Skeleton Creek

Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
We are going to try to have Patrick Carman, the author of this book, pay a virtual visit to Union Middle School next year. I thought it might be a good idea to read his books before this happens. This book, the first in a series, is the diary of Ryan, detailing his mysterious adventures with his friend Sarah. The two are trying to research the truth about an abandoned dredge that was used to find gold. Ryan writes about the adventure and Sarah records videos. The reader is told periodically through the book to go to the internet to see the videos Sarah has recorded. Although the idea of internet videos interspersed with the writing is a bit of a gimmick, Carman may have an approach that appeals to the middle school crowd. We will see.

Pillage

Pillage by Obert Skye


My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Beck Phillips is sent to live with his reclusive uncle when his mother dies. He finds out he has power over plants and can make dragon eggs hatch. The story is a little formulaic, but might appeal to dragon fantasy lovers.

Maze Runner

The Maze Runner by James Dashner


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Although not quite as good as the Hunger Games, this book will appeal to the same audience. The story is of a dystopian community, actually a completely closed environment, where boys arrive monthly by a type of elevator. They arrive with no memory of their previous life. When Thomas arrives, the society of about 60 boys has been in existence for two years. The Gladers, as they are called, function rather well because everyone has a job contributing to the needs of the group. One of the jobs is that of runner. The runners must go out into the maze that surrounds the place every day trying to find a way out. Thomas intuitively knows he must be a runner. The day after Thomas arrives, the first girl arrives in the elevator. Thomas doesn't remember how, but he knows he has a connection to the girl, Teresa. Teresa brings an ominous message to the Gladers. Adding to the suspense are technological monsters called Grievers that live in the maze--active mostly at night. The book was a real page turner with a sequel to follow.

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