GemX by Nicky Singer

This science fiction novel takes place in a futuristic society where people are either extremely poor or wasteful and rich. A genetically modified “GemX” child, Maxo Strang lives the life of a snotty brat, until one day, when he sees a girl on a TropScreen who he instantly falls in love with. As he finds out who she is and learns her story, both of their lives are changed. This story is somewhat innovate and creative, but is somewhat too unrealistic at times. The author’s naming of ProperNouns is also somewhat distracting. If you like romance novels and reading about dystopian societies, then this is the book for you.

Review by I. Kanreed

Works Cited
"GemX Cover." Online image. LibraryThing. 13 March 2009

The Compound by S. A. Bodeen

In a world where supposedly everything has been destroyed from nuclear war, one family survives. When warning of an attack came, Eli Yanakakis and his family escaped to an obscure, underground structure called the Compound, built by Eli's father, a rich and powerful figure. The doors to the outside are locked for 15 years, when nuclear radiation is supposed to dissipate, and can only be opened before with a password that only Eli's father knows. Unfortunately, they are running out of food, and having no choice, Eli's family turn to drastic solutions. It is during this time that Eli finally stumbles into the room meant to be for his twin brother Eddy, who along with his grandmother, did not reach the Compound in time. Eli suddenly notices that Eddy's laptop, which still had an Internet setup, was briefly connected to the Internet. Through a series of events, Eli and his siblings begin to question their father's actions, until they finally realize the horrible truth. This great novel provides constant surprises and twists, and will make you want to finish it in one sitting.

Review by I. Kanreed

Works Cited
"The Compound Cover." Online image. LibraryThing. 23 Jan. 2009 http://www.librarything.com/work/book/40842054

Into the Volcano by Don A. Wood

Into the Volcano is an interesting new graphic novel about two brothers who go on a trip to Hawaii, where some of their relatives live. The boys get more than they signed up for, as a "research trip" into an exploding volcano reveals the true reason they are there. Sumo, the timid and less athletic brother, also must overcome his weaknesses, and his experience in the volcano changes him. Meanwhile, the brothers meet up with an unexpected person, and must escape from the volcano. This graphic novel has some great, almost cinematic drawings, and is as much about the artwork as the story. The plot, however, can be somewhat unrealistic at times. Still, this book is an exhilarating and breathtaking experience, that older and younger kids can both enjoy.

Works Cited
"Into the Volcano Cover." Online image. LibraryThing. 8 Oct. 2009 http://www.librarything.com/work/book/40235533

The Great Receiver by Elena Yates Eulo

Joey Eastland is a vital part of his high school football team. As the water boy, he's a team player always ready to help. Unbeknownst to others, he aspires to be the wide receiver of his team, and he has to ability to do it. When one of the players on the team is suspended for cheating, Joey gets the spot and finds himself much more popular. As Joey tries to maintain an unstable equilibrium between staying on top of his schoolwork and acknowledging his newfound popularity, he realizes that in the end you have to do what you believe is right. This book about a high school student's struggles and accomplishments includes many moments of comedy and can be a good read even if you don't like sports.

Review by I. Kanreed

Works Cited
"The Great Receiver Cover." Online image. LibraryThing. 29 Nov. 2008 http://www.librarything.com/work/6065045/book/38714622