Dangerous Days of Daniel X by James Patterson

Patterson, J. (2010). Dangerous Days of Daniel X. New York: Little Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 0316119709

Plot Summary

  This book begins twelve years from the present day when Daniel was three years old. His parents were killed in front of him when a terrifying creature called the Prayer comes to take "The List" from his parents but ends up killing them instead. Back to present day, Daniel is your normal fifteen year old Alien Hunter. Daniel X vows to protect Tierra Firma (Earth) from the most villainous killers, the Alien Outlaws and avenge the death of his parents. He is armed with his charming personality, his three unimaginary friends, and his unique powers. 

Critical Evaluation

  James Patterson does it again. Instead of hunting serial killers as his characters usually do, Daniel X is hunting aliens. This book is fast paced, full of twists and turns, and a fun read. You don't have to be a science fiction fan to enjoy this book. The back of the book says that readers 9-90 will love this book, but it is a better fit for teens as they can relate to Daniel X. Patterson's characters are well developed, and his writing is humorous and poignant. 

Readers Annotation

  Daniel X is your typical normal fifteen year old teenager...if you are an alien hunter!

Information about the Author

  James Patterson was born March 22, 1947. He received his Bachelors Degree from Manhattan College and his Masters from Vanderbilt University. He retired from advertising in 1996 and devoted his life to writing. Most of his books are written for adults including his popular Alex Cross series.

   James Patterson has nineteen consecutive number one New York best selling novels and he holds the Guinness World Record for Most Hardcover Fiction best selling titles by a single author. He was won hundreds of awards and honors and he has even appeared as himself on the Fox Television show, The Simpsons. He also founded the James Patterson Page Turner Awards in 2005 and he personally gives away $850,000.00 to reward people, companies, schools, and anyone else who finds original ways to spread excitement of books and reading. 

  He lives in Palm Beach, Florida with his wife and son. 

Genre

  Science Fiction

Curriculum Ties

  Can be used in English courses or after school writing workshops. 

Booktalking Ideas

  n/a

Reading Level/Interest Age

  9-12th grade/Young Adult

Challenge Issues

  Supernatural
   I would offer my library's Collection Development Policy which highlights how challenges and reconsideration's are handled. I would ask the challenger and the professional reviewing it to familiarize themselves with the book.

Reason for Selection

  I have always been a fan of James Patterson and was excited to try one of his Young Adult novels.