by Jonny Bowden
Scott County, paperback
I've already renewed this book once and really need to get it back to the library. I think I should buy my own copy! It's very interesting and has a balance of ideas. I like how the author points out different perspectives and has his own pov so entertainingly presented. I love this book!
But I'm really, really time-management challenged right now. (For example, I ought to be halfway to work by now.)
ISBN 978-1-59233-228-1 (with CD)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Forsaken
by James David Jordan
Hennepin County Library
paperback 387 pages
I neither loved nor hated this one, but the SOLC book club had an incredible discussion! Terrorism, martyrdom, grace. We had a good time finding fault with some implausible scenarios, but found many characters and situations to praise as well.
Hennepin County Library
paperback 387 pages
I neither loved nor hated this one, but the SOLC book club had an incredible discussion! Terrorism, martyrdom, grace. We had a good time finding fault with some implausible scenarios, but found many characters and situations to praise as well.
The Reader
by Bernhard Schlink
multiple libraries & formats
Book club selection at CMSW. An Oprah pick. No one loved it. Many hated it.
First half = teenage boy in post-WWII Germany having passionate sex with an older woman.
Second half = he watches her trial for war crimes as a college law student.
Sad story. The point? I'm not sure. I missed discussion because of track.
multiple libraries & formats
Book club selection at CMSW. An Oprah pick. No one loved it. Many hated it.
First half = teenage boy in post-WWII Germany having passionate sex with an older woman.
Second half = he watches her trial for war crimes as a college law student.
Sad story. The point? I'm not sure. I missed discussion because of track.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Dragon Rider
by Cornelia Funke
Scott County Library, audioCDs, 11 hours, 36 minutes
read by Brendan Fraser
Nice story. Not in my top ten or anything. Firedrake the dragon and Sorrel the brownie go to seek the Rim of Heaven. They befriend orphan Ben (a human) and their dread enemy's servant Twigleg (a humunculous ?). Full of adventure and fantasy. Predictable but heart-warming ending.
Fraser is one of my favorite actors, but I prefer Jim Dale for reading. Fraser made noises for everything - swallowing, chewing, etc. It got kind of irritating. He also modulated his volume so much that I had to keep turning it up and down to hear everything.
What I liked about it most was the way Sorrel warmed up to beings that she initially distrusted or even despised.
Scott County Library, audioCDs, 11 hours, 36 minutes
read by Brendan Fraser
Nice story. Not in my top ten or anything. Firedrake the dragon and Sorrel the brownie go to seek the Rim of Heaven. They befriend orphan Ben (a human) and their dread enemy's servant Twigleg (a humunculous ?). Full of adventure and fantasy. Predictable but heart-warming ending.
Fraser is one of my favorite actors, but I prefer Jim Dale for reading. Fraser made noises for everything - swallowing, chewing, etc. It got kind of irritating. He also modulated his volume so much that I had to keep turning it up and down to hear everything.
What I liked about it most was the way Sorrel warmed up to beings that she initially distrusted or even despised.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Year of the Dog
by Grace Lin
Scott County Library, audioCDs, 3 hours
read by Nancy Wu
The reader was fantastic, but the story was hard for me to enjoy. I'm not sure if it's because the target audience is so much younger than the kids I work with, or if it's just a slow story . . . Anyhow, I read it because I had bought a bunch of them at the Scholastic Warehouse sale last year for lit circles. Ugh. Guess I didn't look at it carefully enough. There are some sixth grade girls this might appeal to, especially with the friend element. But this is a really slow story.
Scott County Library, audioCDs, 3 hours
read by Nancy Wu
The reader was fantastic, but the story was hard for me to enjoy. I'm not sure if it's because the target audience is so much younger than the kids I work with, or if it's just a slow story . . . Anyhow, I read it because I had bought a bunch of them at the Scholastic Warehouse sale last year for lit circles. Ugh. Guess I didn't look at it carefully enough. There are some sixth grade girls this might appeal to, especially with the friend element. But this is a really slow story.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Hanging on to Max
by Margaret Bechard
CMSW, paperback, 204 pages
Interesting. This is one of the 8th grade lit circle choices. Most of the kids I talked to really enjoyed it. In fact, one highly recommended it to me. I'm not sure, though, what about it exactly appeals to kids. Now that I've read it, I'm going to have to ask some of them.
Sam is a father at age seventeen. When his former girlfriend decides to give the baby up for adoption, Sam says he'll raise the boy (and rename him Max). Sam's father is supportive (letting them live in his home, helping Sam find a job for after graduation, etc.) but is emotionally distant and critical of Sam. Sam's mother died when he was only nine, so there are definite challenges in this family.
My favorite character was Sam's Aunt Jean, who knew how to help out and how to "be there" for Sam. The ending felt abrupt (a comment I heard from kids), but it made me cry anyhow. No spoiler here. It's a quick read, so you can find out for yourself.
CMSW, paperback, 204 pages
Interesting. This is one of the 8th grade lit circle choices. Most of the kids I talked to really enjoyed it. In fact, one highly recommended it to me. I'm not sure, though, what about it exactly appeals to kids. Now that I've read it, I'm going to have to ask some of them.
Sam is a father at age seventeen. When his former girlfriend decides to give the baby up for adoption, Sam says he'll raise the boy (and rename him Max). Sam's father is supportive (letting them live in his home, helping Sam find a job for after graduation, etc.) but is emotionally distant and critical of Sam. Sam's mother died when he was only nine, so there are definite challenges in this family.
My favorite character was Sam's Aunt Jean, who knew how to help out and how to "be there" for Sam. The ending felt abrupt (a comment I heard from kids), but it made me cry anyhow. No spoiler here. It's a quick read, so you can find out for yourself.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Double Minds
by Terri Blackstock
Carver County Library, hard cover, 309 pages
For most of this book, I didn't really enjoy the story. But by the end, I liked it better. I think the afterword was actually my favorite part!
Parker James is a talented song-writer who would love to become a successful singer. When her best friend Serene asks her to re-write some songs so they're more acceptable for a secular audience, Parker really struggles. Worshiping God is the whole reason she wrote the songs in the first place, but a wider audience might be drawn to Serene's Christian songs if she starts getting more air time. This is not the only "double-mindedness" in the story.
The murder mystery angle was interesting, but a bit too drawn out.
Carver County Library, hard cover, 309 pages
For most of this book, I didn't really enjoy the story. But by the end, I liked it better. I think the afterword was actually my favorite part!
Parker James is a talented song-writer who would love to become a successful singer. When her best friend Serene asks her to re-write some songs so they're more acceptable for a secular audience, Parker really struggles. Worshiping God is the whole reason she wrote the songs in the first place, but a wider audience might be drawn to Serene's Christian songs if she starts getting more air time. This is not the only "double-mindedness" in the story.
The murder mystery angle was interesting, but a bit too drawn out.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
100 Cupboards
by N.D. Wilson
Read by Russell Horton
Scott County Library, audiobook on CDs (6 hrs, 23 min.)
Interesting story. This is one I think I would've enjoyed more reading the text instead of listening, though Horton has a wonderful voice. The girl characters drove me batty! They were such brats. I just wanted Henry to knock his cousins down. The tone of the story was a little dark - kind of like Coraline in its creepiness, especially with the cupboard that led to Endor. Richard was a delightful character and Zeke provided a nice surprise at the end. I don't think I'll bother with the sequel, though. And I'm not sure about buying this title for school. Not sure if it would appeal to a very wide range of readers.
Read by Russell Horton
Scott County Library, audiobook on CDs (6 hrs, 23 min.)
Interesting story. This is one I think I would've enjoyed more reading the text instead of listening, though Horton has a wonderful voice. The girl characters drove me batty! They were such brats. I just wanted Henry to knock his cousins down. The tone of the story was a little dark - kind of like Coraline in its creepiness, especially with the cupboard that led to Endor. Richard was a delightful character and Zeke provided a nice surprise at the end. I don't think I'll bother with the sequel, though. And I'm not sure about buying this title for school. Not sure if it would appeal to a very wide range of readers.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Schooled
By Gordon Korman
CMSW, paperback, 208 pages
I really enjoyed this! Nothing complex or deep, but a lovely little story. It's a lot like Stargirl, but much more lighthearted.
Capricorn Anderson has grown up on a commune with his grandma, Rain. When Rain falls and breaks her hip, Cap ends up staying with a social worker and her gorgeous but angry daughter. Cap has no clue how to function in a normal middle school and the results are both funny and endearing.
CMSW, paperback, 208 pages
I really enjoyed this! Nothing complex or deep, but a lovely little story. It's a lot like Stargirl, but much more lighthearted.
Capricorn Anderson has grown up on a commune with his grandma, Rain. When Rain falls and breaks her hip, Cap ends up staying with a social worker and her gorgeous but angry daughter. Cap has no clue how to function in a normal middle school and the results are both funny and endearing.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Waiting for Daybreak
by Kathryn Cushman
paperback, Carver County library, 315 pages
I liked this one! It was about two female pharmacists - Paige and Clarissa. Book Club discussed it last night, and Jodi called the characters "Whiney and Witchey" - pretty accurate, but I still liked it. Dawn was an interesting character - it would have been nice to see her story played out. Ora was my absolute favorite! What a saucy old gal. I liked the romance, too. I read this about three weeks ago and am just blogging now . . . Hard to stay on top of this!
paperback, Carver County library, 315 pages
I liked this one! It was about two female pharmacists - Paige and Clarissa. Book Club discussed it last night, and Jodi called the characters "Whiney and Witchey" - pretty accurate, but I still liked it. Dawn was an interesting character - it would have been nice to see her story played out. Ora was my absolute favorite! What a saucy old gal. I liked the romance, too. I read this about three weeks ago and am just blogging now . . . Hard to stay on top of this!
Monday, March 30, 2009
The Master Quilter
by Jenifer Chiaverini
Carver County Library, hard cover, 327 pages
I did not enjoy this one. Too many problems, too little communication among friends (until the very end), too much repetition. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and tends to cover the same info from a different perspective. All in all, the story got old fast. It did make me appreciate my husband, my job, my friends, etc. in contrast to these women's issues. Probably my least favorite Elm Creek book so far, and it didn't even make me want to work on a quilt at all.
Carver County Library, hard cover, 327 pages
I did not enjoy this one. Too many problems, too little communication among friends (until the very end), too much repetition. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and tends to cover the same info from a different perspective. All in all, the story got old fast. It did make me appreciate my husband, my job, my friends, etc. in contrast to these women's issues. Probably my least favorite Elm Creek book so far, and it didn't even make me want to work on a quilt at all.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
The Graveyard Book
by Neil Gaiman
CMSW, hard cover, 311 pages (yes, I read the acknowledgements)
I loved this book! I read it in one sitting, though it kept me up late on Friday night. Bod Owens is a great character and his development is fun to follow. The ending made me cry, even though it was happy. I felt so sorry for this solitary little fellow. His aloneness resonated with me.
Logistically, I had to ignore the fact that an 18-month old was able to get out of his crib, across the room, down the stairs, and out to the graveyard before the highly efficient killer made it from the parents' room to the sister's room to the baby's room. Not too believable . . . but irrelevant. I enjoyed the story.
CMSW, hard cover, 311 pages (yes, I read the acknowledgements)
I loved this book! I read it in one sitting, though it kept me up late on Friday night. Bod Owens is a great character and his development is fun to follow. The ending made me cry, even though it was happy. I felt so sorry for this solitary little fellow. His aloneness resonated with me.
Logistically, I had to ignore the fact that an 18-month old was able to get out of his crib, across the room, down the stairs, and out to the graveyard before the highly efficient killer made it from the parents' room to the sister's room to the baby's room. Not too believable . . . but irrelevant. I enjoyed the story.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Specials
by Scott Westerfeld
CMSW, paper, 372 pages
I really disliked this book for the first half. Shay especially had changed so much as a character compared to when we first "met" her in book one. The specials are nasty - cruel and powerful. I also disliked the fact that the author seemed to glorify cutting, with the main characters feeling "icy," focused, and powerful when they cut themselves. With students who use cutting as a way to deal with emotions, I think this is irresponsible for a YA author.
Anyhow, by the end of the book, I liked the story. I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say that I'm a very character-driven reader and Tally isn't my favorite character in this series. Now on to Extras!
CMSW, paper, 372 pages
I really disliked this book for the first half. Shay especially had changed so much as a character compared to when we first "met" her in book one. The specials are nasty - cruel and powerful. I also disliked the fact that the author seemed to glorify cutting, with the main characters feeling "icy," focused, and powerful when they cut themselves. With students who use cutting as a way to deal with emotions, I think this is irresponsible for a YA author.
Anyhow, by the end of the book, I liked the story. I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say that I'm a very character-driven reader and Tally isn't my favorite character in this series. Now on to Extras!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Brave New World
by Aldous Huxley
CMSW, hardcover, 177 pages
This took me a while to get through, as short as it is! I wanted to read it at the same time that Nick was reading it for British literature class, but I had to force myself to pick it up and read a few pages. I don't like this book. It falls into the same category as 1984 and other bleak writings from earlier this century. I should really research more about the political and ideological landscape of this time period . . . I realize there are good reasons for the inclusion of these titles in classical "canon" lists.
In a nutshell, this book illuminates a future world of constant (but not deep) happiness, since all humans are programmed constantly to be content with their lot in life. Science has created a false utopia with the drug soma relieving any negative thoughts or feelings that do come up. Bernard is different from other people and wants to experience things for himself. When he and Lenina visit a reservation with savages, he brings home John who has grown up as a "savage," but is the most civilized person at all. The story ends tragically.
I'd still love to talk with Nick about this one . . . I wonder what he thought of it.
CMSW, hardcover, 177 pages
This took me a while to get through, as short as it is! I wanted to read it at the same time that Nick was reading it for British literature class, but I had to force myself to pick it up and read a few pages. I don't like this book. It falls into the same category as 1984 and other bleak writings from earlier this century. I should really research more about the political and ideological landscape of this time period . . . I realize there are good reasons for the inclusion of these titles in classical "canon" lists.
In a nutshell, this book illuminates a future world of constant (but not deep) happiness, since all humans are programmed constantly to be content with their lot in life. Science has created a false utopia with the drug soma relieving any negative thoughts or feelings that do come up. Bernard is different from other people and wants to experience things for himself. When he and Lenina visit a reservation with savages, he brings home John who has grown up as a "savage," but is the most civilized person at all. The story ends tragically.
I'd still love to talk with Nick about this one . . . I wonder what he thought of it.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
The Cradle Will Fall
by Mary Higgins Clark
Beaudoins' condo, paperback, 314 pages
I just picked this up to while away some time and it ended up helping me stay awake so we were ready to leave the condo at 4:00 a.m.! I figured if I went to bed, I might not wake up in time, so this thriller helped me stay up.
A doctor is doing some weird experiments on his patients. When he is "forced" to kill one of his patients to protect his secret, things start to unravel. At first, suspicions fall on the woman's pilot husband. But the noose is tightening. Great thriller. Classic MHC.
Beaudoins' condo, paperback, 314 pages
I just picked this up to while away some time and it ended up helping me stay awake so we were ready to leave the condo at 4:00 a.m.! I figured if I went to bed, I might not wake up in time, so this thriller helped me stay up.
A doctor is doing some weird experiments on his patients. When he is "forced" to kill one of his patients to protect his secret, things start to unravel. At first, suspicions fall on the woman's pilot husband. But the noose is tightening. Great thriller. Classic MHC.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Chase
by Susan Wales and Robin Shope
lent to me by Kim Enfield
paperback, 363 pages
Interesting thriller / romance
My favorite part was the last section when all the pieces started coming together. Some of it was a bit over-wrought and almost melodramatic. It was also hard to conceive of someone who was a hard-hitting investigative reporter deciding she was ready for a small-town sedate life so quickly. I liked the character of Craig, of course. I'm a sucker for the handsome, wonderful man who happens to be a faithful believer. I also loved the scene when Jill decided to surrender her life to the Lord. Christmas is a great time to get to know Christ!
lent to me by Kim Enfield
paperback, 363 pages
Interesting thriller / romance
My favorite part was the last section when all the pieces started coming together. Some of it was a bit over-wrought and almost melodramatic. It was also hard to conceive of someone who was a hard-hitting investigative reporter deciding she was ready for a small-town sedate life so quickly. I liked the character of Craig, of course. I'm a sucker for the handsome, wonderful man who happens to be a faithful believer. I also loved the scene when Jill decided to surrender her life to the Lord. Christmas is a great time to get to know Christ!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society
by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (her niece)
hardcover, mine, 278 pages
I'll have to blog later. I'm running out of time! Excellent book. Swept me up.
Later:
Told entirely in letters, this story of a young woman dealing with post-WWII emotions captivated me. Juliet Ashton is the central character who is drawn to the island of Guernsey, which was occupied by German forces during the war. Just a lovely, lovely book! There were times I almost made a "cheat sheet" of all the different characters, but I read it quickly enough (on the beach in Naples, Florida) that I was able to keep it all straight. The romance, the history, the characters - all made it a delightful read! This is our CMSW book club title for March. I look forward to the discussion!
hardcover, mine, 278 pages
I'll have to blog later. I'm running out of time! Excellent book. Swept me up.
Later:
Told entirely in letters, this story of a young woman dealing with post-WWII emotions captivated me. Juliet Ashton is the central character who is drawn to the island of Guernsey, which was occupied by German forces during the war. Just a lovely, lovely book! There were times I almost made a "cheat sheet" of all the different characters, but I read it quickly enough (on the beach in Naples, Florida) that I was able to keep it all straight. The romance, the history, the characters - all made it a delightful read! This is our CMSW book club title for March. I look forward to the discussion!
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Spelldown
by Karon Luddy
CMSW, hardcover, 211 pages
I see why the elementary schools unloaded their copies of this! The protagonist, Karlene Bridges, is a foul-mouthed, horny eighth grader. Though I found some of it offensive, (especially her loose use of the Lord's name as one of her many swear words), there were some redeeming qualities. The power of love speaks loudly throughout this book. Karlene's love of her older sister, the Harrisons' loving home in contrast to Karlene's more difficult home life, and ultimately, Karlene's love for her alcoholic father.
Billy Ray was my favorite character - so sweet, gentle, and strong. The wordaphile in me LOVED the words and definitions sprinkled throughout the book. (Yes, I know I invented a word there.) The Latin class was a cool piece, too. Definitely a good book for my brainy, mature kids.
CMSW, hardcover, 211 pages
I see why the elementary schools unloaded their copies of this! The protagonist, Karlene Bridges, is a foul-mouthed, horny eighth grader. Though I found some of it offensive, (especially her loose use of the Lord's name as one of her many swear words), there were some redeeming qualities. The power of love speaks loudly throughout this book. Karlene's love of her older sister, the Harrisons' loving home in contrast to Karlene's more difficult home life, and ultimately, Karlene's love for her alcoholic father.
Billy Ray was my favorite character - so sweet, gentle, and strong. The wordaphile in me LOVED the words and definitions sprinkled throughout the book. (Yes, I know I invented a word there.) The Latin class was a cool piece, too. Definitely a good book for my brainy, mature kids.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Pretties
by Scott Westerfeld
CMSW, paper, 370 pages
Tally has undergone the operation to become a pretty, but her friends in the "Crim" clique include Zane who seems very different from everyone else. Together, they strive to find out what Croy, an ugly, meant when he crashed a party in new prettytown and told Tally that he was hiding something for her. The cure. Interesting to see where the author has taken the story, especially with the visit to the wildlife preserve. Shay's character seems so very different from when we first met her.
CMSW, paper, 370 pages
Tally has undergone the operation to become a pretty, but her friends in the "Crim" clique include Zane who seems very different from everyone else. Together, they strive to find out what Croy, an ugly, meant when he crashed a party in new prettytown and told Tally that he was hiding something for her. The cure. Interesting to see where the author has taken the story, especially with the visit to the wildlife preserve. Shay's character seems so very different from when we first met her.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Anne of the Island
by L.M. Montgomery
Carver County Library, paperback, 298 pages
Anne at college in Redmond. Older, wiser, less fun. An enjoyable book, but with the bittersweet tang of growing up and leaving childhood behind. Her rejection of Gilbert Blythe was easy to see coming. What a silly girl!
Carver County Library, paperback, 298 pages
Anne at college in Redmond. Older, wiser, less fun. An enjoyable book, but with the bittersweet tang of growing up and leaving childhood behind. Her rejection of Gilbert Blythe was easy to see coming. What a silly girl!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Tornado
by Betsy Byars
home, paperback, 49 pages
What a sweet little story. Not sure why it's down in my piles of papers by my desk. I think I'll see if the Prip boys would enjoy it. It's the story of a family who sits out a tornado in the cellar by listening to Pete's stories about his childhood dog. Short little kid chapter book - an "I can read" kind of thing.
home, paperback, 49 pages
What a sweet little story. Not sure why it's down in my piles of papers by my desk. I think I'll see if the Prip boys would enjoy it. It's the story of a family who sits out a tornado in the cellar by listening to Pete's stories about his childhood dog. Short little kid chapter book - an "I can read" kind of thing.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Uglies
by Scott Westerfeld
CMSW, paperback, 425 pages
I started out listening to this on CD, but it was much too annoying. The reader's voice was making me crazy and I wanted to see how the story went. This is one of our 7th grade novel choices.
Tally Youngblood is a 15-year-old who is awaiting her sixteenth birthday and "the" operation that will turn her from an Ugly into a Pretty. She thinks up daring tricks, like sneaking into New Prettytown to see her best friend Peris, who is startled to see her and asks her to not get into trouble before she turns pretty and joins him. Soon she meets Shay, another 15-year-old who likes to do tricks. But Shay has no desire to ever turn Pretty, a fact she slowly reveals to Tally, asking her to run away and join the Smoke, a group of runaways.
Liked the dynamic in the Smoke, especially David's character. Loved the hoverboards. Didn't like the self-centered immaturity of Tally. Or the attack on the Smoke.
CMSW, paperback, 425 pages
I started out listening to this on CD, but it was much too annoying. The reader's voice was making me crazy and I wanted to see how the story went. This is one of our 7th grade novel choices.
Tally Youngblood is a 15-year-old who is awaiting her sixteenth birthday and "the" operation that will turn her from an Ugly into a Pretty. She thinks up daring tricks, like sneaking into New Prettytown to see her best friend Peris, who is startled to see her and asks her to not get into trouble before she turns pretty and joins him. Soon she meets Shay, another 15-year-old who likes to do tricks. But Shay has no desire to ever turn Pretty, a fact she slowly reveals to Tally, asking her to run away and join the Smoke, a group of runaways.
Liked the dynamic in the Smoke, especially David's character. Loved the hoverboards. Didn't like the self-centered immaturity of Tally. Or the attack on the Smoke.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Anne of Avonlea
by L.M. Montgomery
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 9.25 hours
read by Barbara Caruso
Delightful sequel to Anne of Green Gables, but I don't like this reader quite as well. I suppose Anne needed an "older" voice, but her Marilla was especially crusty. I like the dynamics between Anne and Gilbert as well as the changes in Mr. Harrison. The story line with Miss Lavender isn't quite as captivating for me.
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 9.25 hours
read by Barbara Caruso
Delightful sequel to Anne of Green Gables, but I don't like this reader quite as well. I suppose Anne needed an "older" voice, but her Marilla was especially crusty. I like the dynamics between Anne and Gilbert as well as the changes in Mr. Harrison. The story line with Miss Lavender isn't quite as captivating for me.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Anne of Green Gables
by L.M. Montgomery
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 10 hours & 21 minutes
read by Kate Burton
I love this story! I am glad, though, that it is no longer one of the 8th grade novels. I just don't see it as something that most 21st century 13-year-olds can really relate to much. Anne is an imaginative, creative, somewhat careless orphan adopted by elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert.
The reader is perfect for this story! She captures the characters beautifully and brings Anne's wistfulness to life. This is one of those "classic" books I should have in my home library for re-reads from time to time. Lovely.
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 10 hours & 21 minutes
read by Kate Burton
I love this story! I am glad, though, that it is no longer one of the 8th grade novels. I just don't see it as something that most 21st century 13-year-olds can really relate to much. Anne is an imaginative, creative, somewhat careless orphan adopted by elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert.
The reader is perfect for this story! She captures the characters beautifully and brings Anne's wistfulness to life. This is one of those "classic" books I should have in my home library for re-reads from time to time. Lovely.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Three Cups of Tea: The Young Reader's Edition
by Greg Mortenson & David Oliver Relin
Adapted by Sarah Thomson
CMSW, paperback, 209 pages
This is our February book club pick. I really enjoyed it, and am curious now to read the original version. I did like the fact that this version included an interview with Mortenson's daughter Amira and had lots of color photos. What an incredible young man to take an experience like getting lost on a mountain and turn it into a life-changing opportunity for so many people in Pakistan and Afghanistan!
The most surprising thing to me was that he got married six days after meeting Tara! His persistence and determination to follow through on his promises are also admirable.
Adapted by Sarah Thomson
CMSW, paperback, 209 pages
This is our February book club pick. I really enjoyed it, and am curious now to read the original version. I did like the fact that this version included an interview with Mortenson's daughter Amira and had lots of color photos. What an incredible young man to take an experience like getting lost on a mountain and turn it into a life-changing opportunity for so many people in Pakistan and Afghanistan!
The most surprising thing to me was that he got married six days after meeting Tara! His persistence and determination to follow through on his promises are also admirable.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Finn's Going
by Tom Kelly
CMSW, hardcover, 278 pages
This was a very challenging read. Not sure I can recommend it to my students. Even though the protagonist is only ten, the writer's style is very stream-of-consciousness. The British terms and expressions are beyond those I've ever encountered. It took me a while to understand some of them. Honestly, I still don't know which brother is which. It's obvious from the start that something tragic happened to one of the twins, but it takes to the very end of the story for the explanation to come out. In the meantime, the reader wonders what the deal is with otters. And is this Danny or Finn who's sharing his grief with us? He tells Airplane Kev that he's Danny. But then he responds to his dad's "Hello, Finn" at the end with an affirmative. The title also plays into this ambiguity. Is "Finn's Going" in reference to the boy who died? Or does it refer to the remaining brother's going through his grief? All in all, not terribly accessible for most of my readers.
CMSW, hardcover, 278 pages
This was a very challenging read. Not sure I can recommend it to my students. Even though the protagonist is only ten, the writer's style is very stream-of-consciousness. The British terms and expressions are beyond those I've ever encountered. It took me a while to understand some of them. Honestly, I still don't know which brother is which. It's obvious from the start that something tragic happened to one of the twins, but it takes to the very end of the story for the explanation to come out. In the meantime, the reader wonders what the deal is with otters. And is this Danny or Finn who's sharing his grief with us? He tells Airplane Kev that he's Danny. But then he responds to his dad's "Hello, Finn" at the end with an affirmative. The title also plays into this ambiguity. Is "Finn's Going" in reference to the boy who died? Or does it refer to the remaining brother's going through his grief? All in all, not terribly accessible for most of my readers.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Rhubarb
by Garrison Keillor
Carver County Library, audioCD, 77 minutes
read by the author
A fun grouping of summer stories in Lake Woebegone. I like how he added local references for his live audience while he was on tour. Sometimes his stories make me sad, especially when the small-mindedness and meanness of small-town life come through (like the boy who was pressured into wearing a yellow ribbon at school even though he didn't want to), but more often the stories make me laugh. I especially liked the way he talked about rhubarb and how everyone thinks it's unique to their area.
Carver County Library, audioCD, 77 minutes
read by the author
A fun grouping of summer stories in Lake Woebegone. I like how he added local references for his live audience while he was on tour. Sometimes his stories make me sad, especially when the small-mindedness and meanness of small-town life come through (like the boy who was pressured into wearing a yellow ribbon at school even though he didn't want to), but more often the stories make me laugh. I especially liked the way he talked about rhubarb and how everyone thinks it's unique to their area.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Millions
by Frank Cottrell Boyce
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 4.5 hours
read by Simon Jones
British story about a boy, Damien, who finds a bag of cash. He and his brother have only a few weeks to spend it before the conversion to Euros. Their mother died a few years earlier, and that along with Damien's fascination with saints and their stories, make for some unusual plot twists as the boys find the money becoming a burden rather than a blessing.
Jones' voice is perfect for this work.
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 4.5 hours
read by Simon Jones
British story about a boy, Damien, who finds a bag of cash. He and his brother have only a few weeks to spend it before the conversion to Euros. Their mother died a few years earlier, and that along with Damien's fascination with saints and their stories, make for some unusual plot twists as the boys find the money becoming a burden rather than a blessing.
Jones' voice is perfect for this work.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw
by Jeff Kinney
hardcover, CMSW, ? pages
I had to read book three (brand new) before checking it out to my students! How delightful! Even though Greg is a little stinker, the book rings true in many regards. I enjoyed this one as much as book one in the series, and waaaay more than book two. What fun!
Greg's mom thinks it's time for him to do his own laundry. His dad wants him to be more manly, like his boss's kids. Greg just wants to be a kid.
hardcover, CMSW, ? pages
I had to read book three (brand new) before checking it out to my students! How delightful! Even though Greg is a little stinker, the book rings true in many regards. I enjoyed this one as much as book one in the series, and waaaay more than book two. What fun!
Greg's mom thinks it's time for him to do his own laundry. His dad wants him to be more manly, like his boss's kids. Greg just wants to be a kid.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Stormbreaker
by Anthony Horowitz
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 4 hours & 37 minutes
read by Nathaniel Parker
I enjoyed this more the first time I read it. Listening to it, especially with two 21-year-olds mocking it, made it much less enjoyable. Alex Rider as a 14-year-old spy is pretty far-fetched. I don't think I need to re-read the rest of the series . . . but it's still fun to booktalk it to readers who want something fast and action-packed.
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 4 hours & 37 minutes
read by Nathaniel Parker
I enjoyed this more the first time I read it. Listening to it, especially with two 21-year-olds mocking it, made it much less enjoyable. Alex Rider as a 14-year-old spy is pretty far-fetched. I don't think I need to re-read the rest of the series . . . but it's still fun to booktalk it to readers who want something fast and action-packed.
Friday, January 16, 2009
John 3:16
by Nancy Moser
paperback, Carver County Library, 402 pages
I liked (not loved) this book, but am eager for our book club discussion. When we talk about the books, then I really start to appreciate what the author brought to it and what each of us takes away as readers.
Without giving away too much, I'll say that the funeral and Roman finding Trudy's letter were the two parts that I liked the most. My favorite characters were William and Barry. I must just like kids . . .
Some parts of this just felt too pat. I had a really hard time getting into this book (I didn't get past chapter two for weeks!), but once I got into the different characters' storylines, I read quickly and enjoyed it.
As it's written in the book (not sure what version):
John 3:16. For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who belives in him will not perish but have eternal life."
Praise God!
paperback, Carver County Library, 402 pages
I liked (not loved) this book, but am eager for our book club discussion. When we talk about the books, then I really start to appreciate what the author brought to it and what each of us takes away as readers.
Without giving away too much, I'll say that the funeral and Roman finding Trudy's letter were the two parts that I liked the most. My favorite characters were William and Barry. I must just like kids . . .
Some parts of this just felt too pat. I had a really hard time getting into this book (I didn't get past chapter two for weeks!), but once I got into the different characters' storylines, I read quickly and enjoyed it.
As it's written in the book (not sure what version):
John 3:16. For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who belives in him will not perish but have eternal life."
Praise God!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Fast Food Nation
by Eric Schlosser
read by Rick Adamson
audioCD, Carver County Library, 9 hours (abridged)
I didn't realize this was an abridgement until the very end of the CD! Good thing it was, though, because nine hours of fast-food condemnation got old. There was some very interesting information. The part on slaughterhouses made me glad that we buy our beef from a local farmer and local butcher. But it's easy to understand how people make the choice to go vegetarian.
I thought he was a little over-the-top in making Ray Kroc and Walt Disney sound like the bringers-of-the-downfall of American society. But he makes some really strong connections between business and politics. Money and power are interesting forces throughout civilization . . . usually for ill rather than good. I'm glad that I'm already trying to eat healthier. This book is definitely "food for thought." I would love discussing it with other readers! (But maybe I should check out the book and read the whole thing.)
Adamson did an excellent job of reading this book, bringing energy and clarity to the diatribe against our fast food culture.
read by Rick Adamson
audioCD, Carver County Library, 9 hours (abridged)
I didn't realize this was an abridgement until the very end of the CD! Good thing it was, though, because nine hours of fast-food condemnation got old. There was some very interesting information. The part on slaughterhouses made me glad that we buy our beef from a local farmer and local butcher. But it's easy to understand how people make the choice to go vegetarian.
I thought he was a little over-the-top in making Ray Kroc and Walt Disney sound like the bringers-of-the-downfall of American society. But he makes some really strong connections between business and politics. Money and power are interesting forces throughout civilization . . . usually for ill rather than good. I'm glad that I'm already trying to eat healthier. This book is definitely "food for thought." I would love discussing it with other readers! (But maybe I should check out the book and read the whole thing.)
Adamson did an excellent job of reading this book, bringing energy and clarity to the diatribe against our fast food culture.
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Circuit
subtitled, "Stories from the life of a migrant child"
by Francisco Jimenez
hardcover, CMSW, 134 pages
What a beautiful but sad collection of stories about a family of Mexican migrant workers. Francisco is four years younger than his brother Roberto, and alternates between the little boy job of watching younger siblings and the grown-up job of working the fields. His joy in going to school is tempered by the challenges of trying to learn in six months what other students get nine months to learn.
The most heart-breaking point of this book for me was when his notebook burned in the house fire. The disappointments and frustrations were tangible. This is a beautifully written book!
by Francisco Jimenez
hardcover, CMSW, 134 pages
What a beautiful but sad collection of stories about a family of Mexican migrant workers. Francisco is four years younger than his brother Roberto, and alternates between the little boy job of watching younger siblings and the grown-up job of working the fields. His joy in going to school is tempered by the challenges of trying to learn in six months what other students get nine months to learn.
The most heart-breaking point of this book for me was when his notebook burned in the house fire. The disappointments and frustrations were tangible. This is a beautifully written book!
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Illuminated
by Matt Bronleewe
borrowed from Cindy Ottinger
hardcover, 311 pages
This was much darker and more violent than I expected. And yet the thing that bothered me the most was the idea of people mistreating rare old books! An interesting cross between the Da Vinci Code and National Treasure, Illuminated has two opposing groups trying to gain control of three copies of the Gutenberg Bible to look for clues to the Templars' treasure. August and April are divorced, but end up coming together to protect their son Charlie.
Brownleewe is a founding member of Jars of Clay. This is his first novel.
borrowed from Cindy Ottinger
hardcover, 311 pages
This was much darker and more violent than I expected. And yet the thing that bothered me the most was the idea of people mistreating rare old books! An interesting cross between the Da Vinci Code and National Treasure, Illuminated has two opposing groups trying to gain control of three copies of the Gutenberg Bible to look for clues to the Templars' treasure. August and April are divorced, but end up coming together to protect their son Charlie.
Brownleewe is a founding member of Jars of Clay. This is his first novel.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Kidnapped
by Robert Louis Stevenson
Carver County Library, audioCD, ~8 hours
read by Jim Weiss
From wikipedia:
The full title of the book, Kidnapped: Being Memoirs of the Adventures of David Balfour in the Year 1751: How he was Kidnapped and Cast away, his Sufferings in a Desert Isle; his Journey in the Wild Highlands; his acquaintance with Alan Breck Stewart and other notorious Highland Jacobites; with all that he Suffered at the hands of his Uncle, Ebenezer Balfour of Shaws, falsely so-called: Written by Himself and now set forth by Robert Louis Stevenson gives away major parts of the plot and creates the false impression that the novel is autobiographical.
I didn't enjoy this story as much as Stevenson's other books I've read. I think it's interesting that I've always thought of him as a British author, but this story quickly led me to believe that he was Scottish. Indeed! There are many colloquialisms in this story. The reader had a great brogue!
Carver County Library, audioCD, ~8 hours
read by Jim Weiss
From wikipedia:
The full title of the book, Kidnapped: Being Memoirs of the Adventures of David Balfour in the Year 1751: How he was Kidnapped and Cast away, his Sufferings in a Desert Isle; his Journey in the Wild Highlands; his acquaintance with Alan Breck Stewart and other notorious Highland Jacobites; with all that he Suffered at the hands of his Uncle, Ebenezer Balfour of Shaws, falsely so-called: Written by Himself and now set forth by Robert Louis Stevenson gives away major parts of the plot and creates the false impression that the novel is autobiographical.
I didn't enjoy this story as much as Stevenson's other books I've read. I think it's interesting that I've always thought of him as a British author, but this story quickly led me to believe that he was Scottish. Indeed! There are many colloquialisms in this story. The reader had a great brogue!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Brisinger
by Christopher Paolini
CMSW, hardcover, 748 pages
I enjoyed Eragon's further adventures and am looking forward to the final installment of the story (probably two years out). Eragon is finally maturing a bit, though he still displays some bratty outbursts. The whole scene with the dwarves and the coronation was a bit too drawn-out. Roran's storyline rocked! My favorite, though, was the banter and interplay between Eragon and Saphira.
CMSW, hardcover, 748 pages
I enjoyed Eragon's further adventures and am looking forward to the final installment of the story (probably two years out). Eragon is finally maturing a bit, though he still displays some bratty outbursts. The whole scene with the dwarves and the coronation was a bit too drawn-out. Roran's storyline rocked! My favorite, though, was the banter and interplay between Eragon and Saphira.
Anne of Avonlea
by L.M. Montgomery
Hennepin County, audiobook on CD
read by ???
Listening to this reminded me of why I *hate* abridged versions of books! I wasn't careful at the library - it didn't say it was abridged, but I could tell right away. I still enjoy the story, but am glad that I've read the full version before. So much of the story line and character development are lost in the abridgement!
Anne is a much more enjoyable character in this story. Her improvement society and teaching experiences are fun and interesting.
Hennepin County, audiobook on CD
read by ???
Listening to this reminded me of why I *hate* abridged versions of books! I wasn't careful at the library - it didn't say it was abridged, but I could tell right away. I still enjoy the story, but am glad that I've read the full version before. So much of the story line and character development are lost in the abridgement!
Anne is a much more enjoyable character in this story. Her improvement society and teaching experiences are fun and interesting.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Quilter's Legacy
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Carver County Library, hard cover, 310 pages
Sylvia tries to locate her mother's quilts. Andrew's children object to their marriage. The parallel story focuses on Sylvia's mother, Eleanor, and her upbringing, marriage, and making of her quilts.
I liked it, especially the historical storyline. I also enjoyed stretching this out over a long time, as I only read it a little bit at a time before going to sleep. I still need to make time to quilt!
Carver County Library, hard cover, 310 pages
Sylvia tries to locate her mother's quilts. Andrew's children object to their marriage. The parallel story focuses on Sylvia's mother, Eleanor, and her upbringing, marriage, and making of her quilts.
I liked it, especially the historical storyline. I also enjoyed stretching this out over a long time, as I only read it a little bit at a time before going to sleep. I still need to make time to quilt!
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Making Big Schools Feel Small: Multiage Grouping, Looping, and Schools-Within-a-School
by Paul S. George and John H. Lounsbury
St. Thomas Library (via Minitex), paperback, 112 pages
I was looking for information on looping in middle schools and so thankful I found this book! It looked at a number of middle schools across the country which have tried some of these methods of making large schools seem smaller. The evidence for these programs is overwhelmingly positive on many levels. The last part of the book ends with surveys from teachers, students, and parents. It's interesting that parents were least positive about the results and their number one concern had to do with students getting stuck with a "bad" teacher more than one year in a row. Interesting!
This will go on my professional shelf at PRMS, if I can find a copy!
St. Thomas Library (via Minitex), paperback, 112 pages
I was looking for information on looping in middle schools and so thankful I found this book! It looked at a number of middle schools across the country which have tried some of these methods of making large schools seem smaller. The evidence for these programs is overwhelmingly positive on many levels. The last part of the book ends with surveys from teachers, students, and parents. It's interesting that parents were least positive about the results and their number one concern had to do with students getting stuck with a "bad" teacher more than one year in a row. Interesting!
This will go on my professional shelf at PRMS, if I can find a copy!
Friday, December 05, 2008
The 100-Year Old Secret Files of Sherlock Holmes
by Tracy Barrett
Carver County Library, audiobook, 3 CDs
Read by David Pittu
This book just seemed too darn young for me - to the point of being irritating. (Never mind the plot point that Xander & Xena are Sherlock Holmes' descendants . . . and he's fictional.) Basically, the two American kids are in Britain for a year and they have been taught by their father who was taught by his father who was taught by you-know-who to be extremely observant. They are introduced to the Society for the Preservation of Famous Detectives (SPFD) in a rather strange manner and given a casebook of files that Sherlock Holmes never solved. They gather clues and find the long-lost painting of "Girl in a Purple Hat," stunning the art world and saving the day.
Pittu gave voice to the characters very well, but the story just didn't cut it for me.
Carver County Library, audiobook, 3 CDs
Read by David Pittu
This book just seemed too darn young for me - to the point of being irritating. (Never mind the plot point that Xander & Xena are Sherlock Holmes' descendants . . . and he's fictional.) Basically, the two American kids are in Britain for a year and they have been taught by their father who was taught by his father who was taught by you-know-who to be extremely observant. They are introduced to the Society for the Preservation of Famous Detectives (SPFD) in a rather strange manner and given a casebook of files that Sherlock Holmes never solved. They gather clues and find the long-lost painting of "Girl in a Purple Hat," stunning the art world and saving the day.
Pittu gave voice to the characters very well, but the story just didn't cut it for me.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
The Fire-Eaters
by David Almond
audiobook on CDs, Hennepin County Library, 3:54
Read by Daniel Gerroll
Mary Verbick recommended this story. I found it very disturbing, but also touching. Bobby Burns is the main character, a boy growing up in a working class family. He is worried about his father's illness, has mixed feelings about his new school, loves Ailsa Spink, and is fascinated by McNulty. McNulty is the fire eater who asks Bobby to help him choose a skewer and collect money from his audience. His madness and seeming imperviousness to pain draw Bobby in to his world.
This would be a fantastic discussion book - why does is the title plural? Who are the other fire-eaters? Bobby? Joseph? How does his new neighbor alter Bobby's reality?
Gerroll's accents make this an auditory delight! He nails the characters and their various ways of speaking beautifully!
audiobook on CDs, Hennepin County Library, 3:54
Read by Daniel Gerroll
Mary Verbick recommended this story. I found it very disturbing, but also touching. Bobby Burns is the main character, a boy growing up in a working class family. He is worried about his father's illness, has mixed feelings about his new school, loves Ailsa Spink, and is fascinated by McNulty. McNulty is the fire eater who asks Bobby to help him choose a skewer and collect money from his audience. His madness and seeming imperviousness to pain draw Bobby in to his world.
This would be a fantastic discussion book - why does is the title plural? Who are the other fire-eaters? Bobby? Joseph? How does his new neighbor alter Bobby's reality?
Gerroll's accents make this an auditory delight! He nails the characters and their various ways of speaking beautifully!
A Clearing in the Wild
by Jane Kirkpatrick
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 365 pages
Historical fiction based on a true story. A German Christian community located in Missouri sends scouts out to find land out west for the group to move to and develop. Emma is outspoken and determined, qualities that alienate her from the group's leader, "Father" Wilhelm Keil. She falls in love with the much older Christian and seeks to be the perfect wife.
I didn't like this story. The characters bugged me. It wasn't compelling. My favorite scene was when she left with her baby, the goat, and the tarp. Our discussion last night at Gretchen's was fantastic! I love hearing what other people think of a book. We have such a fantastic group of women in our book club! It was fun to hear why other people liked it, even though I didn't.
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 365 pages
Historical fiction based on a true story. A German Christian community located in Missouri sends scouts out to find land out west for the group to move to and develop. Emma is outspoken and determined, qualities that alienate her from the group's leader, "Father" Wilhelm Keil. She falls in love with the much older Christian and seeks to be the perfect wife.
I didn't like this story. The characters bugged me. It wasn't compelling. My favorite scene was when she left with her baby, the goat, and the tarp. Our discussion last night at Gretchen's was fantastic! I love hearing what other people think of a book. We have such a fantastic group of women in our book club! It was fun to hear why other people liked it, even though I didn't.
The Education of Henry Adams
by Henry Adams
Introduction by Edmund Morris
Carver County, hard cover, 500ish pages
Hmm. I only read the intro & about ten pages of the actual autobiography (written in third person). This came into my hands in a timely manner - just when I was going to talk with Tamara's students about reading something a little bit challenging. The first few pages (of the intro) included these words: escarpment, equipoised, epiphanies, atavistic, legionnaires, scion, crucible. What a great example of a "reach" book! However, Mr. Adams is just a bit too arrogant, intellectual, and dry for my taste. So after a dozen pages, I bid him adieu. Perhaps I'll read this when I grow up.
I got it from the library based on this review:
"As history, as literature, as autobiography, this book is one of the gold standards in American letters. Unless you are very young, you've probably read it, but how long ago? It's time to read it again, with all the insight you have gained since you first read it. Adams viewed his country through the mirror of himself and his family. What he saw gave him a great deal for his acute and wide-ranging mind to mull over. We, his fortunate readers, enjoy the result, a work arresting, entertaining, and profound." This is from the Page-a-Day calendar I got from MILI last year. So far, I have disliked all the books I've checked out based on their reviews. (Latte' Trouble, Beethoven's Hair, Adverbs, etc.) I think it's time to turn the rest into scratch paper!
Introduction by Edmund Morris
Carver County, hard cover, 500ish pages
Hmm. I only read the intro & about ten pages of the actual autobiography (written in third person). This came into my hands in a timely manner - just when I was going to talk with Tamara's students about reading something a little bit challenging. The first few pages (of the intro) included these words: escarpment, equipoised, epiphanies, atavistic, legionnaires, scion, crucible. What a great example of a "reach" book! However, Mr. Adams is just a bit too arrogant, intellectual, and dry for my taste. So after a dozen pages, I bid him adieu. Perhaps I'll read this when I grow up.
I got it from the library based on this review:
"As history, as literature, as autobiography, this book is one of the gold standards in American letters. Unless you are very young, you've probably read it, but how long ago? It's time to read it again, with all the insight you have gained since you first read it. Adams viewed his country through the mirror of himself and his family. What he saw gave him a great deal for his acute and wide-ranging mind to mull over. We, his fortunate readers, enjoy the result, a work arresting, entertaining, and profound." This is from the Page-a-Day calendar I got from MILI last year. So far, I have disliked all the books I've checked out based on their reviews. (Latte' Trouble, Beethoven's Hair, Adverbs, etc.) I think it's time to turn the rest into scratch paper!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
In Your Room
by Jordanna Fraiberg
paperback, destination unknown, 203 pages
This was an impulse buy at Barnes & Noble, because it looked like a sweet little romance story that would be appropriate for middle schoolers. I enjoyed it, but will probably send it to the high school. The romance part was sweet and clean - the most they do is kiss. But these are kids between their junior and senior years of high school and alcohol is heavily featured. I just don't want middle schoolers to think that alcohol is a normal part of adolescence. It's just so matter-of-fact that these underage kids are getting drinks at every party - even shots at a bar! Just not what I want for middle school kids to read. . .
The essential story is that Molly's family (mom and new stepdad) are house-swapping with Charlie's family (two moms and two 11-year-old sisters) for the summer. Both teens are initially upset by the swap, but start to correspond as they inhabit one another's bedrooms. Each of these young people is interesting and fairly well-developed. Romance buds even as misunderstandings seem to trip them up.
paperback, destination unknown, 203 pages
This was an impulse buy at Barnes & Noble, because it looked like a sweet little romance story that would be appropriate for middle schoolers. I enjoyed it, but will probably send it to the high school. The romance part was sweet and clean - the most they do is kiss. But these are kids between their junior and senior years of high school and alcohol is heavily featured. I just don't want middle schoolers to think that alcohol is a normal part of adolescence. It's just so matter-of-fact that these underage kids are getting drinks at every party - even shots at a bar! Just not what I want for middle school kids to read. . .
The essential story is that Molly's family (mom and new stepdad) are house-swapping with Charlie's family (two moms and two 11-year-old sisters) for the summer. Both teens are initially upset by the swap, but start to correspond as they inhabit one another's bedrooms. Each of these young people is interesting and fairly well-developed. Romance buds even as misunderstandings seem to trip them up.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
What Do Fish Have to Do with Anything? and other stories
by Avi
CMSW, hard cover, 196 pages
I intended to read this over the summer . . . guess I missed the boat! Finally done. Interesting collection, a little edgy.
"What Do Fish Have to Do with Anything?" - boy befriends homeless man and confronts his single mom with the meaning of happiness
"The Goodness of Matt Kaizer" - a truly nasty kid goes to the home of a classmate whose father is dying so that he can be cruel and torment her. He ends up being perceived by the dying father as a kind of savior who can take his last confession. The experience permanently changes the boy.
"Talk to Me" - Maria's 16-year-old brother has been gone for a year and no one will talk about him. When her phone frequently rings at 4pm, she believes it is him trying to contact her, even though no one talks.
"Teacher Tamer" - when Gregory decides to get revenge on Mrs. Wessex, he learns about her motivation and opinion of him. That changes his plan, but not his result.
"Pets" - a girl is crazy about pets until her dead cats try to get her to die, too.
"What's Inside" - a boy is on the spot when his cousin wants to commit suicide, but the two identical boxes he made in shop class help him find an out.
"Fortune Cookie" - an angry 13-year-old asks his divorced parents to have dinner with him for his birthday present, but then he behaves in a way that alienates his father and makes his mother cry.
Interesting collection. I think kids would respond to most of these stories.
CMSW, hard cover, 196 pages
I intended to read this over the summer . . . guess I missed the boat! Finally done. Interesting collection, a little edgy.
"What Do Fish Have to Do with Anything?" - boy befriends homeless man and confronts his single mom with the meaning of happiness
"The Goodness of Matt Kaizer" - a truly nasty kid goes to the home of a classmate whose father is dying so that he can be cruel and torment her. He ends up being perceived by the dying father as a kind of savior who can take his last confession. The experience permanently changes the boy.
"Talk to Me" - Maria's 16-year-old brother has been gone for a year and no one will talk about him. When her phone frequently rings at 4pm, she believes it is him trying to contact her, even though no one talks.
"Teacher Tamer" - when Gregory decides to get revenge on Mrs. Wessex, he learns about her motivation and opinion of him. That changes his plan, but not his result.
"Pets" - a girl is crazy about pets until her dead cats try to get her to die, too.
"What's Inside" - a boy is on the spot when his cousin wants to commit suicide, but the two identical boxes he made in shop class help him find an out.
"Fortune Cookie" - an angry 13-year-old asks his divorced parents to have dinner with him for his birthday present, but then he behaves in a way that alienates his father and makes his mother cry.
Interesting collection. I think kids would respond to most of these stories.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Oh My Stars
by Lorna Landvik
Carver County Book Club kit, paperback, 389 pages
Violet Mathers goes from a winsome to angry to whining to lovely protangonist. The factory accident that costs her an arm changes her life. As she heads for San Francisco to commit suicide off the Golden Gate Bridge, a bus accident in North Dakota brings her in contact with Kjel ("Shell") Hedstrom and Austin Sykes. Her life is never the same.
I liked this book, though it was much more serious than other Landvik titles. I wish it were possible to listen to the Pearltones' songs - the descriptions of their music were so powerful. I look forward to discussing this with the book club next week.
Carver County Book Club kit, paperback, 389 pages
Violet Mathers goes from a winsome to angry to whining to lovely protangonist. The factory accident that costs her an arm changes her life. As she heads for San Francisco to commit suicide off the Golden Gate Bridge, a bus accident in North Dakota brings her in contact with Kjel ("Shell") Hedstrom and Austin Sykes. Her life is never the same.
I liked this book, though it was much more serious than other Landvik titles. I wish it were possible to listen to the Pearltones' songs - the descriptions of their music were so powerful. I look forward to discussing this with the book club next week.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Sherlock Holmes Theatre
Carver County Library audiobook
Unabridged - 4:30 hours on 5 discs
"Sherlock Holmes" by William Gillette & Arthur Conan Doyle
Delightful story of Holmes going up against Moriarty. Surprises included Holmes' cocaine addiction - I had forgotten about that - and Holmes actually falling in love with the persecuted Alice. All in all, very enjoyable.
"The Speckled Band" by Arthur Conan Doyle
Not so enjoyable. The heavy-handed villain is too obvious and the young lady too pathetic. The snake and snake-charmer were interesting touches.
"Ghastly Double Murder in Famed Detective's Flat" by Yuri Rasovsky
Bizarre twists - some clever and some annoying. Holmes & Watson turn on one another and Holmes sets up both Watson and Mrs. Hudson the housekeeper. I wonder what Doyle would have thought of this . . . I don't care for it.
Unabridged - 4:30 hours on 5 discs
"Sherlock Holmes" by William Gillette & Arthur Conan Doyle
Delightful story of Holmes going up against Moriarty. Surprises included Holmes' cocaine addiction - I had forgotten about that - and Holmes actually falling in love with the persecuted Alice. All in all, very enjoyable.
"The Speckled Band" by Arthur Conan Doyle
Not so enjoyable. The heavy-handed villain is too obvious and the young lady too pathetic. The snake and snake-charmer were interesting touches.
"Ghastly Double Murder in Famed Detective's Flat" by Yuri Rasovsky
Bizarre twists - some clever and some annoying. Holmes & Watson turn on one another and Holmes sets up both Watson and Mrs. Hudson the housekeeper. I wonder what Doyle would have thought of this . . . I don't care for it.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Fullmetal Alchemist, vol. 4
by Hiromu Arakawa
donated hardcover, manga, 180+
I read this to consider it for middle school. Pretty violent (to me) and some swearing, but basically pretty clean. I really dislike manga, but I like it when kids read voraciously and my manga readers fit that description! I'll probably hang onto this for PRMS and buy the other volumes to make a complete set. That way, CMSW will have Rurouni Kenshin, Bleach, and Fruits Basket. I'll have to find a "female" title to add to PRMS (or see what PRFC is leaving behind . . . ).
Two brothers are fighting to find their "real" bodies, since their souls are inhabiting a metal body and . . . I didn't actually understand the whole story line.
donated hardcover, manga, 180+
I read this to consider it for middle school. Pretty violent (to me) and some swearing, but basically pretty clean. I really dislike manga, but I like it when kids read voraciously and my manga readers fit that description! I'll probably hang onto this for PRMS and buy the other volumes to make a complete set. That way, CMSW will have Rurouni Kenshin, Bleach, and Fruits Basket. I'll have to find a "female" title to add to PRMS (or see what PRFC is leaving behind . . . ).
Two brothers are fighting to find their "real" bodies, since their souls are inhabiting a metal body and . . . I didn't actually understand the whole story line.
Flush
CMSW, paperback, 263 pages
I had to re-read this because it's been enough years that the details were fuzzy. I enjoyed it and even laughed aloud a few times! Noah and Abbey are a great brother-sister duo. Shelley and Grandpa Bobby add a lot of zest to this story of a family trying to bring a polluting casino owner to justice. I like this one better than Hoot!
I had to re-read this because it's been enough years that the details were fuzzy. I enjoyed it and even laughed aloud a few times! Noah and Abbey are a great brother-sister duo. Shelley and Grandpa Bobby add a lot of zest to this story of a family trying to bring a polluting casino owner to justice. I like this one better than Hoot!
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Runaway Quilt
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Carver County Library, hard cover, (large print), 421 pages
Sylvia finally locates the Civil-War era quilts in the attic and a journal along with them. The memoir tells her stories about her ancestors that she never knew, upsetting her and raising more questions.
I loved the parts of the story that were the journal left by Sylvia's great-great-aunt Gerda. The modern-day parts were kind of irritating (except the cornerstone scene with Sylvia and Andrew). I may need to take a break from the Elm Creek Quilt novels . . . and start to work on some actual quilting! I just needed to chill out last night.
Carver County Library, hard cover, (large print), 421 pages
Sylvia finally locates the Civil-War era quilts in the attic and a journal along with them. The memoir tells her stories about her ancestors that she never knew, upsetting her and raising more questions.
I loved the parts of the story that were the journal left by Sylvia's great-great-aunt Gerda. The modern-day parts were kind of irritating (except the cornerstone scene with Sylvia and Andrew). I may need to take a break from the Elm Creek Quilt novels . . . and start to work on some actual quilting! I just needed to chill out last night.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
13: Thirteen Stories that Capture the Agony and Ecstasy of Being Thirteen
edited by James Howe
CMSW, hard cover, 278 pages
Great collection of short stories for 13-year-olds.
"What's the Worst That Could Happen" by Bruce Coville - funny piece about a boy with stage fright who agrees to help a girl with a skit just because he has a crush on her.
"Kate the Great" by Meg Cabot - a girl finally learns to stand up to her former friend while on a babysitting job
"If You Kiss a Boy" by Alex Sanchez - a boy kisses his friend and discovers homosexuality with advice from a kind teacher
"Thirteen and a Half" by Rachel Vail - a girl goes home with a classmate only to find her pet bird dead and the mother explains that she's actually had many birds over the years
"Jeremy Goldblatt Is So Not Moses" by James Howe - a great story about a boy's bar mitzvah and how he turns everything on its head through his kindness
"Black Holes and Basketball Sneakers" by Lori Aurelia Williams - a poor boy wants new shoes so that everyone will stop teasing him but his mother can't afford them and he gets involved with a gang
"Picky Eater" by Stephen Roos - a boy visits different neighbors to try to get better food than what his mom brings home from the school cafeteria. He is friendly to a neighbor boy who dies of an asthma attack
"Such Foolishness" - a poem about being 13
"Noodle Soup for Nincompoops" - a girl starts a column in the school newspaper and learns to be open with her best friend
"Squid Girl" by Todd Strasser - a girl on vacation with her nature-loving parents hopes to meet a cute boy and not look like a geek
"Angel & Aly" by Ron Koertge - two sisters are opposites until an alligator puppet turns the sweet sister hard. strange.
"Nobody Stole Jason Grayson" by Carolyn Mackler - when a quiet girl takes a photo of a popular boy from the open locker of the principal's daughter, chaos breaks out
"Tina the Teen Fairy" by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin - a pragmatic girl doesn't think that turning 13 is a big deal until a night-time visit from a fairy
CMSW, hard cover, 278 pages
Great collection of short stories for 13-year-olds.
"What's the Worst That Could Happen" by Bruce Coville - funny piece about a boy with stage fright who agrees to help a girl with a skit just because he has a crush on her.
"Kate the Great" by Meg Cabot - a girl finally learns to stand up to her former friend while on a babysitting job
"If You Kiss a Boy" by Alex Sanchez - a boy kisses his friend and discovers homosexuality with advice from a kind teacher
"Thirteen and a Half" by Rachel Vail - a girl goes home with a classmate only to find her pet bird dead and the mother explains that she's actually had many birds over the years
"Jeremy Goldblatt Is So Not Moses" by James Howe - a great story about a boy's bar mitzvah and how he turns everything on its head through his kindness
"Black Holes and Basketball Sneakers" by Lori Aurelia Williams - a poor boy wants new shoes so that everyone will stop teasing him but his mother can't afford them and he gets involved with a gang
"Picky Eater" by Stephen Roos - a boy visits different neighbors to try to get better food than what his mom brings home from the school cafeteria. He is friendly to a neighbor boy who dies of an asthma attack
"Such Foolishness" - a poem about being 13
"Noodle Soup for Nincompoops" - a girl starts a column in the school newspaper and learns to be open with her best friend
"Squid Girl" by Todd Strasser - a girl on vacation with her nature-loving parents hopes to meet a cute boy and not look like a geek
"Angel & Aly" by Ron Koertge - two sisters are opposites until an alligator puppet turns the sweet sister hard. strange.
"Nobody Stole Jason Grayson" by Carolyn Mackler - when a quiet girl takes a photo of a popular boy from the open locker of the principal's daughter, chaos breaks out
"Tina the Teen Fairy" by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin - a pragmatic girl doesn't think that turning 13 is a big deal until a night-time visit from a fairy
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Into the Dark
by Peter Abrahams
Carver County Library, audiobook, 6 CDs / 7 hours
Ingrid is a junior sleuth. When her grandpa is charged with murder, she tries to find out what's really going on in Echo Falls.
Liked: the dog, the snowshoeing, and Ingrid's determination to help her "grampie."
Didn't like: slow pace of the story, grampie's unwillingness to communicate openly with his family, Ingrid's inability to confide in anyone.
reader Julie Dretzin has a nice voice, but I think I would have enjoyed this one more reading it myself.
Carver County Library, audiobook, 6 CDs / 7 hours
Ingrid is a junior sleuth. When her grandpa is charged with murder, she tries to find out what's really going on in Echo Falls.
Liked: the dog, the snowshoeing, and Ingrid's determination to help her "grampie."
Didn't like: slow pace of the story, grampie's unwillingness to communicate openly with his family, Ingrid's inability to confide in anyone.
reader Julie Dretzin has a nice voice, but I think I would have enjoyed this one more reading it myself.
The Cross-Country Quilters
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Carver County Library, hardcover, 367 pages
Reading this book is like snuggling up with a nice quilt. Aaahhhh. It just feels good. I especially enjoyed the storyline of Megan and Adam ('cuz I'm just a hopeless romantic, I guess). But I also appreciated the stories of the other women. One thing that concerns me, though, is that reading these books is like a pseudo-quilting escape. . . but what if I worked on a quilting project instead of reading? Wouldn't that be more fulfilling? I might have to take a break from the Elm Creek novels and work on a quilting project instead!
Carver County Library, hardcover, 367 pages
Reading this book is like snuggling up with a nice quilt. Aaahhhh. It just feels good. I especially enjoyed the storyline of Megan and Adam ('cuz I'm just a hopeless romantic, I guess). But I also appreciated the stories of the other women. One thing that concerns me, though, is that reading these books is like a pseudo-quilting escape. . . but what if I worked on a quilting project instead of reading? Wouldn't that be more fulfilling? I might have to take a break from the Elm Creek novels and work on a quilting project instead!
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Adverbs
by Daniel Handler
Carver County Library, hardcover, 272 pages
Written by the author of the "Lemony Snicket" books - A Series of Unfortunate Events - this title had some rave reviews. I didn't get past chapter two, though. I like the clever premise of love being an adverb (how something is done), but the disjointed stories and the long, rambling, stream-of-consciousness sentences just didn't do it for me. I decided not to continue reading books that I just don't enjoy.
In the first chapter, entitled "Immediately," the man lies to his long-time live-in girlfriend (telling her first that he's going to the reading of the will of his father, then that the man wasn't really his dad) only to get in a cab and fall in love with the driver and then follow the cab driver to a cafe for a cup of coffee and wonder about their future together and I think you get the idea.
Just not something I want to spend more time reading.
Carver County Library, hardcover, 272 pages
Written by the author of the "Lemony Snicket" books - A Series of Unfortunate Events - this title had some rave reviews. I didn't get past chapter two, though. I like the clever premise of love being an adverb (how something is done), but the disjointed stories and the long, rambling, stream-of-consciousness sentences just didn't do it for me. I decided not to continue reading books that I just don't enjoy.
In the first chapter, entitled "Immediately," the man lies to his long-time live-in girlfriend (telling her first that he's going to the reading of the will of his father, then that the man wasn't really his dad) only to get in a cab and fall in love with the driver and then follow the cab driver to a cafe for a cup of coffee and wonder about their future together and I think you get the idea.
Just not something I want to spend more time reading.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Hey, Dummy
by Kin Platt
CMSW, hardcover, 171 pages
This book caught my attention with its 70s-style cover and 95 cent price on the front (probably a Permabound). But as I flipped it open, I got curious. So I read the book before deciding that yes, I was going to delete this from the collection.
I liked the fact that an ordinary kid went from bullying to empathizing with a mentally disabled student (the empathy part, not the bullying). There were some interesting portrayals of realistic situations and some neat moments. But overall, it was not a fulfilling story and the ending was just plain stupid. Written in 1971, this is definitely showing its age. . .
CMSW, hardcover, 171 pages
This book caught my attention with its 70s-style cover and 95 cent price on the front (probably a Permabound). But as I flipped it open, I got curious. So I read the book before deciding that yes, I was going to delete this from the collection.
I liked the fact that an ordinary kid went from bullying to empathizing with a mentally disabled student (the empathy part, not the bullying). There were some interesting portrayals of realistic situations and some neat moments. But overall, it was not a fulfilling story and the ending was just plain stupid. Written in 1971, this is definitely showing its age. . .
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Stately Pursuits
by Katie Fforde
Carver County library, paperback, 280 pages
British chick lit. Heartbroken Hetty Longden heads to Courtbridge to house-sit for an elderly great-uncle who's hospitalized. She ends up trying to save the house from the heir's determination to bulldoze it and develop once his uncle dies. Of course, she falls in love with Connor as they battle over the house's future.
I thought about just returning it to the library after the first few chapters, but doggedly finished it. I liked it better than I expected to, but wasn't really crazy about it. Fluff read. A bit shallow.
Carver County library, paperback, 280 pages
British chick lit. Heartbroken Hetty Longden heads to Courtbridge to house-sit for an elderly great-uncle who's hospitalized. She ends up trying to save the house from the heir's determination to bulldoze it and develop once his uncle dies. Of course, she falls in love with Connor as they battle over the house's future.
I thought about just returning it to the library after the first few chapters, but doggedly finished it. I liked it better than I expected to, but wasn't really crazy about it. Fluff read. A bit shallow.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Lawn Boy
by Gary Paulsen
CMSW, hard cover, about 70 pages
The 12 year old boy gets an old lawnmower from his grandma as a birthday gift. He starts mowing neighbors' lawns and pretty soon he has a stockbroker and 100% ownership in a boxer. Funny and light, this is the novel that the seventh grade has chosen to go with the Stock Market Game in seventh grade. Should be fun!
CMSW, hard cover, about 70 pages
The 12 year old boy gets an old lawnmower from his grandma as a birthday gift. He starts mowing neighbors' lawns and pretty soon he has a stockbroker and 100% ownership in a boxer. Funny and light, this is the novel that the seventh grade has chosen to go with the Stock Market Game in seventh grade. Should be fun!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Latte' Trouble
by Cleo Coyle
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 243 pages
This was going to be our November book club book, but I honestly couldn't get past page 98 before it was due. It was just not compelling. I feel bad that Christie and Karen both read it - it was just that bad. The review of it made it sound delightful!
Basically, someone dies at a hip Manhattan coffee bar. A barista is arrested. A mystery begins.
But I found myself forcing the reading. Like the little engine that could, I was trying to motivate myself to get 'r done. Then I decided (once again) that life is too short to waste on uninteresting books. I don't know why I have so much trouble with that!
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 243 pages
This was going to be our November book club book, but I honestly couldn't get past page 98 before it was due. It was just not compelling. I feel bad that Christie and Karen both read it - it was just that bad. The review of it made it sound delightful!
Basically, someone dies at a hip Manhattan coffee bar. A barista is arrested. A mystery begins.
But I found myself forcing the reading. Like the little engine that could, I was trying to motivate myself to get 'r done. Then I decided (once again) that life is too short to waste on uninteresting books. I don't know why I have so much trouble with that!
Re-Gifters
by Mike Carey, Sonny Liew, & Marc Hempel
Carver County Library, paperback, 148 pages
graphic novel
I really liked this story, but wonder if it's a bit too edgy for middle school . . . Jen is a Korean girl who's very good at Hokaido (fighting). When she lets her crush on fellow fighter Adam distract her, she decides to make an extravagant gesture. But things don't turn out the way she expects. Her twin brothers provide comic relief. This is another title in the new Minx series. So far, I've really enjoyed Plain Janes & this one . . . good storytelling!
Carver County Library, paperback, 148 pages
graphic novel
I really liked this story, but wonder if it's a bit too edgy for middle school . . . Jen is a Korean girl who's very good at Hokaido (fighting). When she lets her crush on fellow fighter Adam distract her, she decides to make an extravagant gesture. But things don't turn out the way she expects. Her twin brothers provide comic relief. This is another title in the new Minx series. So far, I've really enjoyed Plain Janes & this one . . . good storytelling!
If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period
by Gennifer Choldenko
audioCD, 4 hours & 17 mintes, Carver County Library
narrated by Ariadne Meyers & Francois Battiste
Oh this story infuriated me! Brianna is a very, very icky mean girl. And Kirsten's mom was clueless and nasty. I'm so glad it turned out well in the end.
Told from both Kirsten's & Walker's perspectives. Nice to listen to both voices. Not sure how it would come across in book form. . . my school's copy walked off last year. I should reorder. This book has some good lessons about friendship.
audioCD, 4 hours & 17 mintes, Carver County Library
narrated by Ariadne Meyers & Francois Battiste
Oh this story infuriated me! Brianna is a very, very icky mean girl. And Kirsten's mom was clueless and nasty. I'm so glad it turned out well in the end.
Told from both Kirsten's & Walker's perspectives. Nice to listen to both voices. Not sure how it would come across in book form. . . my school's copy walked off last year. I should reorder. This book has some good lessons about friendship.
Round Robin
by Jennifer Chiaverini
hardcover, Dakota County Library, 304 pages
Book two in the Elm Creek Quilters series. At first, I thought there were too darn many story lines, but then I realized that it fit right in with the "round robin" idea. I liked learning more about the characters in this setting. I enjoyed Diane's storyline with her sons and the skateboarding.
I wish I spent time at a quilt retreat and worked on quilting as a regular part of my life!
hardcover, Dakota County Library, 304 pages
Book two in the Elm Creek Quilters series. At first, I thought there were too darn many story lines, but then I realized that it fit right in with the "round robin" idea. I liked learning more about the characters in this setting. I enjoyed Diane's storyline with her sons and the skateboarding.
I wish I spent time at a quilt retreat and worked on quilting as a regular part of my life!
A Perfect Day for Love Letters
by George Asakura
Carver County Library, paperback, unpaged
manga
Five short stories involving letters and love. They were okay, but not my style. Intriguing concept of using the letters in different ways in different characters' lives. I actually had a dream about letters after reading this! Won't buy it for school, though. Not enough substance and I already have plenty of manga.
Carver County Library, paperback, unpaged
manga
Five short stories involving letters and love. They were okay, but not my style. Intriguing concept of using the letters in different ways in different characters' lives. I actually had a dream about letters after reading this! Won't buy it for school, though. Not enough substance and I already have plenty of manga.
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
by Ishmael Beah
paperback, PRFC, 228 pages
The absolutely chilling story of a boy from Sierra Leone who gets separated from his family at age 12, evades both the army and the rebels by foraging and constantly moving, then becomes a vicious killer. It amazes me that Beah was able to leave the drugs, violence, and power of his army time and become such an incredible young man.
I'm looking forward to the discussion tomorrow. This book was difficult to read, but so very important! It's hard to believe that this was his reality only a decade ago. How can the rest of us just go blithely about our lives when things like this are happening?
paperback, PRFC, 228 pages
The absolutely chilling story of a boy from Sierra Leone who gets separated from his family at age 12, evades both the army and the rebels by foraging and constantly moving, then becomes a vicious killer. It amazes me that Beah was able to leave the drugs, violence, and power of his army time and become such an incredible young man.
I'm looking forward to the discussion tomorrow. This book was difficult to read, but so very important! It's hard to believe that this was his reality only a decade ago. How can the rest of us just go blithely about our lives when things like this are happening?
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
MAD Kids
paperback magazine, Carver County Library
A student asked me to get this for CMSW, so I got a public library copy to make up my mind.
- clean enough (regular MAD has some pretty intense drug & sex humor)
- interesting variety of comics, interviews, and other features
- I remember some of the cartoons from twenty years ago in regular MAD! They're re-using some material.
- only 4 issues per year . . . it would take a long time to build up enough issues to check out back copies.
I think I'll just refer kids to the public library on this one. They could also take a look at Nickelodeon magazine.
A student asked me to get this for CMSW, so I got a public library copy to make up my mind.
- clean enough (regular MAD has some pretty intense drug & sex humor)
- interesting variety of comics, interviews, and other features
- I remember some of the cartoons from twenty years ago in regular MAD! They're re-using some material.
- only 4 issues per year . . . it would take a long time to build up enough issues to check out back copies.
I think I'll just refer kids to the public library on this one. They could also take a look at Nickelodeon magazine.
Electric Girl
by Michael Brennan
paperback, Carver County Library, 155 pages
volume 3
Interesting graphic novel - actually, it's a series of stories about electric girl (and her personal gremlin who loves to cause problems). It's "clean" enough for middle school, but didn't really inspire me much.
Maybe I'm too tired to enjoy much right now.
paperback, Carver County Library, 155 pages
volume 3
Interesting graphic novel - actually, it's a series of stories about electric girl (and her personal gremlin who loves to cause problems). It's "clean" enough for middle school, but didn't really inspire me much.
Maybe I'm too tired to enjoy much right now.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Breaking Dawn
by Stephenie Meyer
hard cover, CMSW, 754 pages
Spoiler alert!
Edward and Bella get married, procreate, Bella turns into a vampire, Jacob imprints on her baby (Renesmee), the Volturi come out in force, the good guys win.
I'm glad it's over. Each successive book has become less interesting to me, but I understand why these stories are so incredibly popular with my students.
There are a lot of vampire things that I'd love to ask the author about. Why wouldn't the human blood consumers choose victims that thinned the herd of bad humans? If vampires don't have beating hearts and blood circulation, how exactly do the male vampires get to the point where procreation is possible? Well, the questions don't end there, but I've had enough of this genre.
hard cover, CMSW, 754 pages
Spoiler alert!
Edward and Bella get married, procreate, Bella turns into a vampire, Jacob imprints on her baby (Renesmee), the Volturi come out in force, the good guys win.
I'm glad it's over. Each successive book has become less interesting to me, but I understand why these stories are so incredibly popular with my students.
There are a lot of vampire things that I'd love to ask the author about. Why wouldn't the human blood consumers choose victims that thinned the herd of bad humans? If vampires don't have beating hearts and blood circulation, how exactly do the male vampires get to the point where procreation is possible? Well, the questions don't end there, but I've had enough of this genre.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Eclipse
by Stephenie Meyer
CMSW, hard cover, 629 pages
Book 3 - Bella & Edward work out their "terms," and Jacob & Edward face off as rivals for Bella's affections. Victoria starts an army of vampires to come after Bella.
Bella's immaturity makes me wonder what Edward sees in her . . . some nice storytelling, but not a fabulous read. I like how the vampires and werewolves worked together to defeat the army. I liked the tent scene - good tension.
CMSW, hard cover, 629 pages
Book 3 - Bella & Edward work out their "terms," and Jacob & Edward face off as rivals for Bella's affections. Victoria starts an army of vampires to come after Bella.
Bella's immaturity makes me wonder what Edward sees in her . . . some nice storytelling, but not a fabulous read. I like how the vampires and werewolves worked together to defeat the army. I liked the tent scene - good tension.
Monday, September 29, 2008
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
by Sherman Alexie
art by Ellen Forney
CMSW, hard cover, 230 pages
I understand now what all the buzz is about! This book landed on the NYT best sellers list. It's the story of Junior, a cartoonist and odd kid, growing up on the Spokane Indian reservation. When a teacher tells him to get off "the rez" and make something of himself, Junior goes to a white school 22 miles away.
This story, though a work of fiction, really rings true. It was painful and beautiful. Junior is a typical teenager in so many ways! In other ways, this was a look into a lifestyle that is foreign to most Americans. . .
art by Ellen Forney
CMSW, hard cover, 230 pages
I understand now what all the buzz is about! This book landed on the NYT best sellers list. It's the story of Junior, a cartoonist and odd kid, growing up on the Spokane Indian reservation. When a teacher tells him to get off "the rez" and make something of himself, Junior goes to a white school 22 miles away.
This story, though a work of fiction, really rings true. It was painful and beautiful. Junior is a typical teenager in so many ways! In other ways, this was a look into a lifestyle that is foreign to most Americans. . .
Sunday, September 28, 2008
The Quilter's Apprentice
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Dakota County, paperback, 271 pages
Quilting story - Sarah McClure is job-hunting and stumbles into quilting. Sylvia Compson is a bitter old woman who just wants her house fixed up so she can sell it.
Liked - the description of the house, the fact that I've met this author, the relationships among the women, the historical storytelling, the draw to quilting. I loved it when Chiaverini (in person, at a Minnesota Quilt meeting) told us about people who have asked her about going to workshops at (fictional) Elm Creek Quilts. :-)
Didn't like - how mousy Sarah was, especially in her job-hunting and in how she communicated with her husband. What a wimp.
Dakota County, paperback, 271 pages
Quilting story - Sarah McClure is job-hunting and stumbles into quilting. Sylvia Compson is a bitter old woman who just wants her house fixed up so she can sell it.
Liked - the description of the house, the fact that I've met this author, the relationships among the women, the historical storytelling, the draw to quilting. I loved it when Chiaverini (in person, at a Minnesota Quilt meeting) told us about people who have asked her about going to workshops at (fictional) Elm Creek Quilts. :-)
Didn't like - how mousy Sarah was, especially in her job-hunting and in how she communicated with her husband. What a wimp.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
The Will of Wisteria
by Denise Hildreth
Dakota County Library, paperback, 337 pages
The four adult children of Clayton Wilcott are selfish people. When he finds faith in his old age but fails to reconcile with his children, he changes his substantial will so that each one must work for free for a year to earn their share of the inheritance.
At the start of the book, I didn't enjoy it much because all four "kids" were so reprehensible. As the story moved along, though, it was interesting to see what opened their eyes (except Will). I especially liked how the siblings got to know one another as adults. Jeffery's transformation as a father (mostly because of 8 y.o. Matthew) was the most amazing. Mary Catherine's teaching stint didn't seem quite as realistic . . . she went from not having a clue to being a master teacher in the course of one school year. I just don't see that.
Jeanne
Dakota County Library, paperback, 337 pages
The four adult children of Clayton Wilcott are selfish people. When he finds faith in his old age but fails to reconcile with his children, he changes his substantial will so that each one must work for free for a year to earn their share of the inheritance.
At the start of the book, I didn't enjoy it much because all four "kids" were so reprehensible. As the story moved along, though, it was interesting to see what opened their eyes (except Will). I especially liked how the siblings got to know one another as adults. Jeffery's transformation as a father (mostly because of 8 y.o. Matthew) was the most amazing. Mary Catherine's teaching stint didn't seem quite as realistic . . . she went from not having a clue to being a master teacher in the course of one school year. I just don't see that.
Jeanne
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A.L.I.E.E.E.N.
by Lewis Trondheim
paperback, Carver County Library
Wordless graphic novel
First off, I'll admit that I don't "get it." I probably should have tried harder to understand this, but it just turned me off. Weird little alien creatures getting stabbed in the eyes by pointy branches and bleeding to death. Strange inter- and intra- species relationships. A creature that poops a continuous stream of feces more than 100 times its apparent body weight. Weird stuff. I didn't understand most of it, and I didn't like it.
paperback, Carver County Library
Wordless graphic novel
First off, I'll admit that I don't "get it." I probably should have tried harder to understand this, but it just turned me off. Weird little alien creatures getting stabbed in the eyes by pointy branches and bleeding to death. Strange inter- and intra- species relationships. A creature that poops a continuous stream of feces more than 100 times its apparent body weight. Weird stuff. I didn't understand most of it, and I didn't like it.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Soldier Boys
by Dean Hughes
paperback, CMSW, 230 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Alternating between the stories of Dieter's rise in the Hitler Youth and Spence's choice to join the American army, this WWII tale definitely tells a tale of war. I found it interesting to see how the author showed Dieter's perspective and the events happening around him.
The ending caught me by surprise - I really didn't see it coming. This is a powerful war story, coming-of-age story, and great historical fiction. I'm not big on war fiction (too painful & too real!), but this book definitely kept my attention and interest.
paperback, CMSW, 230 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Alternating between the stories of Dieter's rise in the Hitler Youth and Spence's choice to join the American army, this WWII tale definitely tells a tale of war. I found it interesting to see how the author showed Dieter's perspective and the events happening around him.
The ending caught me by surprise - I really didn't see it coming. This is a powerful war story, coming-of-age story, and great historical fiction. I'm not big on war fiction (too painful & too real!), but this book definitely kept my attention and interest.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
The Named
by Marianne Curley
paperback, CMSW, 333 pages
Ethan is a Guardian of Time. He becomes Isabel's Trainer because events are moving forward to the point where a conflict between the Order of Chaos and the Guardians is imminent. They must train in secret and never reveal the secrets of the Guardians, but they are humans as well as teenagers and make mistakes.
Still can't decide if I love it or hate it . . . time travel is always problematic, but this is presented in kind of an intriguing way. Interesting characters, especially Arkarian and Marduke. Liked the history angle. Have my suspicions about Rochelle (and Matt). Not sure if I want to read the rest of the series. Can see the appeal for some kids. I had to hurry and finish it because I had it at home and two different students requested it!
paperback, CMSW, 333 pages
Ethan is a Guardian of Time. He becomes Isabel's Trainer because events are moving forward to the point where a conflict between the Order of Chaos and the Guardians is imminent. They must train in secret and never reveal the secrets of the Guardians, but they are humans as well as teenagers and make mistakes.
Still can't decide if I love it or hate it . . . time travel is always problematic, but this is presented in kind of an intriguing way. Interesting characters, especially Arkarian and Marduke. Liked the history angle. Have my suspicions about Rochelle (and Matt). Not sure if I want to read the rest of the series. Can see the appeal for some kids. I had to hurry and finish it because I had it at home and two different students requested it!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
New Moon
by Stephenie Meyer
CMSW, hard cover, 563 pages
Book two in the vampire romance series opens with Bella's birthday which she does not want to celebrate (since it obviously means she's "older" than her sweetie Edward). For most of the story, we are treated to Bella's agony, indifference, and growing friendship with Jacob.
Not quite as compelling as the first book, but I stayed up much later than I ought to have so I could finish it! The main dilemma for Bella is that she wants to become a vampire so that she can stay with Edward forever. Time for me to read book three?
CMSW, hard cover, 563 pages
Book two in the vampire romance series opens with Bella's birthday which she does not want to celebrate (since it obviously means she's "older" than her sweetie Edward). For most of the story, we are treated to Bella's agony, indifference, and growing friendship with Jacob.
Not quite as compelling as the first book, but I stayed up much later than I ought to have so I could finish it! The main dilemma for Bella is that she wants to become a vampire so that she can stay with Edward forever. Time for me to read book three?
Monday, September 15, 2008
Heat
by Mike Lupica
CMSW, paperback, 220 pages
MHL nominee
I loved this! What a wonderful story. Michael (Miguel to his family) Arroyo is an amazing 12-year old pitcher on a baseball team that hopes to make the Little League playoffs. When an opposing team's coach challenges Michael's true age, the baptism certificate from Cuba won't be enough. But Michael and his 17 year old brother have been hiding their father's death from everyone except Mrs. Cora for three months.
I loved the characters, the plot development, and the happy ending. The baseball stuff was good - I actually like baseball - but not overkill (IMHO). This is probably my favorite Lupica book so far! I definitely enjoyed the subplot with El Grande and Ellie!
CMSW, paperback, 220 pages
MHL nominee
I loved this! What a wonderful story. Michael (Miguel to his family) Arroyo is an amazing 12-year old pitcher on a baseball team that hopes to make the Little League playoffs. When an opposing team's coach challenges Michael's true age, the baptism certificate from Cuba won't be enough. But Michael and his 17 year old brother have been hiding their father's death from everyone except Mrs. Cora for three months.
I loved the characters, the plot development, and the happy ending. The baseball stuff was good - I actually like baseball - but not overkill (IMHO). This is probably my favorite Lupica book so far! I definitely enjoyed the subplot with El Grande and Ellie!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World
subtitled: The Extraordinary True Story of Shackleton and the Endurance
by Jennifer Armstrong
CMSE, paperback, 126 pages
After reading Shackleton's Stowaway, I wanted to read a non-fiction account of this expedition. Kelly Johnson recommended it highly. My favorite thing about reading this book was looking at the pictures Frank Hurley took. How amazing that these men all survived such a treacherous ordeal. I confess, though, that I found the fictionalized story much more gripping. The men and the drama of their situation was so much more detailed and fascinating - the benefits of writing fiction, I suppose.
Still, this is a great story. The harshness of Antarctica and the unbelievable outcome of events make it a very worthwhile read.
by Jennifer Armstrong
CMSE, paperback, 126 pages
After reading Shackleton's Stowaway, I wanted to read a non-fiction account of this expedition. Kelly Johnson recommended it highly. My favorite thing about reading this book was looking at the pictures Frank Hurley took. How amazing that these men all survived such a treacherous ordeal. I confess, though, that I found the fictionalized story much more gripping. The men and the drama of their situation was so much more detailed and fascinating - the benefits of writing fiction, I suppose.
Still, this is a great story. The harshness of Antarctica and the unbelievable outcome of events make it a very worthwhile read.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Monsoon Summer
by Mitali Perkins
CMSW, paperback, 257 pages
Jazz (Jasmine) is falling in love with her friend and business partner, Steve. Her mom wants the family to spend the summer in India, working at an orphanage.
I enjoyed this book more than I expected. Jasmine was an interesting character (though I wish she would have worked up the courage to tell Steve about her feelings for him a little earlier) and it was nice to see how she changed her stance on helping others.
A little bit of romance and a lot of soul-searching, Perkins shows the remarkable differences between America and India without it seeming forced.
CMSW, paperback, 257 pages
Jazz (Jasmine) is falling in love with her friend and business partner, Steve. Her mom wants the family to spend the summer in India, working at an orphanage.
I enjoyed this book more than I expected. Jasmine was an interesting character (though I wish she would have worked up the courage to tell Steve about her feelings for him a little earlier) and it was nice to see how she changed her stance on helping others.
A little bit of romance and a lot of soul-searching, Perkins shows the remarkable differences between America and India without it seeming forced.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The Dead Don't Dance
by Charles Martin
Dakota County, paperback, 315 pages
Martin is quickly becoming my favorite author. This book, his first, isn't quite as striking as the other two of his that I've read, but it's quite good.
Dylan Styles seems to have it all - a home, good friends, a lovely wife, and a first child on the way. But his son's birth tears his world apart as the baby dies and his wife bleeds so heavily that she almost dies. With her in a vegetative state, his life goes into a tailspin. His friend Amos tries to help him get back on track, but it's one of his students, Amanda, who really impacts him and motivates his turnaround.
At first, this novel reminded me of Johnny Gospel. It has the corn fields, pickup trucks, and aimless wandering by a man in grief. But ultimately, this story and its characters shine through in their transition from brokenness to newness. Good stuff!
The title comes from a line on page 102: "You can't go where the river goes. Rivers do life, and the dead don't dance." It's further elaborated upon at the end of the book where the line "I now lived in a world where the dead danced" comes after a major turning point in the narrator's life.
Dakota County, paperback, 315 pages
Martin is quickly becoming my favorite author. This book, his first, isn't quite as striking as the other two of his that I've read, but it's quite good.
Dylan Styles seems to have it all - a home, good friends, a lovely wife, and a first child on the way. But his son's birth tears his world apart as the baby dies and his wife bleeds so heavily that she almost dies. With her in a vegetative state, his life goes into a tailspin. His friend Amos tries to help him get back on track, but it's one of his students, Amanda, who really impacts him and motivates his turnaround.
At first, this novel reminded me of Johnny Gospel. It has the corn fields, pickup trucks, and aimless wandering by a man in grief. But ultimately, this story and its characters shine through in their transition from brokenness to newness. Good stuff!
The title comes from a line on page 102: "You can't go where the river goes. Rivers do life, and the dead don't dance." It's further elaborated upon at the end of the book where the line "I now lived in a world where the dead danced" comes after a major turning point in the narrator's life.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Charm Club: Special Edition books 1-3
by Belinda Ray
hardcover, 400 pages
In story one, an angel charm helps Anna to make friends and stand up for herself in a new school. In story two, a unicorn charm helps Carrie to gain confidence and perform in the school musical. In story three, a fairy charm helps Theresa to get organized and plan the fifth grade portion of the school carnival.
Cute, but definitely written for younger readers. I'll be donating this to one of my elementary school colleagues.
hardcover, 400 pages
In story one, an angel charm helps Anna to make friends and stand up for herself in a new school. In story two, a unicorn charm helps Carrie to gain confidence and perform in the school musical. In story three, a fairy charm helps Theresa to get organized and plan the fifth grade portion of the school carnival.
Cute, but definitely written for younger readers. I'll be donating this to one of my elementary school colleagues.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Skin: and other stories
by Roald Dahl
CMSW, hard cover, 212 pages
I only finished the first five stories in this collection. They just weren't my cup of tea . . . Roald Dahl has a somewhat warped style. It's interesting to me that I loved his stuff as a child, but not so much as an adult.
CMSW, hard cover, 212 pages
I only finished the first five stories in this collection. They just weren't my cup of tea . . . Roald Dahl has a somewhat warped style. It's interesting to me that I loved his stuff as a child, but not so much as an adult.
In the Time of the Butterflies
by Julia Alvarez
CMSW, hardcover, 325 pages
The four Mirabel sisters are realistically portrayed in this story about growing up under dictator Jose Trujillo in Dominican Republic. Many of the characters and events in this story are true, but this is a fictionalized story.
I started out listening to this as a Playaway (mp3), but it was hard for me to understand some of the names - though it was beautiful to listen to the reader's accent.
The story was told from each of the sisters' perspectives (Patria, Minerva, Dede, and Maria Teresa) and from 1943-1994 (but jumping around chronocologically). This was an intense and fascinating read, but much more complex than I had expected. I had initially hoped to use this with students as a lit circle title, but they would have to be mature readers.
CMSW, hardcover, 325 pages
The four Mirabel sisters are realistically portrayed in this story about growing up under dictator Jose Trujillo in Dominican Republic. Many of the characters and events in this story are true, but this is a fictionalized story.
I started out listening to this as a Playaway (mp3), but it was hard for me to understand some of the names - though it was beautiful to listen to the reader's accent.
The story was told from each of the sisters' perspectives (Patria, Minerva, Dede, and Maria Teresa) and from 1943-1994 (but jumping around chronocologically). This was an intense and fascinating read, but much more complex than I had expected. I had initially hoped to use this with students as a lit circle title, but they would have to be mature readers.
Monday, September 01, 2008
The Mirror's Tale
by P.W. Catanese
CMSW, paperback, 274 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Bert and Will are the twin sons of Baron Charmaigne. They get in to too much trouble and the baron decides to separate them. He decides to send Will, who is more timid, to his brother in The Crags. He will keep Bert at home where he can keep a closer eye on him. But the two trade places, and Bert finds a powerful (and evil) mirror, while Will trains with the knight Andreas.
The first few pages of the story kind of turned me off. It seemed too predictable and dopey. I quickly started to care about the characters and what happened, though. I like how different elements were drawn into the story, and Parley and Elaine were wonderful characters. It will be easy to recommend this to fantasy readers.
CMSW, paperback, 274 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Bert and Will are the twin sons of Baron Charmaigne. They get in to too much trouble and the baron decides to separate them. He decides to send Will, who is more timid, to his brother in The Crags. He will keep Bert at home where he can keep a closer eye on him. But the two trade places, and Bert finds a powerful (and evil) mirror, while Will trains with the knight Andreas.
The first few pages of the story kind of turned me off. It seemed too predictable and dopey. I quickly started to care about the characters and what happened, though. I like how different elements were drawn into the story, and Parley and Elaine were wonderful characters. It will be easy to recommend this to fantasy readers.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Gossamer
by Lois Lowry
CMSW, paperback, 154 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Littlest One is a dream-giving creature with lots of curiosity. When she irritates her teacher too much, she is assigned to Thin Elderly. The two of them try to protect the boy John and his elderly caregiver from the Sinisteeds who bring nightmares.
A cute story. Seems to be for a younger reader. It is probably one of the MHL titles on both division lists.
CMSW, paperback, 154 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Littlest One is a dream-giving creature with lots of curiosity. When she irritates her teacher too much, she is assigned to Thin Elderly. The two of them try to protect the boy John and his elderly caregiver from the Sinisteeds who bring nightmares.
A cute story. Seems to be for a younger reader. It is probably one of the MHL titles on both division lists.
Friday, August 29, 2008
So B. It
by Sarah Weeks
Dakota County library, paperback, 245 pages
Another MHL nominee, this one is about a girl named Heidi whose mother is mentally handicapped. When Heidi was only a week old, they showed up on Bernadette's doorstep and she's been helping them out ever since. But Bernie is agoraphobic and cannot leave her apartment. As Heidi gets older and has more responsibilities, she wants to find out about her mother's past. When she finds some photographs, she gets clues that will take her from Reno to New York.
I liked this book, though it was kind of bittersweet. Heidi is a very realistic character (except for her "luck" - that's a supernatural element) and I found myself wanting her to know the truth. I enjoyed her book "Jumping the Scratch" more than this one, but she gets into kids' heads pretty well.
Dakota County library, paperback, 245 pages
Another MHL nominee, this one is about a girl named Heidi whose mother is mentally handicapped. When Heidi was only a week old, they showed up on Bernadette's doorstep and she's been helping them out ever since. But Bernie is agoraphobic and cannot leave her apartment. As Heidi gets older and has more responsibilities, she wants to find out about her mother's past. When she finds some photographs, she gets clues that will take her from Reno to New York.
I liked this book, though it was kind of bittersweet. Heidi is a very realistic character (except for her "luck" - that's a supernatural element) and I found myself wanting her to know the truth. I enjoyed her book "Jumping the Scratch" more than this one, but she gets into kids' heads pretty well.
Drawn & Quarterly Showcase 3
Genevieve Elverum - "We're Wolf", Sammy Harkham - "Somersaulting", Matt Broersma -"The Last Voyage of Dr. Frobisher"
Dakota County library, paperback, graphic novel, 95 pages
Strange, somewhat interesting, mostly incomprehensible. I love reading these from the public library so that I'm not spending my money or school money on them. I wouldn't even buy this for a HS library . . . just not my cup of tea.
Dakota County library, paperback, graphic novel, 95 pages
Strange, somewhat interesting, mostly incomprehensible. I love reading these from the public library so that I'm not spending my money or school money on them. I wouldn't even buy this for a HS library . . . just not my cup of tea.
Jackie's Wild Seattle
by Will Hobbs
CMSW, paperback, 200 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Shannon and Cody go to Seattle to stay with their uncle while their parents travel to Pakistan with Doctors Without Borders. They find out that they will spend their two months with him at an animal rescue shelter out in the woods, not at his old beach house like they had thought.
There are some questions to be answered, some new experiences to be had, and some friends to make. This story surprised me and I enjoyed it more than I expected!
CMSW, paperback, 200 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Shannon and Cody go to Seattle to stay with their uncle while their parents travel to Pakistan with Doctors Without Borders. They find out that they will spend their two months with him at an animal rescue shelter out in the woods, not at his old beach house like they had thought.
There are some questions to be answered, some new experiences to be had, and some friends to make. This story surprised me and I enjoyed it more than I expected!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Shackleton's Stowaway
by Victoria McKernan
Dakota County Library, paperback, 317 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Wow. This would be an amazing story even without most of it being completely true. To know that these men actually survived in Antarctica for two years without our modern-day technologies just astounds me. This fictionalized story of the Shackleton south pole attempt centers on 18-year old Perce Blackborow who has stowed away on the expedition. Very cool. Of course, now I want to read a non-fiction book to find out what the author changed. I loved the maps and other information at the end of the story, too.
Dakota County Library, paperback, 317 pages
Maud Hart Lovelace nominee
Wow. This would be an amazing story even without most of it being completely true. To know that these men actually survived in Antarctica for two years without our modern-day technologies just astounds me. This fictionalized story of the Shackleton south pole attempt centers on 18-year old Perce Blackborow who has stowed away on the expedition. Very cool. Of course, now I want to read a non-fiction book to find out what the author changed. I loved the maps and other information at the end of the story, too.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Game
by Walter Dean Myers
audiobook on CD, Carver County, 4.25 hours
read by JD Jackson
Drew Lawson is a Harlem basketball player with dreams of the big time. But when two white students move in and join the team, the attention they garner frustrates him and clouds his chances of winning a college scholarship that will get him out of his crime-ridden neighborhood.
I really enjoyed this story (except when there was a lot of basketball talk - just not my thing). I especially liked the relationship between Drew and his sister Jocelyn (?). Very fun! It was interesting for me to think about recommending this book to my students. Bball fans would probably like it, but the average Chaska kid most likely hasn't experienced inner-city black neighborhood issues. It's a very different world - one Myers brings to life extremely well.
I also loved that Drew's family was intact - mom, dad, sister, brother. Drew's friend had a brother facing prison time, and that impacted Drew positively (in that he saw the futility of going the route of so many other "brothers" in the area.
audiobook on CD, Carver County, 4.25 hours
read by JD Jackson
Drew Lawson is a Harlem basketball player with dreams of the big time. But when two white students move in and join the team, the attention they garner frustrates him and clouds his chances of winning a college scholarship that will get him out of his crime-ridden neighborhood.
I really enjoyed this story (except when there was a lot of basketball talk - just not my thing). I especially liked the relationship between Drew and his sister Jocelyn (?). Very fun! It was interesting for me to think about recommending this book to my students. Bball fans would probably like it, but the average Chaska kid most likely hasn't experienced inner-city black neighborhood issues. It's a very different world - one Myers brings to life extremely well.
I also loved that Drew's family was intact - mom, dad, sister, brother. Drew's friend had a brother facing prison time, and that impacted Drew positively (in that he saw the futility of going the route of so many other "brothers" in the area.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Man in the Middle
by Brian Haig
CD, 17.5 hours, Dakota County library
read by L.J. Ganser
I was on disc 8 of 15 when I decided not to finish this story. Not finishing is really hard for me. The things I liked about the story - mystery element, insight on how Washington really works (the author is the son of Alexander Haig) weren't enough to outweigh what I disliked: the swearing, crudity, violence, and unlikable major characters. Sean Drummond and Major Tran were not a very appealing couple. I found the "insider" stuff interesting, though. It's a bit appalling to think of the money that goes into FBI, CIA, and other government organizations to do things that most Americans would probably disapprove of. . .
CD, 17.5 hours, Dakota County library
read by L.J. Ganser
I was on disc 8 of 15 when I decided not to finish this story. Not finishing is really hard for me. The things I liked about the story - mystery element, insight on how Washington really works (the author is the son of Alexander Haig) weren't enough to outweigh what I disliked: the swearing, crudity, violence, and unlikable major characters. Sean Drummond and Major Tran were not a very appealing couple. I found the "insider" stuff interesting, though. It's a bit appalling to think of the money that goes into FBI, CIA, and other government organizations to do things that most Americans would probably disapprove of. . .
Astro City
by Kurt Busiek
graphic novel from Louise's friend Suzanne, 192 pages
Though they're labeled as chapters, each section tells a different story about the superheroes of Astro City. I'm surprised that I had never heard of this title before. The artwork is excellent and the characters very interesting. When I got it from Louise, I considered it for the middle school, but I might just keep this one in my own collection.
I know I ought to list all the other people who created this, but my pile of books to be blogged about is getting too huge!
graphic novel from Louise's friend Suzanne, 192 pages
Though they're labeled as chapters, each section tells a different story about the superheroes of Astro City. I'm surprised that I had never heard of this title before. The artwork is excellent and the characters very interesting. When I got it from Louise, I considered it for the middle school, but I might just keep this one in my own collection.
I know I ought to list all the other people who created this, but my pile of books to be blogged about is getting too huge!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
David Gospel
by David Athey
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, 269 pages, paperback
Very strange book. Still not sure if I like it. From the back flap:
"As a boy he performed concerts singing old-time hymns with his family and got so famous he's still known around Iowa as Danny Gospel. But since then, things haven't worked out quite teh way he planned. And now Danny prays for just one thing: a normal, happy life."
Most of the book felt like a study of dysfunction! This was so unusual, but it drew me in and drew me forward. I wanted so much to see things get "normal" for Danny, and I wanted to understand how his family fell apart. For the most part, the story seemed to be progressing and leading somewhere, but the ending left me feeling gypped. There were so many unanswered questions! It was frustrating, and I wished I could have talked about it with another reader.
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, 269 pages, paperback
Very strange book. Still not sure if I like it. From the back flap:
"As a boy he performed concerts singing old-time hymns with his family and got so famous he's still known around Iowa as Danny Gospel. But since then, things haven't worked out quite teh way he planned. And now Danny prays for just one thing: a normal, happy life."
Most of the book felt like a study of dysfunction! This was so unusual, but it drew me in and drew me forward. I wanted so much to see things get "normal" for Danny, and I wanted to understand how his family fell apart. For the most part, the story seemed to be progressing and leading somewhere, but the ending left me feeling gypped. There were so many unanswered questions! It was frustrating, and I wished I could have talked about it with another reader.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Sleeping Freshmen Never Lie
by David Lubar
Dakota County library, paperback, 279 pages
I loved this book! David Lubar is one of my favorite YA authors. This is one of the Division 2 Maud Hart Lovelace nominees for this year. Scott is starting senior high and is a bit concerned about his survival. Meanwhile, his older brother who dropped out of high school decides to move back home, and his mother announces that she's pregnant.
Scott decides to keep a notebook of advice for the new baby (insisting it is NOT a diary) and his thoughts are recorded for posterity. Funny, touching, realistic. This is a delightful book!
Dakota County library, paperback, 279 pages
I loved this book! David Lubar is one of my favorite YA authors. This is one of the Division 2 Maud Hart Lovelace nominees for this year. Scott is starting senior high and is a bit concerned about his survival. Meanwhile, his older brother who dropped out of high school decides to move back home, and his mother announces that she's pregnant.
Scott decides to keep a notebook of advice for the new baby (insisting it is NOT a diary) and his thoughts are recorded for posterity. Funny, touching, realistic. This is a delightful book!
Friday, August 15, 2008
From a Distance
by Tamera Alexander
paperback, Carver County, 379 pages
Elizabeth Westbrook, daughter of a Union officer and senator, travels west to take photographs and try to win a job on the Washington newspaper. She encounters Daniel Ranslett, who fought with the South in the Civil War.
Started out as totally typical historical romance. I ended up enjoying the character of Josiah, a former slave, very much. There was enough mystery and character development to make it a worthwhile read. I've already heard one person describe it as "fluff," but our discussion is next week.
paperback, Carver County, 379 pages
Elizabeth Westbrook, daughter of a Union officer and senator, travels west to take photographs and try to win a job on the Washington newspaper. She encounters Daniel Ranslett, who fought with the South in the Civil War.
Started out as totally typical historical romance. I ended up enjoying the character of Josiah, a former slave, very much. There was enough mystery and character development to make it a worthwhile read. I've already heard one person describe it as "fluff," but our discussion is next week.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Sticks & Stones
by Susan Meissner
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, paperback, 248 pages
In this one, Rachael, Trace, and McKenna have moved back to the Twin Cities. Rachael is now working for Ramsey County when she receives a note that a body will be found. She shares the note with her friend Will Pendleton, and they again embark on an investigation.
I enjoyed this story a little less than the previous one. Maybe I'm just too hard to please with books - kind of like Louie with restaurants. Rachael and Trace have an almost cloyingly perfect relationship. It seems that the things Rachael agonizes over are a bit over-done.
I think I prefer Meissner's Why the Sky Is Blue over these Flynn mysteries, but maybe I shouldn't have read them sequentially . . . I think my favorite is still Figaro and his approach to life and creativity. Fun!
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, paperback, 248 pages
In this one, Rachael, Trace, and McKenna have moved back to the Twin Cities. Rachael is now working for Ramsey County when she receives a note that a body will be found. She shares the note with her friend Will Pendleton, and they again embark on an investigation.
I enjoyed this story a little less than the previous one. Maybe I'm just too hard to please with books - kind of like Louie with restaurants. Rachael and Trace have an almost cloyingly perfect relationship. It seems that the things Rachael agonizes over are a bit over-done.
I think I prefer Meissner's Why the Sky Is Blue over these Flynn mysteries, but maybe I shouldn't have read them sequentially . . . I think my favorite is still Figaro and his approach to life and creativity. Fun!
Widows & Orphans
by Susan Meissner
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, paperback, 267 pages
Rachael Flynn's brother has confessed to murder, but Rachael is sure he's lying to help someone else. Josh had dedicated his life at age 12 to helping widows and orphans, in obedience to James 1:27. As attorney Rachael and her artist husband, Trace, return to Minnesota from NYC, they also have their baby McKenna to take care of.
The uncovering of the truth was well-done, with pieces coming bit by bit. I love the character of Figaro! What a great description of a quirky friend! Detective Will Pendleton was pretty cool, but perhaps a bit unrealistically portrayed in allowing Rachael full access to the investigation. . . Overall, a nice little mystery.
Lake Agassiz Regional Library, paperback, 267 pages
Rachael Flynn's brother has confessed to murder, but Rachael is sure he's lying to help someone else. Josh had dedicated his life at age 12 to helping widows and orphans, in obedience to James 1:27. As attorney Rachael and her artist husband, Trace, return to Minnesota from NYC, they also have their baby McKenna to take care of.
The uncovering of the truth was well-done, with pieces coming bit by bit. I love the character of Figaro! What a great description of a quirky friend! Detective Will Pendleton was pretty cool, but perhaps a bit unrealistically portrayed in allowing Rachael full access to the investigation. . . Overall, a nice little mystery.
The Shadow Thieves
by Anne Ursu
Carver County, hardcover, 424 pages
I finally read this book after two years of students recommending it! Charlotte and her cousin Zee get involved with the Underworld after the demigod(?) Philonecron decides to overthrow Hades with an army of shadows. The two young people are wonderful characters, with both strengths and flaws. The adventure drew me in, even though I don't particularly like the premise that mythology is the "real" truth as far as what happens when people die.
There were fun language choices and it was a very fun story overall with good descriptions and wonderful pacing. This will be easy to recommend (along with the Percy Jackson books) for kids interested in mythology or just a good read.
I'm still not sure how Mr. Metos recombined the shadows though . . . maybe the sequel tells.
Carver County, hardcover, 424 pages
I finally read this book after two years of students recommending it! Charlotte and her cousin Zee get involved with the Underworld after the demigod(?) Philonecron decides to overthrow Hades with an army of shadows. The two young people are wonderful characters, with both strengths and flaws. The adventure drew me in, even though I don't particularly like the premise that mythology is the "real" truth as far as what happens when people die.
There were fun language choices and it was a very fun story overall with good descriptions and wonderful pacing. This will be easy to recommend (along with the Percy Jackson books) for kids interested in mythology or just a good read.
I'm still not sure how Mr. Metos recombined the shadows though . . . maybe the sequel tells.
Things We Once Held Dear
Ann Tatlock
Carver County Library, paperback, 391 pages
My least favorite Tatlock book so far, this chronicles the emotional journey of Neil Sadler's return to his small-town home from NYC after his wife's meningitis death. The back flap made the events of the past sound so compelling, but the book seemed to be more of a genealogy of the entire town than a cohesive narrative.
I did enjoy characters like good old Uncle Bernie and his way of communicating. I also liked some of the descriptive passages - especially of the kids getting lost playing hide and seek in the corn fields. But I was frustrated by the numerous characters (almost literally - every person in the town was listed, referred to, or described), the repetition of certain explanations or phrases (like the smell of "unwashed flesh"), and the number of people who died unusually young (for literary convenience? Caroline at 40, Cal at 44, and Madlyn in her 60s).
Basically, all three Tatlock books that I've read have dealt with the same theme of estrangement and dealing with the past. This one was the least satisfying that I've read. When true resolution of the problem comes decades late . . . it just seems to miss the point.
Carver County Library, paperback, 391 pages
My least favorite Tatlock book so far, this chronicles the emotional journey of Neil Sadler's return to his small-town home from NYC after his wife's meningitis death. The back flap made the events of the past sound so compelling, but the book seemed to be more of a genealogy of the entire town than a cohesive narrative.
I did enjoy characters like good old Uncle Bernie and his way of communicating. I also liked some of the descriptive passages - especially of the kids getting lost playing hide and seek in the corn fields. But I was frustrated by the numerous characters (almost literally - every person in the town was listed, referred to, or described), the repetition of certain explanations or phrases (like the smell of "unwashed flesh"), and the number of people who died unusually young (for literary convenience? Caroline at 40, Cal at 44, and Madlyn in her 60s).
Basically, all three Tatlock books that I've read have dealt with the same theme of estrangement and dealing with the past. This one was the least satisfying that I've read. When true resolution of the problem comes decades late . . . it just seems to miss the point.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Every Secret Thing
by Ann Tatlock
paperback, Carver County, 364 pages
Beth Gunnar returns to her old high school to teach English, but is haunted by something that happened her senior year. All of her old friends seem to have moved on, but she can't let go of what happened to Mr. Dutton. A seemingly rebellious student, Satchel Queen, ends up being one of her best students. Beth develops a maternal concern for Satchel, then re-connects with others from her past in surprising ways.
I liked this one a lot, and cried at the end. Wonderful story! I like how things come full circle at the end.
paperback, Carver County, 364 pages
Beth Gunnar returns to her old high school to teach English, but is haunted by something that happened her senior year. All of her old friends seem to have moved on, but she can't let go of what happened to Mr. Dutton. A seemingly rebellious student, Satchel Queen, ends up being one of her best students. Beth develops a maternal concern for Satchel, then re-connects with others from her past in surprising ways.
I liked this one a lot, and cried at the end. Wonderful story! I like how things come full circle at the end.
Charlie Bone and the Beast
by Jenny Nimmo
hardcover, Carver County library, 389 pages
In this story, Charlie tries to find out the source of a mysterious, mournful howling. He also wants to know who the creatures are who have been following him around. As in all the CB stories, his friends rally around him and everything works out fine in the end.
I'm really not sure why I enjoy these books . . . they're not very well-developed. The font is large with lots of white space on the page. They're clearly written for younger readers . . . whatever.
Dagbert Endless was an interesting new character.
hardcover, Carver County library, 389 pages
In this story, Charlie tries to find out the source of a mysterious, mournful howling. He also wants to know who the creatures are who have been following him around. As in all the CB stories, his friends rally around him and everything works out fine in the end.
I'm really not sure why I enjoy these books . . . they're not very well-developed. The font is large with lots of white space on the page. They're clearly written for younger readers . . . whatever.
Dagbert Endless was an interesting new character.
The Shack
by William P. Young
paperback, personal copy, 248 pages
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but it's not one of my top tens. I enjoyed our book club discussion even more than reading the book itself! Most of us felt that it was primarily a story about God's love and desire for relationship with us. Some felt that it was purposefully trying to "rock" people's preconceived notions. It was interesting to hear about some Christians' objections to the book. It almost seems like some folks are going out of their way to find something to object to.
Mack's beloved youngest daughter has been abducted and brutally murdered, the body never found. "The Great Sadness" descends on him until he finds a note in his mailbox from "Papa," his wife's name for God. Not sure what he'll find, Mack returns to the site of the crime to get some answers. There, he encounters three beings who change his life.
I almost didn't finish the book before the book club got to my house! I was glad I did, though, because there was a surprise twist at the end. This is definitely a worthwhile read. Many of us would love to hear a non-believer's perspective on it.
<Above posted 8.02.2008. Below added 7.10.2026.>
In my ongoing project to read Christian books as part of my morning devotions and decide about keeping or donating them, I decided to re-read this one. It has been eighteen years since I first read it! It was published in 2007 and I own this copy. I will be donating it after this entry. (I again put waaaay too many post-its in this! I may not blog them all . . . )
Page 15: One can almost hear a unified sigh rise from the nearby city and surrounding countryside where Nature has intervened to give respite to the weary humans slogging it out within her purview. All those affected this way are united by a mutual excuse, and the heart is suddenly and unexpectedly a little giddy. There will be no apologies needed for not showing up to some commitment or other. Everyone understands and shares in this singular justification, and the sudden alleviation of the pressure to produce makes the heart merry.
I love how the author captures the amazing quality of a snow day. I love having the "excuse" to stay home and do nothing. His words capture the feeling so beautifully.
Page 18: With not a little effort he was finally able to stand and gingerly inch his way toward the house, humbled by the powers of ice and gravity.
Yes, wiping out on the ice can be very humbling . . . and painful. Again, the author captures this experience so effectively with his words.
Page 25: Shortly after the summer that Missy vanished, The Great Sadness had draped itself around Mack's shoulders like some invisible but almost tangibly heavy quilt. . . . At times he could feel The Great Sadness slowly tightening around his chest and heart like the crushing coils of a constrictor, squeezing liquid from his eyes until he thought there no longer remained a reservoir. . . .
There are several paragraphs that describe Mack's grief (though I'm glad that the author gave it another name). I think a lot of people can identify with that feeling. At this point in the book, we don't really know what has happened to cause his sadness.
Page 46: He knew in his heart that promising things to God was rather dumb and irrational, but he couldn't help it. He was desperate to get Missy back, and surely God knew where she was.
Oh, this is so sad. God isn't a genie in a lamp, but sometimes we try to make a deal with him. I'm glad He knows our pain, fear, desperation, and still loves us.
Page 54: In one day he had spent a year's worth of emotions, and now he felt numb, adrift in a suddenly meaningless world that felt like it would be forever gray.
When one goes through a trauma, it definitely creates a "before" and "after" in life. The day that Mack is describing was one such day.
Page 64: At some point in the process, Mack attempted to emerge from his own pain and grief, at least with his family. They had lost a sister and daughter, but it would be wrong for them to lose a father and husband as well.
So many people who go through trauma lose their family connections as they deal with their grief. It is hard to work through hard times together. It is hard (but important) to nurture one another while in pain. Mack recognizes that he needs to "hold it together" for Nan and his other kids.
Page 64: Nan had made it clear from the start, and repeatedly, that she did not blame Mack in any way for what happened. Understandably, it took Mack much longer to let himself off the hook, even a little bit.
We are so often harder on ourselves! It was a huge barrier for me to come to faith . . . letting go of my own guilt, shame, control . . .
Page 65: The tragedy had also increased the rift in Mack's own relationship with God, but he ignored this growing sense of separation.
This makes me think of someone I love who had a moment like this which caused a rift in his relationship with God. Heart-breaking.
Page 92: "Life takes a bit of time and a lot of relationship."
God, Papa, in female form is having a conversation with Mack. This one line is so very, very true. Pages 92 and 93 have a lot that is focused on Mack's perception of God, his relationship with his own biological dad, etc. I just don't want to record all the things that sparked thoughts for me in reading this.
Page 123: "You rarely see or experience relationship apart from power. Hierarchy imposes laws and rules and you end up missing the wonder of relationship what we intended for you."
Mack is talking with the Trinity (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit - Sarayu) about "who's in charge?" and he struggles with understanding the relationship between the three.
Page 123: "When you chose independence over relationship, you became a danger to each other. Others became objects to be manipulated or managed for your own happiness. Authority, as you usually think of it, is merely the excuse the strong use to make others conform to what they want."
Sarayu is giving Mack further explanation on how humans are not living the ideal that the Trinity does.
Page 126: "Mackenzie, you cannot produce trust just like you cannot 'do' humility. It either is or is not. Trust is the fruit of a relationship in which you know you are loved. Because you do not know that I love you, you cannot trust me."
Sarayu is continuing to educate Mack. I love her comment about not being able to 'do' humility or produce trust.
Page 135: "Then it is you who determines good and evil. You become the judge. And to make things more confusing, that which you determine to be good will change over time and circumstance. And then beyond that even worse, there are billions of you each determining what is good and what is evil. So when your good and evil clashes with your neighbor's, fights and arguments ensue and even wars break out."
Sarayu is poking holes in Mack's perspective about moral relativism (though they don't call it that).
Page 149:"Seriously, my life was not meant to be an example to copy. Being my follower is not trying to 'be like Jesus,' it means for your independence to be killed.
This caught my attention because I do think Jesus is an example for us - we are to serve as He served.
Page 170: For the past years it had defined for him what was normal, but now unexpectedly it had vanished. "Normal is a myth," he thought to himself.
I've used the phrase "new normal" without really meaning it. I strongly dislike the phrase "paradigm shift," but that's another story. Sometimes I think it's good to remember that "normal" is relative to what one is used to . . . and for Mack, healing and letting go of The Great Sadness is a significant change (and a good one!).
Page 178: "What I see are people and their lives, a living breathing community of all those who love me, not buildings and programs."
Even though this is the author speaking through the character Jesus, it's quite believable as something Jesus Himself would say about "the church." I think we're often off the mark nowadays . . . (This idea will connect a LOT more in the next book I blog about.)
Page 185: "Mack, just because I work incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesn't mean I orchestrate the tragedies."
This is a key concept for many of us - believers and non-believers alike! How can a good and loving God allow innocents to suffer and die (like Missy in this story)? Free will and the existence of evil is a tough one to struggle with. I'm glad God can work good out of awful circumstances, but I often wish He had prevented the circumstance to begin with!
Page 187: "Guilt'll never help you find freedom in me. The best it can do is make you try harder to conform to some ethic on the outside. I'm about the inside."
Lines like this make me wonder if the author grew up Catholic . . . guilt was a driving force in my early life. Here, God is responding to Mack's comment about feeling guilty.
Page 192: "All I am telling you is that reconciliation is a two way street, and I have done my part, totally, completely, finally. It is not the nature of love to force a relationship but it is the nature of love to open the way."
It's so important to remember that things like reconciliation take more than just one's own efforts! God has done the work with Jesus on the cross; it's up to us to accept.
Page 223: "I don't do humiliation, or guilt, or condemnation. They don't produce one speck of wholeness or righteousness, and that is why they were nailed into Jesus on the cross."
Again, I'm not sure God would state things quite like this, but for many people this is a really important point.
There were other parts I didn't blog here: the scene with Sophia (wisdom) in the cave, the waterfall, Missy's body, Sarayu's garden, the importance of forgiveness, Mack's car accident and coma, telling Nan, talking with his daughter Kate . . . I'm glad I re-read this book. I'm ready to donate it. I'm mostly glad that the overwhelming takeaway for me is that God is love and that He wants a close relationship with His children.
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