Gregor the Overlander

Penned By: Suzanne Collins



Suzanne Collin's Website



Underneath the teeming city of New York exists a world of massive proportions. Gregor and his younger sister Boots are about to discover the existence of this world and meet the many people and creatures that live there. Following the fantastical discovery will come a grand adventure and the threat to never return home. A choice between love and security will have to be made. Forced to live beyond his years, Gregor will prove that loyalty and hope are worth fighting for.

Quote: "Fly you high."

Genus: Fantastical Worlds

Era: Everyone

Difficulty: 2

Determination: Must read

Series: Yes, 1st of 5

 

Film: No

Your type of tale? Try these: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling, Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

Cool Stuff: Scholastic's Underland Chronicles Website      Fan Trailer       Official Underland Chronicles Trailer

The Hunger Games

Photo by: Amber Murray

Penned By: Suzanne Collins
                 
Series: 1st book of 3 part series

This book gets into your soul. The reader doesn't merely empathize with the characters, they become one. I like to tell people that this book is "The Roman Coliseum meets Survivor." It often seems a composite of other moral tales, however, it is unique in it's telling and characters. The fact is there are many, many things that can be said about it. It is a fast read, not just because of it's easy style but because it's impossible to put down. Suzanne Collins describes a future so believable it will haunt your dreams. Her characters are so human that they enthrall as much as frustrate. Follow Katniss, as she sacrifices herself for her sister and fights a horrific game of survival, sacrifice, and love. Her compassion captures a nation, her will to survive changes the game, and her contentiousness will light a fire.


Quote: "That I'm more than a piece in their games."

Genus: Realistic Future

Era: Everyone (I suggest parents read it before their children.)

Difficulty: 2

Determination: Must Read

Film: The film rights have been purchased, the screen play written, and some casting done. With that said there is no firm release dates. I have high hopes for the movie of this fantastic series because Suzanne Collins primary career is as a screenwriter and she has been a close collaborator thus far.

Your type of tale? Try these: The Host by Stephenie Meyer, The Lottery by Shirley Jackson, The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas by Ursula K. Le Guin.

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