Amazing Books You NEED to Be Reading!

Are you going to be bored over the President's week break? Here are some awesome book suggestions!

1) The Iron King by Julie Kagawa (series)

This book is about a girl who didn't feel like she belonged. She is teased at school and only has one good friend. Her father's mysterious disappearance when she was young haunts her. Soon, she discovers that a lot more is in store for her. Follow Meghan Chase through this fabulous book as she faces secrets, true love, and a danger she never could have imagined.

2) This Book is a Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch (series)

This book is one unlike any other. The narrator is anonymous, fearing that his enemies will find him. All of the names and places in this book are fake. Every bit of it, Bosch claims, is a true story. Watch as two young children meet their fate, to discover the ultimate secret of mankind.

3) The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket (series)

Four young children are faced with the mysterious death of their parents. Life tests their resourcefulness and intelligence time and time again - for these children have terrible luck. They never know who to trust, and who will stab them as soon as they turn around. Read this book for some interesting situations and laughs - but be aware that luck is not with the Baudelaire children.

4) The Host by Stephanie Meyer

Two personalities are forced into a single body. In this futuristic romance, Melanie and Wanderer are forced to work together despite their differences. Soon, they are so mixed together that nothing is clear - who they love, what they want, and what they future will hold.

5) Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This story is from the perspective of many people, from young kids to high schoolers. August Pullman has facial anomalies that make him look different from everyone else. He is faced with being the new kid, being teased, and the regular trials and tribulations of entering middle school. He is growing up, still trying to show the world that he is simply an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face.

Note: These books may contain some romance (not much). Personally, I think these books are okay for ages 10 and up. If you are unsure, ask your parents first!

Please let me know what you think of these books, which you may read, or if you have already read any. I would also LOVE to hear any more book suggestions! :)

These pictures may or may not give you a clue to what these books are about. :)

Movie Review of Mockingjay: Part 1

Have you guys seen Mockingjay: Part 1 yet? It's been out for a while…I recently saw it, and I thought that I would share with you what I thought.

The Acting: I thought that Josh Hutcherson's part in the movie was subtly helpful to the overall feel of the movie. Though it wasn't a large part, and the words coming out of Peeta's mouth were fed to him by the Capital, you could tell that every cell in his body wanted to say the opposite. It really was a dark feeling.

Jennifer Lawrence, as always, was fabulous. The only thing I have to say about her performance is that at the opening of the movie, her discomfort and trauma seemed about over-dramatic. Toned down a bit probably would have been better. On the other hand, I loved the singing Katniss did in the film - it felt very real, communicating from the heart. I knew that it was really Jennifer singing, not lip-syncing, and that her character was in a place of grief and anger, really not caring whether she sounded good or not. 

The Special Effects: These were necessary to the plot, for the movies have generally been closely following the book. I think they did their job, but in the ending scene with Peeta being tortured, it looked so fake it was actually almost funny. I'm sure that wasn't the emotion that was meant to be conveyed!

The costumes and set: These were very appropriate and were exactly what any reader of the books would expect, such as the signature tough and clean look of Katniss maintained throughout the films. The injured in the hospital and the barren look of the land was extremely appropriate and very well done.

Overall, I thought Mockingjay: Part 1 was a decent movie, better than Hunger Games, yet not as good as Catching Fire. I appreciated the way it followed the book. I am excited to see Part 2! I give this movie a rating of 8/10.