This excellent historical novel, set in 6th century BC ancient Greece, incorporates actual characters from the time. In particular the twin princes, Leonidas and Brotus. The author has managed to include an abundance of social history about Sparta and military life when following the early life of Leonidas - the education of Spartan youth was very structured and lasted until they were 21. The royal families and the different social classes depicted in the book create a lively clash of characters and events.

This is the first book in a series and no doubt will end with Leonidas’ last stand at Thermopylae. While there’s a sprinkling of typos throughout this edition it’s a good read nevertheless and would certainly suit years 7-10, especially as a backup to any Ancient Greece study.

review by Phil

Image by Niko978

All New Zealanders should watch this DVD and feel a sense of pride as it reveals how pivotal a group of New Zealand protesters were in showing the world that apartheid was not acceptable. Until that point, New Zealand had largely welcomed any sport interactions with South Africa on any level. The surprise of the South African players when this suddenly was no longer the case is clearly explained in the DVD. As well the realisation that their politics meant that other countries did not want to interact with them really hit home.

South Africa moved into an area of isolation after the Springbok tour which contributed to the end of this abhorrent system. In the DVD notable journalists, politicians and players of that time, speak honestly about the apartheid system and about the part that they played in 1981 tour.

This DVD aptly named The Try revolution is not only an eye opener but a welcome perspective on a topic that is still relevant in New Zealand society. Recommended for intermediate upward.

review by Melissa

Image by Neville10

Samuel is a boy growing up in Apartheid South Africa. He knows the memory of the massacre of his parents and sister will never leave him. However his life changing experience begins when his Uncle Sabata recognises his talent for running. His uncle fills his mind with inspirational stories of other people, who like himself have gone on to win laurels at the Olympics in spite of encountering racial prejudice. This motivates him to achieve even higher goals.

Blood Runner is the story of Samuel who makes a decision to fight racial prejudice as a runner even though, at that very time his brothers join the anti-Apartheid movement. James Riordan’s historical novel very cleverly encapsulates Samuel’s endeavour to physically and mentally prepare for his marathon, which in his mind he is running for the freedom of his people. The brief note on Apartheid at the end of the book provides an adequate amount of background for the novel.

I would highly recommend Rebel Cargo and The Sniper also written by James Riordan.

review by Janice

Image by  JP-Flanigan

Dom has just finished school and is engaged in a painting job at his father’s advertising agency before he starts university. One morning he walks into his father’s office to ask for the keys to his car. Here he gets drawn into a conversation on the benefits of advertising and next thing he knows he’s being thrown a challenge to come up with a pitch to sell toothpaste. Dom’s philosophy it that it is easy enough to write an advertisement and that any ‘monkey’ could do it.

What follows is Dom’s process of due diligence on the campaign. The question raised is why does Dom really want to beat his dad at his own game? The story deals with the serious and humorous side of advertising, a father son relationship and Dom’s learning curve of where he wants to be in terms of a career.

Leonie Thorpe has done a brilliant job of keeping the story light, youthful and purposeful. Also noteworthy is the exposure to the world of advertising which is insightful for anyone wanting to pursue this line of a career.

review by Janice

Image by owly9