Book Review: The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

Plot: Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux flies to London for the start of a new life at boarding school. But her arrival is overshadowed by the sudden outbreak of brutal murders, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific work of Jack the Ripper.

'Rippermania' grabs hold of London, and the Police are stumped with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory has seen their prime suspect on the school grounds. But her friend Jazza didn't see anyone.

So why could Rory see him? And what is he planning to do next?

Review: I must say, this is the most original book I've read which includes Ghosts, but manages to leave Vampires and Werewolves out of the picture. Also along the way, Johnson manages to introduce a secret government orginisation whose main focus is... (well I won't say it - spoilers!). If I have sounded sceptical up to this point, ignore it. This book (the first in what I hope is a series), was pretty greatm as far as paranormal thrillers are concerned. The characters who, at first, may seem a bit chavvy or posh, become endearing and you find yourself feeling like you know them all personally.

I really love the backdrop of 'Jack the Ripper Reborn'. As is mentioned in the story, Jack the Ripper was terrifying because there was a thick cloud of mystery surrounding him, and nothing was, or still is, known about who he was or why he murdered people. He may be long dead, but the horror of his crimes still hangs in the air.

All in all, a fantasic book, with a fantasic plot, and a great line up of characters (including Jazza, Boo and Jerome), and is a definate must-read for teens.

I give it 4.5 stars.

Happy reading,

xxGEORGIExx