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Mockingjay (The Final Book of The Hunger Games) / SalesRank : 2

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Mockingjay (The Final Book of The Hunger Games)
Author : Suzanne Collins

Amazon Price : $8.44 53%($9.55) OFF
amazon.com availability ： Usually ships in 24 hours

Hardcover [ Scholastic Press ] [ Release : 2010 / 08 / 24 ]
ISBN : 9780439023511 / ASIN(ISBN-10) : 0439023513
[ ListPrice : $17.99 ] [ Used Price:$9.00 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.0stars [ See more reviews ]

I don't know how to explain Mockingjay. I read it on Wednesday and I am still thinking about parts of it. It is one of those books that you will either love a lot or hate it. Luckily I adore this book and found it to be realistic for the environment that they were in. I loved that the characters developed and some of them became better people and others failed. I felt more connected to Katniss then the previous books, because her emotions felt more real to me. The first two-thirds of the book were close how I imagined it, there was action, politics, and war. While the last third was a bit rushed, I did like the ending. Collins creates an amazing finale for a stunning series that I am sure many people will like and others will hate.

5stars - "A Stunning Ending... Spoiler free" (Sarah Woodard)

One month after Quarter Quell and Katniss is still healing. Katniss returns to the ashes of her home District 12 to see the devastation with her own eyes. Katniss is still trying to put the pieces and players together to figure out what's true and what's not. She feels guilty for the deaths of District 12 for her actions in the Quarter Quell ~ upsetting the Capitol to make them do this to her home district.

In Katniss's state of mind and distress over what has happened with the games she can't decide if she wants to join up with the Rebels and be the image they need her to be... the Mockingjay, to give hope to the other districts while fighting. Yet the help with clothes, speeches and such all sound just like the position Katniss played before each game.

This book starts off slowly with learning who and how the rescued ones are. You learn there are great worries for the ones who were captured by the Capitol, and you see how devastating it is to the ones who are alive and... well alive. Here in District 13 you start to see there are rumors about the place and you wonder slightly on it while learning interesting details of the place, but the people are safe and accepted here.

I was aware from the previous two books that President Snow and the games really affected these kids' minds, but it really shows in this conclusion as to how badly it really was/is. The clouded view and instability of Katniss from the previous and even current happenings really comes into focus here. This is also what makes this book so heart wrenching for me. Suzanne definitely does NOT take the easy road for her characters. She is very bold in taking this great stand with them, which makes them that much more real to me.

I was wanting to see more of the government and the views of what might have been "wrong," "right," or where they "went from here". But again, these books are from Katniss's view so we are a little short on these explanations. These books are of Katniss as she grows in the role here. You do get your conclusion to the story. But the idea implanted from this world and the reaction of these characters keeps you thinking.

As much as I loved the book and was drawn into these characters once more, I felt left wanting more in the end. This can be a good thing and a bad thing. Maybe the frantic pacing in parts of the book once it got rolling and then slower in others might be why. I'm not sure. Maybe the trauma periods for Katniss, when she is sedated, is what I felt as I'm missing things, I wasn't sure I was getting all the information or even the right information. But I was seeing Katniss's view on everything to understand her even more. It might be that I don't really get my closure with what happens in the government and politics. But the book left a huge impact on me. The thought to do what is right and needed in the bigger picture.

Is this the perfect ending to the trilogy? I don't know. I do know I was drawn right to the characters and the destructive world they live in. Drawn so much I was heart broken in the end. But there is a short ray of hope given after it all. For me this book is about more than how Katniss chooses to be with, it is about what you choose in life to fight for and what you will do for it, but keep your eyes and ears open to not be tricked to do for others.

4stars - "The conclusion to the Hunger Games Trilogy, you have to read it." (MelHay)

Mockingjay was definitely the hardest book to read because it's so depressing, but I think this was Collin's intention to create this feeling of sadness and loneliness as we read the story because we needed to know how Katniss must be feeling after all that has happened and finally see her for who she really is....a damaged young girl. I also think Collins tried to rewrite what she gave us in the first two novels and show us the reality of the kind of story we are actually fans of, which was a story about murder, death, poverty, cruelty and corruption. In Mockingjay, I tried to find some sort of happiness or light in this dark story world where Peeta is captured, Katniss is a mess and the rebellion everyone risked creating is barely making any progress at all, but there was hardly anything worth being happy about so like Katniss did in those dark times I just kept going forward. Til the end I couldn't even imagine how this trilogy would end and while many readers might have been angry at it's conclusion, I thought it was perfect. It ended how it should have ended.

5stars - "Best time I ever had being depressed" (Nancy Im)
Have to echo the other reviewers' sentiments that the book 1 was the best, book 2 not as good and book 3 is just plodding along, with several nonsensical plot elements. Still, Collins knows how to spin a good story and I've no regrets about reading the book. Beginning is weak, middle is weaker still but it gains strength towards the end and ultimately doesn't disappoint all that much.

Have to echo the other reviewers' sentiments that the book 1 was the best, book 2 not as good and book 3 is just plodding along, with several nonsensical plot elements. Still, Collins knows how to spin a good story and I've no regrets about reading the book. Beginning is weak, middle is weaker still but it gains strength towards the end and ultimately doesn't disappoint all that much.

4stars - "The series loses luster but still pretty good read." (Ig)

I absolutely loved The Hunger Games and Catching Fire. I eagerly anticipated Mockingjay and am not disappointed, other than the fact the I am now mourning the end of the series. I read this book in a few days, it was hard to put down, but I got more and more bummed the closer I got to the end, because I didn't really want it to end.

I think things were wrapped up well in this book, and it provided the closure necessary at the end of a series. I won't go into any spoilers, but I am happy with how it ended. The author does a really great job painting a picture for us readers time and time again. And I personally found myself very emotionally effected at many points in the story. That's good writing! There's a really good lesson in this story as well!

5stars - "A Great Closer" (M. Newcomer)

Eat, Pray, Love / SalesRank : 15

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Eat, Pray, Love
Author : Elizabeth Gilbert

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Penguin ] [ Release : 2007 / 02 / 01 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B000PDYVVG
[ ListPrice : $15.00 ]

Average Customer Review :

3.5stars [ See more reviews ]
The movie got so much media attention but it ended up being a flop. I got sucked into the marketing scheme and purchased this book to read while on summer vacation. Overall a good book, but also a forgettable one. I have yet to see the movie, but I will rent it once it's out on DVD.

The movie got so much media attention but it ended up being a flop. I got sucked into the marketing scheme and purchased this book to read while on summer vacation. Overall a good book, but also a forgettable one. I have yet to see the movie, but I will rent it once it's out on DVD.

4stars - "A good summer read.." (Dragana)

(3.5 stars)I thought this was going to be a book about eating, spirituality and love. As it turns out, it's all of that and also about making mistakes, forgiving yourself and starting over. Gilbert's writing style is open and honest as she shares her journey of finding balance and contentment in her life. She does this through completely immersing herself in three different cultures. Italy is all about the food and the intimacy of sharing meals with friends, not denying yourself simple pleasures and giving yourself permission to do nothing. India is the spiritual part of her journey. Here she conquers the art of meditation and learns the meaning of some inspirational Sanskrit phrases. This part is especially interesting for those who practice yoga or meditation. And then there's my favorite section of the book, Indonesia. Its breathtaking beauty is the perfect backdrop for finding balance and love. Gilbert writes with a delightful mix of humor and wit in a style that is easy to read and flows nicely. However, there are several sections that are slow and slightly tedious, with too much descriptive detail and no movement in plot. In short, anyone struggling with divorce or feeling disconnected to their life will easily relate to and take comfort in reading this book. Travel journal enthusiasts will also find it delightful and a great escape or those on their own spiritual journey.

4stars - "Not as good as I thought it would be" (Linda Rockhill)
Great - the book is what I thought it would be. Shipping was on time and got here in perfect shape. Thanks - A+

Great - the book is what I thought it would be. Shipping was on time and got here in perfect shape. Thanks - A+

5stars - "Great" (Ann Sanford)

I cannot understand why people like this boooooooring book. I painfully made it through Italy and started India...that's when I couldn't take it anymore and felt that stapling my hand to the wall would be far more interesting than continuing with this woman who never stops talking about the damn bathroom floor...save yourself and save your money! I hope I can get a few bucks for it at the used bookstore especially since I only read a portion. Seriously this woman quit her marriage for some reason that she won't share....umm ok isn't that part of what sent her out on this journey that resulted in an overly hyped up, waste of paper, diary of a cry baby? She roamed around Italy eating and talking a bunch of nonsense meanwhile not having to worry about money thanks to her book advance. What idiot publisher did that! I agree with many of the other reviews.....she is a spoiled lame. I will not even bother seeing the movie ugg!

1stars - "Snore, Snore, Snore" (alp1021)
I wanted to like this book. Everyone I knew loved it and said I had to read this book. I didn't make it past Italy. I was disappointed that she was paid to take this trip (book advance) and wondered how much of it was manufactured for the book. Also, to me, her tone seemed haughty and self-important.

I wanted to like this book. Everyone I knew loved it and said I had to read this book. I didn't make it past Italy. I was disappointed that she was paid to take this trip (book advance) and wondered how much of it was manufactured for the book. Also, to me, her tone seemed haughty and self-important.

1stars - "Not worth the hype" (AZMom)

The Hunger Games / SalesRank : 8

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The Hunger Games
Author : Suzanne Collins

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Scholastic Press ] [ Release : 2009 / 09 / 01 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B002MQYOFW
[ ListPrice : $14.99 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.5stars [ See more reviews ]

I finished reading The Hunger Games and immediately reread it. I didn't want it to end. I really enjoyed the author's imaginative series, Gregor the Overlander, but this story is aimed at slightly older readers and is just a step beyond Gregor. The premise is not so new- young people from different areas are set up in a gladiator style sacrifice/fight to the death that is reminiscent of Logan's Run and The Running Man. A poverty stricken sixteen year old girl is sent off to the capital city of the country that arose from the ashes of North America, along with a male counterpart. Katniss doesn't think she stands much of a chance against the "career" competitors who have trained many years for the glory and honor of battle. Her skill at foraging and hunting small prey may keep her from starving, but she has no experience with fighting and cannot allow herself to become attached to other players when only one is permitted to exit the arena alive. The entire event is filmed and all citizens are expected to watch the games.

The writing is superb and the details of the challenges she faces are exquisitely presented. I can hardly wait to read the other books in the trilogy.

5stars - "Finished it and immediately read it again" (Lorel Shea)
Very good book, well written. One of those that you just can't put down until your done. My suggestion, go ahead and buy the others in the series. You won't wanna wait to finish it.

Very good book, well written. One of those that you just can't put down until your done. My suggestion, go ahead and buy the others in the series. You won't wanna wait to finish it.

5stars - "Very Nice" (JacksonD2nd)
The book was received in great condition and before the estimated delivery time.
A breathtaking novel indeed.

5stars - "Great stuff!" (Ran)

I'm a big fan of "Survivor" so I hardly had to read any of the back flap of THE HUNGER GAMES before I was hooked. 24 kids in a fight to the death on live TV sounds gruesome, and it was, but it was also intriguing. I was in Katniss Everdeen's head from the beginning; I felt her desperation and I understood the misery of her life in a future North America that requires adolescent participation in these annual games. Yet I enjoyed her clever survivor skills, her strategies and the little self-discoveries she made along the way. This is a YA book that adults will be just as keen for as kids, though some of the shocking and dreadful parts may be too much for some. My only criticism is that the editor dropped the ball on catching typos, poor sentence structure and fragments. I can take a few fragments now and then when they fit the flow of the story, but sometimes the author, Suzanne Collins, pulled me right out of the action and slapped me with grammatical flotsam and jetsam. Still, it was an excellent read.

4stars - "Grammatical Flotsam and Jetsam" (Debra L. Chapoton)
I LOOVED this book. I could not put it down. I definitely recommend it to anyone. It's a great quick read and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. Well done!

I LOOVED this book. I could not put it down. I definitely recommend it to anyone. It's a great quick read and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. Well done!

5stars - "Thrilling" (HollywoodMC)

Catwalk / SalesRank : 0

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Catwalk
Author : Melody Carlson

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Zondervan ] [ Release : 2010 / 06 / 08 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B003OUXB4U
[ ListPrice : $9.99 ]

Average Customer Review :

5.0stars [ See more reviews ]

Catwalk by Melody Carlson is the second book in the On the Runway series. Paige and Erin Forrester are on their way to film New York Fashion week for their reality television show On the Runway, but first they both need to walk in a show for a "green" designer, then Erin needs to deal with her best friend Mollie's seeming abandoning her for boyfriend Tony, plus the girls' mother's relationship with Jon is becoming serious. I love this series about two sisters trying to stay true to themselves in the strange world of Hollywood. Paige is the star of the show and trying to keep up her relationship with big star Benjamin. Erin is more comfortable behind the camera and is giving old flame Blake another chance. Paige and Erin have a very believable sisterly relationship with plenty of push-pull and chemistry. They face the real problems of teenagers: parents dating, troubled relationships, and two-faced friends, but with a great twist of glamor. It's the rare young adult Christian series that is completely enjoyable and believable. I can't wait to read what happens next to the Forrester sisters.

5stars - "2nd in On the Runway series is thoroughly enjoyable" (Christina Lockstein)

After reading and enjoying Premiere last week, I was anxious to read the next installment in Melody Carlson's new On the Runway series. Catwalk did not disappoint. In fact I think I enjoyed it more than Premiere. Erin and Paige are now on the roll with their new show, but that doesn't mean that Erin is completely comfortable being in front of the camera yet. Catwalk leads the girls to fashion week in New York and lots of fun and surprises await them there.

I enjoyed reading the various shows and people the girls met along with the new situations they managed to get into and out of. What I thought was really cute about this one, was the presence of the Carter House girls. I have actually only read one Carter House girl novel (but have the rest on my tbr pile) but recognized the main players when Erin and Paige meet them in New York. It was neat to see them again, and if you haven't read the Carter House girl series, no worries, the girls really just make a cameo appearance.

Catwalk has new lessons for both Paige and Erin and I really liked how Melody Carlson brought those lessons about. Both girls had to come to the realizations - this isn't beat you over the head Christianity, this is hey - that makes a lot of sense and having some other players reinforce the lessons really was a great way to handle them.

After finishing Catwalk, I am already anxious for the next installment, Rendezvous which comes out in September. Great characters, a fast-moving plot and lots of fun in the fashion world equals a great read in my book.

My Rating: 4.5/5.0

5stars - "Loved it - fun view of the fashion world with lessons to be learned" (Crystal Fulcher)

I really am starting to think that this is Melody Carlson's best YA series to date. As with the first book, Premiere, I really think that these books are great to pass along to any reader who enjoy the girly type of YA. The characters are realistic but put in fun situations that everyone dreams of. Who wouldn't want to be able to host your own TV show and get to travel to New York and LA interviewing celebrities and discovering the latest fashions?

I really like how the book is from Erin's point of view. Paige comes off as slightly superficial at times while Erin is very down to earth. I think that if I were to meet them in person, I would end up liking Erin very much. Paige sometimes seems to get caught up in all the glitz and glamor while Erin is content with just being herself and doesn't care about what other people think. One example of this is how she is excited to learn about the "green" fashion line because it is one of her passions in her life to be more environmental conscious. Meanwhile, Paige immediately dismisses it because she thinks it's below her. The airport security clearance scene was extremely interesting.

I love all the fashion talk that is in this book. There may be some Christian readers who might complain about too much talk about commercial stuff and that teen girls shouldn't be focused on clothes, labels and having all the in things. Well I'm just going to say that even though you can say that, in reality what girls like and want are completely different. Girls who are into fashion will eat up this book as it's a fun look into the fashion industry without having to go into the seedy side of the business. It's a rough industry but it's also interesting to see that the creative side of the business.

I was also pleasantly surprised to see characters from the Carter House Girls series make an appearance in this book. It's great to see what they've been up to since the ending of their series. It's also a great way to reward fans of Carlson's books to see familiar faces in the story. The ending of the book is a little shocking but it drives home an important point about underage drinking and the influence celebrities have on fans.

As I said I loved this book. It's a whirlwind ride into the fast pace world of fashion and I enjoyed every minute of the trip. I can't wait until the next book in the series. HIGHLY recommended.

5stars - "This series keeps getting better and better" (Deborah)

I loved this book every bit as much as Premiere, book 1 in this awesome new series for young adults. Once again, we are taking back to the runway and the life of Erin and her wannabe actress sister,Paige, and the lessons are flowing once again, with trying to live a Godly life in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. The sisters are still their happy, loving self, but are dealing with the issues of everyday Hollywood life. Once again, Melody Carlson does not pack this full of issues like pregnancy or sex, but she fills it with lots of drama, romance, family and God, to help show young adults that you can live a life for God and make it in the fast paced, hectic world of Hollywood and acting.

This book is definitely another 5 star read. It is easy to read- I read it one sitting, easy to follow-it could be read as a stand alone if you didn't get to read book 1, and is perfect for young adults AND adults. There is a strong spiritual message as well as wonderful lessons in life that we could all learn from and take to heart. I am super excited to continue to read this series and am anxiously awaiting the release of book 3, Rendezvous!

5stars - "Young Adult series at it's finest!" ("Buukluvr")

Reviewed by Theresa La (16) Reader Views (08/10)

A popular subject for many teenagers, especially for teenage girls, is the world of fashion and Hollywood glitz and glamour. This book provides an interesting view into this world. The second book of a series, this story continues the adventure of two sisters who are involved in the fashion industry. Similar to many popular T.V. shows, such as the O.C., the Hills, etc., this book takes the reader into the lives of these two sisters, both their professional lives as well as their personal lives. Each sister has their own dynamic personality that makes the story very interesting to read. It is very interesting to see how these two separate personalities work together to produce a show and further their career. The viewpoints of both sisters are given for each situation, making it a very realistic novel, because each sister portrays a different type of people in the world.

One of the sisters is a natural Hollywood girl. She enjoys being in the limelight and has the full personality of a Hollywood A-Lister. On the other hand, her sister is a person who enjoys being in the background and has given up her education at UCLA in film to help her sister realize her dream of working in Hollywood while also receiving some hand-on experience in film. The second sister, Erin, is a more grounded person, the girl next door, is the type of person that she portrays. Melody Carlson has also masterfully blended into this book the sensitive topic of religion and how religion affects people. She shows how religion has affected Erin's life, and how she uses her faith to try to help other people, such as Benjamin. This book shows the pros and cons of having a career in Hollywood and is filled with drama, romance, but also family, love between sisters, and the ups and downs of having a high stress but sometimes glamorous career.

I was very excited when I got this book. The cover was very cleverly designed, with the silhouettes of models walking down the runaway. I was afraid that since this was the second book in the series, I would not be able to understand what was taking place between the characters. However, this is not the case. Though some of the characters are from the previous novel and it is continuing the storyline of the previous novel, it was very easy to realize what was taking place in the story.

I was immediately hooked onto this novel and did not put it down until I had finished the story. I greatly enjoyed how this book had characters that were in the fashion industry, but also characters who were like the people we lived next to and attended the same school as us, the people whose lives could closely relate with the majority of America's population. This book is perfect for those who have enjoyed series such as "Gossip Girl," "The It Girl," and the previous "On the Runway" novel. "Catwalk" provides some freshness into the genre, since it involves the different type of people; the A-List crowd but also the average, everyday teenager. I cannot wait to read the third novel in this series!

5stars - "Fashion career in cut through Hollywood" (Reader Views)

Catching Fire (The Second Book of the Hunger Games) / SalesRank : 9

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Catching Fire (The Second Book of the Hunger Games)
Author : Suzanne Collins

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Scholastic Press ] [ Release : 2010 / 05 / 28 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B003O86FMW
[ ListPrice : $17.99 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.5stars [ See more reviews ]
This was by far the best book of the Hunger Games Trilogy. You have at least gotten to know the characters and feel for them, and it is before they completely drain the life out of you with Mockingjay. This was a really good read and an excellent complement to the first book.

This was by far the best book of the Hunger Games Trilogy. You have at least gotten to know the characters and feel for them, and it is before they completely drain the life out of you with Mockingjay. This was a really good read and an excellent complement to the first book.

5stars - "Best book of the trilogy" (Lisa Jill)

"Catching Fire" is a terrific read, picking up only a short time after Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games victors depart the train in District 12.

"Catching Fire" is more adult than the original in the series. The themes are a little stronger, the imagery a bit more vivid and the emotions run deeper and are more complex. The violence is more intense than "Hunger Games", but not because the language is more descriptive, nor more creative (although "Catching Fire"'s Hunger Games are new and innovative). The story is large in scale. The characters actions have broad impact across all of Panem's districts. Collins sets the stage for a Panem-wide rebellion and, all of a sudden, Katniss' little world of troubles becomes something much more substantive.

We explore Katniss' relationships further...things change between she and Peeta, and while the relationship differs from the first book, the intensity grows. We also explore her changing relationship with Gale. While older teenage girls should be able to relate to Katniss' up, down, and sideways feelings towards the two young men, younger readers will will have a lot to absorb. That being said, I didn't find anything inappropriate for more mature pre-teens and any teenager.

This second book of Collins' trilogy is a real thriller and sets up what should be a terrific conclusion to the series. I couldn't get through the final 150 pages fast enough, and felt throughout that the story was providing a very satisfying continuation from "Hunger Games", and a relatively satisfying conclusion in itself. Granted, I won't have to wait long to read the third and final story in the series since it's already available, but I certainly understand the agonizing anticipation for "Mockingjay".

4stars - "Terrific Sequel - Exciting and Thrilling" (Jason Golomb)

5stars - "As good as the original, and even more emotionally grueling and rewarding." (Tiger Holland)

When last we left our heroine Katniss Everdeen, she was faced with a life of misery because she had to pretend to be in love with someone she kind of likes. She had angered the Capitol by not only surviving the Hunger Games, but bringing fake-boyfriend Peeta out alive as well. Such blatant disregard for the rules has not gone unnoticed, and now the twelve Districts are beginning to get ideas of rebellion.

And so President Snow orders Katniss and Peeta to tour the districts and pretend to be in love to defuse the situation. The Capitol seems to be a bit undecided as to what to do with the pair, because Katniss and Peeta are also thrown back into the Hunger Games for round two.

Catching Fire is a better, more rounded view of life in Panem, but the same problems from The Hunger Games return to haunt this book. This time around Katniss and Peeta tour the different districts, so we get to see just how put down and dystopian this society really is. We see more interaction between the Capitol and the Districts, making the Good Guys seem more good and the Bad Guys seem more Bad.

Unfortunately, for someone who narrates the entire story, Katniss seems to be completely oblivious to anything that goes on around her. She notices, quite clearly and on multiple occasions, the symbol of the mockingjay in relation to rebel activity. The mockingjay was her symbol in the Hunger Games. She was the one who sparked the rebellion. And yet Katniss fails to put two and two together to figure out that she is the one all the rebels look to as a symbol of hope.

No, instead she spends her time trying to deal with Peeta and Gale. Gale is of course her childhood friend, who hunts in the woods with Katniss. He got maybe a page and a half total in The Hunger Games, and yet is apparently Katniss' true love. We see more of him this time in Catching Fire, but his screentime is once again far overshadowed by Peeta. It 's a poor romance when the heroine spends most of her time mooning over someone we hardly know while snubbing the character the readers have come to know and identify with.

The ending is rather abrupt and has little closure for the story. Much the same as the ending to The Empire Strikes Back, Catching Fire is a blatant setup for the next book. It's mostly exposition to lay the groundwork for part three, with more Hunger Games thrown into the middle to keep us pacified. And through it all, I still have no idea if Katniss likes Peeta or not.

4stars - "In Which Katniss is Not Sherlock Holmes" (Cameron Lee)

Yes, the middle book of a trilogy is usually the weakest and this one is no different. In fact, I deliberately set the book aside until I also had the final book in hand. However, as "the middle," this was stronger than is usually the case and though not as good as the first book, it was a real pager-turner.

Some reviewers have made legitimate points about how this has a lot of summary as Katniss recounts the fallout after the games, and the Victory Tour. However, the tour gives readers (and Katniss) a chance to connect with the other districts making the revolution more than just District 12 vs the Capitol. And, the book does feel a bit like a retread of the first after Katniss learns that she must return to the arena. President Snow uses the 75th anniversary of the Hunger Games as an excuse to kill her by decreeing that all the tributes this year will be culled from previous victors. Though this could easily have been "Hunger Games the Remake", I found it was actually a clever way to segue into the upcoming rebellion. I thought the best parts of the first book took place in the arena, and that is the case here. This time her opponents are skilled killers who each won before. Plus, Haymitch begins pushing her to forge an alliance with some of them, who actively protect her and Peeta , so how will she be able to kill them? Throughout the book, Collins lays down breadcrumbs for the development of the revolution - each mention of the Mockingjay carries significance - and the ending is explosive with some surprises.

Catching Fire also develops the love triangle between Gale, Katniss and Peeta better than other series, such as Twilight. I never found Jacob to be a real contender because it was so obvious Bella would end up with Edward. Not so here. Even though readers don't spend much time with Gale, he has a history with Katniss and her memories evoke this. On the other hand is Peeta, who is so obviously in love with her, has fought by her side, and protects her as only he can. Halfway through the final book, and it's still not obvious who she will choose, which keeps the suspense high.

Though a cliffhanger is practically expected here, I never-the-less found the conclusion to be very satisfying. The book ends at a staging point; there is resolution in that all the pieces are in place and readers can move to the next stage - war. Overall, I could not put this book down and have already begun the finale. Highly recommended series!

4stars - "Enough Surprises to Keep a Reader Engrossed" (Jem)

Motorcycles, Sushi & One Strange Book / SalesRank : 0

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Motorcycles, Sushi & One Strange Book
Author : Nancy Rue

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Zondervan ] [ Release : 2010 / 04 / 10 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B003GEKL42
[ ListPrice : $9.99 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.5stars [ See more reviews ]

Jessie was fifteen and living with her mother, her mother's mood swings, and her own medication when, out of the blue, the father she'd thought was dead turned up. Perhaps her father's arrival was the catalyst, but Jessie's mom attempted suicide. No holds barred when this redhead was shuttled down to Florida - Jessie isn't one to hold in things - to live with this father she barely knew.

In the airport, a book found its way to Jessie.

Jessie was thrilled to learn that her father owned a Harley Davidson and a sushi restaurant. Less thrilling was learning that her father was a very pious man who prayed regularly.

The book that found Jessie was a contemporary story of Jesus, modernized and simplified so that it was more than palatable to a teenager. The lessons in the book mirrored Jessie's experiences, down to and including the nasty surprise of a little step-sister added to the mix.

While I was disappointed that the book wasn't all Motorcycles and Sushi because I really wasn't in the mood to read a religious book when I picked this up, I found that I did, indeed, like the writing and that I liked Jessie. The religion in Motorcycles, Sushi& One Strange Book is as gentle to the reader as it is in Jessie's "Real Life" book. I can see a teenager who enjoys this book picking up, in a few years, a copy of God on a Harley.

4stars - "Great title, fairly good book" (Rebekah Sue Harris)

Main character Jessie Hatcher is an ADHD teen who lives with her bipolar mother. Her father, whom she had never met and didn't even know was still alive, shows up just before her mother has a breakdown and is hospitalized. She goes to stay with him for a while, during which time she comes to deal with her ADHD, partly through the help of a special book she finds.

I found this to be a heartwarming and well-written story. I'm not often impressed with Christian fiction, as the plots and characters are sometimes a bit dull as compared to secular fiction. But I thought this was a very remarkable exception to that rule.

5stars - "Top-notch example of Christian YA fiction" (jebi44)
It was a great, well written book. I wouldn't change anything at all. I knew it even before I read it though because Nancy Rue is the best author ever! I loved the characters and the ending. I can't wait until the next one comes out.

It was a great, well written book. I wouldn't change anything at all. I knew it even before I read it though because Nancy Rue is the best author ever! I loved the characters and the ending. I can't wait until the next one comes out.

5stars - "It was Awesome!!!"

From the cover of this book, this looks like it will be your normal, fluffy, Chick-lit YA story. Well as the old saying goes, don't judge a book by it's cover. The cover may be light but the story is heavy and deep. As soon as you start reading, Jessie's situation hits you from the get go. She's only 15 but she's experienced a lifetime of hardships that some adults will never have to face. It made me sad to think that she's had to deal with her mother who is bipolar all by herself and with no one else to help her out at all. It's caused her to have to lie about it to her friends her entire life and there's no one to turn to when she's in desperate need of help. Then out of the blue, she gets a phone call from a man who says he's her biological dad who she thought was dead all these years. Jessie's life begins to change starting on that day.

It's easy for a while to get annoyed with Jessie's behavior. Her mother mentions several times that she has the maturity of an 8 year old in a 15 year old body. And it's true, that there are times when I don't understand why she acts so immaturely sometimes and want to get frustrated with her behavior. However then it's explained about her ADHD and all the problems she's had to deal with living with a mother who is bipolar and it all makes sense. I'm not excusing her behavior but it's good to see that this book does NOT condemn the use of medication or psychiatrists.

This book does feature passages from the Bible but they are portrayed in the form of the mysterious book that Jessie finds. She discovers that it speaks directly to her and helps her in times of need. I really liked how the version of the Bible used is The Message as that is one of my favorite versions because I feel that it really speaks to people who normally avoid reading the Bible because they think they cannot understand it. Jessie's usage of the book is sprinkled throughout the story and is not overtly preachy. Instead it helps and guides her instead of dominating over her life.

Topics such as ADHD, mental illness, alcoholism which are normally avoided in most Christian fiction is brought to full attention here. There are even multi cultural characters to help develop the story more. There isn't a happy ending and there is no miraculous event where everyone gets well and lives happily ever after as a family. I wish more adult Christian fiction authors would take note of this as they tend to avoid almost all those elements in their books. Why is it that teens are more open to understand that life is not all roses and sunshine but adults want to avoid reality?

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I think it's a great start to the series. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books and discovering how the RL Book will affect all those who come across it. Again, don't dismiss this book as fluff. Be prepared to be affected while you read.

5stars - "A Harsh Realistic Story Wrapped Up in a Pretty Package" (Deborah)

I would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank you" to Nancy Rue and her publisher for sending me a copy of "Motorcycles, Sushi & One Strange Book" to review for them. I am truly grateful for this generosity. I really appreciate the time, effort and expense it takes to make a reviewer copy available to me.

After my daughter read and enjoyed Nancy Rue's "Boyfriends, Burritos and an Ocean of Trouble", I had to get her a copy of Nancy's other extremely witty title for teens: "Motorcycles, Sushi and One Strange Book". Jessie Hatcher's life is anything but "normal". When she's uprooted from her mother's home to live with her father, her life is completely shaken up. And not just because she thought her father was dead!

This novel is an incredibly engaging read for teens. Nancy Rue has a knack for identifying with young women, which is evidenced by this book and her other writings. Jessie's story enlightens young girls to circumstances of which they may not be aware. It is also an incredible adventure that teens will recognize with on many levels.

4stars - "Entertaining Teen Fiction" (Stacey)

Premiere / SalesRank : 540

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Premiere
Author : Melody Carlson

amazon.com availability ： Not availabile.

Kindle Edition [ Zondervan ] [ Release : 2010 / 06 / 08 ]
ISBN : - / ASIN : B003OYIA8I
[ ListPrice : $9.99 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.0stars [ See more reviews ]

I enjoyed this story because it was a bit different since the character Erin was the only Christian in her family. She was also the one who never wanted to be in the limelight. Her sister was beautiful and talented. Her mom was involved in the entertainment industry through the local news. I enjoyed reading those segments. I also enjoyed the dating scenarios and the reality show aspect of the novel. It felt very behind-the-scenes so the setting seemed natural to me.

I wished there had been more romance in the story because it seemed lacking in romantic tension. I did like the message in the story and how the author didn't make the girls crazy and worldly. Plus, the character Erin seemed natural to me. I liked how her sister Paige ended up listening to her when she had her crisis over Benjamin. I'm not into fashion or haute couture, so that didn't do much for me. I'm not even sure if I spelled it right. I read the teaser for the next book and honestly, it didn't turn me on, so I probably won't be reading it. But I did enjoy this first book in the series. It was interesting and fun, and not too heavy-handed in the faith department.

4stars - "Fun story with good characters." (Michelle Sutton)

once again, the description of a kindle freebie conveniently forget to mention the religious subject of a book. premiere must have been written for teenagers and readers that enjoy a book that refers to "the what would jesus do" theme throughout. please be honest and tell shoppers if your book belongs in the religion category. please excuse my improper sentence structure. too hard to edit on kindle keyboard.

1stars - "tricked into reading a god book"
This is a teen friendly light read that offers an alternative to unthinking competition for the spot light and an easy introduction to spiritual relationships.

This is a teen friendly light read that offers an alternative to unthinking competition for the spot light and an easy introduction to spiritual relationships.

4stars - "Premiere"
This was a quick read and a cute story. There are some good morals and characters that people can relate to. Not a top pick but a good read.

This was a quick read and a cute story. There are some good morals and characters that people can relate to. Not a top pick but a good read.

4stars - "Cute" (Morgan)

Reviewed by Theresa La (age 16) for Reader Views (08/10)

The O.C., The Hills, The Real Housewife of Orange County, these are all popular T.V. shows about life in Southern California, specifically, Orange County and Los Angeles. When anyone thinks of Los Angeles, they almost immediately think Hollywood, fame, glitz and glamour. This story takes the reader on a journey, following the story of two girls who are trying to get their own television show about fashion. Paige and Erin Forrester are two sisters who have grown up in the television industry. Both of their parents work for Channel 5 news. However, their dad, who was a news anchor for the Channel 5 Evening News has just passed away.

Paige is the older of the two sisters and is the outgoing and fashion forward sister. She knows everything that there is to know about fashion and greatly enjoys giving what she calls "fashion interventions" to people whom she thinks needs help with their sense of style. Erin is the younger of the two sisters and does not have the same knowledge and know-how of fashion as her sister does. Instead, she is more comfortable behind the scenes and is going to UCLA film school. Due to a television mishap, both sisters are given an opportunity of make it big in Hollywood. Both sisters are thrown into a world they thought they knew about but actually don't know about at all.

Premiere! This word was perfect for the title of the first novel in this series. I thought that it was a brilliant idea because this book is about the premiere of a brand new television show. I was very excited to read this when I first got the book. I like how the cover was seats, as if they were waiting for the show to begin and that was what I was doing when I saw the cover. I was waiting for the story to start. My favorite part about this story is how different Paige and Erin are. I like how Erin was like any random person that you could find walking the streets of Orange County or L.A. I like that Melody was able to incorporate religion and make Erin a person that was grounded and not a prima donna like her sister and many of the characters in this genre.

The way in which the author presents her story is amazing, but I would have liked to see a more equal balance of genders. While there were male characters, I think that they should have had more of a role in the story. It would also help the story if Paige was less of a prima donna, because that can be a big turn-off for many readers, but the prima donna attitude is a major part in having Paige become a successful character. Erin should also play a bigger role, because many time throughout the story, I felt that Erin was only there because her sister could be a wild creature and that Erin was needed to keep her in control. However, I thought that it was a great idea to have the two sisters with contrasting personalities to keep the story diverse and be open to more readers.

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys other series such as the IT Girl, or Gossip Girl or who enjoy watching the Hills, etc. I greatly enjoyed reading this books and I was immediately hooked into the story from the beginning. I did not stop reading until the book was finished. I am looking forward to reading more about Paige's and Erin's story! "Premiere" was a masterful combination of Hollywood and reality.

5stars - "Lights, Camera, Action" (Reader Views)

Scott Pilgrim, Vol 4: Scott Pilgrim Gets It Together / SalesRank : 75

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Scott Pilgrim, Vol 4: Scott Pilgrim Gets It Together
Author : Bryan Lee O'Malley

Amazon Price : $6.99 42%($4.96) OFF
amazon.com availability ： Usually ships in 24 hours

Paperback [ Oni Press ] [ Release : 2007 / 11 / 14 ]
ISBN : 9781932664492 / ASIN(ISBN-10) : 1932664491
[ ListPrice : $11.95 ] [ Used Price:$6.24 ]

Average Customer Review :

5.0stars [ See more reviews ]
I couldn't put this book down.I read this in about 30 minutes and then I read it again. I love Scott Pilgrim!

5stars - "Great book." (Shannon Stacey)
i loved this entire series, can't wait for the movie to come out on Friday! heard it was well received at Comic Con.

5stars - "yesss" (bettybow)
Yes, it's Scott Pilgrim comic book #4. Now in color! (The first eight pages, anyway). Scott faces off with Ramona's fourth evil ex, who is a girl. Scott comes across as even more clueless than before this time around. Which makes things even funnier.

Yes, it's Scott Pilgrim comic book #4. Now in color! (The first eight pages, anyway). Scott faces off with Ramona's fourth evil ex, who is a girl. Scott comes across as even more clueless than before this time around. Which makes things even funnier.

4stars - "Hot fun in the summertime" (Johnny Heering)

I started to read the series some years ago, with book three's release, and have been following ever since. With the final book being released, I'm rereading and reviewing the earlier volumes.

This is the funnest of the volumes, it's also one of the best. Scott really comes of age in this volume, and finally grows up... well starts to grow up. The action scenes are better, the humor is great. there are subplots that start to form, not that I don't love the main story... it's just nice to help form the world better.

This book, and the series as a whole, is perfect for the 17 to 25 year old range, that are growing up in the same culture and going through the same experiences as Scott and his friends. Anyone up into their 30's can get a kick out of the series, being able to look back and laugh about that time in their lives.

5stars - "Reread Review" (Jesse Haller)

Vol 4 is nearly just as amazing as the first three volumes. This series has an unbelievable hook on its readers. Once I start I can't stop, and before you know it I'm angry that it's over. Before I explain my four-star rating I will assure you that the series is still strong and it remains one of my favorites to this day. In comparison to the other volumes, I give this one a lesser rating. In comparison to most graphic novels out there, Scott Pilgrim is way ahead of them in value. Ironic it is that such a lighthearted silly story can have so much of an impact on the comic world. The dumbfounding conclusion is that we have a story that doesn't take itself too seriously, but it has become extremely popular in the world of serious comic fans, and it is regarded as an achievement in humorous literature.

My reason for docking a star may be a little trivial, but I feel giving it 5 stars would be dishonest. I didn't enjoy this edition quite as much as the others, because I began to hate Ramona. I didn't consider it that great of a method to push the readers away from Ramona. She becomes quite b**chy and she even drops a dealbreaker on Scott. I won't spoil it, but at this point I'm asking Lisa to kick Ramona Flowers out of the picture. That being said, this story is just as amusing, and this annoyance is not large enough to affect my enjoyment. I'm sure in the next book we can have some sort of change in that department, hopefully. All I'm asking O'Malley to do is give us a heroine that's worthy of Scott Pilgrim. We loved Mary Jane for a very good reason.

4stars - "Scott = 4 , Boredom = 0" (Tyler S.)

Sookie Stackhouse 8-copy Boxed Set (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood) / SalesRank : 43

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Sookie Stackhouse 8-copy Boxed Set (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood)
Author : Charlaine Harris

Amazon Price : $34.96 45%($28.96) OFF
amazon.com availability ： Usually ships in 24 hours

Paperback [ Ace ] [ Release : 2009 / 09 / 29 ]
ISBN : 9780441018239 / ASIN(ISBN-10) : 0441018238
[ ListPrice : $63.92 ] [ Used Price:$33.11 ]

Average Customer Review :

4.5stars [ See more reviews ]
Very fast delivery. Really good books. Lot's of fun. It's like a vacation from life.

5stars - "very fast delivery" (ccpeeppers)
Great buy, the package deal was the best I've seen. The books were awesome, each better than the last. It was funny, sexy, action-packed, mythical & did I mention sexy!!

Great buy, the package deal was the best I've seen. The books were awesome, each better than the last. It was funny, sexy, action-packed, mythical & did I mention sexy!!

5stars - "Best gift ever!!" (Ms.Fangbanger)

I read the second and third books from the library because there was a long wait for the first book. I was so hooked! I couldn't wait and had to purchase the set so I could continue reading. When I got it, I started with the first book and re-read the second and third before continuing the series. The books are fun to read and not gory at all. They also have great humor that makes me laugh out loud. If you love True Blood you will love these books!

5stars - "Great Books, Great Stories" (Eric is my Maker)
I started watching the series and then half way threw the third season I bought the book series. I had hear from friends it was a great series. I must say it is. I love the books almost as much as I love the series, they do have different people in there and how things played out, but it is worth the read if you like the series like I do.

I started watching the series and then half way threw the third season I bought the book series. I had hear from friends it was a great series. I must say it is. I love the books almost as much as I love the series, they do have different people in there and how things played out, but it is worth the read if you like the series like I do.

5stars - "simple and true"
This series of books were great reading. If you are True Blood/Sookie Stackhouse fan, it is WORTH IT!

5stars - "Great Reading" (Lileth Greenwood)

Breaking Dawn (The Twilight Saga) / SalesRank : 94

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Breaking Dawn (The Twilight Saga)
Author : Stephenie Meyer

Amazon Price : $8.99 40%($6.00) OFF
amazon.com availability ： Usually ships in 24 hours

Paperback [ Little, Brown Books for Young Readers ] [ Release : 2010 / 08 / 03 ]
ISBN : 9780316067935 / ASIN(ISBN-10) : 0316067938
[ ListPrice : $14.99 ] [ Used Price:$8.10 ]

Average Customer Review :

3.5stars [ See more reviews ]

This book was everything that I expected and more. There were a couple of plot twists that bothered me. This was the only book where I didn't hate Bella as much for the decisions that she made. In this book she became the hero and I really love the love story with Edward. I only wish that they would have casted a better person to portray Edward. Robert Pattinson doesn't do it for me, but I am 39. The Edward in my mind is handsome and warm. I gave it 5 stars despite my dislike of the crazy story line twists. It resolves eventually letting me accept those twists in the end. This series was my favorite romance of all time. I loved it. I usually don't read vampire books or such easy reads or even romance novels, but this one was very different and I'm thankful that my friend recommend this series.

5stars - "great books" (kracykat)
I'm an Austin and Shakespear fan. The characters have me hooked!!! The plot of the love story is as good as Austins. But I think they have the mark of a first time author and could have had more editing. But I would still buy more. I see the author maturing in her writing of "The Host". I will follow Stephenie Meyer as long as she publishes. Good read for the young and young at heart.

I'm an Austin and Shakespear fan. The characters have me hooked!!! The plot of the love story is as good as Austins. But I think they have the mark of a first time author and could have had more editing. But I would still buy more. I see the author maturing in her writing of "The Host". I will follow Stephenie Meyer as long as she publishes. Good read for the young and young at heart.

4stars - "Would like more" (older reader)
Stephene Myers is great and I can't wait for more books to come out. I wish they would make a tv show out of it. There is nothing wrong with happy endings and I never knew what was going to happen she kept me wanting more. I loved the book and now I am having a hard time wanting to read anything else. Someone always has to ruin something good.

Stephene Myers is great and I can't wait for more books to come out. I wish they would make a tv show out of it. There is nothing wrong with happy endings and I never knew what was going to happen she kept me wanting more. I loved the book and now I am having a hard time wanting to read anything else. Someone always has to ruin something good.

5stars - "You people are crazy this book is so good. What is wrong with a happy ending" (mikeandsteph03)

This is the worst book I have ever read in my life.
I couldn't wait to read the 4th Twilight book.
When I opened this book, my smile turned into a frown.
This book is pointless,and I think that the book has no purpose.
Most people just read this book because they want to say that they've read it,but I feel bad for anyone who has read it.
I don't understand how Stephenie Meyer has a career,and how anyone would even compare her to J.K Rowling.
FOR YOUR OWN GOOD, DON'T READ ANY OF STEPHENIE MEYER'S BOOKS!

1stars - "don't read the book for your own good."
I too, have read all the books (twice) and have jumped on the "Twilight" bandwagon late - I read the final book and was totally dissappointed as well....total let down! Let us all pray that the last 2 movies are better then the book... WOW ~ When has anybody hoped for that??

I too, have read all the books (twice) and have jumped on the "Twilight" bandwagon late - I read the final book and was totally dissappointed as well....total let down! Let us all pray that the last 2 movies are better then the book... WOW ~ When has anybody hoped for that??

3stars - "Let's all breathe!!" (Jessica Ball)

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