E.S.: Elementary School Brothers Willie and Taddie share stories about their father, Abraham Lincoln, focusing on the years they lived in the White House.
Gr 3-6-Inspired by a 200-word essay by Willie Lincoln, Wells offers a fictional account of Lincoln and his boys. Written first from Willie's point of view, then Tad's after Willie dies, it's a touching account of Lincoln as a patient and loving father, ready with a story, and in possession of infinite tolerance where his sons are concerned. Conversations between him and his boys shed light on what's happening at the time and on Lincoln's straightforward manner. Lynch captures the people in carefully researched oil paintings that reflect his mastery with light, and portraiture. The story closes with Lincoln's last speech, Tad at his side, while he instructs the band to play "Dixie." Presenting the president from his children's viewpoint brings both the family and the times to life.
An intimate and compelling biography that brings Lincoln, his family, and the history to life. And P.J. Lynch's magnificent paintings give us a Lincoln not frozen in time, but accessible and real.-


Reviews & Awards School Library Journal 01/01/09 Publishers Weekly starred 01/12/09
Booklist 01/01/09 Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books 01/01/09 Kirkus Review

Review : P.S. E.S.

Intended for P.S. and E.S., Ophelia by Ingrid and Dieter Schubert is the story of a hippo named Ophelia and her concern for a friend named Kevin. He hears Kevin moaning and is sure he is hurt or sick. She hurries to the rescue passing many other friends along the way and tells the first friend that Kevin doesn’t sound well, that friend, a meerkat passes the message to another friend, with some exaggeration. The word of Kevin’s illness goes from friend to friend until they all think Kevin is dead. In the end, much to their surprise, Kevin is fine! I thought the story was very cute, illustrating how stories can be changed, and one must check the source. The pictures are beautiful, the jungle appearing somewhat murky, which just highlights the expressive faces of the friends, as they show shock and worry for Kevin. With a small vignette showing each friend’s impression of Kevin’s ailment adding amusement, it is fun to read. I liked the book very muc h until I got to the end, which I feel left you hanging. But I recommend it anyway.

 

PS, ES The Trouble With Dragons by Debi Glori is a story with a strong ecological message, very apt for our times. The dragons in the story are an environmental nightmare, reproducing, taking up all the space, chopping down trees, in essence everything we do. However the dragons learn in time what needs to be done to save the planet and suggest we do the same or we will go the way of the dragon. With a simple rhyming text and beautifully detailed illustrations the book successfully tackles the topic of global warming for the very young child. It is fun to read and will spark a multitude of discussions and questions. It is perfect for story time, especially with earth day approaching.

 

E.S.
With the word "naked" in the title and a picture of a pair of underpants on the cover, Mo Willems didn't have to do much else to guarantee success with the elementary school set. However, he did not stop there. He went on to write a very entertaining story about a naked mole rat who has a nasty little secret - he likes to wear clothes. When the others in the colony report his nonconformity to the oldest, wisest, and most naked naked mole rat ever, they are in for a big surprise. As always, the illustrations are an integral part of the story and convey much of its humor. Readers of Mo Willems other books will not be disappointed by his latest character. This is a funny story with a nice message about tolerance and the value of marching to the beat of your own drum, with or without clothing!
 

E.S.
The sequel to My Penguin Osbert finds Osbert in need of his friend’s help. He has received an invitation to the South Pole Extravaganza hosted by Aurora Australis and appeals to his friend Joe for a ride. Osbert, Joe and about 20 other penguins squeeze into Joe’s new helicopter and fly to Antarctica. There they witness the southern lights and Osbert falls in love with Aurora. Although I loved the first book, this story lacked the same level of charm. The pastel and watercolor illustrations are just as appealing as in the original book but the plot felt lackluster and rushed. This is not a “must have” book.
 

H.S. Adult author, Chris Roberson, has written many science fiction books that are set in an alternate Chinese world on Fire Star (Mars.) In his new YA book, Iron Jaw and Hummingbird, the story takes place on Fire Star during the 26th century. Gamine was an orphan on the streets at age five, when she was rescued and educated by a wealthy aristocrat. Eight years later, for no known reason, she is kicked out of her home and is back on the streets. On the same day Gamine is thrown out on the streets, Huang, an 18 year-old boy, has been commissioned as an army officer. Huang and his division are attacked by renegades and as he watches his men being attacked and killed, he has no choice but to join the group of bandits. When he joins up with the bandits, he changes his name to his mother’s milk name for him of Hummingbird. Meanwhile, Gamine reluctantly falls in with a con man as they turn their tricks to survive. Gamine and the con-man form a religious scam, and this is when she is renamed as Iron Jaw. Gamine and Huang are eventually thrown together and lead a movement to overthrow the corrupt government of the Celestial Empire. The author’s inspiration for this story comes from the Boxer Rebellion, an uprising that occurred in China at the turn of the 20th century. This book may attract historical fiction lovers who what to venture into the science fiction genre. Readers fond of the martial arts may be interested in this book but would do better somewhere else. The book has an attempted rape scene and the slight sexual relationship with the lead characters pushes the age level up to high school.

H.S. Patrick Ness’s coming of age novel, grabs you from the first sentence. Todd Hewitt is 12 years and 12 months old and will become a man in one month. He lives in the settlement of Prentisstown, on the planet of New World, where he is the last boy to become a man. People from the Old World came to this planet to colonize it in hope of creating a new society of peace, a world that is clean, simple and honest. But when Todd’s parents and others arrived to the New World, the people got infected with a germ that allowed them to hear each other’s thoughts, that animals can talk, and that men could not hear what women were thinking. The settlers called this telepathy the Noise. War broke out between the settlers and the natives, called the Spackle, where the settlers won. But the germ that infected the people killed all the women. A month before Todd is to turn 13, his guardians, Ben and Cillian, force him to flee, after he discovers a hole in the Noise. His guardians realize that Todd is in danger and needs to escape before learning the truth about his town. On his travels Todd meets up with Viola, the first girl he’s every seen, after her colony spaceship crashes. Together they must run from the men of Prentisstown, who are creating an army to take over the settlements in the New World. Throughout the book, the Noise is represented by large bold print to distinguish it from the narration. The story is told in a sort of pidgin of English with comical moments between Todd and his talking dog. This is the first book in the trilogy, Chaos Walking, which pierces into how societies have much influence on our youth and what can go terribly wrong. A fascinating book into the psychological and sociological impact of mental telepathy on people. The book ends with an unexpected cliffhanger that attacks your inner core. Starred in Publishers Weekly, Kliatt and Booklist.

E.S.
Eric Dooley is like the fox in the old fable “The Fox and the Grapes”, he has decided that the water has spit in it, is too cold, a baby has peed and his sister’s dive will cause a tsunami. He is making himself feel better since he will not put even a toe in the water. He gives up his swimming lessons to his sister, stays on the lounge chair and gets freckles, but nothing will make him go in the water. Until one day in late August when it was so hot that he tried the baby pool and saw how cool his toes became. He ventured to the ladder of the big pool and after his mom pried him off and got him all wet Eric was refreshed and ready to swim. He took lessons and they couldn’t get him out of the pool so it could close for the season. A story for those afraid of the water. Perfect for a child off to swim camp for the first time.
 

What rhymes with “ Look out! Here comes a big scary monster with a broom!” ? Nothing really, as dust bunny Ned points out to his seemingly rhyme challenged friend Bob. As three of the four dust bunnies happily chant rhyming words, Bob is the only one aware of the impending threat. By the time the oblivious creatures really listen to their friend it is too late - or is it? One can only hope that the author allows these charmingly goofy characters to escape from the vacuum and continue their free wheeling fun in another adventure. The playful text and boldly colored illustrations pack a great deal of silly fun into this book. It begs to be read aloud!

E.S.
Publishers Weekly calls this "Quirky, playful and altogether inviting.", but I am not so sure. Lovey and Dovey are in prison for stealing a pair of socks. Their dungeon is quite dismal, but Dovey is able to sneak out at night to bring back gifts for his beloved: the sun and moon, an apple tree, birds and joyful mice. Disaster strikes when they are released from their now cozy cell. To solve the problem, the loving couple go immediately to a sock shop and steal another pair of socks. The happy ending shows them joyfully imprisoned again. I was not charmed by the illustrations or the message. If it is pretty, steal it. T

P.S.
An amusing "Daddy-Daughter" Story which will engage boys as well as girls. When Daddy tucks Daisy in at the end of the day, the two of them imagine how it would be if they switched places. In this imaginary sequence, Daddy is dressed in a pink tutu, put in a stroller for a walk, and given a bath. Daughter Daisy does the housework, carries Daddy around by Piggy-back and tucks Daddy in at night. Babette Cole's watercolor and ink illustrations are just perfect for this story. The only part of the book which did not work for me was the very end..."Daisy looked at her dad. She said, 'Dad, if I were you and you were me...I think I'd rather still be me!'." That just seemed like a very pat and uninspired way to end an otherwise light hearted and entertaining book.

E.S. Pucca's father was a cup maker. His business was failing since all of the town had purchase his special, colorful cups. Pucca's dad went to search for new customers. While away, Pucca decided to help his dad by making new specialty cups the likeness of the people in their own town. He made a parrot cup for Ms. Parrot. She was so excited with the cup that she told the town about it. Pucca was encouraged to make cups for all in the town. When Pucca's dad returned he was so thrilled with Pucca's creativity that they continued to make many different specialty cups.
I was concerned that the father would leave a "little" penguin by himself to search for more business but Pucca was ingenious and was able to fend for himself. I don't think children reading this book will be concerned about this though. There is no cup just right for me, unless I want an animal cup.
The illustrations were so sweet. The animals, even though they walked and dressed like humans, were realistic in their coloring.

E.S. During the Civil War in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Lucy and her family are forced to move into a cave for protection. They are living with other families from their town during this scary time. Lucy has lived in luxury and now she must share space, food, and the injustice of having to live with the Reverend's daughter, Liddy. Lucy is bothered by most everything Liddy does. It takes a while for Lucy to understand the terrible danger they are all facing. She has to make the best of a terrible situation. Lucy does a great deal of growing up during this time.
Even though this is a historical fiction book, little is explained in the text about the slaves. Lucy does not learn anything about her neighbors in the cave. She only talks to and is bothered by Liddy.

E.S. Buck, a deer, finds a 7 leaf clover and decides to give it to his best friend, Sparklehart. He tells him that it is for him and "no one else" but Sparklehart doesn't hear this last part. They go and find more 7 leaf clovers. Sparkle decides to give them to other does, saying this is for you "and no one else". The does find him out and are very upset. Buck can't understand why Sparkle would give his gift away making up that he found it and not Buck. Then Buck finds a 12 leaf clover. This time there is only one and he again gives it to Sparkle. But this time he says loud and clear this is for you "and no one else". Sparkle gets it this time realizing that Buck wants him to have this special gift.
I didn't think this book made any sense at all. It showed insensitivity and I don't think the children reading or listening to the story will enjoy it. I don't think Buck was very smart to give Sparkle the 12 leaf clover. You can just be stepped on so many times.

E..S. Jenny's cat Munchkin has got to go! Her little brother has developed severe asthma and the cat is causing his wheezing. Jenny is not very happy with the prospect of giving her cat away but she must do what she must to do. His first two homes don't work out. She brings him to school to be the classroom cat. She hopes that he will become the school cat. He does get into some trouble but since he also controls the mouse population he gets to stay.
The underlying theme of this book is how to write an article and put a classroom newspaper together. The children who read this book won't even realize that this is a language arts lesson! I loved this book! I don't agree with the Fry Scale though. I think it should be higher.

In the opening chapter, 16-year-old Camelia almost gets hit by a speeding car in the high school parking lot, but is saved in the nick of time by Ben, a boy whose touch feels magical. She can’t get him out of her mind, but in Chemistry class, where he is her lab partner, he remains distant. (Does this all sound vaguely familiar?) Then one day, Camelia opens an envelope that had been left in her mailbox, and it contains a photograph of her, taken at school, with a big red heart drawn around it. Who is her mysterious admirer? Camelia’s first-person narration is interrupted occasionally by hand-written musings of the secret admirer. His thoughts, and his messages to her, grow darker and more dangerous as the story unfolds. Is it her friend, Wes? Or is it Spencer, Camelia’s friendly but somewhat creepy boss and substitute art teacher? Or Matt, the ex-boyfriend who claims that he’s moved on to another relationship? Or could it be Ben, who saved Camelia’s life and does finally pursue a relationship with her, but allegedly killed his last girlfriend by shoving her off a cliff? To make matters more puzzling, Ben insists that he experiences psychometry: he can “sense things through touch,” and he knows that Camelia is in danger of being killed. Whom can she trust?
With stilted dialogue, outdated slang, a superficial romance and improbable occurrences (such as a 16-year-old future fashion designer who stuffs her bra with tissues), Stolarz doesn’t always successfully capture the voice or characteristics of contemporary students. Pass on this one, unless the author has a devoted following at your library.
 

H.S. Elena Yates Eulo creates a modern-day “Cinderella Story” for boys in her novel The Great Receiver. Joey Eastland, the protagonist, is a fifteen-year old sophomore at his high school in Canton, Ohio. Joey dreams of becoming a star on the school’s football team, but fails to make the team during try-outs. However, Joey is so eager to be apart of the team that gladly accepts the role of “hydration therapist” in order to be apart of the sport he loves so much. Despite Joey’s devotion to the team he is constantly rejected by the popular kids especially, Cam, the school’s star quarterback. Joey desperately yearns to be a member of the popular loop and constantly tries to impress the popular kids to no avail. Samantha, Joey’s best friend, acts as a muse to him helping him through the obstacles of being a teenager. Joey’s luck turns around for the better when the coach of the football teams discovers that Joey has a natural talent for the sport and allows him to try-out again. Joey is successful in his second try-out and he lands the position of wide receiver. Joey is optimistic that his life will turn around for the better however, he faces many obstacles in his new found role of stardom. He struggles with balancing school work and football practice, learning how to be comfortable with who he is, and discovering who his real friends are. Authority figures such as Joey’s English teacher and coach act as staples in Joey’s life to help keep him in check. This novel is set as a coming of age story that all young-adults can relate to. Joey rises to the occasion as he leads his team to victory as well as tackling his own personal obstacles. Booklist, Kirkus and SLJ give the book a positive review.

ES/MS
David McLimans won a Caldecott Honor for his book Gone Wild: An Endangered Animal Alphabet. Here he uses his same style of striking illustrations in a counting book. For the numbers 1 through 10, and then again for 10 through 1, he shapes an ocean animal into the number and provides a brief set of facts about the animal: it’s common name, Latin name, class, habitat, aquatic regions, threats, and status. The status of each animal can be one of the following: endangered, not officially endangered, vulnerable, no longer endangered, or protected by a government act. In the middle of the book is a list of Ocean Facts by the Numbers. Again the numbers are illustrated to look like ocean animals and some of the facts are startling, such as: “Plastic waste kills up to 1 million seabirds every year” and “People slaughter up to 100 million sharks each year.” Finally, a section at the end of the book called “Diving Deeper” gives a more thorough description of each of the animals portrayed in the book. Websites for organizations that help the oceans as well as a list of books for further reading are also provided. The information provided in the book as well as the vast array of animals described is very intriguing; but what stands out are McLimans’ remarkable illustrations with his use of just black, white, and a deep bright blue.
BOOKLIST, SLJ, LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION, KIRKUS: RECOMMENDED

ES
Jane Belk Moncure’s Sound Box series from the 1970s has been updated with illustrations by Rebecca Thornbugh. In the “m” book, Little “m” is looking for things that begin with “m” to put in his box. He finds monkeys and puts them in the box. He then finds mice and puts them in the box, but the monkeys then get mad and jump out of the box and up a mountain. The story continues with Little “m” encountering many other “m” words along the way. Above each “m” word is an illustration of that word, making it easier for children to decode the words. After the story is a list of all the “m” words found in the book and another list of additional “m” words. Finally, the author provides two rhyming activities at the end of the book (not necessarily with “m” words). This series continues to be beneficial for beginning readers learning their beginning sounds.
SLJ: RECOMMENDED

ES
The Easter Bunny Blues is a beginning chapter book with four chapters in all. Two dogs, Old Jack and Petey find out that the Easter Bunny is sick with the flu, and also has the blues, with Easter being only a week away. They develop a plan to help the Easter Bunny out to ensure that children aren’t disappointed on Easter Day. They ask the ducks and the chickens to bring all their eggs. The squirrels will paint the eggs with their “paintbrush” tails. Birds, deer, and rabbits help distribute the eggs and baskets to other meadows. With just one night left before Easter, and all the animals working as fast as they can, they are still not sure they can finish the job. Suddenly the Easter Bunny arrives, all better from the flu and the blues. He thanks the animals for all their help, finishes the job in a flash by magically creating numerous baskets filled with Easter surprises. He finishes the final deliveries and provides special treats for all his helpers: corn and birdseed for the birds, ducks, and chickens, acorns for the squirrels, and bones for the dogs. This is a cute story for beginning readers who will also enjoy the illustrations.
BOOKLIST, SLJ: RECOMMENDED
KIRKUS: NOT RECOMMENDED

General Reading Level: M.S.

Short Synopsis or Review (to be read at meeting):

This book is definitely a “second of three” book in that the characters are already established to the author, but take some further time to be known by the reader unfamiliar with the first book. Also, the ending really isn’t (an ending), as the protagonist prepares to embark on a journey that will presumably end after the next book.

Set in a medievalesque kingdom of a different civilization, Sword of Waters takes its name from the mythical sword which the young Arisa is assigned to rediscover. She and her friends (including the young prince), while negotiating their new friendships, uncover the whispers of a plot to discredit not only Arisa, but her powerful mother and possibly the regent and prince. Using her brains as much as her revolution-learned skills, aided by a mystic card game (something like tarot), the heroine discovers that the truth of the kingdom’s larger political situation is more complex than she imagined. The intrigue hits close-to-home when she learns that the person she trusts the most has on the agenda a brazen and treacherous grab for power.

While an enjoyable enough story, the through processes of the main character seem a bit erratic and the logical jumps may be a bit far-fetched at times. However, fans of the first book will undoubtedly enjoy this story as it follows Arisa through her attempts to adjust to new circumstances. The next book will undoubtedly see her face her biggest and most difficult challenge as she confronts the traitor she pursues at the close of Sword of Waters.

Recommend as “additional purchase” if book one is in collection.

--KM
 

Reading Level: M.S.

Merlin’s Dragon is a “prequel” to The Great Tree of Avalon and Merlin’s Lost Years. The “dragon” is actually a strange, bat-like creature with something of an identity crisis. Named Basil, he has an amazing array of (mis)adventures on his way to warning the wizard Merlin about the impending doom of Avalon.

While Barrow undoubtedly has a fan-base to support this novel (he’s authored The Great Tree of Avalon trilogy, as well as the Lost Years of Merlin trilogy), this reviewer found the book an impossible first-read. Fans of Barrow’s fantasy world will have no trouble filling-in-the-gaps and placing the dizzying array of characters in a proper setting. However, to the uninitiated, there was little background or context with which to imagine the fantastic creatures introduced. The action was often listed, more than described, the dialog rather stiff, and, while there is much to commend the book scattered throughout (interesting quotes, characters, etc.), I must admit I didn’t finish the story; it was too laborious.

It is sardonically said, “the best trilogies come in threes.” However, I’m not sure having two more of this trilogy would prove useful in capturing the full potential of the author’s imaginary world. While I’m confident that those who have invested in The Great Tree of Avalon series will reap rewards from Merlin’s Dragon (and will also thoroughly ingest the assumed two other books coming for Merlin’s Dragon trilogy) this is not the place to start the reader’s adventures in Avalon even though this is the first of the specific trilogy.

Recommendation: additional purchase; recommend if collection includes Barrow’s other fantasy works.
 

This is a funny story involving a misunderstanding that arises when a new student—a girl named Lark Alice Bell--joins Andy Shane’s class. Much to long-time friend Dolores Starbuckle’s dismay, and Andy’s embarrassment, Andy is assigned by his teacher to be Lark’s helper. Andy and Lark are fast friends—especially when Andy learns that Lark’s Labrador Retriever just had puppies! Other students begin to tease Andy for his apparent attachment to the NEW GIRL (Lark Alice Bell)…and Dolores begins to feel jealous when she sees Andy doodling hearts with the initials “LAB”! Grandma allows a puppy into the house, so Andy celebrates and has fun in the snow with Lark…but Dolores really feels left out in the cold! Soon enough, Dolores meets the real LAB puppy, and a true trio of friends is formed between Andy, Lark, and Dolores. The large font implies it would be suitable for a beginner reader, however some of the vocabulary may be beyond the scope of a beginner.

E.S. This is a delightful book about unbelievable, incredible, edible, recipes made with extraordinary, sometimes indigestible and unrecognizable foods. Madeleine must work in her uncles restaurant every summer. Her parents think this is a vacation for her. Her uncle Lard, keeps her working in the kitchen washing dishes. His  restaurant’s food is not good but he is a favorite of some very important people. While roaming the city streets at night looking to buy some pate Madeleine stumbles into Madame Pamplemousse's shop. It is incredible- dark, scary, and lurking around the corner is a white cat. This is a magical place. Madeleine is given a pate that Madame Pamplemousse says to give time before tasting. Uncle Lard forms a plan to get Madeleine to spy on the Madame to get the recipe-It will make him rich.
I loved this book. There was excitement around every page. The pen and ink illustrations made me laugh. There were just enough to inspire the imagination of the reader.
 

E.S. Patricia McKissack has written another in her series of Scraps of Time. Cousins, Trey, Aggie and Mattie Rae, find things in the attic belonging to their family from the past. This time they found a base ball signed by Josh Gibson and some of the players on the Negro Baseball League. They also found a picture of the "Homestead Grays", a Negro League team.
Jimbo and Tank were brothers living during the depression in 1937. This was also the time that there was a separate baseball league for white players and African Americans. Jimbo and Tank had recently moved into a house in Nashville, Tennessee. They had an empty bedroom in their house that their parents let Josh Gibson, the famous baseball player, use while his team was playing in town. The boys learned a great deal from Josh Gibson.
The boys had been caught watching baseball games under the bleachers. Their punishment was to work on the "chain gang" at the baseball park cleaning up after games. The manager of the team helped them begin a baseball team for African American boys.
 

MS Kate is 12-year-old Mini's best friend and her sister. She cannot imagine anything they cannot share. Kate is particularly adept at helping Mini survive their parents loud arguments. When Kate uncharacteristically is 3 1/2 hours late after school without warning anyone, Mini is both hurt and curious. Although they are more than three years apart, their closeness extends to hours of extended make-believe traveling. Kate is struggling with knowledge that has never been shared with Mini and when Kate disappears Mini demands answers from their mother who reveals Kate's adoption which occurred before Mini was born. The unraveling of the mystery of Kate's location when she has run away strains credulity as Mini works from the only clue she has, a single pebble.

MS Veteran mystery-writer Kehret has added to her publications a novel about the kidnapping of a babysitter and her charge. Amy has taken the training course and is recommended by her teacher as a substitute for Kendra's nanny when her mother needs to go out. Kendra is a delight and Amy is delighted to be trusted. Then Kendra is gone from her bedroom and Amy knows there is a problem because Kendra's stuffed cat has been left behind. As she races to the driveway with the toy the kidnappers see Amy and she is also taken. The scene shifts to the car where Amy tries to calm Kendra and the two men discuss their plan to demand ransom from Kendra's parents as they provide daily videos indicating her health. Showing remarkable and very mature thinking for a 14 year old Amy plots to send clues to their whereabouts in each video. These eventually lead to rescue but only after Amy has the kidnappers fighting over the single gun as she drives their stolen vehicle away. Adults will see the problem with this, but younger readers always love a strong kid who comes to the rescue. SLJ calls this a realistic thriller.

M.S. In the wake of the death of their mother, three brothers are taken by their father aboard a well-used sailboat for an adventure he believes will help them all work through their grief. The problem is that the boys, particularly the eldest, Ben, do not want to do this. When his father injures his hand, Ben becomes the one responsible for the trip's completion, but he resents every minute. When their father disappears and their locating device is also missing, Ben fears that he cannot bring his brothers to safety. The tension mounts as a storm with forty-foot swells swamps the small sailboat and they are wrecked on an island with only their wits for company. Ben is amazing and the survival story will hook readers in spite of the technical sailing information which can seem overwhelming. A seventh grader who is a sailing enthusiast loved the story. SLJ calls it engrossing and suspenseful.

H.S.
Sixteen-year-old Albert Kim is a second generation Korean American whose parents have moved him twice at crucial times in his life, first when he was entering middle school and then again as he was entering high school. Albert considers himself an outsider and a loser and has decided to not even try to fit in at school. In the summer before his junior year, Albert gets a job at the Bern Inn where he meets the uber popular Mia Stone. Mia needs the job to take her mind off of her recent breakup with the most popular boy at Bern High, Ryan Stackhouse. Mia and nerdy Albert hit it off but when school starts again in September the trouble begins. Ryan is diagnosed with cancer and Mia feels that she needs to be at his beck-and-call. Albert lets his insecurities get the best of him and matters go from bad to worse. There are times that Albert’s character is funny but for the most part this novel is predictable and unbelievable. I would make it an ancillary purchase.

Gatty is a fifteen-year-old field hand first introduced in Crossley-Holland’s Arthur trilogy. Arthur is off on the Crusades and no one seems to know what to do with Gatty. She is illiterate and has poor hygiene but she is bright and wise beyond her years though impetuous. She also has a lovely singing voice. Gatty is sent to a neighboring village to become the second chamber-servant of the Lady Gwyneth, a troubled soul who feels she needs to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to be forgiven her sins. Lady Gwyneth, Gatty and seven others make up the group of pilgrims who are to travel to Jerusalem during this tale set in the Thirteenth century. The pilgrims encounter a myriad of adventures which all enable Gatty a truly loveable and memorable character to grow into a remarkable young women. This novel is an interesting look at a period in history that many young people today are unfamiliar with and it will draw them to want to learn more a bout this interesting period of time. This may help them to understand a little bit about what is happening in the Holy Land today.

High School junior, Chan Shealey, is a good student and a majorette with a full life that includes a devoted best friend, two caring parents (each with their own struggles), and an aggravating, precocious 8 year old sister. What Chan wants more than anything is an understanding boyfriend and someone who doesn't know about her disastrous relationship the previous year with a high school football player (from whom she contracted herpes). To achieve this she seeks an online relationship and finds it in Paul aka KnightHawk859. Chan keeps her online chats with Paul secret and in time the situation propels her to begin to give in to some of Paul’s potentially harmful ideas. This story is a reminder as to how dangerous Internet predators can be and how a lively goodhearted teenager can get mixed up in something harmful and unsavory to both her and her family. Realistic contemporary dialog and a good mixture of interesting characters enhance the book’s message. High interest possibly for grades 10 and 11..

Starred review in BL. This book is a collection of short stories that are derived in part from the classic ghost story “Kerfol” written by author Edith Wharton. What this author here, Noyes, has done is begin with her own version of Wharton's “Kerfol” that refers back in time to the 1600s. Each subsequent story in this work then takes place at the Kerfol estate and moves forward in time ending with a story that occurs in 2006. The sad history of Kerfol and the people who live and visit it are affected by what happened in the 1600s, keeping alive the legend that the place is haunted. Both a work of historical fiction as the short stories move through the centuries and a collection of ghost stories, this book is unique and worth reading for young adults interested in either of these genres. May be a hard sell but worth it in the long run for a serious reader.
 

M.S. - Violet Raines loves her life. She loves going to the weekly fish fry at her best friend Lottie’s house and she loves collecting BrainFreeze cups with Eddie. Everything changes when Melissa moves into town from Detroit. With Melissa’s arrival, Lottie, is now becoming interested in make up and soap operas and not as interested in exploring the outdoors and looking for alligators like she used to. Also, her feelings for Eddie have changed. All of this happens the summer before she enters junior high. Does Violet want to remain a child or is she ready to enter into adolescence? This is an enjoyable, fast read that kids will enjoy reading.

H.S. - In this remarkable true story, we learn what happens to a family after their police officer father is shot in an attempt to kill him. The story is told from the point of view of the daughter, Cylin and the father, John. Cylin was 9 years old when her father, a police officer in Cape Cod, was shot in the face on his way to work. Though he was not killed, he was permanently disfigured and disabled. The family was put under 24 hour a day watch and eventually had to be secretly relocated to Tennessee. The book tells what happens when your life is forever changed by a horrific event. Even though I was not able to put this book down, I do not think that it will find a place on my shelves. There is very strong language used when the father is recounting his story. I think that it would be better suited for a high school library.

M.S. H.S.
This book includes an appendix, a time line, notes, bibliography, and an index.
A little known eighteenth-century naturalist, Steller explored and cataloged the wildlife and people of Siberia. He then joined an expedition and reached Alaska, one of the last uncharted areas in the world. At 37 he died of "the fever". Steller was an amazing man who produced an incredible amount of information. Unfortunately, this book also produces a lot of information, an overwhelming amount of information. Although Title Wave gives the interest level as grades 5-8, I would be hard pressed to find an eighth grader who would bother with a book that becomes a dry recital of fact after fact after fact. An encyclopedia entry would easily save one the trouble of reading this book.

E.S.
When the mayor of Hamlin refused to pay the Pied Piper for ridding the town of rats, the Pied Piper enchanted the town's children and spirited them away. This book explains why the Piper wanted the children and what happened next. He leads them under Hamelin Hill and out the other side into Elvendale, an idyllic enchanted place where elves live. The Piper is such an elf, but cursed for centuries for killing a stag in a forbidden forest. Each full moon, he bleeds afresh from a long-healed thigh wound and morphs into a bloodthirsty Beast. He steals Hamlin's children in the hopes of passing his curse along to an unknown special child with elven powers. As interesting as the plot line is, it suffers because it suffers from multiple points of view giving it a disjointed feeling. For avid fantasy readers only.

E.S.
Humble seamstress Anabel's dream of sewing a princess's ball gown is finally about to come true--until a Hinky-Pink, a mysterious, seemingly invisible creature begins robbing her of sleep night after night. The nursemaid advises her to make the Hinky-Pink a bed of its own. After many unsuccessful attempts, Anabel fashions a tiny bed from her silver thimble, and the Hinky-Pink hums happily. Based on Margery Bailey's tale, The Bed Just So, Floca’s ink-and-watercolor images enhance the retelling of this tale with warm Tuscan colors and lots of detail. Girls who love princess stories will adore this lively tale.

Simple text and photographs provide an introduction to taking care of a pet turtle, discussing food, safety, needs, and dangers and including fun facts, a glossary, and a list of related resources. The editorial notes state that "these books are intended to provide a kid-friendly supplement to more detailed information adults need to know about choosing and caring for different types of pets." The photographs are fabulous and the writing is clear and concise and uses age-appropriate vocabulary. Part of the series Pet Care for Kids, other volumes include Cats, Dogs, Fish, Hamsters, Hermit Crabs, Lizards, and Parakeets. An excellent choice for the younger reader.

MS Cecilia has been raised and trained to believe that she is the true princess of the realm who has been hidden away to protect her from the people who murdered her parents. To avoid capture by these plotters, she travels to the capital city with her best friend, Harper whose mother has tried to turn him into a harper in order to avoid being forced into the army. Once there, they are held by the dummy princess Desmia who also thinks she is the true princess. And down in the dungeon are 11 more "true princesses". Further on in the story Ella Brown, the Cinderella figure from Just Ella lends a hand to sort things out. This is an exciting funny adventure with many tangled identities and twists along the way. Light hearted, it should appeal to most tweens and teen aged girls.

HS This is a highly revisionist history of King Arthur, definitely NOT for the romantic. Arthur is NO hero, here. He rough, crude, even brutal and not very smart. Merlin, here called Myrddin, has created his image, selling Arthur to the populace as noble, strong, and worthy of being king. It is Myrddin's skills as a storyteller and song singer that have made Arthur so attractive. This is not however Arthur's story. It is Gwynna's. Gwynna, about 9 at the beginning story has been spotted by Myrddin as she swims underwater to escape Arthur's marauders. Using her talent at holding her breath, Myrddin has her portray the Lady of the Lake and give Arthur his sword. Even Arthur believes this is true. Later Myrddin disguises her as his boy apprentice and when she grows too old to pull that off, puts her in Gwenhwyfar's household as a spy . There everyone thinks she is the boy apprentice's half sister. She grows up trusting no one, and somewhat confused at about her sexual role. No matter what her position, she always provides an interesting view of medieval history. All the usual sources give this starred reviews.

MS, HS. This is a fantasy-science fiction, satire of British colonialism and genre fiction. While the Mumby family prepares to celebrate Christmas, their house is invaded by a Christmas Pudding worm which eats and destroys everything and a odious government official who tries to keep everyone else on his idea of the true way. A distress signal comes in from Uranus and the family speeds across to Georgium Sidus (you know it as Uranus) to rescue a kidnapped missionary and his daughter from the evil Shaper (creator of worlds) and her giant moths and their lizard-like riders, the Snilth whose goal is to take over the British empire. It must be mentioned that Mrs. Mumby is also a Shaper, the one who formed our solar system and it is her power as an alchemist among other things that enables them to travel so rapidly. Art and his very prissy sister Myrtle tell the story in alternating chapter, always sniping at each other. Jack Havock, Myrtle's ex-pirate boy friend and his flying ship definitely also helps move things along. One unbelievable adventure follows another til everyone ends up in Buckingham Palace to rescue Queen Victoria. Comic drawings capture the spirit of this once and future Victorian world. This is sure to please readers of the previous two adventures, Larklight and Starcross. And there's certainly room for another adventure to follow.

Based on Little Red Riding Hood, the Tortuga (turtle) brings "ensalada, tamales, and flan" to his grandmother. His friends, Iguana, Culebra (snake), and Coneja (rabbit), join him envisioning a wonderful meal. However, Coyote has other plans. Disguised as grandmother (abuela), he tries to dupe Tortuga. Tortuga marvels at abuela's big orejas, ojos, and dientes. Tortuga's amigo come to the rescue and before long Coyote is out the door. As in Red Riding Hood, all is well that ends well.
Wonderful illustrations enhance the story, and the repetition should help children learn a few new words in Spanish.
Recommended.
 

Wonderful photographs will draw readers into this informative book on spiderlings. The differences between insects and arachnids are discussed, as is the life cycle of the spider. Readers are introduced to how mothers protect their eggs and babies. The final pages of the book include a map that illustrates where each spider discussed in the book is found. This also serves as an index as page numbers are given for each. A glossary of terms is provided and linked to the text with the page numbers for each term included.
This book will make an excellent addition to any science section. Children will be intrigued by the pictures and will learn many facts from reading.
 

E.S.
This addition to the Presidents of the U.S.A. series published by Child's World focuses on the newest president, Barack Obama. Four chapters are included which chronicle his life from his multicultural childhood to the present. Also included are a time line, glossary, information on how a president is elected, information about the White House, a very interesting section on Presidential Perks (Air Force One, Camp David, Presidential car, food, and retirement), and a list of facts. An index is also included.
Recommended for those libraries that have the series, or for those needing a book on Obama with information about the presidency.
 

H.S. School Library Journal calls this "a side-splitting slice of male adolescence" and "a must have" and I wholeheartedly agree. Mitchell is in the eleventh grade and has jeopardized his English grade by turning in a violent, inappropriate Claymation film. His best friend, David, reveals he is gay but does not tell anyone beside Mitchell so they agree to be set up with prom dates. Then a popular girl in school must go out with Mitchell and he now has two dates for the prom. This is a witty and humorous story by an author who clearly understands how teen boys think and speak. There is your typical talk about drinking and there are many sexual references but all very realistic and nothing that wouldn't be experienced in a high school setting. Your male audience will certainly enjoy this slice of teen life.

E. S. Orville and Wilbur Riot are back in their fourth installment. It’s the first day of summer vacation, and Wilbur is thrilled. But then he and younger brother Orville find out that their girl cousin from Kansas, Amelia E. Hart, will be coming to stay for a few days. Is she boring or funny? Does she do any tricks? Is she the kind of cousin they’ll like? Turns out, Amelia has a fake snake, so she’s just the right kind of cousin! She joins in their mission to make something exciting happen every day. Together, they solve a mystery involving the shed door and missing gloves, they find a lost mummy, and they have fun at a water park of their own creation. These kids are laugh-out-loud funny, and, even better, they really do create their own excitement. They devise games to play and rules for living, and there is nary an electrical or electronic device in sight. A bonus section includes the rules for the games played in the boo k, five of their new rules for living, the oath and secret handshake (“Practice this so you can do it to a fast rhythm and you’ll look cool”), and some funny songs with scores.

M.S./H.S. In the opening chapter, 16-year-old Camelia almost gets hit by a speeding car in the high school parking lot, but is saved in the nick of time by Ben, a boy whose touch feels magical. She can’t get him out of her mind, but in Chemistry class, where he is her lab partner, he remains distant. (Does this all sound vaguely familiar?) Then one day, Camelia opens an envelope that had been left in her mailbox, and it contains a photograph of her, taken at school, with a big red heart drawn around it. Who is her mysterious admirer? Camelia’s first-person narration is interrupted occasionally by hand-written musings of the secret admirer. His thoughts, and his messages to her, grow darker and more dangerous as the story unfolds. Is it her friend, Wes? Or is it Spencer, Camelia’s friendly but somewhat creepy boss and substitute art teacher? Or Matt, the ex-boyfriend who claims that he’s moved on to another relationship? Or could it be Ben, who saved Camelia’s life and does finally pursue a relationship with her, but allegedly killed his last girlfriend by shoving her off a cliff? To make matters more puzzling, Ben insists that he experiences psychometry: he can “sense things through touch,” and he knows that Camelia is in danger of being killed. Whom can she trust?
With stilted dialogue, outdated slang, a superficial romance and improbable occurrences (such as a 16-year-old future fashion designer who stuffs her bra with tissues), Stolarz doesn’t always successfully capture the voice or characteristics of contemporary students. Pass on this one, unless the author has a devoted following at your library.
 

H.S. We have here another Horatio Wilkes mystery. In this tale, which is a take on Macbeth, Horatio is at a Scottish Highland fair in present day Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Duncan MacRae is found dead in his tent and ala Macbeth, all signs point to Duncan's son as the murderer. It is up to Horatio to sort everything out and save his friends from a road-side psychic. Readers will enjoy seeing how the story parallels the Shakespearian play. A witty and humorous story but there is violence and sexual references. Horatio narrates as a mature private detective which may be a distraction for some readers. I believe fans of this teen detective will find another exciting read.

MS & ES
+Horn Book (Spring 2009) "succinct... stirring photographs..."
*Kirkus Review starred (Oct1, 2008) "compelling portraits... overall message... haven't lost their hope..."
+School Library Journal (Dec 1,2008) "timely, relevant, and well-executed offering."
This book is a photo introduction to Afghan teens and their feelings. An introduction explains that this was Sullivan's first trip to the area, whereas, O'Brien had been here before on assignment for Life magazine. O'Brien found a new sense of hope in 2004 showing in many Afghans. In 2008 however, things were changing. They decided to interview kids between 8 - 15 years. This is a record of the comments made by the children; each also has a photo, age, and the area where the photo was taken. There is a range of socio-economic conditions in which the children live. But the interesting thing is that most of them wish to go to school and get an education, as they see this is the key to their futures. Many of them also spend a good portion of their days working, and not at easy jobs. The photos are an excellent part of this book. They show the kids where they "live" and often with their families. The thoughts are another amazing part of the book. This is a very interesting look a t the world through other eyes. This book should be in most libraries and tied with geography lessons but also lessons about how fortunate we are to be living in America. High recommend/Outstanding

E.S.
Twin sisters Natalie and Naughtily live at the top of a department store owned by their family. The girls are both headstrong and always want the opposite thing. One rainy day they are left a note from their parents asking them not to play in to store today. The girls decide that they will help in the store today instead. Thus, begins a tour of every floor with each girl acting in opposition to the other. For example, on the fourth floor, Natalie sold two coats for the price of one and Naughtily sold one for the price of two. Each floor visited includes some sort of help from the twins until finally Mr. Iceberger, the store manager asks them to go all the way upstairs and stop helping. It is a cute story, but the illustrations are very busy and overwhelming.
 

E.S.
This book reminded me of a summer night when I was about 5 or 6 years old and my cousin made my sister and I a space ship out of a box and a lot of foil. It is just this premise in A Mighty Fine Time Machine by Suzanne Bloom, the animals make a time machine out of a box. However, the book will surprise you. Despite the dials and maps, bells and whistles the animals add to the box it does not go anywhere. It is not until, and here’s the surprise, they turn it into a book mobile that it finally works. We all know that books can take you everywhere and now the “time machine” is working! The illustrations are pleasing and add to this wonderful story. A great book to read before the book fair.
 

MS
* Booklist starred (9/15/08) "a tribute... wide territory...fascinating photographs..."
P Kirkus Review (9/1/08) "extraordinary images of Lincoln and the era... essential purchase"
P+ Library Media Connection (Jan/Feb 2009) "outstanding biography... highly recommended"
P School Library Journal (10/1/08) "fascinating updated history... colorful anecdotes and quotes"
I read it all the minute I sat with the book. The photos, information, and quotes were indeed fascinating. This helps book certainly helps show the amazing man that Lincoln was. There is info about the events leading up to his becoming President, his family, his boys, the Civil War, and Emancipation Proclamation - all discussed. Each section/chapter starts with a Lincoln quote fitting the topic of the chapter - very interesting and personal. This book belongs in most libraries but perhaps the reference collection or professional area of the elementary school libraries. It is an excellent volume for introducing/discussing Lincoln during the month of February. Outstanding/Highly Recommended

MS--This adventuresome civil war tale tells about 13 year old African American cowboy Prometheus Jones and his 11 year old cousin who in 1876 join a cattle drive going from Tennessee to Texas. The motive for this excursion is to track down Prometheus’ father…as was his mother’s dying wish. Of course, a secondary motive is to flee town after a winning lottery ticket brings Prometheus trouble with the locals. He escapes trouble on his lottery prize: a horse. The multicultural cast includes Mexicans, Native American, African Americans, and white characters--and everyone is trying to get something from someone through lawful…but mostly UNLAWFUL methods! The action-packed story ends in Deadwood in the Dakota Territory, on a note that is sure to bring a sequel, as Prometheus learns that his father died while seeking freedom in Nashville, and now Prometheus must forge his own life.

 

ES--This is a funny story involving a misunderstanding that arises when a new student—a girl named Lark Alice Bell--joins Andy Shane’s class. Much to long-time friend Dolores Starbuckle’s dismay, and Andy’s embarrassment, Andy is assigned by his teacher to be Lark’s helper. Andy and Lark are fast friends—especially when Andy learns that Lark’s Labrador Retriever just had puppies! Other students begin to tease Andy for his apparent attachment to the NEW GIRL (Lark Alice Bell)…and Dolores begins to feel jealous when she sees Andy doodling hearts with the initials “LAB”! Grandma allows a puppy into the house, and Andy celebrates and has fun in the snow with Lark…but Dolores really feels left out in the cold! Soon enough, Dolores meets the real LAB puppy, and a true trio of friends is formed between Andy, Lark, and Dolores. The large font implies it would be suitable for a beginner reader, however some of the vocabulary may be beyond the scope of a beginner.

ES
P Booklist (2/1/09) "refreshing lack of sensationalism and sentimentality..."
P Kirkus Review (1/1/09) "detailed watercolors... clear text... brings readers into the journey..."
P School Library Journal (3/1/09) "informative and appealing... lovely book... more suitable for a read aloud than for reports..."
This book is a life journey of an armadillo family - leaving a crowded area with a dog predator and moving on to a new place. One bigger pup leaves and goes north - out of Texas and into Oklahoma. We learn some of the tricks that are used to escape predators. We follow this female around and learn much about armadillo behavior. The last 2-page spread gives information about the armadillo - their natural history; physical appearance; use for scientific research in the area of leprosy; a history of their northern migration thanks to pioneer farmers; and the habitat they need. The art work is colorful and appealing. This does not contain a lot of facts for a report but as an introduction or read aloud for both the animal or history of Texas and pioneers it has appeal. Recommended

ES This is a wonderful story about a dog and cat who survived Hurricane Katrina. Named the Two Bobbies because both their tails were bobbed, Bobby and BobCat wandered onto a construction site four months after the storm severely malnourished. Bobby still dragged a length of broken chain hanging from her collar. Wherever she went, BobCat followed at her feet. It was discovered this was because he was blind. While their history before the hurricane hit is unknown (no one came to claim them even after television coverage) , most agree BobCat would not have survived without Bobby. When separated at the shelter, Bobby continued to bark and whine until reunited with BobCat. This is a heartwarming story with a happy ending. They both now live in a loving home in Oregon. An afterword includes a photo of the two together.

E.S. Facts told in the style of a story make this an easy to read and very absorbing discussion about alligators and crocodiles. The book begins with a description of baby alligators hatching and the care alligator mothers give to their offspring. The history of crocodilians (alligators and crocodiles) is presented with emphasis on the fact that they have been around longer than the dinosaurs and are still here. The book goes on to describe 14 species of crocodiles and 7 species of alligators. A thorough explanation of the differences between the alligator and crocodile is presented as well as important information about the conservation of these animals. Although there are no photographs in this book the detailed drawings of the crocodilians help make these animals come alive for the reader. The realism of the artwork will draw in fans of the reptiles who will enjoy the book even if they are disappointed that there are drawings instead of photographs. It might be difficult to use this book for reasearch because of the lack of chapter headings and there is no index. This is the eighth book in Pringle's Strange and Wonderful animal series. It would make a great nonfiction read aloud. Both School Library Journal and Booklist also gave this book positive reviews.

M.S. Splattered with the sepia tones of old photgraphs, drawings and additonal fact boxes this book introduces the topics of slavery and the Underground Railroad describing them accurately, succinctly and clearly. The book begins with the definiton of what the Underground Railroad was, the history of slavery in the United States and how the Underground Railroad began. A diagram shows how the captive Africans were crammed into the ships that transported them across the Atlantic Ocean. Slave autions are described. The book goes on to discuss the workers on the Underground Railroad; the agents, stationmasters and the conductors. We also learn about some of the real people who filled those jobs, such as, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglas and Levi Coffin and his wife Catharine. Women dressing as men and children mailed in boxes were just some of the creativce ways slaves used to escape to freedom. William Still, a black man who was born fr ee, wrote down the stories of the Underground Railroad and they were published after the Emancipation Proclamation so we have true accounts of what really happened. The books ends with and account of the legal road to freedome for all from the time of the Civil War to the present. This is an informative, eye-opening book that is a riveting read. It is a marvelous introduction to understanding the impact of slavery and the Underground Railroad. A table of contents, time line, glossary, bibliography and index are included. This book is part of the Journey to Freedom series and has been updated from a previous edition.