Review of "Starters"

"There had to be some way out of this insanity."

     In Lissa Price's Starters, sixteen-year-old Callie is about to make a life-changing decision. In this future America, chemical warfare has left everyone between the ages of twenty and sixty dead, putting the elders (known as Enders) in charge and leaving the teenagers (Starters) to fend for themselves. Callie's only opportunity to support herself, her brother, and her best friend, Michael, is to allow Enders to put a microchip in her head and rent her body out to those who can no longer roller skate, go hiking, etc. Being possessed by a creepy old lady seems bad enough, but when a malfunctioning microchip brings Callie back to consciousness, she discovers that the woman isn't only interested in swimming or shooting. She's bent on murder.

     Starters should have been a Cannot Put It Down for me. The idea of renting out control of a young person's body so old people can relive their youth...what's not to love? But something was missing for me. Maybe it was the fact that the cast was so small, or that the stakes didn't always feel real enough. Perhaps the romance was too shallow, or the love triangle unconvincing. Or maybe it was the general flatness of the characters. Whatever the case, I cannot rave about this book. It was good, and that's all there is to it.

     The characters in this book are very interesting, if rather flat. Callie is somewhat rounded, as Price demonstrates her thoughts and feelings through both internal dialogue and action, and she often is torn between two impossible choices. Michael is kind and incredibly thoughtful. Tyler, Callie's younger brother, is so adorable you just want to scoop him off the pages and cuddle him whenever he's upset. And the Ender renting Callie's body is mysterious, alternating between grandmotherly and menacing. Some of the characters develop as the story progresses, but the development only goes so far.

     One thing working in this book's favor is the plot. Unless you've read ahead or had parts spoiled for you, you never know what's going to happen next. Will Callie's secret be discovered? Will Michael and Tyler be captured? And what part does Blake, the senator's son, play? Most importantly: Will Callie's renter succeed in her scheme, landing the girl in prison for murder, or will the resourceful young Starter find a way to foil her plan? Price fills this book with dynamic scenes and some very startling plot twists that will blow your mind.

     I would recommend Starters to anyone who is interested in a fun, thought-provoking YA novel featuring interesting characters and an unpredictable plot. However, it is not very long and there isn't too much roundness to the characters. Price has written a good book with some great themes, settling the story neatly atop three stars out of five. Set aside some time and try Starters; you'll be glad you did.

Review of "Pathfinder"

"People are never fair, even when they try to be...and few are the ones who try."

     If you have read Ender's Game or hit the theaters in the past few years, you have probably come across the name "Orson Scott Card", and if you are thinking right now that it's one of his books I'm discussing, you're right. Card is best known for the science fiction adventure mentioned above, but he has published a much more recent work, Pathfinder, as well--a science fiction/fantasy that I intend to review today.

     Thirteen-year-old Rigg has the most extraordinary education system in the wallfold. His father, the famous Wandering Man, takes him on long treks to trap animals for their furs, and on the way teaches him everything from logic, astronomy, and economics, to how to make himself seem like anyone he wants to be. More importantly, or so Rigg thinks, he instructs his son on utilizing his gift, a seemingly magical ability that allows him to "see" the paths of every person, animal, and plant through the course of history. When his father dies, Rigg is left with only some animal skins and instructions to find a mother and sister he didn't know existed...along with a startling discovery. With the help of Umbo, a village boy, Rigg finds that he can not only see the paths of people's pasts, but influence them as well. Now the two boys are caught up in a plot of epic proportions, pinned between two factions: one who wants the Pathfinder dead, and one that wants him crowned. It will take wits, courage, and paradoxes to get out of this mess, and even that might not be enough to save their lives.

     This story is so big I almost don't know where to begin. For one, we have a cast of highly intelligent characters, some who are constant--such as Rigg, Umbo, and their friend Loaf--and some who only appear for a brief while. We have abilities that mess with time. And we have a world that's well depicted, well structured, and enclosed by a giant invisible Wall. Throughout the book, our heroes discover plot after plot, mistake after mistake, and plot twists galore. Card isn't afraid to mess with the rules of time travel, either--a character may go back in time to warn himself of something, then not repeat the action once the undesirable result has been avoided. It's an interesting way of looking at things, and it brings a fresh angle to the story, which is rather nice.

     Sharing the pages with the trio are Ram Odin, a starship pilot, and a kind of robot referred to as an "expendable". Ram's tale may at first serve the reader as little more than comic relief, but as the story progresses it becomes clear just how big a part he plays. Ram is in charge of a large ship on its way to colonize an unnamed world, but when the ship emerges from its groundbreaking leap, it is discovered that several things have gone wrong. One of these things is their emergence over eleven thousand years before they set out.

     I would recommend this book to an older reader with time on their hands and an interest in adventure, intrigue, time travel, and sarcastic robots with sinister motives. Although it's technically a YA book, the reading level is higher than most in this category and some of the politics may go right over a kid's head. For brilliant plotting, unbelievable storytelling, and a satisfying ending--congratulations, Pathfinder! You have earned five stars.

Review of "The Door Within"

"Nothing will ever rescue you from the doom you have chosen."

     Today's title, Wayne Thomas Batson's The Door Within, is the first in a trilogy about knights, honor, and the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy. When his family moves across the country to take care of his grandfather over the summer, Aidan thinks that life couldn't get any worse. Not only will he be stuck with an irritating old man for who knows how long, he won't be able to spend any time with his best friend, Robby. In terms of entertainment, the new house is an absolute desert...until Aidan discovers three mysterious scrolls in Grampin's basement, is called into a kingdom straight from a fairy tale, and sets out on a journey to save countless lives. This summer is going to be far more interesting than Aidan could ever have imagined.

     This is one of the more interesting children's books I've read. Aidan is your average, video-game-playing teen, but he's facing an army of unimaginable evil with the help of only eleven other knights. Alleble, a benign kingdom ruled by King Eliam, is locked in constant battle with the ruthless kingdom of Paragory, ruled by Prince Paragor. Paragor holds an ancient grudge against King Eliam, and is determined to take Alleble no matter the cost. It is Aidan's job, as one of twelve knights, to convince a nearby kingdom to ally with Alleble in the war. What Aidan doesn't realize is that one of his companions is not all that he seems...and that there is more at stake here than the allegiance of a kingdom. If he fails, the fate of someone he loves is on the line.

     The characters in The Door Within are all relatable and undergo some serious development. Every character is unique and dynamic, and the culture of The Realm, where this story takes place, is well-developed. The Realm is populated by Glimpses, pale-skinned twins of the people in our world, and everything they do is tied to what their twin does in our world, and vice versa. In this tale we meet Kaliam, Aidan's primary guide and eventual confidante; Nock and Bolt, two brothers who are the best archers in The Realm; Mallik, a heavyset man who wields an enormous war hammer; Lady Merewen, a former Paragory knight; and Gwenne, the beautiful swordsmaiden who greets Aidan when he arrives. Together these knights must face terrible dangers on their quest to save others, and it affects each of them in profound ways.

     One of the common issues with children's fantasy books is the writing style: sentences may be crafted in strange ways, dialogue may be stilted, and words may be capitalized for no apparent reason. This book contains a few instances of this, though not many. The Door Within is well-written, but the language may be a little shallow for older readers. The writing style is rather like a cross of regular YA narration and an attempt at the fantastical style, which fits Aidan rather well. Also, for those who don't know medieval terms for the parts of armor or various training equipment, Batson provides the names in easy-to-spot italics on the first mentioning.

     Parents may be interested in the fact that The Door Within is an allegory for the Bible; however, there is no preaching. If you aren't familiar with the Bible, you probably won't even notice this. Characters speak highly of King Eliam and trust him to guide them when times get dark. There is no swearing in this book, although there is plenty of good-natured name-calling. These are knights, so there is death and battle, but nothing is terribly graphic.

     I would recommend The Door Within to anyone looking for a fantasy tale about trust, hope, self-worth, and the triumph of good over evil. It's definitely a children's book, but adults willing to look past the writing style will find themselves pleasantly surprised. Out of five stars, The Door Within is worthy of four. Anyone looking for a fantasy adventure with uplifting themes should find themselves enjoying this book immensely.

Review of "Rush"

"I wait for the next heartbeat, but it doesn't come."

     Eve Silver's debut YA novel, Rush, features classic clichés. First there's Miki Jones: the sporty, fun-loving runner who's suffered a tragic loss--her mother--and deals with it through a mix of kendo, exercise, and extreme neat-freakiness. Then there's Jackson, the guy you want to punch in the face and cry over every few pages. And the biggest cliché of all? These kids are pulled from their everyday lives and thrust into a real-life video game with deadly stakes, where they team up with others their age to kill alien invaders from a distant planet. You'd think this would be the greatest of the Do Not Reads. It isn't.

     Miki is a character with a lot of heart. Every second of her daily life is spent in a pain-numbing fog of passivity, or in anger. Even after so much time after her mother's death, Miki struggles to cope. Her only proven solution includes running, a strict diet, and cleaning the counter every morning, after counting and cleaning up the empty beer bottles her father has left out from the previous day. Her only friends are Carly, Deepti, and Kelly, three girls who are annoying on the surface but who really care about her, deep down. You get a sense of Miki's personality through the little things in her life, but you also get a sense of her when she's in the Game.

     In the very first chapter of the book, Miki dies. Or, she appears to die. Her heart stops beating and she can't move. When she opens her eyes, she's in a grassy clearing with three boys--Jackson, Luka, and Tyrone--and a girl--Richelle. At one end of the meadow, a screen appears with the previous battle's scores. Miki doesn't have time for questions; it's all she can do to strap on a green-screened wristband, grab a weapon cylinder and armor, and not throw up as the team is dropped into the middle of a crowded city. Their mission? Eliminate a nest of Drau, shimmering invaders from outer space.

     This book is the epitome of non-stop action. The battles are fast-paced and streamlined, while still retaining the hard, gritty feeling of reality. And I'd like to point out that Miki is, as they say, a BOSS. Several years of kendo have rendered her reflexes sharp, her instincts strong, and her body fully capable of taking out any opponent that comes her way. Once she gets the hang of her weapon cylinder, there is no stopping her.

     Rush isn't just an action novel, however. In the space between battles, Miki must deal with all sorts of struggles on the home front. Her father's drinking problem is getting worse. Her best friend, Carly, thinks she has stolen both Jackson's and Luka's attentions, and is giving her the evil eye. And then there's Jackson himself, who is mysterious and irritating in his own right. He is the person who undergoes the biggest transformation in this book, and it's exciting to watch.

     The characters in Rush are relatively clean-mouthed. As a general rule, they don't curse, and they certainly never drop F-bombs. But they do use "@$$" on occasion, and other forms of the word are used to describe people--Jackson in particular. There is plenty of violence, although not too much blood, as well as death and injury. Romance is pretty close to insta-love, but it's kept to kisses.

     If you're looking for a YA novel with romance, kick-butt heroes, and a troubled home life, Rush is the book for you. It's engrossing, it's well-written, and it's full of heart. The only things holding it back from an A-rating are the infodump near the end and the way Carly treats her friends. That said, I award Eve Silver's Rush four shining stars, and wait eagerly for the close of the series.

Review of "Dragonflight"

"It's about time you attended to more than Ruatha."

     In Anne McCaffrey's first "Dragonriders of Pern" novel, Dragonflight, Lessa is the unrecognized heir to Ruatha Hold. Fax, the man who usurped her family's power and took over the Hold, thinks the ruling family of the Hold is long dead, but Lessa, using her inborn telepathy, disguises herself as a drudge and does whatever she can to sabotage Ruatha's productivity. If Ruatha Hold proves itself worthless, Fax will have no choice but to remove his claim on it, and she can take over. But when the legendary dragonmen come Searching for a new Weyrwoman, Lessa may have found a way to take him out even more quickly than she'd planned. The only problem? The dragonmen discover her ploy, and her powers, and recruit her to Impress the dragons' one and only queen egg. Now Lessa must make a choice: take back what is hers, or become the Weyrwoman of Benden Weyr, and queen of the dragon riders?

     This book has it all: high stakes, rivalries, politics, action, and fire-breathing dragons. But this isn't your typical fantasy novel. It's a science fiction story of epic proportions, featuring everything from telepathy to teleportation and time travel.

     Many, many years ago, humans set out to colonize every inhabitable world they could find, leaving Pern, the world where this story takes place, with several sizable settlements. What they didn't know was that the planet's "adopted" sister planet, the Red Star, was home to Threads, silvery life forms large enough to stretch across certain space gaps and burrow into the fertile soil on Pern's surface, obliterating everything in their wake. Every two hundred Turns, the dragons and their dragonmen are called upon to burn these Threads to a crisp...but today, with only one Weyr still standing, dragonmen have lost their respect and their numbers. They are no match for the Threads that are about to fall. Only Lessa, utilizing an accidental discovery, has any chance of saving Pern from total destruction.

     If you have any difficulty keeping track of characters, this book may present you with a bit of a challenge. Weyrwomen, who Impress queen hatchlings, may have exotic names, but it is the men you must watch out for, as dragonmen use an apostrophe to shorten their names, which can lead to identity confusion. For example: F'nor, F'lar, K'net, and R'gul are all dragon riders. While you won't necessarily mix the dragons up, their names are very unique as well: Mnementh and Ramoth are dragons who feature prominently in this story. Despite all this, characters are well-written and well-rounded, and once you get to know them it becomes a simple matter to tell one from the other. It just takes time.

     This is an adult-level novel. There aren't many big words, but the writing is thick enough to cause some readers pause. And the dragons and their riders are emotionally, as well as telepathically, connected. When the queen rises to mate, everyone in the Weyr knows it...and the Weyrwoman goes through a ritual that lands her a partner, in the form of the winning dragon's rider. Although nothing is pornographic, if you are or have in mind a younger reader for this book, I would highly advise taking into account what you/they have read and what you/they ought to be exposed to.

     I would recommend Dragonflight to anyone looking for a sci-fi tale of dragons, adventure, romance, and high stakes. Characters are unique and believable, the world is logically structured, and it's interesting to note that this is one book where greenery is illegal. You may be tired of reading this sort of assessment, but McCaffrey's novel fully deserves five stars. Pack your bags and bring a camera, because Dragonflight is going to be an adventure you'll never forget.

Review of "The Bad Beginning"

"If you are interested in stories with happy endings, you would be better off reading some other book."

     This is the first sentence in a very depressing book by Lemony Snicket, entitled The Bad Beginning. Although it features three clever, personable, and reasonably attractive children, the things that happen to them--losing their parents in a horrible fire, for instance, and being forced to participate in a poorly written play by Al Funcoot--are simply too horrible to imagine. In fact, if I were you, I would close the window immediately so as not to read another letter in this review.

     Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are some of the most unique children I have ever read about. Fourteen-year-old Violet, of course, is perhaps the finest teenaged inventor the world has ever seen. Her brother, Klaus, is twelve, but if you were talking with him over the telephone you would think he was twenty, and a professor, for all the knowledge he possesses from reading so many books. And Sunny, the youngest, possesses four incredibly sharp teeth and a unique vocabulary.

     Unfortunately for readers, and for the children, the Baudelaires are not the only characters who populate this book. Alongside them are Mr. Poe, a banker with a horrible cough, who is in charge of the children and the enormous fortune their parents left behind, and Count Olaf, the orphans' new guardian. Count Olaf is an actor who is unpleasant, unkept, and villainous, a term which here means "only caring about stealing the children's money, instead of taking care of the children themselves". Count Olaf is the leader of a theatre troupe that is just as horrid as he is, and just as willing to steal the Baudelaire fortune. Each and every one of these people appears at least once, and I am sorry to say that they all contribute, at least in part, to the unfortunate events in these children's lives.

     However, despite their troubles, Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire quickly become adept at spotting opportunities for happiness, and spend quite a bit of time reading, inventing, and biting. No matter what unfortunate events are thrown their way, they discover ways to thwart the people throwing them, and dare to hope that they can make things better for themselves. In this they are different from characters in some other books, who find themselves stressed out and overwhelmed by adversity.

     Over the course of this book, the Baudelaire orphans encounter cold porridge, a kind judge, a birdcage, duct tape, and uncomfortable clothing, all of which the author records in detail. Although full of melancholy, Mr. Snicket's narrative is insightful and interesting, if defining words and making complicated situations easier to understand strikes you as interesting.

     According to Snicket, the events of this tale are just as real as he is, but even if that is the case there is no need to fear about profanity. The vocabularies of these characters are quite clean, unless a single "Blast it" can be considered filthy. No other forms of cussing can be found within the pages of The Bad Beginning. The reading level is basic, and any word that might be found difficult is defined in a simple, and sometimes humorous, manner.

     If you are interested in pleasant tales about ponies, cheerful youngsters, or breathtaking adventures, it would be best that you looked elsewhere for entertainment. But if misfortune, triumphing over evil, and the word "Gack!" strike your fancy, this is the book for you--although why that would be the case is beyond me. On a scale of five stars, where one is "slightly unsettling" and five is "filled with extremely unlucky orphans, delicious pasta, and a fascinating plot", The Bad Beginning ought to sit squarely at five. It is my duty to review the book, as it was Mr. Snicket's to write it, but it is not your duty to read it, a phrase which here means "wouldn't you rather read about ponies?"

Review of "The Mysterious Benedict Society"

"Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?"

     In today's story, Trenton Lee Stewart's The Mysterious Benedict Society, this newspaper ad sparks the beginning of a secret club, a dangerous mission, and the lifelong friendship of four extraordinary children. Eleven-year-old Reynie Muldoon has completed the textbooks for grade- and high school, supplementing his education instead with a tutor who works at the orphanage where he lives. When the two discover the advertisement in the morning newspaper, Miss Permual, his tutor, suggests he look into it. He walks into the test expecting a pencil-and-paper exam, but what he doesn't know is that his math knowledge is not the only thing being tested--it's his honesty, logic, and courage, also.

     If you have ever read a children's book, and I sincerely hope you have, then you are probably well aware of the stereotypes that usually crop up. There's the "stupid" or ignorant, though kind-hearted, adult; the one-dimensional sidekick; and/or the "villain" whose goal is to tear down something old, such as a schoolhouse, and replace it with something new, such as a shopping mall. The Mysterious Benedict Society, I am happy to say, does not possess many, if any, of these stereotypes. Each of the book's four heroes--Reynie Muldoon, Sticky Washington, Kate Weatherall, and Constance Contraire--is intelligent, thoughtful, street smart, and unique. The villain, the evil Mr. Ledroptha Curtain, is a cunning man intent on much more than mere schoolhouse destruction. And the helpful adults are all kind, smart, and well-rounded.

     As the book progresses, Reynie and his friends--known amongst themselves as the Mysterious Benedict Society, named for the man who leads them--must play the part of undercover spies, from reading over Mr. Curtain's shoulder from a very long distance to sending Mr. Benedict coded messages via flashlight. There is real-life danger in everything, and the stakes are incredibly high--if these children fail, the whole world might very well be lost to an unimaginable evil.

     This book is written for the intelligent puzzle-lover. Everything in this book is a jigsaw waiting to be solved. Sometimes the solution to a problem is as complex as retracing their steps blindfolded, and sometimes it is as simple as walking on rectangular, rather than square, tiles. Whatever the case, it's an exciting challenge to try and figure out the answers before the characters do.

     The writing style of The Mysterious Benedict Society fits the story beautifully. It's smart, it's witty, and it's full of warmth. As the eldest of the foursome is twelve years old, it follows that there is no romance involved, and the characters do not swear. The age of the characters is vital to the story, as they are able to crawl into places adults cannot, pass unnoticed in a crowd of grown-ups, and ask questions without attracting attention. Each of our heroes possesses a special talent that brings validity, strength, and realism to the story.

     I would recommend The Mysterious Benedict Society to anyone looking for a fun, mentally immersive read with strong, engaging characters and an addicting plot. Adults and children alike will find themselves enjoying Stewart's tale of friendship and trust. Be warned--red herrings and plot twists abound! Nevertheless, I see no reason why I shouldn't grant The Mysterious Benedict Society five stars out of five.

Review of "The Selection"

"That stupid letter could lift me out of the darkness, and I could pull my family along with me."

     For Kiera Cass's novel The Selection, we travel to Illéa, the kingdom that took over in the ashes of America following the Fourth World War. It is a monarchy based on an eight-layer caste system, with royalty, or Ones, at the top and Eights at the bottom. America Singer, our heroine, is a Five--a singer/musician for hire. Her mother, obsessed with climbing castes, wants her to marry a Three or a Four...but America, who is in love with a boy from Six, has other plans. When she is swept up, quite unwillingly, into the Selection, America is expected to compete with thirty-four other girls for the heart of Prince Maxon, but she refuses to try--at least, until the prince shows his true colors, and America realizes that life as his princess may not be as bad as she thought. America must now choose between Aspen, her first love, and Maxon, a boy in search of a love he has never dared to hope for.

     Cass has accomplished with The Selection what few other authors can claim: she made me fall in love with a romance novel. From the first page, America stands out as an honest, original character. Our heroine is deeply entrenched in a love affair with her best friend turned boyfriend, Aspen, and we can see from the start that this isn't just some teenaged infatuation. Both characters care deeply for each other, and it shows in the way they act. America brings food for the poorer boy to their meetings, and he gives her pennies when she sings because he feels responsible for her. It is Aspen, heartbroken to think America will be poor because she passed up a chance at wealth, who convinces her to put her name in the Selection. America does not think she will be accepted, but she is, and that is where we meet Prince Maxon.

     I am not one for love triangles, nor am I one to change sides when the second boy comes into the picture. However, when I realized just how different America and Maxon's relationship is when compared to what she has with Aspen, and when it became clear the level on which he cares for her, I have to admit I changed my mind. And it is clear that America feels torn, too, because she keeps switching sides herself as the book goes on. It is good to see a character who is indecisive constantly, rather than picking one boy and feeling guilty for leaving the other behind.

     Although this is a romance novel, it has plenty of action. Two distinct rebel factions attack the palace when you least expect them, and neither the reader nor the characters know which side it was until the aftermath is revealed. A few guards die, and the characters spend plenty of time running to and hiding in reinforced bunkers, never quite sure if this will be the time the enemy finds them. Also, the dynamic between the Selected is often far from friendly. Violence and subterfuge, although technically frowned upon, are used equally in dealing with competitors.

     Illéa is beautifully depicted. Castes are described from the point of view of someone who disapproves but does not fight against them, the world of the palace is immaculately detailed, and the characters are all very well-rounded and very distinct. Every aspect of the story is thought out and realistic. Besides this, Cass's writing style is gorgeous. It lends realism and depth to America's narrative that would not be there otherwise. The writing style makes this story.

     This is the perfect YA book for anyone who is interested in a well-paced romance where both boys in the triangle are worthy of the protagonist. I would recommend it to anyone who likes realistic, down-to-earth characters who are willing to accept change just as much as they are willing to make it. As for a rating, it fully deserves five of five stars. Clear your schedule, though--once you pick up The Selection, there is no putting it back down.

Review of "Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25"

"They're two children among a billion--finding them is like finding a lost chopstick in China."

     Today's book is Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25, by Richard Paul Evans. Technically, it is a YA or children's book, but the story can just as easily captivate the "grown-up" reader. Michael Vey is a fourteen-year-old kid with Tourette's syndrome. He lives an ordinary life with his mom in a little town in Idaho, spending his time playing video games with his friend, Ostin, and avoiding bullies at school. What only Mrs. Vey and Ostin know is that Michael can generate electricity, and contain it, like a human battery. When his mother is kidnapped, he and Ostin must rescue her. It will take wits, electricity, and the help of a girl named Taylor to get her back, but this is much more complicated than it seems. After all, Mrs. Vey is not the real target. Michael is, and the enemy is determined that he will not escape alive.

      Evans does not have a very original concept here. The story of a young boy on a quest to save his mother, all the while learning to control an unpredictable superpower--let's face it; it's pretty cliché. But when Evans, as Michael, tells his story, it's hard to believe such a thing has been done before. Although the world-building is pretty basic, enough bones are there for the reader to place every scene in a realistic setting; much more detail is given to the people, and to those teens with electrical abilities.

     The science, although impossible, is written in such a way that it makes sense. Partway through the book, Michael and Taylor--who also possesses electrical powers--discover why they were "born with" their abilities, and the explanation is convincing. Evans doesn't stick to the generic "I can shoot lightning at people" job, either. Every superpower is unique and feels original. There is a girl who can download information from computers; one who feeds off the electricity of others; and there is a boy whose electricity is on the outside of his body, so that he cannot touch water without enduring serious electrocution. Although many, if not all, of the abilities have been used before, Evans presents them in such a way that they seem real and new.

     The plot of The Prisoner of Cell 25 is simple but engrossing, with plot twists that keep you on your toes at all times. Every character is unique and individual, with motives and ulterior motives to keep you guessing. Although there are moments when Michael loses faith himself, readers will find themselves rooting for him and his "Electroclan" of friends with every turn of the page.

     The Prisoner of Cell 25 is about teenagers, and it follows that there is both action and romance. The primary weapon of choice for most of the characters, of course, is electricity, and although the author does not go into detail on the wounds there are people who cannot withstand bolts of lightning or surges of energy but do so anyway. And there is some minor romance, which is more of a schoolyard crush than anything.

     Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 is a low-level read featuring realistic characters, plot twists, an expansive array of superpowers, and a diet revolving around bananas. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a story about damsels in distress, good versus evil, trust, and friendship. For all of these reasons, I rate this book at five stars.

Review of "Being Henry David"

"The last thing I remember is now."

     In Cal Armistead's novel Being Henry David, we explore the life of a teenager who remembers nothing. He wakes up in Penn Station with no ID, no memory, and no idea where he got the bloody scab on the back of his head. What he does have is a ten-dollar bill and a paperback copy of Walden by Henry David Thoreau, which a fat man nearby promptly begins to eat. When he gets it back, he discovers two things: he has an almost-photographic memory, and he is terrified of being discovered by the cops. Teaming up with the tough-talking street kid Jack, the boy names himself Henry David--"Hank" for short--and sets off to discover the past he has only so recently lost.

     Armistead does a good job with Being Henry David. Her writing is clear and the plot is exciting. It doesn't take much to find yourself pulling for Hank as he runs away, from police and mob bosses alike, spends the night in the ruins of an ancient building foundation, and searches for answers. Each of his actions is logical and understandable. He needs shelter? He sleeps behind his new friend's Dumpster. He doesn't know where to go? He sets course for Walden Pond in Massachusetts, the setting of Thoreau's book. The book is well-paced and contains just the right balance of action and self-discovery.

     Despite all this, the plot of Being Henry David just didn't do it for me. Yes, I liked the book--a lot, actually. But there is something about the straightforwardness that is almost too much. There aren't many twists and turns along Hank's road: he spends time in New York to get his head on straight; he travels to Concord, Massachusetts, to visit Walden Pond; he recovers some memories during his stay; some Major Plot Points take place; et cetera. While the mystery of who Hank is and why he's running is juicy and practically reeks of verisimilitude, it is almost too easy for him to make these choices. Where are the wrong decisions and red herrings? There are a few, but not many. Although I must admit that the plot twist hidden in his memories is quite surprising.

     This book hosts a large array of fascinating supporting characters. First, we have Nessa and Jack, teenagers who work for a villainous New York drug lord called Magpie. Then there is Frankie, the large man who tries to eat Walden--and anything else that happens to be lying around. There is also a nurse who knows when to not call Child Protective Services, although anyone else in her position would. Last, but not least, is my favorite secondary character: Thomas, a thick, muscular librarian who rides a motorcycle and works as a Thoreau interpreter in his spare time. Even though Hank's basic situation is not a new one, he feels as unique as he is authentic. The cast is smaller than that of many books, but its variety is such that it feels like there are more than there are.

     There is some cussing in Being Henry David. Characters say "damn" and drop the occasional F-bomb. However, curse words are strategically placed and add emphasis to the story. For instance: if Hank were to meet a man in a dark alley, he (Hank) would probably not curse. But if the man hit him on the head with a brick and rifled through his pockets for change, he would probably use one of the two words.

     Being Henry David is a story about facing pain, making friends, and self-forgiveness, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys books of this kind. It is not for someone who is looking for a romance novel--there is a bit of romance in this book, but not much--or an action novel. I'd rate it at around four out of five stars. Please remember that this is a YA novel--if you're looking for something a bit deeper, look elsewhere; but for something straightforward and interesting, with intriguing characters and a realistic mystery, Being Henry David may be just the book you're looking for.

Review of "His Majesty's Dragon"

"Is it a dragon egg, then?"

     Today we review Naomi Novik's His Majesty's Dragon, a historical fiction piece published in 2006 and followed by several sequels, which I will not discuss here. In this story, protagonist William Laurence is a captain in England's Royal Navy. As a boy, he ran off to the sea to escape a career in the church, which his father intended for him. He is a respectable man with a loyal crew, a love for the sea, and a woman he cares for dearly. It seems to all that he is destined to become a force to be reckoned with in the war against Napoleon Bonaparte. Then, one fateful day, a conquest at sea leads to the discovery of a valuable dragon egg. When it hatches, the dragonet chooses Laurence as his captain, instantly tossing him out of his well-ordered life and into the life of a dragon rider.

     Novik faces quite the challenge in telling this tale, not only because of the detail or incredible complexity but because of the sheer intelligence of the main characters. Captain Laurence is a brilliant tactician, a soldier of duty, and a solid friend; Temeraire, his dragon, is highly intelligent, curious, and keenly aware of everything that goes on around him. Many writers would shy away from anything near this difficulty, but Novik stays the course the whole way through, and the result is an enthralling read.

     In this alternate England, the Air Corps is both revered and scorned; dragons, though intelligent, are dismissed as beasts of labor. Laurence soon learns the other side of this mystical military branch, as he and Temeraire quickly begin training for battle under the command of the dragon Celeritas. Dragon and captain must both learn aerial combat strategies and formations, master flight, and befriend their fellow fighters.

     As Bonaparte draws nearer and nearer to the channel, preparations speed up, and Laurence must move past his prejudice to embrace his new post. What he dosn't know is that there's more to Temeraire that meets the eye, and it is this secret that just might save England.

     This book has it all: smart, witty characters; clear, focused writing; vicious, heart-pounding battles; and a horrifying betrayal. His Majesty's Dragon also explores the changes in Captain Laurence's social life, with everything from visits home, dinner parties with his appalled beloved, and a stern talking-to from a very disappointed father.

     Whether it's in the air or on the ground, though, there isn't a word wasted in this book. Even the quiet moments are packed full of action and importance, and the battles that do take place further the storyline, and Bonaparte's army, just that much farther along its path.

     It should be noted that this is a novel intended for adult readers, both in content and difficulty. There is blood, there is swearing, and there is non-explicit sex. The writing style, a formal English vaguely reminiscent of Jane Austen, may be challenging to read. If it were a movie, I would rate it somewhere between PG-13 and R, but there is nothing graphic. Books, as you are no doubt aware, are not easily rated; you must decide for yourself whether this story is appropriate for you or your older reader.

     However, despite all of this I grant His Majesty's Dragon five stars, for an engaging plot, charming characters, and writing that sweeps you off your feet.

Review of "Inkheart"

"What does this Capricorn do when he's not stealing books and abducting people's fathers?"

     Today we review a title by one Cornelia Funke, an author from Germany who has written many books for children. Inkheart tells the story of Meggie, the twelve-year-old daughter of bookbinder Mortimer "Mo" Folchart. The two are classic bookworms, reading and re-reading every book that comes their way. When they don't have anything to read (which is rare), Mo spins wild stories that almost seem real; but as far as Meggie knows, he has never read aloud from a book. When a villain calling himself Capricorn kidnaps Mo, she finally discover's her father's secret: whenever he reads words off of a page, they literally come to life. Capricorn wants Mo to read a terrifying monster into our world, and only Meggie--with the help of an arrogant author, an old woman, and two fictional characters--can stop him.

     Many books about twelve-year-olds feature stunning adventures involving magic, friendship, and ugly monsters. Inkheart does not follow this pattern. The characters are complex and come from all walks of life: a retired author with two grandchildren, a homesick fire-eater, a reclusive book collector--even a horned martin. Each one is well-rounded, has ulterior motives, and possesses hidden traits. And, unlike plenty of other children's stories, the villain's cruelty is very believable.

     The world in which the story is set is beautifully detailed, with descriptions of everything from the church-turned-throne-room of Capricorn to the box where Meggie keeps her books. Inkheart is set in Italy, and the landscape fits seamlessly into the story. Characters are forced to climb up steep, heavily vegetated slopes, hide out in remote villages, and take shelter in the ruins of an ancient building. Everything is described with equal care, be it from our world or another.

     The plot of Inkheart is original and immersive. Meggie is thrown from one situation to another, learning about all sorts of evil plots and unpleasant schemes. She learns about her father's gift, a heart-wrenching betrayal, and the existence of the one person she thought never to see again. Nothing is sugarcoated. Books are burned, violent threats are made, and the villains delight in cruelty. Yet this is still a kid's book, or at least a YA one. Funke has the incredible ability to keep her work age-appropriate while giving the story enough violence and action to be realistic.

     Aside from the occasional "Damn!", characters in Inkheart do not partake in profanity.

     I would recommend Inkheart to anyone who loves books, magic, intelligent characters, and realistic plots. Although it is set in the real world, every aspect of the landscape seems filled with magic, and you never quite know what to expect in the next chapter. No matter how old you are, you're never too old for Inkheart. For all these reasons, I give it five stars.

Review of "The Maze Runner"

"He began his new life standing up, surrounded by cold darkness and stale, dusty air."

     Thus begins the tale of Thomas, the sixteen-year-old protagonist of James Dashner's YA novel The Maze Runner. Thomas wakes up in an unlit elevator with no identity, no knowledge of where he's going, and no clue how he got there. The elevator lets him out into the Glade, a clearing in the center of a giant maze, where an assortment of fifty-odd teenaged boys live. They, too, remember only their first names, and they spend their days working toward an escape from their stone-walled prison. But with the arrival of Thomas--and the girl who appears the next day--everything is about to change.

     On plot, this book is thrilling. Sixty teenaged boys are trapped in a maze with no way out (save a cliff hanging a thousand miles above the ground), no memories, and nobody to tell them what to do. If this were The Hunger Games, you might expect them to decide this was a "survival of the fittest" test and start killing each other; instead, they form a stable society based on order and trust. But the way they get along doesn't make this book a slow read. Instead, it contributes to the plot immensely.

     Shortly after Thomas arrives, strange things begin to happen. People remember him from their time before the Glade. A dead Griever--gross, terrifying monsters who roam the Maze corridors--is discovered by one of the Runners. And, strangest of all, a girl arrives in the Box, clutching a note that claims she's the last one ever. These things wear down on the order that keeps peace in the Glade. Thomas and his friends must now work harder than ever to escape the Maze before surviving inside it becomes completely impossible.

     I won't spoil the ending for you, but there is definitely enough drama, action, and plot twists in this story to keep you reading late into the night.

     You might be either disappointed by or satisfied with the characters depending on your preferred style of reading. Overall, the characters are pretty static. Alby is irritable, Chuck is eager to help, Minho is sarcastic, and Thomas is confused but determined to escape. Very little character development takes place in this first book alone. However, they are each very unique--you'll never catch yourself wondering which character is speaking or which one is in charge. From accents to patterns of thinking, the characters of The Maze Runner are well thought-out and well-written.

     There is very little cussing in The Maze Runner. One character, who has a British accent, says "bloody" regularly, but otherwise the characters stay away from profanity. Instead, the Gladers have supplemented curse words with their own supply of invented terms: "shuck", "klunk", "shank", "slinthead", and "shuck-face". Newcomers are called "Greenbean" or "Greenie", and are often belittled. Characters insult each other, but they don't usually mean it.

     There is a great deal of violence, but nothing is too graphic. Boys are killed by Grievers, punches are thrown, and there is one (short) scene that involves a knife and a very scared teenager. There is no romance.

     I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an action-packed story with honest, raw characters who depend on their wits, and each other, to survive. It's a very refreshing read in a YA book, and a must-have for a reader who's interested in post-apocalyptic tales of friendship and trust, as I am. I'd rate it four out of five stars, merely for the shortness of the chapters and for the simpleness of the characters. Don't let that stop you, though--The Maze Runner is well worth it.