Wait A Second!

Never fear citizens! I'm here to answer your questions.

For starters, why have I even started up this site, Friends On Books?

(To be read a loud in a booming 'superhero' voice:)

"To save the minds of America... one beatup paperback at a time..."

With your help, this little blog is going to save the world!

<3 The Ever Lucid Lisa

Of Mice and Men  

Monday, August 25, 2008



-John Steinbeck-


The problem with most people is that we judge everything in general by first impressions. I think that's why no one ever likes assigned reading. I was completely dreading having to read this book, and believe me, the first page did absolutely nothing to change my mind...

But then, I read farther into the book and this crazy thing happened: I actually liked it! Steinbeck provides an intriguing look at the battles against both the Great Depression and an even greater demise, loneliness.

Verdict:

I was shocked by how much I liked this book. Cannery Row might have been too "out there" for me, but I definitely recommend this classic.

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Shades of Simon Gray  

Thursday, August 21, 2008



-Joyce McDonald-

This novel explores the intricate levels of character that make up each and every person. When the small New England town of Bellehaven is plagued by crows, five teenagers are forced to reexamine their lives and redeem the legacy of man who was killed two hundred previous. The book is fairly slow-moving, but there are several parts where the plot becomes absolutely gripping.

Verdict:

In the beginning, I had to force myself to comtinue reading, but it was worth it.

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East of the Sun & West of the Moon  



-Mercer Mayer-

From the brilliant author who brought the world Little Critter comes a charming retelling of the frog prince. With lyrical dialogue and brilliant illustrations, this book will be sure to capture the attention of any audience, no matter what their age.

Verdict:

When I read this aloud to the neighborhood kids, they loved it. I think the Berenstain Bears may have met their match...

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone  

Wednesday, August 20, 2008


-J.K. Rowling-

Who would have thought that an idea jotted down on a napkin would become one of the greatest stories of all time? Also, perhaps, one of the most controversial? With this simple (and brilliant) story, Rowling has quickly become a household name.

Verdict:

Here's an interesting tidbit: The book is known as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in the UK!

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets  



-J.K. Rowling-

In the compelling sequel, Lord Voldemort becomes a tangible threat and Rowling proves that Harry's beginnings weren't just an accident. This book is sure to earn Rowling a solidified fan base!

Verdict:

Happy reading!

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban  



-J.K. Rowling-

The third book reveals Harry's last chance at a loving guardian. Personally, I didn't enjoy this novel nearly as much as its predecessors, but I'm still amazed by Rowling's mind-blowing ideas.

Verdict:

Two wands up!

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire  



-J.K. Rowling-

Just when things begin to brighten for our young hero, fate strikes again, bringing Harry and the Dark Lord together. Rowling entwines the fear induced by Voldemort with the excitement and thrills of competition. Well-written and enrapturing, readers shouldn't miss out on the fourth book!

Verdict:

This book will be a magical experience...

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix  

Tuesday, August 19, 2008



-J.K. Rowling-

After an unexpected encounter with Lord Voldemort, the world's most renown wizard meets yet another person bent on his destruction. Obstacle after macabre obstacle are chucked at Potter at every turn and readers have to wonder, Is this the end?

Verdict:

Luckily for Potter fans everywhere, Rowling promised seven books, so Harry can't die just yet, can he?

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Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince  



-J.K. Rowling-

In this novel, Potter and co. experience what could possibly be their last bit of hope and stability. Each war, both external and internal, swelled to near-explosion until tragedy rips away any sort of optimism for the charaters.

Verdict:

Once again, Rowling has proven she knows how to keep the world on the edge of its collective seat.

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows  



-J.K. Rowling-

The final installment of the saga that centered around "The Boy Who Lived" will leave readers more emotionally attached to Rowling's characters than ever before. This particular chapter of Harry's life is exceptionally morbid compared to previous books, but provides an excellent sense of closure for any Potter fan.

Verdict:

Don't miss out on this great novel!

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Catalyst  

Friday, August 15, 2008



-Laurie Halse Anderson-

Set in the same neighborhood as Anderson's epic novel Speak, Catalyst is another inspiring story about dealing with all of life's blows. Kate delves into the murky realm of heartache and forgiveness, as she grows into an adult.

Verdict:

I literally could not put this book down.

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Stoner & Spaz  



-Ron Koertge-

This book reminded me why I usually don't browse the "teen" section of libraries or book stores. The plot and premise of this book was unique, but I was a little iffy about the content. However, the book gives good insight on feelings of people with physical disabilities.

Verdict:

I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone younger than late teens.

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The Red Badge of Courage  



-Stephen Crane-

Another required reading... Of course, I was always the weird kid who actually enjoyed the reading assignments. Well, not this one!

I love psychology, but not in this Civil war-set book. In exception to a few flashbacks, the book spans only three days, and the story is revolves around the thoughts and actions of one character. There is little interaction and even less action. The best part of the book is the last half because that's when all the "stuff" happens.

Verdict:

Don't let this stop you from reading the book! It's a lot of fun to write essays on how Henry is such a pansy...


"Why you be hating on this book. I've read it 5 times first 4 times it sucked. The last time I finially got the point of the point and it turned out to be better than I thought. However that been said I think the book is WAY to egotistical and thus I dislike it for that one flaw. But on another note it was revolutionary when it first came out so W to the E (whatever)."
Daniel, 16, Texas

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Dr. Franklin's Island  

Wednesday, August 13, 2008



-Ann Halam-

This juvenile science-fiction novels gives kids a sneak-peak into what can be one of the most unpredictable branches of science:

Genetic Engineering

Readers will receive a "first-hand" account from an experiment herself as she transforms both physically and mentally.

Verdict:

Another reminder that love can always withstand...

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The Mysterious Benedict Society  



-Trenton Lee Stewart-

This book is perfect for any young adventurer. Traverse 496 action-packed pages as four exceptionally gifted children save the world as only children can. The plot line is intriguing without being too childish for most readers. It's a great story for nearly anyone who can handle a chapter book, but presents the perfect reading challenge for average readers. Global concerns are presented to children in a pretense that is both informative, yet whimsical.

Verdict:

"Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunites?"

Why don't you find out?

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Breaking Dawn  

Tuesday, August 12, 2008



-Stephenie Meyer-

I never anticipated the day when I would be disappointed with one of Meyer's novels, but alas, here we are. Once again, the novel is written wonderfully, each heartfelt word depicting the exact story as the author herself imagined. However, I feel as if this particular story was wrongly billed as a Young Adults book. While the overall storyline is fairly harmless (and equally intriguing), there are several underlying themes that aren't appropriate for children who have not yet had The Talk with their parents or guardians. Imagine the embarrassment of having a twelve or thirteen (perhaps, even fourteen) year-old asking what certain lines in the book meant...

Personally, I adored the plot, but I still wouldn't feel comfortable reading specific lines aloud. It is one thing to confront younger children with the inevitable concept of death (just as J.K. Rowling did in Harry Potter), but is quite another to sandwich certain topics into what is one of the most anticipated books for youth in the history of... well, quite frankly, forever.

Verdict:

Forgive me if I went a little overboard with this. I don't typically read "teen girl" books, but suddenly, I have a nagging feeling that innuendos in this book are nothing compared to what else is being pushed towards teens today.

Also, just as another friendly little side note, if you aren't sure what The Talk is, it might be best to set this book aside until you're a couple years older.

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Eclipse  



-Stephenie Meyer-

Just like its predecessors, the penultimate installment of the Twilight saga will leave readers counting down the days until the next book. The promises of new beginnings and "forever", easily remind many teenage girls why they once wished for their own "Edward" and why the story that started it all has met so much success. Once again, Meyer finds a way to connect with readers through the apparent (and sometimes overwhelming) emotion in her writing.

Verdict:

Although some may wonder, just as Bella did : It was never going to end, was it?, I would proudly count myself among the crowd that would shout right back: We don't want it to!

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New Moon  



-Stephenie Meyer-

The sequel to Twilight is definitely one novel that should be read twice. Throughout most people's first read, the audience will be so distraught over the sudden disappearance of a major character. However, a second look at the book allows readers to fully appreciate the strong (and often bewildering) emotions woven into each sentence. With an intricate plot that defies the typical "happy ending" and captivating characters that will invade your thoughts, Meyer has, yet again, created a true literary masterpiece.

Verdict:

This book will leave readers thirsty for more...

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Anne of Green Gables  

Wednesday, August 6, 2008



-L.M. Montgomery-

Normally, I'm all for perusing the classics, but reading about Anne's antics were particularly difficult. Montgomery has an excellent writing style, but this "girl's book" wasn't exactly appealing to me. If this type of novel appeals to you, then have fun reading about this spunky (at least for her century) red-head as she discovers the Canadian countryside.

Verdict:

Five stars for style, but major points off for my lack of interest... Sorry if this is one of your favorites.

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The Akhenaten Adventure  


-P.B. Kerr-
Another first, and yet another novel dealing with magic. Are any of you seeing a pattern yet?

In the action-packed beginning of the Children of the Lamp series, readers will meet the Gaunt family. They seem like a normal, well-to-do bunch, until the twins (Children) find out that they are actually part djinn (Lamp) Yay, connections!

Verdict:

Follow along as John and Philippa battle to maintain the fragile equilibrium of good and evil!

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Midnight For Charlie Bone  


-Jenny Nimmo-
Listen up Harry Potter fans! The initial book of Nimmo's Charlie Bone series is major contender when it comes fantasy-fiction. Charlie's adventures are milder and, dare I say it, "kid-friendly" than Potter's, so the story is perfect for younger readers. Also unlike Harry and his comrades, Charlie's buddies are endowed with special "gifts" so there aren't too many references to magic. However, there are still a few, so you can't say I didn't warn you if this isn't your cup of tea.

Verdict:

The perfect predecessor for tackling Harry Potter.

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Sleeping Murder  

Tuesday, August 5, 2008



-Agatha Christie-

This novel is one of my personal favorites from the "Queen of Crime". In this particular story, the venerable Miss Marple takes on the challenge of murder in retrospect: 19 years. With a enrapturing plot, just the the right amount of detail, and an awesome twist at the end, this book is a mystery must. Don't miss out on this perfect addition to a classic mystery library!

Verdict:

You can't go wrong with a classic...

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The Host  

Friday, August 1, 2008



-Stephenie Meyer-

Stephenie Meyer has done it again! In her very first adult novel, Meyer explores the science fiction genre. Imagine a world overrun with parasitic aliens and dwindling human resistance. Just like the Twilight series, this book will reel in readers and hold them captive until the very last page, leaving them with an insatiable longing for more. Most good books capture the readers' emotions and, rest assured, The Host is no exception.

Verdict:

What else is there to say?
Happy reading!

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