher Paolini

In the exciting sequel to Eragon, Eragon must journey to the elves to finish his training to become the new Dragon Rider. This stunning fantasy gives immense detail on all people, places, and things, helping you create an amazing mental image of exactly what is going on. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire story, making it extremely exciting and a wonderful book.

Reviewed by Dude Man - Age 13

The Wanderer

by Sharon Creech and illustrated by David Diaz

Are you always looking for a book that always makes you wonder what will happen next? If so, you have to read The Wanderer. It always keeps you in suspense. You're probably wondering what The Wanderer is about. The book is about this girl named Sophie who loves to sail. One day she gets news that her uncles and her cousins, Cody and Brian, are going across the ocean to England to Bompie (her grandfather) on Uncle Dock's ship, The Wanderer. She really wants to go, but Uncle Dock and Mo don't think she should go. They think she's going to want to turn around and go home. Will she be able to go?

Reviewed by Peach - Age 10

Franny K Stein

by Jim Benton

There was this girl who just moved and her name was Franny K. Stein she wanted to be a mad scientist. Her house was a cheerful place except Franny’s room. In Franny’s room there were bats. She loves her room her bathroom and school. She was new to the school she wanted to make lots of friends, but nobody wanted to be a friend with Franny because she looked scary. I like this book because Franny’s class wasn’t friends and then the class becomes friends with Franny..

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 8