My One Hundred Adventures by Polly Horvath
I found this to be an enjoyable read. Horvath is always quirky. Her free spirit shows in her writing, and there are usually some insightful moments.
Reading level is a little unclear on this one. The publisher has it marked rather young. I thought middle grades to YA. It’s shelved as YA at my library. It’s also one that adults may enjoy more than kids.
REVIEW
September 10th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Signing Their Lives Away by Kiernan and D’Agnese
A surprisingly thorough portrayal of the American Revolutionary period. One of the most fun ways for students (and adults) to learn about these times.
I read this book in the spring. Was saving it for a Book of the Month, but haven’t managed to use it yet and forgot about it. Since it’s school time again, I thought I should post it.
REVIEW
September 6th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Two New Books of Interest
The 4th Tiffany Aching book, I Shall Wear Midnight by Terry Pratchett, is to be released in the US on September 28, 2010. September 2 for British fans.
I noticed at the library that Frank Beddor’s 3rd book of The Looking Glass Wars: Arch Enemy is out. Since October 2009.
September 2nd, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Book of the Month for September 2010
This month’s selection is a new book by an award-winning author. It is a strong historical fiction novel which has the feel of a real journal. Anecdotes and emotion conveyed are what singles out this coming of age/historical fiction story.
REVIEW
Current Pick and List of Previous
August 31st, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Picture Book of the Month for August 2010
This month’s selection is another oldie that I happened to see at the library. Old, but this is the first time I’ve seen it. Text and illustrations are both unique and wonderful. Copyright page showed an earlier version of the poem, so I don’t know if there were other illustrations previously.
REVIEW
Current Pick and List of Previous
August 15th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Feathers by Jacqueline Woodson
This is the newest addition to YA Horizons (the purpose being to encourage more thoughtful reading). It is a short, intense story dealing with racism and religion. A good candidate for discussion groups or maybe a jump-start for personal thought or writing.
REVIEW
August 10th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Maddigan’s Fantasia by Margaret Mahy
I’ve been looking at this one for a while on the library’s shelf. I love the name, and I enjoyed Alchemy by Mahy. It’s different than I expected, a mishmash of ideas. It’s lighter weight, which I really needed to break up the heavier things I’ve been reading lately.
REVIEW
August 6th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Book of the Month for August 2010
Considering the number of books on ALA lists, I was surprised to find this one isn’t on them. There are emotionally explosive moments, but also touching moments. I thought the subject was handled well, and I like that it feels like real family moments.
REVIEW
Current Pick and List of Previous
August 2nd, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Leepike Ridge by N. D. Wilson
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.
Read More
July 21st, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
First Light by Rebecca Stead
After reading When You Reach Me, I had to read Rebecca Stead’s first book. It was delightful. A Knock Your Socks Off selection. I love her plot twists, and I actually enjoyed the going back and forth between worlds.
REVIEW
July 18th, 2010 by minerva66 | Comments Off
Note: I have made a point of including books that people of all ages can enjoy. Try some books that are a challenge and some for younger people too--no matter your age.
**Most of the books on this site were written for children and young adults. There are some adult books included because they appeal to younger readers too and because they are transitional for teenage readers.