Wicked, by Gregory Maguire

Probably every kid watched the famous Disney movie, The Wizard of Oz, and wondered why the witch was so twisted. Well, this classic novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, by Gregory Maguire, describes how the witch actually deserves sympathy instead of contemption. The witch was actually a misunderstood mutant green child, Elphaba, who had love affairs and longed for attention from her parents who refrained from their abnormal green girl. This is a book for those imaginative people who can easily draw vivid pictures in their mind. After you read this interesting book, you won't be able to look at The Wizard of Oz the same.

- Reviewed by RJ, grade 9.

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Gathering Blue, by Lois Lowry

Gathering Blue is a part of the series that features The Giver and Messenger. I recommend this book to people who enjoy good mysteries. Lois Lowry is a great author and this is another example of her great work. If you enjoyed either of The Giver or Messenger this is a must-read. I have read all three of these books and Gathering Blue would probably have to be my favorite. Kira, an orphan who suffers from a twisted leg, is a gifted weaver. She enjoys many privileges because of her special talent but she begins to suspect things aren't all perfect as they seem to be. She uncovers dark secrets about her community. She lives in a town that is blocked off from all outside communication. She is determined to find out what lies beyond their walls, but she is beginning to ask dangerous questions. While on her journey to answer these mysterious questions, she becomes friends with a boy named Matt who accompanies her on journeys to discover new thread colors for her weaving and other adventures. I enjoyed this book and am sure others will too. - Reviewed by Erick, grade 9. .