From the category archives:

Part of a series or set

The Mysterious Benedict Society

November 15, 2010

The-Mysterious-Benedict-Society While the good guys eventually win, there is quite a bit of peril for the children in the story. Quite bit is expected of them in very difficult circumstances. They rise to the challenge (as children usually do), but it is a stressful story. Strong characters, creative problem solvers.

Read the full review →

Savvy

October 18, 2010

goThis book has won several awards and is a nice read. Even though the main characters are young teens, the content and story are fine for 9-12 year-olds, and even precocious readers.

Read the full review →

The Web of Titan

July 28, 2010

The-Web-of-TitanIn this second installation of the Galahad series, we get more insight into the characters and their relationships with each other. As with the first book, I think it’s appropriate for younger kids then the publisher recommends, easily 11. Of note, there are multiple references to the theory of evolution as a fact.

Read the full review →

The Comet’s Curse

July 28, 2010

The-Comets-CurseAn interesting plot and a good read. Nice to see a straight science fiction book in this age group. I really think this book is appropriate for younger kids, easily 11. There is not a lot content wise to warrant concern. A good, clean book. Strong female main character as well as a mix of cultural diversity.

Read the full review →

Book Review: Gifted - Out of Sight, Out of Mind

June 30, 2010

Out-of-Sight-Out-of-MindAn interesting premise of what happens when a popular girl transports into the life of a non-popular girl. This first book in the series isn’t particularly dark, though there are some social circumstances with parents to be aware of.

Read the full review →

Book Review: Eighth Grade Bites

May 18, 2010

Eighth-Grade-BitesNot a lot of content to worry about for this age-group, but because the main character is 13, it will primarily appeal to kids 13 and under. While this book is mild on content (and likely okay down to age 11 or 12), it is a bit of a ‘gateway substance’ for a genre that can go quite dark. Likeable teen boy characters.

Read the full review →

Book Review: Conspiracy 365 March

May 2, 2010

goNo new content worry about in this 3rd installment of the series. Please read the previous reviews in this series to get a good feel fo rit.

Read the full review →

Book Review: The Maze of Bones

April 9, 2010

The-Maze-of-BonesHistorical and geographical references, ‘National Treasure’ for kids. The family members are pretty hostile to each other. Grownups and authority figures are not portrayed particularly well. Kids will like the adventure in the book.

Read the full review →

Book Review: By Darkness Hid

April 8, 2010

By-Darkness-HidFantastic read, no content to worry about for the intended age-group or younger. Engaging hero and storyline.

Read the full review →

Book Review: The Sea of Monsters

April 8, 2010

The-Sea-of-MonstersCheck out the review of ‘The Lightening Thief’ for more info on the series. This book was milder in comparison, so no worries if your child did fine with Book 1. In addition to watching Percy continue to grow as a hero, there are two strong female teens who may be a draw for readers who are girls.

Read the full review →