Book Reviews by Kids - May 2008

Only You Can Save Mankind

by Terry Pratchett

In most video games, aliens are there to be shot at. They are not supposed to surrender. Understandably, then, Johnny Maxwell is a little surprised when the ScreeWee Invaders from his pirated copy of "Only You Can Save Mankind" offer to surrender in exchange for safe passage to their home planet. He is even more surprised when Johnny enters the game space in his dreams. But its all just a video game and a few bad dreams, right? He couldn't really be going crazy. Could he? 

This book reminded me why Terry Pratchett is one of my favorite offers. His clear-eyed way of looking at life and modern culture always makes me think, and I love the wide array of characters he creates. "Only You Can Save Mankind" proves that Terry Pratchett 's genius extends outside of the Discworld and into contemporary society.

Reviewed by Pirate Princess - age 17

The Princess and the Hound

by Mette Ivie Harrison

Prince George is the prince of the kingdom of Kendel, but he has a secret; he has the animal magic. Although having and using the animal magic isn’t illegal in the country, most of the population claims it to be evil, and they kill almost anyone they find who possesses it, so George keeps his magic a secret. For the sake of the kingdom, he agrees to an arranged marriage with the princess Beatrice of a nearby kingdom. He goes to meet her, and discovers that she has a secret of her own. 

This riveting book is sure to capture the attention of readers of all ages with its fun and imaginative plot, while also showing the problems with prejudices and stereotypes, and the benefits of accepting people for who they are. With its entertaining story and good ideals it sets, this book will be enjoyed by many..

Reviewed by Dude Man - age 16

Book of A Thousand Days

by Shannon Hale

When Dashti the maid becomes the Lady Saren's maid she doesn't know what she is getting into. As soon as Lady Saren meets her she makes Dashti promise that she will always stay with her, help her, and do as she asks. Of course Dashti promises and within minutes she discovers the reason for her mistress's behavior. Because of a refusal to marry a man she despises, Lady Saren is to be put into a tower for 7 years along with her maid. Remembering her promise Dashti faithfully goes with Lady Saren into the tower.

But the arrival of Saren's two suitors, one loved and one dreadfully despised, bring both happiness, sorrow and fear, and Dashti is thrust into a situations beyond her imagination. Book of a thousand days is full of romance, drama, adventure, and unique twists and turns. There is no other book like it. My favorite thing in this book was the surprises. I could never tell what was going to happen next.  

Reviewed by Peach - Age 13

The Snow Spider

by Jenny Nimmo 

This book is about this boy named Gwyn. A few years ago Gwyn's sister was lost and hadn't been found. She got lost on Gwyn's birthday. Gwyn's grandmother believes that Gwyn might be a magician because his ancestors were magicians. His grandmother gave him five things for his birthday and he has to use those five things to get his sister back.

I like this book because it tells the story with a lot of detail. I enjoyed it.

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 11

Wee Little Chick

by Lauren Thompson and John Butler

Everyone says she's a very little chick but when one of the animals says she has such a small beak she found the biggest seed. The goat says, "My, you're so tiny," but the chick stands the tallest of them all. I liked the chick because its one of my favorite colors and one of my favorite animals. I liked how it runs fast. Its a very very good bok. My favorite part was when the chick was hatched.

Reviewed by Dancing Flower - Age 6