The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A classic children's novel with the familiar trope of good versus evil. A wonderful read for both children and adults; the morals of this story is clear and easy for the reader to understand. Children can easily be whisked away to a world beyond a closet- to the magical land of Narnia!

Overall I grew up with the film in the early twenty-first century, so I am fairly familiar with the storyline. Fortunately, the film accurately depicts the novel for the most part, including the memorable four young children that are the heroes in the story. I particularly liked the author's depiction of nature, including the natural creatures and plants that can be found in the season of winter and spring. It helped the reader appreciate the scenery that the four characters are travelling with, especially with the news of Aslan's return!

The biblical lessons were a bit on the nose, per say. If you are familiar with Christian teachings you will notice it right away. All in all, a great book for children to read independently or alongside family members. As an adult I didn't enjoy it as much, but considering I am not the ideal reader for C.S. Lewis, I am sure he won't take it to heart. A classic children's book that is timeless even in this day and age.



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The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Action-packed thriller that leaves you on the edge of your seat.

The Scorch Trials is a great sequel! It leaves the readers with questions throughout the novel, only to have more once you reach the last page. An excellent novel for young adolescence, especially for those that are going through a hard time in life. This book teaches you the value of perseverance, friendship and a sense of belonging. As an educator, I would highly recommend this for any teachers that work with middle/high school students.

In the second part of this series, Thomas and his friends are forced to venture through an inhabitable place that is referred to as the 'Scorch.' As they travel across the humid deserts and make their way through a city, they encounter horrors and betrayal on all sides. It will leave you turning the page quickly, worried about the fate of Thomas and his friends.

Will follow up with 'The Death Cure' by the end of the year. A great read!

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