Flynn combines intrigue with facts in “American Assassin”

Jason Kang, Staff Writer
January 5, 2013
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

Written by Vince Flynn, a best-selling author and Minnesota native, “American Assassin” proves itself to not only be one of Flynn’s best novels but an overall excellent political thriller. It connects very distinctly to United States history, and at the same time, draws readers to the authentic... Read more »

Riggs explores reality in peculiar novel

Marielle Arostegui, Staff Writer
February 23, 2012
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

Through the eyes of misunderstood Jacob, “Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children” explores the world of a forgotten island and its inhabitants. In his first novel, author Ransom Riggs takes a different approach to writing; he creates a captivating novel that is accompanied by a visual illustration... Read more »

“Shine” Is a Bit Dull

Jen Vogl, Copy Editor
December 7, 2011
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

Previously in the news for her banned books, Lauren Myracle again made headlines in the writing community for her latest work, “Shine,” when she was forced to step down from her novel’s nomination for the National Book Award. “Shine,” although an interesting read, does suffer from an overuse... Read more »

Donoghue Leaves No “Room” For Growth

Liza Magill, Staff Writer
November 10, 2011
Filed under A&E, a&e featured, Book Reviews

“Room,” a New York Times Bestselling Novel, shows the complexity of life even amidst simplistic situations. Emma Donoghue weaves a compelling story through realistic imagery and irresistible characters. “Room” highlights a young mother who was kidnapped as a college student. After being sexually... Read more »

Animal fables with a twist

Jen Vogl, staff writer
December 30, 2010
Filed under Book Reviews

In your typical fable, animals speak, walk on their hind legs, and deliver morals to young children all while acting like cute and adorable versions of people. However, in author David Sedaris’s new book, “Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary,” animals take on the grittier traits of humans.... Read more »

Sparks novel insightful, yet poorly written

Sam Thomas and Samantha Thomas
January 12, 2010
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

Author of "The Notebook" and "A Walk to Remember," writes another New York Times bestseller, but that's not to say that the novel is deserving of this bestseller title.  Nicholas Sparks tells a romantic plot in a predictable and unrealistic fashion. "Dear John" tells the story of a rebellious high... Read more »

Picoult’s poetic flair shines in latest novel

Kathleen Ambre
April 7, 2009
Filed under Book Reviews

"Change of Heart," a novel written by the same author as "My Sister's Keeper," explores the nature of faith, bitter bits of the restorative justice system, and the fault line of religion. Jodi Picoult's poetic flair, integrated into every one of her New York Bestsellers, elevates this novel to the culminating... Read more »

Teen Vampire Novel Delivers Romance and Thrills

Elizabeth Tiffany
August 25, 2008
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

After months of waiting, teenage girls and women alike were finally able to get their hands on Stephanie Meyer's fourth and final installment to the extremely popular Twilight series: Breaking Dawn. With pre-orders well into the millions, fans made Breaking Dawn one of the highest pre-ordered books ever,... Read more »

Tennis champion shares his hardships

April 25, 2008
Filed under Book Reviews

Although his tennis strokes might far surpass his writing skills, professional tennis player James Blake presents a remarkable story of overcoming a broken back, the loss of his father, a paralyzed face, and a loss of balance to play tennis on the tour again in his autobiography Breaking Back. Much... Read more »

Bangkok Haunts mixes humor, suspense

March 19, 2008
Filed under A&E, Book Reviews

Set in the hot streets of Krung Thep (Bangkok), English author John Burdett takes us back to District 8 in his newest book Bangkok Haunts. We re-join Sonchai Jitpleecheep, who must investigate the death of his past love, Damrong, whose death is forever immortalized in a snuff film. Burdett will leave... Read more »