Kernel's Library: And The Mountains Echoed With A Tremble

Book 00095: And the Mountains Echoed
by Khaled Hosseini

---

Title:
- And The Mountains Echoed

First Publication:
- 21st May 2013 by Riverhead Books

---

Trivia:
- This is Khaled Hosseini's third and latest book and may be his weakest novel yet.
- The recurring theme on Khaled Hosseini's works revolve around the family, while his first two books focus on the struggles of Fatherhood and Motherhood, And The Mountains Echoed focuses on two siblings as they progress through life.

Awards:
- No. 5 in Amazon's Top 10 Best Book of 2013
- 8 weeks in NPR Hardcover Fiction Bestseller List
- The New York Times' Bestseller List
- 8 Weeks in USA TODAY Best-Selling Books (still counting)
- No. 1 Seattle Times Local Bestseller List (hardbound Fiction)
- L.A. Times Bestsellers in Hardcover Fiction

---

It started out with The Fault in Our Stars by John Green -- that is, my recent liking for emotional and heart-warming novels. I used to avoid such tear-jerker novels, because I am not quite sure if I could survive the encounter.

Since it all changed, I tried looking for And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini. This yet another touching novel did not bring any of the dreaded feeling of being trapped deep within me, but instead it made me feel that I have someone else who shares with me my feelings: my sorrows, loneliness, gladness, joy and happiness.

This is primarily why I avoided these novels before, because instead of helping me, I thought they would make me even more miserable... I was wrong all along. For now, for as long as I have these kinds of books, I could be alone without really being lonely.

Plot Synopsis

An unforgettable novel about finding a lost piece of yourself in someone else.

Khaled Hosseini, the #1 New York Times–bestselling author of The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, has written a new novel about how we love, how we take care of one another, and how the choices we make resonate through generations. In this tale revolving around not just parents and children but brothers and sisters, cousins and caretakers, Hosseini explores the many ways in which families nurture, wound, betray, honor, and sacrifice for one another; and how often we are surprised by the actions of those closest to us, at the times that matter most. Following its characters and the ramifications of their lives and choices and loves around the globe—from Kabul to Paris to San Francisco to the Greek island of Tinos—the story expands gradually outward, becoming more emotionally complex and powerful with each turning page.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: The Greek And Roman Plot Thickens

Book 00093: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

---

Title:
- The Son of Neptune

First Publication:
- 4th October 2011 by Disney-Hyperion

---

Trivia:
- The Son of Neptune is the second book in the The Heroes of Olympus series.
- The story is narrated in third person perspective, switching between the point of views of Percy, Frank and Hazel.
- The Son of Neptune has three million copies of initial printing, a record for Disney-Hyperion by that time.

Awards:
- Winner of the 2011 Goodreads Choice Award
- No. 1 New York Times Bestseller
- No. 1 USA Today Bestseller
- No. 1 Wall Street Journal Bestseller
- Amazon Best Book of the Month in October 2011

---

The Lost Hero left me a little disoriented if we talk about continuity between Percy Jackson & the Olympians and The Heroes of Olympus series. But after the new plot line has been established The Son of Neptune comes off smoothly, despite the varying point of views from the first book in the series and the second. For the untrained readers that could be a little too confusing.

The best thing about this book, on the other hand, are the adeptness and skills by Rick Riordan in writing engaging stories and sub plots that will not allow you to put the book down. It's a breathtaking ride through a modern take on both Roman and Greek mythology -- and by mythology we are always faced by apocalypse!

That's a recurring theme for Mr. Riordan (check The Kane Chronicles), but it doesn't seem to grow old on me. He has the machine or something to make an already common topic sound so fresh, leaving you no choice but to enjoy the same old story over and over again.

Plot Synopsis

In The Lost Hero, three demigods named Jason, Piper, and Leo made their first visit to Camp Half-Blood, where they inherited a blood-chilling quest:

Seven half-bloods shall answer the call,
To storm or fire the world must fall.
An oath to keep with a final breath,
And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death.

Who are the other four mentioned in the prophesy? The answer may lie in another camp miles away, where a new camper has shown up and appears to be the son of Neptune, god of the sea...

With an ever-expanding cast of brave-hearted heroes and formidable foes, this second book in The Heroes of Olympus series offers all of the action, pathos, and humor that Rick Riordan fans crave.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: So The War of the Five Kings Begins

Book 00093: A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin

---

Title:
- A Clash of Kings

First Publication:
- 16th November 1998 by Bantam Spectra

---

Trivia:
- A Clash of Kings is the second book in the acclaimed A Song of Ice and Fire series.
- The second season of Game of Thrones TV series, which was aired starting April 1, 2012, was based on this novel.
- A limited illustrated edition with illustrations by John Howe has been released in May 2005 by Meisha Merlin.
- Aside from the minor character's point of view in the prologue, the book has nine main characters' point of view.

Awards:
- Winner of 1999 Locus Award for Best Novel (Fantasy)
- Nominated in 1999 Nebula Award for Best Novel
- Winner of 2004 Ignotus Award for Best Novel (Foreign)

---

Here's the deal: I was already in love with George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, all thanks to the badass first book of the series, A Game of Thrones. Unlike many trying hard series, the succeeding books almost always belong to the sophomore slump that only the best series came out from alive.

When I read this book a year or two ago, I really believed A Clash of Kings is one of those sequels that gets better and better, the likes of which are only rarely seen: The Two Towers by J.R.R Tolkien, The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling, Shadowplay by Tad Williams, and The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown are just some of them.

The sequel which shows no sign of slacking doubled the excitement, conflict and complexity that the first novel laid out for the readers. Don't expect to understand the novel if you've skip the first book, because it is really essential that you read the series in a ladderized way.

But of course, like almost every series, you don't get satisfied of the ending, not because it is really bad, but because you can't wait anymore for the next book in the series that you hope to maintain all these excitement, if not exceed it.

Plot Synopsis

In this eagerly awaited sequel to A Game of Thrones, George R. R. Martin has created a work of unsurpassed vision, power, and imagination. A Clash of Kings transports us to a world of revelry and revenge, wizardry and warfare unlike any you have ever experienced.

A Clash of Kings

A comet the color of blood and flame cuts across the sky. And from the ancient citadel of Dragonstone to the forbidding shores of Winterfell, chaos reigns. Six factions struggle for control of a divided land and the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms, preparing to stake their claims through tempest, turmoil, and war. It is a tale in which brother plots against brother and the dead rise to walk in the night. Here a princess masquerades as an orphan boy; a knight of the mind prepares a poison for a treacherous sorceress; and wild men descend from the Mountains of the Moon to ravage the countryside. Against a backdrop of incest and fratricide, alchemy and murder, victory may go to the men and women possessed of the coldest steel...and the coldest hearts. For when kings clash, the whole land trembles.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: Egyptian Mythology Comes To Life

Book 00092: The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

---

Title:
- The Red Pyramid

First Publication:
- 4th May 2010 by Hyperion Books

---

Trivia:
- The Red Pyramid is the first book in The Kane Chronicles, a trilogy that focuses on Egyptian Mythology where Percy Jackson focuses on Greek.
- The book is 'said' to be a transcription of the main characters' -- Sadie and Carter Kane -- audio recordings, delivered directly to the author.
- The book claims the story are actual events and not merely a product of imagination.
- The book was adapted to a graphic novel by Orpheus Collar.

Awards:
- School Library Journal Best Book of 2010
- Shortlisted for the 2011 Red House Children's Book Award
- Winner of Children's Choice Book Awards 2011: Best Book, Grades 5-6
- A #1 New York Times Bestseller

---

Despite the fact Rick Riordan's being one of my favorite authors, the first time I attempted to read The Read Pyramid I immediately put it down not finishing the first page. I was not a fan of the audio recording story-telling and the story feels entirely different and didn't really fit in to the mold why I liked his Percy Jackson series.

But it was all for the good of that, actually. It gives an entirely new feel compared with his previous series, giving it a more unique sense and proving how versatile an author Riordan is.

First impression never really lasts, because on my second attempt -- after a few months -- the book actually gave me new chills and excitement. That was made possible when I removed from my system the Percy Jackson mania and avoided any instances of comparison.

Although it did not really reach to the success of the former series, it is equally delectable, and is informative to boot. A nice way to learn ancient mythologies in the modern world.

Plot Synopsis

Since their mother’s death, Carter and Sadie have become near strangers. While Sadie has lived with her grandparents in London, her brother has traveled the world with their father, the brilliant Egyptologist, Dr. Julius Kane.

One night, Dr. Kane brings the siblings together for a "research experiment" at the British Museum, where he hopes to set things right for his family. Instead, he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who banishes him to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives.

Soon, Sadie and Carter discover that the gods of Egypt are waking, and the worst of them--Set--has his sights on the Kanes. To stop him, the siblings embark on a dangerous journey across the globe--a quest that brings them ever closer to the truth about their family, and their links to a secret order that has existed since the time of the pharaohs.

Grade: A-

Read More

Kernel's Library: Taking Chance With The Fault In Our Stars

Book 00091: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

---

Title:
- The Fault in Our Stars

First Publication:
- 10th January 2012 by Dutton Books

---

Trivia:
- The Fault in Our Stars was optioned by 20th Century Fox and is now currently on production, starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, with Josh Boone directing.
- This is John Green's fourth solo novel, his other books include Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines and Paper Towns.
- Green stated that "the title is inspired by a famous line from Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar (Act 1, scene 2). The nobleman Cassius says to Brutus, 'The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, / But in ourselves, that we are underlings.'"

Awards:
- No. 1 New York Times Bestseller
- No. 1 Wall Street Journal Bestseller
- No. 9 The Bookseller (UK) Bestseller
- No. 1 Indiebound Bestseller
- New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice
- Starred reviews from Booklist, SLJ, Publisher’s Weekly, Horn Book, and Kirkus

---

I am not much of a love story reader, much less a fan of stories about the devastating side of life. That is why when I picked up John Green's The Fault in Our Stars, I was immediately caught off guard.

I can't imagine how the author could make such a devastating story sound so hilarious, that slight remark would always make me laugh. He doesn't make me cringe while I am reading the story even if it's in the point of view of a very ill girl.

But the author does the opposite in me, he makes me wanna read the story even more with his ingenious writing and superb story telling. At times he is also very effective in making a reader -- meaning me -- teary-eyed even if I deny it to my self. But no matter how I stop the emotions and tears, they're still coming like an avalanche.

This is the phase in my reading life that I am growing tired of reading my grown genre and John Green might have been my savior from the trap of running away from love stories -- not the kind you find in cheap pocket books, but the kind with substance and depth -- and a little of comedy, of course.

Plot Synopsis

The #1 New York Times bestseller that Time Magazine called “damn near genius,” The Fault in Our Stars is the story of Hazel Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two Indianapolis teenagers who meet at a Cancer Kid Support Group.

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.

Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning-author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

Grade: A

Read More

Kernel's Library: A Fun And Modern Retelling Of Greek And Roman Mythologies

Book 00090: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

---

Title:
- The Lost Hero

First Publication:
- 12th October 2010 by Disney Hyperion

---

Trivia:
- The Lost Hero is the first book on The Heroes of Olympus series, a sequel to the bestselling Percy Jackson & the Olympians series.
- Unlike the Percy Jackson & the Olympians, this series does not focus on one mythology alone but on two: The Greek and the Roman mythologies.

Awards:
- No. 1 New York Times Bestseller
- No. 1 USA Today Bestseller
- No. 1 Wall Street Journal Bestseller
- No. 1 Indiebound Bestseller
- No. 1 UK Bestseller

---

I loved reading Mythologies, but the ever expanding archives and tomes of these great literature makes me feel like a little dot in a wide universe of words. Just like a regular reader, I look for fresh takes on the already-familiar topics -- this makes the reading experience more enjoyable and worthwhile.

Rick Riordan is a master on that technique. He didn't just let me enjoy a very good read, but informs you with general knowledge on mythologies as well. The author is also a master weaver of crack-up and laugh out loud moments to boot.

It would even be more enjoyable if you have read the previous series, because there are a lot of tokens dropped along the story line that will make you smile and remember some old scenes. If you haven't started reading his books yet, you better do it now, because you are missing a lot.

Plot Synopsis

Jason has a problem. He doesn’t remember anything before waking up on a school bus holding hands with a girl. Apparently she’s his girlfriend Piper, his best friend is a kid named Leo, and they’re all students in the Wilderness School, a boarding school for “bad kids.” What he did to end up here, Jason has no idea—except that everything seems very wrong.

Piper has a secret. Her father has been missing for three days, and her vivid nightmares reveal that he’s in terrible danger. Now her boyfriend doesn’t recognize her, and when a freak storm and strange creatures attack during a school field trip, she, Jason, and Leo are whisked away to someplace called Camp Half-Blood. What is going on?

Leo has a way with tools. His new cabin at Camp Half-Blood is filled with them. Seriously, the place beats Wilderness School hands down, with its weapons training, monsters, and fine-looking girls. What’s troubling is the curse everyone keeps talking about, and that a camper’s gone missing. Weirdest of all, his bunkmates insist they are all—including Leo—related to a god.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: The Beast And Badass Of All High Fantasies

Book 00089: A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

---

Title:
- A Game of Thrones

First Publication:
- 6th August 1996 by Bantam Spectra

---

Trivia:
- A television series adaptation is popularly celebrated by fans and is currently aired at HBO.
- Each of the book's chapter is focused on the third person limited point of view of one character. - Aside from the minor character's point of view in the prologue, the book has eight main characters' point of view.
- The book has a limited edition published in 2000 by Meisha Merlin, featuring intricate illustrations by Jeffrey Jones.
- This book belongs in A Song of Ice and Fire series, which has seven book all in all. Only five books have been published at the moment with he sixth, entitled The Winds of Winter, coming soon.

Awards:
- Winner of 1997 Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel
- Nominated for 1997 World Fantasy Award Best Novel
- Winner of 1997 Hugo Award for Best Novella for Blood of the Dragon
- Nominated for 1997 Nebula Award Best Novel
- Winner of 2003 Ignotus Award for Best Foreign Novel

---

I have to admit I am a late comer to this book series. But the moment I started reading this fantastic story, I fell in love to it right away. Aside from a great story, George R. R. Martin's writing skills hooked me to the very end.

These are some of the reasons -- and more -- why millions of fans love A Song of Ice and Fire books so dearly. We may have read a few similar plots somewhere, but it feels so original. The mythologies, histories and backstories are so well-crafted, making you think Martin lives in his created world rather in this one where we unfortunate souls lived on.

If you haven't read the books yet, A Game of Thrones in particular, better start now. Before the world ends, because winter is definitely coming.

Plot Synopsis

Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. To the south, the king’s powers are failing—his most trusted adviser dead under mysterious circumstances and his enemies emerging from the shadows of the throne. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the frozen land they were born to. Now Lord Eddard Stark is reluctantly summoned to serve as the king’s new Hand, an appointment that threatens to sunder not only his family but the kingdom itself.

Sweeping from a harsh land of cold to a summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, A Game of Thrones tells a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens. Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; a child is lost in the twilight between life and death; and a determined woman undertakes a treacherous journey to protect all she holds dear. Amid plots and counter-plots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, allies and enemies, the fate of the Starks hangs perilously in the balance, as each side endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones.

Unparalleled in scope and execution, A Game of Thrones is one of those rare reading experiences that catch you up from the opening pages, won’t let you go until the end, and leave you yearning for more.

From a master of contemporary fantasy comes the first novel of a landmark series unlike any you’ve ever read before. With A Game of Thrones, George R. R. Martin has launched a genuine masterpiece, bringing together the best the genre has to offer. Mystery, intrigue, romance, and adventure fill the pages of this magnificent saga, the first volume in an epic series sure to delight fantasy fans everywhere.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: Choose To Lie... Or Choose To Die

Book 00088: The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

---

Title:
- The False Prince

First Publication:
- April 2012 by Scholastic Press

---

Trivia:
- The False Prince has been optioned by Scholastic Entertainment and it was announced in December 2012 that Paramount Pictures has hired a screenwriter named Bryan Cogman (Game of Thrones) to do a screenplay adaptation.
- Aside from being a writer, Jennifer A. Nielsen also always wanted to be a detective, astronomer, spy, actress, and teacher.

Awards:
- Cybil Award winner for Best Middle Grade of 2012
- Finalist of the E.B. White Read Aloud Award 2013
- 2013 Middle Grade Fiction Award from The Association for Mormon Letters
- Nominated for The Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award
- Finalist of the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award
- New York Times Bestseller
- New York Times Notable Children's Book
- Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
- 2013 Bank Street College of Education’s Best Children’s Books of the Year list
- #5 pick for the Indie Next Spring 2012 Kids’ List
- Publishers Weekly Pick, week of March 26, 2012
- 2013 Lone Star State List
- 2012 National Parenting Publication Award – Silver
- 2012 New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing List
- 2013 YALSA list for Best Fiction for Young Adults
- 2013-2014 Virginia Readers’ Choice list
- Chicago Public Library’s Best of the Best Children’s Books of 2012 List
- Goodreads Choice “Best of 2012″ MG Finalist
- One of Fuse #8′s “Magnificent Books of 2012″
- Listed in ABC’s Best Books Catalog by The American Booksellers Association

---

I've got to tell you that when it comes to books don't be fooled by first impressions. This may sound so negative, but actually it's the other way around.

Here's is the story: The first time I saw Jennifer A. Nielsen's The False Prince I felt something different. But not knowing exactly what feeling it was, I passed it for a negative sign so I started to shy away from it. I am not sure why. Maybe because it's not on my league or maybe I subconsciously found the cover too rigid. That's my first mistake.

The second one is I waited for months before I bought the book to confirm my suspicions, which bugged me in my waking thought sometimes. The third mistake I did was letting my friend read it first. I was disappointed. Not for the book, but for my self, since I can't contain the excitement and thrill I saw in my friend's eyes when he read the book.

That's too many mistakes already just to appease my self. So right after he finished reading, I started devouring the entire book and finished it for a few hours. I felt something different, alright, but it turned out be on the positive light, because I am telling you that this book is certainly a must-read.

Plot Synopsis

Four boys.
One treacherous plan.
An entire kingdom to fool.

In a faraway land, civil war is brewing. To unify the kingdom's divided people, a nobleman named Connor devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him on the throne. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant and clever boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point—he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. His rivals will be devising their own plots as well, so Sage must trust no one and keep his thoughts hidden.

As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfolds, until finally, a truth is revealed that that may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.

An extraordinary adventure filled with danger and action, lies and deadly truths that will have readers clinging to the edge of their seats.

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: The End Is Near For Maximum Ride

Book 00087: Maximum Ride: Angel by James Patterson

---

Title:
- Maximum Ride: Angel

First Publication:
- 2011 by Grand Central Publishing

---

Trivia:
- Angel is the penultimate book in the Maximum Ride series, the last one is entitled Nevermore.
- Aside from Maximum Ride series, James Patterson's other books for young adults include Daniel X, Middle School, and Witch and Wizard series.
- The author's first published novel is entitled The Thomas Berryman Number, which was released after he resigned from an advertising career in 1976.
- Stephen King referred to Patterson as "a terrible writer [but he's] very successful".
- Together with co-authors, James Patterson has written more than a hundred books, and is still counting.

Awards as an Author:
- Author of the Year at the Children's Choice Book Awards in New York
- Edgar Award
- BCA Mystery Guild’s Thriller of the Year
- International Thriller of the Year award
- No. 1 The New York Times Bestseller (Adult's and Children's)
- NovelTracker’s Top-Ten Lister

---

This book is precious to me, Gollum-style, not only because it belongs to one of my favorite book series, but also because it was given to me as a reward for doing good on something. With too much excitement I started reading the book and was eagerly rewarded with one of the most engaging stories I've read in the series.

I seldom receive books as gifts, but every time I do I cherish it with great care.

Plot Synopsis

In the seventh book in the bestselling series, evil scientists are still trying to convince Max that she needs to save the world, this time by providing the genetic link in speeding up the pace of evolution. Worse, they're trying to convince her that her perfect mate is Dylan, the newest addition to the flock. The problem is that, despite herself, Max is starting to believe it.

Fang travels the country collecting his own gang of evolved humans, but the two separate flocks must unite to defeat a frightening doomsday cult whose motto is Save the Planet: Kill the Humans. And this time, the true heroine, for once, might just be little Angel.

Alternate From the Mass Market Paperback

Max Ride and her best friends have always had one another's backs. No. Matter. What. Living on the edge as fugitives, they never had a choice. But now they're up against a deadly force that's racing across the globe, and just when they need him the most--Fang is gone. He's creating his own gang that will replace everyone--including Max.

Max is heartbroken over losing Fang, her soul mate. Her closest friend. But with Dylan ready and willing to fight by her side, and she can no longer deny that his incredible intensity draws her in. Max, Dylan, and the rest of their friends must soon join forces with Fang and his new gang for an explosive showdown in Paris that's unlike anything you've ever imagined . . . or read.

Grade: A-

Read More

Kernel's Library: The Alien Battle Of The Good Against Bad

Book 00086: I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

---

Title:
- I Am Number Four

First Publication:
- 3rd of August 2010 by HarperCollins

---

Trivia:
- Pittacus Lore is Lorien’s ruling Elder. He has been on Earth preparing for the war that will decide Earth’s fate. His whereabouts are unknown.
- Pittacus Lore is a pseudonym for James Frey and Jobie Hughes, not one but two men behind the series.
- In the fictional universe of the series, Earth is one of eighteen life-sustaining planets in the universe. Two others are Lorien and Mogadore.
- The fourth book in the Lorien Legacies series, where this book belongs to, is to be published soon.

---

I gotta admit that I have seen the movie before I have read the book. Who cares, right? That does not make me any less of a fan than those who read it first. I was secretly harboring a crush on this series, but was stopped short of the doubt that this might not be the thing for me.

The movie did me a favor actually. Instead of confirming my doubts it made me even more eager to buy the book and the rest of the books of the series. For what it's worth don't judge me of jumping on the bandwagon... Instead, if you're really a die hard fan, treat me as a comrade since we have at least one thing in common: we liked this book very much.

About the Book

Nine of us came here. We look like you. We talk like you. We live among you. But we are not you. We can do things you dream of doing. We have powers you dream of having. We are stronger and faster than anything you have ever seen. We are the superheroes you worship in movies and comic books—but we are real.

Our plan was to grow, and train, and become strong, and become one, and fight them. But they found us and started hunting us first. Now all of us are running. Spending our lives in shadows, in places where no one would look, blending in. we have lived among you without you knowing.

But they know.

They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They killed them all.

I am Number Four. I am next.

Grade: A

Read More

Kernel's Library: A Faraway World Without Heroes

Book 00085: Beyonders: A World Without Heroes
by Brandon Mull

---

Title:
- Beyonders: A World Without Heroes by Brandon Mull

First Publication:
- 2011 by Aladdin Books

---

Trivia:
- Brandon Mull has already written the first book in the Beyonders trilogy even before he started writing Fablehaven.
- The first book in the Beyonders trilogy has been around a decade in the making.

---

Brandon Mull has become an instant favorite circa Fablehaven. The author has already mesmerized me with his fantastic visions of fairies and dangerous creatures. He writes quite very well, no wonder why I finished reading all of his Fablehaven books in a breeze.

But alas when nothing was left from his books for me to read I was greatly affected. Thankfully he has something in store for us helpless prisoners of his creations, that when the first book in the Beyonders trilogy was released I planned to buy it right away.

But some circumstances lead to my failure to buy the book. A failure that turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because a few years after its initial release the book has been sold in a discounted price!

Synopsis

Jason Walker has often wished his life could be less predictable—until a routine day at the zoo ends with Jason suddenly transporting from the hippo tank into a strange, imperiled world. Lyrian holds dangers and challenges unlike anyplace Jason has ever known. The people all live in fear of their malicious wizard emperor, Maldor. The brave resistors who once opposed the emperor have been bought off or broken, leaving a realm where fear and suspicion prevail.

In his search for a way home, Jason meets Rachel, who was also mysteriously drawn to Lyrian from our world. With the help of a few scattered rebels, Jason and Rachel become entangled in a quest to piece together the word of power that can destroy the emperor and learn that their best hope to find a way home will be to save this world without heroes.

Grade: A-

Read More

Kernel's Library: The House of Power: Atherton Book 1

Book 00084: The House of Power by Patrick Carman

---

Title:
- The House of Power

First Publication:
- 2007 by Miramax Books

---

Trivia:
- Carman has stated that he drew on stories such as Frankenstein and The Turn of the Screw for inspiration for Atherton.
- At the end of the book, it states that there will be an "Atherton Two", and will called "Atherton: Rivers of Fire"
- Patrick Carman has been asked to be a part of The 39 Clues series. The 39 Clues is a series that will be written by five different authors (Carman included).

Awards:
- Wyoming Statewide Soaring Eagle Book Award short list 2009
- Oregon Battle of the Books list for 2008-2009
- New Hampshire Isinglass Teen Book Award Short List 2008
- VOYA's 2008 Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers List
- The Texas Bluebonnet award 2008 (short listed)
- Junior Library Guild Premier Selection 2008
- 2008 Kids Wings Award recipient

---

I bought this book year ago, but up until now was not able to read it. I left at home before I could manage to do so, that is why I am tempted to buy another copy, which I eventually thought would not be really appropriate. Might as well wait many more months before I could go back home and read. I just missed my library at home.

Synopsis

From the creator of the Land of Elyon comes a riveting adventure set in an extraordinary satellite world'created as a refuge from a dying Earth'that begins to collapse and forever change the lives of its inhabitants. Edgar, a gifted climber, is a lonely boy scaling the perilous cliffs that separate the three realms of Atherton: a humble fig grove; a mysterious highland world of untold beauty and sinister secrets; and a vast wasteland where he must confront an unspeakable danger that could destroy the people of Atherton. When Edgar discovers a book which contains the history of Atherton's origins and ultimate apocalypse, his world'quite literally'begins to turn inside out.

In the shadow of what was once the planet earth (now known as The Dark Planet) is the intriguing world of Atherton. This is a planet made up of three levels, each spiraling upward like a layered cake and sided by jagged rocks with a steep incline. On Atherton, water is the most valuable source of life and is controlled by the House of Power on the uppermost part known as the Highlands. On the second level, the Tabletop, are the workers who labor tirelessly in the fields of fig trees and live under the strict rule of their cruel supervisor. The bottom level is the mysterious Flatlands where the dangerous, always hungry beasts known as the "Cleaners" live.

Atherton thrives with this setup: the wealthy top-livers giving orders, indulging in their powers and riches; the Tabletop area living a day-to-day existence of hard work with little rewards; and the bottom wastelands is the place where no one goes --- and if they do, they never come back.

It is in the groves of healthy-growing fig trees where we first meet 11-year old Edgar. This young boy is ever-curious with an abundance of energy (despite the scare rations) that allows him to scale the steep walls of rock as he explores the world around him. Edgar is actually in search of something. Is it a dream or possibly a memory from long ago? He climbs because he is driven to discover this "something," and when he finds it he will know what to do from there. But, because of the many restrictions on the laborers, any climbing he does has to be done in secret.

To be read

Read More

Kernel's Library: Everyone, Meet The Purple Emperor

Book 00083: The Purple Emperor by Herbie Brennan

---

Title:
- The Purple Emperor

First Publication:
- 4 October 2004 by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

---

Trivia:
- Herbie Brennan became Ireland's youngest newspaper editor at 24 and since then has had considerable experience in journalism and advertising.
- Herbie Brennan has had a lifelong interest in the occult and trained in Qabalah for 12 years.
- Herbie Brennan is a highly competent hypnotist and also an I Ching practitioner. He has experimented successfully with occult therapeutic techniques.
- Herbie is also working intermittently on a new book for tweenagers (streetwise, savvy 9 to 12 year-olds) called The Book of Impeccable Posteriors. He describes it as 'a love story with devils' and says it was given to him by his Mother-in-Law in a dream. The mind boggles.
- Herbie's repackaged Faerie Wars quartet - which includes the final volume in the series, Faerie Lord - is selling strongly in U. K. and Irish bookshops countrywide.

---

Among the most exciting multi-plotted stories, this one is of my top favorites. The bizarre imagination of the faerie world, where danger lurks in every corner, is highly sophisticated. A plus points for this book is the hilarious and non-fake funny moments, making you laugh by your self. The flashbacks add to the mystery of the story. This sequel to Faerie Wars is as good as the first one. All the trademarks that made the Herbie Brennan's books enjoyable are also present in this one. So if you are in for an exciting read, don't forget to buy a copy of this book.

Short Summary

Henry Atherton, his faerie prince friend Pyrgus, and Pyrgus's fearless sister, Holly Blue, return in this fantastic adventure to save the Faerie Realm from the evil Hairstreak and his henchmen, Chalkhill and Brimstone.

With the help of forest faeries, some silk mistresses, a sewer-dwelling creature of unknown dimensions, and additional creatures magical and otherwise, the three intrepid young friends find their way from exile back to the home they all would die to preserve and protect.

Good friends Pyrgus, Henry, and Holly Blue thought they'd defeated the leaders of the Faeries of the Night, Hairstreak and his henchmen, not to mention the demons they'd raised from Hael. But when Henry finds himself on the other side of the Blue Fire Portal and back in the land of Faerie, everything has changed. Hairstreak has resurrected Pyrgus's father, the murdered Purple Emperor, in order to control the entire Faerie Realm. This zombie is not the father Pyrgus and Blue loved. Now his body and mind are enslaved to Hairstreak, and Pyrgus is no longer heir to the throne.

While Henry struggles to find his friends in this suddenly unfamiliar world, Pyrgus and his fearless sister, Holly Blue, are stripped of any power they might have had and banished to far-off lands. Not knowing who or what might greet them upon returning to the palace, they must find their way back to the palace and salvage what they can - with any friends they might find along the way, and by any means possible.

Grade: A

Read More

Kernel's Library: The Second Septimus Heap Adventure

Book 00082: Flyte by Angie Sage

---

Title:
- Flyte

First Publication:
- March 2006 by HarperCollins and Bloomsbury Publishing

---

Trivia:
- This is the second Septimu Heap book.
- The cover is modeled after the in-story book: How to Survive Dragon Fostering: A Practykal Guide with the Flyte Charm lying on top.

Awards:
- New York Public Library Books for the Teen Age
- Voice of Youth Advocates: Best Science Fiction, Fantasy And Horror
- Colorado Blue Spruce Awards

---

I never grow tired of reading fantasy novels that is why I always look for sequels if it belongs to a series. Even if the book is intended for younger generations it doesn't even hinder me to buy and read it (I am not sharing how old I am). And one of these books for younger generation is Septimus Heap: Flyte by Angie Sage.

I read this book as if I were a younster once again, enjoying on the magykal experiences, laughing on the funny passages, and reliving the adventures. This one is as highly readable and enjoyable book like the first one in the series, which is entitled Magyk. That's why I was in turn so eager and excited for the next book in the series (Physik) so on and so forth. The seventh and last book, which is called Fyre, will be published this April 16, 2013.

Plot Summary

In the second book we see Septimus as the apprentice to Marcia. When Simon kidnaps Jenna, Septimus goes out to search for her. He is assisted in his search by his friend Beetle. But Jenna runs away from Simon's observatory in The Badlands and makes her way towards The Port. Eventually Septimus is able to rescue Jenna with Nicko's help from the Port but they are tracked by Sleuth, Simon's tracking ball.

They make their way to the Marram Marshes where they take the Dragon-Boat from Aunt Zelda's cottage and fly her to the Castle. But they meet Simon, flying in the sky. Simon drops a huge Thunderflash on the Dragon-Boat and it drops over Jannit Marten's Boatyard. Septimus, Jenna and Aunt Zelda are able to revive her through the Transubstantiate Triplet spell.

Septimus is also in search of the long lost Flyte charm. He finds the separated charm and unites it along with the small arrow Flyte charm that Marcia had given him. Eventually he is able to fly and even warns Simon never to harm Jenna again. Also, the rock that Jenna gave him at Aunt Zelda's cottage, turns out to be the egg of a dragon and eventually it hatches. Septimus absolutely adores the dragon and names him Spit Fyre. The dragon for some strange reason, identifies Marcia as its mummy, much to Marcia's annoyance.

Septimus also rescues Marcia by identifying the shadow that has been trailing her. He also finds out that the ShadowSafe which Marcia is developing has the bones of destroyed Necromancer DomDaniel which, once assembled, tries to kill Marcia. Marcia, with Septimus's help is able to Identify him and thus he is again destroyed.

Grade: A-

Read More

Kernel's Library: There's Something Strange at Bay

Book 00081: Diary by Chuck Palahniuk

---

Title:
- Diary

First Publication:
- 26 August 2003 by Doubleday

---

Trivia:
- Chuck Palahniuk is best known for the award-winning novel Fight Club, which was later made into a film directed by David Fincher.
- Diary loosely falls into the modern horror genre, putting aside violence and shock tactics in favour of psychological scares and dark humor.
- The audio version of Diary is narrated by actress Martha Plimpton.
- In an interview at Sundance, Palahniuk stated "Lullaby and Diary, they have both been optioned and have screenplays, and I think Diary's closer to being cast than Lullaby."
- The dust jacket of the first edition of Diary contains a hidden printed message. The inside of the jacket is printed black, with white letters printed vertically across the jacket from bottom to top, in the same style of writing as the title on the cover. They read "WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION?"

Awards:
- 1997 Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Award (for Fight Club)
- 1997 Oregon Book Award for Best Novel (for Fight Club)[29]
- 2003 Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Award (for Lullaby)[30]
- Nominated for the 1999 Oregon Book Award for Best Novel for Survivor
- Nominated for the Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel for Lullaby in 2002 and Haunted in 2005.

---

After watching The Fight Club movie starring Brad Pitt and Edward Norton, I immediately promised my self that I would read each and every Chuck Palahniuk book. But then again promises are meant to be broken. At the end of the day I wan only able to buy this one Chuck Palahniuk book and the rest was either unavailable or I was too busy to look for copies. The worst part is I haven't read this book yet.

Plot Summary

Diary takes the form of a "coma diary" kept by a Misty Marie Wilmot as her husband lies senseless in a hospital after a suicide attempt. Once she was an art student dreaming of creativity and freedom; now, after marrying Peter at school and being brought back to once quaint, now tourist-overrun Waytansea Island, she's been reduced to the condition of a resort hotel maid. Peter, it turns out, has been hiding rooms in houses he's remodeled and scrawling vile messages all over the walls - an old habit of builders but dramatically overdone in Peter's case. Angry homeowners are suing left and right, and Misty's dreams of artistic greatness are in ruins. But then, as if possessed by the spirit of Maura Kincaid, a fabled Waytansea artist of the nineteenth century, Misty begins painting again, compulsively.

Misty discovers the islanders, including her father-in-law (previously thought to be dead), are involved in a conspiracy which repeats every 4 generations. A young artist (in this case Misty) is lured to the island by old jewelry, becomes pregnant and has children. It is implied that this old jewelry works to lure and entrap her because it was hers in a past life, during which these same events played out before. During middle age, her husband dies, followed by all her children, resulting in a wave of creativity, the product of which is mesmerizing to the audience. The islanders then create an exhibition of the art work at the local hotel where a fire is started by Misty's daughter, who is revealed to be alive, and all the hotel's occupants are burned to death due to their mesmerization. The result is a huge insurance claim which leaves the remaining island citizens wealthy enough to support their luxuriant lifestyles for the next 4 generations at which point a new young artist will be found to repeat the cycle. Peter, Misty's husband, was attempting to warn her of this plot using his hidden writing and it is revealed his suicide attempt was in fact a murder attempt. It is never revealed in the end whether Peter recovered from his coma, but from Misty's descriptions of his state of health, he more than likely passed away.

To be read

Read More

Kernel's Library: The Struggle of A Stranded Family

Book 00080: The Swiss Family Robinson
by Johann David Wyss

---

Title:
- The Swiss Family Robinson

First Publication:
- 1812 by Johann Rudolph Wyss (the author's son)

---

Trivia:
- The novel has in one form or another been adapted in a number of versions for television, movies, and others.
- The novel was intended to teach Wyss's four sons about family values, good husbandry, the uses of the natural world and self-reliance.
- Although movie and TV adaptations typically name the family "Robinson", it is not a Swiss name; the "Robinson" of the title refers to Robinson Crusoe. The German name translates as the Swiss Robinson, implying a Swiss version of Robinson Crusoe, rather than a Swiss family named Robinson.
- It is said that he was inspired by Defoe's Robinson Crusoe, but wanted to write a story in from which his own children would learn, as the father in the story taught important lessons to his children.
- The book was edited by his son, Johann Rudolf Wyss, a scholar who wrote the Swiss national anthem. Another son, Johann Emmanuel Wyss, illustrated the book.

---

I honestly haven't read the book yet and I am trying to find some time to do so. What a shame on my part that I tried to skip the book to read a more recent one...

Plot Introduction

The Swiss Family Robinson follows a close family who have found themselves stranded on a desert island after a shipwreck. The story is told from the point of view of the father. The religious family is made up of their intelligent and resourceful father, a kind and caring mother, and their four sons named Fritz, Ernest, Jack, and Franz. Fritz is the eldest son, 15 years old when the family lands on the island, and he is often tough on his brothers despite his good intentions. Ernest is the second oldest, and he is intelligent and well-formed, though indolent. Jack is the third oldest son, he is bold, but often thoughtless. Last is Franz, the youngest son, nearly 8 years old when the family first is stranded. The father is trying to teach them about nature.

The story follows the family's many good fortunes after they survive a shipwreck in a storm. They find themselves stuck on the ship, after being abandoned by their shipmates, but not too far from shore. Luckily, the family discovers many supplies on the ship, including clothing, tools, fish hooks, guns and gun powder, and various useful animals, such as cows, mules, hens, and pigeons. They find even more treasures on the endlessly fruitful island, and continue to prosper and make new and exciting discoveries.

There have been many adaptations of the novel with a wide variety of plots, characters, and endings. In the end they are all chiefly characterized by an improbable profusion and variety of animals -- penguins, kangaroos, monkeys, lions, grizzly bears, American buffalo, wild donkeys, iguanas, and even a whale - conveniently gathered together on a tropical island for the purpose of feeding and educating the boys, and instructing the reader.

To be read

Read More

Kernel's Library: Demise Of The Great King Arthur

Book 00079: Le Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas Mallory

---

Title:
- Le Morte d'Arthur


First Publication:
- 1485 by William Caxton

---

Trivia:
- The title of this compilation is spelled Le Morte Darthur in the first printing and also in some modern editions, Middle French for la mort d'Arthur, "the death of Arthur".
- The book contains some of Malory's own original material (the Gareth story) and retells the older stories in light of Malory's own views and interpretations.

---

As I have said before with The Once and Future King, I really like Arthurian legends that is why no matter how repetitive books of Arthurian Legends can get we can make sure that the books would always feel like an original read. Read on for an excerpt.

Chapter One

How Uther Pendragon sent for the duke of Cornwall and Igraine his wife, and of their departing suddenly again.

IT befell in the days of Uther Pendragon, when he was king of all England, and so reigned, that there was a mighty duke in Cornwall that held war against him long time. And the duke was called the Duke of Tintagil. And so by means King Uther sent for this duke, charging him to bring his wife with him, for she was called a fair lady, and a passing wise, and her name was called Igraine.

So when the duke and his wife were come unto the king, by the means of great lords they were accorded both. The king liked and loved this lady well, and he made them great cheer out of measure, and desired to have lain by her. But she was a passing good woman, and would not assent unto the king. And then she told the duke her husband, and said, I suppose that we were sent for that I should be dishonoured; wherefore, husband, I counsel you, that we depart from hence suddenly, that we may ride all night unto our own castle. And in like wise as she said so they departed, that neither the king nor none of his council were ware of their departing. All so soon as King Uther knew of their departingso suddenly, he was wonderly wroth. Then he called to him his privy council, and told them of the sudden departing of the duke and his wife.

Then they advised the king to send for the duke and his wife by a great charge; and if he will not come at your summons, then may ye do your best, then have ye cause to make mighty war upon him. So that was done, and the messengers had their answers; and that was this shortly, that neither he nor his wife would not come at him.

Then was the king wonderly wroth. And then the king sent him plain word again, and bade him be ready and stuff him and garnish him, for within forty days he would fetch him out of the biggest castle that he hath.

When the duke had this warning, anon he went and furnished and garnished two strong castles of his, of the which the one hight Tintagil, and the other castle hight Terrabil. So his wife Dame Igraine he put in the castle of Tintagil, and himself he put in the castle of Terrabil, the which had many issues and posterns out. Then in all haste came Uther with a great host, and laid a siege about the castle of Terrabil. And there he pight many pavilions, and there was great war made on both parties, and much people slain. Then for pure anger and for great love of fair Igraine the king Uther fell sick. So came to the king Uther Sir Ulfius, a noble knight, and asked the king why he was sick. I shall tell thee, said the king, I am sick for anger and for love of fair Igraine, that I may not be whole. Well, my lord, said Sir Ulfius, I shall seek Merlin, and he shall do you remedy, that your heart shall be pleased. So Ulfius departed, and by adventure he met Merlin in a beggar's array, and there Merlin asked Ulfius whom he sought. And he said he had little ado to tell him. Well, said Merlin, I know whom thou seekest, for thou seekest Merlin; therefore seek no farther, for I am he; and if King Uther will well reward me, and be sworn unto me to fulfil my desire, that shall be his honour and profit more than mine; for I shall cause him to have all his desire. All this will I undertake, said Ulfius, that there shall be nothing reasonable but thou shalt have thy desire. Well, said Merlin, he shall have his intent and desire. And therefore, said Merlin, ride on your way, for I will not be long behind.

Excerpted from Le Morte D'Arthur by Thomas Malory Copyright © 1968 by Thomas Malory

Grade: A

Read More

Kernel's Library: World At War: Into The Darkness

Book 00078: Into the Darkness by Harry Turtledove

---

Title:
- The Great Hunt


First Publication:
- 05 April 1999 by Simon & Schuster Ltd

---

Trivia:
- Turtledove has been dubbed "The Master of Alternate History."
- Into the darkness is the first book of the The Darkness Series, which is a series of six fantasy novels. The series combines history with fantasy. In this case, the general history, geography, and combatants of World War are re-created in a world where magic works.

Awards as an author:
- Homer Award for Short Story in 1990 for "Designated Hitter"
- John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction in 1993 for The Guns of the South
- Hugo Award for Novella in 1994 for "Down in the Bottomlands"
- "Must and Shall", nominated for:
1996 Hugo Award for Best Novelette,
1996 Nebula Award for Best Novelette
honorable mention for the 1995 Sidewise Award for Alternate History
- The Two Georges: honorable mention for the 1995 Sidewise Award for Alternate History
- The Worldwar: Sidewise Award for Alternate History Honorable Mention in 1996
- How Few Remain won the Sidewise Award for Alternate History
- Sidewise Award in 2003 for Ruled Britannia.
- Named honorary Kentucky Colonel while Guest of Honor at Rivercon XXIII in Louisville, Kentucky
- The Gladiator: co-winner of the 2008 Prometheus Award.

---

Trained flocks of dragons rain fire upon cities in a world war where magic works. Rival powers harness sea leviathans to sabotage one another's ships. The lights are going out all across Derlavai, and will not come back on again in this lifetime.

The first book, Into the Darkness, covers the war from the equivalent of 1939 to mid-1941; the Algarvians split Forthweg with Unkerlant, and then overrun Valmiera, Jelgava, and Sibiu (as Germany did to Denmark, Norway, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France in 1940), while Unkerlant wrests away part of Zuwayza. Lagoas joins the war when Sibiu is taken. The book ends when the Algarvians "get the drop on" the Unkerlanters in Forthweg (who were plotting to attack them first), equivalent to the start of Operation Barbarossa in July 1941. Kuusamo, meanwhile, is trying to seize Obuda from Gyongyos but fails, but Yanina succeeds in gaining control of the Land of the Ice People.

When the Duke of Bari suddenly dies, the neighboring nation of Algarve, long seething over its defeat a generation ago in the Six Years' War, sees its chance to bring Bari into the fold...an action which the other countries surrounding Algarve cannot, by treaty, tolerate. As nation after nation declares war, a chain of treaties are invoked, ultimately bringing almost all the Powers of Derlavai into a war of unprecedented destructiveness.

For modern magic is deadlier than in ears past. Trained flocks of dragons rain explosive fire down on defenseless cities. Massed infantry race from place to place along a network of ley-lines. Rival powers harness sea leviathans to help sabotage one another's ships. The lights are going out all across Derlavai, and will not come back on in this lifetime.

Against this tapestry Harry Turtledove tells the story of an enormous cast of characters: soldiers and generals, washerwomen and scholars, peasants and diplomats. For all the world, highborn and low, is being plunged by world war...into the darkness.

Not finished yet

Read More

Kernel's Library: Begins The Great Hunt of the Horn

Book 00077: The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan

---

Title:
- The Great Hunt


First Publication:
- 15 November 1990 by Tor Books

---

Trivia:
- In 2004 The Great Hunt was re-released as two separate books, The Hunt Begins and New Threads in the Pattern.
- The Great Hunt was originally designed to be a part of Book 1, which eventually garned its own separate book in the series.
- The Wheel of Time, the series where this book belongs to, was not finished by Robert Jordan because the author died before he could publish the last books. It was continued by another author also known in High Fantasy genre: Brandon Sanderson.

---

The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and pass. What was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow. For centuries, gleemen have told of The Great Hunt of the Horn. Now the Horn itself is found: the Horn of Valere long thought only legend, the Horn which will raise the dead heroes of the ages.And it is stolen.

With the usual opening lines (after the Prologue): "The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth comes again," the second book of the ever entertaining Wheel of Time series -- entitled The Great Hunt -- kicked off with a great start.

The Great Hunt consists of a prologue and 50 chapters. The main story is about a group of young heroes, namely Rand al'Thor, Mat Cauthon, and Perrin Aybara, ta'veren all, who join Shienaren soldiers in a quest to get the Horn of Valere out of enemy hands. At the same time, Egwene al'Vere, Nynaeve al'Meara, and Elayne Trakand go to the White Tower in Tar Valon to begin learning the ways of the Aes Sedai. And finally, in a distant land, a strange group of people start an invasion of the western coast.

The second book of the series, begins in the north where some objects of great value are stolen by Darkfriends. Rand is forced to face the group he fears most -- the Aes Sedai -- for fear of what they might do to him. Mat continues to slowly lose strength as an evil continues to grow inside of his body. While Egwene and Nynaeve prepare to travel to Tar Valon to learn to be Aes Sedai, Rand travels with Mat, Perrin, and the Lord Ingtar of Shienar in a quest to catch up with the thieves, and to save Mat.

Here are some reviews on the Wheel of Time series:

"Jordan has come to dominate the world Tolkien began to reveal." - The New York Times

"Large and splendid. The saga reaches a new level of emotional impact." - Chicago Sun-Times

"Jordan writes with the stark vision of light and darkness, and sometimes childlike sense of wonder, that permeates J. R. R. Tolkien's works. His style is undebatedly his own." - The Pittsburgh Press

Grade: A+

Read More

Kernel's Library: Story of Esmeralda & Quasimodo

Book 00076: The Hunchback of Notre Dame
by Victor Hugo

---

Title:
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame
- Notre-Dame de Paris


First Publication:
- 14 January 1831 by Gosselin

---

Trivia:
The book was written as a statement to preserve the Notre Dame cathedral and not to 'modernize' it, as Hugo was thoroughly against this.
- Hugo finished the book just as he was running out of ink. This tempted him to title the work What There Is in a Bottle of Ink. He eventually decided against it and called the book Notre-Dame de Paris
- The enormous popularity of the book in France spurred the nascent historical preservation movement in that country and strongly encouraged Gothic revival architecture. Ultimately it led to major renovations at Notre-Dame in the 19th century led by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Much of the cathedral's present appearance is a result of this renovation.

---

With Disney's masterpiece renditions of popular literature, there is no wonder that I will be looking for their original source materials. I was greatly inspired to buy the book, but due to tight schedule I was not able to read it yet.

Plot (From Wikipedia)

Hugo began to write Hunchback in 1829. The agreement with his original publisher, Gosselin, was that the book would be finished that same year. However, Hugo was constantly delayed due to the demands of other projects. By the summer of 1830, Gosselin demanded the book to be completed by February 1831. And so beginning in September 1830, Hugo worked non-stop on the project; he bought a new bottle of ink, a woolen cloak, and cloistered himself in his room refusing to be bothered or to leave his house (except for nightly visits to the cathedral). The book was finished six months later.

The story begins in 1482, the day of the Festival of Fools in Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell ringer, is introduced by his crowning as Pope of Fools.

Esméralda, a beautiful 16-year-old gypsy, captures the hearts of many men but especially Quasimodo’s stepfather, Claude Frollo. Frollo is torn between his lust and the rules of the church. He orders Quasimodo to get her. Quasimodo is caught and whipped and ordered to be tied down in the heat. Esméralda seeing his thirst, offers him water. It saves her, for she captures the heart of the hunchback.

She is later accused of the murder of Phoebus, whom Frollo tried to kill in jealousy, and is sentenced to death by hanging. Quasimodo saves her by bringing her to the cathedral under the law of sanctuary. Frollo rallies the truands (criminals of Paris) to charge the cathedral. The king, seeing the chaos, vetoes the law of sanctuary and commands his troops to take her out and kill her. When Quasimodo sees the truands, he assumes they are there to hurt Esméralda, so he drives them off. Frollo betrays Esméralda by handing her to the troops and watches while she is hanged. Quasimodo pushes him from Notre-Dame to his death. He then goes to Esméralda’s grave, lies next to her corpse and dies.

*To be read

Read More