Gregor the Overlander

by Suzanne Collins

Two reasons to read this book: it's by Suzanne Collins, author of the incredibly awesome The Hunger Games, and Dani recommends it! (Both reasons clearly being enough on their own - put them together and it's pretty much mandatory to read this book!)

Gregor the Overlander is the first book in a five-part series. Gregor lives in New York City and lives a fairly ordinary life - until he and his little sister Boots fall through a grate in their laundry room and find themselves deep below the city in the Underland. Here they meet pale-skinned people with violet eyes, as well as scores of giant cockroaches, bats and rats. Gregor soon learns that the Underlanders believe he is the "warrior" from an ancient prophecy as well as that his dad (who's been missing for over 2 years) is likely being held prisoner by the rats. Gregor and his new acquaintances must set out on a journey to save his father, as well as the future of the Underland from the scheming plans of the rats.

Fun premise, fast read, amusing characters and four books to follow all add up to an exciting new series to enjoy!