Book Review: Projekt 1065

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Projekt 1065 Book Jacket
Title of Book
Author
Gratz, Alan
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Projekt 1065 is a historical fiction novel set during World War II, following thirteen-year-old Michael O'Shaunessey, the son of an Irish ambassador to Germany. Michael joined the Hitler Youth as a spy for the Allies, working secretly with his parents against the Nazis. He meets multiple key characters that are important to his mission and the conclusion of the book, such as Fritz, a boy Michael's age in the Hitler Youth, and Simon, a British pilot.
The story is well-written and very realistic, which is perfect for a historical fiction novel. The plot is a distinct and interesting concept that strongly conveys the messages and themes of war, bravery, and sacrifice. Something I really enjoyed about the book was its complexity. There were multiple major events that all came together around the end, which made it a more layered, deep, and realistic story. The writing of the characters was especially remarkable, as each was unique and fleshed out, contributing to the impact. The mood throughout the book is consistent and action-packed, and the vivid descriptions, along with being written in first-person, really let the reader visualize what's happening and help them connect with the characters. The emotions and character reactions are expressed well and feel believable, which adds to the depth of the story. Overall, the novel was engaging, suspenseful, and deep, highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and action.

Reviewer's Name
Grace, grade 8

Book Review: Inside Out and Back Again

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Inside Out and Back Again Book Jacket
Author
Lại, Thanhhà
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Inside Out & Back Again tells the story of a young girl named Kim Ha escaping Saigon during the Vietnam War with her family. Inspired by the author's personal experiences as a refugee, the story is written in a simplistic yet powerful way using free verse poetry.
The book itself has few words that describe so much more, packed with metaphors and deep themes of war, hope, and change. The story is realistic and tells about not just the events on the ship to flee, but also the family's struggles to fit in and adapt to their new environment after finally finding refuge. The story is difficult to put into words, written beautifully and honestly, with so many hidden messages. It shows how much a person's life can change in a single year, and how much it affects them and the people around them. The emotions are masterfully conveyed through descriptions and tone in the writing, along with the underlying innocence of being told from a ten-year-old's perspective. The relationships are clear as well, showing the close bond between Ha and her family, and how much they care about each other, especially in difficult situations. Overall, the story is a great read, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to read something new, emotionally deep, or just because.

Reviewer's Name
Grace, grade 8

Book Review: The Winter Soldier: Cold Front

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The Winter Soldier: Cold Front Book Jacket
Author
Lee, Mackenzi
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

The Winter Soldier: Cold Front is a YA novel that focuses on Bucky Barnes' life before and after WW2. What I like most about this book is that it goes back to the comic book origins of the winter soldier. One thing I disliked about the book is how he and Steve Rogers met. This is an intriguing story that combines Bucky's past and his future. My review grade on The Winter Soldier: Cold Front is a solid 7.

Reviewer's Name
Gwenyth

Book Review: His Majesty's Dragon

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His Majesty's Dragon book jacket
Title of Book
Author
Novik, Naomi
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

His Majesty's Dragon follows British Navy Captain William Laurence after he captures a dragon egg from a French ship. This book takes place during the Napoleonic wars, and instead of airplanes European air forces use dragons. Laurence must leave his comfortable life behind when he is required to become the dragon's master. Laurence befriends the dragon (named Temeraire) and together the two learn how to fight alongside other dragon's and their riders against France.

I found this book very enjoyable. The characters, the plot, the writing style, and of course the dragons made me enjoy the story as I was reading it. However, it had a slower pacing compared to other books I read which sometimes made it hard for me to pick up the book. I also found the descriptions of how the dragons are ridden into battle confusing, and I wish the author had used a more clear explanation.

If you are a fan of historical fiction and fantasy, I think this is a great mix of both genres. It is slow at times but still an interesting read, which is why I rated it 4 stars.

Reviewer's Name
Reagan, Grade 10

The Other Bennet Sister

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A blue background with a portrait of a young woman
Title of Book
Author
Hadlow, Janice
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Calling all Jane Austen fans! See the world of Pride and Prejudice through the eyes of Mary Bennet, the oft-overlooked, bookish, and socially awkward middle sister. Watch as she steps out of the shadow of her more charming sisters forging her own path as an independent woman. Loved that I could dive back into the Austen world and that Mary Bennett got the story she deserves!

Reviewer's Name
Tatiana

The Signature of All Things

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The Signature of All Things
Author
Gilbert, Elizabeth
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

The magical story of Alma, who sees the world with childlike wonder. Living in a simpler world around the turn of the last century, her fascination and passion for working with moss is a unique backdrop for a tale of a woman's growth, empowerment, and reflection amidst a burgeoning world of scientific advancements and great changes in world philosophies.

Reviewer's Name
Nora

Book Review: The Remains of The Day

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The Remains of The Day Book Jacket
Title of Book
Author
Ishiguro, Kazuo
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

I loved this book! The writing is excellent and it has a very unique storyline. The main character of the novel is Williams, a butler that takes care of a wealthy manor. However, Williams struggles to separate his work and life. While he is very proud of himself and the work he accomplishes, he struggles to obtain things that other humans find joy through such as: hobbies, a lover, a family, etc. I’ve never read a book like this before, and I can see why it’s so well-known and critically acclaimed!

Reviewer's Name
Edda, Grade 12

Book Review: Grenade

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Grenade
Title of Book
Author
Gratz, Alan
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

Hideki is living in Okinawa Japan when America is invading. All he knows is that they are monsters who will try to kill him and his family. All he has is two grenades and the orders to use one on the Americans and the other on himself. Ray is part of the American army, and he has to attack the island of Okinawa on D-day. He is told to try to save the citizens but how easy could that be when she is in the middle of a war?

Grenade by award winning author Alan Gratz is a great look into the grim truths of war. It is an example of how fear and conflict can create a monster of a person. This novel is a historical fiction gem and has amazing philosophical undertones with well thought of characters and a carefully crafted story. This is an amazing book, and a lot of people would enjoy reading it.

Reviewer's Name
Drake
Awards

Book Review: Ground Zero

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Ground Zero
Title of Book
Author
Gratz, Alan
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

Brandon and Reshmina have both been affected by the attacks on 9/11. He was in the north tower elevator when the first one hit. She was born in Afghanistan faced with constant war, now the Americans were inside her country too. Both of them have been hurt by the events on 9/11 but when the bigger picture will eventually arise, they will be tested to think, is revenge the right way to go?

Ground Zero by award winning author Alan Gratz is a masterwork in historical fiction. It has extensive details into the tragedy of 9/11 and the hardship during the war in Afghanistan. It has well-built characters with unique ideas and traits. Ground Zero can get you to reflect on war and revenge and is an amazing book for an assortment of people.

Reviewer's Name
Drake

Book Review: Prisoner B-3087

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Prisoner B-3087
Title of Book
Author
Gratz, Alan
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

The nazi’s are gaining power and are starting their travel through Europe, starting with Poland. In the city of Krakow, Yanek will be plunged into the terrible truths of World War 2 as it unfolds around him. Houses are raided as the nazi party are looking for supplies and Jews are beaten. Yanek will have to persevere through perilous feats to stay alive, he will be mentally challenged in grit and his will to live.

Prisoner B-3087 by award-winning author Alan Gratz is a bone-chilling jewel with a deep look into the past. It is incredibly immersive and intense with great scenes throughout. The book is a great show of history and human brutality and a masterwork in historical fiction. I believe this is an amazing book for a variety of individuals and many people should read it.

Reviewer's Name
Drake
Awards
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