Book Blog- Reviews of Children and Young Adult Literature by an Aspiring Librarian

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

2008-12-08T23:00:00.000-08:00

Grades: 5th-7th
Title: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Author: C.S. Lewis
Date: 1970
Genre: Classics

Description: Lucy, Susan, Edmund and Peter travel through a wardrobe and into the magical land of Narnia. In Narnia it is always winter but never Xmas, but the four weaken the power of the Evil Queen who rules the land. In an epic battle of good versus evil, the four with the help of Aslan triumph.

Themes: Good versus evil, Christian overtones, fantasy.

There's A Dragon In My Sleeping Bag

2008-12-08T22:53:00.000-08:00

Grade: Pre-school- 2nd
Title: There's A Dragon In My Sleeping Bag
Author: James Howe
Date: 1998
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Alex is jealous, when his brother Simon makes a special friend- Dexter the Dragon. Simon and Dexter begin doing everything together, so Simon becomes friends with Calvin the Camel. When Dexter and Calvin leave, the two brothers re-kindle their friendship.

Theme: Sharing, sibling rivalry, brothers.

Night of the Goat Children

2008-12-08T22:43:00.001-08:00

Grade: 1st-4th
Title: Night of the Goat Children
Author: J. Patrick Lewis
Date: 1999
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Beseiged by invaders, a princess devises a clever plan. She convinces the invaders that she is a powerful sorceress with the help of five children. The children pretend to be goats, under the spell of the "evil" princess. The clever plan saves the day and the invaders retreat.

Themes: Fairy tale, invasion.

The Jukebox Man

2008-12-08T22:36:00.001-08:00

Grade: 1st-3rd
Title: the Jukebox Man
Author: Jacqueline K. Ogburn
Date: 1998
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A young girl joins her grandfather on his rounds. Her grandfather owns and repairs jukeboxes and at each stop he lets her play a song. Its always Elvis' Blue Suede Shoes. At the end the two dance together to her favorite tune.

Themes: Music, grandfather and granddaughter relationship.

Chinatown

2008-12-08T22:31:00.003-08:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: Chinatown
Author: William Low
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A day in Chinatown. Describes tai-chi, the Chinese New Year and kung fu.

Themes: Multi-cultural, Chinatown.

Jamela's Dress

2008-12-08T21:50:00.000-08:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Jamela's Dress
Author: Niki Daly
Date: 1999
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Jamela loves the fabric her mama bought. She can't resist trying it on and showing off. But in the process the fabric is ruined. Luckily for Jamela, a friend comes to the rescue and replaces the fabric.

Themes: Multi-cultural, mother-daughter relationship.

Edward and the Pirates

2008-12-08T21:30:00.001-08:00

Grades: Pre-School- 3rd
Title: Edward and the Pirates
Author: David McPhail
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Books

Description: Edward checks out a book about pirates from the library. That night, pirates visit him demanding the book because they think it will lead them to their missing treasure. Edward refuses but relents and reads the story to them.

Themes: Pirates, fantasy, co-operation.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

2008-12-08T21:13:00.000-08:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 2nd
Title: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Author: Bill Martin, Jr.
Date: 1995
Genre: Picture Book

Description: One after the other animals observe each other. Finally you meet a teacher and her students. Rhyming book with illustrations by Eric Carle.

Theme: Rhyming Book, animals, identification.

Free Fall

2008-12-08T20:53:00.000-08:00

Grade: 2nd-5th
Title: Free Fall
Author: David Wiesner
Date: 1988
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A worldless picture book. A young boy dreams of a fantasy realm and finds remenants around him when he awakens.

Themes: Wordless picture book, fantasy, dreams.

Chica Chica Boom Boom

2008-12-08T20:22:00.001-08:00

Grades: Preschool- 2nd grade
Title: Chica Chica Boom Boom
Author: bill Martin Jr.
Date: 1989
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Charming rhyming alphabet book where alphabet letters climb trees.

Theme: Rhyming book, alphabet.

Let's Eat!

2008-12-08T20:05:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: Preschool-2nd
Title: Let's Eat!
Author: Ana Zamorano
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: One by one Antonio tries to gather his family together to enjoy his mama's wonderful meals. But everyone is always so very busy! It takes a new edition to the family to bring everyone together in celebration.

Themes: Family, food, multi-cultural.

Twilight

2008-12-08T19:55:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: 7th+
Title: Twilight
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Date: 2005
Genre: Horror

Description: Bella has a problem. Her boyfriend, is tall, dark and handsome. The kind of problem any teenage girl would like to have- now if he was only human! Bella and Edward struggle to define their relationship.

Themes: Vampires, first love, adolescence.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

2008-12-08T19:45:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: 3rd grade +
Title: The Tales of Beedle The Bard
Author: J.K. Rowling
Date: 2008
Genre: Fantasy

Description: Five short fairy tales, "translated" by Hermione Granger with "commentary" by Albus Dumbledore. The last installment of the Harry Potter series, the book includes The Tale of Three Brothers, first mentioned in the 7th book.

Themes: fairy tales, magic.

The Five Lost Aunts of Harriet Bean

2008-12-08T19:41:00.000-08:00

Grade: 2nd-4th
Title: the Five Lost Aunts of Harriet Bean
Author: Alexander McCall Smith
Date: 2006
Genre: Mystery/Suspense/Horror

Description: Harriet's father is really forgetful. He is so forgetful that he never told his daughter, Harriet that she has five aunts. So now she is going to find them!

Themes: Family.

Revenge of the Lawn Gnomes

2008-12-08T18:19:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: 5th-7th
Title: Revenge of the Lawn Gnomes
Author: R.L. Stine
Date: 1995
Genre: Horror

Description: Joe's dad collects lawn ornaments, but the family gets more than they bargained for when he brings home two lawn gnomes. The gnomes trick Joe and his sister, but Joe finally figures out how to stop the mischievous gnomes.

Themes: Sibling rivalry, friendship.

A Series of Unfortunate Events Book the First

2008-12-08T18:13:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: 5th-7th
Title: A Series of Unfortunate Events
Author: Lemony Snickett
Date: 1999
Genre: Suspense

Description: The Baudelaire children are orphaned and forced to live with the viscous and eccentric Count Olaf. They foil his plan to steal their fortune, but their troubles are just beginning.

Themes: Family, orphans, survival.

Buddy not Bud

2008-12-08T18:03:00.002-08:00

Grade Level: 5th-7th
Title: Bud Not Buddy
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Date: 1999
Genre: Historical Fiction

Description: Bud (not Buddy), embarks on a quest to find his father, during the Great Depression. Following his "Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar of Yourself", he finds a family, but not the one he expected!

Themes: adventure, The Great Depression, family, forgiveness.

The Hobbit

2008-12-08T17:54:00.000-08:00

Grade level: 7-12
Title:The Hobbit: An illustrated edition of the fantasy classic
Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Date: 1990
Genre: Fantasy

Description: A graphic novel version of the popular fantasy classic. Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit, is taken from his happy life and goes on an epic adventure to help the King of the Dwarves regain his throne.

Themes: Friendship, loss, greed and power.

Go Ask Alice

2008-12-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Grade Level: 7th+
Title: Go Ask Alice
Author: Anonymous
Date: 1971
Genre: Realistic Fiction

Description: This diary was so realistic is was classified as a non-fiction novel until exposed as fiction. The main character is exposed to drugs at a party and enters a world of addiction, drug dealing and sex. Written in a scared straight tone, the book is incredibly realistic.

Main themes: drug addiction, sexual content

Egyptian Diary: The Journal of Nahkt

2008-12-02T14:22:00.000-08:00

Title: Egyptian Diary: The Journal of Nahkt
Author: Richard Platt

Nakht, an apprentice scribe, and his family are moving to the city of Memphis. He and his sister foil a tomb robbery and earn a trip to meet the pharoh!

Main themes: Ancient Egypt, pharoh, tombs, scribe

Pretties

2008-12-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

Title: Pretties
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Genre: Science Fiction
Young Adult

Tally has it all- beautiful clothes, beautiful looks, a beautiful life. That is until she finds a letter from her prior life as an ugly. It hints at genetic manipulation and a stagnating society. She takes a cure, but it only leads to more and more questions. And now, she is in the hands of her former friend and current enemy.

Main theories: genetic manipulation, futuristic society

The Wolves of Willoughby Chase

2008-11-26T16:35:00.000-08:00

Ages: 9-12
Title: The Wolves of Willoughby Chase
Author: Joan Aiken
Year of Publication: 1963
Genre: Adventure

A story of two young girls left in the care of coniving, scheming schoolmistress. Once Bonnie's parents depart for an ocean cruise, the schoolmistress takes over her home. She dismisses the servants and sends the children off to the care of a charity home. Their escape and eventual reunion with Bonnie's parents is the theme of the story.

Main themes: orphan, charity home, adventure.

Island Book One: Shipwreck

2008-11-26T16:31:00.000-08:00

Ages: 10-13
Title: Island Book One: Shipwreck
Author: Gordon Korman
Genre: Adventure

The first in a set of three books, a group of six children are sent to a discipline program aboard a ship off the coast of Guam. They are supposed to learn teamwork and cooperation. But when the Captain drowns during a storm, and he first mate abandons them to the elements- they have to cooperate to survive!

Themes: Adventure, shipwreck, co-operation, survival.

The Golden Compass

2008-11-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

Ages:
Title: The Golden Compass
Author: Philip PUllman
Genre: Fantasy

This dark fantasy begins at a college as Lyra spies on her uncle. Before she knows it she is woven into a set of events far beyond her comprehension. What she does know is that children are missing. Her adventures lead her to the armoured bears and beyond- to the first steps in learning her destiny.

Theme: Well written, well paced but very dark and brooding: might not be for younger readers. Death, attempted poisoning, rejection by parent.

A Wrinkle in Time

2008-11-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

Ages: 9-12
Title: A Wrinkle in Time
Author: Madeline L'Engle
Genre: Science Fiction

A visit from a stranger leads to an adventure on another planet. Meg's father disappeared a year ago. She, her young brother and a friend travel across time and space to fight IT. But once they arrive, Charles is swayed into service of IT. Meg, her father and Calvin escape. But Meg and Meg alone has to return to save her young brother. The only weapon she has is their love for each other.

Themes: Feeling like a misfit, acceptance of faults, realization parents aren't perfect.

The Jungle Book Mowgli's Story

2008-11-23T17:27:00.000-08:00

Ages: 9-12
Title: The Jungle Book Mowgli's Story
Author: Rudyard Kipling
Genre: Classics

Mowgli, a human child, wanders into a wolf's cave to escape from the tiger Shere Khan. Rather than see him devoured, the wolves drive off the tiger, warning him he will die by Mowgli's hand when he is full grown. Mowgli lives a life of adventure in the jungle. But one day, the pack leader's health begins to fade and Mowgli's position in the pack is endangered. He escapes to a local village and begins to learn "civilized" ways. But he returns to the jungle and kills the tiger that threatens him. But in doing so he loses his position in the village.

The Racketty Packetty House

2008-11-23T17:21:00.001-08:00

Ages: 4-8
Title: The Racketty Packetty House
Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett
Year of Publication: 2006 (Reprint of original 1906)
Genre: Classics

A hand me down dollhouse and its doll occupents are set in a hidden corner. the dollhouse has seen better days but its inhabitants, befriended by the fairies, live a happy go lucky life. A new castle dollhouse with lords and ladies take their place, but the occupants of the Racketty Packetty House don't mind. When their owner is visited by a princess, the princess is fascinated with the doll house and asks to have it. The Racketty Packetty house and its inhavitants are restored to their former glory.

Fairy tale/folklore like themes of reward for good behavior.

The Mysterious Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

2008-11-23T16:56:00.001-08:00

Ages: 9-12
Title: The Mysterious Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Year of Publication: 1995
Genre: Classics

Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson, solve a series of baffling mysteries. This particular collectin introduces the brother of Sherlock Holmes. A set of classic whodunnit mysteries that kids of all ages can enjoy!

Adam of the Road

2008-11-23T16:50:00.000-08:00

Ages 9-12
Title: Adam of the Road
Author: Elizabeth Janet Gray
Year of Publication: 1987 (Reprint)
Genre: Classics

A coming of age story set in Medieval, England. Adam waits at a school for his father to return with a new set of stories and ballads. Finally, they are reunited, but a rival ministrel steals his dog, Nick! While he and his father desperately seek the dog, they are separated from each other as well. A series of misunderstandings means Adam is on his on until he can meet up with his father. Through a set of adventures, Adam makes his living as a ministrel, finds Nick and at last reunites with his father once again.

Judy Moody Around the World in 8 1/2 Days

2008-11-23T16:45:00.000-08:00

Grades: 2-4
Title: Judy Moody Around the World in 8 1/2 Days
Author: Megan McDonald
Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction

Judy Moody meets a friend who also has a rhyming name. But their blooming friendship threatens a school project when Amy misses a meeting with her original set of friends. This story captures the drama of school relationships as the group works out a new set of social dynamics.

Amelia Bedelia and the Cat

2008-11-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

Grades: Kindergarten - 2nd
Title: Amelia Bedelia and the Cat
Author: Herman Parish
Date: 2008
Genre: Early Readers

Description: When the forecaster predicts that it is going to rain, Amelia Bedelia takes him at his word. While staring at a cat shaped cloud she hears a meow and has a busy day learning about and finding the owner of her new furry friend. A cute story that introduces early readers to sayings.

Themes: Sayings, pets.

Pippi in the South Seas

2008-11-12T17:03:00.001-08:00

Grade: 4th-6th
Title: Pippi in the South Seas
Author: Astrid Lindgren
Year of Publication: 1997

A set of short stories featuring Pippi Longstocking (the strongest girl in the world) and her two friends Tommy and Annika. Pippi discovers the meaning of spink, helps some children with their education and creates a special xmas for her friends, among other adventures. In between her other activities, Pippi receives a letter from her father, who is King of the South Seas and manages to trick two would be theives.

A fun set of adventures, classic entertainment.

Evil Genius

2008-11-12T16:39:00.000-08:00

Grade; Young Adult
Title: Evil Genius
Author: Catherine Jinks
Year of Publication:
Genre: Science Fiction

At the age of 7, Cadel Piggott, genius, meets Thaddeus Roth and his life will never be the same. Thaddeus Roth, a psychologist, introduces Cadel to his "real" father. As Cadel gets older he realizes nothing he has ever known is true. He meets, Sonja and realizes there is something he has missed all his life. Cadel goes through a series of misadventures that leaves him with more questions than answers.

A coming of age story, the first half of the novel seems very inspired. Although you feel sympathy for Cadel, the ending is somewhat disappointing as its unclear whether or not Cadel has learned from his experiences.

Uprising: Three Young Women Caught in the Fire that Changed America

2008-11-07T19:17:00.000-08:00

Grades: 6-8, Young Adult
Title: Uprising: Three Young Women Caught in the Fire that Changed America
Author: Margaret Petson Haddix
Year of Publication: 2007

This detailed historical novel covers a number of early 20th century movements including: the suffagrist movement, early labor movements, immigration, industrialization and the main theme the Shirtwaist fire. Seen through the eyes of three young women: Yetta, a Jewish immigrant and militant striker, Bella, an Italian immigrant, and Jane a pampered young American.

This is not a story for the weak at heart. Although it is recommended for 6th to 8th graders, the death of two of the girls in fire is graphic. there are several scenes were one of the strikers are hit and arrested by the police. However, the story is strong and richly woven and not one you want to put down.

Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa

2008-11-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

Grades: K-2
Title: Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa
Author: Erica Silverman
Date: 2005
Genre: Beginner Books

Description: Cowgirl kate herds cows with the help of her horse Cocoa. This book takes them through four short adventures. If you enjoy their adventures there are plenty more books in this series.

Themes: Stories emphasize friendship and sharing.

The Shrunken Head

2008-11-07T18:48:00.000-08:00

Grades: Kindergarten-2nd
Title: The Shrunken Head
Author: Denys Cazet
Date: Denys Gazet
Genre: Beginning Readers

Barney has the chicken pox. But lucky for him his grandpa has a lot of anti-itch stories and if you like this one there are others in the series.Grandpa entertain Barney with a hair raising story of an encounter with a group of head shrinkers and their queen.

Themes: Headhunters, family.

The Adventures of Captain Underpants

2008-11-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

Grades 2-4, Juvenille
Title: The Adventures of Captain Underpants
Author: Dav Pilkey
Genre: Juvenile Realistic Fiction

George and Harold love playing practical jokes. But this time they may have gone too far. Their principal has caught them on tape and is threatening to expose them to the football team. For a while they have to do everything he says- but then they order a hypnotizing ring and convince their principal he is Captain Underpants (a character from a comic book they write).

Graphic format is interwoven into the book. There are examples of the boys' comic book and a flip book feature as well. Entertaining and interactive this is a book that will stimulate reading.

Coraline

2008-11-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

Gr.: 5-8
Title: Coraline
Author: Neil Gaiman

Coraline is curious and she notices something very odd when she starts exploring their new flat. There are fourteen doors but only thirteen open- the last one is locked. Coraline unlocks the door and starts a suspenseful and at times frightening journey. She finds an alternative family, one that doesn't want to ever let her or the other children go. Coraline has to win a battle of wits in order to save herself, the other children and her parents.

A suspense novel, there are moments of true frisson that make you want to pull the covers over your head. Older juvenille readers and young adults will be drawn to this tale that stops just short of true horror and terror. There is also a graphic version of the novel available and plans for a movie adaptation.

Bunnicula: A rabbit tale of mystery

2008-11-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

Gr. 4-6
Title: Bunnicula
Author: Howe, D. & Howe, J.
Year of Publication: 1979
Genre: Mystery/Horror/Suspense

Its no surprise this mystery/horror book was re-released in 2006 for its 25th year anniversary. Narrated by the Harold the dog, this delightful story includes a vampire bunny, his friend Harold the dog, and a cat who ends up therapy. Found at a dracula movie, the cute little bunny sleeps all day. But then mysterious things start to happen- vegetables are found sucked dry of all their juices and left mysteriously white. As the cat battles the vampire bunny, poor Harold finds himself caught between two friends.

Joey Pigza Loses Control

2008-11-02T16:49:00.000-08:00

Grade: 5th+, Juvenille
Title: Joey Pigza Loses Control
Author: Gantos, Jack
Year of Publication: 2000
Genre: Realistic Fiction

Joey Pigza is spending the summer with his Dad. He tries very hard to reconcile his views with what his parent wants. But what his Dad wants isn't the best for Joey, because his dad wants him to stop using his medicine. Joey knows what will happen if he doesn't use his medicine but he doesn't want to make his dad unhappy either. The story explodes as Joey desperately tries to make everyone happy.

One Dark and Dreadful Night

2008-11-01T15:49:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: One Dark and Dreadful Night
Author: Randy Cecil
Date: 2004
Genre: Picture Books

Description: The Wayward Orphaned Theater presents three tales of woe. Or so Maestro Von Haughty thinks because the cast of this production have their own ideas. The Maestro wants to tell three stories of terror, but the staff rearranges the plot lines introducing extra large bunnies, a fairy godmother, kittens, butterflies and lots of additional surprises.

Themes: Orphans, fairy tales.

Home

2008-11-01T15:41:00.000-07:00

Grade level: Kindergarten-2nd
Title: Home
Author: Jeannie Baker
Date: 1995
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Worldless picture book about the revitalization of a urban community. The backdrop of the story is the scene a young girl growing up in the city has outside her window. Gradually the neighborhood has become run down with graffiti on the walls of buildings. Slowly you see a reversal, where members of the community plant flowers and trees and paint the damaged buildings.

Themes: Coming of age, community, home.

Rosa

2008-11-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

Grades: 3rd- 5th
Title: Rosa
Author: Nikki Giovanni
Date: 2007
Genre: Non-fiction

Description: Rosa is the story of Rosa Parks. On her way home from work Rosa is startled when the bus driver yells at her to move to the back of the bus because of her race. She is thrown in jail and becomes a symbol of the civil rights movement. The rest is a part of history. Written by a modern day activist this story stands out!

Themes: Civil rights, activism.

A Boy Named Beckoning: The True Story of Dr. Carlos Montezuma Native American Hero

2008-11-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

Grades: 4th- 7th
Title: A Boy Named Beckoning: The True Story of Dr. Carlos Montezuma, Native AMerican Hero
Author: Gina Capaldi
Date: 2008
Genre: Non-fiction

Description: Biography of Native American doctor and activist Dr. Carlos Montezuma. His story begins at the age of five, when he captured by a rival Indian tribe and is sold into slavery. Carlos gradually adapts to his new culture and eventually goes on to college at the age of fourteen and becomes a medical doctor. Later he becomes an activist.

Themes: Native Americans, multi-cultural, activism.

The Egyptian Cinderella

2008-11-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: The Egyptian Cinderella
Author: Shirley Climo
Date: 1989
Genre: Picture Book- Nonfiction

Description: A retelling of the Cinderella story set in ancient Egypt. Rhodopsis with her fair hair and green eyes doesn't fit in with the other servant girls. A hawk steals one of her shoes, dropping it in the lap of the Pharoah. When he sees the shoe he takes it as a sign from the god Horus that he is meant to marry the woman whose foot fits the slipper. He travels around the kingdom and finally finds Rhodopsis and makes her his queen.

Themes: Cinderella, fairy tale, multi-cultural.

I Invited a Dragon to Dinner and other Poems to Make You Laugh Outloud

2008-11-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Grade: 1st-4th
Title: I Invited a Dragon to Dinner and Other poems to Make You Laugh Out Loud
Author: Chris Demarest
Date: 2004
Genre: Non-fiction

Description: This picture book anthology is the result of a nationwide contest. They generate an interest in poetry through humor. Sample poems include: Show Time (featuring a dancing tyrannasaurus rex), Sister Sally (who eats a squirrel then starts acting like one) and the Invitation (where a little girl explains why she doesn't like another girl but then decides she is great after all when she finally receives an invitation to the party).

Themes: Poetry, humor.

Catch That Goat!

2008-10-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school-2nd
Title: Catch That Goat!
Author: Polly Alakija
Date: 2002
Genre: Picture Book

Description: When Ayoka's mom goes out she tells her to be sure to watch the goat. Ayoka does her best but he sneaks by her. The goat goes on adventure of his own through the market, taking things from each booth. At last Ayoka finds him with all ten of the missing items.

Themes: Counting, multi-cultural.

How the Tiny People Grew Tall: An Original Creation Tale

2008-10-30T12:21:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-2nd grade
Title: How the Tiny People Grew Tall
Author: Nancy Wood
Date: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A story about a group of tiny people who quest for knowledge leads them to a whole new world. The tiny people live deep underground and one day a group of them explore the surface world. They meet different animals. Each animal share knowledge with the little people and as they learn more they become taller and taller until they become the first Native Americans.

Themes: Mythology, multi-cultural.

The Black Canary

2008-10-29T18:00:00.001-07:00

Grades 5-9
Title: The Black Canary
Author: Jane Louise Curry
Publication Date: 2005
Genre: Historical Fiction

12 year old biracial James has some problems. He doesn't feel like he fits in- not with his family, not with his friends. And his parent, they are nice and all but they expect him to do the same thing they do and be a musician. James isn't sure how he feels about that. Until he has to depend on his singing voice to survive. Following a mysterious light, James finds himself in medieval England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. He is kidnapped and forced to sing in the Royal Chapel choir. To his surprise James discovers he truly enjoys singing. Now he has to try and make it home, even if the queen does want to hear him sing.

The storyling is interesting and entertaining, but at times slows and seems forced and prolonged. However, the descriptions and activity in medieval London more than make up for it.

The Fruit Bowl Project

2008-10-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

Grades 5-8, Young Adult
Title: The Fruit Bowl Project
Author: Sarah Durkee
Publication Date: 2006
Genre: Realistic Fiction

What happens when a rock star teaches a writing class? The students of Ms. Vallis' eighth grade writing class finds out in this novel. When Nick Thompson challenges the class to come up with a story about school, sixth grade reading test, dropped pencil, an angry girl, lunch and milk squirting out the nose- get ready for mayhem. The first half of the book discusses how Nick ends up in their class and what they think of the assignment. The second is each student's story all based on the same elements. Each work represents a different point of view, there is a rap, a limerick, a mathematical equation and more!

The Magic Flute

2008-10-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

Title: The Magic Flute
Author: P.Craig Russell as an adaptation of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's work
Year of Publication: 1990
Grade 7-11, Adult

One of Mozart's best known works is adapted into a graphic novel format. A fantasy adventure where the good guys end up being bad, and the bad ones end up being good. Prince Tamino is saved by minions of the Queen of the Night. She sends him on a mission to save her daughter Princess Pamina, who is held by the sorceror Sarasato. She gives him a magic flute and a companion named Papageno. On the quest the prince finds out the bad guy is the good guy and the queen is evil. All three Prince Tamino, Papageno and the Princess must complete trials before they can defeat the Queen of the Night.

If I Had a Robot

2008-10-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

Grade: 1st- 3rd
Title: If I Had A Robot
Author: Dan Yaccarino
Date: 1996
Genre: Picture Book

Description: When confronted with a plate of really yucky, yucky peas, a young boy imagines a robot eating them instead. And then he thinks about all the other things a robot pal could do- go to school for him, kiss his aunt, do the housework, etc. But when his mom tells him he can have chocolate cake if he finishes his vegetables- he decides its a job he should do himself!

Themes: Fantasy, childhood.

A True Story! Pig on the Titanic

2008-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Grade: 2nd- 4th
Title: A True Story! Pig on the Titanic
Author: Gary Crew
Year of Publication: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Because Miss Edith is traveling to America, her mother gives her a music box in the form of a pig. The music box is promptly named Maxixe, and Miss Edith takes it everywhere for good luck on the Titanic. Miss Edith is on the ship the fateful night it sinks. Miss Edith refuses to get on one of the lifeboats but a ship officer throws Maxixe onboard thinking the music box is a baby. She shows the crying childrenMaxixe and plays the box until they are all rescued.

Themes: Titanic, travel.

The Graves Family

2008-10-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

Grade: 2nd-4th
Title: The Graves Family
Author: Patricia Polacco
Date: 2003
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A new family has moved into the spookiest house on the block. After a series of misadventures all ends well when the graves family wins a prize for the best decorated home. The decorator thinks its a haunted house! But the graves family now feels like they are part of the neighborhood.

Themes: Community, fitting in, frienship.

Probuditi!

2008-10-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school- 3rd
Title: Probuditi!
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
Date: 2006
Genre: Picture Book

Calvin and Rodney (best friends) get to see Lomax the hypnotist as a special birthday surprise. Inspired by the show they decide to hypnotize Calvin's sister Trudy into thinking she is a dog. And it works! But in their excitement Calvin and Rodney have forgotten the magic word to release her. But its his sister who has the last laugh.

Themes: Hyptnotism, friendship, sibling rivalry.

Opera Cat

2008-10-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school- 2nd
Title: Opera Cat
Author: Tess Weaver
Date: 2002
Genre: Picture Book

Description: When Madam Soso, an extraordinary oepra singer looses her voice, her cat Alma serves as her understudy. After that the two become inseparable- spending time together on the Italian beaches and dining in restaturants. After that Alma always attends the opera during Madam Soso's performances- just in case!

Themes: Opera, friendship.

Bee- bim Bop!

2008-10-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

Grade:
Title: Bee-bim Bop!
Author: Linda Sue Park
Date: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A lighthearted rhyming picture book with a lively beat. A young girl works with her mother to prepare her favorite dish- bee-bim bop. Ends with the family together enjoying the dish. Book includes recipes on how to make and serve the meal.

Themes: family, multi-cultural.

A Pipkin of Pepper

2008-10-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school-1st
Title: A Pipkin of Pepper
Author: Helen Cooper
Date: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Three friends, a cat, a squirrel and duck are making their favorite pumpkin soup. But oh no they are missing a really important ingredient- the salt. They end up going to town to get pepper. He gets lost but all ends well and three friends end up taking a helicopter ride home. The duck completes his adventurous day by adding pepper to the soup- and it still tastes wonderful!

Now all he needs is ....quackers!

Themes: friendship, cooking.

Clink Clank Clunk!

2008-10-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

Grade:
Title: Clink Clank Clunk!
Author: Miriam Aroner
Date: 2006
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A rhyming, counting story about a rabbit with car problems. he picks up his friends but as they get close to town the car breaks down and it takes all of them working together to push it over the last hill. And last, the book uses ontomontopoeia which works well with car and engine noises.

Themes: Friendship, co-operation, rhyming and counting.

The Gardener

2008-10-24T10:46:00.001-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: The Gardener
Author: Sarah Stewart
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Story about Lydia Grace Finch who becomes known as The Gardener. Sent to stay with her uncle in New York, Lydia makes it her mission to make her Uncle smile. This ambitious project begins with a few seeds and leads to a wonderful rooftop garden surprise!

Themes: Gardening, family.

The Top Job

2008-10-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: The Top Job
Author: Elizabeth Cody Kimmel
Date: 2007
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A little girl listens as her fellow students tell exciting stories about what their parents do for a living. She announces that her father's job is to change a lightbulb. But its not just any lightbulb. This one is located at the top of the Empire State Building. The little girl describes the process and at the end of the book the author tells you this story is based on a real life job.

Themes: Empire State building, employment.

King Bidgood's In The Bathtub

2008-10-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

Grade: 1st-4th
Title: King Bidgood's In The Bathtub
Author: Audrey Wood
Date: 1985
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Adorable story about a king who doesn't want to leave the bath tub. The page asks for help and one by one the court members: the knight, the queen, the court itself try to convince the king to leave. But none of them are successful until the page himself takes action and pulls the plug!Comes with a cd with six songs.

Themes: Fairy Tale, fantasy.

There's nothing To Do On Mars

2008-10-22T18:55:00.001-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: There's Nothing To Do On Mars
Author: Chris Gall
Date: 2008
Genre: Picture Book

Description. This is the story of how a bored child changed the face of a planet. Davey Martin is bored there is absolutely positively nothing to do on Mars, except chase hsi robot dog, dig up bones and dance wit the smelly Martians. All this changes when Davey and his dog dig at a special mountain finding water on this desert planet!

Themes: Science fiction, adventure.

Edward Fudwupper Fibbed Big

2008-10-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Edward Fudwupper Fibbed Big
Author; Berkley Breathed
Date: 2000
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A little white lie that turns into a big tall tale involving Pluto, a kiss with a pig and the biggest space alien you ever did see. the story is also about a brother and sister who learn to bond together by telling the truth. Light hearted and fun for both parents and children.

Themes: Science fiction, sibling rivalry.

Rap A Tap Tap: Here's Bojangles Think Of That

2008-10-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Rap A Tap Tap: Here's Bojangles Think of That
Authors: Leo and Diane Dillon
Date: 2002
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Rhyming picture book with the repeated phrase "Rap a tap tap- think of that". Brief synopsis on the life of the real Bojangles. Back gives a short description of his life and career.

Themes: Dance, Bojangles.

Hey You! C'mere: A Poetry Slam

2008-10-19T18:44:00.000-07:00

Grade: 2nd-5th
Title: hey You! C'mere: A Poetry Slam
Author: Elizabeth Swados
Date: 2002
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A group of seven kids gather one summer day to share rhythm and rhyme. Lavish illustrations, a sense of movement, action and most of all fun permeates the poetry. All of the poetry features distinctive ontomontopoeia and makes you want to get up and join in!

Themes: Poetry, sharing, family.

Monsoon

2008-10-18T15:03:00.001-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Monsoon
Author: Uma Krishnaswami
Date: 2003
Genre: Picture Book

Description: The story builds along with the storm. As villagers worry and hope for the monsoon the reader will experience the daily hustle and bustle of life in northern India. Includes a one page informative synosposis of monsoons.

Themes: India, multi-cultural, weather.

Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears

2008-10-18T14:54:00.001-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears
Author: Emily Gravett
Date: 2007
Genre: Picture Book

A little mouse shares his fears and encourages young readers to do the same. What really makes the book entertaining are the intermingled visual elements. For example burnt holes in the pages, newspaper clippings that unfold, visitor maps that unfold. At the end after little mouse shares all his fears he realizes that even though he is little people are afraid of him too!

I Love My Pirate Papa

2008-10-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school-2nd
Title: I Love My Pirate Papa
Author: Laura Leuck
Date: 2007
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A rhyming picture book depicting the father son relationship. Detailed drawing supplement text as a father and son share a day together burrying treasure, cooking in the galley and terrorizing the crew.

Themes: Pirates, father-son bonding.

Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel

2008-10-18T14:23:00.000-07:00

Grade Level: 9-12, Young Adult
Title: Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel
Adapted by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin
Illustrations: Giovanni Rigano
Color: Paolo Lamanna
Date of Publication: 2007

Fans already familair with the Fowl series readers can now enjoy it in a graphic novel format. This work introduces the criminal mastermind in his first adventure. Artemis, age 12 is a self proclaimed and acknowledged criminal genius. It has come to his attention that fairies are more than just stories and he is determined to catch one for himself. Once he does he may have gotten more than he can handle as he has to outwit the fairy kingdom. Along the way he finds himself questioning his own motivations and at the end discovers money isn't everything.

Ducky

2008-10-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 2nd
Title: Ducky
Author: Eve Bunting
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: This book is the adventure of one yellow rubber duck adrift in an ocean he meets a hungry shark and flying pelicans. Scared and adrift he finally lands ashore and is discovered by a young boy. He learns a lot of his plastic toy friends also washed ashore and finds a home.

Themes: Science, adventure.

Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village

2008-10-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

Title: Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!: Voices From A Medieval Village
Author: Laura Amy Schlitz
Illustrator: Roberty Byrd
Illustrator Website: http://www.robertbyrdart.com/index.html
Year of Publication: 2007
Awards: Newbery Medal

Series of monolouges representing cultures, people and professions during Medieval times. Short portraits that realistically portray the struggles, challenges and victories of Medieval life. After each monlogue is a short historical synopsis.

Sector 7

2008-10-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Author: David Wiesner
Title: Sector 7
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A young boy meets a cloud on a field trip. The cloud takes him to the cloud factory. While there the young boy introduces the clouds to new shapes. when the works discover what he has done they send him back. But a strange thing happens, the clouds decide they like the new shapes and when people look in the sky they see clouds in the shape of sea creatures!

Themes: Clouds, fantasy.

Wabi Sabi

2008-10-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: Wabi Sabi
Author: Mark Reibstein
Date: 2008
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Beautifully illustrated book is the narrative of a cat trying to understand its name. Overhearing her owner explain that wabi sabi is a difficult thing to explain the cat embarks on a journey of self discovery. This theme is supplemented in the text through the use of haiku poetry.

Themes: Spirituality, wabi-sabi, self-discovery, multi-cultural.

Madam President

2008-10-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Madam President
Author: Lane Smith
Date: 2008
Genre: Picture book

Description: A young girl imagines what it is like to be the President. With the help of her cat (assigned to security detail), she attends a photo shoot, a state funeral, chooses her cabinet, vetos the tuna casserole and attends a press conference. by the end of the day she's established peace between warring enemies (cat and dog), helped keep the peace and handled the crisis of cleaning her room.

Themes: Presidential duties.

Carousel Cat

2008-10-04T14:18:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: Carousel Cat
Author: Robert J. Blake
Date: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: A special cat makes friends at the local amusement park, where every day the cat would meet three human friends for a ride on the carousel. One day Mr. Tony's Char-Broil catches fire. The carousel cat has a special mission- she has to rescue all her kittens!

Themes: Cats, friendship.

Little Red Riding Hood- Told in signed English

2008-10-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

Grades: Kindergarten-3rd
Title: Little Red Riding Hood told in signed English
Authors: Harry Bornstein and Karen L. Saulnier
Date: 1990
Genre: Non-fiction

Description: A unique telling of the classic fairy tale. Book has pictures and text. But also features various characters from the story signing the text. Total of 337 line drawings in signed English. Opportunity to learn sign language in a fun and creative manner and is a great source to practice articles, conjunctions and general grammar.

Themes: Fairy tale, sign language.

The Lotus Seed

2008-09-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Grade: 2nd-5th
Title: The Lotus Seed
Author: Sherry Garland
Date: 1997
Genre: Picture Book

Description: As a young mother flees Vietnam she keeps a lotus seed as rememberence. One day she realizes its gone because her son has taken and planted it. Unfortunately he cannot remember where. But when the seed blooms, she gives a seed from the plant to each of her children so they remember their heritage.

Themes: Vietnam, multi-cultural, heritage.

The Mysterious Collection of Dr. David Harleyson

2008-09-21T12:49:00.001-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Author: Jean Cassels
Title: The Mysterious Collection of Dr. David Harleyson
Date: : 2004
Genre: Picture Book

Description: This picture book combines art and and some of our favorite fairy tales. Enjoy portraits of the ant and the grasshopper, the big, bad wolf (that's Sir Wolf to you), the hare and the toad and many others. Along with beautifully detailed pictures the author provides visual clues in the forms of ticket stubs, photographs, notes and letters.

Themes: Mystery, art.

Sleepy Cadillac: A Bedtime Drive

2008-09-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

Grade: Pre-school- 2nd
Title: Sleepy Cadillac: A Bedtime Drive
Author: Thacher Hurd
Date: 2005
Genre: Picture Book

Description: Bedtime theme is accentuated by the soft pastel colors done in soothing blue tones. Repetitions of words and descriptive phrases will allow kids to point out objects in the illustrations. Many of the illustrations cover both pages with minimal text.

Themes: Bedtime, cars.

Rapunzel's Revenge-

2008-09-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

Grade level: 9-12
Authors: Shannon and Dean Hale
Illustrator: Nathan Hale
Year of Publication: 2008

Review: The story weaves together several fairy tales, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk, the Goose Who Laid the Golden Egg with just a little bit of Cinderella happily ever after. Fusing fantasy and the wild, wild west get ready for adventure as Rapunzel and Jack battle bandits, monsters, wolves and ocassionally each other.

The panels of the graphic novel move the plot forward and you can't help but cheer for this fiesty, independent yet vulnerable heroine. A wonderful combination of ideas that leaves you satisified.

A Hat Full of Sky

2008-09-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Author: Terry Pratchett
Website: http://www.terrypratchettbooks.com/
Year of Publication: 2004
Age Range:

Review: Learn what Crivens, Geas, Pished, Ships, Waily and Carlin mean in this fantasy, coming of age adventure based on Celtic mythology. In the first book The Wee Free Men, the heroine saves her brother and defeats the Queen of Fairies. All at the age of nine! Two years later she begins her apprenticeship to become a witch but is followed by an invisible being- known as a hiver. With the help of the wee free men (small blue faeries with red hair who love a good fight), Tiffany learns more than witchcraft- she learns about herself.

Bats at the Library

2008-09-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

Grade: Kindergarten- 3rd
Title: Bats at the Library
Author: Brian Lies
Date: 2008
Genre: Picture book

Description: Bats celebrate a special night- a librarian has left a window to the library open. The bats fly in and investigate novels, pop up books and find interesting uses for the copier and water fountain.

Theme: Library, books, reading.