Book Reviews
Diamond in the Rough
Category: Action-Adventure
Age: Grades 6+
Release Date: 2004
Publisher: Skyway Productions
Reviewed By:
- Joan Berberian
- Allison Fraclose
- Linda L. Rudzenski
Reviewed by: Joan Berberian, Librarian, Glenburnie School ~ Oakville, Ontario
October 20, 2008
I read Diamond in the Rough over the weekend and started You’re It. They’re great!! My 14 year old is not a reader but it sparked his interest (this is huge!!) I love the way the story took some unexpected turns and it really speaks to the junior level. I really enjoyed it (although I’m actually a senior…citizen that is)!
Reviewed by: Allison Fraclose
Rating:
July 3, 2008
Eleven-year-old James Miller has developed a major attitude problem over the past two years. Not only did he and his mother have to pick up the pieces after casting out his abusive, alcoholic father, but the kids at school have labeled James as an egghead loser. Fighting back has already gotten him expelled from one school, and, now that the school year is over, James is looking forward to a nice, quiet summer with his TV and hockey cards.
All of that changes when his mother sends him to a summer camp in Colorado. It’s only for a few weeks, while she attends a work-related conference, but James couldn’t be more against the idea. Fighting all the way, James finally relents, and begins the summer that changes his life permanently.
I’m not sure what to think of this book, since some of the situations seemed rather unrealistic to me, and it could have used some thorough editing and character development. This is the first book in a series, though, and I’m hoping that the second rounds things out a bit more.
Reviewed by: Linda L. Rudzenski
Rating: 
August 20, 2005
I liked this book. The part of the book I enjoyed most was looking into the thoughts and choices of a young man growing up.
I’m wondering what Volume II will bring.
