Friday, March 21, 2008

spies and mutant kids


The books I read this week have absolutely nothing in common. But, for the sake of time and space, I'm lumping them together in to one blog post/review. Also, for the sake of time and space, I'm not going to ramble on or try to invent some special way to capture their essence. So, here is the gist of it.

Lauren Willig's spy series is totally witty, clever, unique and very fun. The latest book was entertaining and a joy to read. I loved the two main characters because they are not the most likeable of people, but are very real. Thumbs up to "The Seduction of the Crimson Rose."

James Patterson is a literary juggernaut. His YA series about mutant kids is entertaining, but not as well written as some other YA books with similar themes. They are very commercial and almost formulaic. They entertain, but they don't bring anything new to the table. Good reads for kids who enjoy action packed stories. "School's out Forever" also gets a thumbs up, but with the caveat that these are geared towards the lower end of the YA market and should be read with that in mind.





2 comments:

Kim Smith said...

Maybe Patterson is targeting boys, since it seems like the YA boys I have always known were total "non-readers" -- even my own boy. He loved the Executioner books, even years ago, and so action packed stuff must be a draw.

Speaking of action, hubster dragged me to the movies to see Vantage Point last night. Don't waste your $$ it is a rental.

EYR said...

Could be, although the protag is a girl...albeit a kick butt sort of girl.

Oldest kid saw Vantage Point, she loved it, but the reviews haven't been too good. We will wait to rent it.

Enjoying John Adams miniseries on HBO....