Janitors by Tyler Whitesides – Combined Book Review

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Combined Reviews
Jul 152011
 

Janitors

Author: Tyler Whitesides

Published: August 2011

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Hardcover; 312 pages

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

ISBN# 978-1-60908-056-3

FTC FYI: We each received ARCs from the author that did not affect our reviews.

Shanda’s Review

As soon as I received the Janitors ARC, I knew I wanted to read it aloud to my 10-year-old daughter the first time through. I wanted to experience the events in the book for the first time along with her to get the perspective of the book’s intended audience. We read Janitors in just a few days, with many instances of “Mom, are you busy? When can we read more of Janitors?”

This daughter is my avid reader. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s read every Goosebumps book in the school library and three of our local libraries. She devoured all of the 39 Clues books and eagerly awaits the new series. She is currently reading Fablehaven 3 and loving it. She reads several books a week from her classroom library during silent reading. During the last school year she started a book club with two of her friends. I would guess she’s one of the more well-read 10-year-olds in her school.

Several times my daughter asked, “So, this is really the author’s first book?” When I confirmed again that it was, she would say the story was so good, it was hard to believe that it was a first book. Considering how many books she’s read, I would consider that high praise.

While older readers might find certain aspects of Janitors too silly, the humor and adventure is just right for 8-12 year olds. Taking place mostly in the elementary school makes the story highly relatable to this age group. Spencer and Daisy are enjoyable characters. Dez is highly annoying, as bullies often are, but also provides comic relief. The supporting characters are believable, with depth and personality.

One thing I love to find in middle grade novels is accountability and consequence. While it’s great to suspend belief to a degree, kids in this age group are learning a lot about consequences to their actions and they notice if the consequences are missing. Almost immediately after we finished the book, my daughter mentioned that Spencer never apologized to his brother, Max, like Daisy told him to earlier in the book. I had completely forgotten about it.

Spencer and Daisy have to face the consequences of their actions throughout the book. I love how the themes of honesty and trust are woven throughout the story. In fact, honesty and trust are integral to the success of Spencer and Daisy’s efforts.

I have included my daughter’s review of Janitors below:

For an author’s first book, it is a really good book. The book is full of adventures. It was really funny. Dez is funny because he is kind of dumb. Daisy is funny because she believes everything everyone says. I like Spencer because he is very clean and hates germs. Alice, Spencer’s mom, is an interesting character because she always likes to do things herself and does a lot at once.

My favorite character is Spencer because he does a lot of weird and funny things. I think the creatures are really gross. My favorite glopified tool is the broom. I like it because you can float in the air. I liked the beginning of the book. It was very funny and entertaining. I would read Janitors again.

I’ve heard it said that we don’t remember facts as much as feelings. While the details of Spencer and Daisy’s adventures will fade with time, I’ll always remember how I felt every time my daughter gasped and giggled as we read. I give Janitors 4 stars out of 5 because my daughter and I had such a good time reading it together. Thanks for the fun read, Tyler. Best wishes to you and the Janitors series.

Sheila’s Review

Janitors is the debut novel by Tyler Whitesides. This book is a perfect read for Middle-Grade readers.

Spencer Zumbro, an awkward twelve year old, is having a hard time adjusting to life at Welcher Elementary. Spencer becomes the target of the classroom bully, Dez. With his only friend, Daisy (Gullible) Gates, they find themselves caught up in a mystery residing at Welcher Elementary.

Spencer finds out that the janitors at the school are the ones hiding the mystery. Soon Spencer and Daisy are dragged in to the excitement by the BEM (The Bureau of Educational Maintenance). They learn why so many of the students are distracted and falling asleep in class. There is a magical force working against the students and Spencer and Daisy fight to stop this from happening.

There are so many things that kids are going to love about Janitors. There is plenty of action and many funny moments, including what happens at the school-wide, PTA-sponsored Ice Cream Social. Of course, don’t forget about the magical elements that are found in this story. There is a great surprise at the end of the book for main character Spencer! This leads perfectly into the second book. I can’t wait to have my nine-year-old son read this book. I know that he is going to love it!

Mindy’s Review

Janitors is the very clever and entertaining story of Spencer and Daisy, and how they get mixed up in the world of janitors. Spencer is new in town and has been having trouble focusing in classes. He moved into his aunt’s house while she is out of town with his messy siblings and flighty mom. His room is his sanctuary, it’s the cleanest room in the whole house. Spencer likes things in order. While Spencer has trouble with the class bully, Dez, he’s especially mean to Daisy “Gullible” Gates. She is sweet girl, but too trusting. Spencer and Daisy become fast friends when they are put into a situation that calls for action.

After using a “special soap” in the bathroom, (it not only took away marker, but burned his face) Spencer starts seeing weird looking creatures. He wants to do something about it, but gets a “back-off” vibe from the school janitor. He stays after school to crash a visit from the BEM (Bureau of Educational Maintenance), and that leads him to make decisions he may not be ready for.

I really liked this book. What I liked most were the lessons learned by the characters. Some examples: telling the whole truth (even it’s about monsters), stand up for what you believe, stand up for yourself, and if something doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. I also enjoyed the very inventive ways of using common household items as powerful weapons.

One of my favorite quotes about lessons was, “I knew she would trust you,” Daisy said. “It makes a difference when tell the whole truth. No one can trust a chameleon.” (Janitors, page 219)

4 out of 5 stars. Very fun. I enjoyed the twists that the story took, and mostly the way Spencer and Daisy grew. Daisy is a great character, too. I love how she is always on Spencer to do the right thing.

Visit Tyler Whiteside’s website to learn more about the Janitors series.

AMMON by H. B. Moore

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Combined Reviews
May 312011
 

AMMON

Author: H. B. Moore

Published Date: June 2011

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Softcover: 288 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

FTC FYI: LDSWBR received free review copies that did not affect our review

Shanda’s Review

AMMON is the latest installment of H. B. Moore’s historical novels based on the Book of Mormon. I’ve read each book, from Out of Jerusalem to ABINADI to AMMON. Every time I think “It doesn’t get better than this,” Heather proves me wrong.

AMMON is the story of the eldest son of Mosiah. He and his 3 brothers renounce the throne and take separate paths into Lamanite territory to preach the gospel of Christ. Ammon is captured close to the border and taken to King Lamoni, but not before he sees Elena, a woman of Nephite heritage living with her family in the land of Ishmael.

Most people remember Ammon as the man who smote the arms off of the Lamanite rebels who scattered the king’s flocks at the waters of Sebus. Thanks to Heather, I will remember Ammon as so much more than that. Though some people balk at reading fictional retellings of factual accounts, I enjoy reading them because, though I know the fictional aspects of the story are the author’s creation, the perspective I gain from exploring the depths of these people’s stories makes them even more real to me.

For example, Ammon’s reaction, both physical and emotional, after the events at the waters of Sebus was something I had never really thought about. Nor had I considered the magnitude of Ammon and his brothers’ sacrifice in giving up the throne and a life of wealth and ease to travel through the wilderness to live among and serve their “enemies.”

Heather’s retelling of Ammon’s story is enthralling, intense, and unforgettable. Her writing is clear and precise. I started reading the last half of AMMON during the late morning. I was so involved in the book that when my husband asked if I was hungry, I thought he meant for dinner (I was so caught up in the story I assumed I had read straight through lunch).

AMMON gets 5 stars from me. I highly recommend it to everyone.

Sheila’s Review

I loved reading the novel Ammon! Even though I know the story from the Book of Mormon, sometimes I feel like I am reading an action/adventure novel. I love Ammon because of his courage, his humility and his undying faith.

Heather has a way of bringing these Book of Mormon heroes to life, while still staying true to scripture. I also enjoy how Heather develops all of her characters, whether big or small. I liked seeing the growth of the female character Elena. At the first she is a timid young girl and by the end she is a brave, confident woman. This all happens because of Ammon, of course.

The scene that particularly gave me chills is when Ammon spoke to King Lamoni and he collapses in his chambers. It is so inspiring to see the faith of his wife. There is so much for us to compare our lives to those of the Book of Mormon people. We can see how easy it is to be led astray. It is so frightening to see how easy it was for Zaman to be turned to evil.

Heather is one of my favorite authors. She knows how to take an already known story and make it seem like new. I am always so impressed at how thorough she is in her research. I also can tell you, if you have never read an H.B. Moore book, be ready to schedule out some time. It is hard to put the book down once you start. Her writing has such a nice flow; you become so immersed into the story you forget that you are reading a book.

Ammon is now my favorite book out of all of the books Heather has written. I gave Ammon 5 stars and it truly deserved it.

Mindy’s Review

Ammon is nothing short of amazing. This is the first book I have read by Heather Moore and I was really impressed. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Even though it is a fictional retelling of Ammon from the Book of Mormon, I was hooked. I knew Ammon’s history from the scriptures, but what I was reading was an intense adventure story, that just happen to have the men wearing kilts. Heather’s writing is so clean and smooth, it’s no wonder her books have won awards and they continue to set the example for great story-telling.

I have always enjoyed reading Ammon’s journey to the Lamanite people in the scriptures. I picture him very brave, selfless, and strong. After leaving his brothers and friends to go their separate ways, Ammon finds himself in the land of Ishmael. He is sneaking around trying not to get caught when he spies Elena, a beautiful girl who has lighter skin than the Lamanites. Ammon is seen, bound and taken to the King.

Elena is the daughter of Moriah and the sister of Zaman. Many years ago, they fled Zarahemla to not be forced into religion. Moriah makes capes and ceremonial clothes for the king, and Elena is practicing her skills in dress making. Elena has caught the eye of Gad, the blacksmith. Gad is a widower who has his sight set on Elena to be his bride. Elena keeps herself hidden; she is ashamed of her fair Nephite skin. Her family has worked hard to establish a name for themselves away from their Nephite roots. Zaman isn’t sure what to think of Ammon. Why would a stranger come to their land wanting to be a servant? Ammon is sent to the blacksmith and quickly finds friends and allies. He keeps asking the Lord when the right time is to teach these people, but learns he must be patient.

I really enjoyed how the story went from a “Book of Mormon story,” to a non-stop action suspense thriller. Something I’ve never thought of during Ammon’s ordeal was how he may have felt. Especially when he hurt and killed the men protecting King Lamoni’s flocks. The author did a fantastic job of telling us what Ammon might have been feeling, and I felt his relationship with the Lord.

5 stars. A solid book. The writing is very well done, the characters enjoyable, and the action had my stomach in nervous knots. This book is part of a series, but can be a stand alone. I look forward to reading Abinadi, Alma, and Alma the Younger.

FTC FYI- I borrowed Sheila’s copy.

Content:

Language- none

Violence- multiple instances, including weapon use & wound description, but nothing gory

Sexual- certain “fertility rites” in the Lamanite temples are referred to but no description is given

The Forgotten Locket by Lisa Mangum – Combined Review

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Combined Reviews
May 202011
 

The Forgotten Locket

Author: Lisa Mangum

Published: May 2011 (release date June 9)

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Hardcover: 368 pages

Genre: YA Fantasy

FTC FYI: LDSWBR received free copies from the author which did not affect our review.

Shanda’s Review

I know this is a review about The Forgotten Locket, but having re-read The Hourglass Door and The Golden Spiral this past week before reading The Forgotten Locket, the story has meshed and blended so well in my mind that I’m not sure I can separate it into individual novels anymore. Instead, I will review the series as a whole.

Two years ago, I bought The Hourglass Door without reading it first. I wasn’t disappointed then, and as I read it again this week I was thrilled to discover I liked it even better this time around. YA fiction tends to be hit-and-miss with me, so I’m always glad to find a book or series that I not only thoroughly enjoy, but have no concern letting my daughter read as well.

Here is a list of things I found refreshing about The Hourglass Door series:

  • No love triangle. Well, a little something comes up later but it is never really an option so I don’t count it.
  • Plenty of kissing with NO graphic description and the subject of sex never comes up in any way. Still, there is plenty to curl your toes about. (Dante knows just how to touch Abby’s face or wrap her in his arms- oh, there go my toes!)
  • I love science and fiction (yes, I am a fan of Star Trek) and I’ve always been fascinated with the concept of space-time and time travel. I can only imagine how much thought went into making the story plausible. When my head started to spin with all the time-talk, I decided to let the author worry about it (which I’m sure she did!) and enjoy the ride. Best thing I could have done.
  • Abby is a thoughtful, caring and LIKEABLE main character. No angry girl here. Don’t think that makes Abby weak, though. Quite the contrary. I love how Abby’s strength, determination, and abilities grow with her understanding and circumstances. Great character arc.
  • Dante is tall, dark, handsome, mysterious and human. No changing into some other-worldly or fantastical creature based on the phase of the moon or whatever else. He’s a talented, young Italian who, due to the betrayal of promises made, is forced into a punishment he does not deserve.
  • A great villain. Zo is manipulative, charismatic, talented and selfish. His big scene near the end of the book is nothing short of intense. In fact, after reading that scene I had to pause and take a breath!

Here is a quote I like from The Forgotten Locket:

Faced with an impossible situation, my mind ran through the possibilities, looking for a creative, workable solution. It was a discouragingly short list. But there was one thing on the list that I thought I could do. It was crazy and dangerous and there was no guarantee it would even work, but it was something I could do. And right now, that was what I wanted – action. Even if it was the longest shot I could take.

I also love the quote Sheila shares in her review below.

The Forgotten Locket is a gripping conclusion to The Hourglass Door series. It is obvious how much hard work Lisa put into these novels. This series gets a solid 4 stars from me and comes highly recommended.

Sheila’s Review

I have loved The Hourglass Door series from the first book. There was something so special and unique about this story. I think one of the main reasons is because of the wonderful characters.

I fell in love with Dante and Abby and their amazing love story. Fans of this series will not be disappointed in this last installment. The relationship between Dante and Abby only grows stronger in The Forgotten Locket. So if you want a story with a strong love story, you will enjoy this book.

There is also plenty of angst filled moments thanks to the bad guy, Zo. I think that I disliked him even more in this last book. Great job, Lisa!

So many things made me stop and think as I read The Forgotten Locket. One of my favorite scenes in the story is where Abby asks Dante this question, “Tell me, what does forever feel like?” Here is part of his answer that took my breath away:

“I meant that forever feels…untouched. Open all the way to the horizon. But it’s not empty like the bank. Not at all.” His voice, already soft, took on a reverence I hadn’t heard before. “Forever is stuffed full of…possibility. Potential. A blank canvas waiting for me to paint something, or draw something. To make. To change. Forever is where creation happens.” (The Forgotten Locket, page 126-127)

Lisa Mangum writes such beautiful words and dialogue. Her use of imagery, especially when describing the river and the bank, is exceptional. I have really noticed her growth as a writer as she has written this trilogy. I can’t wait to read what she writes next. It will be sad not to read more about Dante and Abby, but I can always go back and re-read the series whenever I want. I loved the feel good ending and I know that fans of this series will love reading The Forgotten Locket.

Mindy’s Review

My LDSWBR gals and I were fortunate to each receive a copy of The Forgotten Locket from Lisa at Storymakers. Thank you, Lisa.

What I love most about Lisa’s writing style is the way she shows me details with her writing. What it means to show in writing is the way a character, scene, object, etc., is described. It truly helps me know her characters, how they are feeling, know exactly what they are doing, and where they are.

The Forgotten Locket picks up right where The Golden Spiral leaves off. Abby goes through the hourglass door determined to fix all the damage that Zo has done to her and everyone she loves, but something is missing- her memory. Zo is such a great antagonist, a guy you love to hate, but want in a scene. His mind games and tricks don’t stop, they only get worse.

Zo is an imposing force that can’t let go of what he wants, and his reasons for doing what he does are pure selfish. He’s very sneaky and manipulates any situation his way. Right away he tricks Abby into giving something away that could destroy the life she’s been trying to get back. Could that mean Dante will be destroyed too?

And, speaking of Dante- I love this guy. He is a kind-hearted, caring person. In my eyes, he is the new Edward. What I love most about him is his heart. Dante’s love for Abby, his brother, and family is something that defines him as a good man. Valerie is back, too, but she is upset with Abby. Upset because of what Zo has put her through, but she points the finger at Abby. Valerie is also trying to come out of her insanity. Can she be healed too?

My favorite character in The Forgotten Locket was Orlando. Another wonderful example of an upstanding man with integrity and love.

Each person that goes to the bank develops a specific strength that helps them exist there. I LOVED what Abby’s gift was, how she learned about it and how she is able to help others. So many surprising things happen that kept me reading until the end, and gasping out loud at times. My husband kept asking me what was wrong, then he’d see I was reading and just laugh at me.

4 1/2 stars. This is a series that I will reread many times. The characters are iconic. It’s so great to read and enjoy a series as a parent that I would let my daughters read too. Great job, Lisa!

Content:

Sexual: kissing and touching of neutral places, ie., face, neck, arms, hands; no sex implied or mentioned

Violence: some violence and fighting (involving a knife) but nothing that felt inappropriate or excessive

Drugs & Alcohol: none

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