1 2005 Teen Comments on Books Eligible for Awards

Strasser, Todd Can't Get There from Here

Top 10. I can get caught up in this book really easy. I love New York and sometimes I knew what they were feeling. Especially that they couldn't trust anyone like the cops. I think the book told about what it is like in New York really well. I was in in New York once and this book made me feel like I was there again. Stephany P, age 15, rating 4
*would like this book

"Top 10, becuase it is a good book. I like it because it was about things I've done and reminded me of my past. It made me think about my life and about me." -- Brandon L., Age 13. Rating 5
*Yes
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Top 10, This book was very real. It made me realize what some kids go
through. I don't have it that bad. --Sarah O, age 15. Rating 5
*Would Like this book

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Top 10, becuase it is a good book. I like it because it was about things I've done and reminded me of my past.
Brandon L, age 13, rating 4

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Teen Top 10, because I thought it was a great story for teens and what
they go through on the streets. The stuff in this book could happen in
real life. -- Todd C., age 16, rating, 5
*would like this book.
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Can't Get There From Here, Strasser
Teen top 10, It was a very good book to me but I didn't like certain
parts. Like when people died and when he ran from help or when the girl
cut herself. -- Anthony W. , age 15, rating 4
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It was a good book. It showed a lot of heart. It also showed that people shouldn’t have to live on the street. There’s a better way out there. It also showed that there is help out there for kids and that they should not be on the street. It’s just a matter of finding the help. Kids should not give up because the street is not a good place. It’s an inspirational book. --Jamie B., age 16, rating 5
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This is a very powerful book that made me thing about my life and the lives of others. It's a touching tale of a an "asfalt tribe"- a gathering of homeless children. The plot had twistes and turnes, and yet it was also, very simplistic. The author didn't take anything on, I felt, that he didn't know about. I was Maybe, the main character of the book, as I read through it. I know this book is a best, it was well written and meaningful. A real work of art. P.S. If ever possible, I would love to have a copy of Can't get There from Here... it's one of those books you can read twice and get just as much, if not more, that in a first read. --Kallie, 17
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Printz because it was a really good and true book that teens can relate to.-- Shelbi, age 13, rating 5
*Would like this book.
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Printz Award because this book was incredible. It was exactly like the real streets. This book is the first one I have read that is so realistic. This book is so breath-taking. Wow1 what an excellent book.. --Christie B.. age 17, rating 5
*Would like this book.

Bennett Cherie and Jeff Gottesfeld. A Heart Divided

First name or initials: *Sofya* LL
Age: 13
Book Title: A Heart Divided
Author: Cherrie Bennet and Jeff Gottesfeld
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I picked up this book and, though cliche, I really could not put it down. This book sucks you in and doesn't let you out. I loved everything about it, from the characters I could truly relate to, to the issues dealt with I found immensely interesting. I reccomend this book to anyone who likes a story which causes you to think deeply while also being entertained, a perfect combination in a novel if you ask me. The authors' mix of humor and depth is wonderful. I had very little knowledge of the issues regarding the Confederate flag and the South before reading the book, but now I am quite informed. I loved every bit of this book and encourage you all to read it immediately. : )
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.

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This book was the best one out of them all. It got my attention and it drew my emotions into it. I loved this book. Barbara P., age 16, rating 5, *Would like a copy of this book
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First name or initials:    Angie
Age:     15
Book Title:       A Heart Divided
Author: Cherie Bennett
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because:         This is one of the best books I have ever read. I couldn't put it down and read it in one night. Kate is a great character and everyone else was very real. I learned a lot about the Confederate flag by reading this book, and I already live in the South!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.

This is the best young adult book I've read this year. Not only is it a gripping page -turner and the BEST young love story ever, it also has a deep meaning that stays with the reader. It's rare to find a book that is so enjoyable yet also teaches you something so important. I give this book the highest recommendation possible! Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read. Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday. --��Alex, 18

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Printz Award because it would have to be one of the best books I've ever read. --Malorie, 15, 4 *Would like to have a copy of this book.

This is one of my new favorite books. Amazing story adressing an issue not often discussed. Characters are wonderful, especially Luna, who is sympathetic and not at all stereotypical, as is often the case in this type of novel. This book is simply brillant!
Best Book: YES! -- Cordi, age . Wants book.
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I had the opportunity to read Luna about a year ebfore
I actually did. I judged by the cover of the book and
thought that it was over-hyped. Well, today I read it.
I lost a lot of sleep to do it, too. This book was one
of the best I have read in a long time.

Surprisingly, no other review I have seen of this book
mentions that it is a Cinderell story. It is
completely obvious...once you read two-thirds of the
story. Julie Ann Peters has taken Cinderella 'Ella
Enchanted' style, and pushed it through into the new
millenium, tossing in a transsexual teenager as a
clever mask.

Throughout the book, teenage Regan is plagued by the
fact that her brother is really her sister. Reliving
present-tense memories of awkward moments in her
brother's and her life, this teenage heroine gets more
and more lost within herself, try to find herself.
Unfortunetly, she can't find herself, because she is
trying to help her brother find himself.

The ending of this book made me cry. Or rather cry for
about a half hour until I got a headache. The
characters are richly developed so you know them very
well, and the story is intruiging. A richly woven
tapestry of old and new, I am waiting in anticipation
to read the next novel by this wonderful author.

When I first picked it up I didn't think I was going to like it, or finish it for that matter. Well, I was wrong, the book was wonderful. The simplisity of the characters lives seem to draw me deeper into their world. I might even say that it is a best book. But I'm not sure. It was a nice read, but it wasn't life changing.--Kallie, 17

Everyone should read this book, even though it's an issue people don't like to discuss. It really makes you think, and it very well may change your opinion of sex changes. This is diffently a best book.--Katherine, 15

First name or initials: Trystan
Age: 18
Book Title: Luna
Author: Julie Anne Peters
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults: yes
Because: Okay, transgender issues in a novel usually doesn't send up a flag for me that I would like to read that book, but I really enjoyed "Luna." I thought the writing was good, and even though transgender siblings is not an issue most teens have to deal with, I think anyone with brothers and/or sisters can relate to being stuck in the middle of a sibling-parent fight.I thought the author did a good job of making the characters relatable to many lives even though they were in a situation that a lot of people know nothing about (or care to). I was glad that Peters chose to use the sister of the transgender character as the narrator instead of the somewhat depressing transgender character.I loved how the narrator's first attempt at a romantic relationship is riddled with awkwardness and accidents; it adds a humorous touch to the book.I really enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would; I'm glad Ms. Peters wrote it, and that I read it. Definitely a best book.
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.

This was majorly a best book. The characters were well laid out and the plot was great. The story circles around a girl named Annie that becomes pregnant and marries her boyfriend. However, her boyfriend, Kevin, abuses her terribly and she knows that her life is in danger. -- Karlie, 14

This book was great. It had a good storyline, and it was well written. It's a book you should read, but not quite a best book. --Katherine, 15

Double Helix ws a great book.The character development was wonderful, and I ended up staying up till 11 p.m. just to finish it.The ending was very satisfying. An absolutely awesome book.�� --Kirsten, 15

Double Helix is a good book. For the first half or so, it really doesn't have any point, other than a boy living his life, but I couldn't put it down anyway. It was a good book, and one every person should read. One thing I noticed, though, is that Rogue Geneticists seem to be on a rise in Sci-Fi. --Robbie, 15

This book is one of those that could be read over and over. Each time noticing something different, a hidden connection. A science fiction novel with a twist, or two. Some adventure, mystery, science, and a little bit of love; it even has the "mad scientist," although hes a mild one, but hes still there and causing trouble everywhere. Enthralling, chilling, and intellectually engaging it keeps you guessing 'till the end.

Eli Samuels is just another kid, right? Problems with an inherited disease causes a rift between his father. And then there's something weird about all the attention he's getting from the leading scientist on genetics. Digging up family secrets is not on Eli's summer to-do list, but he uncovers a little more information than he was bargaining for. An excellent book guaranteed to make you look twice at your mild life and your inheritance.A Best Book. --Hilary age 17

Does not recommend this book. Started reading and it did not catch my attention. It was boring.
Jerrod, 17, rating 1
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Not nominated because it was a good book but too scientific for me.
Zach, age 15, rating 3
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Not nominated because it was not a good book and not interesting.
Shelbi, age 13, rating 1

No Award - I hated this book, only got through the first 2 chapters. It was The language I didn't like. It was not intersting to me. ---Ashley, 17, 1

Open Your Eyes: Extraordinary Experiences in Far Away Places edited by Jill Davis

No Award - It's not that good of a book. It's mostly pointless stories of people. Everyone knows these kinds of thories anyway. --Ashley, 17, 2

BBYA?: Yes
Rate (1-10): 9
Popularity (1-5): 4
Open your Eyes, was a collection of short biographies written by popular authors, which they shared something that had an impact on their life. Lois Lowry, Harry Mazer, and Katherine Patterson are three of the ten authors that wrote memoirs in this book.
One of the stories was "Empress," by Lois Lowry. This was about a time when she was 11-years old and she lived in Tokyo, Japan. She learns how to be like an empress in a very unexpected way.
Another story was called, "Join the Army and see the World" by Harry Mazer. He was in the 398th bomb group during the end of WWII. The Germans took him after his plane crashed and he made history.
This was a superb book and I loved reading short memoirs written by some excellent authors. My favorite one was about a mothers problems with the French schooling. I laughed the entire time I read it. It can be easily said that anyone who reads this book will like at least one of the memoirs in it. There are stories about prejudice, courage, life lessons, and faraway places. Reading this will literally open your eyes. --Christa, Age: 13

This book was really great. There were a few really gross parts, but otherwise this book was pretty good. I would have to say that it could possibly a best book. A boy, named Matt, went missing in Mexico and this results in tons of problems. Now his friends and family have to live through this hard time in their life. -- Karlie, 14

This book is written in poem form. The story revolves a family and their grief. The two children Jesse and Jerilyn describe their reactions and feelings towards their brother's death. I found that this book was really good but it just doesn't have enough "best book elements." -- Karlie, 14
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t is a good book on showing how people deal with death of loved ones. But is set in poems so you have to like poems to like it.--Ashley, 17, 4

Who Am I Without Him? Flake
Top 10 because it was a good book. I really got into it because all the
stories were interesting and had a good story-line. The last sorty "A
Letter To My Daughter" actually made me cry.
Alicia P., age 12. rating 4
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Top 10, The stories in this book were very true to reality and they
really make me think about some of the things I have done. For the ones
that have never experienced it, it has a good message.
Christie B., age 17, rating 4
*would like this book.
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Who Am I Without Him? Flake
Should not be nominated because it was kind of boring.
Kehlie. age 16, rating 2
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Who Am I without Him, Flake
Not nominated. Should be on list for younger kids.
Ksenya, age 16, rating 2

This book really could be in the top 10, for the way it captures so many feelings a teen may have. I just think it could effect other people. However, it just didn't have alot of problems that I've faced as a teen. -- Steven R, age 16, rating 3

Quick Picks because the most of the short stories were very intersting. They were real to teen life.--Eric C.. 17, 4, *** Would like to have this book.

Should be on top 10 because it shows you that life is posible w/o a mate. --Ashley E., age 14, rating 5.***Would like a copy of this book.

Teen Top 10 list. This book is written in a slang that our teenage generation tends to use. It is very appropriate for today's teens.--Johnie , 14, 5 (wants to own)

Quick Picks because some stories don't have a lot of action. The book is too easy and some of the stories are the same. --Morgan, 15, 3
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Quick Picks because it tells a lot about how things are now days for girls and guys in their teens. --Sarah V. 17, 5 *I would like a copy of this book.

I thought this book was good because it helps me better understand the teen judicial system, but I didn't really like all the questions that it asked me personally. -- Steven R., age 16, 4. ***Would like this book.

Should be on the top 10 because I am in jail myself and it puts me at ease.
Eric C., age 17. rating 3

Should be Printz Award because the author took real cases, and wrote about what he did to make sure the juveniles learned their lessons.This book also can help kids realize that they can change their ways. -- Tmekei (Upe), age 16, rating 5 *** Would like a copy of this book.

Quick Picks. It's a good informational book for people that have broken the law. It shows you what different potions the judge has and what could happen to you.--Ashley, 17, 5 (wants to own)
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Teen Top 10 because I think that it does tell a lot about some of the cases people have. ---Sarah V., 17,k 4

First name or initials: Trystan
Age: 18
Book Title: The Oracle Betrayed
Author: Catherine Fisher
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: Do I think this book should be a best? Well . . . I'd have to say barely. Don't get me wrong, the story is interesting, original, captivating, and colorful. Everyday I'd come home and be excited to sit down and start reading it again. Then why is it barely a best book? Because the ending viciously cuts through the finely woven story which the author created. It's obvious that she is leaving some things up in the air for a continuing novel, but the ending was only slightly satisfying. You can't fool yourself into thinking that the characters will live happily ever after when you finish reading the first book like in most trilogies. You know that they are still in grave danger, maybe even more than before. You can't walk away from it feeling content. It didn't feel like an ending to me. I suppose that's part of the process of writing a trilogy, so you get your readers to come back for more information in another book. I just didn't like the ending. The rest of the story was so brilliantly put together, however, that I can't say this book isn't a best book based on its ending alone. I wish she had done something a little different with the ending to make the book stand alone more, but overall it was an enjoyable read.
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

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First name or initials: Ellington
Age: 15
Book Title: The Oracle Betrayed
Author: Catherine Fisher
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!!! This is a book that combines ancient Greek and Egyptian rituals in an imaginary land that the author created. It combines them in a convincing manner, however, which impressed me. This book was well written from the first . Characters had great depth, the story never had a slow moment, and the story was vivid. If they had given the name of the imaginary land, and it the jacket had not said otherwise, I'm sure I would have done a search to find out if the land were real or not. If you love historical fiction, this is the book you have been waiting for! If historical fiction is not your cup of tea, you can still enjoy this book. This is definitely a best book!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I would really, really, really, love to own this book!

The Oracle Betrayed is a good book. Not a great book, just good. The characters are well developed, and the plot is excellent. The only problem (well, big problem) I had with this book was the development of the setting. Now, generally setting is not something readers focus on, but it is something that should be very important to an author. The setting of a story will often help shape both characters and plot, which makes it essential from a writer's point of view. The Oracle Betrayed is set in a land parched by drought, with a culture somewhere between that of the Greeks and Egyptians. You would thing that that would make for a setting that would be lush and vibrant even in the middle of extreme drought. Nope. Sorry, not here. I know that this may sound strange, but I wish there had been more description. For example: there are references in the story to a Sacred Island, but the author never describes what it looks like! All right, enough ragging. One thing I really liked was the occasional interjection of narration from a god's point of view. These are done in first person and done very well. I just wish the rest of the book had been like that. --Emily

First name or initials: Rebecca
Age: 19
Book Title: An Earthly Knight
Author: Janet McNaughton
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: An Earthly Knight was a wonderful blend of historical fiction, romance, and fantasy. It was a truly enchanting book that I'd highly recommend to teens.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: Kim
Age: 14
Book Title: An Earthly Knight
Author: Janet McNaughton
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: An Earthly Knight has been the first teen book I've read in quite a while, and I'm very glad I picked this one. The chrarcter development (of excuse me- a 16 year-old) is remarkable, espcially for a 250-page book. It accomplishes a fascinating, realistic fantasy in it and really makes me want to know more about the tale of "Tam Lin."
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday. 4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: The reason I rated it a "5" on Popularity Rating is that I had to put it on hold so I could get it. Just one person, but a waiting none-the-less.

I'm not quite sure what I think about this book. I think the character development is to the point of too much. This book focuses on the emotions of a 10 yr old girl. The end is interesting, but it stops in an akward place. Good, but not a Best Book.—Kara, 14

First name or initials: Trystan
Age: 18
Book Title: An Earthly Knight
Author: Janet McNaughton
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: One of my favorite type of novels is when an author takes a well known myth or ballad or story and makes it come alive with dynamic, warm, living characters. Some authors aren't quite up to the challenge, but McNaughton passes with flying colors. This book is 260 s long, but it just flies by as you read. You never realize how much has gone by or how long you've spent reading it. She's woven two myths into one story, and she hasn't lost anything, not character development, continuity, or overall appeal.
I definitely think this book should be a best book, but it's not THE best book of the year.
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

Excuse me for a moment while I scream: I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! An Earthly Knight is the perfect blend of historical fact and mysterious folklore. Little tidbits of magic and fantasy are interwoven into the story. I particularly like the way the author combined fantasy, historic fiction and romance. An Earthly Knight is actually based on two ballads, "Lady Isabel and the Elf Knight" and "Tam Lin." I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to combine sources and genres so well, not to mention the writer's fantastic characters. The story takes place over 800 years ago, but each character seems like they could jump off the and start walking around today. They're real in a way that only story characters can be. In short, if you're a romantic, a history buff, or a fantasy freek, this book is for you. P.S. Can I please have my name in the drawing for this book! --Emily

Midnighters: The Secret Hour by Scott Westerfeld is about a group of teens who have a secret hour, the 25th hour of the day. Long ago, darklings and slithers preyed upon humans. Then humans discovered fire and began to fight back. The darlings and slithers on the verge of extinction, compressed the 25th hour into a single second for humans and hid there. So slithers and darklings live for one hour a day (where technology won't work) and humans for 24 hours. Except for a few. There are only so many seconds in a day, so some humans are born during the secret hour. They have powers they use to protect themselves. Except for Jessica, who has just moved to Bixby. OK, the only known place to have the secret hour. And for some reason the darlings and slithers keep trying to kill her. Who is Jessica! At 296 pages The Secret Hour is definitely a best book. --Kirsten

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I love this book and want it. It's fast paced and pulls you in from the beginning. I stayed up untill 3 one morning finishing this book. It's a must read and by far the best best book. --Katherine

First name or initials: Vernon
Age: 15
Book Title: A Hat Full of Sky
Author: Pratchett, Terry
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I really enjoyed this book. I thought the prequel, The Wee Free Men was good, and this is better. I've read a plethora of books and this is one of the best. I think that the simple sense of adventure in combination with the in-depth characters will appeal to an audience increasingly bombarded by serial adventure books.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
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It was a good book, very cute. I liked the storyline, but I'm not sure it could stand alone. Not a best book, but a good book.--Katherine, 15

Let me say this first:I love Terry Pratchett.His books are funny, but they're also meaningful.A Hat full of Sky is no different.Tiffany has now become an apprentice witch, and it seems things couldn't be better, but something is very wrong.An ancient entity called a hiver has chosen Tiffany for its next victim.When the Nac Mac Feegle (or Wee Free Men, as they are sometimes called) hear of this, they rush to Tiffany's rescue.One of the things I particularly enjoyed about this book was that it seems like a children's book, but people of any age can enjoy it.Pratchett's characters are funny and well done, as is the plot.All in all, this book was a joy to read, and I can't wait to see what he comes out with next. --Emily, 15

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A Hat Full of Sky by Terry Pratchett, is the sequel to Wee Free Men a best book last year. Traditional to Teryy Pratchett's style of writing, it is a hilarious book with a serious under-story. It keeps you laughing, but at the end, there is a serious thought that gets you thinking. A best book, without a doubt. It takes over where Wee Free Men left off, while giving you a whole other story. A reader doen't have to read Wee Free Men to understand A Hat Full of Sky, but it does help. Another wonderful book by Terry Pratchett. --Kirsten

"I think is is a simple explanation of a lot of things teens go for or have trouble with. I disliked the fact it was so pagan like. It has a lot of surprises." --Ramar H., Age 17. rating 4
*Yes
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First name or initials: Annie
Age: 12
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: It's a great book! Very romantic (at the end), very sweet--can't wait to read the sequel!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I liked it so much! I must've reread the ending like, ten times, because it was so darn sweet. I love it!
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First name or initials: J
Age: 12
Book Title: The Hallow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book is one of the best books I've read and I have read many books.This book show's lots of emotion of love,hate,and fear.Last this book makes you feel you are really in the story and when you finsh the book you don't want to stop reading because you don't want to leave the place you are in. And that is why I love this book.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: m
Age: 14
Book Title: hollow kindom
Author: clare b. dunkel
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: i absolutely love this book because it is very descriptive and has an awesome plot
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: Judea
Age: 14
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: When I read this book, I thought that it was one of the best I had ever read! When I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. It's filled with mystery, suspense, and it was mixed some tragedy and romance. I enjoyed it because I always had an intrest in goblin-type books, and there was a lot of those in The Hollow Kingdom. I think that it is good for teens interested in tragic romantic books and/or books with a lot of magic type stuff in it:)
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.

First name or initials: Fiona
Age: 19
Book Title: the Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: this book was unlike any other book that i have read. i loved the fact that the person who we were made to think was the bad giy in the begining turned out to be the good giy in the end. i allso loved the fact that he was a complete smart #@&.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

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First name or initials: Unule
Age: 16
Book Title: Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:undecided
Because: I liked this book pretty well. It had an original storyline, and great secondary characters, but there is one major flaw, in my opinion, to the book: Kate. She's too perfect of a character...there's not that many personality flaws to her. She's smart, pretty, clever, brave, independent, yet she had no character flaw I can truly think of (or perhaps that IS her character flaw, but it's still an annoyance). For this reason I became cynical toward her and her fate and made me like the book less than what I probably would have. Other than that, it was an enjoyable enough book.
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.
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First name or initials: Amanda~Sea Fairy~
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book is absolutly amazing!This book was unlike any book i have ever read, most books get boring in some parts and i have 2 put it down so i don't fall over in bordom.But this book never let me get bored!!!Every twist and turn the book made i was following right along with it and I could imagine myself in as my own character!When i finished the book I was horribley mad at my self for finishing it, because this book that i had loved sooo much was done and i have nothing else to read!>.<So in reading again and i'll keep reading till the second one comes out!(she had better hurry up)This book is simply magic and i truley adore it!!^_^
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I made a pic of Cat'sPaw as a teen.He looks really cool.e-mail me if you want to see it!
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First name or initials: Laura
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I found this book absolutely amazing! I had been reading other books for Young Adults and they were hardly as exciting as this one. The book is not "dummed down" just because we are younger like most other Young Adult books I've read. I'd been searching for a book like this forever and at last I've found it. I wouldn't put it down for three days straight! The writing style was incredibly origional and the plot was beyond origional! I recommend this book to anyone, even adults, who are into the fantasy genere.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I plan to become a writer someday and this book inspired me. Not that I'll be stealing any idea from you whatsoever, but just knowing that there are no rules when it comes to your writing. Thanks to you, I've learned to create my own world, ignoring any "rules".
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First name or initials: Julia
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book is the best! I couldn't put it down! It is the perfect fanasty story!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: This book was at the new section of our school library, so I think it will become more popular later!
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First name or initials: AM
Age: 16
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I liked it!!
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: It reminds alot of the 1986 movie Labyrinth, even the heroine of this story looks just like Jennifer Connelly in Labyrinth.
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First name or initials: Regan
Age: 14
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: The Hollow Kingdom is one of the best books i've ever read in my entire life! I found it at our library at baldwin junior high and i've read it twice so far! marak is a wonderful character and i love all of kate's attempts to get away and seyling the kitty/elf boy. i can't wait for the sequal and would put this up w/ the books by lloyd alexander and j.r.tolkien.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: When is the sequal coming out and why is this only a trilogy?

First name or initials: Neetu
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: When you're reading this book, you feel as if you're there, watching everything happen. The imagery is so detailed and it just draws the reader straight into the world of the character. It makes you want to be part of soemthing so sacred and secret and theres just something so familiar about these characters.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: The Hollow Kingdom is one of the best written books and has one of the best story lines that i have ever read and I can't wait till Ms. Dunkle's next book comes out.

First name or initials: Ruthie
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I thought that The Hollow Kingdom was one of the best books I have ever read. It had everything. It had adventure and a little romance, but not to much. It was very exciting. I couldn't put it down.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: amanda
Age: 13
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: It's defanetely one of the bests bookes that I've ever read. Its about magic, elves, and goblins. Its very suspenceful too.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: Alisha
Age: 13
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: It makes you want to imagine that you are inside the story. It also is so suspensful,I have read it billions of time I'm at the evil magician part I absolutely, positively can't put the book down.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: SLW
Age: 18
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book is great. It has a wonderful plot line and a great cast of characters. It keeps you interested from the first sentence to the last one.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.

First name or initials: E
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This is THE best book I ever read. It is funny, cute, imaginative, and heartwarming. I like reading fantasy books, and this is no exception!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday. 4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I read this book 5 times before returning it to the library...each time I read it, it seemed like I was reading it for the first time.

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First name or initials: R
Age: 17
Book Title: The hollow Kingdom
Author: clare b dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I like being able to put myself in the charature shoes, and this book will do that. I really like the book, it has every thing in a book I am looking for I am always looking for books like this. Please let the story go on!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: Some people like different things they have to imangine for this book...

First name or initials: Mandy
Age: 15
Book Title: Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book is interesting and different from other books about unrealistic creatures. It is not very easy to read but at the same time not difficult. This book goes beyond peoples picture of goblins and how for years people said they would live. The main characters are fully explained and don't change the way they are described. They other character play an important part in the story and are not just there to intereact with the main characters. This story is very well thought out and discribed. Also, a very important part to the reader, it is very interesting.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: I have told my friends about it and read parts to them and they said that it sounded like a good book and that they would like to read it too. I have let my friends borrow it and they liked it. It is a fantastics book!
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First name or initials: Aya
Age: 14
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: I couldn't put it down.
There was something different about it than usual fantasy books. So what if the heroine didn't fall in love or something with some handsome prince? The book is about a dutiful kind of love than the usual love on TV. She may not have been in love with Marak but she loved him. What bugged me is how ever do goblins mate? (considering Kate is human)
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.

First name or initials: Kat
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: Dunkle put goblins back on the fantasy map as rational and interesting characters. In many recent books, goblins are mere henchmen of higher and more powerful wizards. Yet, in this book the goblins have an intricate kingdom where magic is commonplace. I had never been a fan of goblins before, but the characterization in this novel made me adore them, especially Marak.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.

First name or initials: Felicia
Age: 17
Book Title: "Hollow Kingdom"
Author: Clare B. Dunkles
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: Its full of adventure, its not young adventure like the Mary-Kate and Ashley detective books. I am not big on reading books other than John Grisham so Saying that this book was worth reading is a WOW!!! "GREAT BOOK Clare!" - Felicia
Quality Rating:4 - Pretty good.
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it. 3 - Some will and some will not care to read it.

First name or initials: Niki
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book was so great that it would be a wonderful movie. I enjoyed the book so much that I couldn't put it down.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: that I am not really into fantasy, but this book had so many different turns and twists that it had me on the edge of my seat. I never knew what was going to happen next.

First name or initials: Elena
Age: 15
Book Title: The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: Clare Dunkle's book is suspenseful and easy to slip into, with beautiful descpritions and well thought out characters. All readers, especially young girls, can relate to the characters and their feelings. Clare Dunkle puts real soul into this book!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: It is very hard to put down once started, and a book you will want to read over and over again!

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Scary mistic science fiction with glowing eyes hooded characters following a -------(can't read word) headed black eyed girl that is doing something on a light mooned night. Great character development, good setting, would make a fantastic science fiction movie, so would New Magics. Should be on the Best Books list. --Ben, 15

This book is so well done.The characters are true to life, the plot is original and refreshing, and the writing itself is excellent.The description of the various people and places (especially the kingdom of the goblins) make them seem all the more real.I only have one problem with the book:I want a sequel!The ending is every bit as good as the rest of the story, but it feels like there's another book coming.I don't know whether or not this is the situation, but either way, I'm going to keep an eye out for more books by this author. --Emily, 15

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First name or initials:          Juliana
Age:       14
Book Title:            The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because:               This book is exceedingly well-written.Most of the elaborate scenes painted vivid pictures in my mind.The story is intriguing; I couldn't put it down.I had to know what was going to happen next.It is a beautiful tale of fantasy and wonder unlike anything I've ever read before.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...:           The characters in this story are so developed. Also, I think there should be a sequel.I know there's not going to be, but there should be.One could take this story in so many directions; so many things are possible.I love this book...in fact, I think I'm going to go REread it now.

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First name or initials:       Hana
Age:      14
Book Title:         The Hollow Kingdom
Author: Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: This book was the most absorbing, intriguing book I've read in a very long time. I'd spend days daydreaming about it even weeks after I finished it. The whole story sweeps you away. I often stayed up past midnight before forcing myself to go to sleep. Everything you could want in a book is in this! Adventure, humor, romance.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.

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First name or initials:   Kristin
Age:    14
Book Title:        The Hollow Kingdom
Author:            Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because:         She did such a lovely job writting it. It feels like a romance, but it also gives a feeling of adventure and mystery. I just love it!
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it.
(Optional) I also want you to know...: That i have meet this athour before. She is really nice and kind. She has done a great job on her book. honestly it gives me a chill when i read it.

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First name or initials:   Jessica
Age: 17
Book Title:    The hollow Kingdom
Author:   Clare B. Dunkle
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes
Because: it makes you wish there was a move about it because its so vivid
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:4 - Lots of people will want to read it. 2 - Only people who are looking for this type will read it
Optional) I also want you to know...:    the goblin king reminded me of David Bowie's portrayal as a goblin king in the movie the labyrinth

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First name or initials: Ellington
Age: 15
Should this book be on a list of Best Books for Young Adults:yes Because: The Hollow Kingdom is by far one of the best books I have ever read. I usually do not read fantasy, but this book has sparked new interest in the genre. I found myself staying up until three in the morning reading about Kate and the twisted lives of goblins and their brides. This is definately a book that will leave you gloomy when it is finished because there is nothing more to read.
Quality Rating:5 - One of the best books I ever read
Popularity Rating:5 - Everybody was dying to read this yesterday.

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The Hollow Kingdom by Claire B. Dunkle is about Kate, who has been chosen by the goblin king to be his bride. The only problem is that she doesn't. A very interesting story which hooks the reader and doesn't let them go until the very last word. Definitely a best book. ��Kirsten

Foon, Dennis. The Dirt Eaters

I thought this was a wonderful book that looked at things in a much different way. I also liked the first person point of view. It pulls you into the story more. I think that it just comes a little short of a best book.--Katherine

Stine, R. L. The Sitter

I loved this book. It had unexpected twists and turns. Everything that happened was a suprise and the end was terrific. It's a must read book, and definetly a best book!!! --Katherine

Butcher, AJ. Spy High

Spy High: Mission One was a very good book. I do not usually read Sci-Fi, but it was thouroughly entertaining. Although most people did not like the ending, it's a book about Secret Agents, and I think it left the perfect amount of suspense, not too much or too little. The book has wonderful character development, and a good use of dialogue. Definetaly a must-read. The Harry Potter of Sci-Fi. --��Robbie, 15

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I hated the plot. Good characters, but a bad book. Don't bother reading it. --Katherine

The Faery Reel edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling

This book had several good short stories and several bad ones. I didn't really like this book, but then again I'm not really a fantasy person. --Katherine

Corder, Zazou Lion Boy

Should not be on list. This book is set for younger teens.It's really not even for teens.The way he writes is more for younger people. He explains and describe thing well though. ---Ashley, 17, 3