Book Nook, 02/2021

I Am the Messenger, Markus Zusak (2006)

                Ed Kennedy is so ordinary, the reader could start to wonder why there would be a book about him. But when a mysterious list of addresses shows up on a playing card in his mailbox, Ed is forced to learn how to be a better version of his ordinary, mediocre self. The story is gripping, funny, and has characters you will grow to love. 

                The one major flaw I found in this book is that the author attempts to explain the mystery at the end, and honestly it was a little clumsy. I thought it would have been better left as a loose end, open to interpretation. You shouldn’t take my word for it though- it’s worth reading for yourself to see what you think. 

I would recommend I Am the Messenger to readers fifteen years and older who enjoy mysteries, or who enjoyed Zusak’s The Book Thief. 

Captain Marvel: Higher, Fast, Further, Faster, More; Kelly DeConnick and David Lopez (2014)

                Earth’s Mightiest Hero leaves for space and ends up in the middle of some nasty negotiations regarding the remaining group of an entire race of people, refugees caught in the crosshairs of an intergalactic war. I found Carol’s romantic relationship with Rhodey a little off-putting, but otherwise thoroughly enjoyed the way her character was written. This is the first Captain America run I have read, and I think it is a good introduction to the character and story. 

Recommended for readers in middle school and older. -Kat Wahl, writer