A brighter fear / Kerry Drewery

Lina is a typical teenager dreaming about the life she is going to have, but there is nothing ordinary about her day-to-day existence. Living in Baghdad during the Iraq War, everything is uncertain and Lina almost gives up. But then she meets Steve, an American soldier, and she dares to hope that things may turn out okay after all.

This story takes you into a war zone so that you understand how every part of your life can change and how little control you have over this. It immerses you in a completely different culture and helps you appreciate the freedoms we take for granted. Fortunately the gory details of war are presented in such a matter of fact way that you want to keep on reading.

Who would enjoy this? Readers who want their world view to be expanded will find this an insightful and interesting read.

Reviewed by Charlotte

My life as an alphabet / Barry Jonsberg

Candice is weird and she knows it. There have been some hard things happen in her life and they have left their mark on her. She makes a friend and tries to set things right for her dysfunctional family, with lots of mistakes being made along the way. Through it all Candice maintains a positive attitude to life and this makes for a funny and great read. I loved this book.

Who would enjoy this? If you like good stories about absorbing characters that make you laugh, then this will work for you.

Reviewed by Katya

The glimpse / Claire Merle

Ana lives in a version of the future which I found scary - everyone is assessed to see if they hold the genes that may cause them to exhibit mental illness at some time in their lives. And if they do they are medicated until they are not really capable of living properly at all. But mistakes have been made and those in power are using the tests to keep privilege for those they deem worthy. This book was fascinating as I considered whether it was possible, likely or probable. Sadly, it seems that it could happen! Read it and make up your own mind.

Who would enjoy this? If you like dystopian novels and a fast-moving adventure, then this book should suit you well.

Reviewed by Charlotte

The maze runner / James Dashner

Waking up with no memories of his past, sixteen year old Thomas finds himself in the Glade, a community full of boys located in the centre of a life-size unsolved maze full of mysterious creatures. With the help of his fellow Gladers, Thomas must solve the puzzle in order to escape the maze. This is a very thrilling book with a unique concept which I have never thought about. It can make you wonder what the future of Earth would be like, and I really hope it isn't going to be like in this book. Although the book has some gruesome parts, overall I really enjoyed reading it.

Who would enjoy this? A must-read book for fans of The Hunger Games. People who enjoy reading about a puzzling thrilling adventure would also enjoy this book.

Reviewed by Chi Yen