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Added Sep 15, 2014
This Dark EndeavorThis Dark Endeavor, BookThe Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein
by Oppel, KennethBook - 2011Book, 2011
Added Aug 16, 2014
Comment:
“This Dark Endeavour” stars Victor Frankenstein, a sixteen year old aristocrat from Geneva, Switzerland. When Victor’s twin brother Konrad falls ill with a mysterious sickness, Victor sets off to create a cure. Victor enlists the help of his extremely distant cousin Elizabeth, his friend Henry, and an alchemist named Julius Polidori.
This novel is meant to tell the tale of the early years of Doctor Frankenstein, the scientist that created the monster from Mary Shelley’s beloved “Frankenstein”. However, all it manages to do is bore audiences. While the author has made a wonderful attempt at adding in plot twists and interesting, daring adventures, it has not worked in his favor. The end result was a dull, predictable novel that does not capture the attention of readers. The characters, for the most part, are likeable. However, they are terribly clichéd. Henry is the weak, artistic best friend and wing man. Elizabeth is the raging, outspoken female character. Victor is the rather whiny and brooding main character who constantly falls in the shadow of his much-better-in-every-way brother Konrad. There is an unnecessary and uncomfortable love triangle that occurs between Elizabeth, Konrad, and Victor. The setting is rather well written, but does no more than to remind readers that they do not live in a chateau beside a lake. The plot contains many dull moments that tend to drag out for longer than necessary. The action scenes are descriptive and easy to imagine, but are very over the top and unnecessarily over dramatic.
Overall, “This Dark Endeavour” is a relatively plain novel. The author of this review believes it suitable for ages fourteen and up. It is such a shame that this novel was executed so poorly, as a story about the early life of Doctor Frankenstein was a brilliant idea.“This Dark Endeavour” stars Victor Frankenstein, a sixteen year old aristocrat from Geneva, Switzerland. When Victor’s twin brother Konrad falls ill with a mysterious sickness, Victor sets off to create a cure. Victor enlists the help of his…
Added Aug 16, 2014
Comment:
“Dorothy Must Die” is a dark fantasy novel based in the world of Oz. After the events of Frank L Baum’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Dorothy Gale has returned to Oz. She is now a dictator, and is destroying Oz. Cue the entrance of Amy, a teen girl who happens to find herself trapped in Oz. Amy is recruited by the Wicked Witches and is tasked with killing Dorothy, as it is the only way to stop her. Along with a colorful cast of characters, Amy sets off on a seemingly impossible journey.
“Dorothy Must Die” is an amazing read. Unlike many other adaptions of classic tales, this novel has made good use of pre-made characters and worlds. Despite using Oz, Dorothy, and other classic characters, “Dorothy Must Die” still feels like its own, unique novel. The new characters that have been brought in are well written and fit into Oz, and are not ‘copies’ of previously existing characters. The new, decrepit Oz is creative and interesting, and the plot is thoughtful and entertaining. While the novel does have a very abrupt ending, it leaves the reader with a desire to read the other upcoming books in the series. There are never any slow or dull moments in this novel, which prevents readers from becoming bored. “Dorothy Must Die” does a wonderful job of blending fantasy, horror, and adventure too, giving it a unique storyline.
Overall, the author of this review highly recommends “Dorothy Must Die”. It is an intelligent, wonderful novel that will enthrall readers. Due to mild mature themes, this novel is suitable for ages fourteen and up.“Dorothy Must Die” is a dark fantasy novel based in the world of Oz. After the events of Frank L Baum’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Dorothy Gale has returned to Oz. She is now a dictator, and is destroying Oz. Cue the entrance of Amy, a teen girl who…
Paranormal Activity 2Paranormal Activity 2, Book
Book - 2011Book, 2011
Added Jul 25, 2014
Comment:
This movie is both a prequel and sequel to ‘Paranormal Activity’. “Paranormal Activity 2” stars Katie’s sister, Kristi, and her family. When this movie begins, the events of ‘Paranormal Activity’ have not occurred. The paranormal occurrences are running rampant at Kristi’s house, though. As the movie progresses, an exorcism occurs and the activity seems to subside… Until the end of the movie.
“Paranormal Activity 2” is another well-done found footage film. Found footage films are made of footage that would have been ‘found’ after the events of the movie occurred (for example, reels from security cameras). This film is just as scary as its predecessor, and carries on with the well-formed and interesting plot. The characters are once again likeable yet believable, and respond realistically to different situations. This film also does not use horror movie clichés, and the demon still remains invisible, allowing for the audience to create their own visions of the monster. The scares also do not come at the cost of the plot, as both the fear factor and storyline work cohesively to create an intelligent horror movie.
Due to some mild language, the author of this review recommends “Paranormal Activity 2” for ages fourteen and up. This film is also highly recommended by the author of this review, as it is a clever film filled with good scares and an easy-to-understand plot. However, viewer should be warned, as ‘Paranormal Activity 2’ is a horror film, and therefore may not be suitable for those who do not like to be scared. Due to the demonic plot line of the film, those that are extremely superstitious or religious may not enjoy this movie.This movie is both a prequel and sequel to ‘Paranormal Activity’. “Paranormal Activity 2” stars Katie’s sister, Kristi, and her family. When this movie begins, the events of ‘Paranormal Activity’ have not occurred. The paranormal occurrences are…
Paranormal ActivityParanormal Activity, DVD
DVD - 2009DVD, 2009
Added Jul 25, 2014
Comment:
Katie and Micah are an ordinary young San Francisco couple that have recently moved into a new home. As they sleep during the night, strange things occur. As the occurrences become more frequent and much more dangerous it becomes apparent that something is not right. After consulting an incompetent demonologist and having the activity become more violent, Katie and Micah are desperate.
“Paranormal Activity” is a found footage horror film. Found footage films are films made from movie reels that would have been ‘found’ after events occur (for example, footage from a security camera). Many found footage films are campy or unbelievable, but “Paranormal Activity” is well done. The plot is interesting and the characters are likeable and realistic. The ‘activity’ is simple but believable enough to induce fear within watchers. This move does not use typical horror movie clichés to scare its viewers, but rather comes up with new methods. There is no real gore, and there is no definitive 'monster' that is hunting the characters. The demon remains invisible, allowing viewers to form their own images of what they think it looks like. This helps to create more fear, as the monster is constantly tailored to each and every person.
Overall, “Paranormal Activity” is a movie worth watching. It is a horror movie though, so consider yourself warned. Due to mild language, this movie is suitable for ages fourteen and up. The author of this review also highly recommends “Paranormal Activity”, as it is a good film filled with unique scares that will scare you for many times to come.Katie and Micah are an ordinary young San Francisco couple that have recently moved into a new home. As they sleep during the night, strange things occur. As the occurrences become more frequent and much more dangerous it becomes apparent that…
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
“The Archived” is about a young girl named Mac who has recently lost both her beloved grandfather and her younger brother. Mac is also a Keeper, a living person whose job is to keep the spirits of the dead locked inside the Archive (a large library of souls). As the novel progresses, Mac’s family moves into an old hotel called the Coronado. Here Mac meets Wesley, another Keeper. As the Archive begins to descend into chaos, Mac and Wesley uncover secrets that someone desperately wanted to keep hidden.
This novel can be described as a dark fantasy/mystery novel. “The Archived” is refreshingly well written, with an intelligent storyline and satisfying plot twists. The characters of the novel are believable and likeable. Mac does hang onto the past (more specifically, the deaths of her grandfather and brother), and while this becomes tiring, it is understandable. The setting is well planned, and it adds to the novel’s overall feel of mystery and fantasy. There are no dull moments within “The Archived”. Readers will find themselves with their eyes glued to the pages, itching to find out what happens next.
The author of this review highly recommends “The Archived”. It is an enjoyable, well-written pleasure read. There are no underlying meanings within the novel, causing “The Archived” to be a pleasure read and not a good book for an essay or ‘book talk’. This novel is suitable for ages thirteen and up, as there are no adult themes, and there is very little profanity used.“The Archived” is about a young girl named Mac who has recently lost both her beloved grandfather and her younger brother. Mac is also a Keeper, a living person whose job is to keep the spirits of the dead locked inside the Archive (a large library…
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
“Warm Bodies” follows the life of R, a zombie who can’t remember anything about his life. He lives in an airport with his friend M, and spends his days groaning, stumbling, and hunting the living. While out trying to track down some living humans, R encounters Julie, a beautiful living woman. When R begins to feel something inside of him shift, the other zombies and the living aren’t pleased by it.
“Warm Bodies” can be described as an upbeat horror novel. This novel is a lighthearted approach to the normal zombie storyline. While the zombies are still just as murderous as ever, “Warm Bodies” shows that zombies do all of the same things as the living, just in a more gruesome fashion. The characters are rather likeable, and Isaac Marion’s idea to have “Warm Bodies” told from R’s point of view helps to strengthen the attachment that readers have to the characters. The decrepit, post-apocalyptic setting adds to the novel instead of taking away from it, and the novel does not have any slow parts to it.
This novel is suitable for ages 13 and up, due to language and sexuality, but is nevertheless recommended by the author of this review. “Warm Bodies” is an enjoyable pleasure read, but is not a good ‘essay book’ or ‘book talk’ book. There are no real hidden meanings in this novel (unless readers take R’s zombie-ness as a metaphor of some form), but it is an enjoyable pleasure read.“Warm Bodies” follows the life of R, a zombie who can’t remember anything about his life. He lives in an airport with his friend M, and spends his days groaning, stumbling, and hunting the living. While out trying to track down some living humans,…
AliceAlice, BookMadness Returns
Book - 2011Book, 2011
Added Jun 25, 2014
Comment:
“Alice: Madness Returns” is a video game that follows eighteen year old Alice Liddell, who has recently been released from Rutlidge Asylum. She is now in the care of an orphanage owner, Doctor Bumby. Doctor Bumby specializes in helping children to ‘forget’, but it appears as though he has darker intentions. While out on an errand for Doctor Bumby, Alice has a horrifying encounter with a mysterious old woman. She soon finds herself back in her childhood Wonderland. Her beloved world is dark, twisted, and teaming with monsters that have originated from a dark train known simply as ‘The Infernal Train’. The residents of Wonderland tell Alice that the train will tear apart Wonderland, and Alice’s sanity. Alice decides to save Wonderland and her sanity, and sets off to destroy the train.
“Alice: Madness Returns” is the sequel to “American McGee’s Alice”, but they do not need to be played in order, as long as you know the plot of the first game. “Alice: Madness Returns” is a dark-fantasy/horror videogame. There is a lot of gore, and an abundance of scary images. The well-known Wonderland characters are dark and twisted versions of themselves, and even Alice is gaunt and spooky. The controls for the game are easy to get used to, and the graphics are good. The plot of the game is entertaining and spooky, and the dark characters are interesting, unique, and intelligent. The only complaint for “Alice: Madness Returns” is that it does tend to drag out, and some of the enemies require patience and skill to defeat. However, the overall experience of “Alice: Madness Returns” is extremely fun and interesting.
Due to its adult content (gore, swears, scary imagery), the author of this review recommends “Alice: Madness Returns” for audiences fifteen and up. It is highly recommended, as it is a fun videogame with a compelling storyline and a lot of good scares in it.“Alice: Madness Returns” is a video game that follows eighteen year old Alice Liddell, who has recently been released from Rutlidge Asylum. She is now in the care of an orphanage owner, Doctor Bumby. Doctor Bumby specializes in helping children to…
Rock of AgesRock of Ages, DVD
DVD - 2012DVD, 2012
Added Jun 25, 2014
Comment:
“Rock of Ages” is a movie-musical based off of the Broadway musical of the same name. It follows the adventures of Sherrie and Drew, a young couple. The film begins with Sherrie arriving in Los Angeles, and meeting Drew, who works at a rock and roll club called ‘The Bourbon Room’. The club is deep in debt, causing the owners to call in Stacee Jaxx, a famous rock star, to perform. They hope that the funds raised from Stacee’s performance will be enough to pay off the debt. However, nothing goes as planned, and the movie’s characters are launched into a strange series of events.
While the Broadway version of “Rock of Ages” was a hit, the movie version was a massive flop. The characters are dull and flat, and the plot is confusing and not at all like the musical. The songs themselves can be considered mediocre covers at best, and the dance sequences are headache-inducing. “Rock of Ages” seemed so promising, what with its all-star cast and Broadway history, but it failed to deliver.
This movie is appropriate for people ages fifteen and up. There is strong sexual content and various curse words strewn throughout the movie. It is a shame that “Rock of Ages” was so terrible, as it had potential to be a fantastic movie-musical.“Rock of Ages” is a movie-musical based off of the Broadway musical of the same name. It follows the adventures of Sherrie and Drew, a young couple. The film begins with Sherrie arriving in Los Angeles, and meeting Drew, who works at a rock and roll…
Added Mar 30, 2014
Comment:
“Sketches” follows young Dana, a girl who ran away from her home and ends up living on the streets. She and her two new friends, Brent and Ashley, must survive on their own without anyone to help them. When Dana discovers an art program for homeless teens, all seems fine, until her past quickly comes back to haunt her.
This novel will pleasantly kill a few hours of your time. While it is not bad, it is also not anything earth-shattering. The characters are likeable, the plot is alright, and the setting is gritty and real. However, “Sketches” does follow the outline for almost every other book that Eric Walters has written. There is a young teen that has had something awful happen in their past, they do something drastic (like run away), family is very important, and then an abrupt, happy and somewhat unrealistic ending occurs. While “Sketches” is a good novel and an interesting read, it is like reading most of Walters’ other novels.
The author of this review recommends “Sketches” for students that are ten and up. There are no real scary bits, and swear words are limited. This novel wouldn’t be a good ‘book talk’ or essay book, as there are no hidden meanings. No ‘reading between the lines’ is needed to understand “Sketches”, as everything is eventually explained. Overall, the author of this review probably wouldn’t leap to this book when asked to suggest a novel, but “Sketches” is an okay read.“Sketches” follows young Dana, a girl who ran away from her home and ends up living on the streets. She and her two new friends, Brent and Ashley, must survive on their own without anyone to help them. When Dana discovers an art program for homeless…
Added Mar 30, 2014
Comment:
“Days of Blood and Starlight” is the sequel to Laini Taylor’s other novel, “Daughter of Smoke and Bone”. This novel once again follows the slightly unfortunate adventures of eighteen year old Karou, a chimaera-human who has lost her entire family. With war threatening to tear apart not only the two mythical worlds of the Chimaera and the Serpahin, but now Earth too, Karou must rush to save the day. However, with the apparent betrayal of her lover, and with evil striking closer to home than necessary, all hope seems lost for poor Karou.
This novel is a fantastic read. It is just as good as the first novel in the series. The characters are still entertaining and believable, and the unique blend of fantasy worlds and Earth help to form a new, interesting setting. The plot is fast moving for the most part, but there are some parts of the novel that seem to drag on slightly. The author of this review highly recommends “Days of Blood and Starlight”, as it is entertaining and gripping.
Even though “Days of Blood and Starlight” is such a good read, it is not recommended for a ‘book talk’, or to be used to write an essay. There are no underlying meanings, and ‘reading between the lines’ is not needed. The author of this review recommends that readers read the first novel in the series first, as it may seem confusing if readers do not have the explanation of the first novel. “Days of Blood and Starlight” is suitable for ages fourteen and up, due to its slightly dark nature, and slight mature content. This novel will keep you on the edge of your seat, and you will find that you are unable to put it down. For this reason, the author of this review highly recommends “Days of Blood and Starlight”.“Days of Blood and Starlight” is the sequel to Laini Taylor’s other novel, “Daughter of Smoke and Bone”. This novel once again follows the slightly unfortunate adventures of eighteen year old Karou, a chimaera-human who has lost her entire family.…
Added Mar 30, 2014
Comment:
“Silver Linings Playbook” follows Pat, a former mental hospital patient. Once his mother manages to help him out of the hospital, Pat vows to do all that he can in order to win back his wife, Nikki. Along the way, Pat befriends an odd woman named Tiffany, who says that if Pat helps her with a dance routine, she will relay messages between him and his wife. With such an offer, Pat agrees to help Tiffany, and the two embark on a humorous and enlightening adventure.
“Silver Linings Playbook” is one of the author of this review’s favourite novels. It is incredibly interesting, with witty dialogue and marvelous, well thought out characters. Each character is likeable, and no one is a ‘photocopy’ of another. The plot is driven, and there are no slow parts. “Silver Linings Playbook” is an incredible read, and is highly recommended by the author of this review.
This novel would be alright as a last resort to use for an essay or ‘book talk’. If you look hard enough, you can find some hidden meanings, but you will have to look very, very hard. “Silver Linings Playbook” would be better off as being read as an inspirational pleasure read, opposed to a hard-core essay book. Due to strong language, the author of this review suggests “Silver Linings Playbook” for people ages fourteen and up. Despite this, this novel is highly recommended for anyone who is looking for a funny and lovable pick-me-up book.“Silver Linings Playbook” follows Pat, a former mental hospital patient. Once his mother manages to help him out of the hospital, Pat vows to do all that he can in order to win back his wife, Nikki. Along the way, Pat befriends an odd woman named…
Thelma & LouiseThelma & Louise, DVD
DVD - 2004DVD, 2004
Added Mar 12, 2014
Comment:
“Thelma and Louise” is the heart-wrenching tale of two best friends that wouldn’t give up on one another. The film begins by introducing the two main characters, Thelma, a mousy housewife, and Louise, a badass waitress. Louise invites Thelma to go on a road trip with her to a friend’s cabin, and she agrees. However, on their way there, the two friends stop at a bar, and find themselves in a rather sticky situation.
The author of this review cried during “Thelma and Louise”. It’s a moving, beautiful story about two friends that just wanted to have some fun, but instead end up in the wrong place at the wrong time. Thelma and Louise are wonderful characters, and are both very unique. The only complaint is Thelma is rather whiny, but this is understandable, given the events of the movie. “Thelma and Louise” contains no slow moments, and is incredibly interesting the entire way through. The setting of the movie was well chosen, and adds visual interest and does a lovely job of setting the mood.
“Thelma and Louise” is a movie suitable for ages fourteen and up, as it contains mild swearing and brief sexuality. “Thelma and Louise” would be a good movie to watch with your friends, or even by yourself. It is a tear jerker, so have some tissues on hand, as you will need them! Despite this, the author of this review highly recommends this film, as it is wonderfully entertaining, and can be considered a classic.“Thelma and Louise” is the heart-wrenching tale of two best friends that wouldn’t give up on one another. The film begins by introducing the two main characters, Thelma, a mousy housewife, and Louise, a badass waitress. Louise invites Thelma to go…
Girl in the ArenaGirl in the Arena, BookA Novel Containing Intense Prolonged Sequences of Disaster and Peril
by Haines, LiseBook - 2009Book, 2009
Added Mar 12, 2014
Comment:
“Girl in the Arena” follows Lyn, an eighteen year old girl who has had seven fathers, each of whom have been a modern day gladiator. When Lyn’s seventh father is ruthlessly killed in the arena, Lyn must do the unthinkable: marry a man she does not love, or go into the arena herself. Taking the more obvious (and more radical) choice, Lyn sets off to become a fierce female gladiator.
“Girl in the Arena” is a book that failed to deliver. The sheer amount of grammatical errors within the novel cause readers to wonder how it even managed to be published. One example of this would be the fact that there are no quotations within the novel, as dialogue is instead indicated by a hyphen. The characters of the novel are flat, dull, uninteresting with all having the same sort of boring approach to life. Every character acts the same, and basically have the same personalities. While “Girl in the Arena” was an interesting idea, the numerous mistakes that were made has caused it to be an unenjoyable read.
“Girl in the Arena” is suitable for ages thirteen and up. It is not recommended for a ‘book talk’ or essay accomplice, as there are no underlying meanings within the novel. It is a pity that this novel was so poorly written, as the idea was unique and interesting.“Girl in the Arena” follows Lyn, an eighteen year old girl who has had seven fathers, each of whom have been a modern day gladiator. When Lyn’s seventh father is ruthlessly killed in the arena, Lyn must do the unthinkable: marry a man she does not…
Added Mar 06, 2014
Comment:
“Daughter of Smoke and Bone” follows the slightly unfortunate life of Karou, an eighteen-year old art student with peacock blue hair and spooky eye tattoos on both of her palms. Karou has been raised by a race of mysterious animal/human hybrids known as the Chimaera, and considers them her family. However, when bizarre, angelic people start appearing and destroying the doorways between Earth and Karou’s family’s world, the young woman finds herself trapped on earth, with the fate of her family unknown. Overall, “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” is an incredible read. The author has done a magnificent job of blending together elements of fantasy and the ‘real world’, and has created a believable yet fantastical world that seems very far away, yet too close for comfort. The characters are amazingly written, and are all good combinations of sass, laughter, grief and bravery. The plot is, for the most part, fast-paced and interesting. There are a few duller moments in the first three chapters of the novel, as the author sets the mood of our heroine but, the rest of the beautifully-written novel easily makes up for this slow beginning. This novel can be considered a dark-fantasy/romance, and is highly recommended by the author of this review. It does not have any ‘hidden meanings’, and ‘reading between the lines’ is not necessary. It would not be a very good choice for a book talk or school project. “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” is a wonderful book to use for pleasure reading, and is suitable for ages fourteen and up.“Daughter of Smoke and Bone” follows the slightly unfortunate life of Karou, an eighteen-year old art student with peacock blue hair and spooky eye tattoos on both of her palms. Karou has been raised by a race of mysterious animal/human hybrids…
The Rocky Horror Picture ShowThe Rocky Horror Picture Show, DVD
DVD - 2002DVD, 2002
Added Feb 21, 2014
Comment:
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a memorable and classic movie-musical that follows the misadventures of Brad and Janet, a newly engaged couple. Brad and Janet find themselves having to approach an eerie castle in the middle of nowhere for help when their car breaks down. At the castle they find an interesting cast of characters, including Magenta (a domestic), Riff Raff (a handyman), Columbia (a groupie), and Doctor Franknfurter (a scientist). Franknfurter invites Brad and Janet to bear witness to the creation of Rocky, a blonde man-with-a-tan, but as you can imagine everything soon dissolves into chaos.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a horror/comedy musical movie, and is based off of the 1970’s stage musical, The Rocky Horror Show. This musical also claims a high spot on the author of this review’s favourite musicals of all time list. It is a funny and witty movie, filled with memorable songs and dances. The characters are all interesting and unique, and the setting helps set the mood from the get-go. The plot is quick and interesting, and there are no ‘slow moments’. It is a wonderful and brilliant movie that is definitely worth anyone’s time.
The author of this review recommends “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for anyone fourteen and over. It has a very sexual nature to it, and many of the characters wear provocative costumes throughout the course of the film. There are various points of nudity, but there are only a few swears throughout the entire film (you can count the number of them on one hand). There are no real ‘hidden meanings’ within Rocky Horror, as it is a musical made in good fun. It is a fun movie to watch with your friends over a bowl of popcorn. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is an incredibly entertaining movie musical, and is highly recommended by the author of this review.“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a memorable and classic movie-musical that follows the misadventures of Brad and Janet, a newly engaged couple. Brad and Janet find themselves having to approach an eerie castle in the middle of nowhere for help…
ItIt, DVD
DVD - 2002DVD, 2002
Added Feb 21, 2014
Comment:
“IT” is a classic Stephen King tale, involving psychological horror, friendship, and a maniacal clown thrown in for good measure. The storey follows the unfortunate happenings of a group of friends known affectionately as ‘The Losers Club’. The film begins with the death of one of the club’s members younger brothers at the hands of a murderous clown by the name of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Pennywise haunts the friends throughout their lives, causing mayhem and fear. Once grown up, the friends move away from their childhood small town, but eventually return in order to vanquish Pennywise once and for all.
Stephen King has not failed to impress with “IT”. The famed horror author has brought yet another terrifying story to the table, and director Tommy Lee Wallace did has done a wonderful job of bringing it to life. The bond that the Loser’s Club shares is heart-warming, and Pennywise is horribly despicable. You can’t help but love the friends and hate the clown! The setting of the movie does a great job of setting the mood, and the plot is never dull. Of course, as with all Stephen King stories, watchers/readers should be wary of the psychological horror that comes hand in hand with “IT”. There are no real ‘jump scares’, but rather drawn-out moments where you know that Pennywise will show up, but you don’t know how, and you don’t know what he will do when he does pop up. Opposed to the predictable actions of other horror movies villains, Pennywise is spontaneous, and just downright terrifying.
The author of this review recommends “IT” for those who are fifteen and over, and looking for a good scare. However, a fair warning to all who watch: if you weren’t afraid of clowns before, you will be after watching “IT”! Be prepared too to be hiding under your covers at night, hoping that Pennywise isn’t hiding under your bed. There are some ‘trigger warnings’ revolving around gore within the movie. All in all though, the author of this review highly recommends this movie to those who enjoy good psychological horror films.“IT” is a classic Stephen King tale, involving psychological horror, friendship, and a maniacal clown thrown in for good measure. The storey follows the unfortunate happenings of a group of friends known affectionately as ‘The Losers Club’. The film…
Added Dec 19, 2013
Comment:
“Lament” is a haunting novel that follows the increasingly mysterious life of sixteen year old Diedre Monaghan. Diedre is a young and wonderful harp player whose life is turned upside down when she meets Luke Dillon, a town newcomer. Her life soon becomes entangled within a world of secrets regarding Faeries, murder, and Luke himself.
Maggie Steifvater has not disappointed readers with this novel. It is a breath-taking read, and will keep readers on the edge of their seats the entire way through. The characters are incredibly likeable, and readers will find that they are not simply reading the story, they are actually living it. The setting is vividly described and well thought out, and the plot is never boring. The entire story is incredibly interesting, and there is never a dull or slow moment. Overall, the novel “Lament: The Fairy Queen’s Deception” is a read that is worth any reader’s time.
Due to some rather colourful swears that are found throughout the novel, the author of this review recommends this novel for teens who are fourteen and above. There are no real “hidden meanings” within the book, and (with the exception of a few spots) there is no need to “read between the lines” while reading “Lament”. Due to this, this novel would not be recommended for a “book talk” or school assignment, but would be better suited as a pleasure read. “Lament: The Fairy Queen’s Deception” can be described as a dark, fantasy/romance novel, and is highly recommended by the author of this review.“Lament” is a haunting novel that follows the increasingly mysterious life of sixteen year old Diedre Monaghan. Diedre is a young and wonderful harp player whose life is turned upside down when she meets Luke Dillon, a town newcomer. Her life soon…
Oz the Great and PowerfulOz the Great and Powerful, DVD
DVD - 2013DVD, 2013
Added Dec 07, 2013
Comment:
This Disney movie is based off of the traditional “Wizard in Oz” tale by L. Frank Baum. The story follows a young circus magician named Oscar who unwittingly finds himself cast into the whimsical world of Oz. As the circus magician travels through the magical world, he comes across a young witch named Theodora. Theodora is immediately captivated by Oscar and allows him to kiss her, but all is not what it seems when the couple (finally) arrive at the Emerald City. After a conundrum with one of Theodora’s sisters (Evanora), Oscar tries to escape Oz, only to find that escaping is not exactly possible. With the help of a few new friends, the circus magician is eventually able to set things right. All in all, this movie is not enjoyable. The main character is an absolute slime ball, and spends the majority of the movie jumping from sister to sister, trying to get into each of their pants. He treats the characters who are not one of the sisters like his personal servants, and Oscar is constantly more concerned about himself than any other character. There is meant to be a development of Oscar’s character as the movie goes on (he is meant to become kind and generous), but it never happens. Theodora is an incredibly lovable character though, and you will find that your heart goes out to her. She is probably one of the better aspects of “Oz The Great and Powerful”. It is unfortunate that this movie has such clumsily written characters and a hole-riddled plotline, as “Oz The Great and Powerful” does have some better aspects. The music is elegantly composed, and many of the visual effects are outstanding (however the brightly coloured and somewhat eerie Oz does begin to become tiring by the end of the movie). The last fifteen or so minutes of the movie is probably the most interesting and exciting bit of “Oz The Great and Powerful”. It is unfortunate that Oscar is such a slimy character, as he makes the movie inappropriate for the intended age-range (twelve and under). If Oscar’s character was written differently, this movie would be a great thing for younger children, as the amazing special effects and bright colours are right up most of their alleys.This Disney movie is based off of the traditional “Wizard in Oz” tale by L. Frank Baum. The story follows a young circus magician named Oscar who unwittingly finds himself cast into the whimsical world of Oz. As the circus magician travels through…
Added Dec 07, 2013
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This is a wonderful dark fantasy novel that blends old-style photography with lovely writing to make it seem all-the-more realistic. The novel starts off by introducing the main character, and explains why he and his father are going to a remote island in Wales. As “Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children” progresses, we meet the “peculiar children” and learn quite a bit about universes stuck in time-loops and how people with tentacles in their mouths should not be trusted.
Overall this novel is wonderful. Ransom Riggs makes use of old photographs to help the characters seem more “real”, and not simply characters created on the pages of a book. The plot is fast paced and does not have any “slow bits”, and the setting is very well described, which does a lovely job of setting the mood for the story. The main complaint that the author of this review has regarding this novel is that the main character seems a tad whiny at times. He seems to dwell for an unnatural amount of time on the past, and his flashbacks are too frequent and at times, unnecessary. Other than this though, “Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children” is an exceptional read.
The author of this review recommends this novel for children fourteen and up. Some of the old photographs that are used in the novel may be scary to some children, and there are some parts of the story that verge on entering the horror genre. This novel would be a fantastic pleasure read, but probably not that good for a book report or “book talk”. Truth be told though, this novel would be perfect for people who like old, spooky photography and dark fantasy novels.This is a wonderful dark fantasy novel that blends old-style photography with lovely writing to make it seem all-the-more realistic. The novel starts off by introducing the main character, and explains why he and his father are going to a remote…
Added Dec 05, 2013
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This novel is a wonderful dark fantasy that uses the haunting poem “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe in a unique way. It is about a girl named Isobel who is a senior-year student at her high school. She is a typical, somewhat clichéd blonde cheerleader; Isobel is “popular”, has a strange adoration for the colour pink, and is dating the star of the school football team. Along the course of the story, Isobel is paired with the gothic Varen Nethers for an English project and discovers that perhaps her sugar coated cheerleader lifestyle isn’t what everyone has… Especially for those who mess with the Faeries.
To the author of this review, “Nevermore” is one of her favourite novels. It is a wonderful read that combines fantasy with a subtle amount of horror and romance. The characters are incredibly likeable (with the exception of characters that are meant to be unlikeable!) with each their own personality, thoughts and unique appearance. The setting does a wonderful job of setting the mood for the story and the plot will have you hanging onto the edge of your seat. The author never brings in “slow moments”, as the story is always moving and staying interesting.
“Nevermore” by Kelly Creagh is a wonderful pleasure read. It does not have many technical elements to it, but is instead a plot driven story. It would not be recommended for a school project (unless it is a project based around Edgar Allen Poe works), but is a lovely book to read on your free time.This novel is a wonderful dark fantasy that uses the haunting poem “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe in a unique way. It is about a girl named Isobel who is a senior-year student at her high school. She is a typical, somewhat clichéd blonde…
Added Dec 05, 2013
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“Sold” is a moving, haunting piece of literature depicting the life of a young girl sold into prostitution. The main character is Lakshmi, a young girl, who lives in a small village with her mother and cruel stepfather. As time goes by, Lakshmi’s stepfather manages to gamble away all of the family’s money, prompting him to decide to send Lakshmi to “work in the city”. Instead of having a job as a maid for a rich city family like she was promised, Lakshmi is sold to a brothel where she is prostituted out each and every night to much older men.
This novel is a wonderful, powerful read that makes use of poems to tell the story. It does contain some “trigger warnings” towards various forms of abuse though. However, the author of this review highly recommends it. It has a well-driven plot that offers a chilling glimpse into the world of child prostitution, and the novel itself is based upon events that truly do happen all over the world. The setting of the story is simply brilliant, and various characters are relatable and very likeable.
“Sold” by Patricia McCormick is a brilliant novel. It would be a lovely choice for a book report or “book talk”, as it deals with current world issues. This novel would be a great choice as a pleasure read too, as it is very interesting and informative without slapping you in the face with facts.“Sold” is a moving, haunting piece of literature depicting the life of a young girl sold into prostitution. The main character is Lakshmi, a young girl, who lives in a small village with her mother and cruel stepfather. As time goes by, Lakshmi’s…
Added Dec 03, 2013
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This young adult novel is about a seventh grade boy named Tom, and how his life is thrown somewhat upside down by the arrival of the horribly and incredibly scarred Jessica Feeney in his class at school. At first, in all honesty, this book is annoying and hard to get into. The main character and his friend are both quite immature and self-centered and in reality, very unlikable characters. This “unlikableness” is further strengthened when Jessica arrives and they shun her for her appearance. However, as the novel progresses, Tom sheds some of his immaturity and develops into a much more likeable.
Other than the beginning, “Firegirl” is a rather good read. It can be considered easy by some, so if you are looking for a novel that won’t take long to read but does have some good underlying messages (eg “appearances do not define us”), then I suggest this book. “Firegirl” can be used for a book report or a novel study, and can be read by both older ages as well as younger teens (the content will make sense to most ages). This book does not contain mature themes.
“Firegirl” by Tony Abbott can be described as uplifting and interesting. It is, most of all, a story about how we cannot base our judgements of people off of appearances alone, for true beauty comes from within.
The author of this review enjoyed this book for the most part and would in fact, recommend it, as long as people enjoy the genre.This young adult novel is about a seventh grade boy named Tom, and how his life is thrown somewhat upside down by the arrival of the horribly and incredibly scarred Jessica Feeney in his class at school. At first, in all honesty, this book is…
Added Dec 03, 2013
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“Because I Am Furniture” is a chilling novel written in the form of haunting poems. It explores the life of teenage Anka, a young woman whose other family members are abused by her father. Anka herself is seemingly forgotten by her father, leading her to believe that she is a kin to furniture (she is there and she exists but is ignored by everyone). This book is a wonderful read but does contain “trigger warnings” for various forms of abuse.
The author of this review does not have many complaints about this novel. It is very interesting and offers an eerie view into the world of abuse. The main character is very likeable, if not a tad pessimistic (but that is to be expected due to the way she is treated). The other characters (with the exception of the abuser) are, for the most part, very likeable too. The plot of the story is vibrant and the setting does a lovely job of increasing the intensity of the mood of the story.
The poems that compile the story themselves are sometimes vague, but they do not fail to communicate what is happening in the story.
“Because I Am Furniture” by Thalia Chaltas can be described as a coming-of-age story. It would be a wonderful choice for a book talk or book report for students who are of teenage age and enjoy real-life novels that sometimes need a bit of “reading between the lines”. Overall, this poetic novel is a lovely, heart-warming read that will have you chewing on your lip in suspense at some parts and wishing to give characters hugs at other parts.“Because I Am Furniture” is a chilling novel written in the form of haunting poems. It explores the life of teenage Anka, a young woman whose other family members are abused by her father. Anka herself is seemingly forgotten by her father, leading…
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