Book Reviews by Kids - July & Aug. 2007

Mimus

by Lilli Thal

When Florin enters the castle of Theodo, King of Vinland, he is full of anticipation. He will finally be reunited with his father, King Phillip. The treaty will finally be signed ending the war between Vinland and Moltovia, bringing long-awaited peace to both lands. Even his impending betrothal to Vinland's princess can't put a damper on his excitement. However, upon entering the court, Florin finds not celebration but betrayal. His father is a prisoner in Theodo's dungeons, and Florin is enslaved to the court jester, Mimus. As Florin serves out his days in the humiliating position as assistant jester, he learns how to perform physical antics and compose nimble jests and rhymes. His main lesson however, is of a different kind as he discovers that there is always much more to people than what meets the eye.

Mimus is a stirring tale of suspense, betrayal and dark humor that explores what defines royalty and, more importantly, what defines humanity. With strong, vivid characters, like Mimus, the jaded but tender-hearted court jester, thrust against a medieval backdrop of kings, knights and chivalry, the plot is engaging from start to finish. John Brownjohn's English translation from the original German is seamless, artfully carrying the plot. This is a definite must-read. 

Reviewed by Pirate Princess - age 16

Dark Wing

by Carl West, Katherine MacLean

Travis is a member of a future society where other planets are being colonized, and medicine is illegal. After finding an antique medicine kit, Travis learns how to be a doctor, and uses his new skills to illegally help sick people recover, as well as helping an orphaned boy from a distant planet survive in the wicked world. Although there are lots of parts where it’s hard to understand what’s going on, overall Dark Wing is a pretty good book, that will be entertaining to many people. 

Reviewed by Dude Man - Age 15

Perloo the Bold

by Avi 

Perloo, a shy, scholarly member of the rabbit-like Montmers, has always liked the quiet life of sipping tea and reading history books. That is until he was interrupted by a mysterious summons from the great Montmer leader. Perloo has never liked adventures, but he did as he must and stepped out of his cozy burrow. He traveled through the worst blizzard since the year of the frog to reach the Central Tribe Burrow to find out what their leader could possibly want of him. This begins the perilous journey Perloo must take. A journey that will take him over snowy mountains, through underground tunnels, and into enemy territory- and change the future of Montmers everywhere.

Reviewed by Peach - Age 12

Junie B. Jones First Grade Cheater Pants

by Barbara Park

This book is about Junie B. Jones when she cheats on homework and tests. It was one of the best books I've ever read because it was interesting in lots of different ways. I liked it when after cheating, Junie B. Jones and her friend were honest and told their teacher they cheated on the test. This was a great book.

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 10