Everyone told me that I just had to read this series, so I finally put myself on the hold list. However, when it arrived, I was rather disappointed. While I thought it was fairly well-written and was a *good* book, I did not think it was this awesome book that everyone else seemed to think it was.

Ms. Collins portrays Katniss as a realistic teen and I could definitely feel her struggles emotionally between Peeta and Gale, but I didn't find myself compelled to read this book like everyone said they were. Friends, colleagues, and relatives all told me how they just couldn't put it down and it was so compelling, and I just didn't see it.

I only read about 1/3 of the second book in the series and then I gave up because I just wasn't enjoying them. They're definitely good, but I just don't feel that they live up to all the hype.

This is the first book in a new series by Richard Paul Evans, who happens to be one of my favorite authors. It's the first time he's published something specifically for the pre-teen and teen demographic and it's a huge hit! The book provides plenty of real life drama since Michael has Tourette Syndrome, yet it portrays his struggles without being "preachy". It also provides plenty of action and adventure. It's a great alternative to all the horror books that are out there. It's very realistic without being too sappy and yet still provides plenty of adventure with its science fictionesque elements.

I read it while I was waiting in line at the Henry Ford Museum to see the original Emancipation Proclamation (it was a 4.5 hour wait to see it). I was riveted from the first page and even though there were conversations going on all around me, I couldn't put the book down long enough to join in. It's just that great!

So if you're looking for an alternative to all the vampires or the "Clique" type books, give Michael Vey a try!

I love this movie. Ms. Trunchbull can be a bit scary at times but I really enjoyed watching Matilda figure out her gifts and how into books she was. Just delightful!

A fascinating explanation of the wind, atmosphere and weather. I've always wondered what made the wind blow and this book explained it in a way that was scientific and yet easy to understand.

Here's another great, compact guidebook. Easy to carry and full of information to help you identify any animals you see on your nature walks!