Book Reviews by 5th Graders
Allergic, by Megan Wagner Lloyd
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Allergic is a really nice book! I absolutely enjoyed reading this graphic novel and I would definitely recommend it! This sweet story is about a 10-year-old named Maggie who really wants a dog. She has waited all her life, and finally she will get a dog for her birthday! There’s just one problem…. When her family goes to pick out a puppy, Maggie bursts into hives and rashes. She is severely allergic to any animal with fur or feathers! Without a dog, Maggie starts to feel lonely. She just changed schools, doesn’t have friends, and feels left out of her family. Her twin brothers, Noah and Liam, don’t pay attention to her. And Maggie’s mom and dad are too occupied with getting ready for the new baby. Maggie finally made a friend named Claire. But Claire wasn’t very thoughtful and adopted a dog, knowing that Maggie was very allergic. Now Maggie can’t go over to Claire’s house! Maggie was super mad. How could her best friend do this to her? The theme of the story is to appreciate what you have and not be so jealous of other people. I give this book a thumbs up!
Apocalypse Taco, by Nathan Hale
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This is a graphic novel which features eleven-year-old twins named Ivan and Axl and a sixteen year old named Sid who take a break from their theater club to get food at Taco Bear. When there, weird things start happening and their food starts attacking them! Their world is turned upside down and they need to save it from destruction. This book is very creative and full of humor. I would recommend this to anyone. This book shows the danger of artificial life.
Around the World in 80 Days: Retold from the Jules Verne Original, Adapted by Deanna McFadden
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
I really like this book because it is really interesting. It is about a man named Phileas Fogg and his new butler named Passpertout who wants to go around the world in 80 days so he can win a bet. In the first four days they went to Paris and Italy. They then went on a streamer called Mongolia. Also there was a detective named Fix and he thought Fogg was a robber. Next they went to Africa and sailed to Bombay. There they saw an elephant and took that elephant to Hong Kong. From Hong Kong they went to Japan and then to the Americas. They were almost finished; they just had one last stop in England and Fix was chasing them everywhere they went. When they went to England and Fix arrested him thinking he was the criminal but he wasn’t. James Strant was and Fogg was free to go and innocent. Also, while he was in England he thought he lost the bet but the butler’s watch and Fogg’s watch were not in the correct time so they were able to make it and Fogg won the bet. As you can see I really like this book because it is so interesting.
The Baby-Sitters Club: The Truth About Stacey; a graphic novel, by Raina Telgemeier
(Series Book 2)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I enjoyed reading this awesome graphic novel! The story is like an adventure, and I think you will really like reading this book! This story is about a girl, Stacey, who has diabetes and can’t eat sugar. She just moved here from New York, and because of her sickness, Stacey struggles to make new friends. But when she joins the Baby-Sitters club, she doesn’t tell her new friends about her diabetes. Stacey’s afraid her new friends, Kristy, Mary Anne, and Claudia won’t be her friend if they found out she was a “sick girl.” The Baby-Sitters club is a club of baby-sitters who baby-sit kids in their neighborhood. Soon, the Baby-sitters club gets a flier for another baby-sitting club. It looks like a competition between the Baby-Sitters club and this new club! But the Baby-Sitters club has a secret weapon – friendship and teamwork! The theme of this book is to be honest and not hide your secrets so your friends can help you. This is a really fun book and I would really recommend it!
The Baby-Sitters Club: Mary Anne Saves The Day ; a graphic novel, by Raina Telgemeier
(Series Book 3)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I loved reading Mary Anne Saves the day! It’s so funny and full of awesomeness!
This graphic novel is about a girl, Mary Anne, who is part of a club called The Baby-Sitters Club. She has three friends, Kristy, Stacey, and Claudia. Mary Anne’s mother died when she was a baby, and ever since her father has been overprotective. He makes her wear her hair in braids, wear clothes that look like they are for three-year-olds, and doesn’t let her redecorate her room!
One day, the BSC had a big fight. Mary Anne is now on her own, and she has to make new friends and sit by herself in the cafeteria. But during lunch, Mary Anne meets Dawn Schafer, a girl who recently moved there from California. They become fast friends, and Kristy feels left out. But when Mary Anne is baby-sitting for Jenny Prezzioso, she starts burning up and Mary Anne can’t call her friends for help. Can Mary Anne save The Baby-Sitters Club from breaking up?
The theme of this book is to be nice to your friends or it will backfire. I enjoyed reading this book and I think you would too!
The Baby-Sitters Club: Claudia and Mean Janine; a graphic novel, by Raina Telgemeier
(Series Book 4)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I liked reading Claudia and Mean Janine by Raina Telgemeier! It’s very interesting and funny. You will love reading this graphic novel! In this book, Claudia is part of a Club called The Baby-Sitters Club. She’s the vice president, and she has four friends in the club, Kristy, Mary Anne, Stacey, and Dawn. But Claudia also has a mean big sister, Janine. Janine is a genius. She always aces tests, and studies 24/7. Claudia, on the other hand, loves art, doesn’t pay much attention to school, and likes to babysit. Claudia and Janine’s grandmother, Mimi, is a kind woman who always listens to everyone and treats both Claudia and Janine fairly. But Claudia and Janine don’t get along well. They always fight about math and babysitting. One day Mimi is watching Claudia and Janine. Claudia and Janine are fighting, as usual. But then, something terrible happens to Mimi. Will Claudia and Janine figure out how to get along and help Mimi get better? The theme of this book is you must learn to get along with your friends and family in order to help. I loved reading this book and I give it a thumbs up!
The Baby-Sitters Club: Dawn And The Impossible Three; a graphic novel, by Gale Galligan
(Series Book 5)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I really enjoyed reading Dawn and The Impossible Three! I love this book because it is super funny and fun to read! This book is about a girl, Dawn Schafer, who moved from California to Connecticut. She doesn’t have many friends, but soon she is invited to join the Baby-Sitters Club, and now she has four new friends, Mary Anne, Stacey, Claudia, and Kristy. But things aren’t going well after Dawn takes a baby-sitting job for the three Barrett kids. Since she’s the newest member of the Baby-Sitters Club, she’s very excited for this job. But the Barrett kids are too much to handle. Their house is always a big mess, the kids always misbehave, like when Buddy gave Mary Anne the “Bizzer Sign,” which is when you make the L sign with your fingers and say “Bzz,” and Mrs. Barrett never gives Dawn any rules or instructions. Dawn really wants to be a good part in the BSC, but she can’t figure out how to be compatible with Kristy. What can Dawn do? The theme of this book is to speak up in order for things to change. I liked reading this graphic novel and I give it a thumbs up!
Bailey’s Story, by W. Bruce Cameron
Review by Catherine E., 5th grade
I gave the book Bailey’s Story a thumbs up review because it was a great story about friendship between a dog and his boy. You will really like this book if you like dogs. In the beginning, Ethan, the boy, gets a puppy named Bailey. They make a special bond with each other. Ethan plays with Bailey, walks him, and sleeps with him at night. After a while their bond is strong. The villain in the book was a boy named Todd. He was jealous of the friendship between Ethan and Bailey. Todd did many mean things to Ethan, for example in the winter they would race down the hill on a sled and Bailey would be so excited to play he would jump on Ethan’s sled. That caused the sled to be heavier and Ethan to win the race. Todd then started yelling at them and saying they were cheaters. This is one example of how Todd was mean to Bailey and Ethan. Bailey began not to like Todd, and the special thing about dogs is they can sense when someone isn’t nice! The end is my favorite part of the book. Bailey caught someone setting the bushes on fire. He started biting this villain which left a blood trail to the house where he/she lives. He then starts barking to make his family aware that the house was on fire. In the end, Bailey was a real HERO!
Because of Mr. Terupt, by Rob Buyea
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This is the story of a group of 5th graders. This book is told from the perspective of seven of them. All of them have different personalities and don’t necessarily get along, but will Mr.Terupt be able to fix that? This is a heartwarming book and amazing writing. I would recommend this book to anyone. The theme of this story is you should take responsibility for your actions.
Because of Winn Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I really liked the book Because of Winn-Dixie! It is very inspiring! I liked how the author writes exactly how the main character, India Opal, thinks and feels about her stray dog, Winn-Dixie.
In this book, Opal (she likes to be called by her second name), discovers a stray dog in a supermarket called Winn-Dixie. She decides to adopt this dog and also name it Winn-Dixie. At first Opal’s father, nicknamed The Preacher, doesn’t think they should keep Winn-Dixie. But then he finds out Winn-Dixie is a stray and decides Opal can keep it. Together Opal and Winn-Dixie have many adventures. Opal has a father but not a mother. Her mama left her when she was three years old. She wishes her mama was with her on all her adventures and wants to learn more about her mama. Opal does not like The Dewberry boys named Stevie and Dunlap because they always tease her. Opal calls them “Bald-headed babies.” The Dewberry boys don’t like Opal either. They always chase Opal and Winn-Dixie on their bicycles. One day Winn-Dixie goes missing. Opal and her father search everywhere but Winn-Dixie is nowhere in sight. Opal is sad and continues to search even though her father wants to give up. Will Winn-Dixie be found? Read this wonderful book to find out!
Beyond the Bright Sea, by Lauren Wolk
Review by Nora T., 5th grade
Beyond the Bright Sea is a heartwarming story of a girl named Crow who was washed up as a baby on a remote island in the 1900s. As Crow grows older she wants to find out her real parents and if she is from Penikese. As she comes closer to finding out the truth things get thrown in the path.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, by William Kamkwamba
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
It’s the late 1900’s and a boy named William is struggling through a famine. Actually, the entire continent of Africa is. The president wasn’t being very helpful at all. Many people were willing to fight for only a bucket of maize. These desperate events and fights lead to danger and harm all around. The population severely decreased, and many people started to resort to stealing from other people. When William was booted from school, he became very into energy and how things work. He develops windmills that help his community. He was invited to a tech conference and suddenly became popular among successful engineers. Read this amazing book to find out more.
Bud, Not Buddy, by Christopher Paul Curtis
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
It’s 1936 in Flint Michigan, and Bud Calloway is being fostered yet again. This time he’s being placed with the Amoses, a family of a mother, a father, and a twelve-year-old boy, two years older than Bud. Todd, the son of the Amomses, bullies Bud to no end and blames it on Bud. The mom tells Bud to sleep in the shed. Bud runs away with his suitcase and his most prized possessions. He runs three towns over and a man stops his car to let Bud in. Bud goes in and is driven to Grand Rapids where someone who might be his dad lives. Dropped off at the club of his famous “father”, the man claims that he isn’t his father. Bud tries to connect the man with his family. His only evidence is a few flyers his mom gave him. A parentless black boy on the run during the Great Depression, the boy faces discrimination and many hardships. Will he find his father? The book Bud, Not Buddy was great. I thought it was very interesting how the author (Christopher Paul Curtis) used some of the people in his real life and a real event to shape the remarkable book. The author had me instantly intrigued and I always wanted to read more. The worst part of this book was being done with it. For anyone into historical fiction this is the book for you.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a sweet book! I give it a thumbs up! It is about a boy named Charlie Bucket who is sweet and kind and lives with his mom and dad and his four grandparents. Their names are Grandpa Joe, Grandma Josephine, Grandpa George, and Grandma Georgina. They live in a small wood house in a big city. They are very poor, and they don’t have much to eat, but they don’t starve. Charlie LOVES chocolate, and he only gets to eat a single bar on his birthday. On the other days, he passes by a giant chocolate factory owned by Willy Wonka on his way to school. Grandpa Joe knows all Wonka’s candy secrets, and Charlie hopes he can visit his factory someday. When Willy Wonka sends out five golden tickets to come and see his factory, the world goes in a candy-bar craze. Charlie longs to see Wonka’s chocolate factory but knows he doesn’t have a chance at finding a golden ticket. But when Charlie finds some money in the street and buys some candy bars, he gets an unexpected surprise. Charlie Bucket is about to go on one of the craziest events of his life!
Charlie Thorne and The Last Equation, by Stuart Gibbs
(Series Book 1)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
This book is about a bright young girl (Charlie Thorne) whose IQ is equal to Einstein’s. This is why it makes sense for the CIA to enlist her help with a top-secret mission, discovering Pandora’s Box. They figured that to find something that Einstien hid, you have to be as smart as him. As soon as Charlie gets roped in, things get dangerous. Together, a group of CIA agents and Charlie travel around the world, trying desperately to find Pandora. Unfortunately, things won’t be so simple. Other people were looking for Pandora too. In Israel, a mole in the CIA is found, a group of terrorists attempt to kill Charlie and the others, and the Mossad gets involved in the search.
This thumbs-up read is perfect for anyone looking for a book full of laughs, twists, turns, and heartbreaking moments. No matter if you’re into fantasy through historical fiction, this book is perfect for you. Read this great book to find out who will get Pandora – if anyone.
Chasing Vermeer, by Blue Balliett
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
Chasing Vermeer is a mystery written by Blue Balliett. Petra and Calder are two fifth graders who find themselves in the midst of an FBI crime investigation. While studying art in their class, a series of coincidences pulls them together. Suddenly, the famous painting by Johannes Vermeer, A Lady Writing, is stolen! Petra and Calder begin investigating on their own, using clues from their neighbor, Mrs. Sharpe and their teacher Miss Hussey. Many twists and turns occur throughout this book and the reader becomes hooked on the book! I recommend reading this book because it was fast-paced and had hidden messages in the illustrations which was fun to solve! This is also the beginning of a series, the next in the series is the Wright Three which focuses on the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis
(Series Book 2)
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a fantasy book by C.S. Lewis. In this book, Lucy and her siblings Peter, Edmund, and Susan are sent to the British countryside during WW2 at the Professor’s house. While there Lucy discovers a magical place called Narnia. In Narnia, it is forever winter because of the White Witch. The people of Narnia are waiting for Aslan to return to defeat the Queen/White Witch. There is a prophecy that when four human siblings sit on the throne Winter will end and the Queen/White Witch will be defeated. I would give The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe a thumbs up. It has characters who grow and change, it is suspenseful with cliffhangers at the end of chapters. I would recommend this entire series by C.S. Lewis as it is well written and fun to read.
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I think this book is great for students. The main characters of this book are Lucy, and her three siblings, Peter, Susan, and Edmund. They moved to a professor’s house, escaping from London because of air-raids. One day, while playing hide and seek because they were bored, Lucy found the perfect place to hide – an old, fancy wardrobe. As she went in, she found a new world called Narnia, which was full of adventures. Lucy meets a nice faun named Mr. Tumnus, and they become friends. But then Mr. Tumnus informs her that Narnia is under a spell from the White Witch. The White Witch also has a wand that can freeze anything, that’s why Narnia is stuck in winter, but never Christmas. So Lucy goes back to her world to get her siblings, but finds out the time is different. In Narnia, she was gone for hours but when she came back no time had passed. So she showed them the wardrobe and the new world, but it had turned back to being an ordinary wardrobe. This made her siblings not believe her at all. Read this book to find out how Lucy got her siblings to believe in Narnia and save it from the White Witch!
Consider the Octopus, by Nora Raleigh Baskin
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Consider The Octopus is a great book about how a girl named Sidney somehow got roped into a voyage on a ship called the Oceana II. The Oceana II was heading for the Pacific Ocean to attempt to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Jeremy, a boy on the ship, was supposed to recruit scientists to help raise money for the ship. Sidney became a stowaway on the ship. She agrees to become a part of a mission called Code Pink Octopus. Along with some visiting students, they invite a national TV reporter to bring attention to the mission and get more grant money. But the top-secret plan is exposed. Aside from all that, this book also helped me learn more about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. If you want to learn more, I rate this book thumbs up and it is a perfect fit for everyone.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Greg Heffley’s Journal, by Jeff Kinney
(Series Book 1)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a great and humorous book! I would give it a thumbs-up!
This book is about a middle schooler named Greg who lives with his mom, dad, older brother Rodrick, and little brother Manny. He has a friend named Rowley who Greg thinks isn’t a normal middle school kid. Rowley has velcro shoes and sleeps in his parents’ bed and likes this pop singer named Joshie. One day the school makes an announcement. They are looking for a new cartoonist for the school newspaper. When Greg and Rowley hear this, they decide to make the best comic ever. They came up with this comic called Zoo-Wee Mama. But after a while, Greg thought the comic wasn’t good anymore. Greg came up with a new idea and showed it to Rowley. But Rowley thought it was a terrible idea and continued to make Zoo-Wee Mama comics without Greg. When Rowley becomes the new cartoonist, Greg gets really mad. They had a big fight in front of the whole school, but then some teens spotted them and made them do something really bad that involved moldy cheese. What did they do to Rowley and Greg? Read one of my favorite books to find out!
El Deafo, by Cece Bell
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
El Deafo is a super funny and interesting book! I really enjoyed reading this graphic novel and I totally recommend it! This book is about a girl Cece who one day gets really sick. After spending a few days in the hospital, Cece is glad to be home. But something doesn’t seem right. Cece can’t hear anything! After a few weeks, Cece goes to the doctor to get her hearing checked. She has to get a hearing aid that she must wear on her ears and chest. The hearing aid does help but everything sounds weird. In first grade, Cece gets a bigger hearing aid that comes with a microphone called the Phonic Ear. For the first few days, she struggles to make new friends. But then Cece realized something incredible. With the Phonic Ear, she can hear her teacher in the classroom, the hallway, and even in the bathroom! Cece has amazing power. Maybe even a superpower! Make way for El Deafo, Listener for All! Will Cece use her powers to find a true friend? The theme of this book is to not judge yourself on the outside, but on the inside. I really liked this book and I give it a thumbs up!
Esperanza Rising, by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Review by Chloe C., 5th grade
Esperanza lives in Mexico, where she has a big home, a loving family, and riches. But on her 13th birthday her papa dies and while they are mourning, their house burns down, losing all of their possessions. Esperanza’s evil uncle offers to marry her mother, and Abuelita, Esperanza’s grandmother, injures her ankle and goes to live in a convent. Esperanza, her mama, their loyal servants Hortensia, Alfonso, and their son Miguel all escape to America for work to survive. They wait for Abualita to get better and withdraw her money from the uncle’s bank so they can live better again. Esperanza has trouble adapting to their new lifestyle, but Miguel’s little cousin Isabel helps her figure things out. A dust storm strikes and mama gets sick. She goes to the hospital and they cannot visit her for months. Esperanza works to make money. When Mama gets better and comes home, Esperanza goes to show mama the money she has saved, but Miguel has stolen it! Then a week later Miguel returns with Abuelita, that is why he took the money. They all return home and they all live happily again. I liked this book and would recommend it.
The Eyes and the Impossible, by Dave Eggers
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read a book called The Eyes and The Impossible by Dave Eggers. It is a story about how the animals of a park on a very small island work together to protect the Equilibrium. The elder bison in the park ask one of the dogs to become the “Eyes;” therefore, he is responsible for seeing and reporting everything. When some new paintings arrive in town, he gets carried away watching them and is almost taken for good as a pet. The Assistant Eyes must act to save him. Overcome by a sense of gratitude, the dog decides to hatch a plan to free the bison. However, it’s not going to be easy. It will require the cooperation of every animal in the park. With so many steps one is bound to go wrong, right? If you’re interested, check out this book now. I rate it a thumb’s up. *Be aware that there are some sad moments in the story.
Fourth Grade Rats, by Jerry Spinelli
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I really liked the book Fourth Grade Rats! I think it is so funny and charming and entertaining. Even though I am in fifth grade I still love reading this book. It is nice to remember those old days. This book is about a boy named Suds Morton and he is in fourth grade. He has a friend named Joey. In their school there is a chant that says fourth graders are rats. Suds doesn’t really like that but Joey says he has waited years to become a rat. Joey starts telling Suds about how to become a man, from eating meat, to touching spiders, to even saying no to his mom! Suds tries but can’t seem to get the hang of it. Is Suds going to be able to become a rat? Or will he run crying to his momma?
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I loved reading Front Desk! It’s the best book in the whole world!
This great story is about a girl named Mia Tang. They are immigrants from China, and Mia is curious about what will happen in America. Her parents search for a job, and soon, Mia’s parents are asked to be managers of the Calivista Motel, run by a mean and horrible man, Mr. Yao. Her parents are desperate for a job, so they sign up. They realize they will get paid $150 a day and get free rent living at the motel! They’re all for it. But once they start working at the motel, things are going the way they were expecting. It started when Mr. Yao changed the deal. Now Mia’s parents make only $750 a month! Fortunately, the weeklies, customers who stay at the motel frequently, are very kind and understanding. What can Mia do to become more successful? Read this great book to find out more about all the funny things that happen at the Calivista Motel! The theme of this book is to work hard for your dream and it will come true. I loved reading Front Desk and I think you will too!
Fudge-a-Mania, by Judy Blume
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Fudge-a-Mania is a fantastic book! It is so silly and funny and I would totally recommend it! It is about a boy named Peter who lives in New York City with his five year old brother Fudge and his one year old sister Tootsie. Peter has a dog named turtle and Fudge has a myna bird named Uncle Feather. One day Fudge tells Peter some news. He says he’s going to marry Peter’s enemy Shelia Tubman. That news is bad enough, but apparently Peter’s parents have news for him too. They say their family and Peter’s grandma are going to stay at a house in Maine next to Shelia Tubman! Peter is going to stay with Fudge and Shelia for three weeks! What is Peter going to do? Read one of my favorite books from Judy Blume to see all the crazy stuff Fudge and Peter did on their trip to Maine!
Gregor the Overlander, Suzanne Collins
(Series Book 1)
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
I would rate the book, Gregor the Overlander, a four out of five. The protagonist, Gregor, falls into the underland with his little sister. They are then cornered by dangerous, mammoth rats! The only way to get back home is to complete the quest the Underlanders send him on. The quest is exciting and involves adventure, like riding on bats. Some things that I did not enjoy as much were the introduction into the book. It was a lot of “world building” with many details and made the beginning slow. If you like adventure and can be patient with details, I recommend this book.
Grenade, by Alan Gratz
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
Grenade is a historical fiction by Alan Gratz. This book takes place during World War II and the main characters are two boys, Ray, and Hideki. Ray is a young American Marine, and Hideki a member of the Japanese Army. The main conflict of this book is the invasion of the Japanese Island of Okinawa. The book is an action packed book and gives the reader information about the historical events of Invasion of Okinawa.The author describes the battles in great detail and makes the book move quickly. Be prepared for a shocking twist! I give this book a thumbs up!
Gulliver’s Travels, by Jonathan Swift
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
In this book Dr. Lemuel Gulliver tells us about his adventures. He tells us that after a couple years on land he feels an urge to go to sea. So, he packs up and boards the Antelope, a ship heading to the south seas. A terrible storm comes, and Dr. Gulliver becomes shipwrecked. He has adventures when meeting the Lilliputians on this island, but he soon finds a canoe and heads back to England. But he finds himself longing for the sea, so he sets sail once again. This time his ship went ashore to explore the land but soon turns back because of danger, but they forgot Dr. Gulliver! He explores and soon finds himself once again on an adventure when he encounters the Brobdingnagians. When he finally arrives back in England, he has stories to tell. When reading this adventuresome book, I found Dr. Gulliver looking in different points of view on each island. It is a very important moral to learn to have a different perspective. I suggest reading this book because it makes you wonder what will happen next.
Guts, by Raina Telgemeier
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I really enjoyed reading Guts by Raina Telgemeier! It is really funny and interesting and I would really recommend it! This graphic novel is about a 4th grader who one day wakes up with the stomach flu. But after a few days, she is okay. However, her troubles aren’t over. She goes to school and has to deal with friends, food, and therapy. Raina has to put up with a classmate Nicole who teases her about her tummy aches and another girl, Michelle, who calls Raina a Pooper Diaper Baby! Luckily, she has one good friend named Jane who also likes to eat sushi and also loves writing stories. Raina is always getting stomach aches. She avoids many foods because she believes it will make her sick. But if Raina doesn’t eat, she will get sick. Good thing she starts going to therapy. Her therapy makes her feel better, but now Raina is scared her friends won’t like her if they find out she goes to therapy.
The theme is to not worry so much and enjoy your life. I thought this was a great book and I give it a thumbs up!
Guns for General Washington, by Seymour Reit
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
The American Revolution has taken many tolls on both sides. The Patriots are struggling from lack of gun powder, artillery, food, firewood, proper shelters, and clothes. The treacherous war was making everyone miserable. Then Henry Knox came up with a plan that would definitely save Boston. He would travel up to Fort Ticonderoga, then he would take some of the guns, cannons, building supplies and a lot of gun powder. It is a very difficult, long, and perilous journey to get to Fort Ticonderoga. While Henry and Will Knox travel up to the fort and back to Cambridge, Massachusetts they face many difficult challenges. General Howe is unaware of this plan against him. He is just waiting for a fresh batch of soldiers to arrive. George Washington is anxious to see if Henry and Will Knox are able to bring back the much-needed supplies. The very fate of the colonies hopes to win the war and the captured city of Boston lies on Henry’s plan. Read this wonderful historical fiction novel to find out if Henry and Will succeed on saving Boston.
The Heroes of Olympus : The Lost Hero, by Rick Riordan
(Series Book 1)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
The Lost Hero is the first book in the thrilling Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan, which focuses on Greek and Roman mythology. When Jason wakes up on a school bus, he remembers nothing. Two people claim to be his best friend, but he doesn’t know them. Leo who is kind of like a class clown, likes machines and engineering. Piper doesn’t like to be popular, but is very kind and caring. When the school bus arrives at the Grand Canyon, wind spirits attack and it causes something big. This book has tons of shock, thrill, and humor. I would recommend it to anyone and I would recommend them to read the Percy Jackson series first to get some background. This is one of my favorite books and has amazing story telling. I think the theme of this story is teamwork can accomplish anything. When they are separated, they always find a way to work together to solve problems.
The Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune,by Rick Riordan
(Series Book 2)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
The Son of Neptune is the second book in the Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan. When Percy wakes up, he doesn’t know what happened. He has no memory of anything. He is forced to fight off Gorgons for days and days, but no matter how many times he kills them, they come back and he is getting tired. For some reason they can’t kill him. He is low on food, but water heals him and rejuvenates him. When he is about to give up, an old lady appears on the side of the road. She gives him a choice: live in the water peacefully by himself, or go on a dangerous path where there is hardship, sadness and pain, but it could save the world. Read to find out what he chooses. The theme of this story is acceptance. The people who accepted him became stronger and better and they also helped Percy along the way.
The Heroes of Olympus: The Mark of Athena, by Rick Riordan
(Series Book 3)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
The Mark of Athena is the third book in the Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan. This book continues the quest of the chosen demigods. When Annabeth’s mother, Athena, visits her, she gives her the worst present of her life: the mark of Athena. To save the world, they must find the statue of Athena to unite the two camps. If they don’t succeed, the two camps will destroy the world before Gaia and her giants can. To get the statue of Athena they must face their most difficult challenge yet. The theme of this book is trust. Reyna needs to trust that Jason, Percy, and their friends didn’t attack the camp on purpose and that their ultimate goal was to help.
Heroes of Olympus: The Blood of Olympus, by Rick Riordan
(Series Book 5)
Review by Srisharan S., 6th grade
This story is the finale of the Heroes of Olympus series. This book is the best book since it is the finale. It starts off with Nico warning that going through the House of Hades will stir the demigods’ worst memories. Nico may actually become a ghost. Jason’s ghost is his mother, who abandoned Jason when he was little. He knows he will not break promises like she did. He will complete his line of the prophecy: To Storm or Fire the world must fall. Reyna fears all of the ghosts of her ancestors. She can’t let this distract her from getting the Athena Parthenos to Camp Half Blood before the Romans vs Greeks war breaks out. Will she succeed? Leo thinks his plan might not work. Heroes, monsters and gods all have a role in this epic finale to the Heroes of Olympus series. Read this book and learn more about this epic finale.
Holes, by Louis Sachar
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
This book is a great book and is one of my favorite books. I really like this story because it is an adventurous book. You will always be curious what will happen next in the story. This story is about a kid named Stanley who thinks he has a curse passed down from his great-great grandfather. One day someone randomly drops a pair of famous baseball player’s Clyde Livingston’s shoes at a charity. Stanley is wrongly accused of stealing them and ends up in Camp Green Lake, a juvenile work camp. The story is he overcomes challenges to get away from Camp Green Lake and ends up unknowingly breaking the curse. Along the way he meets Zero. Zero is a descendant of Madame Zeroni. Madame Zeroni wanted to be lifted up the hill and drink the water. Stanley lifted up Zero on the mountain and gave him freshwater, ultimately breaking the curse. Stanley is innocent and gets a lot of money and gold given to him. Zero hires private investigators. His dad, an inventor, created sploosh which Clyde endorsed. Read this book to find out what happens to Stanley and Zero at the end.
Home of the Brave, by Katherine Applegate
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Home of the Brave in my class. Home of the Brave is a great book, an exemplary model of what all young authors should be doing. It is full of descriptive language and detail. Home of the Brave is about a boy in fifth grade named Kek, an immigrant from Sudan. He moves to Minnesota not knowing any English. He has to adapt to a new climate, language, and way of life. He is placed in an ESL class, along with some other students. He came alone. His cousin and aunt moved a year and a half ago because of a conflict in Sudan. His dad died and he doesn’t know where his mom is. He keeps hoping to see her again. America is very overwhelming to Kek. In fact, when he walks into a grocery store, he cries. The theme of this story is hope because Kek hopes to find his mother. This book is detailed, descriptive, and definitely earns a thumbs-up.
I survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005, by Lauren Tarshis
(Series Book 3)
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I recommend this book to students. The main character in this book is Barry Tucker. He lives in New Orleans. Before Hurricane Katrina hit, he was having fun with his friend participating in a comic books’ “Create a Superhero” contest. He was going to submit a character he created named Aviko. Aviko is really special because he gives Barry the confidence he needs. But then there was a mandatory evacuation for Hurricane Katrina. So they begin to leave as they’re told, but on the road, Berry’s little sister, Cleo, gets terribly sick. So they have to wait out the storm. In the house, it began to flood quickly, so they went to the roof for safety. But this storm was stronger than what anyone imagined. It managed to grab a hold of Barry, pulling him off the roof and into the water, drifting him away in the water, farther, and farther away from his family. Now Barry was all alone in this monstrous disaster. Read this book to find out how Barry will survive this hurricane of the century!
I Survived The Nazi Invasion 1944, by Lauren Tarshis (Graphic Novel Series Book 3)
Review by Richard B., 5th grader
The graphic novel, I Survived The Nazi 1944 is a thrilling book that takes place in occupied Poland, 1944. This story is about a brother and sister, Max and Zena. They live in a Jewish Ghetto in Esties, Poland. They are constantly monitored by the Nazi’s and have run out of food and money. One night, their father and all the other men in the ghetto are taken and no one knows where they have gone. Max and Zena are forced to make an escape and find themselves stuck in a field until they meet a resistance farmer who is helping other Jewish people in their situation. This graphic novel gives the reader a better understanding of the terrible things young children had to experience during this point in history. I really enjoy reading the I Survived series and this book is a big thumbs up!
I Survived the Children’s Blizzard 1888, by Lauren Tarshis
(Series Book 16)
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I am reviewing this book because it’s one of my favorite books. I love this book because it has action in every chapter, the author really wanted to hook you in. The main character in this book is John Hale, a boy whose parents wanted to move to Dakota from Chicago in 1888. John is a shy city boy, not a tough pioneer boy. John was having recess at the school-room when an unexpected blizzard arrived. John was involved in a big, strong, blizzard. This blizzard was the “Children’s Blizzard”. Read the book to find out how John manages to survive one of the deadliest blizzards in history!
I Survived The Wellington Avalanche, 1910, by Lauren Tarshis
(Series Book 22)
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I am reviewing this book because I think it’s a great book for students. This book is historical fiction about a girl named Janie. She was working for this thief named Malvo, who forced her to rob stores. While at the train station, where she was supposed to steal jewels, she thought of something. What if she tried to escape? So she attempted it. But while on a train to Seattle, their train passes through a blizzard, leaving their train trapped! Then a fierce avalanche starts coming down the mountain. It was the Wellington Avalanche. Read the book to find out how Janie manages to survive one of the deadliest avalanches of American history!
I Survived the Great Alaska Earthquake, 1964, by Lauren Tarshis
(Series Book 23)
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I think this book is great for students because it is full of action and has a cliffhanger at the end of each chapter. The main character of this historical fiction book is Jackson. He lived in the bush of Alaska, which is a place that is in the middle of the forest. Until, one day during winter while they were fishing, they came back and found a winter bear inside of their cabin! While the bear was inside, he turned on the stove that burned the whole cabin down, leaving the family cold and frightened with no house to live in. But Jackson stayed tough. So they went to live in Valdez, Alaska, with their good friend Uncle Solly. Since Jackson and his family needed to stay, Jackson went to school but wasn’t very talkative. One day after school, Uncle Solly asked him to bring a note to someone on the Chena, a big ship that comes to provide food to Alaska. But as he was walking, a massive earthquake started to happen. “BOOM”. Jackson was involved in one of the most powerful earthquakes in history. Read the book to find out how Jackson survives the Great Alaska Earthquake!
Island War, by Patricia Reilly Giff
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
This book is about two kids from Long Island who move to an island very far west in the Aleutian island chain. The beautiful island is filled with lots of birds. The two kids live there peacefully along with fifteen other residents until Pearl Harbor is bombed. The islanders believe one thing, that the war won’t hit their island. They think if it did hit the peaceful island that the American army would evacuate them first. When a ship appears on a foggy day the girl from Long Island believes it is the American army there to evacuate them but during church a terrible thing happens, and she realizes that the ship wasn’t what she thought it was. Read this amazing book to find out if it was the American Army or the enemy.
Jacky Ha-Ha: My Life Is a Joke, by James Patterson
Review by Addison S., 5th grade
Jacky Hart is back and better than ever! In this book Jacky’s parents ruin her summer by making her get a summer job. She thinks it is going to be dull, but she is so wrong! This summer she has to deal with 2 boys, babysitting her little sister, running the best booth on the boardwalk and attending rehearsals. Jacky soon figures out that multitasking is not her kind of thing. Everything comes to a halting stop when she makes a huge mistake. This could cost her a fortune. I think the theme of the book is, don’t assume until you have proof. I would definitely give this book a thumbs up! Get cozy and warm up with this funny, engaging and hectic book!
James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I would recommend this book to students because I think it is out of this world! This is a fiction book with a main character called James. James had a horrible life. He lived with his two mean aunts that forced him to work. Until this giant peach appears growing on a peach tree in their backyard. One day when James was working outside he found an unusual hole in the peach. At first he thought it was made by raccoons but noticed it led somewhere. When he entered he found a living room with a large grasshopper, spider, ladybug, earthworm, and a centipede. He created a bond with them so they decided to escape before they got caught. They escaped by rolling down the mountain inside the peach. Landing to find extraordinary things that no one has ever seen before. Read this book to find out how this group of friends survived and had the journey of their lives!
The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid, by Rick Riordan
(Series Book 1)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
Sadie, Carter, and their dad, who is an Egyptologist, go on a trip to the British Museum. It turns out, their dad blows up the Rosetta Stone unleashing 5 ancient Egyptian gods and it becomes Sadie and Carter’s job to save the world. This is a very thrilling book full of adventure and will keep the reader at the edge of their seat. I would recommend this to anyone, especially people who like Rick Riordan’s writing, as he is the author. Sadie and Carter have a lot of troubles on their journey, but the theme of this book is to not doubt your abilities.
Katt vs. Gogg, by James Patterson
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
When the Dogg family and the Katt family go on vacation, they are sworn enemies, but when their children get lost in the woods, they must work together to escape the woods. This book is fun and I loved reading it. I would recommend it to anyone. The theme of this book is that even though you are different, it doesn’t mean you can’t become friends.
The Land of Stories: The Enchantress Returns, by Chris Colfer
(Series Book 2)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
The Land of Stories is an awesome series! I would definitely recommend this book! In book two, Alex and Conner are visiting the land of stories again. Alex and Conner are thirteen years old and are twins. Alex is a girl who really likes fairies and magic and The Land of Stories. She has blond hair pulled back by a headband. Conner is a boy who likes visiting The Land of Stories and often dozes off in class. One day Alex and Conner are teleported into The Land of Stories to find out the Enchantress has returned! The Enchantress is the one who cursed Sleeping Beauty a long time ago. She is also known as Ezmia. Ezmia has been attacking kingdoms and mastering the seven deadly sins to make a portal to the Otherworld (the world we live in). When Alex and Conner hear about this, they embark on a mission to find the most prized possessions of the six most hated people in the world to create the Wand of Wonderment. Whoever holds the wand is invincible. Can the twins, their mom, their mom’s boyfriend Bob, and all their friends collect the items and destroy the Enchantress? Read this awesome book to find out!
Last Kids on Earth and the Midnight Blade, by Max Brallier
(Series Book 5)
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
I rate the book, Last Kids on Earth and the Midnight Blade, a 4.5 out of five. One reason is because the story’s amazing! It is a great monster apocalypse book. But what’s bad about it? You have to read all the other books that came before in the series. But the whole series is great! To me the plot and characters are the best part. This is a great thriller and fiction book. The characters are all like real people, they have flaws, no one is perfect. In my opinion the best part of the book is when they have the goo slime fight on page 101-130 when they have a NERF battle of some sort and a giant eyeball comes out of the ground covered in vines. The last kids on earth is an amazing book.
Lincoln’s Grave Robbers, by Steve Sheinkin
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
Lincoln’s Grave Robbers by Steve Sheinkin, is a true crime thriller set in Chicago, Illinois in 1875. In the book, Benjamin Boyd is the nation’s top counterfeit engraver, wanted by the operatives of the US Secret Service. When he is finally arrested, his fellow counterfeiters devise a plan to get him out of prison. In this real-life thriller, the author describes the lengths Boyd’s fellow counterfeiters will go to to get him out of prison. They devise a plan to steal Abraham Lincoln’s body from his grave, hide it near Lake Michigan and hold it ransom for $200,000. In this book, the author takes you on a journey of real-life events through the eyes of the detectives and counterfeit gang involved in this wild scheme. Sheinkin’s book Lincoln’s Grave Robbers is a thumbs up from me!
Linked, by Gordon Korman
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Linked by Gordon Korman. Link Rowley is known for being a famous star athlete in a small town in Colorado. His dad, a member of the Board of Commerce, is trying to turn that out-of-the-way-town into “the next Orlando.” He invested in new land for an amusement park. A famous social media figure– Real Tok– went there to vlog about Swastikas being spray-painted all over the school. He tries to figure out who did it. Link’s dad tries to sue him for making the town look bad in front of millions of people. To show support, the art club starts paper chaining six million links to represent the amount of people who died in the Holocaust. The principal doubts the small town can accomplish such a thing, but should he? I found it very interesting and exciting. The book is very suspenseful and always left me wondering what would happen next.
Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Little Women is a great book about four sisters who love and support each other. Meg, Amy, Beth, and Jo are the four children in the March family. They used to be wealthy, but their family lost a lot of money. They desire to get money, ashamed of their poverty. They all want something too pricey. Although they love each other, they sometimes have conflicts. Their neighbor, a boy named Laurie, figures prominently into their lives and becomes close friends with Jo. When they were younger, they used to play a game called Pilgrim’s Progress. While their father is a chaplain in the Civil War, they all make a resolution to improve in their own way. I thought it was very interesting to learn about how the girls matured and moved their lives forward, traveling, writing, and getting married. I was very satisfied with this book.
Manatee’s Best Friend, by Sylvia Liu
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I really liked this book and I think it will be great for animal lovers! This is a fiction book about a girl named Becca Wong Walker. She is so shy, some people at her school didn’t even know if she could talk. She lives near a dock that surprisingly has a manatee named Missy that has not been seen in a long time. But Missy appears again with a new baby manatee with her! Adorable! One day, Becca also spots a dolphin that creates a special bond with the manatees. With all of this happening, Becca finally makes friendships at school. But one day, a boat almost crashed into the sea animals. So she decided to advertise the animals to try to save them from boats. Unfortunately, this action made her new friends at school angry. How can Becca save the manatees and dolphin lives while risking the loss of her only best friends? Read the book Manatee’s Best Friend to find out how she saves all of her friends.
Mary Poppins, by P.L. Travers
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
This book is about the Banks children, Jane, Michael, John, Barbara and their new nanny, Mary Poppins. Mary Poppins flew in with the wind when Mrs. and Mr. Banks advertised that they needed a nanny. She told them she would stay ‘til the wind changes. And she stayed true to her word. Mary Poppins is very vain, selfish, secretive, and rude. She takes the Banks children on wild adventures but after they are done, she acts like they never happened. I read the book then watched the movie and I definitely like the movie better. The movie and book are very different. I thought in the book Mary Poppins would be a kind nanny, but she wasn’t. I don’t suggest reading the book.
It sounds like Mary Poppins’ character is very different in the book than in the movie. Would you agree? Do you think you would like Mary Poppins? As they say, “To each their own.” This means everyone has the right to their own opinion. If you read this book, send us a review and give us your opinion.
~ Emma S. Clark Library
Measuring Up, by Lily LaMotte
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Measuring up is such an amazing and inspiring book! I really liked it and I would definitely recommend it! Measuring Up is about a girl named Cici who moved from Taiwan to Seattle and loves to cook. She used to do everything with her A-Ma (grandmother) but when she moved she couldn’t take A-Ma with her. As Cici starts a new school and keeps cooking, she longs for A-Ma to come to Seattle.
Soon Cici makes new friends. As she adapts to America, Cici realizes American people think Taiwanese food is weird.
But one day she sees a poster for a cooking contest. The prize money is enough to buy a plane ticket for A-Ma! Cici decides to sign up and starts practicing. As she crushes all the other contestants in the cooking contest and makes it to the finals, Cici must cook up the winning dish to bring A-Ma back. This story is about courage and practicing. The theme is to believe in yourself and practice and you will succeed. I totally recommend it because it is so funny and inspiring.
Mighty Heart of Sunny St. James, by Ashley Herring Blake
Review by Nora T., 5th grade
This is the perfect book for you if you love romance, happy endings and feeling good. The main character is a girl named Sunny St. James and she is a heart transplantee. Her mother and father left her as a baby for their best friend Kate, but now her mother wants them to be reunited again. While juggling all of this she meets Quinn, and the kissing quest begins.
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, by Kate DiCamillo
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
In a house on Egypt Street, there lived a rabbit. He was an arrogant, overdressed, china rabbit doll who was loved by his owner, Abilene Tulane. She loved and took care of him everyday, but when he was lost, Edward Tulane’s adventure began traveling from home to home, place to place. Follow him on the thrilling journey to see where he finally ends up. This book is amazingly good and will make you care about it. The theme of this story is, as it states in the book, “If you have no intention of loving or being loved, then the whole journey is pointless.” This shows everyone needs to be loved.
Mixed Up, by Gordon Korman
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
The book Mixed Up by Gordon Korman is a fun fiction book. The book is hard to put down! It has an amazing plot. In the book Leo and Reef notice that they have memories from things they have never done. For example Reef remembers gardening but it is not something he has done before! It had two amazing plots that interconnected at the end. Leo and Reef both were characters with problems. They both have one common problem: they are swapping memories! The idea of swapping memory is really good. I would give the book Mixed Up a thumbs up. It was a good book and I definitely recommend it. They all are great characters. It made me want to read more by Gordon Korman.
Monstrous Devices, by Damien Love
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
One day, a twelve year old boy named Alex receives a mysterious package in the mail. Inside is a small tin robot from his grandfather. There was also a note saying, “This one is special.” He thinks nothing of it but then weird events start happening. Toy robots start coming to life and a crew of dangerous people come after him and his grandfather. This book has an amazing storyline, but I think the story was extremely slow. The theme of this book is that trust is needed in relationships. If you want, you can still read this book, but I wouldn’t really recommend it. I didn’t enjoy the book that much.
Not every book is for everyone. Maybe you would feel differently. If you read this book, send us a review and let us know what YOU think.
~ Emma S. Clark Library
Mossflower: Redwall, by Brian Jacques
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
When Tsarmina takes over Mossflower after her father’s death she makes the lives of the woodlanders miserable. She eventually declares war on the woodlanders. Bella of Brockhall knows they have no chance defeating the powerful Queen Tsarmina, so she sends Martin, Gonff, and Young Dinny to go to Salamandastron to get her father Boar the Fighter so he could kill Tsarmina. The travelers face many challenges along the way, but they reach Salamandastron and Boar. While all of this is happening Tsarmina is plotting a horrible plan to bring death to all the woodlanders and has gotten herself a partner after her old one died. The woodlanders have come up with their own plan to flood Tsarmina’s castle, Kotir. Will the travelers come back with Boar? And who will win the war? Read this very intense book to find out all the answers to these questions and more!
Ninja Kid: Flying Ninja, by Anh Do (Series Book 2)
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
I really like this story. My favorite character in this story is Ninja Kid. I like Ninja Kid because he is a smart ninja kid. I like this story because it is a cool story. In this book a man named Andrew wants to get a powerful rare purple stone. Ninja Kid wants him to stop. Then Ninja Kid and his grandma practice with a jetpack with his friend Kenny. Then they went to the dentist and Ninja Kid saw objects moving around but the dentist did not notice it. Then while they were heading home the roads were flooding. Then they went to school and the whole classroom had objects flying everywhere. After school, they went home and practiced more things on the jetpack. The next day they went to the zoo and all the animals were acting crazy but Ninja Kid and Kenny helped calm the animals down and got rid of Andrew using their tools. Ninja Kid and Kenny had a successful mission. My favorite part in this book is the part where Ninja Kid and Kenny get jetpacks. As you can see, I really like this book because it is so cool.
Nutcracker Mice, by Kristin Kladstrup
Review by Olivia P., 5th grade
The mice at the Mariinsky Ballet Theatre in Russia are struggling to keep the audience. Esmerelda knows The Nutcracker ballet has to be a success, but it can’t be because the mice are the villains. The theater is in huge trouble if no one likes the performance because audience members pay admission with food. A small audience means little food for the mice at the theater. When Esmerelda meets another mouse who always goes to the mice performances, she knows she has to change the storyline of the dance and the way she dances. She goes to her brother to have him change the storyline, so the Nutcracker is evil, and the mice are good. When Esmerelda finds out the head custodian’s daughter has a doll with dresses that are mouse sized, she steals the dresses and some paintings from the producer’s office to help the ballet be a success. Will Esmerelda succeed? Will the head custodian lose his job because the mice keep outsmarting him? Read this amazing book to find out.
Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great, by Judy Blume
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Otherwise Known As Shelia The Great is a really good book! I liked it a lot and would totally recommend it! It is about a girl named Sheila and she is 10 years old and lives in New York City with her mom, dad, and older sister Libby. Sheila is scared of swimming, spiders, and dogs.
One day Sheila’s parents make an announcement. They are going to move to Tarrytown for the whole summer! They will stay at a house owned by Professor Egran and his three sons. When Sheila hears this she says it is a bad idea and that they should go to Disneyland instead. But her mood turned around when her father said she can have her own bedroom. Sheila and Libby share a bedroom in the city.
As the summer goes on, Sheila makes friends and goes to day camp and has sleepovers. But she also deals with scary spiders and swimming lessons and a dog that comes with the house! Will Sheila survive it all? Read the book to find out!
Pandava: Aru Shah And The End Of Time, by Roshani Chokshi (Series Book 1)
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
This is a great book. I really like this book because it is the first book in the series and the story is great. It starts off with a 12 year old girl named Aru Shah. She lives in a museum. She gets told that she is a liar because her classmates don’t believe that the Diya of Bharata when lit releases a monster. When Aru tries to prove her classmates wrong she releases a scary monster named the Sleeper (Duryodhana). When the Sleeper goes away everything around Aru is frozen in time except her. Then she goes and touches a stone of an elephant and a bird named Boo comes out. Boo asks who lit the lamp. It was Aru. Only Pandavas can light the lamp so Aru finds out that she is officially a Pandava. She meets Urvasi and Hanuman who advise Aru. She then figures out who her spiritual father and soul sister are. Is Aru going to defeat the Sleeper in a battle? Find out by reading this book.
Pandava: Aru Shan and the City of Gold, by Roshani Chokshi (Series Book 4)
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
This is the 4th book in the Pandava series. I really like this book because this book is from a traditional story in India. Aru Shah just made a wish on the Tree of Wishes. She forgot what she wished for. She just heard that she had a biological sister named Kara. Kara is the only person that could help escape the Sleeper and get back home. Kubera the god of wealth, promises the Pandavas two weapons but only if they win the trials, or they won’t stand a chance against the Sleepers army. If they did not win the trials the Sleeper would conquer Lanka and then the Otherworld. Kubera also promises the strong and powerful Nairrata army for fighting the Sleepers army. Will the Pandavas win? Read the 4th book of the Aru Shah series to find out.
Pandava: Aru Shan and The Nectar Of Immortality, by Roshani Chokshi (Series Book 5)
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
This book is a great book. It is the last book in the Pandava series. Aru Shah is in a mess. Her previous teacher, Boo, is now reborn as a chick. Her crush kissed her but now her crush won’t even look at her. This all happened on her birthday! Also Kara, her real life half sister, betrayed the Pandavas by joining her forces with the Sleeper and took the Pandava’s weapons. Aru knows that the Sleeper and his army are heading to find the labyrinth that holds the nectar of immortality. Kara, the soul daughter of the Sun god can only light the way through the dark labyrinth. The Pandavas have the next full moon to stop the Sleeper from being immortal and destroying the otherworld. The Pandavas cannot go inside the labyrinth if they do not have their weapons. They have to find a sneaky get around. Read this book to find out if the Pandavas or the Sleeper gets immortality.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 1)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
I would recommend this book for many reasons. It intrigued me with its fast paced adventure, amazing plot, and humor throughout. Once I picked up this book, I couldn’t put it down. This is in my top three books of all time. Percy Jackson is a twelve year old kid who has ADHD and dyslexia. During summer break, Percy and his friend Grover go home. Percy and his mom decide to go to their small family cabin. Once there, Grover slammed open the door and whispered something to Percy’s mom. She then told Percy to get in the car. As they were driving, all chaos broke loose and the underworld was summoned. Percy and his friends must battle to stay alive. The theme of the book is to stick together because Annabeth, Grover and Percy have to stick together to survive.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Sea of Monsters, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 2)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
I would highly recommend this book. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat and will deliver with humor. You will feel like you are in the book with the characters and that you are right next to them. Now that Percy is starting to understand his powers, more monsters are trying to track him down. He is going to a new middle school with a friend who he met named Tyson. Tyson is over six foot five and extremely strong, but has a very soft heart and doesn’t like fighting. When something happens at Camp Half Blood, Clarrise is chosen for the quest. Because Percy and his friends don’t trust Clarrise, Percy and Annabeth set out to help Camp Half Blood, and to save Grover. The theme that I think this book has is to persevere. Annabeth and Percy showed great determination and didn’t give up.
Poached, by Stuart Gibbs
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently finished a book called Poached by Stuart Gibbs. This book takes place in a famous zoo and amusement park called Fun Jungle. It is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Texas. The billionaire who owns Fun Jungle, JJ McCracken, strikes a deal with some Australian ambassadors. Thus, he’s able to borrow a koala named Kazoo for 6 months; but after only a few weeks on display, the koala is kidnapped. One kid in a nearby middle school who has great access due to his parents working now is framed for the crime. Whoever did it obviously covered up their tracks well because no one was able to figure it out until the kid who’s framed, Teddy, decides to get involved in the case. Will he be able to solve the case? Read this incredible book to find out more. I definitely give it a thumbs up. It kept me involved and I always wanted to keep reading.
Refugee, by Alan Gratz
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
Refugee is a historical fiction by Alan Gratz that follows the lives of three different children all at different points in time. Josef is a kid that lived in 1938 Germany, who is moving to Cuba but there are many obstacles along the way. Isabell is a kid who lives in 1994 Cuba, during a time with severe food shortages and no more trade with Russia, due to the collapse of the Soviet Union. During this time her family decides to leave Cuba for America on a small raft. Mahmoud is a young boy who lives in 2015 Syria. During this time, in Syria there is war and many towns and areas are bombed by their own government. His family decides to leave for Europe and faces many problems like, a raft popping and almost drowning with life vests that do not even work. Refugee takes you on a journey through time, showing how characters respond to challenges and tying each child to the others through shocking connections. This book was exciting and well-written. I highly recommend this to others.
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
This month, I am reading Refugee by Alan Gratz. It’s a phenomenal story about three kids and their families trying to escape their home countries and find safety. Josef, a boy from Germany, is suffering anti-semitism, and his father was taken to a concentration camp. He tries to leave Germany by sea, but his ship is stopped in Cuba. Mahmoud is fleeing Syria by foot, once his building is toppled by a missile. He boards a smuggler’s raft, only to have it overturned and stranded in the middle of the ocean. Isabel is fleeing Cuba. When their dictator, Castro says they can leave, they build a boat and sacrifice everything to make it to Florida. However, they land in the Bahamas and whoever walks on their soil is sent back to Cuba. This is a problem because Isabel’s mother is pregnant and she has to give birth. What will happen to these children? Will they survive? Read this thumbs-up rated book to find out more.
Restart, by Gordon Korman
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently finished the book Restart by Gordon Korman. Ouch! Chase Ambrose, feared in his town by everyone, fell off his roof and onto his head. Chase wakes up in the hospital. The doctor realizes that Chase has amnesia when he doesn’t recognize his own mother. When he gets back to school, people stay clear of him. Who is he? He used to be the most feared bully in town, as well as a star football hero, who won the state championship. Two people that were his friends–Aaron and Bear–were sentenced to community service along with Chase in court before the accident for bullying someone out of town. And, to the school, more importantly, blowing up a baby-grand piano. Chase doesn’t know whether he should be the same bully as he used to be or explore a new life. Read this thumbs-up book to find out more.
A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning; (Series Book 1), by Lemony Snicket
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
“If you are interested in stories with happy endings, you would be better off reading some other book.” This chilling first line really sets the scene for the whole series to come. In this book, we are introduced to the Baudelaire children. The oldest is Violet who is fourteen and loves inventing things. Klaus is twelve and reads any books he can get his hands on and retains all the knowledge he learns. Finally, the youngest child, Sunny, likes to bite things. She is no bigger than a boot, but makes up for it with her four, sharp front teeth. This saddening story begins at Briny Beach where they are informed that their house had burned down taking their parents with it. Understandably, they were devastated, but this was just the start in their miserable life as they have to run from a villain who wants to steal their families fortune. This book is very clever and a must read for anyone. The theme of this story is that no matter how unfortunate the circumstances, people can do brilliant things.
Sisters, by Raina Telgemeier
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
I think Sisters is an outstanding book! It is a graphic novel and I would totally recommend it if you love graphic novels! It’s about a girl named Raina and she is going on a trip to Colorado to visit her cousins. She is going to drive there with her mom, her sister Amara, and her younger brother Will.
Amara and Raina don’t get along too well, and during the car trip, they fight a lot and drive their mom nuts. The girls fight over colored pencils and the Walkman, which is a device to listen to music using cassette tapes. So they kick the seat and scream at each other during the car ride. Will also chants and sings loudly in the car and annoys everybody, which doesn’t help.
Raina has always wanted a sister, but maybe a sister isn’t what she asked for. When their parent’s relationship starts to get a little shaky, they must learn to get along together. The theme of this book is when you set aside your differences and get along, you will see the light. I really enjoyed reading this book. I give it a thumbs up!
Smile, by Raina Telgemeier
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Smile by Raina Telgemeier really did make me smile! This great graphic novel is about a teenager named Raina who one day after a Girl Scouts meeting falls and injures her two front teeth. Raina was about to get braces already. But before she gets braces, the orthodontist has to try many times to fix her two front teeth. Getting braces is hard enough, and Raina still has more to deal with. Friends, boys, and family are all a frustrating part in Raina’s dental journey. Raina’s “friends” weren’t very supportive about her having braces. They teased her many times and said she had “dog breath!” They also gave her a makeover as a joke because they thought she didn’t look good with braces. Don’t you wonder how she deals with her not-so-friendly friends? Read the book to see! The theme of this book is to not take it too hard on yourself and enjoy yourself. Will Raina gain enough confidence to talk to the boy she likes? Will she forgive her little sister for being mean to her? Will Raina finally smile? Check out one of my favorite books to find out!
Spy School, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 1)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Recently, I read an incredible book called Spy School. Twelve-year-old Benjamin Ripley’s life suddenly becomes interesting when a world-renowned spy breaks into his home and invites him to become a part of a CIA junior operative training camp. When Erica, a junior spy, and Benjamin find out that he is a mole, bad things happen. A bomb is found under the school, fake coding skills for Benjamin are established in his file, a phony coding system is invented, and Ben is in the center of it all. 52 CIA agents are set out to protect him, yet he is captured. Can Ripley escape? I highly recommend this book to anyone who is into Stuart Gibb’s incredible works. Even if you have never heard of him, I am sure this book is right for you.
Spy camp : A Spy School novel, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 2)
Reviewed by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently finished reading Spy Camp by Stuart Gibbs. This book is about how all the students in Spy School, a top-secret training facility for future CIA agents, are taken to Spy Camp for a wilderness training program. Junior Agent Benjamin Ripley is given a job opportunity from SPYDER, the most evil consortium of bad guys. During a covert transport, Ripley is attacked by SPYDER. He is on the run yet again. A few of his fellow campers are taken hostage. Benjamin and a few other members of the CIA crash a Civil War reenactment and attempt to save the hostages. But, as always, nothing goes according to plan. The agents split up, and a few of their radios go dead. Will they be able to save the hostages, and, more importantly, the world? Enthusiastic thumbs-up.
Spy Ski School, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 4)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Recently, I read Spy Ski School by Stuart Gibbs. In this book, spy school operatives Benjamin Ripley, Zoe Zibell, Chip Schacter, Erica Hale, Mike Brenzinski, as well as a few friends, are activated and sent on a mission in Vail, Colorado. They will be joining the same ski school group as Jessica Shang, the daughter of Leo Shang, a shady Chinese billionaire. The CIA has unsuccessfully tried to get close to him. They figure that if they can get close to his daughter, they might be able to meet him. First though, they must deduce what operation Golden Fist is. The students understand that Leo Shang is planning to grow his already large wealth by nuking a big mine to obtain the rare materials it holds. Will the operatives be able to stop Leo’s nefarious plot? Read this incredible, thrilling book to find out. Thumbs-up.
Spy School Revolution, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 8)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Spy School Revolution by Stuart Gibbs. This book is about a group of students from the Academy of Espionage, a top secret training facility for people preparing to join the CIA. While at a meeting, student Benjamin Ripley’s building is bombed. Once the attack is known to have been committed by a fellow spy school student, Benjamin needs to meet up with them. Certain that his fellow student, Erica, has not turned to the dark side, he meets up with her. She warns him of the existence of another consortium of bad guys. They set out on yet another treacherous mission that takes them back in time to George Washington’s house. Will they be able to foil the plot of these evildoers? Read this incredible book to find out more. Thumbs-up!
Spy School at Sea, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 9)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I finished a great book called Spy School at Sea by Stuart Gibbs. A CIA junior operative squad of teenagers are posing as the Rokto family as they go on a mission to find Murray Hill, an international criminal. This, like all missions, was not normal. First they boarded the largest cruise ship on earth, the Emperor of the Seas. Ben, one of the operatives, assumes that Murray will be in the Emperor Suite, the most opulent one. It turns out that its occupants are none other than the billionaire owners of the ship, Ben’s friends. The mission is full of many twists and turns and nothing goes according to plan. Read this hilarious story, full of silly moments like when a grown man goes delusional and talks about cheese-loving aliens and throws up every few minutes. This book was so good I read it twice, which I rarely do. Check this book out from your local library today. I definitely rate this book a thumbs-up.
Spy School Goes North, by Stuart Gibbs (Series Book 11)
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
This incredible book takes place in Alaska, after the first Spy School novel, at a top-secret CIA junior operative training camp. Only a few students are chosen for this special training. Unexpectedly, Erica Hale’s Grandfather, Cyrus Hale, is kidnapped by a Russian submarine. The students invade a Russian base and realize that Cyrus isn’t in trouble at all. Instead, he’s meeting with a long-lost enemy, a Russian agent Ivan and his granddaughter, Svetlana. Immediately, a fight broke out. At their next encounter, captivated by a strong connection with one of the spy students, Svetlana switches sides. Ivan threatens doomsday for all of the U.S. Read this incredible, thumb-up rated book to find out what happens next.
Stargirl, by Jerry Spinelli
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli. I thought that it was an inspiring book that encourages individuality. Stargirl, the new girl at Mica High, is the outcast of the school. The victim, the outsider, the only one who’s not a part of the generic student body. She’s the only one who leaves presents on the desks of other people, sings “Happy Birthday” in the cafeteria, and the only one who is “different.” Then Stargirl’s popularity grows and she sparks independence in all of the students. Suddenly all of the students are copying her ways. At a party, she leads two hundred people in a bunny hop that lasts until the next morning. When she joins the cheerleading squad, one thousand people show up to the games, considerably greater amount than the eight that had been coming. In fact, their dismal basketball team suddenly gains spirit. They are no longer okay with losing. They are on an unbelievable winning streak until they lose a game. The students suddenly turn on Stargirl because she cheered for the other team. Suddenly she is shunned. Facing extreme peer-pressure, she doesn’t know who to be anymore. Read this incredible book to find out more.
Stick Dog: Stick Dog Gets the Tacos, by Tom Watson (Series Book 9)
Review by Srisharan S., 5th grade
I really like this story. I like this story because it has funny parts in the book. The book is about Stick Dog seeing Karen and she tells that a group of people were hitting a dog. Stick dog was angry so he and his friends went to the place and saw that the dog was a toy unicorn or something. Next, they thought the humans were hitting live birdies but it was a badminton birdie. Then the humans were playing games. Stick Dog and his friends all went to eat some guacamole. Then there was a knock on the door and the human took out chips and tacos. Stick Dog and his friends found the chips and made a plan to get them. They got the chips. They then tried chips and guacamole together and said it was yummy. Then Stick Dog found the taco bag and every one of the dogs had finished all the tacos and they wrapped pinecones in the taco aluminum foil. When the male human opened the taco bag, he saw the pine cone but his daughter called and he put the taco back inside. The humans were playing a game and the dogs broke the unicorn and took the candy and ran away. My favorite scene in this book is when the dogs wrapped pinecones in the foil that the tacos came with. As you can see I like this book.
The Stolen Sapphire: A Samantha Mystery, by Sarah Masters Buckey
Review by Olivia Anne P., 5th grade
In this book Samantha Parkington and Nellie, her adopted sister, are invited to go to Europe with Grandmary and the Admiral Beemis. Nellie and Samantha meet all the passengers on the old-fashioned ship they are taking, but some aren’t as nice as they seem. One of the passengers found a mysterious gem called the Blue Star that brings bad luck to all who have it. When all the first-class passengers are dining the lights go out and when they turn back on the gem is gone! As Samantha and Nellie investigate, their French tutor is accused of stealing the gem. They have to find the gem in a couple of days before they dock in Ireland. Will they find the gem, or will the thief get away? Read this thrilling mystery tale that comes right before the other Samantha mystery “Danger in Paris.”
Superfudge, by Judy Blume
Review by Aura V., 5th grade
I liked this book and would recommend it. I think this book is great for students because it is humorous. This book is realistic fiction and the main character, Peter, has trouble with all these new changes happening. First, he already lives with his super insane brother, Fudge, that’s just starting Kindergarten with Peter in sixth grade, and is practically a genius. Next, he just got the news from his parents that they will be having another baby! Now his parents are so busy taking care of the baby, they have no time to watch Fudge, leaving Peter in charge of him. With all of this happening, his parents decide to take a break from the city and move to Princeton, New Jersey, forcing him to have to leave his best friend, Jimmy Fargo, and completely start over. Now basically Peter is starting a new chapter in his life. You should definitely read this book, Superfudge, to find out how Peter is going to make new friends and survive with his two crazy siblings!
The Swiss Family Robinson, by Johann Wyss
Review by Olivia Anne P., 5th grade
The Robinson family has gotten themselves shipwrecked on an unknown island when sailing from Switzerland. As the remaining survivors of the shipwreck they start out on an adventure. They face many perils once they reach land. The boys encounter many strange but wonderful animals. Father, Fritz, Ernest, and Jack create a vast number of creative houses. Also, Father creates many inventions that help them when living on the island. The four children tame many wild animals and love to race them while father, who is very knowledgeable, goes out on adventures and finds many edible foods and stupendous sites. This classic book is very amazing and draws the reader into the adventure like they are one of the characters themselves. Enjoy reading this book.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate Dicamillo
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
Inside the walls of a castle, a mouse is born. He was the only one to survive the litter. He looked different and people said his ears were too big, or that he was born with his eyes open. He was expected to die, but he didn’t. He liked to explore and go into the castle which was restricted, and when he talked to a human, he was banished to the dungeons for betraying the opinions and ideas of the other mice. This is when his adventure started. This book is fast paced and will always keep you entertained. I would highly recommend this to anyone. The theme of this book is that sometimes the impossible is possible.
Tenney, by Kellen Hertz
Review by Catherine E., 5th grade
I gave the book Tenney a thumbs up review because it was about a girl who loved music and worked hard to achieve her goals. In the end though she didn’t get everything she hoped for, a record deal, and had to learn to deal with the disappointment. Tenney signed up to play guitar at the Jamboree. She got paired with a senior citizen and they had to learn to work together to be able to perform at the Jamboree. In between signing up for the Jamboree and performing with the senior citizen Tenney had the chance to play at the famous Blue Bird Café. That performance did not go well. Then, Tenney decided she didn’t want to perform anymore. But, the senior citizen she was assigned to work with convinced her to get back on stage. Tenney did perform with her senior citizen by her side and they performed really well. At the Blue Bird Café, there was a person representing a music label. When she didn’t do well, she thought her chances were gone forever. What Tenney didn’t know was that the senior citizen she was partnered with for the Jamboree was a famous musician. The same record label person came and saw them both perform and even though she didn’t get a record deal, she was able to get a mentor to help her learn to be better. The lesson that Tenney took away was always try your best and never give up on your dreams!
The Thief of Always, by Clive Barker
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Recently, I read The Thief of Always by Clive Barkerl. Feeling bored at home, Harvey yearns for some excitement. However, he should be careful what he wishes for. One night, a strange man named Rictus flew into Harvey’s room. He takes Harvey to a magic place, the Holiday House. This is a place where all four seasons occur in one day. Time travels differently. Everything is perfect, nothing is wrong. It is full of amazing food, friends, and wishes. It’s almost too good to be true. Harvey, along with his friend Wendell, discover that each day in the mist of the Holiday House is a year outside. Desperate to get his years back, Harvey tries to escape through the wall of mist surrounding the house, however a great beast attacks him. Harvey decided that the only way out is to stop the source, Mr. Hood. He is the source of darkness, a heartless entity that created the house from dust. Everything there is just an illusion, magic, not real. But Mr. Hood is strong. Very strong. And Harvey is only a boy. So, let the best thief win!
Thumbs-up rated by Benjamin, age ten, grade five.
Trapped in a Video Game, by Dustin Brady (eBook)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
When Jesse Rigsby and his friend Eric get stuck in the video game Full Blast, they have to get out quickly; before they will be stuck in it forever. This is a good book that keeps you excited the entire way. The theme of this story is two different people can still get along. Jesse and Eric are completely different and like different things, but they are still friends.
Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. I thought the book was very intriguing. Full of death, confusion, and suspense, this book is well-suited for lovers of pirates and treasure. A master of the famous genre, Robert Louis Stevenson expertly executed a book of fantasy and adventure. Set long ago, a boy gets roped into a treasure hunt. When they board the boat, signs of traitors start to show. Fears of mutiny ripple through the crew; only one side wins the treasure. The action-packed book is full of unexpected twists and turns. You never know who’s good or who’s bad. Reading this book was quite a thrill. I hope if you read it, you will find it so. I think any fan of extreme adventure and surprise ought to enjoy the book. The main character faces many challenges, such as the death of his father. I hope you read this book.
The Trials of Apollo: The Hidden Oracle, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 1)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This book takes place after the events of the Heroes Of Olympus series. This is another thrilling and humorous book by the amazing author, Rick Riordan, continuing the adventures of the Greek and Roman Mythology book series. This book starts off with the god Apollo falling from the sky as a mortal (with acne) into a dumpster. He meets a twelve year old girl named Meg in the alley where he lands and their adventure together begins to return himself to his throne on Mount Olympus. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Rick Roirdan’s work because it is as amazing as his other books. This book’s theme is to not just rely on yourself – accept that sometimes you need other people to help you along the way, as Meg does for Apollo.
The Trials of Apollo: The Dark Prophecy, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 2)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This book comes after the Trials of Apollo book the Hidden Oracle. Now that Apollo knows he has to free the five oracles and he has freed the Grove of Diana at Camp Half Blood, he must continue on his journey alone because Meg had left him. On his journey, he must also push on to kill the three emperors who are trying to become gods. This book shows how Apollo is changing. This book is humorous, riveting, gripping, and will keep you on the edge of your seat making you not want to put down the book and keep flipping the pages. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mythology and adventure because this is an amazing combination of both. The theme of this book is empathy because Apollo is starting to realize that his ways of thinking of morals as disposable is wrong and is starting to change his ways and feel empathy.
The Trials of Apollo: The Burning Maze, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 3)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This book takes place after the book Trials of Apollo – The Dark Prophecy. Apollo, Grover, and Meg are forced to travel through the Labyrinth as the Dark Prophecy had said to “travel through the magical maze.” They must fend off monsters and survive the Labyrinth at the same time, and see where the Labyrinth would take them and what their quest would be like fully. Read to find out. This book is amazing and one of my favorites. I would recommend it to anyone one who enjoys Rick Riordan’s work. The theme is that loss is a part of life because Apollo is feeling loss for the deaths of people around him. This is unlike him as a god because he never felt loss because he thought of humans as inferior and didn’t worry of losing himself, as he was immortal.
The Trials of Apollo: The Tyrant’s Tomb, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 4)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This book comes after the Trials of Apollo – The Burning Maze. After Jason’s death by Caligula on the cruise ship, they are taking his body to Camp Jupiter for a proper funeral which leads them to discover the unofficial “fourth emperor.” Will they be able to survive this new challenge? Read to find out what happens. This is an amazing book with amazing writing. I would recommend this book to anyone. The theme of this book is that no one is powerless and everyone has the power to make a change because Apollo feels powerless against the oracle but must gain his courage to make a change.
The Trials of Apollo: The Tower of Nero, by Rick Riordan (Series Book 5)
Review by Holden C., 5th grade
This book takes place after the events in the book of The Trials of Apollo – The Tyrants Tomb. Now that Caligula and Commundus have both been killed by Frank and Apollo, they must now kill the last surviving emperor, Nero, and Meg’s stepfather. If Apollo survives he must face his strongest and oldest enemy – the Python who he had to use all his godly strength to defeat the first time. This is the final book and you should read to the end to find out how this amazing series comes to a close. This book really shows Apollo’s progress. This is an awesome book that shows all of Rick Riordan’s writing talent. I would recommend this amazing book to anyone. The theme of this book is that you need courage because Apollo needs courage to fight his mortal enemy and try to beat him.
War Stories, by Gordon Korman
Review by Richard B., 5th grade
War Stories by Gordon Korman is a historical/realistic fiction about the Firestone family. Travis is the main character and his Great Grandpa is a War Hero. During World War II, James, Travis’ great grandfather liberated a village called Sanite Regien. Now at 93 James and the Firestone family have been invited back to France to receive a medal. While they retrace the steps of the old soldier they run into trouble. Two mysterious figures seem to follow them around from Normandy to Sanite Regien. This story is told during current time and from young James’ point of view. I highly recommend this book to people who enjoy twists and turns!
The Westing Game, by Ellen Raskin
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. I thought it was a great book. Samuel Westing is a multi-millionaire who was thought to be murdered in cold blood. Together the sixteen heirs of Samuel Westing must figure out who killed him in order to win the inheritance. Driven by money, the heirs work through several bombs, figure out who was who, and try to solve the mystery. People may not always be who they seem to be, and the identity of the bomber is surprising. I enjoyed learning about each character’s life and motivations. They were all well-developed.
I thought this book was very engrossing and I strongly support it with a thumbs-up. Anyone who is into mystery books will absolutely love this one. If you are into surprises, this book is full of them. Reading this book as a family was very fun and the book certainly did not fail to provide talking points to discuss in a group. Read this amazing book to find out who killed Sam Westing.
What Was the Age of the Dinosaurs?, by Megan Stine
Review by Catherine E., 5th grade
I gave the book, The Age of the Dinosaurs by Megan Stine, a thumbs up because it is a great resource if you want to learn about dinosaurs. It is broken up into the different periods in which Dinosaurs lived. In the beginning dinosaurs were not very big. Over time they began to evolve. For example, instead of just having plant eating animals or small meat eating animals, the meat eaters began to grow and become very large! The plant eaters adapted to their environment by growing taller to reach more vegetation to eat. Then the book discussed how after some time, we didn’t just have herbivores and carnivores, we started getting dinosaurs that ate both meat and plants, which were called omnivores! Another interesting fact that the books talked about was how the body of the dinosaurs changed. They began growing spikes on their backs and horns on their head as they evolved over time. They also talked about how meat eaters had sharp pointy teeth and plant eaters had very flat teeth. Scientists believe that all the dinosaurs were wiped out because of a HUGE meteor that hit the earth. Today, they learn about the dinosaurs because of the fossils and bones left on the earth’s surface. The book discusses the markings on the bones that help tell a story about the life of the dinosaur.
At the end, they explain that the closest living animal to the dinosaur is a BIRD!
Whatever After: Fairest of All, by Sarah Mlynowski (Series Book 1)
Review by Lily Z., 5th grade
Whatever After is an Amazing book because it’s like going on adventures with the characters.This is because the book describes the scene very well, so it’s like we can see what the characters are seeing. In every story you learn a lesson and it is also a wonderful fairytale book! This book is very imaginative and is full of surprises. This story is about a 10 year old girl, named Abby. Abby just moved to Smithville, and she is not enjoying it there at all. Everything is different, compared to Chicago, which is where she used to live. That night Abby’s 7-year old brother, Jonah, discovers a magic mirror in their basement that turns purple, swirls and then sucks them into an unknown place. At first Abby does not believe it, but when they land in the middle of a forest and see the one and only Snow White, Abby and Jonah know they are no longer in Smithville. However, Abby and Jonah accidentally mess up Snow’s “happily ever after,” and have to find a way to fix it. Abby and Jonah go on many adventures with Snow and learn secrets about their mirror. Will going into Snow’s story help Abby understand that change is okay? Will Abby and Jonah be able to help Snow White get her happy ending back? I give this book a thumbs up!
Who HQ: Where is the Colosseum?, by Jim O’Connor
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Imagine being a citizen of Rome in A.D. 80. A large structure has just been built; originally specifically for naval battles (they could flood and drain it with ease). Behind the scenes, there is also a complex system of ropes-and-pulleys for elevators, which are used for transporting heavy, exotic animals. However, the Colosseum wasn’t built sheerly for amusement. It is also used to display social class and the people themselves. Historians suspect that the true purpose of it was for political power and to show off the might of the empire. This massive building even has a closed ceiling operated by 1,000 sailors. On the second story, 160 immaculately carved marble statues depicting gods and emperors are displayed. Though, not everyone could go to these events. You have a ticket made from either metal or wood. Your ticket tells you where you were supposed to enter and sit. Events at the structure are sponsored by the emperor and sometimes the upper class. They buy all of the tickets and give them out to win political favor of Rome’s members. This book is packed with interesting information and is great for anyone who wants to learn more about the Colosseum.
Who HQ: Where is the Vatican?, by Megan Stine
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently finished reading a great book called Where is the Vatican? Although it’s specifically about the location of the Vatican, it also has information and fun facts on Popes, like how they are selected, their responsibilities, and their traditions. I learned a lot about the development of Vatican City and the history of the Catholic Church. This incredible book is packed with information about the various buildings in Vatican City and the people who work and live there. The information is presented in an entertaining way with excellent pictures and diagrams. I’m so happy to find this book because I’m going to Italy and wanted some background knowledge on the places I’m going to see. I definitely rate this book thumbs up, and everyone should definitely check it out.
Wings of Fire: The Dragonet Prophecy, by Tui T. Sutherland (Series Book 1)
Review by Caitlyn C., 5th grade
Wings of Fire is a cool series! I liked book One, The Dragonet Prophecy. It is so cool! I would definitely recommend it. The Dragonet Prophecy is about five dragonets who live under a mountain and are protected by the Talons of Peace, a group of dragons that swore to protect the dragonets for the prophecy. The dragonets are Clay, Tsunami, Sunny, Starflight, and Glory.
The Dragonet Prophecy is a prophecy told by a dragon named Morrowseer that said five dragonets would hatch and end the war between the tribes for the SandWing throne. SandWings are a type of dragon.
One day, the dragonets get sick of living under the mountain and decide to escape. But when they get out of the mountain, they are attacked by a group of dragons! They take the dragonets to the Sky Kingdom to fight in the SkyWing palace. Will the dragonets find a way to escape and find their destiny? Read this awesome book to find out!
Wings of Fire: The Flames of Hope, by Tui Sutherland (Series Book 15)
Review by Chloe C., 5th grade
This book is the 15th book in the Wings of Fire series. It is one of my favorites and I really enjoyed it. The book takes place when they are trying to figure out what is controlling a mind control plant. The book is in the perspective of a silkwing (dragon) named Luna. They make it into a cave and meet two characters, one is a human named Cottonmouth, the other is a dragon named Lizard. Cottonmouth started the whole thing with mind control and Lizard got caught and now neither of them can leave the cave they are stuck in. Luna accidentally fell down the big cave and brought a little dragon named Dusky, they make it out in the end, and Lizard and Cottonmouth are stuck. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
Wonder, by R. J. Palacio
Review by Addison S., 5th grade
August (Auggie) Pullman is different from most kids. When people see him, sometimes they get scared. Auggie isn’t that different though. He does ordinary things. He eats ice cream, he rides his bike and he does so many things that are ordinary. Auggie is starting middle school at Beecher Prep for the first time. He has been homeschooled for all his life, until now!!!! When he gets there he notices there are many,many bullies but also friends. Auggie works through all his tough times. Friends are always there for him! I would give this book a thumbs up and I would definitely recommend it! This book has a mixture of feelings in it!
So get to it, read WONDER!!!
Wrecker, by Carl Hiaasen
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
Recently, I read Wrecker. I think Wrecker is among Carl Hiassen’s best novels, and that’s a rather impressive feat. If you enjoy a good laugh while reading, this book is well suited for you. This knee-slapping story takes place in Florida when an innocent kid ran into a beached speedboat while riding his skiff. It’s covid 19 and Wrecker’s mom is constantly getting plastic surgeries. His mom’s ex-husband fled the family and went to Texas to become a stereotypical western guitar-player. This is why it’s so awkward when he returns home for a concert. Intent on getting sued, he copies song titles from famous bands. His step-father, Rodger, is obsessed with golf, which he is unable to do when he is hospitalized with covid. Wrecker is proudly descended from a long line of wreckers, who take from sunken ships, and that is why he has the nickname Wrecker. From just an innocent teenager to the driver of a smuggler’s speedboat, the unexpected plot evolves into madness. Wrecker is tackled by a cop, pinned in the center of an illegal scheme, and ventures to a graveyard nearby every night, with only a toothbrush and ladder. He gets tangled in a mess with someone who may be the only person in Florida with leather gloves. His life is on the line and he doesn’t know who to turn to. He has only one thought on his mind: will he survive?
A Wrinkle in Time, by Madeleine L’Engle
Review by Kyle N., 5th grade
Thirteen-year-old Meg and five-year-old Charles end up on a two-dimensional planet. Meg and Charles meet various characters throughout their journey in time and space. The author makes good use of the themes between fantasy and science, good and evil, and light and darkness through each character that Meg and Charles encounter. I recommend this book because it has some scientific terms and explores this mysterious two-dimensional planet. Many strange and adventurous events occur. This is my book review of A Wrinkle in Time.
The Year of the Dog, by Grace Lin
Review by Benjamin L., 5th grade
I recently read The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin. The book is about one year of Grace Lin’s experiences in grade school. She is the only Taiwanese-American student in her school and she feels awkward. This is why when a new Taiwanese-American child enters the school, she is so excited to have someone who can relate to her because of her heritage. She and Melody, the new Taiwanese-American girl in the school, become good friends. It’s the year of the dog, which, in Chinese beliefs, is related to the year of the tiger, the year that Melody and Grace were born. This should mean good luck for Grace and Melody because the year of the dog is the year of luck as well as the year to find yourself. Grace Lin is determined to find herself and tries, and fails, at many things in order to do so. Read this book to find out more. I really enjoyed reading this book and the overall experience.
The Heart of the Three Village Community