Book Review: The Host by Stephenie Meyer

The world has become a perfect place. There is no fighting, no war, no hatred. There is only sharing, kindness, and respect. There is only one catch, the humans had to get out of the way. The world has been overrun with an alien species which act as parasites, binding to a host and controlling its functions. Wanderer is just such a host, but the human body that she has combined to is not following normal protocol. The human consciousness, Melanie Stryder, refuses to fade away into the darkness. In a constant struggle for survival both find themselves being turned in new unexpected directions.

The science fiction novel does not involve over the top science fiction elements. The story is very human. Reading aloud the story seemed to jump out and force me to want to go just one more chapter. This led to a vicious cycle of always wanting just one more chapter. The book contained very realistic and interesting characters that gave good commentary on the human existence. Even Elisabeth, the disliker of all Stephenie Meyers’ previous books, thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Overall I give the book a grade of “A”.

Best Game since Monopoly?

The Varsity scouts are beginning to work on the personal management merit badge. To help them I have developed a nifty game that may be the best thing since Monopoly. The game is supposed to be a fast paced version of Monopoly with the stock exchange thrown in for good measure. If you are interested in trying out this modern day marvel of a game I have provided the following supplies for you:

· List of Rules: On my website.

· Game Board: A PDF copy can be downloaded on my website. (Note: There is a 11x17 Board and a 8-1/2 X 11 Board, obviously the bigger board makes a better game station).

· Monopoly Money: Can be downloaded here if you are low on the monopoly cash (or never had any to begin with).

· Random Number Generator: A one of a kind excel spreadsheet that I have created specifically for the game can be downloaded on my website.

If you want the original version of anything (so you can make your own version or change something) just let me know and I can e-mail you a copy.

Book Review: Fablehaven - Grip of the Shadow Plague

Within weeks of finishing the summer vacation Kendra and Seth find themselves once again thrown into the battle between good and evil. The fate of Fablehaven hangs in the balance as a mysterious shadow plague begins to spread through the magical preserve. The once plentiful supply of light creatures are being transformed into creatures of darkness with one purpose: swell the darkness and stop everyone else at all costs. Stakes are raised as Kendra and Seth do not know who is friend and who is foe in the battle to protect the supernatural preserve.

Mull provides a fantasy tale that includes hundreds of complex creatures and characters in such a way that it is remarkably simple to follow and enjoy. With each book in the series the characters are able to explore more and more complex situations while still retaining a sense of themselves. This book, as with the two previous, provides an intense action adventure from start to finish. Overall I give this book a grade of “A”.