Book Reviews by Kids - December 2008

Dune

by Frank Herbert

Paul is a young boy, the son of the Duke Atriedes who is the new leader of the desert planet of Arrakis. As their family moves to their new home however, they are betrayed to the Harkonnen, a group previously in control of the planet. The Duke is killed, but Paul and his mother the Lady Jessica escape into the desert to live in hiding with the natives known as the Fremen. Living among these people, he learns many secrets of the desert, which he must use to lead the Fremen into rebellion against the oppressive Harkonnen to regain his rightful control of Arrakis. 

In addition to being immensely entertaining, Dune shows many important ideas that we can learn from, such as making the best of a bad situation, or not taking for granted what we may have in abundance. With intense twists in the plot in every chapter and phenomenal characters with distinct and unique personalities, this book will teach and entertain readers of many ages.

Reviewed by Dude Man - age 16

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

by Elizabeth George Speare

16 year old Kit has just moved away from her home, Barbados, to live with her aunt and uncle, in the New World. While there she is faced with many trials. Most of these trials include Kit's friend Hannah Tupper. Hannah is a hermit and because of this is thought of by neighbors as The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Because of Kit's relationship with Hannah she is also accused of using witchcraft. Kit must prove her innocence or she will be hung. 

This book is very interesting. It really helps one to realize how devastating the witch trials were. My favorite part of the book is when Kit first meets Hannah. 

Reviewed by Peach - Age 13

The Book of Three

by Lloyd Alexander 

Toran was an assistant pig keeper to his really important pig. He is told not to go into the woods because it is too dangerous. One day all of the animals flee from where they are, but the important pig (Hen-Wen) goes into the woods. Toran goes into the woods to fo find Hen-Wen. In the woods he finds some new people and makes a lot of new friends.

The adventure Toran goes on is awesome. I loved this book. This was one of my most favorite books I have ever read.

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 11

Diary of a Fly

by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Harry Bliss

This book is about a fly that does lots of funny stuff and she goes to school in a milk carton. There's this bowl of soup and she goes plop in the soup. The funniest part of the book is when she has a cape on and is flying. She wants to be a super hero. The pictures are funny.

Reviewed by Dancing Flower - Age 6