Elfquest Volume 1. Wolfrider

by Wendy Pini

Reviewed by Stanley B. of year 7

I recommend this fascinating book because it has so many thrilling parts in it. This is book one of a three part series . The main reason I recommend it is it has so many things going on.

For example there are trolls who want their berries and humans who want their land. The elf leader believes they should stay and fight the humans away. They made a deal with the trolls. The trolls give them metal tools and the elves give berries.

I give it a rating 8 out of 10.

The Bourne Ultimatum

By Robert Ludlum
Reviewed by Aiden.W of year 8

Jason Bourne is back in another action packed story where he will come across new and old enemies.

Faced with the memory of a death that he wishes he’d forgotten, Jason decides to settle down and try to forget about his past.

After he is set up for the murder of his two friends he goes after the culprit. With the nagging fear that only an assassin can give, Jason follows a trail of murders from America to Paris and then finally to Iceland. All the while he is being stalked by one of the best assassins of the F.B.I and also of the world.

This book deserves 8.5/10 for action

The Forest of Silence (Deltora Quest)

By Emily Rodda
Reviewed by Mandeep S, of year 8

This is the first book of the Deltora Quest series. This is about the history of Deltora the country. A 16 year old boy is about to go on a perilous adventure to save Deltora from the evil shadowlord who has taken over lots of countries and is after Deltora. He can’t get to Deltora and unleash his magic because of a certain belt called the belt of Deltora holding seven gleaming gems.

When Lief finds out that he has to go on a perilous journey to recover the gems for the belt of Deltora on his sixteenth birthday he is surprised. The very day he learnt he was the only one who could save Deltora because he had the belt he left town very to go on this adventure. Leif did not go alone he went with a disguised beggar.

I rate this book 8/10

Naruto Series

by Masashi Kishimoto

Reviewed by Year 9 student

These books are all about a boy named Naruto. His parents die when he is born and he is an orphan. During his birth there is a great disaster in his village. A nine-tailed fox attacks the village

The basics is that there are a few villages in their world. They are the village hidden in the leaf, the village hidden in the mist, the village hidden in the sand, the village in the sound, the village of the rain, and the village of the grass. This is all about fighting and they use special energy known as chakra which can be replenished with some rest.

A nine-tailed fox is a beast that is very dangerous and will destroy anything in his path. The fox is too powerful for the people who live in the village hidden in the leaf. All of the holkagas, the leaders of the villages, decide to seal the fox instead of destroying it so they seal it in the body of the boy named Naruto.

His life begins from that point on. Many people from the village stay away from him and avoid him. They start to think that he is strange. Naruto grows up to be a trouble-seeking boy for attention and his dream is to become the villages Holkaga so that everyone acknowledges him and respects him.

He has to pass through many hurdles to get to his dream and he does it with a little help from his teachers and his team mates Suskae and Sakura.

Read the series.

The X- MAN School

By Michael Teitelbaum
Reviewed By Gurke, James, Majok and Laiven.

The X-MAN School is a great and very exciting book. It has some weird things and people. They do amazing things like flying, becoming invisible and are very strong, They can shoot ice and lasers, create storms and many more things. The most exciting thing about the book is the wonder and advantage.

Eldest

by Christopher Paolini

Reviewed by Shubham S. of Year 10

Eragon and his blazing blue dragon Saphira after saving the Verdana from the mighty forces of King Galbatorix, must now travel to Ellesméra, the land of elves, for further training in magic and swordsmanship, the vital skills of a dragon rider.

The story continues as Paolini recounts the chronicles of Roran and Eragon simultaneously. We see Roran return to Carvahall and find his house ruined and his father dead. Roran finds himself betrayed by his own cousin Eragon, when the neighbouring villagers inform Roran about Eragon’s departure.

Will Roran take sides with Galbatorix? Will Eragon find himself betrayed by his own cousin Roran? Will Eragon be able to train further in Ellesméra? What is Galbatorix doing to get rid of Eragon? What happens to Murtagh? Will Arya fall in love with Eragon? To find out more and the answers to these questions, do not miss this compelling, and action-filled adventure.

Rating: 7.5/10

Running Man

by Michael Gerard Bauer

Reviewed by Rex T. of Year 10

The Running Man by Michael Bauer is the first novel that he has written. The Running Man is about a boy named Joseph Davidson, who is a quiet, self-conscious fourteen year old with a talent for art. His life starts to change when his neighbour Caroline asks to draw a portrait of his brother Tom. But there has been bad rumours and gossip about Tom, so Joseph goes in with suspicion.

When Joseph finally meets his mysterious neighbour he finds a cold, brooding man lost deep within his own “cocoon” of silence. He soon realises that in order to truly draw Tom Leyton out, he must find the courage to unlock the man’s dark and perhaps dangerous secrets.

The running man is a story on how we perceive others, the judgements we make about them, how we cope with tragedy, the nature of war, change, the healing power of love, and the nature of miracles.

I rate it 9/10

In the deep end

by Michael Panckridge

Reviewed by Siddharth B.

“In the Deep End” is the second book of the Clued-up six. Earlier I wrote a review on the first Clued-up six book “Faster than Lightning” and this is the second book.

“In the Deep End” is a great book for kids around the ages of 10-13. It is about the girls this time. First, Gabby, who is one of the most talented swimmers in the state, who is always beaten by a girl named Andrea Taylor. Second, Hannah, the brightest kid in Teasdale Secondary School misses out on the national "Whatever, Wherever" competition when she looses to her classmate Dave Kelly.

Neither Andrea nor Dave have beaten the girls in respective competitions, but know they just can’t stop. What is going on in the rural town of Teasdale? Just healthy competition or something far worse? You will have to read the book to find out.

Rating: 8.5/10.

The Tomorrow series: When the war began (book 1)

By: John Marsden

reviewed by Yr 9 student

Remember those stories of war veterans in history where they explain their version of a war that they have experienced themselves. Well this book isn’t much different, it’s about 6 friends aged 15-17 who experience a war themselves. After having a holiday in the summer time as a group, going to a place well known by the locals as Hell. After coming back from their summer holiday they discover that a terrible thing has happened in ‘Wirrawe’ (the community they live in), invaders have come and are holding the Wirrawe community as hostages. After thousands of bullets, hundreds of torpedoes and countless lives, can they save Wirrawe, or even more important... themselves.

I give this series 9/10

Ghosts and poltergeists

Illustrated by Terry Riley

Reviewed by RHYS Yr 7

Lord Duffrin saw something when he was going to bed - a person was walking and dragging a coffin with him. Later Lord Duffrin was at a party and saw the man again. No one can see the man but him; very scary!

The haunted house at Amityville


There was a family that was murdered by the father. Then another family moved in to their house and they started seeing things. Strange happenings were occurring. Another scary story!

The Lion, the Witch

by CS Lewis
Reviewed by Riak Yr 7

The lion, the witch and the wardrobe
is a very interesting book to read. It has many chapters. The best part of the book is when Aslan gets killed and then he comes back again and gets his
revenge.

Faster Than Lightning

by Michael Panckridge

Reviewed by Siddharth B. of Year 7

Faster than Lightning is a thrilling book about adventure and horses. It is a great book for people who have an interest in horses. This book is the first of six books by Michael Panckridge and Pam Harvey. The second book “Top of the class” has just been released. This book is about a twelve year old boy by the name of Angus who loves horses. His father is a dedicated horse trainer.

After an odd incident at the track, Angus, with the help of his best friends Hannah, Gabby, E.D. and Ling discover weird things at the stud farm. When a horse, Lightning Strikes, appears to be the exact copy of a dead horse, Gale Force, Angus and his friends know something is not right.
Is this horse apart of a breeding program or something much worse?
You must read the book to find out.

I give this book 9/10.

Everything to live for : a story from Northern Ireland

by Stewart Ross
Reviewed by Daniel C. of Year 10

In war it is the innocent that suffer, everything to live for is part of the survivors books which tell the story of war from the eyes of the children. Everything to live for is about Lizze McCallum a thirteen year old protestant living in Northern Ireland during a conflict between the Catholics and the “prods”. The story tells of how her religion has caused her to be a second class citizen within her country because she was protestant the Catholics hated her and she didn’t know why.

Her life is turned upside down by an explosion on the main street and from there the story develops. She then questions her views. The story is not just about war, it is a story of how one event can change a person’s perspective on life and how with one event we can see if we really have everything to live for.

This book is an interesting read and gives insight into the Northern Ireland conflict. I give it a 7 ½ out of 10 and urge any one who comes by this book to read it - you will not regret it.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

By J.K. Rowling

Reviewed by Marlo B. of Year 7.

The sixth installment of the Harry Potter series does not disappoint; quite the contrary. Although it’s the sixth book to come from J.K. Rowling’s great, imaginative mind, its brilliance has not been wearied.

The mystery behind the Dark Lord’s past begins to unravel, deep pain and sorrow envelope people’s hearts, and a new mystery all together. Who is the Half-Blood Prince?Snape finally gets his most wanted post, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. New potions teacher Professor Slughorn makes a first appearance to the series, an old friend of Dumbledore’s who knows more than he lets off. Harry finds a book which belonged to the “Half-Blood Prince” and helps him breeze through his potions classes, and is commended by Professor Slughorn for his “brilliance” in potions. As well as this, some very sad, sorrowful and unforgettable events take place.

The book has very dark events happening, but it just adds to the thrill of the Harry Potter finale, which is the seventh installment, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. If you are a Harry Potter fan this is a must read book.

Don’t wait for the movie, the book gives a far better image of what is happening than a movie, as J.K. Rowling does a great job with the text. If you like magic, adventure and action, this book is for you! Rating 9/10

The Day After Tomorrow

By Whitley Striber

Reviewed by Hayden C. of Year 8

The day after tomorrow is a very exciting novel. It is about the movie version but ten times better. In case you have never seen the movie it is about when the world’s climate goes haywire. It is a book that has a very good storyline. It has tidal waves, hurricanes, people dying and the best bit is when everything starts to freeze.

The book is very relevant to today’s world of no one listening to the scientists about climate change until something goes horrible wrong. You should read this book .

McKenzies Boots

By Michael Noonan
Reviewed by James G. of Year 9

Don’t you just get annoyed about being forced to read a novel for English class? What is more annoying is that after you explain to your friends how boring the book is, you discover it is actually quite a good book.

McKenzie’s Boots is the inspirational story of a young man named Rod who was drawn to the action and adventure of the New Guinea Campaign. There was one problem with Rod’s war career, he was four years under the legal age requirement. Rod was only 14 years old, going into war for two reasons; to witness the finest war ships, and for his childhood crush, Brenda King.

Going into war isn’t a walk in the park, especially when you are going into battle trying to protect your true identity. During his war career, Rod encountered many obstacles, including encountering with his former teacher and confrontation with his fellow soldiers about being the right age.

Through the story, Rod encounters a Japanese soldier while he was out catching butterflies. The platoon leader hears about this and sets up a plan to capture a young Japanese man for interrogation, sending him back to Sydney accompanied by Rod who was chosen to lead the Jap safely.

After his short, enjoyable leave, which included a kiss by his crush Brenda King, Rod returns to New Guinea, receiving a medal of bravery and a higher rank.

Later on in the book, after obtaining a new pair of giant boots, Rod gets shot twice while killing the Japanese Commander with his bayonet, a true act of bravery. Rod gets buried, and it is revealed later on in the story that he is not only admired by his fellow soldiers, but also by the enemy.

I recommend this book for anybody who enjoys a good inspirational story, I give this book a 9 out of 10.

Sacrifice

by Eric Shanower

Reviewed by Daniel M. of Year 9

Sacrifice is the chilling story of the historical Trojan War. A battle between Greece, led by the ruthless leader Agamemnon, and Troy, the supposed invincible race of the time.
A young Spartan woman falls in love with Troy’s young but foolish prince, Paris, and leaves Sparta to join the prince in her new home. But unknowingly, death and war soon becomes the very thing that corrupts each of the city’s people with the help of Agamemnon, who so desperately thrives to end the Trojan race and take over the great city.

Sacrifice is a thrilling, twisted and action packed novel which will hook you till the last page.

Golf legends

by Felice Arena

Reviewed by Brandon W.

Year 7

Golf legends is about two boys, Billy and Sam who have been watching golf on TV. They get bored and decide to play golf in the local park but they have no clubs. Billy’s father walks in, throws his clubs and walks off. Billy said, "Let's use my dad’s clubs".

When they get down to the park they bet on who could hit the furthest but they both did no good. Then they tried to hit over the pond but they landed in the pond and lost all the balls. They have to go for a swim in the pond to get the lost golfballs.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

By J.K. Rowling
Reviewed by Diab K of year 10

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows alas, has been put on the bookshelf. Fans all around the world will be pleased to hear that closure may now be brought upon those who read the 7th and final chapter of Harry’s life.

Harry embarks on a journey to sought out the horrid horcruxes in which Voldemort has divided his soul into. Without the Horcruxes, the dark lord will no longer be invincible and will be vulnerable towards all who seek to kill him. Or will he? Secrets about a so called “Elder Wand” will be told. Why did Snape betray Albus Dumbledore and kill him?

Harry has no guidance without Dumbledore and is confused about who to trust. Will he be able to survive with the horrific death eaters on their way to capture him? Where will he hide? How will Harry avenge his parents death?

J.K. Rowling goes in fine detail describing the dramas and troubles faced by Harry, Ron and Hermione as they fight for their lives. Many main characters will be sent off in the arms of death.

The last and final book will see you on the edge of your chair. All will be will revealed as J.K Rowling ends the Tale of Harry Potter.


Reviewed by Brendon D. of Year 9.

At last, the seventh and final book has arrived.

Harry potter and the Deathly Hallows is based on Harry’s seventh year of knowing he’s a wizard, the toughest time of his life.

Voldemort, in his reigning years, split his soul into seven (known as Horcruxes), so that he would be able to come back to life if ever it was taken from him. He hid these in places sacred to him, places he had felt comfort, strongholds that he knew of.

After the sudden death of Albus Dumbledore, Harry is left with a deathly and dangerous task of finding and destroying the seven horcruxes of Voldemort. He is unsure of where to go and what to do. He doesn’t know who to trust.

With this new task in mind, Harry and best friends Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger, decide they will not attend Hogwarts: school of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but instead, embark on a journey to destroy Voldemort.

There are new spells to be learnt, and new dangers to face. Secrets to be found and stories to be told. Who is the mysterious R.A.B, and why is Dumbledore dead. For all the answers to these questions and more read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

“All will be revealed”, J.K.Rowling.

Catcher in the Rye

By J.D Salinger
Reviewed by John C . of Year 10

At first when I started reading it I started to think to myself “what another boring book to read.” I didn’t want to read it but in the end I had to.

When I was reading through briefly (turning to any page and reading) I started to like it. So I went to the first page and read.

The first chapter I can see myself as Holden when he was failing his subjects because this year I was failing some of my subjects and all I could do was confront them teachers.

The funny part in this book is when Maurice the elevator operator punched Holden and when Sunny the prostitute stole his 5 dollars.

The part I felt that touched me and almost made me cry was when Holden was watching his sister, Phoebe, riding on the carousal in the rain.

I didn’t really like how Holden gets jealous of Stradlater taking out Jane, who is Holden’s Ex on a date and when they came back, Holden asking all these questions to Stradlater then picking a fight with him.

I would recommend this book to yr 11-adults because they would understand this book more than anyone because they may or may not have been in the situation where Holden is in.

The best place to read this book is in a library or a place where you can think about the book.

I would give this book 3 stars out of 5 because the book caught my attention at the start, reminding me as Holden.

Girl Underground

by Morris Gleitzman

Reviewed by Vishal B. of Year 8


Girl Underground is a very fascinating book that continues from Boy Overboard. It is about a girl whose family are smugglers and the girl's parents want her to have a better life and education than they did because her older brother is in jail and there scared it will happen to them. So they send her to a very expensive boarding school where she makes friends with the minister's son, who has a pen friend in a refugee detention centre. So they both try to get him out of the detention centre.

I enjoyed this book very much because it had entertainment and it was adventurous.
I would give this book a rating of 8 out of 10

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

by J. K. Rowling

Reviewed by Manpreet S. of Year 7

This book is so awesome I couldn’t stop reading until I had finished. In this book Harry Potter
starts his 5th year at Hogwarts. The order consists of Mad Eye Moody, Tonks, The Weaselys,
Snape, Lupin, Black and Dumbeldore.

In this book Harry tries to learn Occluemery. Harry Potter encounters Lord Voldermort at the end of the book but unfortunately Lord Voldermort escapes, because the order arrived and Dumbeldore duelled Lord Voldermort. In this book Black dies but leaves Harry a small mirror.

I rate this book 8 out of 10

Shrek : the essential guide

by Stephen Cole

Reviewed by John T. of Year 8

This book that I have read was a really enjoyable book to read because how the author wrote the book. Because the book was about a young ogre who had no friends or no relatives just him and his home. Then one day he went out into the woods and met a donkey named donkey. Through their adventures the best part was the saving of the princess in the tower. It was an exciting book to read and it was a very imaginary book and I hope the next book comes out soon.

Holes

By Louis Sachar

Reviewed by Ben C. of Year 7

Holes is a great adventurous book that has alot of nail biting situations.

The main character Stanley Yelnats is a very unlucky person due to his great, great, great grandfather. He was supposed to carry an old lady up to a stream which would provide any person who drank from it a life of good health. But he moved to America. So the Yelnats family was cursed.

Stanley was walking along and a famous pair of stolen shoes fell from the sky and into poor Stanley's hands. Stan started to run because he thought he was lucky until the police caught him. He was trialled and was guilty. He had a choice to go to juvy or Camp Green Lake. He chose the camp. But it was no ordinary camp. It was a hot desert. Stan and other criminal boys were to dig deep holes.

Stan makes friends and gets betrayed. One camper escapes and Stan takes a gruelling challenge to look for him.

You'll have to read the book to find out what happens!

Rating: 9 and a half out of 10

Reviewed by Rohith of Year 7

Holes is a funny, adventurous and nail biting tale. Stanley Yelnats has bad luck all the time because of the family curse. Soon he gets arrested and has a choice of going to jail or camp. Soon he is on his way to camp. When ge gets there he is sent to D tent. Every day they have to dig a hole five feet deep and five feet wide. By digging the holes can Stanley and his team break the curse.

I would recommend this book to little kids all the way to adults. It is the best book you can read. You would be reading this book over and over again.

Reviewed by Adrian L. if Year 7

8 star rating

Holes was a big seller because the book was interesting. It kept you at the edge of your seat. This book was great, it had an amazing storyline as it was about a boy named Stanley Yelnats who got caught stealing shoes. But he was actually innocent, as you find out, as he just picked up the shoes from the ground and was harshly punished and eventually got sent to a camp called Camp Green Lake, which is where you had to dig holes all day.

Stanley was bullied by his so called mates such as Armpit, and then got the nickname Caveman. He then made a friend called Zero and taught him to read. Zero ran away from the camp and Stanley followed a few days later. Eventually they found a food source and survived, but then returned to find some treasure. Stanley’s lawyer proved him innocent and as well as Zero.

Stanley’s parents opened a new Camp Green Lake which was not a punishment camp but a luxurious camp. I recommend you read this book.

Journey Through Space

by Tim Furniss
Reviewed by Nathan S. of Year 7


I really enjoyed this book because it has a lot of information about space and the universe and it has some great pictures on other planets that you cannot see like Pluto. It even has heaps of information on the big bang, Comets Meteors even Supernovas. It also shows pictures of our galaxy with hundreds more in the background. That’s why I enjoyed this book.

The Book Of Lies

by James Moloney


Reviewed by Joshua M. of Year 8



This is an incredibly complex and mysterious mixture of adventure, children and magic. Marcel is quite young when a “wizard” brings him to Mrs. Timmins’ Home for Orphans & Foundlings. The wizard uses the mysterious Book of Lies to replace his memories with “safer” ones. As the orphans grow up they learn to fear the beast in the wizards’ tower at the Home and this eventually forces Marcel to escape into a much more sinister world filled with greed, betrayal and the Book of Lies.

Remote Man

By Elizabeth Honey

Reviewed by Valery B. of Year 7

I enjoyed this book because it has got humour and a great description of the character. In this book Ned and Kate have a remote to travel back in time. They go on many adventures.

People who like mysteries and love to travel back in time - this is the book to get.

I rate this book 9/10

A Taste of HP7

Mark of the Crown

by Jude Watson

Reviewed by Mark K. of Year 7

I think the book The Mark of the Crown from the Star Wars Jedi Apprentice Series is a very adventurous book. It is about a boy who poisons his mother so that he can take the throne of the planet.

Look for it in the library.

Operation Red Jericho

by Joshua Mowll

Reviewed by Tirth P. of Year 7

This book is about Rebecca and Doug who set out to find their parents. The parents have been lost for a few years.

I would recommend this book to anybody who likes adventure and a little mystery.

I rate this book 9 out of 10.

The Siege of Macindaw

by John Flanagan

Reviewed by Luis G. of Year 9

John Flanagan's book six of the Rangers Apprentice Series "The Siege of Macindaw" keeps the magic of the first five books alive.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventure in a medieval sense. It also has a touch of humour. I give it 8 out of 10.

Boots and All

by Sherryl Clark

Reviewed by Adrian F. of Year 7

Boots and all is about a boy who loves art, but his father wants him to play Aussie Rules. The boy is not keen to play. What happens? Read the book and find out what happens.

Night Raid

by H. Larry

Reviewed by Damian F. of Year 7

This book is all about a boy named "Zac Power". When he hangs out with his friends he's an ordinary boy. But, when there's a mission he's a Secret Agent. He works for an Agency called "GIB". And in this book Zac stops his enemy "BIG" (another company, but evil).

He has a lot of gadgets to take on his mission. Read it and you will find out what Zac does to defeat BIG.

I give it 9 out of 10.

Tony Hawk : professional skateboarder

by Tony Hawk

Reviewed by Adrian F. of Year 7

This book is really cool because Tony writes about his life from when he was first born until now. He tells you about the tricks he invented and what he does on and off the skateboard.

This is a great book that you will love to read.

Teenage Authors

It is pretty amazing that Christopher Paolini wrote Eragon when he was only 15, but most authors begin writing early, even if they aren't published until much later, usually. Successful Australian authors who started writing as teenagers include Isobelle Carmody (Obernewtyn Chronicles) and Sonya Hartnett (Trouble All The Way), and more recently Jack Heath (The Lab). For a list of other teen authors check out this list : Great Books Written by Teens

I know there are some budding authors at Patrician Brothers, so here are some links you might enjoy:
Author, Jenni Mawter, has suggestions for places to publish for teen authors.
Or check out 10 Things Teenage Writers Should Know About Writing From John Scalzi's Whatever blog. Harsh but probably true.

Keep on reading and writing!

Photo: My writing is my writing is my writing by Esther G

Maxx Rumble Cricket and AFL Series

by Michael Wagner

Reviewed by Matthew U. of Year 7

Maxx Rumble is a boy who plays cricket and AFL. Both sports have one series each with crazy problems like big bugs attacking Maxx's batters and bowlers, the opposite team cheating or sumo sized batters or ruckman.

He is the captain of both sports and he often gets hurt. But then he still goes out on the pitch or field in either bandages or in a wheelchair. He mostly saves the team from certain defeat.

Both series are thrilling, exciting and the pictures from Terry Denton are great. People who love their sports will love these books.

Find out more about the author and his books here.

Never Say Die

by Steve Waugh

Reviewed by Luke C. of Year 7

I liked this book because it is insightful about cricket. It shows a great deal of difficulty to do what Steve Waugh has done. Even when he is at a low in his career he can still come up with the goods in one of the most spectacular innings ever.

This is what his book is about, never giving up even if you are already losing the battle. In his book he tells you of a remarkable innings he had when everything was against him.

This is a great book for all sports lovers to read even if they don't like cricket. I am not much of a cricketer but reading this book inspired me to be a better sportsman.

Sir Thursday

by Garth Nix

Reviewed by Tommo of Year 7

Another instant classic by Garth Nix. It is the 4th book in the Keys to the Kingdom Series..It comes in after Arthur has defeated Drowned Wednesday and is going home when ........ A great book for 10-16 year olds. A must read - 10/10

....

Other posts about Garth Nix on Book Bites:

Mister Monday, The Wand in the Word: Conversations with Writers of Fantasy

Artemis Fowl

By Eoin Colfer

Reviewed by Matthew C. of Year 7

Artemis Fowl is a 12 year old criminal mastermind. The Fowl generation goes back thousands of years and Artemis is the next in line. He is looking to restoring the family fortune which his father threw into jeapordy.

Artemis Fowl senior decided to further their fortune by going to Russia but the Mafia blew up his boat. So Artemis thinks up a brilliant plan, to capture a fairy and get their ransom fund. But there is one problem, these fairies aren't of bedtime stories. These fairies are armed and dangerous. Artemis has no idea what he's done when he captures Holly Short of the leprecon force. The fairies are nice at first but that's when they break the rules.

I recommend this book for people who like adventure stories and have a vidid imagination. I would rate this book 10/10. There are also 4 other books in the series.

...

Visit the Official Artemis Fowl Website.

Eragon

by Christopher Paolini

Reviewed by Nick M. of Year 7

Eragon is a great book full of excitement and wonder. It combines many different genres including Adventure and Mystery. It has been enjoyed by many children and students from 9-20 years of age. I recommend this book to all readers because I thought it was very imaginative and full of fantasy.

Reviewed by Dominic C. of Year 6

Eragon is a small farm boy who is very poor. He does not live with his mother or father, he lives with his uncle and cousin. His uncle is killed by the Ra'zac, who are looking for Eragon because he finds a dragon, which hatches, and he names the dragon Saphira. Brom, who was a Dragon Rider as well, befriends Eragon. They travel away from the village of Pancular, to escape from the pursuing Ra'zac. They are captured several times during their journey and adventures and later Eragon is joined by the mysterious Mustfang. The adventure continues as they seek the Varden and the security of their numbers and mysterious hiding place.

I found the book to be highly interesting as it is full of adventure.

Find out more about Eragon.

Fullmetal Alchemist

by Hiromu Arakawa

Reviewed by Gian of Year 7

The Fullmetal Alchemist series is a very good book to read if you are a fan of Japanese anime. The main characters Edward and Alphonse Elric are alchemists on a mission to regain their original bodies after losing them in an alchemy spell gone wrong. The result was to Edward the loss of his arm and leg but to Alphonse the loss of his entire body. It really gets you interested with mysteries and new characters.

The introductions of new characters and action encourages the reader to keep on reading. The way the book blends adventure, action and fantasy makes this book a must read book. Even if your not a big fan of Japanese anime this book will bring you back wanting some more!

Shadowgate

by Emily Rodda

Reviewed by Tim J. of Year 7

Deltora Quest Shadowgate is a story about four evil creations called the four sisters and to save the dragon race of Del. Lief, Barda, and Jasmine are on an everlasting quest to destroy these demons, free the land of this evil and unleash the last of the dragon race which was almost wiped out by the aka ba. They are now up to number three and with it bring even more mystical evil challenges, with even more of the shadow lord and Dragons.

This is the second last book of a four read series. It is a great read for everyone, boys and girls, from 10 years up. It can be spooky or heroic.

The Final Lap

by Michael Panckridge

Reviewed by Cammo of Year 7

It is the last event of the Sandhurst Legends Series and the statistics in it are very close. In the boys section, Mitchell Grady, new to the school, is challenging the boy’s legend of sport last year, Travis Fisk, also a bully.

Meanwhile, in the girl’s legend, Luci Rankin is leading best friend Rebecca Tan, and Mia Tompkins, reigning legend of sport. Whoever wins the legend of swimming in both sections will win the legend of sport trophy.

The competitors mount the blocks. The starting gun sounds. Who will be in front in the final lap?

This is a good book for people who like sport. If you want to read more on the legends series, look for these titles: Chasing the break, Against the spin, Down the line, Clearing the pack, Over the wall, On the buzzer, and Raising the bar.

Ptolemy's Gate

By Jonathon Stroud

Reviewed By Cain D. of Year 7

Ptolemy’s gate is about a man who has control over several djinn (wizard like ghosts who can change shape and are not genies) and is the head of international affairs office in the wizard government in England. One particular djinni named Bartimaeus (bar-tee-may-us) who has been his slave/friend for several years. The main plot of the story is about a powerful magician who is experimenting on people by trying to force djinn into people’s souls. The powerful magician is mentioned in the book several times and is who you would least expect.

I advise reading the two previous books called the Golems Eye and the Amulet of Samarkand.I give this book 8 out of ten.

World Cup Fever

By Bob Cattell

Reviewed by Siddharth B. of Year 7

Glory Gardens Cricket Club cannot resist a challenge and this time they’re going to try to win the Under 13s cricket world cup competition!With teams from the West Indies and South Africa visiting England, it’s a brilliant time to show the world that Glory gardens is the best junior club in the world. It’s not long before the thrills and spills of cricket spark off temper tantrums, severe injuries and practical jokes. So, as Australia does battle with the West Indies and South Africa face India/Pakistan, can Glory Gardens rise to the top and bring glory to England?

Bob Cattell, the author of the great Glory Gardens series is an English-born man who lives in Ireland he is a mad cricket fan and has written number of books on cricket.

I rate this book and the Glory Gardens series 10/10.

Shaedow Master

by Justin D'Ath

Reviewed by Brendon D of Year 9

In the heart of the land of Folavia lies a mysterious lake. Many years ago the lake was inhabited by the most magical species, the Dalfen. These wonderful creatures lived in peace and harmony with the humans, keeping the land fertile and green.

Slowly and mysteriously, the Dalfen started to die out. The lake turned to quickwater and the land was helpless.

No person living today was able to survive this lake, except one, Ora Beliarius. Now Ora must confront the King's terrible secret and discover the truth of the Shaedow Master before her world is torn apart.

This book was one of the most amazing I have ever read. It was an extremely good fantasy and it was very gripping. There were many strange and wonderful characters within this book. For fantasy lovers this is one book that you must read. I found that it had the best storyline as there were many twists and turns.

Justin D"Ath mainly writes for teenagers and young adults. He has written many other books such as the incredible Hunters and Warriors.

This book deserves a 10.

Visit Justin D'Ath on the web.

Cornelia Funke

Dominic from Year 6 goes to Walters Road Public School and is the brother of Hayden in Year 8. He has recently read two books by Cornelia Funke and has two different opinions about them:

'Dragon Rider'
I liked this book because it is about a dragon called FIREDRAKE who is on a quest to find the Rim of Heavens, and the humans who are planning to flood the valley. So Firedrake and Sorrel, a brownie, set off. Along the way they find a small friendly boy named Ben and a professor and his wife, Mrs. Greenbloom; Twigleg, a homuncles and Gravelbeard. They also made a powerful enemy by the name of Nettlebrand.

I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an adventure!

'Inkheart'

The story base line is that Silvertongue is hiding a book called Inkheart. It is the only copy in the world. But of course there is someone who betrays Silvertongue. Morris has a daughter named Meggie. She meets a friend named Dustfinger. On the way they meet an awful and powerful enemy named Capercion.

The book did not turn out how I wanted it to turn out. It wasn't as good as Dragon Rider. I didn't like this particular book because it wasn't as adventurous as it sounded on the blurb.

Read a review of Dragon Rider written by Luke last year when he was in Year 8 here.

Watch a video interview with Cornelia Funke here.

AGREE OR DISAGREE? GIVE YOUR OPINION BY CLICKING ON COMMENTS BELOW.

Keeping up with the challenge

As you can see from our statistics at the top of the side bar (eyes left!) the PBB Readers' Challenge has really taken off. Further down you can read the list of books read so far. After only one week we have already nearly fifty entrants and about the same number of dollars. By letting people record books read since 1st February we thought we would give encouragement as some people might have a book to put down already. This was an underestimation in some cases, with several boys recording 10 books already, and more. To keep everyone recording those books we have an extra page of 25 lines on the back of the reading record. So keep on reading!

HELP WANTED - URGENTLY! Your ideas for improving Book Bites, including YOUR book reviews. If you have read any of the books listed so far why not write a short piece about it and send to us via the email address in the Book Bites header, or by clicking on COMMENT below.

A Getting of Wisdom

This is the title of a Sydney Morning Herald article featuring the words of Craig Ashby from Walgett in the far north west of NSW who successfully completed his first year at Sydney University last year. The surprising part of this story is that at 15, just four years ago, Craig could barely read or write. Getting a scholarship to St. Joseph's College, Hunters Hill was a turning point but the full story is worth reading. He tells it best. Here is a sample:

Even though I could not read or write when I went to Joey's, not once did any kid ever give me a hard time about it or call me dumb, and I got on pretty well with everyone. Maybe they were scared, or maybe they understood me, but whatever it was nobody ever had a go at me about it.

So my confidence kept growing and growing, and the more it grew, the better I started doing. My literacy skills improved rapidly and by the end of year 9 at Joey's I could read and write....

My years at St Joseph's changed my life. It turned me around as a person, made me proud to be an indigenous boy, and showed me that I can take my place in the world and the possibilities that are out there for me to work for my country, nation and people.

Strong Starters!

There has been a great burst of enthusiasm in the last couple of days for the Readers' Challenge and here are the statistics:

Registered readers: 25
Books recorded: 57
Number of entry donations received: 5
Money donated so far: $12
Highest single donation: $5

This is a great start! So register, get reading and don't forget to bring in your donation for the Fred Hollows Foundation.

FableVision artwork in this post copyright by Peter Reynolds/ FableVision

Readers' Challenge Begins

We started registering people for the Challenge today and so far have seven, and four who have finished books already. The books read so far are listed in the sidebar and linked to more information for the curious. Some boys started out with easy books and found out they are quicker readers than they thought. Time for a challenge!

You can record books read from 1st February (including class novels of course).

No entry money has been received yet, but we will tally this as well on the sidebar.

Featured author for today:

Felice Arena is the best-selling author of many popular and award-winning children's books. These include the Specky Magee series (co-written with AFL legend Garry Lyon), Wish, Dolphin Boy Blue, Breakaway John, Mission Buffalo, Bravo Billy and the Boyz Rule and Girlz Rock series (co-written and created with Phil Kettle).

Why Felice loves reading…

Reading for me is like organised daydreaming. It puts me instantly into another world where I can feel and experience something new.
That's why I love it!

From Victorian Premier's Reading Ambassador Page

PBB Readers' Challenge

For the past three years students and staff of Patrician Brothers College have supported first the Riverbend Readers' Challenge (2004) and then the Australian Readers' Challenge, as it became in 2005 and 2006. Although our contribution to the fundraising efforts of The Fred Hollows Foundation and Ian Thorpe's Fountain for Youth has been modest, the combined result was excellent and we helped to raise almost $80,000 for indigenous literacy projects in 2006. A few of our boys attended the certificate ceremony last year where they met NSW Governor Professor Marie Bashir.

This year the Australian Readers' Challenge is not running, but we are going to keep the momentum going with the Patrician Brothers' Blacktown Readers' Challenge for members of our own community.

Keep watching this space for more information!

Eragon, The Movie

Well, the reviewer from the Sun Herald wasn't very impressed:

ERAGON (M) First-rate dragon special effects don’t redeem lumpy plotting in this earnest version of the best-selling fantasy. For teens only. Rated 6/10

Do you think adding "for teens only" after such a bad review is an insult?

In spite of the critics, and they include many disappointed fans of the book, the movie seems to have done okay at the box office, both in Australia (four weeks in top ten) and USA (three weeks in top ten).

• What did you think of the movie?
  
• Could you judge it separately from the book?
  
• Do you have a reply for the Sun Herald reviewer?
  

If you are a mad fan of Christopher Paolini's books then take a look at Shur'tugal, a very impressive fan site created and maintained by a bunch of teenagers located all around America and in a few other countries as well. They do have a couple of older members on the crew (an artist for instance) but they have really done some great work through their love of Eragon and Eldest. The webmaster, like Christopher Paolini, is a home schooler.

We could also do with a book review or two of Eragon and Eldest. Any volunteers? What about you, PP, currently hogging my copy of Eldest?

Swallow the Air

by Tara June Winch

Tara June Winch is a talented young indigenous writer who won the David Unaipon Award with this story of a young girl on a journey of self discovery. May gradually works out where she really needs to go, only to discover different, harder truths than she had imagined. The triumph of this story is that May does make the journey and eventually comes home.

Not a children’s story, nor suited to the fainthearted reader for its sometimes confronting content, this book is a poetic piece which demands something of the reader and displays the talent of this promising author.

Find out more about Swallow the Air and Tara June Winch.