Children's Booksharing

On the Blue Comet by Rosemary Wells

2011-06-11T17:16:00.000-07:00

Part historical fiction, part time travel mystery, On the Blue Comet starts with a young boy, Oscar, and his father living in Cairo, Illinois in the late 1920s. They share a love of model trains and have built a wonderful train layout in the basement of their home. When the crash comes in 1929, the father loses his job and the house and has to sell the trains to pay for a ticket to California to try to find work. Oscar has to stay with his Aunt and cousin and misses his father terribly. When he finds out the trains are on display in a local bank, he befriends the night watchman to visit them. While he visiting there one night, robbers follow him in and threaten him and the guard. In a panic, he somehow jumps onto the train platform, which magically becomes real and finds himself on a train to California. On it he meets a handsome young actor who helps him connect with his father, but on arrival discovers that 10 years have passed and the U.S. is at war. Somehow, he has to get back to the train to get back to his time. While the cameo appearances of several famous movie stars is fun, the target audience may not be familiar with any of them. Fabulous illustrations by Bagram Ibatoulline enhance the story, and the period details are good. On the Blue Comet by Rosemary Wells, Illustrations by Bagram Ibatouillline. Candlewick Press, 2010.

Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale

2011-06-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

In a story based on the fairy tale "Maid Maleen" and featuring a setting inspired by medieval Mongolia, Dashti, an orphaned peasant is taken in by the court and taught to be a ladies maid. She is taught to read and write and is assigned to be a maid to Lady Saren. That same day, Lady Saren's father decrees she must spend the next 7 years locked in a tower for disobeying his orders to marry a neighboring nobleman. Soon Dashti and Saren are locked away, and Dashti is chronicling their adventures and efforts to survive, save their supply of food from rats, and the visitors and threats that come and go outside their tower. Eventually, they escape to find Saren's homeland destroyed in war and make their way to a neighboring kingdom. Throughout their adventures they have been hopeful that the neighboring Kahn who had been Lady Saren's first romance would take them in and protect them, but when they got to his kingdom they had to work in the kitchen and hide their identify. Eventually they make acquaintance with the Kahn and help him in his battles against the the nobleman who had sought to marry Saren. A quaint fantasy with delightful illustrations by James Noel Smith. Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale. Bloomsbury, 2007.

Call me Hope by Gretchen Olson

2011-04-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

Hope is in 6th grade and lives with her brother and single mother. Her school regularly takes 6th graders to an Outdoor School in the spring, and she is greatly looking forward to it. What she doesn't let people know, however, is that her mother is constantly yelling at her, belittling her and generally being verbally abusive. When she spots a pair of hiking boots in a second hand store, she tries to figure out how she can earn the money to pay for them while staying on her mother's good side. She devises a system to earn points to help her not be affected by her mothers comments, and when her mother forbids her to go to Outdoor School because of something she did, school counselors and friends band together to help her. The book uses strong language to bring home the point of what it feels like to be verbally abused, so it is most appropriate for middle school or up. Still, it shows ways to cope and methods available to help students in difficult family situations. Call me Hope by Gretchen Olson. Little, Brown and Co., 2007.

Shooting Kabul by N. H. Senzai

2011-03-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

At the start of Shooting Kabul, Fadi is living in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2000. The Taliban is in power and his American educated parents are becoming targets of the regime. So they arrange to leave, hiring smugglers to get them across the border to Pakistan. When the truck arrives to take them and the other refugees who have arranged passage, a truck full of Taliban fighters are closing in fast. In the hurry and the rush to get aboard the truck, Fadi loses his grip on the hand of his 6 year old sister Miriam, and she is left behind. After all efforts to locate her from Pakistan fail, the family, Fadi's parents and his older sister, Noor, reluctantly travel to Fremont, California where relatives await them. Fadi slowly adjusts to life in America, all the while blaming himself for Miriam's disappearance. In Pakistan, Fadi and his father Habib, frequently took photographs together, so when he finds out there is a photo club at his school, he joins hoping to win the top prize in a photo contest for students--a trip to India, close enough to Pakistan he thinks to be able to search for Miriam. Fadi works on his photos, and is adjusting to life in the United States when the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 occur. Soon, he is a target for bullies at his school blaming him and the other Afghan students for the attack. The book effectively portrays the challenge of dealing with bullies, the struggle of being an outsider and adjusting to a new life, and the importance of strong family ties. Based in part on the author's husband's story of leaving Afganistan during the Soviet occupation in 1979.

The Dancing Pancake by Eileen Spinelli

2011-02-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

This sweet book in verse tells the story of Bindi, who's adjusting to the fact that her father, who lost his job, has left to look for a job in another city. Soon, she finds out that he and her mother have separated, and her mother and her aunt have decided to open a restaurant in town. Bindi and her mother move into an apartment above the restaurant, and she begins trying to cope with her changed life. Her friends help, she slowly creates a new life in the restaurant. She gets to know the regulars, and trys to help a homeless woman who comes in regularly. A slice of life from a trying time in one girls' life. The Dancing Pancake by Eileen Spinelli. Illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff. Alfred A. Knopf, 2010.

Alchemy and Meggy Swann by Karen Cushman

2011-01-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

Ye Toads and Vipers! That's Meggy Swann's way of expressing her frustration with her situation when the story begins. She's 13 and has just been sent from the small village in Elizabethan England where she lived with her mother to London to live with her father. Her father is an alchemist, studying the possibility of transformation of elements, focused only on his work, so Meggy has to make her own way around London, which is difficult as she is crippled and needs walking sticks to get around. With the help of her father's former assistant, she makes friends and adjusts to life in London. As she begins to help her father with his work, she faces a moral dilemma and has to make some hard choices. The rowdiness and filth of 16th Century London is vividly described and the audiobook, which just won an Odyssey Award, transports you to another time and place. The narration, by Katherine Kellgren, is pitch perfect. Alchemy and Meggy Swann by Karen Cushman. Read by Katherine Kellgren, Listening Library, 2010.

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

2010-12-13T12:43:00.000-08:00

Franny is an 11 year old girl in the fifth grade in Maryland in October 1962. She is being taught to take shelter during air raid drills, and adults all around her are talking of the Cold War and a possible conflict with the Soviet Union. Her best friend, Margie, has been spending more time with a new girl, Gale, and her big sister just started college and has mysterious meetings and grown up activities, so Franny feels left out. The story of Franny's day-to-day life is interspersed with pictures and information detailing the early 1960s, the beginning of the Cold War, Harry Truman and more. There is information about the Civil Rights movement, and the Cuban Missle Crisis. Franny's father is an Air Force officer, so when President Kennedy announces a that nuclear missiles are aimed at the United States from Cuba and that he is instituting a blockade, her father is called to action. Her uncle, a World War I veteran fearing the worse, tries to build a bomb shelter in the yard and ends up in the hospital. Things seems to be going from bad to worse, then a fight starts at a Halloween Party between Franny and Margie. Franny chases after Margie when she runs away, and has to face her fears of the bomb and about her life. Wonderful coming of age story. According to the Author's afterward, the book is the first in a trilogy about growing up in the sixties. She describes it as a Documentary Novel. I was absorbed and fascinated as I have memories of the time, so I look forward to getting input from today's students who aren't familiar with the period. Countdown by Deborah Wiles.

The Journey and the Rescue by Kathryn Lasky

2010-12-13T12:23:00.000-08:00

The Guardians of Ga'hoole series continues with Soren and Gylfie meeting up with two more orphaned owls, Twilight and Digger. Twilight was captured by St. Aegilous, but escaped as a baby while Diggers managed to escape from an attack on his family. Together, they begin to search for the famed Ga'hoole tree and its legendary warriors. In The Journey they find their way through various territories including an artic area inhabited by Puffins who give them directions to get to Ga'hoole, where they settle in and begin learning owl crafts. In The Rescue, one of their favorite teachers, Ezylryb, is missing, and they begin to investigate to where he could be. A menacing villain, named Metal Beak, emerges as the likely suspect in Ezylryb's disappearance, and they set off in search of him. The climactic battle scene is thrilling. A great continuation of the series, sure to keep readers hunting for the next chapter. The Journey by Katherine Lasky. Blackstone Audiobooks, 2006. The Rescueby Katherine Lasky. Blackstone Audiobooks, 2007.

The Capture by Kathryn Lasky

2010-11-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

The first book in the Guardians of Ga'hoole series features a fledgling owl named Soren. One night, while his parents are out hunting, he falls or is pushed from his nest and lands on the ground. As he can't yet fly, he is fearful of predators, but instead of a predator, he is picked up and carried away by large owl that delivers him to an "orphanage" for owls. On his trip he meets an elf owl, Gylfie, and together they begin to investigate and discover all is not what it seems. Soon they begin plotting a way to escape, which involves learning how to fly without the training provided by their parents, while hoping they will be able to see their families again. There is intrigue, menacing bad guys, a great story that moves quickly as well as a lot of interesting information about owls. The narrator of the audiobook, Pamela Garelick, tells the story with a distinct British accent, which makes it even more exotic. The Capture by Kathryn Lasky. Guardians of Ga'hoole, Book 1. Blackstone Audio, Inc. 2006.

out of my mind by Sharon Draper

2010-10-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

Melody is a bright fifth grader trapped in a body that doesn't work. Born with cerebral palsy, she hasn't been able to communicate easily with the world around her. Then, with the help of her classroom aide, they discover a new device that will enable her to talk and communicate more easily. She begins to interact with students in the regular classes more and her teachers begin to realize she is very bright. When the teacher forms a quiz show team, she auditions and makes the team, causing the able-bodied students on the team to rethink their understanding of her disease and her. The story is filled with details of family life that give an understanding of what it would be like to live with disability. Inspiring and touching. out of my mind by Sharon Draper. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2010.

boom! by Mark Haddon

2010-10-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

boom! is a quirky, sci-fi adventure from the author of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time. Set in England, it centers around Jimbo, who lives in a flat with his parents and older sister. Jimbo isn't doing real well in school and thinks the teachers might be planning to send him to a special school, so he and his friend sneak a walky-talky into the teachers lounge to see if they hear anything. What they hear is out of this world--two teachers talking in a strange, unidentified language. Soon, Jimbo's friend disappears, Jimbo and his sister are racing to Scotland on a motorcycle to try to find him, and Jimbo ends up being transported to another planet with a wide variety of strange creatures. He finds his friend and they have to figure out a way to outwit the aliens and find their way home. Great fun, although many of the references and words are British, which may be hard for some American students to understand. Originally published in 1992 as Gridzbi Spudvetch, Haddon reworked it and republished it as boom! boom! by Mark Haddon. David Fickling Books, 2009.

Dork Diaries by Rachel Renee Russell

2010-09-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

Nikki Maxwell has started at a new Middle School and feels out of place. So, she starts keeping a diary reporting the adventures of the CCPs (Cute, Cool and Popular) people, her efforts to fit in, and her various adventures. She's artistic and wants to enter an Art Contest, but feels intimidated by one of the popular girls, so she signs up to be a library helper instead. There, she makes friends and embarks on more adventures. The book is funny and illustrated with line drawings, and emphasizes the importance of peer acceptance in middle school. Dork Diaries: Tales from a NOT-SO-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renee Russell. Aladdin, 2009.

Spaceheadz by Jon Scieska

2010-09-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

Michael K. is starting at a new school and is assigned to sit with two other new students, who are decidedly weird. While Michael is trying to live down staring in a famous cereal commercial due to his dad being in the advertising, the new kids are walking advertising slogans. They claim they are from another planet and have been listening/watching all the broadcasts from earth, apparently mostly the television advertisements. Michael has to help them recruit people to be SPHDZ or the earth will be "turned off." They are being tracked by a hapless agent from the Anti-Alien Agency (AAA). Fast-paced, full of silliness, the book includes regular asides about scientific facts. First of a series, the book contains links to SPHDZ.com and ANTIALIENAGENCY.Com where you can get more information and sign up to be a SPHDZ. Spaceheadz by Jon Scieska. Simon and Schuster, 2010.

Falling in by Frances O'Rourk Dowell

2010-07-31T12:22:00.000-07:00

Love fantasies? Feel like you don't fit in? Then you will relate to Isabelle Bean in Falling In. Isabelle has always felt out of place and never really made any friends at her elementary school. Then, one day, after being sent to the principal's office, she opens a closet in the school nurses' office and falls into another world. Suddenly she is surrounded by children who are afraid of a witch in a primitive world without electricity, cell phones and the like. She befriends a young girl named Hen and together they meet up with an older woman healer, Greta. There she discovers many things about herself, the witch, and her place in the universe, while helping treat an epidemic and save Greta's life after a horrible mix up. Fallin in by Frances O'Rourk Dowell. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2010.

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

2010-07-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

Carter and Sadie Kane have lived apart since their mother died, Sadie in London with her grandparents, and Carter travelling the world with his Egyptologist father. Until, during a visit with Sadie in London, their father takes them to the British Museum to see the famed Rosetta Stone. Suddenly, their world changes as their father is captured by an evil Egyptian god, Set. Carter and Sadie take off with their father's brother Amos to figure out how to stop the evil Set from destroying the world. Excitement and disasters follow as they travel through portals around the world, develop their magical powers, and figure out what they have to sacrifice to save the world. Exciting, fun, full of fascinating facts about Egyptian mythology, the Red Pyramid delivers. The Red Pyramid by Rich Riordan. Disney-Hyperion Books, 2010

The Last Newpaper Boy in America by Sue Corbett

2010-07-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

A book right out of the newspaper headlines. Wil, the main character, is ready to take over the delivery of the newspaper in his small town of Steele, Pennsylvania, a family tradition. Unfortunately, Steele has fallen on hard times. The hairpin factory started by his great-grandfather has closed, leaving his father and many of the the town citizens out of work. Wil hopes to save money from his job to buy a computer so he doesn't have to always use the one at the library. His hopes are dashed when his brother is notified on his first day that the newspaper is canceling delivery to Steele. With the encouragement of his grandmother, Wil fights back by circulating a petition and getting the townspeople up in arms about the change. Meanwhile, the fair is coming to town, and Wil suspects one of the new games of chance might be rigged and sets about finding a way to prove it. Everything comes together at a town council meeting where Wil's father is discussing ways for the town to encourage a new tenant for the factory that could put the local people back to work. Timely and up-to-date and fun. The Last Newspaper Boy in America by Sue Corbett. Dutton's Children's Books, 2009.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

2010-06-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Billy lives in the Ozark mountains with his family. More than anything, he wants a pair of hound dogs to hunt for coons and sell their pelts. He worked two years to buy the hounds, which he names Old Dan and Little Ann. After training them, he begins to have some success in hunting until he eventually participates in a coon hunting contest. The hardships and sometimes desperation of life in the hill country are movingly illustrated as is the great love that can grow between a boy and his dogs. A classic tale that still resonates. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls. Laurel-Leaf Books, 1961.

We the Children (Keepers of the School) by Andrew Clements

2010-05-09T13:25:00.000-07:00

The first book in a new series, Keepers of the School, introduces Benjamin Pratt a middle-grader at an historic elementary school on the coast of his New England town. Benjamin is heading toward his class one morning, when he runs into the custodian, who is having problems. While waiting for help, the old custodian presses as gold coin into Benjamin's hand and tells him that he is now he must be the one to fight for the school. The school, which was founded in the late 1700s, has been sold to developers who are planning to tear it down and build an amusement park. After the custodian dies, Benjamin must follow the clue on the coin, with the help of his friend Jill, to other clues that will presumably help them stop the planned demolition. I say presumed because the first book ends in a cliffhanger, it is the first of a six part series. What's there is thoughtful and exciting, including a sailing race that is the climax of the book. The second book, Fear Itself, is being published on September 7, 2010. We the Children by Andrew Clements. Illustrated by Adam Stower. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2010.

Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Patterson

2010-05-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Sarah Louise, Wheeze, as she is called, lives in the shadow of her twin sister Caroline, who is a gifted musician. Born and raised on a small island in the Chesapeake Bay, she longs to go out and help her father fish for crabs and oysters, but that is a man's job in the 1940s. But then the war comes, Caroline ends up with a scholarship to pursue her music and her best friend joins the Navy. While helping her father on her boat, she deals with her family and friends and sorts out what she wants to do with her life. A determined heroine, she finds her path and strikes out to make a new life for herself. A touching coming of age story well voiced by Christina Moore in the audiobook version. Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Patterson, Recorded Books, LLC., 1998, 1980.

Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman

2010-04-02T18:04:00.000-07:00

A quaint traditional children's tale from Neil Gaiman incorporating some of the same Nordic Gods featured in his adult book, American Gods. Odd is a 12 year old boy in a Norwegian Village. His family situation is difficult since his widowed mother remarried an abusive man. He also was crippled in an accident, but still manages to get around with the help of a cane. One day, he leaves his home and goes into the woods to his father's old woodcarving hut. There, he meets a mysterious fox who leads him to a bear that got trapped in a tree with a bee's nest in it. Odd soon discovers that the animals, including an eagle who joins them, are the Nordic Gods Odin, Loki and Thor, who have been tricked out of their home by a Frost Giant. He travels with them to Asgard to help them reclaim their home, and encounters magic, mystery and a beautiful goddess along the way. Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman with illustrations by Brett Helquist. Harper, 2009.

Endymion Spring by Matthew Skelton

2010-03-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

In a story that jumps between the early days of the printing press and the 21st Century, Matthew Skelton tells the story of Blake Winters, who is passing time in an Oxford Library while his mother does research. When a mysterious book pricks him on the finger as he is running his hand along the shelves, he is caught up in a mystery centuries old. Parallel stories tell the tale of Endymion Spring, the original printer's helper who worked with Johann Gutenberg as he was perfecting the invention of movable type, and the book with his name on the cover that Blake finds. Blake soon realizes he is the only one who can read the book. It holds secrets that are coveted by many people and puts Blake and his younger sister, Duck, into great danger. Fans of mysterious, magical fantasies will enjoy this. The audiobook is narrated by Richard Easton and includes an afterward where Skelton describes what how he came up with the story. Endymion Spring by Matthew Skelton. Listening Library, 2006.

Woods Runner by Gary Paulsen

2010-03-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

Sam is a 13-year old boy living with his parents in Pennsylvania in 1776. They live on the frontier where Sam spends most of his time in the woods hunting. Then one day a traveler arrives with news from the colonies. War has started and the Americans are fighting the British for independence. Soon, while Sam is off on a hunting trip, he senses something is wrong and rushes home. There he finds his house burned to the ground and his parents gone. They had been kidnapped and taken prisoner by Hessians fighting with the British. He begins to track them and discovers that his world has just become a very different, scary place. Paulsen concludes each chapter with a page of historical facts about some aspect of the Revolution, and in an afterward says that he wanted to remind people of the actual horrors of war. Fast moving and exciting, it's a great read. Woods Runner by Gary Paulsen. Wendy Lamb Books, 2010.

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

2010-03-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

A timeless classic, My Side of the Mountain tells the story of Sam Gribley, who lives in New York City with his large family. Restless and interested in living on the land, he leaves home and heads to land in the Catskill Mountains that used to be his great-grandfather's farm, but has revered to woodlands. He is determined to live off the land and with the help of the town librarian, he gathers the information he needs to create a home out of tree, figure out what wild foods are edible, learn to hunt and trap, and capture and raise a baby falcon to help him hunt. Along the way he has to avoid a Forest Ranger that is hunting him, deal with reporters who are investigating stories of a "wild boy" living in the wilderness, and prepare for the long, cold winter. Details about what he cooks and eats, how he tans deer hide to make clothes and blankets, and the many other survival tips are fascinating. The audiobook version is well narrated by Jeff Woodman. He seemlessly slips from one character to the next. A Newbery Honor Book. My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George. Recorded Books, LLC., 1994. Original copyright 1959.

Martin Bridge Ready for Takeoff! by Jessica Scott Kerrin

2010-02-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

Martin Bridge tries to do the right things in these interconnected stories geared for students in Grades 3 & 4. First he plans a treat for a substitute bus driver only to have it go wrong when the regular busdriver returns. Then he deals with finding out his neighbor's guinea pig died while he was taking care of it. Throughout his love of the TV show Zip Rideout keeps him going. The black and white illustrations by Joseph Kelly move the story along. Enjoyable, realistic fun for new readers. First of a series. Martin Bridge Ready for Takeoff! by Jessica Scott Kerrin. Illustrated by Joseph Kelly. Kids Can Press, 2005.

Pendragon Book 1: The Merchant of Death by D. J. MacHale

2010-02-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

When Bobby Pendragon's uncle asks him to skip an important basketball game to help some people in trouble, he had no idea what he was getting into. He and his uncle go through some kind of mysterious portal and end up in another "territory" called Denduron where the Milago people are being enslaved. Separated from his uncle, who has been sentenced to death by the ruling people, Bobby discovers he is a "traveller" someone able to move between territories who has the responsibility to help maintain peace in the various territories. The problems in Denderon are being made worse by another traveller, Saint Dene, who is wanting to create chaos and disorder. Can Bobby rescue his uncle before his execution and help keep the revolution that is brewing from destroying life on Denderon? Pendragon Book 1: The Merchant of Death by D. J. MacHale. Brilliance Audio, 2002.

Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix

2010-02-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

After a prologue where a mysterious plane arrives at an airport with nothing but babies aboard, the story jumps ahead 13 years. Jonah has known all his life that he was adopted. After he befriends a new boy who moved in down the street, he receives a mysterious letter that says only "You are one of the missing." When his new friend gets the same letter and discovers he is adopted also, they set off on a hunt for the truth with the help of his sister Katherine. Plenty of mystery and excitement follow with a cliff hanging ending setting things up for the sequel, Sent. Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix. Simon and Schuster Books for Young People, 2008.

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

2010-01-08T07:22:00.000-08:00

Miranda lives in New York City with her mom, a paralegal in 1979. She is in the 6th grade and working on various school projects, and her mother is rehearsing to be a contestant on a game show, The $20,000 Pyramid, a "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" type show of the time. Then one day her best friend, Sal, who lives in her apartment building is hit on the street by another boy. He isolates himself from her, forcing her to make new friends and solve the mystery of why Sal was hit. She takes solace in her favorite book, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle, reading it to friends, discussing it and rereading it regularly. Then she starts receiving small, mysterious notes that hinting that one of her friends is in danger and that someone is coming to help save him. The mystery is slowly revealed. An enjoyable story, well read by Cynthia Holloway in the audiobook version. Winner of the 2010 Newbery Award. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead. Random House, Listening Library, 2009.

The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers

2010-01-08T07:02:00.000-08:00

Henry loves to eat books. An interesting premise for a fun picture book. Irish author and illustrator Oliver Jeffers uses found objects in his art like old catalog cards, notes, and lists from old books as background to the story of Henry who starts eating books and then discovers he absorbs the information from them as he digests them. This helps make him one of the smartest kids around until things start to go "terribly wrong." Lighthearted and witty, the book comes around to the logical conclusion that it is better to read books than eat them. It's a fun journey. The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers. Philomel Books, 2007.

Moving Day: Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls by Meg Cabot

2009-12-19T18:49:00.000-08:00

Allie Finkel is dismayed to find out that her family is moving to a nearby town. It means leaving her best friend, even if she does cry a lot, and moving into a house potentially haunted by a zombie hand. So she starts plotting and trying to find ways to sabatoge the process. Allie copes with her troubles by creating rules such as "never eat anything red." Her efforts to keep her family from moving, dealing with her complicated social life, and her grudging acceptance of the good things that might come from the move are all heartfelt and delightful. Tara Sands narrates the audiobook in a voice fitting for a nine-year-old heroine. First of a series. Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls: Moving Day by Meg Cabot. Scholastic Audiobooks, 2008.

The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

2009-12-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

Prosper and Bo are runaway orphans in Venice trying to escape from the aunt who wants to adopt Bo, but send Prosper away to a boarding school. They are hiding out in a closed movie theater with other orphans when the Thief Lord, a slightly older boy who has provided their hideout, gets a clandestine offer to steal something for hire for a local count. Meanwhile, a detective is on their trail after being hired by the aunt to find the brothers. When the children attempt the robbery the tale turns into a mystery and adventure as they try to find out what the count really wanted with the item. The book is steeped in the allure and mystique of Venice as the children travel the canals and lagoons and explore well-known parts of the city. The audiobook is ably narrated by Simon Jones. The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke. Listening Library, 2002.

The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

2009-12-08T17:05:00.000-08:00

Peter is a young orphan who dreams of his baby sister who he thinks died at birth. He lives in a city called Baltese with his guardian, who was a soldier with his father. In this cold, northern city of Baltese, a magician has somehow made an elephant appear with unfortunate consequences. When a fortuneteller tells Peter that he should follow the elephant to his sister, the stories begin to intertwine. Lyrical, mysterious and thought provoking, the latest by Kate DiCamillo is a charming tale. The website at http://www.themagicianselephant.com/ includes a webcast with Kate DiCamillo, an activity guide and a reading group discussion guide. The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo. Candlewick Press, 2009.

Imperfections: A Novel by Lynda Durrant

2009-11-25T18:10:00.000-08:00

Rosemary Elizabeth is escaping with her mother, brother and baby sister from her abusive father in Kentucky in 1862. Her mother brings then to the Shaker Community of Pleasant Hill then leaves. Struggling to adjust to the stringent perfection and hard work demanded by the Shakers, she questions everything that is going on around her. Her brother is slowly withdrawing from her due to the enforced separation of the sexes the Shakers believe in, and her baby sister is being raised in the nursery. Then she finds herself being attracted to a young man in the community, who she is not allowed to speak to. As time goes on, she deals with Confederate and Union Soldiers passing through and is set upon by Morgan's Raiders while coming back from a trip to town to sell butter and cheese. The book vividly describes daily life in the Shaker Community and Shaker beliefs. An afterword gives additional background on Shaker history and Morgan's Raiders. Imperfections: A Novel by Lynda Durrant. Clarion Books, 2008.

Knucklehead by Jon Scieszka

2009-11-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

Jon Scieszka grew up one of 6 brothers in Flint, Michigan and his tales of the mischief they got into are priceless. They spent summers at a lake in Michigan, tormented the nuns at his Catholic School, broke furniture, and generally got into all sorts of trouble. Many of the adventures seem to describe a bygone era. I don't know how many boys these days get into dirt fights at construction sites or can spend summer days just hanging out by the lake, but I think they would enjoy listening about them. The author narrates the audiobook, it would be a great family listen during a holiday car trip. I frequently was laughing out loud while listening. Knucklehead:tall tales & mostly true stories of growing up Scieszka by Jon Scieszka. Brilliance Audio, 2008.

Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

2009-11-20T04:35:00.000-08:00

Catherine lives in midieval England and at 14 is on the verge of becoming a woman. Her father, who is a local lord, is looking to wed her to a prosperous man to improve his situation. She, however, prefers escaping to the village, hanging out with the goat herder and generally doing anything to avoid embroidery, sewing and learning to be a lady. She writes a diary detailing her days, the many feast days, the harvest, the trevails of her mother, who is expecting another child, and, of course, her fears of being wed to an older, boorish man she calls "Shaggy Beard." The details about life in 13th century England are wonderful and Catherine's voice is authentic, if a bit ahead of her time. The audiobook narrator, Jenny Sterlin, does a great job of capturing the inflection, tone and rhythm of the style of speech of the time. A Newbery Honor Book. Fascinating. Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman. Recorded Books, 1994.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

2009-11-07T11:11:00.000-08:00

This story creates a future where a disease has developed that brings the dead back to life and makes them crave human flesh. One bite from these "Unconsecrated" beings infects a live human and turns him/her into a similar zombie. Mary, a young girl, lives in a fenced village that is constantly under seige from the "Unconsecrated" living in the forest beyond. When the village's fences are breeched and the village is overrun, she escapes down a fenced path into the forest with a small group of others, including her brother and her fiance. What will they find? Reminiscent of Omega Man, the story is scary and intriguing. Sure to appeal to the horror fans out there in upper Middle School or High School. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan. Delacorte Press, 2009.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

2009-11-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

Percy Jackson feels frustrated and misunderstood. Suffering from dyslexia and ADHD, he has been kicked out of every school he has gone to at the end of the year. Now he faces another summer with his mother and abusive step-father. But strange things keep happening to him, like his math teacher attacking him during a field trip to a museum. When he and his mother go for a summer outing to a cottage on the beach, he learns that he is indeed not like other kids because his father is a god. A race ensues to get Percy to Camp Half-Blood, a safe haven for the children of the Greek Gods, before he is attacked by a Minotaur. As Percy learns the truth about himself at camp, he comes to learn that he needs to go on a quest to prevent a war from breaking out between the gods, which would be disastrous for mankind. A rollicking read! Great fun. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. Random House, 2005.

Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Olver Relin

2009-09-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

The young reader's adaptation of Greg Mortenson's best-selling memoir stays true to the story. It recounts Mortenson's attempt to climb K-2, the world's second highest mountain to honor his deceased sister Krista, the wrong turn that led him to the village of Korphe in Pakistan, and his subsequent vow to build the village a school. Some of the more harrowing details of such things as his kidnapping by the Taliban have been removed or toned down, but the gist of the story--his desire to help the Pakistanis improve their lot with improved education is still strong. Adapted by Sarah Thomson, it includes an interview with Mortenson's daughter, Amira, who has traveled with her father and is a strong supporter of his work. With the current situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan having the opportunity for students to read about the situation there and what some people are doing to improve it is invaluable. Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. Adapted by Sarah Thompson. Puffin Books, 2009.

Judy Moody Declares Independence by Megan MacDonald

2009-08-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Irrepressible Judy Moody takes a trip to Boston in this episode of the series. She tours various sites on the Freedom Trail, visits a reproduction of the ship from the Boston Tea Party, and is inspired by the actions of the Founding Fathers. Back home, she yearns for more independence of her own, but her efforts to prove she is responsible backfire until an emergency one day forces her to take action. Fun, silly at times, but thoroughly enjoyable for Judy Moody fans. Judy Moody Declares Independence by Megan MacDonald. Narrated by Kate Forbes. Recorded Books, 2005.

The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

2009-08-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

This was a great book to finish up the summer with. A tale of four sisters who go on vacation to a cottage in the Berkshires. It's not an ordinary summer cottage, though. It is on an estate where a boy lives with his mother. The girls befriend the boy and proceed to get in all sorts of trouble with the mother, who is trying to get her garden ready for a local Garden Club competition. The sisters have fun summer adventures, get into various messes and try to help the boy who doesn't want to go to the military school his mother and fiance want him to. All ends well and the family heads back home. The audiobook version is ably narrated by Susan Denaker. The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall. Read by Susan Denaker. Listening Library, Random House, 2005.

Scat by Carl Hiaasen

2009-08-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

Nick and Marta are friends who attend a private school in Florida. When a field trip to a local swamp gets cut short because of a fire, their biology teacher disappears. Mysterious sitings of the teacher's blue Prius pique the students interest and they start investigating her what happened. All the while, Nick is worried about his father who is stationed in Iraq with his National Guard unit. As the students' learn more about what happened to their teacher, they get involved with an effort to save an endangered panther cub by reuniting it with its mother. Interesting characters, quirky side plots and a good story all combine to make this a great read. The audiobook version is narrated by Ed Asner, who had fun with the characters. Scat by Carl Hiaasen. Random House/Listening Library 2009.

Stolen Children by Peg Kehret

2009-07-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

When 14 year-old Amy gets a new babysitting job for a well-to-do family in her tow, she gets caught up in a kidnapping plot. When two criminals kidnap Kendra, the 3 year old girl Amy is babysitting, she is taken as well. The kidnappers take them to an abandoned cabin and record video messages to send to the parents leading up to the ransom demand. While trying to keep Kendra safe and comfortable, Amy tries to think of ways to send clues in the DVDs to help the parents and police find her. Meanwhile, she has to deal with the kidnappers, one of which has a volatile temper. Amy fears they plan to kill her when they return the Kendra since her family isn't able to pay any ransom. Exciting, suspenseful, with a brave, resourceful heroine, Stolen Children is a great read. Stolen Children by Peg Kehret. Dutton Children's Books, 2008.

The Boy Who Saved Cleveland by James Cross Giblin

2009-07-07T06:57:00.001-07:00

It's hard to imagine Cleveland, Ohio as a small settlement of log cabins, but in 1798, that's how it was. Seth Doan is 10 years old and adjusting to the hard life of the wilderness after moving with his family from Connecticut. To survive, the family members farm, hunt, scavange, and depend on corn that was bought to tide them over until their own crops come in. When Seth's sister and father come down with a mysterious ailment (malaria), it is up to Seth to make the 2 mile walk to the mile to grind the corn daily so that his family doesn't starve. A realistic picture of the hardships of pioneer life. The Boy Who Saved Cleveland by James Cross Giblin. Henry Holt and Company, 2006

Everything on a Waffle by Polly Horvath

2009-06-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

Primrose knows her parents weren't killed a sea during a storm, but no one else in her small community thinks so. After staying with a local elderly woman, Miss Perfidy, who had served as her babysitter, the town council tracks down her Uncle Jack, who moves to town and starts a business trying to develop the town and turn it into a tourist destination. Meanwhile, Primrose befriends a local business owner, a local restaurant called the Girl on the Red Swing, where everything is served on a waffle. As she learns cooking from Miss Bowzer, and deals with Miss Perfidy's increasing eccentricity, she spends her days at the dock watching for her parents to come home and having accidents, which lead to her being placed in a foster home. The book is a touching and funny slice of life about a small town and the variety of people who live there. Everything on a Waffle by Polly Horvath. Listening Library, 2002.

Project Mulberry by Linda Sue Park

2009-05-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Julia Song is a Korean-American middle schooler who lives in a Midwestern American town. With her friend Patrick she is trying to come up with a farm project for a club she belongs to. When her mother suggests raising silkworms, she is unenthusiastic as it is too "Korean" and she longs to be an all-American girl. But Patrick is enthusiastic and she can't come up with any other ideas, so after a solving a couple of problems they begin to raise their worms. The book is interspersed with conversations between Julia and the author, Linda Sue Park, discussing the writing process. In the audiobook, it worked quite well as the narrator and Linda Sue Park herself traded comments. The book has several subplots including Patrick and Julia learning about sustainable farming and making friends with an older African-American man who has the mulberry tree they need to feed the silkworm caterpillers. In the end Julia has to make a difficult choice when she learns how the silk is harvested. Overall it was an enjoyable, interesting story. Project Mulberry by Linda Sue Park. Random House Listening Library, 2005.

Fairest by Gail Carson Levine

2009-05-07T17:44:00.000-07:00

A charming story set in the same enchanting world as Ella Enchanted, this story tells the tale of Aza, a innkeeper's daughter from Ayortha. She was abandoned at birth at the inn and raised with love by the innkeeper and his wife, but her appearance is unusual and she thinks herself ugly. However, she is blessed with a powerful, lovely voice that she can project like a ventriloquist. When she befriends a duchess who frequents the inn, she is hired to accompany her to the Royal Wedding, where she meets the new queen. The Queen is not from Ayortha, where singing is a prominent part of life, and when she accidently discovers Aza's ability she threatens her and her family unless Aza becomes her lady in waiting and uses her gift to allow her to lipsync at important functions. Meanwhile, Aza has befriended the Prince and is enjoying his company. Complications ensue and Aza is discovered. She has to flee and faces ogre attacks, murder attempts and learns about her possible heritage. The book features many songs that were written by Levine, and the full cast audio book sets them to music. Charming and lively with a powerful message about becoming comfortable with oneself, this is a great story. Fairest by Gail Carson Levine. Full Cast Audio, 2007.

Masterpiece by Elise Broach

2009-03-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

A beetle that can draw reproductions of famous artist's work? It's a bit of a stretch, even for fantasy, but some might find it fun. Marvin is a beetle that lives in the home of James, a 10 year old boy. When his artist father gives him a pen and ink drawing set for his birthday, the beetle draws a picture with his front feet by dipping them in ink left in the cap. When his parents assume that James drew the picture, he ends up in an art museum being asked to reproduce a drawing by Albrecht Durer so it can be used in a plot to lure whoever has stolen the other drawings in the set. There are all sorts of attempts at human, insect communication and some excitement when the plan goes awry. The descriptions of insect family life are fun, also. Masterpiece by Elise Broach. Henry Holt and Company, 2008.

A Couple of Boys have the Best Week Ever by Marla Frazee

2009-03-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

James visits Eamon's grandparents so the 2 boys could go to Nature Camp for a week. In this enthusiastic volume, the boys hang out, have fun on the beach, negotiate with Eamon's penguin loving grandfather and generally have fun. The book extoles the traditional summer joys of doing what you want, eating fun food, and creating something just for the fun of it. The illustrations are lively, and subtle, sometimes contradicting the text. Great fun. A Caldecott Honor Book. A Couple of Boys have the Best Week Ever by Marla Frazee. Harcourt, Inc., 2008.

The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson

2009-03-20T13:16:00.000-07:00

This lovely bed-time read is based on a traditional rhyme, This is the key to the kingdom. The story flows from page to page describing a house, a bed, a book and the comfort of familiar things. The scratchboard illustrations resemble woodcuts giving it a timeless feel. Comforting. Caldecott Award Winner. The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson. Pictures by Beth Krommes. Houghton Mifflin Co., 2008.

How I learned Geography by Uri Shulevitz

2009-03-19T18:12:00.001-07:00

This simple picture book illustrates how something can bring hope in the most dire circumstances. Uri Shulevitz's family fled Poland during the Nazi invasion and sought refuge in what is now Kazakhstan. Poor and hungry, his father returned from the market one day with a large world map, which they posted on the wall of their home. The book shows how Uri spent hours looking at the map and imagining the various places he could go, which took him away from his hunger, fear and frustrations. The illustrations of the dusty town and the soaring imaginary destinations are wonderful. A Caldecott Honor Book. How I Learned Geography by Uri Shulevitz. Farrar Straus Giroux, 2008.

Silver by the Tree by Susan Cooper

2009-03-19T13:31:00.000-07:00

The final installment of Susan Cooper's Dark is Rising sequence, brings all the major characters together for a satisfying final battle against the dark. Will Stanton returns to Wales and connects with Bran Davis, the out-of-time boy from The Grey King. There he also meets up with the Drew Children, who were featured in Over Sea, Under Stone and The Greenwitch. Once again Alex Jennings narrates flawlessly, easily slipping into Welch dialect and pronouncing the Welch words that I stumbled on while reading the Grey King. In this book, Will and Bran have to seek out a crystal sword made to fight the dark in the "Lost Land," an area of Wales that was reclaimed by the sea hundreds of years ago. Then meeting up with Will's mentor, Merriman, they all take the final journey to stop the dark from rising. Full of wonderful symbolism, great mythological references, and historical figures, Silver by the Tree is a satisfying conclusion to the series. Silver by the Tree by Susan Cooper. Random House/Listening Library, 2007.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaimen

2009-03-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

When a toddler escapes a killer by running into a graveyard, it sparks a lively tale of the dead working to help a living boy survive. Adopted by a pair of dead Victorian parents, the Owens, the boy, named Nobody, has the run of the graveyard and interacts with a wide variety of its residents from the Roman time to close to the present. Each one is identified by the name on his or her headstone and the saying engraved thereon. As Nobody (Bod) grows, he meets humans, ghouls, werewolves and other creatures who come into the graveyard, tries his hand at going to school, and tries to avoid the killer who is still out there hunting him. When the showdown finally comes between Bod and the killer, Jack, his knowledge of all things otherworldly comes in handy. Quirky, creepy, funny and creative, it is a story sure to engage those looking for a great read. Newbery Award winner. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaimen, with illustrations by Dave McKean. HarperCollins Publishers, 2008.

The Underneath by Kathi Appelt

2009-02-22T17:20:00.000-08:00

The Underneath is a complex, lyrical story of a animal family. It starts with a cat that has been abandoned meeting up with an old bloodhound who is chained and mistreated by its owner in the backcountry of Louisiana. Gar Face, the owner, is a loner who survives trapping animals and selling the pelts for alcohol and supplies. He is stalking a great alligator who lurks in a bayou near his home. The cat, who befriends the bloodhound, soon has kittens and she raises them under the house where the dog, Ranger, is chained. It is safe in the underneath, she tells her kittens, and encourages them to stay out of site to keep them safe from Gar Face, who often uses small animals as bait. A parellel story tells of the great Grandmother moccasin snake who was imprisoned 1000 years again in a jar under a tree. As the story unfolds we learn why and what happened, and the two stories eventually come together. The book is touching and poetic with references to nature, the Native Americans who previously lived in the area, and magical, mystical creatures. Charming. A Newbery Honor Book. The Underneath by Kathi Appelt. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2008.

Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude by Jonah Winter

2009-01-13T17:39:00.000-08:00

A stylistic biography of Gertrude Stein, this picture book (subtitled And Gertrude is Gertrude Stein, a most fabulous writer, who lived a most fabulous life) gives snippets of facts in Stein's unique style. Parties, famous people, and nights spent writing are described with such prose as "Everyone who's everyone is at this party. And everyone is everyone. And if everyone is everyone, they must come to this party." The illustrations are colorful, playful and bold and add to the frivolity and fun of the images created of Stein, Alice B. Tolkis and the other artists and writers who lived in the creative world of Paris in the early 20th Century. Young readers will enjoy the pictures and the repetitive phrasing although they probably won't understand any of the references. Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude by Jonah Winter. Illustrated by Caleb Brown. Antheneum Books for Young Readers, 2009.

Mogo, The Third Warthog by Donna Jo Napoli

2008-12-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

This book takes you into the mind of a warthog growing up on the African savanna. Mogo is the third warthog in his litter and he dutifully follows his brothers on their daily forages to eat and drink. The sounder (group of warthogs) is constantly on the lookout for predators including lions and especially a pack of wild dogs. Once Mogo's mother gives birth to her most recent litter, Mogo and his brothers are cast out on their own to survive, which hightens the danger. He encounters giraffees, baboons, and has several narrow escapes with the wild dogs that prowl the savanna. The book gives a good introduction into the variety of life on the savanna although it is a bit too anthropomorphic in its depiction of the animals. Still it would be an enjoyable book for children who enjoy animal stories. Mogo, The Third Warthog by Donna Jo Napoli. Illustrated by Lita Judge. Hyperion Books for Children, 2008.

Tadpole Rex by Kurt Cyrus

2008-12-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

A young tadpole is born in the time of dinosaurs and grows up into a frog with huge dinosaurs surrounding it. Then the dinosaurs go, but frogs survive. There isn't much to the plot, but the illustrations are what makes this book shine. The end note states they were created in scratchboard and colored digitally, and those digital colors shine. The larger than life illustrations pop off the page. It is a visual treat and a likely contender for the Caldecott Award next year. Tadpole Rex by Kurt Cyrus. Harcourt, Inc., 2008.

The Magic Pillow by Demi

2008-12-12T06:20:00.001-08:00

Once again, Demi mines the rich culture of China to present a tale of a young boy who learns that fame and riches aren't everything. Based on a short story by Shen Jiji from around 700 A.D., the story tells of a poor young boy who is caught in a blizzard while collecting firewood and seeks shelter at a local inn. While there he meets a magician who is staying there who dazzles him with tricks. The magician later loans him a "magic pillow" to sleep on that gives him dreams about a possible future allowing him to make a better decision of what he wants to do with his life. The textured, traditional illustrations leap off the page making this a visual treat as well. The Magic Pillow by Demi. Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2008.

We're going on a book hunt by Pat Miller

2008-12-06T17:16:00.000-08:00

This lovely picture book borrows from the classic "going on a bear hunt" rhyme substituting books for bears. A group of young bears with their teacher goes to the library for a just right book hunt. Along the way, they learn to go quietly, use shelf markers, pick a just right book (count to five!), and treat books kindly. With catchy rhymes and up to date illustrations (the library features computers and a scanner for check-out) it covers basic library routines and experiences for young kindergartners and first graders. The book includes a Teachers Guide with lessons related to the book (including movements to go along with the rhymes). It was written by a school librarian from Texas to help her teach library lessons, and we will all benefit. The watercolor illustrations of animals in the library are fun and detailed. Students will enjoy looking at them. We're going on a Book Hunt by Pat Miller. Pictures by Nadine Bernard Westcott. Upstart Books, 2008.

Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

2008-12-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

The sequel to Stargirl finds her in a new state far from Arizona. The book is a long letter to her former boyfriend, Leo, about her new life, the people she meets and things she experiences in her day-to-day life. Stargirl befriends an energetic six year old named Dootsie, meets an agorophibic named Betty Lou, and is intrigued by a mysterious boy named Perry who has been seen around town stealing things. The book leads up to a Winter Solstice celebration Stargirl puts together. There are observations about small town life, humor, especially from Dootsie, and reflections on the people she meets and their experiences. The audio book is narrated well by Mandy Seigried. Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli. Listening Library, 2007.

A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park

2008-11-22T16:42:00.000-08:00

This book provides a fascinating look into life in 12th Century Korea. While in some ways life was as primative as in Dark Ages Europe, there were fine craftsmen and a well-developed culture. The book's hero, Tree Ear, is an orphan, which made him somewhat of a second class citizen in a culture where crafts and vocations are passed from Father to Son. Tree Ear wants to be a potter, as many of the men in his village are, so when the opportunity presents itself, he begins to work for one of the expert potters in the village. When the news comes that an emissary from the King was coming to order pottery for the Palace, Tree Ear must help his master prepare, then later take a long and dangerous journey to take samples of his work to the Capital. Will his effort succeed in helping his master receive a royal commission? The audiobook is well narrated by Graeme Malcolm. A Newbery Award Winner. A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park. Listening Library, 2001.

The Dangerous Alphabet

2008-11-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

This creepy, gross A-Z follows a girl and boy on a trip through a netherworld of monsters and evil creatures. There is a rhyme for each letter that elaborates on the perils and problems they encounter as illustrated by Gris Grimley. Young lovers of monsters and mayhem will shiver with delight. The Dangerous Alphabet by Neil Gaiman. Illustrated by Gris Grimly. HarperCollinsPublishers, 2008.

Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff

2008-11-15T12:09:00.000-08:00

Every summer, Lily goes with her family to their summer house in Rockaway. It's a special time she looks forward to every year, but in the summer of 1944, things are changing. There's a war on and her best friend Margaret is moving far away so her father can work in a wartime factory. And, she soon discovers her father is leaving, too. He's joining the Army to help the war effort. Angry and alone, Lily soon meets a newcomer, a boy named Albert, who is a refugee from Hungary staying with relatives in Rockaway. Albert's sister has been left behind in France, and he is trying to figure out a way to get back to her. A touching slice of life about a challenging time in American history. The audiobook is ably narrated by Mia Dillon. It includes musical interludes and sound effects. A Newbery Honor Book. Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff. Listening Library, Random House, 1998.

The Grey King by Susan Cooper

2008-11-15T11:56:00.001-08:00

The fourth volume of The Dark is Rising Sequence finds Will Stanton recovering from a serious illness at his Aunt and Uncles farm in Wales. There he learns of a malevolent force in the local mountains, known as the Grey King, who is working with the Dark. With the help of a local boy, Bran, he finds the next relic in his quest to help the Light win the long battle with the dark, which leads to a showdown with the forces of the Dark and the Grey King. The book is full of Welsh expression, facts and information. The author notes that while that characters are fictional, the places are real. The book is enjoyable and suspenseful, but I would recommend it be read in after the others in the series for greatest appreciation and understanding. The Grey King by Susan Cooper. Aladdin Paperbacks, 1975.

The Killing Sea by Richard Lewis

2008-10-03T16:57:00.001-07:00

Subtitled, a novel about the tsunami that stunned the world, The Killing Sea was written by a American son of missionary parents who lives in Bali, Indonesia. He volunteered in Aceh after the 2004 tsunami and wrote this novel. I was concerned it would be too graphic for elementary students, but although it describes vividly the destruction and loss of life, a mature fifth grader could handle it. The story opens with a teen age Indonesian boy, Ruslan, who lives in a seaside village with his father, a mechanic. An American family who is sailing the world on vacation comes ashore for help with the engine on their sailboat. They have a teen-aged daughter Sarah and a younger son Peter. When the tsunami hits, the American children manage to escape the waves by hanging on to a tree. Ruslan escapes by breaking through the roof of a house. Then they both begin a journey to get help, eventually meeting up and traveling with a small group of survivors, Ruslan looking for his father, and Sarah seeking help for her brother who fell ill after swallowing dirty water in the disaster. The adventures and experiences are real, heartbreaking, and, in the end, hopeful. There is an interesting side plot near the end of the book of the Press Corps that arrive and are more interested in the Americans' story than the suffering of the native peoples. Overall it is a powerful book. The Killing Sea: a novel about the tsunami that changed the world by Richard Lewis. Simon and Shuster Books for Young Readers, 2006.

Magyk by Angie Sage Septimus Heap Book One

2008-09-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

In this enjoyable fantasy, Silas Heap, an ordinary wizard, discovers a newborn baby girl on his way home to his own wife and newborn son. When he arrives, the midwife is leaving with his son, who she says is dead. Ten years later, having raised the girl as their daughter, they discover she is the princess who barely escaped death when her mother was killed by the forces of the Supreme Custodian, who now rules the Castle. With the help of the ExtraOrdinary Wizard and a friendly ghost, they escape temporarily, but are pursued by the hunter, who is charged with finding the princess and killing her. With magic, good and evil, and even a dragon boat, there is excitement and several fun plot twists. A great story for fantasy lovers. The audiobook version is narrated by Allan Corduner, who distinguishes between the many characters with ease. Magyk by Angie Sage. Septimus Heap Book One. Recorded Books, 2005.

The Boggart by Susan Cooper

2008-09-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

A Boggart is a mischevious spirit that likes to play tricks in this delightful tale by Susan Cooper. It has lived for generations in an old castle in Scotland playing tricks on the various occupants of the castle. When the current occupant, an old man, dies, the castle is inherited by relatives in Canada. After they travel to Scotland to look at the castle and decide what to do about it, the boggart gets trapped in a desk being sent to Canada with some of the castle furniture. Once in Canada, the Boggart begins to play its tricks on the Volkert family, including Emily and Jessup, the two children. When a psychologist begins to blame all the mysterious happenings on Emily creating a poltergiest with psychokinetic energy, things get tricky. It's up to Emily and Jessup to figure out what is going on and how to solve the problem of the Boggart with a decidedly modern day solution. The Boggart by Susan Cooper. Aladdin Paperbacks, 1993.

The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry

2008-09-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

The Willoughbys is a delightful parody of an "old-fashioned" story that features cruel parents, plucky children and a resourceful nanny. The four children of the Willoughby family wish they were orphans as their parents ignore and mistreat them so. When the parents decide to take a world trip and sell the house out from under the children, they have to use their resourcefulness to work things out. The book is full of references to "old-fashioned" children and stories a la Anne of Green Gables, Pollyanna, etc. After the obligitory happy ending, Lowry provides a bibliography of "books of the past that are heavy on piteous but appealing orphans, ill-tempered and stingy relative, magnanimous benefactors, and transformations wrought by winsome children." Although I enjoyed it greatly, I felt like I might have missed some of the references to some of said books. A Glossary hilariously defines words that frequently show up in such works like auspicious, irascible, lugubrious, and many more. The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2008.

The Talented Clementine by Sara Pennypacker

2008-09-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Impulsive third-grader Clementine faces a challenge when her school decides to put on a talent show as a fund-raiser. Clementine doesn't believe she has any "talents," at least not ones she can do on stage. She knows her very talented neighbor, Margaret, will have lots of talents to choose from and implores her to help her come up with one. Alas, her efforts, while funny, aren't successful. It isn't until that last minute that Clementine discovers what her "talent" is. The audiobook version features narration by Jessica Almay who gets the irrepressible Clementine down pat. Readers who enjoyed the first Clementine book will enjoy the second book in the series. The Talented Clementine by Sara Pennypacker. Recorded Books, 2007.

Oliver's Travels: An Ohio Adventure by Cynthia Furlong Reynoldss

2008-09-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

In this somewhat contrived tale, an intrepid mouse goes exploring the State of Ohio armed with a map on which symbols of the state are drawn. In his adventures, Oliver the mouse runs into ladybugs, a cardinal, and other symbols of Ohio. He travels to Cedar Point and Canton where he explores the Pro Football Hall of Fame and more, then heads through Columbus and all the way to the Ohio River. Along the way he learns many historical facts about Ohio, which he shares with the reader. The book ends with him traveling towards Indiana presumably to learn its symbols. While the book has merit as a tie in to Ohio History, I have trouble seeing students chosing to read this. It could work as a read aloud as a supplemental/enrichment type activity during an Ohio History unit. Oliver's Travels: an Ohio Adventure by Cynthia Furling Reynolds, Illustrations by Bruce Langton. Mitten Press, 2008.

Frankenstein Takes the Cake by Adam Rex

2008-08-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

The first Frankenstein book by Adam Rex (Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich) has been tremendously popular, so when the new book came out I brought it home to read immediately. It adds a few comic touches to the franchise, one that intermediate students are more likely to "get" than younger ones. The main theme is Frankenstein preparing to marry, with the bride's mother complaining about her marrying "someone green." Different poems take on the various famous monsters that are guests or part of the wedding party (Dracula has a problem with food allergies). Posted throughout the book are entries in the Headless Horseman's blog and a series of poems about Edgar Allen Poe with a wisecracking raven. Should be great for Halloween themed read alouds. Lots of fun. Frankenstein Takes the Cake by Adam Rex. Harcourt, 2008.

Our Library by Eve Bunting

2008-08-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

The importance of libraries and their fragility is portrayed in this picture book by Eve Bunting. Illustrations by Maggie Smith show cute animals in their neighborhood library finding out that it may have to close because money isn't available for repairs. So, they check out books and learn how to repair roofs, paint and much more. When new problems come up they read books and work to solve them one by one while illustrating the benefits they receive from the library. While the illustrations are charming, the text is a bit heavy-handed. I'm not sure primary students would get the message, which seems more directed to adults. While we certainly need more advocacy for libraries, public and school, this book didn't really work for me. Our Library by Eve Bunting. Illustrated by Maggie Smith. Clarion Books, 2008.

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

2008-08-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

A delightful prequel to Peter Pan, this story creates a credible backstory for how Peter became forever young and the assortment of characters populating Neverland. The story starts with orphan Peter being sent with four other orphans on a sea voyage after which they will serve as indentured servants/slaves for the King of Rundoon. While on board, Peter befriends Molly, who is guarding an important secret about a treasure being transported on the ship. When pirates come after the treasure, adventure ensues, and they all end up on a mysterious island in the ocean. Full of close escapes and funny scenes, it is an enjoyable read (or listen). The audiobook narration is handled superbly by Jim Dale, of Harry Potter fame. Great fun. Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. Brilliance Audio, 2004.

How to steal a dog by Barbara O'Conner

2008-08-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

Georgina is miserable. After her father leaves the family and her mother loses her apartment, she and her mother and brother are living in their car. In hopes of finding a way to get enough money for her mother to afford the deposit and rent on an apartment, she devises a scheme to steal a dog after seeing a sign requesting a reward for a lost pet. With her little brother, Toby, helping her, they look for a good dog to steal in hopes of getting a reward from its owner. When she finally finds what she thinks is the right dog and goes through with it, she finds that things don't work out the way she planned. Sad and touching, the book does a good job of describing the shame, frustration and other emotions a child would feel in such a situation. How to steal a dog by Barbara O'Conner. Frances Foster Books, 2007.

eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff

2008-07-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sam has always been afraid of the number eleven. When he turns eleven, he discovers a newspaper clipping that shows him as missing. Unfortunately, Sam struggles with reading and can't find out what it says. Sam begins to wonder if his grandfather, who he lives with, is really who he says he is. So he turns to a new girl in school, Caroline, to help him. Flashes from the past keep cropping up in his dreams, a castle, a sailboat and an accident. With Caroline's help, he pieces together part of the puzzle and eventually sits down with his grandfather to get the rest of the answers. An intriguing mystery and touching story of an unusual family. eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff. Wendy Lamb Books, 2008.

Keeping Score by Linda Sue Park

2008-06-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Brooklyn in the early 1950s, Maggie is a devoted Dodgers fan. She likes to go to the local firehouse, where her father used to work, and listen to the games with the firemen there. When she befriends a new fireman, Jim, who is a New York Giants fan, he teaches her how to score games. Later, when Jim is drafted and sent to Korea, she writes to him faithfully until one day he stops writing back. What happened to Jim? Maggie eventually finds out, and has to find a way to help him. Baseball fans will enjoy this picture of life in the 1950s, and how the love of a baseball team knit together a community. An author's note gives background on the Brooklyn Dodgers, the New York Giants, their moves to the West Coast and the Korean Conflict. Keeping Score by Linda Sue Park. Clarion Books, 2008.

George and Marsha Round and Round by James Marshall

2008-06-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

Three short easy-read stories about two hippos, George and Marsha, feature illustrationg by James Marshall. In the first, George gives Marsha a cuckoo clock, but the ticking bothers her.She finds a way to make George happy about the gift though. The second story features an imagination filled boat trip, and in the third the friends discover they have very different tastes in art. Originally published in 1988, the stories will give beginning readers a lot of enjoyment. George and Marsha Round and Round by James Marshall. Houghton Mifflin, 1988, 2000.

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

2008-05-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

The classic fairy tale, Cinderella, is retold charmingly in this story by Gail Carson Levine. Ella, a young girl, lives happily until her mother dies of an illness. Cursed by a fairy at her birth to always be obedient, she is protected by her mother and cook/fairy godmother from being forced to do anything unreasonable. A spunky, fun-loving girl, Ella chafes at the finishing school her widowed father sends her too. Unfortunately, one of the girls there, Hattie, figures out Ella's secret and uses her obedience to control her. Meanwhile, she makes acquaintance with the prince and charms him. When Ella's father marries Hattie's mother the leaves for a long business trip, the mother and sisters force her into the servant role of the traditional story. Then she and the prince fall in love, but Ella realizes she can't marry him because she could endanger him if someone ordered her to do something that would put him in danger. What to do? Fun, full of delightful characters--elves, centaurs and more, this is a wonderful story for those who dream of happily ever after endings. The audiobook is voiced by Eden Riegel in an appropriately childlike voice. A Newberry Honor Book. Ella Enchanted by Gale Carson Levine. Listening Library, Random House, 1997, 1998.

Beyond the Deepwoods by Paul Stewart

2008-05-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

If you like gross creatures, fabulous monsters, and nick of time rescues the story of Twig's adventures in the Deepwoods is for you. Sent away from his wood troll family to stay with his cousin, he "strays off the path" and is surrounded by danger. He is attacked by flesh eating trees, captured by various kinds of goblins and befriended by a giant bear. The adventure is never ending, and the descriptions of the various beasts are filled with slime, large fangs, and other threats. The first in The Edge Chronicles series, it is sure to interest fantasy fans who like excitement and outlandish creatures. The audiobook version is narrated by Clive Mantle. Beyond the Deepwoods by Paul Steward. Illustrations by Chris Riddell. Listening Library, Random House, 2005.

Good Masters! Sweet Ladies: Voices from a Medieval Village by Laura Amy Schlitz

2008-05-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

A wonderful addition to the tools for studying the Middle Ages, plus an enjoyable read. Schlitz has written 22 short monologues designed for students to perform featuring different characters from a typical Medieval Village. Tradesman, peasants, the lord's children all have their moment in the sun. Several of the monologues include elements that emphasize the "grossness" factor of dark ages life such as descriptions of the materials used to tan leather (urine and ashes). Background notes give additional information about such things as the Crusades, Falconry and other relevant topics. 2008 Newbery Award winner. Good Masters, Sweet Ladies: Voices from a Midieval Village by Laura Amy Schlitz. Illustrated by Robert Byrd. Candlewick Press, 2007.

The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett

2008-05-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Jan Brett tackles the Inuit Culture with her latest retelling of The Three Bears. Three polar bears live in an igloo in Inuit Territory. When baby bears' soup is too hot, they go for a walk until it cools off. Meanwhile, Aloo-ki, a local girl has a problem. Her sled dogs have drifted away on an ice floe. Stuck, she wanders until she finds the igloo, she then tries the soup, the boots and the "just right" bed to take a nap in. The side illustrations Brett is known for show the bears discovering the floating dogs and bringing them back to land. All ends well when Aloo-ki reconnects with her sled dogs and is able to head for home. The illustrations are wonderful and employ traditional Inuit designs in the patterns on the parkas and other clothes the bears and Aloo-ki wear. The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett. G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2007.

A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban

2008-05-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

Zoe Elias longs to play the piano. She envisions elegant concerts at Carnegie Hall. But her agoraphobic father, who gets nervous whenever he leaves the house, buys her an organ instead. So, she gamely starts learning, even though her teacher gives her TV show themes from the 70s to play instead of classical music. Meanwhile her Dad spends his time taking correspondence courses in cooking, and visiting with this strange boy from school, Wheeler, who follows her home one day. Then she is invited to perform in an organ Perform-A-Rama. But her mom, who is always busy at work, has a crisis and can't drive her, so she has to rely on her anxious father to get her there. In her first novel, Urban gets the longing of the 10 year old just right in facing pages describing 1) what a piano recital would be like and 2) what an organ Perform-A Rama is like. A touching story about an odd family that comes together to support Zoe when she needs it most. A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban. Harcourt, Inc., 2007.

Grace for President by Kelly Dipucchio

2008-05-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

In this timely picture book, two elementary school classes hold an election. After finding out that there has never been a woman president, Grace decides to run for President. Her competitor, Thomas, is the star soccer player and the champion of the spelling bee. Each student is designated as a State and assigned a certain number of electoral college votes (so one student's vote could count more than another's, which could be hard for younger readers to understand). Then the campaigning begins, all the usual speeches and promises. Throughout Grace discovers that campaigning is hard work, and readers come away with a much better understanding of the process. Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio. Pictures by LeUyen Pham. Hyperion Books for Children, 2008.

Greenwitch by Susan Cooper

2008-05-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

The Dark is Rising saga continues bringing the protagonists of the first two books (Over Sea, Under Stone, The Dark is Rising) together. The Drew Children are dismayed when the ancient grail they discovered on holiday in Trewissick is stolen. They are invited to go back to the town on the Cornwall coast for the spring holiday with their Great-Uncle Merry. Joining them is Will Stanton, the old one from the second book. During their visit, the locals create a Greenwitch--a sculputure made from greens and twigs that is given to the sea. Searching for the missing grail and the manuscript that will unlock its secrets becomes intertwined with the mystical Greenwitch setting the stage for the fourth book. The audiobook is well-read by Alex Jennings, who easily switches between American, and a variety of English accents for the characters. Greenwitch by Susan Cooper. Listening Library, 2001.

Nory Ryan's Song by Patricia Reilly Giff

2008-05-06T10:14:00.000-07:00

What if all you had to eat suddenly disappeared? Nory Ryan, a 12 year old girl in Ireland in 1845, discovers what it’s like to have to live on grass, birds eggs and anything her family can scrounge after a mysterious blight causes the potato crop to rot in the ground. Neighbors and relatives are leaving for America, and Nory is often on her own helping take care of her baby brother, Patch. All around her she sees people being forced off the land because they can’t pay the rent required to the English Landlords. Author Giff researched family history and the story of the Irish potato famine for this heartwarming story of determination, the will to survive, and what it sometimes takes to stay alive. Nory Ryan’s Song by Patricia Reilly Giff. Delacorte Press, 2000.

LaRue for Mayor by Mark Teague

2008-05-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

With owner Mrs. LaRue in the hospital because of mysterious accident with a hot dog cart, dog Ike starts sending his usual upbeat letters while the pictures tell quite another story. When the dogs running wild angers the local political candidate, Ike decides to run for Mayor. What follows is hilarity. The picture format book requires reading between the lines and looking closely at the pictures. Great fun. LaRue for Mayor. Written and Illustrated by Mark Teague. The Blue Sky Press, 2008.

The Wolves are Back by Jean Craighead George

2008-05-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

This book is stunning in its simplicity. By describing what happened when wolves were returned to the ecosystem of Yellowstone National Park, it clearly explains the concept of ecological balance to young students. The paintings by Wendell Minor are luminous. The book starts with a young wolf pup and his father going to feed from an elk carcass killed by their pack. It then traces back how the wolves were destroyed by man, and their successful return beginning with 10 adult wolves in 1995. Each page spread of the book shows a different part of the ecosystem that has begun to recover since the wolves have been back. Songbirds have returned, beavers have returned, and the elk and bison are no longer overgrazing the land. The Wolves Are Back. A similar theme to Wolf Island by Celia Godkin. The Wolves are Back by Jean Craighead George. Paintings by Wendell Minor. Dutton Children's Books, 2008.

When Dinosaurs Came With Everything by Elise Broach

2008-05-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Friday is errand day and the young boy isn't looking forward to the usual round of shopping, haircuts, and doctor's appointments that make up the usual routine. Until mom and son stop at the bakery and see the sign "Buy a dozen Get a Dinosaur." They walk out with donuts and a triceratops! At the next stop they acquire a stegosaurus and encounter more kids and dinosaurs as they stroll through town. David Small's watercolor illustrations show dinosaurs looking through windows, following their humans like dogs, and somehow fitting into the cityscape. Eventually, mom adjusts and dinosaurs and boy live happily every after. Sure to please those dinosaur lovers in every crowd. When Dinosaurs came with Everything by Elise Broach. Illustrated by David Small. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2007.

Our Only May Amelia by Jennifer L. Holm

2008-04-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

May Amelia Jackson is growing up in the wilderness of Washington State in 1899. Her family is Finnish, one of many who emigrated to the area. She is the youngest child with seven older brothers and the only girl in the area. So, acting ladylike is not something that comes naturally to her. At age 12, she struggles against the restrictions placed on her to act like a lady, and she vigorously experiences life. The descriptions of life in a pioneer farm settlement from the logs rushing down the Nasell River to the day to day backbreaking work routines transport the reader back to another time. The audiobook, read in a suitably childlike voice by Emmy Rossum, captures the spirit of May Amelia. An author's note explains that May Amelia was based on her Great Aunt Alice. When Holm found her diary, she was inspired to bring her story to life. A Newbery Honor Book (Our Only May Amelia by Jennifer L. Holm. Random House Audio, 1999.)

Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt

2008-04-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

This classic has been sitting on my bookshelf for a while and I finally picked it up. I'm very glad I did. It tells the story of Jethro Creighton, who is nine years old when the Civil War breaks out. Jethro lives with his family on a farm in Southern Illinois and one by one, brothers, friends and other relatives go away to fight, some on the Southern side. Jethro studies the papers and follows the battles anxiously, then matches people and places as letters come from far away soldiers telling of their experiences in battle. Eventually the war ends and friends and family return, but the vivid descriptions of life on the farm and coming of age in such a turbulent time stay with you. In a note, the author states the book is based on stories told by her Grandfather. We are fortunate that she listened so closely. A Newbery Honor Book (Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt. Berkley Jam Books, 1964.)

Joey Pigza Loses Control by Jack Gantos

2008-04-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

Joey Pigza is excited. He is going to visit the father he hardly remembers. When he meets him, he is amazed. His dad is as hyperactive as he used to be before he started taking his medicine! Joey's Dad Carter is coaching a Police Athletic League baseball team, and he wants Joey to pitch for the team. Things go well until in a sudden turn of heart, Carter decides that Joey no longer needs to take his medicine. Slowly things begin to careen out of control. Funny, sad, and filled with action, the book really helped me understand what its like to be "out of control." The audiobook is narrated by the author. (Joey Pigza Loses Control by Jack Gantos. Listening Library, 2000)

The Pigeon Wants a Puppy by Mo Willems

2008-04-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

That crazy pigeon is at it again! This time he really, really wants a puppy. Maybe. Willems always manages to put a twist into his pigeon stories even though some of the story is predictable. Pigeon fans won't care though. The usual cartoonlike artwork captivates and the story is fun. A solid addition to the series. (The Pigeon Wants a Puppy by Mo Willems. Hyperion, 2008).

What To Do About Alice?: How Alice Roosevelt Broke the Rules, Charmed the World, and Drove Her Father Teddy Crazy! by Barbara Kerley

2008-04-02T17:01:00.000-07:00

Alice Roosevelt Longworth was a fascinating historical figure: independent, intelligent, ahead of her time. Kerley describes her impetuous childhood, the frustrations her father felt trying to get her to behave, and how she scandalized many in society at the time who felt she was too forward, doing things no young lady should be doing. The typeface and illustrations scream fun. Alice is shown sliding down the White House stairs on trays, driving in an early automobile, hanging out with her pet snake and more. While primarily focusing on her childhood and teens, an Author's Note at the end describes her life long interest in politics and statemanship. She continued to advise her husband, Congressman Nicholas Longworth for years. A worthy introduction to an early independent woman. (What To Do About Alice? How Alice Roosevelt Broke the Rules, Charmed the World, and Drove Her Father Teddy Crazy! by Barbara Kerley. Illustrations by Edwin Fotheringham. Scholastic Press, 2008)

Half-Moon Investigations by Eoin Colfer

2008-03-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

Harking back in style to the pulp mystery genre (the audio book even starts with some appropriately Film Noir background music), Half-Moon Investigations features a 12 year old Irish detective, Fletcher Moon, solving mysteries in his elementary school. When he is hired to find a missing celebrity souvenir by the school's most "popular" girl, things begin to heat up. Suddenly, there are a lot of other suspicious cases and his prime suspect, a local boy whose family has a reputation for trouble, becomes his partner in solving the crimes. Funny, smart, with a touch of Irish wit, Half-Moon Investigations is great fun. The crimes and action fit the upper elementary/middle school audience it is aimed at. The audiobook narrator, Sean Patrick Reilly, reads in a strong Irish brogue using a wide variety of characterizations, including a pretty good Elvis impersonation. (Half-Moon Investigations by Eoin Colfer. Read by Sean Patrick Reilly. Listening Library, 2006.)

First the Egg by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

2008-03-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

This lush picture book illustrates beginnings. First the egg, then the chicken it begins. It goes on to show tadpoles and frogs, seeds and flowers and more. The book then ties all the concepts together at the end. I read the book on a new e-book site, Lookybook, so I didn't experience the illustrations that won a Caldecott Honor Award first hand, but they were still vibrant and detailed. However, the book includes die cuts that didn't translate well on the computer screen. The site shows picture books, but doesn't allow you to enlarge them. There are links to buy the books from Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and an Independent Book Store network. It's a good way to preview books for purchase. To check it out go to: http://www.lookybook.com/index.php . (First the Egg by Laura Vaccaro Seeger. Roaring Brook Press, 2007.)

Iron Thunder by Avi

2008-03-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Subtitled The Battle Between the Monitor and the Merrimac, Iron Thunder creates a fictional character, Tom Carroll, out of several who actually worked on the first iron-clad ship. The story starts with young Tom, who goes to work in the shipyard after his father is killed early in the Civil War. He runs errands for the designer of the boat and is approached by a rebel spy to reveal secrets of the ships design. When the Monitor sailed, Tom went with it, and he describes barely surviving a storm at sea while sailing to Chesapeake Bay (the majority of the ship was below water, only 18" of it and the turret were above water). Then onto the great battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac, the south's iron clad ship. The book is full of actual illustrations of the time and details of the ship and how it was designed. There is also a glossary and a historical note. Sure to interest boys and Civil War fans. Iron Thunder: The Battle Between the Monitor & the Merimac by Avi. Illustrations by C. B. Morgan. Hyperion Books for Children, 2007.

Marley a dog like no other by John Grogan

2008-03-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

A dog like no other indeed. The children's version of the adult best-seller had me laughing out loud, shaking my head in recognition, and mourning the loss of the incomparable Marley. Groghan devotes chapters to such things as everything Marley eats (and dealing with what comes out the other end), the myriad efforts to train Marley (he was kicked out of obedience school), Marley's very brief movie career and much more. The audio version is performed by Neil Patrick Harris, who used a wide range of accents and inflections to differentiate the characters. Listen for the "surfer dude" pit bull owner at the Dog Beach! (Marley a dog like no other by John Grogan. Harper Children's Audio, 2007)

Zen Ties by Jon J. Muth

2008-03-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

Stillwater the bear returns with his nephew Koo, who loves to speak in rhyme. Stillwater's three friends from Zen Shorts join them in helping out an older neighbor who is sick. While reluctant at first, Addy, Michael and Karl grow to appreciate their neighbor and find they have gained from the experience. The watercolor illustrations are a beautiful respite from our harried world. They exude peace and serenity. (Zen Ties by Jon J. Muth. Scholastic, 2008.)

Gimme Cracked Corn & I Will Share by Kevin O'Malley

2008-03-10T12:56:00.001-07:00

This book is a Groaner. O'Malley finds every pun imaginable to tie together his story of Chicken and George looking for a treasure Chicken dreamed about. In his dream, the treasure was under a pink pig in a barn, so Chicken and George set off on a hunt, cracking jokes along the way like two old Vaudvillians. The illustrations are bright and crips, and the disclaimers funny. Great Read Aloud (especially if you have an audience that likes puns). (Gimme Cracked Corn & I Will Share by Kevin O'Malley. Walker & Co., 2007.)

Alcatraz versus the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson

2008-03-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

There's another world beside the one we know about, at least according to Alcatraz Smedry. We live in the "Hushlands" which are controlled by Evil Librarians, and there is another world, conveniently left off our maps, known as the "Free Kingdoms." On Alcatraz's 13th Birthday, he discovers this when he was taken from his foster home by his grandfather. An epic battle at the downtown Library ensues (the Evil Librarian headquarters). A fun, light tone makes the reading enjoyable and Alcatraz takes time to comment on the structure of the book such as cliffhanger chapters and other literary conventions. If you enjoy fantasy, check it out! (Alcatraz versus the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson. Scholastic Press, 2007.)

Bessie Smith and the Night Riders by Sue Stauffacher

2008-03-07T16:36:00.000-08:00

Delightful illustrations by John Holyfield grace this picture book about the great jazz singer Bessie Smith and her encounter with the Ku Klux Klan while performing in the South. Emmarene, a young girl, tells the story of Bessie's visit to her community in the rural south to perform. While peeking through the tent flap at the performance, Emmarene spots Night Riders coming and rushes in to warn Bessie and the crowd. What happens next is the stuff of legends. Based on a true story, the book concludes with an historical note about Bessie Smith and how she had to travel during the Jim Crow Era. (Bessie Smith and the Night Riders by Sue Stauffacher. Illustrated by John Holyfield. G. P. Putnam and Sons, 2006.)

Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper

2008-03-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

The first book in The Dark is Rising sequence, Over Sea, Under Stone introduces us to the Drew Children who are on vacation on the Cornwall coast of England. While exploring the old house they are renting, they come upon a very old manuscript, which they eventually translate with the help of their Great Uncle "Merry." What follows is an exciting quest to find a valuable artifact before the suspicious visitors lurking in the area catch them or figure out where the manuscript leads them. The audiobook version is well read by Alex Jennings, who also narrates The Dark is Rising, the next book in the series. Jennings captures the various accents of Cornwall, the visiting children, and the ominous tones of the villain, Mr. Hastings. When the audio book I was listening to malfunctioned on the last CD, I headed straight to the library to get the book so I could finish it! (Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper. Random House Listening Library, 2007)