Book Description

"Someone has stolen Santa's bank card!"

Combining the tongue-in-cheek charm of a modern classic with the timeless magic of cherished holiday tradition, here is a new Christmas story guaranteed to delight children of all ages--including those who pretend to have grown up.

Santa's Twin is the hilarious and heartwarming story of two little girls, Charlotte and Emily, who set out to save Santa from his mischievous twin--Bob Claus.

How the brave but foolhardy sisters fly to the North Pole and rescue Santa from his "deeply troubled" twin is an utterly charming and unforgettable story that will add sparkle to your holiday season. The first major new Christmas story in decades, Santa's Twin breathes new life and warmth into the world's most beloved legend.

Dean Koontz was born in Everett, Pennsylvania, and grew up in nearby Bedford. While still in college, he won a prize in a fiction competition sponsored by The Atlantic Monthly. His novels have sold more than 170 million copies in thirty-eight languages. He lives with his family in southern California.

Jay O. Sanders' diverse credits include JFK, Meeting Venus, and Angels in the Outfield on film, Hostages and The Outer Limits on cable TV, Roseanne and Northern Exposure on network TV, and St. Joan on Broadway.


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Reviews (19)

Koontz never ceases to impress me
I'm 36 and bought the book for myself! It will be an annual Christmas Eve tradition. I read it to my two nieces - 8 & 11 - and they enjoyed almost as much as i did. I especially loved the line - "they could do it. They were sisters" since I love to stress the importance of this relationship to these sisters. The humor he uses throughout makes it a joy to read again and again. the illustrations are gorgeous - and we had fun searching for the artist's signature within the artwork.

Koontz for Kids, and Adults Will Love it Too!
Santa has been tied up, stuffed into a sack and thrown into the basement of his house in Santa's Village, North Pole. His evil jealous twin brother has control of his sleigh and reindeer, is vandalising houses and switching toys for toad snot and other disgusting things, so that kids will hate his brother and live in fear each Christmas for centuries to come. It is up to two good girls named Charlotte and Emily to stop the evil one, rescue Santa and save Christmas

This sensational rhyming, illustrated Christmas tale also has the added bonus of hidden snowmen on each page, Where's Wally? (Waldo, America) style. Obviously kids will enjoy this sensational thriller but so will adults. Also read Garry Larson's There's a Hair in My Dirt which is another children's classic written by an author who normally writes for adults.

A witty new twist on Christmas
I love this book! I first saw it several years ago when my neighbor (the artist, Phil Parks) was illustrating it, and I fell in love with it. I think the humor is intelligent and top-notch, and I love the illustrations. It is a refreshing change from traditional Christmas stories, and it makes me laugh out loud. I highly recommend it.

Return to my youth
When I was a little boy I loved nothing more than curling up in my bed at night when the latest omnibus of children's horror stories. Dean Koontz has taken his well honed craft and added his touch to this genre, with remarkable results. How I wish this book would have been around when I was a child, I probably would have read it about 10 times by now. I read it myself first to ensure it was suitable for my children and found that I couldn't put it down. When I eventually got round to reading it to the kids it became a war of wills, with them trying to stay awake as long as possible each night trying to intake as much of the story as possible before tiredness took them and they finally crossed over into dreamworld. The fact that as soon as I had finished reading this book, the children asked for me to read it to them again is testament to just how fantastic this book is. For some great family entertainment on a cold winters night then it doesn't come much better than this. I should also state that the illustrations are also remarkable and enhance the enjoyment of the experience. A must for every child's bookshelf.

Funny Christmas Tradition!
This is an awesome Christmas book for late at night during the holiday season. I read this to my 5 year old sister and she loved it! Not only is it a great story but there is the added fun of trying to find the "hidden snowmen" on every page. Not many people know this but this is a sort of "continiunce" of Dean's earlier adult horror book "Mr. Murder". Santa's Twin features the family from that book. The storyline of Twin came from a story that was told to the kids in Mr. Murder. Overall, great Christmas book! ... Read more

Book Description

Read by Jim Weiss
4 hours, 41 minutes
3 cassettes

Who could resist living for a year with a raccoon who is just about your best friend?

In this delightful memoir, Sterling North recalls his year with Rascal--a very mischievous and resourceful raccoon.Sterling, a boy of 11, watches in amazement as this baby raccoon, barely the size of Sterling's hand, instinctively washes everything before eating it.Sterling knows that every night Rascal will sneak into the house by hooking his claws onto the back screen door and head straight for Sterling's bed!Virtually everywhere Sterling goes, Rascal is there, and life is filled with one adventure after another. ... Read more

Reviews (42)

A beautiful adventure
It could have been anyone, the person who found Rascal. But it was our good fortune that it was Sterling North, a writer-to-be who could give us all the wonderful details of Rascal's magnetic personality. The insight into North's childhood was a delight -- his father's instinctive (or was it neglectful?) way of giving the boy responsibilities. The canoe in the living room, kept there unfinished due to the expenses of reining in the pesky little critter. I sensed the coming of a dark ending. But, no, it was simply perfect. I can't imagine a reader not loving this book.

Rascal
Rascal is a very good book. It's about a boy named Sterling. He goes out in the woods with his friend Oscar and his dog Wowser. The dog starts digging at a rotting stump and all of a sudden a mother racoon pops out and starts running up a tree. Sterlig finds a baby racoon and takes it home as a pet. And thats how the friendship begins. I recommend that you read Rascal.

"Rascal" and "Rascal, der Waschbär"
This is a lovely book about a boy and his pet raccoon which does not lose anything in the translation into German as far as I am concerned. I think that this book, along with his later book "Raccoons Are The Brightest People" as well as "Frosty: A Raccoon To Remember" by Harriet E. Weaver, and "Raccoons, A Natural History" by Samuel I. Zevelhoff are the big four books about the wonderful critters.

Rascal
This is a story about a boy with a pet raccoon. His mother has passed away and his dad lets him have all kinds of pets and even build a canoe in the living room. Rascal is a racoon living a happy life with his family, until Sterling catches him, then it gets happier. He went everywhere with Sterling. Seeing new sights, smelling new smells, it's all a daily routine, until it is messed with by other people who weren't so fond of him. He was caged, and put on a leash. That is no life for a racoon. Sterling decides to let Rascal decide, eternal freedom, or life with Sterling? This was a refreshing change to read after "Where the Red Fern Grows" which is about a boy
whose passion is killing raccoons. There aren't many books out there for older boys that don't concentrate on violence. This is one.

Rascal
Rascal is a very good book,because it was very extciting.I think people woulld realy enjoy reading the book.Some of the charaters are Sterling, and Rascal.It was very good book. ... Read more

Book Description

Moving is not easy.

Rosie is the meanest cow in the world -- and Marvin's best friend. When his family moves to a new farm, Marvin is sad and lonely . . . until he finds Rosie again. But now she's making a lot of trouble for everyone. Will she and Marvin ever adjust to the changes of a new life in a new place?

Reviews (1)

Happy Mom
I really enjoyed this book and felt like it dealt well with some real feelings children might have about moving. I liked how the parents handled their childs way of dealing with his problems. ... Read more

Book Description

Little Bear meets Emily, a human girl, and her doll. ‘Once again Little Bear proves himself to be as wistful and tender a little creature as exists in the child’s library.’ —K.

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Reviews (3)

charming beginning reader
These stories about Little Bear and his friend Emily are a charming introduction to the world of reading for beginners. Little Bear is a sweet child to his mother and father and a good friend to Duck, Hen, Owl and Cat. Minarik's simple narrative will be easy enough for early readers, and Sendak's illustrations will hold their attention. The four stories are: Little Bear and Emily, about the friends' meeting; Duck, Baby Sitter; The Party at Owl's House, in which Lucy falls from a tree; and "Your Friend, Little Bear", about Little Bear's coping when Emily goes away for the school year.

A wonderful rediscovery!
I just found this book in a used book store recently and I am thrilled! I remember Little Bear so well from childhood. I bought the book and it proudly sits on my shelf waiting for the day when I have a child to share it with.

This book will give you warm fuzzys! Else has created a wonderfully warm, sweet and adorable book with cute characters.

You and your child will really enjoy it! Don't pass it up!

A childhood treasure waiting to be discovered
As a little girl in the early 1960's, Little Bear's Friend was one of my favorite books. What a joy to discover that this old friend is still available for my three year old daughter to enjoy! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (47)

The best series of children's fantasy literature
A friend of my father's brought me a box full of used books when I was 9 or 10. Tucked away in the bottome was The High King, actually the last in the Prydain Chronicles....it sat for quite awhile in my bookcase before I picked it up and began reading. What an experience it turned out to be! The adventures of Taran (Assistant Pig- Keeper), Eilonwy, Gurgi, Prince Llyr, and all the other charming charaters in their quest to beat the evil Horned King opened my eyes to the wonderful world of fantasy in children's literature. Indeed, after reading the High King I ran out and spent all my allowance (preciously saved) on the rest of the 5-book series.

Lloyd Alexander writes with a refreshing and unpretentious stye, neither speaking down to kids nor falling into any of the cliched storylines or dialogue of many writers of fantasy literature. Indeed, I believe many authors of modern adult fantasy would greatly benefit from studying Mr. Alexanders writing style.

I credit this series for the beginning of my 25+ years of affection for Celtic, Gaelic, and Welsh mythology and would strongly recommend this series for any lover, young and old, of fantasy and mythology.

The Most Meaningful Book I've Ever Read

I read it at six. I read it at sixteen. I read it at twenty-six. I read it at home. I read it wandering. At all times and all places, I have identified with Taran Wanderer more than any other literary character. I'm not excluding Shakespeare, the classics or modern novels.

Taran is a boy trying to become a human (it applies to girls just as much.) This is the beginning of all great mythology, as the late Joseph Campbell would have agreed. This boy travels through a world of magic swords, undead warriors and medieval villages. It is an escape. Or is it? Taran deals with truth, the true worth of himself and others, the search for meaning in a career and in life, the excitement and high price of violence and love. I AM Taran in 1997, as much as he is in an imaginary world. I bet a lot of you are, too.

Alexander never talks down to you, whether you are young or old. It is fun and meaningful. This fourth book of a wonderful five-book series is an excellent encapsulation of the entire series. This is not a book for adults or children. It is a book for people. A great one.

A wonderful character piece
This book is definitely the most unique of all the Prydain Chronicles. Instead of urgent quests to find magical pigs, destroy evil cauldrons or rescue a beautiful princess--with good constantly pitted against the forces of evil--this volume is instead focused on Taran finding out about himself.

Instead of a quest resolved in a matter of weeks or months, this story covers a couple of years, years in which Taran travels from one end of Prydain to the other, first in search of his parents and then in search of his own place in the race of men.

His motivation lies in a desire to be worthy of the Princess Eilonwy's hand in marriage; she's absent from the story, still on the Isle of Mona, so Taran's only constant companion is the loyal creature Gurgi.

Old friends Fflewddur and Doli make brief appearances, though the bulk of Taran's time is spent meeting new people: the old farmer Aeddan and his wife, who fight for survival on a land impoverished by the Death-Lord Arawn; Goryon and Gast, petty lords whose bark is worse than their bite; Morda, the enchanter who despises the race of men in its entirety; the outlaw Dorath and his men; the shepherd Craddoc; and the people of the Free Commots: Llonio the lucky, Hevydd the smith, Dwyvach the weaver, Annlaw the potter, and Llassar the farm boy.

The lessons Taran learns in his travels aren't always obvious or profound for the casual reader, and the limited amount of swords, sorcery and peril may be unusual for some. However, the transition Taran makes into manhood is handled convincingly and realistically with each step he takes.

Taran becomes a man
One of the great joys of Lloyd Alexander's Prydain Chronicles series is the steady progression from lighthearted children's fantasy to more adult themes and a grimmer tone, allowing the reader to grow along with the characters. By the end, you feel as if the characters have taken a lifetime of journeys, learning from them as they went.

This is very much front and center in "Taran Wanderer," a sad, lonely tale of Taran's quest to find out who he truly is. While appropriate for all ages and sure to be enjoyed by young readers, older readers will find the harrowing decisions Taran has to make gripping and heart-wrenching.

Because Alexander draws his stories from ancient myth and legend, the themes and situations here will feel familiar, like stories you've read many times before. Yet that never comes across in a tiresome way. It's a story that operates in a welcome comfort zone, nice in a time when so many books try so hard to be different solely for the sake of being different. The story told in "Taran Wanderer" is a timeless tale because of its familiarity and will engage readers for many years to come.

The focus here is more strongly on Taran than in any other volume, though the rest of the cast of characters returns: Eilonwy the stereotypical spoiled princess, Gurgi the crazed Gollum-like creature, and Fflewddur Fflam the hapless bard who is prone to exaggeration. Others from the past also rear their heads.

The pacing in this, the fourth of five books, is more deliberate. Some would say slow, but this being the type of story it is, that would be an unfair description. Rather, it lingers in Taran's quest and Taran's sadness and uncertainty.

"Taran Wanderer" and the rest of the Prydain Chronicles are recommended reading for anyone who enjoys fantasy, especially classic children's fantasy, walking the fine line between being accessible to young readers and being appealing and engaging enough for adults to enjoy.

The best of the series
The Chronicles of Prydain is my favorite series of young adult writing. I highly recommend this series to any child or adult who likes Harry Potter or any other series of fantasy fiction. Taran Wanderer is my favorite of the series because it brings into view the changes the main character has made in the three previous books and sets the stage for the final episode. A wonderful book about the journey to find 'self'. ... Read more

Book Description

In the ruins of the castle of the Red King, Charlie and Tancred discover a tree-girl who whispers secrets to them and asks for their help in restoring her to a real girl.When Charlie returns to help her, he finds that the tree has been destroyed.Meanwhile, the Yewbeam sisters are trying to marry Amy Bone, Charlie begins to hear portraits speaking, and a new music teacher has arrived at Bloor's Academy.Emma discovers that the invisible boy living upstairs in the attic is her older brother, and when Manfred finds out their plans, he threatens to lock up Emma. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Children of the Red King is the best book series despite hp
Ok, im going to star by saying The Invisible Boy is the best installment yet in the children of the red king series. first of all, don't even look at the summary of the book that amazon.com provided, none of it is true. NONE ZERO ZIP ZILCH! None of it so dont bother reading it. i mean, how could the yewbeam sisters try to marry amy bone unless they're lesbians? overall, this book is an amazing piece of work by jenny nimmo; if she was at bloors, she'd be in the drama department no question. However if you haven't read the first 2 books get reading because there is a slim chance you will understand the third book without reading the first two books. THIS BOOK ROX

The best so far!
In the third installment of the Children of the Red King series, a considerable amount of depth is assed, and Ms. Nimmo stakes out her own territory fiercely. This book was the best yet. Any doubt that additional depth was on its way should have been put to rest upon viewing the genealogical table (which, disappointingly, gave away a few endowments that I wasn't aware of, but it didn't affect the story).

The book is, in its basest form, about a boy who was made invisible by - who else - that wretched disaster of a magician, Ezekiel Bloor, and the efforts of Charlie and his faithful band of do-gooders to rescue him. But there is much more than an invisible boy for Charlie to worry about.

His best friend Benjamin has gone with his parents to Hong Kong, so Charlie has to find a way to keep Runner Bean occupied without Grandma Bone finding out about him. He is introduced to a new girl, Belle, who will be attending the academy, but not through the usual way - that is, not at the academy on the first day of classes. He is introduced to this girl, who is the most beautiful girl in the world and whose eyes constantly change color, at his own home by his horrific aunts and Grandma Bone. The manner of their introduction isn't lost on Charlie, and he is wary of her from the beginning.

His Uncle Patton leaves, mysteriously, speaking of "someone dangerous" that must be stopped from arriving, and Charlie finds himself without the comforting presence of his uncle, who has begun to serve as a very effective buffer between Charlie and the Yewbeams. When his Uncle finally returns, the manner of his return is such that Charlie feels compelled to revisit the painting of Skarpo the Sorcerer in the hopes that Skarpo can help his Uncle, but Charlie succeeds in doing two things: 1) adding mystery to the white wand he "stole" in book 2; and 2) unleashing a very unpleasant series of circumstances not only on Bloor's Academy but also on the people who live in the surrounding town.

As we are finding out, there is more to everything than meets the eye - even if some of it is rather obvious. And the universe is expanding, most satisfactorily. We can see possibilities for more books, and indeed it has been stated in at least one place that this is a projected series of five books.

I have only a few issues with the series in general, and the main one is: why does every book have to be centered around someone that the Bloors and/or Yewbeams are hiding or don't want to be found? And why does it make such little sense (to me at least - it's entirely possible that my tiny brain is missing something rather obvious) that the Bloors and/or Yewbeams don't want these kids found? Especially since this last book was action packed from beginning to end, and between Skarpo, Belle, Uncle Patton, and other minor subplots there was plenty around which to write a book. I hope that the next two books will use a more clever contrivance around which to center the story.

Last, AND THIS IS IMPORTANT FOR THOSE WHO THINK THESE BOOKS ARE POTTER RETREADS, I had an issue with what happened to Charlie at the end regarding a certain wand and a genealogical table (not the one in the beginning of the book).. I won't describe anything more, because I don't want to give the ending anyway. Anyway, this event seemed to be the most glaring Potter similarity yet, and I admit to actually gasping out loud when I read it. I assumed that Ms. Nimmo, as she is no stranger to children's entertainment, *must* have read Potter, and therefore I was dumbfounded, wondering why in the world she would do something like this. However, I wrote to Ms. Nimmo, and she confirmed that she has never read the Potter works, except when her publisher tells her to take a peek at certain parts. Given that she's never read the books, then, all of the Potter similarities are entirely accidental. This was an answer that pleased me greatly, for I have absolutely loved these books.

NEw Charlie BOne
THe Newest Charlie BOne was great like all the others, except for the fact that the editorial review is completely wrong, there is no tree girl and the invisible boy is not Emma's Brother!!!!!!!!!!!! Perhaps we can look for the tree girl in THe Blue Boa which may be another name for the invisible boy, who knows??? Anyway a great site for finding new books (...)at amazon.

A Great Book!
the third book in the Children Of The Red King series is much better than #1 or #2. if you like jenny nimmo, i suggest reading Griffin's Castle, one of her older books. it is equally great!

Stellar!!
The third in the Children of the Red King series... Truly outdoes the first two... Charlie Bone faces many new challenges including helping an invisible boy.. coping with a very deceptive "young and pretty girl"... and being endowed with his strange power. This is the best one yet, I highly recomend it to all Harry Potter fans and any fans of magical tales. Two Thumbs Up! ... Read more

Book Description

Read by John Ritter
Approx. 4h rs. 25 mins.
3 cassettes
Leo Borlock follows the unspoken rule at Mica Area High and everything changes—for Leo and for the entire school. After 15 years of home schooling, Stargirl bursts into tenth grade in an explosion of color and a clatter of ukulele music enchanting the Mica student body. But the delicate scales of popularity suddenly shift and Stargirl is shunned for everything that maker her different. Somewhere in the midst of Stargirl's arrival and rise and fall, normal Leo Borlick has tumbled into love with her.
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Reviews (468)

A girl at her best.
Star Girl, written by Jerry Spinelli, is a wonderful fiction novel. It is a story about a girl in Arizona who has just come from home schooling to the town's high school. Her name is Stargirl and she has a lot of interesting qualities about her. She wears different clothing then most girls and acts completely different also. She even has a pet rat named Cinnamin. One day in school a boy catches her eye. Even though she is so different there is something about her that he can't stop thinking about. At first she is lonely, then she joins the cheerleading squad and suddenly she was one of the most popular girls in school. Then she does something that makes the cheerleaders turn their backs on her and then she is unpopular again. This boy keeps on seeing and likes her a lot. They finally make it public that they like each other and then before you know it, everyone is interested on how their relationship will work. The ending in this book is amazing. So read the book to find out what happens to Stargirl and her pet rat, Cinnamin.

Thank you, Mr. Spinelli...
Unlike many of the other reviews I will not summarize the plot as well, but give a public thank you to Mr. Spinelli for such a poignant story. Having just finished the audio version, I must applaud both the verbal performance (by John Ritter, excellent choice and we miss him dearly) and the excellent content.

As an adult reader, it caused me to reflect on my years in high school and remember, with some embarrassment, my need to conform and not rock the boat of popularity. I feel the book goes much beyond the surface story, touching on the deep human need to make a difference in other people's lives. Unfortunately, that longing is often lost early in life - the need for acceptance takes center stage and rarely gives up the spotlight.

This story made me laugh and cry, and shall join the short list of books I would take with me if ever stranded on a desert island. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Those wanting more of Mr. Spinelli's excellent work should also read the audio book Loser, performed superbly by Steve Buscemi.

I hope you're still out there, Stargirl. Please keep your eye on me, too.

To conform or not to conform, that is the question.
Stargirl, with a name like that she would have to be an original and she is. No one at Mica High has ever met anyone so non-conformant to the group norm. Stargirl sings happy birthday to student in the cafeteria while playing her ukulele. She drops money on the sidewalk for little kids to find. She cheers for BOTH teams at sports tournaments. Can anyone this selfless and caring survive the pressure to "follow the unwritten school rules" of behavior? Will her individuality be squashed or will the town of Mica, Arizona never be the same?

Karen Woodworth-Roman

*GIRL*
WOW! I got this book in a small book shop in an upstate town. It had an interesting cover and so i thought it would be interesting. I believe in the phrase "you cant judge a book by its cover". So i thought i would give it a shot. I read it in one day!!! I was shocked when i found out that it was narrorated by a boy. Usually girls narerate. Besides the point... It is a great book about how a boy falls in love with a girl who is not what everyone else is. When the whole school stops liking Stargirl, Leo is torn between stargirl and the school. It is a great book about how being different has its ups and its downs. It showed me that being different is something that everyone should try and that not following the croud is something that is not always a good thing. It tought me how to be different in a good way.

Making Conformity Unpopular
I'm not the biggest fan of Spinelli. Although he's a wonderfully artistic writer, his works usually depress me. He has changed my mind with his book, "Stargirl". Reading the book, I recognized the pressures for conformity not only from my high school days, but even now, during my lasT years of college. I both wanted to be and hated the character Stargirl. She's everything we SHOULD be, but never come close to becoming. I hope this book doesn't remain in the young adult circle, but spreads to the adult section as well. A winner. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Thirteen-year-old Shayla has never thought much of her estranged father,the silver-tongued Mr. Anderson Fox. And she thinks even less of the new babygirl he has fathered named Gift ("I don't think that she's a present.") Jealousand angry that "once again Mr. Anderson Fox has tracked sadness into our houseon the sole of his shiny leather shoe," Shayla tries to take her mind off herbaby blues by spending more time with her best friend Kambia Elaine and flirtingwith Lemm, the cute new boy in the 'hood. But she soon discovers that each ofthem are nursing their own troubles. Kambia is receiving awful anonymousreminders of her former abusive home that cause her mind to "run away from herlike folks do from Casper the Friendly Ghost," and Lemm is struggling with aterrible family secret that he tries to cover up with alcohol and fast talk. Asshe strives to help them both, Shayla painfully learns that friendship has itslimits and that the maturity she longs for comes with a price. Lori AureliaWilliams has more tightly focused this sophomore follow-up to her criticallyacclaimed, yet somewhat rambling first novel, When Kambia Elaine Flew In fromNeptune. With Shayla's Double Brown Baby Blues, Williams stickscloser to the plot, while continuing to write Shayla's first-person voice in thesignature lyrical style that made Kambia Elaine so unforgettable. To borrow aquote from the vivid wordsmith Williams herself, this poignant sequel is like"thinking you had eaten the last cherry Jolly Rancher out of the bag and thenopening it and finding two more." (Ages 12 to 18) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Shayla's Double Brown Baby Blues
Shayla Fox's life seems to take turn after turn for the worse. First, her estranged father left her mother for good. Then he remarried a woman Shayla does not like in the least. But worst of all, he has a new daughter named Gift --- a daughter born on Shayla's birthday! Shayla feels as if she has nothing of her own any more, not even a special day. Her grandmother, her sister, and her mother all try to help Shayla. Grandma Augustine is a wisecracking wise woman. Although Shayla feels like her drama is unbearable, Grandma Augustine constantly reminds her to be thankful that she is alive and whole and smart. Grandma Augustine knows that Shayla can be melodramatic and so she gently tells her grandchild that her life, like most people's, will be filled with a little rain, but it's up to Shayla to make sure her sorrows don't turn into a big, overwhelming storm.

A girl who does have a stormy life is Shayla's best friend Kambia. (Their friendship was detailed in author Williams's first book, WHEN KAMBIA ELAINE FLEW IN FROM NEPTUNE by Lori Williams.) As this second novel opens, Kambia's life has only gotten more complicated. A year prior, Kambia was found wandering, alone and amnesiac. Adopted by the Dreyfuses, Kambia is caught in a search for her identity as well as having to find a place for herself in the world. Shayla must help Kambia heal, even as anonymous notes and packages start to plague her friend and bring her to the edge of sanity.

In another subplot, Shayla befriends Lemm, the new boy at school who's lost most of his family in a tragic accident. Lemm struggles, feeling as alone and hopeless as Kambia and Shayla. Lemm also has severe problems with substance abuse, and even as Shayla tries to gain some control in her life, she finds she wants to help Lemm with his issues. Most of the time Shayla feels as if she's caught up in a world full of problems whirling about her, just waiting to reach out and snatch her.

SHAYLA'S DOUBLE BROWN BABY BLUES presents a harsh picture of contemporary life in the African American community. The families are strained nearly to the breaking point but held together by a web of women. These woman show their strengths and vulnerabilities while keeping life going, despite upheavals, dangerous events, and secrets from the past. Women like Grandma Augustine carry with them the promise of a brighter future, even when that promise seems to be withheld by violence and uncertainty; they never allow hope to become totally eaten away. By sharing her enduring strength with her granddaughter, Augustine demonstrates that it is possible to bear the shocks of life and, in time, overcome them.

This isn't the kind of book you can say you enjoyed; "enjoy" simply isn't the right word. But it does tell a powerful story in tight well-crafted prose that lingers in the mind and in the soul long after the story has ended. Lori Aurelia Williams's characters are so solid, they seem as if they've been hewn out of rock instead of the airy stuff of imagination. It's the kind of book that makes you want to hold your own family just a little nearer, just a little dearer. See for yourself.

--- Reviewed by Cassia Van Arsdale

recommendation for Williams sequel
Many young adult books cannot be compared to the technique and writing style of Lori Aurelia Williams. In her sequel, Shayla's Double Brown Baby Blues, Williams gives her characters conflicts in which many readers are able to relate to, or can understand based on human emotions. Williams heroine, Shayla, is a bright beautiful young lady who has a strong sense of self and faces many problems to determine her self worth. I would recommend this book to any and everyone, espcially young adults, because its a comming of age book and many young people can relate to Shayla's problems.

Great sequel to When Kambia Elaine Flew in from Neptune
In this sequel to When Kambia Elaine Flew in from Neptune, Shayla's father has a baby daughter with his new wife. The baby is born on Shayla's birthday and has Shayla's eyes. As Shayla is learning to accept the new baby, Gift, she is also dealing with Kambia, who is getting threatening messages from someone while she is trying to recover from what happened before. Also in the midst of everything, Shayla meets a boy named Lemm. Lemm is a gentlemen who does a lot of sweet talking, and really likes Shayla, but he has real problems too. This is a great book, and anyone who liked the first book will really like this one too.

Flawlessly produced and aptly narrated
Shayla is young, black, and feels that now that her father's new wife has given birth to a baby (born on Shayla's own birthday!) that she has been replaced in her father's affections. Shayla can't even confide in her best friend, Kambia Elaine, because of not wanting to diminish Kambia's own happiness at finally being part of a loving family in her own right. Nor can Shayla confide in a new friend, Lemm, when she discovers that he has his own troubles and tragedies that he is trying to keep secret. Lori Williams' Shayla's Double is a superbly written, emotionally articulate novel of unconditional love, human heartbreak, and family relationships. Highly recommended for young listeners 10 through 18, this 10 hour, 30 minute Listening Library unabridged production is flawlessly produced and aptly narrated by heather Alicia Simms.

awesome
this was a great book, just as good as Lori Aurelia Williams's first book.it focuses on friendship and growing up.shayla must deal with some really difficult issues.her father has a new baby that she fears will take her place and someone begins sending Kambia packages that remind her of her childhood, sending her into her own little world for hours at a time.i can't wait to see what else williams writes. ... Read more

Book Description

approx. 4 hours, 3 cassettes

It's late summer 1793, and the streets of Philadelphia are abuzz with mosquitoes and rumors of fever.Down near the docks, many have taken ill, and the fatalities are mounting.Now they include Polly, the serving girl at the Cook Coffeehouse.But fourteen-year-old Mattie Cook doesn't get a moment to mourn the passing of her childhood playmate.New customers have overrun her family's coffee shop, located far from the mosquito-infested river, and Mattie's concerns of fever are all but overshadowed by dreams of growing her family's small business into a thriving enterprise.But when the fever begins to strike closer to home, Mattie's struggle to build a new life must give way to a new fight-the fight to stay alive.

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Reviews (114)

An Astonishingly Terrific Read
An Astonishingly Terrific Book

When I first picked up this book, I was a little apprehensive about reading it. This all changed when I read through this excellent historical fiction tale. It is about a girl named Mattie Cook who lives in Philadelphia in 1793 during the large yellow fever epidemic. Before the outbreak, she is an everyday girl who is not very mature yet and doesn't spend her time as she should, trying to get out of chores and listening to her mother. Her life changes forever when her mother becomes ill and Mattie's life turns into a rollercoaster ride. Through the fever, however, Mattie learns about how precious life is, and grows up to be able to make choices on her own and be a responsible young woman. This is by far one of my favorite books, which I could read over and over again and recommend to any young adult or adult.

A realistic, well-written and researched book...
This work of historical fiction captures the life of a young girl, Mattie Cook, and her family during the Philadelphia Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793. Disease spreads rapidly destroying lives and futures. When Mattie's mother succumbs to the fever, she insists that Mattie leave the city with her grandfather. Their journey to the countryside goes amiss and Mattie must rely on her own wits to survive in a city turned frantic from disease. Expertly researched, Anderson describes the desperate attempts at cures by primitive medical experts and the populace at the time. She vividly captures the peoples' fear, loss and helplessness (nearly 5,000 people, or roughly 10% of the city's population died). Anderson's descriptions of afternoon tea, the sites and sounds of outdoor markets, coffee houses, and the countryside provides a rich, textured setting and gives the reader a strong feel for everyday life in 1793. Her strong character development draws the reader into the plight of the Cook family. It is a gripping story which keeps the reader on the edge of her seat as the plot unfolds.

Fever 1973
Author of Speak, Laurie Halse Anderson writes her amazing historical fiction book, Fever 1793 about a teenage girl named Matilda a.k.a. Mattie who faces difficulty and fights for her life. The story is written really well and Laurie Halse Anderson does a good job making Matilda sound like a girl in the 18th century. In Fever 1793 the bonds of friendship and love is written really well.
16 year-old Matilda Cook's mother and grandfather owns a popular coffee shop on High Street. Mattie was a lazy girl with a comfortable and plain life. Her whole life changes when the yellow fever epidemic arrives in Philadelphia. Her mother caught the fever and sends Matilda and her grandfather away to be safe. They leave Philadelphia and on their way both Matilda and her grandfather catches yellow fever. So much happens like the death of Mattie's grandfather and her mother goes missing. The epidemic kills thousands of people. When winter comes the epidemic ends. The fever might have ended but the bad memories are still there.
The epidemic caused Mattie to change a lot. She was a lazy girl in the beginning of the book but then she became more responsible and strong. The character shift that Laurie Halse Anderson did was really good.
I had read her other book Speak and thought it was an ok book. But Fever 1973 is one of the best books I've ever read. This book was written I such a way that it is hard to put down. Anderson makes you want to keep reading. I read this book in 3 days and couldn't put it down. I never knew historical fiction could be so fun to read.
Fever 1793 is written so well. I couldn't find any downside besides the fact that I thought the beginning was boring, other than that it was perfect. This book really gives you a picture of the 18th century. This book was not only fun to read but it also was educational. These are two qualities that make the book great.

A Little Too Melodramatic
The bubonic plague in Europe took 25 million lives. The Yellow Fever in 18th century Philadelphia took a mere 5000 lives and lasted a few weeks. Anderson overdramatizes the event both in the historical context as well as the storyline. So much happens to her heroine over such a short period of time that it strains credulity.

Also, a note to the author. On Page 187 of the paperback, 'laying' should be 'lying' according to the rules of correct grammar.

Fever 1793
A very cool author Laurie Halse Anderson wrote the adventurous book Fever 1793. Laurie Halse Anderson also wrote Speak, and other great books. Laurie Anderson wrote Fever 1793, so people would understand the devastating yellow fever that struck Pennsylvania in 1793. This story explains the reality Mattie was in. Mattie Cook, a fourteen-year-old girl who lived in Philadelphia. Her parents owned the Cook Coffeehouse, and Mattie was very proud. She had big dreams to make the coffeehouse a big company for the president. Mattie's life and dream changes after her friend, Polly, dies of a mysterious fever. Mattie was shocked of Polly's sudden death, but she was more shocked when she found out that her mother had gotten it. She couldn't admit that it was really happening. Mattie's mother decided to send Mattie to the Ludington's house, with grandfather to take her. Mattie was surprised that no one was stopping her mother. Not even Eliza, a freed slave that works for them. Eliza usually is understanding, and Mattie thought Eliza would stop Mother, but she didn't. Mattie is terribly scared when her grandfather becomes ill on the trip. Mattie and the driver's family fears that it is yellow fever, and the driver kicks Mattie and Grandfather out of the carriage. Now it was all up to Mattie to save her Grandfather and herself. Mattie learns the true fear and terror of the yellow fever. She hears terrifying screams at night, and smells blood and death everywhere. Worst of all, she sees victims dead bodies being carried out. She sees lifeless corpses in the streets. The imagery was amazing, and it makes the reader feel like they're Mattie. As the story goes on, it explains how Mattie goes back to her house with Grandfather. As soon as they go back to they house, the worst thing happens. Robbers come to the cofee house. This is Mattie transforms from an un responsible teenager to an older responsible adult. Two robbers killed grandfather, and Mattie needs to pay attention to herself, not trying to find her mother in the fever anymore. First Mattie couldn't find any hope of survival, and wondered around the streets looking for help. When she does look for survival in the streets Mattie finds out that it's very hard to survive, and on the way she met Nell. Mattie found Nell's mother dead, and Nell by herself sobbing. Mattie understood how the poor little girl felt, and took Nell with her since she felt sympathy for Nell. Mattie was losing all of her hope, and was about to give up when she saw Eliza. Eliza was helping the Free African Society, and taking care of the fever victims. Mattie stayed with Eliza, which stayed with Eliza's brother. Her brother had two sons, and took care of Nell for Mattie sometimes. The two young sons and Nell, were stricken with yellow fever. Eliza and Mattie panicked, and they were losing every hope they ever had. Then, a miracle occurred. There was frost everywhere.And I do not want to spoil the ending (...). This story is exciting, and is a great story. Mattie keeps on losing hope, and realizes that she isn't dreaming. She learns a harsh reality about life and death as her life goes on. ... Read more

Book Description

Welcome to Owl's cozy home.

Owl lives by himself in a warm little house. One evening he invites Winter to sit by the fire. Another time he finds strange bumps in his bedroom. And when Owl goes for a walk one night, he makes a friend that follows him all the way home.

Reviews (20)

Owl-eyed enchantment
This book is both beautiful and sweet. I initially checked it out from the library because I was looking for books that were more challenging than straight picture-books to read aloud to my then three year old daughter. I renewed it three times, which is the limit for my library.

Now I have had to purchase the book. I am pretty sure that I love this book as much as my daughter. Her favorite story is Strange Bumps, because she finds it hilarious that Owl cannot figure out that the "strange bumps" at the end of his bed are his own two feet. I vacillate between The Guest, because I find Owl's position by the fire eating soft pea soup utterly cozy and enchanting, and Tear-Water Tea, because I love Lobel's imaginative descriptions of the sad things that Owl thinks up to make himself cry. That story, in fact, has generated a whole new game in our household, which requires that my daughter and I "talk about nice things and sad things."

My only complaint about this book is that Lobel wrote only one book with Owl as the main character.

Owl At Home in our hearts
Owl's adventures with The Guest, Strange Bumps, Tear-Water Tea, Up stairs & Downstairs & The Moon are passionate & dramatic. Tear-Water Tea is my favorite & my children would beg me to read this one over & over again. Tear-Water Tea is a bitter-sweet brew. This little book & the friendly, affectionate Owl were one of my children's best friends in their early years. They loved the ideas of looking at life the way Owl does, they blink in anticipation as the stories gather speed & they hoot with laughter at Owl's take on life, then they snuggled with satisfaction when it's all done & we've talked about it...

The best book by Lobel
This even surpasses the Forg and Toad books, which every child must read. As good as children's books get!

Owl Rules
I read this book like crazy when I was in Kindergarten. The art in the book is great, seriously. From the weather moot Owl story to the others, the art is so wonderful. I think that's one of the better parts of this book. The mood and enrivonment is so enticing.

It was actually quite funny I remember as a kid.

It's insane to look back on this after a decade or more. I recommend this book to anyone looking for Children's Stories, either at school for teachers or for families.

I Read It Myself
LOVE this book. Love it. My son loves it. I love the story about Tear-Water Tea. And...the last one about the moon. Great writing. Great story telling. ... Read more

Book Description

It’s a new school year, and everything is different. Junie B. Jones has a new class, a new teacher, and even some new friends. She also has a new problem—she might need to get glasses! Will Junie B. manage to convince her parents that her eyes are just fine the way they are? How important could that blurry stuff on the chalkboard be, anyway?
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Reviews (37)

Worth the wait!
My kids love Junie B. and are thrilled that she's finally in first grade! The latest book in the series is just as funny as the kindergarten books, and I was pleased to see that Junie's now facing some of the same issues my kids are (fear of a new classroom, etc.), and is of course handling them with her signature hilarity. The book gave us a lot to talk about (it's a little meatier than the other books, and a great jumping off point for discussions) and my daughter wouldn't rest until we'd read it through twice (she also wants to start keeping a journal--which Junie does in the book). We loved the new characters (know-it-all May had us laughing out loud) and were so happy to see some of our favorites back from the earlier books. Kudos to Barbara Park and Junie B. Jones--we can't wait to see what the rest of first grade brings!

What Happened????
(...) I'm 12 and have twin little brothers(...). We were all soooo excited when little Junie B. was "at last!" moving into 1st. But after reading it, we were quite dissapointed. Why? Junie B. grew up WAY TOO FAST. She acts like a 3rd grader and her journal entries are better than a 10-year-old. She also gets glasses. Everybody made a HUGE deal about it...and so did she. I think Park needed to add some more things before she came to school with her glasses. Or maybe another scene with Grace and Lucille. What happened to you, Junie B.? You've grown-up too fast and you're not as FUNNY or MISHEVIOUS. I miss the old Junie B., and I hope future First Grade stories are funnier. A new story "Shipwrecked" it coming out soon, I hope that one's good. I'm glad she improved her language, but in the kindergarten ones, parents complained about that. GET OVER IT. How can the stories "teach" kids to speak bad? But I prefer the kindergarten books. Buy the kindergarten stories. [We] are skipping the First Graders'.

The "B" Stands for BOSS!
I don't think Junie B acts much like a FIRST GRADER. I'm surprised she spelled lots of words right in her journal at school. That has (and STILL) confused/confuses me. I'm 11 and I have some of my School Journals from 1st and 2nd grade. I couldn't spell: Yesterday, muscles, believe, recess, actually, sentences, brought, or teacher. But Junie B spelled ALL of those words right!!! I was sort of shocked. I don't even write entries like THAT in my school journal. Junie B has lost her spunk and her laugh-out-loud antics. All the kindergarten books are better than the Junie B., First Graders. I wish she had her bow back too. Like some of the other people who wrote these reviews, Junie B isn't the same without the big bow on her head. Now a pair of outrageous purple glasses are in its place. Come on, people! They're PURPLE!!! Just like what May had said. Junie B feels like a totally different kid and character now. It's like a brand new series that has NO connection with the kindergarten books, except for when she occasionally mentions friends from kindergarten. I wish Junie B was the same again. And not this new bossy kid. Hey! My brother Carson (he's older than me) figured something out! THE "B" STANDS FOR BOSS!!!! It also stands for: Bully, Big Meanie, Bad Girl, and Blabber-Mouth. She's spoilied and bossy and gets her way a lot. She's getting away with more stuff as a 1st grader. I wish she was still the same...

I Miss Her...Bring her Back!!!!!
I agree with the other people writing these reviews. Junie B has grown up too fast and her attitude has changed. I wish that Park had written a summer story in between "Graduation Girl" and the first grader one. That way, it would give a bigger explanation why she has grown up a little bit. But Park made her spring up too fast for only being a first grader. I think it's cute how on the cover that her "B" is turned to the side to look like a pair of funny purple glasses. I'm 11 and have enjoyed the Junie B books, now, it feels like she's a different character. I kind of wish they did more explaining why Grace doesn't like to sit with her on the "stupid smelly bus" anymore. And why Lucille prefers the company of the twins instead of Junie B. It seemed to have just left you with Lucille skipping away to Camille and Chenille, then that was it for Lucy. And Junie B made a hissy-fit just because Grace wouldn't sit with her for ONE DAY. And THAT ended their friendship??? Park should have written more about that to make the story longer and funnier. Speaking of funny...Junie B also lost her pep. I miss her. I hope the up-coming stories are better. (...)

Not so good
Where is the old Junie B.? The spunky little kid who used to make my brothers and I crack up? The girl who always ends up in trouble? She's gone. She's not funny as a first grader. She's not a trouble-maker. Her journal entries are better than a third grader's. Her spelling is great...but that's sort of a bad thing for being 6. Junie B. doesn't even LOOK like the Junie B. we've come to know and love. She's different. And she'll never be the same. I loved the kindergarten stories. They're so realistic. But what are the odds that---not 1---but 2 and both of your friends will turn you down? That's not very normal. I'm 10 and have friends that I've carried with me since first grade. But Junie B. lost Lucille and Grace in a matter of days. I doubt a kid could lose both friends. Then they must not have been very good friends. I'm not reading the first graders AT ALL!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

"I find myself moving like a knife, carving my way around people,cutting myself out of their picture and leaving nothing of myself behind but ahole." A gaping hole of misery is what popular young adult author Jack Gantosremembers when he thinks back to 1972, "the bleakest year of my life." Just 20years old, Gantos was in a medium security prison for his participation in aget-rich-quick drug scam. Scared silly by the violence he saw around him daily,Gantos's only lifeline was a battered copy of The Brothers Karamazov,which he painstakingly turned into an impromptu journal by scratching his ownthoughts into the tiny spaces between the lines. There, he recorded both hisfears and his dream of someday writing a book of his own. Before prison, Gantoshad penned a scattered myriad of journals, but had never been able to pull themtogether into a cohesive narrative. It was during his time behind bars that hefound himself growing into a focused, diligent writer who eschewed drugs for thebigger high of watching his words fill the hole once and for all.

Gantos, best known for his award-winning Joey Pigza titles, mines darkermaterial here that is as deeply compelling as his lighter fare. Using short,meaty sentences, Gantos manages to write in a way that dismisses the dubious"romance" of prison, drugs, and "life on the edge" without ever soundingdidactic or heavy-handed. Older teens will appreciate his candor and sheerwillingness to give them the straight story. Vigorously recommended. (Ages 13and older) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Beware of offensive language
The author, Jack Gantos, relates how, as a young adult, he became a drug user and smuggler.He was arrested, did time in prison, and eventually got out and went to college, all the while hoping to become a writer.
Throughout the book the words "pissed" and "ass" are used with some frequency, and the author talks openly about his use of drugs.The "F" word is used as well and some descriptions constitute this book as for mature readers only.Interesting, but not appropriate for a middle school.

Hole in my life
This book is an outstanding book which reflects the life of a teenager who got to much freedom and messed up very bad and then trys to fix everything. I would recomond this book to young adults and teens but not to young children because of te use of drugs and alcohol.

Great Book
In a library full of books this one caught my eye. I loved it with its very descriptive imagery and also enjoyed the several references to other texts such as Heart of Darkess and other well recognized texts. Gantos leaves no areas of boredom. This is a fast-paced read that makes you want to continue reading until you are finished. Great piece of literature.

hole in my life
this was agreat book, i liked because it was very graphic. The writer didnt hold anything back. He gave you the hole truth and nothing but the truth.It really made me think about the path of life I'm chosing.

great story
A hole in my life by Jack Gantos was the book i read.The book i read was about a guy named Jack who got involved in the wrong crowd and, started selling drugs.
I thought the book was very good, and i would highly recomend it to others.The charter and and the way he talked was right on with teenagers.Alot of the situations were intense and realy make you think about life. ... Read more

Book Description

Performed by the Words Take Wing Repertory Company
5 hours, 12 minutes
4 cassettes

Princess Cimerone and the dragon Kazul share a spirited adventure with an extraordinary cast of characters in this first book in the Enchanted ForestChronicles series.






... Read more

Reviews (255)

I would reccomend this book to any age fantasy lover.
If you are a fantasy or fairy-tale lover and have never read this story then you must (I emphasize) MUST go right over to your nearest library and borrow it immediatly! It has everything traditional fairy tales do kings, queens, handsome princes, flaxen-haired princesses, wizards, knights, and dragons. But Cimorene (the main character) isn't your normal empty-headed, perfect, princess. No, Cimorene isn't a normal princess. Though she takes as many princess lessons as she can bear once in a while she just can't stand it and slips off to secretly take fencing, cooking, or magic lessons. She is repeatedly told "Princesses don't do that sort of thing." The last straw is when her parents try to make her marry handsome but boring Prince Therindill and Cimorene runs away and becomes princess to the dragon Kazule. For once she is glad she is a princess! Life is exciting being a dragon's princess though the knights are bothersome. Once you meet Cimorene and her friend Aleanora you'll want to visit them everyday

Definitely a book to read!
This was definitely one of the best fantasy books I have ever read. "Dealing with Dragons" is about a princess named Cimorene. (The book is written in a third-person view.) She is not as pretty as her sisters, but she's not as dumb either. Cimorene is very bored with life as a "proper" princess-she doesn't want to learn how to scream as she gets carried off by some creature or another. She wants to lead a more exciting life. The last straw comes when her parents try to make her marry a prince who she doesn't even love. She gets her way when she comes upon a group of dragons, among them being the polite female dragon named Kazul. She becomes the dragon's princess, and soon becomes caught in the conspiracy of some unfriendly wizards. This book is a fantasy story, but it also has humor in it, so it's good to read if you're looking for a light book. The characters are very pleasant, and humerous, and I was absorbed into the story. I reccommend this book for people who like fantasy, but who don't want anything too heavy. This book changes a lot from beginning to end, in terms of meeting characters, getting to know characters, and solving problems. There are three other books, all sequels, that are in this series: "Searching for Dragons," "Calling on Dragons," and "Talking to Dragons." If you like fantasy and some comedy, you'll like this book!

a MUST read
this book captivated me the moment i read the first page. i love this book and i have read it over and over and i still like it! I couldn't wait to get my hands on the sequal. It is a MUST read!

COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
IT WAS A GOOD BOOK AND IT IS ADVENTURERAND A STORY THAT COUD HAPPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Engrossing Fantasy
Sixteen-year-old Cimorene, Princess of Linderwall, is everything that a Princess should not be. She's headstrong, curious, stubborn, opinionated, smart, and tomboyish. Not only that, she is bored. Utterly, and completely bored. So when she has the chance to runaway, she takes it. Now she's living with Kazul, one of the most dangerous and powerful dragons around. A dragon who looks vicious, but is really quite sweet to her. However, Cimorene being Cimorene, she has a knack for finding and befriending dangerous characters such as a witch named Moranz, a stone Prince, a death-dealing talking bird, some wizards who are up to no good, and more. Adventure was what Cimorene was looking for, and this little Princess certainly got it!

Fans of fantasy novels will be overjoyed to find DEALING WITH DRAGONS, which is the first book in the ENCHANTED FOREST CHRONICLES. Cimorene is an extremely fun character who will warm the hearts of children of all ages, especially females, as DEALING WITH DRAGONS is one of the few fantasy series heralding a female as the main character. The descriptions of the dragons, both personality and looks-wise, will charm even the grumpiest of people, as they are vivid and enchanting and make you feel as if you are right there alongside them. Patricia C. Wrede has done an amazing job with this novel, and I look forward to reading Book Two in the series SEARCHING FOR DRAGONS.

Erika Sorocco ... Read more

Book Description

In the not-too-distant future, in a place called Satellite City, thirteen-year-old Cosmo Hill is unfortunate enough to come into the world unwanted by his parents. And so, as are all orphaned boys his age, Cosmo is dipped in a vaccine vat and sent to the Clarissa Frayne Institute for Parentally Challenged Boys-freight class.At Clarissa Frayne, the orphans, called "no-sponsors," are put to work by the state, testing dangerous products that never should be allowed near human beings. By the time the no-sponsors are sent to their cardboard utility pipes, given their nightly meal pack, and finally fall asleep, they are often covered in burns, bruises, or sores from the work of the day.Cosmo Hill knows that he must escape, even though he has no idea what might be waiting for him on the outside. He plans for the moment when he can make a break. When that moment finally comes, he nearly dies while escaping. But he is rescued by a gang of "Supernaturalists," a motley crew of kids who all have a special psychic ability-one that Cosmo is about to learn he has as well. They "see" supernatural Parasites-tiny, translucent creatures who feed on the life force of humans. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent and fascinating book!
This book and its author created a fascinating world and reality in which to follow believable characters through the fantastic. Much the way more traditional sci-fi and space opera has done over the years and continues to do: "Stranger in a Strange Land", "Rendezvous with Rama", "2001", "2010", "Childhood's End", "I,Robot", "Ringworld", "Advent of the Corps", and more.

No Artemis Fowl
I became a fan of Eoin Colfer after reading the Artemis Fowl series. Unlike the Supernaturalist, the Artemis Fowl books have in-depth characters, unique plots and witty dialouge. Here, Colfer seems to focus purely on the technological aspect of the story, and forgets the rest. Sure, while we get a blow by blow description of the characters plugging in some electro gadget or other, we wonder what this has to do with the story.
The charactars are pretty stereotypical, with nothing particularily unique or fascinating. The plot is interesting enough, and the setting, while grotesque is well presented.
The problem is, the characters don't seem to interact with the setting or eachother. When Colfer throws in the "plot twists," there is no slow suspensful build up to make them as shocking as they could have been. It's as if someone said, okay the bomb blew up in the Restaurant! Versus, showing people eating and minding their own business, and then showing the villian with the bomb.
What this book did do for me, is help me appreciate how good the Artemis Fowl books really are. I've felt that the Supernaturalist is Eoin Colfer's second dud (counting the Wish List.) I really hope he doesn't suffer from Sophomore Slump, and brings back the sparkle and magic of Artemis Fowl. Perhaps this book should have spent some more time in the editing room, replacing the technology with actual human emotion.

Not a waste of time or money
This is not Aretimis Fowl. If you come in excpecting Artemis Fowl, you are likely to be disappointed. This is a very good book. Eoin Colfer uses his ability to write fantastic characters that you find your self torn between who you like the best, similiar to Aretmis Fowl. Take it from me, an average 14 year old boy much like Cosmo, Colfer captures his feelings greatly. However, sometimes the plot moves a bit to fast and some of the early plot twists are a tad predictable, despite it you will find yourself loving this book. The one thing that seperates this from Aretimis Fowl is the fact that this one has a better ending then any of the three. Overall, a book you won't be sorry you read.

HIS BEST BOOK YET!
I finished this book more than 12 hours ago and I still can't stop thinking about it. The plot was great and it will possibly be one of the best sci-fi books you'll ever read.

The story mainly focuses on Cosmo Hill, but gives the point of veiw of other characters too just like Eoin Colfer does in many of his books. Once you start reading this book, you will not want to put it down. I know I didn't.

I hope it becomes a classic for years to come.

One of Colfer's best
When i first picked up the book i thought that it was another badly written book that was all about what things in the future would have. IT IS NOT. While this does take place in the future (the darker side of the future) it focuses on so many other things. The plot kept me involved from the start, from the exciting and dangerous escape of Cosmo and Ziplock, to the climactic and plot-twisted ending of the book (which just kept me having to tell somebody about).

The characters are so well represented, and i loved reading about how the Supernaturalists were like an immune team. Cosmo is the perfect character to focus on, because of his constant curiosity and charming nature, while Mona, Ditto and Stefan all have traits that are just too much to include here.

The plot is definitely the most exciting and creative part of the story. I don't think i've ever read a book with a plot that built up to the climax so well and left me as surprised at the plot twists (The first one I kinda saw coming, but the one near the end that leads to the climax took me completely by surprise)

this book definitely goes up there with Colfer's other masterpieces - Artemis Fowl 1 + 3 (the second one i found a little boring. The wish list was well written, but i didn't really like the characters or the story)

BUY THIS BOOK, YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF READING IT OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER And over and over......

BRAVO COLFER!!!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Approx. 5 hours, 4 cassettes

Becoming a legend is not easy, as young Alanna of Trebond discovers when she disguises herself as a boy and begins training to be a knight.Alanna's skills and stubbornness help her befriend Prince Jonathan but alienate his evil uncle, Duke Roger.Filled with swords and sorcery, adventure and intrigue, good and evil, this book is a rousing introduction to the intensely satisfying story of Alanna.


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Reviews (497)

One of my favorite Fantasy books
The first Tamora Pierce book that I ever read, this book grabs you and pulls you in. Alanna is a young girl of noble birth, who does