Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: Popular Clone

Tags

humor, MG, MG series, science

Author: M. E. Castle |
Release Date:  January 24th, 2012| 
Publisher: Egmont, USA
Genre: Contemporary, Science, Humor | Pages: 320

Earlier this year I was contacted by Media Masters Publicity about the newest release in the Clone Chronicles series. Since I’m always looking for some fabulous boy protagonists, and this was a series I hadn’t heard of, I jumped at the chance to read the books! If the second one (which I’ll be talking about soon!) is anything like this first story–I’m in for a treat!

I was graciously provided a copy via Egmont. I was not compensated in any way for my review (cross my heart) nor did I promise a good rating. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

Summary

Fisher Bas is a geeky, science nerd and the son of Nobel Prize winning parents. unfortunately, that’s not something that wins over friends in middle school and in fact, The Vikings torment him everyday. (You know, those beefy, overgrown goons every school has?)
But when Fisher comes up with the idea to clone himself, and to send the clone to school, he knows he’s going to be in for a great year. That is until his clone turns out to be more poplar then him, and then gets kidnapped by the evil Dr. X.

5 Reasons Why This Book is Marvelous!

1. Can I just say that I found myself doubled over in laughter numerous times with this story! I honestly cannot wait to dive into the second book simply because Castle’s humor was great. I am most definitely all for humor in MG books, as I’m sure most middle graders would agree. There’s just something about that age where laughter is great and the things that cause the laughter aren’t always that great–but it’s funny to a middle grader nonetheless. Perhaps it’s the kid in me, but I totally get MG humor. I laugh at the silliest things most times, and Popular Clone is no exception. If you’re looking for a humorous book–this is it!
2. When it comes to humor, a lot of it stems from Fisher himself. I mean, the kid has named his bullies (OK, I think they really named themselves) The Vikings. And he’s constantly up to something in his lab. Like the mosquitoes who will only bite The Vikings. He really is just a great kid. Yeah, he’s geeky. Yeah, he’s small for his age. But I can guarantee you he is a character that a lot of middle grade boys are going to relate too. I, for one, fell in love with him, and totally related to the being bullied aspect. Though, I’m not genius enough to create a clone machine, I love his out-of-the-box thinking for the problem!
3. Which leads me to the problem–Fisher creates this clone and then he becomes totally different than who Fisher really is! But what I like the most about the clone aspect is that this is a sciency-based story. Last year, I discovered another sciency series, and though I am not a science geek at all, I love that these stories can teach kids and open up their imaginations! Perhaps human cloning isn’t something that’s around yet (or maybe it is, hidden away–who knows?) but Popular Clone is a book that makes kids think. I mean, Fisher is always doing some sorts of experiments and talking about science, and in a way, it’s a teachable book. It encourages kids to think outside of the box, and to chase science. I am an English girl, but I will promote other areas like no other because I know every kid is different. And if I have a reader who is a science geek, I am definitely handing this book to them!
4. As much as a book about science and bullying this is, it’s also a story about accepting yourself, and learning how to open up to others. I honestly do love it when a story can teach without really teaching, and I know that’s what Popular Clone will do to readers. They are going to be pulled in by Fisher’s story, and they are going to stay for the adventure, imagination, and humor. But then, I think most readers are going to walk away with something either about themselves, or with a new outlook on others–without even realizing they are.
5. Finally, I know I said “my favorite part” about a million times already, (It’s just a great book!) but, I absolutely loved FP! I can tell you (without giving any spoilers) that FP stands for Flying Pig. He’s an experiment created in Fisher’s house, and he turns out to become Fisher’s best buddy and sidekick. And let me just say, he’s totally the sidekick I would want when I’m out fighting evil scientists!
6. And for one little bonus–there’s a twist to this story that I DID NOT see coming!  You’re going to love it!
7. 

   Book Talk: Have you discovered The Clone Chronicles yet? Do you enjoy sciency-themed books?

Hopeful reading!

Bought, Borrowed and Weekly Writings (15)

Tags

books, MG, MG series, poetry, YA

Hey all!

I tried to hold back this week when I visited the library to return some books because I’ve still got three that I really, really, really want to read. And since camp is turning out to be more busy than I thought, well, I think my days of 13 books a month might not happen again anytime soon. But, I was on top of writing before I left, so in case you missed anything, here’s the books I covered this week!

Weekly Happenings (6/10- 5/15)

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Field Guide |
What I’ve {not} Been Reading: Spies and Prejudice |
Review: Also Known As |
Friday Follies: A Dream Trip to France |

 

Book Talk: How was your haul this week? What did you add to your shelves?

Hopeful reading everyone!

Friday Follies (3): A dream trip

Tags

book escape, family, follies, MG, travel books, traveling, YA

Welcome to today’s Friday Follies!I have a feeling, as I sit out in the middle-of-nowhere-woods, that I’m about as far away as possible from today’s destination.
But no bother–my books will take me places. And today, they are taking me to a city–to a country–I hope to someday really visit.  I would be lying if I told you I merely wanted to visit this country because my husband has family and history there.
i really just want to visit for the pastries!

Tales and Trials of a MG writer (Week 4)

Tags

creating, inspiration, MG, thinking, trials, world building, writing

Welcome to this week’s edition of: This was not a good writing week. At. All.

I started my summer camp job this week, and it was 7th and 8th graders. Perfect for writing research.

Bad for actual writing time.

Let’s just say the kiddos needed a little more care from the Camp Nurse than I was expecting. Bug Bites, Sunburns, and cuts were sort of an apocalyptic thing.

But, I did get started on Chapter 2 this week. Not much writing or addition to my word count. I was able to write a few pages, and then sort of lay out an idea.
But I’ve also been thinking more this week. Working on some of my fantasy character’s names and background. I’m still in that world building stage–or at least I should be because I think the key to fantasy worlds (have I mentioned this is a fantasy?) is immersing one’s self in them so that they can become believable to readers.

My day at home on Saturday is going to be filled with some internet time pulling up and printing off research so that perhaps next week, I’ll be able to write something. Even if it’s only character sketches.

And for me–character creating and world building is the fun part.

MG writer, signing off to think.

Review: Also Known As

Tags

contemporary, espionage, mystery, romance, spies, YA

Author: Robin Benway| Website |
Publication Date: February 26th, 2013|
Publisher: Bloomsbury Juvenile
My Interest: Spy Thriller|
Source: Library
Age Group | Genre: YA| Espionage, Romance, Mystery, Contemporary
Series: No|
Pages: 320

Ever since I fell into the world of Danny Ocean, I’m a sucker for heist/spy/mystery stories.
If you’re a regular reader, you know this. It isn’t anything new.

So, when I discovered Robin Benway’s newest novel, I had to go for it. And you know what I just read on her website? There’s going to be a sequel next year. Woot!!

I checked out a copy from my local library. I was not compensated in any way for my words (cross my heart) nor did I promise a good rating. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

Summary

Until now, Maggie has usually just been the tag-along safe cracker for her international spy parents. She’s avoided high school, and all of its homework and cliques, and she’s been able to see the world. But her spy travels have always left a void for friends and even boys.

But recently, Maggie and her parents have relocated to New York, and she’s about to go on her first solo assignment undercover at a private school. Maggie may be able to break the school’s security code, blend into the crowd, or even be unseen when she needs to be all in order to crack the case…except when Jesse Oliver, the cute boy from around the corner, almost blows her cover.

Review

For some reason last month, I went on a Robin Benway book spree–probably because I had heard nothing but great things about her stories, and she was a brand new author to me. Unfortunately, Audrey, Wait didn’t make my completed pile but Also Known As was an extremely fun read.

I honestly think I have this super-secret-spy ego. I talk about it sometimes. Or a lot of times. And this week really is turning out to be all-about-spies-week. But you know what? I’m beginning to think I know a good spy novel when I read one.

Also Known As fits my spy persona perfectly. Benway has crafted such a quirky, cute novel that I almost want to re-read it. I would if it weren’t for the fact that I’m knee deep in three other stories.
Let’s start with the cover. Um. Adorable. Cute. Eye-catching. Definitely pulled me in. And I love the whole “there’s more to me than you see” feeling going on. Which is exactly how I felt about Maggie throughout the novel.

She’s a great character, totally relate-able, and a girl whose shoes I would want to be in, anytime. I love how we learn form the get-go that she’s known as the safe cracker, but honestly, there is so much more to this girl than some secret spy life. She has fears and doubts, and huge flaws. And those are such a draw to me because it means she could exist somewhere! She isn’t just some perfect girl who a young reader couldn’t ever become. Maggie is a heroine any girl could aspire to be. But what’s great about Maggie is her heart. Her friend Roux is like the crazy sidekick, and I love how Maggie pulls her into her life, and then takes care of her as if it was the most important job of all. That and saving her family and all.

What I loved best about this story, though, was getting to follow the case right alongside Maggie. I did figure a few things out, and even though the ending felt slightly rushed/open-ended (perhaps because it’s going to have a sequel?!?!) there was still closure. I think the ending of a spy story is often the hardest because an author has worked so hard to create this giant mystery, and to not give away too many red herrings, while also trying to keep the reader in the dark AND have it lead up to this huge reveal. I feel like the big reveal was a little less big than it could have been, but I wasn’t so upset I stopped reading. That in itself makes a good spy novel for me. Also Known As is a espionage thriller that will keep readers turning the pages, if not to figure out the mystery, but to simply share the quirkiness of Maggie’s first venture into the world of high school.

If you like this novel, you might like….

How to Lead a Life of Crime by Kirsten Miller

  

Revenge of the Girl with the Great Personality by Elizabeth Eulberg

Or if you enjoy: Spy thrillers, any type of espionage, quirky romances, great sidekicks, family heist stories, and contemporary YA

Final Thoughts

Book Talk: Have you read Also Known As yet? What were your thoughts on Maggie’s family work? Think you could put yourself in her shoes and get the job done?

Hopeful reading!

What I’ve {not} Been Reading Lately: Espionage & Mr. Darcy

Tags

book review, contemporary, retellings, romance, spies, unfinished read, YA

*Note: This column comes from the fact that I truly do believe in the power of story, and I know there is a book for everyone. So even if a book may not be the right book for me, that doesn’t mean it might not be the book that makes you become a reader.

This week’s DNF read was NOT meant to be featured here…but since it’s coming out today I wanted to still share it with you because up until my eReader croaked, I was totally loving this story.

Welcome to today’s edition of

*may contain spoilers

My current {not} read this week is Spies and Prejudice by Talia Vance
Published: June 11th, 2013
Publisher: Egmont
Age Group / Genre: YA | Spy Thriller, Mystery, Contemporary, Romance, Retelling
Series: No

Why I picked it up: My love of spy thrillers initially interested me in the story, but then I realized it was a Pride and Prejudice retelling so I was doubly hooked!

How far I got: Page 264, Chapter 42

The story so far: Berry Fields has worked for her private investigator father since she was an early teen. Mostly because teenagers are overlooked when on the job. Her knack of hiding, and her best friend’s gadgets simply help her get the job done. That is until Tanner enters the picture, and keeps turning up every time she tries to figure out another clue leading to answer behind her mother’s death.

Why I put it in the drop box: This was actually an ARC copy I was approved for through NetGalley, and I had every single intention of finishing it. BUT…something happened to my Nook, my screen half froze/half broke, and I can’t seem to get it unstuck. I know I could finish the story on my computer, but, as I’m prepping to leave for camp the rest of summer, I simply do not have time to sit down on my computer to read the last 30 pages. So– I necessarily Did Not Finish this story because of choice. I only DNF’d it because of my new lack of an eReader.

Will I pick it back up?: YES! I’ll admit, I skimmed the last few pages to get to the end because I had to know what happens! Did Berry uncover her mother’s murder mystery? Did Berry and Tanner finally get over their prideful and prejudiced natures and get together (because I know they totally like each other despite the massive obstacles in their path.) Honestly, I have a hard time with P&P retellings because it’s such a classic book to begin with. But Vance’s take on the story was great! It wasn’t a totally retake of the story, but the main elements of P&P are there. Enough for readers to make connections to the classic, but also let Spies and Prejudice stand alone. I really enjoyed the spy aspect of the novel, and Berry’s prejudice drew out the plot. There were times I wanted to smack her on the head so she would open her eyes, but teenagers. That’s just how they are.
Plus… I have this hunch that this is going to be a part of a series because the ending was WAY too open ended!

Book Talk: Have you heard of Spies and Prejudice? Are you a fan of P&P retellings? If you got an ARC copy of the story, what were your thoughts? How about that ending?

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: The Spiderwick Chronicles – The Field Guide

Tags

adventure, fantasy, MG, MG series

Authos: Tony Diterlizzi | Holly Black
Release Date:  May 1st, 2003| Re-release: May 7, 2013 |
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure | Pages: 107

I was so excited when I received an email from Simon & Schuster about becoming a part of their blogger mailing list. Not because this is my first review list to be on, but because the books they were sending out were the 10th anniversary paperback editions of The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Field Guide! I fell in love with these stories when I was a teen (yes…I was a teen, not a kid when I first read them.) And rereading the first book has brought me back to the magical land of sprites that I love!

I was graciously provided a copy via Simon and Schuster. I was not compensated in any way for my review (cross my heart) nor did I promise a good rating. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

Summary

When Mallory, Jared, and Simon–the three Grace children–and their mother move into their Aunt Lucinda’s old house, they know something isn’t quite right from the beginning. One evening, the kids discover a nest of junk which they think might have been left by a mouse.
That is until Jared discovers a secret dumbwaiter which leads to a secret which leads to a discovery that might just change their lives: Arthur Spiderwick’s Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You.
Next up, the kids meet Thimbletack–a mischievous brownie who opens up a whole new world for the Grace’s.

5 Reasons Why This Book is Marvelous!

1. I have sort of always had this thing for sprites and faeries. In fact, when I was a kid, I had two imaginary friends–a pink faerie and a blue faerie. Now, these weren’t Cinderella-style Fairy Godmothers or Sleeping Beauty Fairies. Nope. These were mischievous little creatures who I tried to blame all my messes on, and who kept me company when I got sent to my room. Perhaps they weren’t imaginary after all, but instead creatures from Arthur’s book! Anyway, I remember reading the Spiderwick tales when they came out (I was in high school) and I loved them. Faerie lore has always intrigued me, and my intrigue was only cemented when I traveled to Ireland. Needless to say–Diterlizzi and Black’s stories are so imaginative and creative that I find my own stories drawing inspiration from them.
2. The illustrations are gorgeous! I am always a fan of illustrations in middle grade books because I find they add to the story. But DiTerlizzi’s pencil drawings are simply evocative. They add a completely different element to the novel, and as I reread it, I found myself wanting to get lost in the pictures. I even checked out the Spiderwick website because it features color illustrations. This is one of those stories/series that simply has to include illustrations. I mean, as readers we could imagine the setting and characters because the writing is so descriptive, but getting to see the images of the sprites as the writers imagined them helps create a reading atmosphere that sweeps the reader away from a moment of normal-ness.
3. As far as MG books go, The Field Guide is a quick but not-so-simple read. I read it in about an hour, and I could probably read the whole series (5 books) in an afternoon as each book is only about 7 chapters long and chalk full of illustrations. But, I found myself slowing down. This is a story that doesn’t necessarily require you to think about the plot, but it is a story where you want to pick out detail. You want to figure out who each character is, and what makes them tick. You want to explore the setting through the images, and discover the secret world that might, just possibly, exist around you.
4. Not only is this story part of a series, but there is a whole Beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles series, an actual field guide, a how-to-care for sprites, and an observational notebook. I just love how one story spun off a whole other world for readers to imagine and explore. Sure, my own imagination runs wild all the time, but seeing all of these books on my shelves makes me believe, if only for a moment, that another world exists. And imagining a world full of sprites and mischief just sounds like a fabulous, imaginative day to me.
5. I simply have to go back to faerie lore. But beyond DiTerlizzi and Black tackling such a fabulous topic in my imagination, it was the way they tackled it. The Spiderwick Chronicles are an imaginative series. They open up readers to something different. Something fun. Something that might make them want to go exploring or become someone grand. I love the description of the house, and the grounds, and the characters, and the sprites themselves. But mostly, I just love the storytelling that happens within the pages of The Spiderwick Chronicles. If you’ve somehow missed this series in the last 10 years, I challenge you to race out and pick them up. You won’t be disappointed.

   Book Talk: What do you think about the new paperback Spiderwick Chronicles? I sort of miss the fun hardcovers, but I do love the new look! Have you been a fan of the series?

Hopeful reading!

Bought, Borrowed and Weekly Writings (14)

Tags

books, MG, MG series, poetry, YA

I have a whole stack of books both from the library and my own shelves to take to camp with me today, but of course I added more to that list this week!
I am seriously addicted to books.
But… it wasn’t a lot. Just one I am really looking forward to reading, and I couldn’t pass up the yard sales!

In case you missed anything, here’s what I talked about this week:

Weekly Happenings (5/20- 5/25)

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: Peregrine Harker and the Black Death |
Review: Second Chance Summer |
Tales and Trial of a MG Writer: Week 3 |
Soundtracks & Stories: Tempest by Julie Cross |

And without further adieu, here are my reads for the week!

Bought (yard sale-ing!)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules by Jeff Kinney
Goodreads |
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: the Last Straw by Keff Kinney
Goodreads |
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
Goodreads |
The Witches by Roald Dahl
Goodreads |

Borrowed

A Corner of White by Jaclyn Moriarty
Goodreads |

Book Talk: How was your haul this week? What did you add to your shelves?

Hopeful reading everyone!