KIDS’ BOOK REVIEWS
“The Old Willis Place: A Ghost Story” Mary Downing Hahn
Twelve-year-old Diana Eldridge and her brother, Georgie, are living in the forest next to the old Willis place. A new caretaker and his daughter Lissa come to tend to this ancient manor. Diana longs to be friends with Lissa. Just as Diana starts to become her friend, things happen and friendships become strained.
What happened? Does the answer relate to the old Willis place? All of these questions will be answered when you read the book. Reviewed by Carina, 11 Centralia Elementary, Anaheim “Spilling Ink: A Young Writer’s Handbook” Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter
This is a handbook to help kids write books. It features the opinions of two really good authors. I highly recommend this book. It helps you at any point in the writing process, including what to do when you hit writer’s block.
Do you want to be an amazing writer? Then read this book. Reviewed by Ziven, 10 Monterey Hills Elementary, South Pasadena “Pirates Past Noon” (Magic Tree House #4) Mary Pope Osborne
The Magic Tree House whisks Annie and Jack away, and they are horrified when they see a big pirate ship coming toward them. They try to get back to the tree, but it is too late. The pirates catch them. They tell them to …
Read the story to find out what happens next. Reviewed by Devin, 8 Trabuco Mesa Elementary, Rancho Santa Margarita “The Day Eddie Met the Author” Louise Borden
It is Tuesday October 10th, and today is an exciting day. Eddie’s class is going to meet an author. They write questions to the author. The assembly begins. Everybody gets to ask his or her questions except Eddie. Read the book to find out if he manages to get his question answered. Reviewed by Milena, 8 Glenoaks Elementary, Glendale “Stormbreaker” Anthony Horowitz
Fourteen-year-old Alex Rider’s uncle Ian was a specially trained secret agent. When he is killed, Alex is informed that he has to complete his uncle’s unfinished mission.
There is a lot of action, adventure and mystery. The plot is really interesting and full of unpredictable twists. This is one of the best books I have ever read. Reviewed by Sebastian, 10 Third Street Elementary, Los Angeles