In Emily Dickinson's time, only the most daring women were publicly known. Only her inner circle knew Emily's intelligence, passion for life, and her poetry. She spent most of her days quietly, keeping house and writing. Some of her poetry was published in periodicals but anonymously and not by her. It was only after her death that her family learned the extent of her writing. Her sister found more than 1700 poems-lovingly kept.
RL=6th-YA

This sequel to Night Journeys is told as court testimony from 4 points-of-view. Robert Linnly, the fugitive boy, is the focus. The girl with whom he is escaping is desperately ill, so he must plan how to cross the Lehigh River, get help for her, and provide food for them. John Tolivar, the master of the runaways, describes his hiring of Nathaniel Hill to pursue the girl. Mr. Hill is acting as a bounty hunter and describes his pursuit of Elizabeth Mawes and his dealings with the other characters. George Clagget is the constable in Easton whom Mr. Hill employs to help in apprehending Elizabeth. All 3 men claim their innocence and lawfulness in the calamitous circumstances that unfold. The story is emotionally moving and significant in that it shows the parallels between indentured servitude and slavery.
related-fugitive laws, eighteenth century, Pennsylvania, indentured servants
RL=6th-YA

The leaders of Earth expect to be annihilated by an insect-like alien race. Their one hope is the Battle School that is training special children to confront the eventual threat. Ender Wiggin is the boy that they believe is most likely to succeed in defending Earth.

Ender's Shadow is a parallel book to Ender's Game which is the first of the series. Bean is the second choice for commander of the forces. He is trained alongside Ender and becomes his strategist and friend. Ender's Shadow is totally from Bean's point-of-view, and the interweaving of their stories makes for an incredible book.

I am not all that interested in war stories and tend to avoid them. However, these two Ender books are more about human development and interaction (or noninteraction) with others and strategy and attention to detail than they are about battles.

*For the full impact, Ender's Game should be read first.
RL=YA-adult

An ancient book of magical power (the ultimate book) is sought after (in 1453 and the present) by learned bibliophiles. In 1453 it falls into the hands of Gutenberg's young apprentice who brings it to Oxford as he flees. Bibliophiles through history seek its power until it chooses 12-year-old Blake Winters to heal the damage done to it and stop the Person of Shadow from attaining it.

Excellent first book by Skelton. A mix of fantasy, historical fiction and mystery, it takes place mostly in present time Oxford, England with flashbacks and connections to the past. The story is suspenseful through the whole, incorporating some elements from Faust and history and a social conflict to root it in the present.
related-books, Faust, wellspring of knowledge, good vs evil, family separation
RL=YA-adult

Matt's Review at Ex Libris

The history of energy usage and all the major sources of power are explained in a clear and precise manner. The need to move away from fossil fuels towards renewable sources is also clearly stated. Sadly, though it has been more than a decade since publication, the U.S. has still not moved much in the direction of renewable sources. There has been much talk and some research, but little funding and actual implementation. This book has not become outdated because we have not moved forward.
RL=5th-8th

This story reminds me of The Princess and the Pea with all of the things the royal advisers stuff under the king's mattress. The king snores and can't be woken, so the idea is to make him uncomfortable enough (Do you really want to do this to a king?) to wake himself. The new girl in the kingdom, who has lost her family, finds the solution: move the bed to Echo Ravine. It's hard to resist the disruption the snore causes and the items shoved under the mattress and discarded afterwards.

The pictures are a little strange but suit the story well. I like the cover art and drama of the other illustrations. Also Hawkes' use of color.

related-snores, echoes, rulers, kings, queens
RL=K-2nd, read aloud to toddler and up

Eva's body died in an accident. Her neuron memories have been transferred to a chimpanzee's body (from the research Pool of chimps with which her father works). Eva is primarily about how she adapts in the chimp's body. Because most people would have difficulty seeing her as a human, she gradually becomes more chimpanzee than human.

The story takes place at an unnamed time in the future when the human population has destroyed almost all natural habitat. The chimpanzees are one of the few animals left in the world and only that because they are useful for research. Living among the chimps, Eva begins to understand their point of view regarding research and captivity, and uses her celebrity status, as the only human/chimp, to find a natural habitat where she and a select few of the Reserve chimps can live.

Eva was written before YA literature became popular. It was written for that age level, is easy to read, but has more depth than the average YA book. Many themes are packed into this short story, such as what it is to be human, animal rights vs ownership, corporate exploitation, overzealous media, and survival and evolution of a species. The issues arise naturally with the progress Eva makes in adapting to her new life.

I've only read a few of Dickinson's many books. In looking for more, I had read that Eva is one of the most acclaimed. I knew nothing about the book, but now I'd have to say I like it the best so far of what I've read. It has a depressing background mood: the overpopulation, media and corporate behavior, and her parents are not stellar characters. Her mother has difficulty accepting her daughter as a chimp, and her father sees her more of an experiment than a daughter. But Eva's character is great. Her decisions make sense, and I had no trouble empathizing with her plight. While it may not have been the best idea to do the neuron transfer to begin with, Eva makes the best of the situation.

This book touches on similar issues as Crichton's Next and Mary E. Pearson's The Adoration of Jenna Fox, but Eva was written well before either of them. All three are fantastic books and explore their issues well.

related-chimpanzees, animals, treatment and rights, transplants of organs and tissue, medical research, corporate ethics, identity and ownership
RL=YA-adult

When CeCe's father dies, she joins her uncle Alex's household, traveling to Georgia with him and his assistant in pursuit of the scarlet ibis. The three visit plantation after plantation in search of the bird, and each place shows a different aspect of slavery in the pre-Civil War South. Uncle Alex is a physician and famous ornithologist, but he is also secretly circulating among the slaves and giving them aid, money, and information for following the Underground Railroad. To maintain their ruse, the black assistant, Earline, must pretend she is their slave traveling as CeCe's maid, a role most difficult for her.

CeCe's character is, I think, the strongest part of the book. She goes from being angry about her father's abolitionist behavior and ignorant of what slavery entails to shocked by circumstances on the plantations and finding some meaning for her own life. From not caring about the fugitives to putting her own body in harm's way to save someone else.

Uncle Alex's character is based on a Canadian physician and ornithologist, Dr. Alexander Ross, who did travel to plantations and circulate information for the Underground Railroad as in the book. I like the way Rinaldi uses a historical character or piece of an event as a starting point, and then creates her own protagonist to build a story. She uses real events in many places, and she has done this with several books. She does an excellent job of bringing historical times to life.

related-scarlet ibis, birds, slavery, Underground Railroad, Georgia, uncles, family, plantations, child abuse
RL=YA-adult

Ten male YA authors offer stories of guys with difficult, real decisions to make, confronted by life with no guide. Flying by the seat of your pants decisions in crucial situations. There is no space wasted in this book. The stories are real and thought-provoking, not the standard safe topics. The characters are alive and sweating.

Walter Dean Myers writes about a star athlete's prom date, with the usual worries plus a race angle included. A white girl wins a date with him, and everyone appears to be watching. René Saldaña, Jr. submits a story of extreme high school bullying with his character pushing back. Paul Acampora's story reveals a young man's choice between bullying his kid brother, like he has been, or sharing a part of himself and being an anchor. David Lubar describes a relationship in which a girl's intention is to shock her parents, not realizing her dad is a shocker himself. The boy she uses only has a shocking exterior. Edward Averett's story stars a boy who's been sent to live with his grandma in the country because of a family situation. Pigs and the girl next door lead him through his troubles. Craig Thompson's entry is a graphic history and growing process of punk rock nerds and gamers. Mo Willems writes about a school for superkids. Bill Blaze the Unbeatable's only limitation is that hurting others hurts him. With a name like Unbeatable, everyone is out to get him. It is a story of betrayal and using your strength wisely. David Levithan describes two brothers living in different worlds. The older, who is gay, tests his parents to see if they accept him as he is. The younger not only accepts him but stands up to include him in the family again. Terry Trueman's protagonist is home alone and confronted by robbers who know who he is. He can either give in to their demands, possibly risking his life, or find away to scare them into backing off. Ron Koertge tells about a boy whose best friend (female) helps him through difficult times. He'd like to be more than friends, but their friendship is too important. When he finds his friend slipping away from him, he wishes he'd done things differently.

After the stories, there is a question and answer section with the authors about becoming men. The authors obviously took the questions seriously and gave some good answers. Some are usual responses, others geeky, and others about as real as you can get.

related-teenage boys, teenagers, interpersonal relations, short stories, identity, coming of age, difficult choices
RL=YA-adult

The concept of the book is amazingly interesting: a family creates a campground, developing it for years, with the idea of sharing a total solar eclipse with enthusiasts. Their whole life revolves around the celebration of astronomical events. Both the experienced and newbies come for this awesome, rare happening.

The story is told by three characters: Ally, the oldest daughter of the campground owners who is an expert on the topic and whose shared anticipation increases others' interest; Bree, whose only interest is in becoming a supermodel and learns to her horror that her parents have made the ill-advised decision to start managing the campground after the eclipse; and Jack, a loner, failing his science class, whom his science teacher (a volunteer astronomer of some repute) asks to aid him with an experiment and management of the trip. The three make unlikely friendships and grow through the whole experience. They face situations they can't comprehend dealing with, and they support each other with the difficulties. They learn to see themselves in ways they hadn't considered before.

The story depicts astronomy in a way that is accessible and appealing. This fact in itself is unusual. How many books pique the reader's interest enough to learn more? - and still fewer related to science. There are a number of details related to the viewing of the planets, stars, moon, and total eclipses. The description of the total eclipse makes me want to know more and maybe see one. I had no idea it could be so interesting. It's amazing to think that people spend much of their lives (at least their vacations) traveling to the spots of perfect viewing. If nothing else, it makes me want to pull out a telescope or pair of binoculars.

So, Wendy Mass's book is successful in two endeavor's at least: igniting interest in astronomy and sharing a convincing glimpse of teenage personal growth. There are also some unique moments incorporated in the story. I especially enjoyed Jack's tale.

related-solar eclipses, friendships, coming of age
RL=7th-YA, also of interest to adults

Primrose's (11 yrs old) parents are lost at sea. Living in a small fishing village in British Columbia, she holds the belief that her parents will be back. She learns to deal with interpersonal relationships (especially with adults) as she waits. She also finds refuge in a restaurant with a unique style.
related-real estate development, foster care, unfailing belief in the unprovable
RL=5th-8th

Little does Callie know that 1899 is her last summer of freedom. Busy with their own affairs, the rest of the family doesn't pay much attention to her odd behavior, her comings and goings, granted that might be because she does a fair bit of sneaking around. Her observations of nature during her jaunts to the river to cool off are the start of a new relationship with her grandfather, a grandfather everyone avoids for his grouchiness and contrariness. She tries to view a controversial book at the library, the librarian harasses her about the immorality of the book, and then she learns her grandfather has a cherished copy under lock and key. This is the moment she is invited into his inner sanctum, and her interest spurs him to guide the broadening of her education in their small Texas town. The book is The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin.

When she starts school again, Callie's friendship with her grandfather is well underway, but her mother and teacher conspire to force her education in the womanly arts - sewing, cooking, demeanor, etc. Given the time period, there is only so much the grandfather can do to balance this burden being heaped upon her. Her time is being consumed by things she abhors, things she can't do well and doesn't want to do well. It undermines her belief in her friendship with her grandfather, and she is afraid then that her dreams are beyond her reach as a female. She already knows that she doesn't fit in, but it was a special thing to have her grandfather's admiration and encouragement.

This is a wonderful detailed account of small town life on the verge of the twentieth century. Even more it is a day-to-day description of the girl's observations, natural and social, and progress regarding her scientific learning. Callie and her family's excitement to learn about inventions such as wind machines (fans), automobiles, and telephone operation, and Callie's reaction to molecules under a microscope are an enjoyable experience from the 21st century perspective.

I love the book! My reading experience was similar to when I read Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy. Coincidentally, The Origin of Species was a part of that book also, but my enjoyment had to do with the quality of the writing. The details are superb, as well as the enjoyment of everyday exploration. Darwin's book is not the central part of either book, but it does play a role in the education of the children, namely education through observation of life and thinking about those observations.

related-nature, grandfathers, family life, naturalists, Texas, 19th century, turn of the century, Darwin's influence, education
RL=6th and up

This is a useful textbook of drawing techniques for beginners through advanced. Many of the techniques also apply to those who don't wish to use colors. It can be used for selflearning or as a guide to plan lessons for students. There are exercises at the end of the chapters for all levels.
RL=5th-adult

Fun exercises to do with shapes-games, designing, and communication. Some suggestions can be used through middle school, and some can be done with preschoolers, too.
RL=3rd-5th

In February, Abby's notified that she is failing 6th grade. Her teachers expect she will be held back, but they are willing to give her one last chance to pass. This means all B's or better for the rest of the year and an extra credit project from her English language teacher. The project she blindly picks is a pen pal project. She must write to someone in Afghanistan, receive a few letters, post updates on a classroom bulletin board, and give a report to the class at the end.

The story takes place from two points-of-view, Abby's and the boy's in Afghanistan, who is chosen by his teacher to write as a representative of his community. Interestingly, the story starts in Afghanistan with the teacher conferring with the men of the community. With two different reasons for the correspondence, neither child is thrilled with the idea at first. After receiving personal information from the other, the writing becomes more interesting and a feeling of friendship begins. Both children keep secrets from their schools. Unfortunately, their communications are cut short by social concerns of the Afghanistan community.

Clements remains one of my favorite authors for young readers. His depth is amazing for the length of the story and reading level. I haven't read all of his books, but I have enjoyed each of the ones I've read. Even wished they were not so short. I enjoy a story that does not suffer from the attempt to ensure access to younger readers.

This particular story has some cool, unexpected ideas in it. The geographical and social connections are brief, not going into anything that would be too controversial or boring, but with a glimpse that may lead to curiosity or discussion.

related-letters, pen pals, family life, Afghanistan, Illinois, school stories, schools
RL=3rd-6th

The biggest, the smallest, and the most deadly dinosaurs are explored by continent. Changes in thought regarding dinosaurs is discussed as well as the fact that new findings are happening.
RL=3rd-5th

This is a case where I saw the movie before reading the book. I think I was in middle school, and it seemed strange but also interesting. I'm sure I didn't understand it fully. I'm just now getting around to reading it, though I've checked it out from the library before and thought off and on about reading it.

It is a dystopian novel that was most certainly politically induced. I was struck by the number of issues still a concern today, or again. Censorship, in this case book burning, seems to be an ever-present issue. However, I was surprised by the firemen captain's explanation for the burnings. First, just propaganda, that people naturally stopped reading after the dumbing down of books (which we are seeing again in publishing) and censoring to protect minorities, and that the burnings had been so since the beginning of the country. He explains later that books that force you to think cause the majority to feel inferior and unhappy, so the burnings are to protect people from thinking, and therefore, being unhappy. Burnings are not normally the standard mode of censorship for societies, but the book was written not long after WWII and Nazi burnings, and McCarthyism was already happening. Less known is that the U.S. has a long history of censorship, it just doesn't normally follow such an extreme course.

Another idea in the book is the use of television as a drug, which has become the greater part of some of the characters' lives, also a criticism today. In the book, the interactive television is the walls of a room. This would have been sci fi at the time, but exists today, and television has become as inane as the story suggests, though, as in the book, it has the potential for more quality. Faber, an old professor, explains to Montag, a fireman awakening from his empty life to knowledge, that it isn't the books themselves that have value but the quality of what is in some of them that should be saved.

The story also includes the subjects of suicide, peer pressure, exposing of neighbors for investigation and a lack of trial to go along with that, and a robotic dog used to sniff out the pursued. Another surprise, one I don't remember from the movie, is the comparison of the phoenix to atomic bombings, though there is no discussion of radiation. 1950 was near the end of the U.S. occupation of Japan. There must have been rebuilding of the cities to some degree previously. Obviously, the phoenix would be a much more hopeful representation than the after effects of an atomic bombing. And to say that the U.S. helped rebuild would be an oversimplification of facts.

I enjoy Bradbury's style of writing. He has easy, flowing language, though filled with metaphorical description. This book has a quick pace; I had to slow down and reread metaphors to fully appreciate the book. It is also quite short, making it simple enough for young adults to read for pleasure or assignment.

For me, books are a favorite motif in stories, adding to my enjoyment of the novel. I didn't expect the historical connections either. Though they are not specified in the story, they are historical occurrences that I knew enough about to make a connection and investigate to make sure I was correct in my thinking. This copy of the book has 3 introductions by Ray Bradbury, in which he also discusses his association with libraries and books and the inspiration for some themes. Interestingly, Wikipedia says Bradbury stated the book is not about censorship but the social effects of television.

I'm looking forward to watching the 1966 movie again, and there is a remake scheduled for release in 2012.

related-book burning, censorship, totalitarianism, state-sponsored terrorism, atomic warfare, television
RL=YA-adult, adult book

Caroline Kennedy has collected favorite poems for children. Many are ones I had known through my growing years. Some are favorites of mine, too. Each section has a personal introduction by Kennedy. The book is worth a peek for Jon Muth's paintings alone.

related-childhood, silly poems, animals, seasons, seashore, adventure, bedtime, sharing with family
RL=5th & up, meant to be read aloud to toddlers & up, depending on which poem

A cajun tall tale about a spunky girl used to getting her way. Her grandpa won't let her go alligator hunting with him and the boys, so she sneaks off in the night to follow.

Feliciana is quite a character, and the Cajun atmosphere is interesting and entertaining. I especially like the picture of Feliciana straddling the alligator.
RL=1st-3rd

• A replica of the Scone of Stone is stolen.


• Commander Sam Vimes is called upon to do his ducal duty at the coronation of the Low King of Uberwald.


• Vimes leaves Captain Carrot in charge of the City Watch, who then leaves Sergeant Colon in charge (Big mistake!), and enlists a scruffy dog to sniff out Sergeant Angua, who is heading to Uberwald on family business (sort of).


• Sergeant Colon, now Captain Colon, goes on a power trip with a severe case of sugar cube paranoia.


• Despite Vimes's best behavior, he meets confrontation at every turn.


• Gaspode, the scruffy dog, ponders the complications of humans.


• There are too many Igors to distinguish between them.


• Corporal Nobbs forms a labor union and pickets, and the Watch is reduced to one holed up in the station.


• Who's behind the uncalled for incarceration?


• Duke Vimes enjoys a cigar in a hot spring before running pell-mell through the snowy forest.


• Another visit from Death.


• An attempted arrest ends in one dead, two operated on by Igor, and two missing.


• An Igor's funeral - pieces to go.


• Vimes and Lady Sybil take the scenic route home.


related-DiscWorld, Uberwald, dwarfs, werewolves, Commander Sam Vimes and Lady Sybil, Carrot and Angua, Colon and Nobbs, the Low King of Uberwald, diplomacy and power struggle, satire, humorous, social issues
RL=YA-adult
Fire: Tales of Elemental Spirits by Robin McKinley and Peter Dickinson.
G. P. Putnam's Sons/Penguin Group: NY, 2009.


Fire is the second of this elemental series; the first was Water. McKinley and Dickinson are a husband and wife team, both having received awards on their own, both excellent storytellers. McKinley's forte is in the retelling of folk tales (such as Beauty, The Outlaws of Sherwood, and Spindle's End, though she also received a Newbery for The Hero and the Crown and a Newbery Honor for The Blue Sword. Dickinson writes fantasy with a strong sense of the historical, tending towards ancient history. The Ropemaker and A Bone from a Dry Sea are books I've read of his (He has written close to fifty. As he is British, his books are harder to come by here.).

Spirits closely related to fire would be the phoenix, hellhounds, and dragons. It's no surprise the first story incorporates the phoenix. The connection of the phoenix and the lifespan of individuals is the crux, with a forest caretaker keeping the phoenix as a companion (it cannot be called a pet with its nobility). I love their relationship, the details of the phoenix's routines, and the old retainer's life. In the second story, a hellhound is adopted as a pet, but uniquely it is fighting evil in the area. The setting is a horse stable with a young girl responsible for caring for horses and giving riding classes. I enjoyed her character and that of the hellhound the most. The third story was not as appealing to me. It seemed to me to be how a tribal community might have reacted to dragons attracted to their fires. What I like about the story is that the main character wasn't so sure it was necessary or good to destroy the nest of dragons. That was different. What I didn't like was that he went ahead and played a major part in destroying them anyway. The Salamander Man has creatures less traditionally linked to fire. But the man himself becomes full of fire when the salamanders combine their power. This is an interesting story, with wizards mostly as the bad guys. Too much power for anyone to hold, so the salamanders need to go back to their origination. The last is a dragon and dragonrider story with a young fellow training unofficially to be a healing wizard. Wizards are the 3rd rung on the ladder of respect. Though the boy has great potential, he hides because of the lack of respect. The dragonrider academy provides an opportunity for him to attract attention and gain respect for the healing profession. This is the longest and best of the stories. I would like to see it expanded into a novel. It felt like the story could have been extended so much farther.

related-mythical animals, short stories, phoenix, hellhounds, dragons, dragonriders, horses
RL=7th-adult

Firebirds ed by Sharyn November.
Firebird/Penguin Group: NY, 2003.


Sixteen original stories by award-winning fantasy and science fiction authors. Firebird, an imprint of Penguin Group, celebrates these fine writers and is dedicated to this growing genre for young adult readers.

There is an exciting mix of styles, and I enjoy sampling works like this that lead me to new favorites. The stories I found the most memorable are The Baby in the Night Deposit Box by Megan Whalen Turner (a child raised in a bank), Beauty by Sherwood Smith (the odd princess in the family is kidnapped to help an escaping prisoner, and he stays with her longer than necessary for her company), Byndley by Patricia A. McKillip (a wizard must return something he stole long ago from the faerie world), Hope Chest by Garth Nix (a strange western tale that my son says reminds him of the TV series Smallville), Chasing the Wind by Elizabeth E. Wein (the journey of a teenage girl to a plantation in Kenya), Little Dot by Diana Wynne Jones (from the perspective of a cat), and Flotsam by Nina Kiriki Hoffman (a girl cares for a homeless boy who turns out to be from the land of faeries.

authors-Delia Sherman, Megan Whalen Turner, Sherwood Smith, Nancy Springer, Lloyd Alexander, Meredith Ann Pierce, Michael Cadnum, Emma Bull, Charles Vess (il for graphic story), Patricia A. McKillip, Kara Dalkey, Garth Nix, Elizabeth E. Wein, Diana Wynne Jones, Nancy Farmer, Nina Kiriki Hoffman, Laurel Winter
RL=YA

Firebirds Rising ed by Sharyn November.
Firebird/Penguin Group: NY, 2006.


This is an awesome collection of stories. Each fantasy story has a social issue at its core. All with teen protagonists. Some with specifically teen concerns. Despite the obvious social issues, none of the stories seem to be only written for the issue. Most of the stories are also realistic. (Kara Dalkey's Hives is too realistic; I can see it happening too near in the future). Short stories always leave me wanting to know more. This one even more so-I want to find more of the authors' works.

To me Hives is one of the highlights. I'll Give You My Word by Diana Wynne Jones (a child fighting evil with words) and In the House of Seven Librarians by Ellen Klages (librarians continuing an old abandoned library and raising a child there) also struck a chord. Wintermoon Wish by Sharon Shinn has perhaps a historical feel. The House on the Planet by Tanith Lee has a few themes since it is about a community changing through time. All in all an excellent book! It's now one of my favorite short story collections-although I haven't read Firebird (its predecessor) yet.

My one concern is that Tamora Pierce's Huntress starts the book. It does grab the reader's attention, but it is also shocking and violent. Despite being the first story, it does not set the tone for the book, and I believe it should have been further into the book. I'm not against the story (I have in fact written in defense of Tamora Pierce's use of violence.), just concerned it will put people off and keep them from reading an excellent collection.

authors-Francesca Lia Block, Emma Bull, Kara Dalkey, Pamela Dean, Charles de Lint, Carol Emshwiller, Alan Dean Foster, Alison Goodman, Nina Kiriki Hoffman, Tanith Lee, Kelly Link, Patricia A. McKillip, Sharon Shinn

related-teen groups, hiding identity, alien/native companions and laborers, courting, bonding, little people, the power of words, progress, new technology, poverty, raising the next generation, folklore, local legend, fanciful creatures, teen suicide and alienation/isolation, racism, slavery, pioneers, settlement of another planet, land regeneration, belief systems, forms of communicating, mining, self-sacrifice
RL=YA-adult

Firebirds Soaring ed by Sharyn November.
Firebird/Penguin Group: NY, 2009.


Firebirds Soaring is the third collection in a series of what is some of the best short stories I have read. They are fantasy or science fiction stories (mostly fantasy) for Young Adults. Highly imaginative, widely ranging in content, with no bad writing in the bunch. I can tell by the caliber of writing that everyone involved is having a ball with the anthologies, and I have thoroughly enjoyed each one. Two things I love about these collections are that I learn about awesome authors I didn't already know and the short story format gives the authors a chance to write something totally different from their novels, since it's less of a commitment.

In the Kingmaker by Nancy Springer, Wren has the power to perceive truth or lies, which comes in handy for dispensing justice. Her power could enable her to become the first High Queen of her homeland. In A Ticket to Ride by Nancy Farmer, Jason saves a homeless man and takes his place in reliving the man's life. Christopher Barzak spins a tale in which Midori (a misfit in her town) feels a strong connection to the foxes to which she is always compared - A Thousand Tails. She feels sure she truly is a fox, which would explain why she doesn't fit in. All Under Heaven by Chris Roberson has a historical feel, with its dying fishing trade, though it is futuristic. Ellen Klages's Singing On a Star is quite creepy. I loved it, but I can understand the young girl not wanting to go back to the world in the closet. Egg Magic by Louise Marley is another with a girl that knows she doesn't belong. She's obsessed with her mother she never knew and her father refuses to talk about. She wants out until the day she realizes she could lose her stepmother. In the sci fi Flatland by Kara Dalkey, Appie has the prime job for an 18 year old. She and her colleagues live and work in a cubio, where their schedules (lives) are arranged for them and all life is work related. She's a trendsetter, molding companies for the future. The story deals with opposing lifestyles, workaholics vs opting out or surrendering to The Void. Just experiencing The Void (while completely satisfying) can make it impossible to work. Candas Jane Dorsey's Dolly the Dog-Soldier is interesting but confusing to me. Partly because it isn't in sequence order, partly because I couldn't tell if Dolly is a dog or human. Ferryman by Margo Lanagan is an interesting version of the gatekeeper to the Underworld. You don't think of him having a family that he goes home to at night, yet here he does. In The Ghosts of Strangers by Nina Kiriki Hoffman, local dragons are fed ghosts of animals and people that become a part of their consciousness, as a way of gaining the wisdom of the world. This one is longer and complex, as the dragons are only part of the story. Jo Walton's Three Twilight Tales reminds me of Paul Fleischman's Graven Images, since it has three delightful tales with different protagonists all related to a small town and event. Carol Emshwiller's The Dignity He's Due was a surprise. A migratory family claims a connection to the French royalty. Camping out in towns along the Appalachian Trail, their are different opinions of what exactly is due the maybe-heir to the French throne. One wonders how many other claimants are wandering around in the world, and is it for real or is the mom crazy? Power and Magic by Marly Youmans is part romance, part social commentary. A teenage boy with great potential trying to court a girl who's afraid her potential will be squashed before she can work towards a better life herself. In Court Ship by Sherwood Smith, a Prince travels to meet a dispossessed Princess. He takes passage on a trade ship and may have fallen in love with its Captain. Turns out their grandparents shared a similar excursion. Little Red by Jane Yolen and Adam Stemple is the hardest story to deal with of the bunch, although I liked the Little Red Riding Hood connection that I missed until near the end. I'm not sure what to make of The Myth of the Fenix by Laurel Winter. It's a short and graphic dream sequence. Fear and Loathing in LaLanna by Nick O'Donohoe stages a gala event/massacre setting to prepare for war. Two unlikely heroes are sent to the event and get by mostly through self-medicating. They learn of a betrayal plot and join the diverting of the massacre. Clare Bell writes of a tribe of cats in Bonechewer's Legacy that is looking to unite tribes through helping others in need. The question is brought up whether such altruism is a weakness that can undermine the tribe's strengths. Elizabeth Wein's Something Worth Doing is a great finish for the book. A young woman impersonates her brother in joining the English fliers of WWII. She manages to be sent into the thick of the battle in an attempt to win honor for her deceased brother.

RL=YA

The Fire-Eaters by David Almond.
Delacorte Press/Random House Children's Books: NY, 2003.

On the brink of war, Bobby Burns truly appreciates the wonders of his world. He hopes for miracles in a situation that seems hopeless. He must decide how far he is willing to go to right a wrong. What would we be willing to risk to stand against what we know to be wrong? Can a fight against what is wrong turn into something pointless or a wrong itself?
related-Cuban Missile Crisis, World War II, school, labor, miracles
RL=7th-YA

Firehorse by Diane Lee Wilson.
Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster: NY, 2006.

The language mirrors the story with its galloping prose. It is fraught with metaphors of constraint-being forced into stillness. The choice of words for the descriptions are tangible and exciting with the story bursting forth-pulling forward just as the Governor's Girl (the firehorse) does.

Forced to move to Boston and leave her horse behind, Rachel is consumed with depression. The need to protect another horse pulls her back into the life around her.

This awesome story includes an account of the Great Boston Fire of 1872 based on newspaper articles and a girl's diary. It draws parallels between the firehorse and Rachel, who cares for her when she is terribly burned. Together they find redemption, but what spirit they must have to follow their callings in the 19th century!

related-veterinary practice, gender roles, horses, arson, family life, Boston Massachusetts-history, historical fiction, women's rights and choices
RL=7th-YA

The Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan
5th of The Wheel of Time series


A review will be forthcoming. I am still in the middle of this book, but wanted to add it to my Favorites 2008 list since I love the series. The last 2 books, The Dragon Reborn (3rd) and The Shadow Rising (4th) are excellent. All of the books are seriously long and increasingly more complex. Many of the characters have their own importance, and new world concepts are being added a glimpse at a time. Truly thought-provoking books. This is a series I would encourage both adults and young adults to read. Be warned that the books are addictive and require a fair amount of time to finish.

First Boy by Gary Schmidt.
Henry Holt and Company: NY, 2005.

Cooper is raised by his grandparents on their dairy farm. After they die of natural causes strange things start happening. There are black sedans driving slowly around their tiny town, and that's just the beginning. His way of life is at risk.

After reading Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy, I immediately searched for other books by Gary Schmidt. I wasn't excited by the description of First Boy, but I was not disappointed by the book. Schmidt's descriptions of his characters-their feelings and their daily lives-are insightful. The book is as much about who Cooper is as it is about the storyline.
RL=6th-adult

First Light by Rebecca Stead.
Wendy Lamb Books/Random House: NY, 2007.


First Light is a very interesting tale. Unusual in every sense. It is part utopian science fiction, with a twist of the historical, a smudge of global warming, and a mystery at the heart of it all.

Thea lives in a community under Greenland's ice cap. They went underground more than a century ago when they were driven close to extinction by their neighbors. Thea's mother (dead since she was a toddler) had the dream of resurfacing to expand the community. Thea is now continuing her mother's vision.

Peter's father has a grant to study global warming in Greenland, and he finally gets to go with his parents and watch his father in action, or so he thinks. The camp is a bit of a letdown, but he is allowed to explore a little on his own. He starts to see strange images in his wanderings.

Thea and Peter meet when Thea and her cousin are tempted by the finding of a passage to the surface. Her cousin is stuck in the ice, requiring aid, and Peter's sled dog is called there by Thea's dog.

The story sounds simple enough then, except that there is unrest regarding Thea's behavior and a power struggle rooted in the history of Thea's mother, and even before her. Also, Peter's parents are acting strange. He hears snips of conversation and does not know what to think.

This is certainly a Knock Your Socks Off kind of book. As in When You Reach Me, Rebecca Stead likes the plot twists. I wasn't expecting any underlying mystery, only waiting for the inevitable meeting.

The under-ice community is a charming world. One I think I'd like to visit. It was interesting to think how it could work, and I was disappointed by the leaving of it.

related-secrets, Greenland, adventure and adventurers, high interest
RL=5th and up

Paul Fleischman


Picture Books
Lost!: A Story in String
Sidewalk Circus
Time Train
Weslandia

Theatrical
Big Talk: Poems for Four Voices
I Am Phoenix: Poems for Two Voices
Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices Newbery Award 1989
Mind's Eye(novel)
Seek(novel)
Zap: A Play

Fiction
The Borning Room
Breakout
Bull Run
Coming-and-Going Men: Four Tales
Graven Images: 3 Stories Newbery Honor 1983
The Half-A-Moon Inn
Mind's Eye
Rear-View Mirrors
Saturnalia
Seedfolks
Seek

Folk Tales
Dateline: Troy


Books Not Reviewed Yet
The Animal Hedge
Cannibal in the Mirror
Copier Creations(nonfiction)
A Fate Totally Worse Than Death
Finzel the Farsighted
Path of the Pale Horse
Phoebe Danger, Detective, In the Case of the Two-Minute Cough
Townsend's Warbler(biography)
Whirligig



Fleischman is expert at finding the perfect words to create the mood, and he as written of an incredible variety of topics. So many of his books are nothing like the others. I have enjoyed his experimentation with different voices or styles as well.

Big Talk: Poems for Four Voices Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2000.


Poems about ordinary situations that become songs when read aloud together. An excellent tool for improving speech of young people.
RL=4th-YA

The Borning Room
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 1991.


The borning is used for 2 purposes: birth and death. Georgina recalls her life punctuated by the times the room was used. The span of her life is 1851-1918. She remembers some truly momentous occasions.
related-pioneer life, Ohio, fugitive slaves, birth, death, spirituality, diptheria, women's suffrage
RL=6th-8th

Breakout Cricket Books: Chicago, 2003.


The story alternates between 2 times. Del has come of age in Los Angeles. She is leaving to find a new life, a new self. With her desire to be gone, she gets stuck in an all-day traffic jam. The highway slowly becomes a community before they are able to move on. In the second time period, Del is coming back to Los Angeles as a success. Her first show in LA is inspired by her traffic jam experience.

You can feel Del's impatience to leave the city and then her wonder at the life around her. It is a heartwarming story full of detail and passion.
RL=YA

Bull Run A Laura Geringer Book/HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 1993.


All but one of the 16 characters are fictional, but the background is factual. Each chapter is a diary account of the Civil War's first battle. Varying perspectives are given alternating between Northern and Southern. It is an excellent portrayal for deeper understanding of the Civil War and war in general. Not nearly as disturbing as The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane, but still a very accurate depiction. It brings history to life, and it is an excellent resource for studying this period.
RL=5th-YA

Coming-and-Going Men: Four Tales Harper & Row, Publishers: NY, 1985.


Here are four tales revolving around the town of Canaan, Vt in the year 1800. All four have travelling men who interact with citizens in the town. All four deal with superstitions of the time and changes that result from the interaction.

My oldest son (8th grade) really liked this book. I was surprised at his enthusiasm because it has quite a historical feel to it, and my son balks at reading history.
RL=5th-8th

Dateline: Troy Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 1996.


Next to each summary of events from Homer's Iliad Fleischman has placed newspaper clippings of modern events that parallel the story. The Iliad is brought to life in a way that touches our lives. Fleischman has made the story more accessible to readers, and the book can be used in both Literature and History lessons to deepen students' understanding of both the Iliad and war in general.
related-Troy, Iliad, Trojan War, war-WWI to Gulf War
RL=6th-YA

Graven Images: 3 Stories A Charlotte Zolotow Book/Harper & Row, Publishers: NY, 1982.


These three short stories revolve around carved figures. They all have a historical feeling with superstitious people foolishly placing their faith in statues.

The first is a statue to which many tell their deepest secrets. The second is supposedly guiding a boy's courtship. The third is of an unusual request of a statue to be carved.

The stories are well-written and enjoyable although they have such a historical feel they seem a little strange.
RL=6th-8th

The Half-A-Moon Inn
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 1980.


Aaron's mother has gone to the market in town for the first time without him. When she doesn't come home as planned, he sets out to find her. He becomes lost in the woods. Upon reaching the Half-A-Moon Inn, he is held captive.

This is an odd, mysterious story of a rural area long ago. Aaron is for the first time seeing the world on his own. Being mute, he has some difficulty getting others to understand him. Odd coincidences result in a fitting resolution.
related-kidnapping, rural inn, physically handicapped
RL=5th-7th

I Am Phoenix: Poems for Two Voices A Charlotte Zolotow Book/HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 1985.


Poems about birds to be read aloud with 2 people. Excellent for improving speech and can be fun to perform.
RL=4th-YA

Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices A Charlotte Zolotow Book/Harper & Row, Publishers: 1988.


Poetry about bugs may not sound very appealing, but these poems are meant to be shared aloud together. When spoken in the format it is written, it sounds beautiful.
RL=4th-YA

Lost!: A Story in String il C. B. Mordan. Henry Holt and Company: NY, 2000.


A woman tells her granddaughter a story of a girl lost in a blizzard. She makes string pictures from her knitting yarn to accompany her story.

There are written and pictoral instructions at the end that explain how to do the string games, and the black and white etched drawings are stunning.
RL=2nd-3rd and read aloud

Mind's Eye Henry Holt and Company: NY, 1999.


Sixteen-year-old Courtney becomes paralyzed and is placed in a room with an old woman, Elva, who has poor sight. Elva determines that the best way to the leave the home will be with a journey through the mind. She wants to travel through Europe using an old travel guide, but she needs Courtney to take the journey with her because she cannot read the guide. Her travel plans are disrupted as Courtney uses the trip to vent her frustration and deal with her depression and anger. Though it isn't what Elva dreams, it is a meaningful experience nonetheless. The book is written for readers theater.
RL=6th-YA

Rear-View Mirrors Harper & Row, Publishers: NY, 1986.


Olivia's father invites her to spend the summer at his home in a rural NH town-a "remarkable opportunity." Her parents divorced when she was 8 months old; they are as different as can be even living in opposite parts of the country.

Father and daughter are both unwilling to show their desire for acceptance as they prickle each other all summer. But true to his word, it is a remarkable opportunity to experience a whole new world and see life from a different point-of-view. The father wishes to pass on a legacy to the daughter he hasn't seen since she was a baby-if she will accept it.

The story takes place the next year-after his death-as she looks back at the previous summer and tries to fulfill a part of his legacy. It is an engrossing journey of discovery both inner and physical.
RL=6th-YA

Saturnalia Harper & Row, Publishers: NY, 1990.


William is a Narraganset who was captured in a raid six years earlier and put to work as an apprentice to Mr. Currie, the printer. He has become part of the family and has excelled in the trade and his education which was generously provided by his master. Nevertheless, he has not stopped looking (but in secret) for his twin brother who was also captured in the raid. Mr. Baggot has vowed to catch him in some degree of misbehavior so that he will be punished (basically because he is a Narraganset). Mr. Hogwood tries to woo a wealthy widow with the help of his not-so-reliable servant. Mr. Speke grieves his daughter's death and is haunted by the memory of another girl. Mr. Rudd is stalked by a shadowy figure. The townsfolk go about their business mostly without being aware of each others' stories, and a different perspective of the Puritans' Indian wars is given.

Some of the parts of the book are very interesting. The storyline swiftly changes from one person to another which bothered me, but Fleischman has created a unique story with suspense and surprising onclusions.
related-colonial period, Narraganset, Boston(Mass.), apprentices, prejudice
RL=6th-8th

Seedfolks Joanna Cotler Books/Harper Collins Publishers: NY, 1997.


A young girl plants seeds in an empty lot across from her city apartment to connect with a father she never knew. Slowly others in her community follow her example for their own reasons. Thirteen neighbors tell their own stories in this beautiful book. The gardening brings them together in a way nothing else would.
related-gardens, city life, neighborhood, diversity, community
RL=6th-8th

Seek Cricket Books: Chicago, 2001.


Robert is assigned to write an autobiography for school. He decides to create a sound portrait of his life. As he is contemplating his life, he searches the radio for his father who he has never seen and is a DJ. He has a tape of one of his father's shows, so he listens for his name and sound. He increases the effectiveness of his search when he enlists his friends' help in performing a pirate DJ show.

The book is powerfully written. It is both comical and emotional. The readers theater style fits perfectly with the idea of flipping from station to station in his search.
related-radio, absent father, autobiography, single parent, grandparents
RL=7th-adult

Sidewalk Circus il Kevin Hawkes. Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2004.


As two children(at different times) wait on a bench for the next city bus, watch workers and activity along the city street. They imagine the city dwellers as circus performers as they go about their tasks. Posters of a circus event a man is putting up and a theater marquee announce each act. Their shadows and actions mirror the posters.

This is one of my favorite Kevin Hawkes books. I love both the idea and the presentation. Watching people in a busy area can be quite entertaining, and this almost wordless book perfectly captures the concept. The shadowwork subtly emphasizes the children's imaginative perceptions. The pictures of the city life are art in themselves.

It is an imaginative and witty story told through the wonderful pictures and circus and market signs. Beautiful work!
related-circus, city and town life, stories without words, imagination, shadows, observation, people-watching
RL=toddler & up, all ages

*I find the subject matter highly appropriate for Kevin Hawkes because of his extensive use of shadow in his art.

Time Train il Claire Ewart. A Charlotte Zolotow Book/HarperCollins Publishers: 1991.


The class is going on a field trip. Their train is the Rocky Mountain Unlimited. The farther they travel, the farther back in time they go. The clever, detailed pictures are as much a part of the story as the simple prose.
RL=1st-2nd and read aloud

Weslandia il Kevin Hawkes. Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 1999.


Wesley is not like the other neighborhood children. He enjoys school and creates his own learning projects in the summer. This year he has learned that every civilization has a staple crop, so he makes that his new project-cultivating a staple crop. Once the plants are producing, he finds many uses for his crop. The ideas expand until he has founded his own civilization.

It is a stimulating and thought-provoking book which hopefully will broaden children's minds and get their creative energies flowing. Let them see the possibilities of creating their own worlds or expanding upon this one-if not physically, then possibly through writing or another form of art. Teachers may wish to consider using this for a Social Studies lesson.

Two things drew me to this book: the pictures which are fantastic and that I had already read several of Fleischman's books.
RL=2nd-3rd and read aloud

Zap: A Play
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2005.


Seven different plays in one with the illusion of the audience switching from play to play using remote controls-a great concept. The play has already been performed by high schools. Not all of the storylines are equally interesting, but I enjoyed the increasing chaos as the zapping continues.
RL=YA

Flotsam by David Wiesner.
Clarion Books: NY, 2006.
Caldecott Award 2007


David Wiesner is the master of the wordless story. Besides the beauty of his work, he creates one surprise after another in his books. Some of his concepts are loosely tied to the story, but they are fabulous, detailed stories within the story. The robotic fish is a story begging to be told, and the picture within a picture is an excellent variation of the message in a bottle theme.

I think Flotsam is now my favorite of David Wiesner's books. An inquisitive boy finds an underwater camera washed up on the beach. He immediately has the film developed and finds evidence of a wondrous underwater world. Looking closer he sees that many people (from various places and even through time) have shared the discovery through the camera.

There is no text, and yet the more you look at the amazing illustrations, the deeper you are drawn into the story. Little ones especially will see something new every time they open the book.
RL=toddler & up, all ages

Flower Garden by Eve Bunting. il Kathryn Hewitt.
Harcourt Brace & Company: NY, 1994.


A young girl is so enthusiastic about the window garden she and her father are going to plant that she carries "the garden" home from the store. The miniature garden is shown in the cart, on the checkout stand, in its box riding home on the bus, and on the girl's lap as she rests outside her apartment door. It's also viewed in the assembling process and as a finished garden.

The pictures are delightful with various colors and much character. The finished garden is seen from different perspectives - up close right after planting, looking down at it through the window, sideways from the next window over, and from the street far below. The garden gives pleasure to all who see it - at the store, on the way home, in the neighborhood, by the family, and even the cat.

This is a book I would pick to read with children again and again. The pictures could stand alone. There are wonderful details to discover with closer examination. The text is rhyming and conveys the excitement and pure joy of the occasion. Plus there is the added bonus of a birthday connection.

I have read a few Eve Bunting books before, but they had a heavier mood. This was a wonderful surprise, and I can see now that I'm going to need to go through her many books one by one.

related-city gardening, gardens, parent and child, birthdays, surprises, flowers, window boxes, neighborhoods, community, stories in rhyme
RL=1st-2nd, all ages, read aloud to toddler-1st

Fly By Night by Frances Hardinge.
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2005.
Originally by Macmillan Publishers Limited: United Kingdom, 2005.


A twisting, adventure-packed mystery portrays an England-like setting with a mixture of historical and social satire. The description is full of imagery (lots of metaphors), wordplay, and humor (such as the alphabetical chapter titles). The wordplay is amusing, but the number of details, unique episodes, and ever-changing loyalties make the book a success.

After burning her uncle's mill, Mosca takes up with a lying, cheating ballad writer, and they travel to the city of Mandelion accompanied by an attack-goose. Mandelion is a city of political intrigue with a few factions battling for dominance. Mosca and Mr. Clent become embroiled in the spying and scheming with much confusion and many surprises before the resolution.

Chewing on an old pipe helps Mosca to think and stay ahead of the deadly plotting. It's not so easy for the reader.
related-politics, smugglers, censorship, sedition, plots, royalty vs. parliament, beliefs, loyalty, spies, redemption, printing press, guilds
RL=7th-adult     Reading level itself is low, but content is YA and the interest level high.

Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith.
G. P. Putnam's Sons/Penguin Group: NY, 2008.


The story follows a young black woman through WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) training and assignments. Having learned to fly with her father on their farm, Ida Mae Jones must help the war effort (WWII) in the most meaningful way she can.

Besides the in depth description of the women pilots' lives, Ida Mae's story depicts a young woman's struggle with passing as white. Her situation is illegal, not to mention a rejection of her family and lying to all her close friends. She feels like she is two different people. People whose paths cannot cross. Do her motives justify her actions? How can she continue, knowing that she cannot share her amazing accomplishments with people back home or her true identity with those around her?

I loved this book and didn't want to put it down. Ida Mae Jones is fictional, but she is so real her story seems biographical. It wasn't until I read the author's note that I knew for sure she wasn't real. She is a great character - intelligent, independent, adventurous, empathetic, loyal, with quiet strength. If you're looking for strong female characters, she is one of the best. WWII is discussed with a different perspective than usual, and the treatment of both the women's and black issues is handled well.

related-Women Airforce Service Pilots, U.S history, World War II, female pilots, African-Americans, identity, 1939-1945, dual life, strong female characters
RL=YA-adult

In the first part of a series of interviews on race issues for America.gov, Sherri L. Smith talks about the issue of passing, not just as white.

Following Fake Man by Barbara Ware Holmes.
Alfred A. Knopf/Random House: NY, 2001.


What an excellent book! I found it looking for mysteries. It is just what I wanted - not the standard mystery. It is layered with concepts. The first to be revealed is the family secret being hidden from Homer about the father he doesn't remember. Then, the mystery of Fake Man, disguised and sneaking around the tiny town of Herring Cove. Homer's life changing as a result of making a friend and pursuing both mysteries. Also, the idea of what it is to be an artist. All four of these themes are what make the book.

Homer is a great character. One of the best things about the book is how convincing his thoughts and feelings are, and their depth. He undergoes a huge personal transformation, made possible by the excitement of a new place and the awareness that he can learn about his father without his mother, by asking townspeople who might have known him. Homer starts out as closed-up as his mother, but his friendship and what he learns pries his clamshell wide open. He also has some profound insights regarding his life and his drawing. I enjoyed Homer's pure enjoyment of exploring the town and his new friendship.

The suspense of the mysteries is carried well throughout the book. Possibly due to there being more than one, and the linking of them builds excitement throughout the story.

The format of the book is a little different. There are brief chapters that provide perspectives besides Homer's. This disrupts the flow but also adds to the story. I'm not crazy about the graphic ones, though, with the silly comments. I believe this was done to lighten a story which becomes a little heavy/depressing at the end. These inserts seemed goofy to me and interrupted an otherwise great story. It's possible it was done for a young audience. The story is accessible to 4th and 5th graders, but because of the major theme of Homer's father's death, I would say older is better.

related-father, artists, mystery and detective stories, Maine, identity, friendships, spying, boys, adventure, high interest
RL=7th and up

Framed by Frank Cottrell Boyce.
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2005.

Dylan's family owns the gas station in a quiet Welsh town known for having the least crime. Their business is failing because the road leads to nowhere and there is no exit sign along the highway. The National Gallery of Art decides to store paintings in the local abandoned slate mine to protect them from flooding in London.

This story is a quirky accounting of how the paintings transform the lives of all of the townfolk. The Gallery representative sees Dylan as a fellow art lover and lets him in on the secret not realizing it is too big of a secret to be kept. The official expects little appreciation from the less educated community, but the incredible art brings out the best in the people. Much of the story is comical with some great inspirational moments.
related-auto maintenance and repair, art galleries, business enterprise, family life, separation, Wales, eccentrics

RL=4th-YA

Freedom Walkers: The Story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott by Russell Freedman.
Holiday House: NY, 2006.

When I was in 9th grade, our class read about Rosa Parks. The information was brief, and the gist was that she deserved the credit for the boycott and desegregation. Freedman describes the factors leading up to the boycott and the amazing coming together of the community to make it happen. The boycott was precipitated by Rosa Parks's arrest and willingness to appeal, but the tremendous change happened because the black community was determined that there would be change. Can you imagine the sense of pride and determination the people had who walked miles every workday for more than a year?

The strength of the book lies in Freedman's telling of all the events of the boycott (not just Rosa Parks's part) and the "sacrifices and determination of thousands" who normally relied on the buses of Montgomery, Alabama.

related-African American history, civil rights, bus boycott, 20th century, Montgomery-Alabama, segregation, transportation, race relations, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, Jr., Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin, protesters, civil disobedience
RL=6th-YA

The Freedom Writers Diary by The Freedom Writers with Erin Gruwell.
Broadway Books/Doubleday Broadway Publishing Group: NY, 1999.

Wow! What an indescribably powerful book. I cannot believe it took so long to learn about it. The contents are eyeopening, insightful, intense. It is awe-inspiring in many ways: the techniques the teacher uses to engage students disregarded by everyone else, the lengths she went to show them the relevance of both literature and strangers, the progression from the hopelessness of depressing living conditions to the determination to not only improve their own lives but stand for social change, and the excruciatingly honest, personal and insightful discussion of the students in their diaries.

Erin Gruwell, a young and fledgling teacher in 1994, committed herself to truly making a difference in the education and lives of her misfit students. She had her English class for freshman and sophomore years. Then, because the class had been so successful, where they were expected to fail and drop out, she was allowed to continue teaching her students, who had become close and committed to each other, all four years. Her class was a much needed safe haven for them. Through those four years, the class became an instrument of social change. The catalyst for the incredible change included the high level of participation of the class, the topics and books picked to correspond with the lives of the students, unusual opportunities given to the students, and the teacher's belief in her students.

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the book is the deep discussion in the diaries with evidence of growth within each student. They poured their hearts and souls into their writings-inspired by Anne Frank and Zlata Filipovic of Zlata's Diary: A Child's Life in Sarajevo. In the process, their minds and hearts opened in a way they could never have imagined. Just reading the book (halfway through), I could see the truth of this. These students, having seen so much suffering, were profoundly studying issues most adults refuse to face-and learning to approach them from a standpoint of wisdom and equality. The breadth of the issues is also astounding. There is something there for everyone to relate to. In the beginning, the entries were mostly about racism, violence and uselessness. But the more open the students became, the more profound the discussion.

In all of my homeschool years, I have believed in a key part of these students' success. For any struggling readers, subject matter relevant to the readers' lives can make all the difference in their desire to read and learn. The emphasis on involvement is important, too. In this case, the affirmation that the students' stories mattered. Because they wrote anonymously, they were willing to be honest about the secrets of their lives. They proofread each others' diaries and learned of others' painful experiences. They found common ground. Their class grew and grew in scope and depth, because they had learned that education is about life-and it doesn't stop outside of the classroom.

related-teenagers, tolerance, Wilson High School, Long Beach, California, relevance of education and literature, reaching and inspiring underprivileged youth, teaching techniques, journals
RL=YA-adult, mature content

Free Fall by David Wiesner.
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books/William Morrow & Company: NY, 1988.
Caldecott Honor 1989.

Not many picture book illustrators are so successful in capturing a whole story as Wiesner is. He has taken M. C. Escher's concept of tessellations, brought them close up, and made them real. He blends reality and fantasy with a remarkable effect. Then it all turns out to be a dream after all, influenced by objects in the boy's room. Every picture is a work of art by itself-and also a possible story starter for creative writing. It is also an excellent book to use for art lessons. A book to pour over again and again noticing new details every time. The artwork is amazing and delightful. One of the best picture books I've seen.

I did some research on the book and author because my husband said he saw something similar in an old comic strip, Little Nemo in Slumberland. The comic has adventures in dream lands, but other than that it didn't seem closely related to me. I checked other reviews and was surprised no one mentioned M. C. Escher. However, I did see a very negative review. The review said that young children wouldn't see the logic connecting the pictures and that it would not appeal to older children. I disagree with both points. Young children are often not given credit for their ability to understand. If they look closely (as young children do), they can understand. Also, if adults can be excited about picture books (as many parents, teachers, and librarians can confirm), then the book can appeal to older children. Excellent picture books are enjoyable for all ages.
related-stories without words, tessellations, dreams, M. C. Escher, art
RL=PreK and up

Frindle by Andrew Clements.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 1996.


This is a humorous example of the spread of words from creation to popularity. A language lesson that Nick finds boring inspires him to create a new word in order to challenge his teacher. He carries the joke too far (partly because of her response), and the situation goes beyond his control.
related-words and language, schools, teacher/student relationships, creativity, thinking and learning
RL=3rd-6th

Garden Crafts for Kids: 50 Great Reasons To Get Your Hands Dirty by Diane Rhoades.
Sterling Publishing Co, Inc: NY, 1995.


Garden Crafts for Kids is a resource for helping kids to get started as gardeners. Everything they will need to know is here, from potting plants and transferring trees to growing from seeds to designing a garden and composting. In fact, it can be used as a guide for any beginner gardener - adults, too. It's less crafty than most of the kids' gardening books, concentrating more on gardening itself. The crafts are more useful than average as well. There are some experiments also, such as generating electricity with an onion, and recipes.

The pictures are what drew me to the book at first. Much of the information is things I've already been exposed to as a gardener. Even so, there are some things I have not tried. The potato layers is one thing I would like to try, only I think I will make some bottomless boxes to stack instead of using tires. We have also not kept worms. I did already use one of the recipes and am thinking of a variation for next year when the spruce has new growth.

For beginners, you may want to read through and then try a little at a time. It may be too overwhelming to try all of the interesting projects at once. Refer back to the book when you are ready for more. Gardening is something that takes years to feel comfortable with. Adding on more and more as you go. Definitely worth the time. Soon you will be coming up with your own ideas, since gardening also leads to innovation.

related-gardening, gardens, nature crafts, woodworking, experiments, recipes
RL=4th or 5th-adult

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart. il David Small.
Farrar, Straus, Giroux: NY, 1997.


When a young girl's family falls on hard times, she is sent to live with her uncle in the city. Lydia Grace helps with his bakery and tries to bring cheer to the household. Accustomed to working in the garden with her grandmother, Lydia Grace grows plants with seeds sent by her grandmother. She anticipates filling the window boxes and bare spaces with plants. She finds a special place to grow a whole garden - the rooftop - and secretly grows her garden as a surprise.

The story is told largely through the pictures along with letters Lydia Grace sends back home. There is much humor related to the girl's liveliness and spirit. It's also a little emotional as she is first separated from her family and then her uncle and friends she has grown to love in the city.

related-gardening, gardens, writing letters
RL=1st-2nd, read aloud to preK-1st

Genius of Common Sense: Jane Jacobs and the Story of The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Glenna Lang and Marjory Wunsch.
David R. Godine: Boston, 2009.


This is the biography of a woman who was rocking the boat her whole life. She is primarily known for saving city areas from demolition in the U.S. and Canada. Also known for changing the way developers look at those city areas. Living in a city herself and biking around her own city, she noticed the wonderful details that make up the life and character of the city. With urban renewal in the 1950s and 1960s, large development projects were planned which would destroy much of the character of the neighborhoods, leaving many families and businesses no choice but to move out of the city.

Jane Jacobs wrote a book about the life that was being demolished, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, pointing out what was being lost to urban renewal. She also helped to organize several protests by communities who were labeling "slums" in order to cheaply proceed with the building projects and hopefully avoid question. The citizen protests were successful as they proved the areas were not slums, and the communities continued to thrive.

I love this book. I didn't already know about Jane Jacobs. I now want to read her books. Though unknown to me before, I suspect her legacy was passed down to me through my college Art and Architecture class. It seems so obvious to me about glorying in the history and diversity of the old neighborhoods. The messages are loud and clear about the underdog winning against uncaring planners and the fame and money they expected to receive and the citizens getting their way because their way of life was at stake. Also, Jane Jacobs had no credentials that City Hall had to respect. She had determination and knowledge that made sense, so citizens can prevail now also, if they try.
related-women, city planners, life in the city, diversity, city development, urban renewal, United States, New York City, 20th century, sociology
RL=5th-adult, mature 5th

The Gideon Trilogy by Linda Buckley-Archer.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: Great Britain.
Series also known as The Enlightenment of Peter Schock.

Gideon the Cutpurse: 2006
Published in the U.S. as The Time Travelers

The Tar Man: 2007
Published in the U.S. as The Time Thief

Gideon the Cutpurse: This is a contemporary time travel book in which two children are transported back to 18th century England accidentally by a Van de Graff generator in a physics laboratory. Some of their time is spent trying to fit in and telling of the future, but mostly the book has a historical fiction feel. The children's travel device is stolen. They meet an ex-thief who watches out for them and tries to help them recover the device from the thieves, who happen to be part of his ex-organization. Much of the story deals with Gideon's (ex-thief) struggle against his old friends. There are also flashes of the 21st century investigation into the disappearance of the two children.



The story was a little slow getting started for me, but once hooked it was quite good. There is a Dickensian feel to it, though broken up by the updates of the contemporary search. The strong characters are mostly the thieves. I particularly like Gideon. I also enjoyed the effect the generator has on the kids and the stir it causes. The focus of the story is on the setting (handled well), mystery, and adventure. The ending is slightly predictable but with a promise of more adventure to come.
related-time travel, robbers and outlaws, history of Great Britain, George III, fathers and sons, London
RL=6th-YA


The Time Thief: The book starts with description of the ending event from the first book. There is a brief explanation of the first book, so it is possible to read this book only, though the reader may miss some things. The book takes off in a totally different direction than the first (not a bad thing). This second book explores more of the time travel issues than the first did-both what can be done and how it might affect people and the universe. Not very scientific, but highly entertaining. There were a couple twists I didn't expect, including the ending.



There is a historical fiction segment in the book as well; this time it deals with the French Revolution. At the end of the first book, Peter gets stuck in 1763. While the grownups discuss whether it is safe to travel in time again, Kate conspires with Peter's father to go back and rescue him. Due to interference with the travel device, they are transported to 1792 instead, so Peter has been living in the past for twenty-nine years. They meet his older self, and he pretends to be someone else to encourage them to go back to 1763 for the twelve year old.

There is also another criminal section since the Tar Man has been transported to the 21st century. He finds his niche quickly and also has contact with Lord Luxom in 1763. He has unfinished business with Lord Luxom which is important for book three and will draw Gideon into the story once again.

The book is long, but I hope that won't deter readers, as I believe it is better than the first-with more complexity and stronger characters. It may even be one to reread while waiting for the third to be published.

*Note carefully the titles, since the change of titles has caused some confusion.

related-time travel, robbers and outlaws, fathers and sons, French Revolution, Great Britain, London
RL=6th-YA

Giggle, Giggle, Quack by Doreen Cronin. il Betsy Lewin.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 2002.


Farmer Brown goes on vacation leaving his brother in charge of the animals, with instructions to watch out for Duck's troublemaking. Notes have been left regarding the care of the animals. Duck replaced Farmer Brown's notes with his own. The animals are happy and laughing at the new arrangements, and Bob has no clue.

It is a very simple story illustrated in a comic way. Cronin and Lewin again team up for a story that is exciting and keeps the reader/listener wanting to know what silly thing comes next. It is hilarious, and all can relate and are likely to participate by suggesting changes to their parents' instructions.

related-farm animals, vacation, babysitting, ducks
RL=1st-2nd, mostly read aloud to toddler & up

Girls Against the Boys by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor.


It's the four Hatford boys against the three Malloy girls. They exhibit great imagination in the pranks they play against each other. The feud starts when the Malloys temporarily move into the Hatfords' friends' house as Mr. Malloy substitutes as coach for the local university.


The Boys Start the War
The Girls get Even
Boys Against Girls
The Girls' Revenge
A Traitor Among the Boys
A Spy Among the Girls
The Boys Return
The Girls Take Over
Boys in Control
Girls Rule
Boys Rock
Who Won the War?

RL=3rd-5th Give Me Liberty by L. M. Elliott.
Katherine Tegan Books/HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2006.

Nathaniel Dunn is an indentured servant recently arrived in the American colonies from England who has been separated from his father and sold. He becomes apprenticed to a carriage maker who is trying to hold his business together in Virginia as the Revolution develops. His master is a tutor who cannot afford to keep a servant and who passionately believes in the heros of the times-Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, Peyton Randolph, and others.

I enjoyed the chance to read about the Virginian point-of-view for a change. I did not already know the facts involved in the story. There is also a comparison of slavery and indentured servants which is thought-provoking. I especially enjoyed the schoolmaster's character.

related-American Revolution, Revolutionary heros, indentured servants, freedom, music, history of Virginia, 18th century, 1775, embargo, historical fiction
RL=5th and up

The Giver by Lois Lowry.
Houghton Mifflin: NY, 1993.
Newbery Award Winner 1994

This is an intense story about a society that designates one person to be the keeper of all feelings-so that everyone else can live pain-free.

The giver(the man who holds the feelings for the community) is getting too old to continue. He has been trying for years to train a new giver, but it requires a rare person to live the life of a giver.

Of all the children's literature that I have read, The Giver is still one of my favorites.
related-utopia, pain, feelings
RL=YA

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.
Harper & Row, Publishers: NY, 1964.

This is the story of a tree that never stops giving. As the boy is young, it is joyous, but as the boy grows he wants more and more from the tree (or life). I've enjoyed this story again and again since I first read it many years ago.
RL=read aloud and 1st-2nd

Going Postal by Terry Pratchett.
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2004.

The story covers the probationary career of Moist van Lipwig who, as Alfred Spangler, was partially hanged for embezzlement and fraud and allowed to live provided he bring back the City of Ankh-Morpork's long-inactive postal service.

Pulling the strings behind the scenes is the supreme ruler of Ankh-Morpork, Lord Vetinari. Moist wonders at one point why Mr. Vetinari (known as a beneficent tyrant) is content to only control the city as he certainly could rule the world if he chose. In his bold move of assigning Moist to revive the mail delivery, was this his sole intention or did he expect to curtail Reacher Gilt and the corruption of the Grand Trunk Company (the semaphore/telegraph facilities that have been monopolizing the message deliveries since the demise of the postal service)? Did he know that Moist would be able to be beat Gilt at his own game-with a whole new style?

A book that defies categorization, it's part fantasy, political satire, social commentary, mystery and intrigue, and adventure. It is part of the huge and popular Discworld series, and Terry Pratchett's humorous anecdotes are as outrageous as ever.
related-Discworld, postal service, civil service, crime, golems, stamps
RL=YA-adult

Gone Wild by David McLimans.
Walker & Company: NY, 2006.
Caldecott Honor 2007


Drawing on the idea of pictograms McLimans has graphically depicted the letters of the alphabet. Each letter becomes an endangered animal of the world. An attempt was made to pick animals whose characteristics worked well with their respective letters. It is an old idea to use pictures to help learn the sounds and shapes of letters. Some children (such as those taught in Waldorf schools) still learn their letters through tracing or drawing object-shaped letters. McLimans has taken the idea beyond the basic and also turned it into a lesson of diversity and ecology.

The book may be used for several ages, starting with familiarizing toddlers with the sounds of the letters. It can also be used up through 5th grade for lessons of biology, ecology, and art.

related-alphabet books, art of illumination, endangered species
RL=toddler-5th

The Goodness Gene by Sonia Levitin.
Dutton Books/Penguin Group: NY, 2005.

I found the beginning of this utopian sci fi novel to be a little slow, but once Will starts to visit an outpost which is different from how he was raised, the story becomes very interesting. At the same time evidence of how and why he is created is forced on him. Will has to come to terms with his father's plans for him and what he has learned about his world. This is a fresh approach to an old theme. It took me in a direction I really did not expect.
RL=7th-YA

Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathman.
G. P. Putnam's Sons/The Putnam & Grosset Group: NY, 1994.


The pictures tell it all. A zookeeper says good night to all the animals as he leaves the zoo, but the gorilla has snatched his keys and lets all of the animals out as they go along. The gorilla is hilarious as are the pictures with the parade of animals following the zookeeper home. The zookeeper is zonked out when his wife says goodnight, but all the animals answer her. Wouldn't you know it? She is the one to lead them back to their homes.

This is one of my favorite books for concentrating on the pictures and one of the best Good Night books. There is minimal text. Good Night, Moon is the most known now, but Rathman's story is much better. The colors in the book don't seem quite right to me, but the story is clever and funny.

related-zoo animals, zoos, good night, humorous stories, wordless stories
RL=PreK-1st, read aloud to toddlers and PreK

*Note-It now comes in large boardbook.Good Times Travel Agency by Linda Bailey. il Bill Slavin.
Kids Can Press: Tonawanda, NY.

Adventures in Ancient Egypt 2000
Adventures in the Middle Ages 2000
Adventures with the Vikings 2001
Adventures in Ancient Greece 2002
Adventures in Ancient China 2003
Adventures in the Ice Age 2004

The Good Times Travel adventure series is an uproarious, informative, high interest series. Three children travel to historical settings through a travel agency. In order to get back home, they must finish reading the book of facts related to the setting. It is written in comic book format with facts, instructive remarks, and funny asides.
RL=3rd-5th

Granite Baby by Lynne Bertrand. il Kevin Hawkes.
Melanie Kroupa Books/Farrar, Straus and Giroux: NY, 2005.


Five larger than life sisters from New Hampshire try to satisfy a baby that the youngest sister made from granite. None of them have a clue, but a local girl with several siblings helps out. It is a tall tale to rival Paul Bunyan with extraordinary feats by all the sisters, giant-sized loving care, and some wild fancies at every turn. The use of granite is interesting particularly since the region is known for its granite and carvings, and there are geographical references, too. Not one of my favorite styles, but it is a fun read and similar to some of the other books Hawkes has illustrated. The best of the pictures are those with granite carvings.

related-babies, New Hampshire, tall tales, granite quarries
RL=1st=3rd, mostly read aloud pre-K to 1st

The Great Bridge-Building Contest by Bo Zaunders. il Roxie Munro.
Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers: NY, 2004.

The Board of Public Works in Richmond, Virginia announced a competition for a bridge to be built over the Tyart River in the town of Philippi. Anyone could compete. Construction experts from all over the Eastern United States came to participate. Lemuel Chenoweth, a self-taught cabinetmaker from northwestern Virginia, was awarded the contract. Unlike the other participants, he had no blueprints, and his model was much simpler than the engineers. But he ingeniously proved his bridge was strong in a way the others could not. The bridge today is part of a federal highway-holding many times the load for which it was built.

This is a great story about an amazing bridge with interesting facts and attractive pictures. There are also descriptions of other covered bridges that have survived at the end of the story.
RL=2nd-4th and read aloud

The Great Circle: A History of the First Nations by Neil Philip.
Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company: NY, 2006.

This book includes pivotal moments in the history of the Native Americans from first contact with Europeans to Tecumseh's movement to unite the First Nations. It also includes the resistance of several tribes as well as massacres that influenced thought on both sides. It demonstrates the varied beliefs and practices of the many tribes and explains some of the ideas that made war inevitable. Lastly, it honors the First Nations for who they were and are and for their persistence and rebirth.

I do not know enough about the subject to know how well researched the book is, but it seems to be an excellent introduction to the theme.

related-Indians of North America, government relations, Native American social life and customs
RL=6th-ya

The Great Kapok Tree: A Tale of the Amazon Rain Forest by Lynne Cherry.
Gulliver Books/Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Publishers: NY, 1990.

Beautiful illustrations and a variety of jungle creatures give us a gentle reminder of the importance of the Amazon rainforests and the need to protect them. The animals speak to a man who lays down to sleep after trying to chop a great kapok tree.
RL=1st-3rd

The Great Little Madison by Jean Fritz.
G. P. Putnam's Sons: NY, 1989.

So much importance is placed on Thomas Jefferson and George Washington (while Madison is mostly left out) that I didn't realize how important James Madison was to the founding of the U.S. before reading Jean Fritz's book. It is one of the most exciting of her biographies (of which she has done many). Not only did Madison write the initial proposal for the Constitution, he also had to explain it to the other delegates and persuade them that it wouldn't take away the powers of their states. Through the convention called to solve the problems of the Continental Congress, he took his own secrets notes of everyone's reactions so that he could address their concerns. He also persuaded Washington of the importance of his presence. The other delegates would feel safer starting a new government knowing Washington would be the new leader. Madison's influence did not stop with the ratification of the Constitution. He continued to play an active role in the federal government until the end of his life. Sure of what was best for the country and determined to convince the rest.

This is a great book for clear understanding of the founding of the U.S. government. It is a short book but gives a much more in depth and clearer picture than textbooks.
related-U.S. Presidents, James Madison, friendship with Thomas Jefferson, the Constitution of the United States of America, slavery, history of Virginia, War of 1812, Dolley Madison, 18th-19th century, Revolutionary war
RL=6th-8th

The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages.
Viking/Penguin Group: NY, 2006.

Dewey Kerrigan and Suze Gordon are misfits on The Hill. Suze tries too hard to fit in, and Dewey goes her own way, mostly ignoring everyone else, as she creates her mechanical projects. When Dewey's dad is called to Washington, D.C., she moves in with Suze's family. After a few problems, they come to understand each other and even become friends.

The setting is the Manhattan Project. The girls parents are working on the development of the atom bomb. Klages has done a very good job of placing the characters at Los Alamos during the 1940s. There is a feeling of the importance of the work, but the story barely touches on the horrors of the atom bomb and the moral questions related to it.

The depth of feeling regarding the girls' characters is excellent. Dewey has major difficulties to face. Plus, she is an extraordinary girl at a time when girls were expected to do girlish things. There are also some enjoyable extras such as codes, comics, and Dewey's gadgets.

related-World War II, Los Alamos, Manhattan Project, 1940s, loss of parents, friendship, girls, invention, atom bomb, nuclear weapons, fission, United States history, scientists, historical fiction
RL=6th-YA

The Green Truck Garden Giveaway by Jacqueline Briggs Martin. il. Alec Gillman.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 1997.


This book is about the transformation of a neighborhood. Visitors to Second Street bring garden supplies to get the inhabitants started on their first gardening experiences. They plant each garden, including pots for a woman who is unwilling to get dirty and brambles that turn into roses and raspberries for a crotchety old man. As the plants grow, attitudes change, and the neighbors start to share and rejoice.

This is one of my favorite garden books, portraying the joy gardens bring to newcomers and old hands. It is written in an almanac format and has notes about organizations that collect seeds and encourage people to grow gardens. The pictures are beautiful, and there are activities and recipes to try, as well as random notes related to gardening. I especially enjoy the idea of volunteers traveling and gifting people with gardens.
RL=2nd-4th, read aloud preK-1st

Guardians of Ga'hoole by Kathryn Lasky
Scholastic Inc: NY
The Capture 2003
The Journey 2003
The Rescue 2004
The Siege 2004
The Shattering 2004
The Burning 2004
The Hatchling 2005
The Outcast 2005
The First Collier 2006
The Coming of Hoole 2006
To Be a King 2006
The Golden Tree 2007
The River of Wind 2007

These are books my 3rd grader has read and loved. I have not reviewed them.Half a Pig by Allan Ahlberg. il. Jessica Ahlberg.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2004.

Here we have a case of a stolen pig and how the pignappers were caught. There is lots of adventure, directions, enjoyable words, and lovely pictures.
RL=1st-2nd

Half Moon Investigations by Eoin Colfer.
Miramax Books/Hyperion Books for Children: NY, 2006.

Fletcher Moon, the youngest certified detective in the world, is on his first real case. When his investigations lead him towards the truth, he is framed along with a boy from THE crime family in town. They team up to solve the case with a little undercover work thrown in.

This book is totally different from the other Colfer books giving it a new texture. It has imaginative twists and will keep you guessing until the end. Excellent mystery for beginners.
note: author of acclaimed Artemis Fowl series
RL=4th-8th

Handel: Who Knew What He Liked by M. T. Anderson. il Kevin Hawkes.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2001.


What a nice introductory biography of the musician and composer George Frideric Handel. The story is interesting with a few notes about musical vocabulary. Funny anecdotes from Handel's early life lead to his study of music and success. He moved to England to introduce his opera. For a while, it was a success, but when the British showed they preferred music in their own language, he changed his music to accomodate them, while maintaining his style. If he had given up instead, his Messiah, which is still performed every year, may not have been written.

There are notes at the back of the book for further reading and a list of music for listening.
related-George Frideric Handel, composers, operas, oratories, music as a profession or career, Messiah, Water Musick, Music for the Royal Fireworks
RL=2nd-4th, work better as an early reader than read aloud

Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons: The Story of Phillis Wheatley by Ann Rinaldi.
Harcourt Brace & Company: Orlando, FL, 1996.

Ann Rinaldi gets right to the heart of the matter in this story of the first black poetess. She is abducted in Senegal at age seven and sold in Boston to John Wheatley. Taken in, educated, and petted by the Wheatleys, she is still kept as property for many years-even after she proves her worth as a poet. The heir of the family, Nathaniel, teaches and befriends her, but also betrays her again and again with his controlling behavior.

Phillis lived through the American Revolution. Her masters were merchants who stayed neutral as long as possible for business reasons. She traveled to England to have her work published and met Benjamin Franklin, who told her she could be free if she chose. She opted instead to return and care for her grievously ill mistress.

Rinaldi's novel is a psychological study of the turmoil Phillis must have felt being raised as "a member of the family" with constant reminders that she was only a slave. Another element is introduced with the hero worship/infatuation the girl feels for the older and more knowledgeable Nathaniel who is toying with her. In the end her love and appreciation of the elder Wheatleys ties her to them when she could be free. Nathaniel's behavior more than anything forces her to realize her inability to live as she was raised. The story ends with her still young and hopeful, but it is still sad to think that even the more learned and forward thinkers of the time (Ben Franklin and George Washington among them) hung onto their slaves as property well beyond their believing that slavery was evil.

Besides being a great read, I would also recommend it for social studies lists regarding the American Revolution, slavery, and black issues.

The first Ann Rinaldi book I read (In My Father's House was largely a romance novel for teens but with some intriguing historical facts. Since then all of her books (An Acquaintance with Darkness, The Secret of Sarah Revere, and this one) have been riveting, with some romance, but much more-great historical background and psychological questions surrounding the conflicts. It's nice to know she has many more books to enjoy.

related-American Revolution, capability of blacks/slaves, Phillis Wheatley, growth of the middle/trade class in America, education of slaves in the 18th century, social classes, complicated feelings/beliefs regarding slavery, freedom, racial issues
RL=YA-adult

Hank Finds Inspiration by Craig Frazier.
Roaring Brook Press/Holtzbrinck Publishing: NY, 2008.


Stanley and Hank the snake go to the city separately to find inspiration for decorating their lawn. Hank asks several people where he can find inspiration and is given many ideas. He eventually finds it himself. As does Stanley.

I like the different suggestions for describing an idea that is difficult to grasp and the explanation that it is a personal thing that your heart will recognize. Several creative and relaxing outlets are possibilities. Sometimes we can share the same inspiration.

Frazier has an unusual style of artwork, coming from his work as a graphic designer. The images are bright and crisp. Interesting in their uniqueness.

related-inspiration, creative expression, snakes, human-animal relationships
RL=K-2nd, read aloud to preK-K

Harriet Beecher Stowe and the Beecher Preachers by Jean Fritz.
G. P. Putnam's Sons: NY, 1994.

Despite having 6 children and housework, Harriet wanted to do something important. Her father was a preacher who raised his sons to become a preacher and speak publicly about political issues. Harriet had lived for years in Cincinnati, Ohio on the edge of slave territory with the issue of runaway slaves being important in the town and in her family. She became passionately opposed to slavery during her years in Cincinnati. She decided that writing a book depicting aspects of slavery could be her contribution to the movement to end slavery. The book, Uncle Tom's Cabin, was and still is widely read.

Harriet Beecher Stowe's family and life were more interesting than I would have guessed. This book is one of Jean Fritz's more fascinating books-maybe partly because Harriet Beecher Stowe is a lesser known person than Fritz's other subjects.

related-women authors, 19th century, Congregational Churches, ministers, Beecher family, American authors, abolitionists, writing club
RL=6th-YA

Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling
Arthur A. Levine Books/Scholastic Press: NY.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone 1997
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets 1999
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban 1999
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 2000
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix 2000
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince 2005
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2007



For many people Harry Potter needs no introduction or review. Those who have not read the books may be getting tired of hearing about it. Fans can't get enough and want it to never end. If you have seen the movies and not read the books, I strongly recommend that you read the books. The books are much better because things have been cut for the movies.

Although they were not written as children's books, the first two books are written at a level that 3rd to 5th graders can easily read. At that point the books are amusing because of the humor in the dialogue and the interesting things that can be done with magic. Starting with the 3rd book, the series becomes more complex-dealing with social issues and psychological aspects of life. They are still packed with humor and creative details. However, the characters are more developed and interesting, and we start to see that there is a master plan for the series that is slowly being revealed. Loose ends are being tied to the story that before didn't seem significant.

I know that some people are put off by the magic and hype surrounding Harry Potter. The allure of the magic in the series is similar to the fascination with superheroes or awe of computerized graphics. It creates possibilities that we know are not really possible. To me, the magic is just the backdrop-however amusing. It is just another medium used to display the story which is the struggle of good against evil-including different shades and variations of each. The story also incorporates the social and psychological struggle that life can be. As for the hype, that comes naturally because it is one of the best series available-for both juvenile and adult literature. It appeals to both, and so it has become a masterpiece that we all can share.

RL=5th-adult
starting with 3rd book RL=7th-adult

Quidditch Through the Ages
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them


My sons loved these books of background information, and they still refer to them for fun and speculation about the Harry Potter series.

For people who want to dig deeper into the stories (or for classes), there are some good sources available. Wizarding World Press supplies critical analysis of the books. Their information is insightful and entertaining. They inspired my family to think more analytically and investigatively of the books.

Ultimate Unofficial Guide to the Mysteries of Harry Potter
The Plot Thickens...Harry Potter Investigated by Fans for Fans
New Clues to Harry Potter: Book 5
by Galadriel Waters
*There are newer books also that we have not read.

The website links listed below provide news, editorials, speculation, discussion, spin-offs, etc.

Leaky Cauldron-JKR's favorite fan site
Pottercast-Leaky's podcast
Site of Requirement
HPANA
HP Lexicon
Mugglenet
COS Forums



The Hatchet Series by Gary Paulsen.

Hatchet. Bradbury Press/Macmillan, Inc: NY, 1987.
Newbery Honor 1988
The River. Delacorte Press: NY, 1991.
Brian's Winter. Delacorte Press: NY, 1996.
Brian's Return. Delacorte Press: NY, 1999.
RL=5th-YA

Paulsen has created a fascinating detailed, and realistic account. You can easily see yourself in Brian's place.


Hatchet: Flying from New York state into Canada in a small plane, Brian's pilot has a massive heart attack, and the plane goes down. Brian is left stranded in the wilderness alone with only a hatchet to help him survive. During the 54 days he is alone, he learns through trial and error and hard labor. By the end of that time he becomes proficient at survival and he has undergone a powerful transformation.

The River: The government wants to place Brian in the wilderness again so that they can study how to help people survive in the wilderness. This time a government psychologist goes with him. During a storm the psychologist becomes incapacitated, and Brian fears he will die without medical help. He decides to build a raft and transport Derek down the river for help.

Brian's Winter: In the novel Hatchet, Brian is rescued after he manages to reach the radio from the plane. Brian's Winter is a different conclusion to Hatchet. If he hadn't been rescued, he would have had to somehow deal with winter.

Brian's Return: Brian is having trouble adjusting to school and "normal" life. He tries to talk about his experience in the wilderness and sees that others aren't listening to him. He wants to go back to the woods. In Brian's Return, he learns he can go back on his own terms and continue to study the natural world as he did before only without being trapped.Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson.
Delacorte Press/Random House: NY, 2006.
Newbery Honor 2007

Told partly through letters and Hattie's news articles, the story is powerful and thought-provoking. An orphan bounced from one relative to another, she is given a rare opportunity to strike out on her own by her deceased uncle. She spends a year trying to fulfill the terms of her uncle's homestead claim in Montana in 1918. She describes the hardships of the pioneers in letters to another uncle and her childhood friend who is a soldier in World War I. The book is about both the hopes and difficulties of the homesteaders and the reactions of American citizens regarding the war.

The story is valuable in its historical depiction and also in its analysis of events since there are parallel issues currently.

related-frontier and pioneer life, self-reliance, orphans, history of Montana, 20th century, WWI, United States history, letters, newspapers, prejudice, historical fiction
RL=YA

Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples.
Borzoi Book/Alfred A. Knopf: NY, 1993.

In this sequel to Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind, Shabanu is married and raising her young daughter, Mumtaz. As the youngest and most favored wife of an elderly clan leader in Pakistan, Shabanu fears for her daughter's future when her husband can no longer protect them from the jealousy of the other relatives.

Zabo, a young woman of the clan, is being forced to wed Rahim's (Shabanu's husband) son. When Zabo balks at the idea, Shabanu conspires with Zabo to leave the clan and hide with her family in the Cholistan Desert. Not only is it the best chance for her daughter's safety, they will also be able to live a freer, happier life.

The book is as good as Shabanu, which is a Newbery Honor book, maybe even more complex. Both deal with the theme of arranged, unwanted marriages. Shabanu is a strong character in both. Independent spirit that she is, she has found an acceptable way for herself, but plans for better for her daughter's sake. It is interesting that she has retained her strength despite the life forced on her, and even more, that she is helping Zabo to avoid a fate worse than hers.

related-Pakistan, gender roles, arranged marriages, family feud, coming of age, independence
RL=YA-adult

*There is now a 3rd book also: The House of Djinn

Healing Water by Joyce Moyer Hostetter.
Calkins Creek/Boyds Mills Press: Honesdale, PA, 2008.


Healing Water is a very sad but transformative story. It is an excellent story, though I expect it will be mostly read by adults. Because of the depressing subject, I do not know how many teens will pick it up. It may appeal to teens sensitive to others' feelings or teens who have known desperation of some sort themselves. I was such a teen, but this book is so heart-wrenching. That said, there is much we could learn from it. Maybe know already, but could use a reminder.

The story starts with Pia, a young boy, being abandoned by his best friend/older brother/father figure, as he is expelled from his community in Hawaii when diagnosed with leprosy. After trying to survive on his own in the settlement on Moloka'i, Pia is sheltered by a thief, who expects Pia to be his slave. He struggles with his new life and desire to protect others' from his master. He finds new hope when Father Damien (a real person) comes to minister to the community. However, he is confronted by his past and must sort out his anger, when his friend Kamaka also voluntarily comes to live in the community with his wife.

As you would expect, water is symbolic in a couple places in the story, besides the first church in the community being called the Church of the Healing Spring. There is the storm which is a turning point in Pia's struggle with his anger regarding abandonment, and Father Damien cleanses Pia's feet and with them his spirit. Forgiveness and service to others are important factors in the story. Letting go of anger which can destroy you, even if it is justified. Important, but certainly an inner battle.

Hostetter has done a good job of creating the Hawaiian setting, through the use of language and other cultural references. I appreciate the use of historical figures and the recreating of the experience of a real community. The community comes to life, and the story seems real, not forced or fabricated. Pia seems real.

related-leprosy, disfiguring disease, conduct of life, forgiveness, service to others, abandonment, survival, community and friendship, Molokai, Hawaii, 19th century
RL=YA-adult

Heartlight by T. A. Barron.
Philomel Books/The Putnam & Grosset Book Group: NY, 1990.

This is a more fantastical book than I usually am interested in reading. For me, fantasy books are better when they have realistic aspects to ground them. However, there are fascinating concepts in this book that kept me reading-travel faster than the speed of light, a connection between light and the human soul, the possibility of our sun's destruction if an emerging pattern is not reversed. Besides these factors, the story is also about an inseparable bond between a girl and her grandfather. A bond which has the strength to save the Earth's solar system. The ultimate pattern of life and death and rebirth is also an important part of the story.

related-fantasy and science fiction, grandfathers, death, adventure, astrophysics, solar system, black holes, life of a star
RL=5th-8th

Heir Apparent by Vivian Vande Velde.
Harcourt, Inc.: Orlando, FL, 2002.

Quite a novel idea for a book! To be stuck in a virtual reality game and forced to replay the scenes over and over until managing to win the game--except the brain has a limit to how long it can continue playing. There are many ways to win and seemingly unending mistakes to make as well. Medieval role playing is the context of the game.
RL=5th-8th

Henry and Mudge by Cynthia Rylant. il Sucie Stevenson.

Bradbury Press, NY:
Henry and Mudge 1987
Henry and Mudge in Puddle Trouble 1987
Henry and Mudge in the Green Time 1987
Henry and Mudge Under the Yellow Moon 1987
Henry and Mudge in the Sparkle Days 1988
Henry and Mudge and the Forever Sea 1989
Henry and Mudge Get the Cold Shivers 1989
Henry and Mudge and the Happy Cat 1990
Henry and Mudge and the Bedtime Thumps 1991
Henry and Mudge Take the Big Test 1991
Henry and Mudge and the Long Weekend 1992
Henry and Mudge and the Wild Wind 1993
Henry and Mudge and the Careful Cousin 1994
Henry and Mudge and the Best Day of All 1995

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, NY:
Henry and Mudge in the Family Trees 1997
Henry and Mudge and the Sneaky Crackers 1998
Henry and Mudge and the Starry Night 1998
Henry and Mudge and Annie's Good Move 1998
Henry and Mudge and the Snowman Plan 1999
Henry and Mudge and Annie's Perfect Pet 2000
Henry and Mudge and a Very Merry Christmas 2004
Henry and Mudge and the Great Grandpas 2005
Henry and Mudge and the Big Sleepover 2006

il Carolyn Bracken
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, NY:
Henry and Mudge and the Tall Treehouse 2002
Henry and Mudge and Mrs. Hopper's House 2003
Henry and Mudge and the Wild Goose Chase 2004
Henry and Mudge and the Funny Lunch 2004
Henry and Mudge and the Tumbling Trip 2006


Henry and Mudge books are about a boy and his dog and the adventures that they share. They are some of the best beginning readers available. Our favorites are Puddle Trouble, Happy Cat, and The Long Weekend.
RL=K-2nd

Hi, Harry!: The moving story of how one slow tortoise slowly made a friend. by Martin Waddell. il by Barbara Firth.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2003.

This book has a nice story about friendship and appealing pictures. The text is also simple enough to use as a beginning reader.
RL=K-1st

Hip-Pocket Papa by Sandra Markle. il by Alan Marks.
Charlesbridge Publishing: Watertown, MA, 2010.


The gorgeous cover is what first attracted me to this book. With a title like a music celebrity's name, I didn't know what to expect from the contents. Looking inside, there is page after page of beautiful nature-related art, mostly frogs in different surroundings.

Seeing that it is a nonfiction book, I didn't expect to like the text as much as I did. Markle addresses the subject by telling the story of this particular frog's days as he protects the eggs, tadpoles, and young frogs until they are ready to explore the world. Also, there are several subjects incorporated in this one short story, a story balanced between the more personal level and scientific description.

I don't know if I would have been quite so interested if the type of frog wasn't unusual, though frogs are different enough to catch any young one's imagination. There are some specific aspects of the hip-pocket frog that lend themselves toward an interesting story. For example, having pockets at the hip for carry babies. I like the similarity with marsupials, though the baby frogs are not interacting with the parent.

I do absolutely love the illustrations. Markle and Marks work perfectly together. As beautiful as the art is, we are not just seeing a frog on a page; each drawing illustrates precisely the thought from the text.

I can see this being a favorite on the shelves of animal and nature loving children.

related-frogs, life cycle of frogs, hip-pocket frog, miniature wildlife habitats, life in the forest floor, nurture and and care of babies, protection from predators
RL=1st-3rd, read aloud with toddlers-1st

Hiroshima by Laurence Yep.
Scholastic Inc: NY, 1995.

Hiroshima is a short and incredibly moving account of the dropping of one atom bomb on Hiroshima, Japan and its effect on the city and the world. It is factual with a simplified telling to make it accessible to young readers. It's simplicity makes it much more powerful than any textbook.

I don't know how old I was when I first had exposure to images of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It was 30 to 35 years after the bombings, and mostly what I saw was mushroom cloud images and the statistics of the dead and those injured by radiation. While the sheer numbers made an impression, it was brief and impersonal, and so I didn't continue to think about it for long. As simple as it is, this book makes a greater impression, because it provides an image of what it would have been like to be there.

I do not know know what age is appropriate to start dealing with such horrible things. I have not wanted to expose my children to these and other horrific issues. At the same time, I do not want to wait until high school and bombard them with the horrors and realities of the world. I think it is a mistake to NOT teach history because we don't like what happened or the controversy. My generation was mostly not taught much of what happened in the 20th century because of controversy (disagreement about facts). As a result, we are already repeating past mistakes. Any concerned parent should find out what is available and read for themselves.

For this particular book, I would recommend it for 7th grade through young adult. The story and language are simple enough for 5th grade, but the topic is young adult to adult. Maybe younger for children interested in serious subjects, but my problem with that is this subject requires discussion and looking further into the issue. Are they going to be able to deal with further study of this issue in 5th grade?
related-nuclear weapons, World War II, history-U.S. and Japan, bombardment, 1945, atomic bomb, Hiroshima Maidens, radiation, social issues, realities of war, effects of war
RL=7th-YA



For those ready to handle this issue, I would also recommend
Peace, A Dream Unfolding ed. by Penney Kome and Patrick Crean.
Sierra Club: San Francisco, 1986.
RL=YA-adult

His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman.
Alfred A. Knopf/Random House: NY.
Originally published by Scholastic Children's Books: Great Britain.

The Golden Compass: 1996 (Britain 1995)
The Subtle Knife: 1997
The Amber Spyglass: 2000

The Golden Compass: Raised by the scholars and servants at one of the Oxford universities, running wild with the children of the town and universities, Lyra longs to go North in search of her "uncle" and adventure. Her best friend disappears from Oxford, thought to be kidnapped along with other children by the Gobblers for some sort of sacrifice. She sets out with great determination to rescue him, finding allies along the way where she can.

Mostly a book of epic adventure and intrigue, it also touches on the psyche or soul with the dæmons-individual creatures who are bound to their respective humans. Those of children can change aspects, but in adolescence they "settle" into one form. There is also a connecting point with other worlds (universes) through the Northern Lights. In this series, Lyra's world is the alternate universe, and it is her destiny to travel to ours. She has no difficulty finding protectors but makes her own decisions and follows her own path.

The excitement builds throughout the book with its twists and turns and a knowledge that there are momentous events to come. Not quite on the level with Harry Potter by Rowling and The Dark Is Rising by Cooper, but the story and details are truly exciting. The language and planning are not as complex.
related-missing person, experiment, arctic region, alter ego
RL=7th-adult

The Subtle Knife: Lyra joins Will who has an overwhelming quest of his own. From different worlds, they meet in another world altogether. A world in which the Specters feed on the souls of adults leaving a chaotic world of children. Within this world there was an organization of philosophers who crafted a knife that could cut through anything. Little did they know that the power of the knife was much greater and diverse and would become the ultimate weapon in the war to come.

Will's quest is to find his explorer father who has been missing for years. In his attempts he is drawn into the epic adventure in which Lyra is fated.

While there are parts of the book that are fascinating, it is more disjointed than The Golden Compass and has some slow spots. The book is obviously important in the buildup to the conclusion. My favorite parts are regarding the connecting of worlds, the further understanding of Dust and dæmons, and the story of Will's father.
RL=7th-adult

The Amber Spyglass: The third book is the epic struggle between the religious Authority and Lord Asriel and his rebels who wish to end the Authority's inquisitorial rule. Lyra is known to play a pivotal role in the confrontation, and so she is being hunted. Dr. Malone is also a target and has fled into another world. Her task is to live and study with the beings of that world to form a better understanding of the Dust particles and their importance in the life cycle. Will accompanies Lyra into the afterlife to set Roger free and, in doing this, they change the pattern of life and the Dust. Their relationship and sacrifices also are significant in the reformation of the ruling structures in the worlds.

The dæmon, or soul, is still a primary focus of the story. The ultimate conflict is resolved simply through Lyra and Will's relationship, growth, and thought instead of the usual colossal battle.
related-coming of age, innocence, consciousness, other conscious beings, evolution, adaptation
RL=7th-adult

More reviews of His Dark Materials
The Golden Compass
The Subtle Knife
The Amber Spyglass

His Royal Buckliness by Kevin Hawkes.
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard/William Morrow and Company: NY, 1992.

Taken by giants and treated as a king, Lord Buckley misses home and writes to his kinsmen for a release from boredom. Two come to his rescue, and the three together entertain the giant.

It is a fanciful adventure for little ones with big imagination. The fantastic pictures are the main attraction and need few words to guide the story.

related-giants, seasons, stories in rhyme
RL=1st-2nd, read aloud to toddler-K

A History of US by Joy Hakim.
Oxford University Press: NY.

Book One: The First Americans
Book Two: Making Thirteen Colonies
Book Three: From Colonies to Country
Book Four: The New Nation
Book Five: Liberty for All?
Book Six: War, Terrible War
Book Seven: Reconstruction and Reform
Book Eight: An Age of Extremes
Book Nine: War, Peace, and All That Jazz
Book Ten: All the People 1945-1994

As a homeschool teacher, I rely on the library for most of our History information. When I found Joy Hakim's books, I found a goldmine. I needed an overview to use for general information for the different time periods-to use as a springboard. I did not expect to find the detail of a ten volume set. Thinking back to the History textbooks I read in school, I was delighted to read an intelligent, and at times witty, account of our history. These books inspired me to read beyond what I already knew about U.S. history. The books also recommend books for more specific information. The series is interesting enough to read solely for pleasure.
RL=5th-YA

Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow by Susan Campbell Bartoletti.
Scholastic Inc: NY, 2005.
Newbery Honor 2006

Until now, most of what I have read regarding Germany in the 1930s through 1940s was about the war itself or the Holocaust. I had known that Hitler's rise to power was a reaction against restrictions upon them as a result of WWI. I find it hard to understand why witnesses of WWI would have wanted another war. This book brings a new perspective-the idea that the preparation and desire for war was a product of the youth being targeted by NAZI propaganda.

In the U.S., not much time is spent studying the build up to war by the Germans (nor the reactions of other countries). It is important to realize that the Hitler Youth organization was growing for 7 years before Hitler was appointed chancellor at which time it was nearly 100,000 youth. Within the next year it increased more than 2,000,000. There were 6,000,000 members of Hitler Youth before Germany invaded another country. Given that it is the young who are sent to war, many of the soldiers would have participated in NAZI rallies and spreading of propaganda. The youth were the key. They helped him gain power at a time when they felt little hope for the future, and they enthusiastically did what was asked in order to rebuild their country.

The narrative focuses on 12 young people, most of whom were involved in the Hitler Youth organization. One was killed supporting the NAZI party before Hitler became chancellor. Five were arrested as traitors. Four contined to support Hitler throughout the war. Their stories are complicated. Maybe this is a step in understanding why the events happened. The same sort of singlemindedness is apparent in out country now and others around the world. It is frightening to think it could happen again, but to assume that it couldn't is foolish.

related-Hitler-Jugend, National Socialism and youth, Germany, 20th century, education, propaganda
RL=7th-adultHogfather by Terry Pratchett.
HarperTorch/HarperCollins: NY, 2003.
Originally publ by Victor Gollancz: Great Britain, 1996.




Ultra-Condensed


• Hogfather grants children's wishes on Hogswatchnight, December 32.


• Susan Sto Helit playing Mary Poppins.
• The poker, every governess should have one.


• Death goes out of character (seems to do that often), leaving his granddaughter Susan with the Job. This sabbatical entails covering for the Hogfather. A job Death can enjoy, though it might disrupt the universe.


• The world is full of small round things that aren't eyeballs!


• Mr. Teatime, an Assassin that even the Assassins think goes too far.


• Hex, Unseen University's magical data analyzing machine.


• Bloody Stupid Johnson's special bathroom design.


• There's only one way to eliminate the immortals, such as the Tooth Fairy, the Hogfather, and even Death.


• Nobby Nobbs sits on the Hogfather's knee.


• Have you ever wondered what the Tooth Fairy does with all those teeth? Powerful things, teeth.


• The scales tilt. A change in belief leaves room for other beliefs.


• The Tooth Fairy's surprising history.


related-children's stories, power of beliefs, Discworld's version of Christmas
RL=YA-adultHoot by Carl Hiaasen.
Alfred A. Knopf/Random House: NY, 2002.
Newbery Honor 2003

When Roy's family moves from Montana to Florida, Roy immediately becomes the target of the school bully. He notices a strange, running boy out the bus window and is drawn into a compelling mystery. After following the boy, he gains an unexpected ally because of his concern.

There are burrowing owls in danger of being buried by a construction project. In the beginning, there is one person committed to saving the owls from their predicament. As the story progresses, others show their compassion for the owls and employ different methods in their desire to help. Though the story involves environmental protection, bullying, and a broken family, there are some imaginatively humorous situations, and it is absorbing and enjoyable.
related-burrowing owls, environmental protection, community activism, bullies, new kid, friendship
RL=4th-8th

Hope Was Here by Joan Bauer.
G. P. Putnam's Sons/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers: NY, 2000.
Newbery Honor 2001

Hope and her aunt are a team. Addie's exemplary cooking skills are needed at a diner in Wisconsin, and Hope has learned the serving tricks of the dining trade in their travels. Coming most recently from New York City, Hope does not expect to fit in, but there is plenty happening in the small town with her boss running for mayor despite his leukemia.

Politics, corruption, honor, and trust are served here with plenty of humor and warmth.
RL=5th-8th

Horrid Henry by Francesca Simon. il Tony Ross.
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky: Naperville, IL, 2009.
Originally publ by Orion Children's Books: Great Britain, 1994.


Yes, Henry has a reputation. So much so that his parents expect rotten behavior (and respond automatically), just as they expect his younger brother, Peter, to act perfectly. In the first story included in the book, Henry decides to be perfect, doing a good job of it, and takes his parents and Peter by surprise. In the second, Henry endures dance classes his parents force him to take. He ends up stealing the show in the class performance, but apparently his efforts aren't appreciated. The third story has Henry playing with a neighbor (can't really call her a friend), Moody Margaret, with the two trying to outdo each other. In the last, Henry's family goes on a horrid vacation. Henry thinks it will finally be an enjoyable one (no museums) until he realizes it's not what he expected.

These are the best books for young readers I've read in quite a while. They have lots of funny segments. In one week, my ten-year-old read the first four books twice (despite Henry's being way under his reading level). My thirteen-year-old also read them all. So, they are books for all ages to enjoy.

Between beginning readers and picture books and novels, there is a gap in literature that is difficult to bridge, causing frustration for children and concern by parents. The Horrid Henry books fall between the two categories, and hopefully their humor will help in this crucial step towards becoming a reader. The books are designed like beginner readers, but longer and more advanced. They are for those who have outgrown beginner readers but are not ready to read novels. Novels are so much longer than beginners that there really need to be more books at the Horrid Henry level. Good readers will make the huge leap to novels. Others might not. I have come across some other excellent transitional books but not enough to keep reluctant readers reading. I have posted before about the importance of this developmental stage and have a list of transitional books.

related-transitional books, chapter books, behavior, problem solving, dance class, playing together, camping
RL=1st-4th, enjoyable for all ages

Horrid Henry and the Mega-Mean Time Machine by Francesca Simon. il Tony Ross.
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky: Naperville, IL, 2009.
Originally publ by Orion Children's Books: Great Britain, 2005.


This is one you'll not want to miss. Who knew a story about taking a walk could be so funny? Henry reminds me so much of my own children when we have pleaded, coaxed, and badgered them into going on walks. Now I know exactly what was going through their heads. I have learned that if there is something more active involved, such as climbing or rock throwing, they are more enthusiastic.

The title story with the time machine is most excellent. Quite creative and somehow believable that Henry could dupe Peter so badly. Certainly something all older brothers would try, and Horrid Henry is a master.

Perfect Peter's Revenge is so perfect, until Henry, Margaret, and Susan learn the truth. It works beautifully for a while, but then Peter approaches Henry on the school playground at the most inopportune time, unknowingly pointing the finger at himself.

The last story is one to which we can all relate, the dreaded restaurant situation, even if we avoid the fancy establishments. Different food, loud kids and everyone staring, open rebellion in public. You see, the kids have you in their power, because they know you will do almost anything to avoid a scene. The twist of Miss Battle-Axe being reprimanded by her mother is a hoot.

Did teachers have mothers? Did teachers ever leave the school? Impossible.

I only wish I had thought to pay my kids a dollar or two! We only had a few utterly embarrassing encounters, but we avoided the fancy places.

related-transitional books, early chapter books, hiking, walks, time travel, playing with boxes, imagination, love letters, poems, fancy restaurants, trying new foods
RL=1st-4th, enjoyable for all ages
Horrid Henry's Stinkbomb by Francesca Simon. il Tony Ross.
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky: Naperville, IL, 2009.
Originally publ by Orion Children's Books: Great Britain, 2002.


Another spectacular Horrid Henry book. Four great stories. I love the outrageousness of the regular life situations that become capers in Simon's hands. In most of them, I can totally empathize with Henry despite his unconventional behavior.

The first story features a reading contest with the prize being family tickets to a theme park! Henry can't wait to get started - only he does. He's determined to win the contest anyway, but Miss Battle-Axe has a surprise.

The stinkbomb story has the two clubs, Henry's and Margaret's, planning a trick each against the other at the very same time. The parallel schemes are narrated step by step, a nice variation in the stories.

In the third story, the class is given the freedom and supplies to create a Parthenon, but can Henry cooperate with a group? Apparently not. The only solution is to separate Henry. Miss Battle-Axe didn't think to give him his own supplies, and then she kept him in at recess, compounding matters by leaving the room. Definitely not her best day.

The last story has some of the best pictures: New Nick's operatic parents, Henry trying to hear the TV over the opera, Nick's dogs pouncing, a frazzled Henry calling home for assistance. The sacking of Troy from the school project is a great shot of Henry's imagination, too.

In the last story, Henry receives an invitation for one of his favorite pastimes, a sleepover; something that is rare now since he only gets one invitation per household. Nick's family might be the exception, but it might also be the cure for any desire to sleepover.

related-transitional books, early chapter books, reading contest, book reviews, pranks, private personal clubs, spies, arts and crafts, group projects, cooperation, sleepovers, new friends
RL=1st-4th, enjoyable for all ages

Horrid Henry Tricks the Tooth Fairy by Francesca Simon. Il Tony Ross.
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky: Naperville, 2009.
Originally publ by Orion Children's Books: Great Britain, 1997.


I found this second book less funny than the original Horrid Henry, but utterly relatable. Henry certainly lives up to his reputation. Only Moody Margaret tops him. In this book, the illustrations are more imaginative: the fire-breathing dragon, the wedding pictures, Margaret drawing the uncrossable line, and Henry's fake window drop.

The first chapter is the title story. Henry tries every which way to trick the Tooth Fairy, because even his younger brother has lost a tooth. Since it seems life isn't being fair to him, he starts scheming. The end of the story is the funniest to me.

In the second chapter, Henry and Peter are ringbearers at a wedding. Can you believe anyone would request such a thing? So again Henry is stuck in a situation he cannot tolerate, and he takes his revenge - although he is mostly just being Horrid Henry, oblivious to everyone else.

The third chapter finally shows Henry's parents appreciating Henry's Horridness. Moody Margaret comes to stay, and he can only take so much. It's either explode - or get rid of her. I have to say I think Henry's solution wasn't so terrible.

It's the beginning of the school year in the last chapter. Henry is at his most Horrid in dealing with new teachers. He views it as a challenge. The stunt that breaks the teacher is unbelievably Horrid, yet admittedly creative. It's good to know it isn't real.

related-transitional books, early chapter books, behavior, tooth fairy, kids at weddings, visitors staying overnight, first day of school
RL=1st-4th, enjoyable for all ages

Hot Air: The (Mostly) True Story of the First Hot-Air Balloon Ride by Marjorie Priceman.
An Anne Schwartz Book/Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster: NY, 2005.
Caldecott Honor 2006

Most of this story is told with bright, lively pictures. The details of the animals' trip are clever. The facts of the first hot-air balloon exhibition are included at the back of the book.
RL=1st-2nd and read aloud to younger

The Houdini Box by Brian Selznick.
Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster: NY, 1991.


Wow! An excellent book for young readers-especially boys. Undoubtedly, the pictures are an important part of the story-the realism, awe, and humor. Selznick totally captures the emotion and enthusiasm of a boy amazed by the Great Houdini and wanting to be just like him. The determination and humor of that boy trying to figure out the tricks himself. Plus, two of the pictures are LOL funny. Can you tell which ones I mean?

I did not know until after reading The Invention of Hugo Cabret that Selznick had written other stories-only that he had illustrated. The Houdini Box was published well before I started looking for books for my first son. It is a great story. It ought to recommended more often for young readers since this is a particularly hard level to find exciting books.

related-Harry Houdini, magicians, curiosity, high interest, experimentation, mentors, transitional books, short chapter books, historical books
RL=2nd-4th, younger for early readers

A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle.
Picture Book Studio: Natick, MA, 1987.

Hermit Crab moves into a new shell after outgrowing the old. It's a bit plain, but he decorates it as he goes along with things from the sea. This is one of my favorites of Eric Carle's. As he grows more (just as children do) he must find another shell, but he is only thinking of the new and exciting possibilities.
RL=2nd-3rd and read aloud PreK-1st

How to Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2008.


This story is more complicated and thoughtful than the average picture book. It has both full page spreads and frame by frame to show action. The text is minimal and backgrounds gray with focus shown through the use of a spot of color and small segments in a frame. The bigness of the city is depicted by skyscrapers and crowds, contrasting with the smallness of the child and that the child out of all these people noticed the bird and cared for it. It is a story to read again and again, finding something different each time.

I like the understanding of the parents and their willingness to help, and their shared hope that the bird will heal and fly again. I like the quietness of the minimal text and the waiting and watching with little nuances in the pictures. I also like what the author says about the book:

In troubled times, when many of us are losing contact with the natural world, I wanted to show that there is still hope in a coming generation of children who have curiosity and empathy with the world around them, and that care and attention can sometimes fix broken wings.



related-birds, nurturing, healing, city
RL=K-1st, read aloud to toddler-1st
I Am Apache by Tanya Landman.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2008.


Siki lives among the Southwestern Black Mountain Apache. She watches the slaying of her young brother by a Mexican; he was the last of her family, her mother dying soon after the disappearance of her father.

Left to drift in the community and terrible at the skills of the women, Siki decides to become a female warrior. She quickly impresses the great warrior Golahka who is in charge of training. She also shows signs of having seer powers. Taunted by Keste, a warrior-in-training who is jealous of her status, she doubts her fathers honor and her place in the tribe, even as she accomplishes each task given and is honored herself.

It is a coming of age story during a time of great upheaval. The Mexicans have long been the enemy to her people, and now the White Eyes are moving in and grasping the land from them. Siki senses that either an Apache or Mexican is helping the White Eyes in their conquest, someone who knows the Apache land as if raised on it. The question of future is most important. Siki sees herself as an Apache, though she has doubts about belonging, but when she sees her tribe cannot hope to survive, can she live another way? There are secrets buried in her past that could change everything. It comes down to What makes her who she is, and is that more important than survival?

Siki is a strong female character - adept at warrior skills, independent enough to make her own choice and follow it, with skills crucial to the survival of her tribe, with understanding and compassion even related to an enemy.

I enjoyed this fictional account. Landman has imagined an excellent tale of a young woman forced to choose between her life with the Apache or a future among the Europeans who are too numerous to stop, and it takes place in a different region than what is normally used, adding the part that Mexicans (Spanish descent) played.

related-European/American conquest, captives, slavery, slaughter of the Apache tribes, identity, females in nontraditional roles, seers, captives included in the tribe
RL=YA-adult

I Am Mordred by Nancy Springer.
Philomel Books/Putnam & Grosset Group: NY, 1998.

This is an excellent tale of the developmental years of Mordred, King Arthur's son who is fated to kill him. Imagine being raised with the prophecy that you would kill your father hanging over your head. How do you think such a prophecy would affect your behavior? Mordred desperately wants his father's love-the one thing he is not offered. He struggles against his fate throughout the story. It is refreshing to see Mordred depicted as a real person instead of the standard evil caricature.
related-King Arthur, Camelot, fathers and sons, knighthood
RL=6th-8th

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak.
Alfred A. Knopf/Random House: NY, 2005.
Originally The Messenger pub by Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Limited: Australia, 2002.


Ed Kennedy stops a pathetic bank robbery attempt and starts a chain of events that disrupts his mediocre days. Playing cards (aces) are delivered to his door with people to help listed on them. The cards point out people in need of a message, and Ed must figure out the message and deliver it--all of which is normally beyond his limited existence. He does it, because he expects there will be an end to it after the aces are used up. The cards point him towards life, and he changes as he sees more of life through his ordeal.

The question remains through the whole book . . . Who is sending the cards?

It took me a few chapters to get into the book. The introduction of Ed and his friends wasn't attractive, but that relates to the point of the book. Once Ed starts receiving aces, the story picks up, and the reader is hooked. It is one of the better books I've read. Maybe would fit in a top 100 novels. I like that it directs readers to look at others' lives and think about reaching out with their own messages. It also gives a glimpse of how random acts of kindness can build a community. And it doesn't take a saint to fulfill one such act. I also like that Ed's life is enriched by the experience--even when he's getting beat up. It is also a book I stayed up too late to finish!

related-heroes, taxicab drivers, self-esteem, help from strangers, guidance, observation, awareness, acts of kindness
RL=YA-adult

I, Crocodile by Fred Marcellino.
Michael di Capua Books/HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 1999.

Napoleon kidnaps a crocodile on a raid in Egypt. He is the main attraction for a while in France, but when he becomes old news, he is in danger of becoming dinner. Witty, with pictures that tell it all. They have lovely details, and emotions are skillfully conveyed.
RL=1st-2nd and read aloud

If You Hopped Like a Frog by David M. Schwartz. il. by James Warhola.
Scholastic Press: NY, 1999.

This is a fun and thought-provoking tribute to the awe-inspiring things animals can do. It also happens to be a wonderfully visual demonstration of ratio and proportion. Wouldn't you like to leap from home plate to first base in one bound? How about eat 700 hamburgers in one day?
RL=1st       math explanations L=4th-5th

I, Juan de Pareja by Elizabeth Borton de Treviño.
Farrar, Straus & Giroux: NY, 1965.
Newbery Award for 1966


Juan de Pareja was the half-black slave of the famous painter Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Velázquez. Slave, assistant, friend and student in secret. He also was the subject of one of Velásquez' paintings. Juan was inherited from Velásquez' aunt. The book follows his time before joining Velásquez, his years as a faithful helper and companion, and some of his life after Velásquez dies.

Much of the story takes place at the court of King Phillip IV of Spain. The other main characters are the family of Velásquez and the king.

Having some knowledge of Velásquez and art history, I enjoyed the description of the family and studio life and the King's interaction. The King sent Velásquez to Italy twice to paint and collect art, so there is some of the Italian art discussed as well.

The story is very much a period piece, early seventeenth century, the Age of Enlightenment. The story even feels old, in a different style than nowadays. It is a first person account, though, so it still flows well.

After the Renaissance, Velásquez was one of the first painters to insist on painting what was truly there instead of embellishing. Primarily a portraitist, he was able to paint what was within as well as the body. He was also known for the incredible texture that he practiced, which was a precursor to the Impressionists.

One of the most interesting things about the book is when it was written. The story is Juan de Pareja's story, the slave, who learns to paint in secret through watching Velásquez with apprentices, because slaves are not allowed to create art. Years later when he reveals his secret, he is given his freedom and becomes a famous painter in his own right. We read of Velásquez only through the interaction with Pareja. So, the book was written in 1965 in the middle of violently contested civil rights. The subject being black freedom. Add to that the fact that Pareja was only half black, another issue that drove racism for decades or even centuries. The book must have been highly controversial when it was published. Many books have been similar in content and tone since. Though I have nothing to which I can compare from the 1960s or earlier, I would guess this book was a forerunner of this genre.

The issue of slavery in the 17th century was not controversial at all. It had been the norm for centuries, though not necessarily referring to blacks. A difference being that slaves back then more readily were allowed to earn their freedom. They were thought of more as conquered peoples rather than inferior. In this case, Pareja was considered part of the family or at least a companion. It seems likely that if he had indicated his desire for freedom, he might have received it sooner. He did stay with Velásquez until his death, continuing to learn from him.

related-black slavery, manumission, art and artists, art history, Spain and Italy in the 17th century, Spanish court under King Philip IV, Diego Velásquez
RL=7th and up

The Illuminator by Brenda Rickman Vantrease.
St. Martin's Press: NY, 2005.

Caught between the Church's tithes and the Court's taxes, Lady Kathryn of Blackingham struggles to maintain control of her family's lands in the late fourteenth century. She makes a deal with a nearby abbey to board an illuminator and his daughter in return for money and protection. They forge close ties despite the secrets the illuminator harbors. One being his copying of an English translation of the Bible for John Wycliffe.

During this time period, both self-study of the Bible and religion and personal freedom for all were becoming political issues. Books were rare and costly because of the time and education required for hand copying. The masses could not read (or understand, in many cases) the Latin and Norman in which the books were published, so the introduction of English copies was an important advancement. However, making the Bible accessible to the masses did also have the effect of increasing rebellion.

A complex story of love (different types) and betrayal which examines spiritual and economic oppression during a most turbulent and intriguing time. The book was published as adult fiction, but the description of relations is minimal. It is more philosophical than physical, and the historical content is both educational and fascinating.
related-history of England, 14th century, Roman Catholic Church, John Wycliffe, Bishop Henry Despenser, John Ball, Julian of Norwich, peasants' revolt of 1381, philosophy leading towards the Reformation, Lollards, historical fiction
RL=YA-adult

Imagine a Night by Sarah L. Thomson. paintings by Rob Gonsalves.
Atheneum Books for Young Readers: NY, 2003.


The paintings are the attraction of this collection of Rob Gonsalves's paintings. There is no story. Instead, Thomson invites viewers to share the awe and wonder of imagining through Gonsalves's highly creative work. Each of his Escher inspired creations has its own story to explore-the farmer lulling his sunflowers to sleep with music, the cityscape cut from a curtain, a planetarium created through curtain cuttings, the ladies of the lake appearing as a reflection, the monks of the magical mixture of clouds, moonlight and windows, and more.

related-M. C. Escher, fine art in children's books, artists, patterns and images created by nature, tessellations, point of view, imagination
RL=all ages, read aloud to PreK-K

Imagine That!: Poems of Never-Was selected by Jack Prelutsky. il Kevin Hawkes.
Alfred A. Knopf: NY, 1998.

I only liked a few of the poems, but enjoyed the illustrations more. If you're interested in Hawkes's work, I'd recommend it. Otherwise, not.
related-imagination, children's poetry, American poetry
RL=3rd-5th

Incident at Hawk's Hill by Allan W. Eckert.
Little, Brown and Company: Boston, 1971.
Newbery Honor 1972

Ben MacDonald is at home with the animals near his family's prairie farm in Manitoba, Canada. He observes and closely imitates their speech and behavior. Wild and even fierce animals accept his presence because they know he is not a threat.

In June 1870, he wanders away from the homestead following and watching the wildlife. A storm starts, and he realizes he is lost and unprotected. Instinctively he crawls into a badger hole for some relief from the storm.

His family and neighbors search for Ben for 2 days with no sign of him. Although his family never stops looking for him, Ben is missing for 2 months. When his brother finds him, he behaves as a wild animal would, and once convinced of his safety, he has an unbelievable story to tell.

For some time now I have thought about reading this story and have been reluctant. I finally read it because a friend who is a public school teacher recommended it a few times. As I started to read it, the details of the animals behavior drew me into the story. It is beautifully written-descriptive, but flowing and full of action. Once the boy was lost on the prairie, I had to know how the situation would be resolved.

related-nature, animals, survival, prairie life, badgers, communication, communicating with animals
RL=5th-8th

The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau by Jon Agee.
Farrar, Straus & Giroux: NY, 1988.

A very imaginative story of an artist whose paintings are slightly too realistic. My sons and I loved the visual jokes and the damage caused by the paintings.
RL=1st-2nd

In Defense of Liberty: The Story of America's Bill of Rights by Russell Freedman.
Holiday House: U.S., 2003.

Our founding fathers knew that the U.S. Constitution did not have strong protections for individuals. So, they immediately introduced ten amendments to the Constitution (the Bill of Rights) that had not been ratified yet. This enlightening book explores court cases that have defined for us what these amendments mean regarding our individual rights. Many things we consider rights today were won for us by these cases. Also, there are things we think of as rights today that may not actually be backed up legally despite the Bill of Rights. This is a good place to start learning about complicated civil rights issues.
related-U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, Constitutional amendments, civil rights
RL=7th-YA

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke. trans by Anthea Bell.
The Chicken House/Scholastic, Inc: NY, 2003.
Originally publ as Tintenherz by Cecilie Dressler Verlag: Hamburg, Germany, 2003.

The concept of the book-characters coming to life with expert reading aloud-is fantastic. Certain parts of the story are as exciting as the concept. The introduction is plenty mysterious with Meggie's father's secretive behavior. Elinor's houseful of books is just what I would want. Meggie's traveling box of books is a beautiful addition. The entrapment of Meggie's mother within the troublesome book causes most of their predicament. The involvement of the author helps to bring the story to a conclusion.

I'm not sure how I feel about the story overall. It's long and seemed to drag for a while in the middle. Some of the hoodlum behavior is necessary to the story, but in parts it seems a little too Series of Unfortunate Events (everything going wrong, little cause for hope).

I haven't read The Thief Lord yet, so I can't really make an assessment of the author. I do wonder if the story lost some of its attraction in the translation.
related-magic of words and books, theatrical reading, family separation
RL=7th-YA

In the Attic by Hiawyn Oram. il by Satoshi Kitamura.
Henry Holt and Company: NY, 1984.


In this book, an unnamed boy is looking for something new to do, even though he has "a million toys." He uses the ladder from his firetruck to climb through the ceiling to his attic. There he dreams vivid scenes and adventures. I particularly like the windows into other worlds and the game with the tiger. In the end, he climbs back to his home and tells his mom about his day.

The text is fairly basic and short enough for beginners. Though it is basic, it still sounds like a story, not stilted. The illustrations are the centerpiece of the story. Imaginative and detailed. I want to just look and look at the page.

related-boredom, Japanese children's stories, attics, imagination, adventure
RL=K-1st, read aloud to toddler-1st

Into the Dark: An Echo Falls Mystery by Peter Abrahams.
Laura Geringer Books/HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2008.


In this book, the Prescott Players are working on Hansel and Gretel, but the only connection to the storyline is Ingrid's feelings regarding being lost and/or chased in the woods. Her Grampy is in trouble in this episode. His heroism from WWII makes him a key suspect in a murder mystery. Plus, his surliness, motive, and the murder being located on his property. Ingrid seems to be the only one who believes he is innocent, and as in the other books, police chief Strade (her best friend's dad) is watching Ingrid as she investigates in order to prove Grampy's innocence despite his uncooperativeness.

Ingrid's family is also in trouble. Her parents are acting strangely. When questioned her dad, like Grampy, doesn't give an alibi, and his secret is exposed through the solving of the crime.

This is a suspenseful series. The characters are well developed and real, especially Ingrid. The mysteries have many details to consider, and the circumstances are imaginative. The connections between the plots and the play acting are a fresh way of portraying the stories.

related-murder mystery, detective stories, grandfathers, family, divorce, investigations, Sherlock Holmes fan
RL=6th & up

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick.
Scholastic Press: NY, 2007.
Caldecott Medal 2008


This book has created quite a stir in the last year. Many were sure it would win an award-just not sure which one. It's taken a while for me to get my hands on a copy. The coverart and the author's name were enough for me to be excited, because I loved his illustrations in The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins (Caldecott Honor of 2002).

My first impression was shock at the length of the book and then amazement (flipping the pages) at the wondrous artwork and how long Selznick must have spent drawing. The story is a novel, though short in terms of text. The style is similar to Chris Van Allsburg's-striking, intense, and mysterious. The photographs added of actual events are also intriguing. The story itself is unusual (an understatement), suspenseful, captivating, and in the end awesome as the threads come together.

It wasn't until the end that I realized the illustrations are a means of reflecting the motion picture industry which factors into the story. In the beginning, the story centers on Hugo's mechanical ability and his orphaned situation with the mystery of the broken automaton he tries to fix. When the maker of the automaton is revealed, the story turns towards a segment of the early history of motion picture.

My oldest son praised the unusual concept. His comment reminded me how much I enjoy stories that are so different from anything else. With the amount of reading I do, I have seen many good books (and series) that follow the same format as others. It's a special treat to read a book that is totally its own.

related-Georges Méliès, robots, clocks, orphans, railroad stations, history of Paris, France, mechanical toys, automatons
RL=4th-8th, read aloud to k-3rd

The Inventor's Times: Real-Life Stories of 30 Amazing Creations by Dan Driscoll, James Zigarelli, and the Staff of The Inventor's Times.
Tangerine Press/Scholastic, Inc: NY, 2002.

These are 30 of the most famous articles taken from The Inventor's Times-a newspaper reporting on the latest inventions of the times. There are also some portions on the sides that are ridiculous and must have been as jokes for the publishing of the book.
RL=5th-8th

The Invisible Rules of the Zoë Lama by Tish Cohen.
Dutton Children's Books/Penguin Group: NY, 2007.

Zoë Costella, nicknamed the Zoë Lama for taking on the playground bully, has made a career for herself fixing other people's lives. She's a little controlling and judgmental, but kind-hearted in her efforts. This year she has taken on too much with the ever-present need to assist her single, working mom and grandma who is losing out to dementia. There is also a new girl whom Zoë believes needs major help and a school dance to manage. She's feeling desperate when her mom starts to talk nursing homes, since Grandma has been there forever to listen and share time with her. Noticing Grandma's peculiar behavior, she hides the situation from Mom and friends as long as possible. In the end, she starts to see that many of Grandma's colorful statements are plenty sane, but her drifting in and out of reality is causing dangerous and expensive problems.

The book is a little chatty, but a quick, fun read. The first half is mostly humor. Then it gets into Zoë's lessons in acceptance. While she was working from a sincere desire to help, her Grandma helps her realize it's sometimes better to let friends be themselves.

related-identity, acceptance, interpersonal relations, middle schools, grandmothers, family, Alzheimer's
RL=6th & up

Jack: Secret Histories by F. Paul Wilson.
TOR/Tom Doherty Associates, LLC: NY, 2008


Weezy, Jack, and Eddie find an artifact in an undiscovered, undisturbed mound in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, the swampy woods bordering their small town. Jack's the only one of them that can open the black box, even once they've seen how it is done. Analysis shows that the structure is high tech, but tests date it as a pre-Columbian object. Weezy is caught up in the thought of a secret history of the world and conspiracies. Jack is more concerned with the secrets of citizens of the town: his dad's unwillingness to talk about his past, his friend Steve's new problem with alcohol, the members of the local Lodge dating back at least to the beginning of the country, and sudden deaths of townspeople.

The book is an exciting and unique mystery. I like that the mystery is as much about the artifact, the Lodge, and the Barrens as it is about the murders. It has a hint of fantasy to be explained elsewhere. Jack and Weezy are both interesting characters. Considering the titles of Wilson's other books, neither character is fully explained yet. I was fascinated to learn that the book is linked to a full adult series that I am now anticipating.

related-mystery and detective stories, coming of age, interpersonal relations, Pine Barrens, New Jersey, supernatural, friendship, spying
RL=YA-adult

Jane Addams: Pioneer for Social Justice by Cornelia Meigs.
Little, Brown and Company: Boston, 1970.

As children we learn about certain time periods in history lessons-particularly surrounding major wars. We can see the differences in how people lived and thought, but there is not much focus on how or why people's lives changed. What happened to create change or improvements in social standing? I believe that a significant factor is people like Jane Addams and Eleanor Roosevelt. If we want to understand why we have the rights we take for granted today, we must read about these people who saw injustice around them and demanded that it be changed. If we want to keep the rights we have, we need to understand that those rights exist because of social pressure initiated by people like Jane Addams. Congress did not just decide one day to pass laws in favor of working class citizens-ordinary people (and lots of them) demanded it. Cornelia Meigs's biography of Jane Addams is a thorough work about an extraordinary champion-a woman with an unswerving dedication to better the lives of the people around her. I learned from this book things that were skipped over in high school history, and I gained a better understanding of history in general and how politics (and life) work through time.
RL=YA

Jason's Bears by Marion Dane Bauer. il Kevin Hawkes.
Hyperion Books for Children: NY, 2000.


Jason's Bears is about a young boy's love of all things bear related. Until his older brother convinces him there are 4 bears which enjoy eating young boys living at their residence. He tries to stop thinking about bears, but one day his brother teasingly gives him a gingerbread bear. It is Jason's first step towards overcoming his fear and renewing his love of bears.

The story is nicely done. First, for its collecting of animals that so many people like to do. Then, for its original idea of dispelling a common childhood fear.

The illustrations have the usual action and colors, bright and contrasting, that Hawkes uses. They are full of emotion and suit the story perfectly. Love the details, such as the blanket with paw prints! As usual, there are a couple that would be great framed as prints, too.

related-bears, childhood fears, brothers, teasing
RL=1st-3rd, mostly read aloud to toddler-1st

Jazzy Miz Mozetta by Brenda C. Roberts. il Frank Morrison.
Farrar Straus Giroux: NY, 2004

You can almost hear the music and feel the beat as Miz Mozetta prepares for a night of dancing. Her friends decline since their bodies don't work the way they used to do, and the kids dancing to their music on the street doubt she has the moves. She gives up and goes home, but her friends decide to lift her spirits.

Even the pictures are jazzy. What a lovely way to share the love of music and dance! Both transcend all barriers-in this case the generation gap.
RL=1st-3rd

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass.
Little, Brown and Company: NY, 2006.


One month from his thirteenth birthday, Jeremy receives a wooden box from his long-dead father. An inscription on the box says it holds the meaning of life. Its four keys are missing, and as Jeremy and his best friend Lizzy soon learn, only the keys can open it without destroying the contents.

Lizzy immediately has plans to find the keys, pulling Jeremy out of his neighborhood and comfort zone. One of the plans lands them in community service where Jeremy finds that he can learn about the meaning of life through discussion and observation. There are a few excellent ideas on the subject, including that it is different for each of us.

This book has been on my Read List for a couple years. I've always liked the title. Every Soul a Star reminded me of it, and though the reading level and characters are slightly younger, it is every bit as good. Both are unique, Knock Your Socks Off kinds of books. Jeremy, Lizzy and Mr. Oswald are great characters, with some interesting extras thrown in. Their quest is different as are the smaller stories along the way. The ending was totally unexpected.

related-conduct and purpose of life, coming of age, self-realization, fathers and sons, friendship, collections, hobbies
RL=6th & up

Jim and the Beanstalk by Raymond Briggs.
Coward-McCann Inc: NY, 1970.

The illustrations are excellent and carry the story. The story is an extension of Jack and the Beanstalk instead of a changing. There are some interesting ideas and a bit of repetition for young listeners.

RL=1st-3rd and read aloud to toddlers-K

John, Paul, George & Ben by Lane Smith.
Hyperion Books for Children: NY, 2006.


From the title, reminiscent of the Beatles, to the satirical references to the lives of John Hancock, Paul Revere, George Washington, Ben Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson this is a book for the older picture book reader. Humor for those who already have an understanding of the American Revolution. Maybe to be read side by side biographical books. Each child has a talent that is less appreciated before adulthood, and there is a humorous situation in each telling.

It is a must read for the fans of Lane Smith (and Jon Scieszka, since Lane Smith illustrated Scieszka's books). The style is the same as the Scieszka and Smith team, with Revolutionary period costume and background. It is a book to study and savor to fully appreciate the details. A book for children and adults to enjoy.

related-John Hancock, Paul Revere, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, American Revolution
RL=K & up

Just Like Abraham Lincoln by Bernard Waber.
Houghton Mifflin Company: Boston, 1964.

Mr. Potts, the next door neighbor, looks exactly like Abraham Lincoln. He has clothes like him and behaves like him.

The story gives a good impression of what Lincoln was like and what he stood for. It is a beautiful tribute that is sure to inspire more Lincolnphiles, and it has a funny ending.
RL=1st-2nd and read aloud

Kat Kong written and directed by Dav Pilkey.
Harcourt Brace & Company: NY, 1993.

A hilarious retelling of King Kong using cat and mice characters. The text and pictures are equally funny.
RL=3rd & up

King Arthur: In Fact and Legend by Geoffrey Ashe.
Thomas Nelson Inc: Camden, NJ, 1969.

Ashe discusses the legend of Arthur and its history and evidence of Arthur in history. He uses Malory as the basis for the legend and refers to Geoffrey of Monmouth, Nennius, and Welsh and British legend and rumor to establish a believable reference point for Arthur in British history. He also mentions a few archaeological findings to strengthen the conclusions.

The evidence that has been discovered regarding a true King Arthur is fascinating. The use of the legend through history is also intriguing-particularly King Henry VII's claim that he fulfilled the prophecy of Arthur's return. From reading of the history of Arthur, I have a much clearer understanding of British history. If what Ashe says is true, then that would make Henry VII the 1st truly British King of all England. The real Arthur was not, and between him and Henry VII are Saxons and Normans. No wonder the Tudors were popular.

There is also some discussion of the rebirth of the legend in the 20th century to present in which there are many variations. Some of this is due to discoveries and revelations about the 6th century Arthur. Some of it is due to more widespread knowledge of Welsh and British legend, and some has to do with more creative license on the part of the writers. For whatever reason there is much more available on the subject, and Ashe lists works I hadn't heard of.
RL=6th-adult

The Kitchen Knight retold by Margaret Hodges. il Trina Schart Hyman.
Holiday House: NY, 1990.

This is one of the King Arthur tales told less often. I find the introduction of Gareth's character fascinating. On arriving in Camelot, he doesn't tell his name and accepts a job in the kitchen, because he wants to be credited for his accomplishments not for being Arthur's nephew. The story is expanded upon in Gerald Morris's The Savage Damsel and the Dwarf. I enjoy Trina Schart Hyman's almost full-page illustrations. The story is accessible to young readers, but the ending will appeal more to girls because of the chivalry theme.
related-King Arthur, Gareth, the Red Knight, Beaumain, Linette and Linesse, knights, champions, quests, chivalry
RL=2nd-3rd, read aloud

The Kite Fighters by Linda Sue Park.
Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company: NY 2000.

Two Korean brothers combine their talents to challenge last year's champion of the New Year kite competition. The older is a master of kite-making. The younger expertly flies the kites. As the story progresses, the younger boy must learn to accept their father's favoritism towards the elder. His brother will inherit all privileges and responsibilities for the family, and it will be his duty to help his older brother. The boys must find a way to maintain their relationship while learning to deal with this tradition.
related-kites, brothers, first sons, Korea, competition
RL=5th-7th

Knife of Dreams by Robert Jordan.
Book 11 of The Wheel of Time
TOR Fantasy/Tom Doherty Associates: NY, 2005.



Ultra-Condensed

• Dead people walking in many locations.


• Parts of buildings or towns are changing or disappearing suddenly.


• Rand has determined that he needs a truce with the Seanchan before he can confront the Dark One.


• Moridin instructs the Foresaken to kill Perrin and Mat.


• Perrin makes a deal with the Seanchan himself to save Faile and the rest who were kidnapped by the Shaido Aiel. Aes Sedai and Wise Ones are not pleased with the deal.


• Mat and his entourage continue to travel away from Ebou Dar, though looking for a way to send Tuon back safely. The Seanchan army is hunting her, instead of trying to save her, since the death of the Empress.


• Mat woos Tuon, whom he has claimed will be his bride. She still treats him as Toy but tolerates his companionship. She keeps her intentions hidden through most of the book, though there are flashes of possibility, especially as she learns more about who Mat is. It is too soon to know whether Mat could have any influence on her future decisions.


• Egwene is caught by the White Tower, and there is an attempt to break her and use her by making her a novice again. They don't know what they are up against. She continues to command the rebels, while she undermines Elaida from within the Tower.


• Elayne fights to gain the throne in Caemlyn as Arymilla leads her supporters in an attack on the city walls. Ellorien leads other Houses against Elayne, hoping that Dyelin will make a claim, though she says she's not interested and supports Elayne.


• Elayne is abducted by Black Ajah sisters.


• Thom reveals the contents of Morraine's letter at Mat's request.


• Banner-Generals Tylee Khirgan and Furyk Karede have gained respect for Perrin and Mat respectively and should be key factors in settling matters with the Seanchan eventually.


• Red sisters ask Taim if he will allow them to bond his Asha' man as warders. More foreshadowing, but still not clear if he is just a Darkfriend or more.
One of the best books in the series, if only because so much is happening. Still a period of build up to the end. Many loose ends to tie together. The next book was intended to be the last, though now lengthened to three. Incredible. Has got to be my favorite series. The very best of fantasy. Am considering buying the books now, so that I can go back and read leisurely. The library doesn't give enough time for 800 page books!Lady Bugatti by Joyce Maxner. il Kevin Hawkes.
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books/William Morrow & Company: NY, 1991.

Lady Bugatti holds a jazzy dinner party for elite friends and invites them for a show afterward. They arrive in style, sit in a private box, only to find Lady Bugatti is missing. They watch the show and see she is the closing act.

The story is odd and jazzy, with rhythmic rhymes. The colors and textures are luxurious. The story is wonderfully illustrated. Worth a look for the pictures alone. It is one of Hawkes' first books.

related-animals in fiction, stories in rhyme, theater
RL=1st-2nd, mostly read aloud to toddler and up

The Landry News by Andrew Clements.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 1999.


The new student, Cara Landry, thinks Mr. Larson is the worst of teachers. She posts her editorial opinion on the bulletin board and prods Mr. Larson into challenging his students to write a real newspaper. The whole class gets involved and really learns as the principal uses the newspaper as an excuse to fire Mr. Larson.
related-newspapers, teachers, schools, divorce, First Amendment
RL=5th-8th

The Last Holiday Concert by Andrew Clements.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 2004.


Hart Evans shoots the chorus teacher, Mr. Meinert, in the neck with a rubberband, and the teacher goes ballistic. What Hart doesn't know is that Mr. Meinert is being fired due to lack of funds.

The next day as the class prepares for the Holiday Concert, the teacher is set off again. This time he decides the students can come up with their own concert. One of the students decides they should vote to see who is in charge, and Hart is elected the director without asking for the responsibility. Mr. Meinert gloats, as he believes it is the perfect retribution. Neither foresee the events that will lead to the best concert ever.

related-holiday concerts, schools, student-teacher relationships, music, leadership, cooperation, choir, peace, creativity, high interest
RL=5th-8th

Leepike Ridge by N. D. Wilson.
Random House: NY, 2007.


Disgruntled by his mom's consideration of a marriage proposal, Tom knocks foam packaging over the cliff by his house. His mom sends him down into the valley to retrieve it. After he rescues it from the trees along the river, he is inspired to try floating down the river. It works, and he is lulled to sleep, only to be awakened when he hits rapids. He's sucked under a rock and pulled along what turns out to be an underground river, which passes through caves within the mountain. On an island in one of the caves, Tom discovers a dead body from which he takes handy supplies. No food, though, so he is compelled to try his luck in the river again. He ends up in the net of someone else trapped in the caves, someone trapped for three years inside the mountain.

Meanwhile, up on the ridge, Tom's mother is desperate for help finding Tom. She feels he is not dead and suspects he may be lost within the mountain. The worst possible people step forward to search, treasure hunters.

Through Tom's experience, he learns why his dad disappeared three years ago. He's given a chance for closure, education, and a dose of growing up all at once.

One of the themes in the book is related to the treasure hunting, but is also a different take on history in the Americas. I don't know how much proof is available yet, but it is a theory discussed more and more, one that makes sense and likely has some truth to it.

Wilson's first novel is a great survivalist adventure mixed with history and mystery. I like the split story, above and below ground, but Tom's story is the best part. That, and the dog that links them both. It is a well balanced story - humorous, creative, with anticipation running high.

related-missing persons, caves, adventures and adventurers, mothers and sons, buried treasure, archaeology, survival, explorers, exploration of and inhabitants of the Americas
RL=4th-8th

The Legend of King Arthur retold by Robin Lister. il Alan Baker.
Doubleday/Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group, Inc: NY, 1988.

This is the book I most recommend for an introduction to traditional King Arthur (for older readers-Howard Pyle). The illustrations are dramatic and captivating. The language flows well, so it is good for reading aloud or for young readers.

related-King Arthur, Merlin, Arthurian romances, folklore of England, knights, knighthood, Lancelot, Guinevere, Holy Grail, sword in the stone, Tintagel
RL=3rd-6th

The Legend of Spud Murphy by Eoin Colfer. il. Glenn McCoy.
Hyperion Books for Children: NY, 2004.

In an attempt to control the behavior of Will and his brother, their parents are forcing them to spend summer days at the library. They expect to be bored to death under the watchful eye of mean Spud Murphy. She won't even let them step off the carpet in front of the children's books! This is too much of a challenge for Will, but what will be the consequence? Will she blast him with the potato gun the kids are sure she keeps behind the counter? Will she detect his movements? Will this undertaking lead him to a totally unexpected adventure?
note: author of the acclaimed Artemis Fowl series
related-librarians, libraries, reading
RL=2nd-5th
*This book is written for young readers, but it is funny enough that others will love it too.

The Legend of the Wandering King by Laura Gallego Garcia. trans. by Dan Bellm.
Arthur A. Levine Books/Scholastic Press: NY, 2005.

Prince Walid detains and eventually ruins the winner of the Kingdom's Greatest Poet out of jealousy. His actions destroy the kingdom, and he is catapulted into a lifechanging quest. The book explores the concept of fate and how much choices affect the future. I enjoyed both the fateful events and the growth of Walid as a person each step of the way.
related-fate, choice, consequences, poetry, kings, Arabian Peninsula
RL=6th-YA

The Legend of Thunderfoot by Bill Wallace.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 2006.

On the day of his naming ceremony, a young roadrunner is bit by a rattlesnake. The bite leaves him with huge, clumsy feet-so he gets stuck with the embarrassing name Thunderfoot. Through his attempts to overcome his impediment, he not only survives in the harsh environment but his achievements become legend.

What a great book for young readers (2nd-4th grades)! Especially animal-lovers. Only a few of the transitional books for young readers that I have read are exceptional. As important as this stage is in reading, you’d think there would be more. Bill Wallace has written many books for young readers; this is the first I’ve read. It has more meaning than the average book for young readers plus adventure and details of nature. It is a work of storytelling rather than a reading primer.

related-animals, desert habitat, handicap, boys, names, identity
RL=2nd-6th

Leonardo da Vinci for Kids by Janis Herbert.
Chicago Review Press: Chicago, 1998.

Da Vinci remains one of the most interesting people for children to read about. This book talks about his life and ideas in ways which inspire children to try some of the ideas themselves. There are prepared activities as well as gorgeous pictures. I believe it is primarily da Vinci's ideas and experiments that draw so much attention.
RL=4th-5th

Leonardo: Beautiful Dreamer by Robert Byrd.
Dutton Children's Books/Penguin Young Readers Group: NY, 2003.

Leonardo: Beautiful Dreamer is a biography for young readers focusing on Leonardo's notebooks, as that is where most of the knowledge of Leonardo da Vinci's thoughts, explorations, and discoveries come from. The writing is accessible to 1st through 5th graders (though a challenge for some 1st and 2nd graders) without watering down the content too much. The text could stand alone, but the illustrations add greatly to the appeal of the book. I selected the book first of all for the beauty of the design and pictures, and the reading experience was excellent with both combined. The illustrations draw the reader in, and with so many details, children will want to pour over the pages.

This may not be what you would normally think of as a picture book, but it can be used for young ones, primarily looking at the pictures or skipping over some of the content and discussing some, too. I do think there is enough information to appeal to 5th graders still, but the illustrations, blending many of da Vinci's own sketches with scenes from his life, are so fascinating that the illustrations are most of the book. Any child reading the book will come away with a greater understanding of Leonardo da Vinci than I had in my pre-college years.

related-Leonardo da Vinci, artists and paintings, scientific exploration and discoveries, observation and curiosity
RL=1st-5th, read aloud with pre-K through 1st

Leonardo's Shadow: My Astonishing Life as Leonardo da Vinci's Servant by Christopher Grey>
Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster: NY, 2006.

For 2 years Leonardo da Vinci has been living off credit. That's how long it's been since he contracted to paint The Last Supper, his greatest painting, on the wall of Santa Maria delle Grazie. There is barely anything on the wall. Why? Is he in a battle of wills with his patron, the Duke of Milan? Is something more important than painting on his mind? How long does he think he can continue without painting the wall? To be sure, their relationship is complex, but who does Leonardo think he is?

Giacomo's (Leonardo's servant) life is a mystery. His memory was lost from a fever and desperate chase before Leonardo found him and took him in. He would do anything to help Leonardo succeed. His most passionate wish is to be trained by his master (to share his master's life), but Leonardo treats him as an errand boy and petty thief (except that he is educating him).

Through necessity and frustration Giacomo plans a solution to Leonardo's debts and what he believes is delaying the painting. There are, of course, complications he could not have foreseen.

This is a fantastic historical novel. We get a glimpse of Leonardo, the Renaissance man, and the dealings he would have had with others to maintain his life while he sought perfection and understanding of the surrounding world. Plus, there is the mystery of the boy's past. He has evidence of possibly important relations. He wants answers, and he believes Leonardo has them.

related-Leonardo da Vinci, 15th century, Milan, Italy, servants, artists, painting, identity, alchemy, inventors, inventions
RL=7th-adult
*I think the title would have been better without the 2nd part. If the description hadn't been so good, I might not have read it. The book is much better than you might think from the title.

Let's Investigate: Number Patterns by Marion Smoothey.
Marshall Cavendish: NY, 1993.

This is a fairly simple introduction to number theory that isn't normally taught before college level. The purpose is to explore the fascinating study of number patterns. It isn't that it can't be taught sooner. It's not considered important for students to learn, but it can encourage more interest in mathematical studies.

related-square numbers, magic squares, triangular numbers, Fibonacci sequence, relationship of dots and lines, number chains, probability, Pascal's triangle, patterns in a number square
RL=4th and up

The Letter Writer by Ann Rinaldi.
Harcourt, Inc: NY, 2008.


11-year-old Harriet lives on her step-brother's plantation. Treated little better than a servant, she finds some value for herself when Richard designates her as the letter writer for his mother. His mother writes all of the letters related to the plantation business, so Harriet is gaining more education in the process. At the same time, Richard charges her with writing to an uncle, as practice, and she pours out her thoughts and worries to this relation, telling the story in the process.

Nat Turner comes to stay and work on the property. Harriet compares his gentle preaching to that of her strict step-brother's ministry, and finds Richard wanting. So when Nat Turner asks her for a map to the surrounding area, she complies, though she suspects it may not be wise. That map becomes a key part of the slave uprising that Nat Turner leads.

Ann Rinaldi discusses the Nat Turner uprising and his character and the idea of the girl as a letter writer being the focus of the story. The act of letter writing being her salvation.

The story was interesting in that, along with Harriet, the reader is totally taken in by Nat's behavior. You would not guess from his mild manner that he is soon to be a cold, maniacal killer. Except that someone else did most of the killing at his direction. Systematically killing at several plantations, and the story does not indicate reasons other than anti-slavery and the flirtations of one girl. Again, Rinaldi peaks my interest. Hearing of the Nat Turner uprising in school, I assumed it was about a slave's revenge. Never having looked farther into the matter, I had no idea that there are differences of opinion regarding his character and motives.

related-Virginia history, Nat Turner revolt, Southampton Insurrection, 1831, slavery, Southern plantations, African Americans
RL=YA-adult

Let the Good Times Roll with Pirate Pete and Pirate Joe by A. E. Cannon. il Elwood H. Smith.
Viking/Penguin Group: NY, 2004.

The pirates have done their chores and are looking for some fun. It's totally silly and fun.
RL=2nd-3rd     Level 3

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld. il Keith Thompson.
Simon Pulse/Simon & Schuster: NY, 2009.


Leviathan is an alternate history novel, first of a trilogy, set in the midst of WWI (England, Austria and Switzerland). There is an heir to Franz Ferdinand (whose murder started the war) being chased by the Austrian and German militaries. The Austrians and Germans have mechanical might, but different and larger than what they actually had. England (not in the war yet) uses ecosystems instead of machines, made by Darwin with DNA threads. So far, I think that idea is the best part of the story. Westerfeld plays with the idea quite a bit, and it is fascinating. Leviathan itself is a whale airship with many creatures coexisting. The main British character is a young girl, disguised as a boy to be in the British Air Service. Austrians and Brits meet when Leviathan is on a secret diplomatic mission to the Ottoman Empire.

My initial reaction when reading was disappointment that it is written at a 6th grade level. Being about WWI, I expected it to be YA level. While it would still be interesting to YA readers, I think the reading level should have been YA, partly because WWI is a YA subject. My disappointment also comes from the fact that Westerfeld can write at a higher level, and I don't want to see all of the YA books dumbed down, which will push all of the better readers into adult books out of aggravation.

Not long into the book I did get over my irritation. Westerfeld is an excellent author, and the story is sufficiently unusual to capture anyone's attention. The heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire may motivate readers to learn more about world history, a subject certainly lacking in my American upbringing as well as others'. I'm looking forward already to the sequel which will take place in the Ottoman Empire.

I mentioned before that the cover art is magnificent. There are also highly detailed illustrations throughout the book. The artwork is lovely, though a voice in my head tells me that illustrations are for young children. Though I don't want to see pictures in all novels, exceptions can be made for good artwork when appropriate.

YouTube has a cool trailer for the book, and TOR.com has an interview with Scott Westerfeld you might not want to miss.

related-World War I, imaginary creatures, genetic engineering, princes, gender roles, science fiction, high interest
RL=6th and up

The Librarian Who Measured the Earth by Kathryn Lasky. il Kevin Hawkes.
Little, Brown and Company: Boston, 1994.


An amazing book about an incredible man! If it's not enough that Eratosthenes was the chief librarian of the most famous library of ancient times-maybe ever-how about that he was able to figure out the circumference of the Earth using time, the angle of a shadow, rudimentary measuring techniques, and his mathematical knowledge? Add to that the fact that he had to research bits and pieces of information from the scrolls in the library and put it all together himself. All of this prompted by a question no one else could answer. Questions spurred his education from the beginning and set the course for his life.

The book is as much about Ancient Greek culture and education as it is about Eratosthenes, since there isn't much information to be found about him. Enough though to stimulate curiosity and inspire awe, which is exactly what the book does.

The illustrations work perfectly with story. The pictures are detailed but in a blurred way instead of exact. There is great use of color-vibrant in parts and subdued in others-with a smoothness throughout. I particularly enjoyed the shelves of scrolls, the sliced pie with the tiny people and camel, and the spread with the surveyors walking their measured steps. The pictures are so good that the book can be introduced to young kids despite the difficult concepts in the book. For young ones you will want to read ahead to determine if you want to skip some or reword some of the story.

related-Eratosthenes, measurement of Earth, Greek Astronomy, Ancient Geography, geographers, astronomers, library at Alexandria, Greek gymnasium or school
RL=1st-5th

Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen. il Kevin Hawkes.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2006.


A Lion wanders into the local library and is told he can stay if he follows the rules. He becomes a regular, helping the librarian. When she needs the most help, he is chased away for not following the rules.

This is a fun story regarding libraries. It has a gentle reminder about rules, but also discusses the necessity of ignoring them sometimes.

The illustrations are pastel colors, lighter than what Hawkes usually uses. The mood is lighthearted, with some wonderful pictures.

related-lions, libraries, rules, obedience
RL=1st-2nd, read aloud to toddler and up

The Life and Death of Crazy Horse by Russell Freedman. il. Amos Bad Heart Bull.
Holiday House: NY, 1996.

Crazy Horse grew up in the mid-1800s when the Sioux were desperately trying to save their hunting grounds and way of life. He became the greatest of all the Teton Sioux warriors-leading his warriors against General Custer in the Battle of Little Bighorn.

Freedman's account of Crazy Horse's life displays the wisdom, courage, and idealism of an extraordinary man. He fought and died for his beliefs when many others had given up. Yet, in the end he also allowed his followers to live instead of being killed with him.

The drawings were taken from a tribal pictoral history by Amos Bad Heart Bull. He was too young to take part in the battles, but he was Crazy Horse's cousin, and he learned first hand from those who did participate in the last struggles of the Sioux.
RL=4th-8th

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer.
Harcourt, Inc: Orlando, 2006.

The impact of a meteor collision with the moon causes worldwide geographical disasters. Miranda chronicles her family's life during most of a year as everyone struggles to live without basic necessities, not to mention conveniences.

The story is based on a premise that I think is unlikely. I don't believe the moon would shift positions as a result of the impact. The rest of the story is believable. I can see us struggling to survive in a similar manner if we have another Great Depression which has become too much of a possibility, because of the "idiot" to which Pfeffer alludes in the book. I can also imagine that New Orleans has been experiencing some of these situations since Hurricane Katrina, except they have had some aid from others.

There are only a couple other details that detract from Pfeffer's reality: the family's well still works after losing electricity and there was no explanation of the source of food and gas at the end. The pump for my family's well requires electricity. Are there some in use in the U.S. that do not? There was a detail about rigging the furnace with a battery. Could this be done for the pump, too? I don't know if this was artistic license or the detail was missed. The food at the end could have been collected from houses of the dead, but the gas must have come from somewhere else. I feel certain that would have been used up quickly after the first catastrophes. To get gas from elsewhere would have required some plowing. A short explanation might have been nice. These are small things, though, compared to the reality of the book.

I'd like to know what prompted Pfeffer to write the story. It's a bit depressing, though it could have been much more so. I do recognize that teenagers don't necessarily mind depressing. They can handle dwelling on it better than most age groups. For myself, I continued reading because I do believe it could happen to us. I'm not sure my family could survive, and I wanted to see what solutions might help if my fears become reality.

The story was a surprise to me during a time when so many people seemed to be in a state of denial about how bad our economic outlook has become. For years I have been trying to talk to people about the idea that we are heading towards another Great Depression. People have looked at me like I'm nuts or a total wet blanket. (They are finally seeing the possibility, though officials and the media are still trying to downplay the seriousness of our situation). My husband has been angry with me for being so negative. Actually, I wanted people to see what I saw, so we could work towards preventing an economic collapse. If we can't avoid it, then I want to be prepared at least. I don't know if that is really possible, especially after reading this book.

related-natural disasters, catastrophic events, family life, diaries, science fiction, lack of necessities, deprivation
RL=YA-adult

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan.
Hyperion Books for Children/Miramax Books: NY, 2005.

In the first book of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, Riordan tells a tale of Greek mythological characters roaming the modern U.S.-starting in New York City and traveling to Los Angeles. Imagine your ADHD being the result of your demigod status, unbeknownst to you! One crazy event after another happens as Percy meets more characters-especially once he learns who he is and accepts his quest. The characters and other mythological connections are well done and my favorite part of the story. The confrontations occur a little too often, but there are plenty of creative tidbits to keep readers hooked.

Percy's quest arises due to the fact that someone has stolen Zeus's master lightning bolt. He accuses Poseidon and gives him until the summer solstice to return it or prepare for World War III. Percy (short for Perseus) is appointed the task of reclaiming it. His advisers believe Hades is the culprit, so he must travel to the Underworld. Unfortunately, Zeus is not the only god missing an object of power, and matters become complicated.

Interestingly, the book reminds me of another story related to mythical stolen property, Thor's Wedding by Bruce Coville. Coville's story closely follows a Norse poem, Thrymskvitha. Riordan's does not.

All three of my sons (ages 9-16) read the book and immediately read the second book. They loved them.
related-Greek gods & mythology, monsters, family relationships
RL=4th & up

Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman
Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company: NY, 1987.
Newbery Award Winner 1988

In my opinion, no biographical list would be complete without a book about Abraham Lincoln. I have been fascinated by his life and character since I was in 5th grade. He had wisdom and sensitivity beyond most people's capability, and yet he could also captivate crowds with his humor. There are, of course, many biographies available, but Russell Freedman has a knack for exhibiting an individual's personality. It almost feels like you know Lincoln after reading this account-instead of having read through a list of dry facts. The photos are striking, and there are some of Lincoln's writings at the end along with some other good sources.
RL=5th-8th

Lincoln: In His Own Words edited by Milton Meltzer. il Stephen Alcorn.
Harcourt Brace & Company: NY, 1993.


Years ago I compiled a list of books to read for a unit study on the American Civil War. I haven't posted it yet, because I made the list before I started reviewing books. I wanted to reread and review first. Somehow this book escaped my notice at the time. Odd, considering Meltzer is one of my favorite historians.

Because I have read several books on Lincoln, there was not much new to me in this one. It does cover the important points, and since the approach is different it adds in some ways also. Meltzer has a series of books in which he uses the speaker or writer's words for perspective regarding the person's character and deeds. This works perfectly for Lincoln because he was a fluent and eloquent communicator-spoken and written. He is one of the few in history that stands out for his speaking and writing skills, and he is accessible to the average person.

Certain words of his reach out to me across time and still seem appropriate and right. For ex., he made a statement, which I hadn't heard before, against preemptive war as a Congressman regarding the war with Mexico. Given that the book was published in 1993, I found that interesting. Before G. W. Bush I had never thought about the issue. I would guess his words seem so right, because he was contemplative and analytical, not just spouting off. He was principled and stuck to his principles amid chaos, and he used his own words, which is rare nowadays. What I have read of his speeches makes me want to read more. What else did he say that others didn't care enough to note?

A wonderful surprise is the graphics in the book. They aren't necessary, but they are beautifully done. There are black and white, full page, engraving style prints-many of them portraits. They incorporate motifs of the period. The chapter heads are bordered with monotone, block prints. Much of the graphics remind me of quilting and embroidery from that time. Even some of the portraits have motifs within them. A friend who saw the title said she thought it sounded boring. But when she opened the book, she was amazed by the graphics. She studied them for a while and took down the name of the book for future reference. I know that I have seen the illustrator's work before in historical books and will search for more.

related-Abraham Lincoln, United States Presidents, Civil War, US politics and government, 1849-1865, political and social views
RL=6th-adult

Listen to the Wind by Greg Mortenson & Susan L. Roth.
Dial Books for Young Readers/Penguin Group: NY, 2009.


This is an adaptation of Three Cups of Tea by Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. The story is an account of his mission to build a school for the remote village of Korphe, Pakistan, after the villagers cared for him when he was lost in the mountains. This version of the events is told from the children's viewpoint. Amazing things told in a matter-of-fact style. It must have seemed like a miracle to them. The children ask "Can you hear our voices?" I can certainly hear the excitement.

The illustrations are multi-media, painted backgrounds with the school and people as collages. There are photos of the actual village at the end. The backgrounds are my favorite part of the pictures, but the combination works well for the story.

The story is what most impresses me about the book. It's exciting and needs to be shared. I first saw the picture book, but what is even more exciting is the story from which it was adapted.

related-rural schools, Pakistan, hospitality, friendship, mountain village
RL=2nd-4th, read aloud to toddlers-1st, use for geography 1st-3rd grades

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.
Little, Brown and Company: Boston, 1994.
Originally published 1868 by same publisher.

Little Women was a book that I loved as a girl. It was written at a time when most people led simpler lives. I was impressed by the simpleness of their lives and their desire to be cheerful and useful. Coming from a large family, I also lived with simplicity and was less impressed with monetary things than other girls I knew. I don't know if our society has changed too much for girls to appreciate this story, but I do believe we need reminders that money and objects are not the most important things. Honesty and caring for others are not valued enough anymore.

Like most girls, I empathized greatly with Jo because I didn't feel "good" enough. But as the story progresses, Jo learns from her mother that goodness comes more easily as you grow. It takes practice and the responsibilities of adults before proper behavior becomes standard behavior for a person. Adults also rebel against things they believe to be unjust-but sometimes silently.
related-family life, sisters, New England 1860s, coming of age
RL=6th-YA

May not be strictly considered historical fiction, but it is old enough now to have the feel of a historical book.

Living Color by Steve Jenkins.
Houghton Mifflin Company: Boston, 2007.


Living Color is an eye-catching display of creatures and their colors. It has great discussion of the various purposes of color in the Animal Kingdom. The color in some of the creatures is exaggerated. The text is as vibrant as the illustrations. It also has facts and animals I didn't already know about. I do have to admit my kids know more about animals than I, due to the number of PBS programs and books to which they have been exposed. However, it is sure to generate interest in life sciences for young readers. The back section has FAQs related to color and more facts about the creatures presented.

related-camouflage, protection, attracting mates, warning of poison and other noxious characteristics, recognition, imitation, distraction, illusion (trick of the light), emotion, food (you are what you eat), surprise, communication, habitat for others
RL=2nd-4th, maybe as young as Kindergarten

Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy by Gary D. Schmidt.
Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company: NY, 2004.
Newbery Honor Book 2005

Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy is beautifully written. Schmidt has interwoven metaphors that flow perfectly with the story and pinpoint images exactly for instant visual understanding. The words have color and texture and make you want to slow down and hold them and cherish them before moving on.

There are so many thoughts and emotions and issues blended into this story. The historical theme is the decimation of a community of poor, powerless people for the purpose of building a tourist resort. The other major theme is a boy's struggle to find and stick to the right path when the majority (including his father, the minister) are pressuring him to do something else. It is unfortunate that he cannot discuss his thoughts and actions with his disapproving, unbending father (who is undergoing his own struggle).

The story doesn't end how I want it to end because it is based on actual events that took place in the Phippsburg, Maine area in 1912. However, there is hope of positive changes to come in the town of Phippsburg.

I highly recommend this book. It is a great one to share with others.
related-race, clergy, Maine history, noncomformity
RL=6th-adult

It isn't difficult to read, but I suspect it would have more meaning for adults, older teens, and people who have had to suffer some form of isolation.

For those interested, there is discussion on this book in the BookAdvice forums under historical fiction.

London Calling by Edward Bloor.
Alfred A. Knopf/Random House, Inc: NY, 2006.

The major themes in London Calling are time travel, spiritual visitation, and redemption. Martin is contacted by an English boy from World War II through his dreams. Upon waking, he learns gradually that the facts and people of which he dreamed are real. He follows the boy through his dreams in war-torn London to learn how he can possibly help him, and he studies Britain in WWII during waking hours, so he will be ready to help when the time comes. He is partly drawn into the situation because his revered grandfather is one of the characters he observes in his dreams.

The book has piqued my interest about historical things I have not heard before. It is a truly original work as well-not the standard time travel book.
related-time travel, London 1940-1941, bombardment, schools, Great Britain-World War II, afterlife, redemption, alcoholism, Catholics, futility of war
RL=6th-YA

The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd.
David Fickling Books/Random House: NY, 2007.
Originally published in Oxford, England.

Ted and Kat take their cousin to ride the London Eye (a giant bicycle/ferris wheel) when Salim comes to visit. Salim uses a ticket given by a stranger to go up alone instead of waiting in line. He goes up, but doesn't come down. How's that possible? Ted spends 3 days trying to figure it out. The police and press are called in to help with Salim's disappearance.

As the youngest present, Ted is mostly ignored. His sister Kat, feeling responsible for the situation, enlists Ted, with his analytic brain, to help her find Salim. She tries to do the field work herself, but Ted follows. Ted figures there are 9 possibilities, Kat discusses the options and does some sleuthing. When they get into trouble for leaving the house, not even Kat will listen to Ted. He turns to the detective in charge, and the solution starts to be revealed.

The book is written in an unusual style and takes some getting used to. It's told from the perspective of Ted who has a neurological "syndrome" which causes him to focus on things in a different way. One of the things he chooses to focus on is the weather-all aspects. This helps him to analyze problems. Meteorological information plays a part in his solving the case.

The mystery itself is good. It's unusual and twists a bit. I didn't expect the solution, although I could see it once all the clues started to come together. I highly recommend the story for its uniqueness.

related-mysteries, detective stories, Asperger's syndrome (highly functional), missing children, meteorology, brothers and sisters, cousins, relatives, London, England
RL=6th-8th

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor.
Dial Books/Penguin Group: NY.
The Looking Glass Wars 2006: I checked the book out from the library, because it sounded intriguing. It's much more captivating than I expected. I don't know how it was received by Lewis Carroll fans, but I found it to be one of the more engaging young adult books. The reading level is a little low (possibly 7th grade), and there are some parts that could have been developed more.

The concept of the book is what first attracted me. Alyss Heart (heir to the futuristic Wonderland Queendom) is transported to nineteenth century England through the Pool of Tears/random puddle when her Aunt Redd murders her mother (the Queen) and grabs control. Alyss falls in with some homeless children (like Oliver Twist), gets caught stealing, and is taken to an orphanage where she is adopted by the Liddells (Mr. Liddell being a dean in Oxford). For years she tries to keep the memory of her past alive and is scorned for her efforts. The publishing of her story (twisted by the author) motivates her to reject her memories and learn to blend in with society. Alyss is propelled back into Wonderland when Hatter Madigan announces her survival and Redd sends the Cat after her. She needs a crash course in imagination, since the battle for the Queendom is one of imagination.

There is a timeline of parallels at the back of the book, but the political and social references are minimal in the story. There are many special effects with a futuristic atmosphere: transportation using looking glass mirrors and a puddle system, talking billboards animated by the Queen's imagination, all sorts of flying weaponry and illusions. Hatter Madigan and Bibwit Harte are great characters and may yet inspire me to read Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.

This is one of the many fantasy stories in movie production. Though I don't want all of the great books to be made into movies, I believe this book could make a great movie if done properly.



Seeing Redd 2007: Through an imagination twist, Redd and the Cat find their way to France via an artist's palette. Redd seeks out the darker elements of Earth to gather generals for her next attempt at wresting Wonderland from Alyss. Hatter Madigan leaves to mourn his beloved, learns of a daughter he didn't know he had, and walks into the clutches of the King of Borderland.

Overall, I liked the first book better. Maybe because it was fresh and original. Maybe because so much of this second book is war, and the first book was violent enough already (doubtless boys will love it). Maybe I was just forced to read the book too quickly, since I had three others I was reading and a son dying to get his hands on it. There are some bits I think are excellent: the means of Redd's return, the tool used to defeat Redd again, parts of Madigan and Molly's story, brief allusions to Earthly politics (alas, no timeline for this book).

related-kings, queens, rulers, monarchs, war, characters in literature, Alice in Wonderland, imagination, light vs dark, good vs evil
RL=YA

Lord of Chaos by Robert Jordan.
Book 6 of The Wheel of Time
Tor Fantasy: NY, 1994.



Ultra-Condensed

• The crux of the story is intrigue (multiple characters on all sides hiding their own secrets and agendas) and lack of communication. Traveling and Dreamwalking helps. Each too focused on their own concerns.


• Asmodean and Lanfear are back, but what about Morraine and Lan?


• Mat has a cool shield from the Power, but Aes Sedai testing reveals an exception.


• Nynaeve and Elayne make great discoveries through experimentation - and necessity.


• I can't believe Alanna Sedai had the gaul to do that! But then, they are all quite arrogant. Even Egwene.


• Rand has set up schools - for invention and for training followers.


• The rebels choose an Amyrlin.


• An army too horrible to unleash.


• A contest of who will control The Dragon Reborn.


• Rand needs a new Aes Sedai counselor, if for no other reason than to communicate his motives. Possibly Verin? Or a Wise Woman with cooperation from Aes Sedai?


• Perrin to the rescue.


• The first Aes Sedai kneel to the Dragon.


• Let the Lord of Chaos rule.
RL=YA-adult, adult book, challenging The Lost Years of Merlin Series by T.A. Barron.
Philomel Books/Putnam & Grosset Group: NY.
The Lost Years of Merlin 1996
The Seven Songs of Merlin 1997
The Fires of Merlin 1998
The Mirror of Merlin 1999
The Wings of Merlin 2000



T.A. Barron always writes with a consciousness of nature and spirituality. His stories are passionate and alive. The pace is slower than what is currently popular because there is meaning in every part of the story. The language of The Lost Years of Merlin is not difficult or even challenging, but the description requires some lingering and rumination to appreciate the story.

In this series, Merlin's childhood is only loosely linked to the Merlin that the world recognizes, but I can see glimpses of the Merlin that Emrys will become. My oldest was disappointed because the story didn't seem to be truly Merlin to him. Barron points out that there is no established canon for Merlin's childhood. Merlin is different in these stories. He is the young Merlin, before he has learned wisdom. He may have the soul of a wizard, but certainly also the arrogance of one, and not balanced or kept in check by the self-restraint and wisdom necessary to be a great wizard.
related-wizards, magic, childhood and education of Merlin, identity, amnesia, second sight, friends, King Arthur, prophecy, human relationship to nature and animals
RL=6th-YA


The Lost Years of Merlin:


With a sudden jolt, he realized that he could not remember anything. Where he had come from. His mother. His father. His name. His own name.




Cast from the sea onto the rocks of Wales is a boy with no knowledge of who he is or from where he comes. He soon notices a woman who says she is his mother, and they settle in a nearby village, although never truly a part of it. After a few years a momentous and life-wrenching experience propels the boy to journey in search of his past and identity. The task he must undertake on the legendary Isle of Fincayra, the bridge between the Earth and the Otherworld, sets him on a path to become Merlin, the greatest of all wizards.


The Seven Songs of Merlin: In his youthful ignorance and arrogance, Merlin makes many terrible, careless mistakes. He puts aside the task with which he is entrusted, healing the lands of Fincayra, to bring his mother back to the island. Because of this mistake, he grievously wounds his mother and must learn what it truly is to be a wizard to save her. Each of the Seven Songs holds an essential truth necessary to be powerful enough to withstand Rita Gawr and his servants. This particular tale also mirrors the Holy Grail quest in that young Merlin's task is to obtain the Elixir of Dagda in order to restore Elen to health.


This is my favorite of the series so far. I've read all but the last book. There is wisdom in each of the seven tasks he must achieve. A large step forward in Merlin's maturing process.


The Fires of Merlin: Urnalda the Queen of the Dwarves calls upon Merlin to pay a debt by defeating the dragon that has reawakened and is looking for revenge since someone has destroyed the remaining dragon eggs on the island.


A group of characters combine through their separate actions to lessen Merlin's ability to defeat Valderag, the dragon. Because of an old prophecy about the confrontation, he spends most of the time looking for the Galator which he believes will give him the power he needs. The Galator has been stolen from Domnu (its last possessor), so he travels to a volcanic cave to visit a seer (not unlike Greek mythology) to find its location.

Merlin meets 2 deer people-who change back and forth between deer and people. His relationship with this brother and sister extends the series' concept of interconnectedness and helps to prepare him for his confrontation with the dragon (and confrontations in later books)-as does his relationships with Cairpré and Rhia.

The relationship with Hallia and Eremon (the deer people) and the conclusion are the strongest parts of the book. Barron does a good job of showing the reader (and Merlin) the viewpoint of the animals which impacts how he deals with other creatures in hostile situations.


The Mirror of Merlin: The 4th book of the series is again a book of connections. The mists in different situations connecting worlds. The mirror connecting times through different pathways. The mists were present in previous books-this time with increased focus.


The whole book seems to me to be leading up to Merlin meeting his older self (which is the best part of the book). Other than this there is less purpose to the story than the other books. Many of the happenings are accidental. There are some good moments besides, like Merlin freeing the marsh ghouls and their helping him in return (a connection to The Fires of Merlin).

One thing interesting is that Nimue in Barron's series is totally hateful and power-hungry. Normally, I don't see Nimue in this way-although there are variations in her behavior from story to story.

The setting for Merlin's older self doesn't quite fit canon either. Merlin was not imprisoned in the crystal cave as Arthur's tutor. However, it lends interesting details to Barron's story.

I need to go back and check The Seven Songs of Merlin. After reading The Mirror of Merlin, I wonder if Nimue's behavior in the bakery was only about jealousy and lust for power, or is it possible she had some contact with her older self? Did she want the sword specifically or only objects of power? Was she trying to stop Merlin through taking away the younger Merlin's power as she tries to do in this book? My feeling is that Nimue had some knowledge in The Seven Songs of Merlin that Merlin didn't have.Perhaps knowledge of the future?


The Wings of Merlin: Dagda tells Merlin in a vision that he must convince the peoples of Fincayra to unite (an impossible task) to repel an invasion by Rhita Gawr on the longest night. He has 2 weeks to protect the island against certain destruction with the help of a few people-his sister Rhia, Caipré the scholar, Shim the giant, Hallia the deerwoman, and his own shadow. As a distraction, Rhita Gawr sends one of Merlin's oldest enemies after him with complementary sword arms. In protecting the children of Fincayra from Sword Arms, Merlin succeeds in gaining access to the Forgotten Island and earns the chance to restore wings to humans and to choose his destiny.


I enjoyed Rhia's attempts at flight-both the swinging through the trees and the Icarus/Dedalus imitation. Her character is full of surprises and, as said about Rhia and Merlin, "full of madness." I appreciate also that this leads up to the recovery of lost wings and the history of the Forgotten Island. Shim's part in the story (though small) also adds to it. I wasn't impressed by the winged-human idea, but the story of the Forgotten Island is fittiing, and the formation of Avalon lends credibility to Merlin's choice to confront his destiny instead of staying on Fincayra.

The reintroduction of an old enemy and Merlin's sympathy and mercy are one more step towards his ultimate destiny. In the last 3 books, Merlin matures greatly and gains both wisdom and the respect of others. Though he hasn't recognized his own worth, others are starting to consider him a wizard and to see the possibility of his greatness in the future-including the immortal Dagda.
related-Merlin, wizards, forgiveness, unity, community, destiny, Avalon

Lunch Money by Andrew Clements.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 2005.


For both Lunch Money and The Last Holiday Concert I made the bad mistake of judging the book by its cover, so I did not read them until recently. They didn't seem like anything special to me; I should have known better. It is amazing to me that Clements can use so few and simple words to convey all that he does in his stories.

In Lunch Money, a business-minded boy (Greg) implements his best project yet: mini-comics. His neighbor, classmate, and nemesis (Maura) appreciates his idea and makes her own books. They feud, are separated, and then become business partners. They share their creative endeavors, and they band together to save their business with the help of their math teacher.

related-interpersonal relations, moneymaking projects, business, comics, authorship, schools, selling and marketing at schools, student/teacher relationships, high interest
RL=4th-7th

Madam President by Lane Smith.
Hyperion Books for Children: NY, 2008.


Lane Smith's new book compares events in a little girl's day to the day of a President. The text is succinct statements. The comparisons are funny in their exaggeration. School age children will agree with many of the sentiments. Not surprisingly, the illustrations make the book: from the President's cabinet to the Secret Service Cat to keeping the peace to the Disaster Area. Lane Smith fans will enjoy it.

No doubt it would have made more of an impact if Hilary Clinton were the Democratic nominee, but I don't think it matters. The book defines the Presidency in terms children can understand, during what is perhaps the most important election in over half a century.
related-tasks of a United States President, children's lives
RL=K-3rd, read aloud is fine, but young kids may not understand the jokes

Madapple by Christina Meldrum.
Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers/Random House: NY, 2008.


Christina Meldrum's debut novel is an eye-opening, thought-provoking mystery. Going beyond the mystery, Meldrum delves into questions regarding faith, religion, science, and life. Madapple is outstanding in its depth and uniqueness. It has been published as a young adult book, but is definitely adult level as well.

Unique is certainly the word for it considering the different plot and concepts and the masterful meshing of plant lore with the story. A certain amount of open-mindedness is recommended as a reader. For myself, my first question is: how much was based on actual study-both the biology and the religious theory? My interest is piqued, and I want to learn more.

Madapple has layered and intertwining themes, both complex and unusual. The first is Aslaug's trials. The deaths of her mother, aunt, and cousin are mysteries that feed the suspense until the very end. This is the plot that holds the rest together.

Within the trial situation the reader sees Aslaug's isolation. In the beginning of her life, it seems fairly natural, though different from the surrounding society, and Aslaug starts to become restless in her teens (also normal). After her mother's death the isolation is thrust upon her. Also within the trials, a lack of communication is apparent. Aslaug does not understand normal procedures regarding an accused suspect. It is assumed that she is crazy, and therefore, capable of murder. Even when the facts don't support this belief, little attempt is made to communicate with her to find the truth. I believe this is a reflection of how people respond to each other in daily life. People have limited viewpoints, and most don't look deeper to find a truer picture.

The next theme is the mystery surrounding the births, Aslaug's and Sophia Phalia's. The circumstances of Aslaug's conception are not known. Her mother apparently believed it was a virgin birth (not out of ignorance). She studied ancient languages in order to read texts that would support this view. This theme is closely related to the next-that of religious belief. There are two parts to this: 1)historical religions and the basis of Christianity and 2)the depth of belief or how it is practiced. When Aslaug notices that she is pregnant, her cousin provides a historical perspective. This perspective leads to obsessive behavior by her cousin and aunt, although her aunt already lives this way and changes her focus.

The last one is one the author herself speaks of-a "dichotomy between science and religion." Biology is a great part of Aslaug and her mother's (Maren's) way of life. They gather plants for food, healing, comfort, and spiritual protection. In earlier years, Maren studied religions, but now rejects those beliefs as irrational (as many scientists are encouraged to do). She teaches Aslaug about the natural world, but refers to supernatural elements with disdain. Biology is a science that has been interwoven with religion, including mythology, forever, because it has the most basic (yet miraculous), practical uses. It is more natural (and possibly more meaningful) to teach it with the lore of ages than through strictly scientific fact. During the trials, biology is viewed from a scientific basis. Because Aslaug has knowledge of certain plants, she is automatically suspect. Her explanations are rejected, since they don't fit with this strictly factual view. Aslaug goes to live with her aunt and cousins after her mother's death and is then immersed in a religious environment. Her aunt is a pastor, and her cousin enlists her help studying ancient texts. The story compares the two opposite ways of living and brings them together in Aslaug who is capable of absorbing both ways and also capable of filtering ideas to live a more balanced life.

related-biology, practical uses of plants, religious beliefs and practice, history of Christianity, Christ and early Christians, ancestry, court proceedings, isolation, lack of communication, homeschool RL=YA-adult

Blog Stop Book Tours has scheduled more reviews for Madapple:
June 4 Sharp Words
June 6 The Book Faery Reviews
June 9 Mom Is Just A Nickname
June 13 From the Cheap Seats
June 16 Something She Wrote
June 18 YA Bookmarks
June 23 Maw Books
June 27 Writing From Kiddom The Magic School Bus originally by Joanna Cole. il. Bruce Degen.
Scholastic Inc: NY.

Besides being a very informative introduction to scientific ideas, the series motivates beginning readers with its witty dialogue and details.
RL=1st-3rd and read aloud to younger

By Joanna Cole: At the Waterworks, and the Electric Field Trip, Explores the Senses, For Lunch, Gets Lost in Space, Gets Planted, Goes Upstream, Going Batty, In the Attic, In the Rain Forest, In the Time of the Dinosaurs, Inside a Beehive, Inside the Human Body, Inside a Hurricane, Inside the Earth, Inside Ralphie, Lost in the Solar System, On the Ocean Floor, Out of This World

By Linda Beech: Gets Ants in Its Pants, Gets Baked in a Cake, Meets the Rot Squad

By George Bloom: Makes a Rainbow

By Gail Herman: Blows Its Top

By Nancy Krulik: Butterfly and the Bog Beast, Hello Out There

By Jane Mason: Ups and Downs

By Joseph Mitchell: Looking for Liz

By Jackie Posner: Shows and Tells

By Patricia Relf: Gets Eaten, Hops Home, Wet All Over

By Tracey Web: Gets Cold Feet, Spins a Web

By Nancy White: Gets a Bright Idea, Gets Programmed, Kicks Up a Storm, Sees Stars, Takes a Dive


The Magic Wand by Karen Hoenecke. il Kevin Hawkes.
School Zone Publishing Company: 1997.

This has some wonderful pictures-imaginative and beautifully drawn. Other than that, I really don't like it. The rhymes are simple as can be, as well as the words, because it is a Start to Read book. Except for the illustrations, the book is uninteresting, and I would have rather just seen the pictures. There are other beginning readers that are much better (ex.Henry and Mudge, Mr. Putter and Tabby, Commander Toad, Amelia Bedelia, Berenstain Bears), though only a few authors have created interesting stories with limited vocabulary.

My recommendation for beginners is to find the good authors and/or skip the readers and write your own sentences to teach phonics. Parents know their kids better than anyone else. Parents ought to know better than anyone what content will motivate their children to read a sentence. To teach my kids to read I made a few sentences for each letter of the alphabet drawing from things in our lives. Some simple words, some a little harder. Then, I had them sound them out with my help. Not more than a few sentences in a day. Kids move beyond this level very quickly. After that, picture books are great practice. The real challenge with reading comes later, with finding chapter books and novels that will hook the child.

My recommendation for the use of this book would be to view it with toddlers or even earlier, with an emphasis on exploring the pictures.

Mama Love by Kathy Mallat.
Walker Publishing Company: NY, 2004.


As you would expect from Kathy Mallat's career as an art teacher, the 2-page spread illustrations of her books are gorgeous. Mama Love is particularly striking, with the soulfulness of the chimpanzees shining through their eyes, meeting the reader eye-to-eye, just as they would in real life.

The text fits the illustrations perfectly. The language is brief, a short poem about the mama caring for her baby. I like that, though spare in words, it is not watered down. Simple, beautiful, absolutely perfect for reading with toddlers, and it will tug at every mama's heart.

I especially like the spread of the tree in shadow with the chimpanzees blending in and the closeup of the chimp kissing Mama.

Mallat used colored pencils on oil pastels to create her story.

related-parent and child, mothers, chimpanzees, love, stories in rhyme
RL=1st-2nd, mostly read aloud to babies and toddlers

The Man Who Made Time Travel by Kathryn Lasky. il Kevin Hawkes.
Melanie Kroupa Books/Farrar, Straus and Giroux: NY, 2003.


The title is a little deceptive. It is meant more literally than I would have expected. The story has to do with Britain's attempt to find an accurate way to measure longitude and so limit the number of lost and wrecked ships. Some people believed that the key would be in more accurate time keeping-including John Harrison, a rural self-taught carpenter with a passion for clockmaking. His concept was different than others in that he believed it was important to construct a timepiece that would not be affected by conditions at sea-especially weather and the rolling motion of the ships. He was successful and spent much of his life perfecting what are now called chronometers, but he ran into a snag with the contest which started his inventing.

Besides the most interesting story, Kevin Hawkes's illustrations are very well done. Most of them are impressionistic and capture the mood of the story. The cover, title page, and end pages are more detailed, and beautiful. Others are also arresting. All have certain highlighted details, some with a point to be made and some showing humor.
related-measurement of longitude, chronometers, John Harrison, measurement of time, history of clocks, clock and watch makers, biography
RL=3rd-5th

The Man Who Said No by Sally Edwards.
Coward-McCann, Inc: NY, 1970.

This is an absorbing biography with background information of life in pre-Civil War South Carolina. It is about a farm boy who became an important lawyer in Charleston. He rejected secession and continued to live and practice in Charleston during the war struggling to maintain some sense of justice in the city as the war progressed and hotheads prevailed-both Southern and Northern.
related-Civil War, Charleston (SC), Union, integrity, loyalty
RL=6th-YA

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein.
Roaring Brook Press: Brookfield, CT, 2003.
Caldecott Award 2004

This is the story of Phillipe Petit, the young Frenchman who walked and danced for an hour on a tightrope strung between the two towers of the World Trade Center in NY in 1974. The story is presented with beauty and humor. I can imagine the two towers being a perfect place for a tightrope experience. The book was written as a memorial to the World Trade Center.
RL=1st-3rd and read aloud to younger

The Man Who Wore All His Clothes by Allan Ahlberg. il Katharine McEwen.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2001.

Get ready for an action-packed adventure with the Gaskitt family. Why is Mr. Gaskitt wearing all of his clothes? Who will catch the robber? And why did he take the pizza?

The Gaskitts are fabulous! There are so many fun things going on at once-and there is a mystery to solve besides.
related-twins, pets, humorous stories, robbery, chase
RL=1st-2nd

Marven of the Great North Woods by Kathryn Lasky. il Kevin Hawkes.
Harcourt Brace & Company: NY, 1997.


This story is based on the story of the author's father during the winter of 1918. It was the year of the terrible influenza outbreak. After Marven's great-aunt succumbed to the disease, his parents wanted to make sure one of their children was safely away. Since he was the only boy, he was given an opportunity by a friend of the family to work in a logging camp through the winter. It was his first time to be away, and the men in the camp mostly spoke French. His job was to tally the work the men were accomplishing. It was a chance to explore the woods on skis and enjoy a different culture.

This is a wonderful story, rich in historical ambience. It is far removed from my experience, and yet I enjoy reading about it, because it is a clue to my family history. My great-grandfather worked in logging camps and also played a fiddle. I was too young to remember his stories, but stories like this bring him close. Living in Maine, I also enjoy the experience of skiing through the woods and wonder what it was like to ski as a form of transportation long ago.

The illustrations are more in keeping with historical content, but still fairly bright. Hawkes is excellent at spotlighting special moments in the stories he illustrates. The pictures are not his most memorable work, but fit with the story and are enjoyable.

related-lumber camps, loggers, influenza, Jews, Minnesota
RL=2nd-3rd, read aloud to K-1st

Math Curse by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith.
Viking/Penguin Group: NY, 1995.

Have you ever had a day when you noticed a math problem in everything around you? Or do you make sure that never happens because it would be your worst nightmare? In Math Curse, Mrs. Fibonacci (math teacher) says "you can think of almost everything as a math problem" and starts a barrage of questions (some of them ridiculously unrelated).

This is my favorite Scieszka/Smith book so far. The problems are imaginative and at times hilarious. The pictures are absorbing and delightful as well.
related-math anxiety, mathematics
RL=2nd-5th (or anyone wanting a good laugh)

Mathematicians Are People, Too: Stories from the Lives of Great Mathematicians by Luetta Reimer & Wilbert Reimer.
Dale Seymour Publications: Palo Alta, CA, 1990.

Not only are mathematicians people, too, but they can have very interesting lives. The usual mathematicians are discussed here (Pythagorus, Archimedes, Newton, tec) plus others less well-known such as John Napier, Leonhard Euler, Sophie Germain, and Srinivasa Ramanujan. Half of the people I had either never heard of or only heard the name before reading the book. The biographies are short but fascinating and hopefully will generate more interest in mathematics since they show math as a process of thinking and logic not just figuring.
related-problem solving, geometry, number theory, algebra, computation, probabilty, measurement, mathematical symbols, women in mathematics
RL=5th-8th

Max Found Two Sticks by Brian Pinkney.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: NY, 1994.


Sitting on the front steps, Max sees two sticks blown from a tree. He observes the sounds around him and imitates them. He starts off tapping on his leg and tries a few other objects as instruments. At the end a marching band goes by. A drummer who notices Max drumming throws him a set of drumsticks.

Max was initially sitting quietly watching clouds. In a contemplative mood, he focuses on the sounds and creates his own. Have you ever had a day or moments when your surroundings are distant but sounds seem louder, in the forefront? I imagine this is how it would be for Max. And this one afternoon is beginning a lifetime of musical exploration for him. As a cool note, Brian Pinkney says he has played drums since eight years old, and he keeps drumsticks in his studio to play with on breaks.

Although I like the vibrant color, I wasn't immediately drawn to the illustration. They are indistinct. It's possible the concept was more appealing to me, so I ignored the pictures at first. Looking again, I was not only drawn into them, but wanting to look again and again. I saw that what at first seemed blurry was swirling used for a sense of movement. Everything has this swirliness. I think it is about everything being alive and having its own music. This is a book for reading over and over. A book deeper than it appears at first.

related-drums and drumming, percussion, music, African-Americans, communication, neighbors and neighborhoods
RL=1st-2nd, read aloud to toddler-1st

Robert McCloskey


Picture Books

Lentil 1940
Make Way for Ducklings 1941 Caldecott Award 1942
Blueberries for Sal 1948 Caldecott Honor 1949
One Morning in Maine 1952 Caldecott Honor 1953
Time of Wonder 1957 Caldecott Award 1958
Burt Dow, Deep-Water Man 1963

Novels 5th-6th Grade Level

Homer Price 1943
Centerburg Tales 1951



McCloskey's books are full of humor and beautiful, touching pictures. They are great books to read aloud to your toddlers, and young ones will also continue to view them on their own before they become good readers. Each picture book is a treasure. Even the two lesser known ones(Lentil and Burt Dow) are favorites of our family.

These books were written and illustrated by Robert McCloskey. He also illustrated other books not listed here.

originally published by Viking Press, more recently by Puffin Books/Penguin Books USA Inc

Review of Burt Dow


Me, All Alone, at the End of the World by M. T. Anderson. il Kevin Hawkes.
Candlewick Press: Cambridge, MA, 2005.


A boy lives a peaceful, contemplative life caught up in the adventures and explorations of his own making. Until Mr. Shimmer happens upon his paradise and brings the world to his doorstep with offers of everlasting excitement. Mr. Shimmer's ideas become more and more outrageous luring crowds of people. At first the boy enjoys the new entertainments and friends, but comes to miss his own life.

Though it may not obviously be Maine, the story and illustrations reflect this state that I love (Kevin Hawkes also lives in Maine)-the cliffs, the shore, solitude when tourists are gone, the humongous inn on the cliff, the extravagance of the visitors, and even the caricature of Mr. Shimmer. I too miss the solitude and the beauty of the out-of-the-way places.

Kevin Hawkes's illustrations totally capture the mood of the story. The pictures have a stand alone quality. Mr. Shimmer's sparkle may be alluring, but it sure is nice at the end of tourist season.

related-solitude, solitary life, amusement parks, tourist resorts, exploration, imagination
RL=1st-3rd, read aloud to preK-K

Men At Arms by Terry Pratchett.
HarperCollins Publishers: NY, 2008.
Originally published by Victor Gollancz Ltd: Great Britain, 1993.



Ultra-Condensed
• One of the Assassins decides Ankh-Morpork would be better off with its rightful King.


• Detritus the troll, Cuddy the dwarf, and Angua the werewolf are new recruits with the Night Watch.


• Sergeant Colon is in charge, since Captain Vimes is leaving the Watch after his marriage to the richest lady in Ankh-Morpork.


• A new and dangerous weapon, too awful to be allowed to exist (but too fascinating to destroy), is leaving a wake of corpses - a clown, a mechanically inclined dwarf, the assistant to the Queen of Beggars. More targets were sighted, but attempts foiled.


• Captain Vimes and the Night Watch have been ordered off the case. It is the Assassins Guild's jurisdiction.


• Everyone knows and likes Corporal Carrot.


• Freezing Detritus makes him smarter.


• Cut-me-own-Throat Dibbler expands his menu, for the ethnic crowd.


• Leonard of Quirm, genius inventor (not to be confused with Bloody Stupid Johnson), has disappeared.


• Detritus on a recruiting spree.

RL=YA-adult, adult bookMerlin and the Dragons by Jane Yolen. il Li Ming.
Puffin Books/Penguin Group: NY, 1995.

This is the best picture book I've seen of the King Arthur stories. It is the only one I've seen in which the illustrations and text are equally good. Maybe the text is better than most because it is approached in a different way.

King Arthur is younger than he is normally portrayed. As a boy king he is woken by dreams of pulling the sword from the stone. To calm and reassure him Merlin tells him the story of Vortigern's fortress and the battle of the dragons. When he hears Uther's name, Arthur questions whether Uther may have had a son who will try to claim the throne, and Merlin tells him that he is Uther's son and the rightful king.

related-King Arthur, Merlin, dragons, boys, mentors
RL=3rd-4th, read aloud

Merlin and the Making of the King retold by Margaret Hodges. il Trina Schart Hyman.
Holiday House: NY, 2004.

This book is above picture book level but accessible to readers who aren't ready for the length of others such as Robin Lister and Howard Pyle. Some of the details are different from what I originally read but not too far off from other versions. It is a little brief and abrupt, but the pictures are attractive with illuminated borders. Some of the language is difficult for the age it is targeted, so it may have been meant for reading aloud.

related-Merlin, King Arthur, Arthurian romances, Folklore-England, knights, Sir Thomas Malory
RL=3rd-4th, read aloud

The Merlin Effect by T. A. Barron.
Philomel Books/Putnam & Grosset Group: NY, 1994.

Kate's historian father is searching for The Horn of Merlin as the ultimate proof of Merlin's existence. Part of an old folktale, the horn may be onboard a Spanish galleon that may have sunk off the coast of Baja, California in 1547. Add to the excitement a dangerous whirlpool just off the coast, non-migrating grey whales, an ageless fish and youthful fishing village, and a twisted Nimue.

While the Horn doe