Review of "Fake ID" by Walter Sorrells

OVERVIEW:
   Chastity Pureheart. The first female name in a novel Chass' mom pulled from the library book shelf. The name Chass has gone by for the past few years because she doesn't even know her real name. For as long as Chass has lived, she and her mother have lived town to town, suitcase to suitcase. She doesn't know when or why her mother chooses to ditch town. But on Chass' sixteenth birthday, her mom decides it's time to disappear again. Except this time, Chass is left behind. With the threat of foster care looming over her, mysterious drive-bys and investigators, Chass has only one week to figure out who she is, where her mom went, and what they have been running from for all these years. It might lead her to the truth. It might lead her to her death.

Fake ID: Walter Sorrells. PHOTO. Megan Bryant.

RATING: (2 out of 5)
   This book was exciting, I will give it that. I wanted to know what was happening, who Chass really was, what her mom had gotten them into. However, the language, the lack of positive adults, and the overwhelmingly cheesy plot line outweigh my surface enjoyment. The characters underwent little growth and all the adults in the novel were deceitful, incompetent, or malicious. And I mean ALL THE ADULTS. There was little reason for some of the characters' actions, and the entire plot could have been resolved before the story even began. For a mystery, it entertained me. But as a piece of literature I am disappointed. I certainly would suggest a better written story with more positive role models.



TO PARENTS:
   As I said: Language. Poor Plot. Incompetent and Deceitful Adults--ALL OF THEM. And overall a poorly written novel. While the mystery is exciting and as a work of fiction keeps you wondering, I can't help but suggest this for mature and light reading. I would not give this to adolescents who need little encouragement imagining that every adult in their life is ignorant or evil. I believe that more positive role models are necessary in YA literature to encourage appropriate perspectives of the real world as well as seeking help from adults in times of need. This book certainly is not one that encourages positive adult-child relationships. If your child is mature and confident in the adults in his/her life, then I admit it is a catchy read. But if you choose to glance over this novel in choice of something more polished and realistic for your young reader, then I can promise they are not missing much.

Review of "Civil War Spies: Behind Enemy Lines" by Camilla J. Wilson

OVERVIEW:
   The Civil War is brewing and one nation is struggling to hold together under the contested authority of Abraham Lincoln. Young adventures, heroes putting their life on the line for their beliefs struggle to provide pivotal information to their leaders, information that could help keep their comrades alive and progress the ideas they stand by. Although these spies come from different sides and different stories, they each face the threat of certain death should they be captured. Such threats do not stop them from following their heart, from protecting their lifestyles or families. When you are willing to give your life for others, labels such as Good and Evil drop away and leave us with bare heroism shining in the darkest times.

Civil War Spies: Camilla Wilson.
PHOTO. Megan Bryant.

RATING: (5 out of 5)
   Camilla Wilson provides a simple but insightful view to spies during the civil war. Providing heroes from both the Union and Confederate army, Wilson emphasizes the courage, excitement, and tragedy that accompanied these spies in their efforts to protect and serve their family, their community, and their comrades at arms. Exploring the variety of spies, men and women, black and white, Wilson's narrative is quick and exciting for all readers. The novel is aimed for a younger or less experienced audience, but the content and presentation is done so well that advanced readers can enjoy the light and informational text--perhaps even be emotionally touched by the stories shared.


TO PARENTS:
   This text is appropriately written for a younger audience and presents positive and honorable recognition of spies from either side of the war. The text is an easy read, larger font and short chapters, so the text appears friendly and approachable for struggling or new readers. I would even suggest this book even for upper elementary students. Wilson writes a clean and inspiring narration of the cunning individuals, presenting in depth information and character traits that make the spies come to life before the reader. As an adult I found the text delightful, informational, eye-opening, and even emotional considering the trials and hopes many of the spies held for their nation. I would definitely suggest allowing your children to enjoy this text, perhaps even reading it aloud as a family!