Fang

November 1, 2010

Gr 6-9-Patterson has created another thrilling adventure that is sure to capture readers' imaginations. Max is the leader of a group known as the Flock, and the story revolves around her struggles and emotional dilemmas. These winged mutants are set upon by an evil scientist who wants to use their special talents to suit his own ends. However, that is just one of Max's problems. After a dire prediction by Angel, she is terrified that Fang will die. He is the love of Max's life, and she can not bear the thought of losing him. The author's strong writing style will draw readers into the situations that arise as Max tries to protect the Flock from peril while attempting to avoid Fang's impending doom. The love triangle between Max, Fang, and another winged mutant is also well developed and creates tension throughout. The story line moves readers from the dry, sweltering heat of Africa to the bright lights of Hollywood as Max tries to maintain unity in the Flock and shelter them from danger. The action builds throughout, and there are enough plot twists and surprises to keep readers guessing about what will happen next as the young Flock is eventually snared in the villain's web. Patterson's quick-paced tale of adventure, betrayal, and redemption is full of vibrant and memorable characters. It truly has bite.-Greg Stone, Oak Mountain Middle School, Birmingham, AL

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2010
Grades 7-9 The Maximum Ride series flock of winged children is off to Africa for a photo op while providing humanitarian aid. Then Maxs rival, Angel, prophesies that best-friend Fang will be the first to die and it will happen soon. When Dr. Gunther-Hagen introduces Max to Dylan, a gorgeous new bird kid who has been designed to be Maxs perfect mate, Maxs voices tell her Dylan is perfect for her. But how does this affect her commitment to Fang? This will excite the legions of fans waiting for this installment in the flocks story.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2010
In their latest adventure, the flock of genetically modified bird kids start to resent the relationship between their leader, Max and the newest flock-member, Fang. Meanwhile, an evil scientist wants to speed up humanity's genetic evolution. Built around increasingly generic characters and awkward introspective narration, this haphazard series' latest installment is the weakest yet.

(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)