The Summer I Saved the World in 65 Days, by Michele Weber Hurwitz

The book I read for my book report is called The Summer I Saved the World in 65 Days. The author of the book is Michele Weber Hurwitz, and as she was writing the book she came up with the question: does good really do good? This question was the whole point of the book. The book talks about a thirteen-year old girl named Nina Ross and how she is committed on doing sixty-five good things for neighborhood. The setting of the story is mainly the cul-de-sac (the kind of street she lives on). The story starts of with Nina planning on doing something good for her neighbor. Since the recent passing of her grandmother Nina has been feeling very lost. Also since it’s her summer of freshman year she wants to find something she is good at because all of her friends have hobbies she wants to find one for herself too. This is what made her create her plan to anonymously do one small but remarkable good thing for someone in her neighborhood. Along the way, she discovers that her neighborhoods, and her family, are full of surprises and secrets.

My favorite part in the book is when Eli (Nina’s next door neighbor) asks Nina to go to homecoming with him. I like this part because they like each other and after all of these good things Nina has done she deserves to get her something good happen to her. Overall, this is a great book and I do suggest it because it has a great conflict and resolution and it shows how good can really do well. But it does get cheesy during some parts so if you don’t like cheesy books this isn’t for you.

Reviewed by Ani, Grade 8

Grandview Library

The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien, is set in the magical world of Middle Earth, where giants roam, Orcs pillage and terrorize, and many other mythical creatures exist. Bilbo Baggins was visited by his old friend Gandalf, along with 12 dwarves, to Bilbo's surprise. The dwarves tell him of their quest to slay the great Smaug and take back their kingdom under the mountain, and that they need his help. After reluctantly agreeing, they embark on an epic adventure across Middle Earth, encountering all the dangers possible, from giant spiders to hungry giants looking for something to eat.

The Hobbit is one of my favorite books I've read. I love how the author describes the elements of the mythical world around the characters. I also like the mix of action and drama which makes the group’s journey harder. I very strongly recommend reading this book. If you like stories with magic and mythical beings this is the story for you.

Reviewed by Charles B., Grade 9

Montrose Library

The Martian, by Andy Weir

Andy Weir’s, The Martian, is a brilliantly written novel set on the barren planet Mars. After a large sandstorm hits their landing site and his crew is forced to leave him behind after he is hit with shrapnel, Mark Watney has to survive the unforgiving planet of Mars. With only limited supplies left after the sandstorm, Mark must make do with what he has to last long enough for the next Ares mission to pick him up. After learning that Mark is still alive, the world comes together for a common purpose; “Bring Him Home”.

In my opinion, this is my favorite book I have ever read. I'm always interested in Science Fiction books. There are many views on what people think the future will be like, and I believe this one is the most realistic. Not only does it show the dangers of space travel, but it shows that many people will come together to help one person. I like how this book takes a survival story, and puts a twist on it. If you're looking for a book with humor, drama, and action, I highly suggest The Martian.

Reviewed by 

Charles B., Grade 9  Montrose Library