Book Description

Melinda Sordino busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops. Now her old friends won't talk to her, and people she doesn't even know hate her from a distance. The safest place to be is alone, inside her own head. But even that's not safe. Because there's something she's trying not to think about, something about the night of the party that, if she let it in, would blow her carefully constructed disguise to smithereens. And then she would have to speak the truth. This extraordinary first novel has captured the imaginations of teenagers and adults across the country.

Awards for Speak

A 2000 Printz Honor Book
A 1999 National Book Award Finalist
An Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist
A 1999 Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist
Winner of the SCBWI Golden Kite Award
An ALA Best Book for Young Adults
An ALA Quick Pick
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
A Booklist Top Ten First Novel of 1999
A BCCB Blue Ribbon Book
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Horn Book Fanfare Title ... Read more

Reviews (721)

Emily's Speak Book Review
Laurie Halse-Anderson's novel, Speak, is a riveting story about a teenage girl starting her high school days as an outcast. The main character, Melinda, had called the cops on the end-of-the-summer bash and everyone is busted. The reason for calling the cops is something Melinda keeps deep inside and does not reveal until the end. This novel shows Melinda as she struggles with many difficult aspects of high school and her home life. She has trouble speaking to people and expressing her true emotions. Though she's still very apprehensive, one person she starts to open up to is Mr. Freeman, her art teacher. He has taught her how to express her feelings through art and also told her he'd always be there to listen. Will Melinda finally open up to him or anyone, and find her voice?
I enjoyed this novel because it was realistic and detailed. It is a book that brings forth a mixture of emotions. It will make you laugh, cry, and yell out in anger. I definitely recommend this book.

Very touching novel
Laurie Halse Anderson's novel, Speak, is very well written. It's an entertaining, riveting tale about a girl who calls the police to a party which results in several of her peers getting busted. Something happened at the end-of-summer party that changed her life forever.
Upon returning to school in the fall, the main character, Melinda Sordino, is blackballed by her classmates. She chooses to deal with her problem and those around her by silencing herself. There is an internal battle going on inside Melinda's head throughout the novel. She finally finds refuge in one of her classes, art. The art instructor is a very caring individual who notices that Melinda is acting strangely and that she is different and withdrawn. He wants to help her so he shows empathy toward her. She begins to use art as an outlet and finds meaning and symbolism in it.
Anderson does an extraordinary job using symbolism throughout the novel. She deals with a very serious subject, yet her writing is extremely witty and funny. I found myself laughing aloud while reading it.
School can be a very negative experience for many young people. The life of a ninth grade student is told from Melinda Sordino's point of view. She is unpopular and berated. The cruelty displayed by her peers, comfortable in their cliques, is something many young adults will be able to identify with. By the end of the novel, Melinda finally speaks! She tells why she called the cops that night. At first no one believes her, then another event happens that turns her life around. You have to read this book!

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
I really liked this book. I just finished it a few weeks ago, because in English we had to do literature circles and this was the book three other people and I read. I thought that the book was really good and so did two of the other people in my group they rated it 8 out of ten and 10/10 and I rated 9/10 but the other person in the group gave it 1/10. He said that all Melinda did in the book was whine about things but I don't think that's true.

Whatever you say can and will be used against you
Speak is an amazing read for anyone. While it is targeted towards Young Adults, I think it would be a good book for parents to read as well. Perhaps parents could read more YA books and it might actually give them a better understanding of their own teenagers. This gives the reader a good insight into the theory that there are two sides to every story. Not only does the unspoken character have to deal with the horrid aftermath of rape pulling at her emotional soul, but she can't talk about it to anyone. Fear of rejection, peer pressure, and teen angst play a major part in this powerful coming-of-age story

speak
I recommend Speak for ages 13 and up, especially, if you are going into high school. It talks about first experiences in high school, the struggles with her classes and teachers, and includes her experiences on the bus. "The bus picks up students in groups of four or five. As they walk down the aisle, people who were in my middle-school lab partners or gym buddies glare at me. I close my eyes. This is what I've been dreading. As we leave the last stop, I am the only person sitting alone." She met a new girl named Heather. "Another wounded zebra turns and smiles at me. She's packing at least five grand worth of orthodontia, but has great shoes. 'I'm Heather from Ohio', she says. 'I'm new here. Are you?' I don't answer. The lights dim and the indoctrination begins." This book gave me a heads up on what high school will be and some of the experience that an ordinary student would go through. ... Read more

Book Description

Like father,
like son

Intelligent, popular, handsome, and wealthy, sixteen-year-old Nick Andreas is pretty much perfect -- on the outside, at least. What no one knows -- not even his best friend -- is the terror that Nick faces every time he is alone with his father. Then he and Caitlin fall in love, and Nick thinks his problems are over. Caitlin is the one person who he can confide in. But when things start to spiral out of control, Nick must face the fact that he's gotten more from his father than green eyes and money.

Reviews (80)

Breathing Under Water
In the novel Breathing Under Water, 16-year-old Nick lives a rich lifestyle in upper class Key Biscayne in south Florida. He has a kind girlfriend Caitlin in which he is verbally abusive to and eventually hits her. Caitlin and her mother press charges against Nick and he is sentenced to attend an anger management class.
The novel was very appealing to me because I am able to relate to the characters because I am also in high school. The authors writing style captured my attention on Nick and his angry outbreaks towards Caitlin.
Anyone that is a teenager or young adult, even if they are not a fan of reading, will defiantly enjoy Breathing Under Water. Even adults that enjoy remembering their high school days will love this book.

The Escape
The book "Breathing Underwater" is a very powerful book for teenagers anywhere. I feel like this book sends a message that can't be ignored by anybody. Especially those people who are in these situations, both boys and girls. Young girls and boys who are in abusive relationships right now could get some courage to get out of them and away from their abusive partners from this book. If they don't want to end up like Caitlin, abused and embarrassed, they will leave their partners far behind them. Hopefully these boys and girls get the message and decide to do something with where they are at before they become another statistic.
In this book Nick was a popular handsome teenage boy who unfortunately had an anger problem. Nick's mother left his father to raise him when he was only a child. Nick's father also had an anger problem and everyday verbally and physically abused Nick. Nick unfortunately developed his father's bad ways, and began abusing his new girlfriend Caitlin. Caitlin was a girl who had spent most of her life being fat and feeling ugly. Just that year she lost all that weight and was feeling really good about herself. Nick was the first boy who had ever taken interest in Caitlin, so she felt like his abuse towards her was perfectly fine, and for her own good. Nick at first was just verbally abusing her until finally it turned physical. Caitlin at first listened to her friends and tried to avoid Nick, but whenever they were alone together, Nick could talk her into anything. She took him back again thinking that things would change and get better, but not long after, the abuse had started right back up again. Only this time it had actually gotten a lot worse than before. The last time Nick beat up Caitlin, he beat her the night of her show that he didn't want her to perform in. He said he didn't want the people in the crowd all looking at her because she was fat and couldn't sing. She did anyway trying to surprise him and show him that it wouldn't be that bad, and he got really angry. He thought that the dress she was wearing was too revealing for her. He dragged her outside in the parking lot and began slapping and punching her in the face. He would have kept on beating her if it wasn't for all of their friends who were also in the show. After that, Caitlin had nothing to do with Nick. While all of this was going on Nick had been placed in anger management classes by the courts. He didn't really get the message that he needed them until the end of the book when he decided to re-take the class himself.
All in all, this book was pretty good. I would recommend this book to those who even aren't teenagers. This book did give me a sense of hope for all people who are in abusive relationships. This book can make a difference in people's lives. This book can honestly guide them to making the right decisions and doing the right thing.

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree
Nick Andreas is one of the few blessed members of his high school elite on Key Biscayne. He is smart, rich, good-looking, and insanely popular. Come the first day of sophomore year, he arrives in style, driving the brand new car he just received for his 16th birthday. Almost immediately, he notices her, a beautiful blonde. Caitlin Alyssa McCourt. She's ethereal, almost delicate looking. Her airy appearance separates her from the rest of the pretty girls. She wears a slipdress and pearl earrings while the rest of them wear diamond studs and jeans.

Immediately, Nick wants her.

"That's Caitlin McCourt. She went to fat camp over the summer," Nick's best friend since kindergarten, Tom, says. Now, 35 pounds lighter, she's transformed into a different person. At first shy and fearing rejection, Nick musters up his courage and asks her if she wants a ride home after school. She accepts his invitation.

Their relationship blossoms in a matter of two months. Nick loves Caitlin - or so he believes. And Caitlin loves Nick. Being a former fat girl, many insecurities still seem to be present in her - she fears Nick will leave her and doesn't believe she can find better. Nick starts out loving, gentle, and protecting. Then he turns angry, frustrated, and doubly insecure, as well as immensely overbearing and cruel. The first time he slaps her, he woos her back with a gift and apologizes profusely. All is forgiven.

It isn't that way the second time. The second time, Nick goes too far. He believes he is the only one who deserves power over Caitlin and when she defies him by singing in the school's talent show, things turn hideous, but perhaps even more so on Nick's part. We watch as he loses every single high school friend he has. We watch as anger management sessions open his eyes. We watch as a wiser Caitlin McCourt is finally able to reject her first and former boyfriend. Nick's crew, as well as the entire school, knows of Nick's ways, which is why they can barely stand to look at him. Everyone sides with Caitlin.

But Nick has kept a dark secret from everyone EXCEPT Caitlin, including Tom, who, prior to Nick's incident involving Caitlin, thought he knew his best buddy inside and out. Nick's father is just like him: good looks, brains, charm. And an ugly, ugly temper that often turns violent. Will Tom find out that while Caitlin was hurting, so was his so-called best friend? Or will Nick be too embarrased to open his mouth?

Read and see.

Alex Flinn's first novel fits a cliche, yet strays from their use, thankfully. She's written a story that is realistic and artfully depicts and pieces together the mind of an abuser. At times, I found myself hating Nick Andreas with a passion. Other times, I felt sorry for him. Either way, the novel ends on a note neither completely happy nor a downer, and it manages to stay away from being overly sappy and sentimental throughout. It flows nicely and, for a first effort, is quite well done.

Breathing Underwater
At the beginning of the book we meet the main character, Nick Andres. He's sitting in a courtroom and wondering why he is here. To everyone Nick has the perfect life .He's rich, good looking and has his first real girlfriend. The trouble starts when Nick starts going out with Caitlin. He experiences jealously and starts to develop an abusive mind. He hits her and has to attend anger management class.
The way the author tells the story is pretty cool. We read what Nick has to go through after he hit his girlfriend and we get to read his journal that tells what happened before he slapped her. All in all this was a good read.I recommend this to anyone who likes a lot of drama. This book will keep your attention until the very last page.

Breathing Underwater
This is a book that is sure to capture your attention. It is about a sixteen year old boy and his hidden struggles. His father is rich but yet a poor and abusive father. His mother left him at a young age with nobody to save him from his violent father. He then finds the love of his life, a girl named Caitlin. While his love for he grows so does his fear of losing her. He begins to become very controlling. He ends up slapping her which results to their relationships dismise.

I found this book to be very interesting and it captivated my attention. I think that you will enjoy reading this book and encourage it. This story tells you of the good things and bad things of relationships that you might be able to relate to. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

an important book!
Endorsed by many child abuse prevention programs and counselors, this is the perfect tool for parents to teach children about inappropriate touching.

Worth Every Penny
Child molestation is an uncomfortable topic. But far worse, it is a very real danger. A large percentage of childhood molestation goes unreported, silently scarring a child for life. This book strikes the right balance: it is not too technical, not awkward, and most importantly not frightening. The message is conveyed through a mom telling a story to her child and through repetition. The content and wording is geared toward a child as young as 3 although concepts such as trickery and secrecy are a little difficult to teach at this age. The book gives context and viable solutions that a child can handle. My child is now very good at screaming "Get away from me; I'll tell my mom and dad!" Don't take the risk; read this book.

A Complete Lesson for Children
I felt this book is a must for children. It is the best book I have read to teach children how to protect themselves. There are so many tricks people use to get access to children. This book covers them all, including trickery, deceit and secrets. It also teaches children to listen to their own internal warning system. This is so important so they will act on it and not ignore it.

I was not sure how to approach the topic with my 4 year olds. This book made it possible to prepare them without scaring them.

Well done-Wise Parental Instrument!
The best source I have seen to date for very young children on the subject of sexual abuse. Such a tough subject and very well written and illustrated.

Every parent should be pro-active and discuss abuse, this title is sure to open the door to communication. It also does so in a child friendly manner and does not shock or upset even the most conservative reader.

An invaluable and excellent tool for any adult to help educate and arm young innocent children. Perfect addition for any library.

Love means telling the truth.
The only reason to give this little book 5 stars is the lack of a 6 star category. My own children are grown now, but this is a book we will share with future grandchildren. My children were educated about "right and wrong touches" at home, in school, and at church. Thankfully they were spared such an experience, I was not. As a survivor of childhood molestation who told no one for nearly 20 years, I felt all the responsibilty for the abuse, and the total inability to tell a parent, teacher, or friend. Some of the scare are with me still, but Sandy's book empowers child and parent alike. The language, illustrations, and approach are frank but gentle. Presentation is sensitive to very young children, and different terms for body parts. The read-aloud thrust strengthens parent-child interaction about this vital topic. Best of all, the refences for further reading and help organizations provides the tools to go further in education, or to obtain assistance if the worst case has occurred. Actually the worst of all cases is to have abuse, and no one to tell. Bless you Sandy, keep books like these coming! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sharon Draper has indeed forged a fiery name for herself in the field of young adult literature--that of a courageous writer, willing to tackle tough, real-life problems while developing honorable, streetwise role models for troubled teens. Her previous novel, Tears of the Tiger, garnered much acclaim and became the first recipient of the Coretta Scott King Genesis Award. In this second novel, Draper weaves in characters from Tears--most significantly Gerald Nickleby, a young basketball player who discovers his innate strength and determination while protecting his stepsister's safety and his mother's honor.

Unfortunately, Draper's strengths (her desire to delve into tough social issues, such as child abuse, drug addiction, incest, bulimia, and domestic violence) become this book's weakness as the story line teeters on implausible. For example, in less than 20 pages Gerald faces the following: the death of a close friend (a passenger in a car that was driven by a drunk teammate); the discovery of his drunk, evil stepfather trying to sexually assault his younger stepsister; a brutal attack by his stepfather; and a raging apartment fire that threatens to kill them all. Nonetheless, Draper creates believable and important heroes for teenage boys--those who are forged from adversity, only to burn more brightly and courageous. (Ages 12 and older) --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (90)

I really like the book because it was very realistic.
The book Forged By Fire by Sharon M. Draper tells us about a boy named Gerald Nickelby who, when his loving aunt dies, is suddenly thrust into a new home filled with anger and abuse. A stepfather with a temper and an evil secret makes Gerald mad. Gerald and Angel grow close as he strives to protect her from Jordon and from their substance addicted mother. Sharon M. Draper hooks the readers by having something interesting happen and leaves you in suspense throughout the book. The storytelling pace was not fast and not to slow , but very action packed. It weaves the present and the past into a beautiful telling motion. The setting and the atmosphere is an abusive atmosphere in an cramped apartment in Cincinnati. The main characters are Gerald Nickelby, a young basketball player who discovers his strength and determination while protecting his stepsister's safety and his mother's honor. Aunt Queen is very loving and is the best aunt you could ever have. Angel is Gerald's youngest stepsister. Jordan is an abusive stepfather, and Monique is a substance -addicted mother. I understand the horrible feelings of an abandoned boy whose life is ruined when he meets his little sister and finds out that she's getting abused. As the book nears the end, the drug- addicted mother by the name of Monique now realizes the truth about Jordan. I really loved these book. It was one of the best books I've read in along time. It makes you think twice about taking life for granted. I think these would be a good book young adults (12-older) to adults.

Best book
Ashlie Roberts 01-10-01 3B In my sophomore English class we had to read a book that our teacher chose for us. I pick this one because it just seemed to relate to teenagers and some difficulties growing up. I read 'Forged by Fire' by Sharon M. Draper that is a well-written book. If I were Siskel & Ebert, I would give it two thumbs up! I got the book through an assignment in English class and read the whole thing in one day. I never put it down. It can really relate to life these days and how the world is so messed up. Just thinking about how those kids grow up makes me think of a life I could have had. It shows me how lucky we can be even we don't have a perfect lives. I can feel so much sorrow for someone I don't even know. Its plot and setting and everything seem to fit the problems of today's society. The first chapter shows Gerald, a three-year-old African American boy whose mother is addicted to drugs and leaves him alone all the time. After leaving him by himself one day, he gets a lighter and catches the apartment on fire. Luckily, a neighbor remembers to check for the boy. Gerald almost dies from smoke inhalation. His mother is taken to a drug rehab center; he goes to live with his Aunt Queen. After living nine wonderful years with Aunt Queen, he has a few surprises waiting for him. On his ninth birthday his life goes down hill from then. Gerald who takes responsibilities of his young sister who soon finds out about after living with his mom. For they have many obstacles to go through in life with only themselves to depend on.

Great!
This book was awesome and you don't need to be a certain color to enjoy it. It is a book that transcends color and tells you an emotionally deep story. I read it in one sitting. It is amazingly well written and refreshingly free of dirty language. Highly recommended!

Kris's book review
I really liked this book a lot. I would have to say that its the best book i've ever read. At the end of every chapter, the book kept you guessing and made you want to read more. The main character Gerald was my age, and I could relate to him very easily. It was about child abuse and drugs, and a lot of kids go thru this.
The worst part of the book is when Gerald's aunt Queen dies. He is thirteen years old, and has to go live with his mother who just got out of prison. They live in Atlanta, Georgia in a small apartment with Gerald, his mom Moniue, his sister Angel, and his stepdad Joradan.
The climax is definetly vivid along with the resolution. The climax is when Aunt Queen dies because there is much emphasis on that event. The resolution is also very vivid because Jordan dies in a fire. He molested Gerald's sister Angel, and beat him and his mom Monique, so he deserved to die.

mario's book review
I liked this book because it has a lot of relations to me when i was young. In this story there is a lot of brutal situations. It involves a boy and his little sister who has a lot of problems at home with there stepfather who is a major alcaholic and he cant control the things he says or does. The mother is very scared of the stepfather and he often hurts her to. The boys name is Gerald and his sisters name is Angel the stepfathers name is Jordan. Jordan doesnt bother Gerald often but whenever no ones there but him and Angel he tries to molest her. The only person that knows about it is Gerald and he tries everything he can to stop it. ... Read more

Book Description

You think you know John? Well, let's see . . . What bathroom fixture did his father have in mind at his birth? Does algebra have a use, besides torture? Who is Glory Halle-lujah? Who is Violent Hayes? What do they want? Who or what are the Lashasa Palulu? Why do fools fall in love? How can anyone who is fighting a secret battle for his life know anyone? And how can they know him?

Reviews (63)

just...briliant!
I seemed to have seen this book everywhere. Every time i went into a bookshop or the libury i saw it and although the cover was eyecatching i read the back and thought it looked quite boring. Then one day i thought "what the hell, i'll give it a try" i am sooo glad i did. This book is amazing.

It's about a 14 year old called John who has all a teenager's normal stuggles wile fighting his own battle with his abusive step father.

It's told in a unquie style and in 2nd person and it works beautifully. it seems a little muggled, especially at first but trust me and stick with it, after the first few pages your be hooked.

John has a very critical out look on life and is convinced things aren't what they seem (after all Glory Hallujah could be a goat, just in a disguse as a girl) which probably comes from his own home life being nothing like it seems.

It has serious issues and is at times, very sad and slightly graphic (although i've read a lot worst) but is extremly funny too. (Gloria eating his note! hee hee)

Seriously, i think this book is brilliant i really do, and i dont normally give ANYTHING 5 stars!

You Don't Know Me
I have recently read this book, "You Don't Know Me", and found that it was a very good book. It is a book about child abuse, but it is written in a way that is funny. It is about a boy named John and it tells about a few years of hi steenage life. A lot happens in this 260 page book, like when he asks the girl of his dreams out on a date. My favorite part is when Gloria's dad is mad at him and he has to escape from their house. What he finds in this book is that looks may be decieving, and life isn't going to be as easy . It is a very well written book, and I recommend it to anyone 7th grade and above.

Unique Style
David Klass does it right with this novel for Young Adults. His main character is unique and sometimes hard to follow, but it is hard to keep from liking John. John's voice makes this a great novel.

John looks at the world around him and believes everything is make believe except for his life of hell that exists at home. John has friends, but he is essentially alone in the world and no one seems to notice or care.

The novel starts out with John saying "You don't know me." By the end of the novel, we all know John really well, and whether a person would want to hang out with John or not, it is impossible not to like John.

Nice job, David Klass.

You Dont Know Me by David Klass
You Dont Know Me by David Klass is a great book. It is very well written and it explains everything a teenager goes through, love,hate,passion,angry and more. In the beginning of the story he talks about his mother and her boyfriend, how he hates him. He describes how nobody knows him. The book has a very tricky stlye. He spaces out in math class, he falls in love, he has friends like normal teenagers but there is just something extra special about him. I would reccomend this book to anyone. A Great Summer Read!

Wow...
I have read many books. I love books, and I have to say that this is one of the best that I have ever read! David Krall amazes me with his wonderful writing talent. I love how John creates a bullfrog character for his tuba. This book is inspiring, and I would recomend that everyone reads this. ... Read more

Book Description

Straightforward and simple, this story tells how one child found the courage to tell a teacher about Ray, who was being picked on and bullied by other kids in school. Faced with the fact that "nobody knows what to do" while Ray is bullied, the children sympathetic to him feel fear and confusion and can only hope that Ray will "fit in some day." Finally, after Ray misses a day of school and the bullies plot mean acts for his return, our narrator goes to a teacher. The children then invite Ray to play with them, and, with adult help, together they stand up to the bullies. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Important For All To Read
This book is very important for all to read. It holds the key to teaching children and adults the difference in telling on someone or actually reporting a problem. It is easy reading with full meaning and will be meaningful no matter what the decade or school or premise. It should be circulated to immediate attention in all school libraries especially.

Wonderful
This book is literally "timeless" for all ages, especially for adults as well as children. It should be placed in school and church libraries, and discussed over and over again for making certain understanding is there. The Publishers should keep this book out front for many, many years.

Great and Important Story
This is a great lesson and beautifully written. Children of today need to know there is a difference in helping each other, when reporting or being afraid comes to mind. The lesson is clear in this book.

For All Ages -
This book is rated among the timeless and yet it is VERY TIMELY for this period of our lives. It is not only interesting, but it guides 'anyone' to understanding the difference in "telling" and in "reporting something to prevent harm". The author is at the top of the list for the very best of authors in Childrens' Books!

Oustanding resource!
This book and Eleanor Estes' book The Hundred Dresses are the only two childrens' books about bullying that I recommend. This book presents clear, effective ideas about how bystanders and teachers can work together to make a difference in stopping school bullying. ... Read more

Book Description

MARTY WILL DO ANYTHING TO SAVE SHILOH

When Marty Preston comes across a young beagle in the hills behind his home, it's love at first sight -- and also big trouble. It turns out the dog, which Marty names Shiloh, belongs to Judd Travers, who drinks too much and has a gun -- and abuses his dogs. So when Shiloh runs away from Judd to Marty, Marty just has to hide him and protect him from Judd. But Marty's secret becomes too big for him to keep to himself, and it exposes his entire family to Judd's anger. How far will Marty have to go to make Shiloh his? ... Read more

Reviews (176)

Shiloh
Shiloh, what a magnificent book. It has many thrills, mystery, tragedy, and fun parts too. I have to say I would give it fout gigantic stars. The book is about a boy who loves animals. He has a mom, dad, and two sisters. One sunny day, the boy, Marty, was shooting his rifle around the forest. He finds a dog on a bridge. Read the book to find out what he names it. The dog follow him home. They find out the beagle belonged to a mean awful man named Judd Travers. He uses his dogs for hunting. The dog would run away from him. Read the book to find out why. The dog comes back, and Marty keeps him for awhile. Do his parents find out he's hiding Shiloh. Does Marty get to keep Shiloh? Please read the book to find out.

by Matt M.

The bond between a boy and a dog
"Shiloh," the novel by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, received the 1992 Newbery Medal "for the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children." While the book is certainly ideal for younger readers, don't be misled by either the award or the publisher's marketing approach: this moving, well-written book is good for adults, too.

"Shiloh" takes place in rural West Virginia. It tells the story of Marty, an 11-year old boy who seeks to shelter an abused beagle from his hard-hearted owner. Reynolds lets Marty tell his story in the first person, and her excellent prose captures the rhythms of rural West Virginia speech (and I say this because I spend a lot of time there with my extended family). Reynolds had me hooked with her opening sentence: "The day Shiloh come, we're having us a big Sunday dinner." Reynold's skill at rendering American vernacular speech evokes, in my mind, favorable comparisons to such authors as Zora Neale Hurston and Alice Walker.

"Shiloh" is rich with the details of life in that region: the food, the hunting, and social customs. Reynolds creates a wonderful portrait of a poor but loving family. But the heart of the book is the way she captures the special bond between a boy and his dog.

"Shiloh" is an "issue" book in the sense that it deals with animal cruelty, but Reynolds wisely tells a realistic story without overtly preaching at the reader. But the book still raises very relevant issues. Marty's moral dilemma is not presented as an easy "black-and-white" situation. Shiloh's owner, Judd, is not a cardboard villain. Marty's ethical and theological inner struggle is comparable to that of the title character in Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Like Huck, Marty is a compelling hero: courageous, loyal, and thoughtful.

In short, "Shiloh" is a contemporary classic, a book with true moral and psychological resonance. Naylor's portrayal of the enduring ties between a child and a beloved animal is comparable to such enduring works as John Steinbeck's "The Red Pony." This moving book deserves a wide audience.

shiloh
Shiloh was a great book. It was about a dog who lived with this evil man. There wa a kid who saw the dog and he wanted It. One day what thekid does is thinking about the dog. The next day the dog followed him so he took the dog home. The owner of the dog found out that is dog was missing so he went looking for his dog. Then he finds his dog. The kid tells the owner if he could have the dog. The owner made a deal with the kid that if he works for him for a month he will give him the dog. Af ter work he gets the dog. In the middle of the book there is this one part where the dog gets attacked by another dog that is probably best part in the book. If I was to rate this book out of ten I would give a ten
By
JJ

A boy who went crazy about a dog
Shiloh is a very interesting book. It is the first book in the Shiloh series. The book is based on a kid called Marty who finds a beagle and names it Shiloh. After one of his neighbors, Judd, comes looking for the dog because it's his. Marty will do anything to to keep the dog, but sometimes he goes too far. In my opinion this book is full of suspense and love. I would recommend this book to anyone that can read because it's good for all ages. I would give this book a four star rating.

Shiloh review for Miss O.
I thought this was a very good book. Most people would enjoy the story. It was entertaining and heartbreaking. The best part of the book was the end. It kept you in suspense. If you want to read a good book this summer, read Shiloh. You won't be sorry. ... Read more

Book Description

Sarah Byrnes and Eric have been friends for years. When they were children, his fat and her terrible scars made them both outcasts. Later, although swimming slimmed Eric, she stayed his closest friend.

Now Sarah Byrnes -- the smartest, toughest person Eric has ever known -- sits silent in a hospital. Eric must uncover the terrible secret she's hiding, before its dark currents pull them both under.

Reviews (86)

Without doubt, a must read!
No book has ever captivated me as much as this one. Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes is a fiction. yet realistic book written by Cris Crutener. The characters of this book are strong characters that contribute to the greatness of this book. Eric Calhoune, a senior, faces the task of helping close friend, Sarah Byrnes, who was burned in an accident. Sarah's dad, her problem, is not necesaraly someone you'd like to be friends with. Eric faces other small, bothersome problems. The biggest of them all, Mark Brittain, a fellow classmate who constantly lectures everyone on his strong catholic believes. The only thing Eric doesn't despise form Mark is his girlfriend, Jody Mueller Mrs. Lemry, a strong character, is Erics swimming coach and CATS teacher. Eric tries to help Sarah overcome a psycological problem, by visiting her at the psycological center. Soon, he finds out a dark secret Sarah has kept from everyone for a long time. He then becomes involved in a constant fight to keep Sarah safe. This book came to me when i wasn't sure if I still enjoyed reading. Lately, as a student i have not been able to choose the books I wanted to read, and wa not enjoying reading. Choosing this book was not easy. Mainly, I thought I was going to have to face another boring book. I was wrong. As I read the first pages, I found myself cought up in the plot. Without realizing it I finished, what was perhaps, one of the best books I ever read. It's true that this book involves the same kind of drama many books involve, but something about it is different. it has this special thing that seperates it from other books. You will not encounter a language that is boring or too elegant. The language is realistic and so real that young people will have no trouble reading and understanding it. The author has not avoided using bad words: there are plenty that give this book a realistic tough. The characters don't talk like stuffy old people, but like everyday people, making this book even better. This book is great and not a moment! boring, once started it can be diffiult to stop. This book is perhaps the best ever. The author has known how to write a funny, entertaining, realistic book. It doesn't fall in the same category as those books htat constantly repeat the same ending as they all lived happily ever after. Without doubt, this book is a 10!

A powerful, sad, honest novel
Chris Crutcher has tapped into the teenage psyche for this one. This is a most confusing time in any person's life: you are just starting to deal with certain issues (sex, fitting-in, questioning religion, et cetera), and you may be angry and don't know exactly why. I remember my teenage days quite vividly and have found that I can relate to this story on certain levels.
This is a story about Eric "Moby" Calhoune, a so-called fat kid, who bonds with Sarah Byrnes, an outcast burn victim. They form a friendship that is tested on many occasions by Sarah's inability to face her past and her relationship with her father (Mr. Byrnes is one of the most evil characters I have ever encountered in literature). Soon things get dangerous for both Sarah and Moby, but I won't divulge anymore details. You must read the book to find out what happens.
I will only say that while this book centers on abuse (in many forms), it also deals with a wider range of teenage problems. What is so profound about this story is that it could happen, it may have even happened to some of us or someone we know. It's truthful and realistic. Be careful. It may hit you hard when certain things are revealed. If you tend to cry while reading books or watching films, you might want to have a tissue handy when you sit down with this one.

okay not great
While I initially warmed to the story of two outcasts who formed an unusual, acerbic friendship, the author's crystal clear political agenda which shone through with an annoying, un-ignorable glare in many scenes put me off. The best authors have the ability to gracefully handle today's "hot button" issues via writing without beating the reader over the head. Sadly, this was not one of them.

However, most of the characters were three-dimensional (except for the Christians). There is much biting humor in the story, and that was what sustained me through it.

Recommended but for liberals only. Conservatives are likely to be annoyed (and with reason) and toss it into the trash.

Staying Detailed for Sarah Byrnes
Eric Calhoune is the main character and is quite overweight. Ironically, he's on the swim team but even there he doesn't really fit in. His nickname is "Moby" because he's, well, fat. He becomes best friends with fellow outsider Sarah Byrnes. Supposedly, she was covered in scars after pulling a pot of spaghetti on herself. Together, they write an underground magazine depicting everyone that made fun of them. Then Sarah breaks down completely. Eric desperately tries to snap her out of it without her evil father Virgil Byrnes knowing. More and more details of Sarah's life come out as Eric's once boring life becomes an emotional roller coaster.

I thought the book started off very slow. He spends about half the book explaining past experiences in amazing detail. He describes his swim practices in complete detail. If you are a swimmer, this is the book for you.

Some interesting topics come up randomly throughout the book. Political issues to religion are all portrayed from various viewpoints. Strong beliefs to being very liberal are uniquely displayed in the words of teenagers.

Overall, the book is difficult to follow at times. The author Chris Crutcher, has a remarkable sense of detail and is consistently flashing back to past memories of his relationship with Sarah. However, this sets up the ending well. All the questions are answered and the ending is thrilling and unpredictable.

Incredibly Boring
Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes is a friendship/mystery novel. Eric and Sarah have been friends since grade school and he tells the story about the mystery of Sarah Byrnes and her family. Eric eventually starts to lose weight from joining the swim team in high school but Sarah Byrnes gets self conscious about herself and is afraid Eric wont talk to her anymore. To prove to Sarah Byrnes that he isn't one of the jocks, he eats extra helpings of food to stay fat for Sarah Byrnes.

I think the author could of talked about different stories throughout the book. He would drag on and on about one subject that would be absolutely boring if they didn't know or take interest in that topic. Most people wouldn't.

This novel is a little confusing at first because it goes from past to present all the time. I read this book with my literature circle and everyone agreed that the book wasn't interesting to read. In my opinion, it went real slow and was boring. It was hard to keep reading the book when I had too. If you were looking for real friendship romance and mystery books, I'd defiantly think you should try out a different book. The real interesting parts of the story were way at the very end. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. No offence to the rest of the people on the net that read the book and thought it was fabulous. ... Read more

Reviews (57)

This book is impossible to hate!
This book is very sad but at times very heart-warming. It brought tears to my eyes. I'm going to order it and read it over. I read it in fifth grade when I was eleven, and I had one of the best book experiences that I ever had. This book is: sad, emotional, happy at times, and very interesting. The ending though was so confusing. How Georgie gave something up that was so precious to him. I won't give the book away, because that's not fun. This book has some abuse in it, but that really makes you look at life better. I've read reviews that said that there is too much abuse, and it just isn't a big deal. I think that books that make you cry, and touch you so deaply, can make you look at life better. This book is so wonderful that it feels as if it's real life, well this story could happen, really. Read this book, it is so great. I don't know how anyone can hate it, it's just not possinle. three *... stars is as low as it can go. I really want to buy this book again, and read it over and over. I never get tired of it, and I'm sure you won't either. Very Good book. Unlike any other. If you don't read it, you'll feel so bad, because it's so good. Just put a bucket in front of you incase you cry, and three boxes of tissues next to you. I cried because of the sad parts in it, I cried because it ended. Such a sad story. And if there are any parents reading this right now, well you don't have to worry about a thing. This book is great for kids. (It may even get them to behave better! I bet you'll love that) It really made me behave better. This book really moved me, and I'm sure it will move you completely. But don't forget the tissues and the buckets, You'll need it later trust me.

Don't Judge This Book by it's Title
The Lottery Rose, by the excellent author Irene Hunt, is a heartwrenching story about a little seven year-old boy struggling to survive in his own household. His alcoholic mother and her evil boyfriend Steve physically and verbally abuse Georgie Burgess. Craving for love, and living in a broken home, he courageously endures his beatings hoping that someday it will end.
At a grocery store lottery, Georgie wins a little rose bush, which receives all the attention, love, and care that he is starved of. The rosebush becomes a symbol of love and hope for the deprived child, and he becomes attached to it for security. Flowers are the only thing he finds true beauty in, which is why he is so connected to his rosebush.
School is no refuge for this innocent child marked "trouble maker" by his ignorant teachers. He grew up being told and thinking he was dumb, which ruined his self-opinion from a young age. He has no where to run or hide from pain, and is chained to his mother by love, until one day Steve and Rennie go too far and nearly kill him in their usual drunken rage. The police then remove Georgie from his broken home filled with scarring memories.
Georgie is removed from his home and placed in a Catholic school for boys. He has a difficult time learning how to give and accept love- something he's never had. He gains more self-esteem when he learns how to read, and realizes he was never dumb to begin with. It takes time to heal emotionally and not deny the scars covering his back.
I compare this book to They Cage the Animals at Night an equally appalling and emotionally powerful novel based on a true story about child abuse. Books like these make your problems seem ridiculous and easy, and your life more fortunate. The painful experiences Georgie endured will haunt him the rest of his life; he will always be different. To make matters worse, he becomes best friends with a little boy who suffers from a mental problem. Georgie understands this boy named Robin, because they are both different. One day Robin dies, and Georgie experiences more tragedy. Irene Hunt has mastered the art of character development. As ALA Booklist states, "A deeply affecting, affirmative story..." The best thing about this book is it is only a story.
I recommend The Lottery Rose to any reader who loves children, or who is an alcoholic, or who believes in anti-alcoholism, or is a Catholic, or is a mother who lost her child, or any person interested in reading an amazing novel about misfortune and life's many problems, and how they can be changed for the better. I give this book the 5 stars it deserves.

Heart touching and eye opening
Abused, neglected, an appearance to match your life and deprived of happiness and love, little Georgie Burgess redefines the meaning of tough in the novel The Lottery Rose. Your mother is drowned in a sea of alcohol every night and there is no defense for you withstand the menacing blows of her boyfriend those were just some of Georgie's daily issues. There was also his lack of understanding in school, an outside porch to sleep on, and never enough food to eat in the kitchen.
It was a miracle Georgie could manage to stay alive under the circumstances he was forced to live in. However Georgie found a way to hide his hurt and disguise his pain. Instead of running away from home Georgie ran away to the garden and got to feel true happiness with the roses. He had once received a lottery card from a sympathetic employee at the corner market, the prize was a bundle of small dried out roses that Georgie adored and claimed it was the best present in the world when he won them. Georgie knew his mother's boyfriend Steve would not agree with Georgie's present considering he once strangled a small kitten Georgie brought home. Georgie drove Steve crazy and his anger reached its pinnacle when Georgie would scream shrieks of terror every time he saw Steve. One night Steve decided he wasn't going to take it anymore and beat Georgie unconscious. He was shortly rescued by a group of strangers trying to convince him he was going to be ok.
Georgie's real life experience didn't really start until he had left the hospital and his old home and was now under the care of Sister Mary Angela in a private religious school out in the middle of nowhere. Georgie started there as an outcast and very shy of his friendly surroundings. Georgie was not the brightest crayon in the box and the other young boys were taking notice of his unkempt appearance and tormenting him about it. However Georgie did end up making a best friend Timothy who tried nothing more than to befriend Georgie. While at this school Georgie furthered his passion for roses, in fact he still cherished his small bundle of dried roses and chartered them around. It was not long before Georgie spotted the perfect place to plant his roses, what he didn't know was that this would be start of his next major life crisis.
Throughout his very few years of existence Georgie has encountered more obstacles than most adults can account for in their lifetimes. Georgie has been nearly dead and had experienced death. By the end of the novel Georgie had learned not only to give love to his roses and Robin but he can now except love from Mrs. Harper and Sister Mary Angela.
The Lottery Rose is a heart touching novel that causes the reader to connect with Georgie Burgess and share in some of his pain and heartache, but also to respect his strength and defense. It opened my eyes to a world of suffering we so easily block out today. It forced me to analyze the reality of our modern day society and the novel brings new meaning to the phrase: "who said growing up would be easy."

Just Perfect
I would have to say that this book is the best book that I have read in my whole life! The first time I read this book was in fifth grade, and I remembered everything about it. When I have the choice to pick a book to read in class I pick The Lottery Rose in a heart beat. This book will bring emotions to you that you never thought you had. At times this book will bring a smile, at other times it will bring tears to your eyes. The title of the book may not be so eye catching, but you have to take a chance and just read it. Believe me you'll love it. I have to agree that the ending of the book is not a good one. The author could have done better. But the rest of the book makes up for it. Trust me and read it.

A good idea, but unbelievable
As a school assignment, I had to read a book and write a report on it. As I looked through the fiction shelf in our school library, "The Lottery Rose" really stood out. A young, abused boy slowly learning how to love and be loved, all the while a sickly rosebush reflecting his hopes, dreams, and fears. What a great idea. I mean, what could be more touching? Unfortunately, Irene Hunt pretty much ruins the whole book. She does a terrible job with the characters and the plot, the two basic components in a story. She does a good job describing Robin, the retarded boy, but that's about it. The characters are about as unrealistic as possible. The adults are either completely perfect or completely cruel, and the 7- and 8-year-old children are one-sided and talk and act like they were about twice their age. Also, the plot is unrealistic. In a period of a year or so, Georgie goes from being scared and abused to being like a normal kid his age. Irene Hunt, being a psychologist, should know better than anyone how long the healing process takes for an abused child. As a whole, this book is pretty bad. I strongly do not recommend reading this book, no matter how tempting the back cover sounds. ... Read more

Book Description

It's been two months since his dad's fatal accident, and eleven-year- old Ricky is still haunted by memories of violent beatings and hurtfulwords. The kids at school won't let him forget, either, and he's gotteninto so many fights, he's on the edge of serious trouble. Ricky canwalk away from taunts on the playground, but not when the kids cornerhim on the bus. So he comes up with a new way to get to school. Notonly will he run every morning and afternoon-he'll race the bus.Andone day he will leave the past behind-and win. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Racing The Past
Racing The Past is about Ricky, 6th grader, trying to so the right thing. One day Ricky gets in trouble for fighting so he makes a deal with the principal. That he wouldn't go to recess if the principal wouldn't tell his mother. Ricky rode the same bus as the kid he fought, so Ricky started to walk home from school. The first day his friend walked the 3 1/2 mile walk. Ricky hated the look the kids gave him as they rode by on the bus. After the look his decided tobeat the bus home.Training and training he was faster and faster. Until he was going to beat the bus. The book shows the strength of a young boy and what he tries to overcome. If you have a dream in life you should read this book.

Beating the Bus
Racing the Past
By: Sis Deans
Reviewed by: J.Lau
Period: 6
Racing the Past is a book about a kid named Ricky who just lost his father. Ricky gets into a lot of trouble at school and doesn't want to get his mom involved because she is already under a lot of stress. So Ricky makes a deal with the principal that he wouldn't get into anymore fights as long as the principal doesn't call his mom. The deal meant that Ricky had to miss recess and riding the bus to avoid getting into fights with Bugsie, the school bully. Since Ricky had to walk to and from school, he thought that it took too much time and decided to run the 7 miles to and from school and just maybe beat the bus home. Ricky makes notes on how to run faster and finally gets what he wants.
I like this book because it shows how you should have endurance when you run and never give up and the book also shows how a family works together after the loss of a close person. Ricky started out walking the 7 miles everyday and then he came up with the idea of beating the bus. So every morning and afternoon Ricky starts out jogging to and from school, working his way up to running the whole thing. Ricky took notes to help him be able to improve his running. While jogging or running Ricky did number problems in his head to pass time. Then one day a high school coach saw him running, "Keep that up and we'll be good friends when you get to high school." The coach supplied him with new shoes and paid for his doctor's bills as long as Ricky would run for him when he got to high school.
After Ricky's father died from drinking and driving, Ricky and his little brother, Matt, were happy that their father wasn't around anymore because of all the abuse and trouble their father caused. Ricky's mom was always at work so Ricky had to stay home to watch his little brother and sister. Ricky also helped take care of housework since his mom was a too busy getting bill paid. Matt was still scared of their father, even though he wasn't alive anymore, that Ricky had to go in the house first after school to make sure that their father wasn't around and Matt held a frying pan while sleeping and still wet his bed at night from bad dreams. When the funeral day came Ricky thought that it was time that they all got rid of the bad memories. Then Ricky decided to get rid of his father's plastic window covering. "Come on!" he told him. "Let's tear it all down."
My favorite part of the book is when Ricky finally beats the bus home. Ricky came out of the building as soon as the school bell rang and did his stretches. Ricky started running home with confidence and strength. When he got to the 2nd mile all he could think about was winning but then the thoughts of Bugsie made him mad so he sped up. Turning the corner, Ricky crashed into Tom Guimond and hit the ground but got up just as quick remembering the race. When he got to the last 100 yards he could hear the bus coming and gaining, he found the energy to sprint the last 25 yards with cheering in the background. Ricky had beaten the bus.

A remarkable first novel
This book is an astonishing book for a first novel (for any novel!)It's heartfelt, honest, and well told.I read it in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.

I couldn't care less
This book is fairly well written though not very challenging. I had to read it, maybe that's one reason why I couldn't really like it. Though the characters are quite convincing and Ricky is likeable enough, I asked myself while reading: Which kid really wants to read this??? The ones with a violent father? Kids who are into running? I don't know, it seems to be a book that's more interesting to adults - it's not really something teenagers will get into. - It's one of the books teachers will give you to read, right there, Mrs. P.? ... Read more

Book Description

London is poised on the brink of World War 11. Timid, scrawny Willie Beech--the abused child of a single mother--is evacuated to the English countryside. At first, he is terrified of everything, of the country sounds and sights, even of Mr. Tom, the gruff, kindly old man who has taken him in. But gradually Willie forgets the hate and despair of his past. He learns to love a world he never knew existed, a world of friendship and affection in which harsh words and daily beatings have no place. Then a telegram comes. Willie must return to his mother in London. When weeks pass by with no word from Willie, Mr. Tom sets out for London to look for the young boy he has come to love as a son.

Winner, 1982 International Reading Association Children's Book Award
Notable Children's Books of 1982 (ALA)
1982 Best Books for Young Adults (ALA)
1983 Fanfare Honor List (The Horn Book)
1982 Young Adult Editors' Choices (BL)
1983 Teachers' Choices (NCTE)
Notable 1982 Children's Trade Books in Social Studies (NCSS/CBC)
1988 Choices (Association of Booksellers for Children)
Children's Books of 1982 (Library of Congress) ... Read more

Reviews (86)

Good Night, Mr. Tom
"Good Night, Mr. Tom",is an excellent historical novel, by Michelle Magorian, set in World War II. This is a wonderful and touching story, about a small boy, named Willie Beech, who is evacuated from London to live in Little Weirwold with a complete stranger, Mr. Thomas Oakley. Tom is an old man, not used to children (he had a baby bay that died, but that was his only child), but he is kind to Willie. Willie is a deprived and abused child, and he is afraid of everything, because he wasn't let outside much in his earlier life. Slowly, Willie starts to think on his own, and he forgets the hate and despair of his past. Tom comes to love Willie like a son. Then a telegram comes, and Willie must return to his abusive mother in London, but weeks pass and Willie doesn't come back, so Mr. Tom goes to London to try to find the boy he has come to love so much. I would recommend this book to anyone young or old wo wants to read an excellent book. I hope all who read this book enjoy it as much as I did.

"Good Night, Mr. Tom"
In Michelle Magorian's novel Good Night, Mr. Tom, she brilliantly illustrates the hardships of a young child growing up post World War II after having being abused and abandoned by his mother, the one person who was truly supposed to love him. After being shipped from London to the English countryside to live with Mr. Tom, Willie has to adjust to living in a world he never knew existed. A world in which love, affection and friendships flourish. Magorian uses what she knows to set the plot, being that she was born and raised mostly in England. Her parents met each other during the World War II and perhaps she was reflecting on her own issues because as a child she lived a couple of years in Singapore and Australia. She eventually came back to England when she was 9 years old, but had already been moved around a lot, as did the main character in the book. The New Yorker called Magorian's novel "An engrossing and poignant story, with much sunlight to balance the darkness." Jim Trelease from The Read-Aloud Handbook said it was "powerful." And that, it is.

A fantastic touching novel for young people
I first read this book in elementary school and loved it then, and I have just re-read it as an adult, and it is still extraordinary. First and foremost, the book tells the compelling story of a young boy from London sent to the countryside during World War II. He leaves behind an abusive mother to live with an old man who has cut himself off from the world since the death of his wife and child. The two bring each other back to life, and it is a joy to read the story of their rebirth. This book is more than an old tale retold, however; plot twists and unique supporting characters make it fascinating, and for a young person, it is interesting to read about a different time and a different country.

An Empowering Story
This book has the power to make you laugh, cry, and want to sing. It is a story of a young boy learning how to live life with joy and without fear, and an old man remembering how to live life. This book is like a dear friend to me. When every I am unhappy I come and read this story, and I feel that my passion for life is renewed. An excellent book for people of all ages.

The Most Saddest And Greatest Book I've Ever Read
This book made me cry. Will's mother was the most horrible person i've ever heard of. I think that it was a good thing Tom did take him from the hospital. This book touched me and if you read it, it will probably touch you. This book is at a great price. Michelle Magorian did a wonderful job. ... Read more

Book Description

Things are so bad, I feel like I'm going to explode if I don't do something...

Everyone has to keep a journal in Mrs. Dunphrey's English class, but the teacher has promised she won't read any entry marked "Do not read this." It's the kind of assignment Tish Bonner, one of the girls with big hair who sit in the back row, usually wouldn't take very seriously. But right now, Tish desperately needs someone to talk to, even if it's only a notebook she doesn't dare let anyone read.

As Tish's life spins out of control, the entries in her journal become more and more private...and dangerous. Is she risking everything that matters to her by putting the truth on paper? And is she risking more by keeping silent? ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Dont You Dare Read this Mrs. Dunphrey
The book "Don't You Dare Read This Mrs. Dunphrey" was great. The author Margaret Peterson Haddix. Every page in it was told as if it was a journal. It was a socialogical social class type of book. It was about a low class family that didn't have a lot of money. The main character Tish has to write 3 journal entries a week for her english class. The teacher said that if she didn't want her reading them to mark don't you dare read this Mrs. Dunphrey. While doing school work she also has to take care of her brother, work, and keep her friends. I enjoyed the book alot although I thought that it kind of ended quickly. It was at the climax and then it just ended all of a sudden. I would recommend it to any kids, boys or girls from 12 to 16. .... Check out this book if you want to know.

Don't You Dare Read This Mrs. Dunphrey
Tish Bonner is an average teenage girl in High School. She has some problems at home because her parents have been divorced.One day,her English teacher,Mrs. Dunphrey asks the class to keep a writing journal. But,Mrs. Dunphrey has promised that she won't read any entries marked "Do not read this". Her life starts to change when her dad comes back to town and her mom goes after him she just won't take no for an answer. Also,her life starts to get even more complicated and she looses her best friends and needs to talk to anyone even if it's a journal that she won't let anyone read. Her life becomes more stressful and her entries become more and more private and dangerous. Is she really risking her life and putting it all on paper,or is she risking more by keeping quite? To find out to what happens to Tish read Don't you dare read this, Mrs.Dunphrey. It's a exciting novel and was given the honor of ALA best book for young aduts.I request this book to anyone who enjoys exciting novels.

Great Story for Young Adults!
Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey, by Margaret Peterson Haddix is a great story that any young adult should read. The story is about a brave young girl who does everything to protect her brother and mom against the cruelty of her father. At her young age, she learns to confront the problems of the real world and is forced to be responsible for her house and little brother. She is put in a situation where she can't tell her secrets to anyone, the only option she has is to let everything out on a journal. She shares her every thought, plan, and reality with the journal she had to turn in to her teacher. Sweat and chills would go through her body every time she had to turn in her special journal; her journal of secrets. But in the end she and her little brother were able to survive the harsh conditions they went through and their lives made a sudden change that led them to happiness; for once. I learned a lot from this harsh situation, and by the way Margaret sequences the events it makes it an exciting story that you don't want to stop reading.

Don't You Dare Read This Mrs. Dunphrey
In the book Don't You Dare Read This Mrs. Dunphrey is written by Marget Peterson Haddix. I like this book because it had a good moral to the story. In this book one of the main characters is Tish Booner, she is one of those girls that have big hair, who sits in the back of the classroom passing notes. In her English class she has to warite 3 journal entrys a week for Mrs. Dunphrey. In this book every page is writen as if it was real jounal. Mrs. Dunphrey let her students choose if they wanted her to read it, but in every teens life they have to deal with school work, and a home life too. In Tishes case she had to keep her friends. My opinion about this book is that Tish's family is making Tish grow up ti fast, and making her loose her child hood. After I read this book I felt very happy about my life!

Don¿t you dare read this Mrs.Dunphrey
Mgaret Peterson Haddix wrote Don't you dare read this Mrs.Dunphrey. I like this book because it had a good moral to it. In the book Tish Bonner writes in her journal how her life is. She is a girl that needs helps but she doesn't know who to go to. I really don't like her because she constantly complains about her life when she can go to a counselor. I like the brother Matt because he has a big imagination. The mom is real weird because she doesn't do anything for the family. I do not like the setting because it is in a small town. I don't like the plot because it bores me to death. ... Read more

Book Description

For Charlie, the basement is home. He's being punished. He doesn'tmean to leave--Father wouldn't allow it--but when Charlie is accidentally thrustoutside, he awakens to the alien surroundings of a world to which he's neverbeen exposed. Though haunted by fear of the basement and his father's rage,Charlie embarks on a journey toward healing and blossoms when he becomes anunconditionally loved and loving member of the right foster family. Thiscarefully crafted and authentic portrayal of Charlie's emotional and physicalabuse is gracefully matched by Susan Shaw's inspiring and deeply moving story ofrecovery. ... Read more

Book Description

Sometimes things change, and sometimes they don't...Johanna always feels like she has to be perfect-the perfect student and the perfect obedient daughter, which leads her to being the perfect outcast among her high school peers.

They say opposites attract, and that could be the only explanation for her attraction to Paul. Always the life of the party, Paul won his seat on the student council by running on an apathy platform. Wherever Paul goes, laughter follows, and Johanna longs to be a part of his inner circle.

And whenever Johanna wants something, she plans and works hard to achieve her goal.

Getting Paul into her life turns out to be the easy part. Keeping Paul happy while juggling all her other responsibilities is tough even for an overachiever like Johanna. Soon Paul's happiness becomes more important to Johanna than her own. More important than her relationship with her parents and friends. More important than her grades, her safety, and her future. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

things change
When high schooler Johanna looks in her bedroom mirror she sees her image surrounded by the report cards stuck around the mirror's edges. She likewise feels hemmed in by the expectations (parental and otherwise) that have both contributed to and resulted from her achievements at school. She wants to reinvent herself, and does so, with increasingly bold gestures, through her relationship with the unconventional Paul. But things have a way of changing...

I enjoyed this book. Its characters, situations, and place are well-captured and well-presented. I liked the different changes rung on the notion of 'change' throughout, as its characters experience the often unexpected costs and gains that can result from change (and also from a failure to change). The author sometimes shifts points of view in telling the story, using diary-like letters as a transition device between different narrative voices. This, too, helps to keep the storytelling balanced and real. Highly recommended.

Astounding!
I found this book to be very engaging, vividly realistic and astounding. I think the author has an excellent understanding of what makes a book easy to understand while having a deep, intellectual and meaningful underlying/hidden message. I loved the use of symbols; they were interesting, very purposeful, and meaningful. I adored this book; the message, plot, organization, writing style, characters and the ending. The way it was written was with passion and intelligence. It was easy to read and easy to apply to the real world, and real world situations. I think this book is very important to read as well as being fun to read, no matter how old you are. Everyone should read this book, even if you don't like novels or the genre. This is one of the best books I have ever read!

Excellent, moving novel!
There are many books which feature dating violence, but Things Change is not "just another one." Instead it stands out for a few reasons. Johanna, like many other smart girl protagonists, falls easily under the influence of her bad boy love, Paul. It's so frustrating to see smart teen girls behaving so stupidly. She knows he'll hit her again, why does she go back?? However, what makes Johanna stand out is that when she finally says enough is enough, she does it on her own and the r