All Alex Petroski wants is to send his iPod out into space like his idol, Carl Sagan. He figures that recording his experience leading up to the launch would be a great way to let the future know his story. Unfortunately, sending something into space is harder than it seems, and a new notification from Ancestry.com about Alex's dad leads him across an uncharted mystery... I loved this book so, SO much! Alex was such a lovable character, and I adored his dog, Carl Sagan as well, since pretty much any dog is going to be cute! I also really liked Terra and Zed, and I thought they were interesting and unique characters that added a lot to the story. The format of the book was also interesting, since it was told through recordings from Alex's iPod, so it was almost like a digital or recording diary, which is very unique. I also really enjoyed how the book was able to tackle so many important issues while still making it family friendly and with a ring of innocence, since Alex is only eleven (though at least thirteen in maturity). Alex's situation is terrible, but I feel as if I've learned a lot from him and his experiences without even realizing it! I would definitely recommend this to older readers (10+) or to someone who's interested in science and space, because, not only is it an important read for everyone, but it's also a very intriguing, fun, and fast-paced book!

All Alex Petroski wants is to send his iPod out into space like his idol, Carl Sagan. He figures that recording his experience leading up to the launch would be a great way to let the future know his story. Unfortunately, sending something into space is harder than it seems, and a new notification from Ancestry.com about Alex's dad leads him across an uncharted mystery... I loved this book so, SO much! Alex was such a lovable character, and I adored his dog, Carl Sagan as well, since pretty much any dog is going to be cute! I also really liked Terra and Zed, and I thought they were interesting and unique characters that added a lot to the story. The format of the book was also interesting, since it was told through recordings from Alex's iPod, so it was almost like a digital or recording diary, which is very unique. I also really enjoyed how the book was able to tackle so many important issues while still making it family friendly and with a ring of innocence, since Alex is only eleven (though at least thirteen in maturity). Alex's situation is terrible, but I feel as if I've learned a lot from him and his experiences without even realizing it! I would definitely recommend this to older readers (10+) or to someone who's interested in science and space, because, not only is it an important read for everyone, but it's also a very intriguing, fun, and fast-paced book!

Have you ever wondered how fairy tales were formed? Look no further than The Inquisitor's Tale! I really enjoyed this, and it gave a unique perspective in how stories are written. Each of the characters were unique, such as Jeanne being influenced by Joan of Arc, as both are strong warriors. Jacob's motivation about family was especially important and was very real. I also loved Will's character, because he was so kind and passionate about his religion. The illustrations also brought a whole new level and helped me with the different characters. What I loved most about the book was how much the author made sure that the book was authentic. He did a lot of research to make sure that he was proud of the story, and I could tell he put a lot of hard work into writing this book! Overall, I would suggest this book for older readers who want to read about a more serious story that also has a great plot!

Have you ever wondered how fairy tales were formed? Look no further than The Inquisitor's Tale! I really enjoyed this, and it gave a unique perspective in how stories are written. Each of the characters were unique, such as Jeanne being influenced by Joan of Arc, as both are strong warriors. Jacob's motivation about family was especially important and was very real. I also loved Will's character, because he was so kind and passionate about his religion. The illustrations also brought a whole new level and helped me with the different characters. What I loved most about the book was how much the author made sure that the book was authentic. He did a lot of research to make sure that he was proud of the story, and I could tell he put a lot of hard work into writing this book! Overall, I would suggest this book for older readers who want to read about a more serious story that also has a great plot!

Jack Sullivan was just a normal kid with a crush when his whole world was set upside down. I really liked this book, though it did have some faults. Firstly for the faults, was the world building. I loved that the book plopped us into the middle of the action, but I wish that there was more explanation, such as where were all the other kids, and it seemed slightly convenient that people that affected Jack's life were there. I also wasn't sure what to think of June's character. She was kind of stereotypical, and Jack had talked about her so much I guess I was expecting...more from her character. However, I loved Jack and his best friends, and I loved how they incorporated all the monsters into the story so seamlessly. Jack had a unique voice, along with his best friend, Quint, and I thought that they portrayed their friendship as well as most guys friendships well (or at least, from my perspective of a girl). Overall, I really liked this book and would recommend it to people who are looking for an action based and fast moving plot book!

While I was skeptical at first about the premise of the book, because it was influenced so heavily from Sleeping Beauty, I ended up loving it! Harriet was such a strong character, and used the curse to her advantage, which was so unique and original for the author to do! I really enjoyed the villain character as well, she was very sarcastic and brought a lot of life to the story. I feel that this is a book that everyone can benefit from reading, and everyone will find something that they enjoy.

While I was skeptical at first about the premise of the book, because it was influenced so heavily from Sleeping Beauty, I ended up loving it! Harriet was such a strong character, and used the curse to her advantage, which was so unique and original for the author to do! I really enjoyed the villain character as well, she was very sarcastic and brought a lot of life to the story. I feel that this is a book that everyone can benefit from reading, and everyone will find something that they enjoy.