Monday, April 29, 2013

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher


I love the way this story was told, the way it was presented using two different voices.  From the moment I began to read, I felt just like Clay - I had to keep going, I had to keep reading.  What I liked the most about this book was the message that the things you say and do, no matter how trivial you might think it, affect the person your words and actions are directed toward.  And that sometimes, it is when we do nothing or are too afraid to reach out, making it seem like we don't care enough, that can have a negative effect.  I like that Clay learned this and that he did something about it by reaching out to Skye.  

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Secrets of New Forest Academy by Tyler Whitesides


With the BEM coming for him, Spencer is off to New Forest Academy for a week, accompanied by his endearing but gullible Toxite-fighting partner Daisy and the not-so-endearing bully Dez.  Adventure and suspense abound as Spencer starts unraveling secrets and realizes that New Forest Academy isn’t as safe for Spencer as he was told it would be.

As with Whitesides’ 2011 release of Janitors, this outstanding sequel carries the same message – we must fight the distraction, fatigue, and apathy that kids are experiencing, making it difficult for them to reach their academic potential.  It’s a wonderful book with lots of twists and turns.  Once you get started you won’t want to put it down.