TEENREVIEWCREW
Hamilton Public Library
TEENREVIEWCREW's Completed Shelf
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A Work in ProgressA Work in Progress, Downloadable AudiobookA Memoir
by Franta, ConnorDownloadable Audiobook - 2015Downloadable Audiobook, 2015
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 20, 2021
The Skin We're inThe Skin We're in, Downloadable AudiobookA Year of Black Resistance and Power
by Cole, DesmondDownloadable Audiobook - 2020Downloadable Audiobook, 2020
All copies in use
Holds: 0 on 1 copy
Holds: 0 on 1 copy
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
This book has received a lot of praise, and it completely deserves every bit of it. Desmond Cole’s The Skin We’re In is a crucial, thought-provoking book documenting a year in the fight against racism in Canada. I’m usually not much one for nonfiction, but I think this is a book that everyone needs to read. The writing is clear and concise, and did an incredible job highlighting the pervasive racial injustice in Canada, something many of us often dismiss as a phenomenon unique to the United States. I got through the audiobook in just a few days, and I learned more than I ever have in school regarding the reality of racism in our country. Incendiary, informative, and inspiring, The Skin We’re In is one of the most important things I’ll read this year, and I’d give it 5/5 stars.-@Ayama of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThis book has received a lot of praise, and it completely deserves every bit of it. Desmond Cole’s The Skin We’re In is a crucial, thought-provoking book documenting a year in the fight against racism in Canada. I’m usually not much one for…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
This book has been described as a cross between They Both Die at the End and Dear Martin, both books I hold in high esteem, so I expected a lot going in. Luckily, I wasn’t disappointed—Brittney Morris’ The Cost of Knowing is a powerful, gripping, and emotional story about regret, joy, mental health, and intergenerational trauma. The characters were endearing, the whole superpower (or perhaps it’s better described as a curse) premise was fascinating, and the focus on the relationship between the main character and his brother was beautiful. There was so much suspense—I spent the whole book itching to know how it would end. I also think that Morris did an excellent job of showing the main character’s anxiety in her writing. However, the speculative fiction aspect could have been better fleshed out, as some of it was a bit difficult for me to wrap my head around. The last couple of chapters also felt slightly rushed; nonetheless, I really enjoyed The Cost of Knowing, and I’d give it 4/5 stars.-@Ayama of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThis book has been described as a cross between They Both Die at the End and Dear Martin, both books I hold in high esteem, so I expected a lot going in. Luckily, I wasn’t disappointed—Brittney Morris’ The Cost of Knowing is a powerful, gripping,…
The Shadow HeroThe Shadow Hero, Graphic Novel
by Yang, Gene LuenGraphic Novel - 2014Graphic Novel, 2014
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
I’m usually not a huge superhero fan, but The Shadow Hero by Gene Luen Yang surpassed my expectations. It was a perfect superhero origin story—fast-paced, funny, and full of breakneck action. The art was also excellent, and the twists were unpredictable. Of course, it wasn’t all fight scenes—there were some really wonderful moments of both levity and grief that added further dimension to the characters and their relationships. I definitely think that The Shadow Hero would translate well to the screen, and although it’s unlikely, I have my fingers crossed that it’ll be made into a movie one day. My one criticism is that the romance subplot felt a bit rushed, and in my opinion was somewhat unnecessary—nonetheless, I’m looking forward to the rest of the series, and I’d give The Shadow Hero 4/5 stars.-@Ayama of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardI’m usually not a huge superhero fan, but The Shadow Hero by Gene Luen Yang surpassed my expectations. It was a perfect superhero origin story—fast-paced, funny, and full of breakneck action. The art was also excellent, and the twists were…
The Inexplicable Logic of My LifeThe Inexplicable Logic of My Life, Audiobook CD
by Sáenz, Benjamin AlireAudiobook CD - 2017Audiobook CD, 2017
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
There’s very little hype surrounding this book, and that really needs to change. The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a mesmerizing exploration of loss, family, and growing up, striking a perfect balance between tumultuous and tranquil. The characters are incredibly diverse and multifaceted, and I loved each and every one of them. The writing is also beautiful—it’s easy to tell that Sáenz is a poet. But I think the most striking thing about this book is how well it seems to understand and encapsulate what it is to be a teenager today, which is impressive considering that the author was born in 1954. I do want to mention that The Inexplicable Logic of My Life isn’t exactly plot-driven, focusing more on the characters and their relationships and development, and it is on the slow-moving side. Personally, though, this didn’t detract at all from my enjoyment of the book, and I would give it a solid 4/5 stars.-@Ayama of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThere’s very little hype surrounding this book, and that really needs to change. The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a mesmerizing exploration of loss, family, and growing up, striking a perfect balance between tumultuous…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
This book definitely deserves more attention than it gets. I first read The Ability by M.M. Vaughan years ago, and I remember being completely unable to put it down. Having reread it multiple times since, I can confidently say that this is one of my all-time favorite middle grade books. Full of the loveliest characters, a fascinating mystery, and wonderfully complex villains, The Ability is an absolute delight. The fantasy elements were original and well thought out, and there’s an excellent balance between action, banter, and development. Although it has some darker moments, this book is relatively light and adventurous, and gloriously escapist. I would highly recommend The Ability to anyone looking for a good middle grade novel, and I’d give it 5/5 stars. -@Ayama of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThis book definitely deserves more attention than it gets. I first read The Ability by M.M. Vaughan years ago, and I remember being completely unable to put it down. Having reread it multiple times since, I can confidently say that this is one of my…
Kuch kuch hota haiKuch kuch hota hai, Blu-ray Disc
Blu-ray Disc - 2010 | HindiBlu-ray Disc, 2010. Language: Hindi
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 19, 2021
Comment:
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is one of my all-time favourite Bollywood films; my cousins and I consider it to be one of the top movies of the 90s. It is about three characters, named Rahul, Anjali, and Tina. The story goes to show the group’s friendship and college experience, as well as the development of Rahul and Tina’s relationship, and how it affects Anjali. The plot then pans out to present day (roughly eight years later), and gives the audience a look at how drastically things have changed, and what is in store for these characters. I love this movie not only for its’ plot and music, but also because of how well the characters are played by the actors that I adore! The three main actors in this film are some of the most well-known in all of Bollywood, and it is amazing to see how far they have come. I definitely recommend this to those who enjoy Hindi/Bollywood movies, especially the ones from the 90s! 5/5 -@roselilly04 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardKuch Kuch Hota Hai is one of my all-time favourite Bollywood films; my cousins and I consider it to be one of the top movies of the 90s. It is about three characters, named Rahul, Anjali, and Tina. The story goes to show the group’s friendship and…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
The Goonies is a great watch. It is an action, adventure comedy with an amazing storyline. I do not recommend this movie for kids under 12 as there is some inappropriate language. This classic 80s film still holds its own with today’s youth. I really enjoyed watching this as the main characters are all teenagers and I could relate to them personally. I love this movie because it has something for everyone from hidden treasures to Pirate ships and fumbling bad guys. It even has a bit of romance in it which adds depth to the story. I would highly recommend this if you’re looking for a classic early Steven Spielberg movie to watch. I rate this a 4.5 / 5.
@Hockeygirl29 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThe Goonies is a great watch. It is an action, adventure comedy with an amazing storyline. I do not recommend this movie for kids under 12 as there is some inappropriate language. This classic 80s film still holds its own with today’s youth. I…
The SandlotThe Sandlot, DVD
DVD - 2013DVD, 2013
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
If you haven’t watched The Sandlot I recommend you go watch it right now. It’s great for all ages and definitely a must own for everyone’s DVD collection. I really enjoyed watching this movie and got some good laughs out of it. It has lots of very funny moments. Unlike most movies I watch, I like how The Sandlot is narrated with a voice-over. The Sandlot is a baseball based movie but even if you don’t know baseball or don’t have much knowledge about the sport I still recommend it because there are many other parts to it that aren’t baseball. I don’t really like to watch baseball but I still loved watching this movie. I would rate this a 5 / 5.
@Hockeygirl29 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardIf you haven’t watched The Sandlot I recommend you go watch it right now. It’s great for all ages and definitely a must own for everyone’s DVD collection. I really enjoyed watching this movie and got some good laughs out of it. It has lots of very…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
If you enjoy books by Sue Monk Kidd I recommend this one for you. The Secret Life of Bees takes you on an incredible journey back to the 1960s and shows you how hard it was for minorities back in this era. You see how things have changed while some things have remained virtually the same. Personally, this book was a real page turner because of all the different events that left me wondering what was going to happen next? It inspired me to think that if a young 14 year-old girl can overcome several challenges in her life so can I. However, as a person who finds it hard to get into books the beginning of The Secret Life of Bees was hard to read but as I got deeper into the book it filled me with an amazing adventure. Rating: 3.5 / 5.
@Hockeygirl29 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardIf you enjoy books by Sue Monk Kidd I recommend this one for you. The Secret Life of Bees takes you on an incredible journey back to the 1960s and shows you how hard it was for minorities back in this era. You see how things have changed while some…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
This book was by far the most heartbreaking and tragic book I’ve ever read. This book talks about how two parents need to make the most difficult decision to support their child, who is suffering from a life- threatening illness. This book shows how two parents need to make the most difficult decision in their life and how that decision leads to arguments, hard to understand where one another is coming from, and potentially separating from one another. This book, also teaches us patience, and remembering how in some scenarios it’s better to take risks. I totally would recommend this book and I would rate it 10/10.
@Bella of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThis book was by far the most heartbreaking and tragic book I’ve ever read. This book talks about how two parents need to make the most difficult decision to support their child, who is suffering from a life- threatening illness. This book shows how…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
This books is an example to have patience through hard times and good tidings will come. A devastating impact happened to the main character, which brought him to really evaluate his life and whether he’s living “his life”. He begins to forgive the people around him who hurt him and begins to feel content with himself. The representation between Bees and Flowers that the author uses shows the importance of taking care of our mental health. The book also teaches us to move on with life. I recommend this book and I rate it a 9/10.
@Bella of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThis books is an example to have patience through hard times and good tidings will come. A devastating impact happened to the main character, which brought him to really evaluate his life and whether he’s living “his life”. He begins to forgive the…
Ouran High School Host ClubOuran High School Host Club, DVDPart 01
DVD - 2008DVD, 2008
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
It one of the best rom-com shows I have seen. I have rarely seen a shoujo anime that I liked, and this definitely makes it up of my list. I have seen some people say that this show is inappropriate, but there aren't any inappropriate scenes in this show (In my opinion). But what this show does have is romance and humor. I also loved how this show has more humorous scenes rather than romantic things. It's like a humourous show with a spice of romance. And you surely will fall in love with the characters. The Handsome and idiotic Prince Tamaki, the crazy Hitachiin brothers, Kaoru and Hikaru, Cute Momiiji Sohma-like Hunny, Mori the silent strong host, and the Cool and yet evil Kyoya. I also loved the protagonist Haruhi. The heroine is refreshing and different, because, in most shoujo shows, heroines are too bright and bubbly and get annoying, Haruhi on the other hand is calm and practical. Overall, I would rate it 5/5.
@MayB.Dunn of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardIt one of the best rom-com shows I have seen. I have rarely seen a shoujo anime that I liked, and this definitely makes it up of my list. I have seen some people say that this show is inappropriate, but there aren't any inappropriate scenes in this…
Making FriendsMaking Friends, Graphic Novel
by Gudsnuk, KristenGraphic Novel - 2018Graphic Novel, 2018
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
Honestly, I don't know what to think about this book. The book was quite jumpy and busy if you know what I mean. The book was all over the place, and at times I didn't know what was happening. I also disliked how it mainly revolved around a show that the readers have never seen. But other than that, I got through the book, and it was a pretty okay read. Some of the characters were awesome, like the floating head, and I also liked the art. Overall, I would give this book a 2.5/5.
@MayB.Dunn of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardHonestly, I don't know what to think about this book. The book was quite jumpy and busy if you know what I mean. The book was all over the place, and at times I didn't know what was happening. I also disliked how it mainly revolved around a show…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
I loved this Manga (Graphic novel). I haven't read the novel, but this manga makes me want to read it. This manga was super relatable, quick (finished it in 2 days), and easy and calming read. On top of this, it had a touch-up of humor. I loved how this manga didn't have toxic characters as other manga’s I usually read. I also loved how it touches reality; Cath is trying to figure out her life, balancing between adulthood and work, and all this without her closest friend her sister. I definitely recommend this for fanfic lovers (Simonbaz), college, or soon-to-start college, or for anyone who loves light-hearted manga’s or stories. I would rate it 4.5/5.
@MayB.Dunn of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardI loved this Manga (Graphic novel). I haven't read the novel, but this manga makes me want to read it. This manga was super relatable, quick (finished it in 2 days), and easy and calming read. On top of this, it had a touch-up of humor. I loved how…
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
I strongly recommend anyone from almost any age group to read this book. "Contagious” offers a lot to learn about business, human psyche, and the reasons why we decide on buying some products and refuse others. This publication is an educational guidebook, giving us insider info on how many popular items became popular, it explains how the community hated song “Friday” brought in millions of views, and how overpricing a cheesesteak made an ordinary bar become a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. I believe that almost any age group can read and find interest in this book. Readers will learn a lot about marketing and even those who have no interest in business should still give Contagious a try. 5/5 stars.
@Basilisk_0 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardI strongly recommend anyone from almost any age group to read this book. "Contagious” offers a lot to learn about business, human psyche, and the reasons why we decide on buying some products and refuse others. This publication is an educational…
Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryCharlie and the Chocolate Factory, Book
by Dahl, RoaldBook - 2001Book, 2001
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
The Lost Track of TimeThe Lost Track of Time, Downloadable Audiobook
by Britt, PaigeDownloadable Audiobook - 2015Downloadable Audiobook, 2015
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
The Lost Track of Time is a novel about Penelope who dreams of becoming a writer, but her life is controlled by her strict mother who keeps her on a tight schedule. One day, there is a hole in Penelope's schedule and she is sucked in by time and falls into a magical world. Penelope sets out on a mesmerizing adventure in this magical world and you won't believe what will happen next! With clever wordplay, creative puns, and a thrilling adventure, I must say that this book was wonderful to listen to. I highly recommend this book for anyone feeling lost in life and/or struggling with rejection from their parents of their desired occupation. It is also perfect for readers who feel overscheduled and overwhelmed by their parents or themselves. The book explained what time is and how to spend it wisely which really opened my eyes and was very much needed. Rating: 5/5 stars.
@LavishReads of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThe Lost Track of Time is a novel about Penelope who dreams of becoming a writer, but her life is controlled by her strict mother who keeps her on a tight schedule. One day, there is a hole in Penelope's schedule and she is sucked in by time and…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
The Sisters Club is about a group of spunky sisters: twelve-year-old Alex who loves drama, ten-year-old Stevie who is the mediator of the family, and eight-year-old Joey who loves homework. I really enjoyed how the author explained the character's lives with an immense amount of detail, which made me feel like I was experiencing all the crazy events with the characters. The characters were realistic, hilarious, and easy to relate to. The story is told through first-person perspective, scripts, and diary entries which were unique, creative, and fun! I highly recommend this book for ages 10 and up, looking for a bizarre, funny, and amusing book. Rating: 4/5 stars.
@LavishReads of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThe Sisters Club is about a group of spunky sisters: twelve-year-old Alex who loves drama, ten-year-old Stevie who is the mediator of the family, and eight-year-old Joey who loves homework. I really enjoyed how the author explained the character's…
A Heart So Fierce and BrokenA Heart So Fierce and Broken, Book
by Kemmerer, BrigidBook - 2020Book, 2020
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
Comment:
I have to confess, I was quite apprehensive about reading this novel beforehand. It already took a long time for me to start the first book in the Curse Breaker series, A Curse So Dark and Lonely, and in most cases, the second book can be merely half as great as the first one. However, once again, Kemmerer was able to prove my doubts wrong. In A Heart So Fierce and Broken, all of Emberfall is rejoicing after the beast has been slain, except for some. Rumours are going around that could ruin the kingdom, and, to make matters worse, Grey has disappeared. Despite the impressive experience this book gave me, the one issue I had was that, in terms of the whole series, I felt that the novel did not add much. For example, readers did not see a lot of Harper nor Rhen in this book, save for a few chapters, and most of the novel was the group travelling. Nonetheless, A Heart so Fierce and Broken was still a great read, and hopefully, in Kemmerer’s new book, A Vow So Bold and Deadly, she will find a way to tie the two stories together. 4.5/5
@Banana24 of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardI have to confess, I was quite apprehensive about reading this novel beforehand. It already took a long time for me to start the first book in the Curse Breaker series, A Curse So Dark and Lonely, and in most cases, the second book can be merely…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 18, 2021
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 14, 2021
Comment:
Red Rising is another book set in a time where a ruling class is all powerful and projects power upon the people deemed lower beings. In this book, people are separated by a colour system, and our protagonist Darrow is born into the Reds, a colour that is very low in their society. Red Rising is a book with plenty of symbolism at every turn, taking many names of people and factions from ancient mythology and other writings that I have not yet made the connection to. This was quite interesting to me, as even thought I did not know the origins of all the names, it is still interesting to try to figure out what each one means in the story and try to predict what happens from that. This is also a downside, however, as my main criticism of this book is the slightly confusing storyline. Also, one of the reasons I enjoy action and big events within a story is because they feel important and central to the book. I particularly did not like how all of the golds, including the carved Darrow, were so powerful and had abilities that would get them out of situations easily. It did remind me of other dystopian books, most importantly The Hunger Games, with the colours bring districts and the oppressive government, and with my slightly confused understanding of the book I interpret a similar moral as well. All in all, a well thought out book that has a storyline with room for improvement. 3/5 -@Platypus of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardRed Rising is another book set in a time where a ruling class is all powerful and projects power upon the people deemed lower beings. In this book, people are separated by a colour system, and our protagonist Darrow is born into the Reds, a colour…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 14, 2021
Comment:
Our protagonist, Bud, is enrolled in a space academy for aliens by accident, and worst of all, their entire society lives in constant fear of ‘earthlings’, also known as humans such as Bud. The story that occurs next is one of the best and most reread able of any graphic novel I have read. It is quite short and a fast read, since it is a graphics novel but it manages to use its short length to great affect, as it is very well paced, with an emotional climax and great ending. The storyline within the school academy is relatable to Harry Potter, as our protagonist meets friends which help him understand the confusing world that he was thrown into. There even is a school sport involving zero gravity, which is similar in a sense to Quidditch. If you enjoyed this type of magical or sci-fi school story, you would like this. The one criticism for this book is its simplicity. It is meant for younger audiences and could be predictable at times, along with the fact that it lacks a deeper meaning, but to me, it is made up by the other aspects. 4.5/5-@Platypus of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardOur protagonist, Bud, is enrolled in a space academy for aliens by accident, and worst of all, their entire society lives in constant fear of ‘earthlings’, also known as humans such as Bud. The story that occurs next is one of the best and most…
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 14, 2021
TEENREVIEWCREW's rating:
Added May 14, 2021
Comment:
The book ‘Two Can Keep a Secret’ by Karen M. McManus was an intriguing and eventful book to read. My favourite feature of the book was that the author made each chapter about different characters in the story. Because each chapter was viewed from different perspectives, I was never bored while reading. The book made me feel excited to figure out how the story unravels itself and the slight cliff hangers at the end of each chapter made me eager to read more. I believe that the message of this book was to keep persevering and to never give up no matter how hard it may seem to solve problems, in the end, things will work out. I believe it also shows bravery and strength along with willpower. The characters (especially Ellery) were very well incorporated in the story and sends a good message to audiences. In my opinion, I would recommend this book mainly for teens as the main characters are teenagers themselves and I feel like they could get a better connection to the characters. Overall, I really liked this book, I rate it a 5/5. -@Beavertailreader of the Hamilton Public Library's Teen Review BoardThe book ‘Two Can Keep a Secret’ by Karen M. McManus was an intriguing and eventful book to read. My favourite feature of the book was that the author made each chapter about different characters in the story. Because each chapter was viewed from…
Comment: