Bring on the Books

FRIDAY: Bookplate Special by Lorna Barrett

2012-01-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Tricia Miles is fed up with her uninvited-can't-take-a-hint-check-forging-business-ruining houseguest, Pammy Fredericks. Sure, they had been college roommates once upon a time, but they weren't really friends and Pammy is a freeloading pain in the neck. Tricia starts feeling pretty good about life again after she finally tells Pammy to leave and not come back - but that was before she found Pammy's body sticking out of a dumpster. While she knows she shouldn't, Tricia feels somewhat responsible for Pammy, so she starts investigating what Pammy was up to before she died. When bullets start flying, Tricia knows Pammy was digging where she didn't belong. Tricia will need to get to the truth before someone else ends up dead.

Review
This was a good mystery. Tricia and her book store staff are great characters. Tricia's sister still annoys me (actually, not as much in this book as she did in earlier ones or in the next one in the series), but not enough to keep me from a good mystery series. This was a nicely complicated story with plenty of diversions to keep the reader guessing but not so many that I found myself wondering if it would ever wrap up. I like the new law enforcement character and the potential in his interactions with Tricia. The mystery bookstore Tricia owns is mostly a setting for conversation and character interactions. There are a few references to mysteries and authors but nothing that would distract a reader from the larger story.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Fans of the series, cozy mystery fans

Cautions: some language.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: Never Say Genius

2012-01-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

Book #2 of Dan Gutman's Genius Files series, Never Say Genius, released yesterday. This is the book I am going to read next. You can go here to see the cover art and read some of the beginning. My students and I really enjoyed the first adventure, and from everything I have seen online, this one will be fantastic (they start in Wisconsin and eat cheese curds!).

MONDAY: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2012-01-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
How can a teenager be held responsible for starting a revolution she didn't know she was starting? That is Katniss' question. Her choices in the Hunger Games inspired people. But the restlessness and rebellion is going to get people killed and the government - especially the president - blame Katniss. She and Peeta will have to put on the performance of their lives if they are going to convince those in power that they were not trying to incite the people to revolt - and survive another battle to the death.

Review
It's hard to summarize a book like this without giving away too much of the story. And this is a story worth experiencing page by page. In general, I don't like the second book in a trilogy, and I did not love this one as much as the first, but part of that is the necessary darkness of the story. These are not happy tales. This is a story of great corruption, of those who hold on to power with a vicious grip, and a society that can be far too casual about the lives of others. But it is a well-told story with fascinating characters.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.3 (with an interest level of MG+ or 6th grade and up)

Recommended for: Fans of the first book in the series, older tweens and teens, fans of dystopian stories

Cautions: The story just gets darker. Sensitive readers should read with caution.

FRIDAY: Harry Potter: Page to Screen

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

I bought this for my husband for Christmas back in October and had to almost sit on my hands to keep from diving into it as soon as it arrived at the house. Now that I can access it freely, I have hogged it.

Great details and pictures and background stories about the people who brought the seven Harry Potter books to life in eight movies.

I think this would be a great treat for fans of the books and the movies - hours of entertainment with the regular text as well as special sections, and picture captions. The book is divided into sections by movie.

5 stars!

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: The Future of Us

2012-01-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

I have been reading a lot about this book lately and can't wait to dig into it. It's about a couple kids in 1996 getting an AOL install disc and finding Facebook on the internet, showing themselves 15 years in the future.

I have it from the library and I'm just waiting to get a handle on the re-start of the school year so I can enjoy it. Hope to post a review soon!

MONDAY: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2012-01-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
The Hunger Games are an annual event where a boy and girl from each of 12 districts are chosen to compete in a battle to the death. Those in power hold the Games to keep the districts in line so that no one thinks about mounting a rebellion like those in the now-dead District 13. Katniss Everdeen from District 12 has managed to stay out of the games so far, but when her sister is chosen, Katniss offers herself instead. Now, she just has to get through whatever challenges the gamemakers have devised and be the last one standing.

Review
This was absolutely fantastic. I couldn't read through it fast enough. Katniss and her District 12 partner, Peeta, are compelling characters. Yes, the story is dark because the competitors are essentially in a kill or be killed situation. Katniss is a great hero because she isn't trying to be a hero. She just wants to take care of her family, and in order to do that she has to survive. She struggles with the fact that eventually she might have to kill one of the others - someone she actually likes - in order to survive until the end.

In March there will be a movie based on the book. You'll be hearing more and more about this book and the series in the months to come. If you are interested in dystopian literature, definitely check this one out!

5 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.3 (with an interest level of MG+ or 6th grade and up)

Recommended for: older tweens and teens, fans of dystopian books

Cautions: The Games are a battle to the death with monsters and evil government leaders, etc. Sensitive readers might want to pass on this series

FRIDAY: Deep Trouble by Mary Connealy

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Shannon's father believed in the city of gold until his dying day. And Shannon is determined to prove him right. So, she leaves her high-society city life in St. Louis to travel west with some hired guides. But her hired guides decide they'd rather steal her map and leave her for dead. Gabe, traveling alone on his way to visit family, hears the gunfire and Shannon's scream and rescues her. Shannon insists on finishing her quest and Gabe feels obligated to go along to keep her safe. But nothing about this journey is going to be safe.

Review
I received a review copy of this book from the author. It's been sitting on my shelf for awhile. Frankly, at first glance I thought it wasn't my kind of book. I am more of a sci-fi/fantasy reader. But Deep Trouble was one of the books I committed to reading this year, and I was pleasantly surprised. Shannon and Gabe are likeable characters and the villains are truly creepy, making the reader want to hang with the story to find out how Gabe and Shannon will survive to the end. It's a fun love story with great supporting characters. Good faith message also, without being preachy.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of western romances and/or Christian fiction

Cautions: None.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: January TBRs

2012-01-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

I didn't really set any goals for 2012, but I did pull a pile of books from my shelves of TBRs (to be read). I set aside 12 non-fiction books, 12 kids books, 12 general fiction books and then books from 12 series I've been reading but haven't kept up with. Here are my January choices:

I hope to finish all of these in January.

MONDAY: Charlie Joe Jackson's Guide to not Reading by Tommy Greenwald

2012-01-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Charlie Joe Jackson is not a reading fan. In fact, a lot of his time and energy is spent developing schemes to get out of reading. Unfortunately for Charlie, his primary scheme, which has been working for years, gets discovered. Now Charlie will have to do his own reading for a change.... or will he?

Review
Fun story that will appeal to readers and reluctant readers, both. Charlie Joe's tips for non-reading and the short chapters make this a fast read. Kids will enjoy Charlie's scheming. Older readers will recognize that Charlie expends more energy on his schemes than he would if he just read the book in the first place.

3 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.4

Recommended for: readers 12 and up, reluctant readers, readers who like stories of kids working a plan or scheme to fake out teachers/other grown ups

Cautions: one reference to sex ed, references to dating and crushes lead me to push my recommended ages up even though there are elements that would appeal to all middle grade readers (4th-8th grade)

FRIDAY: The First Love Cookie Club by Lori Wilde

2012-01-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Sarah fled Twilight, Texas as soon as she could after embarrassing herself as a teenager in front of the man she had hoped would be her soul mate. She made a name for herself as a children's author by the name of Sadie Cool. She is summoned back to Twilight for a Christmas celebration and to meet a sick fan who wishes to meet her favorite author. Little does Sarah know, the girl is the daughter of her soul mate, Travis Walker, now a single father, who remembers Sarah and her teenage declaration of love.

Review
What a fun holiday romance! The author tells a great story in the acknowledgments about the inspiration for the story. While Travis doesn't know that Sarah is Sadie, he figures it out soon enough. I appreciated the author not drawing that out too long. Jazzy, the sick child, is delightful. Plenty of side plots and road blocks will keep readers turning pages. One road block toward the end seemed to come out of nowhere, but it was compelling enough to keep me reading.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of holiday romance stories

Cautions: some language and detailed romantic moments might bother more sensitive readers.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: New Releases, part 2

2012-01-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

More new books coming in January:

Bad Kitty for President by Nick Bruel (releases 1/17)
Never Say Genius by Dan Gutman (Genius Files #2 -- releases 1/24)
File M for Murder by Miranda James (Cat in the Stacks series -- releases 1/31)

MONDAY: Finally by Wendy Mass

2012-01-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Rory has been waiting forever to be 12. She's heard "Well, you can do that when you are 12," so many times, she started writing them all down and keeping them in a special box. But the day has FINALLY arrived. She is 12. Now she can go to a boy/girl party, get her ears pierced, stay alone in the house, babysit, get a cell phone, and more. Even more excellent, her favorite movie star is filming at her school! But some of those special things she's been waiting for for years don't turn out quite like Rory planned.

Review
Of the three Willow Falls books, this was probably my favorite. This story was unusual because Rory doesn't really recognize what is happening until all the pieces come together in the end. Through most of the story it is one disaster after another. But you get glimpses of Rory's character as she interacts with different people in the story. And she starts to think more critically about her list of things she wants to do now that she is 12, evaluating if she really wants to do those things, or if she only liked the idea of them. This story makes me want to read 13 Gifts again to see where this story fits in the "series."

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.6

Recommended for: fans of the other Willow Falls stories or the author's other stories.

Cautions: None

Happy New Year!

2011-12-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hope you enjoy ringing in the new year with those you love!

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: January 2012 New Releases

2011-12-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Lots of new mysteries coming out in early January. Here are a few titles coming out January 3rd:

Affairs of Steak by Julie Hyzy (White House Chef series)
An Appetite for Murder by Lucy Burdette (Key West Food Critic - first in series)
Clobbered by Camembert by Avery Aames (Cheese Shop series)
Killer Crullers by Jessica Beck (Donut Shop series)
The Ghost and the Bogus Bookseller by Alice Kimberly (Haunted Bookshop series)
Plan Bee by Hannah Reed (Queen Bee series)

MONDAY: 11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

2011-12-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Amanda and Leo are about to celebrate their 11th birthdays - on the same day, but alone. It didn't use to be this way. They used to be inseparable. They have been together for every birthday since the day they were born. But on the day they turned 10, Amanda heard Leo say some hurtful things about her and they haven't spoken since.
But this birthday has gotten a little weird. Every day, when Amanda wakes up, it's her 11th birthday again. Okay, I guess that's a lot weird. Amanda and Leo will have to put their past behind them and dig into the past of their ancestors to get to the bottom of what is happening to them if they ever hope to see the day AFTER their 11th birthday.

Review
Fun story! The idea of reliving a day until someone gets it right is a familiar one, but it is done with a twist here because Amanda and Leo eventually get to work on the problem together and because there's an historic element to it. I like the relationship between Amanda and Leo and it was nice to get some of the backstory I was missing when I read 13 Gifts. Great start to the Willow Falls stories.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.1

Recommended for: Fans of Wendy Mass' other books, or other books that take place in Willow Falls, readers who enjoy stories with a little bit of magic to them.

Cautions: None

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays! Hope you enjoy your Christmas weekend. I'll be back on Monday with more reviews.

WEDNESDAY: The Nine Lives of Christmas by Sheila Roberts

2011-12-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's another non-WAITING Wednesday. With Christmas coming, I wanted to get this review in now.

Summary
Ambrose the cat is in HUGE trouble. He is on his ninth life and barely hanging onto a thin tree branch in a storm, staring into the huge teeth of a hungry dog. Ambrose promises the powers-that-be that if he is rescued, he will use the rest of his final life to do something good for someone else. Who better to help, then, than the man who scares away the dog, saving Ambrose. It takes awhile to get the man, Zach, to let Ambrose into his home. And then Zach insists on calling him "Tom." How ordinary! And that woman Zach calls "Baby" is absolutely hideous. Ambrose must convince Zach to keep him and to find a much nicer lady-friend to spend his life with so Ambrose can enjoy the rest of his ninth and final life.

Review
This was a cute holiday story. Ambrose's perspective on the things and people in Zach's life gave a fun "voice" to parts of the story. The single adults in the story seemed a little over-focused on the physical parts of their relationships, rather than looking for a more well-rounded relationship, but the main characters are fun to read about. My favorite part was when one character goes shopping with her sisters. Their relationship was refreshing and their interactions were fun to read. The ending came together really quickly, but I enjoyed how it all came together.

4 out of 5 stars.

Recommended for: readers looking for a fun, light holiday story; readers who enjoy animal stories

Cautions: references to Ambrose's previous lives - and the ways he died in each one -- might weird out some more sensitive readers.

MONDAY: 13 Gifts by Wendy Mass

2011-12-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Tara was just trying to fit in. Sure, she knew trying to steal the goat was wrong, but if it got her in with the cool crowd, maybe her mother would get off her case.
Instead, she gets caught and shipped off to her parents' home town to stay with her aunt, uncle and cousin. Nothing goes right for Tara. She loses her money and her mom's iPod, she tries to dishonestly get some money to fix things and gets caught again. Now she owes a weird woman a crazy favor. Tara's going to need the help of the family she hardly knows and her new friends if she is going to pull off the favor by her 13th birthday.

Review
This is the third book that takes place in Willow Falls, but the first one I read, so there were several references to books I hadn't read. I was still able to follow the story and it only made me want to read the others. I loved the characters - what a great group of kids in this story! I thought the author did a great job of bringing a lot of little pieces together in an ending that was satisfying (for the most part - some plot points leave you hanging for, presumably, another book.) I love how the kids pull together to help Tara, even though they don't really know her.

4 out of 5 stars.
AR level of 4.5

Recommended for: readers 10 and up, readers who like stories with a little "magic" in them. The author also wrote one of my all time favorite books for kids, The Candymakers. Fans of her other stories might enjoy this one as well.

Cautions: None.

FRIDAY: Trading Christmas by Debbie Macomber

2011-12-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Emily decides to surprise her daughter for Christmas, so she swaps her home in Washington state with Charles in Boston. But her daughter has her own Christmas plans, leaving Emily stranded - alone - in Boston for Christmas.

Charles is not so lucky. He WANTS to be alone, but he's living in Christmas-central, surrounded by Emily's friends and Christmas cheer aplenty.

While it looks like Emily and Charles will have horrible holidays, love walks in.

Review
The general premise is like the movie, The Holiday, which is one of my favorites for this time of year (any time of year, really). You may have caught the Hallmark Channel movie of this book during this Christmas season. This book is actually a re-release for Macomber. This story was previously published as When Christmas Comes. This version comes with a bonus story called The Forgetful Bride. I did skim through some of the middle, but I actually enjoyed the bonus story even more than the original.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Macomber's fans, readers looking for a fun Christmas romance

Cautions: some language

WEDNESDAY: Alien Proliferation by Gini Koch

2011-12-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

Usually I post a "waiting" book on Wednesday, but I didn't want to wait to review this one.

Summary
Kitty and Martini are back, and baby makes three. You would think the happy little family could enjoy a little quiet together, but "quiet" is probably not going to be in the cards for them any time soon. After a traumatic delivery, Kitty discovers a plot to take out Chuckie and Kitty's mom. At least, that seems to be the plot. But there are more layers to this situation than meets the eye. There's a mole - or is there? Kitty's high school friends are in danger - or are they part of the plotting? At the root of everything is Kitty's baby. The bad guys want the baby and, like any good momma, Kitty will fight tooth and nail to protect her.

Review
This is a hard book to summarize because sooooo many things are going on and I don't want to give any of the good stuff away. I have been a big fan of this series since I read the first book. I re-read them just for fun even though I have tons of new and yet-unread books laying around. Alien Proliferation is a perfect addition to the series. I didn't want to put the book down. I laughed out loud often as I zoomed through this 400+ page non-stop thrill. It was a delight to dig into such a meaty book that wasn't filled with a lot of unnecessary fluff. Plenty of great twists and turns. New dynamics between characters as Kitty gets a new partner to work with and other new characters are introduced (or familiar characters are developed more fully). While motherhood changes Kitty in some ways, it doesn't change any of the things I love about her - her sarcasm, her intuition, her kick-butt-and-take-names attitude. She continues to be a great, strong character.

This is not a story for the faint of heart. Kitty is in a life-and-death battle and there are casualties. Everything that happens is appropriate to the story, though. I enjoyed this so much, I am looking for time when I can carve out a few days to read through the whole series to date from start to finish. The next book, Alien Diplomacy, releases in April, 2012.

5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of the series, science fiction/fantasy fans who like an element of romance in their stories

Cautions: My personal feeling is that new readers will be lost if they jump in here. Do yourself a favor and start at the beginning and enjoy the whole series. Otherwise, there's some violence, and some romantic moments are described in detail. Those sections can be skipped over by sensitive readers. There might also be some language (honestly, I was reading so fast to find out what was going on, I didn't really pay that close of attention).

MONDAY: Judy Moody Predicts the Future by Megan McDonald

2011-12-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Judy gets a mood ring but it refuses to work the way she wants it to so Stink takes it. When Judy decides she wants it back, she pretends she can predict the future to convince Stink that the ring belongs with her. Her (fake) power goes to her head, and her big prediction in front of her entire class bombs. Can Judy get a prediction right? Can she get the mood ring to turn just the perfect shade of purple?

Review
I bought a set of Judy Moody books for our school library because I love Judy and her brother, Stink. I received this book in the set and felt like I need to read it to see if it would be appropriate for our Christian school library. It is. This was a cute story. Judy's desire to predict the future and do something "magical" is a familiar desire to kids.

3 out of 5 stars
AR level of 3.1

Recommended for: Judy Moody fans

Cautions: none

FRIDAY: The Christmas Shoppe by Melody Carlson

2011-12-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
At first it just seems like small town politics. An "outsider" buys up a prime piece of property out from under a councilman. When everyone thinks it's going to be a Christmas shop, it's no big deal. Instead, Matilda, the owner, fills the shelves with old "junk." The other downtown business owners are up in arms, ready to run Matilda out of town. One by one, though, people walk into The Christmas Shoppe and walk out changed - even some of Matilda's biggest challengers. What is really going on at The Christmas Shoppe.

Review
I went to the library before Christmas strictly to find holiday stories to help me get into the holiday spirit. This was a nice read, but nothing earth shattering. Nice Christmas message of forgiveness and redemption. Would make a nice Christmas gift.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: readers looking for a comfortable Christmas novel to celebrate the season

Cautions: none

More December New Releases

2011-12-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

I am pretty excited to look at a couple more books coming out this December, both on the 27th.

First, we have Darth Plagueis by James Luceno. I don't read a lot of Star Wars fiction, but Luceno's name on this one drew my attention immediately. Plagueis was the Sith Lord Palpatine used to temp Anakin Skywalker to the Dark Side. This will be his story, and I am eager to read it!

On a lighter note there is the newest Magic Tree House book by Mary Pope Osbourne, Abe Lincoln at Last!

Enjoy these late-December releases!

MONDAY: A Bad Kitty Christmas by Nick Bruel

2011-12-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
A holiday alphabet book, starring Bad Kitty. Bad Kitty trashes the family's Christmas from "crushed cards" to "ousted ornaments." And Kitty wanted more - an ape, a bear, a gecko, a horse, etc. In a temper, Kitty hops out of the car while on the way to Uncle Murray's, and she runs away. A old woman takes Kitty in where she learns to be content with what she has, and she misses her family. Puppy finds Bad Kitty and helps her find her way home.

Review
I have GOT to stop buying picture books without reading them in the store. More than once I have gotten the book home and discovered a part of it that will keep me from sharing it at school. Bad Kitty's Christmas story is such a story.

The story is sweet, with three different alphabetical sections, and a great lesson about holiday spirit and thinking of others. The final alphabet section occurs when the old woman tells Kitty about her family including a cousin, Nan, with a "partner" named Pam.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 3.0

Recommended for: Bad Kitty fans, folks looking for fresh holiday stories, readers looking for books that recognize a variety of family types.

Cautions: Some families and settings may wish to skip this holiday story because of the reference to Nan and Pam's relationship.

FRIDAY: Making Spirits Bright (anthology)

2011-12-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Four stories in one book.
Making Spirts Bright by Fern Michaels - Melanie, wealthy yet lonely, contemplates adopting a child to share her life. Then she meets Bryce. She'd really like to get to know him better, but will he want to date a woman with adopted kids? And what if the horrible woman at the adoption agency won't let her adopt at all?
Runaway Christmas by Elizabeth Bass - While Heidi is pouring everything she has into making her New York City restaurant stay afloat, her sort-of-step-niece, Erica, borrows her step-mother's credit card to fund a trip from Texas to New York for Christmas. Heidi thought she'd be spending Christmas alone, but she finds love and family instead.
Home for Christmas by Rosalind Noonan - Jo lost her husband Shane in a tragic skiing accident. She and her daughter have stayed in Jo's home town, building a business there and staying close to Jo's family. When someone threatens everything Jo counts on, she takes action. Unfortunately, some of her decisions could ruin the fragile new relationship in her life.
Christmas on Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter - Maddie spends Christmas with Asa and his son, Noah, and Asa's parents. While she misses her own family, this Christmas is a special one, full of tree-trimming, Christmas surprises and love.

Review
This was a nice holiday read. Sometimes when I read a book like this, I will enjoy the first and maybe the second story, but will lose interest before reading the last ones. Not this time. I read and enjoyed all four stories (although, I had a hard time following the family relationships in the final story). My favorite was probably Runaway Christmas, followed by Home for Christmas.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: readers looking for romantic holiday stories, or novellas instead of full length novels.

Cautions: none that I recall

New Releases - December 2011

2011-11-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

I am counting down the days - hours - until December 6th when MANY new books release. Here is a list of books I am looking forward to reading in December:

Alien Proliferation by Gini Koch (this is the one I am most eager to get my hands on - I have really enjoyed this series)
The Last Word ~ Adams (Books by the Bay series)
A Cookie before Dying ~ Lowell (Cookie Cutter Shop series)
Double Booked for Death ~ Brandon (Black Cat Bookshop mystery)
Threadbare ~ Ferris (Needlecraft series)
The Cocoa Conspiracy ~ Penrose (Lady Arianna series)
You Might as Well Die ~ Murphy (Algonquin Round Table series)
A Spirited Gift ~ Lavene (Missing Pieces series)
39 Clues - A King's Ransom ~ Watson (Cahills vs. Vespars, book 2)

So many good books - here's hoping my December (and yours) is full of lots of reading time!

Holiday Recommendations 2011

2011-11-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

The 2011 holiday season has arrived. Here are some of my book-related recommendations for this year (For non-book related ideas, check out my Just Me, Jaymie blog tomorrow).

My Five Star Book Reviews

A Harry Potter tote bag (available at Barnes and Noble) - roomy and sturdy. Different pictures on the two sides.

American Girl Magazine subscription (photo from site). We have this in our school library and my girls love it.

Vera Bradley book cover (You can get some sized for paperbacks at Barnes and Noble. This is a little larger - and on my personal holiday wishlist. Photo from site.)

Vera Bradley e-reader cover (I use one of these for my Nook Color and I love it. Photo from site)

Hope you find some happy reading-related things for folks on your holiday shopping list.

Holiday Break

2011-11-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday this week. I'll be back with new reviews on Monday.

MONDAY: The Sisters 8 by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

2011-11-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
The last of the Huit octuplets receive (or acknowledge) their special powers in the next two books in the series. In Rebecca's Rashness, Rebecca seems to have two special powers - one saves the life of a friend, but the other brings mostly destruction. In Zinnia's Zaniness, the Huits and their friends, Mr. and Mrs. Pete, take a vacation to the seaside where they meet a mysterious boy named George, and Zinnia's power becomes more apparent to everyone but her sisters.

Review
I am still enjoying this series and I'm eager to find out what happened to the girls' parents. Teaser at the very end of Zinnia's story will make readers rant and rave about having to wait for the next book in the series. Lots of hints about who George is, but that is waiting for a future story as well.

3 out of 5 stars
AR reading level of 5.0 and 4.9 respectively

Recommended for: fans of the series, mystery fans

Cautions: none

FRIDAY: Kindred Spirits by Sarah Strohmeyer

2011-11-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
The four of them were The Ladies Society for the Conservation of Martinis until one ended her fight against cancer on her own terms. Now the remaining three head out on a road trip to fulfill the dying wish of their dear friend. Along the way, there'll be a lot of martinis, reminiscing, and some self-discovery for each of the ladies.

Review
This was a very touching story. The author did a nice job of filling in the friends' history in snippets throughout the story while never leaving the reader wondering what was going on. I've been reading so much children's fiction lately, it was nice to engage in a book with grown up characters and grown up circumstances. The ladies' quest included a nice twist in the middle which I enjoyed. Plenty of happy endings for all. I didn't personally connect with all the martini information in the story, but it didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the story.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of Strohmeyer's other work, fans of stories with strong female characters

Cautions: some language

TUESDAY: Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan

2011-11-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary

Second chapter of the Kane Chronicles series. Carter and Sadie are back, along with some new magicians, to continue their quest to wake Ra, the sun god in order to battle Apophis. Carter and Sadie must travel around the world to find the three pieces of the Book of Ra to complete the spell - and they have to find Ra, too! They only have a few short days to pull everything together while avoiding those who would rather see the Kanes dead than see them succeed.

Review

Great story. Plenty of action which keeps the reader turning pages. Lots of interesting characters. A new god, Bes, was a key factor in the scene that left me laughing out loud in a quiet, but public setting. I just couldn't help myself! I love the fact that Carter and Sadie take turns telling the story. It gives the reader a chance to know the two characters and see how their relationship is developing (Carter and Sadie are brother and sister, but they weren't raised together) and more insights into each one's experiences. It also allows the characters to have separate adventures. [Personally, I have enjoyed the Percy Jackson/Lost Hero series more than I have this one, but this one is also enjoyable.]

4 out of 5 stars

AR level of 4.8

Recommended for: tween readers, fans of Riordan's other books, teachers looking for an example of voice (since there are two narrators).

Cautions: The magic and spell-casting components might be a caution for some readers/families who are avoiding books like Harry Potter for those reasons.

MONDAY: If You're Hoppy by April Sayre

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

This is a fun, fun twist on the tried and true song of "If You're Happy and You Know It." This makes for a great read aloud

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: bedtime reading, classroom reading, library reading time

Cautions: none

Floors by Patrick Carman

2011-11-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Leo Fillmore lives in the Whippet Hotel, a quirky hotel full of quirky people and all sorts of secrets. Leo's dad is the janitor and handy-man at the Whippet, so Leo knows more of the secrets than most people. But the mysterious boxes that are left for him are full of secrets Leo never imagined. Leo will need to choose his friends wisely if he wants to discover the secrets of the boxes and save the Whippet Hotel from people who want to destroy it.

Review
I had read early reviews of Floors that compared it to one of my favorite pieces of children's literature, The Westing Game, and I think the comparisons are good. You have a quirky setting and quirky characters in both and people aren't who they appear to be. The strange rooms and the twists and turns will keep readers turning page after page in order to find out if Leo can save the day. The number "1" on the spine leads me to hope that there will be more adventures for Leo and the Whippet Hotel in the future.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.7

Recommended for: readers 10 and up, fans of The Westing Game or The Mysterious Benedict Society or other puzzle-type mysteries. Fans of Carman's other books, like the Land of Elyon series, won't be disappointed if they give Floors a try. It's a different style all together, but well done.

Cautions: none

The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

2011-11-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
In the land of Quill, the artistic and creative are to be feared - and destroyed. So every year, kids who are thirteen are sorted. Those who are Wanted are sent to university to study. Those who are Unwanted are sent to their deaths.

Alex, and his twin brother Aaron, are thirteen. Aaron is Wanted. Alex is not. But it isn't death that awaits Alex, but Artime, a magical land where the creative people of Quill have gone for years. There, Alex and his friends learn the magic of creativity and how to use it to protect themselves and Artime. But the ties between twins are strong. Alex doesn't like being separated from Aaron, but if Aaron knew the truth of what happened to Alex, everyone in Artime would be at risk. Can Alex fight the compulsion to see his brother again? And if he can't, what will happen to Artime?

Review
One of the latest additions to the dystopian* genre of books, The Unwanteds is a good story. The author does a great job of building the worlds of Quill and Artime. The connection between Alex and Aaron is fascinating as well. This is obviously the first in a series, and there's plenty of story left to tell. I can't speak to the Hunger Games portion of the comparison made by Kirkus Reviews, but the comparison to Harry Potter is fair. Artime is a great magical world. Readers will want to go there themselves and experience the magic of creativity.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.7

Recommended for: tweens - nine or ten and up, fans of fantasy and/or dystopian stories. [To me, this didn't seem as dark as some of the other dystopian-type stories out there for teens]

Cautions: there is a "war" or a battle that might be upsetting for young or especially sensitive readers.

*dystopian literature starts with the premise that things are as bad as they can be in the world - corruption, poverty, oppression, terror, etc. Usually there is some central figure or government that has set up a system to keep the people oppressed or "in line" while convincing the people that the system is in their best interest or for their own protection.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney

2011-11-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

My students are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Cabin Fever, the latest Diary of a Wimpy Kid book by Jeff Kinney. While I am not a personal fan of the series, I can't keep them on the library shelves. I am definitely a fan of anything that gets kids reading like that!

Cabin Fever hits bookshelves on Tuesday, November 15th.

TUESDAY: Bird, Bird, Bird by April Pulley Sayre

2011-11-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
Part of a series of books, written in the rhythm of a chant, that names a variety of birds. [Others in the series include fish and insects.] Includes caricatures of the types of birds and a couple sentences about each bird mentioned including teals, loons, crackles and buffleheads.

Review
Fun way to present animal information. Hours of entertainment in the colorful, detailed illustrations. Good combination of informative and fun.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: classroom and library non-fiction sections, readers who enjoy animal books and/or non-fiction

Cautions: none

MONDAY: One Is a Snail, Ten is a Crab by April Pulley Sayre and Jeff Sayre

2011-11-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Summary
A quirky counting book based on the number of feet a critter has. Moves from pretty simple addition/counting to 10 to more intricate multiplication and counting by 10s.

Review
So cute! And informative (insects have 6 legs, spiders have 8, etc.) The author, whom I met at a conference lately, said she's received notes and pictures from classes of school children using the book's premise for their own counting projects. One class showed the different ways to make the number 200 from snails, people, dogs, insects, spiders and crabs. Very clever and a lot of fun!

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Amazon says pre-school through grade 2. I think the kids that will really "get" it would be in first through third grade. The illustrations will appeal to younger viewers/readers and each page builds on the one before which will help children grow their number skills with the book. Math teachers could do a lot of fun projects with this one!

Cautions: none

BOOK FAIR: Dog in Boots by Greg Gormley

2011-11-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

I couldn't wrap up my books from our Scholastic Book Fair without talking about my favorite picture book Dog in Boots

Dog finishes a story about a cat sporting some fantastic books and decides he wants some fantastic footwear, too. Every pair he tries, though, work for some things he wants to do but not for others. Finally, he discovers that he had just what he needed all along.

So very cute and funny. My students laughed when we read this and enjoyed the illustrations immensely. This is probably my favorite new discovery from our Book Fair.

5 out of 5 stars
AR level of 3.4

Recommended for: everyone!

Cautions: none

BOOK FAIR: The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester by Barbara O'Connor

2011-11-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Owen is trying to make the best of things. He and his family are living with his grandfather (and the grouchy nurse taking care of him). The neighbor girl is an annoying know-it-all. He's captured the best toad ever, but Tooley doesn't seem to be doing very well. Even his search for the thing he heard fall off a train in the night isn't going well. His best friends, frustrated because they aren't finding anything, leave Owen on his own.

Just when it seems like nothing will ever go his way, Owen finds it. He finds the thing that fell off the train. And it's a doozy!

Review
I don't want to ruin the fun by saying what Owen finds, but the story really kicks off from there. While this was a good story, it wasn't my style of story, so I had trouble really getting into it. I think my students will enjoy it, though, because they will want to find out what Owen discovers and what happens next. The ending was very satisfying.

3 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.7

Recommended for: readers 9 to 14, may appeal to boys more than some girls

Cautions: none

BOOK FAIR: I Survived the Bombing of Pearl Harbor by Lauren Tarshis

2011-11-03T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Danny and his mother, a nurse, move from New York to Hawaii to get Danny out of a bad environment. After only a few weeks in Hawaii, their world is turned upside down by the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Review
I've told my students this is not the sort of book I would normally pick up and read. I only read it because it was a preview book for the Fair and I knew my boys, especially, would be interested in it, so I wanted to check it out for myself. I was pleasantly surprised. The story is about a fictional person in a very real tragedy. It is honest about the lives lost and the damage done. It addresses not only the attack but some of what happened to Japanese Americans during this time in our history.

3.5 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.3

Recommended for: readers 10 and up (more for content than reading level), fans of historical fiction, readers who enjoy war stories

Cautions: While the story is written for kids, it is about war. Parents and teachers should be prepared to deal with the gravity of that topic with students who read the story.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: NOVEMBER new releases

2011-11-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

My list of new releases for November is smaller than I usually have. I hope that doesn't mean I am going to miss something!

Here is what I have on my list:

To Catch a Leaf by Kate Collins (cozy mystery, latest in Flower Shop series) - 11/1
Dangerous Alterations by Elizabeth Lynn Casey (cozy mystery, latest in Southern Sewing Circle series) - 11/1
Death, Taxes and a French Manicure by Diane Kelly (looks like the first in a new mystery series, second book due out in February 2012) - 11/1
Well-Offed in Vermont by Amy Patricia Meade (first in a new mystery series) - 11/8 [but Amazon is showing it for sale now]
The Challenge of Samukai by Greg Farshtey (first graphic novel from the LEGO NinjaGo story line) - 11/8

If I find any other new things coming out in November (other than the last Harry Potter movie coming out on the 11th), I'll pass it along.

TUESDAY: Martin's Big Words by Doreen Rappaport

2011-11-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
A beautiful summary of the words and purpose of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's life, highlighting his emphasis on love over hate, cooperation over separation, and change/what is right over "waiting" and the status quo.

Review
This displays great highlights of Dr. King's life. I love the fact that several parts say he walked and talked and sang and prayed with people. The illustrations by Bryan Collier, done in a combination of water color and collage, are rich and warm.

I met the illustrator at a conference recently and found him to be inspiring. I loved listening to him share back story on the people and stories he's worked on and his philosophy of art, creativity, and picture books.

4 stars out of 5
AR level of 3.4

Recommended for: all readers, classroom and library collections, Black History Month reading time and displays, celebrations of Dr. King's birthday in January

Cautions: none

MONDAY: Silly Tilly by Eileen Spinelli

2011-10-31T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Tilly is a silly goose - literally! She rides a cat, naps in the scarecrow's pants and tires to send a pig to France in a rowboat. The other farm animals tell her enough is enough, so Tilly stops being silly. While the animals got what they wanted, they discover it wasn't really what they needed.

Review
Such a cute story about being yourself. The illustrations are beautiful - the picture of Tilly when she's given up silliness makes you want to hug her! [Illustrated by David Slonim]

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 2.0

Recommended for: kids between 4 and 9, older readers who still enjoy the fun of picture books, discussions about self-esteem and being yourself

Cautions: none

BOOK FAIR: Faith, Hope and Ivy June by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

2011-10-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Faith, Hope and Ivy June is another book in our Scholastic Book Fair this year. It is the story of two girls, Ivy June and Catherine, who live in Kentucky and participate in an exchange program. For two weeks, Ivy June lives with Catherine and her family in Lexington. She goes to Catherine's private school, meets Catherine's friends and sees what life is like in the city. Then Catherine lives with Ivy June for two weeks in rural Kentucky where Ivy June lives in the mountains (no cell service) with her grandparents (there wasn't enough room for her at her parents house) in a house without indoor plumbing.

The point of the exchange program is for the girls to explore their assumptions and prejudices about one another because of where and how they live. Each girl keeps a journal where she writes honestly about those assumptions and their experiences during the exchange.

While Catherine is at Ivy June's each of the girls experiences a personal tragedy. Have they learned enough about one another - and about themselves - during the exchange program to help one another through such a difficult time?

Review
I really enjoyed this story. Ivy June is a great character. I love her approach to the exchange experience - especially how she deals with Catherine's step-grandmother! The journal entries are a nice way to show what the girls are thinking. I like that the author added some strife between the two girls at spots during the exchange and before the climax. It felt natural coming from what the reader knows about the girls and their personalities.

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor is the author of Shiloh and other books for tweens. I shared the book with my students and one said she had already read it and loved it. I think my students, especially the girls, will enjoy the story.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 5.8

Recommended for: students 10 and up, readers who like relationship/friendship stories

Cautions: none

BOOK FAIR: The Fast and the Furriest by Andy Behrens

2011-10-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Kevin Pugh is not the sportiest kids ever. In fact, it's hard to know who lays around more - Kevin, or his dog, Cromwell. While Kevin's dad, a former NFL football player, pushes Kevin towards sports, specifically football, Cromwell develops an interest in "dog agility" competitions. If Kevin can get out of football, maybe he and Cromwell could compete. It would sure make Cromwell happy. Kevin's dad? Well, that would be another story.

Review
This is my first year serving as an elementary school librarian, and this week is our annual Scholastic Book Fair. My consultant this year told me I could order a "preview pack" of the books that would be part of our book fair. Kevin's story was part of that preview pack.

I fell in love with Kevin and Cromwell. I had tried to get my son to buy this book at the bookstore this summer, but he wasn't interested. I read a passage to all of my older elementary students and many of them have told me they want to buy the book at our Fair this year.

The story is funny, which is a great draw for kids. It is also honest it its description of Kevin and his feelings about sports, Cromwell, and his family. I like stories with a happy ending, too, and The Fast and the Furriest didn't disappoint.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.6

Recommended for: kids ages 8 and up, fans of pet or animal stories

Cautions: none

TIGER TALES: Limelight Larry by Leigh Hodgkinson

2011-10-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

This is the last of my fall reviews of books from Tiger Tales. I hope you have enjoyed them as much as I have!

Handsome peacock, Larry, is so enamored by his own fantasticness, he thinks this book should only be about him. In fact, he is so amazing, he thinks there should be more books about him. But Larry is not alone in this book. First a mouse, then a bird and then other critters want to see what all this book business is about. Larry just wants to be left alone to enjoy the limelight. Once he is alone, however, Larry finds it's awfully spooky. Maybe it would be all right if everyone else joined him after all.

When I get review books from Tiger Tales, they come in a large box. My son and I usually scoop up the box and race to the table to open it and look at our new treasures. When I saw the cover of this one, I squealed out loud and yanked it out of the pile to read first. I love peacocks, and the illustrations and foil print are amazing. In fact, there is a full page spread in the book of Larry and all his feathers done in foil that is glorious! Illustrations aside, the story is a fun way to open discussion about selfishness and sharing. The tone reminds me a little of another favorite of mine, Chester by Melanie Watt.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Thanks, as always, to Tiger Tales for these and many other great books for kids!

TIGER TALES: The Three Billy Goats Fluff by Rachael Mortimer

2011-10-25T12:00:00.000-04:00

This is a clever re-telling of The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Three little goats clop, clop, clop over the bridge and wake up a cranky troll in the process. If they keep it up, he is going to eat them!

Mother Goat understands Mr. Troll's frustration and lack of sleep, so she comes up with a solution that gets her three Billy Goats Fluff over the bridge quietly and helps Mr. Troll get some much needed rest. Such a cute and fun story! The illustrations are colorful and engaging. One of my favorites from Tiger Tales this fall.

4.5 out of 5 stars

TIGER TALES: Naughty Toes by Ann Bonwill

2011-10-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

We are still enjoying some of the fall releases from Tiger Tales publishers this week.

Chloe and her sister both dance, but the girls couldn't be more different. When Belinda dances, everything is natural. Everything works. Her toes point, her hair goes in a nice, tidy bun, and she makes a perfect fairy princess. Chloe? Not so much. Her naughty toes never go the way they're supposed to. Chloe wonders if she will ever find her place.

I love Chloe. I would have been Chloe when I was little. I'm happy to say Chloe does find her place - a place where she gets to shine in her own special way. I am looking forward to sharing this story with a little dancer I know who has been finding her way lately, too.

4 out of 5 stars.

TIGER TALES: The Dancing Clock by Steve Metzger

2011-10-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

A monkey at Central Park Zoo is so enamored with the dancing clock, he has to get a closer look at the mechanized instrument-playing statues. He leaves his enclosure, climbs to the clock, and dances with the animals. But, when the dance is done, he wants to go home. How will he get back across the zoo to his monkey pals?

A cute rhyming story. Another book with fantastically detailed pictures that will keep young readers engrossed. One of our favorites from the fall releases at Tiger Tales.

4 out of 5 stars.

TIGER TALES: Don't Worry, Douglas by David Melling

2011-10-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Douglas' dad gives him a special wooly hat, but after playing outside, it is no longer a hat but just one long string. Douglas doesn't know what to do and he worries how his dad will react

This is a story of great love between Douglas and his dad. Douglas is sweet and his situation - and his worries - are realistic. I think kids will relate to Douglas and his predicament. Dad's response is appropriate. Don't Worry, Douglas will open up discussion at home or in the classroom about honesty, mistakes, and forgiveness.

4 out of 5 stars

In a side note, the sheep, who aren't really even part of the text of the story, are a riot! They are my favorite part of the illustrations. Pre-readers will enjoy looking at all the sheep are up to.

TIGER TALES: Truck Party by Tammi Salzano

2011-10-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

Different types of trucks throw a surprise party for Little Truck. Cartoon illustrations of various types of trucks. Fun read along will appeal to little truck fans. I know my son would have loved this book back in his board book days.

3 out of 5 stars

TIGER TALES: A Is for Apple and 123 Count with Me

2011-10-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

I am so excited about the design of the two board books we will look at today.

Want to buy a beautiful and educational book? Buy these! Each book is done in layers so little fingers can trace the letters or numbers.

There are also flaps to open on each page.

ABC goes through all 26 letters in this format.

123 covers numbers 1 through 20 plus introduces a number line and some simple addition.

I give both of these books 5 out of 5 stars. They are very well done.

Recommended for: children ages 6 and under.

TIGER TALES: Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls

2011-10-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

It's that time of the year again - time to talk about the fall releases from the publisher Tiger Tales. You'll get to see one or two reviews a day for the next week and a half. If you are starting to think about the upcoming holiday season, you might find some treasures here.

The first book is Jingle Bells. This is a board book with song lyrics from the Christmas favorite. A family of mice enjoy a sleigh ride as the sun sets. Sparkly, textured pictures are cute.

3 out of 5 stars

Another board book with song lyrics, illustrated with a sweet family of mice enjoying holiday activities like decorating, caroling, hanging stockings, and baking treats. Pages are textured and sparkly.

3 out 5 stars. Both books are nice holiday treats for little readers and pre-readers.

FRIDAY: Magic Lost, Trouble Found by Lisa Shearin

2011-10-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Raine lives in a world of elves and goblins and things that go bump in the night. She's a fair sorceress herself, although ever since that night she's had a few extra powers at her disposal.

All she wanted was to keep a friend out of trouble. Now all sorts of trouble are on her heels. With the help of family and friends - old and new - maybe she'll come out of this alive.

Review
I had a hard time getting into this book - the world was complicated, and it took me awhile to get the rhythm of it - but once I did, I enjoyed the story. In time, I would probably read more of the books in the series. Raine is a great character - strong, sassy, independent, brave without being stupid.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: science fiction/fantasy fans, especially ones who enjoy a detailed world to go with the story line.

Cautions: none

THURSDAY: Spirited Away by Cindy Miles

2011-10-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Dr. Andi Monroe has always been fascinated by Dreadmoor Castle. Once, she snuck onto the grounds and was saved by a handsome and mysterious man. Now she has the chance to examine the grounds first hand when she goes in to examine skeletal remains found when a tree is unearthed. But things at the castle aren't as the appear. The castle is owned by Tristan de Barre who happens to be the ghost of a legendary knight murdered and betrayed centuries before. Tristan wants to keep his secret from Andi, but he is drawn to her. She can't understand why Tristan is so friendly in one moment and abrasive and distant in another. They will have to learn how to trust one another when then face an evil Tristan thought was long gone.

Review
Great chemistry between Andi and Tristan, and the premise was great. I enjoyed the secondary characters, too. There was a destined-for-tragedy feel to much of it, so I was pleased that the author worked out a happy ending.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: paranormal romance fans who are tired of the whole vampire/werewolf craze - and even those who aren't tired of that craze!

Cautions: some language, although it is tempered by Tristan's time-warped expressions; adult relationship details may bother some readers.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-10-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

More new books coming out this month:

Murder Spins a Tale by Veryl Ann Grace (A Flock and Fiber Mystery)
Shoe Done It by Grace Carroll (An Accessories Mystery)
Liver Let Die by Liz Lipperman (A Clueless Cook Mystery)
Killer Sweet Tooth by Gayle Trent (Cake Mystery)

TUESDAY: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

2011-10-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Percy Jackson is back - but he has no idea who he is or why he is being chased by monsters that will just not die. All he knows for sure is that he is trying to get back to "Annabeth" but he can't remember who that is. He finds a camp of people like him, and things there feel familiar to Percy, but just not quite "right."

Hazel and Frank are kids Percy meets at Camp Jupiter, a camp for descendants of the Roman gods. Together, the three make a great team, which is lucky because they are sent on a quest to a land beyond the influence of the gods where they must rescue Death and defeat a giant and get back to camp before the Feast of Fortuna or the world as they know it will be destroyed.

Review
Great continuation of the Heroes of Olympus story started in The Lost Hero. The story is full of action. Riordan does a great job holding back information from his three main characters in a way that keeps you turning pages but not getting annoyed. The differences between the
Roman and Greek systems are more pronounced in Neptune since Percy is plunged into the Roman "world." There's a great section about the Amazons and their headquarters that I thought was fantastically clever.

4.5 out of 5 stars
This book has not been leveled yet by AR

Recommended for: fans of Percy Jackson and/or the Heroes of Olympus series, students looking for an adventure story

Cautions: none

MONDAY: Amazing Cows by Sandra Boynton

2011-10-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Stories, poems, jokes and classic Sandra Boynton illustrations of cows and other critters.

Review
Yes, I know this is something of a random book. But I love cows and I love Sandra Boynton, so I had to take a look at this and I loved it. Just a fun read!

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: kids 4 and up, Boynton fans

Cautions: None

FRIDAY: Eureka: Brain Box Blues by Cris Ramsay

2011-10-07T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
The Brain Box is a device that can record the final memories from a corpse. In the best of circumstances, this technology could help catch murderers. But in the wrong hands, it can become something twisted, invasive and dangerous. But for the cause of "national security," at least according to General Mansfield, the folks at Global Dynamics are asked to use the Brain Box to harvest the memories of a dead man. As they start digging into the man's memories, Carter starts to see that there is a lot more to this situation than anyone is willing to talk about.

Review
Lots of twists and hidden agendas in this story. I did figure out some of the mysteries before the characters did, but I had to keep reading to find out how they were going to fix things in the end. The book references the story-catchers episode of the TV series, so it is helpful if readers are familiar with that story. I enjoyed the story, although not as much as the first one.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of the series, science-fiction fans with experience watching the show, especially the story-catchers episode.

Cautions: some language

THURSDAY: Eureka: The Substitution Method by Cris Ramsay

2011-10-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
It starts so subtly. It looks like minor pranks - plants missing, cars swapped. Then people go missing and show up miles from where they started. And then buildings start showing up in Eureka - houses and businesses full of clueless civilians from other states who really shouldn't see all that Eureka has to hide.

Sheriff Carter and the gang have to track down the missing Eureka buildings - and residents - before any of their secrets get out. And he needs to track down the source of the substitutions and put a stop to it before the missing scientists and their secrets are the least of their concerns.

Review
Fun story, reflects the characters and "voices" of the TV show. Some reference to the TV series. Some one who has never watched the show might be too lost to enjoy the story, but regular viewers, even if they haven't seen the specific shows referenced, should keep up just fine. My favorite moments take place around the Jo/Zane relationship (they are my favorite characters in the show)

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Fans of the show, science fiction fans with familiarity with the show

Cautions: none. Might be some language in the book, but I didn't note it.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-10-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

Here are a few more new releases for kids coming out this month:

Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan (10.4.11)
Happy Pig Day by Mo Willems (10.4.11)

Also, there were supposed to be two new LEGO books out this month that actually released in September - the Lego Star Wars Character Encyclopedia and the Lego Ideas Book.

Happy Reading!

TUESDAY: Eight Keys by Suzanne Lafleur

2011-10-04T12:00:00.007-04:00

Summary
Elise, an 11-year-old orphan being raised by her aunt and uncle, has a difficult time in the transition to middle school. Her locker partner is a mean-girl bully. Her elementary school best friend, Franklin, starts to feel like an anchor, holding her back. New house guests cut into the family routines that she's come to count on. She hides from school and blows off homework. Elise is floundering. Then she discovers a key with her name on it. It unlocks one of the secret rooms in her uncle's barn/workshop. That room, the first of eight, starts Elise on a journey to discover who she is and where she comes from and encourages her to decide what sort of person she wants to be.

Review
Beautiful, honest story of Elise's journey and struggles. Elise really wrestles with who she is going to be. I wanted to take on her nemesis - what a mean little thing she is! I loved the idea that her dad/family would arrange for this discovery of the eight rooms - she had a tangible expression of her father's love for her at a time when she really needed it. I needed a handful of tissues to get through the story. Beautifully told.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 3.8

Recommendations: for kids 10 and older, good discussion book for family or classroom reading

Cautions: none

MONDAY: Knights of the Lunch Table: The Battling Bands by Frank Cammuso

2011-10-03T12:00:00.003-04:00

Summary
Mrs. Dagger, the evil principal at Camelot Middle School, only needs the school to lose one more Battle of the Bands and she will get all the money for the program to use however she wants. But, if Artie and his friends can find the legendary Singing Sword, maybe they can break a 27-year losing streak and save the school from Mrs. Dagger's plans.

Review
Another fun entry in this graphic novel series loosely based on the King Arthur legend. This is the one graphic novel series that I buy without hesitation as soon as a new book comes out.

4 out of 5 stars
AR level of 2.4

Recommended for: readers 7 and up, graphic novel fans, fans of the other books in the series, could be a good draw for reluctant readers.

Cautions: none

FRIDAY: The Real Macaw by Donna Andrews

2011-09-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
As if Meg and Michael don't have their hands full with the twins, Meg's family and friends decide that their home is the perfect spot to store all the animals they have stolen from the local shelter because they are going to be destroyed. The animals were supposed to be taken right to new homes, but the driver, who knew which animals were going where, was murdered. So, Meg has a murder to solve while she waits for her family to sort out the animal problem and get the critters out of her home.

Review
Fun mystery! Even with the twins, Meg is able to put all the pieces together to figure out whodunit and save the day. As with any mommy-mystery situation, you have to suspend disbelief when Meg juggles the babies and her sleuthing, but Meg is such a great character, I found that easy to do.

Every time I read one of Meg's stories, though, I have to work hard to set aside my great annoyance at Meg's family who have NO boundaries whatsoever. They think of no one but themselves and their personal agendas, no matter how inconvenient it might be to a new mom and dad and their 4-month-old twins. If Meg weren't so good-natured, I probably wouldn't be able to keep reading!

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: cozy mystery fans, fans of the series, animal mystery fans

Cautions: none

BLOG TOUR including GIVEAWAY - Reflecting Him by Carla McDougal

2011-09-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Today I am part of a blog tour for the Bible Study book, Reflecting Him. I've got all sorts of great information from the publisher, information about a giveaway, and my review of the book.

First, here's a little background information as well as a short question and answer piece from the author:

Author Bio:

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, is a 10-week study that encourages you to open your eyes to God’s daily life lessons. The more you ask God to be in your life, the more you will recognize His hand on everything you do. For more information on a growing number of products from Reflective Life Ministries, and to see about booking Carla for an event or interview, go to www.reflectivelifeministries.org.

What practical steps can believers take to be less self-focused and more God-focused?
- Life is not about me, but all about Him. This phrase changed my life. Prayer is the key to keeping your eyes on Jesus. The more we pray, the more God moves us to do His will and not our will!
You say it’s important for believers to discover how to pray everyday prayers. What does this mean? I heard a speaker say she would never bother God to help her find her lost keys or a good parking spot—how do you feel about that statement?
- I pray about everything! Jesus tells us in Luke 16:10, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” We categorize prayers, God recognizes prayers. God wants us to bring everything to Him. Nothing is too small or too big for God! Prayer builds our faith and trust in Jesus!
What are some of the blessings of having an intimate life with Jesus, and how does one develop that intimacy?
- Humbleness abounds as I realize there is nothing I can do to earn an intimate relationship with Jesus. I can only obtain it through His grace and mercy, which He gives so freely. Jesus is my all in all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here's my take on Reflecting Him:

Summary

A set of daily devotions and Bible Study with weekly analogies based on pottery, the five senses, connections between the Sun and Earth, a tour of your house, putting gas in your car, digging in your garden, traffic signs and fitness. Includes facts about the analogous situation (the pottery, the household tour, etc.), a Bible study that relates it to real life, space to journal and things to reflect on.

Review

I really enjoyed the relationships the author sets up with each week's theme or analogy. The comparisons are so insightful and they are easier to remember than just the Biblical principle on its own might be. I especially liked the insights she shared comparing the relationship of the Earth to the Sun and our relationship to Christ.

4 out of 5 stars.

Recommended for: Bible study groups, individuals looking to grow in their personal relationship with Christ.

Cautions: none.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Okay - we have some more great information from the publisher! First, there are other materials to help groups who want to dig into Reflecting Him.

Product Descriptions:

Finally, if you post a comment on this book here on the blog, you can be entered into a drawing with the publisher to win this:

Grand Prize Giveaway:

Reflective Life Ministries

Instant Leader Kit:

Video Teaching Series

Bible Study Book
Leader Guide
Music CD

This pack would be a great resource for a church or a para-church organization that facilitates Bible Studies or retreats. Post your comment here for a chance to win this for your personal study time or for your church or organization. The name of everyone who comments will be sent to the publisher for entry into the drawing. Comments will close Wednesday October 5th.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-09-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

New books coming in October:

Murder of a Creped Suzette by Denise Swanson (10.4.11)
The Chocolate Castle Clue by JoAnna Carl (10.4.11)
Death by the Dozen by Jennifer McKinlay (10.4.11)

Would love to show you cover pictures, but my links aren't cooperating today. Enjoy these new mysteries!

TUESDAY :How to Grow Up and Rule the World by Vordak the Incomprehensible

2011-09-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

Summary
Vordak wants to help you learn to be evil and take over the world. He covers everything from assessing your evil aptitude to your evil laugh, choosing an evil name, costuming, and your evil lair.

Review
Funny, sassy and sarcastic. Reminds me of Captain Underpants in that on one hand it's funny and will appeal to kids, especially boys. On the other hand, though, the responsible, grown-up, parent part of me knows it's not really appropriate (insulting, sarcastic, etc.)

4 out of 5 stars (with cautions)
AR level of 7.7

Recommended for: The book itself says 9 and up, but I would go more for 11 or 12 and up. Pre-teens who get a kick out of Phineas and Ferb's Dr. Doofenshmirtz might enjoy Vordak, although Vordak is a little darker than Dr. D.

Cautions: Kids reading this should have a good grasp of the difference between fantasy and reality and understand the facetious tone of this book. Very sarcastic, insulting, demeaning tone from Vordak.

MONDAY: Every Day on Earth by Steve and Matthew Murrie

2011-09-26T12:00:00.003-04:00

Summary
Facts about things that happen every day in categories like living things, Earth, food, the human body and sports. Includes things like how the pilgrims made pumpkin pie, the fact that the average six-year-old laughs 300 times a day, and facts about VCRs compared to DVRs.

Review
Great fun! My students would love a book like this. Each page stands alone so kids can read a brief piece and then move on to new information. Also includes lots of things that kids would want to read out loud to share with their friends.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: kids ages 8 and up, kids who like to read almanacs and other fact books.

Cautions: None

FRIDAY: Unraveled by Maggie Sefton

2011-09-23T12:00:00.001-04:00

Summary

Kelly is sleuthing again when her friend Jennifer's real estate client is murdered. This time, Kelly is a little more connected to the case than she'd like to be as she works with one of her suspects. As she sleuths, her former boyfriend, Steve, is trying to figure out how to repair the rift he caused between them. Side stories with the usual cast of characters are fun and fit comfortably around the mystery.

Review

Great mystery. I appreciate how well Sefton does with balancing her mystery story line with the ongoing stories and relationships between her long-term characters. There's a great volleyball game scene in this story that was worth the purchase price of the book in my opinion. As a long time fan of the series, that scene was great fun. I found this story more enjoyable than the last one and I'm looking forward to another case for Kelly and her Lambspun friends.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: mystery fans, fans of the series, knitters who like mysteries

Cautions: none

THURSDAY: NERDS: The Cheerleaders of Doom

2011-09-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
NERDS - the National Espionage, Rescue and Defense Society is back to save the world once again. This time, Matilda - or "Wheezer" - is spotlighted in the story. Matilda has to go undercover as the worst thing she can imagine. A cheerleader! A former NERDS agent has developed a device that opens a passage to other dimensions and her jumps back and forth are going to destroy our Earth if the NERDS can't stop her.

Review
Great fun! I love that the author is giving each member of the team the spotlight in a book. The extra insight into the characters adds a nice dimension to the stories. Lots of layers to the case keep readers turning pages. Matilda has to get over her cheerleader aversion, get in touch with her inner cheerleader, infiltrate a squad, find her target (who has had extensive plastic surgery), and stop the dimension-jumping. Lots to enjoy in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed the ending. I'll just say the picture on page 236/237 and the scene it depicts are great!

4 out of 5 stars
AR book level of 5.0

Recommended for: readers 8 and up, fans of the series, readers who like funny books or spy stories or adventure stories or science fiction/fantasy.

Cautions: Matilda's family's spiritual beliefs are briefly referenced. Young character gets extensive plastic surgery (could be opportunity for parents and children to talk about self-image issues).

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

These are a couple writing related books I have picked up lately that are on my "waiting list."

TUESDAY: The Red Blazer Girls: The Mistaken Masterpiece by Michael Beil

2011-09-20T12:00:00.001-04:00

Summary
Sophie and the rest of the Red Blazer Girls are at it again. This time they're hanging out with movie stars, chasing dogs and tracking down a mystery about a painting. Ongoing stories from previous books about the girls' band; Sophie's boyfriend, Raf; her rival, Livvy; and the adults who helped the girls on their earlier adventures.

Review
I loved this story - no swearing that I noticed which makes it easier to recommend to my Christian school students. I loved what the author does with Sophie and Livvy in this story, adding depth to Livvy's character and keeping natural and realistic ups and downs in the relationship. The mystery was good, with lots of layers to keep readers engaged.

4.5 out of 5 stars
AR level of 4.7

Recommended for: readers 10 and up, mystery fans, fans of the previous books in the series.

Cautions: none.

MONDAY: Artsy Fartsy by Karla Oceanak

2011-09-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

Summary
Aldo Zelnick is a boy who likes to draw. When his grandmother gives him a sketchbook, Aldo decides to illustrate and write about his summer. Aldo isn't sure if his writing and drawing is very "cool," but he knows he likes it. Includes vocabulary words that start with A. First in series.

Review
This was a fun story with a great format and premise. Works well with other contemporary children's literature like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diaries, and the Big Nate books that combine drawings with the story. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.

3.5 out of 5 stars
AR level of 3.8

Recommended for: kids seven and up, kids who enjoy art, fans of the series mentioned above.

Cautions: None.

FRIDAY: Skein of the Crime

2011-09-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Kelly Flynn is sleuthing again, this time looking into the death of a young woman with a drug problem. Most people wrote off her death as the natural consequences of a misguided life, but Kelly isn't convinced. Side plots include trouble in paradise with Kelly's boyfriend, Steve.

Review
I really enjoy this series, but I didn't love this piece of it as much as I have others. The drug angle led to some sections of the book that felt a little preachy and repetitive. As always, the cast of long-time characters is fantastic. I enjoy reading about their ongoing relationships, and Sefton does a good job of using them to enhance the mystery rather than push it off stage completely. The ending really came together well and made the read worthwhile.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of the series, cozy mystery fans, knitters who like mysteries (although you don't have to be a knitter to enjoy Kelly and her friends).

Cautions: none other than my opinions expressed above.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-09-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

My To Be Read pile (or TBR) is really a To Be Read bookcase - five bowing shelves of books that I want to read but just haven't gotten to yet. Here are a few titles from my shelves.

Also, there are a few more new releases coming out this month that I didn't mention last week:

NERDS: Book Three: The Cheerleaders of Doom

A Bad Kitty Christmas

Lunch Lady and the Field Trip Fiasco

Squish #2: Brave New Pond

These fun books for kids should be a hit - all from great series.

Happy reading!

MONDAY: Starfleet Academy: The Gemini Agent by Rick Barba

2011-09-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Kirk is in serious trouble. Not a huge surprise for anyone who knows his devil-may-care attitude and independent streak. But the fact that he can't remember large chunks of time when he is supposed to be doing the things causing all the trouble is a big surprise. Kirk is going to need the help of his closest friend, McCoy, as well as new friends like Uhura and Chekov, to figure out what is really going on and Jim's true role in all of it.

Review
This chapter in the Academy story left me wanting more. Great set up for future human/Romulan/ Vulcan interactions. Alludes to the reunification movement from The Next Generation. Kirk, McCoy and Uhura make a great team. More backstory on Chekov, which is fun. Relationship between Spock and Uhura seen in the movie is being developed in this story. I am really enjoying this series.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Teens and/or adults, fans of the Star Trek TV shows and/or the JJ Abrams movie from 2009.

Cautions: some drinking, mild language, relationship references

You can read about the other books in this series here.

FRIDAY: Heartless by Gail Carriger

2011-09-09T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Alexia is very pregnant and very tired of being targeted for murder because of her child. A plan to end the assassination attempts seems to be working when Alexia hears from a discombobulated ghost that the queen is in danger. Alexia decides she must put her personal drama aside and stop the plot against the queen - if only she can figure the plot out in time.

Review
If you are new to Alexia's story, you should know she lives in a world where vampires and werewolves roam free, and Alexia, who is the only person who can return a supernatural person to their human form just by a touch, works closely with the queen and the leadership of the two supernatural groups to keep everyone in line. But Alexia's "gift" makes some of the supernaturals very nervous - not to mention their fears about any child she might have. In this particular part of the story, Alexia is as spunky as ever. She is a great character - she tries to follow the rules for someone in her station, but reality and practicality often push her to take things into her own hands.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of supernatural fiction or "steampunk." The series is often shelved in the science fiction/fantasy section of bookstores, so if you like that sort of story with a strong female protagonist, give Alexia a try. The first book in the series was Soulless. You can read about the series here.

Cautions: Romantic relationships described in some detail as well as references to alternate lifestyles.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-09-07T12:00:00.000-04:00

Since the announcement of the closure of Borders, I have spent a lot of time there, looking at and buying books. Came across these two that looked like a lot of fun. I'm hoping to get into a more regular routine soon, so I can do some more reading.

Also, it is September, so here are some new titles that are scheduled to release this week:
Naughty In Nice (A Royal Spyness Mystery)
Quickstep to Murder: A Ballroom Dance Mystery
Thread Reckoning: An Embroidery Mystery
Button Holed (Button Box Mystery)
Sleight of Paw: A Magical Cats Mystery
Mind Over Murder (A Raven's nest)

Some of these are brand new series - check them out!

TUESDAY: Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes by Eric Litwin

2011-09-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Pete the Cat is crazy about shoes. In this story, Pete sings about all the places his school shoes take him - the library, the lunch room, the playground, etc.. Wherever Pete goes, it's "all good."

Review
I read Pete the Cat to my elementary students during their first week in the library and they can't wait to be able to check his books out themselves. They sang along with Pete's song and enjoyed finding Pete's yellow bird friend on every page. Pete is a lot of fun to read out loud.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: classroom reading, library reading, home libraries. My pre-K students enjoyed Pete, as did my older elementary students.

Cautions: none

Special note: You can order a stuffed Pete the Cat at this website along with some other fun stuffed critters from fun books.

MONDAY: Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin

2011-09-05T12:00:00.002-04:00

Summary
Pete the Cat is crazy about shoes. In this story, Pete is so excited about his white shoes, he can't help but sing a song. But Pete isn't very careful about where he walks, and soon his white shoes have changed to red shoes, blue shoes and brown shoes. But it is "all good."

Review
I read Pete the Cat to my elementary students during their first week in the library and they can't wait to be able to check his books out themselves. They sang along with Pete's song and chuckled about him walking through all sorts of things that changed the color of his shoes. After reading Pete 14 times in one week, I found myself singing his little song as I looked for my shoes one morning. Pete is a hit - I will buy and share any books that join this series.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: classroom reading, library reading, home libraries. My pre-K students enjoyed Pete, as did my older elementary students.

Cautions: none

Special note: You can order a stuffed Pete the Cat at this website along with some other fun stuffed critters from fun books.

FRIDAY: Mind Altering Murder by William Rabkin

2011-09-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary

Gus leaves Psych for a pharmaceutical company where he advances quickly thanks to the executive death rate. Jules is hung up on a suicide case she just can't let go. And Shawn gets obsessively involved in a violent video game in order to track down the missing game designer.

Review

As you may have guessed, I did a Psych "blitz" and read through a bunch of the books that I had sitting on my shelf for awhile. This was the best of the batch. It builds on some things from the last book. I absolutely loved the premise - what are Gus and Shawn when they don't have each other any more? Lots of crimes to keep track of, but well managed by the author so they don't get annoying or hard to follow.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: mystery lovers, fans of the TV show

Cautions: none

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-08-31T12:00:00.003-04:00

My hope is that this holiday weekend (with a professional development day Friday and two fantasy football drafts and a visit from my inlaws) will leave enough time for me to read these three new books. I have been counting down the day for Unwanteds and Floors has been compared to The Westing Game which is an all-time favorite. Vordak would be quite put out if I didn't get to his latest.... treat, Rule the School. I'm not sure quite how to take Vordak. [I'm reading his first book right now.]

The Lemonade Crime by Jacqueline Davies

2011-08-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
Evan and Jessie are back to settle some unfinished business from The Lemonade War. The money they earned "disappeared," and Jessie is determined to get it back. She organizes the students in their class into a jury, witnesses, prosecution and defense, hoping the 4th graders will get justice for Evan. But Jessie still has a lot to learn.

Review
Good wrap up to The Lemonade War. The author gives some insight into the "villain" in the story with an honest portrayal of kids, emotions, and choices. Another good option for classroom reading.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of the fist book, readers between 8 and 12, classroom discussion
[AR level 4.5]

Cautions: none

MONDAY: The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies

2011-08-29T12:00:00.009-04:00

Summary
Evan's younger sister, Jessie, has been moved up at school, so now she is in the same grade he is. Jessie is school smart, but not people smart, so Evan feels a responsibility to help her and protect her. At the same time, Jessie's success at school sometimes leaves Evan feeling dumb and resentful. Jessie doesn't understand why Evan keeps pushing her away. A series of misunderstandings leads them into a lemonade stand war that could tear the siblings apart just when they need each other.

Review
Great story. Lots of places for families or teachers to talk about communication, misunderstandings, feelings, etc. The author does a great job of showing Evan's conflicted feelings and Jessie's confusion. Mom is juggling her own stress, and the kids are trying to make due on their own.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: kids between 7 and 12, teachers/librarians who want to talk with students about conflict/communication/family, family reading
[AR level: 4.1]

Cautions: none

**Come back tomorrow to read about the sequel, The Lemonade Crime.**

FRIDAY: A Fatal Frame of Mind by William Rabkin

2011-08-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary

Gus receives a letter from a former professor, asking for his help. So Gus kidnaps Shawn, taking him to an art museum rather than the C. Thomas Howell Festival. Once at the museum, the guys find out there's been a murder, and Gus' professor is the primary suspect. The professor knows he's been framed, so he takes Lassie hostage to make his escape. Gus and Shawn get caught up in the conspiracy theory and try to clear his name.

Review

More twists and turns than usual in this story and the professor is a real pain sometimes. But the pop-culture references (Harry Potter, Transformers, Scooby Doo, Monty Python, and League of Their Own) and a great scene with Henry and Lassie, as well as the usual Shawn and Gus banter make it worth reading.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: mystery fans, fans of the TV show

Cautions: none

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-08-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

Three more books for kids and teens, waiting.... waiting.... waiting....

Middle-schooler trying to keep his record of having never read an entire book. Talk about a reluctant reader! (Charlie Joe Jackson's Guide to Not Reading)
Insanely brilliant pre-teen searches for her missing mother (The School for the Insanely Gifted)
Teens fight aliens who took over the earth 50 years ago and put all adults under mind control (The Resisters)

TUESDAY: The Secret Life of Ms. Finkleman

2011-08-23T12:00:00.001-04:00

Summary
Mr. Melville assigns one of his quirky "projects" in social studies, and Bethesda Fielding decides that she wants to know the real story about their music teacher, Ms. Finkleman. But what Bethesda discovers turns the whole school upside down - and she doesn't even discover the whole story!

Review
I feel like I got a bonus with this book. The original "mystery" about Ms. Finkleman is just the appetizer for a larger story that's a lot of fun. My favorite scene is when one of the secondary characters evolves by trying something out of the ordinary and discovering he loves it. He learns something about himself and embraces it - and I cheered! There's a "School of Rock" element to the story which is a lot of fun, too.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: middle grade readers (3rd through 6th grade), classroom and school libraries, readers who like mysteries and music in their books
[AR Level 5.8]

Cautions: none.

MONDAY: Page by Paige by Laura Lee Gulledge

2011-08-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary

Graphic novel about a teenage girl in a new home trying to figure out who she is and how to relate to those around her.

Review

The art in this is truly amazing (You can get a glimpse inside at the Amazon page here:Page by Paige ). I have read some other reviews that were not impressed. Either deep down I am still a teenage girl or these other reviewers never were.
I thought the pictures really captured the character's inner turmoil, confusion and conflicting emotions. I haven't been a teenager for awhile, but my memory of that time was reflected in the illustrations. For me, the graphic parts of the story were not as much "work" as in some other graphic novels I have read. They contributed to the story - and told parts of it - beautifully.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Teens. I would love to recommend this book to younger readers, like my 5th and 6th grade students, but there are a few topics and some vocabulary that make me hesitate. I think this could be a great mother-daughter bonding sort of book. Then parents can converse with their kids about the more grown-up ideas and can talk about their own experience of growing up and the ups and downs of that process.

Cautions: some adult ideas/topics

FRIDAY: Mind over Magic by William Rabkin

2011-08-19T12:00:00.008-04:00

Summary

What do Screaming Yellow Zonkers, Ghostbusters, Monk, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter have in common? They are all references in this clever Psych mystery. Shawn and Gus return to the Fortress of Magic (after a trip in their youth) to do a favor for Henry and end up as witnesses to a magic trick gone wrong.

P'tol P'kah - the "Martian Magician" does an illusion where he dissolves in a tank of water and reappears in the audience. Pretty amazing - until he disappears and there's a body in the tank.

Review

Plenty of twists, turns and illusions in this magic-related story. The many ways Shawn tweaks the magician's name (P'can P'kie, P'teter P'karker, P'erry P'Mason, P'stuffed P'imento, P'torky P'kig) lead to giggles throughout the story - I can just hear James Roday doing those names! The story of why Henry sends the guys there in the first place is fun, too.

3.5 stars out of 5

Recommended for: mystery fans, fans of the TV show

Cautions: some minor language

Waiting on WEDNESDAY

2011-08-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

These books for kids and teens are HIGH on my list of books to read next!

Captive princess learns magic and then needs to save her kingdom (Princess Ben).
Young woman with the power to kill with her bare hands (Graceling).
Three children, driven from their family, experience a magical adventure while trying to find their way home (The Emerald Atlas).
Sixth grade "goodfellas." (The Fourth Stall)

Some of these have been out entirely too long for me to have not gotten to them yet. I really need a quiet weekend of reading!

TUESDAY: Squish, Super Amoeba by Jennifer and Matthew Holm

2011-08-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary

Graphic novel about an amoeba and his friends, with a bullying theme. Great science-related terms and concepts including a "great" experiment at the end of the book.

Review

Squish really has to be seen to be appreciated. This comes from the authors of the Babymouse series. Same graphic fun - less pink! My son really enjoyed the book and can't wait to read more in the series. I did find it interesting that Squish doesn't really resolve his bullying problem himself in the end. That may set up future story lines dealing with this very real problem for kids.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: boys and girls ages 7 and up, graphic novel fans, librarians and teachers building a collection of graphic novels

Cautions: none (well, maybe that experiment part)

MONDAY: Sidekicks by Dan Santat

2011-08-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

Summary

Graphic novel about an aging superhero and his pets who long to spend more time with him, so each one auditions to be his new sidekick.

Review

I know that summary is skimpy, but much more would give away too many of the goodies in this book. Everyone in my household has read it, and everyone loved it. Can't wait to see more stories about this group of ~~animals~~ friends.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Readers 8 and up, graphic novel fans, superhero fans, librarians looking to build their graphic novel collection, classroom teachers building a library.

Cautions: none

FRIDAY: Call of the Mild by William Rabkin

2011-08-12T12:00:00.003-04:00

Summary

Shawn and Gus are on the case again. This time, the case takes them on a wilderness retreat with a group of hostile lawyers - and a killer.

Review

Good mystery - like Ten Little Indians and others where the killer takes the group out one at a time. Story is heavily in Gus' point of view which is fun because the whole wilderness setting tweaks with Gus' idiosyncrasies. The usual sarcasm and flippancy of the TV characters come across in the writing. Fun references to Lost, Star Trek and other bits of popular TV/movie culture. Good side story with Lassiter, O'Hara and Henry.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: fans of the TV show, mystery fans

Cautions: none.

Waiting on WEDNESDAY: New August releases

2011-08-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

A few August releases that I picked up last week. Each of these is the first of a new series.

Die Buying is a mall cop mystery by Laura DiSilverio.
A Sheetcake Named Desire is a "piece of cake" mystery by Jacklyn Brady.
Pleating for Mercy is a "magical dressmaking mystery" by Melissa Bourbon.

If you've already read one of these, let me know how you liked it!

TUESDAY: Trouble with Chickens by Doreen Cronin

2011-08-09T12:00:00.002-04:00

Summary

JJ is a retired search and rescue dog who tells his story like a grizzled old detective. Mama Chicken has two missing chicks and she wants JJ to help her find them. But nothing is what it appears to be on the surface, and JJ will have to figure out whom he can trust if he's going to solve the mystery.

Review

Fun story - good mystery for young readers with plenty of twists and turns and interesting characters. Observant readers will notice that the shape of the chapter numbers indicates which chapters are told by the villain. Voices for each character are distinct.

Recommended ages are 6 to 12. Sequel called The Legend of Diamond Lil is scheduled for release February 28, 2012.

4 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Elementary readers, mystery lovers, classroom read alouds, example of voice for writing teachers

Cautions: None

MONDAY: Troublemaker by Andrew Clements

2011-08-08T12:00:00.002-04:00

Summary

Clay's goal in life is to have fun and play it cool. No fear. He really wants to impress his older brother, Mitch, with his pranks - like drawing a picture of a donkey that looks suspiciously like the school principal.

When Mitch comes home after 30 days in jail for contempt of court, he's been scared straight. And he wants Clay to play things straight, too. Can Clay put his prank-ish and rebellious behavior behind him? Will the adults around him - and his peers - let him?

Review

I am a big Andrew Clements fan. I take note of when a new book is scheduled to release and, more often than not, I buy it. This was a good story, but not a favorite of mine. I would choose Frindle and No Talking and a few others over Troublemaker.

I thought the change in Clay from the start of the book to the finish was well described. I also liked the change in the family dynamics, even from Clay's dad. Mitch really uses his role and influence over his brother in a good way. And Clay's temptations to revert to his old behaviors were very realistic. The story just didn't capture me like some of the others. Books are like that sometimes - not every book works for every reader.

I was disappointed that the book used the term "jack***" several times. It was like It's a Book all over again (the Lane Smith picture book about electronic devices vs. books that had this same word in it that caused a little bit of a ruckus). I don't feel it would be appropriate to bring this book into my son's school library because many families would find that language inappropriate for younger students. The publisher lists the book for kids in grades 3 through 7. Thinking of students I know in those grades, I imagine there would be a range of responses from not caring, to being appalled that such language was in a book in the school library. (And there would also be the ones who would giggle, feeling like they were getting away with something naughty!)

It is going to be up to parents and librarians/teachers to determine the appropriateness of the language for their own contexts. I give the story itself 3.5 stars out of 5.

Recommended for:Teachers and librarians who are prepared to deal with the issue of the language. Public libraries should add it to their Clements collection as it deals with interesting character issues for Clay and his family.

Cautions: Some language.

On my way back

2011-08-03T09:43:00.000-04:00

It has been a long summer. I have probably spent as many days in my childhood home, dealing with my father's failing health, eventual death and the settling of some of his affairs as I have in my own home. That seems to be slowing down now and I hope to be back to regular blogging next week! I have been doing a lot of reading while I have been away and am eager to share those books with you.

See you Monday!

Blogging Sabbatical

2011-07-01T12:00:00.006-04:00

In the past few days, as I have been reading my blog feeds on my email, I have noticed a (small) trend. Some of my regular bloggers are taking the month of July off. Each notice referenced a post by Michael Hyatt (another blogger I follow - if you are interested in leadership development, check out his whole blog) where he talks about his own sabbatical.

I agree that his post was inspiring, but for me it was more in a "wouldn't that be nice" sort of way. But his post was from June 20th. I was already up to my eyebrows in the business of death and grief - waiting on probate, meeting with lawyers, cleaning out a house, etc. I don't feel I have the luxury of walking away from anything right now.

Then, last night, I sat down to write a book review for today. I have been reading through my stash of books based on the TV show, Psych. The books have been good and I was ready to review three of them. Then I got a call with more bad news, and I thought, "I can't do this." I am about at my limit of what I can juggle. So I've decided to go with at least a blogging sabbatical. I may pull back from even more things in the next week. I can't even articulate what I want or need a break from. So, I'm going to step away for the month of July, at least, and see where things are on August 1st.

I had a few blogs already typed and ready to go, so I released those earlier today. I hope you find something to enjoy. The Mo Willems book is especially fun.

MONDAY: Judy Moody Declares Independence

2011-07-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

Summary
A family trip to Boston inspires Judy to write her own declaration of independence. She hopes doing her chores without being asked and being nice to her brother will gain her a bigger allowance and more freedoms. But things don't quite go as she planned.

Review

I enjoyed the historical pieces about Sybil Ludington, the Revolution and the relationship between Judy and a British girl named Tori that Judy meets in Boston. Cute story.

3 out of 5 stars

Recommended for: Judy Moody fans, fans of the movie that came out this summer, kids who like reading about history.

Cautions: None.

[I am an Amazon Associate. If you link to Amazon from one of my blogs and buy something, I receive a small portion of the purchase price.]

Waiting on WEDNESDAY - July new releases, part 2

2011-07-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

More new releases for July: