Reviews of Young Adult Books
Young Adult Books span a wide age range of readers. Including people five times the age of the younger readers who enjoy them. Check them out.
Alphabetical list of reviews
Amongst the Hidden
Artemis Fowl- Artemis Fowl and the Arctic Incident
- Artemis Fowl and the Lost Colony
- Artemis Fowl and the Time Paradox
The Artemis Fowl Files- Artemis Fowl The Eternity Code
- Artemis Fowl The Opal Deception
- Circle of Magic 1. Sandry's Book
- Circle of Magic 3. Daja's Book
- Circle of Magic 4. Briar's Book
- Circle Opens 1. Magic Steps
- Circle Opens 2. Street Magic
- Circle Opens 3. Cold Fire
-
The Door to Time
- The Forests of Silence
- Landover 6. A Princess of Landover
- Mixed Magics
- O series 1. The HalfMen of O
- O series 2. The Priests of Ferris
- O series 3. The Motherstone
- The Sisters Grimm 1. The
Fairy Tale Detectives
- The Sisters Grimm 2. The
Unusual Suspects
- The Sisters Grimm 3. The
Problem Child
- The Sisters Grimm 4. Once
Upon a Crime
- The Sisters Grimm 5. Magic
and Other Misdemeanors
- The Sisters Grimm 6. Tales from the Hood
- The Sisters Grimm 7. The
Everafter War
Thieves- Twilight
- Victory
- What The Dickens - The Story of a Rogue
Tooth Fairy
Reviews are added with the most recent on top.
The pictures are usually swiped from Amazon Books because they have lots of images. (I then shrink them, which is the sort of thing that is supposed to happen to you if you visit the Amazon.) The front cover might be different from what is available in NZ. Too bad. However, I have just found that Upper Hutt Library has on-line pictures, and for The Sisters Grimm series they look the same. There are 7 books in that series at UH. Perhaps if I wore a red riding hood with wolf's ears sticking out of it, I could sneak into the Children's Section without being noticed. The trick is not to stuff the books up your jersey. Otherwise, some observant little brat will start screaming you have eaten her granny and her books. Librarians don't take kindly to that. I think there is a secret book "Forty-one Killer Uses for a Date-Stamp" they don't talk about - but it is suspicious that libraries are very well behaved places.
A
Princess of Landover. Landover #6
by Terry Brooks
Pub: 2008, ISBN 978 18414 95804 Del Rey
Genre: Fantasy. Young Adult
This is book 6 in the Magic Kingdom of Landover series.
I enjoyed it a lot, it was a fast light read and a lot of fun. Most of
the book is from the point of view of 15 year old Mistaya, Ben and
Willow's daughter, and the author captures the 15 year old
mindset very well. All the familiar characters are back including
Questor and Aberthnathy - their banter is always fun to read. There's
also a new character, Thom, who I suspect we haven't seen the last of,
with the hints that were given especially at the end of the story.
Hopefully there will be a book 7.
I got this one out of the library - it's just new in and just published
last year - but it's one I will have to get my own copy of especially
as I own the rest of the series.
Blurb
Princess Mistaya Holiday hasn't been fitting in too well at Carrington
Women's Preparatory. the trouble is, people don't seem to appreciate
her using the maigc she's learnt in Landover to settle matters in the
human world. So when she summons a dragon to teach a lesson to the
snotty school bully, she finds herself suspended.
But Mistaya couldn't care less - she wants nothing more than to
continue her studies under Questor the court magician and Abernathy the
court scribe. However, her father Ben Holiday, the King of
Landover, has rather different plans in mind for her. He
thinks he'll teach her about perseverance and compromise by sending her
to renovate Libiris, the long-abandoned royal library. Yawn. Clearly,
this is the worst idea her father has ever conceived, but not for the
reasons she thinks.
Before long, Mistaya will long for the boredom of cataloguing an
unfeasible number of derelict books - for deep within the library there
lies a secret so dangerous that it threatens the future of Landover
itself...
[ Top ] Anne - 2009
Cold Fire– Circle Opens #3
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 2002, ISBN 978 04399 68171 Scholastic Paperbacks
(But this UK revised edn. is 2006)
Genre: Childrens Fantasy. Young Adult (320 pages)
This is book three of the Circle Opens series which I would
highly
recommend. I am very much enjoying the series, and the way in which the
main characters are growing not only in their powers but within
themselves.
This one is dark, dealing with fire, and
why someone would start them deliberately - it does a good job on that.
Very believable and creepy in places. I also like the way in which
these books are focusing on one of the young mages. This book is Daja's
- I have Tris' to go and then the two sequels.
Blurb
Daja is a metal mage - iron speaks to her senses and fire is her friend
- more powerful than a student should be, some think. Staying the
winter in snow-locked Namorn, Daja is determined to enjoy herself, and
her hosts' twin daughters are good company. But there's more to the
pretty pair than meets the eye - the twins may be destined for more
than just the marriage market...
It's not only the twins
who need Daja's skills - she wants to help Ben Ladradyn, the heroic
firefighter. Desperate to control the blazes that regularly devastate
his wooden city, Ben is fascinated by this girl who can make fire dance
between her hands...
[ Top ] Anne - 2009
Street
Magic– Circle Opens #2
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 2001, Paperback 978 05903 96431 Scholastic Paperbacks
Genre: Childrens Fantasy. Young Adult (264 pages)
This is book 2 of the Circle Opens series. I'm enjoying this
series a
lot, especially seeing the four young mages from the original series
growing both in age, maturity and their magic.
This book is Briar's and his finding of a student. He's grown a lot
since the original series, although hasn't forgotten his roots (pun
intended) as a street rat running with a gang. This books shows very
clearly how far he has come as a plant mage, and his confidence in his
abilities.
It was a good read, and one I would recommend. As well as a good drama,
it also explored human nature, both good and bad, with Briar looking
back at parts of his own childhood in the light of his experiences in
the present.
Blurb
After years of training, 14-year-old Briar Moss, a reformed street-gang
member, is now an accredited mage. While in the city of Chammur, he
meets Evvy, a street urchin unknowingly gifted with powerful stone
magic. Evvy needs a mentor, as well as protection from a local gang
seeking to exploit her talents. Reluctantly, Briar becomes her teacher
and guardian and soon finds himself caught between warring gangs whose
violent lifestyles will lead to continuing tragedy unless he intervenes.
[ Top ] Anne - 2009
Magic Steps– Circle Opens #1
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 2001, Paperback 978 05903 96059 Scholastic Paperbacks
Genre: Childrens Fantasy. Young Adult (264 pages)
This is book 1 in the Circle Open series - which is the sequel
to
the Circle of Magic series. It follows the four young mages four years
later.
I enjoyed this story. It was darker than the
original series, and introduced new characters. I liked Pasco, Sandry's
student, in particular. The big difference that struck me with this one
is that with distance the ability to 'speak' to each other and pull on
each other's magic is severely hindered, so this is really the first
solo book for Sandry.
It was a fast read and although has closure, has also left me
wanting more.
Blurb:
Lady
Sandrilene Fa Toren knows all about unusual magic - she herself spins
and weaves it like a thread. But when she witnesses a boy dancing a
spell, even she is confounded. To her dismay, Sandry learns that as the
mage who discovered the power of the young dancer, she must be his
teacher.
Before lessons can begin, however, Sandry and her
uncle, Duke Vedris, get news of a mysterious murderer stalking a clan
of local merchants. The killer employs the strangest magic of all: the
ability to reduce essence to nothingness.
As the murders
mount and the killer grows bolder, Sandry's teaching takes on a grave
purpose. For it becomes clear to everyone that the killings can only be
stopped by the combined magical workings of two people: the young
teacher and her even younger student.
[ Top ] Anne - 2009
The Everafter War – Sisters Grimm
#7
by Michael Buckley
Pub: 2009, Paperback 978 08109 83557 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens Fantasy (320 pages)
This is the last one reviewed for a while, the author is still
writing book 8. I don’t think this one has hit the country yet, it’s on
pre-order all over – I was lucky and a friend sent me a copy from the
States.
This is book 7 in the series. A very fast compelling
read which brings a lot of plot points together and has left me
thinking 'Wow'. Once I started I couldn't put it down. Especially with
knowing that in this one the identity of The Master is reveals so I was
looking for clues the whole way through trying to figure it out.
*pokes
the author for book 8 and whines impatiently
Blurb:
After
two years trapped in enchanted sleep, Daphne and Sabrina's parents are
finally free. Unfortunately, they've awoken to chaos in Ferryport
Landing. Prince Charming and his band of rebels are in hiding, plotting
war against the Master and his henchmen. At first Sabrina is thrilled
to have her family back. But after taking care of herself and Daphne
for so long, she has forgotten how different - and challenging - life
with parents can be. Meanwhile, the Master has dark plans for the
Grimms. Finally, the family will come face to face with their
tormentor, and a betrayal so deep that it will change their world
forever!
[ Top ] Anne - 2009
Tales
from the Hood – Sisters Grimm
#6
by Michael Buckley
Pub: 2009, Paperback 978 08109 89252 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens Fantasy Young Adult (304 pages)
This is book 6 in the Sisters Grimm series and gives an
interesting
twist to the story of Little Red Riding Hood. It brings some resolution
to one of the story lines yet the sense of the bigger underlaying one
growing and close to hitting the fan.
A very enjoyable read, and I'm holding out for book 7.
Blurb:
In Ferryport
Landing, everyone gets a day in court - even the Big Bad Wolf. Mr Canis
is put on trial for past crimes, and Major Heart's kangaroo court is
determined to find him guilty. It's up to the Grimms to uncover
evidence to save their friend though Sabrina starts to wonder whether
they would all be safe with the Wolf in jail. Despite her misgivings,
Sabrina and her sister, Daphne, investigate what actually happened in
the Big Bad Wolf's most famous tale - and the real story will shock you!
Anne - 2009
Briar’s Book – Circle of Magic #4
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 2000, Paperback 978 05905 54114 Scholastic Paperbacks
Genre: Childrens Fantasy Ages 9-12 (272 pages)
This is book #4 of the Circle of Magic series. I enjoyed this
book a
lot - Briar has really grown since he came to Winding Circle. I
particularly liked the relationships in this book and the way magic and
science worked together. It was a fairly fast read, although intense in
places. The characters are very real and the author does a great job of
world building.
Blurb:
Former
'street rat' Briar leads a comfortable life at Winding Circle Temple,
learning plant magic from Rosethorn. But street kids are still his
friends, and when one of them gets sick, she turns to Briar for help.
When her disease proves beyond even Rosethorn's power, Briar realises
that all of Summersea is in danger.
As the mysterious
illness spreads, Sandry, Daja, and Tris join Briar and their teachers
to fight the epidemic. But just as the situation improves, the
unthinkable happens.
Will Briar be able to save what he loves most?
Anne - 2009
Daja’s Book – Circle of Magic #3
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 2001, Paperback 978 05905 54107 Scholastic Paperbacks
Genre: Childrens Fantasy (240 pages)
This is book 3 of the circle of magic series, another series I
am working through and enjoying. It builds on events and characters of
the previous two books, this one focusing more on Daja, showing and
giving insight into her people, the Traders, and their culture.
The author does an excellent job at world building, and the
characters grow with each book. Although this is Daja's story, there is
still a good amount of point of view from Sandry, Tris and Briar. As
their magics combine and bleed into each other, so does their stories.
Definitely one I would recommend.
Blurb:
Outcast Trader Daja, along with her fellow mages-in-training, journeys
from Winding Circle to the Gold Ridge Mountains where drought threatens
widespread famine. There, Daja creates an astonishing object: a living
metal vine. A caravan of Traders covets the vine, and Daja's dealing
with her former people reawaken a longing for familiar ways.
Daja must choose - should she return to the Traders or remain with the
Winding Circle folk who have become her family?
Anne - 2009
Sisters
Grimm - Magic and Other Misdemeanors
by
Michael Buckley
Pub: 2008, Paperback 978 08109 72636 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens fiction (304 pages)
This is book five of the Sisters Grimm series. As well as
introducing more characters, it also delves into time travel and we get
a glimpse of a possible future. Like the others in the series, this
doesn't disappoint and is a compulsive and fast read.
Blurb:
In
their latest adventure, intrepid fairy-tale-detectives Sabrina and
Daphne Grimm investigate a rash of magical thefts that might add up to
a very grim future for their family, who are not so popular in
Ferryport Landing these days. With Granny Relda desperately scrambling
to pay Mayor Heart's outrageous taxes on humans, the Sisters Grimm
tackle their first case solo - with a little help from the troublemaker
Puck, of course. Meanwhile their old friend Mr Canis seems to be losing
his grip on his human self, becoming more like the Big Bad Wolf every
day. Can Sabrina and Daphne solve the crims and change their family's
future for the better?
Anne - 2009
Sisters
Grimm - Once Upon a Crime
by
Michael Buckley
Pub: 2008, Paperback 978 08109 95499 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens fiction (296 pages)
This is book four in the Sisters Grimm series. In this one the
action
shifts to New York as they return Puck to his family and we meet new
characters such as characters from a Midsummer Night's Dream, The
Wizard of OZ, the other six dwarfs and assorted others.
The dialogue, upgrading of the fairy tales to the present day and the
twists on the tales as to what really happened is one of the big
appeals of this series. And the fact that the overall puzzle is still
not solved makes you want to keep reading.
The series also keeps the size of its novels fairly uniform, as with
the tone, keeping in mind its potential audience. Although I have
noticed a few typos, and the fact that they say 'mum' in the first book
then change it to 'mom' in subsequent makes me wonder if that is
because of intended audience. It annoyed me a little but then I'm a bit
twitchy on continuity and mistakes slipping through in published work.
Blurb
For the first time since their parents were kidnapped, Sabrina and
Daphne Grimm return to their hometown, New York City, to find Puck's
family. But the fairy-tale detectives get more than they bargained for
in the Big Apple: wand-wielding fairy godfathers, swashbuckling Wall
Street pirates, subway-stealing dwarfs, and worst of all, hidden
amongst these urban Eve rafters, a murderer.
This isn't the city Sabrina remembers, the place where she spent happy,
normal days with her family. Even her memories of her parents isn't
safe. As the sisters Grimm investigate the death of an important
Everafter, they learn that their mother had kept a secret from them
that might lead to the heart of that evil organization, the Scarlet
Hand.
Anne - 2009
Sisters
Grimm - The Problem Child
by Michael Buckley
Pub: 2006, Paperback 978 08109 93594 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens fiction (320 pages)
This is book
number 3 in the Sisters Grimm series and up to the high standard of
previous titles. Although advancing the story line, it gives some
resolution to parts, but leaves you badly wanting more, especially with
the way it ends. This novel introduces another member of the Grimm
family - the girls' uncle - and fills in some more of the family
history.
I am enjoying this series a lot - definitely one I want my own copy of. The dialogue is brilliant, the kids realistically act like kids and have personality flaws. Fairy tales are not exactly the happily ever after stories we've been led to believe.
Blurb:
For Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, the latest in a long line of fairy-tale
detectives, there is one mystery they want to solve more than any
other. Who kidnapped their parents over a year ago? Sabrina enters the
hideout of the Scarlet Hand, the sinister group of Eve rafters who are
keeping her parents prisoner. She has a chance to rescue her mom and
dad but is foiled by the most famous fairy-tale character in the world.
How can a human child defeat a magic one? With the help of her little
sister (who might be tougher than Sabrina realities) and a long-lost
relative, Sabrina finds a powerful weapon for fighting her enemies and
discovers that magic has a high price.
Anne - 2009
Sisters
Grimm - The Unusual Suspects
by
Michael Buckley
Pub: 2005, Paperback 978 08109 93235 Amulet Books
Genre: Childrens fiction (304 pages)
This is book #2 in the Sisters Grimm series. I'm also reading the first one as teacher serial to my class and have all of them hooked too. One of the kids has gone to the local library and is part way through book four in the series.
I really enjoyed this book as much as I'd done the first. The characters grow as it progresses, especially Sabrina, and the twists or rather the 'truths' behind the fairy tale are very well done. This series reminds me of a version of the adult graphic novel series 'Fables'.
And the cliffie at the end of this book is far worse than at the end of the first one.
Blurb:
For Sabrina Grimm, living in a community of fairytale
characters means always being ready for trouble. And something is
definitely wrong at her new school. The adults seem too angry, the kids
seem too sleepy, and the gym teacher likes dodgeball way too much. Of
course her little sister, Daphne, is having the time of her life (Who
wouldn't with Snow White for a teacher - she's so good with little
people!) But when Sabrina's teacher, Mr Grumpper, is found dangling in
a giant spider web, even sunny Daphne's convinced Ferryport Landing
Elementary has a monster problem. Can the Sisters Grimm solve the crime?
Anne - 2009
The
Door to Time (Ulysses Moor #1)
by Pierdomenico Baccalario
Pub: 2007, Paperback
978 04399
30208 Scholastic
Genre: Children's fiction (240 pages)
This is the first in the Ulysses Moore Series. I'd recommend it for about 10 years and up though I enjoyed it too as an adult. It's a fantasy series, set up as though Ulysses Moore is a real person and someone at Scholastic is tracking clues and letters about his adventures.
I found it a fast read, although well written with realistic 3D characters and great descriptions. Although it was originally written in Italian and translated it doesn't appear to have lost anything in that.
Blurb:
In a house on the coast of England, there is a door. It hides
unimaginable mysteries, unavoidable danger, and unbelievable surprises.
When eleven-year-old twins Jason and Julia move into the old mansion
with their family, the door is a secret - locked and hidden behind an
old wardrobe.
But Jason, Julia, and their friend Rick are about to discover what lies behind it...
Anne - 2009
What-the-Dickens.
The Story of a Rogue Tooth Fairy
by
Gregory Maguirea
Pub: 2009, Paperback
978 07636
43072 Candlewick
Genre: Children's fiction (Fantasy)
Blurb:
On the darkest night, amidst a terrible storm, Dinah’s
parents go missing. While anxious Dinah and her brother and sister
worry and huddle for warmth, their cousin Gage tells them an unlikely
story – about tooth fairies, known as skibbereen, who are living in
warring colonies right in the neighbourhood. According to Gage, the
skibbereen put those teeth to good use. And Gage has met them. Dinah is
skeptical, but as the story unfolds and the storm rages on, she begins
to believe.
Anne - 2009
The
Forests of Silence
by Emily Rodda
Pub: 2001, Paperback
978 04392 85995 Scholastic
Genre: Fantasy, YA
This is the first of the first series of Deltora Quest, a
fantasy
series which was recommended to me by the school librarian.
It's
a fast read at 120 pages - it took me an hour - but it's good. The
characters have depth, it's descriptive, the plot moves along at a good
pace, and is realistic - taking into account it is a fantasy. It's a
book I'd recommend and I intend to work through the rest of the series
- there are 3 series so far of several books each.
Blurb:
Deltora is a land of monsters and magic...
The
evil Shadow Lord is plotting to invade Deltora and enslave its people.
All that stands against him is the magic Belt of Deltora with its seven
gems of great and mysterious power. When the gems are stolen and hidden
in dark, terrible places throughout the kingdom, the Shadow Lord
triumphs and Deltora is lost.
In secrecy, with only a
hand-drawn map to guide them, two unlikely companions set out on a
perilous quest. Determined to find the lost gems and rid their land of
the tyrant, they struggle towards their first goal - the sinister
Forests of Silence.
Anne - 2009
The
Sisters
Grimm: The Fairy Tale Detectives
by Michael Buckley
Pub: 2005, ISBN 08109
93228
Amulet
Genre: Fantasy
It's an interesting idea with the Grimm fairytales being a factual historical account instead of fantasy and I liked the way the eldest girl, Sabrina, didn't just accept everything first off but only after she'd seen it.
The book reads fast, and while it's for children it's pitched at a level adults can enjoy too. Definitely a series I will have to read more of.
Blurb: From the School Library journal: Grade 4-6–Buckley has created a world in which humans and fairy-tale creatures live side-by-side in rural New York in an uneasy alliance. Brought here by Wilhelm Grimm in an attempt to save them, the Everafters are now kept in check by the man's descendants. Enter Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, two sisters seemingly abandoned by their parents, who have been brought to live with a grandmother whom they thought was dead. Heartbroken and wary, the girls are immediately swept up in a mystery that includes giants, pixies, fairies, and witches. Readers well grounded in their fairy tales will get the most pleasure from recognizing the characters–Prince Charming, Jack-the-Giant-Killer, the Three Pigs, the Magic Mirror, and more–but the fast pace, sly humor, and cleverly inserted vocabulary lessons will entertain even those who are meeting the characters for the first time. Softly rounded, black-and-white illustrations and old-fashioned silhouettes at the chapter headings complete the first-rate design of this madcap adventure.
Anne - 2008
Amongst
the Hidden
by Margaret Haddix
Pub: 1998, ISBN 1-4242-0395-3
Genre: SF
I wasn't sure how to label this exactly but settled on sf as it's not set in present day and, although the scenario has taken inspiration from present day events, it's taken them one step further to the extreme.
Luke lives in a society in which people are only allowed to have two children and the Population Police enforce this law. Luke is a third child, and because of this must remain hidden. He has never been outside his farm, is not allowed to look out of the windows in case he is seen, and cannot lead a normal life like his brothers for fear of recrimation against him and his family.
Then he meets Jen, another third child and learns that there are other 'shadow children' just like him...
I found this a good read, and it's the first of three books, and this one does not give resolution. I'm going to have to hunt up the other two to find out what happens next. *sulks* It's by no means an easy fix scenario and is realistically shown as that, and doesn't shy away from showing consequences and that intentions don't always work out.
From what I gather the next books in the series are: 'Running Out of Time' and 'Amongst the Imposters' Fantasy
Anne - 2008
Artemis
Fowl
by Eoin Colfer
Pub:, ISBN 078685682X
Genre: Fantasy
Blurb: Twelve year old Artemis Fowl is a millionaire, a genius - and, above all, a criminal mastermind. But even Artemis doesn't know what he's taken on when he kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon Unit. These aren't the fairies of bedtime stories - they're dangerous!
Anne - 2008
The
Artemis Fowl Files
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2004, ISBN 0-14-138127-2
Genre:
This is a companion book to the series, containing dossiers, interviews with the main characters and the author and diagrams of Foaly's inventions, plus a couple of quizzes. It's set up as though the reader has access to Artemis' confidential files.
It also contains 2 short stories 'LEPrecon' and 'The Seventh Dwarf'.
It's not a book I feel the need to have per se, more of a completist thing, and apart from the two short stories which I enjoyed it felt more as though it was aimed at younger readers.
Anne - 2008
Artemis Fowl and
the Arctic Incident
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2002, ISBN 0-14-180695-8
Genre: Fantasy
I read this book in 2 days, which says a lot for me. I am a fast reader but it's the whole finding the time prioritising so when my nose gets stuck in a book for this extent it means I'm having problems putting it down.
I enjoyed seeing the character growth in this one and the relationships. I love the positive kick arse lead female role in these books aka Holly Short. She rocks. Mulch Diggins reminds me of Duo (Gundam Wing), especially the scenes where he and Artemis interact.
Even the secondary characters are fleshed out and defintely 3D. These books are a great read with lots of twists and turns. Definitely a series I will be introducing to my class when I get one.
Blurb: The facts contained in this book, are just that - facts.
It's all true, every word. Irish criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl /has/ discovered a fairy race living below ground. He /has/ extorted gold from them and the fairy police /have/ been on his tail for supplying power cells to the goblin gangs.
But that's not the half of it. The Russian Mafia are holding his father to ransom in the Arctic Circle and only Artemis's bodyguard, Butler, stands between him and an evil pixie. As an explosive situation threatens the entire fairy civilisation, Artemis realises that even a wicked genius needs help sometimes. And it can come from the most unlikely quarters....
Anne - 2008
Artemis
Fowl and the Lost Colony
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2006, ISBN 0786849568
Genre: Fantasy
The Lost Colony keeps the action and pace going and is not a disappointment. Each book of this series so far, I've enjoyed. It's been good to see the characters grow, and not just in age, with this latest book introducing a few new ones. I'll be interested in how Artemis adapts in the next book to the changes which occur in the last chapter of this one.
Blurb: A second juvenile genius has discovered that fairies do exist, and she is determined to capture one for scientific study and not just any fairy. The newcomer intends to trap a demon - the most human-hating species unknown to man.
But there are more than two players in this deadly game. Holly Short has been enlisted by Section 8, a covert division of the Lower Elements Police, to find out just what her old accomplice Artemis is up to. And there is also a mysterious assassin, Billy Kong, who will stop at nothing to get his revenge.
Only an ancient time spell separates the demons from mankind - and Artemis must prevent it from unravelling. If he fails, the bloodthirsty tribe will relaunch their quest to wipe every human from the planet. Because that's what demons live to do.
There can only be one winner - and this time it might not be Artemis Fowl.
Anne - 2008
Artemis Fowl and
the Time Paradox
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2008, ISBN 0-14-092684-4
Genre: Fantasy
I'm now up to date with this series until a new one is published. This one did not disappoint. Lots of action, drama and nothing of course being simple, because this is Artemis and that just wouldn't do.
This book, as suggested by the title, deals with time travel and paradoxes, and all the complications that come with it. It was fun comparing different versions of the characters; it really brought home how Artemis in particular had changed, and how far they'd all come with their friendships etc.
We also get to meet Artemis' twin brothers who were mentioned at the end of the last book. Two more Fowls to definitely keep a close eye on, especially for LEP I suspect.
I'd very much recommend this book, it's a great read and a fast, easy one. I'm now hanging out for another one and in the meantime starting on some of the author's other books.
Blurb: Artemis is no stranger to trouble. In fact he's a magnet for it. Man-eating trolls, armed and dangerous (not to mention high-tech) fairies, flame-throwing goblins - he's seen the lot. He had decided to forego criminal activity of the more magical kind. However...
Now his mother is gravely ill. Artemis Fowl must travel back through time to steal the cure from the clutches of the young criminal mastermind....Artemis Fowl.
That's right. With fairy ally Captain Holly Short by his side, Artemis is going back in time to do battle with himself.
Anne - 2008
Artemis Fowl The
Opal Deception
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2005, ISBN 0786852909
Genre: Fantasy
Book 4 of the Artemis Fowl series.
This one is a full on ride all the way through, with some character death, and Artemis' character is definitely growing, even before he regains his memories. I'm interested to see what happens in the next book now that Holly has left LEP and she and Mulch are supposedly working together as 'partners'.
Blurb: The fairy people have wiped all knowledge of their world from the brain of the only human they're scared of: criminal genius Artemis Fowl. But now they need him - and fast.
Evil pixie Opal Koboi is planning world destruction. Stopping her will involve clearing Captain Holly Short's name of murder, springing a kleptomaniac dwarf from jail and convincing a super-intelligent centaur that he doesn't know it all.
If only Artemis could remember why all these strange creatures are depending on him...
Anne - 2008
Artemis
Fowl The Eternity Code
by Eoin Colfer
Pub: 2003, ISBN 0-670-91459-2
Genre: Fantasy
This is book three of the Artemis Fowl series. These are getting bigger, more complicated and are still a very good read. I liked the mix of humour, action and drama in this one. And in particular the character growth and growing friendships between the characters. We learn more about Butler, his sister Juliet has grown up and has more of a major kick arse role, and Artemis is learning about emotions and growing up.
It also amused the hell out of me that one of the main bad guys is from New Zealand.
Blurb: Artemis Fowl has constructed a super-computer from stolen fairy technology. In the wrong hands it could be fatal for humans and fairies alike. But no need to worry. Artemis has a brilliant plan. He's not going to use it; he's just going to show it to a ruthless American businessman with Mafia connections. His bodyguard, Butler, will be with him.
What could possibly go wrong...?
Anne - 2008
'O' series
by Maurice Gee
Pub: 1982, ISBN 0-14-331834-9
Genre: Fantasy (children/young adult)
Titles:
The HalfMen of O
The Priests of Ferris
The Motherstone
I read this series when I did a children's fantasy literature paper a couple of years ago, and was very impressed with it. It's by a New Zealand author, Maurice Gee, and although aimed at a children's/YA audience, I found as an adult I really enjoyed it as it has several levels to it.
It begins in a small south island town, which does exist btw, but quickly moves into the other world of 'O'. It's a portal fantasy ie, the characters journey through a portal to an alternate place. It can be read as a simple fantasy drama/action series or on a deeper level, an exploration of the Fall and its implications, the two sides of human nature, good and evil and the fact that to be whole you need both.
Susan and Nick, the main characters are cousins who have only just met, and Susan is considered a bit odd. The birthmark on her wrist draws them together after they are summoned to 'O' to save the land from Otis Claw and his followers, the HalfMen. In 'The Priests of Ferris', they return to find one hundred years have passed and that 'O' is now ruled by priests using Susan's name to further their cause under the guise of religion. In 'The Motherstone', the last book, a choice faces them in a quest of which the result will have lasting consequences for all the people of O, as they try to return the Halves to the Motherstone and their rightful resting place.
Anne - 2008
Mixed
Magics
by Diana Wynne Jones
Pub: 2000, ISBN 0-613-68452-X
Genre: Fantasy
It's definitely aimed at children, but it's still a good read. This book is a collection of four short stories set in the Chrestomanci universe - Warlock at the Wheel, Stealer of Souls, Carol Oneir's Hundreth Dream and The Sage of Theare.
It was a good introduction to the series, and I followed it okay without having read the rest - curious to read those now, as these take place later, after the events of the novels by the looks of it.
Blurb: In the worlds of Chrstomanci, being able to use magic is a distinct advantage. But ordinary people have rights too, and only the strength and skills of a nine-lifted enchanter can possibly begin to control the exploits of the numerous witches and warlocks, socerers and necromancers out to make mischief.
The four stories in Mixed Magic all feature the enigmatic Chrestomanci - taller and more handsome than ever. With plenty of old friends, new acquaintances - and a particularly devious enemy with an outrageously despicable plot!
Anne - 2008
Thieves
by Ella West
Pub: 2006, ISBN 1877361488
Genre: SF
This is one I found in the local high school library. It's by a Kiwi author, and apparently there is a sequel forthcoming.
From the Blurb: Nicky has a secret. Now you see her: now you don't. She has the ability to disappear and reappear in another place - her gift controlled through the powers of thought alone.
Someone else has discovered Nicky's extra-sensory talent: a group called the Project. Anonymous, benign in manner, yet also sinister in its secrecy, the Project spirits Nicky and four others away to a desert hideaway.
This book was an easy read, but I was disappointed in it. I'm still trying to figure out why. The reviews online say it's very original etc etc but it's very similar to a lot of fantasy/sf novels with the idea of psi powers being exploited. I felt it also lacked depth and layering, very much written for a teenage audience, while others I've read labelled YA are more so because the characters are teenagers rather than the style of the book. Phillip Pullman and Ursula le Guin for example.
The 1st person style moves it along and there is good action/drama but although I don't regret reading it, I wouldn't read it again and it's not one I feel is a 'must buy and have'.
Anne - 2008
Twilight
by Stephenie Meyer
Pub: 2005, ISBN 1594133298
Genre: Fantasy
I read this because my daughter is obsessed with it, and a)I was curious and b)she's been nagging me to do so for months and taking me to see the movie but I had to read the book first!
I started it with some trepidation as people seem to either be obsessed with it or hate it. I'm somewhere in the middle.
It was a good read, and fast. I enjoyed it though there are some bits of plot I have issues with. There are a couple of paragraphs where the prose is very purple - when describing Edward when he 'sparkles' - but not really that much in the rest of it. The sparkling vampire thing is never explained as to why they sparkled - that annoyed me. Also a lot of the other myths like vampires burning in daylight which is quite a major part of the mythos - is just explained as being myth - rather a cop out I thought.
Bella is rather Mary Sue in places - she arrives in a small town and all the boys want to take her to the dance and all over her. Edward gets one whif of her 'scent' and wants her. And towards the end when she's trying to get Edward to turn her, she's very much the immature teenager - but then that is who the character is.
But all in all, I read the 500 odd pages in about 3 days so that says quite a bit - I did find it difficult to put down in places.
Blurb: When Isabella Swan moves to the gloomy town of Forks and meets the mysterious, alluring Edward Cullen, her life take a thrilling and terrifying turn. With his porcelain skin, golden eyes, mesmerizing voice, and supernatural gifts, Edward is both irresitible and impenetrable. Up until now, he has managed to keep his true identity hidden, but Bella is determined to uncover his dark secret.
What Bella doesn't realise is that the closer she gets to him, the more she is putting herself and those around her at risk. And it might be too late to turn back...
Anne - 2008
Victory
by Susan Cooper
Pub: 2003, ISBN 1417822198
Genre: Fantasy
Susan Cooper is one of my favourite authors so when I see a book by her I grab it. This one, although I enjoyed it, didn't grab me like 'The Dark is Rising' sequence or 'King of Shadows' had. I saw this one on Amazon a while back, then in Borders in Auckland but I wasn't prepared to pay $28 for a hard covered YA book, so was very pleased when I found it in the WCE library.
I did enjoy the book, but it's not one I would add to my 'must have' list, but still worth the read if you can find a copy.
It's two stories really but they intertwine across time. Molly who lives in present day has moved from England to the States when her mother remarries. She's very homesick and on an excursion finds a book on Horatio Nelson in a second hand book shop.
Sam is a farm boy living in the 19th century. He is pressed into service on the HMS Victory and serves on it during the battle of Trafalgar. Their stories are connected, the chapters going between the two time periods. Molly's story is told in present tense, Sam's in past, which I thought was a very interesting approach which worked well.
As with 'King of Shadows' there are hints of another world beyond, of maybe an Old One lurking behind a corner, that some of the minor players are not quite who they appear to be.
The historical part was very interesting, and Sam does to meet Nelson several times. It is also very realistically portrayed with all the hardship and not so good consequences of living in this time period. Molly's story also explores the point of view of a child in a blended family, adjusting, and not quite fitting into her new country. The last chapter of the story brings them both closure but to say how would be telling...
Anne - 2008
Circle
of Magic #1. Sandry's Book
by Tamora Pierce
Pub: 1995, ISBN 0590554085
Genre: Fantasy
I love reading YA books and this is an author I've been meaning to try for a while now. It didn't disappoint. It's a good, reasonably fast read, with interesting 3D characters and I enjoyed the story. It's also the first in a series - which I'll have to track down once I catch up with the other reading I'm behing on - so an author I'll be definitely reading more of.
The concepts of the different kinds of magic were really interesting, and I enjoyed the growth shown in the main characters - Sandry, Briar, Daja and Tris - and how they work together, but it's not a hi, instant friends scenario. Definitely one I'll be reccing to other YA, and adult, readers.
Blurb: Four young people - all possessing powers they do not understand, all in dire need of rescue, of training, of a home, maybe even of each other - meet up with the one man who can help. the mysterious Niklaren Goldeye takes them, one by one, to Winding Circle, a temple community. There are installed in a cottage called Discipline. Are they being punished? Or does NIko have some other reason for bringing them together?
Anne - 2008
©2008
Anton Erasmuson.