Wednesday, December 28, 2011

The Future of Us - Book Review by Lindsay


The Future of Us   By Jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler


It's the year 1996, and Emma just got her first computer as a gift from her father. Josh comes from next-door, over to her house with a CD-ROM that his family got in the mail, but when they install it, a weird little blue icon pops up. When Emma clicks on it, it takes her to this extremely weird website... Facebook: a website where people post details about their personal lives on the internet where everyone can see. What they had for dinner, how work is stressing them out, new relationships, why do they put these things on the internet? ...But wait, it's 1996, Facebook hasn't even been invented yet... What Emma and Josh are looking at are their Facebook profiles 15 years in the future, where it shows their future friends, spouse, kids, job, location, everything. The thing is, every thing they do now effects what their future will be, so every time they log on, something's different. Will they save themselves from making massive mistakes in the future, or just make things go completely haywire?

I loved this book! I read it because Jay Asher, the author of 13 Reasons Why, (Which i also liked), co-wrote it. The characters are lively, realistic, relatable, and full of personality. The pop-culture references are funny, the romance is suspenseful, and you'll stay up late reading cause you just have to know what happens next! It has that fantasy feel, since they can pretty much see the future, yet it seems real. It has a little of everything so I'm sure you'll enjoy it!


Book Review by Lindsay

Friday, December 16, 2011

Strings Attached - Book Review by Lindsay


Strings Attached    By Judy Blundell


Kit Coorigan is a 17 year-old girl, who dreams of being a big-time dancer in Broadway. It's 1950's New york, Kit ran away from her home in Rhode Island, to become famous, and to try and forget about her bad breakup with Billy, who is in the army and is heading to Korea. Kit got a job as a showgirl, but the money just isn't enough, Billy's father, Nate, who is a former gangster, and currently a lawyer defending criminals, gives Kit a great apartment and designer clothes, so what's in it for him? All he asks is Kit try to get Billy to come home, and do an occasional favor for him...

The book has lots of romance and a little mystery. However, the romance is kind of unexplained, Kit loves Billy, will do anything for him, and vice-versa, but why? The book mentions that Kit cried constantly because of Billy, and Billy seems to get easily irritated by Kit. I found myself NOT wanting them to be together. The characters seemed a little dull too, easily forgettable, with little personality. The ending was... Not great, I have unanswered questions about a few things. It's kind of a sad ending too, but i never really got emotionally attached, and failed to sympathize with the characters. It's not a completely terrible book, but i don't really recommend it, if you really want YA historical fiction, I'd try The Luxe series instead.

Book Review by Lindsay

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Hunger Games - Book Review by Lindsay

Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins


The Hunger games takes place in a future United States, where war and natural disasters have destroyed a huge portion of it. The city, Panem, is split into 12 districts, and the Capitol, which rules over the districts. The Capitol hosts a televised, annual event called the Hunger Games, which one boy and one girl from every district are randomly chosen to compete in. The goal of the games is to survive, only one person can win. Basically they put the competitors in an abandoned, jungle-type area, where they have to find food and shelter for themselves, while trying to kill, or completely avoid other players, last man standing wins. 16-year-old Katniss's skill, wit, and determination are put to the ultimate test when she voluntarily takes her 12-year-old little sister's place in the Hunger Games. I love the book, it's a real page turner, with nonstop action, and even a little romance plot, it keeps you thinking "I wonder what happens next?!" The book is part of a trilogy, and leaves off on kind of a cliffhanger, so be prepared to really want to read the next book the minute you finish book 1.

Book review by Lindsay


Monday, November 14, 2011

You Belong to Me - Book Review by Janae


You Belong To Me by Mary Higgins Clark

Susan Chandler, a radio talk show host, takes it upon herself to try and solve the recent missing woman cases.  The killer always leaves his signature trademark, a cheap, turquoise ring with the phrase "You Belong To Me" engraved inside.  Along the way, she meets many new faces that help her get closer and closer to who the killer may be.  She realizes a little too late that the killer is a person near and dear to her.  Will she survive?

Book Review by Janae

The Testament - Book Review by Janae


The Testament by John Grisham

Troy Phelan, an unhappy billionaire, has been waiting to die for years.  His family hates him, he hates his family, and life is boring once you have done everything possible.  Troy makes everyone believe that he is ill and crippled by using a wheelchair and wearing a robe and turban for years.  Truth is, he isn't sick at all.  No one knew that until the day of his death when he was analyzed and pronounced to be of sound body and mind.  Seconds after that was declared, he signed a secret will in front of many people, then jumped off a balcony to his death.  Troy Phelan signed away his entire fortune to his illegitimate daughter Rachel Lane, a child no one knew about until then.  Rachel is a missionary located in the Brazilian jungles.  Nate O'Riley is hired to find her, fresh out of rehab.  The Testament is a story about the struggle to find Rachel Lane and its effects on each family.

Book Review by Janae

Monday, November 7, 2011

Wisdom's Kiss - Book Review by Maddie

Wisdom's Kiss by Catherine Gilbert Murdock


Wisdom's Kiss is a remarkable story written by the same author, Catherine Gilbert Murdock, who wrote Dairy Queen and Princess Ben.  The adventure follows multiple storylines from Dizzy (or Princess Wisdom), who is really terrible at being a princess and longs for rebellion; Tips, who longs to keep his true identity secret from his childhood friend Fortitude; and Fortitude, who longs only for Tips.  The whole story is told in different points of view, the diary of a narcissistic swordsman, the letters of two lovers, the script of an up-and-coming play, and other creative perspectives, which gives the reader an exciting new view that's rarely experienced.  I would definitely suggest this to anyone who loves a classic bit of magic, and an exciting fairytale adventure.

Book Review by Maddie

Monday, October 17, 2011

Possess by Gretchen McNiel - Book Review by Lindsay


Possess by Gretchen McNiel
 
 
Gretchen McNeil‘s first novel “Possess” is about 15 year-old half Irish/half Chinese exorcist Bridget Liu. Who’s trying to adjust to sudden changes in her life, like, her father’s murder, and finding out that she has the power to banish demons back to the underworld. This book is very dark, the whole thing is about demons, ghosts, murder and exorcisims, so, not great if you're more into the "happy books". Bridget is a kick-butt heroine, sarcastic and can come off as a little rude at times. This book is great if you like horror or mystery type books. (Which, I do.) The book has a great and interesting plot that kept me up late at night, reading. It has mystery, horror, suspense, a little humor, action, romance, and some unexpected plot twists. However, the book lacks details on the characters, and you don’t really get to know their personality very well. I did like the book though and I’d love to see it made into a movie!

Book Review by Lindsay

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney 1 - Book Review by Joe

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney 1

This is the first issue in a series of manga based on the Capcom video game Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. This manga follows the same format as the game, as in being divided into separate cases that all tie into each other, rather than just one storyline. There are various references to the game, from small character references to the trademark “OBJECTION!!”.
This particular issue includes all of Case One, Turnabout with the Wind, in which Phoenix is yet again tasked with proving his friend Larry Butz innocent of murder, and the first half of Case Two, Turnabout Gallows, in which a man commits suicide after claiming to be chased by “the spider”, and Phoenix must prove the victim’s boss innocent of the crime. If you’re a fan of the Ace Attorney video games, or just a fan of mystery in general, then try this book out. Trust me, it’ll be worth the time.


Review by Joe

Look for me by Moonlight - Book Review by Janae

Look For Me By Moonlight
by Mary Downing Hahn


Based on the poem "The Highwayman" by Alfred Noyes, someone named Vincent Morthanos comes to town. Cynda resorts to staying with her father and his new family, her step-mother and -brother, while her mother and step-father live in Italy for a few years. One night, Vincent, a charming and attractive man, visits the inn that Cynda's step-family owns and lives in. Vincent and Cynda are instantly attracted to each other and a love affair erupts. The closer Cynda and Vincent become, the closer Cynda gets to the truth about Vincent: he's a vampire. Can Cynda get away from Vincent before her life is taken away by the one she "loves"?


Review by Janae

A Lesson Before Dying - Book Review by Janae

A Lesson Before Dying
by Ernest Gaines


Set in southern Louisiana in the late 1940s, a man named Jefferson is convicted of murder. Jefferson, being a black man, was simply just in the wrong place at the wrong time and is sentenced to death without even a speck of evidence that he committed any crime. Grant Wiggins, the town's grade school teacher, is asked to visit Jefferson up until his day of execution to teach him how to be a man. He is put up to this by Miss Emma, Jefferson's godmother, who is best friend to Tante Lou, Wiggin's aunt. Wiggins overcomes many obstacles and learns many life lessons (ironically) while teaching Jefferson through simple lessons. Just by following these simple lessons allows Jefferson to die like a man with his head held high.


Review by Janae

Monday, August 8, 2011

The Princess Bride - Book Review by Rebecca

The Princess Bride
Abridged version by William Goldman


My dad gave me this book and told me to read it, and since he usually picks good books for me, I decided i'd give it a try. I loved it! I couldn't put it down!! Its about Butttercup, and how torn she is between Westley, her first love, and Prince Humperdinck, who she has promised to marry. There's battles for claim of the princess, battles for the sake of battling, battles for love, battles to see who is the strongest, or bravest. When she has finally lost all hope of love, that when Westley comes back for her, and she can't decide between love and promises; until she realizes that the prince plans to kill her! Love, adventure, and a possibly happy ending? Yes please!


Book Review by Rebecca

Monday, July 11, 2011

Her and Me and You - Book Review by Janae

Her and Me and You by Lauren Strasnick

This story is about Alex, a girl whose world comes crashing down in front of her. She moves, along with her heartbroken mother, to a new town. Little did they know what was in store for them. Her and Me and You is filled with secret affairs, love, heartache, stolen kisses, and psychotic twin sisters. Once you pick this book up, you have no choice but to keep reading.


Book review by Janae

Treasure Island - Book Review by Lilli

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

Treasure Island is not a very good book. It is about a young boy named Jim Hawkins. A captain dies in his inn, and he finds a treasure map. Jim travels with pirates to treasure island. I would not read this book again.


Book review by Lilli

The False Princess - Book Review by Mary

The False Princess by Eilis O'Neal

I started this figuring it would fail in my expectations. I'm happy to say it passed. :) This book reminded me of the Tamora Pierce books. The romance was expected, but different and much better than the normal teen books out there. The plot was surprising, fun, upbeat, and had unexpected twists. The characters were well-rounded and shockingly, had flaws! Read this book, I hope you like it!


Book review by Mary

Monday, May 9, 2011

Wake - book review by Janae

Wake by Lisa McMann

I loved this book. Wake was thrilling, romantic, and funny. Janie has been sucked into other people's dreams since childhood. She can't control her gift and it's starting to affect her health. She meets Cabel and gets entwined in his chaotic dreams, social and professional life, and his heart. Wake is a book that keeps you on your feet. It's an either love it or hate it type of book and you already know my opinion!!


Book Review by Janae

Monday, April 11, 2011

My Sister's Keeper - Book Review by Janae

My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult

My Sister's Keeper is a novel that connects with young adults and older. It tells about a girl, named Anna, who is a donor to her older sister, Kate. Kate was diagnosed with leukemia at a young age and their parents had another daughter, Anna, in order to have a pure donor for Kate. As Anna grows older, she tries to find herself, just like any other teen might do. She makes the decision to become her own person, to make her own medical decisions...which might make or break her family. Anna loves her sister Kate, but she is tired of everyone making decisions for her. Anna decides to take a stand. Their mother does not agree with Anna at all, but her father understands her decision. This thrilling, heart-breaking novel will knock you breathless with its surprising twists.


Book review by Janae

Teenie - Book Review by Janae

Teenie by Christopher Grant

Teenie is a book about a girl named Martine, which they call Teenie, who has her head on straight and has a very bright future in front of her. When she starts to be influenced by her 'fast' best friend, Cherise, she catches the eye of the star basketball player, a senior while she a freshman. Teenie wants to be accepted to a study abroad program in Spain, which Greg, the basketball star, can grant her with...but it comes at a price. Greg is not the nice guy he seemed to be and Teenie might be too late to save herself...



Book review by Janae

Monday, March 21, 2011

Death Cloud - Book Review by Maddie

Death Cloud by Andew Lane

Finally, for all mystery and suspense lovers, the origins of the most famous Sherlock Holmes is unveiled in this epic tale. Only 14, Sherlock solves his first mystery ever. His father being away, and his brother Mycroft too busy, Sherlock is forced to spend his school break at his distant uncle's house, where he finds two dead bodies and uncovers a conspiracy. The story is very well written and uses every detail possible from earlier books. A captivating storyline and completely unexpected ending makes this the perfect book for anyone with a sense of adventure.


Book review by Maddie

Monday, March 14, 2011

How Good is Good Enough - Book Review

How Good is Good Enough? By Andy Stantely

So religion is something most people like to try not to worry about. Just be good most of the time and you’re set, right?

Wrong.

If you believe that all it takes to get into Heaven is be a “good” person, then do yourself a favor and read this book. It’s not even 100 pages long, and the pages are small. Obviously using the Bible as its base for information, this book digs deep and shows the truth behind what salvation really is and how to get there. Recounting the story of Jesus Christ and His teachings on earth, from His birth to resurrection, Stantely shows what the Bible says about salvation and what it takes to go to Heaven. Also, he has a very easy-to-understand and humorous way of writing, ensuring that the book never gets boring. It’s a fun read, but it also may be one of the most important books you will ever read. After all, your eternal future kind of depends on it. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the book, and if you don’t go to church often then maybe this is just what you need.

Book review by Joe W.

Radical by David Platt - Book Review

Radical by David Platt

This is definitely one of my favorite books! The author talks about living a radical life for Christ, and everything that it involves. He reminds us that Christ says that when following Him, we will GIVE UP money, convenience, security, even family to follow Him. Christ says we have to pick up our crosses DAILY, but honestly, who lives like that now? The author explains what this means, and how it should affect our lifestyles, and how it has affected people in his church. He talks about churches around the world, where they could get arrested or even killed for meeting together, but they love Christ so much that they go anyway. They don't have the fancy churches we have, the musical entertainment we have, some don't even have Bibles, but that doesnt stop them from meeting together. That's Radical, and it makes me ask myself if I would be willing to keep following Christ in those circumstances.

At the end of the book, the author lays out a plan for how we can live a radical life, such as praying specifically for the whole world, spending time in missions, and spending more time in the Bible. He includes stories of how this plan has changed the lives of some of the members in his church, and how it has changed his.


Book Review by Rebecca C.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Teen Tech Week



"Mix & Mash @ your library!"

Join us at the Bossier Central Library to celebrate Teen Tech Week! We'll kick off this year's program on March 5th at our regular Social Saturday program by making artwork and jewelery out of old computer parts and telephone wire! We'll also do some creative writing via text messaging!

Tuesday, March 8th, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Movie Mix & Mash - Two of our Teen Advisory Board members, Joe and Jamie, will demonstrate how to make your own movies. They'll also show you how to upload these movies to a computer, how to edit the movies, and how to upload the movies to sites such as youtube and facebook!

Thursday, March 10th, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Music Mix & Mash - Teens are encouraged to bring their own portable musical intrustments to this program, during which, local teen, Rachard Dennis, will perform some of his own music. Afterwards, everyone will have an opportunity to play their own instruments, listen to others play, and just hang out!

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Delirium - Book Review by Mary C.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

In the world of Delirium love is a disease, so when you become 18 you get the vaccine for it. When you turn 18 and after you receive your vaccine, a committee decides who your husband or wife will be and they also decide if you go to college or not and what your degree is. Lena is a soon to be 18 year old who wants the vaccine more than anyone else. She 'surprisingly' meets a guy who's 19 and has already been given then vaccine. Nonetheless stuff happens and she falls in love. I like this book, I wish it had more world-building because I found the whole love is a disease part very interesting. The romance between the two characters were so-so. I wish there was more romance between the two but there wasn't. I would not read this book again, but I would recommend it to others.


Book review by Mary C.

The Iron Queen - Book Review by Michelle C.

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

This book is the third and final installment into this series, and by far my favorite. It kept me wanting to read and read, and never put it down. I was disappointed when I got to the last page and it was over.


Review by Michelle C.