Title: Never Say Die
Author: Anthony Horowitz
Publisher: Walker Books

Pupil reviews

‘Crazy, bloodcurdling action’

The newest book in the intense and thrilling series of Alex Rider is finally out, and it is somehow even more exhilarating than the previous books in the series.

The fascinating 15-year-old is once again on a terrifying and bone-chilling journey to find out if his loving carer, Jack, is still alive.

However, it isn’t that easy. Alex needs to undergo crazy, bloodcurdling action to find the clues. But will the fantastic agent find the truth or will he go home empty-handed?

Jude Cosgrave, Year 8

‘Very intense’

I have read all the Alex Rider books, and Never Say Die is by far my favourite out of the whole series. It is very exciting and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is a keen reader and between the ages of 11 and 14.

The book is very intense. It is mainly set in Egypt (Cairo). Alex finds out his childminder is alive and immediately sets out to find her. He went to where he thought she died and found a clue. The clue led him to two villains who had captured her and were using her for ransom.

Alex Rider jumps to the rescue with the help of MI6, and receives a huge reward. It is such a great adventure that I secretly read it under the covers when it was time for lights out! I can’t wait until the next one.

Najib Nasseur, Year 7

‘Mind-blowing’

Alex Rider: Never Say Die has to be the most fantastic and mind blowing book from the series. I’ve almost read all the books and this one has stood out from the crowd.

Not only is this book full of action, including twists and turns and ups and downs, it also includes a personal viewpoint of Alex’s life and what we’ve been through: Alex and the reader. It’s almost as if it’s happening all around you. The words are so immensely powerful that you’ll be confused as to whether you’ve been shown pictures of the characters or not.

In our minds we are provided with every detail, left, right and centre, to have a 3D image right there in our heads. This book is stuffed to the brim with detail I would hardly doubt a movie could make better.

Alex faces some of the biggest challenges so far, mentally and physically, to test his breaking points. He does what needs to be done and pushes past obstacles, leading forth with perseverance at his side.

Otto Omell, Year 7

‘Intriguing twist’

Never Say Die is by far my favourite book in the Alex Rider series, because it has more suspense and a really intriguing twist. 

In the story, Alex has a hard time settling in America and receives an email that sends him on a chase that may be for nothing. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who has read and enjoyed the Alex Rider series. It is full of tension and will make you want to read on.

Arthur Dolan, Year 7

The reviewers are all pupils at at Fortismere School in North London. They were commissioned by senior librarian Gill Ward, who tweets as @fortislibbie.

If you or your class would like to write a review for Tes, please contact Adi Bloom on adi.bloom@tesglobal.com.

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