The Life of Pi

Written by Yann Martel

A book for readers in grades 9 and up reviewed by Patrick

        

The Life of Pi is a very interesting novel about a boy named Piscine “Pi” Patel, who becomes lost at sea while traveling to Canada. When his boat sinks, Pi’s only chance of survival is to get pushed onto a lifeboat full of wild animals. The story details his survival on the boat with Richard Parker, a tiger who becomes the boat’s only remaining animal.

I enjoyed The Life of Pi because it was very interesting to read. The story was simple, but it had many things to interpret, such as the animals representing human nature. I also enjoyed the connection between man and tiger. Pi and Richard both did what they needed to do to survive, but with each other. At the end of the story, it is suggested that Richard was part of Pi's imagination and represented him in his own imagination, which gave Pi the hope and determination to survive.

The Boy and Girl Who Broke the World

Written by Amy Reed

A book for readers in grades 9 and up reviewed by Adanya

        

The Boy and Girl Who Broke the World is a novel about Billy, an optimist with a rough background, and Lydia, who always seems to be on the gloomy side. When their schools merge, Billy and Lydia cross paths. At first, Lydia is wary of Billy, but she begins to grow to like his optimism. They form a strong relationship that changes everything for them.

I would recommend The Boy and Girl Who Broke the World because it connects readers to its characters’ perspectives. Throughout the novel, we can easily understand Lydia and Billy’s emotions as they struggle. The story doesn’t drag on, either, since it alternates between different points of view.

American Street

Written by Ibi Zoboi

A book for readers in grades 7 and up reviewed by Silvia

    

American Street is centered around a Haitian teenager named Fabiola, who moves back to the United States with her mother. But, Fabiola's mother is detained by United States immigration. Fabiola is then sent to live with her cousins and Aunt Jo. Fabiola tries to adjust to American culture and faces some obstacles.

American Street is a unique book and dives very deep, which is why I fell in love with it.