kyang_91
San José Public Library
kyang_91's Completed Shelf
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Harry Potter and the Goblet of FireHarry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Book
by Rowling, J. KBook - 2019 | First illustrated editionBook, 2019. First illustrated edition
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Suitability
Ages 9
The Lion, the Witch, and the WardrobeThe Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Book
by Lewis, C. S.Book - 2005Book, 2005
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
Four children by the names of Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are sent to stay at a professor’s home during World War II. While playing hide and seek, Lucy finds herself in a wardrobe that leads to a mysterious land known as Narnia. She encounters a faun named Tumnus amidst the pouring snow. As the other children slowly discover this magical fantasy for themselves, they learn of the evilness of the White Witch and encounter several other creatures such as Aslan the lion and the Beaver family. I enjoyed the unique blend of reality and fantasy and the perpetual conflict against the White Witch throughout the story.Four children by the names of Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are sent to stay at a professor’s home during World War II. While playing hide and seek, Lucy finds herself in a wardrobe that leads to a mysterious land known as Narnia. She encounters a…
Suitability
Ages 8
The Magician's NephewThe Magician's Nephew, Book
by Lewis, C. S.Book - 1994 | 1st HarperCollins edBook, 1994. 1st HarperCollins ed
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
Digory’s mother is suffering from a life-threatening disease, and to make matters worse, he and his friend Polly are mischievously sent to a new world by his uncle Andrew. In this world, they discover a forest containing many pools of water, each leading to a new world. Digory brings two green rings, invented by his uncle, with him in order to bring him and Polly back to the real world. However, as they discover this new land for themselves, they encounter abandoned castles, talking lions, and they even witness the creation and developmental process of a new world. This first novel in the Narnia series provides a detailed understanding of how the world of Narnia is created, setting the stage for the upcoming novels. I liked the absolute deviation from reality that this fantasy novel provides.Digory’s mother is suffering from a life-threatening disease, and to make matters worse, he and his friend Polly are mischievously sent to a new world by his uncle Andrew. In this world, they discover a forest containing many pools of water, each…
Suitability
Ages 8
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
As summer approaches, Greg prepares himself to stay inside with blinds shut and windows closed, and play video games all day. However, his mother insists that he goes outside more. As a result, he uses a fake identification to sneak into his friend Rowley’s father’s country club, but he is eventually caught. In an effort to repay the money he cheated as a result of this incident, Greg creates a lawn mowing service with Rowley, but Greg’s dissatisfaction with Rowley’s contributions causes them to temporarily split up. Through several unfortunate yet amusing family incidents, I enjoyed the entertaining harmony between teenage reality and humor.As summer approaches, Greg prepares himself to stay inside with blinds shut and windows closed, and play video games all day. However, his mother insists that he goes outside more. As a result, he uses a fake identification to sneak into his friend…
Suitability
Ages 8
Charlotte's WebCharlotte's Web, Book
by White, E. B.Book - 2012 | Revised edition,Book, 2012. Revised edition,
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
This classic novel focuses on the efforts made by a spider named Charlotte in order to save Wilbur, a pig that his owners feed a lot in hopes of making him into pork. Charlotte does this by finding words from random places and intertwining her web to replicate these words, which are specifically chosen to describe Wilbur such as “radiant.” The themes regarding the plot are mainly kindness and compassion, and it describes the extent to which a good friend is willing to strive towards saving another. The easy-to-read writing tone made this particularly pleasurable to read; this book is a great read for animal lovers or anyone who desires a classic fantasy novel.This classic novel focuses on the efforts made by a spider named Charlotte in order to save Wilbur, a pig that his owners feed a lot in hopes of making him into pork. Charlotte does this by finding words from random places and intertwining her web…
Suitability
Ages 8
Crookedstar's PromiseCrookedstar's Promise, Book
by Hunter, ErinBook - 2012 | 1st pbk. edBook, 2012. 1st pbk. ed
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
This Super Edition novel focuses on the childhood and development of respected Riverclan leader Crookedstar, who was initially born as Stormkit. However, due to a deformity in his appearance, he was renamed Crookedkit. After a near-tragic incident regarding his death, he is told by Mapleshade, a member from the Dark Forest, that he has a destiny and his time to die has not come yet. Through several chilling and unsettling events, Crookedstar ultimately finds a home in Riverclan with his mate Willowbreeze. Through the eyes of Crookedstar, readers can experience what life in the forest was like before Firestar arrived and the altercations that Crookedstar had with his warrior ancestors. Animal-loving or cat-loving readers should find this novel or any other Warriors book entertaining to read.This Super Edition novel focuses on the childhood and development of respected Riverclan leader Crookedstar, who was initially born as Stormkit. However, due to a deformity in his appearance, he was renamed Crookedkit. After a near-tragic incident…
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
Once Skyclan has been reunited and established by Firestar, struggles pertaining to an ordinary clan emerge as loyalty within the clan is constantly being questioned. Kittypets, which live in human “twoleg” houses and call themselves part of Skyclan, live in Skyclan during the day but return to their owner’s houses at night. Such cats are known as “daylight warriors” and are made fun of by other warriors. Furthermore, hidden troubles such as a gang of rats and an outside group of prey-stealing cats come to their sight and new efforts and policies are made to battle such hindrances. The problems that this newly formed clan has to deal with without the guidance of their ancestors make the development of both the clan and the plot engaging to the reader. As an avid Warriors reader, being introduced to a fifth clan and the daily struggles of building a new clan were very enjoyable to read.Once Skyclan has been reunited and established by Firestar, struggles pertaining to an ordinary clan emerge as loyalty within the clan is constantly being questioned. Kittypets, which live in human “twoleg” houses and call themselves part of…
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
Firestar receives a message that there was once a fifth clan in the forest, Skyclan, and that he must adventure into the unknown to restore this clan to its original heights. Sandstorm accompanies him and they immediately realize that the descendants of Skyclan have strong limbs, needed to jump between and climb trees. They organize a meeting that consists of several cats they found, and teach them the ways of clan life. Warrior ceremonies and their proper warrior names are also assigned. However, there lurks a group of evil rats on the outskirts of their territory that Skyclan had yet to deal with. I was constantly engaged throughout the entire story by the uniqueness of an adventure outside the forest and the rebuilding of a clan.Firestar receives a message that there was once a fifth clan in the forest, Skyclan, and that he must adventure into the unknown to restore this clan to its original heights. Sandstorm accompanies him and they immediately realize that the…
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Jul 01, 2021
Comment:
A plane of English boys crashes upon an unhabituated island, in which they must learn how to cooperate and fend for themselves without the usual assistance of authority and adults. The protagonist Ralph attempts to establish order within the island using a conch he and his friend y found, but the contrasting personality by Jack Merridew, who prioritizes fun and hunting over rescue, prevents such an ideal order and period of peace. As chaos erupts and systematic order falls, the consequences of this destruction will manifest themselves as the plot progresses. I enjoyed the abundant use of metaphors and symbols in this story as it helps represent larger issues in contemporary society.A plane of English boys crashes upon an unhabituated island, in which they must learn how to cooperate and fend for themselves without the usual assistance of authority and adults. The protagonist Ralph attempts to establish order within the island…
Suitability
Ages 12
MidnightMidnight, Book
by Hunter, ErinBook - 2015 | Revised paperback editionBook, 2015. Revised paperback edition
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
Now that Tigerstar is no longer in the forest of the four clans, Thunderclan enjoys its brief moment of peace, until their medicine cat Cinderpelt receives the message from Starclan of a tiger running through fire. After reporting this to Firestar, the clans agree that select cats from each clan shall join together and travel to the sun-drown-place and hear what midnight has to say. A brand new plot replaces the old one of Tigerstar’s menace, threatening to wipe out the entire forest unless the selected cats accomplish their mission.Now that Tigerstar is no longer in the forest of the four clans, Thunderclan enjoys its brief moment of peace, until their medicine cat Cinderpelt receives the message from Starclan of a tiger running through fire. After reporting this to Firestar,…
Suitability
Ages 8
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of AzkabanHarry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Book
by Rowling, J. KBook - 2018Book, 2018
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
The third novel in the Harry Potter series continues the plot in the wizarding world, in which Harry and his friends encounter the news that serial killer Sirius Black has escaped Azkaban, a prison held for convicted criminals. Harry’s search for Sirius Black is significant as it uncovers more about his family’s history and his own self. Furthermore, bickering amongst Ron and Hermione provides a hindrance in forcing them to cooperate in catching the culprit. Rowling’s writing style continues to entrance readers of all ages into the riveting plot.The third novel in the Harry Potter series continues the plot in the wizarding world, in which Harry and his friends encounter the news that serial killer Sirius Black has escaped Azkaban, a prison held for convicted criminals. Harry’s search for…
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
The 5th novel in the enticing Warriors series by Erin Hunter features Bluestar, the leader of Thunderclan, struggling to believe in their ancestors and seeming as if she’s lost all hope. Meanwhile, in Shadowclan, a new dark leader emerges, Tigerstar, who thinks of a cunning plan involving the use of wild dogs. Fireheart has even more responsibility now that their leader has essentially turned her back on them, setting the plotline up for tragedy. The various character developments mainly on Bluestar are evidenced in this novel, which may be the most exciting one yet.The 5th novel in the enticing Warriors series by Erin Hunter features Bluestar, the leader of Thunderclan, struggling to believe in their ancestors and seeming as if she’s lost all hope. Meanwhile, in Shadowclan, a new dark leader emerges,…
Suitability
Ages 8
Diary of A Wimpy KidDiary of A Wimpy Kid, BookGreg Heffley's Journal
by Kinney, JeffBook - 2007Book, 2007
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
Kinney uses a diary from the perspective of a relatively average middle school kid to create a humorous and light-hearted plot. Multiple events occur throughout the story, perhaps most noticeably the molded cheese that had been sitting on the blacktop for a long time. The dialogue and words are written in a way that allows everybody from any age to understand and follow along smoothly. This book is a great start for those that classify themselves as “non-book lovers,” as its humor can allow many students from around the world to relate with.Kinney uses a diary from the perspective of a relatively average middle school kid to create a humorous and light-hearted plot. Multiple events occur throughout the story, perhaps most noticeably the molded cheese that had been sitting on the…
Suitability
Ages 5
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
In this story set in a hypothetical science fiction setting, the plot centers around a boy named Thomas who mysteriously appears in front of a giant labyrinth. People of similar unknown origin accompany him, and they must solve the maze to find an escape route. Knowledge of the maze is severely limited, emphasizing the horrors and lack of certainty “runners” experience while running in the maze. Readers interested in dystopian novels or puzzle-solving plots will be captivated by such.In this story set in a hypothetical science fiction setting, the plot centers around a boy named Thomas who mysteriously appears in front of a giant labyrinth. People of similar unknown origin accompany him, and they must solve the maze to find an…
Suitability
Ages 10
The Lightning ThiefThe Lightning Thief, Book
by Riordan, RickBook - 2010 | 1st Disney Hyperion pbk. ed. with film artBook, 2010. 1st Disney Hyperion pbk. ed. with film art
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
Percy Jackson is a relatively average boy at first until he learns that he is actually the son of the Greek God Poseidon. When he arrives at a camp for children of deities called Camp Half-Blood, he is accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning staff and Hade’s Helf of Darkness, to which he must prove his innocence by trying to prevent an all-out war between Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon. This classic novel regarding tales and fantasy should appeal to readers who are interested in Greek mythology.Percy Jackson is a relatively average boy at first until he learns that he is actually the son of the Greek God Poseidon. When he arrives at a camp for children of deities called Camp Half-Blood, he is accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning staff and…
Suitability
Ages 8
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
Another classical tragedy by Shakespeare, this play focuses on a man named Macbeth, who is told by three mysterious witches that he shall be King of Scotland. After telling his wife about this matter, they plan with artifice to achieve such a position of power. The consequences and faults from multiple characters within this play are what make it such a tragic plot. Readers interested in Shakespeare’s writing or tragedy should find this play enjoyable.Another classical tragedy by Shakespeare, this play focuses on a man named Macbeth, who is told by three mysterious witches that he shall be King of Scotland. After telling his wife about this matter, they plan with artifice to achieve such a…
Suitability
Ages 14
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
A feud lasting as long as time between two families, the Montagues and the Capulets, does not stop two lovers from each respective side to fall in love, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. However, Juliet’s cousin Tybalt disapproves of such a relationship and Romeo is eventually banished from the city. Juliet decides to fake her own death in order to be sent to the tomb, from where she will be able to escape. But of course, not every situation such as this could work out so perfectly, to which readers shall anticipate. This book shall provide a good read to those interested in tragic romance or any Shakespearean reads.A feud lasting as long as time between two families, the Montagues and the Capulets, does not stop two lovers from each respective side to fall in love, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. However, Juliet’s cousin Tybalt disapproves of such a…
Suitability
Ages 12
The Kite RunnerThe Kite Runner, Book
by Hosseini, KhaledBook - 2013 | Riverhead 10th anniversary edBook, 2013. Riverhead 10th anniversary ed
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
One of the most brilliant classics of the century, “Kite Runner” describes the history of a friendship torn apart by deception and envy in a war period during Afghanistan. Amir constantly tries to earn his father’s attention, drawn by his magnificent character and admiration received from the community. The annual kite fighting tournaments that take place near Amir and his friend Hassans’ home symbolize their childhood friendship. Amir’s perpetuating guilt is what makes him so determinant in his actions towards the end of the book. Hassan’s unwavering loyalty matched with all the lies Amir had grown up with makes the reader anticipate a drastic ending.One of the most brilliant classics of the century, “Kite Runner” describes the history of a friendship torn apart by deception and envy in a war period during Afghanistan. Amir constantly tries to earn his father’s attention, drawn by his…
Suitability
Ages 12
kyang_91's rating:
Added Mar 31, 2021
Comment:
This tragic play introduces the audience to a setting in which a young woman named Antigone refuses to follow the King’s decree that no one shall bury Polyneices, for he shall be declared a traitor to their kingdom. However, Polyneices is her brother, so her morality tells her that the right thing to do is to bury Polyneices. King Creon thereby sentences her to death as punishment, to which his son Haemon protests for Antigone is his to-be wife. This constant battle between morality and ethics foments unbearable consequences; furthermore, the foreshadowing in this play is evident, making it a captivating and drawing plot for anybody interested in tragedy or Greek mythology.This tragic play introduces the audience to a setting in which a young woman named Antigone refuses to follow the King’s decree that no one shall bury Polyneices, for he shall be declared a traitor to their kingdom. However, Polyneices is her…
Suitability
Ages 14
Bluestar's ProphecyBluestar's Prophecy, Book
by Hunter, ErinBook - 2010 | 1st pbk. edBook, 2010. 1st pbk. ed
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
This novel by Hunter explores the early history of Thunderclan’s leader in the first arc before Firestar came to be. Back when Bluefur was a warrior, her sister Snowfur was killed by a car that made Bluefur be in charge of her kit, Whitekit. Bluefur meets a tomcat in Riverclan named Oakheart and they eventually fall in love. However, she soon starts expecting kits which prevent her from becoming a deputy. The rest of the story focuses on the complications and the plot surrounding Bluefur’s rise to leadership, through sacrifice and love. This novel would appeal to readers who are interested in the earlier history of Thunderclan and the forest.This novel by Hunter explores the early history of Thunderclan’s leader in the first arc before Firestar came to be. Back when Bluefur was a warrior, her sister Snowfur was killed by a car that made Bluefur be in charge of her kit, Whitekit. …
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
This story by Ryan set in the Great Depression of the 20th century covers topics such as downfall and racism. Esperanza starts off living wealthy in a mansion until her father was murdered by bandits, which caused their family’s property to go to her uncle Tio Luis. However, he threatens to marry Esperanza’s mother which created a longing for Esperanza and her mother to flee to a Mexican labor camp in California, leaving Esperanza’s grandmother Abuelita behind. This novel will certainly appeal to those who are interested in the history of California or the Great Depression in general.This story by Ryan set in the Great Depression of the 20th century covers topics such as downfall and racism. Esperanza starts off living wealthy in a mansion until her father was murdered by bandits, which caused their family’s property to go to…
Suitability
Ages 8
Harry Potter and the Chamber of SecretsHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Book
by Rowling, J. KBook - 2018Book, 2018
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
The sequel to the exciting first novel in the Harry Potter series definitely doesn’t capitulate to disappointment. With the unexpected assistance of a mysterious elf, Harry enters his second year at Hogwarts, unprepared for a fighting-back tree Whomping Willow, a colony of spiders, and most mysterious bloody words inscripted on the walls of Hogwarts that talks about a “Chamber of Secrets” and establishes the unknown writer’s desire for vengeance against the half-bloods and Muggles. Readers from all ages will surely find this an excellent sequel to the first novel as it uncovers more about the history and antiquities of the wizarding world.The sequel to the exciting first novel in the Harry Potter series definitely doesn’t capitulate to disappointment. With the unexpected assistance of a mysterious elf, Harry enters his second year at Hogwarts, unprepared for a fighting-back tree…
Suitability
Ages 9
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
Candy has always been a tasty treat and reward for children. In Henry’s case, however, he has a severe addiction to chocolate: chocolate cake, chocolate syrup, chocolate sprinkles, etc. One day, he feels unwell and the school nurse diagnoses him with “chocolate fever,” Henry having large brown spots over his body. He feels scared and runs away, and he is eventually picked up by a truck driver by the name of Mac who tells him to go home. He meets a man called Alfred “Sugar” Cane who tells him the secret to curing Chocolate Fever. This should make a humorous read to sweets-loving children or anyone wants a fast and funny story about chocolate and self-control.Candy has always been a tasty treat and reward for children. In Henry’s case, however, he has a severe addiction to chocolate: chocolate cake, chocolate syrup, chocolate sprinkles, etc. One day, he feels unwell and the school nurse diagnoses him…
Suitability
Ages 8
Animal FarmAnimal Farm, BookA Fairy Story
by Orwell, GeorgeBook - 2003 | Centennial edBook, 2003. Centennial ed
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
A farm by the name of Manor Farm is a farm like no other. The animals unite and rebel against the human owners by creating a philosophy called Animalism, based on the principles of Old Major, who voiced his wishes of freedom three days before his death. Through unexpected plots and betrayal, the pigs on the farm eventually become the rulers of the farm for the good of every animal. Years past, and eventually the animals cannot see any conspicuous discrepancies between the pigs and the humans. Readers in middle school and above who are interested in the sharing of power and equality will surely be captivated by this novel by Orwell.A farm by the name of Manor Farm is a farm like no other. The animals unite and rebel against the human owners by creating a philosophy called Animalism, based on the principles of Old Major, who voiced his wishes of freedom three days before his…
Suitability
Ages 11
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's StoneHarry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Book
by Rowling, J. KBook - 2018Book, 2018
kyang_91's rating:
Added Oct 17, 2020
Comment:
This first novel of a series of seven by J.K. Rowling provides readers with an unreal experience in a magical world through the eyes of Harry Potter, an orphan who lives restricted in Privet Drive with his cousin. He receives an invitation from Hogwarts, a wizarding school, which he quickly accepts to escape the tortuous living in Privet Drive. There, he meets two people who eventually become his closest friends and allies in finding out the truth about his parents’ death. This novel would make a great read for those who wish to experience the magic and how our mundane world will fare with it. Having the book set from the perspective of an initially ordinary boy helps the reader understand the setting of the story better as well.This first novel of a series of seven by J.K. Rowling provides readers with an unreal experience in a magical world through the eyes of Harry Potter, an orphan who lives restricted in Privet Drive with his cousin. He receives an invitation from…
Suitability
Ages 9
Comment: