Prom Nights from Hell

Book Description

In this exciting collection, bestselling authors Meg Cabot (How to Be Popular), Kim Harrison (A Fistful of Charms), Michele Jaffe (Bad Kitty), Stephenie Meyer (Twilight), and Lauren Myracle (ttyl) take bad prom nights to a whole new level—a paranormally bad level. Wardrobe malfunctions and two left feet don't hold a candle to discovering your date is the Grim Reaper—and he isn't here to tell you how hot you look.

From angels fighting demons to a creepy take on getting what you wish for, these five stories will entertain better than any DJ in a bad tux. No corsage or limo rental necessary. Just good, scary fun.

Customer Reviews:

Big Disappointment.......2007-10-03

Being a BIG fan of the Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer, I bought this to scratch the Twilight itch. (4th Twilight comes out in 2008 :( )

I was greatly disappointed. The stories were very "young" not "young adult". I'm in my 20's and found the stories very boring.

Short Stories by Some of the Greats..........2007-06-14

Prom Nights From Hell encompasses short stories by Stephanie Meyer (Twilight), Meg Cabot (Mediator), Kim Harrison, Michele Jaffe (Bad Kitty), and Lauren Myracle (TTFN). I enjoyed the stories on varying degrees.

As a Twilight fan, I went to Meyer's tale first and was caught slightly off guard about the abrupt ending to her story about Angels and Demons. Next, I read Meg Cabot's take on vampire slaying. It was enjoyable and written in the typical Meg Cabot style. Kim Harrisons' story about Angels of Death surprised me. Having never seen a YA novel from her, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I found her story to be the most enjoyable tale in the book. The other two stories weren't my favorites, but should entertain those who have read books by the authors before.

The common theme amongst the stories is not only that they take place at proms and have a paranormal feel, but also that they are all very open ended. All could be continued and some, like Kim Harrisons' short, should be extended into a YA book. I wouldn't be surprised if we see a few of these spun off into their own books and series.

If you like YA books about supernatural relationships, try Prom Nights out. There should be at least one story you will want to sink your teeth into more than once.

Prom Nights.......2007-06-02

I'm a huge stephenie meyer fan, so when I found out she had a story in prom nights from hell I knew I had to get it. I really liked the story's some were hard to follow. One of the best ones was Meg Cabot's story and Stephenie Meyer's.

What does having a prom night from hell mean to you?.......2007-06-01

What does having a prom night from hell mean to you? Maybe you tear your dress on the way out of the limo so everyone sees your underwear. Or you spend the entire evening smiling for your friends' cameras with lipstick on your teeth. Perhaps you even get dumped on what is supposed to be one of the most important nights of your life. All of these things surely can add up to a prom night from hell, but at least you didn't have the prom night from Hell.

Five of your favorite teen authors have teamed up to produce a set of short stories about proms gone supernaturally, horribly wrong. While you're concerned about shoes matching your purse, the girls in these stories are worried about crossbows and vampires, zombie dates who've been dead for weeks, and a devil in a red dress who causes chaos by snapping high heels and breaking up couples.

Michele Jaffe (BAD KITTY) gives scary a twist of humor in her story "Kiss and Tell," in which Miranda, blessed (or maybe cursed) with superpowers, takes it upon herself to protect a 14-year-old chauffering charge named Sibby. Sarcasm and a roller derby outfit, however, might not be enough for Miranda to keep Sibby safe from a potential murder.

If you're a fan of Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT, then you'll love "Hell on Earth." What looks like your normal prom becomes a jumbled mess of broken jewelry, ripped dresses and destroyed romances thanks to the new girl, Sheba, who's really a 186-year-old demon in disguise. But will Sheba's meddling older sister keep the prom from being anything less than perfectly hellish?

If you love the classic horror stories, then flip straight to "The Corsage" by Lauren Myracle (RHYMES WITH WITCHES), a retelling of W.W. Jacobs's "The Monkey's Paw." Frankie wishes for Will to ask her to the prom while holding a corsage she bought from a Juicy Couture-clad fortune teller. You know how the saying goes, though: Be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it. Frankie's wish comes true, and now Will is just dying to ask her to the prom.

For a twist on the Grim Reaper tale, look at "Madison Avery and the Dim Reaper" by Kim Harrison (A FISTFUL OF CHARMS). It's bad enough that Madison's date only takes her to the prom out of pity, but then the guy she leaves with kills her and completely botches her death. Now she's somewhere between human and ghost, relying on a stolen amulet to keep her solid.

And for those of you who are diehard vampire fans, open to page one and start reading "The Exterminator's Daughter" by Meg Cabot (AVALON HIGH). Vampires are alive, well, living in New York and taking Mary's best friend Lila to the prom. Mary, a vampire exterminator with her very own crossbow, is determined to save Lila. With Dracula in disguise at her high school, will Mary's prom completely suck?

Enter a world where Death and demons meet sequins and tuxedos. Whether you prefer a slow, detailed story or a tale that's funny and fast-paced, you'll find something here to enjoy. Your prom may not be as exciting as some of the ones in this book, but at least you won't have to worry about the new boy wielding a scythe.

--- Reviewed by Carlie Webber

Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-06-01

What do you get when five great authors come together to create a paranormal prom anthology? In a word - greatness!

Meg Cabot starts off the collection with THE EXTERMINATOR'S DAUGHTER. When Mary shows up at Swig, an exclusive VIP club in Manhattan, it's not to socialize. No, she's on a mission to take out Sebastian Drake -- and by take out, I mean kill him with a crossbow. But when Adam, a fellow student at Saint Eligius, takes his own potshots at the dreaded Sebastian, things get a lot more interesting.

Lauren Myracle, the author of THE CORSAGE, has written what is probably the saddest, and creepiest, story of the bunch. All Frankie wants is for her best guy friend, Will, to realize that it's his destiny to ask her to the prom. To accomplish that goal, she drags Will and her other best friend, Yun Sun, to visit Madame Zanzibar, a fortune-teller. She's sure that Madame Z will proclaim that Will is her one true love, and that will be that. But the psychic is short on information, but does end up grudgingly handing over to Frankie a dried up old corsage, which she says will grant her three wishes. Over the next couple of days, however, Frankie will come to realize that she'll have to make some requests that she never in her wildest dreams would have thought of making.

MADISON AVERY AND THE DIM REAPER by Kim Harrison is the longest story in the group, and the most involved. When Madison ends up at the costume prom with a dud date, she's surprised to find one guy who can pick up the slack. Seth isn't like anyone she's ever met before. Unfortunately, before too long she'll find out why that is, and the picture it paints isn't pretty. There are deaths, white reapers, black reapers, grim reapers, and odd amulets. I really liked this story, and would be happy to see more of these characters in the future.

Michele Jaffe's story, KISS AND TELL, was by far my favorite. Miranda has a secret. Not only is she a student and a part-time driver/chaeffeur, but she also fights crime in her spare time. It turns out Miranda has special abilities that allow her to do things most regular teens can't do -- like, say, knock over a lamppost just by leaning on it. This particular day turns out to be stranger than the norm, though, when she picks up young Sibby Cumean, a strange girl who has an even stranger habit of kissing every boy she can find. When weird things start happening, Miranda's day turns into an action-adventure movie beyond anything she could have expected. I LOVED this story, and I HAVE to read more about Miranda and Sibby in the future! Yes, Ms. Jaffe, that's me begging!!

Last but not least is HELL ON EARTH by Stephenie Meyer. This is the story of Sheba, a demon on earth who loves bringing misery to others. Her plan is working pretty well, too, because nearly everyone at the prom is having a downright horrible time. Everyone, that is, except for Gabe, who seems not just happy but serene. By the time Sheba can figure out what's happening, it's too late, and prom just might end up having a happy ending after all.

PROM NIGHTS FROM HELL is a great paranormal anthology that teens and adults alike will enjoy. I highly recommend picking up a copy today!

Reviewed by: Jennifer Wardrip, aka "The Genius"

A-List #6, The: Some Like It Hot: An A-List Novel (A-List)

Average customer rating:

Amazing, interesting read!
Awesome details
Loved It!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A-List #6: Some Like it Hot
prom

A-List #6, The: Some Like It Hot: An A-List Novel (A-List)
Zoey Dean
Manufacturer: Poppy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0316010936

Book Description

It's prom season, and no town does prom like Tinsel Town. Ben is back for the summer - just in time to be Anna's prom date. But his family has a house guest who's so hot, she's bound to burn up their perfect plans. Adam finds out a scandalous secret that threatens to tear Cammie's world to pieces. Sam agrees to take Parker to the prom and they end up doing a lot more than dancing. What happens when Sam's romance-obsessed boyfriend Eduardo flies in from Paris to surprise Sam? This prom is sure to be glamorous, scandalous, and occasionally downright schocking! It's just the kind of night the A List crew will never forget. Soon to be a major motion picture from Universal Pictures, THE A-LIST and its bestselling sequels, GIRLS ON FILM, BLONDE AMBITION, TALL COOL ONE, and BACK IN BLACK are full of unforgettable stories about the fast times of Beverly Hills' most beautiful and glamorous people.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing, interesting read!.......2007-08-06

Zoey Dean is back with her sixth book in the A- List series. In this book, it's Prom at the Beverly Hills High School and noone on the A- List goes, but when Sam hears about a film contest, and when Anna wants to go, she decides to go and make a video on the prom weenies b- listers. Also Anna gets jealous of a gorgeous junior staying at Ben's house for school, but she gets over it and she and her friends help for her prom. At Anna's prom everything goes a little too well and Sam decides not to release her film because she's to happy and was awarded prom queen. Cammie on the other hand a horrofying secret that her father had an affair with Sam's mother during the time of Cammie's mother's death. Zoey Dean is back with her probably best book so far in the series, leaving her fans dying to read the next book. I would definitely recommend this book and this series.

Awesome details.......2006-10-31

I love all of Zoey Deans books because she uses so much description and detail. It's amazing. This book is great because it has mystery and it also has some unexpected things in it. I love how Maddie didn't really like Ben. I really love these books.I also recommend these to teenage girls.

Loved It!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-08-11

This had to be the best A- List book. There was so much intriguy in it. It also was the longest A- List book. It was all set around prom and all the stress that goes into it. The new information that Cammie found out about her mother's death was scary, but it added a new twist. Also with Maddy and her crush on her math teacher. I have to admitt, It was kind of funny when Cammie found out that she burned down an LA landmark. I reccoamend this to everyone!

A-List #6: Some Like it Hot.......2006-07-13

Welcome to Beverly Hills High School Prom.
This was boring in the beginning, but once it picks up you can't put it down. So good... worth the read.
Dee is getting better and saner than ever.
Anna and Ben's relationship is threatened by a new guest in Ben's house.
Cammie and Adam are fighting because Adam found out a strange secret about her mother.
Sam misses Eduardo and wonders how she can compete with all the other beautiful European women that he's around every single day, becoming jealous over nonexistant people.
This book has some awesome twists and I really enjoyed it.

prom.......2006-06-16

It's that time of year... prom!!!
Anna and Ben are finally together, but will an attractive girl staying at the Birnbaum's mess with their relationship again?
Cammie and Adam are doing well, until Cammie finds out more about the night her mother died.
Sam is happy with where she's at with Eduardo, until he tells her that he won't be able to come to her prom... or can he?
Drama is abound once more in the juicy sixth book.

The Princess Diaries, Volume V: Princess in Pink (Princess Diaries)

Average customer rating:

princess in pink
Princess in Pink
Horrible, shallow display of teen egocentrism and misandry
a princess story
Princess in Pink

The Princess Diaries, Volume V: Princess in Pink (Princess Diaries)
Meg Cabot
Manufacturer: HarperTeen
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0060096128
Release Date: 2005-03-29

Book Description

In her heart of hearts, Mia has but one wish: an evening spent with Michael in a tux and a corsage on her wrist -- in other words, the PROM. Michael, however, does not seem to share the dream that is the prom. Worse still, a service workers strike (with Grandmère and Lilly at the heart of it and on opposite sides) threatens the very existence of this year's prom. Will the strike end in time? Can Mia talk Michael out of his anti-prom views? Most importantly, will Mia get to wear her pink prom dress?

Download Description

Things are looking up for Mia: She's the newest staffer on the school paper, and her miraculous completion of freshman Algebra is just around the corner. Plus she's about to get a new baby brother or sister. Could things possibly get any better?

But in her heart of hearts, Mia has one wish: an evening spent with Michael in a tux and a corsage on her wrist -- in other words, the PROM. Michael, however, does not seem to share the dream that is the prom. Worse still, a service workers strike (with Grandmère and Lilly at the heart of it and on opposite sides) threatens the very existence of this year's prom.

Will the strike end in time? Can Michael be dissuaded from his anti-prom views? Most importantly, will Mia get to wear her pink prom dress?

Customer Reviews:

princess in pink.......2007-03-02

I read the book princess in pink. its about a girl named Miya. she is the princess of Ginovia. and she is upset because her boy friend won't ask her to the prom. And her dad whant's her to go to Ginovia with him for the summer because she is the princess. But she would rather stay in sanfrincisco with her boy friend.

I thought the book was a pretty good book because it was exiting and you didn't know what was going to happen next.

I didn't like some parts of the book because they were kissing and holding each other. But that's just me. If you like that stuff it's probably a good book for you.

But i liked the book over all and i consider you to read it. It's kind of a girley book so if your a boy you probably won't be interested in it.

Princess in Pink.......2006-09-02

Mia is trying to find a way to get Michael to take her to the prom, in this book. She's also having problems because Grandmere took her dog Rommel to Mia's birthday dinner, and when he escapes he causes a waiter to spill soup on Grandmere and get the waiter fired. Which is unjust, and it causes a whole strike in the city.
Either way, I enjoyed it and this book had a happy ending!

Horrible, shallow display of teen egocentrism and misandry.......2006-04-28

Lilly has always been the self-proclaimed feminist, but her influence on Mia definitely showed in this latest addition to the Princess Diaries series. Problem: Mia wants to attend the senior prom, but her boyfriend Michael doesn't want to, and it's only through him that she can go. Instead of considering what he wants, she whines and tries to subtly coerce him into going to the dance. She convinces her classmates to hire Michael's band to perform at the dance, further showing her true colors as it goes against even the band members' own wishes. The value she places on herself and her own desires, above the desires of others, is utterly selfish and disgusting. I strongly recommend NOT reading this book, it really made me dislike Mia as a character.

Why is the prom more important than respecting someone else's wishes? If Mia and Michael were so compatible, they wouldn't be split on this issue. From her insistence on the prom (which also seems uncharacteristic for her to want so badly), to the feminist view that men are oppressors and women shouldn't take their husbands' last names after marriage, Lilly's cold disregard for Boris' feelings and later hypocrisy over him and Tina, to the hateful quote that women need men like a fish needs a bicycle, and Mia's goal to "mold" her little brother into the perfect (read: pussified) boyfriend...shame on you, Ms. Cabot. You make masculinity something to be suppressed and ashamed of, when it should be revered.

Also, as some reviewers have said, 15 is a bit young to be exploring sexually, and it's illogical for Mia and Lilly to join in on such behavior. Since when does turning 15 equate with 'becoming a woman'? Kind of an odd thing to say.

a princess story.......2006-03-30

Princess in pink is a diary and its about a girl named Mia who is a priness wanting to go to the prom with her boyfriend micheal.Mia grandma brought a dog to the restaurant and it caused a busboy job. Mia friend is protesting for the the busboy that got fired because it was not his fault.Her friend cheats on her boyfriend with the busboy. Also that Micheal might not want to go to the prom.
What I learned from the book is not to cheat on your boyfriend. Not to lie and to tell the truth.Also to help everybody else not just helping yourselve and to get good grades if you want be a writer or whatever you want to be. When you have a party and your parents aren't looking, don't play nasty games.

Princess in Pink.......2006-02-28

Princess in Pink
By: Meg Cabot
Reviewed by: R. Kim
Period: P.1

This book is mainly about Princess Mia wanting to go to the senior prom. Mia is in love with her boyfriend, Michael who is a senior, and she really wants to go to the prom with him. Michael in the other hand thinks that the prom is stupid and a waste of time and money, so he said that he doesn't want to go. Mia can't go to the prom without a senior, because this is a senior prom. Mia gets upset, but what can she do about it? The prom gets cancelled because no one in the city is working their jobs, due to Mia's Grandmother's dog. Everyone is mad at Mia, because if it weren't for her Grandmother to bring her dog to Mia's birthday dinner, than this would've never happened. Mia's Grandmother reserves a place for the prom, and people are not mad at her anymore. Michael still doesn't want to go to the prom...What will she do? Mia asks Lana, the head senior prom committee, if Michael's band can play for the prom, and Lana says "Okay." Michael only agreed to go to the prom if his friends were going. His friends had to be going, because they were in his band. Mia is happy that she can go to the prom with her loving boyfriend and her beautiful, pink dress.
I really liked this book, because it was in the form of a diary, and it kept me attentive. Mia seems to show a lot of emotion in her writing, by being specific on what her friends or people say to her. Such as, "How could he?" she keeps wailing. "I turn my back for five minutes-five minutes!-and he runs off with another girl? What can he be thinking?" This quote shows affection and emotion. Mia's writing this quote down when she's talking to Lila (person who's speaking in quote.) Another quote is, "Would you please stop writing in that journal for ONE MINUTE and tell me how I can win Boris back?" When Mia's talking to other people, she writes in her journal the same time, which gets the people who she's talking to you annoyed. That characteristic shows that Mia is a great writer. That's one thing that I really like about this book. When you're a writer, you have to be "on top of things."
My favorite part of the book was when Mia and Michael were in the prom. This was my favorite part, because this is Mia's first time going to the prom, and she expresses her feelings down on her journal. I liked it when Mia talked about dancing with Michael and how Michael played in his band. She was very specific when she wrote about the prom. That's my favorite part in this book.

Average customer rating:

not your typical Laurie Halse Anderson
Prom
Realistic Prom Novel
My daughter really loves this author
Jackie J.-Prom

Prom
Laurie Halse Anderson
Manufacturer: Puffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0142405701

Amazon.com

Ages 12 and up. Who would have thought the author of the gritty classic Speak had a gift for comedy? Here she demonstrates her comedic talent in the warm and witty story of Ashley, who is definitely not a prom-type person, and her best friend Nat, who lives for the prom. When the math teacher disappears with the funds just eleven days before the dance, determined and organized Nat goes into high gear to find alternative ways to make the prom happen and drags an unwilling Ashley into the flurry of urgent details.

Ashley has enough problems in her life already, starting with the complexities of her crowded but loving working class family -- her extremely pregnant mother and her three exuberant and prom-crazy aunts, and her cab-driving father and three younger brothers, who think nothing of happily trashing the kitchen in a game of hot dog baseball. Then there's Mr. Gilroy, the evil vice principal of discipline, who has Ashley on endless detention, her awful job at EZ-CHEEZ-E, where she has trouble seeing the customers through the eyeholes of her rat costume, and her good-looking but lowlife boyfriend TJ, who wants her to join him in a future as depressing as the dank one-room apartment he has so proudly rented for them. Not to speak of Nat's loony grandmother, who wears her red bathing cap even when she's not doing the backstroke in a wading pool, babbles at Ashley in Russian, and spits on the floor to show her disapproval.

But in the end it's grandma with her skill at baking (pastries to bribe the custodians) and sewing (a magical prom dress) who saves both the prom and Ashley's belief in herself and her future in this delightful and heartfelt novel. --Patty Campbell

Book Description

Philadelphia high school who doesn't care about the prom. It's pretty much the only good thing that happens there, and everyone plans to make the most of it—especially Ash's best friend, Natalia, who's the head of the committee and has prom stars in her eyes. Then the faculty advisor is busted for taking the prom money and Ash finds herself roped into putting together a gala dance. But she has plenty of help—from her large and loving (if exasperating!) family, from Nat's eccentric grandmother, from the principal, from her fellow classmates. And in making the prom happen, Ash learns some surprising things about making her life happen, too.

Customer Reviews:

not your typical Laurie Halse Anderson.......2007-06-14

If you are expecting another "Speak" then you will be disappointed, but if you are looking for some fun you have come to the right book. The characters in this book are what make it so much fun. I just loved Ash, the voice was just perfect for a "normal" high school girl. Although the story takes place in a large city, my rural students will be able to identify with her and the other students at the school.

There was nothing Earth shattering in this read, but it was a nice quick fun read with likable characters. There was a little bit of drugs and sex, but not enough to warrant concern to teachers who want to recommend this book. It would be a great book to use to teach about the use of voice when writing.

Prom.......2007-06-14

"I'm not going to prom." Yah that's what I said too. In this funny and surprising book called "Prom" it is a story about a teenage girl who does not want to go to prom, but what happens when half of your prom money goes missing because your math teacher can't pay her bills. And they need you to help plan for prom all over again. Laurie Halse Anderson the amazing author of the book Speak has now out done herself with this book called Prom.
At high school is where everything happens if you don't believe me then just read prom. In current day Ashley is with her boyfriend that is already out of high school. When she gets to math and her friend sitting next to her talking about how great prom is going to be. Ashley rolled her eyes and turned her head. But once they find out that there math teacher has taken half of their prom money they need her to help to get prom going again. Will it work? Maybe. But in the end Ashley's mom just might make her go to prom.
Ashley really does not want to go to prom and I don't blame her I don't want to go as well. But when her mom comes home with a new baby in her tummy and with some sisters or as known as Ashley's aunts. Ashley walk's into the living room and sees that her aunts and mom are laughing and having a good time and they want her to try on dresses and shoes Ashley freaks because she wants to know who told her mom. They make her try on the dresses and at this point she does not like her mom at all.
The theme in this book to me is that we all have to do something that we don't want to do. And some times when we do these things we are helping so many other people and I think that just by doing one thing that you don't want to do then you can help so many other people.
I really liked this book and I would not change anything about this book. And I think that all teenage girls should read this book because they can really connect with the book. And it does have drama in the book with her school and prom now and even her boyfriend and family. And this book just goes to show that there is a lot of drama in high school and that a lot of crazy stuff happens in high school. And like I said everything happens in high school.
By kassy green.

Realistic Prom Novel.......2007-04-12

Ashley doesn't really care about prom. It's her best friend, Natalia, who's into that kind of stuff. But somehow, Ashley gets roped into the prom committee, and before long, thinking about prom and graduation makes her realize that maybe her current vision of the future (living in a cramped apartment with her hot-and-cold boyfriend, TJ) isn't exactly what she wants for herself. Ashley is a good kid, and helps out her working class family, whom she loves a lot, despite getting into trouble at school, and overall, is a realistic teen who has a lot of redeeming qualities.

My daughter really loves this author.......2007-04-11

I am reviewing this on my daughters behalf. She is not a big reader, but she loves this author. If my daughter will read these books from start to finish without bribery, they are worth their weight in gold. Great for a tween or a young teen.

Jackie J.-Prom.......2007-03-19

Prom is a great book to read for entertainment. I thought this book was really good and fun to read. The plot kept me reading all the time. I never wanted to put the book down! I loved the main character, Ashley Hannigan, because she seemed like a real person; not perfect.

Although this book was good, there are a few things I would change or add. I think it should have introduced and gotten to know more of the main character's classmates [the ones who were not best friends or family]. I think this would be a good idea because there were only a few main characters and you did not get to see how the other people around them acted or felt. Also, I think a nice touch would have been a "mystery man" at the dance that Ashley would have met afterwards. These would be just a few things I would have added or changed but the book was still great without these things.

I would recommend this book to almost anyone. Anyone that is at least 13 that is. I would not recommend this book to kids any younger than 13. Also, this is one of those books that would only be appealing to girls not boys. However, I would recommend this book to girls who are mature and enjoy reading funny books. One thing I really liked about this book that may be appealing to some other girls is that there were not actual chapters. Instead of chapters, there were just numbered sections. This made it really easy to read but really hard to want to stop reading. Therefore, if you are 13 or older, a girl, and enjoy reading funny books, Prom by Laurie Halse is a great book for you.

Average customer rating:

A Book For Every Women
We only wish it felt dated.
depressing, yet a wonderful book
A true classic
An amazing coming of age story

Memoirs of an Ex-Prom Queen
Alix Kates Shulman
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0140265716

Customer Reviews:

A Book For Every Women.......2005-03-05

I'm 21 years old and was given this book to read for my U.S. Women's History class that I knew I'd hate (the class, not the book) because I'm no history buff, as this class was an unfortuantely forced elective. I was merely looking forward to reading some of the literature that the professor mandated, such as Work by Louisa May Alcott and Incidents In The Life Of A Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs; however stumbling onto Memoirs Of An Ex Prom Queen, I opened up to a random page and read a little bit to see what I was getting myself into. This was unlike any other female writer that I've read and did read in that particular class. I knew that ending the semester, this book would still be in my head and hands. I started from the beginning and couldn't put it down with my mind swarming inside and out of the words that dive further and further into Sasha's world of sexuality and ambition. As an English: Creative Writing major, I found this to be my literary muse. Of course, I've always found creative inspiration in plays and poetry, but this work of fiction opened up my eyes to new depths of writing as the woman that I'm growing to be. Everything that Alix Kates Shulman touched on was clever and thought-provoking, relatable and enticing, as well as genious and raw. It reminded me a bit of Sylvia Plath's The Belljar (although that's much heavier and serious to take on) because of the brutal honesty and irony that Sasha expresses in scrutinizing herself and relationships. As a young woman approaching the age that Sasha starts at in the beginning of the novel, all of those qualities and characteristics of the story are amplified to me, although I'm not married, in an anonymous mid-West town, or in a post World War II society. She writes with such gripping reality that could truly touch every woman. For those who are strongly against promiscuity, this perhaps is not the book for you, but if you have an open mind and are willing to hear her philosophies of intimate relations that are both viable and provocative, meet Sasha Davis. I've read this book twice already and know that whenever I need inspiration or to have a little laugh, this is the book to turn to. Even though I know what happens at the end and in the beginning of her story, reacquainting myself with Sasha is stimulating, rewarding, and entertaining. For the holidays, I know that I'm going to give this book to every friend of mine. I've read a variety of talented "dead-white-male writers" like Jack Kerouac, the recently deceased Hunter S. Thompson, William Faulkner, and Ernest Hemingway and they write like men write, but Alix Kates Shulman rivals those classic writers, epitomizing how a real woman tells a story about a real woman.

We only wish it felt dated........2004-08-04

This is my favorite book of all time. I was suprised to read the other reviews, as they suggest that the women's movement has corrected all the injustices described in the book. Unfortunately the situations the author speaks of are almost as real today as they were then. While women have more financial options than in the past, those who think these situations won't resonate with 'the pretty girls' of today are living in a dream world. Plus, it's a great read.

depressing, yet a wonderful book.......2002-07-12

I just finished reading Memoirs of an Ex-Prom Queen [in a span of 24 hours, including 12 hours sleep], and struggling not to sound cliche, this book really changed my view on the world. Even though it was published in 1969, Sasha's experiences in a men-dominated society, especially as a teenager, are not too far from the world we live in today. We are still expected to get married and have children, and if we balk at the idea, though not said aloud, many still view us as abnormal, or lacking affection and maternal instincts - frigid. As I said in the title, this book, for me, was depressing in a personal context, and opened my eyes to the fact that inevitably, we will be the ones stuck with the children, the ones going unsatisfied, and the ones taken and [taken advantage of] for the pleasure of a man. So I don't like men too much, oh well. And even if you don't share the same views as I, don't hesitate to pick up this book because it will have an effect on you that no other book that I know of can deliver.

~another 16 year old reviewer named Alison

A true classic.......2001-08-12

This is the most well written piece I have read since dabbling in the American cannon in my college literature classes. It is very frank, sexual and revealing. And the language is abosultely edible! Sasha is raw and on the edge of profound feminine insights, yet is battered again and again by the male-ism that dominates her culture. Women who have had few lovers may find this a difficult read, but that's the challenge. This book was not only a delight for the time period it represented, but I also appreciated the disturbing and yet real male/female scenarios that, although "dated," have given me a insight into raising raising my own young boys ... different from their grandfathers.

An amazing coming of age story.......2001-05-04

I recently finished "Memoirs" and I can not stop thinking about it. I had never read any thing like it and it has greatly impacted my life and the way I perceive things. I received "Memoirs" as a Christmas prestent in 1999, when I was fourteen. It was only this past Easter vacation however that I got a chance to really read and listen to what Sasha, the protagonist, had to tell me. Sasha was born during the War and lived in a mid-western middle class town. She was surrounded by all the femal sterotypes of the day, but because of her intelligence was able to pursue some of her dreams. Sasha's fears and desires are all the things that we think but don't talk about. Almost everyone has felt the degrading affects of disrespect, including Sasha. While some of her descriptions of situations are accompanied by swears I feel that you have to look past it and put yourself in the situation. This book gives you a clear picture of an almost date rape, the confusions of growing up, and the day to day struggles that women go/went through. I highly reccommend this book to mature teenages as well as adults. This book has made me realize just how lucky I am to be living in a time where women are now able to talk, instead of keeping their secrets bottled up.

~a 16 Year old reader

Average customer rating:

Ground breaking? Tell us something we don't already know...

Tripping the Prom Queen

Women are more dangerous than men

The Prom Queen Falleth

A seminal and groundbreaking work which explores bad behavior's origins and purposes

Tripping the Prom Queen: The Truth About Women and Rivalry
Susan Shapiro Barash
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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In the Company of Women: Indirect Aggression Among Women: Why We Hurt Each Other and How to Stop

I Can't Believe She Did That!: Why Women Betray Other Women at Work

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ASIN: 031233432X
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Book Description

Susan Shapiro Barash has exploded the myth that women are supportive of one another and want each other to succeed.

Customer Reviews:

Ground breaking? Tell us something we don't already know..........2007-07-21

Shapiro calls Prom Queen a "study" of women.... I call it a compilation of gossipy, egotistical, self-centered, whiny women who have nothing better to do than sit around comparing and complaining. This is not the the "truth" about women.

I have no problem meeting intelligent, witty, introspective women who actually formulate solutions to their problems instead of sitting around wallowing in them.

A sad, sad, sad, stereotypical representation of women.....

Tripping the Prom Queen.......2007-05-10

I don't know why I odered this book, I thought it was about something
else. I read the book and was astonished even though I've suspected
this about women for a long time. I almost felt like a voyeur reading
this book. Being a male, I work in a office with 15 women and two men
and this book gives tremendous insight into how women operate. Every
man should read this book.

Women are more dangerous than men.......2007-03-20

Women have a harder time with boundaries which is why in the world of competition they are more dangerous. Spy agencies learned long ago that men compartmentalize their lives while women cannot. Women spies were much more successful in sabotage missions because they could hide as wolves under sheep's clothing much easier. Ever wonder why women in leadership positions endure better in male dominated fields? The other women are few and far between and like many a Queen Bee in history, an Empress will defend her throne with far more subversive tactics than a man. An excellent book to know how to keep your friends close but your enemies even closer.

The Prom Queen Falleth.......2006-08-24

I loved this book. While she says in the introductory that the book is an exposure of the behavior and not a self-help solution, it would have been nice to have more solutions.

Exposing the behavior was GREAT! I learned so much about my own behavior and that of the people with whom I work. It helped me to ask some better questions concerning my own behavior toward other people and it opened up some great dialogue in our office!

A seminal and groundbreaking work which explores bad behavior's origins and purposes.......2006-08-06

Susan Shapiro Barash's Tripping The Prom Queen: The Truth About Women And Rivalry receives Shelly Frasier's warm and revealing voice which has lent power and vision to over 30 audio productions as well as film and theatre projects. Here's the first detailed look at women's rivalry based on original research and interviews with over 500 women at all social levels: a seminal and groundbreaking work which explores bad behavior's origins and purposes.

Average customer rating:

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Abby K- Art Geeks and Prom Queens
Abby K- Art Geeks and Prom Queens
"Heathers" for the new generation
Art Geeks and prom queens the best book

Art Geeks and Prom Queens: A Novel
Alyson Noel
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312336365
Release Date: 2005-08-11

Book Description

Being the new girl is toughjust ask sixteen-year-old Rio Jones. A New York transplant, Rio has no clue how shes going to fit in at her fancy new private school in Southern California. Plus, being late, overdressed, and named after a Duran Duran song doesnt help make the first day any easier. Then, Rio meets Kristi. Beautiful, rich, and a cheerleader, Kristi is the queen bee of Newport Beach. And, Kristi isnt friends with just anyone, so Rio is thrilled when shes invited to be part of the most exclusive, popular cliquea world of underage drinking, drug dabbling, and hooking-up. At first, Rio is having a great time. But, as she becomes more immersed in this jet set crowd, Rio figures out there is one unspoken rule that her new friends forgot to mention: dont cross Kristi.

Customer Reviews:

Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-07-03

Rio Jones is the new girl at her school. As if that isn't hard enough, her mom is an ex almost-model and expects her daughter to be pretty and popular, and she's named after a Duran Duran song. Except that she is an art geek. On her first day, she meets kids from her art class that take her off campus for lunch (which isn't allowed). And she gets detention for it, so her mom tells her that she can't hang out with them anymore.

Rio is a geek, until she meets Kristi.

Kristi is a rich, beautiful, popular cheerleader. She and Rio become friends and in Kristi's group there are rules. You always have to smile even if you don't mean it and be nice to everyone. Kristi is the only one in the group who thinks that the rules don't apply to her because she's Kristi. Soon Rio becomes even more popular than Kristi is and, of course, Kristi is jealous. Not that she would ever tell anyone that. But there is one rule that her friends left out -- don't cross paths with Kristi. Rio's life soon goes back to worse than it was before she met Kristi, since even her art friends won't talk to her.

I am obsessed with this author! She is SO funny and all of her books are so realistic! As expected, another must read from Alyson Noel!

Reviewed by: Taylor Rector

Abby K- Art Geeks and Prom Queens.......2007-03-27

Art Geeks and Prom Queens was one of the greatest books i've ever read. It was tense that I couldn't put downt he book. I loved the teme of the book, jealousy. I loved it because that's what keeps me interested and motavated to keep on reading. I also liked how the characters were all snobby and high-class because I'm into like drama, high-class books.

One thing that could have made the book better would be another twist. Even though it had twists, one more twist could have improved the book better. Another thing that could have been better would have been to add more. For example what happened to Kristi?, Are Jas and Rio still a couple? or What happened to Mason, Jen and Kyla? That is what the book could have improved in.

If I was recommending this to an age level student, I would recommend it to 14-16 years olds. I think that's an age approiate level because in the books there is some inapproiate parts in the book that I don't think would be suitble for younger kids. I aslo think that teenagers would get a better understanding of the book because of the drama, jealously, everyday issues about school and peer pressure. I wouldn't recomend it to younger children because they might not like the kind of book this is, and how it talks about inapproiate gestures and it has cuss words in it. Also, you probably don't want younger children swearing because they would want to know where they got it from. Art Geeks and Prom Queens is a 240 page book and it would be hard to finish for them.

Abby K- Art Geeks and Prom Queens.......2007-03-27

"Heathers" for the new generation.......2006-09-29

This was an enjoyable read. It tells the story of Rio, who's named after a Duran Duran song. She lives with her former model mother and lawyer father in Laguna Beach, but misses New York and her friends there (they recently moved).

Rio makes a couple of friends from her art class in Laguna Beach, but then Kristi, cheerleader and queen bee, takes her under her wing. Suddenly, Rio has to follow rules...who to associate with, which boys to like, how to dress...or otherwise make Kristi mad. Everyone tiptoes around Kristi. But then, a fateful game of spin-the-bottle seals Rio's destiny. Kristi's not talking to her anymore, and she's turned the whole school against her.

This was an insightful look at high school cliques, the fear of those in power, and also just a fun bubbly read that made me remember being a teenager. The writing was pitch-perfect and really sounded like a young adult.

Art Geeks and prom queens the best book.......2006-08-25

All i have to say is this book is good. I loved it so much and so will every other teenage girl in the world i meen seriously!!!

Average customer rating:

This cast of quirky characters will dance their way into your heart!
Amazing
great summer read
Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Fun book!

Prom Crashers (Simon Romantic Comedies)
Erin Downing
Manufacturer: Simon Pulse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1416935592

Book Description

Will you go to the proms with me?

It was love at first sight for Emily and Ethan. But then Em lost his number and, with it, all the hope of finding a real boyfriend before the end of senior year. All she knows about Ethan is his first name, that he has a supercute smile, and that he's going to a prom this month. Which high school? That's anyone's guess....

Em enlists the help of her three best friends, who quickly score formal wear and hail a limo. Together, Emily, Max and Sid vow to find Ethan, to find a cure for senioritis, and most important, to find true love -- one hilarious prom night at a time.

Customer Reviews:

This cast of quirky characters will dance their way into your heart!.......2007-05-21

Tea connoisseur and Leaf Lounge employee, Emily Bronson, has always questioned why her parents gave her a name merely one syllable away from that of writer extraordinaire, Emily Bronte. The one thing she has never questioned, however, is her mother's love, and obsessive fascination with prom. Since Emily was a child, her mother has talked about Emily's prom - the dress she'll wear, how she'll arrive, her corsage, the boy she'll go with, where she'll eat, and everything in-between. But now, with prom mere weeks away, Emily has come to the frightening conclusion that she may not be attending her own prom. Over the years, her mother's talk of the big night has grated on her nerves, but has also left Emily with a few fantasies of her own - kissing her date next to the buffet table, wearing a breathtaking gown, laughing with friends, dancing to cheesy songs. Fantasies that may, quite possibly, go unfulfilled. Sure, Emily could always go to prom with her best friend, and next-door neighbor, Max; but even though she knows she'd have a great time with him, she feels that it would be lacking...magic. When Emily meets the handsome Ethan, however, she knows that her worries are over. The guy is intelligent, gorgeous, and totally into her. Emily just knows that Ethan is the perfect prom date, and intends to ask him to accompany her to the last Humphrey High School event of her life. But when a freak accident involving her self-involved cousin, Charlie, a Leaf Lounge napkin, and a little smudged ink occurs, Emily realizes that, once again, her dreams have been dashed. She's convinced that Ethan is awaiting her call, and will think that she's totally over him when he never hears from her. When, in reality, the unthinkable has happened...his number has been destroyed. Emily knows two things about Ethan - other than the fact that he's gorgeous - he doesn't attend Humphrey, and he's attending his own high school prom within the next two weeks. Refusing to succumb to the dreaded senior slide, Emily resolves to enlist the help of her three closest friends - the flamboyant Charlie, his best friend, and uber-talented musician, Sid, and Emily's very own pal-in-shining-armor, the aspiring writer, Max - to dive headfirst into a search to locate Emily's prom-date-to-be before the big day arrives. The only way to accomplish this task, considering the small amount of information Emily knows about Ethan, is to crash the prom of every local high school. The idea sounds a little out there, but Emily is convinced that there's no other way that she'll be able to uncover the location of her future boyfriend. Besides, it's a fun mission that will act as a last hurrah for the four friends before they all go their separate ways for college, leaving the chilly Minnesota countryside behind for bigger and better things, and, in Emily's case, four years of chic living in New York City, where she'll be attending NYU. Scoring some banging formal wear, along with a stretch limo, the foursome begin their quest to locate true love for Emily. But, along the way, they begin to realize how important prom truly is to the whole high school experience, and meet some amazing new friends who show them how to rock out in style.

Having never found the premise of the film WEDDING CATCHERS intriguing, I passed on the film. However, when I stumbled upon Erin Downing's PROM CRASHERS, I couldn't resist delving into the tale. From page one Emily's character reels you in. Her slightly down-trodden outlook on the prospect of prom, paired with her contagious smile, and workaholic ways make her instantly likable. However, and this is a first, it's her outspoken cousin, Charlie, who honestly steals the spotlight almost instantaneously. His obsession with good grooming, his long-distance boyfriend, Marco, and constant need for fun make him humorous and lovable all in one shot. His interactions with the people surrounding him, from strangers at the various proms he attends, to his best friend, Sid, all result in a bizarre, yet extremely entertaining, debacle that would leave anyone in a fit of laughter. Sid, on the other hand, is the slightly moody musician, whose attempts at being taken seriously are quite often compromised by her small stature. But her larger-than-life voice work to make up for what she lacks in the height department. Her trademark colored hair streak, and ability to find the humor in just about any situation is catching; while her determination to make it big makes her seem more mature than her counterparts. Max, on the other hand, seems to lack a sense of humor at times, taking on the persona of a gruff writer who has no interest in such trivial things as prom. Perhaps it is this aspect of his personality that makes him so appealing, and fairly off-beat. His relationship with Emily is confusing, to say the least, but sparks an interest in the reader that doesn't dwindle until the last page is read. While the ending presents a shocking revelation, it was a nice change to be able to enjoy a novel without knowing the ending from page 10. Downing presents an enjoyable backdrop - from the Leaf Lounge, to the prom set-ups, that are quite well-described, leaving the reader feeling as if they are crashing proms alongside the protagonist and her pals. As someone who has never attended prom, it was beyond enjoyable to be able to see the various dances come to life - from decorations, to themes, and even to dress shopping. Each aspect contributes a small piece to the puzzle resulting in an irresistible novel, that will make you want to get up and move. This cast of quirky characters will dance their way into your heart!

Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer

Amazing.......2007-05-04

I read this book and I fell in love with it. The relationship stuff was kind of weird, but I couldn't stop reading. I finished the book in probably no more than 3 hours. I couldn't stop reading after each chapter or two was over like I usually do, it was a real page-turner.

great summer read.......2007-04-22

A delightful, quick read. Perfect for the beach, or a plane ride! I can't wait for her next book!

Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-03-22

It's prom season, and what better way to celebrate than reading PROM CRASHERS?

Emily met Ethan while working in the mall. He wrote his digits on a napkin, but her co-worker (Charlie, a good friend) used the napkin without realizing it. So, while Emily finds herself crushing over Ethan, she now has no way to contact him, until she comes up with a plan.

Emily wants to crash all the area high school proms with her three best friends. However, it's easier said than done. None of them are going to their respective proms and thus they don't have formal attire. Security at other proms could cause problems, and who knows if they can even find Ethan. They agree to the plan as a way to pass time during the super-boring last months of senior year. Even if they don't find Ethan, it will be an adventure to remember forever.

Erin Downing takes a ritual high school event and turns it into something crazy wild and totally fun. The four friends must find ways to sneak around security and handle multiple proms on one night. Be sure to check out the author's MySpace page for a Dancing Queen (Simon Romantic Comedies) playlist, as well, which was the author's previous release.

Add PROM CRASHERS to your pile of books to read because it's fabulously fun!

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

Fun book! .......2007-03-08

"Prom Crashers" is a total joy that elicited quite a few audible chuckles from me as I immersed myself in the lives of four delightful young adults winding down their senior year of high school. The story provides a brief reminder of the confusing emotions experienced as young adults prepare to end their high school years, part with beloved friends, leave home, and move on with their lives. Yet Downing keeps the focus of the book "in the moment" and "Prom Crashers" is a whole lot of fun. After reading the book, I feel like I've been to prom - ah, to quite a few proms.

Downing's genius is that she doesn't map out the entire future of her 18 year-old high school seniors. She allows us to experience a particular time and place in the lives of these young people. And Downing's Duluth fans will enjoy the local references!

The main characters in the book demonstrate the exquisite richness of life with friendship, creativity, and a zest for living and adventure. With her contemporary writing style and imaginative plot, it is obvious that Downing has her finger on the pulse of today's youth.

Average customer rating:

A Wonderful Read
A fine, realistic story perfect for teen leisure readers.
Love it!
Fun
A great YA read!

Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress
Tina Ferraro
Manufacturer: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0385733682
Release Date: 2007-03-13

Book Description

Sophomore year, Nicolette Antonovich was dumped two days before prom by the hottest guy at school. As a result, she became the proud owner of one unworn, perfectly magical pink vintage dress. But Nic is determined to put that night behind her for good. She's a junior now— older, wiser, and completely overwhelmed by a new set of problems: (1) The bank's ready to foreclose on her childhood home. (2) Her father's too busy with his "replacement" daughter to care. (3) Her best friend's brother is an eternal thorn in her side. (4) Her best friend isn't exactly the rose attached to that thorn. (5) Rumors are flying around school that could get her kicked off the volleyball team, which would (6) ruin all chances of a college scholarship. (7) She still likes the boy who dumped her in the first place. (8) And what in the world do you do with an unworn prom dress, anyway? Strangely, it's getting to the bottom of this last dilemma that just might hold the answer to all Nic's problems.

Customer Reviews:

A Wonderful Read.......2007-09-20

There is something to say about a to-die-for pink prom dress and Tina Ferraro tells it perfectly in Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress. Ferraro spins a story filled with laughter and tears as we follow the lengths one teen will go to keep her normal life from falling apart. This novel is any girl's guide to best friends, hot guys, and one fabulous prom dress!

A fine, realistic story perfect for teen leisure readers........2007-08-07

Tina Ferraro's TOP TEN USES FOR AN UNWORN PROM DRESS tells of Nicolette, dumped two days before prom by the hottest boy at school. But getting past the disappointment of no prom and an unworn dress brings Nicolette to more troubles: a best friend's problem brother, their changing friendship, thwarted romance, and challenges at home. The result's a fine, realistic story perfect for teen leisure readers.

Love it!.......2007-07-16

I enjoyed reading this book. I know many girls can relate to the main character. Money trouble, friend and guy problems. The only thing that I didn't like about the book was that it was too short for me, other than that I thought it was entertaining and had a great message.

Fun.......2007-07-04

10 Uses is a real page turner. Tina Ferraro keeps the plot moving at a good pace, and you become really attached to the heroine. She's both fun & tormented. What a combo! Plus, the love interest is adorable.
And it's very "clean teen" which is perfect for some young readers. I liked this book a lot!

A great YA read!.......2007-05-29

High School is all about the dances, Home comings and Proms. Girls go out and spend outrageous amounts of money on the perfect dress only to be worn for one night. Then end up hanging the dress in the back of the closet only to be forgotten. But what happens when you get dumped before the prom because your dates girlfriend moved back to town? If you're like Nicolette Antonovich you hang it on the back of your bedroom door and secretly try it on when you are in a bad mood just to feel better and dance to the Beatles.
This is a great story filled with lots of high school drama, the prom date with the dimples who dumps you two days before the prom so he can go with his perfect girlfriend that shows back up after moving away. Your best friends brother is starting to stir up little feelings inside of you that were never there before. And the betrayal of a best friend just to keep your feelings from being hurt even more. Lets not forget the fights between said dimple guy and the best friends brother. Those were always exciting, halls would buzz with the rumors for days.
I enjoyed reading this YA novel by Tina Ferraro, she makes me remember high school all over again. I actually got chills while reading this book; I could not help smiling along and getting worried about all the same things on Nicolette's plate. This would be a great read for all those freshman to senior girls because this could happen to them. Being left with an unworn prom dress. But the question is does she ever get to wear it? I guess you'll just have to buy the book to find out!

Wonderland: A Year in the Life of an American High School

Average customer rating:

Not that interesting
good book, a little off the truth but great.
Great Read
The Wonderland of high school years
An Amazing Work

Wonderland: A Year in the Life of an American High School
Michael Bamberger
Manufacturer: Grove Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0802141978

Book Description

Pennsbury High School would be like any other were it not for one thing: its prom. Its spring dance is considered to be one of this country's best legacies. Wonderland is the inspiring true story of a dance floor and the kids who fill it: a tale of hope, sex, love, and loss. For one year, the students, parents, and teachers of Pennsbury invited Michael Bamberger, a senior writer for Sports Illustrated, into their classrooms, their homes, their parties, and their dreams. He discovered an extraordinary and disparate group of everyday teenagers whose stories were touching, odd, funny, and beautiful.
In Wonderland, lives intersect in unpredictable ways and are never what they appear to be. The star quarterback hides the pain of not knowing where his father is. A student with cerebral palsy is desperate to learn to tie Eagle Scout knots, despite a useless left hand. And then there is Bob Costa, who dreams of bringing glory to the school by convincing John Mayer, whose song "Your Body Is a Wonderland" is an anthem for the students, to perform at the prom. Critically acclaimed in hardcover, Wonderland is published in paperback with a new afterword by the author.

Customer Reviews:

Not that interesting.......2007-04-23

This book follows a certain group of people in the high school. There were too many people and sometimes I lost track of the characters. Also, the book wasn't as interesting as it may seem.

good book, a little off the truth but great........2007-01-15

It is a little interesting to me, reading this book from the perspective of a semi-insider. I attended a neighboring school district in the suburbs of Philly and many of my friends attended Pennsbury. My major problem with this book is the portrayal of the students and the school itself. To see pennsburry as a building it resembles a prison. They are known in the area for two things: Their Prom (the undercurrent of this book) And their fierce and sometimes physical rivalry with other schools. For example Pennsbury students are notorious for destroying the property of neighboring schools at athletic events. What Bamberger shows is Pennsbury at its best. I do appreciate this book because it is extremely well written and shows the surrounding area fairly well. I wish Bamberger had spent some time talking about the demographics of the area: Pennsbury being one of the more blue-collar schools in the area. I think that this book however shines a light on the most special things about Pennsbury, its prom. The prom is an event every year and people come from miles around to see the students arrive. I agree with the previous reviews that this book is something one can read with ease and little brain power. I am glad I read it.

Great Read.......2006-12-30

What a wonderful book. I read this in one day during a recent vacation. I really enjoy the author's style and ability to draw you into the characters. And the the 'Florida' chapter was quite a shock and choked me up. This book will bring you back to your high school years and is a great way to step outside of your current daily life and think about where you've come from. The author thanks Mark Bowden in this book and I hope this author is on the same path of Mr. Bowden who is a tremendous author himself.

The Wonderland of high school years.......2006-11-01

Sports Illustrated senior writer Michael Bamberger spent the 2002-03 academic year following a group of students in a suburban Philadelphia high school. Pennsbury, a typical middle class institution in many ways, had attained local stardom and even some national recognition for its senior prom, an extravagant, gala affair held in Pennsbury's own completely transformed gym. The planning of this elaborate event required a joint effort amongst savvy students, dedicated faculty members, and involved parents, but Bamberger chooses to focus mainly on the students themselves in this intriguing work.

In some ways, the students who Bamberger selects to chronicle are common to virtually every high school in America: the three-sport jock, the aspiring politician, the knockout, the ruthless overachiever, etc. However, Bamberger manages to identify the exceptional in each of his subjects. Few people know that the "jock" lifts his disabled brother into bed every night. The senior male-junior girl couple experience an unplanned pregnancy, but take birthing classes together, continue their studies, and arrange babysitting for their newborn so that they can attend the prom. Star students have insecurities; obscure students achieve stardom. Oh, and popular singer John Mayer (whose hit song lends its name to the book's title) just might wind up performing at the prom. Bamberger presents a truly inspired insider's look into ordinary lives, and the result makes for an extraordinary read.

The only minor issue I had with this book is Bamberger's decision to insert himself into the story in the form of reminiscing about his own prom experience. He only does this briefly at the beginning and the end of the book, but it seemed out of place given that otherwise, he is an unnamed, unseen narrator. Furthermore, while he does an excellent job of making the lives of high school students interesting and engrossing, his subject matter lacks the innate appeal found in his second work, The Man Who Heard Voices (a fascinating look into the inner world of director M. Night Shyamalan). Still, Wonderland is an absorbing, worthwhile read it its own right, and I would definitely recommend it.

An Amazing Work.......2006-10-27

This review may be biased based on the fact that the reviewer is the cousin of Bob Costa, but that is beside the point. This book perfectly chronicles high school life and is an amazing analysis of the inner-workings of a high school. He portrays the students very well, and although the conversations may not be entirely accurate, it is worth the sacrifice of paraphrasing for a work of this quality.

Bob Costa is the most ambitious person I have ever met. He is not afraid to speak his mind and do whatever necessary to get what he wants. Bamberger perfectly captures his attitude, and I believe that readers would not be surprised to learn that Bob didn't give up, and that before leaving for the University of Notre Dame, he actually got John Mayer to perform at his prom. I'm sure that if Bamberger was able to capture his personality so well, then the other students are also harnessed expertly.

His writing could be a fiction, and at certain points it feels like that, because he is able to tell the story so well. By intertwining ever student into the same story line, he is able to give an accurate portrayal of a public high school, but at the same time make it feel almost mythical, as if when this story is looked back upon it seems too improbable. I think this is a must read for anyone, because it really doesn't have one audience, and the story is sure to please anyone.

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