Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs
by Ron Koertge
This is the sequel to Shakespeare Bats Cleanup and picks up where it left off. Kevin is still in denial about his poetry writing and still considers himself an athlete. He's been dating Mira and not sure that he likes it, even though she's cute and his friends think she's cute. She isn't into his poetry and he isn't into her dance class or her new found love for all things green. He begins to go to poetry readings with his father, who has recently begun dating. This books follows the same format as the first, exploring various styles of poetry as Kevin safely explores his feelings. He meets Amy at an open mike night at the bookstore and they quickly become "poetry buddies", talking about poetry and critiquing each other's work. Things become strained as Mira expresses her jealousy, and Kevin meets Amy's "perfect" boyfriend Trevor. Like the first book, a lot of middle school ground is covered. The poems show that Kevin is not thinking exclusively about baseball, even as his team heads for the playoffs. He's not just a jock and he's okay with that. Recommended for grades 6-10. This is short, fun, easy-to-read and humorous. Good for reluctant readers and teachers of poetry.
by Ron Koertge
This is the sequel to Shakespeare Bats Cleanup and picks up where it left off. Kevin is still in denial about his poetry writing and still considers himself an athlete. He's been dating Mira and not sure that he likes it, even though she's cute and his friends think she's cute. She isn't into his poetry and he isn't into her dance class or her new found love for all things green. He begins to go to poetry readings with his father, who has recently begun dating. This books follows the same format as the first, exploring various styles of poetry as Kevin safely explores his feelings. He meets Amy at an open mike night at the bookstore and they quickly become "poetry buddies", talking about poetry and critiquing each other's work. Things become strained as Mira expresses her jealousy, and Kevin meets Amy's "perfect" boyfriend Trevor. Like the first book, a lot of middle school ground is covered. The poems show that Kevin is not thinking exclusively about baseball, even as his team heads for the playoffs. He's not just a jock and he's okay with that. Recommended for grades 6-10. This is short, fun, easy-to-read and humorous. Good for reluctant readers and teachers of poetry.
Shakespeare Bats Cleanup
by Ron Koertge
14-year-old baseball die-hard Kevin Boland is stuck at home with mono. To pass the time, his father, a writer, thinks Kevin might also want to write some things down. Readers learn a lot about Kevin in the passing months as he experiments with poetry using a book "smuggled" from his father's den. His mother has recently died, for one thing. Also, that he's a pretty good athlete and he's made out with girls in the bamboo. Details about life in middle school are slipped effortlessly in lines of haiku, free verse, sonnets, and sestinas. Kevin eventually meets a pretty girl named Mira with whom he is not embarrassed to admit that he enjoys writing poetry, although he would still like to keep it from his baseball team. When they do find out, he earns the nickname "Shakespeare". Recommended for grades 6-10 for fans of baseball and/or poetry. The book might even encourage a few readers to try writing poetry for themselves. Koertge is so clever in explaining how each style of poetry works that readers won't even realize they are learning something, and he makes makes it seem so effortless that you feel like you can do it too. That it is also humorous is an added bonus. This is short and easy-to-read, and would be a good choice for reluctant readers. Teachers might also find this useful in teaching poetry.
by Ron Koertge
14-year-old baseball die-hard Kevin Boland is stuck at home with mono. To pass the time, his father, a writer, thinks Kevin might also want to write some things down. Readers learn a lot about Kevin in the passing months as he experiments with poetry using a book "smuggled" from his father's den. His mother has recently died, for one thing. Also, that he's a pretty good athlete and he's made out with girls in the bamboo. Details about life in middle school are slipped effortlessly in lines of haiku, free verse, sonnets, and sestinas. Kevin eventually meets a pretty girl named Mira with whom he is not embarrassed to admit that he enjoys writing poetry, although he would still like to keep it from his baseball team. When they do find out, he earns the nickname "Shakespeare". Recommended for grades 6-10 for fans of baseball and/or poetry. The book might even encourage a few readers to try writing poetry for themselves. Koertge is so clever in explaining how each style of poetry works that readers won't even realize they are learning something, and he makes makes it seem so effortless that you feel like you can do it too. That it is also humorous is an added bonus. This is short and easy-to-read, and would be a good choice for reluctant readers. Teachers might also find this useful in teaching poetry.
Beautiful Creatures
by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
This magical story is told through the eyes of high schooler Ethan Waite, who keeps running into new girl in Gatlin, Lena Duchannes. He recognizes her immediately as the girl who literally falls through his fingers in a recent series of disturbing dreams. There is also a mysterious song about 16 moons that inexplicably shows up on his iPod play list, drawing the reader into this suspenseful story. The community instantly hates Lena due to her connection to the reclusive Macon Ravenwood and his "haunted house", a plantation that has been around longer than Gatlin. Despite all their warnings, and his grandmother Amma's protective charms, Ethan befriends Lena and the two become inseparable as they begin to piece together the strange circumstances connecting them. A Southern backdrop (with a dialect that is sometimes confusing to read) provides the necessary narrow-minded mentality and a memorable cast of interesting and distinct characters, including Lena's dangerous cousin Ridley and Ethan's loyal best friend Link. Magical elements are explained gradually as Lena and Ethan begin to discover their link to Gatlin's history. Can they prevent it from repeating itself? The story's climax occurs during the town's annual reenactment of the Civil War Battle of Honey Hill, which coincides with Lena's 16th birthday, where she is left with limited options on what her fate will be in a traditional claiming ceremony in which she has no power. Rivaling Harry Potter in length, this tome will intimidate many readers, however, it was chosen by teens as a Top 10 Pick for 2010. It will appeal to fantasy readers in grades 8-12. Some kissing occurs, but there is no sex or foul language. A sequel is sure to follow.
by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
This magical story is told through the eyes of high schooler Ethan Waite, who keeps running into new girl in Gatlin, Lena Duchannes. He recognizes her immediately as the girl who literally falls through his fingers in a recent series of disturbing dreams. There is also a mysterious song about 16 moons that inexplicably shows up on his iPod play list, drawing the reader into this suspenseful story. The community instantly hates Lena due to her connection to the reclusive Macon Ravenwood and his "haunted house", a plantation that has been around longer than Gatlin. Despite all their warnings, and his grandmother Amma's protective charms, Ethan befriends Lena and the two become inseparable as they begin to piece together the strange circumstances connecting them. A Southern backdrop (with a dialect that is sometimes confusing to read) provides the necessary narrow-minded mentality and a memorable cast of interesting and distinct characters, including Lena's dangerous cousin Ridley and Ethan's loyal best friend Link. Magical elements are explained gradually as Lena and Ethan begin to discover their link to Gatlin's history. Can they prevent it from repeating itself? The story's climax occurs during the town's annual reenactment of the Civil War Battle of Honey Hill, which coincides with Lena's 16th birthday, where she is left with limited options on what her fate will be in a traditional claiming ceremony in which she has no power. Rivaling Harry Potter in length, this tome will intimidate many readers, however, it was chosen by teens as a Top 10 Pick for 2010. It will appeal to fantasy readers in grades 8-12. Some kissing occurs, but there is no sex or foul language. A sequel is sure to follow.
Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice
by Phillip Hoose
This is the story of a girl who would not give up her seat on a Montgomery City bus and began the civil rights fight against segregated bussing. No, the girl was not Rosa Parks. It was Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old school girl who knew of the little known law that said a negro did not have to give their seat up to a white person if there were no other available seats on the bus. Still, when it happened to her, she was dragged off the bus by two policemen and arrested. This could have been the end of her story, but a young lawyer was contacted to represent her in her court hearing in an attempt to clear her name, and later in a case that became known as Browder vs. Gayle that ended segregated busing. This book has won numerous awards including the National Book Award, Newbery Honor, Sibert Award Honor, YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction Finalist, Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor, ALA Best Book for Young Adults, ALSC Notable Children's Book, and listed on the Best Books of 2009. In just over 100 pages this little known story is brought to life through the use of photographs, newspaper clippings, and interviews with Claudette herself. A bibliography, notes, and index are also included. This is highly recommended for readers in grades 6-12 learning about or are interested in the Civil Rights movement or about young people who have made a difference and changed the course of history. This is an especially good audio book as well.
by Phillip Hoose
This is the story of a girl who would not give up her seat on a Montgomery City bus and began the civil rights fight against segregated bussing. No, the girl was not Rosa Parks. It was Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old school girl who knew of the little known law that said a negro did not have to give their seat up to a white person if there were no other available seats on the bus. Still, when it happened to her, she was dragged off the bus by two policemen and arrested. This could have been the end of her story, but a young lawyer was contacted to represent her in her court hearing in an attempt to clear her name, and later in a case that became known as Browder vs. Gayle that ended segregated busing. This book has won numerous awards including the National Book Award, Newbery Honor, Sibert Award Honor, YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction Finalist, Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor, ALA Best Book for Young Adults, ALSC Notable Children's Book, and listed on the Best Books of 2009. In just over 100 pages this little known story is brought to life through the use of photographs, newspaper clippings, and interviews with Claudette herself. A bibliography, notes, and index are also included. This is highly recommended for readers in grades 6-12 learning about or are interested in the Civil Rights movement or about young people who have made a difference and changed the course of history. This is an especially good audio book as well.
In a Heartbeat
by Loretta Ellsworth
This compelling novel tells the stories of two girls, 16-year-old Eagan, an ice skater with her eyes on the Olympics, and 14-year-old Amelia who likes to draw horses. Eagan, whose mother never stops pushing her to work harder, and Amelia, who has a weak heart and understands all the sacrifices her family has made for her treatments. Eagan, who would sneak out with her boyfriend just to experience some normal teen activity, and Amelia, who cannot even walk up and down the steps in her home, never mind have a boyfriend. Eagan, as hard a worker as she is to be a great skater, is still pretty selfish, while Amelia cannot stand the thought that someone will have to die in order for her to receive a transplant. Yet, Eagan does die following a skating accident where she hits her head on the boards, and Amelia receives her heart. Both girls, Eagan in death and Amelia in life, are dealing with the changes in their circumstances. Amelia must come to terms with how she lived her life, including the strained relationship between herself and her mother. Eagan, who finds that she has acquired some of Eagan's traits like her love of skating and her outspokenness, isn't sure she likes it, although she does manage to attract a boy who likes her. This well-written story will appeal mainly to girl readers ages 12 and up. The characters and relationships are believable, the plot conceivable, and the satisfying ending allows both girls to accept their fates.
by Loretta Ellsworth
This compelling novel tells the stories of two girls, 16-year-old Eagan, an ice skater with her eyes on the Olympics, and 14-year-old Amelia who likes to draw horses. Eagan, whose mother never stops pushing her to work harder, and Amelia, who has a weak heart and understands all the sacrifices her family has made for her treatments. Eagan, who would sneak out with her boyfriend just to experience some normal teen activity, and Amelia, who cannot even walk up and down the steps in her home, never mind have a boyfriend. Eagan, as hard a worker as she is to be a great skater, is still pretty selfish, while Amelia cannot stand the thought that someone will have to die in order for her to receive a transplant. Yet, Eagan does die following a skating accident where she hits her head on the boards, and Amelia receives her heart. Both girls, Eagan in death and Amelia in life, are dealing with the changes in their circumstances. Amelia must come to terms with how she lived her life, including the strained relationship between herself and her mother. Eagan, who finds that she has acquired some of Eagan's traits like her love of skating and her outspokenness, isn't sure she likes it, although she does manage to attract a boy who likes her. This well-written story will appeal mainly to girl readers ages 12 and up. The characters and relationships are believable, the plot conceivable, and the satisfying ending allows both girls to accept their fates.
Countdown
by Deborah Wiles
This novel is a unique combination of fiction and non-fiction, a story set in 1962 that vividly portrays a nation's terror of communists using atomic weapons against them at any moment, while weaving in photos, quotes, and summaries of major characters and events of the time throughout. This is the first book in a series of three documentary novels dealing with events from the 1960's. Franny Chapman is eleven years old living just outside Washington D.C. when the scariest days occur; the United States and Soviet Union have aimed missiles at each other during the Cuban Missile Crisis. But other events are also happening. Her older sister seems to be involved with a secret Ebenezer. Could she be a spy as her former best friend has accused? Or is she only saying that because the two girls are both interested in the same boy? And then there is Uncle Otts, traumatized from war, insisting that the family build a bomb shelter in the front yard. This book will appeal to readers in grades 8 and up who enjoy historical fiction or events surrounding the Cold War. While I enjoyed this book overall, I found an early and long entry about President Truman to be a bit complex. As well, I did not understand Frannie "telegraphing" her thoughts throughout the story. A few editing errors also pulled my attention away from the story. That aside, this is a satisfying read that successfully draws the reader into the very real and scary moments when there were no assurances that WWIII wasn't about to begin, or the planet blown up.
by Deborah Wiles
This novel is a unique combination of fiction and non-fiction, a story set in 1962 that vividly portrays a nation's terror of communists using atomic weapons against them at any moment, while weaving in photos, quotes, and summaries of major characters and events of the time throughout. This is the first book in a series of three documentary novels dealing with events from the 1960's. Franny Chapman is eleven years old living just outside Washington D.C. when the scariest days occur; the United States and Soviet Union have aimed missiles at each other during the Cuban Missile Crisis. But other events are also happening. Her older sister seems to be involved with a secret Ebenezer. Could she be a spy as her former best friend has accused? Or is she only saying that because the two girls are both interested in the same boy? And then there is Uncle Otts, traumatized from war, insisting that the family build a bomb shelter in the front yard. This book will appeal to readers in grades 8 and up who enjoy historical fiction or events surrounding the Cold War. While I enjoyed this book overall, I found an early and long entry about President Truman to be a bit complex. As well, I did not understand Frannie "telegraphing" her thoughts throughout the story. A few editing errors also pulled my attention away from the story. That aside, this is a satisfying read that successfully draws the reader into the very real and scary moments when there were no assurances that WWIII wasn't about to begin, or the planet blown up.
Saint Training
by Elizabeth Fixmer
Sixth grader Mary Claire O'Brien wants to one day become Mother Superior and writes a letter to the local mother superior to explain why. In the sometimes humorous correspondence that develops between the two, she not only wonders about the requirements to become a nun (before she starts liking boys too much), but also about the rapidly changing Catholic church in 1967. As Mary Claire attempts to improve her behavior (she's hoping to also become a saint) she becomes aware of exactly how many times she sins everyday by the weight of pebbles she keeps in her pockets. This could be a problem in her future career, not to mention that she's not sure she could give the vow of obedience. In addition to her saint training, there are other things happening around her that she doesn't understand. For example, two of her brothers are at odds with their father, one because he's not out of high school and wants to enlist in the army to fight in the Vietnam war, and the other because he's trying to receive the conscientious objector status so he won't be drafted and have to fight in that war. As well, the recent riots in Milwaukee concerning unfair housing and segregated public schools force a statement from the local priest Father Gropi concerning his views on civil rights. But her mother's decision to find a job outside the house as the woman's movement takes hold might be the issue with which Mary Claire must grapple the most. How will she handle the ridicule from her friends and their parents, with whom she is already having a shaky relationship? The tumultuous setting forces Mary Claire to learn about herself and to consider her future in a way that might not have been possible prior to the combination of these events. This coming-of-age story is recommended not only for those readers in grades 6-9 who might have a religious interest in the changes occurring in the Catholic Church, but also to those who are interested in fiction based on historical events. There is a brief scene with mention of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
by Elizabeth Fixmer
Sixth grader Mary Claire O'Brien wants to one day become Mother Superior and writes a letter to the local mother superior to explain why. In the sometimes humorous correspondence that develops between the two, she not only wonders about the requirements to become a nun (before she starts liking boys too much), but also about the rapidly changing Catholic church in 1967. As Mary Claire attempts to improve her behavior (she's hoping to also become a saint) she becomes aware of exactly how many times she sins everyday by the weight of pebbles she keeps in her pockets. This could be a problem in her future career, not to mention that she's not sure she could give the vow of obedience. In addition to her saint training, there are other things happening around her that she doesn't understand. For example, two of her brothers are at odds with their father, one because he's not out of high school and wants to enlist in the army to fight in the Vietnam war, and the other because he's trying to receive the conscientious objector status so he won't be drafted and have to fight in that war. As well, the recent riots in Milwaukee concerning unfair housing and segregated public schools force a statement from the local priest Father Gropi concerning his views on civil rights. But her mother's decision to find a job outside the house as the woman's movement takes hold might be the issue with which Mary Claire must grapple the most. How will she handle the ridicule from her friends and their parents, with whom she is already having a shaky relationship? The tumultuous setting forces Mary Claire to learn about herself and to consider her future in a way that might not have been possible prior to the combination of these events. This coming-of-age story is recommended not only for those readers in grades 6-9 who might have a religious interest in the changes occurring in the Catholic Church, but also to those who are interested in fiction based on historical events. There is a brief scene with mention of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Stolen
by Lucy Christopher
I recently had the pleasure of hearing the author read an excerpt from this novel and was very eager to read it myself after hearing the cliffhanger. This is a very different sort of abduction story from "Living Dead Girl" (reviewed May 2009) although they both have the same theme. Gemma, a 16-year-old London girl is abducted from the Bangkok airport while her family is traveling to Vietnam. She is taken to the Australian desert by a 25-year-old man who has made preparations for them both to live there forever. Literally. Stores of food, equipment, and anti-venoms to poisonous creatures have been collected to ensure a very long stay in the barren place where no one else would dare to live, or find them. In his twisted mind, the good-looking Ty is saving Gemma, a girl he had become enamored with back in London, from the shallowness of the city. Reality, he says, is there in the desert. And little by little, after failed escaped attempts and special treatment by her kidnapper, Gemma begins to believe him. A captured camel who slowly accepts her fate parallels Gemma's gradual acceptance and emotional bond with her captor, who becomes the likable villain. This book is recommended for readers in grades 9 and up. There is no sex or torture in this story.
by Lucy Christopher
I recently had the pleasure of hearing the author read an excerpt from this novel and was very eager to read it myself after hearing the cliffhanger. This is a very different sort of abduction story from "Living Dead Girl" (reviewed May 2009) although they both have the same theme. Gemma, a 16-year-old London girl is abducted from the Bangkok airport while her family is traveling to Vietnam. She is taken to the Australian desert by a 25-year-old man who has made preparations for them both to live there forever. Literally. Stores of food, equipment, and anti-venoms to poisonous creatures have been collected to ensure a very long stay in the barren place where no one else would dare to live, or find them. In his twisted mind, the good-looking Ty is saving Gemma, a girl he had become enamored with back in London, from the shallowness of the city. Reality, he says, is there in the desert. And little by little, after failed escaped attempts and special treatment by her kidnapper, Gemma begins to believe him. A captured camel who slowly accepts her fate parallels Gemma's gradual acceptance and emotional bond with her captor, who becomes the likable villain. This book is recommended for readers in grades 9 and up. There is no sex or torture in this story.
Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith by Deborah Heiligman
This biography is much more than the recounting of Charles Darwins' travels and research that led to his publications, including The Origin of Species. It is a love story between he and his first cousin Emma, his struggle with his religious beliefs, his role as a father, son, husband, and scientist, and about his life of poor health that consumed so much of his energy. Beginning with a pro/con list of the reasons to marry or not marry, the reader instantly learns how Darwin makes all the decisions in his life. His organization and scientific methods of his personality are clearly revealed, in contrast to the messiness and disorganization of the woman who would become his wife. Also in contrast are the religious differences between the two - Emma is deeply religious and believes in an afterlife where she clings to the belief that she will see her beloved sister again, who died at a young age. Charles, on the other hand, eventually decides that he is probably agnostic - he, not surprisingly, needs proof that God exists. This difference was not taken lightly by either Charles or Emma, but they respected each other so much that in the end, Charles entrusted his Origin of Species manuscript to Emma to publish should he die early of sickness. This manuscript explained his theory about evolution of species, a heretical thought in his time, since the implication is that God did not create all the species in their present form all at one time. Clearly written and the personalities of all the characters come-to-life in this fascinating look at the Darwins. 2010 Prinz Honor Award winner, YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction Winner; National Book Awards - Nominee; Booklist Top 10 Romances for Youth and many other honors. Highly recommended for grades 8 through adult. Excellent to listen to on CD as well.
This biography is much more than the recounting of Charles Darwins' travels and research that led to his publications, including The Origin of Species. It is a love story between he and his first cousin Emma, his struggle with his religious beliefs, his role as a father, son, husband, and scientist, and about his life of poor health that consumed so much of his energy. Beginning with a pro/con list of the reasons to marry or not marry, the reader instantly learns how Darwin makes all the decisions in his life. His organization and scientific methods of his personality are clearly revealed, in contrast to the messiness and disorganization of the woman who would become his wife. Also in contrast are the religious differences between the two - Emma is deeply religious and believes in an afterlife where she clings to the belief that she will see her beloved sister again, who died at a young age. Charles, on the other hand, eventually decides that he is probably agnostic - he, not surprisingly, needs proof that God exists. This difference was not taken lightly by either Charles or Emma, but they respected each other so much that in the end, Charles entrusted his Origin of Species manuscript to Emma to publish should he die early of sickness. This manuscript explained his theory about evolution of species, a heretical thought in his time, since the implication is that God did not create all the species in their present form all at one time. Clearly written and the personalities of all the characters come-to-life in this fascinating look at the Darwins. 2010 Prinz Honor Award winner, YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction Winner; National Book Awards - Nominee; Booklist Top 10 Romances for Youth and many other honors. Highly recommended for grades 8 through adult. Excellent to listen to on CD as well.
Going Bovine
by Libba Bray
I listened to this book on CD and absolutely LOVED it! Anyone who has read books by Libba Bray previously should be forewarned that this is not at all like the Gemma Doyle trilogy. But, to me, it seemed like a way for her to write a boy book with fantasy included, as the Gemma Doyle trilogy were girl books with fantasy included. Rather than a depressing story about a boy dying in a hospital room with his suffering parents spending nights sitting in chairs next to his bed lamenting his illness, this was a unique way to follow his increasing hallucinations caused by the mad cow disease. The neat thing, though, was that the road trip he takes (with a dward and a yard gnome, no less) to save the world, and ultimately his life, is so fascinating and fun, that you forget he's dying. And the fact that he transforms from a kid who doesn't see the point in making an effort at anything, to a kid who gives it everything he's got to find the possible life-saving Dr. X, is a bonus. I highly recommend this one for boys ages 16 and up due to mature themes.
by Libba Bray
I listened to this book on CD and absolutely LOVED it! Anyone who has read books by Libba Bray previously should be forewarned that this is not at all like the Gemma Doyle trilogy. But, to me, it seemed like a way for her to write a boy book with fantasy included, as the Gemma Doyle trilogy were girl books with fantasy included. Rather than a depressing story about a boy dying in a hospital room with his suffering parents spending nights sitting in chairs next to his bed lamenting his illness, this was a unique way to follow his increasing hallucinations caused by the mad cow disease. The neat thing, though, was that the road trip he takes (with a dward and a yard gnome, no less) to save the world, and ultimately his life, is so fascinating and fun, that you forget he's dying. And the fact that he transforms from a kid who doesn't see the point in making an effort at anything, to a kid who gives it everything he's got to find the possible life-saving Dr. X, is a bonus. I highly recommend this one for boys ages 16 and up due to mature themes.
Stitches: a Memoir
by David Small
This is an autobiography in graphic novel form by children's Caldecott award-winning illustrator and author David Small. In just over 300 pages of illustrations and sparse text, the reader feels the pain of a small boy growing up in a dysfunctional family whose medical father is rarely home and mother silently rages. David is diagnosed with a "growth" on his neck at age 11, but is not treated until 3-1/2 years later with what he thinks will be minor surgery. When he finally emerges two days later, David learns he is missing half his vocal chords, his thyroid, and has no voice. To top it off, he discovers quite by accident that he in fact had cancer and his parents had kept it a secret. David's anger and resentment send him on a quick spiral downward leading him to skip school, drive without a license and being sent to jail, move to a boys home, run away from the boys home and finally receive badly needed therapy, which ironically feels to David like the first caring and concern he has ever experienced. The illustrations seamlessly express David's emotions as he struggles to understand his situation and it's relation to his seemingly uncaring family. It is revealed that David's father was probably the cause of his cancer due to the excessive number of x-rays David was given as a child for his breathing problems, and that his mother was also dealing as best she could with identity issues of her own. This is a quick read, good for reluctant readers and those interested in biographies or graphic novels, ages 12 and up. It is debatable whether a traditional biography would have been as successful expressing all the emotion throughout this story as this one was in graphic form. The ending is hopeful, and as it turns out, David has had much success with his books, including the awards he has won for this book. It is a National Book Award finalist for adults, and won an Alex Award for adult books with a strong teen appeal. Highly recommended.
by David Small
This is an autobiography in graphic novel form by children's Caldecott award-winning illustrator and author David Small. In just over 300 pages of illustrations and sparse text, the reader feels the pain of a small boy growing up in a dysfunctional family whose medical father is rarely home and mother silently rages. David is diagnosed with a "growth" on his neck at age 11, but is not treated until 3-1/2 years later with what he thinks will be minor surgery. When he finally emerges two days later, David learns he is missing half his vocal chords, his thyroid, and has no voice. To top it off, he discovers quite by accident that he in fact had cancer and his parents had kept it a secret. David's anger and resentment send him on a quick spiral downward leading him to skip school, drive without a license and being sent to jail, move to a boys home, run away from the boys home and finally receive badly needed therapy, which ironically feels to David like the first caring and concern he has ever experienced. The illustrations seamlessly express David's emotions as he struggles to understand his situation and it's relation to his seemingly uncaring family. It is revealed that David's father was probably the cause of his cancer due to the excessive number of x-rays David was given as a child for his breathing problems, and that his mother was also dealing as best she could with identity issues of her own. This is a quick read, good for reluctant readers and those interested in biographies or graphic novels, ages 12 and up. It is debatable whether a traditional biography would have been as successful expressing all the emotion throughout this story as this one was in graphic form. The ending is hopeful, and as it turns out, David has had much success with his books, including the awards he has won for this book. It is a National Book Award finalist for adults, and won an Alex Award for adult books with a strong teen appeal. Highly recommended.
Trail of Fate
by Michael P. Spradlin
This is the Book 2 in "The Youngest Templar Trilogy". It is an action-packed and suspenseful adventure picking up where Book 1 left off. Washed ashore alone somewhere in France, Tristan is surrounded by a group of Cathars, and his friends Robard and Miryam don't appear to have survived their shipwreck. The Cathars make it clear that they don't like Templars, and are in fact running from the High Counsel of France who would persecute them for their differing religious views.Taken hostage, Tristan travels with the group toward Montsegur, their mountain Citadel where they may defend themselves. Tristan's mission of guarding and returning the grail to Scotland is temporarily put on hold, but he knows Sir Hugh is still on his trail and getting closer. He begins to have feelings he doesn't understand for Celia, the Cathars' leader despite nearly being shot by her arrow, and eventually teams up with the Cathars to fight both the High Counsel and Sir Hugh, who has joined forces with them, unsuspecting that his interest is purely in getting his hands on the grail. The battle scenes are quite exciting, and like its predecessor, this book also ends with a cliff-hanger ending. Suitable for ages 12 and up, and like the first book, is excellent on CD.
by Michael P. Spradlin
This is the Book 2 in "The Youngest Templar Trilogy". It is an action-packed and suspenseful adventure picking up where Book 1 left off. Washed ashore alone somewhere in France, Tristan is surrounded by a group of Cathars, and his friends Robard and Miryam don't appear to have survived their shipwreck. The Cathars make it clear that they don't like Templars, and are in fact running from the High Counsel of France who would persecute them for their differing religious views.Taken hostage, Tristan travels with the group toward Montsegur, their mountain Citadel where they may defend themselves. Tristan's mission of guarding and returning the grail to Scotland is temporarily put on hold, but he knows Sir Hugh is still on his trail and getting closer. He begins to have feelings he doesn't understand for Celia, the Cathars' leader despite nearly being shot by her arrow, and eventually teams up with the Cathars to fight both the High Counsel and Sir Hugh, who has joined forces with them, unsuspecting that his interest is purely in getting his hands on the grail. The battle scenes are quite exciting, and like its predecessor, this book also ends with a cliff-hanger ending. Suitable for ages 12 and up, and like the first book, is excellent on CD.
Keeper of the Grail
by Michael P. Spradlin
This is Book 1 in "The Youngest Templar" trilogy, in which readers are introduced to 14-year-old Tristan. Abandoned in an abbey as a babe, Tristan is raised by the monks, though clues are left indicating that he might have a noble background. He is discovered, seemingly by accident, by the Templar Knight Sir Thomas who is traveling to fight for Richard the Lionheart's Crusade. Overnight, Tristan becomes his squire, but not without the disapproval of another Templar Knight, Sir Hugh who instantly dislikes him. The Templars travel to Acre to fight against the Saracens in the Holy Land, but as the city falls into enemy hands, Tristan is given orders to escape through the tunnels and somehow get to Scotland with a satchel hiding the Holy Grail, which Sir Thomas has been protecting. In his travels during the following week, Tristan meets up with Robard, a 17-year-old King's archer who has completed his conscription with the King's army and is returning home to help his father farm, and Miryam, an Al Hashshashin assassin. The trio plan to find a ship in which to travel to England, but must hide from Saracen armies as well as the evil Sir Hugh who has somehow survived the Acre battle. This is a fast-paced medievel adventure that ends in a cliff-hanger . It will appeal to readers ages 12 and up. Listen to this series on CD to get a flavor of the language.
by Michael P. Spradlin
This is Book 1 in "The Youngest Templar" trilogy, in which readers are introduced to 14-year-old Tristan. Abandoned in an abbey as a babe, Tristan is raised by the monks, though clues are left indicating that he might have a noble background. He is discovered, seemingly by accident, by the Templar Knight Sir Thomas who is traveling to fight for Richard the Lionheart's Crusade. Overnight, Tristan becomes his squire, but not without the disapproval of another Templar Knight, Sir Hugh who instantly dislikes him. The Templars travel to Acre to fight against the Saracens in the Holy Land, but as the city falls into enemy hands, Tristan is given orders to escape through the tunnels and somehow get to Scotland with a satchel hiding the Holy Grail, which Sir Thomas has been protecting. In his travels during the following week, Tristan meets up with Robard, a 17-year-old King's archer who has completed his conscription with the King's army and is returning home to help his father farm, and Miryam, an Al Hashshashin assassin. The trio plan to find a ship in which to travel to England, but must hide from Saracen armies as well as the evil Sir Hugh who has somehow survived the Acre battle. This is a fast-paced medievel adventure that ends in a cliff-hanger . It will appeal to readers ages 12 and up. Listen to this series on CD to get a flavor of the language.
Newsgirl
by Liza Ketchum
Set in 1851 San Francisco, 12-year-old Amelia has just arrived by boat with her mother and Estelle, a family friend, who want to start a new life in gold rush country where women enjoy more freedoms, by sewing woman's dresses. But spending more money on the trip over than planned due to a shipwreck, the women don't have money for immediate needs. Amelia quickly realizes that newspapers from the east, even old ones, can earn her $1 per copy. Selling newspapers used to wrap her mother's bolts of fabric, Amelia's news is fresher than the copies the gangs of boys are selling, but she makes enemies. They won't let her join the gang since she's a girl. Finding that being a girl also excludes her from helping at the newspaper office, or even selling a story about their shipwreck as a reporter, Amelia cuts her braids and disguises herself as a boy. Thinking she can get a story about an upcoming balloon launch, she sneaks with her new friend Patrick to watch. In a scene of chaos and unexpected wind, the two find themselves launched into the sky, headed for adventure. This page-turner, filled with many fascinating details about life in early California, tells of a time when life was hard, but full of promise for the many types of people who decided to settle there. It will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction or stories with a strong female character. Appropriate for ages 12 and up. Highly recommended.
by Liza Ketchum
Set in 1851 San Francisco, 12-year-old Amelia has just arrived by boat with her mother and Estelle, a family friend, who want to start a new life in gold rush country where women enjoy more freedoms, by sewing woman's dresses. But spending more money on the trip over than planned due to a shipwreck, the women don't have money for immediate needs. Amelia quickly realizes that newspapers from the east, even old ones, can earn her $1 per copy. Selling newspapers used to wrap her mother's bolts of fabric, Amelia's news is fresher than the copies the gangs of boys are selling, but she makes enemies. They won't let her join the gang since she's a girl. Finding that being a girl also excludes her from helping at the newspaper office, or even selling a story about their shipwreck as a reporter, Amelia cuts her braids and disguises herself as a boy. Thinking she can get a story about an upcoming balloon launch, she sneaks with her new friend Patrick to watch. In a scene of chaos and unexpected wind, the two find themselves launched into the sky, headed for adventure. This page-turner, filled with many fascinating details about life in early California, tells of a time when life was hard, but full of promise for the many types of people who decided to settle there. It will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction or stories with a strong female character. Appropriate for ages 12 and up. Highly recommended.