Recent reads

I've read a few good novels recently but none really deserve a post of their own. They are all young adult fiction and are fairly similar in their construction and writing style (although they concern very different subjects).

Cherub: The Recruit by Robert Muchamore is book one in an exciting series about underage intelligence officers. It's a fast, entertaining read and presents an honest portrayal of young adolescent life.

The Other Side of the Island by Allegra Goodman is a novel set in a new world where everything is controlled by Earth Mother and her minions. Honour's family fight against this usurpation of their rights, pay the ultimate price, and then (of course) join a successful revolution. Quite the entertaining read.

Peak by Roland Smith tells the story of Peak Marcello who has the opportunity to climb and summit Mt Everest with his long-lost father. It's a lovely coming of age story that ends with Peak making a massive sacrifice and learning the real nature of his relationship with his parents.

Each of these books was interesting in content and fast to read, but they are symptoms of our modern literary culture which appreciates pared-down writing, writing devoid of all complexities, the kind of writing that you can read much as you would sit in front of the tv - mindless reading.

The above books would be enjoyed by kids aged 8-18, and are great choices for boys or not-so-avid readers.