A Female Lead

I'm sure by now you've started to notice a trend. I tend to read a lot of fantasy. It's just something that I highly enjoy, and all things considered there's nothing wrong with it. I love the fun and sometimes the insanity in it.

Honestly, years ago I started writing a book of my own that would be classified as fantasy. The sad thing is, I haven't finished it. I always get distracted. But at least most of the distractions are good. Like the one I'm sharing with you today.

Spooks and Magic
Jack Sorenson
458 pages

Here we go, looking at another book about a magic school. Seems a shame that many people would brush it off as nothing more than a Harry Potter hopeful. But most readers that are choosing what they read themselves, as well as what they purchase to read, grew up reading about Mr. Potter, so they're likely to forever compare new books to those.

Honestly though, this is a decently written piece. It's not perfect, but it flows well on the most part, and has many entertaining moments. The main characters are a bit different than some that we would be familiar with, though there are still characters we can imagine easily. A cranky professor, a confused student, an ancient wizard headmaster. But any of these familiar elements should not give a new reader a reason to write the book off as pointless.

Because although it does contain many familiar elements, there are some fun twists and delightful use of imagination. The author uses an evil book, helpful ghosts, demons and trolls, presented in new ways to create his own new believable world.

I enjoyed the fact that the main featured character is female. There are a number of stories where girls have been written off as damsels in distress, or as nothing more than support characters. This female lead, is not cut and dry on that matter, though it becomes clear quite quickly that she is the focus of the story.

This story seems to be suitable for most readers, although there are some fairly gruesome moments. I doubt most seasoned fantasy readers would bat an eyelash though. If you read it don't be afraid to share your opinion.

^_~ have fun reading.

These kids are set on Santa

Kids have a tendency to ask for a wide variety of things this time of year. not all of them are always feasible. Some kids that want pets, have allergies and simply can't have them. Other's would like to see people they love healthy again, or a lot of other things.

This particular read is a soft read, aimed at young readers.

All I got for Christmas
Rebecca Shelley
109 pages

This isn't necessarily a book about toys. It's more a book about a group of kids working together to make sure everyone at their school has a chance to see Santa. Basic story is that one of the boys hears their principal say that Santa won't be able to come to the school Christmas party because of the budget. You don't have to worry about disillusioning young ones though, because the author covers her bases.

Very appropriate for grade school readers, it gives short descriptions about winter holidays that different cultures celebrate. This book also examines the idea of consequences, and how thinking outside the box can help a situation.

I am honestly going to say, that if you're having trouble deciding on a book series for a young reader that is a boy, that this is a series they may enjoy. The Smartboys Club books have the same characters as this one (on the most part), and there's no need to worry about whether it might be a bad influence or not, the club is co-ed. Honestly, this is a nice introduction to the collection. My copy was found on the Barnes and Noble Nook Book website, but it's also available on Smashword. (It was free)

To learn more about these books and others that the Author has written, please feel free to visit her website. www.rebeccashelley.com