booksncrannies_official's reviews
88 reviews

3.5 stars
I would definitely suggest this read for young readers and even young adults.

Creative writing and humorous characters made this a delightful read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wouldn't hesitate to recommend 'The Reb and the Redcoats.'

'A Horse Called Hero' is an excellent book about courage, trust, and love. This book is descriptively written and excellently constructed. (In Great Britain during the WWII years, the novel gave me a feeling of nostalgia.) Well-constructed plot, realistic characterization, and centralized conflict — these all are built upon each other to create this heartwarming story. The superbly crafted ending made me leave the story a bit emotional (I had to read the ending three times!) but very satisfied. As for the theme of the book goes, it can be summed up in the words of C. S. Lewis included at the beginning of the book: "Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at its testing point."

'A Storm Too Soon' brings a very dramatic narrative to readers. Told from both the rescuers' and rescuees' point of view, this book allows the reader to be involved in both sides of this thrilling rescue. The fact that this story really happened steps up the drama quite a bit. The coast guardsmen who performed this rescue are amazing in their skills! Near the end of the book, some profanities do occur in the dialogue. Overall, 'A Storm Too Soon' was a remarkable account of this incredible rescue.

A informative and interesting read. The ending was a bit sad though. Very easy to follow.

'Pearl Maiden' is laden with superb construction, a gripping plot, and a well defined solid theme. This uplifting novel is definitely a literary accomplishment. The characters in the story are realistically described. Holding the reader in its grasp from beginning to end, the plot provides for a moving read. This novel clearly illustrates several biblical principles; in particular one is shown throughout the whole story: God has a plan for each of our lives—a plan that cannot be thwarted. 'Pearl Maiden' is a prime example of classic, well written literature. Read it!!

A true story of a Jewish boy's survival of the Holocaust, 'Prisoner B-3087' is a gripping and emotional but excellent novel. Jack Gruener's (the main character) resourcefulness in the midst of the terrible places he was taken is something we can all learn from. This novel aptly portrays the horrors and atrocities many people went through at the hands of the Nazis. Although the reader will never really know the pains of the experiences described in the book, Alan Gratz does an excellent job at bringing these experiences home to the reader.

A great book for those interested in the building blocks of our world — the elements.

'Journey to the Center of the Earth' is a very exciting and captivating read. After reading this book, I could almost believe journeying to the center of the earth were possible! This sci-fi novel is filled with realistic details, enchanting experiences, and daring discoveries urging the reader to keep journeying through the earth — I mean book. Evolutionary thoughts and timelines are mentioned quite frequently in the book, although acknowledging a Creator of the universe. 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' is definitely a story that quickly captures the reader's attention. A fine specimen of science fiction writing!