Countdown (Sixties Trilogy #1)

 I know some readers aren't overly fond of historical fiction, but I really do enjoy the genre as I learn details of history while reading an enjoyable story. For instance, I've heard about the Cuban Missile Crisis in school, but I didn't under the crisis part exactly until I read the first book in the planned Sixties trilogy, Countdown by Deborah Wiles.

Description (from the Publisher): Franny Chapman just wants some peace. But that's hard to get when her best friend is feuding with her, her sister has disappeared, and her uncle is fighting an old war in his head. Her saintly younger brother is no help, and the cute boy across the street only complicates things. Worst of all, everyone is walking around just waiting for a bomb to fall. It's 1962, and it seems the whole country is living in fear.

Review: Franny lives with her family in suburban Maryland just outside Andrews Air Force Base, circa summer of 1962. President Kennedy and Soviet Union leader Khrushchev duel on the possibility of a nuclear war. The world crisis continues in the background while Franny worries about her best friend's betrayal; adores her college-age sister, Jo Ellen; and fights with her saintly little brother, Drew. When not riding the tumultuous ride of early adolescence, she writes letters to Khrushchev, advising him to drop his threats and think rationally, prepares for air-raid drills, and investigates her sister's coded letters from someone named "Ebenezer."
  Countdown is a straightforward historical fiction that at times reads like a memoir. Unlike other historical fiction reads that I've read, it has a unique format. In a successful effort to give readers a sense of the country's total preoccupation with all things nuclear and Communist during the height of the Cold War, Franny's narrative is punctuated by newspaper clippings, advertisements for bomb-shelter materials, news broadcasts, brief vignettes about famous figures, ephemera, and more. All of these snippets of time period would make me anxious and feel bombarded with confusion and fear, which is similar to what Franny is feeling at the moment. I can definitely see how this format may not work with some readers, but if the time period and the events draw your interest I would highly recommend listening to the audiobook which was done very well. With the audiobook, you don't have to be afraid of the 'textbook' feel because the documentary format comes alive and Franny's coming of age is much more personal. Countdown is a great historical fiction read and I am looking forward to the other books in this Sixties trilogy.

Curriculum Connection: Social Studies

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Violence such as the race riots of the 1960s are in the back drop of the book. It is hinted at several times but not described in details. Recommended for Grades 5 and  up.

If you like this book try: The Fire-Eaters by David Almond, Shooting the Moon by Frances O'Roark Dowell

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Anything But Typical

  I've read a few books that feature characters who have autism and for the most part really enjoyed them. It helps me look at the world with a different lens. Anything But Typical is a middle grade novel that successfully tells a story about autism with heart and universal appeal.

Description: Jason, a twelve-year-old autistic boy who wants to become a writer, relates what his life is like as he tries to make sense of his world.

Review: Baskin tells an enlightening story entirely from the point of view of Jason, an autistic boy who is a gifted creative writer, but is mainly viewed as the odd ball by the neurotypicals (i.e. normal people) both at school and at home because he can't comprehend human emotions and social interactions. He is most comfortable in an online writing forum called Storyboard, where his stories explore his rich imagination and eventually kindles an e-mail-based friendship with a girl. His excitement over having a real friend (and maybe even girlfriend) turns to terror when he learns that his parents want to take him on a trip to the Storyboard conference, where he'll no doubt have to meet her in person.
  With short chapters and precise word usage, Baskin describes Jason's attempts to interpret body language and social expectations, revealing the extreme disconnect created by his internalization of the world around him. Jason is an empathetic character and quite witty. He moves through his failures and triumphs with the same depth of courage and confusion of any boy his age. His story, neither overly heartbreaking nor saturated with saccharine sweetness, shows that the distinction between normal and not normal is hard to distinguish yet we ironically have no problems to label things as "different" and "defective". Since I have no personal experience with autism, I can't atest to the authenicity of Jason's voice, but I do appreciate Baskin for making Jason's story universal.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 4 and up.

If you like this book try: Rules by Cynthia Lord, Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine, for a YA read try Marcelo in the Real World by Franciso X. Stork

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Mini Childrens Reviews: Strange Case of Origami Yoda, Familiars, and Dark Life

  School registration is currently in full force. Thankfully, I survived the first day.  I've read and finished quite a number of children's books. My reviews of these books are starting to pile up so I thought I would do a few pithy mini-reviews for you. All of these books are found on this year's Illinois School Library Media Association's (ISLMA) Bluestem Reading Award and Rebecca Caudill. For the full list of books nominated by school librarians, teachers, and students, click here for Bluestem Awards and click here for Rebecca Caudill Awards. Today I'll be reviewing The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger, Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein, and Dark Life by Kat Falls.

Description (from the Publisher): Sixth-grader Tommy and his friends describe their interactions with a paper finger puppet of Yoda, worn by their weird classmate Dwight, as they try to figure out whether or not the puppet can really predict the future. Includes instructions for making Origami Yoda.

Review:  Tommy and his friends think that Dwight is a weirdo who's always talking about robots or spiders or something. In true Dwight fashion, he shows up at school one day with his latest creation, a little origami Yoda finger puppet. Origami Yoda is not like Dwight at all as it doles out bits of wisdom to Tommy and his friends. The mystery of the book is whether the Yoda is just Dwight talking in a funny voice or if it actually has mystical powers. Told from a collection of stories gathered by Tommy and told by kids who either believe or don't in Origami Yoda. The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is a quirky, fast paced book that sure to please many Star War fans.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: Mild boy humor, but otherwise relatively clean. Recommended for Grades 3-6.

If you like this book try: Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney, Darth Paper Strikes Back by Tom Angleberger


Description (from the Publisher): When a scrappy alley cat named Aldwyn passes himself off as a magical animal companion to Jack, a young wizard in training, Aldwyn and his fellow "familiars," a know-it-all blue jay and bumbling tree frog, must save the kingdom after the evil queen of Vastia kidnaps Jack and two other wizards.

Review: The Familiars is a great choice for young readers who may be too young for Harry Potter. Just imagine Harry Potter and other popular fantasy series where the animals or familiars take center stage. The book contains your usual trope of a children's fantasy book. Characters who are trying to prove themselves and gaining self confidence as well as coming together to fit a big evil.  The consistently suspenseful narrative moves quickly and is full of twists and turns. The great combination of action and humor will keep readers' attention. For me, I don't really take an interest in animal driven stories, but I do several kids who would eagerly line up and read this one.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 3 to 7.

If you like this book try: Secrets of the Crown (Familiars #2) by Adam Jay Epstein, Warriors series by Erin Hunter


Description (from the Publisher): When fifteen-year-old Ty, who has always lived on the ocean floor, joins Topside girl Gemma in the frontier's underworld to seek and stop outlaws who threaten his home, they learn that the government may pose an even greater threat.

Review: Dark Life is essentially your typical western that takes place in the ocean. Sixteen-year-old Ty is the first child born to the pioneers who live in the depths of the ocean. He has little to no patience for topsiders (aka land dwellers) until he meets feisty Gemma, who immediately enlists his help to locate her missing older brother. The heroes and villains are fairly easy to detect and the plot was too predictable for me, but those who are interested in marine life and what would it be like living under the sea would find this book worthwhile.

Words of Caution: PG violence otherwise pretty clean. Recommended for strong Grade 5 readers and up.  

If you like this book try: Riptide by Kat Falls, Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi, Drowned Cities by Paolo Bacigalupi, Stuck on Earth by David Klass

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Graphic Novel Reviews: Smile, The Last Dragon, and Alia's Mission

  I'm taking a mini-break from manga as I realized that I haven't put up any graphic novel reviews lately. Today I'll be reviewing three graphic novels, two of which I read last year and one I read this year, that can be enjoyed by a wide range of ages. The three graphic novels that I'll be reviewing are Smile by Raina Telgemeier, The Last Dragon by Jane Yolen, and Alia's Mission: Saving the Books of Iraq by Mark Alan Stamaty.

Description (from the publisher): From the artist of BSC Graphix comes this humorous coming-of-age true story about the dental drama that ensues after a trip-and-fall mishap. Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth. What follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there's still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly.

Review: I think we all have gone through a big event in our childhood that defined our lives. For author Raina Telgemeier that moment is when she randomly fell and lost her front tooth at the tender age of 12. Her recovery included painful surgery, implants, headgear, false teeth, and a rearrangement of her remaining incisors. As you can image, being a young kid who is already struggling with the roller coaster ride we all call puberty where boy confusion, changing bodies as well as expectations from family and friends isn't easy to deal with one its own. Telgemeir's storytelling is straight forward and honest, expertly portraying her mercurial moods. The full color illustrations transport you into the author's shoes allowing you to play through her emotions, insecurities, and self depreciating humor. What I loved about this graphic novel is that both adults and kids that surround the author's life are vividly and rapidly portrayed, giving its reader a quick reminder that things do turn around with perseverance and self confidence. Though the book may be about a girl, I've seen boys and adults pick up this graphic novel and enjoy it. It gets two big thumps from me.  

Rating: 4.5 stars

Words of Caution: There's a bit gush of blood after the accident, but other than that it's pretty clean. Recommended for Grades 5 and up.

 If you like this book try: Drama by Raina Telgemeier (available in Sept 2012), How to Survive Middle School by Donna Gephart, Popularity Papers series by Amy Ignatow, Dork Diaries series by Rachel Renee Russell


Description (from the publisher): Master storyteller Jane Yolen ("Owl Moon" and "Sword of the Rightful King") and celebrated fantasy artist Rebecca Guay ("Swamp Thing" and "Magic: The Gathering") weave a textured and lyrical tale of adventure, homelands, and heroism the hard way. Two hundred years ago, humans drove the dragons from the islands of May. Now, the last of the dragons rises to wreak havoc anew - with only a healer's daughter and a kite-flying would-be hero standing in its way.

Review: Jane Yolen's The Last Dragon is a beautiful graphic novel that bring us back to the fairy tales we were drawn to as children where there was a hero that saved the day by killing a terrorizing dragon.  The book uses the tropes of a traditional hero's journey, where a man who claims to be heroic is put to the test. While it's true that the male hero succeeds in slaying the dragon, the star of the story, however belongs to the real heroine, the hard headed, unique, and talented girl named Tansy. 
  The narrative is told well through great description that brings the illustrations to life. The serious overtones of the story may be a bit much, but there are few bits of humor that lighten up the mood. Since I read the e-galley of the graphic novel courtesy of Netgalley, the pictures were big and the text was a bit hard to read but I think that was fixed in the print version of the book.  I'd definitely recommend this graphic novel to those who like fairy tales and dragons.


Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Some tongue and cheek humor, which would give it a PG rating. Recommended for Grades 7 and up.

If you like this book try: Dragon Heart series by Jane Yolen, Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George, The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia Wrede

Description (from the publisher): The inspiring story of an Iraqi librarian's courageous fight to save books from the Basra Central Library before it was destroyed in the war. It is 2003 and Alia Muhammad Baker, the chief librarian of the Central Library in Basra, Iraq, has grown worried given the increased likelihood of war in her country. Determined to preserve the irreplaceable records of the culture and history of the land on which she lives from the destruction of the war, Alia undertakes a courageous and extremely dangerous task of spiriting away 30,000 books from the library to a safe place. Told in dramatic graphic-novel panels by acclaimed cartoonist Mark Alan Stamaty, Alia's Mission celebrates the importance of books and the freedom to read, while examining the impact of war on a country and its people.

Review: Alia's Mission is one of those rare graphic novels where I like the narrative much more than the actual drawings. We are narrated a story of a civilian heroine by an anthropomorphic book as it dramatically recreate Alia Baker's efforts to save the books of the Basra library in Iraq. Alia Muhammad Baker, chief librarian at the Basra Central Library, always had a lifelong passion for books and her country's history. Events in the 13th-century in when the Mongols invaded and a fire destroyed the Baghdad library have played a sense of foreboding and foreshadowing as to what could happen to her own precious library as her country is once again at war. We witness Baker requesting the government's permission to remove the collection from the building but gets denied. Refusing to quit, she begins to sneak books out of the library herself. Baker manages, with help from friends, to remove 30,000 volumes from the library, transporting them to private homes for safekeeping. With explosions in the background, Stamaty effectively captures the danger of the moment. We feel deeply saddened when the library is engulfed in flames and Baker's resulting. The author ends his graphic novel with a hopeful note that a new library is in developments. We are once again reminded that heroes can be everyday people and their work is just as important and inspiring.
  As I mentioned a bit earlier, I wasn't a fan of the illustrations in this book. All the panels were created in what seems to be in pen and are black and white. I didn't think they matched the intensity and passion of Baker's work. I would have liked to see little bits of color to show the various emotions that were well described by the text. Overall though a good story that is important to learn.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: Few depictions of war including bombs, depictions of guns, etc. Recommended for Grades 6 and up.

If you like this book try: The Librarian of Basra by Jeanette Winter, Nasreen's Secret School by Jeanette Winter

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Out of My Mind

 I've heard and read nothing but fabulous reviews of Sharon Draper's Out of My Mind. I had the book on my to be read pile for quite sometime but didn't get an opportunity to read it now because it has been placed on Illinois' reader's choice award lists. I'm so glad that I finally sat down and read it because it was absolutely marvelous! 

Description: Melody is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk, but she has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She is smarter than most of the adults who try to diagnose her, and smarter than her classmates in her integrated classroom- the very same classmates who dismiss her as mentally challenged because she cannot tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by cerebral palsy. And she's determined to let everyone know it...somehow.

Review: Unflinching, eye opening, heartbreaking, and yet uplifting, Out of Mind forces readers to confront their own misconceptions about the disabled by placing us in the shoes of one. Melody is a vibrant, brilliant, feisty eleven year old but most people wouldn't notice that about her. She is most commonly defined by her condition, cerebral palsy, that inhibits her ability to walk or talk. I couldn't help but think about Morrissey's song, November Spawned a Monster, which shockingly and candidly describes how one would react if he or she saw Melody. These these lyrics from the song struck a chord with me:

 One November
Spawned a monster
In the shape of this child
Who later cried :

"But Jesus made me, so
Jesus save me from
pity, sympathy
And people discussing me
A frame of useless limbs
What can make good of
the bad that's been done?"

   Unlike the person in the song, which ambiguously doesn't identify the monster, Melody doesn't need sympathy or pity, but starves for normalcy and a chance to showcase her intelligence. When inclusion classrooms are introduced in her school, Melody's heart bursts with hope. She gets a chance to interact with children other than those in her special-needs unit. While we would like to see Melody be embraced by her classmates, Melody is the unspoken "other," and they are mostly uncomfortable with her sounds and jerky movements. Like every child growing up, normal problems of school friendships are present, but magnified, which isn't to say that they are overly dramatic but acute because it targets, punctures, and wounds us at our most sensitive and intimate part of ourselves. There were many times throughout the book where my heart would break, leave me teary eyed, guilty and embarrassed of things that I've known to do. I appreciate Draper to not sugar coat the difficulties that Melody and her family face.
  Out of My Mind isn't a Disney movie where there are fireworks and everyone realizes their mistakes, apologizes, and ends with a song from a Top 40er who croons about overcoming adversity. Descriptions of both Melody's challenges, which we perform without a second thought such as going to the bathroom, putting on clothes, and the insensitivity of some are poignant, honest, and real. Yes, there are moments where I pumped my fist in the air in a congratulatory manner, but like life there are also disappointments and heartbreak.
  All of the characters, from the main cast to the secondary roles are realized and fully developed. I admire Melody and I hope I can be as strong as her resilient spirit. Rich in detail and eye opening experience of recognizing the essential normalcy and the difficulties of a young person with cerebral palsy, Out of My Mind is a must read for all ages and would be a wonderful book discussion. I can't recommend it enough and I honestly think my five star rating, which I don't give out easily, is not enough for this book.

Rating: 5 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for strong Grade 3 readers and up.

If you like this book try: Anything But Typical by Nora Baskins, and for a grittier read try Terry Trueman's Stuck in Neutral.

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Children/MG Minireviews: Heart of a Shepherd, Once Upon a Marigold, and Bud, Not Buddy

  I realized that I haven't posted any children/middle grade book reviews in a while. I also have a back log of reviews to write, which tends to happen when I realize I only have this month to wrap up all of my reading challenges. Yikes! Below are my reviews of Heart of a Shepherd by Roseanne Parry, Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris, and Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis.

Description: Ignatius "Brother" Alderman, nearly twelve, promises to help his grandparents keep the family's Oregon ranch the same while his brothers are away and his father is deployed to Iraq, but as he comes to accept the inevitability of change, he also sees the man he is meant to be.

Review: Parry's first novel, is a boy's emotional and spiritual coming-of-age. It's heartfelt and often heartwarming, but her characters come out too perfect. The spiritual tone comes out a bit too preachy at times and heavy handed. The first person narrative falters a bit when Brother muses internally. She does a great job, however, of acquainting readers with the realities of modern ranching life and the impact a distant war has on the families who are left at home to cope.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is a mild swear word in the book and some disturbing images. Recommended for mature Grade 4 readers and up.

If you like this book try: Almost Forever by Maria Testa and The Quilt by Gary Paulsen

Description: A young man with a mysterious past and a penchant for inventing things leaves the troll who raised him, meets an unhappy princess he has loved from afar, and discovers a plot against her and her father.

Review: Once Upon a Marigold is a really fun read, which I think both girls and boys will both like. Girls will be drawn to the romance, which isn't too gooey and gushy. Boys will enjoy the comedy and action. The characters are compelling, well developed, and sympathetic. The usual tropes in fairy tales will be found here and while you may already know how it ends, but the quirky personalities and comic subplots give the story additional texture and make it an entertaining read. Though the book wraps up nicely there is a companion novel available, but I don't plan on reading it at the moment.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 5 to 8. I think it would be a good read aloud for younger grades 2 to 4.

If you like this book try: Twice Upon the Marigold by Jean Ferris, Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine, for older readers The Princess Bride by William Golding

Description: Ten-year-old Bud, lost his mother at a very young age. He goes from foster home to foster home in Flint, Michigan, during the Great Depression. After escaping a bad foster home, sets out in search of the man he believes to be his father: the renowned bandleader, H.E. Calloway of Grand Rapids.

Review: I don't have much luck in enjoying titles set in the Great Depression because, well, it's depressing but I was so surprised how much Bud not Buddy was so different from the other titles I've read about this period mainly because Bud is such a delightful character. I didn't expect him to be hilarious, smart, feisty, and determined young man. While the grim conditions of the times and the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Bud's hope and optimism is contagious and balances the book. We can't help but root for him and join him on his journey. Bud's tale does have Dickensian twists in plot and is filled with a host of memorable and distinct personalities. Teachers looking for a book to enhance their Great Depression curriculum for elementary and middle school grades should definitely consider adding this book to their list. 

Rating: 4 stars

Curriculum Connection: Social Studies

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 4 and up.

If you like this book try: Blue Comet by Rosemary Wells, Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

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The Reel Shelf Presents: Jess Mariano (Gilmore Girls)

Welcome to The Reel Shelf, a new weekly feature here at Books in the Spotlight where I imagine what's on my favorite TV/Movie character's book shelves. Since this meme was inspired by my love for Gilmore Girls and books, I thought it would be appropriate to highlight my favorite character, Jess Mariano. 

Rory: So you did read this before.

Jess: Yeah, about 40 times.

Rory: I thought you said you didn't read much.

Jess: What is much?

  Jess is the bad boy of Stars Hollow. His mother dropped him off to his uncle, Luke, because she couldn't handle him. He works at Luke's Diner in order to earn his own money. While he spent his time in Stars Hollow he has caused a car accident, vandalism, and seduced Rory with his sarcasm and love of books as well as broke his heart. The following books are perfect for fans of Jess because they represent his wide spectrum of his personality. Like the main characters of these books, he is also struggling to find his own identity and understand the world around him.

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Knucklehead :Tall tales & mostly true stories about growing up Scieszka

  When I went to the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago in 2009, one of the main highlights was seeing renown children authors Jon Schizeka and Mo Willems be the master of ceremonies for the library book cart drill event. The event showcasing library workers performing inspired dance routines with costumes and creatively decorated book carts is something to be witnessed by all. The MCs were hysterical and the performances were out of this world. Take a look below:

I never read anything by Schizeka but I enjoyed his comedy routine and was really excited to read his humorous memoir for children appropriately called Knucklehead.

Description: In a response to one of his most frequently asked question, where do you get your ideas?, Jon Scieszka Presents a memoir of what it was like to grow up in the 1950s and other almost true stories.

Review: Well written autobiographies that are a pleasure to read are hard to find, especially with younger readers. Knuckelhead is a delightful and hilarious memoir that I think both young and older readers will thoroughly enjoy. Jon Scieszka writes about growing up in Flint, Michigan with his parents and five brothers with his down to earth personality shining through. Each brief chapter is sparsely illustrated with family photographs and clipart, which will appeal even to reluctant readers. Scieszka writes about his love of reading that continued as he grew older. Scieszka's humor along with events that we all went through in childhood such as fooling our siblings and driving our parents is what makes this book such a fun read. I read Knucklehead in a couple of hours because I wanted to keep turning the pages to see what craziness he and his brothers will pull next. Readers looking for a genre break or even want to attempt nonfiction narrative should definitely pick this book up.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some bathroom humor in the book. In fifth grade Scieszka's class got in trouble when they were swearing on the playground. As a punishment they couldn't leave the classroom until they wrote down all the swear words they knew. The scene is handled with humor, but several words may not be appropriate for a younger reader. Recommended for Grades 3 and up.

If you like this book try: Boy by Roald Dahl, Bill Peet: An Autobiography by Bill Peet, or The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson

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The Rock and the River

  Looking back at my history classes in elementary and secondary schools, I don't recall learning about the Black Panther organization when I studied about the Civil Rights Movements. Though I know that the organization existed, the nonviolent movement spear headed by Dr. Martin Luther King was the main focus. While reading Kekla Magoon's Coretta Scott King award winning novel, The Rock and the River, I learned a lot about the difficulties the African American community faced during the turbulent 1960s.

Description: It is 1968 in Chicago. Sam's father is a well-known nonviolent civil rights activist who strongly believes in Dr. King's movement. Sam's brother, Stephen also known as Stick, feels that the nonviolent movement is too passive and has joined the Black Panthers. When a close friend of the brothers is beaten and arrested by white police officers, Sam must decide his own feelings about the Civil Rights Movement and choose a side. Will it be the rock or the river?

Review: The Rock and the River is a compelling novel that aptly conveys the frustrations and uncertainties dividing the civil rights movement at the time of Dr. King's death especially within one African American family. Sam is the son of minister and civil-rights leader Roland Childs, a revered community figure and movement heavyweight whose counsel is sought by Martin Luther King Jr. When Sam witnesses one of his close friends brutally beaten and arrested by the police, he does not get involved but instead joins the onlookers on the side of the road. Sam's passiveness taunts him and he finds his faith in and respect for his father's stalwart commitment to nonviolence shaken. Hoping to get some guidance from his older brother and best friend, he is shocked to discover that Stick is involved with the Black Panthers. Sam is torn between the two people he looks up to most.
  As he poignantly wrestles over which direction to take, Sam both observes and experiences firsthand the injustice of racism. Magoon is unflinching in her depictions of police brutality and racism. While it may be hard to read, it is not overly done but rather propels the plot and themes further. She also offers readers a perspective of a political group that is rarely explored. While some may think the Black Panther's ideology is romanticized, I thought the author provided enough information as to why and how this group was created. I loved how this novel shows that racial prejudices were not confined to the South and that the Civil Rights Movement was a truly national struggle. If the nonviolent movement is deemed too passive and the Black Panther movement is too aggressive, what movement is in between? Do you really have to choose one? These are the questions that swarmed my head long after finishing the book. I think The Rock and the River would serve as a great book discussion in class.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Curriculum Connection: Social Studies

Words of Caution: There is some strong riot violence in the book and minor language. Recommended for strong Grade 4 readers and up.

If you like this book try: One Crazy Summer by Rita Garcia-Williams or Jumped by Rita Garcia-Williams

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The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

  The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly was nominated for the Newberry Award in 2010. It has received several glowing reviews from a variety of book review journals. It also has been in my to be read pile for quite some time. Luckily for me, the book was also listed in the Rebecca Caudill booklist. After finishing, the book deserves all of its accolades.


Description (from Goodreads): Calpurnia Virginia Tate is eleven years old in 1899 when she wonders why the yellow grasshoppers in her Texas backyard are so much bigger than the green ones.With a little help from her notoriously cantankerous grandfather, an avid naturalist, she figures out that the green grasshoppers are easier to see against the yellow grass, so they are eaten before they can get any larger. As Callie explores the natural world around her, she develops a close relationship with her grandfather, navigates the dangers of living with six brothers, and comes up against just what it means to be a girl at the turn of the century.

Review: The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate is a delightful book that crosses a wide variety of genres: coming of age, historical fiction, and even feminism. Calpurnia, more commonly called Callie by friends and family, is a spunky, adventurous, and curious girl. You would most likely find her out in the fields with her journal detailing the insects and other species she'd encounter rather than hosting parties at home. Growing up with six brothers in rural Texas in 1899,  Callie realizes that her aversion to needlework and cooking disappoints her mother. Still, she prefers to spend her time exploring the river, observing animals, and keeping notes on what she sees. Callie’s growing interest in nature creates a bond with her previously distant grandfather, an amateur naturalist of some distinction. I absolutely loved Callie's grandfather who is incredibly funny with his one liners and has impeccable comedic timing.
  After they discover an unknown species of vetch, he attempts to have it officially recognized. This process creates a dramatic focus for the novel, especially with how Callie mother inspects her to grow up to be: a woman who is to be married and uphold her own family. While the scientific observations are interwoven with the daily life of Callie, the main focus of the book is Callie’s gradual self-discovery as revealed in her vivid first-person narrative. While some become bored with the book's lack of a plotline, I was immediately taken by Callie's family and friends. Her bonds with her siblings, the conversations she overhears, and the meddlings that Callie gets herself into are all told wry humor, warmth that allows the characters and its setting come to life. While the book doesn't dismiss domestic work as unnecessary or demeaning, it allows young girls to realize that they should not restrict their talents and dreams to society's expectations. Callie is admirable and a role model that I think many young girls would like. I, for one, would love to have her as my friend.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Curriculum Connection: Science 

Words of Caution: There is some discussion on evolution and Charles Darwin, an incident where Callie drinks an alcoholic beverage without knowing what it is, other than that, it is very clean. Recommended for Grades 4 and up.

If you like this book try: Charles and Emma by Deborah Heiligman, Evolution: The Story of Life on Earth by Jay Hosler, Kevin Cannon, and Xander Cannon

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The Magic Thief Book 1

  I'm really enjoying the ecclectic titles featured in the Rebecca Caudill list this year. You can find the book list at the Illinois School Library Media Association. This list is basically a reader's choice book award for Grades 4 to 8, which are selected by teachers, librarians, and of course, students. I recently finished The Magic Thief by Sarah Prineas.

Description: Conn's life is forever changed when he tries to pick the pocket of the wizard Nevery. Instead of being hit with a strong jolt of magic from attempting to steal the wizard's locus magicalicus (all wizards have to have one that specifically belongs to them), Conn feels nothing. Instead of punishing the boy, Nevery takes Conn under his wing, teaches him magic, and enlists his help in finding the person responsible for stealing the city's dwindling magic supply.

Review: The Magic Thief is an enjoyable, fast paced, fantasy read that is sure to be enjoyed by younger and older elementary students. The book opens with Conn narrating his failed pick pocketing attempt with the wizard Nevery. This one encounter has altered his life for good, especially when Nevery realizes that his locus magicalicus (a stone that represents the wizards power and is only controlled by the rightful owner) doesn't harm Conn like it should. The curious wizard takes pity on the poor thief and employs the Conn as his servant, but the boy’s inquisitiveness and talents move him to apprentice status. Nevery can use all the help that he can get as he Nevery has recently returned to Willmet to save the city-state, which is faltering as its magic seeps away.
  What may seem like an ordinary fantasy book seem new is the smart alek voice of Conn and his amusing relationship with Nevery. We learn very early on that Conn doesn't have a great life as an orphaned, poor, street kid but definitely has the desire, drive, and smarts to rise above his destiny. He is able to view magic with a fresh pair of eyes and use his thieving skills as a way to understand how the magic is used. He is continually surprising his master, who seems to always be a few steps behind. As Conn becomes more enmeshed in his new life, he navigates through the intricate dealings of both the wizarding world and the political machinations of the Underlord.
  Besides Conn, the other wonderful character is Nevery. He is a renowed wizard who is grumpy and has a very dry sense of humor. His voice comes alive with his supplemental journals that alternate between Conn's narration. These journals are Nevery's observations as well as a testament as how he perceives Conn.
  While some of the plot is a bit predictable and a fantasy world that doesn't seem as lively as some of the high fantasy books targeted to the middle grade audience, the voices of the characters stand out and make the book enjoyable and I'm sure they will look forward to reading more of this series as new plot twists are revealed.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 4 to 8.

If you like this book try: Septimus Heap series by Angie Sage, The Wizard of Dark Street by Shawn Thomas Odyssey, The Magic Thief: Lost by Sarah Prineas (The Magic Thief Book 2)

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Extra Credit

  Andrew Clements is a very popular children's author that was popular during my elementary student teaching. His latest book, Extra Credit, tries to bridge very different cultures of the U.S. and Afghanistan together. I was curious how Clements would deal with the preconceived notions of both nations in a children's book.


Description: Three junior high kids, Abby, Amira, and Sadeed, are pen pals and exchange letters back and forth between rural Illinois and the mountainous Afghanistan. As the kids write and receive letters they begin to bridge a gap across cultural and religious divides by finding their commonality.

Review: Extra Credit is a story of three pen pals who couldn't be more different from one another. Abby and Sadeed are continents apart, but they forge a friendship that leaves both of them changed. Abby is a reluctant student who is very close to failing sixth grade. Afraid of being held back, Abby promises herself and to her parents that she will become a better student and pick up her grades. Her teacher offers her an extra-credit project: writing letters to a student in another country. An enthusiastic rock climber despite living in the Illinois prairie, Abby chooses Afghanistan because of its mountains. At first Abby puts little effort into her first letter, not sure of what to write but as she continues to write more she begins to learn things about Afghanistan that she didn't know about.
  In Afghanistan, Sadeed is one of the best students in his village. Due to his excellent English skills, he is selected to participate in the pen pal program, but the teacher and town leaders don't approve of a boy writing to a girl due to societal mores. Sadeed creates a plan in which Sadeed dictates the letters but his little sister, Amira, signs them. Proud, studious Sadeed secretly writes to Abby on his own, explaining the ruse, and they correspond until circumstances in both countries make it impossible.
  I really liked the plot description of the book, especially the nice plot twist that brings all three pen pals together. I also liked how the letters opened up the character's minds and have then think outside the box. My main problem with the story is that the conflict occurs too late, at about three fourths of the story. Instead of diving into the murky water of reality between these two countries with high tension or digging deeper into the Afghani culture, Clements sidesteps the challenge and writes a very tidy, unrealistic ending that doesn't address the issues. Perhaps he thought the heavy issues were a bit too much for younger readers, but I think young readers are smart enough to detect a nicely wrapped up and rushed ending. Though I admire Clements on writing a timely story, I felt as if I was missing the second half of the book and was left disappointed. Some reviewers have overlooked the neat ending and still enjoyed the book, but I didn't like it as much and felt a little cheated.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 3 and up.


If you like this book try: Peace, Locomotion by Jacqueline Woodson or Under the Persimmons Tree by Suzanne Fisher Staples

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Woods Runner

  Gary Paulsen is my go-to author for young readers who love reading adventure/survival stories. His Newberry Honor book Hatchet is one of my favorite books that I read in 5th grade. I had his latest book, Woods Runner, on my to be read pile last year but never got around to reading it until now. Thankfully, it's on the Rebecca Caudill list for this year.

Description: The year is 1776 and the American Revolution is underway. 13 year old Samuel is a highly-skilled woodsman, who returns from a journey to find his home burned down, the neighbors slaughtered, and his parents missing. He hear news that his parents may be alive in New York City. He sets out toward New York City to rescue his parents from the band of British soldiers and Native Americans who kidnapped them after slaughtering most of their community.

Review: Woods Runner is a riveting account of the Revolutionary War. Paulsen's narrative weaves a frank and deglorified depiction of the American Revolution that many of us do not find in our history textbooks. In an author's note, Paulsen indicates that his purpose is not to rewrite the war, but rather clarify some aspects of it to the reader. He definitely succeeds.
 The main story of Woods Runner revolves around a 13 year old boy named Samuel who feels right at home with hunting and living in the wilderness. When Samuel is on a fun excursion, he hears word of an uprising in Concord and Lexington, areas close to home. Afraid of his parents and his community, he rushes back to check if everyone is okay. Sadly, he finds his home burned down, the neighbors slaughtered, and his parents missing. Samuel's anguish is unimaginable and it's an emotional punch to the gut. He uses his woodsman skills along with alliances with some unlikely people to tracks his captured parents who may be taken to British-held New York. It's is Samuel's bravery, hope, and the goodness of humanity that upliftings this dark book. He reminds us that there are many ways one can be a hero.
  Readers who are in the search for a page turning, heart pumping adventure/survival story will really like Woods Runner. Learning about the American Revolution is just an added bonus. I also think it the book will be a great classroom read.

Rating: 4 stars

Curriculum Connection: Social Studies

Words of Caution: Since the book takes place during the Revolutionary War, there is strong war violence. Recommended for Grades 6 and up.

If you like this book try: Chains or Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson or My brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier

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Fablehaven Vol 1

  Fablehaven is a popular children fantasy series. Some reviewers have herald the series like Harry Potter that has captured the heart and minds of a wide reading audience. There are five books in this series. I just finished reading the first volume of this series, which appeared on last year's Rebecca Caudill list.

Description: Kendra and Seth are forced to stay with their absent grandparents from their dad's side while their parents go on a cruise with their uncle and aunts. At their grandparent's estate, they find themselves in the midst of a battle between good and evil when they discover that it is a sanctuary for magical creatures.

Review: I was looking forward to reading the Fablehaven series. I've heard lots of good things about the book from avid young readers who visit the library. Unfortunately, I had a high expectation of being swept off my feet in an exciting adventure. Instead of being a quick read, Fablehaven is quite repetitive and a slow starter.
  Siblings Seth and Kendra are dropped off by traveling parents at their grandfather's isolated Connecticut estate. After being told they are not allowed to roam outside of the estate, they quickly break this rule and soon discover his home is a secret haven for magical creatures, both good and deadly. While there is a system that holds the characters responsible of their actions, the laws are conveniently malleable and provides the context of the book's climax.
  I didn't care for any of the characters. I thought Seth and Kendra acted younger than their age and they irritated me, especially Seth. The first half of the book is cyclic and tedious in which Grandpa issues a stern warning of what not to do; Seth ignores the warning, does some mischief to see what happens and then he feels sorry. While this device might be used to be humorous, I felt that it took me out of the story and slowed my reading very much. I did like Kendra a little more towards the ending where she finally is able to stand on her own two feet but it comes very late in the long drawn out climax.
  There are many magical creatures introduced in the story, ranging from fairies to golems to witches. I felt these creatures were introduced right after one another and after a few chapters, they seem to blur. While there are some comical moments in the book that made me smile, I wasn't sure where the story was going at times. The ending wraps things up quite nicely and a few questions linger, though I'm not too excited to continue reading the series.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: There are some scary situations for younger readers, but it should be okay if the book is used as a family read aloud. Suitable for Grades 5 to 8.


If you like this book try: Sisters Grimm series by Michael Buckley, Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, Dark Hills Divide by Patrick Carman, Spiderwick Chronicles by Holly Black

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Notes From a Midnight Driver

  We all have done stupid things when we are angry. We suspend logic and consequence just for a moment where we can unleash our frustration. It's only after the fact that we take action, we often realize that sometimes ideas are better left in our minds. Welcome to Alex Gregory's life where confusion, anger, and teen angst collide which result in a bittersweet, humorous, and poignant story.

Description: Alex thought he was over his parents' divorce that is until his mother went on her first date and his father left Alex's family to pursue a relationship with one of his former teachers. Angry, hurt, and confused, Alex wanted to get revenge from his dad. What really happened? Alex decides to get drunk, steal his mom's car, and drive to his father's home. The result? A damaged car, a decapitated gnome, a drunk driving charge, and community service. How is Alex going to get out of this mess?

Review: Notes from a Midnight Driver could have easily been a book that is seeped with serious overtones, yet Sonneblick spins his own tale infusing humor while tackling responsibility, consequence, and forgiveness. Alex seems like your everyday teen boy who is just trying to live his teen years day by day. His impulsive decision to get drunk and drive isn't glamorized and we can't help but shake our heads in dismay in his incredibly stupid and dangerous action. Alex knows that we did wasn't smart, but thinks his sentence to 100 hours of community service at a nursing home, where he is assigned to Sol Lewis, a notoriously difficult resident with a reputation for practical jokes isn't fair. He desperately writes appeal letters to his judge in requesting a lighter sentence, but he is constantly rejected.
  Alex is an enjoyable character who revels in self deprecation. He admits to his irrational and impulsive actions, but we can understand and feel his frustration and confusion when it comes to his family life. He never really understood why his parents split up and he can't help but feel abandoned by both of his parents. It is only through his time spent with the acerbic and hiliarious Sol, does Alex come to several epiphanies regarding love and forgiveness.
  In addition to Alex's personal growth, there are also other subplots in the book such as Sol's past and his love of music (a passion he shares with Alex) and Alex confusing, romantic feelings for his best friend named Laurie. These subplots are woven nicely, realistic, and enrich the novel. I particularly liked how this book discussed the importance of volunteerism and working with the elderly. Notes from a Midnight Driver is a great book that discusses important issues without being heavy handed and book that I'm sure many young adults will really enjoy.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is a scene of underage drinking and drunk driving as well as some language. Recommended for Grades 8 and up.

If you like this book try: Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie by Jonathan Sonnenblick

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Suspenseful Science Fiction book for Kids

  Before I start my Banned Book Reading Challenge in a few days, I wanted to put up a couple of reviews. I just finished the first book Margaret Peterson's latest Missing series called Found. Found is also listed on the Rebecca Caudill book list this year for grades 4 through 8. Children looking for a quick and engaging read will love Found and the rest of the Missing series.

Description: A plane suddenly appears with 36 unattended babies. All are adopted and grow up in contemporary America. When Chip and Jonah, who are both adopted, receive mysterious letters, they search for clues about their origins. Together with Jonah's sister Katherine, they find ties to the FBI and unexplained characters that disappear right before their eyes. Could Chip and Jonah be one of those unattended babies on that airplane thirteen years ago? How do unexplained characters just disappear right before their eyes? What's going on? 

Review: I enjoyed Found. I found it be a very quick and fun read. In fact, I finished it in practically one sitting. I liked how the plot, though I felt it was pretty predictable, unfolded for the characters. Jonah, Chip, and Katherine are well liked protagonists and it is very easy to root for them. The author puts a positive spin on adoption and for once, there are no evil parents that are the villains. It is not until the climatic ending, that the story and mystery comes together. Found is definitely plot driven and in my opinion, didn't have much character development. Although the ending leaves the reader with more questions than answers and a big cliffhanger, I'm sure many will eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series. I would highly recommend this title for high elementary and middle schoolers who enjoy science fiction and mystery. I think this book would make a great book club discussion.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: None. I'd recommend this title for kids who love science fiction, mystery, or suspense. Grades 4 and up.


If you like this book try: Sent by Margaret Peterson Haddix (2nd book in the Missing series) or Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix.

Fight censorship and celebrate your freedom to read by entering my Speak Giveaway! Click HERE for details!

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Acting Out

  Divorce is a difficult process no matter when it takes place. It is without a doubt emotionally draining. Many books reflect on the process leading up to a divorce as well as the aftermath of how the divorce affects the once coupled, however, not many are written from the eyes of a child. Scarlett by Cathy Cassidy is a pretty good book about how a preteen deals with a divorce as well as learn to love and forgive.

Description: After being expelled from her third school in London, Scarlett is sent by her exasperated mother to live with her father, stepmother, and stepsister in Ireland. Scarlett has made up her mind that she will have a horrible time in Ireland and will go through great lengths to return home until she meets Kian, a mysterious boy with a secret of his own, who urges her to reconsider. Will Scarlett take Kian's advice and remain in Ireland? Will she finally have her greatest wish of having a family again? And what is Kian's secret? 

Review: I had a few issues with Scarlett, but overall I did enjoy it. In the beginning, I didn't like Scarlett at all. I found her to be annoying, out of control, and self righteous, which are symbolized by her pierced tongue. However, as the story progressed and I learned about the painful divorce process of her parents and how her mother neglected her, I began to feel sorry for Scarlett and began to understand her much more.
   Scarlett begins to change, much to the better, once she reaches Ireland. Although she immediately wants to leave her father and his "other family", she can't help but secretly want her stepsister's life, a mother and father who deeply care for her. With the help of Kian, an Irish boy she meets by the lake, she realizes that running away isn't the answer. She must learn how to love and forgive in order to be happy.
   I loved Scarlett's stepmother, Clare, and her stepsister, Holly, who are both sweet and realistic. Kian is also sweet and we slowly learn what his secret past holds. I just wished that his character was a bit more flushed out. Scarlett's mom didn't seem to develop. I felt her change from being an absent mother to one who cares was a bit unrealistic and confusing. Perhaps a few scenes of her communicating with Scarlett during Scarlett's Ireland visit could have made it better. I also enjoyed learning a bit about Ireland while reading this book.
   My main issues of the book are that there were many repetitive scenes and that the second half of the book is rushed. I would have liked a more build up to Kian's story, because his story is essential to Scarlett's own epiphany. Also, Scarlett's actions of having a pierced tongue and running away at night to be with Kian (the romance is very chaste) were incongruous to her age as a 12 year old. Nonetheless, I did end up liking who Scarlett becomes in the end. 


Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: None.


If you like this book try: Indigo Blue by Cathy Cassidy

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Sitting, Waiting, Hoping, Wishing

     We all have bad days. Days where nothing seems to go right at all and all you want to do is stay in bed, but how do you deal with chronic bad days? When you are constantly faced with obstacles that you can't solve and people who refuse to mend their ways, how do you prevent yourself from becoming jaded and cynical? How much can you take until you breakdown? These are the questions that played over and over in my mind while I read Leslie Connor's multiple award winning novel called Waiting for Normal.

Description: Addie has been separated from her beloved stepfather and her stepsisters. She and her mother live in a small trailer by the railroad tracks on the outskirts of Schenectady, New York. Addie tries to cope with her mother's erratic behavior and relies on herself to survive. All Addie wants is a life where normal exists, a day where she can count on the people she loves to be there and not disappear.

Review: Waiting for Normal is a heartbreaking story of abandonment, yearn of love, and where persistence and a positive attitude prevails. Since her mother disappears for countless numbers of days (many of which are not known ahead of time), 12 year old Addie is forced to grow-up and raise herself. She tries to make the best of a bad condition by making friends with a local mini-mart and to focus on the opportunities where she can see her stepfather and stepsisters. Addie is a character that embodies positive thinking and persistence. I did have a hard time, however, buying her positive thinking. I expected her to breakdown and stand up for herself a lot sooner than she did in the book. There were times when her dialogue was not fit for a 12 year old but rather an adult, which is the author's point: a normal, 12 year old does not have to worry whether or not she has enough to eat or wait until late at night to reassure herself that her mother will return.
   Waiting for Normal is not really an uplifting book. For majority of the novel, Addie's mother acts as a child. She is moody, spends her time by surfing the Internet or watching TV. There were several moments where I wanted to shake her and yell at her for not taking care of her daughter. The author does not give a reason why Addie's mother acts the way she does. There are some hints that she might be manic depressive or bipolar. What is mentioned, however, is her history of finding a new man and becoming pregnant with another child. I was disappointed that the other adults in Addie's life didn't step up and help her when they knew she was in trouble. Addie does get a happy ending, but she deserves more. Overall, an okay book that made me really sad. 


Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: None.

If you like this book, try: Pollyanna by Elena H. Porter

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What's so wrong about being different?

  I don't understand where we got the notion of conformity. Have we been unconsciously taught that being different is harmful, funny, scary, or all of the above from society or it just plain old human nature? What deters us from stepping outside of the norm? And who determines what's normal and more importantly, who defines what is normal? These insightful questions are asked in Gordon Korman's smart, funny, and poignant novel Schooled.

Description: Capricorn "Cap" Anderson is raised and home schooled by his hippie grandmother, Rain. When Rain falls from a tree trying to pick plums from their 'alternate farm commune', Cap is forced to attend a public school for the first time. Smart, insightful, innocent and inexperienced Cap is the target of pranks and the butt of jokes in the middle school. Will Cap survive his new school or will he take an extensive leave of absence like others before him?

Review: I really liked Schooled right from the first page. Each chapter is told from a different first person narrative that shifts among the main characters: Cap, Mrs. Donnelly a social worker (who takes him into her home), Sophie (Mrs. Donnelly's daughter who resents his presence there), an A-list bully, a Z-list victim, a popular girl, the school principal, and a football player. Korman capably manages to seamlessly shifts the points of view of characters without confusing the reader and shows how those who begin by scorning or resenting Cap actually end up on Cap's side. The book has lots of memorable moments of comedy, tenderness, and reflection. A great children's book that not only discusses bullying, but also the stifling effects of conformity within a school's culture.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Words of Caution: Nothing.

If you like this book, try: Stargirl and Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

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I wish I was 11 again

   Things were so simple when we were young, weren't they? I don't understand why we thought growing up was so alluring. Sure, we get to drive, vote, and be independent, but we also have to worry about how to support ourselves. The older that I get, the more I wish I could go back to being a kid. I wouldn't mind being 11 years old again, where my primary concerns would be school and friends. Wouldn't that be nice? Since I know that's impossible and a time machine hasn't been invented yet (What's the deal with that? We're in 2010 already. Could someone start that project?), I would have to live vicariously through Amanda and Leo, the protagonists of Wendy Mass's sweet and adorable book called 11 birthdays.

Description: Amanda and Leo have literally been best friends since birth. See, they were born on the same day and have celebrated their birthdays together for 9 years. They had a fall out on their 10th birthday and haven't spoken to each other for an entire year. Now when they prepare to celebrate their 11th birthday separately, strange things are starting to happen. They began to celebrate their birthday over and over again! What's going on? Will Amanda and Leo become friends again and solve the mystery together? 

Review: 11 birthdays is an adorable, sweet, clean, and enjoyable read. It's basically the kids' version of the movie, Groundhog Day. The writing is fresh and all of the characters were delightful. The universal themes of doing well in school coupled with the power of changing friends rings true in the novel. Amanda and Leo take advantage of the time warp to try different things to see what the outcomes would be and to see if their actions would fix time so they could see Saturday. It was refreshing to see how Amanda and Leo's thought process changed while they try to solve the mystery. I would recommend this book to children in 3rd grader and up.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Absolutely clean.

If you like this book, try: Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass

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