Book Description

From pat-a-cake to storytime, from bathtub splashes to bedtime lullabies, twins keep mommies and daddies very busy! Twins need double bottles and twice the swing pushes, have double the runny noses and take twice the patience. But they also bring twice the smiles, give twice as many kisses, play twice the peek-a-boos, and make each day twice as fun!

Perfect for toddlers, new parents, or twins of any age, Charlotte Doyle's cheerful rhymes and Julia Gorton's vivid illustrations show us a day in the life of two adorable twins.

Illustrated by Julia Gordon. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Simple and charming
This book describes the challenges of parenting for two. The text is short (only about 125 words), simple, and rhyming. The pictures are quite fun. There are no scary parts. The pages are thick- -almost like a board book.

A GREAT BOOK FOR ALL CHILDREN
This is by far my twin girls favorite book. With at least 50 books in their "library" this is the ONLY book my girls want to read over and over and over again. My twin girls are almost 2 and I bought this book months ago (when they were around 15-18 months old). Not only do they love to hear me read this book they read it back to me! One night (when she was supposed to be sleeping) I heard one of my girls saying "up, down, up, down...", I peeked in on her and found her reading it to herself in the dark. They love it and I LOVE the fact that they love to read it to themselves. I started reading this book to them and animating the pages, saying Hi to the mommy and to the bears, ball, books and anything that they recognized in the pictures. At the time we first started reading it, the girls didn't talk but they knew signs, and the first time we read it they recognized the bath in the story and did the sign for bath, it was amazing. When they bring this book to me now (for me to read) they know what is going on in the story with out me even saying it. It is how they learned the words "up" and "down" and "jammies". This book really just reinforces things they already know (like bath, ball, outside, mommy, daddy and book) and is a great addition to any childs book collection. I would really recommend this book even for the smallest child, it is illustrated in such big colorful pictures and has short text on each page it is sure to keep their attention. A MUST BUY!

Twins
Charlotte Doyle's book, illustrated by Julia Gorton, focused beautifully on the concept of twins but also indicated that the 2 children were individuals. They tussled over the teddy bear but came together when they lost the ice cream cones, and when they enjoyed the swing and the bath. The book is a good learning tool focusing on counting (one/two) and colors (white/blue).

It's like a musical piece - overture, fast and slow movements, resolving in a tender lullaby with two sleepy heads. Perfect for reading before bed. ... Read more

Book Description

Mitch and Amy both think being twins is fun, but that doesn't stop them from squabbling. Amy is good at reading. Mitch is a math whiz. Amy likes to play pretend. Mitch would rather skateboard. They never want to watch the same television show. And they always try to get the better of each other.

Then the school bully starts picking on Mitch -- and on Amy, too. Now the twins have something rotten in common: Alan Hibbler. This twosome must set aside their squabbles and band together to defeat a bully!

Reviews (10)

I read it then, I read it now
This was my favorite book back in third grade. It told the story of two twins, totally different, named Mitch and Amy. Mitch was good at math but was awful at reading. Amy loved to read but couldn't get multiplication. Mitch preferred riding on homemade skateboards. Amy enjoyed reading Laura Ingalls Wilder with her best friend Marla. They were in the fourth grade where "TV in school" was a big deal, and girl scouts was Amy's afterschool activity. And they were totally different nine year old kids who didn't have anything in common. Except for Alan Hibbler, class bully and a pain in the neck to both Mitch and Amy. Because of him, the two kids might as well have something in common.

I read it then and still read it; wishing even now that Bev Cleary had written a sequel - wouldn't it be funny to see where Mitch and Amy ended up? But its a good book in its own. The new covers for all her work only attract more readers -- and the book alone just still appeals to me.... and hopefully to you, too.

Anyone 9-12 should read this book!
You should read the book Mitch and Amy because it is a great book! This book is about a pair of twins(Mitch, Amy) who always fight. But then a school bully named Alan Hibbler start's bugging Mitch and then he bug's Amy too! This book is realistic and it shows that there are more important things to do than fighting. This book also will teach you lessons you'll never forget!

Mitch And Amy review
Do you have a twin brother or sister? Mitch has a twin sister that has trouble with multiplication, but he has trouble with reading. Mitch And Amy is a realistic fiction story by Beverly Cleary. The book is about twins that have nothing in common, but when faced against the 5th grade bully, Allen Hibler, their differences don't matter.
Beverly Cleary also wrote The Romona Quimby Series, which is like
Mitch And Amy. The setting is at home and school. The people I would encourage to read this book are kids, ages 8-10, who have a twin or kids who have friends who have twins because it shows both sides of the twin's lives.
The strong points in the book are when Mitch or Amy has their problems and the weak points in the story are the descriptions of the characters because the author didn't use many descriptions. Will you have to fight a bully with your sibling?

Two versions
There are actually two versions of this book- an newer one with illustrations by Alan Tiegreen, who has been doing the illustrations for Beverly Cleary's books since the 70's, and the original, which had illustrations by George Porter. I guess Mr. Porter was the intermediate link between Tiegreen and Louis Darling, the illustrator of Mrs. Cleary's books in the 50's and early 60's. It's a matter of personal taste over which illustrations are better. I grew up reading the version with Mr. Porter's illustrations, which depicts the characters as definitely children of the 1960's. On the other hand, Mr. Tiegreen's depictions of Beverly Cleary's characters are less realistic looking, but because of their rather cartoony appearance are not as susceptible to looking as dated as those by Porter and Darling.

Beverly Cleary always took experiences from her own life to include in her books, but "Mitch & Amy" is probably the most personal of her fictional books. She, herself, was the mother of boy-girl twins and actually lived in the San Franisco setting of the book. Maybe because it was about two subjects so close to her real life, her twins and her adopted hometown, that she never did a follow-up story. Thus, "Mitch & Amy" is one of Mrs. Cleary's very few "stand-alone" books.

It's the story of a twin sister and brother, Amy and Mitchell, who live in San Francisco. Despite their shared birthday, they are seemingly exact opposites who constantly squabble with one another. However, deep-down there is a very strong bond between the two of them and each one truly understands the other. Sometimes they forget that bond. Yet when a bully targets each twin individually, the two of them bond together to help each other overcome this mutual menace.

This is a typical Cleary novel- told with her usual sense of humor and wonderful ability to capture what really matters to children. Regardless of whether the illustrations show Porter's 60's era children with their flat-top haircuts and short pants or Tiegreen's pug-nosed characters, most kids will probably enjoy reading about these two regular kids who just happen to be twins.

Mitch and Amy an awesome book
My b/g twins and I read this book together. They are soon to be 9 and the book describes the life of twins so well. Well we read this book I kept saying boy they sound like you two to my twins. This is a fun book to read. My twins would tell you it's a must have book.
We all know Beverly Clearly is an awesome writer and she wrote this book so well. ... Read more

Book Description

Without even trying, Cam and Alex have started reading people¹s minds, using magick on the soccer field. It¹s bringing them closer together, but it¹s forcing Cam and her best friend, Beth, apart. Beth has been hanging with Helping Hands, a group that¹s all about doing good things. Only Helping Hands seems to be real shady. When Alex sneaks out to the group¹s all-night party, she suddenly finds Beth ­ and herself ­ in terrible danger. Thanatos, the evil one who wants the twins eliminated, has taken Beth hostage. Must Alex sacrifice herself to save her sister and friend? ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Seeing is Deciving
Cam and Alex are becoming very powerful with their magic, but Beth is suddenly feeling neglested. Cam and Alex caught a shoplifter with their powers. But as it turns out, the shoiplifter is the subsitute teacher! Cam meets Shane, a hot Warlock which is accosiated with Thantos. Thanto's traps Beth as an attempt to capture the twins. Fredo kidnaps Alex, but he didn't realise he got the wrong twin. Alex has to make a decision if she has to scrafice herself for Cam and Beth. And Ilena and Karsh are facing there own probloms when they get trapped by Thantos as well!

Seeing is Decieving
This book was EXCELLENT! Cam and Alex are getting more powerful in the third book. Beth gets involved in a fake charity work and is held prisoner for Lord Thantos. He wants to lure Cam to Beth but gets Alex instead. When Cam notices that Alex is out of her bed she gets lured into Lord Thato's trap as well.
Well, won't tell you any more but if you are considering on buying this book you should really get it. It's worth it!!

More of the same..
Seeing is Deceiving, the third book in the T*Witches series, is a continuation of the first two books. The twins are forced to learn more about their powers, as their magickal guardians are unable to bail them out in their latest misadventure. Camryn, the "sunny-side-up" twin, is jeopardizing her friendship with her self-centered behavior. Alex is just as sarcastic and angst-ridden as ever, as she slowly adjusts to a life of plenty and security. The girls face off against the bad guys and do their best to save the day. Unfortunately, their personalities and their relationships with the secondary characters in the series are mostly ignored in this book. If you enjoyed the first two books in the series, this is more of the same...

Seeing is Deciving
This book was realy exciting! The twins are left defenceless when Illena and Karsh get captured by Thanto's. Cam has her eyes locked on A warlock named Shane. It turns out that IKE IS ALIVE! Now he is wants Alex and is testing Emily and Dave's gaurdianship. Will Alex end up having to live with Ike?

Seeing is Deceiving
Seeing is deceiving is a book about witches. These witches were separated at birth. They found each other by trusting their guardian angel; she said she knew their parents. Which died a long time ago, they were all friends until their horrible uncle and the small shape shifting had killed their parents. In their long journey after finding each other, they save a child from the halls of justice, Juvenal Court. Alex was the witch with the moon necklace she could read peoples minds without them knowing. She overheard that this lady, Cecilia Webb had forced the child to shoplift a diamond bracelet, and switch it for a fake one.
Alex wanted to help so badly, she grabbed the person and dragged her back into the store and switched them back. When they face their greatest danger, defeating their uncle, they find him with the help of a new friend. When the twins actually defeat their evil uncle they might be able to finally communicate with their parents. ... Read more

Book Description

Since Cam and Alex were reunited, they have believed their mother was dead. Now, the twins learn the truth.Devastated by the brutal murder of her husband, and believing that her daughters were also gone, their mother Miranda has been locked away in an institution, and has been there for practically the girls¹ whole lives. Will Cam and Alex finally meet the once-powerful and illustrious witch and mother they have only dreamed of until now? ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Great Book
This book is great if you liked the previous ones, (although i have to give it a four because it sometimes drags in some places.. but otherwise a good booK)

Is Thantos the real trouble?
In this book one of the six pack has a problem, Breanna. Breanna's father messes up her b-day. Is ths why she has a secret? Eventually Bre will get help yet that causes more about the twin's life to be revaled because she meets someone with the exact same color eyes as them. Who is she? Next a trial at coventy island makes the twins guardian find out more about her life. Who truly killed Aron? Aron, Fredo, and Thantos's mothers spirit to tell the truth about who killed her son who she loved so.

The best book yet!!!!!!!!
This is the best one yet! It deserves 1000 stars! A tom of questions where answered in this book. WHo is Ileana's father? Who killed Aron? Where is tHe twin's mother, or is she even alive? If you are a fan of T*Witches, you defianetly need to read this book!

Don't Think Twice-- SOOO NICE!
This IS a good book. Brianna Waxman is keeping a secret from everyone. Nobody notices except Kristen Hsu. Now, what are those annonymous cards Cam and Alex keep getting? Would it be about their mother? And where is she? How can they get to the fearless photographer who took a picture of Thantos? Will they ever get to find their real mother, Miranda? Ileana finds out the truth. Who was Aron REALLY killed by? And who REALLY is Ileana's father? Is it REALLY Fredo?? You're just about to find out... read T*Witches: Don't Think Twice!

BEST T*WITCHES BOOK EVER!!---100 stars!
The T*Witches books are great but this one is my favorite! Cam's best friend Beth has a secret and she's not planning on telling anyone. Her dad also can't make it to her birthday-again. Cam and Alex are also trying to find their mother. Then Cam starts getting notes. BAD notes. They say that a girl is in trouble and the twins think that it's about their mother. Ileana finally finds out who her father is. Ileana also finds out who Brice Stanly really is. When the girls find out what Beth's secret is, she goes to get help (for the problem). But, she meets a woman with gay eyes,and the color of Cam's (and Alex's-naturally)hair. Who knows, maybe this will be their mother that they have been dying to see; or will it be someone who just looks like them... ... Read more

Book Description

It's Mary-Kate's first Valentine's Day with a boyfriend and she is filled with Valentine's Day spirit. So much so that she decides to put an ad in the school paper and advertise herself as a singing telegram for White Oak and Harrington! She's having a great time sending Valentine's messages for her friends . . . until she gets a request to give a Valentine to her own boyfriend -- from someone else!

Ashley isn't thinking about Valentine's Day. She got a bad grade on a science test and the only way she'll get an A on the next one is if she can convince the biggest nerd in the class to tutor her. He says he'll do it -- but only on one condition. Ashley has to turn him into a total stud in time for Valentine's Day so the girl of his dreams will go out with him. The problem? Nothing Ashley does seems to change him at all! And if she doesn't change him soon, she'll be out of luck for her next test!

Reviews (1)

Two of a Kind #33
This was the best book you will evah read!!! ooooh i loved it soooo much. If you are really into mary-kate and ashley you will be enthralled by this one! ... Read more

Book Description

It's like a dream come true! This week's Mystery Guest at Camp Rock n' Roll is Ashley's all-time favorite group, 4You! 4You will be choosing campers to mentor for the end-of-the-summer showcase. Ashley wants to be chosen -- but so does Madison, the lead singer in the rival band. Can Ashley find a way to sing with the most popular group in the world?

Mary-Kate loves jamming with her band -- they've all become great friends, and her new boyfriend is even part of the group. Then a record industry executive stops by camp and tells Mary-Kate that she has real talent -- but her band is not as good as she is. He tells her to find a new band before he comes back for the showcase and he can make her a star. Will Mary-Kate dump her friends for the promise of fame?

Book Description

Alex and Cam return to Alex¹s hometown in Montana to settle some scores.The first ­ someone is trying to block Alex from being adopted by Cam¹s family.Could it be Alex¹s deadbeat stepdad?The second ­ Alex¹s friend Evan is being blamed for a school death threat.When Alex¹s stepfather turns up six feet under, the girls must power up for another battle with the forces of evil ­ and this time, it¹s one with extremely serious consequences. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A wintery adventure spells a fiery doom for the twins...
Alex's dad is still out there, waiting for the chance when he'll be able to take back Alex from her twin sister Cam's parents and use his daughter for all his needs. That's why the last place Alex thought she'd ever be is her frosty hometown, Montana. Alex and Cam are there because her old-time friend, Evan, is in desperate need of help. Evan won't reveal what's going on in their place, but Cam and Alex know that it's something deadly. As they try to unlock the mysteries, they're also suspicious that Thantos has followed them, after encountering a gruesome experience that must be linked to Thantos. But another mystery remains unclear in Montana, and that is the mystery of their pasts. Are Cam and Alex ever going to discover the truths that have always been so mysterious to them, especially now -- if they even survive Montana? T*Witches #4: Dead Wrong is the mysterious fourth book in the series, and has an intense plot until the end. Although it's the shortest book yet in the series, its thrills and revelations have made it my favorite book in the T*Witches series. I can't wait for the fifth book, which will no doubt be even more shocking.

Thrilling revelations in the fourth book
Cam and Alex would never have even imagined they would be in Montana for the long weekend, but that is exactly where they are after Alex receives an email from her old friend Lucinda who is desperatly in need of her help after her other friend Evan gets into trouble. Not is not the only reason they are in Montana either. Alex's old dad Ike has reappeared and is challenging the Barnes for adoption of Alex. So the T*Witches are back on the case. Things don't really start on the right foot either. Evan is definitely hiding something and it appears Thantos has followed them here as well. A mysterious incident that results in Ike's death looks very much like Thantos' doing. What has he in store for the twins? T*Witches #4 Dead Wrong was really really good. Plus we finally have revelations about Ileana and the twins relationship. And yes! She is their relative and her father is someone no one would suspect. I have a pretty good idea and it was just thrilling to read the revelations! An all out great book to add to the series!

Some of the best books in the world!
I read Harry Potter first and those are my favorite books, but when i started reading T*Witches, I was really surprised! They were as good as Harry Potter! Now i am reading the third and im almost done. I hope H.B. Gilmour and Randi Reisfield never stop writing these books because I love them!

Twin Witches Rock
twitches is the best set of books i have ever read!!! They are very good and you just keep right along. it skips around but only when right!!! it rocks!!! buy this and you wont be sorry!

Best Book In The Series!
This WAS THE BEST BOOK IN THE SERIES!!! I am so glad we got to see Alex's hometown again and all her friends! Alex wanted to go to Montana after an urgent email from Lucinda telling Alex Evan has been arested. As it turns out, Evan is now in the wrong crowd, a group of skanky gangsters and put a death note in the principals locker. Alex also wants to have a nice talk with her dad...
This was the Best Book Ever! Cam was really selfish and rude not wanting to go but she did anyway. :p ... Read more

Book Description

Welcome to Coventry Island, a lush, mystical land that is home to a powerful community of witches and warlocks. It is here that teen witches Cam and Alex were born. And now, the twins have returned to Coventry to say a final farewell to their beloved guardian Karsh. But when the girls visit their ancestral home on the island, they discover there are many truths to be revealed about their past. Their mother, Miranda, has secrets to share. And then there's the group ofteen witches and warlocks who Cam and Alex meet. Will these teens help the twins...or are they up to something more sinister?
... Read more

Reviews (7)

T-Witches book #7
The book that I read was the series of T-Witches. But the specific book that I read was the seventh book in the series. I absolutely love these books because the story is about twins and I'm a twin. Another reason I like it is because you never know what will happen next then about the witches. The points in the book are very exciting. All the spooky things that happen are very interesting. They capture your eye. The book talked about witches and how they deal with life. It was very interesting to see a day in the life of the witches of Camryn and Alexandra. They deal with special powers they have been given from the day they were born. Like I said before I ABSOLUTELY love these series of books. I would recommend these series to anyone who likes drama, romance, action, witches, and their types of spells and their powers. I hope you consider this book to read. You will love it the first time you open the book. You'll get hooked!

Kindred Spirits (T*Witches, 7)
I started reading this books series T*Witches in about January of 2003. I think this is the BEST book series I have ever read. It has romance, adventure, and much, MUCH more! I recomend this book series to people who LOVE to read about witches, spells, mystery, adventure. When I started reading this book series, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the rest of the series to come out!!! (This book series is the best series I have ever read. It'll be a BIG waste if you don't read this series.)

I can't wait for the next one!
I've been reading these books since they began and they're the best. I especially loved the seventh book because of what happened in it. It's really mysterious and exciting with a whole new bad guy! It's also in a new setting. For people who like romance and enchantment this is the best book ever! I can't wait to see what will happen to Cam and Alex (incidentally my name is Alexandra!) next. T*WITCHES are the best!

Better then Harry Potter!
These books are da bomb! I used to like Harry Potter, but thats gotten kinda old, but these will NEVER! ...I love all of them, have em all, and will keep them forever!

T* witches #7
I haven't read this book yet but i know it will be very very good because the series so far has been the bomb! Every time she makes a new one its better than the one before it. So take my advice and read this series!!!

I recomend the series Avalon:web of magic its also a great series! ... Read more

Reviews (59)

A great book for everyone!
Imagine living in a society where your house, your clothes, your friends, and your social status are all determined by one test. That society is Aramanth, where living conditions range fron the packed rooms of the Grey district to the two-storied homes of the Orange district, to the mansions of the White district. But, one day, the Hath family, from the Orange district, decides to disobey the law and the plot is set into motion.
Kestrel and Bowman, twins, run away from school and Kestrel finds an old man living in a tower in the town. He gives her the map to find the key to the wind singer, a mysterious device in the middle of town. The key, which makes the wind singer work, was given to the Morah in exchange for calling off the Zars army. The man in the tower says that when the wind singer works again the happiness will be back in Aramanth. Kestrel, Bowman, and their tag-a-long classmate Mumpo leave on a journey to recover the key. While they are away though, their parents each formulate plans to cause unrest in the society of Aramanth.
William Nicholson, the author, writes in a very similar style to The Giver. But, he writes it differently enough to separate it from other books of its kind. This book does a great job of teaching tolerance for other types of people, even if they aren't as good at something as you are, which is the exact opposite of how the people of Aramanth act. It also teaches that people have a good side, even if they are disgusting, like Mumpo who always has snot on his upper lip.
I would recommend this book to young adults ages 12-16, since it does take on some older concepts, but usually puts them in a way that kids can understand it like people living in less fortunate conditions. I really liked this book and I can't wait to read the second and third parts of the trilogy.

very good children's book
William Nicholson's "The Wind Singer" tells the story of Kestrel and Bowman Hath, a twin sister and brother who live in the city of Aramanth. Aramanth is a joyless city, divided into color-coded districts, with White being the best and Gray the worst. Families are ranked based on the results of yearly examinations, and everyone is told to strive harder, reach higher, and better themselves.

Kestrel gets fed up and publicly insults the High Examiners, the Emperor, and the whole way of life in Aramanth. This puts her whole family in danger, and she, Bowman and Mumpo (a hapless boy in their class at school) go on a quest to find the voice of the Wind Singer, a strange contraption at the heart of Aramanth, which has been silent for hundreds of years. Meanwhile, their parents are fighting for their dignity and freedom in Aramanth.

The book is a wonderful fantasy, very inventive. In addition to the thoroughly unpleasant culture of Aramanth, we meet the mud people who live under the city, the Baraka and Chaka who travel the desert plains in great wheeled ships, the disturbing "old children," and the unstoppable Zars, who serve as the army of the Morah, an evil being who holds the voice of the Wind Singer. Unfortunately, the later stages of the quest, once Kestrel, Bowman and Mumpo leave the plains, are not nearly as detailed and absorbing as the first two thirds of the book.

"The Wind Singer" is a lovely, fun book, which manages to deliver a message without beating readers over the head. Though it's the first book of a trilogy, it stands very well on its own, leaving only a few dangling hints unresolved. However, it's aimed at people between 8 and 12 years old; adults and teens should adjust their expectations accordingly.

Thought provoking
This book is a breathtaking examination of social structure and fantastical elements - Gulliver's Travels meets The Wizard of Oz. I am greatly impressed and delighted to see works of this nature being written for a younger audience, because it speaks to a rising literacy. Bravo to both the author and the publisher for daring to aim so high, and succeed so admirably (like Pullman).

A gripping story!
This was an amazing book! a lot of books take a while to get started, but this 1 didn't. It grabbed you in in the first couple of pages. this is a story about 2 twins and a tag-along classmate who set off to find the voice of the wind singer, which will protect their city from the zars and make it a better place. along the way they encounter a lot of strange things, so the excitement never stops! Once you pick this book up, you wont be able to put it down!

The Wind Singer is Wicked Awesome!
Oh man where do I begin. I love The Wind Singer. I have read it two times already and plan to read it again this summer! William Nicholson is awesome. He inspires me(along with other writers) to become a writer myself one day. Kestrel, Bowman, Mumpo, Pin Pin, the Zars, the wind singer, everything about this book is so brilliantly thought out and is a great fantasy. I compare myself to Kestrel in alot of ways and I can't wait to read it again! I own all three books and they are awesome. I have to say that I probably liked the second one(Slaves of the Mastery) the best of all though. If you read the first one and loved it, you will certainly enjoy the next two. ... Read more

Book Description

Dear Diary,

I decided to join the big tennis tournament at camp. My doubles partner, Andrew, is really cute! The coach says we can't date, but Andrew says we should break the rules. Hmmm. I guess we'll just have to make sure we don't get caught!

-- Ashley

Dear Diary,

Well, it's official. I can tie three kinds of knots and climb a tree in under three minutes. How is this useful, you ask? It's all apart of a contest our camp is having with the rival camp down the road, and I want to win! But someone is standing in the way of our victory. My very own sister!

-- Mary-Kate

Reviews (1)

3 1/2 stars to 4
Ok, it is not the best book, it does not have the best climax, but it's well written and very entertaning, even if we are talking about Mary-Kate's and Ashleys book. it's about MK and A going to a camp called camp Evergreen. Every year, there are competitions of all sort betweem Camp Evergreen and Camp...? I forgot it's name! but it started with an R. I'ts a two part serie, I only read the first. But besides the competition, Ashley has a crush on a boy called Andrew, who's his dad (and him) are really good tennis players, but his dad doest let Andrew date because "he needs to stick to tennis", says his dad. Now they also (MK and A and their other camp mates) want to steal the portrait of the two sister that started the two camps, which by the way camp R has it...how do they steal it? and MK, by making a deal with A on trying something new: "the big/little sisters club". Thats were you get a little girl to be your little sister for the whole camp month. But Jessie isnt any ordinary girl, likes playing with truks and dinosoaurs, and has no barbie dolls...and has no friends exept MK! The problem is, Jessie doesnt stop following MK, and gets her, A, and the rest of the gang into big time trouble! ... Read more

Book Description

A volcanic eruption releases a vanguard of demons, sealed away for centuries beneath the earth. Soon after, the Emperor's first son is born, marked with the sign of the Qin-the brand of the outlaw! Could the child be the new Starlord, destined to restore justice to the land? The emperor plots to kill his only heir before the boy can usurp his throne. But the assassin is foiled by a mysterious monk whose magical tattoos foretell the future, and a trickster monkey who longs for immortality. A host of warring guardians must ultimately unite to help the Starlord unlock the kung fu secrets of the Twelve Scrolls and save the earth from destruction. But first, the Prince must fulfill his destiny, and join the twin leaders of the legendary outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh in a war against the Lord of the Dead.The first in a trilogy, Sign of the Qin draws upon Chinese myth and legend in a tour de force of classic storytelling. L.G. Bass is a student of martial arts, a former teacher and journalist, and a fan of kung fu films. The author lives with her husband and two sons in New York City. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

L.G. is a descriptive author, but fails to catch my interest
Sign of the Qin seemed to have all the ingredients for success: Well-developed characters, terrific vocabulary, and a traditional, yet original plot. Yet Bass' novel instead is a boring, uninteresting chore to finish, which is sad, because it has a lot of potential.

The story: After a volcanic eruption that releases several demons (which seems to have no relevance to the plot whatsoever) the First Consort, Silver Lotus (basically the Emperor's mistress) gives birth to a child, but when the sign of the qin, a mark that symbolizes the famous outlaw group, is discovered on his cheek, he is marked for death. After he is saved by said outlaws, he is rescued by Monkey, a thieving demi-god who longs for immortality, and being bodyguard to the prince is his ticket to it. Silver Lotus also escapes from the Emperor, and meets the Tattoed Monk, a mysterious ninja-like man who has shifting tattoes on his back that predict the future. As you can see, this is an intricate yarn, and one that isn't particularly good.

Some highlights of the book, though, include some very delicious writing; it seems that Bass has the ability to describe the events and places in the book richly, yet not overuse or repeat words. Another feature is some very interesting yet confusing chinese proverbs in each chapter of the book. Very philosophic, yet some of them had to have been there for comic relief (one said, "If you are not here, you are somewhere else.")

Unfortunately, that's about all L.G.'s book has. While there's no denying that there is character development, each chapter of the book doesn't seem to be very essential to the plot, at least not now. Apparently, they are only there so Bass can keep readers slightly interested while she makes up dull excuses for characters' conflicts and histories.

While on the topic of characters, don't be fooled into thinking the character Monkey is as witty and funny as you think; he does absolutely nothing in my opinion.

By the end, after all the terrible fight scenes and impossible-to-comprehend heavenly events, the ending is rushed and it becomes painstakingly confusing as to what's happening. L.G. Bass takes a good story idea with Chinese mythology, but the bottom line is instead of takin a little poetic license and spicing it up, she stays strict to the tales and gives us a boring book.

Thrilling Yamu,Lord of the Dead
My favorite character was Monkey because he was sneaky, but he took his responsibilities well. I think the author wrote very deep words and had a very positive idea about what she was going to write. For example, if she had put "Monkey was very fast," she would have changed it to "quick". It is very violent although it is soft in a way. I like how the prince was very accurate even though he was young. His personality was stubborn just like the Star Lord, Hung Wu. The Master Hand was firm, but never too hard.General Calabash had alot of patience but knew when to let his students in on advice. He was secretive and knew when he couldn't get caught. It is unusual that the author put Puk as the king of the sea, but when it came to fighting he was a coward.White Streak was a very agile fighter, but did not test the limits of life. He wouldn't go too far in trying to do something. For example, he wouldn't try to defeat Yamu without some help. I like how the author made up the name of the cave that the statue of the river goddess stood upon. It was the best book I've ever read. I hope you like my review and please make the next book soon.

B O R I N and G boring
This book is so boring that i almost fell asleep while reading it nothing happens and it has an exttremley weak plot i hated it do not waste ur time reading this (...)

Fun!
I bought this book for my boyfriend's brother for his birthday. The kid is 13 and I wanted something well written but still fun, that was a change from Harry Potter, Eragon, or anything closely linked to the whole teen sorcery genre. And this book does have some Chinese mythology in it, which he likes, so I thought that was a plus too.

I did read this book myself, just to make sure it was a good story for a young guy without any *gasp! mushy stuff. I was pretty pleased. There is a lot of action from the very beginning, as well as a lot of humor. The characters are like sophisticated superheroes, and overall this is a really fun book (I think) for any teenish reader who likes action and adventure without mush ;)

Richie's Picks: SIGN OF THE QIN
THE SIGN OF THE QIN is both the best and one of the most complex Young Adult fantasies being published during the first half of 2004. If book awards were given to characters the way Oscars are given to actors, then the smartass Monkey would be a shoe-in for Supporting Character of the Year. This exciting, humorous, and meticulously crafted book, an absolute piece d'resistance, is written by a highly respected children's book editor under her married name and contains not a single out-of-place word. Our most experienced middle school fantasy reader, who thoroughly enjoyed the tale, noted that it borrows heavily from Chinese legends. I have no experience with those legends, but found THE SIGN OF THE QIN to be an absolute delight to read and savor. I look forward to rereading it next year before the second book in the trilogy appears. ... Read more

Book Description

Ho-ho-how are Mary-Kate and Ashley supposed to earn enough money to buy everyone Christmas presents this year? By working as Santa’s Helpers at the mall! The girls think it will be tons of fun. But five children crying, four parents yelling, three missing paychecks, two stolen presents and one big accident at work leave Mary-Kate and Ashley needing a Christmas miracle to get through the season this year! ... Read more

Book Description

Watch out! The Timberline twins are on the loose. Bryce and Ashley are ATV-riding tweens from Colorado who unearth action-packed mystery and adventure wherever they go. From clearing the name of a local miscreant to thwarting a gold-stealing heist, the twins' growing faith and the strong example of their parents guide them through even the most life-threatening situations. With the trademark page-turner style used by Jerry Jenkins and Chris Fabry in the Left Behind: The Kids series, these fast-paced books will keep even reluctant readers on the edge of their seats. Readers will definitely get hooked by the unbelievable cliff-hanger at the end of book one, Haunted Waters. Perfect for ages 8-12. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (5)

A bit harsh
In fairness, this book DOES portray real-life for the older sibling of twins. However, I found it harsh and unpleasant as it mostly deals with the negative aspects until the end. I think the older siblings already know the negative aspects, and need to focus on the more positive aspects of having twin babies in the house! We read it once and that was it.

A must for the big sister of twins
This book really expresses the joys and frustrations of being the Big Sister to twins (and the parents too). We received this as a gift and it is still a family favorite. Our "special big girl" is 6 1/2 and our twinnies are just turning 5. Give this to someone you know who is expecting a double blessing. The illustrations are colorful and are right on the mark!

Our twins loved it!
Our son and our daughter both read twinnies. Because they are twins they could really relate and both were happy for the happy ending. A cute fun read on twins and an older siblings feelings for twins.

Bright and fun illustrations!

Twinnies has become a favorite at our house.
My children, including 3 yr old twin girls love this book. The twins, because they think it is about them. The older ones enjoy it because their life with younger twin siblings is accurately portrayed. The illustrations are fabulous.

Touching perspective of twins from big sister's view.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend its reading to any child who has enjoyed the addition of a new sibling to her family and who truly appreciates both positive and negative implications of that addition.

The illustrations are perfect companions to the story line and even caused me a sentimental tear. I also think parents and grandparents of twins, especially those with an older child as well will truly appreciate this book. ... Read more

Book Description

A Brother's War

Tom Rigby didn't think that anything could ever come between him and his twin, Jack. But things begin to change when Tom learns that they are not allowed to play with their friend Aaron anymore because he's a slave. Tom is upset, but Jack doesn't seem to care. All Jack cares about is playing soldier.
Eleven years later, when war breaks out, Jack joins the Confederation army. But Tom can't bring himself to fight for a cause he doesn't believe in -- slavery. So Tom rides north to join the Union army -- even though he knows he may one day have to face his brother on the battlefield.

Reviews (6)

A Ballad of the Civil War
I must say that I am well read. I have read many books by many great authors--Cooper, both Brontes, Austen--and yet I find myself coming back to this ballad. I read this when I was in fifth grade, and liked it, but didn't care for it overmuch. Previously this year I found myself faced with a challenge. My english teacher wanted each class member to read something they liked, a poem, a song, part of a book, etc. to the class. I couldn't think of anything. I was searching through my mind trying to think of what I could read, then I thought back to my fifth grade teacher, and remembered this ballad. I read it to my class, and nearly everyone had misty eyes. This is the most touching poem I have yet to see. Each time I read it I get chills down my back. Background information on the Civil War is a good idea. I hope in time you readers who were "board, bord" or bored with this book will be able to realize how touching this really is.

The Ballad of the Civil War
The Ballad of the Civil War is one of the best books I've read. Jack & Tom are twins fighting in a battel. Read this book to find out what happens to the twins when they enlist in the war. Icould not put it down.It is not scary. tis a short read.

A Ballad of the Civil War- A Bad Book
I did not like this book at all. I read it because I wanted toread a short easy book but instad I got boring.

This book is boringand has absoluty nothing to do with the Civil War. Only the last chapter about 7 pages even mentions the Civil War.

At the end one brother finds a man from the other side and it made him think about his brother...

I Did Not Like It
i really did not like this book. i was supposed to read thisbook as an assiment for school, i did not have time during thatweekend so i read 18 pages during school in the morning and i almost fell asleep. i got so board.

A Ballad of the Civil War
A story of twin brothers fighting on opposite sides in the civil war. Addresses slavery from a child's viewpoint, then from an adult's viewpoint. This historical book has good black and white illustrations. Excellent book and I would recommend it for the 1st through 4th grades, as well as teachers and parents. ... Read more

Book Description

Everyone at White Oak is buzzing over a hot new game called the Dream Date Debate. Couples have to answer questions about each other and Ashley is sure she'll win. She knows everything about her boyfriend Ross...except the deep dark secret she finds out he's been hiding from her!

Mary-Kate has a secret, too. She knows that one of the couples in the game is cheating -- and she plans to teach them a lesson they'll never forget! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

oh my gosh
It's about when ashley finds out that ross has a deep dak secrect and kept it from her and mary-kate finds out a couple is cheating and gave them a dose of their own medicine. Read this book it's the [best] you will love it ... Read more

Book Description

Oh no! Mary-Kate and Ashley have to do history projects. But Ashley's found a way to make her project fun--she's partners with Pokey Valentine, the boy of her dreams! It's the perfect way to get close to him.

The only problem is, Pokey would rather get close to someone else...someone named Mary-Kate!

Reviews (5)

Double wow!
There's no question about it - this book is great. I got it in the afternoon and finished it before I went to bed. I couldn't put it down. All Two Of A Kind books are really good. In this book, Ashley likes this boy a lot. The problem is that the boy asked Mary-Kate out. To find out what happens, read this exellent book.

Twin Confusion
Pokey asks the wrong twin out!Two of a Kind are great books that grab you the minute you lay your eyes on the page.

One Twin Too Many
Ashley Burke has another major crush! She likes a guy in her class, Pokey Valentine. When she finds out she's partners with him, she gets absolutely so excited. About a day later, Pokey asks Ashley's twin, Mary-Kate Burke, if she could come over to play basketball and stuff. Did he ask her out? Mary-Kate's two friends, Max and Brian, said that he did. Oh no! Ashley is getting crazier and crazier about him every day. How would she break the news to Ashley? And how would she react?

Read it over and over and over
I never get tired of reading this book. This book is all what fans have been looking for! Ashley likes this boy named Pokey Valentine. Then this history project comes. Ashley and Pokey aren't picked as a team. Ashley trades her partner for Pokey, who was first picked for Mary-Kate. This book has a twist I won't reveal. Go ahead and find out for yourself!

Really Great!!!
This book is really great! I love it!:) Okie... Ashley has this terribly serious crush on this boy named...Pokey Valentine! So when there is an assignment by their teacher, Ashley hopes very much that her partner is...yep! You got it right! Pokey! Only that she gets assigned to do the assignment with an incredibly dorky guy, and Mary-Kate gets Pokey as her partner! Being so desperate, Ashley swaps partners with Mary-Kate. She gives Mary-Kate ten bucks in exchange for Pokey. However, at one time, when Pokey wants to play basketball, he asks Mary-Kate , instead of Ashley! Mary-Kate gets the wrong idea that Pokey is the one who likes her. When Ashley hears about the news, she feels heartbroken, but at the very last minute, Pokey says he likes her! Ashley swoons with happiness. Since then, Ashley and Pokey are like boyfriend and girlfriends. ... Read more