Colder Than Ice

Rating:
Summary: On the mark
Review: David Patneaude has a bead on the push-and-pull of middle-school society. His main character is realistically torn between the flattery of a popular bully and the cameraderie of new friends who are way outside the in crowd. That alone will cause young readers to buy into this story. Patneaude adds suspense, some memorable characters, and drama, along with a satisfying conclusion. Young readers will almost certainly forgive the preachy and over-long finale wherein the bullies get their due. If you like this book, though, don't bypass this author's earlier novels Someone Was Watching and Last Man's Reward.

Rating:
Summary: Great Book About Differently Abled
Review: My son and I loved this book, particularly the fact that one of the characters just 'happens' to have Asperger's Syndrome. This is presented in a very matter of fact way, conveys some useful information, and helps to demystify this syndrome. The characters were believable, and likeable, and the plot was indeed predictable. But it was a nice book to read and discuss with my son.