The Dangerous Days of Daniel X - James Patterson's Latest Must Read

One of my goals in life is to write a book for older children.  This is because, as a former teacher, I completely understand how difficult it is to get older kids interested in reading.  I taught both third and fifth grades, and you'd be surprised how much the interest in reading dwindles as middle school approaches.  After all, with so many distractions these days (sports, television, video games, internet, etc.) what's so great about reading a book?  Just as a whole new world of more difficult books opens up, kids' interest in reading seems to slide downhill.

I was recently given the opportunity to read James Patterson's The Dangerous Days of Daniel X.  I have read a few of Patterson's novels written for adults, including Along Came a Spider. There's no doubt that he has a knack for creating suspenseful page turners.  So I was excited to read this latest book, that is geared for readers ages 10 to 110!  It is a science fiction novel about a boy with special powers named Daniel X. 

What I liked most about this book (which I think boys will especially enjoy), is that it combines science fiction (his parents were alien hunters) with humanistic subject matter.  Kids will surely identify with quite a few of the issues that Daniel X must face.  He has the unique ability to use his own mind to create - even using this power to create friends that help him avenge his parents' murders.  This power to create with his mind is the most intriguing aspect of the book. While it contains plenty of adventure (hunting down dangerous and sinister aliens), it also explores the endless possibilities of brain power.  Daniel can even change himself into anything he needs to complete his missions. 

This book contains many themes and lessons, but I think that it is just a fun read that most people will truly enjoy.  I would definitely recommend this book for boys and girls over ten years old.  It isn't easy to get older kids to read for pleasure - but thanks to James Patterson there is hope! Plus, there are going to be more books in this series, and a movie deal is even in the works. Seriously, you need to get your hands on this book!