This week one of our readers Tasha tackled the fascinating concept of artificial intelligence in her brilliant review of MILA 2.0 by Debra Driza! In this novel, teen Mila discovers she is actually a robot and has to go on the run from her creators, who want to terminate her.
"I did enjoy this book, however, I felt that the narrative was unbearably descriptive at times and it distracted away from the action itself. I also found the first part of the book quite slow-paced as very little happened but I'm glad that the pace began to quicken from part two and onwards... Although this book does contain romance between Mila and Hunter, it doesn't dominate the entire story and their platonic yet romantic relationship is left on a cliff-hanger at the very end. I rate this book as a 7 out of 10 because although it is not my usual kind of book, it was very interesting towards the end but I feel the ending was slightly rushed."
Taking an intriguing look into the Eastern social impact of the second world war, peace_love_books authored a superb review of The Endless Steppe by Esther Hautzig. Reviewer peace_love_books fittingly summarised this novel as "the dramatic experiences of Esther Hautzig during the Second World War as a young teenager".
"The subject matter is at times very disturbing and saddening, and as it is narrated by the voice of Esther herself, I would suggest no one younger than 11 should read it. However, older readers should not be put off by the simple language and adolescent voice, as I believe Esther's well observed comments about her conditions and the effect they had on her are interesting for any age. Boys should not be deterred by the female narrator, as her story is so powerful. The Endless Steppe could easily be compared to The Diary of Anne Frank due to their similar ages and some aspects of their stories, however this book does have a largely happy ending."
Esther Hautzig was separated from most of her family during this time, and similarly orphan Felix - in Go Saddle The Sea by Joan Aiken - journeys from Spain to England in search of his long lost family. This week Rachie:) wrote an excellent review in which she described her love of Felix's story.
"I thought this book was one of the best adventure stories I have encountered and a touching yet easy to read book. I would love to read the next in the trilogy and I would recommend it to boys and girls age eight and up for an unpredictable adventure."
Meanwhile TheBookAddictedGirl wrote an outstanding review of the second book in The Grisha trilogy: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo. This novel continues Alina's magical story as she fights the dark powers threatening her once-great nation Ravka.
"In so many series the second book is a huge let-down. Siege and Storm? An exception. It is a squillion times better than Shadow and Bone... I adore the writing – it's so lyrical, so beautiful, yet so modern and witty and funny. I love this blend of classic fairytale and modern day. And it always seems to leave me wanting more! And the plot was amazing too. It was just nonstop action, nonstop thrills, nonstop suspense and nonstop excitement. I gobbled it up, falling harder in love each time. And then having my heart totally broken. Numerous times… I didn't see ninety-nine percent of the twists coming and could have just read this three-hundred-odd-paged-book in one sitting! You know, if I didn't need sleep and food and stuff..."
For some of our younger readers, Prince Caspian recommended A Seaside Rescue by Tracey Corderoy in his wonderful review! This novel follows the tale of woodland creatures living in Willow Valley who go on a trip to the seaside!
"The book has six chapters with lots of writing, but also really nice drawings on every page. Children from four to seven years would like this book, especially if you like animals or having adventures. I really enjoyed the book because I liked the characters and the adventures they have. The good news is that there are lots more in the same series and I am looking forward to reading them!"
Finally we move onto a treat from one of our group reviewers: Ronaldo from The Book Bunch wrote a fantastic review of Ottoline and the Yellow Cat by Chris Riddell. This book follows the tale of two eccentric detectives on the case of a string of high society jewel thefts and dog-nappings!
"The opening was really interesting because it was all about mysteries and puzzles... The pictures are good, especially Mr Munroe. I would recommend this book to 8- and 9-year-old boys and girls. I will get some of the other Ottoline books to read for fun."
And that's it for this week! Thank you for all your delightful reviews. As usual, if we mentioned your review, email in to the children's site address - childrens.books@theguardian.com - and we will send you a new book in the post. Happy reading!
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