The Scream by Joan Aiken

Macmillan

David's Grandma used to live on a remote island where she was a ‘ridder' - she could make rats drown themselves. She then moved to the city and David and his sister have to go and live with her because their parents die.

Jessica Wylde, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

It is one of the only stories that I have read where you really want more people to die in it. I liked the length of it too because it wasn't too big but the problem was the ending because it left too many questions un-answered.

Ian Hodgkinson, Ribblesdale High Technology College

I liked this book as it had a sense of harsh reality shrouding the story. The tale takes many unexpected twists and turns.

James Gradwell, Burscough Priory High School

The Lord of the Dance by Judy Allen

Hodder

Mike's Father finds an old cabinet. One of the things inside it is a bottle that is supposed to have a witch inside. Mike does not believe it but his friend, Lee, does. At first, I thought this book was boring, but then it was better later. I could have liked it to be longer so more things could happen.

Matthew Dowrick, Burscough Priory High School

I really didn't like it how she wrote in the 3rd person, it confused me.

Shirin Mishra, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

An uncomplex plot and relatively easy text to understand

Matthew Hawley, West Craven High Technology College

Branded by M. E. Allen

Egmont

A boy and his friend Ric have a contest to see which can get a girlfriend first. Ric gets a girlfriend straight away, but the other struggles. He tries desperately for a long time, but each attempt he makes he fails miserably.

David Rigby, Hutton C of E Grammar School

I liked this book because it was funny and a teenage book. It has been placed in the right age group. You actually begin to feel the same feelings as the boy in this story because it is really interesting and lets you deep into the boy's life and inner feelings.

James McLoughlin, Burscough Priory High School

There was never a dull moment, and every chapter ended with a cliffhanger.

Emily Clegg, Burscough Priory High School

The Flight of the Emu by Rachel Anderson

Hodder

Mak thinks he will never leave the children's home until he is 18 and is made up when Evelyn chooses to adopt him, but when the fun has just begun, she dies. Mak is given a new adoption but he hates being with his new parents. I liked this book because it shows what happens in a children's home. It is lively and makes you feel sorry for the characters.

Jennifer Hepple, Burscough Priory High School

Mrs McFee is a strange character because she sings into a potato masher instead of shouting “tea's up”. This would probably be one of the reasons why she is one of my favourite characters.

Chris Fletcher, Heysham High School

The characters did not have any meat to them and I just couldn't care what happened to any of them in the book.

Daley Brennan, Burscough Priory High School

Revenge House by Bernard Ashley

Orchard

Sophia is happily living in London with her Mother, until one day her Dad is killed by a speeding van. Her Mum sweeps her off to the middle of nowhere to escape the crime of London. If she thinks she's escaping crime she's dead wrong.

Oliver Burrow, Heysham High School

I quite liked this book, and I could really relate to some of the characters. I think that Revenge House is quite a good title. I would say that it was probably written and aimed at girls, but I think boys would enjoy it as well. From the middle of the book onwards, you could kind of predict what was going to happen and I think there could have been a twist to the end of the story. But overall it was a really good book and I hope that Bernard Ashley will write a sequel.

Nicola Adams, Burscough Priory High School

I liked this book very much. It was sad, funny, exciting and action packed. The story held strong values of love and care for a person. Although I would not usually read a book like this I found it interesting.

Khadija Rawat, Fulwood High School

Disconnected by Sherry Ashworth

Collins

Disconnected is about a girl who is doing A- levels and is under a lot of pressure with exams and homework. She had always been well behaved for her parents and always handed in work on time. But now she is at sixth form, and doesn't see the point in working and doing well anymore. She doesn't want to be like her parents, she wants to be independent. It is a story about how she rebels against everything she has ever done, and how she hurts people along the way. I liked this book a lot because it was original and whilst you read it you were dragged more and more into it. It was definitely one of those books that you could not put down.

Adele Ashton, Ribblesdale High Technology College

I think this book is written by an incredibly talented author. Very unpredictable and a good read for people of my age and maybe older. Only in the last letter does the author let us know why the story is written.

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

I quite enjoyed this book because the character's involvement was brilliant. The story lines were very interesting and I thought the way each chapter being a letter to someone was a good idea.

Jennifer Bibby, Burscough Priory High School

Chanda and the Mirror of Moonlight by Margaret Bateson-Hill

Zero to Ten

This book is about a girl called Chandra who, when her parents die, falls in love with a beautiful prince. When she is going to marry the prince her evil stepsister takes her place but will true love prevail in the end? The paragraphs about Hindi and mirror work, at the end were very interesting.

Michael Wallbank, Hutton C of E Grammar School

I liked this book because it is quite special in its own way. It is a lovely book and should be read even by older people, even though it looks a bit of a baby book.

Sadia Hussain, Fulwood High School

I liked the illustration, it was very detailed and followed the story line. An unusual point of this book is that it has two language types in it, English and Hindi.

Daniel Rimmer, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Dead Gorgeous by Malorie Blackman

Random House

This book is about a bulimic girl called Nova who meets a ghost called Liam. When Nova finds out that Liam has been dead for 10 years she helps Liam's brother to find Liam's body.

Michael Wallbank, Hutton C of E Grammar School

I liked this book because it had a bit of everything in, it made me laugh, cry, it was scary and it was quite romantic. The book seemed very realistic and when I was reading it I had lots of images in my head of what was happening and it made me feel like the story was real life.

Grace Cooper, Burscough Priory High School

Excellent plot and never dull. Brilliant black comedy and a perfect read for anyone 12+

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High

I really enjoyed this book because it was exciting, sad and funny. The book deals with the real life problems of a teenager and I thought it was brilliant.

Rebecca Mitchell, Heysham High School

You couldn't predict what was going to happen.

Abigail Hughes, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

Remembrance by Theresa Breslin

Transworld

This is all about the First Word War and has a love story plot. It had lots of factual details of what happened in the war and how it affected people living in Britain. At the time I read the book I was studying World War I and it all fitted together – perhaps that is why I enjoyed it so much.

Kerry Bamber, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The story shows all the trials of Maggie, Charlotte, Francis, Alex and John-Malcolm and their families as they try to get on with life during the First World War. They have to cope with death, confusion, heartbreak and many other things before reaching 11th November. Reading this book on and around Remembrance Day also added to the effect of the story, and helped me understand more. I would recommend this book to 12 – 15 year olds and probably older as well, as my Mum wants to read it.

Jennifer Cooke, Burscough Priory High School

The book helps put World War I into a clearer perspective for young adult readers. The book tells you about the real side of the War and much more than history lessons.

Rebecca Mitchell, Heysham High School

Changing Emma by John Brindley

Dolphin (Orion)

Emma is part of a normal family. She leads a regular life, goes to school, sees her friends and does everything a 16 year old girl does. However this all changes when they win the lottery. At first they are over the moon, but their lottery millions soon bring misery and upset to the family.

Jenny Beard, St. Aidan's C of E Technology College

This book can really make you think what you would do if you were put in Emma's position.

Leela Jackson, West Craven High Technology College

I didn't like this book because it tended to go on a bit. If it was shorter it would be better. Another thing that I didn't like about this book was the way the chapters were set out. They were really long and if you wanted to stop in the middle of one you would forget where you were.

Victoria Hales, Burscough Priory High School

Lady by Melvin Burgess

Andersen Press

The book is about a teenage girl named Sandra Francy, who, when she makes a homeless person angry is turned into a dog. She is torn between wanting to be a human and a dog, but is upset when she is not recognised by her family. I felt that the author was trying to deliver a message. Basically he was saying that people should be accepted for who they are, not what they look like. The story contained some coarse swearing and some sex but the plot itself was well thought out.

Mark Scully, Burscough Priory High School

An overall excellent book that's about a teenager that's got the body of a dog! I hope that Melvin Burgess writes a sequel! This kind of book is great to read, but needs quite a lot of understanding. It's also a book that requires a lot of imagination.

Nicola Adams, Burscough Priory High School

If you just put swear words in the places necessary instead of the whole way through then I think the whole book would be even better.

Kirsty-Leanne Hanes, West Craven High Technology College

Calypso Dreaming by Charles Butler

Collins

The Isle of Sweetholm seems like the perfect retreat. Tansy is looking forward to spending her holidays there, it's a chance to escape the mess back home in Bristol where her experiments in magic went so horribly wrong, but at Sweetholm there's a strong child called Calypso whose dreams have power. My advice is to read this book, it is a complicated story that is puzzling at the beginning but all comes together later on.

Thomas Dolan, St. Theodore's RC High School

I liked this book because you have to work hard to unravel the tangled web until finally the last pieces of the jigsaw fit together.

Kylie Hughes, Heysham High School

I didn't like this book because it didn't have an ounce of truth in it and it was just too far fetched.

Andrew Atkinson, Burscough Priory High

Missing Judy by Anne Cassidy

Scholastic

A teenage girl had an argument with her younger sister who was 5 years old, but her little sister stormed off and was abducted and never seen again. This book was brilliant. It was really upsetting in places, but good as it was very believable.

Katy Smitton, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The book has loads of twists, which makes it mysterious and very, very interesting. The book is thrilling from an excellent author.

Lorraine Chambers, Fulwood High School

It is a touching, emotional story, which I feel, portrays a very good description of how the family of a missing child may feel and cope.

Kylie Hughes, Heysham High School

Between you and me by Julia Clarke

OUP

Jade has been best friends with Jack all her life, she's popular, has a big house and great parents. Then her art project leads her to uncover a big secret about her life and Sybil arrives at school…

Katie Hitchen, Mount Carmel RC High School

Fast flowing and emotional, you feel for the characters and the book is never boring. Not exaggerated, I can see something like that happening in real life. Humorous in parts lighting up the story. A brill book, I wish I were still reading it.

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

The book was realistic in what happened and there was a spread of emotions, tragedy, romance, comic, and jealousy. It was a brilliant book for 12 – 14 year olds and I recommend it to anyone, boy or girl (maybe more for girls)

Emily Clegg, Burscough Priory High School

I really liked this book because it was very emotional. It made me laugh and cry.

Alison Sumner, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The Sight by David Clement-Davies

Macmillan

It's about these pack of wolves that live and shelter from a cold vicious winter in the Carpathian mountains, they have to survive. A legend clings to them about a story of a man and wolf, power and death. The Sight has come into the wolves' eyes and they will never be the same again. Find out if they survive….

Nathan Flynn, St. Theodore's RC High School

There are a few words I didn't understand but I looked them up in the dictionary. When they are flying you can imagine you are flying with them and it is wonderful. Although it is long you must not stop because it is only an excellent story when you have finished it.

Jonathan Hartley, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

There is a lot of talk about legends, visions and evil which is very confusing because it is all jumbled together. I think it should be for older people, but the story is very good and at places has you on the edge of your chair.

Jenny Hepple, Burscough Priory High School

The Snog Log by Michael Coleman

Orchard

It's basically about a lad called Robbie and his mates who have a snogathan gang and they are ranking each girl they snog. They also are trying to snog the class babe Mel but she knows and has other ideas. I disliked this book because it was childish. I think that this is more of a lads book! It was basically about girls and snogging. I would rather have an adventure book as they are more exciting!

Jessica Burnside, Burscough Priory High School

This book really surprised me as, judging by the cover and the blurb it gave the impression as a girly waste-of-time book. It ended up being a really enjoyable read, full of laughs and suspense.

Tom Marsh, St Theodore's RC High School

It was great to hear about life, school and girls from a boy's perspective. The book dealt with teenage problems and issues and I thought it was written by a teenager!

Rebecca Mitchell, Heysham High School

The best book I have read this year. It has a good beginning, a great middle and an even better end.

Natalie Bauer, Ribblesdale High Technology College

Artemis Fowl; The Arctic Incident by Eoin Colfer

Puffin

Artemis Fowl wants to rescue his Father who has been taken by the Mafia. What a great book. I could not put it down. Every time I had a spare minute I would read this book. It is a great book packed full of action adventure and thrills. I will now go out and buy the first one.

Rory Fowler, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

I liked this book because it combines two things I really like: mythical things (fairies and dwarves, goblins etc) and sci-fi (DNA, cannons, multi-vision helmets, lasers) and it's a brilliant combination. Another brilliant idea is the teenage criminal mastermind, Artemis Fowl. His ideas are often off the wall but work. I haven't yet read the first book, but after reading this sequel, I will.

Stephen Spencer, Burscough Priory High School

I was totally blown away by this fresh witty masterpiece, it's a kind of twist of reality, myth, magic and sci-fi blended into one book.

Robert Davies, Ribblesdale High Technology College

I enjoyed this book very much because it was full to the brim with action and fantasy. It is the type of book that as soon as you get your nose into it you get caught up in the story.

Michelle Beaumont, Fulwood High School

In a word this book is a triumph.

Mark Scully, Burscough Priory High School

Angels Unlimited (5) Fogging Over by Annie Dalton

Collins

An angel called Mel is sent to help someone in the Victorian times with her friends. She has to solve a mystery to be able to help the girl and her sister overcome their evil uncle. I liked this book because I enjoy history and the book is written in a style I like. It was a very interesting read and I wanted to keep reading. I have read other books in the series and these are also brilliant. Annie Dalton is a very good author.

Jennifer Cooke, Burscough Priory High School

I read this book in a day which I find good and bad. Good because it was such a compelling read and bad because I didn't want it to end.

Lucy Sutton, West Craven High Technology College

I enjoyed this book because it's about teens trying to keep things under control without adults' help.

Charlotte Carr, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The Henry Game by Susan Davies

Random House

It only started as a game, three girls and a homemade ouija board, an unusual way of spending a summer afternoon. But when they realised they'd summoned up long-dead Henry VIII it suddenly becomes sinister.

Peter Ewens, St. Theodore's RC High School

The book is very good because Henry goes everywhere the girls go, he sees and knows everything and so they are scared not to do what he asks, except Maria who is totally besotted with him. Having Henry there 24:7 puts a strain on the girl's life, but is more enjoyable for the reader.

Nicola Adams, Burscough Priory High School

You just couldn't put it down. It had everything I like in a book. It was funny, shocking and at times quite sad. It was more of a girl's book. I certainly couldn't imagine a boy reading it.

Lauren Smith, Fulwood High School

It's not going to be a classic in 50 years but it's very good for now.

Morwenna Howell, St Aiden's C of E Technology College

Bend it like Beckham by Narinder Dhami

Hodder

An Indian girl living in modern Britain wants to play football but her parents don't want her to because they don't understand. She has to lie to them and ends up almost losing their trust. This book is just as good as the film! It is for anyone who has ever wanted to establish their dreams and make them a reality! It is for everyone who has ever lied to their parents! You don't have to like football! A very funny book, I even read it twice!

Jennifer Cooke, Burscough Priory High School

To say I liked this book is an understatement, I loved it!

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

Why did I like this book? Simple! It was brilliant. Hilarious and sad.

Kylie Hughes, Heysham High School

The Rope Maker by Peter Dickinson

Macmillan

The magic protecting the Valley is beginning to run out. Tilja, Tahl and their Grandparents travel to the Empire to renew the magic. I thought this book was very good. It was interesting enough for me to read it even though it was 400 pages long, I was still enjoying it by the end. The writer has some very good ideas, such as people not being allowed to live or die in the Empire without the Emperor's permission.

Matthew Dowrick, Burscough Priory High School

This book started really boring but becomes a possible winner, the author is a brilliant writer and can think of excellent storylines. It is so well thought out and the use of magic is cool.

John Waller, St. Theodore's RC High School

I would advise any lover of fantasy to read this book, and I would also advise anyone who needs a doorstop to buy this book.

J. Gradwell, Burscough Priory High School

The Salt Pirates of Skegness by Chris D'Lacey

Orchard

The story is about a boy called Jason who has a horrible Aunt called Hester. One day he breaks a bottle and to his surprise a pirate pops out and then they go on an adventure to find the rest of the crew, but evil Aunt Hester is hot on their trail...

Alex Martin, Mount Carmel RC High School

The story is a great book about pirates who have been imprisoned by a Witch in bottles until one is smashed by a boy. Then he, and the pirate he released, set out to free the crew and the pirate ship. I liked the humour this book contained but I feel that it was more suited to a younger audience.

Graham Carrington, Burscough Priory High School

I think the author made the book come to life instead of being just a book. It was more of an adventure. He described his characters well. I loved the book.

Vickie Viner, Heysham High School

Nightland by Robert Dodds

Andersen Press

Claire and Aiden discover a land which only appears at night, but they must leave before the moon goes down. Aiden makes a friend and one night when Claire cannot come, he stays longer than allowed and Claire must go and bring him back. I loved this book, although it seemed a little childish it was thrilling and I couldn't put it down.

Jenny Hepple, Burscough Priory High School

I enjoyed the references it made to different religions, like the keepers (the Grim Reaper, Death) and the ferryman, (Claron the ferryman, taking the dead across the river Styx in Greek Mythology).

Stephen Walker, Burscough Priory High School

I would definitely read the sequel and if Dodd's doesn't bring out another book, I would definitely read this one again.

Nicola Adams, Burscough Priory High School

Merlin, Movies and Lucy Something by John Farman

Piccadilly

This is a superb book, I read it in one day. It is a book that every teenage boy could relate to and understand. It is funny, but serious at times too. At times I laughed out loud at their antics. It is a sequel, but you don't have to have read the first book to understand what's going on. Some people might find the book offensive due to the frequent swearing, which is sometimes coarse, but any teenage boy will love it. An excellent and thoroughly enjoyable read.

Mark Scully, Burscough Priory High School

I liked the book because it is a proper teenage book, expressing points and feelings that we can relate to. I think the age group it has been placed in is just right for the book because it contains quite a lot of swearing and boy – girl relationships.

James McLoughlin, Burscough Priory High School

Very lively and witty and no one could predict what's going to happen next. It starts off lively and doesn't stop being lively.

Laura Hudson, West Craven High Technology College

Up on Cloud Nine by Anne Fine

Transworld

It starts in a hospital, a boy called Stolly had fallen out of a window and fallen onto a bush. His best friend Ian was by his side all the time. He got bored and started writing a biography for Stolly. I absolutely adored this book. I could not put it down. It is full of funny and some sad stories about Stolly's life. It has made me want to read more of Anne Fine's books, she is a fantastic writer. I could not stop laughing as I read it and when I finished reading the last word I felt sad.

Joanne Blackwood, Burscough Priory High School

I found this book very funny while at the same time it had a sense of seriousness. Anne Fine is a gifted writer who has written, possibly the best book I have read for a long time.

Kimberley Beswick, Heysham High School

It takes too long to get into the main plot. The talk in this book is too pessimistic as they always look back on the good things and wish it was still that way. Too Americanised emotions.

John Cunningham, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Corbenic by Catherine Fisher

Random House

The main character in the story is Cal. His mother is an alcoholic and has had psychotic episodes since he was six. After leaving home to go and live with his Uncle, he accidentally gets off the train at the wrong stop and finds himself in a weird wasteland of Corbenic. I didn't really like this book, as most of the book is difficult to understand and keep up with, also it is extremely weird when it looks like the main character goes insane.

Adam Johnson, Burscough Priory High School

It always held me in suspense and I always wanted to find out what happened next.

Ashley Fisk, West Craven High Technology College

I liked it because it went into make believe and back without you instantly being able to tell.

Robert Higham, Hutton C of E Grammar School

Not Just Rescuing by Helen Flint

Egmont

A girl called Joanna and her brother Ralph, who is disabled, have to go and stay with their Aunt while their Mum and Dad are in California. Their Aunt spends all her time rescuing animals. Joanna goes with her and manages to pick up an injured swan, which no one else could get near without it attempting to bite them.

Rebecca Carter, Ribblesdale High Technology College

Joanna, her Aunt Nell Bly and brother go on pet rescue missions. I liked this book because it had story lines and different adventures. It was about right for the age group I'm in and I almost felt like I was the girl in this story.

Amy Gordon, Burscough Priory High School

Emotions are very strong, and Joanna's thoughts are often shown. I think that it shows the story of an average girl, but with a twist of animal magic!

Jennifer Cooke, Burscough Priory High School

Magenta Orange by Echo Freer

Hodder

This is about a girl called Magenta who really likes a boy called Adam in year eleven. The problem is whenever she sees him she makes a fool of herself and he thinks she is a disaster zone.

Leela Jackson, West Craven High Technology College

The story is superbly written and I can see everyday problems that I have in this book. A typical ‘I can't do anything wrong / it's not my fault' story. The author knows a lot about teenage girls and their attitude!

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

In some parts, true to life and in some parts completely over the top.

Catrina Pennington, Burscough Priory High School

There was never a dull moment, she even ended up inside a dustbin. What else can I say about the book except 10/10, thumbs up and it's the best book I've read so far.

Rhianne Pearson, West Craven High Technology College

Fantas Journey: Caribou Journey by Vivian French

Zero to Ten

The story is about a herd of Caribou making a long and hard journey across the Arctic to the birthing grounds.

James Thomas, Mount Carmel RC High School

Even though this book was aimed at a much younger reader, I still enjoyed reading the book. Caribou journey contains a brilliant story, which should appeal to readers from ages 5 to 8. I think this book would make the perfect bedtime story with its relaxing and short text.

Matthew Hawley, West Craven High Technology College

I liked the amazing fresh and interesting way this book was written. I also loved the names and the amazing detail and the interesting way the book was written. If I had to describe this book in one word I would say; FRESH!

Mark Phelps, Heysham High School

The Edge by Alan Gibbons

Dolphin (Orion)

Danny and his Mother escape from Chris (Danny's Step dad) who had made their lives a living hell. Chris wanted them back so he tries to find them. I liked this book because it was good to read and had an excellent story line and showed everything in each character's own view. I would recommend this book to people who likes soaps because it was like reading a soap opera, even though I am not a fan of soaps I enjoyed this book.

Tom Unsworth, Burscough Priory High School

I thoroughly enjoyed this book because it dealt with real life issues such as bullying, racism and domestic violence. A brilliant read – I couldn't put it down!

Rebecca Mitchell, Heysham High School

I was on the edge of my seat reading it.

Daniel Wilson, St. Theodore's RC High School

My favourite character is Danny because he is confident and he stands up for himself.

Michael Wallbank, Hutton C of E Grammar School

Crazy Games by Sandra Glover

Andersen Press

This story is set in the future. It concentrates on virtual reality computer games. Brad has borrowed this game from Colford, he is a bit bizarre and gets caught up in a world of his own. Now Brad is on the computer all the time. This fantasy world can be dangerous in the real world.

Francesco Musso, St. Theodore's RC High School

I think this is a good book although there was no real plot to the story, but it made me laugh and I really enjoyed reading it but it left no opening for a sequel. Also proved how bossy some girls can be.

Adam Johnson , Burscough Priory High School

A good book but a very unusual and bizarre ending.

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

Warehouse by Keith Gray

Red Fox

This book is about an abandoned warehouse, which is used for people who have nowhere to go or have problems at home. The story is split into 3 parts, each part is about a person who has stayed at the warehouse and their own personal problems.

Alison Wild, Heysham High School

I liked this book for a number of reasons. Its unusual format meant that you got 3 different perspectives of the story, which, although difficult to grasp at times, was enjoyable, also the way that it dealt with the feelings racing through the characters minds really gave you an insight into the way they were thinking. The excellent plot and well-written story really means that this book is a lot better on your shelf, than in the bookshop.

Daley Brennan, Burscough Priory High School

I found the book funny, upsetting, hard-hitting and very truthful.

Mark Scully, Burscough Priory High School

I liked this book because it deals with real problems, real people.

Michael Heap, Mount Carmel RC High School

The book gave you an insight to how people feel if they have nothing. It was moving and absorbing. It was too good to put down.

Amy Gibson, Carr Hill High School

Bright Angel by Carol Hedges

OUP

Bryn's Father died in an accident, but Bryn did not believe that story, and so he and his strange friend Jade set out to find out what is going on at Globe Corp. But will they discover what is going on before the world comes to an end?

Matthew Heald, West Craven High Technology College

The idea of the government and computers taking over this world seems very possible at the moment.

Helen Codd, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

The idea is original and uses futuristic ideas. The text contains mystery and some suspense. I like how it ends with a cliffhanger, however speaking from the readers point of view can be rather infuriating.

Matthew Hawley, West Craven High Technology College

Mates, Dates and Sleepover Secrets by Cathy Hopkins

Piccadilly

It's about a girl named TJ who is a bit of a tomboy and lads that she wants to go out with just treat her as a friend. Also her best friend Hannah has moved away and TJ is lonely until Lucy, Nesta and Izzie turn up…

Emily Clegg, Burscough Priory High School

I thought this book was wicked! I enjoyed reading it. I liked the fact that Cathy used up-to-date pop groups, TV programs and gossip etc. I thought I could relate to the characters in the book and it reminded me of our school and my mates.

Beatrice Caterina, Heysham High School

I really, really liked this book, it was very easy to read. I could read it over and over again. I didn't want the book to be over, I'm definitely going to recommend it to my friends.

Emily Henderson, West Craven High Technology College

It went through issues that most teenagers go through and make some of the worst things seem funny.

Katie Hitchen, Mount Carmel RC High School

White Lies and Barefaced Truths by Cathy Hopkins

Piccadilly

Cat's always been the perfect girl next door. Cat's a great friend and great help to her Dad after her Mum passed away. Cat's now facing some major dilemmas. A game of Truth, Dare, Kiss or Promise lands her in hot water when she is asked the truth she can't reveal. The girls speak about boys a lot so you find out what girls talk about.

Daniel Wilson, St Theodore's RC High School

It made me feel happy. But when the sad parts arrived it made me feel guilty.

John Cunningham, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

It is very easy to read but it's also very easy to predict.

Kylie Hughes, Heysham High School

Skeleton Key by Anthony Horowitz

Walker

This book is about a boy called Alex who is a spy for MI6, he is taken to America to work for the CIA, who want him to go with two of their agents to the Caribbean to investigate their case. Alex is just there to get them through customs, but naturally he gets involved.

Mark Harrison, Hutton C of E Grammar School

It was about a boy about the same age as me who uses a lot of modern technology and gadgets. He was like a young James Bond, he had things like a mobile phone that could be used as a weapon, and a Michael Owen key-ring that transformed into a stun grenade. I would recommend this book to anyone over 12 years old. I think there are too many shootings and killings for children under 12.

James Birks, Heysham High School

I liked the book because it is interesting, breath taking and thrilling. I felt I'd disappeared into the book and didn't want to come out.

Zachary Gaskell, West Craven High Technology College

Carwash by Lesley Howarth

Puffin

It's about a boy named Luke who starts his own car washing business. He is meant to be a really ‘cool' guy who enjoys winding people up. But when people start winding him up he discovers a new side to himself.

Pupil from St. Theodore's RC High School

The relationships between Luke and his family and friends are different and interesting to see unfold. There are different little stories that come together at the end.

Lauren Thompson, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

The author tells it like it is, I would not be surprised If she has a brother or sister and has remembered what it was like to be a child with a brother/sister, it is hard!

Tom Grisdale, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

The characters in the book were really annoying because all they ever did was complain or analyse themselves and the world around them.

Lucy Sutton, West Craven High Technology College

The Xenocide Mission by Ben Jeapes

David Fickling (Random House)

It is the year 2153. Space exploration has already encountered alien life forms who help humans. A man named Joel is sent to a space station to watch other alien life form called XL's or the Xenocides. The XL's attack the station and Joel is sent round the galaxy to avoid them. This is a rescue mission story.

Richard Bargh, West Craven High Technology College

I liked this book a lot because it doesn't just come from one point of view. It switches between Humans, Rusties (a four legged race of alien), XL's and briefly the Dead Worlders. Although nice to see the different views it does get confusing at points. I think this book would only appeal to science fiction fans of around 13 – 15 year olds.

Stephen Spencer, Burscough Priory High School

This book gives a very imaginative and intriguing look at what the world would be like with aliens in existence. It is a very riveting story.

James Leach, Ribblesdale High Technology College

Long Live Olly Hacker by Eric Johns

Walker

Olly Hacker is really into computers but is really mischievous. He has betrayed his Clan (family) by destroying a picture of the Lord Protector. He is now going to be reprogrammed unless he can do something about it.

Jalda Reddy, Fulwood High School

The characters are excellent as they are all totally different. Olly is the strangest character I have ever read about. All the different twists in the story confuse you a bit but apart from that it is an excellent book.

Ben Grimshaw, Mount Carmel RC High School

I liked this book because it was funny and interesting. I was very surprised by the twist at the end, the Author had truly deceived me!

Kylie Hughes, Heysham High School

Stella by Catherine R Johnson

OUP

Stella is about a young girl who reads peoples fortunes. It's all a con and Nana is the source of information. Then Nana dies and Stella is left with no family or money and has to survive in the cruel world by herself. I really enjoyed this book because it was set in the late 1800's and it was interesting to see what people did then. Some parts of the book were a bit far-fetched, but overall I thought it was a really good read.

Rebecca Mitchell, Heysham High School

It made me think how lucky I am. If this book was to get the reader to be grateful for what they have, then it did its job.

Rhianne Pearson, West Craven High Technology College

Stella is a very touching book. The chapters aren't too long and the cliffhangers are very effective.

Kimberley Beswick, Heysham High School

The Circle of Doom by Tim Kennemore

Andersen Press

The story is about a girl called Lizzie who likes making potions and performing imaginary magic. Although she would never have thought that she would actually perform real magic.

David Gregory, St Aidan's C of E Technology College

I really liked this book, I found it very funny, interesting and up to date.

Robert Hill, Hutton C of E Grammar School

With a promising start this book turned into one of the most boring books I've read with a repetitive story line and childish characters. The fact that a 13-year-old girl is still repulsed by the opposite sex is beyond me.

Philip Howe, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Jakes Tower by Elizabeth Laird

Macmillan

Jake lives with his Mum and Steve, his stepfather who treats him and his Mum like human punch bags. His real Dad only met Jake when he was born and has never seen or written to him since. Steve nearly kills Jake, therefore his Mum packs their belongings and goes to Jakes Grandma's house where they'll be safe, or will they?

Matthew Hawley, West Craven High Technology College

I liked this book because it is very real and it takes every day problems of child abuse and bullying. I think the age for this book is 12+ as it is not suitable for young children as it contains violence and swearing.

Matthew Bradley , Bishop Rawstorne

I liked this book a lot, so did my Mum she read it after I did. The story was good because things in the story could happen in real life.

Joanne Wilson, Fulwood High School

The story deals with the child abuse well and seems extremely close to home. You can see it happening in the real world and it gets you thinking.

Kieren James, St. Theodore's RC High School

Waking Dream by Rhiannon Lassiter

Macmillan

Three cousins, Bethany, Poppy and Rivalaun all met up at Camomile House after Bethany's Father passes away. In their family they have a big secret, which makes them extremely unique. The secret is that they have the ability to enter a dream world. The problem starts when Poppy enters it with no intention of coming back. This book had many good ideas but, unfortunately the author failed to convert the many good ideas into a good exciting story.

Tom Marsh, St. Theodore's RC High School

This is a powerful story. This is an edge of your seat book, into another world.

Thomas Dolan, St Theodore's RC High School

This is a brilliant book, beautifully written and described.

Stephen Walker, Burscough Priory High School

I liked this book because the fantasy wasn't too far from real life.

Vickie Viner, Heysham High School

Jiggy McCue: Maggot Pie by Michael Lawrence

Orchard

Jiggy McCue is the unluckiest boy in the world, but when he finds a genie, he sees a chance for that to change. But after blundering his wishes, the genie becomes a living nightmare. I really liked this book because it was hilariously funny with a most definitely unexpected ending, Mr Lawrence makes you really feel sorry for the unlucky hero, Jiggy McCue.

Stephen Spencer, Burscough Priory High School

It's great, funny and not boring, we thought it was the best book out of the two boxes.

Luke Minns, Carr Hill High School

Everything about the book was Brilliant 10 / 10. One bad thing was it should have been longer.

Robbie Lindsay, St Theodore's RC High School

Extremely surreal. A book full of guaranteed giggles. It kept me suspended in tension and excitement. It's a must read book.

John Cunningham, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Blissed Out by Karen McCombie

Scholastic

Molly is totally relaxed, its summer, she has a boyfriend and the exams are over, her two best mates are going on holiday with her. But it all starts to go wrong, her boyfriend also asks her away, her great job turns into the job from hell and her friends also seem fed up of her. I enjoyed this book a lot though I guessed what would happen from the start. Different to other teenager books and is funny and modern. It is part of a series but I didn't notice that till I read the back. I couldn't put the book down and is a good choice for a ‘Blissed Out' read!

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

I never thought I would enjoy reading a ‘girly' book. It was funny reading from a girls point of view and it gives you some information that you don't know about girls and what they get up to in their free time.

Michael Lalor, St Theodore's RC High School

This book was really easy to get into; I really hate books that take a long time to get into.

Olivia Grimshaw, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The Scent of Magic by Cliff McNish

Dolphin

Rachel and Eric have special gifts. Rachel is a spell-maker and Eric is a spell-destroyer. They use their magic to defend Earth from a party of witches who want to use children's magic to destroy the wizards. I liked this book because it is bright, fresh and brimming with imagination. It describes a vivid world of magic and possibilities in which children are given amazing powers.

Emma Gleaves, Carr Hill High School

This book had some wonderful description that created powerful images in my mind. “Sensitive nostrils, shaped liked slashed tulip petals”. However, it was quite boring in places as the character's action were unbelievable and there conversations went on for longer than needed. This was book two of a trilogy so it was quite hard to understand, as you didn't know who characters were, and the background to the story. If I read the first book first I would have enjoyed it more.

Rachel Peck, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

It is a stand-alone book in the sense that you can understand it without reading the others.

Michael Heap, Mount Carmel RC High School

Saffy's Angel by Hillary McKay

Hodder

The story is about a girl called Saffy who lives with her Uncle and Auntie, because her parents died in a car crash. Her Granddad died and in his will he gave to Saffy his angel, which was in a garden in Italy. The story is about Saffy trying to get her angel.

Lucy Atkinson, Carr Hill High School

I thought this story was really good. The characters were really realistic. When I first looked at the book it looked like a typical teenager's book. As I read it turned out to be a sort of adventure or mystery. I would definitely read more of Hillary McKay's books.

Emma Nightingale, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

The book is great and would be great as a series.

Michelle McShane, Mount Carmel RC High School

I thought it was for a lower reading age. It sometimes made me chuckle but only in places.

Beckie Costello, Carr Hill High School

The Firing by Richard MacSween

Andersen Press

Anna's parents split up so she moved to a village in the countryside with her mum's boyfriend and his twin sons. Then a mysterious boy named Wolf from Germany moves in and she finds out the horrible secrets of his past.

Jessica Wilde, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

Anna, her mum and boyfriend Brian (plus his two sons) have been living in the village near Boltby for two years in a council house. Anna thinks the village is ‘poxy' because nothing ever happens. That's until two strangers arrive with their freaky-named son. Then a mystery occurs. The only problem is the village they are in isn't too keen on strangers…

Lauren Rogers, Ribblesdale High Technology College

This book was brilliant as it captures your attention straight away. Anna makes things even more exciting as you see things from her perspective. It keeps you hooked and always has you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will be on the next page.

Laurie Dickson Smith, St Aidan's C of E Technology College

Four Days Till Friday by Pat Moon

Hodder

Ed is a boy at High School. One day Ed sticks up for his ex best friend, Lester, who is an embarrassment. Then a boy named Doyle tells him that on Friday he'll pay. Every day till Friday one of Ed's friends gets attacked. Then Friday comes…

Rosanna Kelly, Mount Carmel R C High School

It was really exciting and very unpredictable and the author built up suspense brilliantly as it kept you reading on and on to find out what happens next. I think one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much was because it involved students in our year and it was so realistic, and things like what happened in the book could have happened in any secondary school in the country.

Tom Marsh, St Theodore's R C High School

I found this book funny and I think it expresses teenage problems and emotions. This book is different from other books in a funny kind of way. I would say 13-15 year olds would be comfortable reading this book.

Greg Andeton, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Moving on: Break Time by Linda Newberry

Orchard

It is about a girl called Jo whose parents split up and she is torn between the two as she really loves her mum but she can't afford much as her shop is struggling. Her dad is well-off and confident and since his split-up he has found a younger girlfriend. Her dad pays for Jo's trip to Wales and then Jo feels like he is trying to buy her.

Tom Marsh, St Theodore's R C High School

I thought this book was excellent. I couldn't put it down. It's characters seemed real it was like I was there. I will definitely be reading more books by this author.

Amy Gordon, Burscough Priory High school

I looked forward to reading the magnificent plot every night.

Callum Boyle, St Theodore's R C High School

The Shell House by Linda Newberry

David Ficklin (Random House)

When Greg stumbles across the beautiful ruins of Graveney Hall, he becomes intrigued by the story behind its destruction. He and his friend Faith are drawn into a quest to discover the fate of Graveney's last heir – Edmund, a young soldier who disappeared under mysterious circumstances during the First World War.

Rebecca Wigston, Heysham High School

A teenage boy named Greg becomes intrigued by the ruins of Graveney Hall. He becomes close friends with a girl named Faith, and together they discover the true history of the missing heir. Their investigation affects Greg's feelings and changes his thoughts on sexuality.

Matthew Hawley, West Craven High Technology College

I thought this book was brilliant because it was full of emotions such as love, friendship, frustration , confusion etc.

Michelle Beaumont, Fulwood High School

Shadow of the Beast by Maggie Pearson

Hodder

This story is about Troy, a boy who has been in a car crash which left his father dead. He has been in a coma so he can't remember a lot before the crash. During the story bits of his memory come back. Troy moves between a story world and the real world in his head. He imagines the story of Beowolf a warrior long ago who fights the monster, Grendel and then it's mother the Hag. In the end Troy finds out his father is dead and can finally sleep peacefully.

Jonathan Hartley, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

The plot is very original, clear, and a welcome change from your average book. It was a detailed plot, yet without becoming too complicated to understand. It had the ending of a Harry Potter book, in the way that everything clicked together fantastically well in the end. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

Mark Scully, Burscough Priory High school

I liked this book because it's unusual and strange. I think this book is great, because it's about an ordinary boy, but with an exciting twist of fun and sadness.

Helen Laurenson, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

I enjoyed the plot and outline of characters and I really enjoyed the end of the story.

Jonathan Towers, St Theodore's R C High School

Cold Tom by Sally Prue

OUP

Tom is a member of the tribe. The tribe fear the demons who are half blind and half deaf. Tom led the demons to the tribe's homes by accident and he has been forced to leave the tribe and to go into hiding for fear of his life.

Tara Malone, St Aidan's C of E Technology College

Some of the descriptions of scenes are so vivid and fresh you can almost be there. It's an ancient fairytale with an Irish feel combined with innovative modern writing.

Greg James, Hutton C of E Grammar School

I have never heard a storyline like this one; demons, tribes, demon city, tribes wanting to kill a member of their own. This is quite a good book with a strange twist at the end.

Thomas Dolan, St Theodore's R C High School

Dancing in my Nuddy Pants by Louise Rennison

Piccadilly

Georgia Nicholson's diary with all the ups and downs of teenage life: boys, friends, family, school, clothes, make-up, hair and lots of laughs. This book was hilarious. Georgia and the ace gang are back with all their ‘stupidosity'. I found this so funny that people had to keep taking it off me so I didn't collapse. Warning though, don't read in public places as laughing so much might get embarrassing or get you arrested because people think you're mad!

Emma Gleaves, Carr Hill High School

I was about in the middle of laughing myself to death and bored to death at the same time. I just thought this book was more a girl's book because they will probably understand some of the jokes better than me but yet it still did make me giggle!

Tom Grisdale, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

This book gets right to the heart of what its really like being a teenager. It goes through good, the bad and the very, very ugly. This book is extremely, extremely funny.

Natalie Billington, Carr Hill High School

All that happens in some parts is snogging, snogging and snogging.

Michael Lalor, St. Theodore's RC High School

Mighty Fizz Chilla by Philip Ridley

Puffin

Milo has been sent to live with a family friend for a week to sort himself out, because he's got an attitude problem. He meets a Captain who starts telling him his life story. This book was really good, once I got in to it! The plot was set out carefully so that it all revealed itself in the last few chapters, but it was still interesting all the way through.

Beatrice Caterina, Heysham High School

I enjoyed this book tremendously, however it was a very strange book and unexpected things were lurking on every page.

Thomas Farquhar, St. Aidan's C of E College

I liked this because it is really several stories in one book. All are completely different but interesting in their own way.

Stephen Spencer, Burscough Priory High School

The Match of Death by James Riordan

OUP

The story is set in Ukraine during the Second World War. The Germans invaded Ukraine trying to get to Kiev. Vova plays football for Dinamo Kiev but because the Germans have invaded he has to fight. Firstly on the battlefield, then on the football field against German professionals and a German referee. If they win they die. If they lose they live. If I have the option of reading it again I wouldn't because it is too depressing. This book can be summed up in two words – pain and suffering.

Jonathan Hartley, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

I absolutely loved this story. When I got it I thought it was just about football but there was hardly any football in it, it was all about war and it gave me a brilliant insight to war. This is the best book I have ever read.

Jonathan Sumner, Fulwood High School

Very, very gripping – hardly put it down. Full of action, very descriptive.

Luke Mort, St. Theodore's RC High School

It tells you the kind of things that would happen to children of my age in the war. It doesn't hide the truth and makes you wince as you read it.

Kieran James, St. Theodore's RC High School

This book sends out a message about never to give up and try your best no matter how difficult your situation.

Derek Chung, Hutton C of E Grammar School

Night Riders by Mark Roberts

Anderson Press

William and Stanley both suffer from Downs Syndrome. William is a big fan of dolphins and when he finds out that his favourite dolphin – Amadeus – is going for testing, he and Stanley decide to take action.

Michael Giverin, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

The first 90 pages were good but the story ended rather abruptly. Somebody should write a new ending!

James McLoughlin, Burscough Priory High School

Bloodline by Malcolm Rose

Scholastic

Bloodline is a complex science fiction (and fact) story about the possible use of genetically targeted biological weapons. It brings together connected events all over the world, from the drug company apparently responsible for the death of a young black man with sickle cell anaemia in Cambridge to the plots of a group of racist whites in South Africa. The different strands of the story bring drama, comedy and a love story together with the scientific theme. One twist in the book absolutely shocked me, but I won't give it away! It is part science novel, part crime novel and keeps you guessing throughout. This makes it a real page-turner. Malcolm Rose obviously has a great deal of scientific knowledge, and you get the feeling the book is an expression of his fears. The fact that it's got some real emotion behind it makes it brilliant.

Luke Bramwell, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

I liked this book because it demonstrates how much racial hate there is in the world today and how one weapon could completely devastate our society as we know it.

James Cowburn, Carr Hill High School

I liked this book's beginning because people's cars were getting blown up and a guy's hand explodes. I thought it was a really good start. But then after that it got boring and I didn't want to read it. Weird things were happening and it got me wondering. Then the ending was brilliant!

Robbie Lindsay, St Theodore's RC High School

Break Point by Rosie Rushton

Piccadilly

Emily is brilliant at tennis but she decides she doesn't want to make it her career. Her decision causes her Mother and her Grandmother to take a look at the big decisions they made when they were 16. The characters were good because you could relate to them because we will have to make big decisions about our future soon.

Hannah Matthews, St Aidan's C of E Technology College

I really enjoyed reading this book. I think Rosie Rushton is an excellent Author and this is an excellent read. I could relate to Emily's problems because she'd let someone down whatever she did. I could relate to Ruth (her Mum) and how her parents restricted her to certain things, so she went against them, but I can also relate to Alice, because of her decision, she suffered, but things worked out for the best in the end. I felt as if I was part of the story and I think Rosie Rushton has excelled herself in this great story that shows the similarities and differences between all three generations.

Nicola Adams , Burscough Priory High School

The good thing was that it wasn't cheesy at all. Jess had some problems I have, because I do a lot of swimming and dancing and lots more, and I don't have that much time for a social life. It's all about making decisions, and picking the right one.

Robyn Isherwood, Ribblesdale High Technology College

The Dark Horse by Marcus Sedgwick

Orion

Set in a distant time, in a distant place, the Storn live quietly, fishing and farming. But on the day of the wolf hunt their lives will change forever, that's the day they rescue a small ragged girl who is living with the wolves.

Thomas Dolan, St Theodore's RC High School

I absolutely loved this book, it was brilliant! The descriptions were so good, that at times it really did feel as if I was actually part of the whole thing. I could really reel the upset, pain, and exhaustion of it all.

Adam Turner, St Aiden's C of E Technology College

I liked this book a lot because it is very exciting and thrilling. It is in the Anglo-Saxon times, the author makes you believe that you are living in the tribes, as he is very good at setting the atmosphere. The story is very sad at the end and has a sudden twist, which makes it a very good read.

Matthew Bradley, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

The saga of Darren Shan (7) Hunters of the Dusk by Darren Shan

Collins

Darren Shan, the vampire prince, leaves Vampire Mountain on a life or death mission. As part of an elite force, Darren scours the world in search of the Vampeneze Lord. But the road ahead is long and dangerous and lined with the bodies of the damned.

Daniel Wilson, St Theodore's RC High School

What a brilliant read. I wish I'd read the rest of the series, because the scope and imagination of Shan's world astounded me. The writing is darkly humorous in places, with witty observations and amusing naming of certain characters. The story is fast-paced and enthralling, with unpredictable twists. The characters are interesting, and not all implausible, despite the fact they are vampires! I wouldn't put this book up for book of the year, purely because this isn't the whole story, but it left me eager to read the next instalment.

Luke Bramwell, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

I really enjoyed the storyline. I have read some of his other books and I have found them wicked!

Adele Richardson, Fulwood High School

The Darren Shan books are the best I have ever read. When I pick a Darren Shan book up, it has to be the weekend because I get so into the plot that I just read it all day long until I've finished it! I don't think you'd have to read the other books in the series to understand this, but it would be more enjoyable if you had.

Jessica Wylde, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

Feather Boy by Nicky Singer

Collins

Robert (Norbert) is bullied and teased at school. However, when his class decide to do a project on the people of the nursing home he meets Edith Sorrel and learns all about the Feather Boy.

Thomas Farquhar, St. Aidan's C of E Technology College

I only have good things to say about this book! The characters are very deep and easy to relate to. My favourite character was the main character, Robert, as he really shows love towards his Mother.

Rebecca Lord, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

The characters I found unusual because things normally happen to the popular people not the ‘geeks' of the class. The book is a thriller but there is no blood or murders.

Becky Jackson, St Aidan's C of E Technology College

The complex emotions made this book outstanding, and I could not put it down.

Lucy Atkinson, Carr Hill High School

Zero Per Cent by Mark Swallow

Collins

Jack, a Londoner, re-lives the story of his life from the day he starts at Chevy Oak – his secondary school – till the day he sits his final GCSE exam.

Michael Giverin, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

Jack is fed up of everyone's decisions, he wants to run his own life. He wants to prove a point and tries to get 0% in his tests.

Philip Baron, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

Living Upside Down by Kate Tym

Hodder

A girl, Chloe, has had a normal, really good life until her parents got divorced and just as she thought things were bad enough her Mum came out with the fact that she's a lesbian. These problems are getting to Chloe and all her life is going downhill. How will it turn out?

Catherine Porter, Mount Carmel RC High School

It was realistic. A teenager's life would be upside down if they were in the situation of their parents breaking up and especially if their Mother became a lesbian.

Danielle Noble, Mount Carmel RC High School

I liked this book because it explains the issue very clearly. This book is not the usual book I would read but I enjoyed it so much. The storyline was great and I would like to read another she has written.

Georgina Cox, Burscough Priory High School

Girlfriends: Boys are OK by Jean Ure

Orchard

This is about four best friends who are seeing less and less of each other as they've all got new schools and new friends. They all wonder whether they will stay friends? One girl, Polly, hates boys but all her friends are starting to ‘love' them. Polly thinks they are soooooooo weird!

Catherine Porter, Mount Carmel RC High School

Every time I put the book down I always wanted to know what happened next, so I read the book in one day.

Emma Nightingale, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

It was the kind of book a girl could relate to. It is the sort of thing that happens in real life.

Leanne Hopkinson, Fulwood High School

Girlfriends: Girls Stick Together by Jean Ure

Orchard

Second in the ‘Girlfriends' series. Better than the first, this book flows faster and is generally more interesting. I was surprised when I had finished the book, I was so involved I hadn't realised I'd read it all at once!

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

I have read other books in the series, and they all seem to have the same plot.

Danielle Gregory, Mount Carmel RC High School

I really liked the parts about the girls and their troubles because it tells you how life is difficult with girls as well as boys.

Nathan Flynn, St. Theodore's RC High School

Girlfriends: Girls are Groovy by Jean Ure

Orchard

Four best girl friends go to separate High Schools but they have an oath to meet every Saturday and be best friends forever!

Kerry Malone, Heysham High School

These books really make you feel part of the gang and when their troubles are sorted, so are yours. Excellent storyline, vocabulary is still lacking but the super thing about this book is you can read it and relax, you don't have to make sure you have taken in every word and you always end up smiling!

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

It is exactly like the problems we could end up facing any day. I think it may have had a very predictable storyline but apart from that it was perfect.

Hannah Jones, Heysham High School

Girlfriends: Pink Knickers Aren't Cool by Jean Ure

Orchard

Very good opening, I was glued from the first sentence although I have to stress that the language was very simple and younger girls would appreciate this book more. I say girls as it is a girls series, no one can doubt it.

Charlotte Henderson, Burscough Priory High School

It was interesting to read a book from a girl's perspective. I also liked the bit where they made a pact and intended to do it through blood but because they were girls they did it through spit, which I think is very realistic.

Joe McGrath, St. Theodore's RC High School

Whilst I was reading it, it brought back memories of what I went through in my last year at primary school and all the worries of not being with your friends.

Megan Parkinson, Ribblesdale High Technology College

Girlfriends: Boys on the Brain by Jean Ure

Orchard

Boys on the brain is a diary about two girls who try to put their studies before boyfriends. Pilch's Mum has always been mad on boys, but the girls don't want to turn out the same. It had inspired me to write a diary myself, in the same style.

Alison Sumner, Ribblesdale High Technology College

This book was OK. To say that the girls were 14, they seemed a bit boring. It had a really good ending and I liked it how the girls seemed to grow up towards the end.

Callum Boyle, St. Theodore's RC High School

I don't really think that it is life-like because she does something exciting every single day, and in reality we just go to school. It is usually the other way round, the daughter is mad about boys and the parents are really focused on what school she goes to.

Laura Hudson, West Craven High Technology College

Whispers on the Wind by Sue Welford

OUP

A girl and boy go on a rescue mission to save the heiress who was kidnapped in the night. Both the heiress and Vinna the girl have visions of each other's lives but have never seen each other before. When they rescue her they find out why. Because it was exciting all the way through, I was making guesses on the later story. The descriptions were fabulous and I wish I knew what happens next. I am not a good reader but I still couldn't put it down.

Lisa Galloway, Bishop Rawstorne C of E Language College

This is one of those books that you need a weekend to read, as the only reason I had to put it down was to sleep, as I was that tired.

Sam Ogden, St. Theodore's RC High School

This book is really fascinating. It has good twists and a really good plot. You never know what's going to happen. Once you have started this book you can't put it down.

Amy Gibson, Carr Hill High School

Mark Two by Jeanne Willis

Andersen Press

Mark is really popular at school. One day he looks in the mirror and sees an apparition. It is his double, except this is the new and improved Mark. Neat, clever, choirboy and Mummy's boy Mark! No one except Mark's mates can see him. Together they have to get rid of the new Mark. I liked the way the story is told by Mark's best friend. He writes it in between lessons and during lessons. It talks directly to the reader and is quite funny.

Abi Hughes, Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

I like this book because at the end of chapters it was like something said read on.

Wesley Haggas, St. Theodore's RC High School

It has a good underlying moral about growing up and is a nice light read. It's a pick up from the library and not from Waterstones, book.

Greg James, Hutton C of E Grammar School