About Louisville Public Library's Review Crew

The library’s Review Crew offers local teens in grades 6-12 the opportunity to earn community service hours for school or other organizations by reviewing teen books or adult books with teen appeal. We hope to provide local teens with great reading recommendations from their peers while also providing a flexible means of earning volunteer credit.

To join the Crew, please email Teen Services Librarian, Jessica Schwartz, at jschwartz@louisvilleco.gov for more information and review writing guidelines. You will be asked to write a sample review. If your review is accepted, you will be eligible to earn one community service hour for every review submitted. 

Ratings are out of 5 stars:

·         1 star = didn't like it

·         2 stars = it was ok

·         3 stars =  liked it

·         4 stars = really liked it

·         5 stars  = it was amazing

   

Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma

Book: Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma 

Rating: 4 stars 

Review Writer: Vihaan J

Immortal Dark is a dark fantasy novel about Kidan Adane, an orphan who wants to discover the truth behind her sister's disappearance. The book is set in a world where humans can gain powers through vampire companions, which means Kidan must infiltrate Uxlay University and live with the vampire she believes is responsible for her sister's tragedy. Kidan finds herself caught in a power struggle between humans and vampires as she unravels many secrets about a hidden society. One thing I liked about the book was its blend of mythology and vampire lores. All of the characters feel complex and relatable. Although the book slows down at some times, it all eventually builds up to the tension and the thrill of the book fans of The Cruel Prince and other fantasy books would enjoy this novel

Past Present Future by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Book: Past Present Future by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Vihaan J

    “Past Present Future” is a heartfelt sequel to “Today Tonight Tomorrow” by Rachel Lynn Solomon. This story follows Rowan and Neil, high school rivals turned lovers. It follows their journey into their first year at college in different cities. Rowan is in Boston, attempting to become a novelist, while Neil is in New York, trying to navigate his mental health issues. Throughout the story, we see how their relationship is tested through new life challenges. One thing I liked about this book was the characters Rowan and Neil. They were both relatable in their unique ways as they were adjusting to college life. I enjoyed reading about Rowan finding her voice as a writer and Neil’s in-depth mental health battle. However, there was one thing that I didn’t like about the story. Some parts of it were very repetitive, especially their doubts about their relationship. I also wish there were more resolutions to some of the other side plots in the story. Overall, I would recommend this book to older teens who enjoy personal growth stories.

Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

Book: Dance Of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

Rating: 4 stars

Review writer: Bhavika

Dance Of Thieves is an intriguing, action-packed, and well-written book. It has everything from war ethics to romance to fantastical legends. The book introduces the character Kazimyrah of Brightmist, a thief who survived the streets of Venda since she was young, and became a part of the queen’s guard. Kazi is on a manhunt for a war criminal who committed atrocious crimes. On her secret mission, she encounters the Ballenger family and their heir - Jase Ballenger. On this secret chase of finding the criminals, Kazi may have left many disappointed, and broken the trust of many as well, while Jase may have unknowingly done the same, evoking emotions Kazi has hidden for the past several years. These characters have dynamic personalities, they are loyal to their kingdoms, as well as to each other, yet when conflict arises, they are left at a crossroads, figuring out where they fit. The book ended on a cliffhanger with enough to lead onto the next book, however it was not disappointing. This book is a part of a two-book series, being followed by Vow Of Thieves. Both of these books in my opinion are exceptionally good with several twists and turns. I can vouch for how this book has several heartwarming moments, being more than just about romance and war, but also several other sensitive topics like trauma, anxiety and grief. I liked how many parts of this book weren’t predictable, yet engaging enough to have me keep the pages turning. I would recommend this book for readers beginning to explore the fantasy fiction realm and romance novel enthusiasts.

Faker by Gordon Korman

Book: Faker by Gordon Korman

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Vihaan J

“Faker” by Gordon Korman is about a 12-year-old boy named Trey, who is part of a family of con artists. His father has a routine: they move to a new town, Trey enrolls in a school for the wealthy, makes friends, and helps his dad scam their parents. Trey thinks that his dad is right because nobody is getting hurt, but soon he starts to feel the weight of lying to all of his friends. Later, he begins to feel tension when he starts receiving messages, threatening to expose him. One thing I liked was the personality of Trey’s character. He faces the struggle of being loyal to his family or living a normal life. This ethical dilemma really makes me question what I would do in his place. Additionally, the friendships he makes at his school bring warmth and hope to the story. This plot kept me guessing the entire time, but I do wish the ending provided more closure about Trey’s future. Overall, “Fakfaker korm,aer” is an engaging read for teens who enjoy stories about personal growth. It is perfect for people who like humor and suspense as well.

A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen

 Book: A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Vihaan J.

“A Door in the Dark” by Scott Reintgen is an intense story about a magical world. The story starts off with Ren Monroe, a student at the Balmerick University of Magic. Ren’s life takes a wild turn when a transport spell fails for her, leaving her stranded in the wilderness with a group of her classmates. What I loved most about this book is how real the characters felt. Ren is a great main character with a mix of bravery and fear. This story kept me on the edge of my seat with its twists and turns. Reintgen’s writing style pulls you into the magical world with imaginative writing. Another thing I liked was the dialogue, which was very witty, adding to the characters’ relationships and personalities. However, one thing that I didn’t love was the pacing of the book. There were some parts that seemed very dry and predictable and the action wasn’t always the best, but the overall experience was still very enjoyable. Overall, I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy and adventure. Specifically, this is the perfect book if you are an older teen who likes books like Harry Potter or Hunger Games.

The Dare by Natasha Preston

Book: The Dare by Natasha Preston

Rating: 4 stars

Writer: Vihaan J

The Dare by Natasha Preston is a thrilling story about Marley, who lives in a town where seniors must complete these dangerous dares as a tradition. These dares start off as a little bit of fun, but they quickly begin to threaten lives. The book kept me hooked with its suspense and unexpected twists. Marley is a well-developed character, and peer pressure struggles make her more relatable. Additionally, the tension builds with each new dare, hooking you in and making you want to keep reading. One thing that I didn’t like was the parts of the book where the dares became unrealistic and the ending seemed too perfect. However, The Dare is a great book for fans of thrillers who also enjoy a bit of mystery. It is perfect for older teens looking for suspense.