The Dr Examines

The Blue Nowhere

2009-06-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

Quoted as "the best psychological thriller writer around" by The Times, Jeffery Deaver shows his strength as a magnificent author of unprecedented status. This is currently my favourite book of all time. This is an amazing book showing off Deaver's skill for multiple false ending, and is a great thriller. It accounts a man known in the cyber world as Phate. He is the best hacker the world has ever seen, and has created a programme that allows him to seize root in anyone's computer, without them knowing, looking, but leaving nothing behind. He takes people identities, and is one of the greatest in social engineering. He can take any information about you and destroy your life. This is the monster the Police Computer Crimes Unit is trying to tag. Phates character is written with the greatest of care, and is one of the best written characters I have witnessed in a book. The CCU decide to call in one time partner of Phate, Wyatt Gillette, imprisoned because of a charge against him for breaking the standard 12 security system. He was a great hacker, but decided not to follow Phates path, instead getting married and planning children. This is the best thrill ride out there. The problems faced by every member of the CCU crew, whom you feel connected to due to the great writing, are amazingly written. You can feel the pain the characters feel as they are yet again lead astray by this mysterious Phate. The motto is that one day, computers will be yet another tool in the murder of human beings, and this emotion and epic dialogue is outstanding. I will be watching out for the forthcoming film, and another novel Jeffery decides to bring out.
The sick minded murder has been taken over by his computer, and the desire to go online. He bases all his kills on a game called Access, where on an anniversary of a famous person, the game coordinators selected a killer, who had to try and kill anyone they could. Stabbing someone in the heart was known as the greatest form of access.

The Stuff of Nightmares

2009-06-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

This is yet another book for the Wirral Paperback of the Year. This is an excellent read, for young adults and adults alike. Excellently written, the emotion is captured well, as well as the gripping storyline and thrilling plot. The plot is as follows. *SPOILERS* A young boy, Kyle is having problems at home. His mother has left him and his dad is under the thought that his mum will return. Kyle unsuspectingly takes a train with his school on a trip. This is a dreadful mistake and causes pain and frightening nightmares. The train crashes. As he wanders around, the only one conscious, he realises he can travel into the minds of his friends, and discover their greatest nightmares and secrets. These nightmares are well crafted short stories on their own, as so when you put them together you get an amazing mix of science fiction, horror and adventure.
These stories include quite strange and distressing scary theories if you like, which may scare younger readers. I recommend this for teenagers, who know how to respond to scenes presented within the pages of this book. This however is still one of the best stories out there, and also doubles as a great short story collection that adults as well as teens will thoroughly enjoy.

A Swift Pure Cry

2009-04-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

This is a nail-biting novel by Irish writer Siobhan Dowd, and follows Shell, a girl left to look after her two younger siblings, as her mother died, and her father is constantly drunk. The characters are beautifully written, and the style of suspense and mystery writing is excellent. Set in 1984, in Ireland, where gossip and rumors are rife, Shell takes care of her two siblings while the father is away, collecting for charity, from which he skims money for drink. All these events are caused by her mother's death, which led to her father's depression, and all the weights dropped on her young shoulders. Shell sometimes hears her mothers voice, and describes it as 'a swift pure cry'. The townsfolk also compare Shell's beauty to her mothers, and this attracts the attention of one Declan Ronan, who gets her pregnant. This event sparks off the more memorable passages in the book, with Shell having the baby, trying to hide it, burying it, getting arrested, and charged with murder. A very emotional story, the characters are easy to relate to, making for an incredibly controlled, but original story, portrayed by an excellent writer. Many messages are put across, more notably, wealth and poverty, innocent and criminal, and sexuality. This is a very intriguing book, and as a mystery, also does well. I recommend this to teens, as there are some extracts unsuitable for children. The cover is inviting, and also serious. The book was shortlisted for 2007 Carnegie Medal. Beautiful story.

Here Lies Arthur

2009-03-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Here Lies Arthur is yet another take on the Arthur legend. But this one is good. The settings, emotions and characters are portrayed beautifully, by on of my favourite authors. Philip has written the amazing Mortal Engines quartet, and other astounding novels. This book, though, is very much an interesting remake of the classic tale. The Lady of the lake for example, is not a fair magical maiden, but Gwyn, a lonely girl taken in by the story-teller Myrddin. And those who love the traditional Arthur will be in for a shock. This story's Gwenivere, Gwenhwyfar, falls in love with not Arthur, but Bedwyr, a handsome knight. Arthur finds out, and like his nickname, the Bear, depicts, he kills him in a frenzied mass of sword strokes. He is not the handsome loyal king the stories make out, but a frightened man, with a heavy sword and tales at his side. Myrddin wants Arthur to be great, and so goes around telling others of his great deeds and battles. These are the stories we read of today, not the truth... Excellent writing, this book compels you to read on, a real page-turner. The characters are written well, though the names can be a bit confusing, (though a pronunciation not is added at the back), and the descriptive passages are some of the best. The cover is a black and white image that wasn't that inviting, but don't let that put you off. I would recommend this to mature, capable teens. Though only 290 pages long, the size of them makes up for it. A good read to get stuck into. Thanks for amazing books, Philip!

Breathe

2009-03-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

This is the book written By Cliff McNish, an author we met at the Wirral Paperback meeting. Others who have read it thought it confusing at times, not knowing whether you were reading as the ghosts or as the main character. I partially agree with this. At the beginning, it was a tad confusing, but as you delved more into the story and brilliant plot, this problem faded away. The main character is Jack, a teen with a good relationship with his mother and a harsh asthmatic condition. They move house, into an old building, where Jack realises he can sense ghosts floating around. Soon the ghost children, Ann, Oliver, Charlie and Gweneth, pluck up the courage to speak to him and he soon realises that they are no threat at all, and the real danger lies with the Ghost Mother. A compelling and original ghost story that chilled me to the bone, the horrors displayed are not horrors as in some dreadful films these days, but a horror that makes you feel strongly for the characters. The Ghost Mother needs the souls of the children to survive, and so sucks it out of them in a kiss. Amazingly well thought out and with an astounding plot, this makes for a nail-biting and riveting read, and I recommend this book to all horror lovers. Best suited for teens, I think the lack of blood and gore that some will expect is a plus for the story overall. I also think the cover is well designed, with a cold and exciting picture. Well done Cliff!

Meet The Authors

2009-03-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the Bebington centre, for our Meet the Authors afternoon. The authors we went to see were Micheal Coleman, author of The Cure, Cliff McNish, author of Breathe, and Marie-Louise Jensen, author of Between Two Seas. I have read one of the books, The Cure, and thought it was very interesting. We were only informed that the two men were going to talk, and so I thought it unnecessary to read Between Two Seas.
Micheal Coleman, an old fellow, was very interesting. He said he had got the inspiration from a small island he went to on his holidays, which had a small monastery, wrecked garden and small off-shore island. He had a slide show that showed pictures he took of his dog Bobby, and the locations, which I found interesting. He was used to writing teenage books, but not fantasy or novel length with no jokes. He is a lovely man, who seems very optimistic about life and writing. He has loads of books out, including picture books, footballs books and non-fiction books. He answered a lot of questions.
Cliff McNish is a younger fellow, but with a good sense of humour. He said he got the inspiration for Breathe from seeing a woman sit near a window, and thought that maybe if he made her have an illness... I am currently reading Breathe, and so will review it later. He has write two other series, the Doomspell series and another fantasy collection. He has never written a novel-length ghost story before. He said he got the title from the fact that the main character Jack, has asthma and the fact the ghosts are blown about by people breathing. He can't draw, as he tried and failed to draw a picture of his view of this ill woman! But overall, he is a completely nice guy and I encourage people to go and talk with him if you have the chance.
Finally, Marie, whose book I haven't read, told us all that she used to live in North Denmark, a very primal place before the industrial revolution. The story is based there, and she showed us some impressionist paintings that she used to base some of the settings in the book. Denmark is famous for it's location, where two seas meet, crashing together off the coast. People often stand in the middle, with one foot in one sea and the other in the other, as is why the title is Between Two Seas. She was very well-prepared considering she was called at short-notice, and told her story well. I think I might read the book after hearing her, she was that nice!

The Devils Footsteps

2009-03-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

This book is quite hard to understand, but when you get the gist of it, it becomes clear and the exceptional writing come through. The main characters are three ordinary teenagers, Smokey, Bryan and Jake, whose lives have been terrorized by fear of the Dark Man. A pleasing mix of horror and detective work, this book should be read by teenagers and adults, as I consider it a bit too complicated and scary for younger children. Bryan's brother Adam, was taken by the Dark Man ten years ago, when he walked down the Devil's footsteps and sang the haunting children's rhyme. Bryan ran, and has been running ever since, but when he teams up with Smokey and Jake, he realises that he has to face his fears and walk the feared stepping stones. This simple task tests all the teenagers mental and physical strengths, pushing them to their limits. The characters are easy to relate to, and their emotions are shown vividly, and the writing pulls you into the heart of the story. With a slogan such as: Thirteen steps to the Dark Man's door, won't be turning back no more, this plot is sure to frighten young children. During the story, lots of children have disappeared, with Jake and Smokey wanting their own mysteries solved. I think that the plot could be told better and in a way that more people could understand it easily. Other than that, great originality and writing in an exciting novel that shows horror in a whole new light.

Poison Study

2009-03-10T09:14:00.000-07:00

This is the best one of the Wirral Paperbacks of the year books I have read, and deserves lots of praise. Well-paced and pulse-quickening, this is a great page-turner that I just couldn't put down! Exceptional writing by a promising author, the sequel Magic Study will have a high standard to meet. Both me and others in our school thought this was the best book from a selection of twenty. An intriguing fantasy story that includes elements of both political drama and romance. Yelena lives in the land of Ixia, where the different regions are ruled by Generals, with a military style law and order regime. Yelena was thrown into a prison, for killing General Brazells son, but Valek, the Commanders food-taster takes her on as an apprentice. She accepts, and is led on a journey of self discovery, romance and thrill. The characters are well established and each have an intriguing tale to tell. Brazell is out to get Yelena, and will do anything neccessary. Yelena has to train, hide and kill during this tale, making for a pleasing adventure. She is poisoned by Valek so she can't escape, but realises as te story proresses, that she has magic blood in her veins. Magic, a strictly forbidden gift in Ixia,puts Yelena in a difficult position; she could run and establish her magic skills, or she could stay, poisoned and in constant fear of Brazells men hunting her down. Another element for her to decide is Valek, who took her on and protects her. What will she choose? I certainly will be borrowing or buying the next book in the series, with hopes of more books on their way. Very well done Maria! Also, no one should be put off by the purple cover; I recommend everyone should read this!

The Demon Assassin

2009-02-28T04:41:00.001-08:00

This is a strange little book... literally. The cover is eleven by sixteen Cm's, which is much smaller than any other book I've read. The cover is very well rendered. Combining the red eyes with the black and white image of St Paul's Cathedral, this makes for a very intriguing cover that I was drawn to instantly. Also, I have read the prequel, Scared to Death. The plot is well thought out and tells the story of the one Paul Rector. In the last book he was forced to kill his own brother who was contaminated with the demon seed. Although Paul has this evil essence inside him, he does not use it. In this exciting and pulse-racing novel, Paul goes back in time to 1940, slap-bang in the middle of the Blitz. He knows he has to save the people who would die... The enemies are also exceptional. They are a demon brotherhood, all with the demon seed inside them. The best of them is Harry Rector, (recognise the name?), and the leader is King Lum, who is dying to get back to the surface. Paul meets a stupidly brave detective, George Temple, and his beautiful niece, Evelyn, who join him in his fight against the evil demons. Their lives are at stake, but more importantly, the life of Winston Churchill. Paul has to make some sacrifices for the good of the country, but is racked with guilt over leaving his girlfriend Netty an his mum. Will he triumph?
Find out in this intriguing mix of historical fantasy and horror.

Dark Alchemy

2009-02-20T04:45:00.000-08:00

Dark Alchemy is a collection of short stories by some of the most well known fantasy writers today, such as Garth Nix (Keys to the Kingdom), Eion Colfer(Artemis Fowl) and Niel Gaiman (The Graveyard Book). Eighteen short stories either written exclusively for the book or taken from novels, these provide an excellent blend of science fiction, fantasy and horror. For readers of all ages, though the stories are quite long, these are excellent writing at its best. Not many people publish short story collections any more, least of all combining different authors, and so I found this refreshing to read. One of the best stories, I found, was that of Tad Williams, The Strangers Hands. In this one, two strange Gypsies come and settle on the edge on a village. A small boy comes to see them, and as soon as he took one of the mans hands, he disappeared. Strangely emotive, it follows how people beliefs progressed, as soon after the occurrence, others come, and soon realize that when the man touched you, you got what you desired. Other stories include, Naming Day, Winters Wife, Holly and Iron, Stonefather and Barren Dance. This collection will have your pulse racing, and you will be incredibly saddened when a story ends, to fall straight into another.

Ways To Live Forever

2009-02-20T04:21:00.000-08:00

Written by Sally Nicholls, I read this for the Wirral Paperbacks, and at first sight, frankly, didn't see much in it. But. When I started to read, I found it both different and enjoyable. The book is written as a kind of diary, a style of writing I don't usually enjoy, but Sally executes it excellently. It is 'written' by Sam, who has acute leukemia, and unless treated frequently, would not survive. In the book. He writes a list of things he wants to do before he dies, and questions he wants answered.
Along with his friend Felix, who also has an illness, he sets about finding answers and completing the list. Funny and uplifting, this is a very powerful book, by a promising author. Without giving too much away, you feel for the characters story, and the journey he has to make. I loved this book, and encourage other people to not be put off by the purple, childish cover.
Although an excellent read in its own right, I do think the chapters are a tad small, and some of the pages are displayed as torn out of a pad, and some have drawings in. But so long as you don't mind that then you should read it. Two hundered pages long, any competent reader should manage it, of any age.

The Cure

2009-02-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

The Cure is one of the books I read from our school library for the Wirral Paperback of the Year, and greatly enjoyed.It is much like another book I've read, called The Declaration. It follows two teenagers, Raul and Arym, who have been put in a 'nurture-house'. It accounts what would happen if religion died out. Instead of Jesus Christ as their saviour, Charles Darwin is, for his theory of evolution! Arym is easily stopped from causing mischief, by putting a small white pellet in her arm, as the carers did to everyone. But Raul found out about it upon seeing the dead body of his friend, and cut it out with a splinter, so he has his own mind. He then finds the diary of a monk, who he thought to be dead. The diary sparked off something in Raul, and he starts investigating around the house. He finds the monk hidden as a hermit, and the monk tells him and his sister that their real, Christian names, were Paul and Mary. He speaks of a chapel, of which he fled, and Raul soon realises that he knows where it is. Will he risk bringing back the old faith, or even going to the chapel? This is an intriguing book, with theories and brilliant writing, that makes you think about what would happen, and if it eventually will. Very well written , with a good lot and imaginative characters. Read it if you can!

The H-Bomb Girl

2009-01-17T06:53:00.000-08:00

This books cover may not appeal to boys, but the story is absolutely amazing. It's based on the real-life Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, and accounts what would have happened if it had not been resolved. Set in Liverpool, this books setting, characters and pace relate to lots of people. This book is an astounding mix of thriller and science fiction. This pace keeps up with the breathtaking storyline, and the style of writing is incredibly sophisticated, and puts the reader in the characters shoes. With people like the Beatles, and mysterious school-teachers, this is one of the best nominees for Wirral Paperback of the Year I've read so far. The main character is Laura Mann, who's dad gave her the key to a V-bomber plane, hence the name 'H-Bomb girl', but she doesn't know what to do with it. Then, two more characters, Miss Wells and the Minuteman, come into the story. As the book progresses, we realise that Miss Wells is Laura from the future. This story show what would gave happened and how people would have coped of the Russians had dropped a nuclear bomb on Liverpool. The language and habits of the people relate to the time of the book, 1962, and if you like Doctor Who, you'll enjoy the time-travelling element in the story. Very well written, and by a promising first time author, teens and adults alike will find themselves gripped. You have to read it!

Necroplolis

2009-01-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

This is the fourth book in the bestselling Power of Five series, by one of children's most renowned writers. The Old Ones have come to take over the world, and if not, destroy it. There are five children who were born to stop them; Matt Freeman, Jamie and Scott Tyler, Pedro and Scarlett (Scar) Adams, who the story follows. Scarlett is an ordinary girl, who goes to an ordinary high school. But when she goes on a school trip, goes through a mysterious door, she realises who she is. The five Gatekeepers, have a dreamworld, where they all go when they sleep. Scarlett has been having the dreams. But in the last book, the four other children failed to keep the Old Ones imprisoned. They are out there. And they want Scarlett, for if the Five come together, they can destroy the Old Ones. The Old Ones try to keep Scarlett away from the others, by transporting her to Hong Kong, where she gets involved in a shadowy organisation called Nightrise. The Old Ones plan to make Hong Kong into a city of the dead, a Necropolis. Each of the five have powers. Can Scarlett realise hers before the Old Ones destroy the city forever? An amazing book; I finished it in just three days! The writing pulls you into the heart of the story, and I hope that Horowitz will keep writing, so I can keep reading!

Deception Point

2009-01-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

This is not the only adult book I've read, but is certainly one of the best. I'm sorry I haven't posted in a while, as it's been Christmas. This book is the last of the four Dan Brown books I've had the luck to read. They are amazing! This nearly six hundred page novel followed the account of Gabrielle Ashe, who is an advisor for Senator Sexton, who is running for the presidential office. It also follows the experience of Rachael Sexton, the senators daughter. Gabrielle, an intelligent young woman, advises the senator to attack the current president on the problems and faults of NASA. All is not looking good for the president, and things look incredibly slim of him running for office again. That is, until NASA, using revolutionary PODS equipment, discover a blip on the radar, up in the North Pole. They take some quick investigations, then take up what appears to be a rock, and claims it is a meteorite. Many people confirm this, most predominantly, Corky Marlinson, Michael Tolland, Wailee Ming ad Norah Mangor. But after these confirmations and a worldwide announcement from the President, they find a shaft coming from underneath the ice where the meteorite was found. Could someone have planted it there, and if so, to what results? It would freshen up the Presidents campaign nicely, but when signs of extraterrestrial life show up, so does a special ops kill squad, by the names of Delta One, Two and Three? Who is their leader, the mysterious controller, and will what Rachael find out put her and others in grave danger? You'll have to but it to find out. This is a cracking book, and an excellent thriller suitable for teens and adults. I give it five stars, one of the best novels of the modern age. A must have.

Apache

2008-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

This is a book based in a time of unrest, when the Mexicans are trying to take over the native Apache people. Siki is an orphan; her mother was killed by the Mexicans, and her father went missing after a raid, branded a coward. All Siki had left was her brother Tazhi, but her world falls to pieces when he was killed, by the opposing men. She take his spear, and vows to become a warrior, a place in the Apache no woman has every taken, and to avenge him in battle.Golahka, who is grieving for the rest of his family, also killed, takes Siki under his wing. This book take you on a journey, showing you that even if people don't deem it correct for you do do something, that you can. So, will Siki avenge her dead brother, and will the furious Apache tribe triumph over the white Mexicans. This had me thinking a lot about what the world thinks is right for different people to be doing, and whether we should. A brilliant book. Keste is a sexist boy that also hopes to one day be a great warrior, and disapproves of Siki's choice to try to as well. Siki is a brilliant character for everyone to relate to, in terms of determination, love and courage. This book can be a bit confusing with all the different names, by any good reader should and will enjoy it!

Broken Soup

2008-11-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

This is yet another book nominated for Wirral Paperback of the Year, which I took out from our school library. This wasn't normally one of the type of books I'd read, but once I got into it, it turned out to be one of the most original and moving stories I've read! I t may look like a girly book, and in all truth, it's about a girl and her sister, but I found it very engaging, and was truly emotional. It's about a teenage girl, Rowan, who due to her mum being very distressed (after her bother Jack died) ends up looking after her little sister Stroma, like her mum should have been.Rowan's dad has split up with her mum. Incredibly moving, this book will have you laughing and crying. It's brilliant. Life is not so good, until a boy shows up in a queue and hands her a photo, of her dead brother Jack. She comes to like this boy, and trusts him very much. But just as things start to look up, Rowan's mum was found by her dad, cut, in the bath. She is taken to hospital, where her mum promises she will try to get better. Then, Rowan discovers that her friend Bee has had a child, whose dad is none other than Jack.For a tale about grief, depression and divorce it is most enjoyable: a life-affirming, witty, romantic read, about freedom, responsibility and love.Well worth reading, this is the second book in a series, beginning with Finding Violet Park.

Anila's Journey

2008-11-13T08:12:00.000-08:00

Set in eighteenth century India, this is definitely the worst book I've reviewed so far, but is not the worst I've read. It follows the story of Anila Tandy, who has the amazing ability to draw animals, but especially birds. She lives with Miss Hickey, her guardian, but is persuaded by her to go on a trip down the Gandes, to draw the magnificent birds along the banks. But she has been left to fend for herself in a city of rouges, and dangerous men. The trip up the Gandes may be just the thing to help her find her father, who has been missing for years. This may be, to some people, an extremely interesting and varied story, portraying India well, with it's sights smells, and sounds. Menace and mystery await this young girl in the man's word of the 1700s. This is Mary Finn's first novel, and one I borrowed from our school library for the Wirral Paperback of the Year. I can say for certain that this will not be on my shortlist, though other readers may enjoy the complicated plot of this book. In the end she does find her father, and so there may or may not be a sequel. If there is, I personally will not be buying it, but some good writing is present, Mary just has yet to perfect it!

Airman

2008-11-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

This is Eion (pronounced Owen) Colfers first historical fiction novel, after the best-selling Artemis Fowl series. This book follows the story of one Connor Broekhart, who was born flying, and so was born to fly. He and the Frenchman Victor are together, scientific masterminds, planning to overcome flight. The king of Saltee is all in appreciation of this, and provides them the materials they need. Set in an age of discovery and invention, where flying is first tested, this makes for a great read. As a child he and the princess Isabella were best friends, until they both grew up and went their separate ways. All was fine as Conor prepares to test a new model he and Victor had built, when a cruel but sophisticated man called Bonvilain takes Victors pistol and shoots both the king and the Frenchman dead, Conor of framed and took prisoner mining the diamond that Little Saltee is famous for. He is locked up with a blind but wise man, who gives Conor hope. The stupid Guard is bribed by Conor, and after collecting materials necessary, he builds a flying machine. He escapes during the coronation of the queen, but will he survive to save Isabella, regain his fathers trust, and avenge the king? This is quite a long story, but a strong reader would manage it, and enjoy it! Published this year, it is a different genre from Eions usual work, but he's done a very good job of it. I recommend this greatly, and hope you buy it!

My Swordhand is Singing

2008-11-05T08:14:00.000-08:00

This is a masterfully well crafted vampire story set in the remote and forbidding landscapes of the seventeenth century. This book breathes new life into the living dead genre of horror. The well paced story moves the reader dramatically towards resolution. This is a very well written book with a wide appeal. Anyone who is able to read maturely should read this. This book is based on the very first stories of vampire folklore, where the living dead where more like zombies with a blood lust. This is bone-chilling and with transfix readers. It is a relatively small book, with only around two hundred pages. In the story a strong woodcutter named Peter lives with his drunken father Thomas on the edge of a very superstitious town, where the people keep themselves to themselves. The story really begins when a body is found in the wood, with his heart pulled out, though they bury him as a suicide. Peter feels something is wrong, though dismisses it. Until the Gypsies come in their beautiful painted wagons, that brighten up the white of winter. A young girl, Sofia, realises something is not right as well, and together, by strange circumstances, investigate. A magnificently well written book by an author with six other books under his belt, this must be read if possible. A haunting novel in which Thomas holds the key. An intriguing Gothic tale, this must be read! A modern masterpiece!

The Declaration

2008-11-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

I took this book out from our school library, as it is one of the nominated for Wirral Paperback of the year. It's a great, haunting novel set in the not-so-far future, where resources have been used up and adults, or "Legals" have decided children are using up our oxygen and don't deserve to be alive or walking. So they send these children to Grange Hall, where the head matron Mrs Pincent makes the children Useful, and finally makes them Valuable Assets, working for the Legals. These children are known by everyone only as Surpluses. Anna is such a Surplus, and a good one too. She is on the verge of becoming a Valuable Asset, and the people at the hall have made her hate her parents, because if they hadn't had created her, then there would be more resources for the Legals. Her life is going fine, though she has a secret- a diary given to her by a woman she worked with during work experience. Surpluses aren't allowed written words, so she must keep this hidden. She is a model Surplus, and Mrs Pincent loves her, but when Peter, a teenage boy, is caught and brought in, her life changes. They plan an escape, and Peter says he would take her to her parents, who loves her. This is a beautifully written book, by a promising first time author. This is a book for all children who are mature readers, and adults alike. A perfectly intriguing book, with an important message. Well done Gemma Malley! Wonderful!

The Interpretation of Murder

2008-10-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

This is a great book written by Jed Rubenfield, and is based on true events which took place on Sigmund Frued's only visit to the United States. On the morning he arrives he finds a stunning debutante is found bound and strangled in her penthouse apartment high above Broadway. It's social divisions, it rumbustious energy and it's tall skyscrapers have a vivid authenticity. The following night another beautiful heiress, Nora Acton, is discovered tied to a chandelier in her parents home, viciously wounded and unable to speak or recall her ordeal. Soon Freud and his American disciple Strathem Younger, (of whom the story is written through) are enlisted to help Miss Acton recover her memory and to piece together the killers identity. It is a riddle that will test their skills to the limit, and lead them on a thrilling journey. This book makes for some absolutely brilliant reading, but is definitely more for the adult population. As this is Jed Rubenfields first novel, I think he's done pretty well, and should be praised. Jed himself is the professor of law at Yale University and is described as one of the most elegant writers of his time. Published in 2007, this is not an old book, but has been overlooked as an amazing novel written by a promising author.

Artemis Fowl and the Time Paradox

2008-10-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

This is the sixth book from the Artemis Fowl series, and is as good as all the rest. By legendary Irish writer Eoin (pronounced Owen) Colfer. Eoin specializes in children's novels, and the Artemis Fowl ones are his best. Based around a human genius at the age of twelve. Artemis has met the Fairy world in his previous adventures. He is companied with his bodyguard Butler, and his Fairy friends Captain Holly Short, Mulch Diggums, and No1... Artemis finds his mother ill in bed, and realizes from Fairy knowledge, that the animal needed to cure his mother, was killed by himself- sold to the Extinctionists, to aid in the finding of his lost father. In order to save his mother, he needs the time travelling help of his friend No1, and the specialized skills of the Fairies. Artemis Fowl has to face his deadliest enemy yet. Himself. As well as a devious young elf and some caged Extinctionists. This book is possibly not the best in the series, as it is confusing some of the time, as to what character, considering there would be two Artemis' as well as an enemy Butler. It is brilliant fantasy though, and deserves praise. This book may be for children, but an adult could read it quite happily as it has all the makings of a great read. This is an inventive mix of myth and modernity, magic and crime, and well worth buying.

The Spooks Mistake

2008-10-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

This is the fifth book in the Wardstone Chronicles, following the life of Tom as the apprentice of the Spook, an old man who helps defend the county from evil. The book is scary and shouldn't be read by anyone under the age of eight. It is a good book though, with a well thought out plot and imaginative writing that captures the mind. The story is that Tom is sent to the spook's former apprentice, Bill Arkwright, now a spook, to complete six months severe training. during this training Tom is wounded, and gains a few bruises. But all this comes in use when he and Bill find a rouge press-gang terrorizing a local village, of which they take care of. One problem is solved, but another awaits. The Fiend has entered the world in the book before this one, and he sends his daughter, a powerful water witch, to get rid of them. The Fiend tries to persuade Tom that Alice, his friend and former witch, was his own daughter. Tom doesn't believe it, but is anxious as Alice begins to send messages the witch way, and protect him in a way only a witch would think of. The water witch sent to destroy him, can mesmerize anyone with her Red Eye, and so Tom has to be very careful. There could be enemies round every corner, even within his friends. So who can he put his trust in? The book is hardback and has four hundred and sixty two pages.

Charlie Bone and the Shadow of Badlock

2008-10-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Be prepared for spoilers, but definitely go out and by this. it is the seventh book in the Charlie Bone series, and it enchanting to the end. I think that you should definitely read the whole series first though, because the plot is intertwined. Here is a plot of the story in full...When Charlie's curiosity gets the better of him, he finds out that the enchanter Count Harken is back to take a his revenge on the Red King's heirs, starting with Charlie's family! Charlie's ancestor has been kidnapped and imprisoned in the dark, forbidding land of Badlock, and it's up to Charlie to save him. Traveling through a painting to the terrifying countryside, Charlie and his best friend's dog, Runner Bean, take up the quest. But when Runner Bean gets trapped, Charlie needs the help of his friends. Can they get past an army of trolls, rescue Runner Bean and Charlie's ancestor, and get out before it's too late? Can Charlie outwit Count Harken and his sinister troops, or will the prisoners be doomed to being held captive in Badlock forever? Otus Yewbeam, an ancestor of Charlie Bone and husband of the Red King's daughter Amoret, is trapped by Count Harken in Badlock. Charlie meets him when he is completely, involuntarily sucked into a painting of Badlock. When he manages to escape, he finds he must return due to the fact that Benjamin's Dog, Runner Bean, has become trapped in the painting. Billy returns home with Charlie in order to try and communicate with Runner Bean, who is still in the painting. When they go to visit Mrs. Kettle, they are attacked by Eric, who is controlling a giant statue of Harken's military leader, Oddthumb. Late one night Billy decides to go and see the painting where it is kept in Charlie's cellar. Runner Bean is ejected from the painting and Billy is sucked in. He meets Count Harken and his family, becoming close friends with the Count's granddaughter, Matilda. Charlie decides he must go back into the painting, where Billy is being held. When he returns to the cellar, he finds that the painting is gone and no one seems to know where it is.This book is very good, and I highly recommend it, though it should be really for eight years olds upwards, as it contains very mild horror and violence. Other than that, a great read!

Oath Breaker

2008-10-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

This is the fifth in the chronicles of ancient darkness series by Michelle Paver. This enchanting story is set in a wilderness that houses very different clans, named after animals. When Torak, the hero of the book s an outcast and without a clan, he was the hunted one. Nine moons later he becomes the hunter when he vows to avenge the killing of one of this closest friends. He believes it is the last of the Soul-eaters, Thiazzi, who has done it. Is he wrong? He sets off with his brother Wolf and his best friend Renn on a quest that will take then in the heart of the Deep Forest, and to places feared by everyone. Here they will meet all sorts of clans, and are put in mortal danger. Will they lose valuable friends and will they complete their cured vow? All these questions are answered in Oath Breaker. It is a story about keeping secrets , and the true cost of vengeance. It is written in a way that is amazing to read, because she writes like there is different names for things, like humans to Wolf are ‘Tall Taillesses’. this is extremely good writing and this book should be bought, though the stories before this are also very good and link together. You should rad the whole series, though, not just this book alone.
I highly recommend you read this, but not before reading the other four, as they has a very close relationship. I don't think many people will understand the story as it should be, as they intertwine will what Torak is feeling most of the way through the book, and his way with the other characters.

The Edge Chronicles: The Lost Barkscrolls

2008-10-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Collection of four tales set in the world of Stuart and Riddell’s bestselling The Edge Chronicles. The Edge is a vast, floating island, over whose rocky edges waterfalls plummet into nothingness; a flat earth above which magnificent Sky Galleons clash in battle with pirates, monsters and other mysterious forces. It is also, more importantly, the set for Paul Stuart and Chris Riddell’s best-selling fantasy series, The Edge Chronicles.
Already spanning to nine books, across three trilogies (or sagas) charting the lives of three generations of the adventurous Verginix family, The Edge Chronicles is a complex and detailed epic, for which the Edge in itself provides a suitably vivid and well-imagined setting. Collected here are four tales from the Edge, telling stories from across the several generations of history the chronicles have so far described.
‘Cloud Wolf’ is the tale of a young Quint’s first battle in the sky, aboard the ship of his father, Wind Jackal; essentially a prequel to the Quint saga.
‘The Stone Pilot’ is the tale of Maugin, the mysterious creature who tends to the flight-rock at the sky-galleons heart, keeping the vast ship afloat. Like ’Cloud Wolf’, this novella was originally published as an exclusive World Book Day story.
’The Slaughterer’s Quest’ features Keris, the daughter of Twig (and hence granddaughter of Quint) as she attempts to uncover the truth about her fathers fate.
’The Blooding of Rufus Filiate’ is the first story to feature the title character, Rufus, a Freeglade Lancer, in what seems to be only the beginning of his adventures…
A fold-out timeline included in The Lost Barkscrolls handily recounts the history of the Edge and many readers will be familiar with the intervening episodes in the chronology, but it is nonetheless something of a mystery why these four particular stories should be included together here. There’s nothing really to connect the four stories, and while for the complete anorak, there’s something appealing about the idea of a book that taps into the depth of the longer series, for anyone else it can prove somewhat frustrating. These stories are pivotal, not to each other, but to the separate trilogies to which they form prequel, sequel or companion, and perhaps belong with the parent6 books, where their strengths would best be shown. But, at the end of the day, while the stories are not the best of the Edge Chronicles numerous instalments, they are of the consistently high quality the authors have set for the series thus far.