The Wonderful World of Books

The Silver Bowl

2012-02-17T13:41:00.003-05:00

I saw The Silver Bowl recommended on the Provo City Library's children's book review blog I read. It is about Molly, who as a young child is sent away by her father to work at the castle as a maid. After some time, Molly is promoted to polish the castle's silver, but soon she finds that one silver bowl speaks to her--and she can see visions of terrible things happening to the royal family. She enlists her friend Tobias to help her find a way to save the prince.

This was a fun read with an interesting and engaging plot and great characters. There were lots of adventures and surprises, and it also had so many sweet parts that just endeared me to Molly and Tobias. The only thing I didn't like was that the book didn't seem to address passing time very well. For example, sometimes at the beginning, I got confused because several years would pass without the book making it very clear.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!

2012-02-16T07:53:00.000-05:00

Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village by Laura Amy Schiltz was the Newbery medal winner a few years back. It is a series of monologues, stories told by children characters within a manor in Medieval times--some are nobility, others are paupers. The author wanted to create a play about Medieval times for children at her school, but no child wanted a small part--so she created a play where each character had a long monologue. The book follows each character in a little snippet of his/her life, and some of the characters' lives overlap.

This was such a cool book! I could totally see myself getting a class set of this book when I taught school; it would've been so cool to perform this with a group of 5th graders. I think we would have had a lot of fun with it. The book was interesting, and it was easy to learn a lot about Medieval times without even realizing it. The characters were unique/entertaining/special/intriguing, and it was just a fun read.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Mr. Monk and the Two Assistants

2012-02-09T15:45:00.000-05:00

I found Mr. Monk and the Two Assistants by Lee Goldberg at the library after enjoying another Mr. Monk book. This one is about Mr. Monk and his assistant Natalie who unexpectedly run into Mr. Monk's former assistant, Sharona. Mr. Monk hasn't seen her since she left, and Natalie has never met her. Even though there is some tension at first, soon, the three of them are working together on a case where Sharona's ex-husband is the prime suspect.

This was another fun book. I love how well the author captures Mr. Monk, and that is what makes it an enjoyable read. I did feel like this story was a little predictable, but it was still a good book.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Dead End in Norvelt

2012-02-07T20:34:00.000-05:00

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos is the 2012 Newbery medal winner. It's about Jack, who lives in the small, literally-dying-off town of Norvelt in Pennsylvania and has a constant bloody nose. When he gets grounded for the summer and is stuck in his house all day long, Jack starts enjoying the one outing his mom allows--helping old Miss Volker. Miss Volker, the town medical examiner, soon finds herself very busy as all the Norvelt originals start dying off, and Jack finds himself very involved as he works as Miss Volker's scribe as she prepares the obituaries.

This was an interesting book--lots of history tied in to it. (Norvelt is an actual small town that was named for Eleanor Rooselvelt, who had great interest in the town when it was created as part of the New Deal during the Great Depression.) The author put in lots of detail, so it was fun to follow Jack's adventures and to imagine what life was like for him in Norvelt. I didn't feel like the plot was particularly strong or engaging, but the characters were definitely original and entertaining.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Mr. Monk on the Couch

2012-02-03T19:37:00.000-05:00

When I saw this book--Mr. Monk on the Couch by Lee Goldberg--in the new book section at the library, I was thrilled! It is an original mystery series based on the Monk TV show. The books (there are already like 10ish) are written by a guy who was a screenwriter for the TV show. This book takes place shortly after the final episode of Monk and follows Natalie and Monk as they help Captain Stottlemeyer with a series of murders that seem to be related to a secondhand couch. Along the way, Natalie also becomes interested in a case regarding a man who died of natural causes with an unknown identity, and she decides to do some investigating herself.

This book was great! I was especially happy to get into a good book since I had just started and then stopped two different John Grisham books. (Both got a little too sketchy once I was partway in.) I LOVED the Monk TV series and always think about how sad I am it had to end. Now I can continue to enjoy Monk's awesomeness in these books! The author did a fabulous job capturing the characters and putting in little details so I could picture just how they were acting. The book got me to laugh out loud, and it was just a fun read. It felt like watching the show again. Yay.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Speak

2012-01-26T19:57:00.003-05:00

I saw Speak at the library and noticed it was a best-seller by Laurie Halse Anderson, an author whose historical fiction books I love. Speak is a story about a very sensitive subject--rape. The story is from Melinda's point of view, and it follows her during her freshman year of high school after a disastrous party that happened the summer before. The book tells of Melinda's struggle to understand what happened to her and her journey to find courage to speak out.

This was a very powerful story. In the author's note, the author points out that this topic is one that is often not addressed appropriately for teenagers; I thought this book did a great job of bringing to light the seriousness of this issue in an appropriate way. (It shares facts at the end that 1 in 6 American women will be the victim of an attempted or completed rape, and half of them are under the age of 18. And, experts estimate that only about 16% of rapes are actually reported to police.) The point of view of the book was very strong, and it was easy to relate to the main character. The book also made me really appreciate good teachers and true friends. It was quite a depressing book throughout, obviously, so that made it hard to really love the book--but it was a good read with a strong message about overcoming obstacles.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Testament

2012-01-26T08:55:00.002-05:00

I wanted to read more John Grisham books and had The Testament recommended to me. It is about billionaire Troy Phelan who has 3 ex-wives and numerous children--all anxious to get his money as soon as he dies. Troy has a better plan than giving his money to his selfish, reckless descendants--he writes a secret will, gives it to his attorney, Josh, and then commits suicide. The new will leaves all his money to an illegitimate daughter--a young woman named Rachel, serving somewhere in Brazil as a Christian missionary to Indians. Josh sends his lawyer friend (and recovering alcoholic) to Brazil to track Rachel down, while the rest of Troy's descendants and their lawyers fight the new will.

This was another really great book. The story was really compelling, and it also had a great message of change and redemption. I loved the characters, and the plot kept me guessing. Unfortunately, I didn't love the ending; I was just bummed about how it turned out. But, I do have to give John Grisham credit because even though I didn't like the end, he left no questions unanswered. I have felt that in all his books--he's really a master at addressing every detail. In my reading, I tend to consider a lot of what-ifs, and he seems to just cover everything, so I never am left wondering. Another good book!

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Beauty

2012-01-24T15:53:00.000-05:00

I read Beauty by Robin McKinley because of recommendations from friends. It is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast and tells of Beauty, who considers herself quite plain, especially compared to her older sisters. When Beauty and her family have to leave their life in the city, they find themselves living a very different life in a small village. One day Beauty's father is out on a journey, and when he picks a rose for Beauty, he finds that he has stolen a rose from a beast, who requires one of his daughters as payment. It is Beauty who volunteers to go to the beast in order to save her father's life.

This was a great book. I haven't read a book quite like this in a long time, and I can't place exactly what made it different. But, I liked how the entire book was from an all-telling Beauty's point of view. It made it interesting and exciting to follow her throughout the book. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that I knew the story of Beauty and the Beast. That made it so at the beginning, I was just waiting for the connection to the fairy tale, and then toward the end, I knew how it would all pan out. But, I liked the differences to the story I was familiar with, and I think the author wrote the story very well. The book was filled with detail, but other times, it skipped right to the part of the story that mattered--and that made it a nice read. And I loved the ending. :)

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

A Single Shard

2012-01-20T16:01:00.000-05:00

A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park is a Newbery Medal winner. It is about Tree-ear, an orphan in 12th century Korea who lives under a bridge with his guardian, Crane-man. Tree-ear loves to watch Min, a town potter, create his beautiful work. Soon, Tree-ear finds himself as Min's apprentice and then on a journey to bring Min's finest work to the city in hopes that Min can be assigned a royal commission.

This was a really good book. It took me a bit to get into it, but then it was a really nice story with beautiful language and great character relationships. It was a simple book but a good one.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Client

2012-01-19T19:41:00.000-05:00

After reading John Grisham's two books for young adults, I decided to move up in the world to his adult books. The Client is about 11-year-old Mark who, along with his 8-year-old brother Ricky, witnesses an attorney commit suicide. Before the attorney commits the act, he confesses to Mark some secrets about his client--a mafia member accused of murder. Soon, Ricky is in the psychiatric ward from the trauma, and the police start asking Mark questions about what happened. Mark realizes that he has to find a lawyer and has to figure out what to do with the information he has before the mafia finds him.

This was a really great book. I loved the main characters (Mark and his lawyer, Reggie) so much. I loved how well developed the characters were. The book got me to laugh, got me a little choked up, but mainly got me completely, continually freaked out due to the awesome plot twists. I kept wondering how the book was going to keep the story going for the length of the whole book, but it did it--and it did it well. I also liked how the book covered the points of view of lots of characters. The only downside (another reason why I tend to prefer young adult/children's literature) was a bit of language. And there were a few parts where I questioned if it really would've happened the way it did....but hey, it's fiction. I think I will start reading a lot more of John Grisham's books, so if you're reading this, and you've read some and have a favorite, let me know.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Maze of Bones

2012-01-17T14:14:00.002-05:00

I've heard a lot about the 39 Clues series, so I decided to read the first book, The Maze of Bones by Rick Riordan (who also happens to be an author I really like). It is about Dan and Amy Cahill who are raised by their great-aunt since their parents died years earlier. When their grandmother dies and leaves behind a mysterious will, Dan and Amy decide to accept a challenge rather than $1 million. The challenge will leave them (and other family members, their competition) to find 39 clues, which will apparently lead them to the most powerful treasure in the world.

I'm surprised that I didn't really enjoy this book too much. I love Rick Riordan's other books, and this series is so popular, I expected to be really into it. But, I just felt like the characters weren't super well developed, so I couldn't build the connection with them that I wanted to. That led to me feeling like parts of the story were just unrealistic. I think the plot is a fun idea, but it just dragged on with a lot of searching for clues without any idea about where this is going to lead. I did think the book was kind of interesting with lots of connections to Benjamin Franklin and his history. I wouldn't consider it a wasted read, but it wasn't my kind of book.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay)

Theodore Boone: The Abduction

2012-01-16T11:24:00.001-05:00

After reading John Grisham's first book about Theodore Boone, I went to the library to get the newest one: Theodore Boone: The Abduction. In this book, Theo's best friend April (who has a very dysfunctional family) suddenly disappears and is presumed kidnapped. Theo and his friends form their own search parties to help find her, but when the police suddenly find a body in the river, Theo realizes that everything is not as hopeful as he thought.

This was another really engaging book--a super quick read because it kept me interested. I enjoyed the plot and the characters. I probably liked this book slightly less than the first one, but it was still great.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer

2012-01-15T20:14:00.001-05:00

I saw Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham on the New York Times bestseller list at the library, and it sparked my interest. This book is about 13-year-old Theo who loves visiting the courthouse and watching judges and lawyers in action. He keeps his own office in a storage closet at his parents' law office, and he helps kids at his school with questions related to the law. Theo is thrilled to be able to watch parts of a criminal trial in his town--a man accused of killing his wife. It looks like the man is going to go free, but suddenly Theo is given some information that would prove the man's guilt. It is up to Theo to decide what to do.

This book was awesome! If all John Grisham's books are this good, I'm converted. It was completely engaging, with exciting twists, totally believable characters, and a fabulous storyline. I also learned a ton about the judicial system while reading, which was fascinating. So glad I found this book!

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever

2012-01-13T20:44:00.002-05:00

Yes, I still read the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books by Jeff Kinney. This latest book is about Greg and his family during the holiday season and the huge snowstorm that gets them stranded in their house.

This was another funny book, a few parts getting me to chuckle out loud. Greg is just a hilarious character, and it's just entertaining to read what happens to him and his perspective on things. Not much more to say about it, but it's such a quick read, that I don't even feel that bad about spending my time reading it.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Nory Ryan's Song

2012-01-10T16:53:00.003-05:00

After really enjoying a book by Patricia Reilly Giff last week, I looked for more books by her at the library and found Nory Ryan's Song. This book is about Nory and her family who live in Ireland in the mid-1800s. Money is tight, and they are at the mercy of the English government--expected to pay rent each month no matter what. Things go terribly wrong when the potato crop suddenly goes bad. Soon Nory (and all her neighbors) completely run out of food and are desperate to survive.

This was a very well written book (great language), and it was fascinating to learn about this time (the Great Hunger of 1845-1852) in Ireland that I really know nothing about. It was even neater to read in the author's note at the end that 6 of the author's 8 grandparents lived through the famine and then came to America--but none of them really spoke of that time in their lives. So, the author went to Ireland, researched, and wrote this novel. The book was almost too sad to really enjoy--just a lot of bad things happening and not much good. But, I'm still glad I read it.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Kira-Kira

2012-01-06T20:23:00.002-05:00

Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata was the Newbery medal winner in 2005. This book is about Katie, a Japanese-American girl who adores her older sister Lynn. When Katie's parents have to close their grocery store, the family moves to Georgia where the parents work long hours at menial jobs to help the family save money for a house. Soon Lynn gets very sick, and Katie is full of questions but is given no answers--but tries to use Lynn's optimism to keep the family together.

This was a very well written book--made me laugh out loud but also made me cry (ie., bawl my eyes out). There is a strong plot, and I loved how the book was written from Katie's point of view. It's just great to read a book that really captures a child's point of view. The only downside to this book is that there was a little bit of language and some references to inappropriate things, so I wouldn't really consider this a children's book even though I think that's its intended audience.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

R My Name is Rachel

2012-01-05T20:21:00.001-05:00

I saw R My Name is Rachel in the new book section at the library and recognized the author, Patricia Reilly Giff, as one I've liked in the past. This book takes place during the Great Depression where 12-year-old Rachel lives with her dad and younger brother and sister in the city. When her dad loses his job but gets a chance to work out in a town in the country, they move to a run-down farm house. Even worse for readaholic Rachel, the town school is closed because they can't afford a teacher. When the job doesn't work out and Pop has to leave the kids alone in search of work, things move from bad to worse--but Rachel and her siblings find a way to make the most of what they have.

This was a quick read and just a wonderful book. I love this author's language and descriptions, and Rachel was a wonderful and relate-able character. (And I loved all the other characters too.) It was a great book to put a face on what the Great Depression was like, and the book was just full of detail. Loved it!

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

I, Coriander

2012-01-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

I got the book I, Coriander by Sally Gardner from a student when I taught school, and for some reason, I never got to reading it until now. It's the story of Coriander, a young girl in England in the 1600s, whose mother dies, and then a few years later, her father disappears. She's left with her evil stepmother and an even evil-er preacher, but she soon finds an escape into another world where she discovers that her mother had been a fairy princess.

This was a nice read--well written, thoughtful language and great characters; I loved the ones I was supposed to love and just despised the ones I was supposed to despise. I also liked the historical background in the book (Oliver Cromwell, etc.). The only downside to the book was that I didn't love the parts of the book where she went to the other world--maybe because it reminded me of some not-as-enjoyable books I've read where similar events take place.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Bridge to Never Land

2011-12-27T01:19:00.002-05:00

I was super excited when I saw that Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson (authors of the fabulous Peter and the Starcatchers series) had written a new book--The Bridge to Never Land. This book is about Sarah and her brother Aiden, teenagers who find a coded document in their house and start to follow its clues. Soon they realize that the things they read about in the Starcatchers books may actually be true, and they are on the run from the police and FBI as they try to look for the help they need.

This was a really fun book. Like Barry and Pearson's previous series, the book was exciting and entertaining. It was also fun to have connections with the Starcatchers series. The book and characters were interesting and kept me engaged throughout. I also liked how the book concluded super well (tying up loose ends)--but then gave a hint as to what could be the subject of a sequel.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice

2011-12-09T20:07:00.001-05:00

Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice is a biography by Phillip Hoose; it was a Newbery honor book. It tells about the early life of Claudette Colvin, who most people know very little about. However, when she was a (black) teenager in March 1955, she refused to give up her seat to a white woman on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. This may sound unextraordinary if you know about Rosa Parks, but what Claudette did took place the year before Rosa Parks did the same thing. This is the story of Claudette--a teenager who decided that she was going to take a stand against segregation.

This was an incredible book! I can't believe that I never knew about Claudette Colvin or the Browder v. Gayle case that made such a difference in segregation. This was a really amazing story that reminded me of the many brave, dedicated people who were part of the civil rights movement. I also love that this was a thorough story/biography, but I got through it super quickly since it was written for kids. I'd highly recommend this book to expand your understanding of the civil rights movement and to learn from some really exemplary people.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

2011-12-08T13:22:00.001-05:00

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin was a 2010 Newbery honor book. As part of my attempt to read all the medal/honor books from the last decade, I decided to read this one. It is the story of Minli from the valley of Fruitless Mountain who loves hearing her father's stories about Jade Dragon and the Old Man of the Moon. She becomes disenchanted with her poor life and decides to go try to find a fortune for her family by seeking out the Old Man of the Moon.

I feel like the plot description does not do this book justice because it is a wonderful, engaging story. It was a quick read but partially because I just didn't want to put it down. I loved Minli's sweet, believing character and all the people and creatures she meets along her journey. This book ties together Chinese folklore and is filled with the stories Minli is told throughout the book. I also loved also the lesson Minli learns in the book about obtaining her family's fortune.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Forge

2011-12-03T22:40:00.001-05:00

Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson is the sequel to a book I read awhile back called Chains. I've loved all the historical fiction books I'd read by Laurie Halse Anderson in the past, so I was excited to read this one too. Even though this is a sequel, it follows the secondary character from the first book, a slave named Curzon. After being promised freedom from his owner after service in the Revolutionary War army, Curzon re-enlists in the army as a free person. This book follows what happens to him during his time at Valley Forge.

This was another fabulous book. It was completely engaging and interesting with characters I loved to love (and others I loved to hate). It had clever twists and just a wonderful story, all with an incredible glimpse at what life was like for slaves, soldiers, and Patriots during the Revolutionary War. Even better, the author threw in a little connection/shout-out to another one of her books that isn't even part of this series. Too cool.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Mansion

2011-11-29T10:20:00.001-05:00

I read The Mansion, a short story by Henry van Dyke, for my book club. I had never heard of this book before, but it apparently is a must-read each Christmas season along with A Christmas Carol. I was able to read The Mansion (a super quick read) for free on the Internet. It is about a religious man named John who is very wealthy, donates to charities, and seems to live a life without error. However, one night in a dream, he finds that the mansion he expected to find for his reward in heaven is not at all what he expected. The lesson in the story comes near the end where John asks the Keeper of the Gate, "What is it that counts here?" and receives the answer, "Only that which is truly given. Only that good which is done for the love of doing it."

This is a really wonderful story that was very thought-provoking. It was so easy to relate to the main character as he desperately tried to explain to the Keeper of the Gate all that he had done for good on the earth. He then with disappointment received an explanation that he had already received his reward for those acts: "Would you be paid twice?" It made me really think about how I should seek do good in this world without needing praise or recognition--the reward may not come in this world but in the next.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Son of Neptune

2011-11-18T09:34:00.001-05:00

The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan is the second book in the Heroes of Olympus series. It tells the story of three demigods who must unleash Death, who is chained, which prevents anyone (including monsters) from staying dead. I won't elaborate further on the plot so I don't give anything away since this is part two in a series.

I really liked this book--it got me interested quicker than the first book in the series and was a fun read. I loved the side stories that went with each character and how details were released throughout the story. The characters were great, the story was exciting, and the ending was great. It tied up loose ends but also introduced exactly what to look forward to in book 3. Too bad it doesn't come out till Fall 2012!

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Wonderstruck

2011-11-04T09:52:00.000-04:00

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick is written in the same format as another book he wrote a few years ago called The Invention of Hugo Cabret (which I loved). The author combines pictures and words to tell a story--a few pages of pictures followed by a few pages of words, repeated throughout the entire book. Wonderstruck tells two different stories--Ben (in words) is searching for his father, while Rose (in pictures) sets out on a quest of her own.

Even though this book looks massive, it's a quick read. (Thanks to half the pages being pictures, and the text pages aren't very full.) It's a fascinating story that kept me enthralled and excited about what was to come. I loved the unknowns that were revealed throughout the book, loved the distinct characters, and loved how everything came together. It was a fun book with beautiful illustrations and a feel-good story. Highly recommended.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

In the Garden of Beasts

2011-11-01T20:05:00.000-04:00

In the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin by Erik Larson was this month's book for the book club I'm in. It is the true story of William Dodd, a history professor who unexpectedly becomes America's ambassador to Germany in 1933. He brings along his wife and young adult children. The book chronicles the transformation the family goes through over time--from admiring Hitler to being repulsed by him. It is a fascinating look (through primary sources and accounts) at how America viewed Germany at the beginning of Hitler's "reign" in Germany and the role of the Dodd family in all that took place.

This was a very interesting book. I am always happy to be "forced" into reading a book I wouldn't normally read. I really love books about WWII but typically pick up historical fiction more than nonfiction. But this book read like a story and kept me interested in what took place. I was very involved with the people in the story and learned a lot about this pre-WWII time period. [A sidenote here is that this is the first book I've ever read on a Kindle. (No, I did not get a Kindle.) When I put this book on hold at the library, for some reason, I was number 400-something, which meant I was never going to get it in time for our meeting this week. So, a lady in the book club lent me her Kindle. Nice!]

Rating; * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Throne of Fire

2011-10-18T06:53:00.003-04:00

The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan is the second book in the Kane Chronicles, which I started a few months ago. It follows where book 1 left off. In this book, Apophis (the Chaos snake) is rising, so Sadie and Carter take it upon themselves to bring Ra, the sun god, back to life. The book follows Sadie, Carter, and their friends as they try to bring together the worlds of gods and magicians.

I liked this book more than the first one for some reason, maybe because I was just more familiar with the story background. I like the alternating point of view between Sadie and Carter, and the book was full of adventures. It was a fun read that kept me interested and anxious to read throughout.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

After Tupac and D Foster

2011-10-07T10:05:00.001-04:00

After Tupac and D Foster by Jacqueline Woodson was a Newbery Honor book from a few years ago. The book is narrated by a 12-year-old girl who describes life on her block, her friendship with Neeka and the new foster girl D, and how they follow the what happens to their favorite rapper, Tupac.

This was a really well-written book--Jacqueline Woodson's books just seem to have a beautiful flow of words, so it's a nice read. I didn't really love the story or feel too particularly attached to the characters, but it was okay enough that I finished the book.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay)

Yellow Star

2011-10-01T21:27:00.003-04:00

I decided I wanted to read Yellow Star by Jennifer Roy after my Grandma mentioned in one of her weekly family e-mails that she had read it. This book is the true story of a girl named Syvia who was 4 years old when the thousands of Jews in her town in Poland were sent by the Germans into a ghetto. As the book tells, "At the end of the war, there were about 800 survivors. Of those who survived, only twelve were children. This is the story of one of the twelve." The author of the book is the niece of Syvia.

This was a really incredible story. I really have a special place in my heart for Holocaust books, and this was another touching and inspiring book. I was so involved in the book as I read about Syvia's childhood in the ghetto and about her brave, selfless father. This was a quick read, written in a first person, from a child's eyes.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Forger's Spell

2011-09-30T21:35:00.003-04:00

I read The Forger's Spell by Edward Dolnick for my church book group. The subtitle for the book says, "A true story of Vermeer, Nazis, and the greatest art hoax of the twentieth century." This is a really fascinating story about Van Meegeren, a small-time painter during WWII who began to create forgeries that art critics accepted as genuine Vermeers. As Van Meegeren rakes in millions of dollars, he even manages to sell one of his paintings to Goering, Hitlers #2 man. The amazing thing about this whole story is that Van Meegeren is not that great of an artist--and the book tells the story of how he managed to fool everyone.

This was a really interesting book. I didn't have a ton of background information about the subjects, but that didn't seem to matter. The book had lots of details about every side of the story (which was sometimes interesting but sometimes seemed excessive). It was just so incredible to read about the obsession Nazis and others had with art during WWII and how Van Meegeren and other forgers go to such extremes to create a successful forgery.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Beyonders: A World Without Heroes

2011-09-10T22:17:00.002-04:00

Because I've enjoyed Brandon Mull as an author, I got his newest book (first in a series), Beyonders: A World Without Heroes, from the library. This book is about Jason and Rachel, two teens who somehow find themselves in a strange world called Lyrian. Lyrian is under the rule of an evil wizard named Malador, and Jason and Rachel become involved with "a quest to piece together the word of power that can destroy the emperor."

This was a really clever story with unique and fun fantastical characters. I liked the story and action a lot, but it was one of those books with a seriously lame ending that just forces you to continue to read the series. I would've continued the series anyway, but I wish the author ended this book well instead of leaving it with so many unanswered questions and open doors. Oh well.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Lost Hero

2011-08-26T09:26:00.002-04:00

The Lost Hero is the first book in the Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan (author of the Lightning Thief books, which I loved). It tells of Piper, Jason, and Leo, three teens who find out they are demigods and are sent to Camp Half-Blood to find safety from monsters. Soon after their arrival, they leave on a quest where their unique abilities are the key to saving Hera--and protecting the safety of demigods and people everywhere.

This was a really fun book. I felt like it was kind of slow at first; it took awhile to get into the action. But, the characters were very distinct and likable, and I liked that the book tied in with the Percy Jackson series while still being a very separate story. The kids go on fun adventures, and I really like the powers that they have. I was almost going to give the book 2 stars, but then the very last page was AWESOME--a great surprise that made me psyched for the next book. This book was a winner.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Heart of a Samurai

2011-07-26T12:23:00.002-04:00

Heart of a Samurai by Margi Preus was a Newbery Honor book for 2011. It's about a 14-year-old boy named Manjiro who is with 4 friends fishing when a huge storm hits, and they end up getting stranded on a deserted island. As food begins to run out and things are getting desperate, they are rescued--but by barbarians (what Manjiro has been taught white men are). As Manjiro and his friends are taken on board by the kind captain, Manjiro finds that these men are not barbarians and that he is very interested in the world outside Japan. The book chronicles Manjiro's travels and his dream to one day return home.

This was a really awesome book. First of all, it's based on a true story (explained in the epilogue and historical note at the end), which is really cool. The book also had very likable characters and a interesting and changing story that kept me reading. It was very well written and just a good book. I'd rate it higher, but I don't think it quite reached the love level because I wasn't too interested in the subject matter--but the book was great.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Jumping the Scratch

2011-07-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

I chose to read Jumping the Scratch by Sarah Weeks because she's the author of a book I read in the past called So B. It. This book tells about Jamie who lives with his mother and Aunt Sapphy after his parents' divorce. His aunt suffers from amnesia after an accident at work, and Jamie is lonely and bullied at school. Then something even worse happens to Jamie, and this book tells the story of how he gets past these hard things in his life.

This was a quick read and a nice story. Even though lots of bad things happened to Jamie, the book seemed to have a positive feel to it anyway. I really liked the characters in the book. I found this book in the children's section of the library, but I'd say it's more for young adults because the bad thing that happens to Jamie is subject matter that may not be appropriate for kids.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Alcatraz Versus the Scrivener's Bones

2011-07-20T14:50:00.002-04:00

Alcatraz Verses the Scrivener's Bones by Brandon Sanderson is the second book in the Alcatraz series. In this book, Alcatraz and his companions have to go try to save Alcatraz's grandfather who is at the mysterious Library of Alexandria. With only some special lenses and his talent for breaking things, Alcatraz has to get past the soul-sucking curators and lead those with him to save his father and grandfather.

This was another unique book. I really like one of the side characters, Bastille. Sometimes this book made me laugh out loud, and other times the humor was just pretty odd. It was a fun story that kept me wondering what would happen.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Price We Paid

2011-07-19T16:04:00.002-04:00

I received The Price We Paid: The Extraordinary Story of the Willie & Martin Handcart Pioneers by Andrew D. Olsen as a gift from my grandma. It is an account of Mormon pioneers who crossed the United States using handcarts in 1856--and due to leaving too late in the season experienced terrible hardship. The book tells of their journey starting with the ship in England all the way to their life in Utah once they arrived.

This was an incredible story. I picked up the book expecting to just read a little bit but ended up reading the entire book in about a week. It was just so compelling to read about the faith of these people and how despite difficulties, pain, and tragedy, they kept their faith in God and trusted that He would have everything work out for their good. It was really an amazing, thorough book with lots of first-hand accounts. It's also really special for me to read because I had an ancestor who as a young girl was a part of the handcart company.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

2011-04-28T14:27:00.003-04:00

How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish was recommended in The Happiness Project. It sounded intriguing, so I got it from the library. This book gives tips on effective methods of communication with kids to better handle conflicts, feelings, etc.

This was a really good book. Emmeline isn't old enough for me to be able to apply these skills right now, but I think it was a great overview to keep in mind for the future. (And then I'll probably want to re-read this book in a few years.) The book was a quick read with comics, lists, and personal experiences all tied in with the authors' advice. It really had some great ideas about little adjustments you can make to just have more success with family relationships.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Red Pyramid

2011-04-14T19:29:00.002-04:00

I had The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan on hold at the library for months. I was anxious to read it because 1) I really enjoyed his Lightning Thief series, and 2) I heard him give a sneak peek of this book last year at the National Book Festival in DC. This book is about Carter and Sadie Cane, teenagers whose mother died years before and whose father disappears after a mysterious explosion. They soon discover that the gods of Ancient Egypt are still around, and Carter and Sadie themselves are instrumental in bringing order to the world of gods and magicians.

This book was longer than I expected and took me quite awhile to get through. It was an action-packed story with funny characters. I liked the relationship between Carter and Sadie. There were exciting twists, and it was just a good overall story. I had trouble keeping track of all of the details sometimes, and it wasn't quite as intriguing as the Lightning Thief series--but I liked it okay.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Happiness Project

2011-03-31T14:18:00.003-04:00

I saw a friend had read this book by Gretchen Rubin, and the title stuck out to me: The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun. This book tells of the author's decision to try to be happier in life--changing her life without changing her life. She spends a year making choices that help her be happier just in the everyday aspects of life. She tells of her resolutions and experiences.

This book was entertaining and extremely thought-provoking. I don't think I've ever read a nonreligious book that inspired me to change my life like this one did. The book really helped me recognize where I could make small adjustments and decisions in my life to just be happier--and thus make those around me happier in return. I finished the book today and have already outlined my own "happiness project" (list of happiness keys and then a list of resolutions). I know I have every reason to be happy, and this book has helped me see how I can make little choices that will help me feel happier every day. Awesome!

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Dreamer

2011-03-19T12:40:00.002-04:00

After reading and enjoying many of Pam Munoz Ryan's books, I was excited to read her new one, The Dreamer. This book is about Neftali, a small and weak boy who has a love of words. Living in Chile, he endures loneliness and the ridicule of his father through daydreaming, reading, and putting together words. After finishing the book, I realized that this book is a fictional book based on the real events of Pablo Neruda's childhood. (Pablo Neruda is a very famous poet that I will confess I hadn't heard about until reading this book.)

I really enjoyed this book. Neftali was such a wonderful character, full of so much life. It was sad to read how he was treated by his father. I loved reading about Neftali's strong spirit and his love of the details of life. The book was very well written--like poetry itself--with lots of tender moments and important messages.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Moon Over Manifest

2011-03-15T09:55:00.002-04:00

I chose to read Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool because it won the Newbery Medal for 2011. This book is about a 12-year-old girl named Abilene Tucker whose father sends her to live with an old friend for the summer while he works for the railroad. While Abilene spends her time in Manifest, Kansas, she searches for anything to learn about her father's past and his life in the small town. Soon Abilene finds a box of letters and mementos and then meets a diviner named Miss Sadie who tells stories from the past, and Abilene starts to piece together the town's secrets--and her own part in them.

This was a Newbery winner that I really thought was a great pick. I loved the main character, Abilene, and her curious personality. I also loved the book's format--it switched back and forth from the present to stories of the past. It gave a great glimpse into what life would've been like in a small Kansas town in 1918 and then 1936. It was a good read, with enough unanswered questions to keep me interested throughout.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Dragon Spear

2011-03-09T19:46:00.002-05:00

I finished up the Jessica Day George series with book 3, Dragon Spear. This book follows Creel on an adventure to the world of dragons.

This one took me longer to read than the other books in the series--it just didn't quite hook me, so I took forever to get through it. That sometimes happens to me in a series when a subject just loses its novelty. But, it was a cute story with enjoyable characters and a clever, adventurous plot line.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth

2011-02-15T19:04:00.002-05:00

After being on hold for months at the library, I finally got the newest Wimpy Kid book by Jeff Kinney. These books were big when I taught elementary school, so I still read them for entertainment. This book follows Greg's accounts of the awkwardness of middle school and increased responsibility after his mom goes back to school.

This book had some entertaining parts--where I just laughed out loud because it was so random and funny. Unfortunately, I didn't think this one was quite as funny as the previous books in the series. But, since it's such a super quick read, I don't really mind that I didn't love it.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay)

Out of My Mind

2011-02-10T19:55:00.003-05:00

My cousin recommended Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper to my grandma, so I decided to read it as well. This book is from the point of view of Melody, a fifth grader with cerebral palsy. She is unable to talk and has a limited ability to communicate, but words and thoughts fill her brilliant mind. Melody deals with judgmental peers and teachers but a wonderfully supportive family and neighbor. When she finds a computer system that allows her to speak for the first time, Melody finds herself with new opportunities.

This was a really incredible story. The main character's experiences were very compelling and just made me really think about how I have reacted to people with her type of disabilities. I was touched by the kindness of some of the characters--and disappointed by the thoughtlessness of others. The book really captured so many emotions--had me laughing, crying, the whole gamut. It was very enlightening and touching.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Science Fair

2011-02-10T12:37:00.002-05:00

My husband and I saw Science Fair by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson at the library and decided to check it out since we liked the Peter and the Starcatchers series they wrote. Science Fair is the story of Toby, an 8th grader, who keeps finding himself in trouble. First, to get money to buy himself a new computer, he sells his dad's original Star Wars blaster to a guy on ebay. This guy turns out to be a crazy guy who dresses as Darth Vader and comes to Toby's town to try to get more of Toby's dad's stuff. Then, Toby also discovers some of his classmates are cheating on the science fair AND involving top-secret military technology. Toby knows something is up and realizes that it's not just himself he should be worried about--it's the entire country's safety.

This book was okay. It was very odd and had several stories going on at the same time, all connecting to Toby. Parts of the book were funny, and some of the characters had entertaining idiosyncrasies. But, overall, the book seemed to drag on a little bit and just be a little too weird for me to truly enjoy. But, I'm also not always a science fiction fan, so maybe that's why. And the weirdness to me would probably strike other people as humor. So who knows.

* (1/3 = It was okay)

Mockingbird

2011-02-02T20:03:00.002-05:00

I was reading Shannon Hale's blog and saw her recommendation of Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine. (Shannon Hale is one of my favorite authors.) The book looked good, so I decided to read it. It's the story of a 10-year-old girl named Caitlin who has Asperger's syndrome. After her brother is killed in a school shooting, Caitlin realizes she needs to find what she keeps hearing about--closure. The book is written from the point of view of Caitlin.

This book was awesome! There were times when I was half laughing, half crying just because the book just made me feel for Caitlin so much. It was extremely well written with completely understandable and lovable characters. I love books like this that tell the story from the point of view of a character with a disability because it just is so much more enlightening than if the story were told any other way. Caitlin's behaviors often reminded me of students I taught with Asperger's, and I just loved reading how she felt and seeing all the different characters' interactions with her.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Turtle in Paradise

2011-02-02T15:16:00.002-05:00

Turtle in Paradise is another Newbery Honor book for 2011, and the author, Jennifer L. Holm, also wrote a book I really enjoyed in the past (Penny from Heaven). Turtle in Paradise is about an 11-year-old girl named Turtle who lives with her mother during the Great Depression. When her mom gets a job as a housekeeper with a woman who won't allow children in the home, Turtle is sent to live with her aunt in Key West. She meets her cousins (all boys) and their friends and begins to have some great adventures in the town where her mother grew up.

This was a really fun book with lots of interesting characters. There were some entertaining parts (like the job her cousins have as a Diaper Gang, babysitting babies in return for candy). It really captured the atmosphere of life in the town during the 30s. I also found out in the Author's Note at the end that the author based the story on her ancestors who lived in Key West, which is kind of cool. The book was very well written but didn't quite reach the "love" level because I wasn't completely emotionally involved like I like to be in books.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

One Crazy Summer

2011-01-29T19:31:00.004-05:00

I read One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia because it was one of the Newbery honor books for 2011. The story takes place in the 1960s and follows three young black girls whose father send them across the country to meet their mother for the first time. They attend a day camp sponsored by the Blank Panthers, travel to San Francisco to have an adventure, and try to get to know their distant, poet mother.

I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written with great details and entertaining and distinct characters. The three sisters were each so funny and unique, and I loved them as characters. The only reason I'm not giving the book 3 stars is that I wasn't wild about the story itself--just not incredibly engaging on its own.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Dragon Flight

2011-01-28T19:49:00.004-05:00

I continued the Jessica Day George series with book 2, Dragon Flight. This book tells the story of another dragon war and Creel's part in what takes place.

This was another fun book. I probably enjoyed it a little bit less than the first one just because the novelty was gone. But, I did enjoy the new characters and how the book ended. I enjoyed following the friendships, romances, and adventures.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Anne of the Island

2011-01-19T15:41:00.002-05:00

I'm continuing with the Anne of Green Gables series, reading Anne of the Island by L.M. Montgomery. This book follows Anne as she leaves home to head to college. She meets new friends, moves into an old cottage, and deals with marriage proposals.

This is just a great series. Anne is such a personable character; I feel like I know her well as I read the books. This was a fun book to follow her interactions with different characters.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Small Change

2011-01-11T16:39:00.002-05:00

My mom gave me Small Change: The Secret Life of Penny Burford by J. Belinda Yandell for Christmas. It takes place in 1965, where Penny, without knowing exactly why, takes a nickel from her husband's pile of change on his dresser. He never does anything with the piles of change he brings home, so she starts quietly taking little bits of change each day. This decision ends up, as the book says, changing "the course of her life--and the lives of untold others."

This was a quick read and a nice story. The beginning was kind of sad to me, but I really liked how things came together in the end. I also liked the thought-provoking theme of the story.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Dragon Slippers

2011-01-08T16:31:00.002-05:00

I saw on Facebook a friend's recommendation of Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George, so I decided to get it from the library. It's about a girl named Creel whose aunt gives her to a dragon in hopes of a knight's rescue. Instead, Creel makes a deal with the dragon to escape, winning a pair of shoes from the dragon's hoard. Creel then travels to the king's city to get a job as a seamstress, but soon strange things begin to happen as a result of Creel's shoes. Soon, it's up to Creel to find a way to save the kingdom.

This was such a good book! It's definitely my kind of book, so I'm thrilled that it's a series. The characters were super fun, and I just loved how the story flowed and how it ended. It was a feel-good, happily ever after book with lots of adventure.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians

2010-11-22T15:51:00.003-05:00

I read Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson after it was given to me as a gift by my brother- and sister-in law while I was recovering from surgery. It's about a boy named Alcatraz who is in foster care and always breaks things. It isn't until he meets his grandfather on his 13th birthday that he realizes that breaking things like he does is actually a rare talent in his grandfather's world. Alcatraz joins his grandfather and others to stop the cult of evil librarians who are taking over the world.

This was a fun book. It was interesting because the whole book takes place on one day--it just follows every detail of Alcatraz throughout the day. I enjoyed the characters and the unique story.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

2010-11-22T15:49:00.002-05:00

I re-read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling in preparation for the movie coming out. It is the conclusion of the series and tells how Harry goes about trying to defeat Lord Voldemort.

Of course, I loved this book, as I do every time I read or re-read any Harry Potter book. There are so many fun details, great characters, and just an exciting story. I love it all! It's particularly fun to watch the movie and realize how many more wonderful details are in the book, reminding me why reading is awesome.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Mockingjay

2010-10-05T18:49:00.002-04:00

I read Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins to finish up the Hunger Games series. I won't describe the plot because it would ruin the earlier books for those who haven't read the series. So, click here to read what I wrote to summarize the first book.

Even though the book involved me enough that I read the entire thing in one day, I was actually quite disappointed with it. The first two books were just SO good, and this one just didn't quite live up. The characters were less likable, and the closure just didn't mesh well with me. I am sad with how this book completed the series, but oh well. I'd still recommend the books.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Anne of Avonlea

2010-10-05T18:39:00.003-04:00

Anne of Avonlea is the second book in the Lucy Maud Montgomery series Molly lent me. This book follows Anne now that she has finished school and is a teacher. Marilla and Anne also take in young twins Dora and Davy--distant relatives whose mother died. Anne becomes close to Davy, whose curious personality causes some frustration.

This was another great read. I thought I wouldn't like it as much now that Anne is older, but I found that her character was just as enjoyable. It was a nice story with lots of different aspects to the plot to keep me interested.

Rating: * * * (3/3=Loved it)

Anne of Green Gables

2010-10-05T17:07:00.003-04:00

Molly lent me her Anne of Green Gables box set to keep me busy at the end of my pregnancy. I started by re-reading the first of Lucy Maud Montgomery's series, Anne of Green Gables. (I had read it when I was in middle school or high school.) It is the story of imaginative 11-year-old Anne who is adopted by Matthew and Marilla. The book follows Anne until she's 16, chronicling her adventures with friends, family, school, and the outdoors.

This book was such a fun read. Anne is just a hilarious character, and I just loved her from the beginning. It's no wonder the author could write a whole series about this character--Anne just has such a distinct personality. I loved all the other characters in the book too and just laughed and cried throughout the book as I followed Anne's adventures.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Scarlet Pimpernel

2010-10-05T16:45:00.003-04:00

Connor recommended The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy. It takes place during the French Revolution and is the story of a group of Englishmen (including their leader, the Scarlet Pimpernel) who secretly work to save French aristocrats from the guillotine. The book follows Marguerite, who must decide where her loyalties lie, and follows the mystery of who is the Scarlet Pimpernel.

This was a fun book to read. I had to adjust to the language at first (since I don't usually read classic literature written back in the day). I really liked the story line and the details put into the book.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Sarah's Key

2010-10-05T16:35:00.002-04:00

I read Sarah's Key by Tatiana DeRosnay for the book group I'm in. It is a fiction story based on real events that took place during the Holocaust--specifically the roundup of Jews in France. The book takes place in modern times and follows a journalist named Julia who researches those WWII events as part of the upcoming 60th anniversary of the roundups. As Julia learns more about what happened, she becomes fascinated and then discovers some secrets that will change her life forever.

This was a good book. It was very interesting and intriguing but unfortunately also kind of disturbing (which is understandable considering the Holocaust time period). It was an interesting approach to historical fiction because it took place nowadays but was very focused on a specific historical event. The problem with the book is that it had some adult language issues and such.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

The Penderwicks

2010-06-23T14:55:00.001-04:00

The Penderwicks, by Jeanne Birdsall, was recommended in the Mini-Page in the Washington Post and is (as the subtitle says) "a summer tale of four sisters, two rabbits, and a very interesting boy." The book is about 4 girls and their father who rent a cottage to spend the summer. As you read, you follow the adventures the girls have with Jeffrey, the son of the property owner.

This is a really cute book with very well-developed characters. It was really easy to get to know the 4 sisters and enjoy their antics. It was an entertaining and quick read.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Under a War-Torn Sky

2010-06-23T14:50:00.002-04:00

Under a War-Torn Sky by L.M. Elliott is another book that has been on my bookshelf for awhile. It is about 19-year-old Henry who is a pilot during World War II. When he gets shot down during a bombing mission, he relies on local people and the French Resistance to help him find safety.

This was a really neat story and particularly interesting because it is based on stories the author's father told of his experience as a shot-down pilot in WWII. The book gave lots of information about the war without being boring--it was all just a part of Henry's experience. The characters were realistic, and it was a good read.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Riding Freedom

2010-06-17T18:08:00.002-04:00

After finishing Becoming Naomi Leon, I decided to read the last book I owned by Pam Munoz Ryan--Riding Freedom. This book is about an orphan named Charlotte who loves horses. She finds a way to escape from her orphanage and eventually becomes a stagecoach driver while disguised as a boy/man for years.

This book was a quick, enjoyable read. It was a fun story, and I was particularly interested when I found out in the "From the Author" at the end that the book is based on a true story--a girl in the 1800s who left her orphanage, who had a successful career in stage coach driving, and who voted in a federal election--and then later came out as being a woman. It's kind of intriguing to think about how few rights women had back then but what a woman could do with her life while pretending to be male.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Becoming Naomi Leon

2010-06-17T18:03:00.003-04:00

Becoming Naomi Leon is another book that has been on my bookshelf for awhile. It's by Pam Munoz Ryan, and I'd enjoyed her books in the past and decided to try another one. This book is about Naomi, who lives with her great-grandmother and little brother and is a talented soap carver. One day, her mother--who hasn't been in Naomi's life since Naomi was 3--shows up, ready to be best friends with Naomi.

I really loved this book. The characters and situations seemed so real, and seeing Naomi's growth through the book was really great. It was just a precious story overall, and I loved where the twists and turns led. I also loved the little side stories, like the librarian at Naomi's school.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

2010-06-12T18:13:00.002-04:00

I saw The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate was also recommended in "The Mini Page." (I later saw that it also was a Newbery honor book for 2010.) This book is the story of Calpurnia, an 11-year-old who is the only girl, right in the middle of 7 children. She lives in Texas in 1899, and we follow her life as she begins to develop a relationship with her grandfather, a naturalist, and realize that her true interests lie in science and the outdoors--not needlepoint and cooking.

This was a really nice story, all told from the point of view of Callie. She is just a cute and entertaining character to follow, along with the rest of her family. The author does a great job really bringing in the historical nature of the time period as well. It was just a really fun read with a sweet story that kept me interested.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Great Gilly Hopkins

2010-06-12T17:59:00.002-04:00

I saw The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson recommended in "The Mini Page," a little section of the Washington Post for kids. I remembered my mom (or someone) telling me to read the book when I was a kid, so I decided I should try it now. It is the story of Gilly--a child in the foster care system who gets placed in home after home. Finally her newest home is the last straw, so she writes a letter to her birth mom in desperate hopes of getting rescued. The book tells what happens in the chain of events that follow.

I really liked this book. Gilly was just such an interesting character with flaws that you just couldn't blame her for. The book actually made me cry and was quite sad, but I suppose that's what made it a realistic and believable book. It was a quick read with good detail.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

U.S. History for Dummies

2010-06-12T17:54:00.003-04:00

I decided to read U.S. History for Dummies by Steve Wiegand because I am sad how much I've forgotten since taking American history classes in school. I wanted a refresher/summary and thought this would be a good way to do it. The book flows chronologically and just glazes over the main events and people in the history of our country.

I thought this fulfilled my purpose in getting the book. It helped me identify some areas of US history that I'm particularly interested in reading a more substantial nonfiction book about. It wasn't a boring read, and I got a good summary.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

My Friend the Enemy

2010-05-26T08:59:00.002-04:00

I have had My Friend the Enemy by J.B. Cheaney on my bookshelf for awhile after getting it from a book order last year sometime. I was in between books yesterday and decided to finally read it. It's the story of a girl named Hazel, living during World War II. Her birthday (December 7th) has been forever ruined ever since it became a "Day That Would Live in Infamy," and Hazel spends her free time using her field glasses to look out for Japanese enemies. Then one day she discovers a Japanese boy in hiding to avoid going to an internment camp. The book follows Hazel's thoughts, friendships, and decisions during wartime.

This was a really great book. As usual, I just love historical fiction because it puts you in that world. There were so many references to what really went on in an average American town during this WWII time period. Hazel was also a really likable character, and it was fun and enlightening to read things from her perspective. The book was exciting and interesting.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Fablehaven: Keys to the Demon Prison

2010-05-26T08:53:00.002-04:00

Fablehaven: Keys to the Demon Prison is the last book in the Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull. I started this series when I was teaching elementary school, and it was a HUGE favorite there. Connor and I started reading the series and really liked it--enough that we actually bought this most recent book once we realized our library still didn't even have it in the catalog. The Fablehaven series is about a place called Fablehaven that is a refuge for mystical creatures, separate from the outside world. When Kendra and Seth go to visit their grandparents, they discover this hidden world, along with all the challenges of protecting it .

I really enjoyed this book. It had good closure to the series while still adding in lots of new ideas and adventures. The characters are very well developed, and it's just a fun, interesting plot to follow.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Gilead

2010-05-13T15:22:00.003-04:00

I read Gilead by Marilynne Robinson for the book group I'm in. In Gilead, Reverend John Ames is writing a journal to his young son. The aging father is expected to die in the near future due to a heart condition, but his son is only 7 years old. So, the father decides to write a journal to tell his son all the things he would want the son to know if he (the father) were still around.

I thought the book was an interesting idea for a story. It was well written, but at the same time, sometimes seemed to go on and on. It was from the perspective of this old guy, so the book really came across as a stream of consciousness from an old man rambling on about random topics without any real order to it. For that reason, it wasn't the most interesting book the whole way through. Parts of it, though, were kinda nice--there were lots of interesting religious insights since the narrator was a reverend. Since he had lived a long, full life, he also shared lots of little tidbits of life lessons.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay.)

Island of the Blue Dolphins

2010-05-12T10:24:00.005-04:00

The third book I found at work was Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. This is a Newbery that I have never read even though I've heard about it for years. In this story, Karana, an Indian girl, ends up living alone on her island for years after some tragedies take place with her people. The book follows Karana as she makes food and weapons and survives from season to season on the beautiful island she loves.

This book had kind of a Hatchet feel to it since a lot of the book focused on what foods she was getting and how she cooked them and how she made weapons. It was also a nice story of the personal changes that took place in herself as she spent time alone on this island, with only animals for companionship. The book was very believable and really portrayed well this strong character.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Stone Fox

2010-05-12T10:18:00.003-04:00

I also read Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner during free time at work. When I taught elementary school, a lot of students had read this book, so I decided to read it too. Stone Fox is about a boy named Willy who is raised by his grandfather. His grandfather becomes ill--but the doctor says the illness is just because the grandfather has given up hope. It is up to Willy to figure out how to help his grandfather feel better and how to solve their family's financial problems.

This was a very quick read and a sweet story. It had a familiarity to it--maybe I've read a similar book or seen the movie back in the day. I wouldn't say it's the best written book in the sense of details and such, but it was a nice story.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Jacob Have I Loved

2010-05-12T10:12:00.002-04:00

I've had some extra time during my free period at work lately, so I've read a couple books I found on a bookshelf there. The first was Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson. It's a book I've heard about for years but for some reason never read. It is the story of twin girls--Sara Louise and Caroline--who live on an island in the Chesapeake Bay in the 1940s. Sara Louise tells her story of growing up in the shadow of her "perfect" twin sister.

This was a nice read that really pulled you into the narrator's point of view. I definitely had some tear-y moments in the book because I just really felt for Sara Louise. The book had interesting characters and a nice ending.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Mistborn: The Hero of Ages

2010-04-30T07:57:00.002-04:00

I just finished the third and final book in the series that I described previously. This book follows the characters into the final episode of the conflict until everything comes to an end.

I really enjoyed this book as well. I love the varying points of view presented in the book. And once again, I was very involved in the story. I also appreciated the thought-provoking ideas presented as the characters went through their various conflicts. I also was pleasantly surprised by the ending of the book--It was not what I was expecting, but I liked it. I'd highly recommend this series if you're looking for a good book (/books) to read.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Mistborn: The Well of Ascension

2010-04-26T19:52:00.002-04:00

This is the second book in the series I started last month. I won't summarize this book because then it would give away how book one ended. So, suffice it to say that this book continues the story of the final empire.

This was another GREAT book. I was just completely enthralled in the story and wanted to read all the time. The story really just consumed my mind; I thought about the characters and events all the time. It was an exciting book where I kept trying to guess what would happen but was continually surprised.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma

2010-04-26T19:43:00.003-04:00

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma is the newest book in the Mysterious Benedict Society series by Trenton Lee Stewart. This series is the story of four young children--Reynie, Kate, Sticky, and Constance. These kids are not ordinary children, however. They were hand-selected by Mr. Benedict because they are very smart and very clever. The books tell the story of the children's adventures as they work to out-smart and defeat a criminal mastermind named Mr. Curtain.

I enjoyed this book. It was a fun story. The characters in these books are really distinct and likable, and their personalities just make the book really entertaining to read. This is a cute series--a recommendation for upper elementary kids.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Peter and the Sword of Mercy

2010-04-26T19:31:00.003-04:00

Peter and the Sword of Mercy is the newest book in the Peter and the Starcatchers series by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. This series is the background story behind Peter Pan and how he came to be the Peter we know. The first few books follow Peter and his friend Molly, whose father is a member of the Starcatchers, who search for "starstuff" that has fallen from the sky in hopes of protecting it from the "Others." This particular book takes place when Molly is all grown up and married and has three children, including a girl named Wendy.

I really liked reading this book. It was different from the earlier books in the series since it took place later in time, which made it kind of fun. This is a great series with a creative storyline. The books are entertaining with a lot of humor (Dave Barry's touch, I presume) but are also descriptive and exciting. I'd recommend this series to upper elementary kids or those of you older folks like me who enjoy kid series.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High

2010-04-26T19:25:00.002-04:00

One of my cousins mentioned this book on her blog a few months ago, and I decided it would be an interesting read. Crucial Conversations explains how we can better approach the "crucial" conversations we have each day in our family, friend, and work relationships. The book presents strategies that can be used to avoid arguments and have open communication with those around us.

This was a really enlightening book. It helped me see where I have weaknesses in my conversation skills and how I can really handle some communication situations a lot better. I don't read many books like this, so it was kind of fun to read a new type of book and to learn from all the examples presented.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Mistborn: The Final Empire

2010-03-06T13:39:00.002-05:00

My brother-in-law recommended Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson. The setting is a world where ash falls from the sky, the supposedly immortal Lord Ruler reigns, and the Skaa people are slaves. The book follows Kelsier who escaped from the Lord Ruler's prison after discovering his powers as a Mistborn. As he recruits allomancers to join him in a huge undertaking, he comes across 16-year-old Vin, a Skaa who has lived a life of betrayal and pain. The story begins to follow Vin's character as well, then telling the story of what happens in the empire.

I LOVED this book. It is the best book I have read in quite awhile. It was just unlike any other fantasy/science fiction book I have read. The powers possessed by characters are just completely intriguing and unique, the plot is strong, and the main characters are very likable--with both strengths and weaknesses. The book just captivated me, and I wanted to keep reading it all the time. And better yet, it's a trilogy--that made me want to keep reading just by the goodness of the book (not by leaving me hanging). If you like fantasy books, I'd highly recommend this one.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

When You Reach Me

2010-03-06T13:31:00.004-05:00

I decided to read When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead because it won the Newbery Medal for 2010. It's about 12-year-old Miranda, living in New York in 1979. We learn all about Miranda's life--her life as a latchkey child with her single mom, the crazy "Laughing Man" who lives on the corner, and her lunch-time, no-pay job at the sandwich shop down the road. Life is pretty good for Miranda until her best friend Sal suddenly stops talking to her, and then she starts finding mysterious notes that imply that a tragic death of a friend will happen.

This was a really good book. I loved the perspective it was written from--really from the mind and heart of this 12-year-old. The character said the most typical yet thoughftul things in her narrative throughout the book. I really became connected to her and her experiences as I read. It was also a kind of clever book in the way things came together. It was a really enjoyable, quick read.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Extra Credit

2010-03-06T12:12:00.003-05:00

Extra Credit is one of Andrew Clements's newest school stories, and since I've read a lot of them before, I wanted to read this one too. It's the story of a 6th grader named Abby who is given an extra credit project to help her pass 6th grade. She is given a pen pal in Afghanistan and has to correspond, writing at least 3 letters to display in the classroom. The book follows Abby as well as Sadeed in Afghanistan in their unique pen pal assignment.

This was a cute book. I think it'd be a great book for kids to learn a little more about another culture as well as to see evidence of intolerance in both America and Afghanistan. The story was fun, and as always with Andrew Clements's books, it just told a story of what might really happen with kids in school nowadays.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

A Town Like Alice

2010-02-11T19:13:00.003-05:00

I read A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute for book club. It is about a young English woman named Jean who works in Malay and becomes a prisoner of war. Along with other women and children, she is part of a Japanese death march all across the country during World War II. This book tells of what happens to her during the death march as well as after she survives.

This book was the quickest read of the books I've read lately. It involved me a lot more, even though parts of it still seemed to throw in unnecessary details or accounts. I liked the historical aspect of it even though it wasn't based on completely accurate historical events. It was a nice story that really gave a glimpse into the life of a prisoner of war. It was also a bit of a chick flick at times, which I enjoyed.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Enchantment

2010-02-08T15:48:00.004-05:00

A friend recommended Enchantment by Orson Scott Card and lent me the book. Enchantment is the story of Ivan, who spends his childhood in Russia but then moves to America with his parents. As a child in Russia, he came across a mysterious woman sleeping on a pedestal in the woods near a relative's home. Years later, he feels drawn to go back and see if that woman is still there. The book tells the story of what happens as he becomes part of her 9th century world.

I liked this book. It was kind of slow for me at the beginning, but once I got into it, I was very anxious to see what would happen by the end. It was a unique story, unlike other books I've read. The characters were very likable and believable. It was also an interesting read because there was some references to Russian folk tales as well as a period in history I didn't know much about.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Midnight Rider

2010-01-24T20:42:00.002-05:00

My little sister Molly recommended Midnight Rider by Joan Hiatt Harlow as one of her favorite books. Since I tend to love children's historical fiction, I decided to read it. Midnight Rider is the story of 14-year-old Hannah, living in 1775. When she is forced to work as an indentured servant after being orphaned, Hannah finds herself in the home of a British general. Along with her own desires for freedom, Hannah soon becomes sympathetic to the cause of the American colonies. With her horse, Promise, Hannah becomes a midnight rider to help the cause she feels matters most.

I really enjoyed this book. Like most historical fiction books, it was so enlightening to read because of all the historical facts and characters included in the story. It was fun to read this story's take on what individuals may have felt through their experiences during the American Revolution.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days

2009-12-08T11:27:00.003-05:00

Last year, lots of my students loved the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. I wasn't convinced, but one day while my students were at recess, I picked up one of the books on a student's desk to glance through it. And it was hilarious. I decided I might as well give them a try. So, here I am, reading book 4 in the series after being on hold at the library for at least a month. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid books are about a boy named Greg and his middle school life, entertaining family, and weird friends. The books are written in the form of a diary with little doodles.

This book was entertaining. I couldn't help but laugh aloud at times. I really think this author is a complete goof, and I have no idea where he comes up with this stuff. But it's funny. The best thing about these books is that they take less than an hour (easily) to read. (Then I don't feel that bad about wasting my life reading it.) An enjoyable read.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Savvy

2009-12-08T11:20:00.003-05:00

I chose to read Savvy by Ingrid Law because it was a Newbery Honor book. This book is about Mibs Beaumont, who is anxiously awaiting her very near 13th birthday. In her family, turning 13 is special because that's when you discover your savvy. One of her brothers can control electricity; another can start hurricanes. Then, days before her birthday, her dad ends up in the hospital in critical condition--leaving Mibs without her parents on her big day. This book follows Mibs's adventure as she comes to discover her savvy.

This book was okay. It took me a long time to get through (even though it's not a long book). It had some fun ideas, and a few really likeable characters (particularly Will Junior, who crushes on Mibs). Overall, though, I didn't feel like the plot or story line was exceptionally strong. I liked reading it most of the time, but I didn't feel there was anything too wonderful or special about it. I really feel like Newbery award winners (medals/honors) are hit and miss. Some I absolutely LOVE, and others, I really don't know why they were winners. Good thing I'm not a judge.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay.)

Twilight

2009-11-26T08:53:00.002-05:00

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer is one of those books everyone has read and was shocked that I hadn't read. I decided to read it because so many people recommended it and said that I'd for sure like it. For those who don't already know, Twilight is the story of a girl named Bella who moves to a new town and meets and falls for Edward--a vampire. The book brings you into the world of vampires and what choices Bella will make when her boyfriend loves her for both love and lust (ie., wanting to eat her).

This book was a fun read--it definitely brought out smiles and laughs. It is for sure a chick flick, which I can't help but enjoy. It's not the best written book in the world, but that was kind of a nice change from all the "polished" books that are normally popular. However, it's hard to read a book after seeing the movie. It just makes it hard to enjoy the book as much. I'm a big believer that books are always better than movies--but I think that you can only appreciate that when you read the book first. My plan is not to see the second movie until I've read the second book. But I don't feel a huge urge to read the second book right away. We'll see what happens.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Catching Fire

2009-11-20T19:19:00.004-05:00

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is the sequel to The Hunger Games, a book Connor and I read last year after hearing a lot about it. I don't want to summarize Catching Fire since that would completely give away the first book--so I'll summarize The Hunger Games so you can get the gist of it. The Hunger Games is about a society consisting of the Capitol and 12 districts where the Capitol is in complete control of all the people's lives. To show its great power and dominance, the Capitol hosts the "Hunger Games" every year where 2 children ("tributes") from each district are selected (in a lottery system) to participate in a fight to the death. This "game" is broadcast on television for all the districts to watch and to entertain the Capitol. The games end when one tribute has survived--and the other 23 have been killed. Hunger Games tells the story of Katniss, one of the tributes, and her fight to survive.

Catching Fire (like Hunger Games) was a book that I both hated and loved. (Meaning I loved it.) Such terrible things happen in the book that I have to cry or be completely angry. But the book is so engaging that from the time I started it yesterday to the time I finished it today, it was all I thought about. I dreamt about it last night; I woke up with the story consuming my mind. This book is a wonderful read because the situations are compelling and the characters are real. Unfortunately, both books in this series so far have ended less than ideally because they leave things wide open--forcing you to eagerly await the next book in the sequel. So...I will wait.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it in a hating way)

The Thief Lord

2009-11-20T19:06:00.002-05:00

The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke was a book recommended (and given) to me by students. I was in between books so pulled it off the shelf and decided to read it. It is about two boys who are orphaned and expected to go into the custody of their unkind aunt and uncle. Instead, they run away to Venice and join a group of orphans who live in an abandoned movie theater, led by a boy who calls himself the Thief Lord. This books tells of how the orphans get involved in some deals and mysteries that could deeply change their lives.

I really liked this book. It had interesting, likable, believable characters and a unique story. I was kept guessing throughout the story and enjoyed reading it. Unfortunately, it took me for-ev-er to get through it. At first I thought it was just because I've been kind of busy lately, but now I'm thinking that it just wasn't quite top-notch in its engagement level. But, it was still an enjoyable book.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Charlotte's Rose

2009-11-04T13:26:00.002-05:00

Charlotte's Rose by A.E. Cannon is a book I've owned for a few years but never gotten around to read until now. It's the story of a 12-year-old girl named Charlotte who leaves her home in Wales and travels with her dad and other Mormon converts to Utah. As the handcart company starts on the journey in America, one woman dies giving birth and her husband is in deep mourning, so Charlotte offers to take care of the baby for the rest of the trip. She volunteers to prove she is grown up, but once she starts caring for Rose, she finds that it is much harder than she anticipated. This book tells Charlotte's story of how she comes to love Rose--even though her dad and others remind her that this baby will have to be returned to Rose's father when he's ready.

This book was beautifully written and just touching to read. It was really neat to see what it could have been like for these pioneers in their journey and to get to know all the different characters in the handcart company. It was a wonderful story that had me both smiling and crying. (Also, FYI: This isn't a Mormon fiction book written specifically for a Mormon audience. It's a general historical fiction book that happens to be about the Mormon pioneers.)

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

A Christmas Carol

2009-11-04T13:21:00.004-05:00

I read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens for a book club, but it's also a book I knew I really needed to read. I'm sure everyone knows the story of A Christmas Carol because of all the movies based on it, but in case you forgot: Selfish Scrooge is visited by 3 Christmas spirits to help him understand the meaning of Christmas.

This was a fun, quick book to read. It's interesting to read a book after seeing tons of different movies based on it. I found myself picturing the muppets and other various characters as I read. I enjoyed reading a couple parts that I never remember seeing in a movie. It just added a little more to this great story.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Forest Born

2009-10-31T17:52:00.003-04:00

Forest Born by Shannon Hale is the 4th book of the Books of Bayern. It is the story of Rin, Razo's younger sister, who feels unsure and unsettled about who she is. She decides to leave home for awhile in search of something new even though her family's home in the forest is all she's known. When Rin goes on an important mission with Isi, Enna, and Dasha (who she calls the "fire sisters"), she starts to realize that maybe she has some abilities that she never noticed in the past.

I absolutely loved this book. It was my favorite of the Books of Bayern since Goose Girl, probably since Rin is such a real, likable character. She was so sweet, and the gifts she has made me love reading about how she helped people and made a difference. The book was exciting to read, and as always with these books, it's fun to re-connect with the characters from the past books--but see characters in a new perspective. If you haven't read this series yet, please do. I loved this book! And the whole series! I hope Shannon Hale writes more.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Tiger Rising

2009-10-28T15:11:00.004-04:00

I chose Tiger Rising because I have enjoyed Kate DiCamillo's books in the past (specifically Tale of Despereaux). This book is about a boy named Rob who recently lost his mother to cancer, lives at a motel with his dad, and gets made fun of at school. As he deals with the sadness and unhappiness in life, one day he sees a caged tiger in the woods behind his house. The story follows what happens with Rob, the new girl Sistine, and that out-of-place tiger.

I really liked this book. I feel like Kate DiCamillo as an author really has a way of bringing you into her stories--just in the words she uses. It was a calming book that really brought out human emotions.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Chains

2009-10-22T08:19:00.004-04:00

I saw Chains at the library, and I recognized the author (Laura Halse Anderson) from a book I read to my 5th grade classes (Fever 1793). This book is about a girl named Isabel who is a slave during the late 1770s as the fight for independence is beginning between the Patriots and Loyalists. When Isabel is sold to a new owner in New York, she meets Curzon, a slave for a Patriot, who encourages Isabel to spy on her Loyalist owners. However, she also hears that the British offer freedom to slaves who will help their side. The story follows what happens to Isabel as she seeks her own freedom.

I really loved reading this book. It was a really powerful story that brought me into Isabel's mind and heart and gave me a small glimpse of what life was like for a slave during this revolutionary time period. I have to agree wholeheartedly with the quote on the back of the book, and since I can't say it any better, here it is (from Angela Johnson, a Coretta Scott King Award winner): "Laura Halse Anderson's Chains is searing and has so many brilliant sparks I became lost in it. Isabel's harrowing journey into a nightmare realm of slavery, betrayal, loss, and ultimately hope quite literally had me sobbing." Me too. Great book!

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Things Fall Apart

2009-10-18T17:03:00.002-04:00

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is one of those classics I had heard about for years but never read. The author tells the story of tribes in villages in Nigeria and specifically follows one man--Okonkwo, a confident and strong-willed leader, husband, and father who is determined to not follow in the footsteps of his lazy father. Okonkwo spends his life trying to be highly respected, but unfortunately his very human mistakes lead to his exile and dissatisfaction. As the story goes on, Christian missionaries start showing up in these African villages, bringing converts into their churches as the tribes struggle to maintain their identities and beliefs.

I really liked reading this book. It was enlightening to read about a culture that I had no prior knowledge of and to ponder these people's lifestyles and beliefs. I felt connected with the characters and really liked following the story itself.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Rapunzel's Revenge

2009-10-14T08:36:00.003-04:00

Since I've read pretty much everything else Shannon Hale has written, I figured I should give Rapunzel's Revenge a try even though it was a graphic novel--something I wouldn't normally pick up. This book is about a girl named Rapunzel who finds out that the mean woman she's been calling "mother" for years isn't actually her mother but a kidnapper and evil ruler. Rapunzel is locked in a tree, but her quick growing hair offers her a way to escape, and soon she is on the road, fighting her way to try to rescue her real mother from a slave camp.

This book was a cute story, and it had great pictures. I think it'd be a better book for a read aloud with kids than just me reading it myself. I didn't enjoy it as much as I would a novel because the story felt choppier since it was in the graphic novel form.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay)

The BFG

2009-10-11T12:51:00.003-04:00

The BFG by Roald Dahl is one of those classic kid books that somehow I never read as a child. So, I decided to read it this week. The BFG is about Sophie, an orphan who is plucked out of her bed one night by a giant. Her fears of getting eaten by the giant go away when she realizes that this giant is the Big Friendly Giant--not a human-eating one like the other 9 giants who live where he does. In The BFG, Sophie allies with the BFG to try to save the lives of humans, who keep getting eaten by the gruesome, evil giants.

This book was very entertaining to read. It's one of those stories where imaginary things are happening, but as you read, you believe that it really was this way. Roald Dahl's books really just capture a fun side of childhood. It was a fun read.

Stars: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Left To Tell

2009-10-08T11:55:00.004-04:00

Left To Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust by Immaculee Ilibagiza was recommended to me by my mother-in-law. It is the true account of Immaculee and her experiences during the Rwandan genocide that took place in the 90s where hundreds of thousands of Rwandans were murdered. The book tells about Immaculee and her family before the genocide started. It then follows her during the holocaust where she hid in a bathroom with 7 other women for 3 months where she could hear the "machete-wielding killers," including former neighbors and friends, hunting for her. In this book, Immaculee shares what got her through the terrible experiences she endured.

This was a really incredible book to read. I knew hardly anything about the Rwandan holocaust, so the book was, first of all, informational. But it was also very touching in how it showed that even in the worst circumstances, there is always a choice in how you react. Immaculee turned to God during the genocide because that was the only place she could turn in her desperate situation. She found peace and comfort despite the fear and terror and even found forgiveness for the killers. It's really powerful to read about her experiences and to see how she never gave up on believing in the good in the world around her.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)

Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister

2009-10-08T11:46:00.004-04:00

Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister is a new book by Liz Kessler, author of the Emily Windsnap books. This book is about Philippa, a shy, average 11-year-old. When Philippa's best friend moves away, Philippa is devastated. Luckily, Philippa is sent a fairy godmother in the form of a new girl in her class--Daisy. However, fairy Daisy doesn't like humans--particularly Philippa--and just wants to get the 3 wishes granted and over with. This book tells what happens as Philippa and Daisy deal with granted wishes and try to make the best of what happens.

This was a cute book. It was very predictable, but probably only because I'm a 23-year-old reading a book for kids in elementary school. :) Philippa is a likable character, and her parents are very entertaining. This book was fun to read and is a unique approach to a fairy godmother story. Like other books by Liz Kessler, I recommend it for elementary-aged girls.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)

Anthem

2009-10-08T11:29:00.002-04:00

Anthem by Ayn Rand is the October book for a book club group I'm in (with women at church). It is a book that takes place in a futuristic time where our world has evolved to one where there is no real individualism. The narrator tells the story from his point of view, but he speaks of himself using the pronoun "we" because the word "I" is forbidden (and unknown) in this world. The book tells Equality 7-2521's story of finding a hidden tunnel where he spends time and discovers that there is more to life than the knowledge he has.

In the first couple pages of this book, I was quite confused. The pronoun usage threw me off, and if I weren't reading this for a book club, I probably would have just given up. However, I caught on not too far into it, and I'm glad I kept reading because it was a unique book--one I wouldn't have chosen on my own. It was interesting to think about deeper meanings and to see what the narrator discovered and what choices he made. I can't say that I really loved this book because it seemed focused on making a philosophical statement, while I normally more enjoy books where I relate to characters. So, even though those of you reading this may think I'm a slacker for giving a 1-star-rating to the only "classic" book on my blog so far....I'm doing it anyway.

Rating: * (1/3 = It was okay)

(Side note: 1 star isn't really as bad as it seems. When I made my blog, I decided to use the normal 5-star scale like on GoodReads but eliminate the bottom 2 stars since I never would finish a book I'd rate that low. So, really a 1 star is like a 3 star on normal rating systems. Yay.)

The Best Bad Luck I Ever Had

2009-10-01T18:24:00.003-04:00

I found The Best Bad Luck I Ever Had by Kristin Levine at the library. This story takes place in 1917 in Moundsville, Alabama. The main character is Dit, a 12-year-old who is excited for the postmaster's new son to move in to his small town at the start of the summer. He thinks he's hit his "worst bad luck" ever when the postmaster turns out to be black and has a daughter, Emma, instead of a son. However, Dit soon realizes that this is instead the "best bad luck" he's ever had when he and Emma become inseparable. Of course, though, at this time there are problems connected with a white girl and a black boy being friends, and this book tells their story.

I LOVED this book. First of all, I really enjoy historical fiction books where I get a glimpse of another time in history. Through the point of view of a 12-year-old, this book really captured the inequality between blacks and whites that remained in the South even into the 1900s. Also, it was just fun to become a part of Dit and Emma's friendship and to read about the day-to-day adventures in their small town.

Stars: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)