Teen Book Reviews – RPL

Reviews of Recent Reads

Airman (Eoin Colfer) January 24, 2008

Filed under: Fantasy, High School, Middle School, adventure, teen — afangster @ 11:41 pm
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AirmanConor Broekhart was born in the air, so it is no surprise the his destiny lies in the sky. “Airman” is a swashbuckling adventure with a sword fighting, evil treachery, and epic heroism. Our young hero, Conor, is raised on the small island kingdom of Saltee, where his bravery earns him a fine education of the mind and body. When Conor’s beloved friend and tutor is murdered and framed for the king’s assassination, Conor is caught up in the conspiracy and transported to the nearby prison island. There he spends three years finding a way to fly free from his prison. But will escape be enough? His family’s fate on Saltee rests with a traitor and his young love is in the sights of the assassin. Will Conor find the will and a way to clear his name and save day?

The audio edition of “Airman”, read by John Keating, is enthralling. His accents and characterizations bring a wonderful dimension to each character. Keating’s reading, together with Colfer’s expert storytelling is a truly enjoyable way to spend 11 hours and 25 minutes.

Recommended for 11 and up.

 

The Five Ancestors #1: Tiger (Jeff Stone) January 8, 2008

Filed under: High School, Middle School, adventure — afangster @ 5:50 pm
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TigerThe first of a series of five books, Tiger introduces 5 young monks, brothers by association, all orphans adopted by warrior Buddhists in 17th century China. When their monastery and the grand master killed by a former monk, the five brothers manage escape, but are separated in the confusion. Each brother is named for the fighting style he exemplifies and this story follows Fu – the Tiger.

The largest and strongest of the brothers, Fu is determined to recover the dragon scrolls Ying, the former monk, has stolen from the hidden temple. He soon discovers that brawn is not always the answer, and the success in his quest requires patience, wisdom and teamwork. Along the way, captured by Ying’s men, only to be set free with reluctant help from some local villagers and a surprise visit from two of his brothers.

Readers will enjoy watching Fu’s character learn and grow from his blunders and mistakes. Packed with action scenes, martial fans will love the vivid descriptions of battles, tricky maneuvers and fighting styles.

Recommended for 11+