3.54
Part of "Sweet Valley High" series
"Jessica the Genius" by Francine Pascal is a young adult novel that follows the story of Jessica, a 12-year-old girl with an extraordinary intellect. The book explores the challenges and pressures that come with being a child prodigy, as Jessica struggles to balance her academic pursuits with the desire to fit in and be liked by her peers. Pascal does an excellent job of capturing the voice and perspective of a young girl, making the story relatable and engaging for its target audience. The book also touches on important themes such as the importance of self-acceptance, the value of hard work and perseverance, and the dangers of putting too much pressure on oneself. One of the strengths of "Jessica the Genius" is its well-developed characters. Jessica is a complex and multi-dimensional protagonist, and the reader can't help but root for her as she navigates the ups and downs of her extraordinary life. The supporting characters, including Jessica's family and friends, are also well-drawn and add depth to the story. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with a good mix of action and introspection. The writing is clear and concise, making it an easy and enjoyable read. The book also includes some humor and light-hearted moments, which help to balance out the more serious themes. Overall, "Jessica the Genius" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to young readers who enjoy stories about smart, strong, and relatable characters. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a book that explores the complexities of growing up and the challenges of being different. In summary, "Jessica the Genius" is a well-written and engaging young adult novel that explores the challenges and pressures of being a child prodigy. With its well-developed characters, important themes, and balanced pacing, it's a great choice for readers who enjoy stories about smart, strong, and relatable characters...
Ellen Raskin
The Westing Game
This Newbery Medal-winning novel is a puzzling mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sixteen people who live in the same apartment building are invited to the reading of Samuel W. Westing's will, where they learn they are all suspects in his murder and must compete in a game to win his fortune. Like 'Jessica the Genius,' this book features a smart and resourceful female protagonist who uses her intelligence to solve a complex problem.
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The London Eye Mystery
Ted and his sister Kat watch in horror as their cousin Salim gets on board the London Eye, but never gets off. Ted, who has Asperger's Syndrome, uses his unique perspective to help the police find Salim, who he believes is still alive. This thrilling mystery will appeal to fans of 'Jessica the Genius' who enjoy reading about intelligent and observant protagonists.
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Four gifted children are recruited by the enigmatic Mr. Benedict to infiltrate a sinister organization known as The Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened. This fast-paced and engaging novel features a cast of intelligent and resourceful characters who must use their wits to solve a series of puzzles and save the day. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and teamwork.
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Winston Breen loves puzzles, and when he discovers a mysterious note with a hidden message, he becomes obsessed with solving it. But as he delves deeper into the puzzle, he realizes that it may be connected to a series of burglaries in his town. This engaging and suspenseful novel will appeal to fans of 'Jessica the Genius' who enjoy reading about intelligent protagonists who use their wits to solve complex problems.
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The Name of This Book Is Secret
Cass and Max-Ernest are two young sleuths who stumble upon a secret society of magicians and must use their wits to unravel a series of clues and solve a mystery. This engaging and suspenseful novel features a cast of intelligent and resourceful characters who must use their wits to stay one step ahead of their enemies. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and teamwork.
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The Secret Series
This five-book series follows the adventures of Cass and Max-Ernest as they uncover a series of secrets and solve a series of mysteries. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters and face a series of challenges that will test their intelligence and resourcefulness. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and teamwork.
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The Mysterious Howling
This is the first book in the series 'The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place,' which follows the adventures of Penelope Lumley, a young governess who is tasked with educating three wild children who were raised by wolves. This engaging and suspenseful novel features a cast of intelligent and resourceful characters who must use their wits to solve a series of mysteries. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and teamwork.
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The Iron Trial
This is the first book in the series 'The Magisterium,' which follows the adventures of Callum Hunt, a young boy who is chosen to attend the Magisterium, a school for magic. But as Callum soon learns, the Magisterium is not what it seems, and he must use his intelligence and courage to uncover the truth. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and the complex and engaging plot.
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The Mark of the Dragonfly
Piper has always dreamed of escaping her life in the grimy city of her birth, and when she stumbles upon a mysterious girl with a dragonfly tattoo, she sees an opportunity to make her dreams come true. But as she soon learns, the girl is in grave danger, and Piper must use her intelligence and courage to save her. This engaging and suspenseful novel features a cast of intelligent and resourceful characters who must face challenges and overcome obstacles. Fans of 'Jessica the Genius' will enjoy the emphasis on problem-solving and the complex and engaging plot.
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