Book Critiques

A

Title:The Absent Author
Author:Ron Roy
Setting:Book-Nook, a huge bookstore. Shangri-La hotel, big hotel. Main Character:Wallis Wallace, a person who writes book and lives in a castle in main.
Conflict:Dink, Josh and Ruth Rose are trying to find out if Wallis Wallace was kidnapped.
Opinion:My favorite part was when Dink, Josh and Ruth Rose found a man tied in a rope. ***** I chose this book because Ron Roy is a very good author and I like his series. ***** I liked this book because it was funny and if the characters were real I would be friend with them. ***** The book was a little hard and a little easy because it was thin and the book was easy to follow.
Critique written by: John J. (2003–2004)

Title: The Adventures of Chatter the Red Squirrel
Author: Thornton W. Burgess
Setting: A forest
Main Character: Chatter the Red Squirrel is red. He thinks he is very smart. He is sometimes lazy.
Conflict: Chatter gets caught by Farmer Brown's boy.
Opinion: The book was great! I really liked the book. It has a lot of surprises that you wouldn't expect. I would recommend this book to a friend because it was very surprising. My favorite part of the book was when Chatter got his spinning wheel.
Critique written by: Nitya R. (2000-2001)

Title: The Adventures of Laura and Jack
Author: Laura Ingalls Wilder
Setting: It tool place in several states of the midwest.
Main Character: Laura was very young and loved to play with her dog Jack. She was a spunky girl.
Conflict: They had to move a lot. Pa had to keep looking for different jobs. His crops he grew on the farm always had a problem.
Opinion: I chose this book because I heard the Laura Ingalls books were good. I also saw a picture of a dog on the cover and I like to read about animals. The title also looked interesting.*****I thought this was an easy book to read. It kept my attention so that it made me want to read the next chapter. It also had easy words and not a lot of pages.*****I think Mary and I are most like each other. We are both the oldest child of our family. We also have more responsiblities in our homes. We even look alike.*****My favorite part of the story was when the family got the dog. They actually found him in their backyard. He was barking as if to get attention or a new home. Jack ended up playing a big part in every adventure.
Critique written by: Taylor S. (2001-2002)

Title:Afternoon on the Amazon
Author:Mary Osborne
Setting:Two people in the Amazon.
Main Character:Jack is not afraid of anything.
Conflict:Jack and Annie are helping Morgan Le Fay to break a spell. They need to find four special things.
Opinion:This story is very good because it is only ten chapters long.***** I chose this story because it is funny and a good story. It was funny because The monkey was doing weird things like pullups with his tail.***** The character in the book that is most like me is Jack because he isn’t afraid of bugs just like me.***** My favorite part of the book is when a monkey was saving the two kids.
Critique written by:Robert F. (2003-2004)

Title: Aliens for Breakfast
Author: Jonathan Etra and Stephanie Spinner
Setting: It took place at the class in school.
Main Character:He is a orange-red hair boy who wears glasses.
Conflict: Dorf is a drane. A drane can hurt you. Dorf took control of Richard's friend, Henry.
Opinion: The pictures helped me with the story. The first way is that they showed me how the characters looked and dresses. The second way is that the pictures helped me understand the words. The pictures showed the different sections of the school. ***** The best part is when Dork explodes. This happened because he ate a lot of hot peppers. ***** I liked the book because it had an alien it nit. I also liked the book because it had a lot of characters. ***** The book was very easy to read because of its simple words.
Critique written by: JT M. (2001-2002)

Title:Amber Brown Goes Fourth
Author:Paula Danziger
Setting:It took place in her school and house.
Main Character:Amber Brown is in fourth grade. She has a best friend named Brandy.
Conflict:Amber's old best friend's name is Justin. Justin moved away to another school.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was funny. The pictures did help me. I look at the pictures, then read the book. It seemed to help me find out what would happen next. If I could change something it would be that she goes to fourth grade and nothing goes wrong. Brandy is most like me because she like to braid hair. My favorite part of the story is when Amber and Brandy became friends.
Critique written by: Paige G. (2002-2003)

Title:Amber Brown is Not a Crayon
Author:Paula Danziger
Setting:Mr. Cohen's classroom was noisy and had lots of kids. Justin's house was messy and out of order because he was moving.
Main Character:Amber is funny and cheers people up. She is nce and also wise.
Conflict:Justin is moving and it causes Amber and Justin to get in a fight.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was about best friends. It taught me a lesson about real life. This book was easy to read because it was short and funny. It was my kind of story. I chose Amber Brown is Not a Crayon because my brother read it and loved it. I also chose this book because it was written by one of my favorite authors. The author did teach me a lesson in the story. It was that you can still be friends with someone even if they are going away.
Critique written by:Alexa L (2003-2004)

Title:Amber Brown Sees Red
Author:Paula Danziger
Setting:It takes place at Amber's school.
Main Character:Amber Brown is a very moody girl.
Conflict:Amber's dad is in Paris. Amber is really mad that Amber's mom is divorced from her dad.
Opinion:I liked the book Amber Brown Sees Red because it's interesting and funny. Amber faces many difficult situations but seems to make the best of them. She learns from these experiences which help her face life with a smile instead of a grumpy, attitude.*****This book is easy to read because there are a lot of adventures which encouraged me to keep reading to find out what Amber would face next. ***** I chose this book because I wanted to find out why Amber was angry. I then wanted to find out how she deals with her emotions. ***** I learned much from the author. The author taught me to always keep an open mind and learn new things. Although things don't always go you way, it's important to meet new challenges.
Critique written by:Jennifer J. (2002-2003)

Title: Amber Brown Wants Extra Credit
Author: Paula Danziger
Setting: School, home, and the store
Main Character: Amber Brown is the main character. She lives with her mom because her parents are divorced. Amber is a messy girl.
Conflict: Amber is not doing her school work. She wants extra-credit but her teacher said she can't have it.
Opinion: I felt the book was really good! The book had nice pictures! It was one of the best books I ever read! The book was easy to read! I like the book because I like Amber Brown. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was wehn Amber went shopping with Max.
Critique written by: Heather L. (2000-2001)

Title: Arnold for President
Author: Craig Bartlett
Setting: School
Main Character: Arnold is kind, helpful, and tells the truth.
Conflict: Helga and Arnold are competing against each other. Helga wants to win so bad, yet, she wants Arnold to win too.
Opinion: I liked the book because it is based on a character on a cartoon show. It is really funny! ***** I chose the book because I liked the pictures and how they used the words to go along with the pictures. ***** My favorite part was when they found out who won the election. It was surprising!
Critique written by: Natalie L. (2001-2002)

Title:Arthur and the Recess Rookie
Author:Marc Brown
Setting:The story took place at recess.
Main Character:George likes music and to work.
Conflict:George always gets picked last for kickball. He never gets to show how good of a player he is.
Opinion:Yes, I liked the book because it was funny and tricky. I chose this story because it is a book that you don't know what's going to happen. Plus, it had the word "recess" in the title, and I love recess. Francine is most like me because she likes music, sports, and is a very good friend. Francine also is someone who is popular and likes to help people. The author used this story to teach me that you can't judge a person without actually knowing them. People are not always what they seem to be.
Critique written by:Randi P. (2002-2003)

Title: Ash Kutchum Pokemon Detective
Author: Tracy West
Setting: Forest City, Manchin
Main Character: A ten year old boy that is overconfident, and always happy to see a new pokemon.
Conflict: Team Roket has stolen a very rare and valuable artifact. Ash and friends have to get it back.
Opinion: I liked the book because it had a lot of action. It had ghosts, animals, dragons, and dinosaurs. ***** My favorite part is when Charizand destroyed Team Roket. It is a fire type, and I love the element of fire. I like flying types too. ***** Ash is like me. Our names both start with the same letter. We are the same age, gender, and both like the same things. ***** The book was simple and hard to read. It had an even number of pages, 90. So I can read a third today, tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow. It had just the right amount of chapters.
Critique written by: Alicina N. (2001-2002)

B

Title: The Baby Blues
Author: Janice L. Smith
Setting: School-Hospital
Main Character: Adam J. is funny and did not like babies.
Conflict: Adam J. didn't want Mrs. D. (teacher) to leave.
Opinion: I liked the book because it is about babies and I like babies. My favorite part about the book was when Adam J's teacher was going to have a baby. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes babies.
Critique written by: Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title: Baby Sitters Club #53: Kristy for President
Author: Ann M. Martin
Setting: School, Kristy's house, Claudia's house, Jamie's house
Main Character: Kristy is bossy, greedy, not smart, and responsible.
Conflict: Kristy's enemy is running for class presidend like Kristy.
Opinion:I liked this book because it told me about being organized. This bbok was easy to read because the author didn't use big words too often. I chose Kristy for President because I was eager to find out what kind of president Kristy would be. I was also curious to see what she would do. My favorite part was when Kristy realized she was too busy. My other favorite part was when she dropped out of the race and voted for someone else. The person Kristy voted for won the race.
Critique written by:Molly S. (2002-2003)

Title: A Bad Spell of the Worst Witch
Author: Jill Murphy
Setting: Witch School
Main Character:Mildred is a witch who goes to a witch school and learns how to use magic.
Conflict: Mildred is having a fight with Ethel. She turned Maud's sister to a frog without knowing it.
Opinion: I felt the book was a very good story to read. It also made me feel happy. I think this book is the best book I ever read! I like A Bad Spell of the Worst Witch because the witches were not mean. I would recommend this book to a friend because they might think it was a good book. My favorite part was when Mildred turned Maud's sister back to a witch.
Critique written by: Jyothi S. (2000-2001)

Title:A Bear Called Paddington
Author:Michael Bond
Setting:The settings are in Paddington Station, the Browns' house, at the beach, at the market, and in London.
Main Character:Paddington is a bear that came from Peru. He is very intelligent. He was named after Paddington Station.
Conflict:Paddington always has problems when he is in London.
Opinion:I really like this story because I like fictional books. Sometimes I like to picture myself doing the things that are mentioned in the story. For example, going to the beach is something we both like to do. If I had to change anything in the book, it would be putting a squirrel instead of a bear as the main character. I thinks squirrels are much nicer than bears. I think A Bear Called Paddington is easy to read because the author puts things in explainable sentences. I think Michael Bond tried to teach me that having a bear in the house may not be that bad. Sometimes you sort of need a little help around the house. I chose this story because I saw the cover and thought it would be a good book about animals.
Critique written by:Daniel D. (2002-2003)

Title:Be a Wolf
Author:Brad Strickland
Setting:It took place in northeastern Europe.
Main Character:Beowulf was brave, cunning, intelligent, a warrior, a king, trusted protectors, and has a lot of enemies.
Conflict:Grendle, Grendle's mom, and the dragon come after Beowulf.
Opinion:I would change the part when Grendle's arm came out out to his head popping out of its socket. ***** King Hrothgar is most like me because he is smart, strategic, logical, and pretty much likes sports. ***** My favorite part was when Beowulf stuck his sword Naegling into the dragon's nose. He took it and chopped it right in half. ***** The author taught me to be brave and to sometimes take a risk.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title: Beezus and Ramona
Author: Beverly Cleary
Setting: loud, where they live, rowdy, crazy place
Main Character: She is four years old, has brown hair and is very short
Conflict: Ramona is always getting her bigger sister in trouble. She kept making Beezus read. She didn't get to to her homework.
Opinion: I did like the book very much. I liked it because it was very funny and interesting. ***** I chose this story because I love the Beverly Cleary stories. She is a wonderful author. ***** The book was very easy because most of the words we learned in second grade. Some words were hard, but if you sound them out, you should recognize them. ***** Beezus is most like me bcause she is the same age, had short brown hair, and loves school. She loves her teacher. She loves math, just like me.
Critique written by: Ashley F. (2001-2002)

Title:Bernie Magruder & The Drive-Thru Funeral Parlor
Author:Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Setting:The police station, Ressledorf Hotel, bus station, and the funeral-parlor
Main Character:The main character is a boy. He is a smart person with three pets, one sister, and two brothers. His name is Bernie Magruder.
Conflict:The problem is that Bernie, Georgene, and Weasel are trying to find out what happened to the vice president.
Opinion:I chose this book because mysteries are fun books to read. ***** My favorite part is when Bernie, Georgene, and Weasel go out the hotel window into the street, and on top of the funeral parlor. ***** The thing I don't understand about the story is when Mr. Fairchild is in disguise going to the hotel and the bus station. ***** The author did not teach me anything in this story.
Critique written by:James L. (2002-2003)

Title:The BFG
Author:Roald Dahl
Setting:The large cave, the royal palace, The bare Giant Country, and the misty Dream Country.
Main Character:Huge, Thoughtful, has big ears, never went to school, can read and has a hobby of collecting dreams.< br> Conflict:Every night nine giants ate people. The BFG can only watch them eat. He would stop them but he is only a runt.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was funny. I laughed on every page. ***** This book was easy to read because the words were short and simple.***** I choose this story because I read some in second grade but it was too long to finish. I also chose this story because Roald Dahl is my favorite author. ***** In the story I would change the BFG being nice. I like action better than comedy. It would be cool if Sophie had this great adventure about escaping from Giant Country with its evil leader the Big Evil Giant. Otherwise known as BEG!
Critique written by:Emma C. (2003–2004)

Title:The Big Bahoohley
Author:Peter Carey
Setting:At the King Redward Hotel, and at the subway.
Main Character:Sam Kellow is a smart kid that always wears a Bluejays' cap.
Conflict:Sam's family is stuck with $25.00 and they can't find Mr. DeVerd.
Opinion:My favorite character in the whole book would be Sam, because he always has a plan before he does something. My favorite part of the story is when Sam sleepwalks out of his room. ***** I would make Sam be rich, and want to be poor. I would say this book is easy to read because there weren't alot of difficult words. I chose this book because when I first looked at the cover, I knew it was going to an exciting story.
Critique written by:Daniel D. (2002-2003)

Title:Big Trouble in Little Twinsville
Author:Elizabeth Levy
Setting:Little Twinsville- a lot of twins, triplets, and multiples
Main Character:Eve- the oldest child in the family, has sisters, likes to watch Curly, Larry, and Moe
Conflict:The conflict of the story was Eve did not want to go to Little Twinsville because her sisters would cause trouble.
Opinion:Yes, I liked the book because it was really exciting and full of funny details. ***** My favorite part of the story was when May and Amy were turning the rope for Eve to do Double Dutch. Instead, they got the rope all tangles around Eve. They did this on purpose just to get Eve angry. ***** This book was easy to read, because there weren't so many hard words that I did not understand.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Title: Black Beauty
Author: Ann Sewell
Setting: In a room with hay. On wide open land with grass.
Main Character:The main character has black hair, is very nice, and is patient.
Conflict: Black Beauty did not get treated right.
Opinion: I liked the story. It was very interesting. You should read Black Beauty because it was about horses, and I love horses. ***** This book is easy and hard to read. Some words are easy while others are hard. Why?- because it is more like an adult book. However, it was a very nice chapter book to read. ***** I chose this story because I love horses. If you love them, then this book is right for you. There are a lot of chapters that tell you some good and bad things that Black Beauty had. ***** Yes, the author used the book to teach people- to not be mean. If you are mean to people or animals, they will get mad or not like so. So, never be a mean person.
Critique written by: Travis O. (2001-2002)

Title: Bookworm Buddies
Author: Judy Delton
Setting: Library, basement, yards
Main Character:The Pee Wee scouts usually rake yards and other things like that.
Conflict: When the Pee Wee scout got their books, they did not take good enough care of them.
Opinion: I didn't really like the book and wouldn't recommend it to someone else. I did not like it because it had no action.
Critique written by: Dylan M. (2000-2001)

Title:The Boxcar Children: The Animal Shelter Mystery
Author:Gertrude Chander Warner
Setting:The book takes place in a pet shop and at a house.
Main Character:Ms. Newcombe is nice, kind of funny, smart, and likes music. She is around 25 years old.
Conflict:Ms. Newcombe didn't have enough money to pay for her pet shop.
Opinion:I liked this book and would recommend it to a friend because it was serious. The most serious part was when Ms. Newcombe lost her house because she didn't pay the bills. Ms. Newcombe is a lot like me because she is smart, is a mathematician, and likes sports. My favorite part of The Animal Shelter Mystery was when Ms. Newcombe went to court. She complained to the judge because she lost her house and pet shop. This book taught me about animals and to always pay my bills, no matter what.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title: The Boxcar Children: The Campout Mystery
Author: Gertude Chandler Warner
Setting: Blue Mound State Park
Main Character: Mr. Alden is very ill. He is trying to teach the kids how to have fun.
Conflict: The mystery was to find the person who stole the pancake mix, played loud music, and kidnapped Hildy.
Opinion: I like this book because I enjoy reading mystery stories. In the end, I discovered that Mr. Watts was a good person. He was doing bad things to the campers because he felt that they were polluting the forest. He wanted to force them to leave. Mr. Watts realized he was wrong. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy reading mysteries.
Critique written by: Derek M. (2000-2001)

Title:The Boxcar Children: Houseboat Mystery
Author:Gertrude Chandler Warner
Setting:It was during the day in a house-boat.
Main Character:Benny likes a lot of people. He likes to solve mysteries. He is about 8 years old. Benny is the youngest child.
Conflict:A vase was stolen from an auction.
Opinion:I liked the book. I would recommend it to a friend because it was funny. The funniest part was when Benny went ballistic becuase he was five minutes late for something important. Benny is a lot like me because he ic active, curious, and likes a lot of sports. My favorite part of the book was when a vase was stolen from an auction. Then everyone went crazy looking for it. The story taught me to never leave the house door open unless somebody is there.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title: The Boxcar Children: The Niagara FAlls Mystery
Author: Gertrude Chandler Warner
Setting: Niagara Falls
Main Character: Henry works in a shop. He has a cousin, Michael. He is young and lives in Canada.
Conflict: Will's cousin is trying to close the store down because he wants to work in it.
Opinion: This book was great! I loved it! I would definetly recommend this book to a friend. I like when they went over the rapids.
Critique written by: Nitya R. (2000-2001)
Title: Boys Against Girls
Author: Judy Brom
Setting: At school, at home, or in backyard
Main Character: Lila is in fourth grade. She tries to beat other boys at anything.
Conflict: The boys keep beating Lila at everything.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was very funny. You could learn from it too! I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when Lila was hiding.
Critique written by: Heather L. (2000-2001)

Title:A Boy at War
Author:Harry Mazer
Setting:Warm and sunny weather on an island with lots of people.
Main Character:Tall, kind boy who makes friends easily. He has brown hair.
Conflict:Adam’s father was killed in the war. Scouts forced Adam to join the marines.
Opinion:I liked this book because it had a lot of action. Action books are exciting.***** The book was easy to read. It had a lot of easy words and it was a good story. ***** I would change one thing about the book. I would like the dad to stay alive. I hate death. ***** I chose this book because I like Pearl Harbor stories. I wanted to see what this author thought of Pearl Harbor.
Critique written by: T.J. (2003–2004)

Title: Buffalo Before Breakfast
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Setting: In a desert
Main Character: Jack has glasses, brown hair, and blue eyes.
Conflict: The buffalo chased the little kids away.
Opinion: I felt good reading this book. I couldn't put this book down. I liked the book because it had a lot of action in it. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when the kids put the experiment on the buffalo.
Critique written by: Nicholas P. (2000-2001)

Title:Bunnicula
Author:Deborah and James Howe.
Setting:In the Monroe’s household.
Main Character:Bunnicula is a black and white rabbit. He is a tiny rabbit with two fangs and a V-shaped mark between his ears.
Conflict:Chester thinks Bunnicula is a vampire and a threat to the family.
Opinion:I like this book because it is a mystery. I enjoy mysteries. I like to try to solve the mystery as I read the book. This book kept me guessing. This book is also funny because Harold said he wrote the book.***** I think this book was easy to read because it kept me interested and I did not want to put it down. The words were easy to understand.***** I chose this book because the back cover was engaging to me. It was interesting because the book cover said "IS he or is he not a vampire?" That Question sparked my mind.***** Toby Monroe is most like me because he likes to read. He is also generous like me. I’m a good sharer just like Toby shares his treats with Harold.
Critique written by:Dereck I. (2003-2004)

C

Title: Cam Janson and the Mystery of the Dinosaur Bones
Author: David A. Adler
Setting: Museum
Main Character: Cam is a girl that has a photographic mind- has a good memory.
Conflict: The characters went to the museum. They went to the dinosaur bones section and noticed that there were three bones missing.
Opinion: I chose this book because it is easy to understand and mysterious. The pictures helped by showing me what the characters looked like. The book was easy because the words I read were familiar. My favorite part of the story was when Cam and Eric went to the store and saw a postcard. They counted the tail bones and got 34. They counted the skeleton and got only 31.
Critique written by: Tiffany H. (2001-2002)

Title: The Canary Caper
Author: Ron Roy
Setting: Mrs. Davis' house
Main Character: Ruth Rose is a girl who loves to solve mysteries. She has two friends. Their names are Dink and Josh.
Conflict: Four pets, at the same time, were missing.
Opinion: I really likes this book because I love stories about pets. I liked the way the three kids found the burglar. I would recommend this book to my friends because it is very interesting. After each page, you really want to know what's next. My favorite part of the book was when Ruth Rose found out: when the burglar came to give the pets back, that they would rob the house at the same time.
Critique written by: Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title:Captain Underpants
Author:Dave Pilkey
Setting:City, School. Alley, Gorge and Harold’s Tree House.
Main Character:The main character is funny, bossy, brave, not so smart and strong.
Conflict:The Bionic Booger boys attack Captain Underpants. The combine-0-tron 200 switched the brains of Melvin and Mr. Krupp.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was funny, creative and adventurous. It was also hard to stop reading and to put it down.***** This book was easy to read because there were easy words and they were mostly short words. It was very enjoyable.***** I choose this story because I like the series of Captain Underpants books. I choose this book because it was funny. ***** This book thought me never to underestimate the unbeatable wedgie power. I also learned never to pour water on Captain Underpant’s head.
Critique written by:June T. (2003-2004)

Title: Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets
Author: Dav Pilkey
Setting: inside and outside
Main Character: Captain Underpants is funny. He gets into a lot of trouble.
Conflict: Harold and George are trying to get away from the talking toilets.
Opinion: I liked the book because it had very funny parts in it. The pictures helped me understand the story because it showed me what they were doing. The book is easy to read because the words are very short. My favorite part was when Harold and George glued the teachers and kids to the their chairs. I would change the part when Harold and George had to go to Permanent Detention.
Critique written by: Danielle V. (2001-2002)

Title:Captain Underpants and the Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies From Outer Space
Author:Dav Pilkey
Setting:It takes place in an elementary school and in a spaceship.
Main Character:The main character is heroic, wears underwear, funny, and uses underwear as a weapon.
Conflict:The Zombie Nerds turn all the people in the school into Zombie Nerds excepts George, Harold, and Mr. Krupp.
Opinion:I liked the book and would recommend it to a friend because it was funny. The funniest part was when the Zombie Nerds poured the self-destructed Juice in the fuel tank instead of putting Evil Rapid Growth Juice in the spray gun. I would change the part when the Zombie Nerds became cafeteria ladies. Instead they would zap the school. The character that was most like me was George because he is active, makes mistakes, and is funny to only certain people. My favorite part of the story was when the Zombie Nerds' spaceship blew up to smitherines.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title:The Case of the Diamond Necklace
Author:Donald J. Sobol
Setting:It was in a house.
Main Character:The main character was Encyclopedia Brown.
Conflict:Someone stole the diamond necklace.
Opinion:I liked this book because I like to solve crimes.***** I choose this story because I like the necklace.***** Encyclopedia Brown is most like me because he is a kid.***** My favorite part of the book is when Encyclopedia Brown solved the crime.
Critique written by:Mark F. (2003-2004)

Title:The Case of the Ghost Writer
Author:James Preller
Setting:R.V. King’s house, tree house and Mila’s house.
Main Character:R.V. King is a ghost writer. She is very strange and wears yellow roller skates in her house.
Conflict:Mila and Jigsaw Jones can’t find out the mystery author.
Opinion:I liked this book because I liked mysteries.***** I chose this story because James Preller is a very good author.***** My favorite part of the book was when Mila and Jigsaw Jones went to R.V. King’s house, met R.V. King and got their books signed.***** The pictures helped me understand the story because I can see what’s going on.
Critique written by:John J. (2003-2004)

Title:The Case of the Marshmallow Monster
Author:James Preller
Setting:The camp site is spooky, has a lake, lots of tents and lots of trees.
Main Character:Jigsaw Jones loves science, nice kids, likes to do detective work and likes trips.
Conflict:Jigsaw Jones can’t find out who the monster is.
Opinion:I like this book because James Preller is a very good author. This book was scary and exciting.***** I chose this story because I like the Jigsaw Jones series and it is interesting and the characters are funny.***** My favorite part of the book was when Jigsaw Jones and Mila were waiting for the monster.***** This book was easy because it was skinny and the words were not to big and the story was not too long.
Critique written by:John J. (2003-2004)

Title:The Case of the Stinky Science Project
Author:James Preller
Setting:School, Bobby’s house and Mila’s house.
Main Character:Mila: She is a very nice girl. She likes Science because she likes experiments.
Conflict:Mila was trying to find out what the stinky smell was.
Opinion:I like this book because I fell the author is trying to teach the reader something. ***** I enjoy reading mysteries. ***** I thought a really good part was when Mila and Jigsaw Jones try to communicate with codes. ***** The pictures help me to see in my head what’s going on in that part of the story. I felt that I did not need pictures in this book. ***** This book was pretty easy to read because it did not have a lot of pages. ***** My favorite part of this book is when an extra credit project was brought in which was a big volcano. The next day at class the class got to see the volcano erupt and the mystery began.
Critique written by:John J. ( 2003 - 2004)

Title: The Castle in the Attic
Author: Elizabeth Winthrop
Setting: A kingdom, William's house and attic, a castle
Main Character:William is ten and takes gymnastics. He has brown hari and eyes. He loves adventures.
Conflict: Alastor has taken over the Silver Knight's Kingdom, and everyone is suffering under Alastor's strict laws.
Opinion: The book was great! It was soooo exciting! I would definetly recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when the small toy knight became the Silver Knight, alive in William's hand!
Critique written by: Demetra S. (2000-2001)

Title: Cat Crazy
Author: Ben M. Baglio
Setting: Puss-in-Boats
Main Character: Mandy is a girl who loves cats. Her mom and dad are vets. She likes to go to Puss-in-Boats.
Conflict: Mr. Pengelly wants Puss-in-Boats to move.
Opinion: I really liked how they solved the problem. (The solution) was a great idea, but I would make sure the weather was good. I think Mandy and James had a great vacation! My favorite part was when Mr. Pennagely finds out that this own wife was feeding Quenn. I would recommend this book to my friends because it has a nice moral.
Critique written by: Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title: Catch That Pass!
Author: Matt Christopher
Setting: Football Field
Main Character: Jim has been bossed around a lot. He plays football and gets himself hurt.
Conflict: Doug always tells Jim what to do, but all the things Doug says are right.
Opinion: That way I felt about the book is that Jim is right and should listen to his brother. Doug is bigger and smarter than him. If Jim didn't listen, his brother maybe would fool around with Jim. Then Jim would feel even more worse then before. I liked the book because football is my favorite sport. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when they had their first football game.
Critique written by: Samson H. (2000-2001)

Title: Centerfield Ballhawk
Author: Matt Christopher
Setting: Baseball field
Main Character: Jose is eight years old. He likes baseball. He is a centerfielder. Jose is on the red team.
Conflict: Jose hits a baseball and breaks a car window.
Opinion: I liked the book. I thought it was fun. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when Jose hit a homerun.
Critique written by: Matthew P. (2000-2001)

Title: Charlotte's Web
Author: E.B. White
Setting: Country Fair
Main Character: Wilbur is a small, pink pig. He can talk and is very brave.
Conflict: Wilbur doesn't want to die.
Opinion: I liked this book very much. It had cool adventures! My favorite part was when Wilbur tried to spin a web. I would recommend this book to a friend.
Critique written by: Nitya R. (2000-2001)

Title: Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator
Author: Roald Dahl
Setting: Great Glass Elevator and a chocolate factory
Main Character: Charlie is ten years old with blond hair and is very smart.
Conflict: Grandpa Joe, Grandma Josephine, and Grandma Georgina took the Wonka-Vite. If you took the Wonka-Vite you would become 20 years younger.
Opinion: I really liked this book because it got interesting every second. I recommend this book to whoever likes space because it is about these characters who go into space. My favorite part of this book was the solution to the conflict. This book was just a super book!
Critique written by: Alice B. (2000-2001)

Title:Chocolate Fever
Author:Robert Kimmel Smith
Setting:In a school, and outside
Main Character:Henry Green loves any type of chocolate.
Conflict:Henry eats way too much chocolate and then gets chocolate fever.
Opinion:I sort of liked the book because it was kind of funny. (and kind of not funny) The pictures did not help me with the story because I just like reading the words. I chose this story because I thought it would be pretty good. The author taught me that you should not eat too much of anything.
Critique written by:Paige G. (2002-2003)

Title: Christmas in Camelot
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Setting: Dark, damp, and boring
Main Character: Camelot is brown, with blond hair. He is kind, funny, and smart.
Conflict: Camelot is frozen until the main characters finish a quest that Christmas Night gave them.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was an adventure. The pictures did help me not help me because there weren't many. I would change the part where Camelot is frozen. It was really sad, and it was like everybody died. I think the book was easy to read because the story was easy to understand. It was also hard because there were some big words, like 'imagination'.
Critique written by: Kelsey T. (2001-2002)

Title:Cinderella’s Castle
Author:Gabrielle Charbonnet
Setting:Home, the Mall, School
Main Character:Ella is an ordinary girl . She wants to be popular.
Conflict:Ella can’t be popular and she signed up to make a ginger bread castle for the class party.
Opinion:I like this book because it was a book for little kids made into a chapter book. ***** My favorite part is at the end when her dad, step mom and stepsisters made her ginger bread castle for her. ***** The author taught me that it‘s better to be you than somebody else.
Critique written by:Adriana P. ( 2003 – 2004 )

Title:Civil War on Sunday
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:There are hospitals, fields, and hurt soldiers.
Main Character:Annie is fearless and very caring. She is a fast runner.
Conflict:Jack and Annie need to find something to help cast a spell on Morgan. They also want to help the soldiers.
Opinion:Jack is most like me because he is afraid of some things like bombs or tigers. Jack dosen't like to do stuff that Jack dosen't wasnt to do. However, Jack does it anyway, and so do I. Jack and I also know obvious things. *****They talk about the teams in the Civil War, which are the Confederate and the Union. They talk about people who will fight to death and those who were split up by the Civil War. The author said that many families and friends were split up by the war. They would have to fight each other even though they are friends or family. ***** I chose this story because the cover looked good. The other books in the series, that I've read, were also good.
Critique written by:Louis M. (2002-2003)

Title:The Class Trip
Author:Jamie Suzanne
Setting:Fun amusement park, dark castle, spooky woods.
Main Character:Elizabeth is brave, courageous, pretty and does not give up.
Conflict:Elizabeth’s sister, Jessica is kidnapped and Elizabeth can’t find her.
Opinion:Elizabeth is most like me. She is brave, courageous and does not give up. I am like that too.***** The author taught me that dreams can be realistic. They can take you to wondrous places. Dreams are wonderful to have. ***** My favorite part was when Grisolda cast a spell on the twins. The spell made them stuck together!@ So when one twin wanted to move the other had to move too! This made Jessica and Elizabeth upset. **** I liked this book because it was mysterious, magical, and adventurous. I also like this book because it was spooky and funny. It was one of my favorite books.
Critique written by:June T. (2003–2004)

Title:Clue Jr.
Author:Della Rowland
Setting:Mostly sunny out, once snowing
Main Character:Mortimer Mustard wears an eye patch, looks yellow, and is really smart.
Conflict:There were a lot of things missing or stolen.
Opinion:I liked the book a lot because it had a lot of adventures. There would be an answer page that would be about what happened next, but it would be upside down. The pictures helped me because they showed sometimes part of the clue! My favorite part is when George Green finds a big water puddle inside Mortimer Mustard's garage-which was a clue. The author taught me how to use (handle) some clues I may see.
Critique written by:Bobby Z. (2002-2003)

Title:The Curse of The Mummy’s Tomb
Author:R.L. Stine
Setting:The Pyramid in Cairo was hot and sticky, muggy and very dry. The Cairo hotel was very bright, big and cool.
Main Character:The main character is Gabe. He is 12 years old. He is Sam’s cousin. He is fascinated by mummies. Sometimes he is scared and sometimes he is courageous.
Conflict:Gabe, Sari and Uncle Ben accidentally fell into a tomb and violated it. Ahmed was upset and wanted to turn them into mummies.
Opinion:I chose this story because it is long and challenging to read. I also like reading mysteries.***** I felt this book was kind of hard to read because it was very long. It also had quite a few hard words in it that I did not understand.***** The character that is most like me in the story is Sari. She is most like me because she is competitive, adventurous and funny.***** My favorite part in the story is when Ahmed runs away in fear of the mummy. It was really cool! Ahmed lights the mummy that is alive in fire. The mummy does not care. It lifts Ahmed way up in the air. Ahmed kicks furiously! Ahmed finally gets free and runs away. Ahmed is never seen again.
Critique written by:Alexa L. (2003-2004)

D

Title:Danny the Champion of the World
Author:Roald Dahl
Setting:The cozy caravan, the dirty filling station and the exciting Hazel’s wood.
Main Character:Brave, likable, his best friend is his father, he is very determined and smart.
Conflict:Mr. Hazell is a cruel man. He bothers everyone so they all hate him. He’s also very rude and someone’s got to put a stop to him!
Opinion:I liked this book because it was very descriptive. It was almost like you were there. ***** The pictures helped me understand the story. I had trouble imagining the caravan before I saw the pictures. I could see why the caravan was described cozy. ***** This book was easy to read because the chapters were short. It didn’t use much vocabulary either. ***** I choose this story because Roald Dahl wrote it. I like the moral in his stories.
Critique written by:Emma C. (2003–2004)

Title:The Deadly Dungeon
Author:Ron Roy
Setting:Moose Manair is clean, fresh and very large. The bedrooms are big, clean and soft.
Main Character:The main characters were Dink Josh and Ruth Rose. They are adventurous and brave. They are also very clever and curious.
Conflict:The problem is that Dink, Josh and Ruth Rose keep hearing screams around Moose Manor.
Opinion:This book was easy to read because it did not have very large words and it was short. Also it was easy to read because I was interested in it from the beginning. ***** I chose this story because June kept telling me how great the series was. I also chose this story because I like mysteries. ***** My favorite part is when Dink, Josh and Ruth Rose find out who the ghost of Emory Scott really is! I also liked when the police came and took the ghost away.
Critique written by:Alexa L. (2003–2004)

Title: Dinosaurs Before Dark
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Setting: Frog Creek, Pennsylvania in the year 2000
Main Character: Jack is about 10 years old. Jack likes to read and write. He is kind and brave. Jack tries protect his sister Annie.
Conflict: Jack and Annie wished to go back in time when the dinosaurs were living. Their wish came true. They didn't know how to get back.
Opinion: My favorite part was when Jack found a medal. I liked this book because it was exciting. I would recommend this book to a friend.
Critique written by: Jay O. (2000-2001)

Title: The Disappearing Staircase Mystery (Boxcar Children)
Author: Gertrude Chandler
Setting: In a haunted house and other scary places
Main Character: The main character's name started with an "H". He was very nice. He never got into fights. "H" had a lot of friends and was old.
Conflict: The problem was that they had to find out if there was a ghost in the house.
Opinion: I really liked the book a lot. Mystery books are fun to read because you never know what will happen next. ***** I would like to change to part when the tree falls down and almost hits the playhouse where people were sleeping. That was pretty scary! ***** I think the book was easy to read. However, like all books, some parts of the story wwere a little bit harder to read for me. (words) ***** I chose the story because I love to read mystery books.
Critique written by: Travis O. (2001-2002)

Title:A Dog on Barkham Street
Author:M.S. Stolz
Setting:Train station, in Edward's school, and at a house
Main Character:The main character is a boy named Edward in the sixth grade. He has no siblings and is kind of small for his age.
Conflict:The problem is that Edward keeps on be bullied around by Martin, who is the eighth grade. Edward thinks he needs something to protect him.
Opinion:I like the book because it's exciting when Edward and his friend Ron got stuck in a train for a day. Also, I liked when Edward got a present from his uncle, which was a dog. The book is really tough to read because it had a lot (numerous) of new words, like chamoise. My favorite part of this book was when Edward got a gift from his uncle, which was Argess. I don't think the author wanted to teach us anything because most of the book was just fun.
Critique written by:Davis S. (2002-2003)

Title: Dolphins at Daybreak
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Setting: Took place at a coral reef in the ocean
Main Character: Jack is very adventurous. He is eight years old.
Conflict: Jack and Annie have to go to the ocean. They have to find a clam for Morgan to become master librarians.
Opinion: My favorite part of the book was when the octopus grabbed the submarine. Then the hammerhead shark went after the octopus. ***** The book was easy to read because the author used simple words. ***** The pictures helped me understand the story because it gave me a better idea of what was happening. ***** I chose this book because it was part of the Magic Tree House Series. Most of these books are great.
Critique written by: Zachary E. (2001-2002)

Title: Doug's Itchy Situation
Author: Jeffrey Nedelman
Setting: School
Main Character: Doug and Patti both lie about having chicken pox.
Conflict: They both had the chicken pox and couldn't go to the movie premiere.
Opinion: I liked this book because it's funny. I really liked Doug and Patti. I would definetly recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when Doug and Patti finally get to see Race Canyon 1-15 together.
Critique written by: Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title: Down the Mississippi
Author: Clyde Robert Bulla
Setting: River, farm, and grocery store
Main Character: The main character wants to be a riverman. He is 13 and always honest.
Conflict: The problem is that Simpson says that Erik is a bad luck boy.
Opinion: The way I felt about the book was that Erik likes to go out on adventures. He is very brave. I like Erik too! I like this book because it tells you to face your fears. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when Simpson fought Gunder.
Critique written by: Samson H. (2000-2001)

Title:Dragons Slayers' Academy 6: Sir Lancelot, Where Are You?
Author:K.H. McMullen
Setting:Spooky, strange forest, regular world, and a ballroom
Main Character:The main character is very intrepid, but scared of some things.
Conflict:The Questers can't save Sir Lancelot.
Opinion:This story is hard and easy to read because some words are big and some are very short. I chose this story because this book looked good and interesting. My favorite part is when Morgana cast a spell on Wiglaf but Wiglaf put Sir Lancelot's mirror in front of Morgana. Morgana turned to stone. I would change the words of all the spells and some of the names in the story. I would change the way they look also.
Critique written by:Louis M. (2002-2003)

Title:Dream Thief
Author:Tony Abbott
Setting:Spooky, Swamplands, cozy bed, peaceful forests.
Main Character:Eric is clumsy, nice, brave and magical.< br> Conflict:Jabbo is taking away dreams from the upper world and Droon.
Opinion:I liked this book because it had a lot of action, cool characters and magic. ***** The author taught me that even if you dream cool things and it comes true, it doesn’t mean the good things in the dream will happen too. ***** My favorite part of the book was when Eric fell through the palace floor, found Zara and then placed his magic stone where there was a gap. Then he saw a vision of his future. ***** I chose this story because it looked spooky, adventurous and magical.
Critique written by:June T. (2003–2004)

E

Title:"E" is for Elisa
Author:Johana Hurwitz
Setting:The settings are the kitchen, post office, library, and sidewalk.
Main Character:The main character is a girl. She is three years old with brown hair worn in a pony tail.
Conflict:Elisa left her dool, Airmail, at the library.
Opinion:I liked the book because it has many events. I would change Russell to be nicer to his sister. My favorite part of the book is when Elisa breaks the vase. I chose this book because I like all the series with Elisa and Russell. Russell is most like me because he is eight, yells at his sister, and has brown hair. The author taught me that it is nice to have an older sibling or a younger sibling because they can help you make things.
Critique written by:Michelle S. (2002-2003)

Title:Encyclopedia Brown Tracks Them Down
Author:Donald J. Sobol
Setting:Outside, in the house, and in the garage
Main Character:Encyclopedia is an 11 year old boy who solves mysteries. He is also the head of the Police Mysteries.
Conflict:Encyclopedia is faced with many problems. He has to solve them at the dinner table.
Opinion:I liked the book because I want to be a detective when I grow up. I also like trying to solve the mysteries in the story. ***** The book was not easy or hard to read because it was long. It also had lots of vocab words. ***** The character that was most like me was Encyclopedia because he solves mysteries. ***** My favorite part is when Encyclopedia outsmarts Bugs Meany. I also like when he finds the solution to the cases.
Critique written by:Matthew W. (2002-2003)

F

Title:Face-off Phoney
Author:Godon Korman
Setting:Cold, Icy, Snowy and Wet
Main Character:Chipmunk is a boy who likes to be a reporter. He is small and people don’t really notice him.
Conflict:There is a kid in the league that is too old. He is not allowed to play but he is.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was about hockey. I’m a die-heart hockey fan! That’s why I liked this book.***** My favorite part of the book is when Cal gets checked right into the glass. She gets checked by an older boy.***** I chose this book because I have read other books by Gordon Korman. His books are always adventures.***** Cal is most like me because she wants to keep going. She won’t give up.
Critique written by:T.J. S. (2003-2004)

Title:The Figure in the Shadows
Author:John Rellairs
Setting:The settings of this book are Lewis's house, his school, Rosa Rita's house, the dentist place, and the wishing well.
Main Character:The main character is Lewis. He is small for his age and is in the sixth grade. Lewis is very chubby.
Conflict:The problem in the story is that Lewis found his grandpa's lucky three-cent coin. Once he wore it, he felt as if someone was controlling him. Then one day, Lewis saw what looked like a skeleton that started to control Lewis.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was scary and wasn't so hard to read. It also had pictures and there weren't so many new vocabulary words. *****This book wasn't so hard to read because it didn't have hard words or parts that I didn't understand. This story was also easy because it wasn't too long. ***** I chose this story because it had a scary looking cover, and I like scary stories. ***** I think Lewis is mostly like me because he is the youngest in his family, is sort of short, and keeps something which he thinks makes him lucky.
Critique written by:David S. (2002-2003)

Title: The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas
Author: Ellen Miles
Setting: Viva Rock Vegas
Main Character: Gazzo is an alien. He is green but no one can see him. He has a hat and vest.
Conflict: Chip wants to marry Wilma. He wants to repay Big Rocko and Little Rocko and then dump Wilma.
Opinion: This book was the best book I personally read by myself. I would rate this book a perfect 10. I would recommend this book to a person who enjoys laughter.
Critique written by: Derek M. (2000-2001)

Title:Fourth Grade Rats
Author:Jerry Spinelli
Setting:The settings are in Suds' bathtub, the roof, Joey's room, Suds' room, and the lunchroom.
Main Character:The main character is in fourth grad, has curly hair, freckles, and brown hair.
Conflict:Suds' friend, Joey, is pushing Suds into being a fourth grade rat.
Opinion:I liked the book because it is very creative. I would want Joey to like Judy Billings because she likes him. This book is very easy to read because it is so interesting. I chose this story because my mom recommended it to me. Suds is most like me because he dosen't do what his friends tell him to do. My favorite part of the book is when a hornet stings Joey. I don't understand why Suds' little brother is named Bubba.
Critique written by:Michelle S. (2002-2003)

Title:Frankenstein
Author:Mary Shelly
Setting:Victor’s lab in Germany, Europe, Russia and the Arctic.
Main Character:Frankenstein is a very bad monster. He is the ugly result of an experiment. He is made of dead body parts.< br> Conflict:Because Victor seeks infinite knowledge he creates a monster that is uncontrollable and mean. It destroys Victor’s family and friends. Therefore he searches for him to kill him.
Opinion:I liked this book because Victor Frankenstein created a new life for a dead man He took parts from a lot of dead people and gave him super human abilities. ***** I chose this book because the Great Illustrated Classics are my favorite series. I have read five books in the classic series. ***** My favorite part is when Victor makes his wonderful discovery. Maybe someday I’ll be a scientist and bring the dead to life!..
Critique written by:Dereck I. (2003–2004)

Title:Frankenstein Moved in on the Fourth Floor
Author:Elizabeth Levy
Setting:The apartment building.
Main Character:Sam and Robert are brothers that live with their mom in an apartment.
Conflict:Robert and Frank thought Mr. Frank was Frankenstein.
Opinion:I like this book because I like creatures.***** I choose the book because it looked scary.***** I think Robert is most like me because he is very curious.***** My favorite part of the book is when Mr. Frank took the earphones.
Critique written by:Mark F. (2003-2004)

Title:Frindle
Author:Andrew Clements
Setting:The setting are: Mrs. Granger's room, the library, Nick's room, and the principal's office.
Main Character:He has curly hair red hair, is ten, has freckles, has many ideas, has glases, and is curious.
Conflict:Almost everybody in the USA is using the word "frindle" instead of "pen". Mrs. Granger wants it to stop.
Opinion:Nick Allen is most like me because he has many ideas. I liked the book because it has very good pictures and is unique. My favorite part is when Nick gives Janet a pen and says, "Here's your frindle." I chose this story because my dad recommended it to me. Frindle was easy to read because it was so interesting. I don't understand why Mrs. Granger liked the word "frindle" the whole time, and acted like she was against it.
Critique written by:Michelle S. (2002-2003)

Title: Fudge-A-Mania
Author: Judy Blume
Setting: Maine- lots of trees and small houses. The story was in the summertime.
Main Character: Fudge thinks he can do everything. He doesn't give up and likes to play.
Conflict: One of Peter's friends came to Maine. Pete said, "There would probably be separating our houses from Sheila." They both didn't like her. When they got there, they lived in the same house.
Opinion: The thing I would change in this book would have to be: having Sheila, Fudge, and Peter getting along better at the end. ***** It was a very interesting novel. I really liked the story. It was so good, that I read all 150 pages in a few days. ***** This story was given to me by my mom's friend. She is a fourth grade teacher and said, "It was a very good story." ***** The character in the novel who is most like me is Peter. He likes adventures. He is an eight year old boy. He doesn't always believe what people tell him.
Critique written by: Zachary E. (2001-2002)

Title: Full House: Michelle April Fools
Author: Nina Alexander
Setting: At Michelle's house and school
Main Character: Michelle is a funny, nice girl in third grade. She likes to help around the house too!
Conflict: Michelle can't do any tricks to anyone.
Opinion: Michelle says it's going to be the best April Fool's Day ever! Michelle's sister, D.J., brought her a practical joke kit with awesome stuff. Michelle's friends think they're funny, but they never work!
Critique written by: Alice B. (2000-2001)

G

Title: George's Marvelous Medicine
Author: Roald Dahl
Setting: Geroge's house, the shed, and George's yard
Main Character: George was always surprised, happy, amazed, and funny.
Conflict: Whenever George's parents are out, his Grandma treats him badly. She calls him a twit. If he does not do what he is told, she will tell George's parents that he is aweful.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was very funny and imaginative. ***** The pictures helped me understand the book. Sometimes it would say, "then this", and it would show a picture of what it meant underneath. ***** I think the author did teach us something from the story. That was, if you're a horrible person, someone is going to teach you a horrible lesson! **** I chose this story because I read a lot of other Roald Dahl books and they were usually amazing.
Critique written by: Emma C. (2003-2004)

Title: Ghost in the Mirror
Author: R.L. Stine
Setting: In a house
Main Character:Jason was an athlete and liked video games. He was scared of ghosts.
Conflict: There is a monster in Jason's mirror.
Opinion: I enjoyed the book because it was scary and spooky. It was very funny and there was lots of monsters. Jason was allowed to make a handful of Oreos and Coke, bring it downstairs, play video games without permission. I wish I could do that at my house. Fred was smart and wasn't an athlete. He was one of my favorite characters.*****The book is easy to read because of the words. The words are pretty easy. Some words were hard like "demented" and "seldom", but most of them are easy. I used my Spelling Ace on "demented" and "seldom", so that I could understand those words. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.*****Jason is most like me. Jason likes to play video games and I do too. He is an athlete, and I play sports too. Jason has nightmares and I have bad dreams also. Jason and I both like to play catch.*****My favorite part of the book was when Fred's ghost tried to heave a car at Jason. Fred's ghost tried to heave the car at Jason because he wanted to kill the people in the car.
Critique written by: Michael E. (2001-2002)

Title:The Ghost Next Door
Author:R.L. Stine
Setting:On the street, her house/yard. Danny’s house, Harder’s Ice Cream Shop and Mr. Chestnutty’s house.
Main Character:Danny blends into the sun. Hannah likes cookie and cream ice cream. She also likes day glo-colored clothes.
Conflict:Hannah’s new neighbor Danny is very strange because he fell off a roof headfirst and landed on his feet without making a peep. Whenever Hannah looks away from him he disappears into thin air.
Opinion:I liked this book a lot. Even though I didn’t know what the black figure was, I found out it was Danny’s ghost. ***** This book was easy to read! I knew every single word in this book! ***** My favorite part was when Bill and Herb were throwing the ball when Hannah’s mom was cooking eggs. The ball flew inches away from the eggs. ***** R.L. Stine taught me that if someone is acting weird maybe you are the strange one.
Critique written by:Amber P. (2003–2004)

Title:The Ghost of Windy Hill
Author:Clyde Robert Bulla
Setting:City-Like. Crowded. Open air, lots of space and it’s on a hill.
Main Character:Lorna is funny, friendly, caring and is a girl.
Conflict:Mr. Giddings thinks a ghost is living at Windy Hill.
Opinion:This book was easy to read because there were a lot of easy words. It was also easy to reads because it was hard to put down.***** I chose this story because I like ghosts and mysteries. I also chose this book because it looked interesting.***** I learned that looks can be deceiving and that when a curtain is blowing and the moon is shining on it, it looks like a ghost.***** I liked this book because it was a mystery and you couldn’t guess what comes next.
Critique written by:June T. (2003-2004)

Title: Ghost Town at Sundown
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Setting: Outside in the town called Ghost Town at Sundown
Main Character: Jack and Annie are very smart. They are great characters because they solve great mysteries.
Conflict: They had to figure out the question that Morgan gave them.
Opinion: I really liked this book because it's a mystery book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries. My favorite part of the book is when they went to Morgan's treehouse and Morgan said,"I'll give you a riddle and you have to solve it. Then I'll tell you the place that you'll find the mystery." Then the treehouse spun faster and faster until they got to Ghost Town. This book was a very good story!
Critique written by: Alice B. (2000-2001)

Title: Ghosts Don't Eat Potato Chips
Author: Debbie Dadey and Thornton Jones
Setting: Eddie's grandmother's house
Main Character: Eddie is a third grader. His eyes are brown and his hair is wavy.
Conflict: Eddie and his friends try to find out who the ghost is.
Opinion: This book is easy and hard to read. It's because there are words that are harder than others. When I think the chapter is interesting, it makes it a lot easier to read. ***** I chose this book because on the cover of the book there was a ghost. There were not a lot of chapters in the book. I also chose this book because I read other Bailey School Kid's books. ***** I liked the book because some parts were funny. I got to learn some words that were hard. I also liked the book because it is a mystery book. There are words that are funny to me like "ghostly footsteps". ***** The author did teach me something. She taught me that are no such things as ghosts. In the story, Howie saw a ghost in the attic. Then they found out that it was just Uncle Jasper.
Critique written by: J.T. M. (2001-2002)

Title:Giants Don’t Go Snowboarding
Author:Debbie Padeu and Marcia Thornton
Setting:Liza’s house and the Golden Egg Ski Lodge.
Main Character:Hugh is tall, nice, loud and funny.
Conflict:Jack is hiding something from Liza, Eddie, Melody and Howie. They need to find out what it is.
Opinion:I liked Giants Don’t Go Snowboarding because I love snow. ***** This book was full of adventures in the snow such as snowboarding and sleigh riding. There were many pictures in this book. ***** They helped me to see what the characters looked like. They also helped me picture the settings of the story. ***** This book is easy to read because the vocabulary is not difficult and the book is short. I also thought the story was easy to read because it was funny and exciting. ***** I chose this story because the cover had snow on it and winter is coming. ***** I wanted to read a story of adventures in the snow.
Critique written by:Ashley B. (2003–2004)

Title: Godzilla Invades America
Author: Scott Ciencin
Setting: In a school
Main Character: Tomo was smart and nice. He was very brave.
Conflict: Godzilla was awoken because giant insects were created.
Opinion: I enjoyed Godzilla Invades America a lot. My favorite part of the book is when the giant ants shrunk and Tomo couldn't find them. The book was so cool and had a lot of action. Some of the words were hard, but most of them were easy.
I chose the story because I was wandering around in the book store and this book caught my eye. I read a few chapters and I really loved it. I asked my dad if I could buy it. I read it on the ride home.
Tomo is most like me because he has a lot of fortitude. He has an older brother and older sister that beat him up all the time. We both stand-up for friends.
The pictures helped me understand the story because sometimes I couldn't understand sentences. For example, "Evacuate the area." The pictures helped me see what the scene looked like. But there weren't many pictures, anyway.
Critique written by: Michael E. (2001-2002)

Title:Good Morning Gorillas
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:In an African rain forest.
Main Character:Annie is the one who likes to have fun. Jack is the one who is smart and does not take chances.
Conflict:The problem is that Jack and Annie can't find out the rhyme.
Opinion:I did like this book because it has lots of action. If I could, I would change the names of the characters in the book. Annie is most like me because she is the type who likes to go outside and have fun. My favorite part was when Annie followed Ho-Ho up the tree. As Ho Ho climbed higher so did Annie. When Ho Ho got to the top, he took a vine and swang down. When Annie got to the top, she was getting ready to swing but Jack said its too dangerous. She did it anyway and hurt her arm.
Critique written by:Randi P (2002-2003)

Title:Goosebumps: Welcome to Dead House
Author:R.L. Stine
Setting:Dead house, and the cemetary
Main Character:Amanda is nice, caring, helpful, and twelve years old.
Conflict:The problem was that Amanda was seeing people in her house and wanted to know who they were.
Opinion:I liked Welcome to Dead House because it had creative characters. I especially liked the ghosts. The book is interesting because it is a mystery. The book is hard to read. It is long and has small print. There are many difficult words. The story takes longer to read than the average book. I chose Welcome to Dead House because it was around Halloween and I wanted to read something spooky. I also chose this book because it had a haunted house in it. My favorite part of the story takes place at the end of the story.
Critique written by:Ashley B (2003-2004)

H

Title: Happy Birthday Molly!
Author: Valerie Tripp
Setting: At Molly's house in a suburban area
Main Character:Molly has long, brown, braided hair. She is kind to everyone, except Rickey.
Conflict: Molly and Emily start a fight at Molly's birthday party.
Opinion: It was sad in the middle but happy in the beginning and end. I think the book was really good. Molly is my favorite American girl. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when they got puppies.
Critique written by: Beth I. (2000-2001)

Title:The Happy Yellow Car
Author:Polly Horvath
Setting:Betty's school, Aunt Lolly's house, Betty's house, Uncle Willy and Herman's farm, and downtown
Main Character:Betty is about 10 years old. She has two brothers, (one older and one younger) and an older sister named Gretal. Her brothers' names are Garth and Grant.
Conflict:Betty was chosen to be a contestant to be Pork-Fry Queen. But her family dosen't have enough money to buy flowers to give to the school and you have to buy flowers in order to become Pork-Fry Queen.
Opinion:In the story, Betty's family dosen't find any money for Betty to become Pork-Fry Queen. I would change that so that her family does find money. ***** I decided to choose this book because I liked the cover and my mom recommended it. ***** I think Garth is most like me since he's a boy, he is about my age, and is the youngest kid in his family. ***** My favorite part of this book is when Garth plays in the dirt and starts rolling his toy cars over some dead bugs.
Critique written by:David S. (2002-2003)

Title:The Hardy Boys: The Apeman’s Secret
Author:Franklin W. Dixon
Setting:Hardy’s Backyard
Main Character:Frank and Joe are two young sleuths. They solve mysteries to help people.
Conflict:Sue Linwood goes missing. A comic book character’s double, the Ape-man destroys property in half of New York City.
Opinion:I liked this book because there was a lot of fast-action and close calls for the Hardy Boys. One time someone stuck a firecracker up the exhaust pipe of the their car. It blew up! ***** This book was a little harder to read because of the vocabulary. Sometimes I had to look up words in the dictionary. ***** I choose this book because I thought it would be challenging. I wanted to read something more advanced. ***** My favorite part was when the Hardy Boys got ambushed and were thrown over the side of Noah’s House Boat. There were alligators in the water so Frank and Joe had to swim for their lives.
Critique written by:Dereck I. (2003-2004)

Title: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Author: J.K. Rowling
Setting: Chamber of Secrets and Hogwarts School
Main Character: Harry is a brave, kind, helping 12 year old with jet black hair.
Conflict: Ron's younger sister, Ginny, is lost in the Chamber of Secrets.
Opinion: I felt scared at the beginning. I got more scared at the end. I liked the book because it was very exciting. I would definetly recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when Harry was in the Chamber of Secrets.
Critique written by: Demetra S. (2000-2001)

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: J.K. Rowling
Setting: In a school that is in a secret place in England.
Main Character: Harry is 11 years old. He is kind, respectful, brave, wears glasses, and has messy hair.
Conflict: Voldemort, a very evil person, kills Harry's family.
Opinion: The book was very exciting. It had so much magic. It was veyr interesting. I loved the book so much that I didn't want to stop! I always wanted to know what happened next! I would definetly recommend the book to a friend. My favorite part was the ending.
Critique written by: Demetra S. (2000-2001)

Title: The Haunted Hotel
Author: Ron Roy
Setting: Shangrila Hotel
Main Character: He was a scardy cat.
Conflict: There was a ghost haunting the hotel.
Opinion: I chose this story becuase I like A to Z Mysteries. Also, when I read the title of this book, I thought that it would be good because I love scary books. ***** The pictures helped me a little but there weren't alot of them. So it didn't pay off so good. ***** I think Josh is most like me because he acts like he knows everything. He always gets scared. I'm the same way. ***** The author used the story to tell me to never start blaming someone for something that you don't know they did.
Critique written by: Andrew S. (2001-2002)

Title:Henry and Ribsy
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:One scene was windy and cold at a lake. All the other settings were sunny and warm.
Main Character:Henry has brown hair. He is short.
Conflict:Henry was told to go fishing. He had to keep Ribsy out of trouble.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was funny. I chose the story because when I read the back of the book it looked like it would be fun to read. I read the first chapter and part of the second. I liked it. So I chose it. My favorite part of the book is when Henry has a bad haircut. Henry's mom tells Henry's friends' moms about the haircut. So Henry's friends' moms cut Henry's friends' hair. One of Henry's friends got bald on one side. The author's message was it takes a big responsibility to take care of one thing and a big responsibility to take care of another.
Critique written by:Bobby Z. (2002-2003)

Title:The Hideout
Author:Peg Kehret
Setting:Seattle Mall and Chicago.
Main Character:Jeremy: Has no parents. They died. He is alone. He is only thirteen. He is brave.
Conflict:Jeremy tries to go to Chicago but the train crashes.
Opinion:Yes I liked this book because it had lots of action and it was funny. ***** This book was hard to read because it had no pictures and the words very small. ***** My Favorite character was Jeremy because he was the main character and he did most of the action. ***** My favorite part of the book was when Jeremy got out of the train wreck and found a cabin and slept in it for approximately one month to two months. He read there, he ate there he even hunted there.
Critique written by: John J. (2003-2004)

Title: Hit and Run Retriever
Author: Emily Costello
Setting: School, home, and clinic
Main Character: Stella had black hair. She was nice and loved animals. Stella liked to spend time fixing animals with her Aunt Anya.
Conflict: Stella was always late for school. Rufus, her puppy, needed another dog to keep him company.
Opinion: I felt both sad and happy about the book. I really liked the book! I would recommend it to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when the golden retriever got adopted.
Critique written by: Beth I. (2000-2001)

Title:Holes
Author:Louis Sachar
Setting:Camp Green Lake and The Mountain.
Main Character:The main character is brave, overweight, works hard, is mostly very thirsty, is sometimes blames for things he did not do.
Conflict:Stanley is in court. They think he is guilty! He has two choices, 1. Go to jail or 2. Go to Camp Green Lake. Now Stanley must discover his future in Camp Green Lake.
Opinion:This book is easy to read because many words are familiar to me.***** I chose this book because I heard that it was good movie. I wanted to read the book first so when I did see the movie I could compare them.***** I liked the book because when I saw all the characters names I laughed liked crazy!***** My favorite part of the book is the when The Warder touched Mr. Sir with the wet rattle snake venom nail polish and Mr. Sir screamed.
Critique written by:Emma C. (2003-2004)

Title:Horrible Harry and the Deadly Fish Tank.
Author:Suzy Kline
Setting:The Classroom 2B and the Lunchroom.
Main Character:Harry wears a suite and tie. He is very careless. He has very white teeth.
Conflict:Someone changed the temperature of the fish tank and one fish died.
Opinion:I liked the book because it had my name in it.***** The book is easy to read because it only has 9 pages in it.***** I like Horrible Harry books.***** My favorite part of the book is when Horrible Harry put ice down Sidney’s back on Friday.
Critique written by:Mark F. (2003-2004)

Title: Horrible Harry and the Drop of Doom
Author: Suzy Kline
Setting: Lots of rides, games, and food.
Main Character: Harry gets scared a lot. Sometimes he does crazy things.
Conflict: Harry was scared of elevators.
Opinion: I like the book because I get scared of elevators sometimes. The pictures helped by telling what the characters were doing. I would change the part (in the story) when Harry got scared to go on the Drop of Doom. The book also had easy words to read.
Critique written by: Danielle V. (2001-2002)

Title:Horrible Harry and the Kickball Wedding
Author:Suzy Kline
Setting:It took place on a school playground.
Main Character:Sung Lee and Harry are friends in second grade.
Conflict:Harry and Sung Lee were to be married too early.
Opinion:The pictures in the story helped me see the actions. This helped me understand the story. ***** If I could change a part of the story it would be that Harry and Song Lee did not have to get married. They would just play kickball instead. ***** I chose this story because I like kickball a lot. ***** The character that is most like me is Harry because we both like to play sports.
Critique written by:Evan G. (2002-2003)

Title:Horrible Harry and the Purple People
Author:Suzy Kline
Setting:There are a lot of purple people in the room and they're trying to find out why.
Main Character:Harry is the main character because he is the one that created the purple people.
Conflict:Mary dosen't think purple people exist. Harry tried to convince Mary that they do.
Opinion:I really enjoyed reading Horrible Harry and the Purple People very much. It was like a mystery wondering whether the Purple People were real little creatures. They seemed like a part of Harry's imagination. The pictures in the book were great because I could see the expressions on Harry and his friends' faces. I could see the different situations that were taking place. I chose this story for my critique because it looked like an exciting book. It kept me guessing. I hope my friends will read this too! I think the author reminded me to be creative and to use my imagination.
Critique written by:Jennifer J. (2002-2003)

Title: The Horse in the Attic
Author: Eleanor Clymer
Setting: Urban and rural
Main Character: Caroline is nice, interested in things, likes horses, and is nice.
Conflict: Caroline finds a picture of a horse in her attic. It is all messed up.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was about a horse. The pictures did not help me understand the story because there weren't many. I would change the part where Caroline was crying after losing her horse picture. There were some big and small words in the story. I chose this story because it was about a horse.
Critique written by: Kelsey T. (2001-2002)

Title: Hot Fudge Hero
Author: Pat Brisson
Setting: Bertie's house, bowling alley
Main Character: Bertie is in grade school.
Conflict: Bertie's ball goes into Mr. Muckleberg's yard, who is supposedly mean.
Opinion: I did not like the book that much. It was not very interesting. No, I would not recommend it to a friend. My favorite part was when Stan came over with a magic hat.
Critique written by: Andrew P. (2000-2001)

Title: How to Kill a Monster
Author: R.L. Stine
Setting: In Grandma's house and in a car.
Main Character: The main character is smart, grumpy, angry, and pretty.
Conflict: There's a monster in the house and they are locked in.
Opinion: The book was easy because there were not that many words on each page. ***** I like Clark because he gets scared easily, and I do too. ***** My favorite part of the book was when the monster broke open the door. ***** I chose this book because the monster on the cover looked neat.
Critique written by: Andrew S. (2001-2002)

Title:Howliday Inn
Author:James Howe
Setting:The setting was in Chateu Bow-Wow. It was wet, big, and dark.
Main Character:The main character was big, hairy, shy, smart, and independent.
Conflict:Louisie and Chester were stolen. They were stolen when Harrison took them to his house.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was like a mystery. I like mystery books because I always get excited. The story was hard to read because there were lots of words I couldn't define. I chose Howliday Inn because it sounded scary. My favorite part is when Howard and Heather have baby puppies. I also like that this book is challenging.
Critique written by:Molly S. (2002-2003)

Title: The Hundred Dresses
Author: Eleanor Estes
Setting: School, and on the streets.
Main Character: Wanda is silent and doesn't do much. She sits in the back of the classroom. She is a Polish immigrant.
Conflict: Wanda said "I have a hundred dresses all lined up in my closet." Peggy keeps on teasing her because she doesn't believe Wanda.
Opinion: I liked the book because it teaches you that no one should be left out. I also liked it because the book talks about dresses, and I like dresses! ***** The Hundred Dresses is a little hard because there were some big words. I had to use a dictionary to find out what the words meant. ***** I am like Peggy because she always asks questions. Peggy is a fashion girl and popular, and so am I. ***** My favorite part was when Wanda told Peggy and Maddie that she has a hundred dresses.
Critique written by: Natalie L. (2001-2002)

Title:Huskey in a Hut
Author:Ben M. Baglio
Setting:Cold, snowy, winter a lot of trees.
Main Character:Pani is an active girl that likes dogs.
Conflict:Two men are trying to hunt on illegal hunting ground. The lead dog gets hurt by getting attacked by a wolf.
Opinion:I did not like this book. It talked about caring and playing with dogs too much. I thought there would be more dog adventures like "Call of the Wild"”***** I chose this story because I was interested in dogs. From the cover it looked like it was about adventure.***** This book was easy to read. The words in the book were words that are used a lot in common sentences. There was also quiet a lot of pictures.***** My favorite part of the book is when Pani and Mandy find illegal papers. Then they get help. Last Tupilak gets arrested.
Critique written by:T.J. S. (2003-2004)

I

Title: I Was a Sixth Grade Alien
Author: Bruce Coville
Setting: School, Mikta-Makta-Mokta's room
Main Character: Tim has been waiting his whole life to meet an alien...and when it happens to him, they have fun with many adventures.
Conflict: Someone messed up Pekit's training modules.
Opinion: I thought it was the best book I ever read. I was very easy to get lost in it. I would highly recommend this book to someone. I likes it because it had a lot of action and adventurs.
Critique written by: Dylan M. (2000-2001)

Title:In Aunt Lucy’s Kitchen
Author:Cynthia Rylant
Setting:Kitchen, house, attic. The kitchen is big. The attic is wide and hot.
Main Character:Lilly, Rosie and Tess are the main characters. They have a cookie company.
Conflict:A cookie company seems the perfect way to make a little money, but it turns out to be much more.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was funny, it was interesting how the girls did stuff, and I like baking. ***** I think this book should have more chapters. This book was very easy to read because it had easy words in it and was an easy reader book. ***** I chose this book because I read another book from this collection and I liked it. ***** The three girls are like me because they like baking. Tess is like me because she likes music and so do I. ***** My favorite part of this book is when the girls come up with the cookie company.
Critique written by: Sajni D. (2003 - 2004)

Title:Indian in the Cupboard
Author:Lein Reid Banks
Setting:Outside in the early morning, inside Omri's house, in his school, and at Yums
Main Character:Little Bear is an Indian. He is a plastic figure that comes to life when Omri puts him in the cupboard. He is very at scalping. Little Bear has brown skin and black eyes. He is extremely thin.
Conflict:Omri is afraid of what will happen if Patrick makes a cowboy come to life.
Opinion:I liked this book because it had a lot of cool things. A plastic toy could come to life when you locked the cupboard. The Indian was brave when he went to down to get the key. I chose this book because the moview was really good. When I saw this book, I thought about the movie. It was going to be great. Omri is most like me because he got a skateboard for his birthday. He is also not very daring. He is fond of everything around him. He took the Indian outside to watch him like a T.V. show. My favorite part of the book is when the plastic figures come to life. It really is a magic cupboard. I think it was Grandma's cupboard if the key fit in it. She must had used numerous medicines.
Critique written by:Michelle Z. (2002-2003)

Title:Invasion of the Nose Pickers
Author:Gordan Korman
Setting:The cafeteria, Calhoun Gorge-NY, New Jersey, Great Lawn, Central Park, and Clearview Elementary School
Main Character:The main character has glasses, is not an ordinary boy. He picks his nose and is smart. He has a computer in his nose.
Conflict:The conflict is that Humongans are invading Earth.
Opinion:This book was easy to read because it had big letters. I chose this story because it was gonna be a funny story. My favorite part of the book is when Ra'at A. Tooey plays General Puton in a game. I would change the settings into other places besides New York and New Jersey.
Critique written by:James L. (2002-2003)

Title: The Invisible Dog
Author: Dick King-Smith
Setting: Janie's house
Main Character: Janie is 7 and loves dogs. She is an owner of an invisible dog.
Conflict: Janie did not have enough money to buy a pet dog.
Opinion: I liked this book because I like dogs. The one in this book is really big and I like big dogs. My favorite part was when Jamie went to a place and found the same dog she already had. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes dogs. If you like dogs, you better get this book and read it!
Critique written by: Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title: Is He a Girl?
Author: Louis Sachar
Setting: School, Lake Park
Main Character: The main character is Marvin. His best friends are Nick and Stuart. Marvin has red hair and likes to play football. He doesn't like his sister.
Conflict: Marvin kissed his elbow and started feeling and acting like a girl.
Opinion: I felt the book was very funny! It was one of the best books I read! I like it because a boy turns into a girl. I like the book because I like Marvin Redpost Books. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when Marvin wanted to play hopscotch.
Critique written by: Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title:The Island Of Adventure
Author:Enid Blyton
Setting:Cragy -Tops is very cold and lonely and the island of Gloom is very warm, creepy and lonely.
Main Character:Jack loves birds and is very enthusiastic. Philip is very funny. Dinah is very brave and Lucy-Ann is very scared.
Conflict:Jack, Philip, Dinah and Lucy-Ann want to get on to the Isle of Gloom and find the Great Auk( an extinct bird).
Opinion:The book is really hard to read! There are a lot of British words. One British word I encountered was Whilst.***** The book is kind of good. I choose it because the name of the book sounded good.***** There were lost of great parts in the book! My favorite part was when Philip heard a voice coming from a tree.***** There were no pictures. So obviously they couldn’t help me understand the story.
Critique written by:Conor R.(2003-2004)

Title: It Came From Beneath the Bed!
Author: James Howe
Setting: Pete's house is big, red, and has a lot of windows.
Main Character: Howie is cute, brown, and is a good writer for a dog.
Conflict: The problem was that Pete invented a formula and it got on his stuffed bear. The bear came to life, started to grow, and was very hungry. He escaped.
Opinion: I liked the book It Came from Beneath the Bed because it is a fantasy. One character named Howie is a puppy who keeps a journal. The would not happen in real life, so it was funny to read. There are pictures in the book that helped me see what was taking place. The pictures also helped me to see some of the characters. This book was easy to read because it is short with large print. The vocabulary was not difficult. I chose this story because the cover made me think the book was scary. I also chose it because I wanted to find out what characters the two dogs on the cover were. I would recommend this book.
Critique written by: Ashley B. (2003-2004)

J

Title: Jackie & Me
Author: Dan Gutman
Setting: 1947, Ebbets Field + 1990
Main Character: Joe had to go back in time to do a report on Jackie Robinson.
Conflict: Jack is black and his boss is white.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was a mystery and had baseball. The book was a fiction and nonfiction story put together. ***** There were no pictures in the book which I liked. So there are more words to read. When there are pictures in books, I don't pay any attention to them because it wastes my time. ***** I wouldn't change anything in this book because it was good enough the way it was. It had long enough chapters. ***** I think the book was both easy and hard to read. The beginning was easy and the ending was hard. It all depended on the number of "big" words.
Critique written by: Eric H. (2001-2002)

Title: The Jaguar's Jewel
Author: Ron Ray
Setting: Train station, office, The Panda Palace, little apartment, and restaurant.
Main Character: The main characters are Dink, Josh, and Ruth, who were brave. They are best friends and kids.
Conflict: The Jaguar Jewel was fake.
Opinion: I liked the book because I like mysteries. I read the Magic Treehouse series and the A to Z Mysteries are sort of alike. I liked the Magic Treehouse series, so I would like the A to Z Mysteries. ***** (If I could change a part of the story), I would change the place where the jewel is hidden. It is too easy to find. ***** I thought the book was easy because I read the Magic Treehouse series before, and they are all about the same level. ***** I chose this book because my mom to me to read it and because I wanted to find a new series.
Critique written by: Eric L. (2001-2002)

Title: Jenius the Amazing Guinea Pig
Author: Dick King-Smith
Setting: School, and Judy's backyard.
Main Character: Jenius is a guinea pig that is half his mother and half his father. He is also smart.
Conflict: Judy can't show anyone that Jenius is smart because no one believes her.
Opinion: I liked the book because Jenius can do tricks and his parents were funny. The book was easy because it is mostly like a second grade story. If I had to change something in Jenius The Amazing Guinea Pig, I would change the part when the cat tried to eat Jenius. I chose this book because I am an animal lover, and I thought the book was interesting.
Critique written by: Tiffany H. (2001-2002)

Title:Jigsaw Jones and the Case of the Disappearing Dinosaur.
Author:James Preller
Setting:The setting is in Bigs basement. The basement has toys in it.
Main Character:Jigsaw Jones is the main character and good at solving cases.
Conflict:Dinak did a magic trick that made Bigs’ favorite toy disappear.
Opinion:I like this book because it was a funny and interesting mystery. ***** This book was easy to read because it had pretty easy words in it. ***** The one thing I would change in this book is to make more chapters. ***** I choose this book because my friend said it was a good book and I like mysteries. ***** I think Jigsaw is most like me because he likes to solve mysteries and so do I. ***** My favorite part of this book was when Jigsaw found the toy dinosaur in Larry’s diaper.
Critique written by: Sajni D. (2003–2004)

Title:Jigsaw Jones Mystery: The Case of the Great Sled Race
Author:James Preller
Setting:In the winger before a big race
Main Character:Jigsaw Jones is a second grade detective. He is very smart and solves mysteries.
Conflict:Someone stole Big's sled a couple days before the race. If Bigs found the person who stole his sled he would be clobbered. Jigsaw would have to find the sled so no one would get hurt.
Opinion:I picked this story because it was very interesting. *****My favorite part was when Jigsaw and Bigs won the sled race. The book was good. *****Jigsaw is most like me because he is smart. He also likes winter and sledding. *****I would change the characters. Jigsaw's name would become Joe Jones and Milas' name would be Mary. There were too many names.
Critique written by:Evan G (2002-2003)

Title: Jigsaw Jones Mystery: The Case of the Stinky Science Project
Author: James Preller
Setting: At school and in the treehouse
Main Character: Jigsaw solves any mystery. He solves problems for a dollar a day. Mila too. Mila is a girl that helps Jigsaw with problems.
Conflict: Sally-Ann is a 4 year old. Bobby stole her ice cream money and she wants it back.
Opinion: I like this book because it kept me wanting to know what will happen next. I recommend this book to my brother because I think he would like it. This book was a great book! I think you would like it!
Critique written by: Alice B. (2000-2001)

Title: A Journey to the Center of the Earth
Author: Jules Verne
Setting: A volcano in Iceland that goes down to the center of the earth
Main Character: Harry is afraid to go on this quest. Harry is the nephew of Professor Hardwigg. He is interested in the earth.
Conflict: Harry does not want to go on the journey. He is afraid that he will get gobbled up by the unknown.
Opinion: I liked this book because it had many dangerous adventures in one. It took place in my favorite landform, a volcano. ***** The pictures did not help understand the story. The chapter titles did help. They helped me predict what was going to happen next. ***** I chose this book because the title seemed interesting. I am always fascinated by the center of the earth! I also love to read about journeys. ***** My favorite part happened on the 13th day of their journey. All the giant sea creatures attacked the explorer's raft. There were giant crocodiles and turtles. The crocodile's teeth were a foot long.
Critique written by: Dereck I. (2003-2004)

Title: Judy Moody Predicts the Future
Author: Megan McDonald
Setting: The setting was in school. The desks were close together.
Main Character: Judy Moody thinks she can tell the future. She predits Mr. Todd is in love with the crayon lady.
Conflict: Judy Moody is trying to figure out who Mr. Todd loves.
Opinion: I liked the book Judy Moody Predicts the Future because it was very interesting. It was funny and weird. This book was just a little hard to read because it had some hard words in it. I chose this story because my sister read it and said it was good. My favorite part is when Judy tells Mr. Todd to put an appleseed on his forehead and sing the alphabet until the seed falls off. The author is trying to teach us that no one can tell the future.
Critique written by: Sajni D. (2003-2004)

Title:Judy Moody Saves the World
Author:Megan McDonald
Setting:This story takes place at Judy's house and her school.
Main Character:Judy is in third grade. She is brave and confident.
Conflict:The problem in the story is that Judy's family, as well as her friends, dosen't take her seriously when she recycles. She is concerned about "saving the world".
Opinion:I liked reading this book very much. The characters had a sense of humor which made the book interesting and easy to read. I especially liked the main character, Judy, who showed courage and independence in wanting to accomplish a valuable deed.*****The book was easy to read because it was funny and the chapters were short. Each chapter was exciting to read, which motivated me to keep reading.***** I chose this story because the title of the book and the front cover caught my attention. Judy Moody looks like superwoman as she stands powerful holding a picture of the world, and wanting to save the planet.***** My favorite part of the book is the ending. I liked this part because everyone worked together towards an important environmental cause.
Critique written by:Jennifer J. (2002-2003)

Title:Juliet Fisher and the Foolproof Plan
Author:Natalie Honeycutt
Setting:big, a lot of rooms, has playgrounds
Main Character:Juliet has bangs, straight hair, no glasses, brown eyes, and is smart.
Conflict:There is this girl that dosen't like Juliet and is trying to put out traps.
Opinion:I chose this chapter book because when I saw it, it looked like a good story. *****This book was easy to read because the words were kind of small. But there were long chapters and it was a big book. *****Yes, I liked the book because it was funny. *****My favorite part of the story was when the bad girl set out her traps.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Title: Junie B., First Grader (at last!)
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: At school, home, and the bus
Main Character: Junie B. is very silly. She had brown hair and blue eyes.
Conflict: The problem is that Junie B. is getting glasses. She is scared because she thinks that everyone would laugh at her.
Opinion: I liked the book because I like how the author makes her books funny and tries to teach kids. ***** I think the book is for third grade. ***** I chose this book because my second grade teacher told me about it. so I went one night with my father to get it. ***** The author did teach me something. She taught me that its ok to be afraid to have glasses.
Critique written by: Alison G. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones and the Little Monkey Business
Author: Barbara Park
Main Character: Junie B. Jones is funny, impolite, and nosey.
Conflict: Junie B. Jones thought her brother was a monkey.
Opinion: I liked the book because Junie B. Jones was very funny. She was funny by saying funny words. One words she said is "runned". The pictures did not help (with understanding the story) because there were not a lot of them. There was a part of the boook were Junie B. went to the principal. I would change it because no one likes going there. I think the book is easy because I didn't have to read really big words.
Critique written by: Kelsey T. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones and the Meanie Jim's Birthday
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: School, home
Main Character: Junie B. Jones is in kindergarten. She is a little bad! She always gets into figths with Jim. Junie goes to the principal a lot!
Conflict: Jim said that he wasn't going to invite Junie B. Jones to his party. So, Junie got mad at him.
Opinion: I felt the book was funny! It was fun to read. This is one of the best book I ever read! I like Junie B. Jones books. I like the book because I like parties. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when Junie was poking on Jim's head.
Critique written by: Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title: Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentine
Author: Barbara Parks
Setting: warm, small, and has lots of grass
Main Character: Junie B. is funny, small, young, and not that smart.
Conflict: She gets a Valentine's Day card and doesn't know who it came from. It's signed "secret admirer".
Opinion: I liked the book because there was a little girl who was very funny. Some of the things she said was "runned" and "thinked". ***** The pictures did not help because there weren't many. ***** I chose the book becuase I knew that it was going to be funny. ***** I think Grace is most like me because we both run fast and we look alike.
Critique written by: Kelsey T. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: At the school, bus
Main Character: Junie B. Jones
Conflict: Junies B. Jones does not want to go on the bus. So she hides in the supply closet and gets locked in school.
Opinion: I felt the book was good because I like Junie B. Jones. She calls herself a good hider! She hides in the big supply closet. I would recommend this book to a friend! My favorite part of the book was when she got locked up. That was the funniest part! This was one of the best books I have ever read!
Critique written by: Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title: Junie B. Jones and the Yucky Blucky Fruitcake
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: School, her house, and the carnival
Main Character: Junie B. Jones is in Kindergarten. She get in a lot of trouble. She can't speak that well, but I think Junie is really funny!
Conflict: The problem is that Junie B. Jones couldn't win any games at the school carnival.
Opinion: I liked the book because it was funny. The book's humor made me want to keep reading and not put the book down. I liked the book so much I read the book twice. Junie B. Jones and the Yucky Blucky Fruitcake is easy to read because it is a children's book. Also, the narrator is a young girl and her speech is not well developed. Because of this, the words in the book are not hard to understand. I chose this book because I like the Junie B. Jones series. The books are funny and make me laugh. Barbara Park is one of my favorite authors. Barbara Park used the story to teach an important lesson. The lesson in the story is shown by Junie. She learns that winning a game is not the most important thing. What's important is how you play he game and having fun.
Critique written by: Natalie L. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones Has a Peep in Her Pocket
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: Junie's kindergarten, classroom, house, and the farm
Main Character: Junie B. Jones is a funny, little kindergartner who says some words wrong.
Conflict: The class is going a field trip at the end of the year. Junie does not want to go.
Opinion: I really enjoyed this book because it was very funny. Junie B. said all grown up words the wrong way. You are probably wondering... Junie B. is a five year old who gets into trouble a lot. There are different series. This series is about when Junie's class goes on a field trip to a farm. She does not want to go because she's afraid of ponies and roosters. I think this book is very good for third grade. I wouldn't change a thing.
Critique written by: Samantha I. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones is a Beauty Shop Guy
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: The Beauty Shop
Main Character: Junie B. wants to be a beauty shop guy.
Conflict: Junie B. cuts her hair and wears three hats to school. She talked with her teacher and told her what happened.
Opinion: I liked the book because it hooks you for a good reason. It was funny because Junie B. Jones blows her nose on a fluffy towel. The book is good because Junie B. makes up a new name-Pinkkey Gladis Gutsman.*****I understood the book perfectly well. This story was easy to understand because it had easy words like "nose". ***** If I had to change something it would be her friend. She is snotty, rude, and thinks she is so perfect. She thinks she looks the best!
Critique written by: Ashleigh M (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones is a Graduation Girl
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: Junie B. Jone's house and school
Main Character: Junie B. has brown hair, blue eyes, and is so funny. She is also six years old.
Conflict: The problem is that Junie B. used her graduation gown to clean up her grape juice mess. She was told to keep it in the box.
Opinion: I liked the book because Junie b. is so funny. The way she says things make me laugh. ***** The pictures helped me if there was a hard word. ***** I would not change anything about the story because it was very funny. When I read it, I laughed inside. ***** It was easy to read because it was enjoyable. I liked the story. ***** My favorite part was (the solution of the book). ***** This is what the story taught me: When someone tells you not open, do not open it. You should listen and do what the teacher tells you to do.
Critique written by: Alison G. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: It took place at the school.
Main Character: Junie B. Jones' hair is orange-redish. She likes to play games and skip. She has blue eyes.
Conflict: The problem is that Junie B. Jones lost her mittens and couldn't find them until the next day.
Opinion: The book was easy to read because it had simple words and was funny. The pictures helped me understand the story because they helped me with the words. The pictures told me what the word are. I chose this book because the cover looked like it would be a funny story. Junie B. Jones has a funny face. I liked the book because it was very funny and it was fun to read.
Critique written by: Dylan C. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones is Captain Field Day
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: School, home, playground
Main Character: Junie B. is cute and has brown hair with blue eyes. She is very loud.
Conflict: The proble, is when the events started, her team was losing. The other team had a strong boy that was very good and was winning all of the games.
Opinion: Yes, the author did teach me something. Barbara Park taught me it does not matter if you win or not. ***** I chose this book because I love the Junie B. Jones books and this book was funny. ***** I am most like Junie B. because we both have blue eyes. We both mean what we say. We both say what is on our minds. ***** My favorite part is when Junie B.'s class wins the last game and gives the cape to William. That was nice.
Critique written by: Alison G. (2001-2002)

Title: Junie B. Jones Smells Something Fishy
Author: Barbara Park
Setting: At her Grandpa's house and at school
Main Character: Junie B. is funny, silly, and has a weird accent.
Conflict: Junie B. did not know what to bring in for Pet Day.
Opinion: I chose this book because I read one Junie B. Jones book before. I really enjoyed the first one so I wanted to read another.*****I would change the fact that Junie B. always uses the word "cause"> This is not proper English and sounds like a farmer. The proper word is "because".*****I like the part when she plays with the dead fish, that she put in ice cube water. Her name is Sparkle. One time in the book Junie B. thought her grandmother stole Sparkle.*****I like the book because she is funny. She makes me laugh. So I think I might read another one of her books just for fun.
Critique written by: J.T. (2001-2002)

K

Title:Karen’s Brothers.
Author:Ann M. Martin
Setting:School, Dad’s House, Mom’s House
Main Character:Karen has blue eyes, blond hair, glasses, smart and nice.
Conflict:Karen’s problem was that brothers and friends that were boys thought girls couldn’t play football. So she got mad at them.
Opinion:I liked this book because it is a lot like my life. For example I fight with the boys on the playground because they don’t let girls play football with them. The book was interesting for me to read because I could relate to it.***** I chose the story for two reasons. First because my sister Samantha recommended it. Second, I liked the picture on the front cover and the description on the back cover.***** The character in the story that is most like me is Karen. Karen and I both think of ideas to make everybody happy. She is like me because she stands up for what she believes in.***** My favorite part of the story is when Karen and Ricky her friend make up after they fought over who could play football. It was a great ending.
Critique written by:Ashley B.(2003-2004)

Title:The Kidnapped King
Author:Ron Roy
Setting:The settings were Dink's room, the hotel, and the front yard.
Main Character:The main character's name is Sammi. He is from Costra. Sammi has black hair, and is also eight years old.
Conflict:The problem of the story is that Sammi's parents are kidnapped. Then Sammi comes to Green Lawn to be safe. Then Sammi gets kidnapped too.
Opinion:Why I like the book is because the book is very exciting and realistic. The pictures are very good. They help me with the book because now I know what the characters look like. The pictures don't have colors. Why I chose this book is because the cover look exciting. My favorite part of the story is when Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose try to find Sammi. That is my favorite part because they go to lots of places.
Critique written by:Michelle S. (2002-2003)

Title:King Arthur
Author:Marc Brown
Setting:Camelot Fair at Bear Lake
Main Character:Loving, caring, considerate, responsible and credible.
Conflict:The problem was that Arthur’s class was losing all the contests at the Middle Ages fair against the class of Glen brook Academy.
Opinion:I liked this book because there was lots of games. ***** The pictures helped me understand the story because the pictures were detailed. ***** I would change the contest challenges to have more specific rules. ***** The book was easy and a little hard because some of the words were hard and some were easy. ***** My favorite part is when Arthur pulls the sword from the stone and he wins the prize.
Critique written by: Vincent G. (2003–2004)

Title:Knight at Dawn
Author:Mary Pope Osborn
Setting:Magic Treehouse, the castle
Main Character:Annie, the one who likes to explore and Jack, the one with the brains
Conflict:They have to solve a riddle.
Opinion:The story was about two kids. Annie and Jack had to solve a riddle for a magic library. I think the book was great and wouldn't change a think about it. This book was definetly a third grade book because it has appropriate words for that grade. The character Annie is most like me because I like to explore too. I think that other kids would enjoy this book very much because it has things kids like to read about.
Critique written by:Samantha I (2001-2002)

L

Title:Laura's Pa
Author:Laura Ingalls Wilder
Setting:In the big woods of Wisconsin
Main Character:Pa has blue eyes, a long black beard. He is very strong and brave.
Conflict:The problem is when they had to make their house from scratch.
Opinion:I chose this book because I read Little House in the Big Woods. My mom also read it and bought it for my birthday. My favorite part was when Pa took Laura and Mary to the Creek. He said not to go in the water, but Laura said to Mary,"If I put my toe in, nothing would happen." When Pa turned his back, Laura almost put her toe in. Then Pa said, without looking, "If you girls want to go in just to your ankle." The story was easy to read because I already have another Laura Ingalls book.
Critique written by:Randi P (2002-2003)

Title:Lazy Lions, Lucky Lambs
Author:Patria Reilly Giff
Setting:The school
Main Character:Richard
Conflict:He jumped on a beast.
Opinion:I did like the book. It was weird. The pictures did help me from the way they were drawn. If I could change anything, it would be the characters. I picked this book because it looked fun.
Critique written by:Thomas M. (2001-2002)

Title:The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Author: Setting:The one-room schoolhouse was hot and stinky. The town of Sleepy Hollow was dark, spooky, and had very few people in it.
Main Character:Ichabod Crane is the main character. He loves to east although he is so skinny. He likes to go to spooky book gatherings and is terrified of the Headless Horseman!
Conflict:The problem is that Ichabod was terrified of the Headless-Horseman. He never wanted to get caught by him.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was spooky, odd and full of surprises! ***** This book was easy to read because it was short and from the beginning I like it a lot. ***** I chose this story because ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to read this book. My mom always said I was too little to read it. Now that, I am in 3rd grade, I knew I wasn’t little any more! ***** The character that was most like me was Katrina Vantassel because she was very talkative and she loved to sing.
Critique written by:Alexa L. (2003 - 2004)

Title:Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
Author:Gordon Korman
Setting:At school, Zoe's house, and in her backyard
Main Character:Zoe is a liar. She can make up a lie whenever she wants to.
Conflict:Zoe is lying a lot, but she isn't lying about having a nuclear toilet.
Opinion:The pictures helped me when I couldn't picture in my head what was going on. I would turn the page and see what was happening. In this book, I would change Zoe into a boy. I'd make him have a sister called Christina. I chose this book because I like Gordon Korman books. My favorite part of the story is when Zoe shows the pictures of the eagle and her thumb is in all of the pictures. This made the whole class laugh at her.
Critique written by:Daniel D. (2002-2003)

Title:Lions at Lunchtime
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:Outside and in the tree house
Main Character:The main characters are Jack and Annie. They are both 7 or 8 years old and like to travel the world.
Conflict:Jack and Annie have to solve a riddle.
Opinion:If I could change the book, it would be the part with Jack and Annie going to the plains. Instead they would got the planet, Mars. On the planet, Jack and Annie will meet aliens. ***** My favorite part of the story was when Jack and Annie got chased by a lion. I also liked when they fell into a forest. ***** I chose this story because I like Magic Tree House books. I also chose this because there was a lion on the cover. ***** The character that was just like me was Jack because he is smart. He is also like me because Jack studies a lot.
Critique written by:Matthew W. (2002-2003)

Title:Little House in the Big Woods
Author:Laura Ingalls Wilder
Setting:In the big woods and a log cabin.
Main Character:Laura has brown hair and eyes. She likes to climb trees and watch her dad work.
Conflict:Laura's family from spring to winter has to gather enough food for the year.
Opinion:I like this book because it showed you what they did for fun. How they they got their food and how they got their clothes. I chose this story because my mom read it. It also tells about the olden days. I have the next book in this series. The character I am most like is Laura because she liked to climb trees and play rough. My favorite part was when Charlie pretended he was hurt three times with Pa and Uncle in the field. Uncle Henry yelled at Charlie and he ran off. As he ran, he fell into the bee's nest. He screamed help and jumped up and down. However, Pa and Uncle Henry thought he was faking. A couple minutes later, he was still screaming and they ran over to him and helped.
Critique written by:Randi P. (2002-2003)

Title:The Little Prince
Author:Antoine De Saint-Exupery
Setting:Sahara Desert and Astroid B-112
Main Character:(It does not tell the main character's name.) He likes to draw. He is a prince and has golden-yellow hair. He never answers questions. The prince comes from Asteroid B-112.
Conflict:The prince has a small, weak friend on his planet. But the prince misses his friend when he flies to Earth.
Opinion:The book was not very good. It was so-so because it wasn't interesting or exciting. I would not recommend this book to a friend because it was a little boring. My favorite part was when the prince was meeting a fox.
Critique written by:Demetra S. (2000-2001)

Title:The Littles
Author:John Peterson
Setting:The setting is in the Bigs' house.
Main Character:The Littles are the size of your thumb. They're really funny.
Conflict:Rats are invading the Bigs' house.
Opinion:I liked this story because I like books that are made up. The pictures in this book didn't help me because there were no pictures. I would change the Littles into the Bigs and make them gigantic. There would be a boy named Tom. He would be the only person who knew about hem. I chose this story because my brother had read this and I thought it would be a good book. I liked Tommy the best because he was brave enough to shoot the rat with his bow and arrow. My favorite part is when the cat was chasing everybody.
Critique written by:Daniel D. (2002-2003)

M

Title:Marvin Redpost Alone in his Teacher's House.
Author:Louis Sachar
Setting:The teacher’s house is neat.
Main Character:Marvin likes dogs. Sometimes he gets scared. He is responsible and he does not like liver.
Conflict:Waldo will not eat anything.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was funny and interesting. ***** I would not change anything in this book because it was very good.. ***** This book was easy to read because I knew the words. ***** I choose this book because I read another Marvin Redpost book and it was funny. ***** My favorite part of the book is when everyone asks Marvin about his teacher’s house. ***** The author used this book to teach that don’t think it is always your fault. ***** I felt this book was interesting because Marvin was in his teacher’s house alone.
Critique written by:Sajni D. (2003–2004)

Title:Meet Samantha
Author:Susan S. Adler
Setting:It takes place in the front yard and in the house. The year is 1904.
Main Character:Samantha is a normal girl. She is nice and helps people. She is also rich.
Conflict:Samantha's best friend was leaving.
Opinion:I like the book becaue it has friendly characters and a very good ending. ***** The part of the book I would change is when Samantha's first best friend was going away at the end. ***** I chose this book because it looked like a very good book with good pictures.
Critique written by:Alison G. (2001-2002)

Title:The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
Author:Howard Pyle
Setting:One setting is huge and green. Another is small gray and crowded.
Main Character:Robin is smart, quick, funny has brown eyes, orange hair and an orange beard and mustache.
Conflict:Robin and hiss Merry Yeomen want to give all the poor people in England money.
Opinion:I loved this book! It had so much action! It seemed like every two pages there was action. ***** The pictures in the story helped me understand the story a lot! There was a picture on every other page! The pictures gave me an idea of what’s going on, what the characters look like and what the settings look like. ***** The story is set in the Middle Ages. I like the Middle Ages and Robin Hood. That’s how I picked the story. ***** The author did use the story to teach me something. He taught me that not all people think all outlaws are bad.
Critique written by:Conor R. (2003–2004)

Title:Midnight on the Moon
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:On the moon
Main Character:Annie loves adventures. She also likes the mouse, Peanut. Jack has very clear glasses. He is nine years old and likes to draw in his notebook.
Conflict:They have to find the fourth "M" to save Morgan.
Opinion:I like the book because it is about space. I rate it a "9" (out of 10). It would be a 10 if had more action. Mary Pope Osborne is my favorite author. That's why this is a good book.
Critique written by:Derek M. (2000-2001)

Title:Millie Cooper, 3B
Author:Charlotte Herman
Setting:Kitchen, classroom, Millie's room, hallway, outside
Main Character:The main character is very tall and skinny. She is a girl.
Conflict:The conflict of the story is that Millie drops her new pen down the drain.
Opinion:I liked the book because it had lots of action. The pictures help me understand the story because I want to know what the characters look like. The story is very easy to read because it is interesting. I chose this story because the cover looked interesting. Millie is most like me because she is a girl, has brown hair, and is in third grade. The moral of the story is not to buy something if you parents say "no".
Critique written by:Michelle S. (2002-2003)

Title:Molly's Surprise: A Christmas Story
Author:Valerie Trip
Setting:Molly's house and the church
Main Character:Molly had long braided hair. She was nice and sometimes playful. She was very smart.
Conflict:Their Grandma and Grandpa couldn't get their Christmas tree.
Opinion:I felt that it was a happy book. I really liked the book because it was about snow and Christmas. My favorite part was when they got presents!
Critique written by:Beth I. (2000-2001)

Title:Monster by Mistake!
Author:Mark Mayerson
Setting:A house that is haunted by a ghost.
Main Character:Warren has yellow hair, bug-eyes, and stuck-out ears. He also has a lot of allergies and is afraid of himself.
Conflict:Warren accidently turns into a monster when he says a spell.
Opinion:I liked Monster by Mistake because I like jewels and magic. This book has a spell book and a magic jewel. I also like books that have more boys than girls because that is like my family. The book was easy to read because in second grade I learned how to pronounce letters and blends. When two letters make one sound it is called a blend. I chose this story because it had 3-D graphics and had my favorite color, blue. It also had magical sprinkles on it. I also chose this story because it was funny, like me, was backwards. My favorite part is when Warren scares Billy. Billy runs half-way down the block. Then he trips and falls head-first into a garbage can. He then runs with it on his head. That part is very funny.
Critique written by:Michelle Z. (2002-2003)

Title:Mountain Bike Mania
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:Trails, Will's home, Gym
Main Character:Will is an action packed kid. He used to be a lackey. All he did was watch T.V. He joins a mountain biking club and has lots of fun.
Conflict:The mountain biking club is accidently messing up the trails. For a while, the mountain biking is banned.
Opinion:I thought the book was great. I liked it because it had a lot of action and I like biking too! I would grade it a 10! I would definetly recommend it to someone.
Critique written by:Dylan M. (2000-2001)

Title:Mr. Popper's Penguins
Author:Richard and Florence Atwater
Setting:Stillwater, Mammoth City, Seattle, and North Pole
Main Character:Mr. Popper is a nice man who cares a lot about penguins.
Conflict:Mr. Popper had too many penguins. Also, he could not pay his ibills. He needed to do something with the penguins.
Opinion:I liked the book because of the way the penguins acted up and had so much curiosity. I would totally recommend this to a friend. My favorite parts were when Mr. Popper went to jail with the penguins and when he went to the South Pole.
Critique written by:Andrew P. (2000-2001)

Title:Mrs. Claus Doesn’t Climb Telephone Poles
Author:Debbie Dadey
Setting:Snow covered trees, warm cozy restaurants.
Main Character:Eddy is annoying,, frustrating, sill and very mean.
Conflict:They cannot tell if Joy , the jolly telephone fixer is Mrs. Claus.
Opinion:This story taught me that just because someone may act and look like Mrs. Claus, doesn’t mean it is her. ***** My Favorite part was when Eddie, Melody, Liza and Howie went sledding down Dead Man Hill. ***** I choose this story because I liked the cover. I also picked this book because I like stories about Christmas. ***** This book was easy to read because there were short words. It was also easy to read because I read other books like this.
Critique written by:June T. (2003–2004)

Title:Mummies in the Morning
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:The story took place in the desert and the magic tree house.
Main Character:Annie is very kind gentle and sensitive.
Conflict:They were in the desert and wanted to get out but they did not know how to get out. They had to solve the first so they could get out.
Opinion:I like this book because it was about the desert. I like stories about the desert. ***** May favorite part was when Anne and Jack met the lost Queen. ***** I choose this book because I like reading Magic Tree House books. ***** This book is not so easy because it has some really hard words.
Critique written by:Ellie G. (2003–2004)

Title:My First Pony
Author:Tessa Krailing
Setting:A grassy area and wide open field. A place where there are stables.
Main Character:Harry has blond hair, likes ponies, and rides a lot.
Conflict:Harry does not have enough money to buy the pony named Misty.
Opinion:Yes, I liked the book because I like ponies, horses, and all kinds of animals. I also liked it because it was not too long. *****The book was easy to read but some of the words were hard. But most words in the story were short, and not hard to read. ***** I chose this My First Pony because I like stories about animals. I like to read about all kinds of animals and their lives. ***** My favorite part was when Harry gets the pony because Harry didn't have enough money. Then Clare just gave Harry the pony while Harry had to help her with chores.
Critique written by:Travis O. (2001-2002)

Title:My Fourth Grade Mess
Author:Cathy East Dubousk
Setting:The settings are at the school and Michelle’s House.
Main Character:The main character is Michelle. Michelle is nice, helpful and a good student.
Conflict:Mrs. Yoshida thinks Michelle cheated on a math test. Michelle knows who cheated. If she tells all the kids will call her a snitch; If she doesn’t they will think she’s a cheater.
Opinion:I liked my Fourth-Grade Mess. It was a cool book to read. The author used the story to teach you many things. One thing the author teaches you is that you should study and noB>Opinion:I liked my Fourth-Grade Mess. It was a cool book to read. The auth blame them.***** I chose this book for many reasons. I will be going into 4th grade next year so I thought it would be interesting to read before 4th grade. I also watch re-runs of full house and wanted to read about Michelle.***** I like Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen who play Michelle in the T.V. Show.***** My favorite part of this book is when Michelle and Jeff become friends again. I would definitely recommend this book.
Critique written by:Ashley B. (2003-2004)

Title:The Mysterious Caravan
Author:Franklin Dixon
Setting: Main Character:Frank has black hair and Joe has blond hair. Frank is one year older than Joe.
Conflict:The problem is the Hardy Boy’s dad is trying to solve a case where people steal tickets and Frank and Joe are trying to see if they can help. They find a mask on the beach and then people try to steal the mask and they want to catch the thief.
Opinion:I loved this book. It was packed with action and adventure! I loved the part when the jeep the Hardy Boys were using fell down a cliff.***** There are two main characters in the book, Frank and Joe Hardy. Franks seems most like me because he’s the older brother and comes up with all the ideas like me.***** This book is easy for me to read. It was easy because the story was so good that I just kept on reading.***** I chose this book because I love the Hardy Boys. Plus, it had Egypt included and I love Egypt!
Critique written by:Conor R. (2003-2004)

N

Title:The Newborn Pony
Author:Jeanne Betancourt
Setting:The stables
Main Character:The main characters are the ponies and Lulu. Lulu helps the pnoes mostly at the stables.
Conflict:The baby pony is really sick and everyone is trying to save it. It's name is Miracle. it also has a moon on its forehead.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was about horses. It was also very exciting. ***** I would change the part where the foal got sick and almost died. I wouldn't want to read that if it did. ***** I am most like LuLu because she helps horses. I am going to do that too! ***** The story taught me how to take care of horses and how a foal is born. It is interesting.
Critique written by:Tiffany H. (2001-2002)

Title:Night of the Ninjas
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:Frog Creek, the woods, Japan in the 17th century
Main Character:Jack is very careful. He has to watch over his little sister. Jack doesn't like to do dangerous stuff.
Conflict:They need to help their friend, Morgan.
Opinion:The book was okay. Well, the reason it was okay is because it wasn't that interesting. The story did not have that much to it. No, I would not recommend this book to a friend. I did not have a favorite part to Night of the Ninjas.
Critique written by:Andrew P. (2000-2001)

Title:No Such Thing as a Witch
Author:Ruth Chew
Setting:In a neighborhood and at a zoo.
Main Character:The main character (Nora) is a girl, who likes to find out things. She is the oldest in the family and is usually wise.
Conflict:Nora's dog lost one of her slippers.
Opinion:The way I felt about the book was that maybe living by a witch might be cool. I think the book is interesting. It tells you to not ask people for things you want. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when Nora talked to her dog.
Critique written by:Samson H. (2000-2001)

O

Title:Old Yeller
Author:Fred Gipson
Setting:The setting is in the late 1860's in the southwest. The land had plenty of grass, woods, water, and wild game.
Main Character:Old Yeller- a big dog with dingy, yellow, short hair.
Conflict:The big problem was that Old Yeller was bitten by a wild wolf that had rabies.
Opinion:I liked the book a lot. The story took place in the old West. I like reading about life in the old West. I also like dogs and horses. ***** I would change the part when Travis had to shoot Old Yeller. He loved Old Yeller. It was very sad when the dog had to die. ***** I chose the story because I also have the movie "Old Yeller"> I liked the movie a lot and wanted to read the book. ***** Travis is most like me because he likes dogs, wants a horse, and has the same name as me!
Critique written by:Travis O. (2001-2002)

Title:Oliver Twist
Author:Charles Dickens
Setting:A workhouse in London
Main Character:Oliver Twist is a poor orphan who seems destined for a life of misery and crime.
Conflict:Oliver is in a group of robbers and has to do what they say.
Opinion:I really did like the book a lot. But I didn't like the violent parts that are bloody and sick. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes crime. My favorite part of the book was when Oliver said, "Can I please have more?" Some gentleman said "More. He wants more." That was funny.
Critique written by:Samantha F. (2000-2001)

Title:One Small Dog
Author:Johanna Hurwitz
Setting:Curtis's house, park, playground, Dad's apartment
Main Character:Sammy is the main character. He was a black, funny dog. He was a part cocker spaniel and a part mutt. Sammy was 12 weeks old.
Conflict:The problem was that Sammy needed to be trained. He bit the whole family. Sammy jumped on furniture and ate sneakers.
Opinion:I picked this book because the dog is cute. Chewing the shoe reminded me of Buster, my old dog. The book is easy to read because there are small words. My favorite part is when Sammy stuck his head in the milk can. they had to call the firemen to cut the milk can off his head. It was funny. Sammy was like my dog Buster. He did the exact same things. The author used the story to teach us to think harder before getting a dog. A dog has to be trained and it takes time to do that.
Critique written by:Dylan C. (2001-2002)

P

Title:Pedal Power
Author:Judy Delton
Setting:Sunny, warm, and windy
Main Character:Roger is funny, brave, and greedy.
Conflict:Roger fell off his bike while going down a slide backwards.
Opinion:I like the book because it was fun to read. However, the pictures did not help because there were not a lot of them. I would change the part when Roger fell off his bike. I want to change that because I didn't like it at all. I think the story was easy to read because it doesn't have big words.
Critique written by:Kelsey T. (2001-2002)

Title:Pleasing the Ghost
Author:Sharon Creech
Setting:Two floored house, clean, new
Main Character:He is a scardy cat. He has black hair, blue eyes, smart, and a good tan.
Conflict:Uncle Arvie asks for three pleases but Dennis can't figure them out. A please is a step.
Opinion:I would change the book so that everybody could understand Uncle Arvie because he has a stroke and can't talk well. ***** I chose the book because I love ghosts. ***** My favorite part was when Aunt Julia has a friend over. The friend was very mean to Dennis and smelled like fish. ***** I think Dennis is most like me because he is brave and funny. He also likes solving mysteries.
Critique written by:Andrew S. (2001-2002)

Title:Pocahontas
Author:Gina Ingoglia
Setting:Forest
Main Character:John Smith is an English man. His people are looking for jewels in the forest. Pocahontas is a pretty Indian girl who lives in a forest.
Conflict:Pocahontas and John Smith's people are fighting against each other and John Smith is going to die.
Opinion:I felt that this book will teach you about history and all the exciting adventures you would have if you were an Indian or an Englishman. This book is a nice story about how people made pace to stop the war. I like this book because it will take you on an exciting adventure. I would recommend this book to a friend because it will give them information about the war against the Indians. My favorite part of the book is when they had peace.
Critique written by:Jyothi S. (2000-2001)

Title:Pok'emon: Island of the Giant Pok'emon
Author:Tracy West
Setting:Island, cruise
Main Character:Ash trains, catches, and trades pok'emon. When he gets older, he wants to be a pok'emon master.
Conflict:Ash and his friends get stuck on an island with their worst enemy, "Team Rocket."
Opinion:I like the book because I learned about pok'emon. Each pok'emon has different powers. I felt the book was good! I would recommend it to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when they got off the island by teamwork.
Critique written by:Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title:Pokemon Junor
Author:S.E. Heller
Setting:The settings were outside in the park.
Main Character:Ash is trying to be the best Pokemon Trainer in the world and he is going to every gym leader. Pikachu was his first and favorite Pokemon.
Conflict:Every time Team Rocket gets in their way, they try to steal Pikachu.
Opinion:I liked the book because it had a lot of information and was fun to read. ***** My favorite part was when Pikachu thunder-shocked team rocket and they sent team rocket blasting off again.***** The book was easy to read because it had easy words and the words were like, this, the word, pikachu, that’s why it was easy.***** I choose the story because it has a lot of information and I thought it was cool.***** My favorite part about the story was when Pikachu thunder shocked them and they said team rocket is blasting off again..
Critique written by:Raj P. (2003-2004)

Title:Pok'emon: The Johto Journeys
Author:Tracy West
Setting:In a town called New Bark Town
Main Character:The main character wears a red hat, has black hair, and loves pok'emon.
Conflict:Team Rocket steals a Totodile and a Bonohan. Ash has to get them back to the lab.
Opinion:The book was full of excitement. You never know what was going to happen next. There was a lot of fighting between pok'emon. The characters looked for new Pok'emon and that was exciting. Ash and his friends always explored, and I like exploring too. ***** If I didn't understand a word, I would look at the pictures. I think the pictures helped to tell the story. They showed some of the exciting action parts of the story. ***** I chose this story because I never read this book. I lik the Pok'emon characters. I think the most exciting character in the story was Todidile. He was also the funniest character. He bit on Jesse's hair. ***** My favorite part of this book was when Ash and his friends go to New Bark Town. They find a new bubble-looking Pok'emon. This Pok'emon was different from others because there was only one in the world.
Critique written by:Michael M. (2001-2002)

Title:The Princess Test
Author:Gail Carson Levine
Setting:Biddle Castle and Lorelei House
Main Character:Lorelei is an only child. When she was little she was very spoiled and got hurt easily. King Sam is the father of Lorelei. Trudy is the housekeeper of King Sam's house.
Conflict:Prince Nicholas wants to marry Lorelei but he can't because Lorelei's father is a blacksmith. A blacksmith's daughter in not a princess!
Opinion:I like this book because it is a fantasy about a girl who is very honest. The girl is honest by telling the truth all the time. This girl also helped people wo are not good. I have a feeling who are not good. I have a feeling that this book is like any other book. I would recommend this book toa friend because it will teach you a lesson. The lesson is always be careful of what you do. My favorite part of the book is when the girl go to marry the prince.
Critique written by:Jyothi S. (2000-2001)

Title:Pup at the Palace
Author:Ben M. Baglio
Setting:London- a place, Palace- a castle
Main Character:Mandy- smart, likes animals, has blond hair, has no glasses
Conflict:There is a puppy in London. Mandy and her other friends are trying to catch the puppy.
Opinion:My favorite part was when Casey and the other taxi driver got into a fight. She fell and hit her head on the ground. So her parents had to come save her. It was really exciting. ***** I chose this book because I like to collect and read Animal Ark books. ***** No, I did not like this book because it did not have much action. It wasn't so funny. ***** This story was easy to read because it did not have much challenging words.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Q

Title:Quarterback Exchange
Author:Gordan Korman
Setting:The attic, playground, and football field
Main Character:Nick is the main character. He is a humungus football fan and loves trying out new trick plays.
Conflict:Nick has to wear a very itchy, scratchy, moth-eaten, worn-out, old, sweater because that was the penalty for messing up the new trick play.
Opinion:I did like the book. I would grade it a "10 out of 10." I thought it was good because it had a lot of interesting adventures. I would definetly recommend the book to a friend. My favorite part was when John Elway and Nick switched places.
Critique written by:Dylan M. (2000-2001)

R

Title:Ramona and her Father
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:Has a t.v., rug, and windows.
Main Character:It's a girl in second grade. Her name is Ramona. She likes helping her family.
Conflict:Mr. Quimby loses his job and starts to smoke.
Opinion:Yes- I liked the book because Ramona tries to help her father, and wants to be a millionaire. There were not a lot of pictures in the story. However, I understood the story very well. I would like to change the last name of Ramona. I would like to change it to the Cweazys because the name Quimbys sound weird. The book was easy to read because the words were not that hard to sound out.
Critique written by:Ashleigh M. (2001-2002)

Title:Ramona and Her Mother
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:The big house is loud, warm, and wild.
Main Character:Beezus is calm, pretty, nice, and has brown hair.
Conflict:Beezus is always getting haircuts. She wants it cut at a beauty shop. Her family can't afford it though.
Opinion:The author used the story to teach me that you should be thankful for what you have, and not for what you could have. ***** My favorite part was when Ramona got a pixie haircut. She looked so cute. ***** (Part of the book) I would change Ramona into Beezus and Beezus into Ramona. I would do that because Ramona was always getting in trouble. So now Beezus would get in trouble. ***** I liked the book because I think the characters Beezus and Ramona are really funny.
Critique written by:Ashley F. (2001-2002)

Title:Ramona the Pest
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:The Quimby house, the Glenwood School, and Glenwood Playground
Main Character:Ramona has brown, short hair and everyone calls her a pest.
Conflict:Ramona thinks Mrs. Binny doesn't like her.
Opinion:I liked this story because the main character is a girl. I also liked it because I often get carried away because I love to read so much. (I only don't like certain history books.) The book was easy to read because I did not choose a story with so many challenging words. I also chose an author that uses easy words. I chose Ramona the Pest because I started reading it. Then my mom came in and said that it would be great for my second book critique. My favorite parts are: Ramona marching in the Halloween Parade, she loses a tooth, Ramona gets new boots and they get stuck in the mud, and when she makes cats out of "Q's".
Critique written by:Michelle Z. (2002-2003)

Title:Report to the Principals Office
Author:Jerry Spinelli
Setting:Noisy school, quiet houses lonely neighborhoods.
Main Character:Eddie is wimpy, shy, friendly and nice.
Conflict: Eddie goes to a new school where a girl named Sunny keeps bugging him.
Opinion:This book was easy to read because there were easy words. It was also easy because it was exciting. ***** My favorite part was when the hamster hid inside Eddie’s tuba. When Eddie blew the tuba the hamster came flying out and the teachers screamed! ***** I learned that if a new kid comes to school don’t tease him or her, because you might be the new kid one day. ***** I choose this story because it is special; my Grandpa got it for me.
Critique written by: June T.(2003–2004)

Title:The Revenge of the Wizard's Ghost
Author:John Bellairs
Setting:Hannah Dustan Hospital, Professor's house, Johnny's house, Byran's driveway
Main Character:Johnny lived in Duston Heights, Massachusetts. He has an evil ghost in him and has a lot of bad dreams. Johnny went to the hospital two times.
Conflict:The problem is that Johnny has a ghost in him.
Opinion:I thought the book was easy because it was very interesting for me to follow. I like suspense stories. ***** I would have more illustrations, so the book would interest more people to read. If every chapter had a picture, it would be easier to follow. ***** I chose this book because I like thrillers, and the cover of this book looks scary. The title tells me there is a ghost out for revenge. ***** My favorite part is when Johnny and his friend go to Science Camp. I like this part most because science is my favorite subject.
Critique written by:Michael C. (2002-2003)

Title:Revolutionary War on Wednesday
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:Outside and in the Tree House
Main Character:The main characters are Jack and Annie. They are kids who travel the world in a tree house.
Conflict:Jack and Annie have to find something to send.
Opinion:My favorite part of the book is when Jack and Annie are on George Washington's boat. I also like when Jack is spying on the Patriots. ***** I liked the book because it was about a war. I also liked it because it had my favorite general in it, George Washington. ***** I chose this story because it was a Magic Tree House book. I love those books. ***** The character that is most like me is Jack because he likes to take notes. He is also like me because he's almost the same age as me.
Critique written by:Matthew W. (2002-2003)

Title:Robin Hood
Author:Annie Ingle
Setting:The story takes place in Sherwood Forest. There's a lot of trees, water, and rocks.
Main Character:Robin Hood was good at hiding in the forest. He carried a bow and arrow. Robin was sneaky and brave. He was adventurous.
Conflict:The Sheriff of Sherwood was trying to get Robin Hood because he was stealing gold from the Sheriff's men. The gold was then given to the poor.
Opinion:The book was easy to read because I knew all the words.*****My favorite part of the story was when Little John pointed his bow and arrow at the Sheriff of Sherwood. Ten of the Sheriff's men captured Little John. Then Robin Hood rescued him.*****The pictures helped me understand the story because it gave me a better idea of what was going on and what the characters looked like.*****I like the book. It is very adventurous. I liked Robin Hood.
Critique written by:Zachary E. (2001-2002)

Title:Robinson Crusoe
Author:Daniel Defo
Setting:The setting is on an island in the middle of no-where.
Main Character:He is brave and tough. He is sometimes a little bit nice.
Conflict:Robinson Crusoe gets shipwrecked and stuck on an island with not a lot of food and river water.
Opinion:I did like the book. I liked it because it was filled with action, and I mean filled with action. It was also cool because it kept me entertained by not being boring. ***** It was hard to read because the words were small. It was also hard because it was probably for 4th or 5th grade because they use bigger words. ***** I choose this story because I like the cover. I also chose this book because I flipped through the pages and I wanted to challenge myself. ***** The last reason why I choose this book was because John Jesperson read a little bit and said I would like it.
Critique written by:William P. (2003–2004)

Title:Rosie Swanson: Fourth Grade Geek for President
Author:Barbara Park
Setting:School, Rosie's room, lunchroom, playground, well mostly everywhere
Main Character:Rosie Swanson- she's a funny girl that is in fourth grade. She wears glasses, has blond hair, and is weird.
Conflict:Rosie Swanson wants to be President for fourth grade. But, nobody likes her- only her two best friends- because her personality is weird.
Opinion:I chose this book because the picture on the front cover is attractive. When Rosie raised her hand up, that makes her look like a superhero. ***** My favorite part was when Judith called Rosie a loser because she only had 22 votes. ***** I think this book is in-between easy and hard because there are just about a coupld of vocab words on each page. ***** I like and dislike this book because it does not have much action in the beginning. But, at the end, it has action and it's funny.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Title:The Rugrat Files: The Quest for the Holey Pail
Author:Sarah Willson
Setting:Camelot, backyard, Morgan's Castle, terrible tower
Main Character:Tommy is very funny and brave.
Conflict:The people need the Grail. Morgan is the only person that knows how to get it.
Opinion:I like the book because there's spelling mistakes like "deedes", which is suppose to be "deeds". I would change the part where Morgan is giving deeds instead of Mordred because Morgan made them up. (Deeds are jobs.) The book was easy because it wasn't long and the words are pretty simple. I choce the book because it looked interesting and I like the Rugrats.
Critique written by:Eric L. (2001-2002)

Title:The Runaway Racehorse
Author:Ron Roy
Setting:The train, the house, the truck, the grandstand, and the barn
Main Character:It is a horse. It has brown and white colors. Its number is twenty-one.
Conflict:A racehorse is running away.
Opinion:I chose this story because mystery books are fun to read. I like this story because I like mysteries. This book was easy to read because it had easy words. My favorite part of The Runaway Racehorse is when Josh gets a ketchup stain on his shirt while Ruth, Rose, Pink, and Josh are on the train to Larchmont, New York. The thing I don't understand about the story is when Mr. Bunks does a shoe polish trick.
Critique written by:James L. (2002-2003)

S

Title:Sarah and the Naked Truth
Author:Elisa Carbone
Setting:School, home, and basketball practice
Main Character:Sarah is a tomboy. Everyone on the basketball team thinks she is a boy because she dresses like one.
Conflict:Olivia has a fake leg and only her friends and Mom knows. She promised her friends that she will wear shorts to school.
Opinion:I felt the book was interesting and fun to read! The book was about being best friends that care about each other and tell secrets to each other. They always do things together. I liked the book because it was about best friends. I would recommend this book toa friend. My favorite part of the book was when Olivia played soccer with her friends.
Critique written by:Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title:The Scarecrow Walks at Midnight
Author:R.L. Stine
Setting:A farm near a town where they plant lots of corn.
Main Character:Jodi: Gullible, tall, allergic to a lot of things.
Conflict:Scarecrows come to life by a spell cast by Stanley. They wake up at midnight and try to kill people.
Opinion:I like this book because it is scary. Scary book are page turners. ***** This book is a medium reading level book. It had a lot of pages but it was easy to read. ***** I chose this story because I have read “Goosebumps” before and I like the Goosebumps series. ***** My favorite part was when the scarecrow comes to life. It was awesome!
Critique written by:T.J. (2003–2004)

Title:Scooby-Doo and the Cyber Chase
Author:Jenny Markas
Setting:The lab
Main Character:Scooby has brown and black spots. He wears a blue collar. He also solves mysteries and likes to eat.
Conflict:Ther is a cyber monster that is destroying all the computers.
Opinion:This book was easy to read because I saw the movie a lot and they use the same words. They also have the same people and clothes. I did like this story because the mysteries and monsters are cool. I also liked the bad people and the legends. I also like the traps. I chose Scooby-Doo and the Cyber Chase because I love Scooby-Doo and am a fan. Also, it was really short. I am like Fred. Fred is very neat, brave, smart, and strong. He always traps the villian and makes the traps. He is also tall.
Critique written by:Jeffrey G. (2002-2003)

Title:Second Grade Friends
Author:Miram Cohen
Setting:School
Main Character:Jacob is funny, weird, amazing, brown haired, second grade lover of pizza.
Conflict:A real author is coming and Jacob's class is writing stories. Jacob just can't write!
Opinion:I liked this book. I would recommend it to people who have trouble writing. This book will give you confidence in yourself. I'd rate it a "10"!
Critique written by:Stephanie D. (2000-2001)

Title:Second Grade Strongman – Owen Foote
Author:Stephanie Greene
Setting:School, Owen’s house and Joseph’s house.
Main Character:Qwen is a second grade boy who is very giving.
Conflict:Owen did not like to get weighed by the nurse.
Opinion:I like this book because it was fun to read. ***** The pictures helped me to understand the story, because I saw the people in action and what they looked like. ***** The book was hard to read because of the words. ***** The author taught mw that strong character is better than strong body.
Critique written by:Mark F. (2003–2004)

Title:The Secret of the Indian
Author:Lynne Reid Banks
Setting:In a house
Main Character:He isn't athletic but intrepid. He brings plastic figures to life. His name is Omri.
Conflict:Patrick gets sent back in time. Patrick has Boone in his pocket when he wasn't suppose to.
Opinion:I like the book because the action was cool and the names are different from names in other books. For instance, Bright Stars and Little Bear were some names. An example for a cool action-packed part is when Patrick gets brought back home with a twister. ***** Omri is most like me because he is intrepid. Omri likes sugary food, so do I. Omri thinks little toy plastic figures are cool, exactly like me. Omri always plays with his best friend, I do too. ***** I chose this story because I read the Indian in the Cupboard, which this book is the sequel to. Also, my Grandma gave me ths sequel to this book, which is called The Mystery of The Cupboard ***** My favorite part of the book is when Patrick comes back home from Texas and brings a twister back.
Critique written by:Michael E. (2001-2002)

Title:The Secrets of Droon: The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet
Author:Tony Abbott
Setting:The book take place in an imaginary place called Droon and in a basement.
Main Character:The main character is smart, hyper, popular, likes action, and is good at math.
Conflict:Eric, Neal, and Julie lose their ball in a little room. When they open the door to the room, a colorful stairway appears. They decide to go down the stairs and get trapped in Droon.
Opinion:I liked the book and would definetly recommend it to a friend. I wanted to keep reading and didn't want to put the book down. The coolest part was when red warriors, called Ninns, came alive as Eric, Neal, and Julie walked down the secret stairway. I chose the book because the title sounded like a fun, interesting mystery. The character that was most like me was Eric because we was messy, liked to play sports, smart, and his best category is school was math. My favorite part of the story was when Neal ran into an invisible castle and got hurt badly.
Critique written by:Skyler (2002-2003)

Title:The Secrets of Droon: Journey to the Volcano Palace
Author:Tony Abbott
Setting:It took place in a large volano.
Main Character:The main character is smart, princess of Droon, and is gregarious.
Conflict:Lord Sparr stole the Eye of Dawn, a very powerful jewel. The four friends need to get it back.
Opinion:I liked the book and would recommend it to a friend because it was exciting. The most exciting part was when Princess Keeah and Eric found out that Lord Sparr was half-beast. ***** Galen is most like me because he is smart, lives in a big house, is really good at mathematics, and has a pet. **** My favorite part is when Eric couldn't control the Eye of Dawn, which blew everything up. ***** The author taught me to never take something that is not yours without asking, or something really bad can happen.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title:Serious Science
Author:Janice Lee Smith
Setting:Adam J.'s School
Main Character:Adam J. is an eight year old in third grade. He has one sister and a dog.
Conflict:Adam J. had big problems getting ready for the science fair.
Opinion:This is a good book because it is about science, and I like science. My favorite part of the book was when Mr. D brought in a skeleton. I would recommend this book to anybody who likes science.
Critique written by:Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title:Sheepdog in the Snow
Author:Ben M. Baglio
Setting:A farm in Montana
Main Character:Toby is a dog with black fur and white spots. He has four legs. Toby has brown eyes.
Conflict:The sheep got out of the barn and ran away.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was fun. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when they drove the snowmobile.
Critique written by:Matthew P. (2000-2001)

Title:The Shore Road Mystery
Author:Franklin W. Dixon
Setting:Near to the beach, Forest area.
Main Character:Frank has black hair and is 18. Joe has blond hair and is 17. Chet has lightly brown hair and is 18.
Conflict:Mystery of car robberies.
Opinion:Mt favorite part of the story is when a grenade gets thrown into their study room. This is my favorite part of the story because it got me very nervous. I thought this was exciting.***** I found this book easy to read. It was easy to read because most of the words were familiar and it was interesting. It was hard because some words were not familiar and the pages were long.***** The character most like me is Chet. He likes food and I like food. He is also funny. I think that I am funny.***** I like this book because it is a mystery. I like mysteries because most of them are page turners. The like the Hardy Boy’s Mysteries because Franklin W. Dixon makes the stories come to life.
Critique written by:T.J. S. (2003-2004)

Title:Simon and the Game of Chance
Author:Robert Burch
Setting:In Simon's house, their backyard, and at the market.
Main Character:Simon can't do what he wants. He never experiments and does a lot of work.
Conflict:Mom's baby dies in the hospital.
Opinion:I think I know how it feels to have a baby die. I understand how Simon feels too. I liked the book because everybody cares about each other. Yes, I would recommend this book a friend. My favorite part of the book was when they had a barbeque.
Critique written by:Samson H. (2000-2001)

Title:Skateboard Renegade
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:People can ride skateboards there.
Main Character:Zach is a boy who is good at skateboarding. He is athletic and nice.
Conflict:The problem is that Zach and his friend want to skateboard on the ramp. Zoey wants Zach to teach her how to skateboard.
Opinion:The book is easy to read because it has easy words. Also I am good at reading. I like reading a lot of books. ***** I chose this novel because I like the Matt Christopher series. I like sport books because I play soccer. ***** My favorite part of the story was when Sam knocks down a woman and baby at the park.
Critique written by:James L. (2002-2003)

Title:Skeletons Don't Play Tubas
Author:Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
Setting:Bailey School
Main Character:Eddie is skinny, has curly hair and brown eyes.
Conflict:The characters think a skeleton is alive.
Opinion:My favorite part is when they find out who was playing the tuba. *****I chose this book because the cover showed a skeleton on it. (I like skeletons.) I also wanted to read this story because I saw kids on the cover. ***** I think the book is easy and hard. This is because some words were harder than others. I think the word "twine" was hard. Once I got to know it, Skeletons Don't Play Tubas was easy. ***** I like the book because it had good drawings. I think the book was great and is more of a third grade story.
Critique written by:J.T. (2001-2002)

Title:The Snack Attack Mystery
Author:Elizabeth Levy
Setting:Playground, lunchroom, and classroom
Main Character:Chip is invisible because he fell into a strange pool.
Conflict:Somebody is stealing snacks.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was fun to read. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when the kindergartners were suspected (of stealing the snacks.)
Critique written by:Dylan M. (2000-2001)

Title:Snowboard Showdown
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:It took place at a school and a ski resort.
Main Character:Freddie is a great athlete, average student, and isn't nice to his brother, Dondi.
Conflict:Clarissa like Dondi, but Freddie also like Clarissa.
Opinion:I liked Snowboard Showdown because there was a lot of parts about snowboarding which I think is pretty cool. I also liked reading about the contest. ***** If I had to change anything in the story, I woundn't make Freddie and Dondi brothers. They fight all the time. If I did make them brothers, I wouldn't make them so mean to each other. ***** Eric is most like me because he is smart, got injured, and has a sister. ***** My favorite part was when Freddie got his shiny blue painted board, because I like new things.
Critique written by:Skyler R. (2002-2003)

Title:Soccer Duel
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:Soccer field, Renny's house, high school
Main Character:Renny Harding is a boy in high school. He is a good soccer player.
Conflict:The conflict is when Renny asks his coach if he can be center striker to help his team win the championship. But his coach did not allow him to play center striker.
Opinion:I liked the book because I like to play soccer. I like reading a lot of sports books. I chose this story because I like Matt Christopher series. They are illustrated sports for kids. My favorite part was when Reeny wins the big game. Renny's team gets the MVP trophy. The character in the book that is most like me is Turk Walters. He tries to trip Renny is the soccer games and makes a foul.
Critique written by:James L. (2002-2003)

Title:Socks
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:The main setting is at home.
Main Character:Socks is the main character because Socks is always talked about in the story.
Conflict:Socks seemed to get in a lot of trouble because of the lack of attention he got. There was a new baby in the house.
Opinion:I thought it wasn't a very good book. I think it has just a little too many pages and it didn't really hold my interest that well. ***** My opinion is that it was an easy story to read. It had simple words and an easy storyline to follow. ***** I chose the story because on the front cover it had a picture of a cat. I thought it would be a cute book to read. ***** I think the author did try to teach a lesson. (To have manners)
Critique written by:Taylor S. (2001-2002)

Title:Star Wars: The Legacy of the Jedi
Author:Jude Watson
Setting:Two places are crowded and huge, and another is cold, green and small.
Main Character:Lorain Nod is nice, friendly and fast and Count Dokoo is evil, smart and fast.
Conflict:Count Dakoo and Lorian Nod were friends but now Count Dokoo wants to kill Lorian.
Opinion:The book was really good. It had a lot of action, adventure and fighting. ***** The book was easy to read. It is easy vocabulary. It was so exciting, you just had to keep reading. ***** I normally like reading Star Wars books. Well, that’s how I chose this book. ***** I did understand the book, but there were no pictures, so they didn’t help.
Critique written by:Conor R. (2003 - 2004)

Title:Stay Out Of The Basement
Author:R.L. Stine
Setting:Dr. Brewer’s Basement. The Brewer’s house and back yard. Diane’s house.
Main Character:The main character is brave and smart.
Conflict:The problem is that Dr. Brewer’s clone is pretending he’s Dr. Brewer and the real Dr. Brewer is tied in the supply closet.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was spooky. I like spooky stories. I couldn’t put it down because it was so exciting***** My favorite part was when the real Dr. Brewer chopped the clone Dr. Brewer in half. This ending was a great ending for this book.***** This book was easy to read because I read other books like this and they use the same words.***** Margaret is most like me because she is curious, smart and is brave like me. She has good ideas like me too.
Critique written by:June T. (2003-2004)

Title:Stormy, Misty’s Foal
Author:Margurite Henry
Setting:Rural areas open plains, small closed in house.
Main Character:Misty is curious, friendly, caring. Funny and high spirited.
Conflict:Misty keeps postponing her birth.
Opinion:This book taught me to be patient and also to let go of something’s in life. ***** I chose this story because I like horses. I also chose this book because I liked the cover and the author. ***** My favorite part is when Misty’s foal is born and Stormy keeps falling down. I also liked when Misty keeps licking Stormy. ***** It was easy to read because it was exciting and it was about horses.
Critique written by:

Title:Strider
Author:Beverly Cleary
Setting:Leigh't house, Geneva's Bed and Breakfast, Lover's Point, and the beach.
Main Character:The main character is a 12 year-old boy named Leigh. He has a mother and a father that got divorced and he has no siblings. His best friend is Barry. Leigh has a pet dog named Strider. Leigh also likes running.
Conflict:The problems in this book are that Leigh like a girl named Geneva, but she thinks Leigh is weird. Also, if Mrs. Smerling sees Strider making the house messy, Leigh will lose Strider and Leigh won't get custody of Strider with Barry). Barry is angry because they agreed they would do joint custody and Barry likes Strider.
Opinion:The book was sort of hard to read because it had a lot of new words. If was also harder because it was longer than most other books. The pictures helped me understand the book because sometimes there would be words I didn't know. When I saw the pictures, I would almost understand what the author was saying. If I had to change a part in the book, it would be when Leigh got third place in the second race he had for track. It was an important race, so I would change it to Leigh getting first place. I chose this story because I like books from the author Beverly Cleary- particulary the Ramona series I read in second grade. My mom recommended it too!
Critique written by:David S. (2002-2003)

Title:Stuart Little
Author:E.B. White
Setting:Small house, big city, quiet countryside
Main Character:Stuart is a small and daring young mouse who was adopted by the Little family. He is an adventurous, courageous, and kind mouse.
Conflict:Stuart is not big enough to do some things like play baseball. He is only two inches tall.
Opinion:I think this book was easy to read because of the vocabulary utilized. It was very easy to understand. ***** Stuart is most like me because he likes wild adventures and likes trying new things. One time Stuart raced a boat in a fierce boat race, eventhough he had never tried boating before. ***** The author used this story to teach people that it doesen't matter how small or big you are on the outside. It matters what you have inside of you. If you are a certain four things, you can do anything. You have to be determined, brave, loyal, and smart to do anything.
Critique written by:Dereck I (2003-2004)

Title:The SUB
Author:P.J. Petersen
Setting:School
Main Character:James is good in school. He gets good grades. He has brown hair.
Conflict:James and Ray switch seats in class when there's a sub!
Opinion:I felt the book was fun to read. It was very funny! I like the book because I like having subs. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when the kids told that they switched seats.
Critique written by:Alisha D. (2000-2001)

Title:Sun and Spoon
Author:Kevin Henkes
Setting:Spoon's house
Main Character:Spoon is a shy, tall, and funny ten year old.
Conflict:Spoon's grandmother dies and Spoon needs something to remember her.
Opinion:I didn't like the book much because it didn't have many details. There were no pictures in my book.*****I would change the sad parts and make them happy parts.*****My favorite part of the story was when Spoon finally got something to remember the grandmother.
Critique written by:Ashley F. (2001-2002)

Title:Sunset of the Sabertooth
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:Pennsylvania, Frog Creek, Year 2000
Main Character:Annie is calm and quiet. She is a very good swimmer. Annie takes swimming lessons.
Conflict:Jack and Annie went to Antarctica (on a wish)and did not know how to get back.
Opinion:I liked the book a lot. It was a good book because it was an adventure book. I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part was when the wooly mammoth fought the sabertooth tiger.
Critique written by:Jay O. (2000-2001)

Title:Super Fudge
Author:Judy Blume
Setting:New York and Princeton
Main Character:Fudge and Peter, Tootsi, Mom, Dad and Turtle.
Conflict:
Opinion:I like this book because the characters are really cool and I thought the story was funny. I like this author. ***** I think this book is kind of hard because it had no pictures. The book had very long chapters and lots of pages.***** I think Peter is like me because he likes to ride bikes with his friends and he is the oldest child in the family. He also has a younger brother and his middle name is Peter.***** My favorite part of the book was when they got their new baby sister and named her Tootsie. One time they went to school and Fudge went up on the stage and said "I see you Peter . I see you in the crowd."
Critique written by:John J. (2003-2004)

Title:The Swiss Family Robinson
Author:Johann Wyss
Setting:Switzerland was very hot. Island near New Guinea was very good for food.
Main Character:Fritz: a boy who likes to help out with working and getting food.
Conflict:The problem is that the Robinson family is trying to get back to Switzerland.
Opinion:My favorite part was when Fritz found a big lizard and it was a sleep. Then Fritz shot up. ***** I chose this book because I like the Great Illustrated Classics. Also my Mom read it when she was young. ***** Fritz was like me because he likes to go on hikes and he likes to go on adventures. ***** I liked the book because it was an adventures and it was funny.
Critique written by:John J. (2003–2004)

T

Title:Tales of Amanda Pig
Author:Jean Van Leeuwen
Setting:Amanda's house and outside
Main Character:Amanda is an ordinary pig. However, she talks and walks like a person. She is fun, but sometimes gets mad.
Conflict:Amanda doesn't want to her egg. She also had a fight with Oliver.
Opinion:I liked Tales of Amanda Pig because the main character is fun. I would recommend this book to my sister. My favorite part was when Amanda finally ate the egg and ran outside.
Critique written by:Lucille G. (2000-2001)

Title:Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
Author:Judy Blume
Setting:New York, Mall, Park, Hospital, School
Main Character:Peter is an 8 year old boy in fourth grade. He has a 3 year old brother named Fudge who get into all kinds of trouble.
Conflict:Fudge is always getting into mischief. Peter doesn't know what to do about it.
Opinion:I really liked the book. I aliked it because Fudge always did weird thing. I definetly would recommend the book to a friend. My favorite part was when Fudge ate Peter's turtle.
Critique written by:Andrew P. (2000-2001)

Title:Tennis Ace
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:nets, a court, stands, and audience
Main Character:Steve is a champion in tennis. He never give up.
Conflict:Steve has to tell his father about Vinnie's tennis camp, that he does not want to go to. His father loves Vince and tennis.
Opinion:I liked the book because it was interesting, and I like tennis. I also liked the story because there are some difficult moments. ***** Steve is most like me because he never gives up and likes tennis. ***** My favorite part is when Steve and Tony battle for the championship title. Steve hurts his leg and tries to win. In the end, Steve won by a point. ***** What I would change in this book is when Steve hurts his leg with blood coming out of it. ***** I chose Tennis Ace because I like tennis and the cover looked good.
Critique written by:Louis M. (2002-2003)

Title:Third Grade is Terrible
Author:Barbara Baker
Setting:It is a third grade classroom with a lot of rules.
Main Character:Elizabeth is in third grade. She has a little sister that is in kindergarten.
Conflict:Elizabeth go moved to a teacher that she does not like.
Opinion:I like to book because Elizabeth was in third grade like me. The pictures in the book help me by showing what they are doing. Third Grade is Terrible was easy to read because it had a lot of easy words. I chose this book because it was about third grade. My favorite part was when Elizabeth started to like third grade.
Critique written by:Danielle V. (2001-2002)

Title:Third Grade Pet
Author:Judy Cox
Setting:Mr. Wilder’s Third grade classroom and Rosemary’s abode.
Main Character:Rosemary is a very nice girl. She is in third grade. Her comrade is Megan and they both like horses.
Conflict:Rosemary hates rats. The third grade sent to the pet store to pick a pet for the classroom. They picked a rat.
Opinion:I liked this book very much. The story was very good. I just wanted to keep reading to find out what happens next. ***** I chose this book because I liked the title of the book. It was a bout kids in third grade and I’m in third grade. ***** The character most like me is Rosemary. In the book Rosemary didn’t like rats. I don’t like rats. Rosemary got used to Cheese the rat. After a while she liked rats. ***** My favorite part of the book is when Brian and Rosemary had Cheese on the carpet. Cheese would only go to Rosemary. Every time pesky Brian tried to hold him, he would run back to Rosemary.
Critique written by:Kimmy S. (2003–2004)

Title:Tigers at Twilight
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:There are trees, bushes, and wild animals.
Main Character:Annie was brave and very nice.
Conflict:Jack and Annie needed an ingredient to cure a dog from a spell.
Opinion:My favorite part of the story is when they find Saba the elephant. Saba is a good friend to Jack and Annie. Saba carries Jack and Annie on her back through the forest so that the tigers would not bother them. Jack said it would be a good idea to ride on Saba's back because tigers don't attack elephants.*****The character that is most like me is Jack because he has a good heart. One of the tigers had gotten his leg caught in a poacher's trap. Jack pushed down the lever and raised the bar off the tiger's leg. The tiger slowly went limping away into the forest. I feel Jack is most like me because I would want to help the tiger get free from the trap. Then the tiger would not be in any pain or die.
Critique written by:Louis M. (2002-2003)

Title:Tom Jackson
Author:Helen A. Monsell
Setting:Farm, forest, river, and swamp
Main Character:Tom is a very hard-working boy. He didn't cry because of anything. He took good care of farm animals too.
Conflict:Tom didn't go back in the school when it was time to.
Opinion:I think Tom had a hard life. First his mom was sick. So Tom and his sister, Laura, had to go to there Uncle's. Then after that, his mom died and he wasn't that happy as before. I like this book because I like the character Tom. Why do I like him? I like him because he was brave. I think I would recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part of the book was when Tom went to school.
Critique written by:Samson H. (2000-2001)

Title:Tonight on the Titanic
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:In their home in Pennsylvania. In the treehouse on the Titanic.
Main Character:Jack is an 8 year old boy who had glasses. He is the smart one. Annie is a 7 seven year old adventure girl.
Conflict:They have to go back in time to the Titanic and find the three gifts to break a spell a little puppy is under.
Opinion:Tonight on the Titanic is a very good book. I liked it a lot because it was an adventure book and I like those kinds of books. It was easy to read. There were not a lot of words on each page to read. I don't think that this story needs any changing. It's really fine and interesting. I think that every kid in the world will like this book if they read it, because I did.
Critique written by:Samantha I. (2001-2002)

Title:Treasure Island
Author:Robert Louis Stevenson
Setting:Island in 1750
Main Character:Jim Hawkins is about 12. He doesn't give up. He sometimes is scared and sometimes is brave.
Conflict:The problem was that all the characters were on an island and having a fight over treasure.
Opinion:I liked the book a lot. My favorite part of the book was when they were having a war. I liked that part because it had a lot of action. And I like action.
Critique written by:Jay O. (2000-2001)

Title:The Trouble with Cats
Author:Martha Freeman
Setting:School- a lot of children and rooms for edcuation
Main Character:Holly- she has brown hair, has no friends, and dosen't like Williams' cats.
Conflict:The conflict of the story is that Harry moved because her mom got divorced and married a guy named William. He had four cats and causes Hooly a lot of work. Holly can't make any friends because she is new.
Opinion:My favorite part was when George the cat threw-up on Holly's bed. William made Holly clean it up even thourg they are Williams' cats. ***** I don't understand why William is making Holly clean up after the cats instead of himself. ***** I liked this book because it had a lot of action and it was funny. ***** This book was easy because it didn't have many hard words in it.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Title:The Trumpet of the Swan
Author:E.B. White
Setting:Canada, Red Rock Lakes, Pennsylvania Zoo
Main Character:Luis wa a white trumpeter swan. He can write, read, and play a trumpet.
Conflict:When Luis was born, he could not make any noise.
Opinion:The Trumpet of the Swan is a great book. It had a lot of personification that was cool. I would definetly recommend this book to a friend. My favorite part is when Luis saves Aplecate. I told you it was great.
Critique written by:Nitya R. (2000-2001)

Title:Twister on Tuesday
Author:Mary Pope Osborne
Setting:1870's-they live on a prairie
Main Character:Jack and Annie like to explore things.
Conflict:Jack couldn't get along with Jeb.
Opinion:I liked the book Twister on Tuesday because it was about a tornado. The tornado hit the school. The pictures in the story helped me to imagine what was happening. There was a very good picture on the cover. It showed a tornado chasing Annie and Jack. If I could change the characters in the book, I would change them all to Pokemon characters. They are sort of like Pokemon. I chose this book because I like adventures.
Critique written by:Thomas M. (2001-2002)

Title:Two of a Kind: It's a Twin Thing
Author:Adapted by Judy Katschke
Setting:At school, home, and outside
Main Character:Mary-Kate and Ashley are going to seventh grade. Mary-Kate likes sports and Ashley likes to shop and wear lipstick.
Conflict:Their dad is a teacher. He gets home late. So they need a baby-sitter. They (twins) don't want a baby-sitter.
Opinion:This book was great because it kept me interested every second! I recommend this book to anyone who likes Mary-Kate and Ashley books. My favorite part of the book was when Mary-Kate was trying to find sports clothing because Ashley thought Pokey Valentine was cute. I think this book was really great!
Critique written by:Alice B. (2000-2001)

Title:Two of a Kind: War of the Wardrobes
Author:Megan Stine
Setting:School, mall
Main Character:There are two main characters. Mary-Kate and Ashley are twins. Ashley likes dresses and Mary-Kate likes cool clothes.
Conflict:White Oak Academy had to wear uniforms.
Opinion:I would recommend this book to a friend. I felt the book was very good. I like the book because I like Mary-Kate and Ashley! My favorite part of the book was (the solution to the conflict-read to find out). I have also seen Two of a Kind T.V. series I enjoy watching them!
Critique written by:Alisha D. (2000-2001)

U

Title:Up and Down Spring
Author:Johanna Hurwiz
Setting:Bolivia's house at Ithaca
Main Character:Bolivia is the main character. She is 10 years old. She lives in Ithaca, New York. She plans a nice vacation for her 2 friends.
Conflict:Rory doesn't want to go on the airplane. He is scared of flying.
Opinion:The book is okay. I really don't like traveling and that was basically what the whole book was about. My favorite part of the book was when Bolivia and Derek stayed home with Rory. That was very nice. If you like traveling, I suggest you take this book.
Critique written by:Seema S. (2000-2001)

V

Title:The Valentine Star
Author:Patricia Reilly Giff
Setting:School
Main Character:Emily is a smart girl and can handle things by herself. Sherri is a mean girl and tattletales.
Conflict:Sherri and Emily are trying to impress the teacher. Sherri and Emily are not getting along.
Opinion:I like this book because it taught me a lesson. The lesson was not impress your teacher by the clothes you wear. The book is excellent because it is about two girls. I would recommend this book to a friend because it was about two girls who were not getting along. At the end, they both become friends. I think one of my friends would think it is an interesting book. This is an excellent book for kids.
Critique written by:Jyothi S. (2000-2001)

Title:Vernon Bright and Frankenstein's Hamster
Author:Steve Barlow
Setting:In a school, in a dumpster, in a laboratory, and in the snow
Main Character:Vernon is tall, blond, smart, and likes interesting things. He acts like he's a cool person.
Conflict:Vernon is convincing John that Frankenstein is not real.
Opinion:I felt the story was a little creepy and scary. But I did not like the book too much. It was okay. I would rate the book a "9". No, I would not recommend this book to your friend. I didn't have a favorite part.
Critique written by:Samson H. (2000-2001)

W

Title:The Witches
Author:Roald Dahl
Setting:One setting is very cold, white, and small. Another is multicolored and crowded.
Main Character:The boy, (his name is never mentioned) is kind, funny and small.
Conflict:The boy and his grandma ( their names are never mentioned) want to wipe-out all the witches in the world.
Opinion:The pictures in the book helped me to understand the story. They gave me an idea of what the characters and settings looked like. ***** The book was hard to read, it had a lot of weird English words. Also it wasn’t really exciting. ***** The book seems like it is a good book but it really isn’t. When you look at the title and cover it seems really good. It really isn’t. So really I don’t like the book. ***** I don’t think the author used the story to teach me about anything. It really was about witches.
Critique written by:Conor R. (2003–2004)

Title:Wheel Wizards
Author:Matt Christopher
Setting:In a house and on a basketball court
Main Character:Seth is always angry and is in a wheelchair.
Conflict:Seth can't play "real" basketball.
Opinion:I liked the book because I like basketball. The book was cool. I had never seen a book with NWBA (That means National Wheelchair Basketball Association). I was interested in the book on the first page. ***** I chose the story because I like basketball. I like Matt Christopher books too. I also thought the title was cool. I had never read a book about playing basketball in a wheel chair, either. The cover looked good also. ***** Seth is most like me because he likes basketball. He is always angry, just like me. He has good dinner too. He has an older brother. I have one too.
Critique written by:Michael E. (2001-2002)

Title:Who's in Love With Arthur?
Author:Mark Brown
Setting:At Arthur' school
Main Character:Arthur is a very nice person. He did not like vegetables. He was very fond of Francine.
Conflict:Binkey made fun of Arthur and Francine's friendship and it hurt them.
Opinion:I really liked this book very much. I especially like th ending. I didn't like the parts when Arthur and Francine were fighting. However, I would recommend this book to all of my friends. There are also funny parts in this book.
Critique written by:Seema S. (2000-2001)

Title:The Word Eater
Author:Mary Amato
Setting:School- alot of rooms, children everywhere
Main Character:Fip-a (boy)worm, likes to eat words, was abandoned from his parents
Conflict:The problem is Fip the Worm is eating words. Whatever word he eats disappears from the world.
Opinion:I liked this book because it was exciting, especially when the worm eats the word "oxygen." That could cause all the people to die. ***** I chose this book because my library teacher recommended it to me, and she was right. ***** My favorite part was whne Leren finds Fip. Leren gives him the menu to eat. He ate the two words spinach souffle, and so all the students couldn't eat their lunch. ***** This book was kind of easy to read because there were about 5 vocab words in each chapter.
Critique written by:Kathleen K. (2002-2003)

Y

Title:Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman
Author:Kitty Richards
Setting:The settings are at Peter's house, at the bank, and at the fair.
Main Character:Peter Parker got bitten by a macanic spider. He then turned into Spiderman. He has super spider powers.
Conflict:A little girl was in a hot air balloon. The balloon is headed for the power lines.
Opinion:I chose this book because I already saw the movie. I think everyone knows about Spiderman because he is one of the top 5 superheros. **** I liked the book. If you already saw the movie and read the book, then you can make a big story out of both. ***** I would make Pater Parker have a little sister. Her name would be Amanda. She would be six years old. She would have long, brown, straight hair. Her eyes would be blue, green. Shw would be 3ft 10 in. I would also give Peter a younger brother. He would be 12 years old and would have short, brown hair. His eyes would be blue. He would be 5ft 7 in. ***** The authro tried to tell me that with great power comes great responsibility.
Critique written by:Daniel D. (2002-2003)

Z

Title:Zombies Don't Play Soccer
Author:Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
Setting:It takes place at a soccer field and graveyard.
Main Character:The soccer teacher is tall, has a whistle, and wears a sweatband around her head.
Conflict:The problem is the coach got turned into a zombie. The kids have to turn her back human.
Opinion:Yes, I liked the book because I love zombies (because they walk funny). The book was easy to read because it had a lot of easy words. I liked Eddie because he is really daring, especially when he jumped into a grave- which was also my favorite part. The pictures helped me understand the story by helping me picture in my head some parts of the story that I had trouble understanding.
Critique written by:Jeffrey G. (2002-2003)