Game platform: X-box 360
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): MA15+ - Mature accompanied
Rate the game:9.5/10
What you thought: Assassin's Creed Brotherhood is a great game that is as good if not better than it's predecessors.
After escaping the warehouse you were hiding in during Assassin’s Creed 2 you make your way to Monteriggioni where you get into the animus (a machine that relives memories of ancestors through DNA) and go back to renaissance Italy, Playing as Ezio Auditore Da Firenze just after the final moments of AC2. You have to get out of the Vatican and back to Monteriggioni with Mario, your uncle and master of the order of the Assassin's.After ‘spoiler’ you head to Rome to avenge ‘spoiler’.
Familiar faces return with Leonardo Da Vinci, Mario and Catirina Sforza. Optional missions are varied from races against thieves to assassinations to destroying Borgia towers to blowing up Da Vincis creations. 4 factions dominate the game the assassins the mercenaries, the courtesans and the thieves each faction has special missions and buildings can be constructed around the city. Because of the scale of Rome you are now allowed to ride horses in the city making easier and faster to get from point A to point B.
A new addition to Brotherhood is the ability to form a group of assassins that can fight targets in hand to hand combat or fire an arrow storm on a target. You can also use them as a distraction to slip past guards but can result in the death of the assassin. They also can be sent on missions to gain XP. leveling an assassin gives you the option of improving their weapons or armor. the other factions can also help but are largely not used due to their cost and assassins are just so much cooler. Your brotherhood will grow with each Borgia tower you destroy.
An in-game economy is now added to the mix and gives you the opportunity to purchase properties around Rome. These properties earn you money over time and are a good investment at the start of the game.
A training program inside the animus is available giving you the opportunity to earn gold, silver and bronze medals in a variety of categories.You can fight waves of soldiers or just free run. Two achievements are in the training program. Training for new skills help a lot when in game you are surrounded and have to make a descision whether to fight or run away like a little girl.
You can also go outside the animus and snoop around modern day Monteriggioni and collectables range from the medici cape to Maria’s feather chest.
New to AC is the ability to sheath heavy weapons and is great for people that in AC2 to used the axes that were dropped by the brutes. A crossbow has been added to your large list of weapons giving great long ranged firepower. Parachutes are also new giving the player the ability to break their fall if they fall off a very tall building.
Multiplayer is a first for the franchise giving you the chance to show off your skills to the world. Giving you the opportunity to play with up to 12 players on a variety of maps including Rome, Florence and Mont-St-Michel. Characters also vary from the stealthy to all out fat guy with a hammer. Weapons are different for all characters from axes to hidden blade to syringes filled with poison. Game types are plentiful from free-for-all to team based games which makes for new action every time you play. Points are awarded for stealthy kills while running after a target awards less. Perks and inventory are also added to the mix giving variety. Some help with attack and others help with escapes. The multiplayer takes an eternity to find a game taking away from the amazing experience of multiplayer.
Brotherhood relies heavily on its story line and is a hard game to take up and enjoy without playing the first 2 but taking the new features, new weapons and the all new multiplayer it is a must buy.
---- reviewed by LangazOnGames
Friday, April 01, 2011
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Games - Command and Conquer 4: Tiberian Twilight
Game platform: PC
Game genre: Strategy
Rating (Aust): M - Mature
Rate the game: 3
When I first saw the trailers of C and C 4 it looked like a winner and I immediately pre-ordered one, but the reality is very different. The first trailers looked very promising, showing new units, new gameplay and a brand new construction and deployment system, these changes were a surprise at first glance but intruging, but when you look deeper it really is quite shallow. I will list my negatives below
The crawler system pretty much virtually destroyed the old fashioned MCV system used in almost all earlier C and C games apart from Generals (but unlike C and C 4 the system Generals used was very balanced, even preferable.
a) In older games you could tell if a tank of this faction was better than a tank of this faction, but here MBTs and APCs of different factions have identical costs, which makes you question if the factions units have any distinct advantages against their counterparts.
b) The resource gathering system has been completely destroyed.
In lots of strategy games there usually is some king of currency. e.g. Minerals and Gas in Starcraft, Mass and Energy in Supreme Commander, Requisistion in Warhammer 40 000, Credits in almost every other C and C game. In this you are issued with Command Points (CP) which acts as your population cap and money together. But you don't need to capture or obtain ANYTHING to increase it. You essentially can get units for free, and as long as you keep losing units you can get a few more. Don't worry about losing 4 Mastodons which cost 12 CP apiece, just wait a few minutes and you will have another 4 Mastodons. In other games without income your enemy can't build anything, so you go for their supply operations (I call this 'bleeding them dry', but in C and C 4 you can't lose blood.
P.S. Lose your crawler (all in one base), just get another one! That is really irritating to see waste all your hard work to destroy a crawler just to see fall out of the sky, or burrow out of the ground.
This new system is very poor, in this you can get new units depending on the amount of games you have played, on multiplayer do not be surprised to verse players with level 20 Mastodons and Kodiaks while you have Hunters and Orcas (level 1). This mechanism is really on balanced and appears to be intended for multiplayer because in campaign mode you can often get top-tier units which are just lying around.
a) Too short.
The campaign for GDI was a pitiful 9 missions (including 3 tutorials). This did not give you much time to play with your new toys and made it really out of its depth.
b) Who you are working with.
Yes, we don't always get to be the good guys but that doesn't seem a very good excuse to be working with GDI extremists (in the GDI campaign), whose leader is a colonel hell-bent on killing Kane, to the point she kills your 'wife' and GDI comrades.
c) Shallow cutscenes and characters
Command and Conquer cutscenes were never completely in-depth (except Generals, those cutscenes were cool!), but Tiberian Twilight takes this to a level lower than ever before. Why do they add in EVERY sequel a new cast of characters! Apart from Kane. The actors and actresses are only READING there lines, not actually impersonating their aliases, apart from Kane, but hes got his own problems. Kane has always been a bit 'nutty', but inthis installment hes even nuttier than before, always talking about his 'ascension'.
a) The damage weapons do in this has been horribly tampered with, it takes like 50 shots with a laser cannon to destroy a light vehicle. In other strategy games a weapon that can destroy heavy targets would be able to destroy lighter ones, except if its approached by many of them then its at a disadvantage. In this a weapon thats 'good' against heavy will basically do little more than a scratch against light. This should be way more realistic.
b) In pre- game trailers I saw a 'unit profile' of a Sandstorm, which is a rocket volley launcher. In the trailer it showed it firing a salvoe of some 16 missiles, although it has a significant reload time. In the game the Sandstorm fires just 4 missiles when it looks like it can fire 5 times that. Also the massive missile turrets GDI defense have looks like they can fire like 32 - 64 missiles, yep, it can only fire a measly 4, when missile turrets that look like they can fire 8 can actually only fire a puny 2 missiles.
I hope that this significantly long review provides a good insight into Command and Conquer 4, if you have $80 I advise you buy Starcraft II, comparing it to C and C 4 is like comparing laser surgical equipment to a hammer and chisel.
Game genre: Strategy
Rating (Aust): M - Mature
Rate the game: 3
When I first saw the trailers of C and C 4 it looked like a winner and I immediately pre-ordered one, but the reality is very different. The first trailers looked very promising, showing new units, new gameplay and a brand new construction and deployment system, these changes were a surprise at first glance but intruging, but when you look deeper it really is quite shallow. I will list my negatives below
1. Too different.
The crawler system pretty much virtually destroyed the old fashioned MCV system used in almost all earlier C and C games apart from Generals (but unlike C and C 4 the system Generals used was very balanced, even preferable.
2. One of the bigger critisms: The new resource and unit purchasing mechanic. This is quite large and is split into several points.
a) In older games you could tell if a tank of this faction was better than a tank of this faction, but here MBTs and APCs of different factions have identical costs, which makes you question if the factions units have any distinct advantages against their counterparts.
b) The resource gathering system has been completely destroyed.
In lots of strategy games there usually is some king of currency. e.g. Minerals and Gas in Starcraft, Mass and Energy in Supreme Commander, Requisistion in Warhammer 40 000, Credits in almost every other C and C game. In this you are issued with Command Points (CP) which acts as your population cap and money together. But you don't need to capture or obtain ANYTHING to increase it. You essentially can get units for free, and as long as you keep losing units you can get a few more. Don't worry about losing 4 Mastodons which cost 12 CP apiece, just wait a few minutes and you will have another 4 Mastodons. In other games without income your enemy can't build anything, so you go for their supply operations (I call this 'bleeding them dry', but in C and C 4 you can't lose blood.
P.S. Lose your crawler (all in one base), just get another one! That is really irritating to see waste all your hard work to destroy a crawler just to see fall out of the sky, or burrow out of the ground.
3. Leveling mechanic.
This new system is very poor, in this you can get new units depending on the amount of games you have played, on multiplayer do not be surprised to verse players with level 20 Mastodons and Kodiaks while you have Hunters and Orcas (level 1). This mechanism is really on balanced and appears to be intended for multiplayer because in campaign mode you can often get top-tier units which are just lying around.
4. Shallow campaign.
a) Too short.
The campaign for GDI was a pitiful 9 missions (including 3 tutorials). This did not give you much time to play with your new toys and made it really out of its depth.
b) Who you are working with.
Yes, we don't always get to be the good guys but that doesn't seem a very good excuse to be working with GDI extremists (in the GDI campaign), whose leader is a colonel hell-bent on killing Kane, to the point she kills your 'wife' and GDI comrades.
c) Shallow cutscenes and characters
Command and Conquer cutscenes were never completely in-depth (except Generals, those cutscenes were cool!), but Tiberian Twilight takes this to a level lower than ever before. Why do they add in EVERY sequel a new cast of characters! Apart from Kane. The actors and actresses are only READING there lines, not actually impersonating their aliases, apart from Kane, but hes got his own problems. Kane has always been a bit 'nutty', but inthis installment hes even nuttier than before, always talking about his 'ascension'.
5. Weapon damage mechanic and weapons
a) The damage weapons do in this has been horribly tampered with, it takes like 50 shots with a laser cannon to destroy a light vehicle. In other strategy games a weapon that can destroy heavy targets would be able to destroy lighter ones, except if its approached by many of them then its at a disadvantage. In this a weapon thats 'good' against heavy will basically do little more than a scratch against light. This should be way more realistic.
b) In pre- game trailers I saw a 'unit profile' of a Sandstorm, which is a rocket volley launcher. In the trailer it showed it firing a salvoe of some 16 missiles, although it has a significant reload time. In the game the Sandstorm fires just 4 missiles when it looks like it can fire 5 times that. Also the massive missile turrets GDI defense have looks like they can fire like 32 - 64 missiles, yep, it can only fire a measly 4, when missile turrets that look like they can fire 8 can actually only fire a puny 2 missiles.
I hope that this significantly long review provides a good insight into Command and Conquer 4, if you have $80 I advise you buy Starcraft II, comparing it to C and C 4 is like comparing laser surgical equipment to a hammer and chisel.
----reviewed by john f.s.
Ed - Thank-you John for this incredibly useful review. We really appreciate the time you took. I hope the vendors of the game read it...webgurl
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Books - The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
I think this book was pretty amazing. I mean, yes, it did get annoying when I didnt know whether what the book was talking about was past or present- but then I re-read it and it made a bit more sense.
The story is about a girl named Isabella (a.k.a: Belly) and how she spends her summer in a holiday house with some friends every year. So her mums friend owns this holiday house, and she has 2 sons. Jeremiah and Conrad. Jeremiah is a complete jester- always laughing, joking, goofing around. Conrad on the other hand- he's the more silent type.
So, Belly's had a crush on Conrad like, forever, but none of the boys notice her. That is, until this summer. :)
I'm not gonna say any more. You have to read the book to know what I'm talking about. As a bookworm, I HIGHLY recommend it.
Happy reading! :D
----reviewed by Simran
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Books - My life and other catastrophes by Rowena Mohr
This book is extremly funny and light- hearted. It is well written and the use of diary entries instead of chapters adds extra fun to reading this book. The use of adjectives is brilliant and the perspective of this teenage girl is absolutly perfect. Great book!
----reviewed by elysia
Friday, August 27, 2010
Books - Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
I started off as a twilight hater. Every time someone mentioned Twilight I brought my steel tipped stakes out [Buffy style]. Once I actually took the time to read the books, I quite liked them. Yeah the books are not particularly well written and yeah Bella appears to have lost her brain at times. Yet their romance still has a certain appeal to it. Bella comes across as a more understandable character than in the movies, probably because it’s written from her point of view. Edward Cullen isn’t nearly as annoying as in the movies and hey what do you know, he has a sense of humor! Well sort of a sense of humor… Actually I don’t know why I like it maybe it’s a generational thing [I’m a generation Z not Y]
----reviewed by Jasper
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Books - Out of the Frying Pan by Andrew and Ben Whitehouse
Put your hand up if you have ever felt like you are jumping from the frying pan only to realise you have landed feet first into the fire? I think most of us have been there at some stage as we have grown up and this book puts it down on paper oh so well!
Out of the Frying Pan is a collection of 15 Australian stories that recount the trials and tribulations of growing up. Covering the hilarious, heartbreaking and the tragic, these stories are from real people who reveal that no-one escapes their childhood and adolescence unscathed!
Great read....especially for someone finishing up at high school wondering what now!
You can buy it from bookstores
----reviewed by Shae
Friday, April 30, 2010
George Ivanoff book signing
George Ivanoff, author of Gamers' Quest (Ford Street Publishing, Melb., 2009), a science fiction novel for children and young teens will be doing a book signing in Ringwood in May.
Official Gamers' Quest website
When: Saturday 8th May 11:30am-12.30pm
Where: Angus & Robertson bookstore (Ringwood - Shop L026a, Eastland Shopping Centre, 171-175 Maroondah Hwy, Ringwood)
Cheers, Maryanne
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
CD - Last Forever Throw your hands up by Mitchel Musso
Rate the CD: 9
I think that the song is a good one to listen to when you want to 'cool' down and it is a soft and easy song to listen to and to sing if you want to resing the song
----reviewed by ashleigh
I think that the song is a good one to listen to when you want to 'cool' down and it is a soft and easy song to listen to and to sing if you want to resing the song
----reviewed by ashleigh
Books - Obernewtyn by Isobelle Carmody
Rate the book: 20!!!!!!!
Obernewtyn is by far the most gripping book I have read. Isobelle Carmody is a fantastic author, and she really makes you believe in the characters. By the end of the book, I felt as though I had been best friends with the characters all of my life. Obernewtyn is written in such a way that you can imagine yourself there, and you feel the emotions of the characters as if they were your own, and see yourself wherever the characters go. The semi-dark setting of the book adds interest and leaves a longstanding impression on you, more so than a lighter one could.
The main character, Elspeth Gordie, is an orphan of Seditioners, people that oppose the iron rule of the council that controls the land untainted nby the "blacklands". The blacklands are a result of what is referred to as the "Great White", a holocaust that destroyed most of the Earth, making it uninhabitable for anything. Elspeth discovers that she has telepathic powers with the help of a cat named Maruman. If these powers are discovered, she could be sent to work on the councilfarms to treat a deadly poisonous substance called whitestick, burned at stake by the dogmatic and fanatical Herders (religious preist that worship their god, whom they call Lud), or sent to the dreaded Obernewtyn, from whence none return. When a guardian from Obernewtyn is sent to Elspeth's orphanage, she is taken to Obernewtyn and has to say farewell to everybody and everything she has ever known. I would highly recommend this book and its sequels The Farseekers, Ashling, The Keeping Place, The Stone Key, The Sending and The Red Queen to any lover of fantasy.
----reviewed by lani
Obernewtyn is by far the most gripping book I have read. Isobelle Carmody is a fantastic author, and she really makes you believe in the characters. By the end of the book, I felt as though I had been best friends with the characters all of my life. Obernewtyn is written in such a way that you can imagine yourself there, and you feel the emotions of the characters as if they were your own, and see yourself wherever the characters go. The semi-dark setting of the book adds interest and leaves a longstanding impression on you, more so than a lighter one could.
The main character, Elspeth Gordie, is an orphan of Seditioners, people that oppose the iron rule of the council that controls the land untainted nby the "blacklands". The blacklands are a result of what is referred to as the "Great White", a holocaust that destroyed most of the Earth, making it uninhabitable for anything. Elspeth discovers that she has telepathic powers with the help of a cat named Maruman. If these powers are discovered, she could be sent to work on the councilfarms to treat a deadly poisonous substance called whitestick, burned at stake by the dogmatic and fanatical Herders (religious preist that worship their god, whom they call Lud), or sent to the dreaded Obernewtyn, from whence none return. When a guardian from Obernewtyn is sent to Elspeth's orphanage, she is taken to Obernewtyn and has to say farewell to everybody and everything she has ever known. I would highly recommend this book and its sequels The Farseekers, Ashling, The Keeping Place, The Stone Key, The Sending and The Red Queen to any lover of fantasy.
----reviewed by lani
Books - Ruby Clair: Ghost with a Message by Mary K Pershall
Rate the book: 9
I loved this book and the first one in the series, Ruby Clair: The Trouble with Ghosts becasue they are about an every-day girl like me, the only difference is she sees ghosts. Mary K Pershall is really good at bringing her characters to life, even the ghosts! In this book, Ruby has to help a little girl ghost to cross over into the next world. I can't wait for the next book to see what Ruby does next.
----reviewed by katie
I loved this book and the first one in the series, Ruby Clair: The Trouble with Ghosts becasue they are about an every-day girl like me, the only difference is she sees ghosts. Mary K Pershall is really good at bringing her characters to life, even the ghosts! In this book, Ruby has to help a little girl ghost to cross over into the next world. I can't wait for the next book to see what Ruby does next.
----reviewed by katie
Books - Stolen by Lucy Christopher
Rate the book: 8
Sixteen year old Gemma is avoiding spending time with her parents at Bangkok airport when she is approached by a mysterious man with beautiful eyes. Suddenly she finds herself kidnapped and taken to outback Australia where she has to fight for her life and escape from this man who believes he has saved her by bringing her to live in the desert with him. This is a gripping story about love and fear and survival.
----reviewed by sue
Sixteen year old Gemma is avoiding spending time with her parents at Bangkok airport when she is approached by a mysterious man with beautiful eyes. Suddenly she finds herself kidnapped and taken to outback Australia where she has to fight for her life and escape from this man who believes he has saved her by bringing her to live in the desert with him. This is a gripping story about love and fear and survival.
----reviewed by sue
Books - Jinx by Meg Cabot
Rate the book: 9
The book is really good i loved reading it and i think other people should read it. it's a really really good book and you cant put it down!
----reviewed by Rachael
The book is really good i loved reading it and i think other people should read it. it's a really really good book and you cant put it down!
----reviewed by Rachael
Monday, February 15, 2010
Games - Reviewing The Wii
Game platform: Nintendo Wii
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): Not applicable
Rate the game: 2
In the begining there was the Nintendo, Now there's the Wii. The Wii is Nintendo's attempt at getting America active by using our favorite pastime, Gaming. Now the Wii is only great for one thing, exersise. Now there may not be many games out for it now, the Wii gives you a wireless remote that gets you active while you play. so you get a full work out while you play a video game. Which is good! but how do you work the Remote? and where do you get the Balance board? and not to mention batteries? the Wii may be good for exersising but when it comes to general gaming well... It has no general gaming! the will is not good for games of this type, All Games in general Except for the Wii Fit! It ruined 2004's game of the year Resident Evil 4, Rated M. And every firt person shooter. Well not all. but anyways the Wii is like the Virtual Bowflex of the 21st Century. but is not good for actully playing the game because the remote has a hard time sending signals and Player Action Time is about 1 second short. so in a game that requires fast action well you get the point.
----reviewed by JorDon
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): Not applicable
Rate the game: 2
In the begining there was the Nintendo, Now there's the Wii. The Wii is Nintendo's attempt at getting America active by using our favorite pastime, Gaming. Now the Wii is only great for one thing, exersise. Now there may not be many games out for it now, the Wii gives you a wireless remote that gets you active while you play. so you get a full work out while you play a video game. Which is good! but how do you work the Remote? and where do you get the Balance board? and not to mention batteries? the Wii may be good for exersising but when it comes to general gaming well... It has no general gaming! the will is not good for games of this type, All Games in general Except for the Wii Fit! It ruined 2004's game of the year Resident Evil 4, Rated M. And every firt person shooter. Well not all. but anyways the Wii is like the Virtual Bowflex of the 21st Century. but is not good for actully playing the game because the remote has a hard time sending signals and Player Action Time is about 1 second short. so in a game that requires fast action well you get the point.
----reviewed by JorDon
Friday, December 11, 2009
Books- Dan Dare Pilot of the Future by Frank Hampson
My 15 year old son is so in love with this series of adventure comics and the pictures are so decent that any parent need no fear of negative elements in his child's reading.
Please replenish your libraries with the whole set of this series of books which are so hard to find, in the midst of stacks of other gory, occult and sexually explicit books filling the library shelves which make visits to the library an anxious experience when young children tag along with me.
----reviewed by David
Please replenish your libraries with the whole set of this series of books which are so hard to find, in the midst of stacks of other gory, occult and sexually explicit books filling the library shelves which make visits to the library an anxious experience when young children tag along with me.
----reviewed by David
Books - Dan Dare Pilot of the Future by Frank Hampson
This is an enthralling, must-read series of space adventure for all people young at heart. My 12 year old son said it is the BEST series he has read so far with its tremendous stimulus to his imagination and wholesome way of spending his free time! Please promote this series among your young readers and please order the rest of the books in this series which are not available in your libraries. Thank you.
----reviewed by Lillian
----reviewed by Lillian
Friday, October 09, 2009
Books - Then by Morris Gleitzman
Rate the book: 9
This is such a gripping novel about the times during the holocust it is the second book after Once. THEN is so undescribable it blows you away to know what was going on during the holocust. It is a must read including the first story ONCE (to understand THEN you have to read ONCE first which is also a great novel)
----reviewed by sarah
This is such a gripping novel about the times during the holocust it is the second book after Once. THEN is so undescribable it blows you away to know what was going on during the holocust. It is a must read including the first story ONCE (to understand THEN you have to read ONCE first which is also a great novel)
----reviewed by sarah
Somewhere around the corner by Jackie French
Rate the book: 9.99999
it was fabulous. its about a girl who is is the 1990's and gets taken back in time into the 1930's. its about all the things that happen while she's in the 30's. its really good. i recomend it highly.
----reviewed by aleisha
it was fabulous. its about a girl who is is the 1990's and gets taken back in time into the 1930's. its about all the things that happen while she's in the 30's. its really good. i recomend it highly.
----reviewed by aleisha
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Games - Evony
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 9.5
This game is for all those who want to make their own empire in this world and it is a game with very easy rules and enhances your managing skills
This game unlike other games has its production of food,iron even when a person is not online......
In the game you have many special features to earn money and gain knowledge.If u want a real rocking and cool game,this is it. Your search is over.EVONY is the game.
With Regards, Karan
----reviewed by Karan
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 9.5
This game is for all those who want to make their own empire in this world and it is a game with very easy rules and enhances your managing skills
This game unlike other games has its production of food,iron even when a person is not online......
In the game you have many special features to earn money and gain knowledge.If u want a real rocking and cool game,this is it. Your search is over.EVONY is the game.
With Regards, Karan
----reviewed by Karan
Games - Evony
Game platform: PC
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): Unknown
Rate the game: 10
The Genius that is EVONY. A couple weeks ago i was looking to download a movie from ..... when a very clever looking advertisement caught my eye. I curiously clicked it and up came the Evony website. The first thing you will notice is beautiful maiden and an intense looking knight ready for action and a subtitle that reads "FREE TO PLAY FOREVER". I was sold. I knew i was in for a treat, but when i actually started playing i became even more delighted. I was instantly hooked. You are overseer of a town that you need to build. And you need to do it hastily as other will be competing against you. As a leader you need to make sure your town is prosperous by building the right amount of resource facilites. You need to build enough housing to accomidate a rising population. You need to build an army to protect all you progress from your fellow online gamers.
It is a very relaxing and rewarding game. And you can play it without anyone noticing. I personaly have it rinning at work the entire day. Every once and a while i will go to the game and build something new or learn new techniques at the academy and because it can take multiple hours to learn and build I can just go back to my regular routine knowing that my citizens are doing what i told them to. It is very empowering. At this stage in the game i am currently building my army getting ready to plunder from other towns and possible destroy a few. You can make alliances, betray alliances, or go it alone. And this is only the beginning. Evony is in its early stages. There is so much more to come.
But don't waste your time listening to me ramble on about this fantastic game because i could go on forever about all the detailed features of the game. Just type www.evony.com in your address bar and have fun. Did i mention it's FREE
Sean
----reviewed by Sean
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): Unknown
Rate the game: 10
The Genius that is EVONY. A couple weeks ago i was looking to download a movie from ..... when a very clever looking advertisement caught my eye. I curiously clicked it and up came the Evony website. The first thing you will notice is beautiful maiden and an intense looking knight ready for action and a subtitle that reads "FREE TO PLAY FOREVER". I was sold. I knew i was in for a treat, but when i actually started playing i became even more delighted. I was instantly hooked. You are overseer of a town that you need to build. And you need to do it hastily as other will be competing against you. As a leader you need to make sure your town is prosperous by building the right amount of resource facilites. You need to build enough housing to accomidate a rising population. You need to build an army to protect all you progress from your fellow online gamers.
It is a very relaxing and rewarding game. And you can play it without anyone noticing. I personaly have it rinning at work the entire day. Every once and a while i will go to the game and build something new or learn new techniques at the academy and because it can take multiple hours to learn and build I can just go back to my regular routine knowing that my citizens are doing what i told them to. It is very empowering. At this stage in the game i am currently building my army getting ready to plunder from other towns and possible destroy a few. You can make alliances, betray alliances, or go it alone. And this is only the beginning. Evony is in its early stages. There is so much more to come.
But don't waste your time listening to me ramble on about this fantastic game because i could go on forever about all the detailed features of the game. Just type www.evony.com in your address bar and have fun. Did i mention it's FREE
Sean
----reviewed by Sean
Games - World of Warcraft
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 10
Gold is back! Yes I play this game now and I think it's amazing. Let's just say if you love runescape, don't play this because you will never go back to rs!
----reviewed by Gold
World of Warcraft official site
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 10
Gold is back! Yes I play this game now and I think it's amazing. Let's just say if you love runescape, don't play this because you will never go back to rs!
----reviewed by Gold
World of Warcraft official site
Welcome back Gold! I missed you. WoW sounds like fun. I've never played it but a woman at work does and loves it. In honour of your return may I present your own tag. See below..........webgurl
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Games - imagine teacher
Game platform: Nintendo DS
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: 10
if you want to be a doctor when you grow up this is the for you it will teach you to train to be a doctor
----reviewed by hannah
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: 10
if you want to be a doctor when you grow up this is the for you it will teach you to train to be a doctor
----reviewed by hannah
Books - The Keys to the Kingdom Series by Garth Nix
Rate the book: 9
The first book in thsi series is Mister Monday. It is extraordinarily good and I would recommend it to anyone. It is about a boy named Arthur Penhaligon who is the Rightful Heir to the House, which is the epicentre of the universe. There is a Will by the creater of all, the Architect that Arthur must bond with and will help him fullfil it and defeat the Seven Trustees, named after the days of the week. Lady Friday would have to be my favourite by they are all great. If you love fantasy, you will love this. Recommended for ages 12-15.
----reviewed by AdZ
The first book in thsi series is Mister Monday. It is extraordinarily good and I would recommend it to anyone. It is about a boy named Arthur Penhaligon who is the Rightful Heir to the House, which is the epicentre of the universe. There is a Will by the creater of all, the Architect that Arthur must bond with and will help him fullfil it and defeat the Seven Trustees, named after the days of the week. Lady Friday would have to be my favourite by they are all great. If you love fantasy, you will love this. Recommended for ages 12-15.
----reviewed by AdZ
Monday, August 10, 2009
Books - Reptiles and Amphibians by Priddy Books
This book tells you about reptiles such as the komodo dragon,green iguana,chamelean,water dragon,gecko,frilled neck lizard,THORNY DEVIL,blue-tongued lizard, cbra,crocodile,alligator.
----reviewed by Jake
----reviewed by Jake
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Books - The Worst Band in the Universe by Graeme Base
This book is a great Picture book for kids who have alot of imagenation,and if they love Fantasy it`s probably a great bedtime story.
This isn`t a book that 5 year olds would read by themselves.
I really enjoyed the book and recomend that older people will enjoy it too.
----reviewed by Jessica
This isn`t a book that 5 year olds would read by themselves.
I really enjoyed the book and recomend that older people will enjoy it too.
----reviewed by Jessica
Friday, July 31, 2009
Games - Habbo
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 9.99999
Habbo website | Habbo Australia
thisgame is really good for teens 13ears and older. it is a fun online game where you can custonise your character and build them house's. you walk round and talk to friends on public or private chat and play games with friends or go look and rooms made by other people. it is really fun to play if you just want to chat. if you do play though, to get the best clothes and furniture, just like club penguin, you have to be a member and pay real money, but you dont have to be a meber and im not. by the way, if you do play and someone asks you asl? it means your age,sex(gender) and location (country) i hope you playthis and enjoy it.
----reviewed by Aleisha
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 9.99999
Habbo website | Habbo Australia
thisgame is really good for teens 13ears and older. it is a fun online game where you can custonise your character and build them house's. you walk round and talk to friends on public or private chat and play games with friends or go look and rooms made by other people. it is really fun to play if you just want to chat. if you do play though, to get the best clothes and furniture, just like club penguin, you have to be a member and pay real money, but you dont have to be a meber and im not. by the way, if you do play and someone asks you asl? it means your age,sex(gender) and location (country) i hope you playthis and enjoy it.
----reviewed by Aleisha
Books - Cherub series by Robert Muchamore
Rate the book:100000000000000000000000000000000000000000 etc
This is the BEST series every. it is funny ad thrilling and entertaining and exiting and SO TOTALLY AWSOME! It is so hard to put down and when ur finished you'll want to go get the next book and it keeps u o the edge of ur seat! the main character is james and hs sister lauren and all their frends. Cherub is a kids secret agents place from the ages 10-17 yrs old so SHHHH!!! its all about the different missions they go on and their life at the cherub campus I LOVE IT! if u dont read this or read this and u dont like it u r completly and utterly WEIRD TO THE MAX! this series is the bomb so read it. i think it is not appropriate for under 12 year old cus there are some violent and sexual bits (not that bad, very mild) As u can see, i ike this series so take it from me, u should read it cus ive read thousands(literally) of boos and tis series is by far the best. i reckon its better the harry potter and twilight for all those edward lovers out there Please, i beg u read this bok!
----reviewed by aleisha
This is the BEST series every. it is funny ad thrilling and entertaining and exiting and SO TOTALLY AWSOME! It is so hard to put down and when ur finished you'll want to go get the next book and it keeps u o the edge of ur seat! the main character is james and hs sister lauren and all their frends. Cherub is a kids secret agents place from the ages 10-17 yrs old so SHHHH!!! its all about the different missions they go on and their life at the cherub campus I LOVE IT! if u dont read this or read this and u dont like it u r completly and utterly WEIRD TO THE MAX! this series is the bomb so read it. i think it is not appropriate for under 12 year old cus there are some violent and sexual bits (not that bad, very mild) As u can see, i ike this series so take it from me, u should read it cus ive read thousands(literally) of boos and tis series is by far the best. i reckon its better the harry potter and twilight for all those edward lovers out there Please, i beg u read this bok!
----reviewed by aleisha
Books - The messenger by Markus Zusak
Rate the book: 8 1/2
this book was awsome. when ed kennedy- a 19year old taxi driver and card player, stops a bank robbery. this changes his life. when he recieves the ace of diamonds thats when he needs to protect. when he gets the ace of clubs he has to survive them and when he gets the ce of spades he ha to look hard to find it. but its the ace of hearts thats the hardest- he has to help his frends. when he gets the joker he realises something. to find out what it is read this awsomlyu awsome book! you wont regret it!
----reviewed by aleisha
this book was awsome. when ed kennedy- a 19year old taxi driver and card player, stops a bank robbery. this changes his life. when he recieves the ace of diamonds thats when he needs to protect. when he gets the ace of clubs he has to survive them and when he gets the ce of spades he ha to look hard to find it. but its the ace of hearts thats the hardest- he has to help his frends. when he gets the joker he realises something. to find out what it is read this awsomlyu awsome book! you wont regret it!
----reviewed by aleisha
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Books - If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Rate the book: 6
17 year-old Mia's life is changed forever when a terrible car accident faces her with a difficult choice: to stay or go. The ideas behind this heart-wrenching story are original and inspired. However, this novel felt more like 196 pages of pure sadness which took away from the book.
This is an extremely well written story but one I would not recommend to the faint-hearted.
If you decide to follow Mia on this moving journey, make sure you've got tissues at hand.
----reviewed by lily
17 year-old Mia's life is changed forever when a terrible car accident faces her with a difficult choice: to stay or go. The ideas behind this heart-wrenching story are original and inspired. However, this novel felt more like 196 pages of pure sadness which took away from the book.
This is an extremely well written story but one I would not recommend to the faint-hearted.
If you decide to follow Mia on this moving journey, make sure you've got tissues at hand.
----reviewed by lily
Music - 21st Century Breakdown by Green Day
Rate the CD: 10
I love Green Day so much and personally, I think this is their best album ever! It has a perfect combination of slow, sad tunes and upbeat numbers. The lyrics are beautiful and the music is catchy. 21 Guns is my favorite song from this album- it's been stuck in my head for over a week.
Even if you don't think you like Green Day buy this CD! Buy it buy it buy it!
----reviewed by lily
I love Green Day so much and personally, I think this is their best album ever! It has a perfect combination of slow, sad tunes and upbeat numbers. The lyrics are beautiful and the music is catchy. 21 Guns is my favorite song from this album- it's been stuck in my head for over a week.
Even if you don't think you like Green Day buy this CD! Buy it buy it buy it!
----reviewed by lily
Games - Call of Duty 2
Game platform: PC
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): M - Mature
Rate the game: 9
One of the best action game i have ever played. Intension goes on rising from stage to stage and the graphics, sounds and character effects are near to the real world. I suggest all the rummy game lovers has to play this game.If you want any cheats related to this you can find among this sites www.gamecheats4u.com and they are lot of more sites also. Dont miss this game.
----reviewed by Kalyan
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): M - Mature
Rate the game: 9
One of the best action game i have ever played. Intension goes on rising from stage to stage and the graphics, sounds and character effects are near to the real world. I suggest all the rummy game lovers has to play this game.If you want any cheats related to this you can find among this sites www.gamecheats4u.com and they are lot of more sites also. Dont miss this game.
----reviewed by Kalyan
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Books - Double exposure by Bonnie Hearn Hill
I think it is a very scary book.
When i read it i was very scared so i stopped reading and then i never ever finished it because it was so scary!
I think that noone should read this book because it will give you nightmares for life.
It is just so scary!
----reviewed by Alyssa
When i read it i was very scared so i stopped reading and then i never ever finished it because it was so scary!
I think that noone should read this book because it will give you nightmares for life.
It is just so scary!
----reviewed by Alyssa
Books - Almost Dead by Lisa Jackson
I think that this book is really good and scary and everyone in the whole world should read it because it is so great!! and its just so great it is undescribale how good it is
----reviewed by Tarryn
----reviewed by Tarryn
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Games - Shinoni Shadows
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 2
This game is an insult to php, 60% of the code for this game was burrowed form the-ninjarpg.com. The staff is very bad, one of the admin will ban you because you tell them that the code for his game is burrowed.
If you ever want to play a game i say do not play this one, play a far more better game.
----reviewed by Leone
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 2
This game is an insult to php, 60% of the code for this game was burrowed form the-ninjarpg.com. The staff is very bad, one of the admin will ban you because you tell them that the code for his game is burrowed.
If you ever want to play a game i say do not play this one, play a far more better game.
----reviewed by Leone
Games - Elf Island
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 9
Elf Island is a great game. It is aimed towards kids ages 8 to 14 , but don't be fooled many teenagers and adults play it as well. It is a great game for the whole family. In Elf Island you are an Elf which you can personalize with many different clothing items and styles. Elf Island is not your average online game. Elf Island is gaming for good. Elf Island is a safe place for kids to have fun and make a difference in the real world. It has a chat filter and much more to keep its members happy and safe. The community of Elf Island all participate in Goodquests to help make a difference in the real world. Goodquests are quests that everyone can do to reach a goal to do good. Some recent Goodquests the Elf Island community has completed were for, Polar Bears, Sharks, Building houses in Honduras and many more. Currently, elves are helping Pandas! When playing Goodquests you don't only help the world but you can win prizes and coins. Elf Islanders can make a difference in the world thanks to non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Plant 2020, Polar Bear International, Pandas international, Fresh Producers, Wild Aid and more.
There are also many fun things to do on the Island other then Goodquests. You can also find many games throughout the island. These games are lot's of fun and you can earn coins playing them. Later you can spend those coins in the market place for cool items at stores such as Holiday Curio, the Wing Dome, the General Store and more! You can use the items you buy to decorate your own room, which you choose when you join. You can always buy a new room and add rooms.
Also in Elf Island you can always find staff members around. Mods are very helpful in answering questions and keeping everyone safe. Hosts do the same as Mods but they also hold games in which you can win prizes. In game you can always send a question, or report a player to the M button(message to the staff) and I find they get back to you fairly quickly.
Elf Island also holds many contests and Giveaways. Though one of the best things is the great friends you can make and add to your buddies list.
There are also many awesome places to visit on the island, some are the Volcano, beach, woods, meadow, Marsh, Mountain Cave, Ice cavern, Savanna, and many more! The rooms are very cool and beautiful! Elf Islanders can also win awards when they go above and beyond when trading,gifting items, and just playing and many more. With they award you can redeem prizes as well. You can do all this for free, but you can also pay to be a member and get special member only goods, get an allowance, more clothing options and much more! Elf Island is always coming up with new fun ways to do good and is growing fast and making some awesome updates frequently. Most everyone I find is so friendly and helpful and I look forward to continue to play Elf Island as it continues to grow.
Visit Elf Island Here: http://www.elfisland.com/
You can also visit the Elf Island Fansite of the year here: http://www.elfislandfansite.com/
There you can find lot's of helpful information, including the wiki which is a full directory of every item, room, quests, events, and more that has ever been or is on Elf Island! You can find the latest news and see what other Elves are doing around the island! You can also find some helpful threads and make your own threads if you have questions, opinions, ect.
----reviewed by CleverCoolPuppy
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 9
Elf Island is a great game. It is aimed towards kids ages 8 to 14 , but don't be fooled many teenagers and adults play it as well. It is a great game for the whole family. In Elf Island you are an Elf which you can personalize with many different clothing items and styles. Elf Island is not your average online game. Elf Island is gaming for good. Elf Island is a safe place for kids to have fun and make a difference in the real world. It has a chat filter and much more to keep its members happy and safe. The community of Elf Island all participate in Goodquests to help make a difference in the real world. Goodquests are quests that everyone can do to reach a goal to do good. Some recent Goodquests the Elf Island community has completed were for, Polar Bears, Sharks, Building houses in Honduras and many more. Currently, elves are helping Pandas! When playing Goodquests you don't only help the world but you can win prizes and coins. Elf Islanders can make a difference in the world thanks to non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Plant 2020, Polar Bear International, Pandas international, Fresh Producers, Wild Aid and more.
There are also many fun things to do on the Island other then Goodquests. You can also find many games throughout the island. These games are lot's of fun and you can earn coins playing them. Later you can spend those coins in the market place for cool items at stores such as Holiday Curio, the Wing Dome, the General Store and more! You can use the items you buy to decorate your own room, which you choose when you join. You can always buy a new room and add rooms.
Also in Elf Island you can always find staff members around. Mods are very helpful in answering questions and keeping everyone safe. Hosts do the same as Mods but they also hold games in which you can win prizes. In game you can always send a question, or report a player to the M button(message to the staff) and I find they get back to you fairly quickly.
Elf Island also holds many contests and Giveaways. Though one of the best things is the great friends you can make and add to your buddies list.
There are also many awesome places to visit on the island, some are the Volcano, beach, woods, meadow, Marsh, Mountain Cave, Ice cavern, Savanna, and many more! The rooms are very cool and beautiful! Elf Islanders can also win awards when they go above and beyond when trading,gifting items, and just playing and many more. With they award you can redeem prizes as well. You can do all this for free, but you can also pay to be a member and get special member only goods, get an allowance, more clothing options and much more! Elf Island is always coming up with new fun ways to do good and is growing fast and making some awesome updates frequently. Most everyone I find is so friendly and helpful and I look forward to continue to play Elf Island as it continues to grow.
Visit Elf Island Here: http://www.elfisland.com/
You can also visit the Elf Island Fansite of the year here: http://www.elfislandfansite.com/
There you can find lot's of helpful information, including the wiki which is a full directory of every item, room, quests, events, and more that has ever been or is on Elf Island! You can find the latest news and see what other Elves are doing around the island! You can also find some helpful threads and make your own threads if you have questions, opinions, ect.
----reviewed by CleverCoolPuppy
Monday, July 06, 2009
Books - The Gimlet Eye (Book Three in Quentaris: Quest of the Lost City) by James Roy
Rate the book: 9/10
Ford Street Publishing, 2009
ISBN: 978-1-87646-77-2
Price: AUD$16.95
The First lot of Quentaris books was a series of shared-world, stand-alone novels for kids, all set in the magical city of Quentaris. They had some recurring characters, but for the most part each book focussed on a new set of main characters. The second series Quentaris: Quest of the Lost City is a little different. The city has been magically uprooted and is now flying through the uncharted rift-maze with the aide of giant sails. And the novels are no longer quite so stand-alone, as they follow the adventures of the same set of characters, most notably — Tab Vidler, the orphan who can enter the minds of animals; her best friends, Philmon and Amelia; Fontagu Wizroth III, actor and scoundrel; Torby, the young boy rescued from the prisons of the rival city, Tolrush; and Captain Verris.
The Gimlet Eye takes things in a new direction, again. The Archon, who has ruled the city since the first set of books, dies. This signals a great change for the city of Quentaris, as the Archon’s spoiled and power-hunger nephew Florian takes charge. He exiles or imprisons many of the people who had previously held key positions in the running of the city, and puts into play is own secret agenda. Under his rule, Quentaris seems set on a course of piracy… unless Tab and her friends can put things right.
James Roy has done exceptionally well at taking characters created by another author and making them his own. This book really hits the mark in terms of characterisation and also delivers an intriguing fast-paced story. My only real reservation is that I found the conclusion a little too speedy and neat. But that certainly didn’t stop me enjoying the book.
The cover, by Les Peterson, is the best so far.
---- reviewed by George Ivanoff (www.georgeivanoff.com.au)
Reviewer Bio
George Ivanoff is a Melbourne based author who has written over 25 books for children and teenagers. Two of his books (Life, Death and Detention and Real Sci-Fi) are on the booklist for the 2008 Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge – this is their fourth year on the list. George used to regularly review books, CDs and DVDs for the now defunct Frontier Magazine. Check out George’s website at: www.georgeivanoff.com.au
Ford Street Publishing, 2009
ISBN: 978-1-87646-77-2
Price: AUD$16.95
The First lot of Quentaris books was a series of shared-world, stand-alone novels for kids, all set in the magical city of Quentaris. They had some recurring characters, but for the most part each book focussed on a new set of main characters. The second series Quentaris: Quest of the Lost City is a little different. The city has been magically uprooted and is now flying through the uncharted rift-maze with the aide of giant sails. And the novels are no longer quite so stand-alone, as they follow the adventures of the same set of characters, most notably — Tab Vidler, the orphan who can enter the minds of animals; her best friends, Philmon and Amelia; Fontagu Wizroth III, actor and scoundrel; Torby, the young boy rescued from the prisons of the rival city, Tolrush; and Captain Verris.
The Gimlet Eye takes things in a new direction, again. The Archon, who has ruled the city since the first set of books, dies. This signals a great change for the city of Quentaris, as the Archon’s spoiled and power-hunger nephew Florian takes charge. He exiles or imprisons many of the people who had previously held key positions in the running of the city, and puts into play is own secret agenda. Under his rule, Quentaris seems set on a course of piracy… unless Tab and her friends can put things right.
James Roy has done exceptionally well at taking characters created by another author and making them his own. This book really hits the mark in terms of characterisation and also delivers an intriguing fast-paced story. My only real reservation is that I found the conclusion a little too speedy and neat. But that certainly didn’t stop me enjoying the book.
The cover, by Les Peterson, is the best so far.
---- reviewed by George Ivanoff (www.georgeivanoff.com.au)
Reviewer Bio
George Ivanoff is a Melbourne based author who has written over 25 books for children and teenagers. Two of his books (Life, Death and Detention and Real Sci-Fi) are on the booklist for the 2008 Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge – this is their fourth year on the list. George used to regularly review books, CDs and DVDs for the now defunct Frontier Magazine. Check out George’s website at: www.georgeivanoff.com.au
Books - Ice-Cream Man By Jenny Mounfield
Rate the book: 9/10
Ford Street Publishing, 2008
ISBN: 978-1-876462-68-0
Price: AUD$16.95
The cover and the blurb on the back of this book led me to expect a run-of-the-mill teen horror about a murderous ice-cream man. Not that I don’t enjoy a formulaic horror novel every now and then… But what I read this time was an intelligent, character-driven suspense with elements of horror.
Three kids play a silly prank on the driver of an ice-cream van, and then find themselves being stalked by that driver. It’s a tense book — right from the first sentence: “Marty flicked sweat out of his eyes as he hurtled down the path towards the bike compound.” And Mounfield manages to skilfully maintain that tension all the way to the end.
Although the catalyst of the story is the title’s Ice-cream Man, much of the tension and drama is actually derived from the three main characters’ lives. Marty is stuck in a wheelchair with an over-protective mother watching over him. Aaron is trying to deal with his bullying stepbrother and parents who don’t listen. Rick is coping with the recent death of his father and his mother’s subsequent slide into alcoholism. It is these characters and their life-struggles that form the most interesting aspect of the book. Their dealings with the Ice-cream Man, then adds to the tension. I felt myself quickly liking these kids, if not their choices, and wanting then to be able to smooth out their lives.
I did find the resolution to the stalking scenario to be a little predictable. But that did not detract from my enjoyment of the characters’ journeys. All up, this is a strong, tense novel, that’s well worth a read.
----reviewed by George Ivanoff (www.georgeivanoff.com.au)
Reviewer Bio
George Ivanoff is a Melbourne based author who has written over 30 books for children and teenagers. Two of his books (Life, Death and Detention and Real Sci-Fi) have been on the booklist for the Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge since its inception in 2005. George’s latest publication is a series of five chapter book, Cory Jansen: Teen Spy (Pinnacle Press, NZ, 2008). Check out George’s website at: www.georgeivanoff.com.au
Ford Street Publishing, 2008
ISBN: 978-1-876462-68-0
Price: AUD$16.95
The cover and the blurb on the back of this book led me to expect a run-of-the-mill teen horror about a murderous ice-cream man. Not that I don’t enjoy a formulaic horror novel every now and then… But what I read this time was an intelligent, character-driven suspense with elements of horror.
Three kids play a silly prank on the driver of an ice-cream van, and then find themselves being stalked by that driver. It’s a tense book — right from the first sentence: “Marty flicked sweat out of his eyes as he hurtled down the path towards the bike compound.” And Mounfield manages to skilfully maintain that tension all the way to the end.
Although the catalyst of the story is the title’s Ice-cream Man, much of the tension and drama is actually derived from the three main characters’ lives. Marty is stuck in a wheelchair with an over-protective mother watching over him. Aaron is trying to deal with his bullying stepbrother and parents who don’t listen. Rick is coping with the recent death of his father and his mother’s subsequent slide into alcoholism. It is these characters and their life-struggles that form the most interesting aspect of the book. Their dealings with the Ice-cream Man, then adds to the tension. I felt myself quickly liking these kids, if not their choices, and wanting then to be able to smooth out their lives.
I did find the resolution to the stalking scenario to be a little predictable. But that did not detract from my enjoyment of the characters’ journeys. All up, this is a strong, tense novel, that’s well worth a read.
----reviewed by George Ivanoff (www.georgeivanoff.com.au)
Reviewer Bio
George Ivanoff is a Melbourne based author who has written over 30 books for children and teenagers. Two of his books (Life, Death and Detention and Real Sci-Fi) have been on the booklist for the Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge since its inception in 2005. George’s latest publication is a series of five chapter book, Cory Jansen: Teen Spy (Pinnacle Press, NZ, 2008). Check out George’s website at: www.georgeivanoff.com.au
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Books - Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Rate the book: -2The literary world has been taken by storm by the Young Adult paranormal romance Twilight, by the first time author, Stephenie Meyer. Certainly no one could begrudge Meyer her success – especially for an amateur writer to have this kind of explosive reaction to her books.
But is her fame deserved? Of course this writer can see the attraction – a dark, mysterious Edward Cullen bursts into the seemingly plain Bella Swan’s life, a dazzling Adonis, a hollow shell of a man – no personality, see, so the readers can superimpose their idea of the ‘perfect man’ on him.
Well, alright, let’s look at the male protagonists. Dark, sexy Edward Cullen may seem perfect, but the only character traits we see in him is that he is obsessive and...well, a stalker. Admitting to following Swan and watching her sleep unawares, Swan waves it off as ‘love’, disregarding, of course, the fact that she has only known him for literally 4 days. www.ReachOut.com defines they key symptoms in an ‘abusive relationship’ as possessiveness – definitely shown through Edward’s incessant need to ‘have Bella safe’ and insists he knows ‘what’s best for her’, going so far as to employ his sibling to kidnap her in Chapter 6 of Eclipse – jealousy – obviously in a romance there will be jealousy, but to dismantle her car engine to prevent her from seeing her friend, ‘for her own good’, perhaps is going a little over the mark? – and controlling behaviour, which speaks for itself through the aforementioned examples.
The secondary male protagonist, Jacob Black, is the long-lost friend who is naturally in love with Swan (who isn’t?). One of the only characters in Twilight who actually has a personality, we fall in love with Black all across New Moon, where Edward is mercifully absent for most of the book. But in Eclipse, we see a very dramatic shift in his person, finding Black suddenly becomes...pure evil.
Okay, maybe that’s an overstatement. But for a feminist reading Twilight, I have to be a little nasty. Jacob’s repeated sexual harassments – not to mention going so far as to threaten suicide should she not kiss him...and then, in the middle of this harassment, Bella up and decides she loves him – definitely warrants some concern for the impressionable young teens reading.
Let me see, what is the very basic criteria for a good novel? Plot – I can’t really seem to find one. Oh, wait, got one, right at the end – although does it count if it’s just an excuse for Swan to play the damsel-in-distress yet again? Character development – well, Meyer didn’t intend on publishing, so allowances must be made for that, and the bad writing, and the lack of good morals, messages or symbols...
Looking past all the technicalities, we look at the storyline. Teenage girl moves from one place to a very different setting all together, makes friends and a supernatural being falls in love with her. Wait a minute...this all sounds very familiar. Oh, right, wasn’t this the storyline to the great paranormal romance, Mediator by MEG CABOT?
Never mind. Meyer didn’t intend on publishing, did she? Who cares if the storyline is plagerised, or that the entire story has already been done?
Of course, it’s a romance. Romances have clichés, and you can always see a pattern. The handsome supernatural being falls in love with the female protagonist – it’s been used a lot. So what if none of the characters have a personality? It’s a romance, therefore it’s okay to have clichés. But to have a story completely built on clichés and stereotypes? Suffice to say the line has to be drawn somewhere.
But of course, this is just my own opinion. Stephen King gave his own, shocking the world momentarily before the torrents of angry Twilighters yelled, insulted and threatened one of the best authors of the 20th Century. The same thing also happened with Hamish and Andy, a leading radio show on Fox FM; making a few harmless jokes on the Twilight movie, they were inundated with angry emails and letters, consisting of, and I quote, “mostly suck, crap and idiot.”
All this, and not to mention the attacks on ‘anti-Twilighters’. www.twilightsucks.com, a literary forum dedicated to all things anti-Twilight or –Stephenie Meyer, has an entire topic solely devoted to attacks by extremist Twilight fans. Perhaps not all of them are verified, but to disregard them all for the mere chance that they might not be true? If you look at the amount of broken arms, scratches, bruises and general injuries caused by ‘rabid twilighters’, you have to start wondering when Stephenie Meyer is going to call down her army of ‘fanpires’ and tell them that it’s okay for others not to like Twilight!
But knowing Stephenie Meyer, that’s not happening anytime soon.
----reviewed by Rafal
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Books - I, Coriander by Sally Gardner
Rate the book: 10
I loved the book! It was set out in parts and chapters, so that it was easy to follow, and the print was a good size. I thought it was written cleverly due to the setting and time of the book, and well researched. It had a steady plot line that followed an idea, and developed well throughout the book. This book had my attention hooked the whole way through - I could hardly put it down! It was quite complicated with all aspects of the plot but easy to follow and not boring at all! I loved the fantasy side of this book, and also the setting!
Overall I thought this was an interesting, intruiging book that I thoroughly enjoyed!
----reviewed by another
From webgurl - The plot of I, Coriander from Wikipedia
I loved the book! It was set out in parts and chapters, so that it was easy to follow, and the print was a good size. I thought it was written cleverly due to the setting and time of the book, and well researched. It had a steady plot line that followed an idea, and developed well throughout the book. This book had my attention hooked the whole way through - I could hardly put it down! It was quite complicated with all aspects of the plot but easy to follow and not boring at all! I loved the fantasy side of this book, and also the setting!
Overall I thought this was an interesting, intruiging book that I thoroughly enjoyed!
----reviewed by another
From webgurl - The plot of I, Coriander from Wikipedia
It tells the story of a girl named Coriander, and her childhood. Coriander starts an adventure she cannot stop when she slips on a pair of silver shoes from an anonymous person. She soon finds out all her mother's deepest secrets and must fight the evil Rosmore to save her mother's power and her father's faith.
Books - Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Rate the book: 8 and 1/2
I loved this book it just kept me turning the pages i was really ingaged and it was a great novel i will definately read it again.
----reviewed by sarah
I loved this book it just kept me turning the pages i was really ingaged and it was a great novel i will definately read it again.
----reviewed by sarah
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Books - Angus, Thongs and Full - Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison
Rate the book: 8
I love this book because every single teenage girl can relate to this one way or another. I love how Louise Rennison has written the book!
----reviewed by grace
I love this book because every single teenage girl can relate to this one way or another. I love how Louise Rennison has written the book!
----reviewed by grace
Friday, May 22, 2009
Books - The Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Rate the book: 8.5
when i first picked up the book i thought not another book but then i read a couple of pages and it seemed interesting so i kept going and turned out to be a great book.
----reviewed by Matt
when i first picked up the book i thought not another book but then i read a couple of pages and it seemed interesting so i kept going and turned out to be a great book.
----reviewed by Matt
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Books - Finnikin of the rock by Melina Marchetta
Rate the book: 9
This is a powerful new fantasy from the popular author of ‘Looking for Alibrandi’ Quite different from her earlier novels, this is an engrossing adventure story set in the cursed kingdom of Lumatere. Finnikin of the Rock and his guardian Sir Topher have been travelling through the land of their exiled people for ten years recording their losses in the Book of Lumatere and waiting for a sign that the terrible curse will be lifted. When they meet the young novice, Evanjalin, they begin the final part of their journey together with the belief that they will finally be able to return to Lumatere and reunite their people. This book has been nominated for the CBC Book of the Year in the Older Readers category for 2009.
----reviewed by sue
This is a powerful new fantasy from the popular author of ‘Looking for Alibrandi’ Quite different from her earlier novels, this is an engrossing adventure story set in the cursed kingdom of Lumatere. Finnikin of the Rock and his guardian Sir Topher have been travelling through the land of their exiled people for ten years recording their losses in the Book of Lumatere and waiting for a sign that the terrible curse will be lifted. When they meet the young novice, Evanjalin, they begin the final part of their journey together with the belief that they will finally be able to return to Lumatere and reunite their people. This book has been nominated for the CBC Book of the Year in the Older Readers category for 2009.
----reviewed by sue
Books - A bad boy can be good for a girl by Tanya Lee Stone
Rate the book: 9
Three very different girls all get sucked in by one cute guy and share their experiences in the back pages of a library book called 'Forever'. This acts as a warning to other girls not to be used by a guy and do things they may regret later. Written in verse it is really easy to read and makes good sense.
----reviewed by sue
Three very different girls all get sucked in by one cute guy and share their experiences in the back pages of a library book called 'Forever'. This acts as a warning to other girls not to be used by a guy and do things they may regret later. Written in verse it is really easy to read and makes good sense.
----reviewed by sue
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Books - Von Gobstopper's Arcade by Alexandra Adornetto
Rate the book: 5 stars
17 year old whiz author, Alexandra Adornetto, makes a wonderful and enchanting impression with her latest novel, the third and last book in her highly-acclaimed series, The Strangest Adventures. Yet again we meet our main protagonists, Milli and Ernest, who are very excited, along with the rest of the children of Drabville, after a toy arcade is opened by acclaimed toy maker, Gustav Von Gobstopper, in their very honor. Milli and Ernest and the rest of their class at their new school St Erudite visit there on an excursion and soon find themselves becoming allies with several amazing talking toys.
There, they learn of a macabre plot to destroy Christmas for the town, led by the, yet again, Lord Aldor, now transformed and going by the title of Dr Illustrious. Will the two children finally defeat Lord Aldor, or, will this be their final showdown …. ?
Adornetto’s book is amusing, enchanting, and quite original. The plotlines and characters are very quirky, which is a good thing. However, some of the too-big language used in the book and narrative rambling leads the reader out of the story.
Nonetheless, highly recommended!
----reviewed by Brenton
17 year old whiz author, Alexandra Adornetto, makes a wonderful and enchanting impression with her latest novel, the third and last book in her highly-acclaimed series, The Strangest Adventures. Yet again we meet our main protagonists, Milli and Ernest, who are very excited, along with the rest of the children of Drabville, after a toy arcade is opened by acclaimed toy maker, Gustav Von Gobstopper, in their very honor. Milli and Ernest and the rest of their class at their new school St Erudite visit there on an excursion and soon find themselves becoming allies with several amazing talking toys.
There, they learn of a macabre plot to destroy Christmas for the town, led by the, yet again, Lord Aldor, now transformed and going by the title of Dr Illustrious. Will the two children finally defeat Lord Aldor, or, will this be their final showdown …. ?
Adornetto’s book is amusing, enchanting, and quite original. The plotlines and characters are very quirky, which is a good thing. However, some of the too-big language used in the book and narrative rambling leads the reader out of the story.
Nonetheless, highly recommended!
----reviewed by Brenton
Books - The Complete Book of Naughty Stories for Good Boys and Girls - Christopher Milne
This book is a funny book for kids of all ages. i know you will love this fantasic book. read well.
----reviewed by Ebony
----reviewed by Ebony
Books - Max Remy and Mission in Malta by Deborah Abela
A book leaving readers biting their nails in suspense.
----reviewed by Kate
----reviewed by Kate
Friday, March 27, 2009
National Youth Week
28th March - 5th April
The theme for this year's National Youth Week is Make a Move and Eastern Regional Libraries are holding some great events:
Bring a graphic novel to life!
Participate in a free hands-on Animation workshop. You will be working with Gregg Brown from Playanimation and you will learn skills including:
- animation principles
- character & set design
- filming.
When: Wednesday 1st April 4:30 - 8pm
Where: Rowville Library, Stud Park Shopping Centre, Stud Rd, Rowville
Cost: Free event
Bookings essential phone 92941300
OR
When: Saturday 4th April 10am - 1:30pm
Where: Boronia Library, Park Cr, Boronia
Cost: Free event
Bookings essential phone 97624099
Fretshop performance
Live at Rowville Library, check out the Fretshop youth guitar collective performance.
When: Thursday 2nd April 6pm
Where: Rowville Library, Stud Park Shopping Centre, Stud Rd, Rowville
Cost: Free event
Bookings essential phone 92941300
Edward or Jacob? Vampire or Werewolf? -- BOOKED OUT
Food, music, prizes and lots of surprises. You can even come dressed as your favourite character.
When: Thursday 2nd April 7 - 8:30pm
Where: Knox Library, 425 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South
Cost: Free event
Bookings essential phone 98011422
Knox City Council - Knox Youth Short Film Festival
Also during Youth Week is the screening of films for the Knox Youth Short Film Festival.
When: Monday 30th March 6:30–9pm
Where: Knox Community Arts Centre, cnr Mountain Hwy& Scoresby Rd, Bayswater
Cost: Free event
Enquiries contact Kate Clark phone 9298 8550
Shire of Yarra Ranges - Elevation!
Join in a skate and BMX comp (12&U /16&U /OPEN) $5 entry
Also featuring live music from Ashley's Affair, Meliki, Triact, The Duke's, Driveby Epic and the Power Percussion Group
PLUS .... free rockclimbing wall, market stalls, mental health photo exhibition and much more!
When: Saturday 4th April 11am - 4pm
Where: Lilydale Skate Bowl, Hardy St, Lilydale
Cheers, Maryanne
Monday, February 16, 2009
Knox Youth Short Film Festival
Just wanted to give a bit of a plug for the Knox Youth Short Film Festival. There's only a couple of weeks left to submit entries to the Festival. Submissions are sought from filmmakers 10-25 years old.
Entries can be any genre but you need to follow these guidelines:
Applications and entries due Wednesday 25th February 2009
Short films will be shown on Monday 30th March 6:30–9pm at the
Knox Community Arts Centre, Bayswater, as part of National Youth Week 2009.
Check out an ad for the Knox Youth Short Film Festival on Youtube - Green Foot Flicks
Cheers, Maryanne
Entries can be any genre but you need to follow these guidelines:
- The majority of the film crew lives, works, studies or hangs out within the City of Knox
- All films need to be of PG Rating
- All films need to be submitted on VHS or DVD
- All films to be no longer than 10 minutes long
Applications and entries due Wednesday 25th February 2009
Short films will be shown on Monday 30th March 6:30–9pm at the
Knox Community Arts Centre, Bayswater, as part of National Youth Week 2009.
Check out an ad for the Knox Youth Short Film Festival on Youtube - Green Foot Flicks
Cheers, Maryanne
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Books - Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta
Rate the book: 10
By the same author as "Looking For Alibrandi", is another great book about a teens life. Even though the main character, Francesca is Italian (like in Looking For Alibrandi), this book focuses moreso on the troubles she faces when she is sent to a school that has only just become co-ed, leaving her friends from her old school behind.This book is also about boy troubles rather than trouble because of her ethnicity. A great read for those who love romance/friend/family type books.
----reviewed by sarah
By the same author as "Looking For Alibrandi", is another great book about a teens life. Even though the main character, Francesca is Italian (like in Looking For Alibrandi), this book focuses moreso on the troubles she faces when she is sent to a school that has only just become co-ed, leaving her friends from her old school behind.This book is also about boy troubles rather than trouble because of her ethnicity. A great read for those who love romance/friend/family type books.
----reviewed by sarah
Books - Trixie Belden Series by Julie Cambell, Kathryn Kenny
Rate the book: 8
For those who like Nancy Drew this is a great series of 39 books that are focused on the main girl Trixie, and the mysteries she gets herself into with her brothers Mart and Brian, best friends Honey and Di, romantic interest (and Honey's adopted brother) Jim, and Dan Mangan. This group of teens from 13-16 y/o form a club together. Whilst it is similar to Nancy Drew, this is a more old fashioned setting. Trixie is also a tomboy compared to Nancy being a tall, beautiful, confident blonde. The series starts off with the first book being "The Secret of the Mansion" and then "The Red Trailer Mystery" which both set up the series. Great innocent reads.
----reviewed by sarah
For those who like Nancy Drew this is a great series of 39 books that are focused on the main girl Trixie, and the mysteries she gets herself into with her brothers Mart and Brian, best friends Honey and Di, romantic interest (and Honey's adopted brother) Jim, and Dan Mangan. This group of teens from 13-16 y/o form a club together. Whilst it is similar to Nancy Drew, this is a more old fashioned setting. Trixie is also a tomboy compared to Nancy being a tall, beautiful, confident blonde. The series starts off with the first book being "The Secret of the Mansion" and then "The Red Trailer Mystery" which both set up the series. Great innocent reads.
----reviewed by sarah
Books - One For The Money (Stephanie Plum series) by Janet Evanovich
Rate the book: 10
This book is the first in a ongoing series (currently still being written) about a woman in America who becomes jobless and is force to appeal to her cousin Vinnie for a job as a Bounty Hunter. Starting this job leads her to meet her to main romantic interests Joe Morelli (her on-off again boyfriend) and Ranger, the dark, mysterious man who pops in and out of her life. These books are great chick-flick type books, full of laughs, adventure and romance. A great series for slightly older readers (15+).
----reviewed by sarah
Note: this is in the adult fiction section of the library
This book is the first in a ongoing series (currently still being written) about a woman in America who becomes jobless and is force to appeal to her cousin Vinnie for a job as a Bounty Hunter. Starting this job leads her to meet her to main romantic interests Joe Morelli (her on-off again boyfriend) and Ranger, the dark, mysterious man who pops in and out of her life. These books are great chick-flick type books, full of laughs, adventure and romance. A great series for slightly older readers (15+).
----reviewed by sarah
Note: this is in the adult fiction section of the library
Monday, January 19, 2009
Books - The Stand by Stephen King
Rate the book: 10
Before I begin my review I will let you know that this is only the second Stephen King novel i'v ever read, (and definatly not the last) although I am a big fan of the "horror" genre.
The Stand is a amazing novel, The plot unfolds after a deadly virus escapes and almost imediatly kills 99% of the worlds population. From there the remaining surviours find themselves either joining a "good" or "evil" side, i know this may sound kind of lame but it works. The book is very lengthy over 1000 pages!! but it never became dull or boring. The way King can make you visualise the events that take place is amazing from corpses slowly decaying on the streets to gunfights and mass meetings. The dark, graphic and gritty atmosphere created is very enjoyable, it is worth noting that some themes may affect certain readers as it deals with death and god very heavily, it is also a very dark and gory novel.
Overall it is byfar the best book i have ever read to this date i also went to the trouble of buying the mini series which i would only reccomend to people who have read the book, although it was still quite a good adaption of the film, with a cameo of king himself which i found quite hurmorus. I highly reccomend reading this book dont be overwhelmed by the size of it as it will draw you in and you wont put it down.
----reviewed by adam
Before I begin my review I will let you know that this is only the second Stephen King novel i'v ever read, (and definatly not the last) although I am a big fan of the "horror" genre.
The Stand is a amazing novel, The plot unfolds after a deadly virus escapes and almost imediatly kills 99% of the worlds population. From there the remaining surviours find themselves either joining a "good" or "evil" side, i know this may sound kind of lame but it works. The book is very lengthy over 1000 pages!! but it never became dull or boring. The way King can make you visualise the events that take place is amazing from corpses slowly decaying on the streets to gunfights and mass meetings. The dark, graphic and gritty atmosphere created is very enjoyable, it is worth noting that some themes may affect certain readers as it deals with death and god very heavily, it is also a very dark and gory novel.
Overall it is byfar the best book i have ever read to this date i also went to the trouble of buying the mini series which i would only reccomend to people who have read the book, although it was still quite a good adaption of the film, with a cameo of king himself which i found quite hurmorus. I highly reccomend reading this book dont be overwhelmed by the size of it as it will draw you in and you wont put it down.
----reviewed by adam
Friday, January 02, 2009
Books - Corey in the Saddle by Bonnie Bryant
I really liked cory in the saddle and think you should write some more of those types of books i think it was the best one out of the series pony tails and loved readinf it the reason i loved readingn it so much was because it made you want to read on and was a cachy book i also like the name pony tails as you have probably worked out i like horses and have 4 of my own
----reviewed by Maddie
----reviewed by Maddie
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Books - Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
Rate the book: 9
Nick is the bassist for a punk band with an ever changing name, and he's just had his heart broken. Norah doesn't know what she wants, and thinks she's ruined her life, by making all the wrong decisions just to annoy her super rich, music executive, father.
Nick and Norah are thrown together in one incredible night in New York City, that will change their lives.
This was a fantastic book, which has been made into a movie (due out in March '09, I think) and is really all about friends, love, and life in general; but mostly it's about music. And without sounding too sickening; the music of life. I'd recommend it to young adults; it's all sex, drugs, and lots and lots of swearing, but definitely an amazing read, totally romantic in places - not like a Mills and Boom romance novel, but really cool 'why-doesn't-this-happen-to-me-style' romantic. Read it!! It's fantastic!
----reviewed by kate
Nick is the bassist for a punk band with an ever changing name, and he's just had his heart broken. Norah doesn't know what she wants, and thinks she's ruined her life, by making all the wrong decisions just to annoy her super rich, music executive, father.
Nick and Norah are thrown together in one incredible night in New York City, that will change their lives.
This was a fantastic book, which has been made into a movie (due out in March '09, I think) and is really all about friends, love, and life in general; but mostly it's about music. And without sounding too sickening; the music of life. I'd recommend it to young adults; it's all sex, drugs, and lots and lots of swearing, but definitely an amazing read, totally romantic in places - not like a Mills and Boom romance novel, but really cool 'why-doesn't-this-happen-to-me-style' romantic. Read it!! It's fantastic!
----reviewed by kate
Books - The Secret Life of Sparrow Delaney by Suzanne Harper
Rate the book: 7.8
Sparrow just wants to be a normal 15 year old. But its hard to be normal when you are the youngest of seven sisters all named after birds, your grandmother practices Karate on you, there are baboon skulls decorating your front porch, and four of granny's husbands buried in the backyard. And you can see and talk to ghosts. Unfortunately for Sparrow, she is an amazing medium, and every ghost in the world knows it; although she does her best to ignore their constant requests for help. However when she starts at her new high school she meets two very nice boys; one's alive, but the other is dead, and Sparrow is the only person who can help them both.
This was a great story, and I'd recommend it to 12+ readers. The supernatural theme is really nicely handled, and it's definitely worth a read.
----reviewed by kate
Sparrow just wants to be a normal 15 year old. But its hard to be normal when you are the youngest of seven sisters all named after birds, your grandmother practices Karate on you, there are baboon skulls decorating your front porch, and four of granny's husbands buried in the backyard. And you can see and talk to ghosts. Unfortunately for Sparrow, she is an amazing medium, and every ghost in the world knows it; although she does her best to ignore their constant requests for help. However when she starts at her new high school she meets two very nice boys; one's alive, but the other is dead, and Sparrow is the only person who can help them both.
This was a great story, and I'd recommend it to 12+ readers. The supernatural theme is really nicely handled, and it's definitely worth a read.
----reviewed by kate
Friday, December 19, 2008
Books - To Dance: a Ballerina’s graphic novel by Siena Cherson Siegel with artwork by Mark Siegel
This is the story of Siena as she realises her childhood dream of becoming a ballerina. The story starts off in Puerto Rico with Siena as a 6 year old discovering about the world of dancing and then following Siena’s life as she decides that she wants to be a ballerina. The story then follows Siena as she pursues this dream to New York and onto the stage. The story also follows what is happening in Siena’s family life and how this affects her by spending more time working on her dancing.
The illustrations in the story draw the reader into Siena’s world. Through the graphic illustrations the story starts on the end pages of the book at both the beginning and the end. The words and the graphics work very well together and the story in an interesting insight into why people dedicate themselves to the world of dance. I found this story to be a great and enjoyable read but also one that makes the reader aware of what drives people to dedicate themselves to something like dance.
----reviewed by sarah
The illustrations in the story draw the reader into Siena’s world. Through the graphic illustrations the story starts on the end pages of the book at both the beginning and the end. The words and the graphics work very well together and the story in an interesting insight into why people dedicate themselves to the world of dance. I found this story to be a great and enjoyable read but also one that makes the reader aware of what drives people to dedicate themselves to something like dance.
----reviewed by sarah
Books - Broken glass by Sally Grindley
Our lives are fragile- one minute we are up the next down in the gutter. This is just the case for two the brothers in the novel, Broken glass by Sally Grindley. Suresh and Sandeep leave after their father loses his beloved mother and his job and becomes abusive, towards their mother and them. Sadly, the boys believe that things will improve for their mother if they are no longer around.
This is a powerful story of the hardships encountered by the boys in a large city in India. The only way they find of making, what turns out to be a pittance, to exist on, is to pick their way through mountains of rubbish in search of broken glass. However, amongst the seeming hopelessness of their lives, the boys find time to enjoy the pleasures of companionship with other street kids, through a simple game of cricket. A masterful novel, that allows the reader to imagine themselves running through the streets of India along with the other unfortunates.
----reviewed by pia
This is a powerful story of the hardships encountered by the boys in a large city in India. The only way they find of making, what turns out to be a pittance, to exist on, is to pick their way through mountains of rubbish in search of broken glass. However, amongst the seeming hopelessness of their lives, the boys find time to enjoy the pleasures of companionship with other street kids, through a simple game of cricket. A masterful novel, that allows the reader to imagine themselves running through the streets of India along with the other unfortunates.
----reviewed by pia
Books - Birth Of A Warrior by Michael Ford
Birth of a warrior by Michael Ford is a fast paced adventure story. The second in the series entitled Spartan Warrior, it is not necessary to have read the first, The Fire of Ares, to have a full understanding of the story as Ford artfully intersperses relevant details throughout. However the reader will want to devour the earlier title as well.
Lysander is a half breed, the son of a Spartan Warrior and a Helot slave, and is continually having to prove himself even to the extent of being forced to whip his old Helot friend, Timeon. Training to become a Spartan warrior is difficult and full of dangers. As part of this training, Lysander is sent into the mountains with only a small amount of water and bread, to face the Ordeal, a five day test with his old enemy Demaratos as a companion and another boy, Agesilaus as their guide. Each must use their wits, strength and sheer will to survive. Lysander soon discovers that Agesilaus means to sabotage his every move.
Boys will love this book. It has all of the ingredients to captivate them. Filled with fascinating historical detail, Birth of a Warrior is energetic and gritty. It is both enjoyable and entertaining whilst 'teaching' the reader about life and friendship.
----reviewed by pia
Lysander is a half breed, the son of a Spartan Warrior and a Helot slave, and is continually having to prove himself even to the extent of being forced to whip his old Helot friend, Timeon. Training to become a Spartan warrior is difficult and full of dangers. As part of this training, Lysander is sent into the mountains with only a small amount of water and bread, to face the Ordeal, a five day test with his old enemy Demaratos as a companion and another boy, Agesilaus as their guide. Each must use their wits, strength and sheer will to survive. Lysander soon discovers that Agesilaus means to sabotage his every move.
Boys will love this book. It has all of the ingredients to captivate them. Filled with fascinating historical detail, Birth of a Warrior is energetic and gritty. It is both enjoyable and entertaining whilst 'teaching' the reader about life and friendship.
----reviewed by pia
Books - Tales from Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan
Shaun Tan's latest offering, Tales from Outer Suburbia, is a whole package that is to be poured over countless times. From the intriguing front cover, of a dog sitting on a television set, that pulls the reader, most insistently, into the book, to the back cover. The 15 stories contained within are thought provoking, they cling to the reader, like survivors of a shipwreck holding on to the remains of the ship, even though the book has been closed. Initially, with casual reading. the stories appear fantastical and even, a little weird - surely a water buffalo could not exist in a suburban landscape, and certainly would not be directing the inhabitants. Delving deeper into each story, though, the reader finds meaning in the stories, even words of wisdom. The illustrations, whose media vary from crayon, pencil, paint and collage, add further meaning and delight to a reading of the tales.
To select favourites from the 15 wonderful stories (fables), is no easy task, However the tale of Eric the foreign exchange student is a special delight amongst many. It is easy to imagine a classroom teacher reading this without the illustrations and asking the students to picture Eric. How amazed they would be to view Tan's Eric? Or what about Grandpa's Story? Or distant rain? It leaves only one thing more for this reader to say, GO, GO quickly, grab a copy of Tales from Outer Suburbia, find a quiet place to sit, then don't move till you have read every word and examined every illustration, over and over again. It will thrill and delight you!
----reviewed by pia
To select favourites from the 15 wonderful stories (fables), is no easy task, However the tale of Eric the foreign exchange student is a special delight amongst many. It is easy to imagine a classroom teacher reading this without the illustrations and asking the students to picture Eric. How amazed they would be to view Tan's Eric? Or what about Grandpa's Story? Or distant rain? It leaves only one thing more for this reader to say, GO, GO quickly, grab a copy of Tales from Outer Suburbia, find a quiet place to sit, then don't move till you have read every word and examined every illustration, over and over again. It will thrill and delight you!
----reviewed by pia
Books - Rhyming Boy by Steven Herrick
Rhyming Boy is award winning author Steven Herrick's first foray into prose novels. It is about one young boy's search for identity. Obsessed with words, dictionaries and the Guinness Book of Records, Jayden Hayden (hence the nickname “rhyming boy”) lives with his single Mum, who is equally obsessive, but in her case with football and football players. One player in particular, Jayden Finch, to such an extent that she named her only child after him!
Life is fine, until the day the School Principal announces a program called Boys and Books and Breakfast. The Upper Primary male students are invited to bring along their favourite books and their Dad. With the help of new girl, Saskia, Jayden finds, not only his father, but also himself.
Rhyming Boy is a novel that touches Jayden's life sensitively. Herrick, as always, uses humour to great effect throughout the tale. Herrick's latest does not have the depth of his verse novels but, nevertheless, teenagers will see their own lives reflected in its pages.
----reviewed by Pia
Life is fine, until the day the School Principal announces a program called Boys and Books and Breakfast. The Upper Primary male students are invited to bring along their favourite books and their Dad. With the help of new girl, Saskia, Jayden finds, not only his father, but also himself.
Rhyming Boy is a novel that touches Jayden's life sensitively. Herrick, as always, uses humour to great effect throughout the tale. Herrick's latest does not have the depth of his verse novels but, nevertheless, teenagers will see their own lives reflected in its pages.
----reviewed by Pia
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Books - Twilight by Stephenie Meyers
Rate the book: 5.5
I know this is the biggest book in the world at the moment, but it just wasn't as good as I'd hoped. I'd been really looking forward to it, and had waited ages in the huge library line, before I gave up and went and bought my own copy. I figured I'd love it and I wanted to own it. But now that I've read it...
It is long, and it doesn't have to be that long, because it's really repetitive, and overly detailed. The first half of the book is really slow. We read about every class Bella takes at school, every meal she eats, and every bit of homework she does - even on days when she doesn't see Edward! There's no need for those days to even be in the book! Finally about half way the action starts, but that's mostly just Edward saying "Are you scared of me?" and Bella saying "No", even though she really is. Neither of them have any personality at all - no one in the entire town has any personality!
Then there's a huge build up to the climax at the end, which just fizzles into nothing.
I know everyone wants to read this at the moment, and once the movie comes out, it will no doubt be even bigger, but it's just disappointing. If you have to wait in a line of 500+ people, you want to make sure it's worth it, and sadly this just isn't.
----reviewed by kate
I know this is the biggest book in the world at the moment, but it just wasn't as good as I'd hoped. I'd been really looking forward to it, and had waited ages in the huge library line, before I gave up and went and bought my own copy. I figured I'd love it and I wanted to own it. But now that I've read it...
It is long, and it doesn't have to be that long, because it's really repetitive, and overly detailed. The first half of the book is really slow. We read about every class Bella takes at school, every meal she eats, and every bit of homework she does - even on days when she doesn't see Edward! There's no need for those days to even be in the book! Finally about half way the action starts, but that's mostly just Edward saying "Are you scared of me?" and Bella saying "No", even though she really is. Neither of them have any personality at all - no one in the entire town has any personality!
Then there's a huge build up to the climax at the end, which just fizzles into nothing.
I know everyone wants to read this at the moment, and once the movie comes out, it will no doubt be even bigger, but it's just disappointing. If you have to wait in a line of 500+ people, you want to make sure it's worth it, and sadly this just isn't.
----reviewed by kate
Monday, November 03, 2008
Books - Larryboy and the Emperor of Envy by Sean Gaffney
Rate the book: 8
Larryboy and the Emperor of Envy is a funny children's novel with a helpful moral message. Larryboy who is the cucumber superhero of Bumblyburg, learns an important lesson based on a passage in his Superhero Handbook which may be recognised by readers as the Christian Bible; "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones" from Proverbs 13:40. The intriguing characters excluding the protagonist in this work are as follows in order of appearance; the Milk Money Bandit, Lenny Carrot, Laura Carrot, Percy Pea, Renee Blueberry, Junior Asparagus, Mr. Asparagus, Chief Croswell, Archibald Asparagus, Bok Choy, American Pie, Scarlet Tomato, Electro Melon, Emperor Napoleon of Crime and Other Bad Stuff, Frank, Jesse, Bob the Tomato, Vicki Cucumber, Wally, Herbert, Officer Boysen, Officer Blue, all up 22 some original, others not. Junior Asparagus plays a major part in resisting the Emperor's nasty scheme with the realisation that contentment is the solution to envy and the Envy Formula invented by the Emperor with naughty intentions. Larryboy and the Emperor of Envy will appeal to anyone that enjoys children's novels, speculative fiction and a blatant theistic worldview.
----reviewed by Maria
Larryboy and the Emperor of Envy is a funny children's novel with a helpful moral message. Larryboy who is the cucumber superhero of Bumblyburg, learns an important lesson based on a passage in his Superhero Handbook which may be recognised by readers as the Christian Bible; "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones" from Proverbs 13:40. The intriguing characters excluding the protagonist in this work are as follows in order of appearance; the Milk Money Bandit, Lenny Carrot, Laura Carrot, Percy Pea, Renee Blueberry, Junior Asparagus, Mr. Asparagus, Chief Croswell, Archibald Asparagus, Bok Choy, American Pie, Scarlet Tomato, Electro Melon, Emperor Napoleon of Crime and Other Bad Stuff, Frank, Jesse, Bob the Tomato, Vicki Cucumber, Wally, Herbert, Officer Boysen, Officer Blue, all up 22 some original, others not. Junior Asparagus plays a major part in resisting the Emperor's nasty scheme with the realisation that contentment is the solution to envy and the Envy Formula invented by the Emperor with naughty intentions. Larryboy and the Emperor of Envy will appeal to anyone that enjoys children's novels, speculative fiction and a blatant theistic worldview.
----reviewed by Maria
Game - Lords of Legend
Game platform: Online
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 10
Lords of Legend is a very good game for kids or teens who are rarely home. This game is very good for the fact that while you are gone it makes money and AP ( attack points, check Lords of Legends guide for details). This game is recommended for fantasy game lovers and those with the lust for power. You can build your empire and destroy others empires with the touch of a button. All in all, this game gets a 8 out of 10 for the fact that fantasy game, can be played while not home and is just plain fun for power seekers.
----reviewed by Trevor
Game genre: Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 10
Lords of Legend is a very good game for kids or teens who are rarely home. This game is very good for the fact that while you are gone it makes money and AP ( attack points, check Lords of Legends guide for details). This game is recommended for fantasy game lovers and those with the lust for power. You can build your empire and destroy others empires with the touch of a button. All in all, this game gets a 8 out of 10 for the fact that fantasy game, can be played while not home and is just plain fun for power seekers.
----reviewed by Trevor
Games - Saints Row 2
Game platform: Playstation 3
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): MA 15+ - Mature Accompanied
Rate the game: 8
It was gennrally a good game it had some minor flaws like lag in massive firefights they fixed many of the problems that occured in the first Saints Row like when driving past buildings at high speed everything would still be loading the city is much larger than in the first one the missions are really not much different from the first one except with different gangs the fact that their is so many more weapons then the first one makes running around killing people better their are chainsaws swords lock on RPGs mini guns and more the cheats (if you like cheating for fun) are a lot better than the ones in the original game and even better than GTA4 the graphics were average they defiantly were not MGS4 graphics but it's a different game completely you can be a girl or a guy which is good their is heaps of customisations for cars and clothes you can buy cribs their are plenty of gang customisations like changing the cars your gang members drive they also introduced helicopters, planes, jet skis and boats overall it is a very good game and I would reccomend it to anyone really
----reviewed by Ethan
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): MA 15+ - Mature Accompanied
Rate the game: 8
It was gennrally a good game it had some minor flaws like lag in massive firefights they fixed many of the problems that occured in the first Saints Row like when driving past buildings at high speed everything would still be loading the city is much larger than in the first one the missions are really not much different from the first one except with different gangs the fact that their is so many more weapons then the first one makes running around killing people better their are chainsaws swords lock on RPGs mini guns and more the cheats (if you like cheating for fun) are a lot better than the ones in the original game and even better than GTA4 the graphics were average they defiantly were not MGS4 graphics but it's a different game completely you can be a girl or a guy which is good their is heaps of customisations for cars and clothes you can buy cribs their are plenty of gang customisations like changing the cars your gang members drive they also introduced helicopters, planes, jet skis and boats overall it is a very good game and I would reccomend it to anyone really
----reviewed by Ethan
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Books - Blue Skies and Gunfire by K.M. Peyton
Rate the book: 7.5
Josie is a teenager evacuated to her Aunt and Uncle's country farm during WW2. There she meets brothers Jumbo and Chris, one recovering from an injured and one a fighter pilot in the RAF. She falls for them both. It's a typical love triangle. The characters are really well written, especially the emotions of the two boys, and their reactions to their place in war. I would recommend it to slightly older readers; it's a good book.
----reviewed by Kate
Josie is a teenager evacuated to her Aunt and Uncle's country farm during WW2. There she meets brothers Jumbo and Chris, one recovering from an injured and one a fighter pilot in the RAF. She falls for them both. It's a typical love triangle. The characters are really well written, especially the emotions of the two boys, and their reactions to their place in war. I would recommend it to slightly older readers; it's a good book.
----reviewed by Kate
Friday, September 05, 2008
Books - In Ecstasy by Kate McCaffrey
Rate the book: 8
An honest look at modern teenage drug use. Written in a diary format by 15 year olds Mia and Sophie. This book clearly explains how easy it is for unsupervised teens to slip into a pattern of drug use which escalates to the point of no return. I thought it made the drug scene a little too attractive but the consequences were pretty scary by the end of the book.
----reviewed by Sue
An honest look at modern teenage drug use. Written in a diary format by 15 year olds Mia and Sophie. This book clearly explains how easy it is for unsupervised teens to slip into a pattern of drug use which escalates to the point of no return. I thought it made the drug scene a little too attractive but the consequences were pretty scary by the end of the book.
----reviewed by Sue
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Books - Blood Red Horse by K.M. Grant
Rate the book: 8
This is an interesting novel for teenagers set during the Crusades. Will and Gavin are two young English knights sent off to fight in the Crusades and reclaim Jerusalem. Kumar, a soldier of Saladin, is a fiery young Muslim intent on revenge for the deaths of his family. And then there is Ellie, a young girl who has been left at home in England, while the men go off and fight. In the middle of it all, is a beautiful red horse, who links them altogether.
An interesting story that shows both sides of the battle, and really gets into the hardships and reality of the war. The characters are well written, and believable. This is a really impressive book.
----reviewed by Kate
This is an interesting novel for teenagers set during the Crusades. Will and Gavin are two young English knights sent off to fight in the Crusades and reclaim Jerusalem. Kumar, a soldier of Saladin, is a fiery young Muslim intent on revenge for the deaths of his family. And then there is Ellie, a young girl who has been left at home in England, while the men go off and fight. In the middle of it all, is a beautiful red horse, who links them altogether.
An interesting story that shows both sides of the battle, and really gets into the hardships and reality of the war. The characters are well written, and believable. This is a really impressive book.
----reviewed by Kate
Books - The Pearl Hunters by Kim Wilkins
Rate the book: 8.5
This is a Romance and adventure story, about 17 year old, Constance, who has stowed away on her father's ship, headed for Ceylon in the early 1800s. While on board she rescues a French pearl diver, Alexandre, who is escaping a life of slavery and servitude. It doesn't take long before Constance falls for Alexandre, despite the difference in their social classes. Together they set out to solve an 17 year old mystery that has haunted Constance all her life. It's a bit old fashioned in places, but the characters are really well written, and the story sweeps you up. It's a great mix of adventure and romance, a really great read!
----reviewed by Kate
This is a Romance and adventure story, about 17 year old, Constance, who has stowed away on her father's ship, headed for Ceylon in the early 1800s. While on board she rescues a French pearl diver, Alexandre, who is escaping a life of slavery and servitude. It doesn't take long before Constance falls for Alexandre, despite the difference in their social classes. Together they set out to solve an 17 year old mystery that has haunted Constance all her life. It's a bit old fashioned in places, but the characters are really well written, and the story sweeps you up. It's a great mix of adventure and romance, a really great read!
----reviewed by Kate
Monday, September 01, 2008
Books - The Ghost's Child by Sonya Hartnett
Rate the book: 10
An evocative journey of life, when death comes to take you: Hartnett does it again exploring the harsh subjects with such an incisive twist.
----reviewed by rowanne
An evocative journey of life, when death comes to take you: Hartnett does it again exploring the harsh subjects with such an incisive twist.
----reviewed by rowanne
Books - Marty's Shadow by John Heffernan
Rate the book: 10
Bigotry and racism are harsh realities in Marty's world. Families and their secrets destroy young lives, but Marty fights his family shadows....absolute page turner!
----reviewed by rowanne
Bigotry and racism are harsh realities in Marty's world. Families and their secrets destroy young lives, but Marty fights his family shadows....absolute page turner!
----reviewed by rowanne
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Books - The Tomorrow Series by John Marsden
Rate the book: 10 ++++
these books r great! its about these friend who go camping a place called Hell (not real hell!) and when they came back their country (Aussie) is invaded. through survival , killing and love they keep fighting and never give up. this book is GREAT. i can never put them down! p.s if you've read the series i recommend u try the Ellie chronicles !
----reviewed by ZoZo
these books r great! its about these friend who go camping a place called Hell (not real hell!) and when they came back their country (Aussie) is invaded. through survival , killing and love they keep fighting and never give up. this book is GREAT. i can never put them down! p.s if you've read the series i recommend u try the Ellie chronicles !
----reviewed by ZoZo
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Books - In the Deep End by Kate Cann
This book is really awsome i would definetly reccomend it if your into love life and relationship things it's a good read
----reviewed by Lauren
----reviewed by Lauren
Music - City of Evil by Avenged Sevenfold
Rate the cd: 9
The songs are well written with great gitar solos.overall a awesome achivement.
----reviewed by Maya
The songs are well written with great gitar solos.overall a awesome achivement.
----reviewed by Maya
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Books - I Am David by Ian Holm
Rate the book: 8
I am david isa very intriguing novel set in World War 2. The main character is an 11 year old boy called David. David has spent his whole life in a boring consentration camp.
David finds a way to excape and catches a boat to italy, where he discovers beauty. David has to survive many challenges on his journey, and has to choose the righ path along the way. David is a very unsocial person but is very motivated to keep his journey going.
In this book you will find a very interesting and brockenhearted story about David and how he progresses on his journey to safety!
----reviewed by Emily D
I am david isa very intriguing novel set in World War 2. The main character is an 11 year old boy called David. David has spent his whole life in a boring consentration camp.
David finds a way to excape and catches a boat to italy, where he discovers beauty. David has to survive many challenges on his journey, and has to choose the righ path along the way. David is a very unsocial person but is very motivated to keep his journey going.
In this book you will find a very interesting and brockenhearted story about David and how he progresses on his journey to safety!
----reviewed by Emily D
Books - I Am David by Anne Holm
Rate the book: 9
This book was set in world war two and is about an eleven year old boy called David.
It is a very adventurous book based on Davids journey escaping the concentration camp, that he sadly grew up on.
There are special events that occur in this book such as David saving a girl in a fire and David choosing between a compass and a God.
In the book David makes very wise decisions when he comes across challenges to survive.
----reviewed by Claudia W
This book was set in world war two and is about an eleven year old boy called David.
It is a very adventurous book based on Davids journey escaping the concentration camp, that he sadly grew up on.
There are special events that occur in this book such as David saving a girl in a fire and David choosing between a compass and a God.
In the book David makes very wise decisions when he comes across challenges to survive.
----reviewed by Claudia W
Books - Diary of a Young Girl by Ann Frank
Rate the book: 9
The Diary of Anne Frank is an exceedingly moving and intruiging story based on a young girl who is experiencing the war with her family.
Anne is keeping track of the events in her life by writing in her diary, which is the book itself.
Anne and her family hide from the horrific nazis in "the Annexe"- a petite hideaway out the back of a friends house. They begin to take more families into hiding, and Anne's life finnaly starts to improve.
This diary is an intruiging and fascinating story that maintains emotion and inspiration.
----reviewed by Monique C
The Diary of Anne Frank is an exceedingly moving and intruiging story based on a young girl who is experiencing the war with her family.
Anne is keeping track of the events in her life by writing in her diary, which is the book itself.
Anne and her family hide from the horrific nazis in "the Annexe"- a petite hideaway out the back of a friends house. They begin to take more families into hiding, and Anne's life finnaly starts to improve.
This diary is an intruiging and fascinating story that maintains emotion and inspiration.
----reviewed by Monique C
Books - Diary of a Young Girl by Ann Frank
Rate the book: 4
Anne Frank is a extremely dreary book, mainly because nothing exhilarating happens. This book showed alot of emotion in it. Anne Frank is a diary of a young insocure 13 year old girl who is affected by world warII because she is a jew. This book shows the most personal thoughts and feelings of Anne Frank as she grows into a women in these tumultuous times.
This book shows the real inside feelings of a jew during WWII.
----reviewed by Molly
Anne Frank is a extremely dreary book, mainly because nothing exhilarating happens. This book showed alot of emotion in it. Anne Frank is a diary of a young insocure 13 year old girl who is affected by world warII because she is a jew. This book shows the most personal thoughts and feelings of Anne Frank as she grows into a women in these tumultuous times.
This book shows the real inside feelings of a jew during WWII.
----reviewed by Molly
Books - When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
Rate the book: 8.5
This is a stimulating story set in the beautiful country of France and the dangerous Germany.
This novel is a fascinating story is set in world war 2.The protagonist is an intruiging girl called Anna and her families amazing adventure throught the treturuos parts of Europe during worldwar 2 to find a safe place to hide from the terrible Nazis.
This story is based on the exotic, life-story of the amazing Judith Kerr,the author.Anna goes through many hard and tragic times along with many joyful adventures.This intruiging,life changing story will surely keep you reading.
----reviewed by Patrick
This is a stimulating story set in the beautiful country of France and the dangerous Germany.
This novel is a fascinating story is set in world war 2.The protagonist is an intruiging girl called Anna and her families amazing adventure throught the treturuos parts of Europe during worldwar 2 to find a safe place to hide from the terrible Nazis.
This story is based on the exotic, life-story of the amazing Judith Kerr,the author.Anna goes through many hard and tragic times along with many joyful adventures.This intruiging,life changing story will surely keep you reading.
----reviewed by Patrick
Books - The Silver sword by Ian Serrallier
Rate the book: 6
The Silver Sword is a stimulating book about the Balicki children who struggle through the war in search of their parents.The Balicki children are brave, hopeful and kind-hearted.
The author uses descriptive language that captures important moments throughout the novel.
This epic journey from war-torn, lifeless Poland, their glimmer of hope. This novel will touch all readers.
----reviewed by Emily
The Silver Sword is a stimulating book about the Balicki children who struggle through the war in search of their parents.The Balicki children are brave, hopeful and kind-hearted.
The author uses descriptive language that captures important moments throughout the novel.
This epic journey from war-torn, lifeless Poland, their glimmer of hope. This novel will touch all readers.
----reviewed by Emily
Books - A Diary of a Young Girl by Ann Frank
Rate the book: 5
Anne Franks- "Diary of a young girl" is a captivating book about a Jewish girl in Worl War 2. Anne Frank is thirteen years old when she describes of her family and their experiences. Anne Frank and her family soon are forced to move to the back of a warehouse called the Secret Annex to hide from the destructive Nazi's. Over the next two years, Anne vividly describes in her diary the frustrations of living in such a small place, the constant threat of dicovery, hunger, tiredness and way above them all - bordem. Anne Franks diary suddnely ends in August 1944, as she and her family are finally discovered by the Nazi's. You will enjoy this book of a young, troubled, girl in the middle of devistating World War 2.
----reviewed by Cydney V
Anne Franks- "Diary of a young girl" is a captivating book about a Jewish girl in Worl War 2. Anne Frank is thirteen years old when she describes of her family and their experiences. Anne Frank and her family soon are forced to move to the back of a warehouse called the Secret Annex to hide from the destructive Nazi's. Over the next two years, Anne vividly describes in her diary the frustrations of living in such a small place, the constant threat of dicovery, hunger, tiredness and way above them all - bordem. Anne Franks diary suddnely ends in August 1944, as she and her family are finally discovered by the Nazi's. You will enjoy this book of a young, troubled, girl in the middle of devistating World War 2.
----reviewed by Cydney V
Books - Hitler's Daughter by Jackie French
Rate the book: 5.5
This book is full of powerful excitement.
Anna the main charater tells mark a curoius school aged boy a story about Hitler, his daughter Heidi. Also about WWII. The Author uses eniotive words like " Bombs Falling, Smoke Rising, People Screaming."
This a fascinating book that captivates the reader.
----reviewed by Taylor
This book is full of powerful excitement.
Anna the main charater tells mark a curoius school aged boy a story about Hitler, his daughter Heidi. Also about WWII. The Author uses eniotive words like " Bombs Falling, Smoke Rising, People Screaming."
This a fascinating book that captivates the reader.
----reviewed by Taylor
Books - When Hitler stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
Rate the book: 5.5
This is a fascinating book about an 11 year old girl called Anna, her teenage brother Max, their loving Mother and their inteligent Father.
Anna and her family experience experience life-changing adventures, as they are secretly rushed out of Germany to escape Hitler's rein. This story is based on the author Judith Kerr's life experiences Just like Anna, Judith Kerr was born in Berlin and her parents are jewish.
Anna, with the reader, goes through many emotions such as: Fright, happiness, relief and hope. When Hitler sotle Pink Rabbit is a very tragic story, but at times can be hilarious. This book is a worthwhile read.
----reviewed by Lucy
This is a fascinating book about an 11 year old girl called Anna, her teenage brother Max, their loving Mother and their inteligent Father.
Anna and her family experience experience life-changing adventures, as they are secretly rushed out of Germany to escape Hitler's rein. This story is based on the author Judith Kerr's life experiences Just like Anna, Judith Kerr was born in Berlin and her parents are jewish.
Anna, with the reader, goes through many emotions such as: Fright, happiness, relief and hope. When Hitler sotle Pink Rabbit is a very tragic story, but at times can be hilarious. This book is a worthwhile read.
----reviewed by Lucy
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Books - Hell Phone by William Sleator
Rate the book: 10
i like the fact that some kid bought a use cell phone and some secrets are deep in the phone.
----reviewed by Rickesh
i like the fact that some kid bought a use cell phone and some secrets are deep in the phone.
----reviewed by Rickesh
Games - runescape
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 9
really good game its one of the best games I,ve ever played in my life.
----reviewed by hugo
Game genre: Action
Rating (Aust): PG - Parental guidance
Rate the game: 9
really good game its one of the best games I,ve ever played in my life.
----reviewed by hugo
Friday, June 13, 2008
Games - VMK
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: infinity
Vmk is now closed and all of the vmk players might be very sad. I dont have much to say but i will really miss it.
----reviewed by Gold
(so sorry Gold, what are you going to do now?.....maryanne)
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: infinity
Vmk is now closed and all of the vmk players might be very sad. I dont have much to say but i will really miss it.
----reviewed by Gold
(so sorry Gold, what are you going to do now?.....maryanne)
Books - Before i die by Jenny Downham
Rate the book: 9.9
I couldn't put this book down once i started, it took me around four or five hours to read it and i wish there were more books just like it.
It's about a sixteen year old girl who is dying and she makes a list of ten things to do before she dies, she won't let herself die before she finishes her list. Her parents are divorced, her best friend is acting all wierd and she falls in love when she least expects it.
A thrilling, sad, loveable rollercoaster that any girl will enjoy reading and i highly recommend that they do!
----reviewed by Emily
I couldn't put this book down once i started, it took me around four or five hours to read it and i wish there were more books just like it.
It's about a sixteen year old girl who is dying and she makes a list of ten things to do before she dies, she won't let herself die before she finishes her list. Her parents are divorced, her best friend is acting all wierd and she falls in love when she least expects it.
A thrilling, sad, loveable rollercoaster that any girl will enjoy reading and i highly recommend that they do!
----reviewed by Emily
Books - Nancy Drew series by Carolyn Keene
Rate the book: 10! 10! 10!
Well, I love the Nancy Drew Series. i have read every Nancy Drew book on Earth. I hope you guys enjoy it!!!!!!!!!!
----reviewed by bOoK-lOvEr
Well, I love the Nancy Drew Series. i have read every Nancy Drew book on Earth. I hope you guys enjoy it!!!!!!!!!!
----reviewed by bOoK-lOvEr
Books - Holes by Louis Sachar
Rate the book: 10!
Holes is a fabulous book. I am reading it for school and I enjoyed every second of it! I would read it again, again and again. It has really good description and imagery.
There is also as second book related to Holes, called Small Steps. I haven't read it yet, and it is sitting on my shelf waiting to be touched.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
----reviewed by bOoK-lOvEr
Holes is a fabulous book. I am reading it for school and I enjoyed every second of it! I would read it again, again and again. It has really good description and imagery.
There is also as second book related to Holes, called Small Steps. I haven't read it yet, and it is sitting on my shelf waiting to be touched.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
----reviewed by bOoK-lOvEr
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Books - Rangers Apprentice by John Flanagan
Rate the book: 10
This is a great series and it kept me in the story till the very end. I will not give anything away but I recomend this book/series to anybody who likes a little fantasy. The series has 7 books and every single book is as good or better than the last. I will definetly read the series again.
----reviewed by Soccershot
This is a great series and it kept me in the story till the very end. I will not give anything away but I recomend this book/series to anybody who likes a little fantasy. The series has 7 books and every single book is as good or better than the last. I will definetly read the series again.
----reviewed by Soccershot
Games - Gran Turismo 4 (GT4)
Game platform: Playstation 2
Game genre: Racing
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 10
I think this game is great. When you first start the game you are given $10,000 and you can buy any car you want (if you can afford it of course). You can even do licences and work your way up from the bottom to one of the best racers with the best car or the car you've always wanted to buy. It is a great game and with about 721 different cars to choose from it will really keep you entertained. Definately a great game to play.
----reviewed by nathan
Game genre: Racing
Rating (Aust): G - General
Rate the game: 10
I think this game is great. When you first start the game you are given $10,000 and you can buy any car you want (if you can afford it of course). You can even do licences and work your way up from the bottom to one of the best racers with the best car or the car you've always wanted to buy. It is a great game and with about 721 different cars to choose from it will really keep you entertained. Definately a great game to play.
----reviewed by nathan
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Games - Farewell VMK
Game platform: Online game
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: 10
Well im back... and im not here with good news. May 21 2008 is the day that VMK WILL CLOSE FOR EVER. Now this may be upsetting, as it is to me, but vmk was created to celebrate disneyland's 50th anniversary. That was in 2005 and the staff thinks it is time to stop. So... That was it goodbye my VMK
----reviewed by gold
Woah that's huge gaming news Gold and very sad. I just checked out their newsletter, it said:
"Eventually though, all promotions must come to an end, so I'm announcing today that on May 21, 2008, VMK will open our virtual gates for the last time. You read that right: VMK was never intended to last forever – we'll close the game for good at the end of day on May 21st, 2008." Yavn Speaks, VMK newsletter.
I know a lot of VMK'ers visit Teen Online. Everyone will need to find somewhere else to go. Will it be Club Penguin, Puzzle Pirates, Pirates of the Caribbean Online or somewhere else? It's difficult though to say goodbye to the friends you've made along the way.......Maryanne
Game genre: Other
Rating (Aust): E - Exempt
Rate the game: 10
Well im back... and im not here with good news. May 21 2008 is the day that VMK WILL CLOSE FOR EVER. Now this may be upsetting, as it is to me, but vmk was created to celebrate disneyland's 50th anniversary. That was in 2005 and the staff thinks it is time to stop. So... That was it goodbye my VMK
----reviewed by gold
Woah that's huge gaming news Gold and very sad. I just checked out their newsletter, it said:
"Eventually though, all promotions must come to an end, so I'm announcing today that on May 21, 2008, VMK will open our virtual gates for the last time. You read that right: VMK was never intended to last forever – we'll close the game for good at the end of day on May 21st, 2008." Yavn Speaks, VMK newsletter.
I know a lot of VMK'ers visit Teen Online. Everyone will need to find somewhere else to go. Will it be Club Penguin, Puzzle Pirates, Pirates of the Caribbean Online or somewhere else? It's difficult though to say goodbye to the friends you've made along the way.......Maryanne
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Books - The Wide Window (A Series of Unfortunate Events) by Lemony Snicket
Rate the book: 4
The book was great i completly loved it. i thought that i could have had more fun reading it though. the book just gave it a 4 star rating for me. the Reptile room was great though. but the Wide Window was just good.
----reviewed by Tahlee
The book was great i completly loved it. i thought that i could have had more fun reading it though. the book just gave it a 4 star rating for me. the Reptile room was great though. but the Wide Window was just good.
----reviewed by Tahlee
Monday, March 31, 2008
Books - Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Rate the book: 9
A complelling love story about two teenagers who love each other so much they are willing to risk everything to be together.
Bella, thinks her new life in forks is going to be as dull as the town itself.
But her new classmates seem to like her, especially the boys, except, for Edward Cullen......
But Edward is not your typical boy, he's a vampire and as much as he tries to stay away from Bella to protect her he loves her too much.
It takes all of Edwards willpower to stop himself from attacking Bella and all her courage to stay with him.
Will Edward be able to resist Bella irrisistable blood or will love be the death of them both?
----reviewed by Steph
A complelling love story about two teenagers who love each other so much they are willing to risk everything to be together.
Bella, thinks her new life in forks is going to be as dull as the town itself.
But her new classmates seem to like her, especially the boys, except, for Edward Cullen......
But Edward is not your typical boy, he's a vampire and as much as he tries to stay away from Bella to protect her he loves her too much.
It takes all of Edwards willpower to stop himself from attacking Bella and all her courage to stay with him.
Will Edward be able to resist Bella irrisistable blood or will love be the death of them both?
----reviewed by Steph
Books - devil wears prada by Lauren Weisberger
Rate the book out of 10: 8
i loved this book, the magazine, the fashion and especially Andy. I to began to hate Miranda and fell andy's pain.i could rarely put it down
although this book as a bit of swearing, it's EXCILENT!
the movie is only half as good as teh book!
=]
----reviewed by hayley
i loved this book, the magazine, the fashion and especially Andy. I to began to hate Miranda and fell andy's pain.i could rarely put it down
although this book as a bit of swearing, it's EXCILENT!
the movie is only half as good as teh book!
=]
----reviewed by hayley
Books - Dial L for Loser by Lisi Harrison
Rate the book: 9
I loved the way that the kind of underdog of the clique gets her chance to shine. But don't be fooled she doesn't have it that great as Massie gets VERY jealous and takes every chance to sabotage her. Claire gets the part in the movie and becomes friends with one of the other stars, but will she find out what a true friendship really means.....the only way to find out is to go out and read this book. You won't regret it. And also read the other books in the Clique series aka my fav book series!
----reviewed by Julia
I loved the way that the kind of underdog of the clique gets her chance to shine. But don't be fooled she doesn't have it that great as Massie gets VERY jealous and takes every chance to sabotage her. Claire gets the part in the movie and becomes friends with one of the other stars, but will she find out what a true friendship really means.....the only way to find out is to go out and read this book. You won't regret it. And also read the other books in the Clique series aka my fav book series!
----reviewed by Julia
Books - Chess Rumble by G. Neri
Rate the book: 10
This book is written in free-verse about a troubled innercity teen who is one fight away from being kicked outta school. As the reader, we feel sorry for Marcus and we feel his anger and frustration at the way his life is going. The book is a quick read, has awesome illustrations and a true, satisfying conclusion. Urban teens, innercity boys will see themselves in the characters; voices that aren't represented very often in today's teen literature.
----reviewed by Name: K. Palumbo
This book is written in free-verse about a troubled innercity teen who is one fight away from being kicked outta school. As the reader, we feel sorry for Marcus and we feel his anger and frustration at the way his life is going. The book is a quick read, has awesome illustrations and a true, satisfying conclusion. Urban teens, innercity boys will see themselves in the characters; voices that aren't represented very often in today's teen literature.
----reviewed by Name: K. Palumbo
Books - Faking Sweet by J.C Burke
Rate the book: 10
This book is great! it has lots of humour. I recommend this book for 13+ years of age
----reviewed by Rachel
This book is great! it has lots of humour. I recommend this book for 13+ years of age
----reviewed by Rachel
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