Clementine (Series) --Sarah Pennypacker
Clementine is the first book.
RA* (Clementine)
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Clementine can read people's emotions, and she's also a quick on her feet on making decisions, good or bad. Follow around Clementine as she goes around helping people and getting into only a little bit of trouble. Okay fine, getting into LOTS of trouble.
Other: These are funny books and it's a little bit like the Ramona books. Though the first one is good, I liked the ones after it better. (Ages 7+) ~Faith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Clementine can read people's emotions, and she's also a quick on her feet on making decisions, good or bad. Follow around Clementine as she goes around helping people and getting into only a little bit of trouble. Okay fine, getting into LOTS of trouble.
Other: These are funny books and it's a little bit like the Ramona books. Though the first one is good, I liked the ones after it better. (Ages 7+) ~Faith
Henry Huggins (Series)--Beverly Cleary
Henry Huggins is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Henry Huggins is a bored third grader, until he finds a stray dog that he names Ribsy. With Ribsy by his side, he gets into scrapes and trouble. How can he get his paper route? Can he catch a king salmon? What will he do with gallons and gallons of guppies? And how in world is he to deal with that neighborhood terror, Ramona Quimby? Meet Henry Huggins, a boy you won't soon forget.
Other: This is one of my favorite Beverly Cleary series, besides the Ralph trilogy. I liked it better than the Ramona series, partly because Ribsy is so cute. These books are funny, light, and cute. I really enjoyed them. (Ages 7+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Henry Huggins is a bored third grader, until he finds a stray dog that he names Ribsy. With Ribsy by his side, he gets into scrapes and trouble. How can he get his paper route? Can he catch a king salmon? What will he do with gallons and gallons of guppies? And how in world is he to deal with that neighborhood terror, Ramona Quimby? Meet Henry Huggins, a boy you won't soon forget.
Other: This is one of my favorite Beverly Cleary series, besides the Ralph trilogy. I liked it better than the Ramona series, partly because Ribsy is so cute. These books are funny, light, and cute. I really enjoyed them. (Ages 7+) ~Amy
Dixie Morris Animal Adventures (Series)--Gilbert Morris
Dixie and Jumbo is the first book.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Dixie's parents leave to go to a mission base in Africa, but it is too dangerous for Dixie to go yet. Instead, they leave her at her stiff aunt and uncle's house. She meets her first animal adventure there. She then goes to the circus, and back to her aunt and uncle's, to Alaska, and finally, to Africa. Follow her adventures as she helps animals and people alike.
Other: I really liked this series, and it is fun to read. The animals are exotic and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Summary: Dixie's parents leave to go to a mission base in Africa, but it is too dangerous for Dixie to go yet. Instead, they leave her at her stiff aunt and uncle's house. She meets her first animal adventure there. She then goes to the circus, and back to her aunt and uncle's, to Alaska, and finally, to Africa. Follow her adventures as she helps animals and people alike.
Other: I really liked this series, and it is fun to read. The animals are exotic and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Frindle--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic Fiction/School Story
Summary: Nick Allen loves to make things more interesting in school. So when he finds out about how some new works were created, he decides to make one up on his own. Enter "Frindle": the simple little word that caused a huge stir in the school, town, and, eventually, the nation. If a "missive" could be a fancy word for a letter, why can't a pen be called a "Frindle?" This "Frindle" craze sweeps the area, and Nick finds that this little stir got much bigger than he thought it would.
Other: This is one of the most popular of Clements' "School Stories" and was an enjoyable, interesting read about the creation of a new word through the mouth of a boy. It's good for a quick, intriguing sit down time. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Nick Allen loves to make things more interesting in school. So when he finds out about how some new works were created, he decides to make one up on his own. Enter "Frindle": the simple little word that caused a huge stir in the school, town, and, eventually, the nation. If a "missive" could be a fancy word for a letter, why can't a pen be called a "Frindle?" This "Frindle" craze sweeps the area, and Nick finds that this little stir got much bigger than he thought it would.
Other: This is one of the most popular of Clements' "School Stories" and was an enjoyable, interesting read about the creation of a new word through the mouth of a boy. It's good for a quick, intriguing sit down time. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Ginger Pye--Eleanor Estes
Genre: Family/Mystery
Summary: Jerry Pye is determined to get the smartest dog in the world, and he does. Ginger Pye is a lovable, friendly, intelligent dog that everyone (or almost everyone) loves. Jerry and his sister Rachel absolutely adore him. But when Ginger is stolen, they must find out how to get him back.
Other: Jerry and Rachel's unique, childlike views of the world are very entertaining, and the parts with Ginger are too cute. I recommend this for some light, funny reading. It won the 1952 Newbery Award. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Jerry Pye is determined to get the smartest dog in the world, and he does. Ginger Pye is a lovable, friendly, intelligent dog that everyone (or almost everyone) loves. Jerry and his sister Rachel absolutely adore him. But when Ginger is stolen, they must find out how to get him back.
Other: Jerry and Rachel's unique, childlike views of the world are very entertaining, and the parts with Ginger are too cute. I recommend this for some light, funny reading. It won the 1952 Newbery Award. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Granny Torrelli Makes Soup--Sharon Creech
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Rosie is upset. She was so happy and was sure that Bailey her buddy, her friend, would be happy too, but no. He was angry. Why? When Granny Torrelli comes over, she can tell something is wrong, as grandmothers tend to do. But there's nothing better than making soup to help sort things out though.
Other: This was a good book, if a little sad. It's very interesting and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Rosie is upset. She was so happy and was sure that Bailey her buddy, her friend, would be happy too, but no. He was angry. Why? When Granny Torrelli comes over, she can tell something is wrong, as grandmothers tend to do. But there's nothing better than making soup to help sort things out though.
Other: This was a good book, if a little sad. It's very interesting and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Just Plain Cat--Nancy K. Robinson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Chris is an ordinary boy. He didn't grow much so he wore the same clothes as last year. Same Lunchbox too. The only thing good about this school year is his best friend Peter, but even he changes. Chris is feeling horrible. When he gets a kitten, Chris is happy, and though he's a handful, Chris loves Tiger. Will things change for the better?
Other: This was a fun book. The kitten was really cute. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Summary: Chris is an ordinary boy. He didn't grow much so he wore the same clothes as last year. Same Lunchbox too. The only thing good about this school year is his best friend Peter, but even he changes. Chris is feeling horrible. When he gets a kitten, Chris is happy, and though he's a handful, Chris loves Tiger. Will things change for the better?
Other: This was a fun book. The kitten was really cute. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
The Last Holiday Concert--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic fiction/School Story
Summary: Hart Evans is the coolest, most popular kid in school. It comes naturally to him, and because of it, nobody can really get angry at him, teachers or students, he has too much charm. Even though he's basically a good guy, any sixth grader would get bored during the ridiculous music class taught by Mr. Meinert, and when Hart shoots a rubber band at him during practice, Mr. Meinert blows up. A string of baffling events end up with Hart as the director of the Christmas program. Being the boss isn't as great as Hart thought it would be at first, and soon things are getting out of control and Hart finds himself as a school leper. Can Hart succeed in getting the program together without causing WWIII? Or will this be the last holiday concert?
Other: This was a good Clements "School Story." I enjoyed Hart and Mr. Meinert as characters, and Hart's decisions in helping keep the program afloat are fun to read about. Just as a heads up, they do sing "We Wish You a Happy Holidays" at the end, but otherwise, this was a fun, light read. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Hart Evans is the coolest, most popular kid in school. It comes naturally to him, and because of it, nobody can really get angry at him, teachers or students, he has too much charm. Even though he's basically a good guy, any sixth grader would get bored during the ridiculous music class taught by Mr. Meinert, and when Hart shoots a rubber band at him during practice, Mr. Meinert blows up. A string of baffling events end up with Hart as the director of the Christmas program. Being the boss isn't as great as Hart thought it would be at first, and soon things are getting out of control and Hart finds himself as a school leper. Can Hart succeed in getting the program together without causing WWIII? Or will this be the last holiday concert?
Other: This was a good Clements "School Story." I enjoyed Hart and Mr. Meinert as characters, and Hart's decisions in helping keep the program afloat are fun to read about. Just as a heads up, they do sing "We Wish You a Happy Holidays" at the end, but otherwise, this was a fun, light read. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
The Lemonade War (Series)--Jacqueline Davies
The Lemonade War is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Evan is upset at Jessie, and the problem is, Jessie doesn't know why. She knows it has something to do with the letter that arrived a couple days ago, but she doesn't quite understand why Evan is angry at her.
Evan knows he should stop being angry with his sister. It wasn't really her fault that she was being bumped up to his class this year, but he just can't help it.
Then starts the Lemonade War. Who can get the most money from selling lemonade? Jessie has the brains, but she doesn't understand people. Evan understands the ways of people, but his grades aren't the best. Who will win the Lemonade War?
Other: These were fun books, though I liked the first one best. The first one is about business, and the second is about the judicial system, the third is about mysteries, the fourth is about the newspaper press. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Evan is upset at Jessie, and the problem is, Jessie doesn't know why. She knows it has something to do with the letter that arrived a couple days ago, but she doesn't quite understand why Evan is angry at her.
Evan knows he should stop being angry with his sister. It wasn't really her fault that she was being bumped up to his class this year, but he just can't help it.
Then starts the Lemonade War. Who can get the most money from selling lemonade? Jessie has the brains, but she doesn't understand people. Evan understands the ways of people, but his grades aren't the best. Who will win the Lemonade War?
Other: These were fun books, though I liked the first one best. The first one is about business, and the second is about the judicial system, the third is about mysteries, the fourth is about the newspaper press. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Lunch Money--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic fiction/School Story
Summary: Greg Kenton is obsessed with making money and always beating out his oh-so-high-and-mighty neighbor Maura Shaw. One day, he gets a brilliant idea. He can make comic books to make money during lunch hour at school! So he gets to work on his Chunky Comics and business is running smoothly--until he sees Maura selling her own mini books in class. A blowup and a bloody nose later (it wasn't Maura's nose), and they eventually reach a sort of understanding. Greg realizes the benefits of having Maura working with him, and as business partners, they make their product really fly. Unfortunately, the principal shuts down their operation, just as it was really booming, and it'll take all their combined stubbornness to save their operation.
Other: This was very entertaining, with fun characters and very interesting facts about comic book production. Definitely one of my favorite of Clements' "School Stories." (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Greg Kenton is obsessed with making money and always beating out his oh-so-high-and-mighty neighbor Maura Shaw. One day, he gets a brilliant idea. He can make comic books to make money during lunch hour at school! So he gets to work on his Chunky Comics and business is running smoothly--until he sees Maura selling her own mini books in class. A blowup and a bloody nose later (it wasn't Maura's nose), and they eventually reach a sort of understanding. Greg realizes the benefits of having Maura working with him, and as business partners, they make their product really fly. Unfortunately, the principal shuts down their operation, just as it was really booming, and it'll take all their combined stubbornness to save their operation.
Other: This was very entertaining, with fun characters and very interesting facts about comic book production. Definitely one of my favorite of Clements' "School Stories." (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Mitch and Amy--Beverly Cleary
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Mitch and Amy are completely different, even though they are twins. But when a school bully starts teasing them, they start growing closer together, united with one purpose only--survive Alan Hibbler.
Other: This was a good book. The differences between Mitch and Amy are amusing, and the whole thing is pretty funny. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Summary: Mitch and Amy are completely different, even though they are twins. But when a school bully starts teasing them, they start growing closer together, united with one purpose only--survive Alan Hibbler.
Other: This was a good book. The differences between Mitch and Amy are amusing, and the whole thing is pretty funny. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
My Life as... (The Incredible Worlds of Wally McDoogle) (Series)--Bill Myers
This is the first book.
Genre: Comedy
Summary: The main character Wally McDoogle is a super klutz, so mishaps seem to follow him wherever he goes, even in his own house. He also has a knack of getting into trouble that is often caused by his bad decisions. As he tries to make the right choices to get out of trouble, Wally McDoogle and readers learn some invaluable biblical lessons.
Other: The books in this series present good biblical lessons in a fun, hilarious, entertaining, and unpredictable way. His clumsiness makes the books hilarious and entertaining. Also, his friend Wall Street, who is constantly trying to discover new ways to make money, and his friend Opera, who is always listening to music and eating chips, make the book even more amusing. Each book contains a fun, short super hero story that Wally McDoogle writes and parallels what is happening in his life. (Ages 8+)~Nathan
Summary: The main character Wally McDoogle is a super klutz, so mishaps seem to follow him wherever he goes, even in his own house. He also has a knack of getting into trouble that is often caused by his bad decisions. As he tries to make the right choices to get out of trouble, Wally McDoogle and readers learn some invaluable biblical lessons.
Other: The books in this series present good biblical lessons in a fun, hilarious, entertaining, and unpredictable way. His clumsiness makes the books hilarious and entertaining. Also, his friend Wall Street, who is constantly trying to discover new ways to make money, and his friend Opera, who is always listening to music and eating chips, make the book even more amusing. Each book contains a fun, short super hero story that Wally McDoogle writes and parallels what is happening in his life. (Ages 8+)~Nathan
No Dogs Allowed--Bill Wallace
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Kristine misses the family horse. So when she gets a dog for her birthday, she's afraid of getting attached and completely ignores her new puppy. But it's hard not to love such a sweet little animal.
Other: This was a good book, though it isn't my favorite Bill Wallace book. While I was reading it, Kristine was pretty annoying sometimes. Other than that, it was a pretty good book. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
Summary: Kristine misses the family horse. So when she gets a dog for her birthday, she's afraid of getting attached and completely ignores her new puppy. But it's hard not to love such a sweet little animal.
Other: This was a good book, though it isn't my favorite Bill Wallace book. While I was reading it, Kristine was pretty annoying sometimes. Other than that, it was a pretty good book. (Ages 8+) ~Faith
No Talking--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic fiction/School Story
Summary: Dave Packer and his entire fifth grade class has been dubbed "the Unshushables" by the school faculty. They are the loudest group of fifth graders ever to grace their fair school. Then Dave reads about Mahatma Gandhi and his vow of weeklong silence and decides to give it a try. When confronted by another routine talker, Lynsey, one thing leads to another, and the fifth grade boys and girls are split, trying to out-silence each other in a silent competition. Who will win? They're going neck and neck, tooth and nails, but when suspicious faculty gets involved, things suddenly get complicated. Can these determined kids pull it off?
Other: This was a very fun book; it's safe to say that this was my favorite of Clements' "School Stories." I liked the characters and the conflict, the morals learned and the humor of the situation. I highly recommend it for a light, fun read. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Dave Packer and his entire fifth grade class has been dubbed "the Unshushables" by the school faculty. They are the loudest group of fifth graders ever to grace their fair school. Then Dave reads about Mahatma Gandhi and his vow of weeklong silence and decides to give it a try. When confronted by another routine talker, Lynsey, one thing leads to another, and the fifth grade boys and girls are split, trying to out-silence each other in a silent competition. Who will win? They're going neck and neck, tooth and nails, but when suspicious faculty gets involved, things suddenly get complicated. Can these determined kids pull it off?
Other: This was a very fun book; it's safe to say that this was my favorite of Clements' "School Stories." I liked the characters and the conflict, the morals learned and the humor of the situation. I highly recommend it for a light, fun read. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Ramona (Series)--Beverly Cleary
This is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Ramona doesn't think she's a pest--at least, not really. She soon starts Kindergarten and loves it. But then she feels like Miss Binney doesn't love her anymore. What's Ramona to do? Read this funny series as Ramona goes through the trials and hardships of elementary school, from Kindergarten to fourth grade.
Other: This was a fun series, though I liked the Henry Huggins series better. The books are funny, and being the youngest of the family, I can relate to some of the things that Ramona goes through. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Ramona doesn't think she's a pest--at least, not really. She soon starts Kindergarten and loves it. But then she feels like Miss Binney doesn't love her anymore. What's Ramona to do? Read this funny series as Ramona goes through the trials and hardships of elementary school, from Kindergarten to fourth grade.
Other: This was a fun series, though I liked the Henry Huggins series better. The books are funny, and being the youngest of the family, I can relate to some of the things that Ramona goes through. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Room One--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic Fiction/School Story/Mystery
Summary: Ted Hammond is hooked on mysteries, but one has him absolutely stumped. How in the world can his town keep its one room school going if there's only going to be five students next semester? Without a school, his beloved small Nebraskan town will die. Then he encounters a more pressing mystery. On his paper route, he sees a mysterious face in the upstairs window of an abandoned farmhouse. Could the two mysteries possibly be related? Is his town doomed to die? Ted doesn't know yet, but he's going to find out.
Other: This was a good Clements "School Story," with a little bit of mystery distinguishing it from the rest. I liked the town and the idea of a school so small that it only uses one room. It's clean and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Ted Hammond is hooked on mysteries, but one has him absolutely stumped. How in the world can his town keep its one room school going if there's only going to be five students next semester? Without a school, his beloved small Nebraskan town will die. Then he encounters a more pressing mystery. On his paper route, he sees a mysterious face in the upstairs window of an abandoned farmhouse. Could the two mysteries possibly be related? Is his town doomed to die? Ted doesn't know yet, but he's going to find out.
Other: This was a good Clements "School Story," with a little bit of mystery distinguishing it from the rest. I liked the town and the idea of a school so small that it only uses one room. It's clean and fun. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
The School Story--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic Fiction/School Story
Summary: Natalie has written a book that her best friend Zoe thinks is amazing, definitely good enough to be published. The only problem is: Natalie is twelve. Now, how do a couple of pre-teens set about publishing a novel? It does help a bit that Natalie's mom is an editor, but nobody'll take them seriously. A pen name and some clandestine actions later (a few involving a cooperative grown-up), and Natalie is finally well on her way to becoming a published author. Can she and her literary agent/best friend really pull it off? It'll take a lot of guts, and little bit of a miracle.
Other: This was a very fun Clements "School Story," with interesting facts about book publishing. I would recommend it to people who are interested in publishing. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Natalie has written a book that her best friend Zoe thinks is amazing, definitely good enough to be published. The only problem is: Natalie is twelve. Now, how do a couple of pre-teens set about publishing a novel? It does help a bit that Natalie's mom is an editor, but nobody'll take them seriously. A pen name and some clandestine actions later (a few involving a cooperative grown-up), and Natalie is finally well on her way to becoming a published author. Can she and her literary agent/best friend really pull it off? It'll take a lot of guts, and little bit of a miracle.
Other: This was a very fun Clements "School Story," with interesting facts about book publishing. I would recommend it to people who are interested in publishing. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
A Week in the Woods--Andrew Clements
Genre: Realistic Fiction/School Story
Summary: Mark Chelmsley the Fourth is trying to convince his teacher, Mr. Maxwell, that he isn't like other spoiled, rich kids that his teacher hates before he's transferred to a private prep school. Breaking well-made stereotypes isn't easy, but Mark thinks he has a good chance during the traditional school fifth grade Week in the Woods. Unfortunately, Mark messes up, badly, and he and his teacher end up in a potentially life-threatening situation. Can they work together to save their lives? Or will they never get out of the woods?
Other: I've read quite a few of Andrew Clements' "School Stories," and this is one of the better ones. I really enjoyed the whole "survival tactics" theme, and the interaction between Mark and Mr. Maxwell is good. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Summary: Mark Chelmsley the Fourth is trying to convince his teacher, Mr. Maxwell, that he isn't like other spoiled, rich kids that his teacher hates before he's transferred to a private prep school. Breaking well-made stereotypes isn't easy, but Mark thinks he has a good chance during the traditional school fifth grade Week in the Woods. Unfortunately, Mark messes up, badly, and he and his teacher end up in a potentially life-threatening situation. Can they work together to save their lives? Or will they never get out of the woods?
Other: I've read quite a few of Andrew Clements' "School Stories," and this is one of the better ones. I really enjoyed the whole "survival tactics" theme, and the interaction between Mark and Mr. Maxwell is good. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Wonder--R. J. Palacio
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: To August Pullman (or Auggie, as his family calls him), he's a completely normal kid. He knows that everyone else doesn't see him as one though, and that can be troubling at times. Auggie knows he's ugly in most people's eyes as a result of facial deformities brought on by a genetic trait. He's learned to deal with it though. But at ten years old, when his mother decides to stop homeschooling him and send him to school for the first time, he balks at first. Will school be the trial that he can't overcome? Or will his good spirited character be all the more strengthened by it? Told from the perspective of himself, his family, and his friends, this sweet book beckons the best in all of us.
Other: This was such a good book. It was sweet, the characters were great, and I loved the voices that were used. It alternatively made me want to cry, punch, cheer, and shout for joy. It was so good. Read it. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: To August Pullman (or Auggie, as his family calls him), he's a completely normal kid. He knows that everyone else doesn't see him as one though, and that can be troubling at times. Auggie knows he's ugly in most people's eyes as a result of facial deformities brought on by a genetic trait. He's learned to deal with it though. But at ten years old, when his mother decides to stop homeschooling him and send him to school for the first time, he balks at first. Will school be the trial that he can't overcome? Or will his good spirited character be all the more strengthened by it? Told from the perspective of himself, his family, and his friends, this sweet book beckons the best in all of us.
Other: This was such a good book. It was sweet, the characters were great, and I loved the voices that were used. It alternatively made me want to cry, punch, cheer, and shout for joy. It was so good. Read it. (Ages 8+) ~Amy
Belly Up--Stuart Gibbs
Genre: Mystery/Realistic Fiction
Summary: Teddy lives in Funjungle, the biggest and best zoo/theme park in America, situated in Texas thirty minutes away from civilization. The park is supposed to be the best place for a family outing, but there is a situation. The park employees and management are stunned when, just a couple weeks after opening day, their star mascot (and animal terror) Harry the Hippo is found belly up inside his enclosure, stone dead. When foul play is mentioned and nobody seems to be looking into it, Teddy adamantly looks into the murder case (if it can be called homicide when the victim is a hippo). Of course, if he knew about the trouble investigating would cause, he might have just let sleeping dogs lie, or in this case, hippos rest in peace.
Other: This is a very funny, quirky book, with unique characters and a fun kid mystery. I liked the animals, and there was enough action and danger to keep the story rolling. A couple parts are kind of cartoon gross and there are a couple bad words, but other than that, I actually really enjoyed it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Summary: Teddy lives in Funjungle, the biggest and best zoo/theme park in America, situated in Texas thirty minutes away from civilization. The park is supposed to be the best place for a family outing, but there is a situation. The park employees and management are stunned when, just a couple weeks after opening day, their star mascot (and animal terror) Harry the Hippo is found belly up inside his enclosure, stone dead. When foul play is mentioned and nobody seems to be looking into it, Teddy adamantly looks into the murder case (if it can be called homicide when the victim is a hippo). Of course, if he knew about the trouble investigating would cause, he might have just let sleeping dogs lie, or in this case, hippos rest in peace.
Other: This is a very funny, quirky book, with unique characters and a fun kid mystery. I liked the animals, and there was enough action and danger to keep the story rolling. A couple parts are kind of cartoon gross and there are a couple bad words, but other than that, I actually really enjoyed it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Because of Mr. Terupt--Rob Buyea
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: There's Jessica, the new girl in town who want to be a director when she grows up. Anna, a shy, softhearted outsider who loves to read. Peter, a well-meaning prankster. Alexia, who loves feather boas, purple lip gloss, and starting girl wars. Danielle, the soft spoken farmer. Luke, he's smart, really smart. And then there's Jeffrey, the grouch. All the kids have their own stories, problems, and differences. It's going to take one special teacher to help them.
Other: This book is one of my favorites. It's one of the few books that I read, and then the next day I read the entire thing all over again (Not skimmed) and still enjoyed myself immensely. I loved the characters, the story line, the themes, and the wispy way that the kids narrated it. The ending was really good and very happy. I didn't really like the sequal, Mr Terupt Falls Again, that much though.(Ages 9+) ~Faith
Summary: There's Jessica, the new girl in town who want to be a director when she grows up. Anna, a shy, softhearted outsider who loves to read. Peter, a well-meaning prankster. Alexia, who loves feather boas, purple lip gloss, and starting girl wars. Danielle, the soft spoken farmer. Luke, he's smart, really smart. And then there's Jeffrey, the grouch. All the kids have their own stories, problems, and differences. It's going to take one special teacher to help them.
Other: This book is one of my favorites. It's one of the few books that I read, and then the next day I read the entire thing all over again (Not skimmed) and still enjoyed myself immensely. I loved the characters, the story line, the themes, and the wispy way that the kids narrated it. The ending was really good and very happy. I didn't really like the sequal, Mr Terupt Falls Again, that much though.(Ages 9+) ~Faith
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Series)--Jeff Kinney
This is the first book.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Greg Heffley is a wimpy kid. He hates the cold, dislikes outdoors, and has to run away from the neighborhood weirdo, all while keeping his best friend Rowley in line. And to top all that off, he needs to deal with finally going to middle school, surviving his older brother Rodrick, keeping his dad from shipping him off to military school, putting up with the new family pet, dealing with adolescence, having his 'Lil Critters mood level go down to critical, and a disaster valentine's dance. Who knew being a kid was so hard?
Other: This book is extremely funny and the cartoons are amusing. It's funny because his trials are a lot of the normal things that usually happen in life. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Summary: Greg Heffley is a wimpy kid. He hates the cold, dislikes outdoors, and has to run away from the neighborhood weirdo, all while keeping his best friend Rowley in line. And to top all that off, he needs to deal with finally going to middle school, surviving his older brother Rodrick, keeping his dad from shipping him off to military school, putting up with the new family pet, dealing with adolescence, having his 'Lil Critters mood level go down to critical, and a disaster valentine's dance. Who knew being a kid was so hard?
Other: This book is extremely funny and the cartoons are amusing. It's funny because his trials are a lot of the normal things that usually happen in life. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Anne of Green Gables--Lucy Maud Montgomery
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Elderly siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert wanted a boy from the orphanage to help out around their house and farm, Green Gables. Instead, they get fiery, imaginative Anne Shirley, who finds her way into the hearts of everyone she meets over the eventful years of her childhood.
Other: This is a very well-written, entertaining story, with parts funny, sad, and touching. Be prepared to meet a girl not easily forgotten. We all loved it, and I highly recommend it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Elderly siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert wanted a boy from the orphanage to help out around their house and farm, Green Gables. Instead, they get fiery, imaginative Anne Shirley, who finds her way into the hearts of everyone she meets over the eventful years of her childhood.
Other: This is a very well-written, entertaining story, with parts funny, sad, and touching. Be prepared to meet a girl not easily forgotten. We all loved it, and I highly recommend it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Ferrets in the Bedroom, Lizards in the Fridge--Bill Wallace
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Liz is embarrassed by the odd assortment of animals at her house (present due to her father's job). It's not that she doesn't like them, especially her ferret, Freddy, but it makes her feel unwanted at school. When she decides to run for class president, she has to compete against the "perfect" Jo Donna, and she invites a couple friends over to help her. But things don't go too well, resulting in one of her friends stomping out of the house and vowing never to come back. As rumors spread at school, Liz can't handle it anymore--the animals must go. Will Liz figure out what really matters in life?
Other: Though this is not my favorite Bill Wallace book, it has a good moral and the animals are really cute. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Summary: Liz is embarrassed by the odd assortment of animals at her house (present due to her father's job). It's not that she doesn't like them, especially her ferret, Freddy, but it makes her feel unwanted at school. When she decides to run for class president, she has to compete against the "perfect" Jo Donna, and she invites a couple friends over to help her. But things don't go too well, resulting in one of her friends stomping out of the house and vowing never to come back. As rumors spread at school, Liz can't handle it anymore--the animals must go. Will Liz figure out what really matters in life?
Other: Though this is not my favorite Bill Wallace book, it has a good moral and the animals are really cute. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Heartbeat--Sharon Creech
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Annie loves to run. She loves the feel of the ground underneath her bare feet. Unlike her running partner and best friend, Max, she doesn't want to try out for the school team; she just wants to run for the fun of it. This love stays constant as other details of her life start changing, like the apple she is supposed to draw a hundred times for art class: Max's increased moodiness, her grandfather's forgetfulness, and the coming of the new baby.
Other: This sweet story, told in a succession of short, poem-like narratives, tells of a girl who refuses to ruin the thing she loves best. I loved it, as did my family. It's short and sweet, and it has a good moral and good character development, considering the length of the book. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Annie loves to run. She loves the feel of the ground underneath her bare feet. Unlike her running partner and best friend, Max, she doesn't want to try out for the school team; she just wants to run for the fun of it. This love stays constant as other details of her life start changing, like the apple she is supposed to draw a hundred times for art class: Max's increased moodiness, her grandfather's forgetfulness, and the coming of the new baby.
Other: This sweet story, told in a succession of short, poem-like narratives, tells of a girl who refuses to ruin the thing she loves best. I loved it, as did my family. It's short and sweet, and it has a good moral and good character development, considering the length of the book. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
The Higher Power of Lucky--Susan Patron
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Lucky lives in the tiny town of Hardpan, population 42, out in the middle of the desert. Her mother recently died, and her beloved foster parent seems to be planning on moving. Lucky is worried, but she keeps her thoughts to herself. For a girl like Lucky, there is a lot of interesting things to be done in Hardpan, including spending time with the only other kids in town, Lincoln and Miles. A mis-written sign, a fanciful burro, and a sandstorm are only a few of the quirks that come up in such a small, seemingly quiet town.
Other: The characters are the strong point of this sweet story. Lincoln is my favorite, but Miles, Lucky, and the rest of the people in diminutive Hardpan are all characters. Despite the humor, there are some thoughtful pauses that lend a touch of depth to the story. It won the 207 Newbery Award. Lucky/Hardpan is actually a trilogy, and I liked the first two, but the last one was a little bit odd at times. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Lucky lives in the tiny town of Hardpan, population 42, out in the middle of the desert. Her mother recently died, and her beloved foster parent seems to be planning on moving. Lucky is worried, but she keeps her thoughts to herself. For a girl like Lucky, there is a lot of interesting things to be done in Hardpan, including spending time with the only other kids in town, Lincoln and Miles. A mis-written sign, a fanciful burro, and a sandstorm are only a few of the quirks that come up in such a small, seemingly quiet town.
Other: The characters are the strong point of this sweet story. Lincoln is my favorite, but Miles, Lucky, and the rest of the people in diminutive Hardpan are all characters. Despite the humor, there are some thoughtful pauses that lend a touch of depth to the story. It won the 207 Newbery Award. Lucky/Hardpan is actually a trilogy, and I liked the first two, but the last one was a little bit odd at times. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Hoot/Flush/Scat/Chomp (Quartet)--Carl Hiaasen
Hoot is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction/Environment
Summary: Hoot: Roy is not happy that he had to move to Florida, leaving his best friend behind. When he sees a mysterious running boy from his school bus window, however, he decides to figure out what would make a lone boy run that fast, thus plunging him into an adventure involving endangered owls, quirky friends, and pancakes.
Flush: Noah and his little sister Abby love the Florida beach. Unfortunately, from time to time there are suspicious strains of sewage marring the water. They need to get to the bottom of it, before their dad spends any more time in prison for, eh, unorthodox methods to flush out the culprit (long story). It's going to take some food coloring, crazy helpers, a few well-placed bites, and a whole lot of flushing.
Scat: Nick and his friend Marta are confused when the biology teacher goes missing on a field trip. Somehow, they have to find out where she went. A mysterious man and a disgruntled panther actually have a lot to do with this mysterious disappearance.
Other: These books are quirky and fun. The characters are real, well, characters, and the adventures/mysteries are pretty fun. My favorite is Hoot, which is a Newbery Honor book, then Scat, and then Flush. A few characters are drinkers and in very low living conditions, but overall, it's not too bad. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction/Environment
Summary: Hoot: Roy is not happy that he had to move to Florida, leaving his best friend behind. When he sees a mysterious running boy from his school bus window, however, he decides to figure out what would make a lone boy run that fast, thus plunging him into an adventure involving endangered owls, quirky friends, and pancakes.
Flush: Noah and his little sister Abby love the Florida beach. Unfortunately, from time to time there are suspicious strains of sewage marring the water. They need to get to the bottom of it, before their dad spends any more time in prison for, eh, unorthodox methods to flush out the culprit (long story). It's going to take some food coloring, crazy helpers, a few well-placed bites, and a whole lot of flushing.
Scat: Nick and his friend Marta are confused when the biology teacher goes missing on a field trip. Somehow, they have to find out where she went. A mysterious man and a disgruntled panther actually have a lot to do with this mysterious disappearance.
Other: These books are quirky and fun. The characters are real, well, characters, and the adventures/mysteries are pretty fun. My favorite is Hoot, which is a Newbery Honor book, then Scat, and then Flush. A few characters are drinkers and in very low living conditions, but overall, it's not too bad. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
A Little Princess--Frances Hogson Burnett
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Sara Crewe's father goes to the diamond mines, leaving his precious daughter behind in boarding school. Sara gets the place of honor at the table, and she acts and looks the part of a gracious little princess. But when her father dies, changes take place immediately. Her beautiful dresses and all "frivolities" are taken away from her, she gets a horrid room in the attic, hard work and verbal abuse are piled on top of her, her dress and shoes get shabbier every day, and often she doesn't eat. She survives with the few visits from her friends, her doll, animals, and her imagination and stories. Through her hardships, her already strong spirit grows stronger, and she pretends that she is a princess being held prisoner. But her friends' visits are rare, the animals and her doll don't talk, work isn't growing any easier, the gnawing sensations in her stomach are unbearable, and even her imagination isn't helping. Can Sara handle her new life? Will she stay in the attic forever?
Other: The illustrations in the book were perfect, the characters were great, the story was fun and interesting, and the overall book was a good one. It was a little bit sad, but it was well-written. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Sara Crewe's father goes to the diamond mines, leaving his precious daughter behind in boarding school. Sara gets the place of honor at the table, and she acts and looks the part of a gracious little princess. But when her father dies, changes take place immediately. Her beautiful dresses and all "frivolities" are taken away from her, she gets a horrid room in the attic, hard work and verbal abuse are piled on top of her, her dress and shoes get shabbier every day, and often she doesn't eat. She survives with the few visits from her friends, her doll, animals, and her imagination and stories. Through her hardships, her already strong spirit grows stronger, and she pretends that she is a princess being held prisoner. But her friends' visits are rare, the animals and her doll don't talk, work isn't growing any easier, the gnawing sensations in her stomach are unbearable, and even her imagination isn't helping. Can Sara handle her new life? Will she stay in the attic forever?
Other: The illustrations in the book were perfect, the characters were great, the story was fun and interesting, and the overall book was a good one. It was a little bit sad, but it was well-written. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Manaic Magee--Jerry Spinelli
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Jeffery Lionel "Maniac" Magee is the town legend. This orphan single-handedly accomplished several amazing neighborhood feats and, with his unique mindset, broke down the sacred diving lines between the "black" neighborhood and the "white." The problem is, with all the times the story has been told, some of the legend may have been skewed or blown out of proportion. Jerry Spinelli's job is to present the facts clearly and correctly, and the remarkable story of Maniac Magee unfolds.
Other: My family loved this book. It is both funny and enjoyable but presents wonderful truths and morals as well. The unique way in which Spinelli tells it is also entertaining, as are the different characters found throughout the book. Maniac and the rest of the kids are portrayed incredibly well. Some parts are sad, some parts are funny, and some are very touching. I highly recommend this book. It won the 1991 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Jeffery Lionel "Maniac" Magee is the town legend. This orphan single-handedly accomplished several amazing neighborhood feats and, with his unique mindset, broke down the sacred diving lines between the "black" neighborhood and the "white." The problem is, with all the times the story has been told, some of the legend may have been skewed or blown out of proportion. Jerry Spinelli's job is to present the facts clearly and correctly, and the remarkable story of Maniac Magee unfolds.
Other: My family loved this book. It is both funny and enjoyable but presents wonderful truths and morals as well. The unique way in which Spinelli tells it is also entertaining, as are the different characters found throughout the book. Maniac and the rest of the kids are portrayed incredibly well. Some parts are sad, some parts are funny, and some are very touching. I highly recommend this book. It won the 1991 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Millicent Min, Girl Genius/Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time/So Totally Emily Ebers (Trilogy)--Lisa Yee
Millicent Min, Girl Genius is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Millicent Min, girl genius, is in a quandary. She would've been perfectly happy to spend her summer "vacation" getting the top scores in her college summer course and spending time with her grandmother. Instead, she is supposed to tutor her archenemy, Stanford Wong, in English and attend volleyball practice. What is she going to do? The only bright spark is that she makes a friend, the new girl, Emily Ebers. Can even a genius figure out how to get through the troubles of summer while trying to keep the first friend she's ever had?
Stanford Wong is in trouble. He flunked English, so his dad is angry at him, and he has to go to summer school, be tutored by the dork Millicent Min, and miss the basketball camp he really wants to go to. If his best friends find out that he's such a loser, they'll hate him. The only bright spark is that new girl, Emily. She's beautiful, and she seems to really like him. But even she might turn her back on him if she finds out that he isn't that smart. What's a guy to do?
Emily Ebers is new. Her mom moved after the divorce, and she desperately wants her dad to know what she's doing this summer. So she writes letters to him as part of her diary. She sorely misses her old friends but soon finds a brave, trendy girl, Millicent Min. Millie is so sweet, if a bit odd at times, but Emily is ecstatic to have such a good friend. To top it off, the really handsome boy who's tutoring Millie seems to like her. Everything is looking good until a lie is uncovered, she hangs out with some not-so-nice popular girls, and her dad seems not to love her anymore. What happened to her summer?
Other: This is a good trilogy. Each book tells the story of one summer through the eyes of the three main characters. Millicent Min was funny because of the girl genius angle, Emily Ebers was fun because of Emily herself, but Stanford Wong was my favorite because of the unique characters of his teammates. Also, Emily is a very girly-girl who loves guys and clothes and doesn't mind talking about them. The romance between Stanford and Emily can be a bit over-the-top sometimes, but the stories and characters are good. I enjoyed them. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Millicent Min, girl genius, is in a quandary. She would've been perfectly happy to spend her summer "vacation" getting the top scores in her college summer course and spending time with her grandmother. Instead, she is supposed to tutor her archenemy, Stanford Wong, in English and attend volleyball practice. What is she going to do? The only bright spark is that she makes a friend, the new girl, Emily Ebers. Can even a genius figure out how to get through the troubles of summer while trying to keep the first friend she's ever had?
Stanford Wong is in trouble. He flunked English, so his dad is angry at him, and he has to go to summer school, be tutored by the dork Millicent Min, and miss the basketball camp he really wants to go to. If his best friends find out that he's such a loser, they'll hate him. The only bright spark is that new girl, Emily. She's beautiful, and she seems to really like him. But even she might turn her back on him if she finds out that he isn't that smart. What's a guy to do?
Emily Ebers is new. Her mom moved after the divorce, and she desperately wants her dad to know what she's doing this summer. So she writes letters to him as part of her diary. She sorely misses her old friends but soon finds a brave, trendy girl, Millicent Min. Millie is so sweet, if a bit odd at times, but Emily is ecstatic to have such a good friend. To top it off, the really handsome boy who's tutoring Millie seems to like her. Everything is looking good until a lie is uncovered, she hangs out with some not-so-nice popular girls, and her dad seems not to love her anymore. What happened to her summer?
Other: This is a good trilogy. Each book tells the story of one summer through the eyes of the three main characters. Millicent Min was funny because of the girl genius angle, Emily Ebers was fun because of Emily herself, but Stanford Wong was my favorite because of the unique characters of his teammates. Also, Emily is a very girly-girl who loves guys and clothes and doesn't mind talking about them. The romance between Stanford and Emily can be a bit over-the-top sometimes, but the stories and characters are good. I enjoyed them. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
No More Dead Dogs--Gordon Korman
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Wallace Wallace is a football player that can never tell a lie. He is also the town hero because he made one touchdown last season. The thing is, that one touchdown won the championship game. So now he's a hero even though he's only a mediocre player, which is almost as bad as lying, and his ex-best friend, who is actually a star player, hates him. To top it off, he gets put into detention because of a lousy book review in English class and ends up helping the kids on the drama team improve the dumb play that they were working on. It actually becomes fun, until he starts getting framed for sabotaging the production. Now the drama team and the football team hates him. Something has got to change.
Other: This is a really funny, entertaining book. Wallace is a great character, as is the second main character, Rachel, the president of the drama team. This is especially good for those who are sick of dogs dying at the end of literary classics. I loved it and highly recommend it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Wallace Wallace is a football player that can never tell a lie. He is also the town hero because he made one touchdown last season. The thing is, that one touchdown won the championship game. So now he's a hero even though he's only a mediocre player, which is almost as bad as lying, and his ex-best friend, who is actually a star player, hates him. To top it off, he gets put into detention because of a lousy book review in English class and ends up helping the kids on the drama team improve the dumb play that they were working on. It actually becomes fun, until he starts getting framed for sabotaging the production. Now the drama team and the football team hates him. Something has got to change.
Other: This is a really funny, entertaining book. Wallace is a great character, as is the second main character, Rachel, the president of the drama team. This is especially good for those who are sick of dogs dying at the end of literary classics. I loved it and highly recommend it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
The Penderwicks (Series)--Jeanne Birdsall
This is the first of three (so far).
*RA
Genre: Family
Summary: The four Penderwick sisters are unique. First there's Rosalind, the oldest and most responsible Penderwick. She took on a motherly role when her mom died. Sky is next as the resident impulsive tomboy and mathematician. Jane is the most imaginative, dreamy sister, and Batty is young, quiet, loves animals, and adores Rosalind. Between the four of them, they can get into many different scrapes, but they can also get out of them, eventually. The trials and curiosities of life are abundant, and the Penderwicks like to make the best of them.
Other: Our whole family loved these books. The sisters are very well-done characters, and the happenings are incredibly amusing. They're fun, light reads. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Family
Summary: The four Penderwick sisters are unique. First there's Rosalind, the oldest and most responsible Penderwick. She took on a motherly role when her mom died. Sky is next as the resident impulsive tomboy and mathematician. Jane is the most imaginative, dreamy sister, and Batty is young, quiet, loves animals, and adores Rosalind. Between the four of them, they can get into many different scrapes, but they can also get out of them, eventually. The trials and curiosities of life are abundant, and the Penderwicks like to make the best of them.
Other: Our whole family loved these books. The sisters are very well-done characters, and the happenings are incredibly amusing. They're fun, light reads. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Project Mulberry--Linda Sue Park
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Julia and her best friend Patrick are going to make a project for the state fair. The problem is that they can't seem to think of anything to do. Julia's mom suggests raising silk worms, and Patrick readily agrees. But Julia thinks it's too Korean for an all-American project. She can't seem to find a discreet way of getting out of doing the project, except for saying no, and Patrick is holding fast to the idea. But things are a little bit on her side beacause there are complications, like finding the rare mulberry tree for food. Will Julia be able to wiggle out of the project? Or will things turn out for the better?
Other: This was an interesting book, and the conversations between the main character and the author were amusing. I liked the details about silkworms. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
Summary: Julia and her best friend Patrick are going to make a project for the state fair. The problem is that they can't seem to think of anything to do. Julia's mom suggests raising silk worms, and Patrick readily agrees. But Julia thinks it's too Korean for an all-American project. She can't seem to find a discreet way of getting out of doing the project, except for saying no, and Patrick is holding fast to the idea. But things are a little bit on her side beacause there are complications, like finding the rare mulberry tree for food. Will Julia be able to wiggle out of the project? Or will things turn out for the better?
Other: This was an interesting book, and the conversations between the main character and the author were amusing. I liked the details about silkworms. (Ages 9+) ~Faith
The Secret Garden--Frances Hodgson Burnett
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: A disagreeable, unhealthy, unloved orphan girl. A disagreeable, unhealthy, imperious boy heir. An old, mysterious, unloved secret garden. All together on a large manor with a housemaid, a crotchety old gardener, and an absentee owner. Can the garden be the link that will bring healing into the lives of two very unlovable children?
Other: This is a beautifully written and sweet book, although parts of it have a slightly mystical quality about them. The characters are well-defined, and the progression of healing is also very well-done. It is a good, classic read, without action or anything very fast-paced. My sister and I enjoyed it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: A disagreeable, unhealthy, unloved orphan girl. A disagreeable, unhealthy, imperious boy heir. An old, mysterious, unloved secret garden. All together on a large manor with a housemaid, a crotchety old gardener, and an absentee owner. Can the garden be the link that will bring healing into the lives of two very unlovable children?
Other: This is a beautifully written and sweet book, although parts of it have a slightly mystical quality about them. The characters are well-defined, and the progression of healing is also very well-done. It is a good, classic read, without action or anything very fast-paced. My sister and I enjoyed it. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Summer of the Swans--Betsy Byars
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Sara can't seem to find anything to be happy about during her miserable 14-year-old summer. Her sister is too beautiful, her aunt too bossy, her father too distant, herself too plain. She only really loves her mentally retarded little brother Charlie, although he can get on her nerves sometimes. However, when Charlie disappears one night, her desperate search puts her whole summer into perspective, and she comes to terms with her life.
Other: The different characters in this book lent a good depth to the story. Moody Sara and sweet Charlie as well as misunderstood but good-sported Joe Melby make for some good scenes, and I liked the way Sara changes at the end. It's a good, short book. It won the 1971 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Sara can't seem to find anything to be happy about during her miserable 14-year-old summer. Her sister is too beautiful, her aunt too bossy, her father too distant, herself too plain. She only really loves her mentally retarded little brother Charlie, although he can get on her nerves sometimes. However, when Charlie disappears one night, her desperate search puts her whole summer into perspective, and she comes to terms with her life.
Other: The different characters in this book lent a good depth to the story. Moody Sara and sweet Charlie as well as misunderstood but good-sported Joe Melby make for some good scenes, and I liked the way Sara changes at the end. It's a good, short book. It won the 1971 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Surviving the Applewhites--Stephanie S. Tolan
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Jake is a "trouble kid" looking for a foster home. Spiked, dyed hair and a supreme attitude mark him when he first steps into the lives of the Applewhite clan. Can he hold out with this wacky family of artists? Some extreme homeschooling, a clingy basset hound, and a very non-traditional rendition of the Sound of Music might be just the thing to get his life back on track, if he can actually survive it. E. D., meanwhile is trying to figure out where she, an organized, schedule-oriented, sensible girl fits in her artistic, spontaneous family.
Other: Funny, wacky, and sweet, this book is a very entertaining option for a boring day. Our family thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are also unique and well-done. One aunt is into some new-agey stuff, but it's not too bad. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for some good entertainment. It is a Newbery Honor book. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Jake is a "trouble kid" looking for a foster home. Spiked, dyed hair and a supreme attitude mark him when he first steps into the lives of the Applewhite clan. Can he hold out with this wacky family of artists? Some extreme homeschooling, a clingy basset hound, and a very non-traditional rendition of the Sound of Music might be just the thing to get his life back on track, if he can actually survive it. E. D., meanwhile is trying to figure out where she, an organized, schedule-oriented, sensible girl fits in her artistic, spontaneous family.
Other: Funny, wacky, and sweet, this book is a very entertaining option for a boring day. Our family thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are also unique and well-done. One aunt is into some new-agey stuff, but it's not too bad. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for some good entertainment. It is a Newbery Honor book. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
The View from Saturday--E. L. Konigsburg
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Noah deals with facts. Smart and able to think around problems, he learns a valuable truth as he accidentally becomes the best man at Nadia's grandfather and Ethan's grandmother's wedding. Nadia is upset about her parent's recent divorce, but she learns something when she finds that she can't leave baby turtles to die. Ethan doesn't talk unless it is necessary, but among his teammates, he finds his voice. He also finds something in himself when he, the one who always ignored the weird new kid on the bus, Julian, spontaneously helps him out of a tight spot. Julian is a magician, excelling at sleight of hand and already well-versed in the ways of kindness, who invites the others out for tea at his home. The big question is, how did such a perfect foursome end up getting picked for Mrs. Olinski's Academic-Bowl team? Was it really Mrs. Olinski's choice, or was it the kids', using the lessons they learned in their own lives to affect hers?
Other: This is a very good book. Thought-provoking, sweet, and even funny at times, my family really enjoyed it. Each of the characters are very well done and the way all the different parts of the story come together at the end is amazing. The first time through, I was a little confused, but when I read it again to my family, I caught a lot more. I highly recommend it. It won the 1997 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: Noah deals with facts. Smart and able to think around problems, he learns a valuable truth as he accidentally becomes the best man at Nadia's grandfather and Ethan's grandmother's wedding. Nadia is upset about her parent's recent divorce, but she learns something when she finds that she can't leave baby turtles to die. Ethan doesn't talk unless it is necessary, but among his teammates, he finds his voice. He also finds something in himself when he, the one who always ignored the weird new kid on the bus, Julian, spontaneously helps him out of a tight spot. Julian is a magician, excelling at sleight of hand and already well-versed in the ways of kindness, who invites the others out for tea at his home. The big question is, how did such a perfect foursome end up getting picked for Mrs. Olinski's Academic-Bowl team? Was it really Mrs. Olinski's choice, or was it the kids', using the lessons they learned in their own lives to affect hers?
Other: This is a very good book. Thought-provoking, sweet, and even funny at times, my family really enjoyed it. Each of the characters are very well done and the way all the different parts of the story come together at the end is amazing. The first time through, I was a little confused, but when I read it again to my family, I caught a lot more. I highly recommend it. It won the 1997 Newbery Award. (Ages 9+) ~Amy
Crash--Jerry Spinelli
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: "Crash" Coogan is the school football star. He's always been a great athlete. He's cool, he's big, and he loves to pick on the school dweeb, Penn, who's vegetarian and a Quaker. Incidentally, he's also the kid who nearly beat Crash in a footrace when they were young. Why in the world would Penn get more attention from pretty girls than Crash would? It doesn't make any sense and just gives Crash more reason to dislike him. But then something happens that makes Crash rethink his cruel jokes, and his life changes.
Other: This is a great book. The problems are believable, and the moral is good. I also liked the character portrayal. Although I didn't like it as much as Maniac Magee, this is one very good Jerry Spinelli. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
Summary: "Crash" Coogan is the school football star. He's always been a great athlete. He's cool, he's big, and he loves to pick on the school dweeb, Penn, who's vegetarian and a Quaker. Incidentally, he's also the kid who nearly beat Crash in a footrace when they were young. Why in the world would Penn get more attention from pretty girls than Crash would? It doesn't make any sense and just gives Crash more reason to dislike him. But then something happens that makes Crash rethink his cruel jokes, and his life changes.
Other: This is a great book. The problems are believable, and the moral is good. I also liked the character portrayal. Although I didn't like it as much as Maniac Magee, this is one very good Jerry Spinelli. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
A Long Way from Chicago/A Year Down Yonder (Sequel)--Richard Peck
A Long Way from Chicago is the first book.
*RA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: A Long Way from Chicago: Joey and his little sister Mary Alice find out that they must spend a week at their grandma's house during summer vacation every year. They are terrified at the prospect, and their apprehension is well-founded. Joey records seven incredible, week-long tales, ranging from a supposedly moving corpse to vandalism charges to a questionably old veteran. Prepare to meet the most unique, headstrong old woman you are ever likely to see.
A Year Down Yonder: After her summer visits have ended, Mary Alice finds herself in need of a place to stay during the Great Depression. So she leaves her Chicago home and stays at Grandma Dowdel's house for one year, while Joey goes to find work and her parents move into a small apartment. And what a year it is. Barbed wire halos, tricks and treats, and a disastrous attempt at a nice conversation with the new boy in town combine to show that Grandma hasn't changed a bit. Will Mary Alice be able to survive a whole year in her company?
Other: These books are very amusing. The ways Grandma does things are not always legal, but she always shows that she did them for the best, to help her community and the grandchildren she loves. I enjoyed the humor; however, there is one scene in a Year Down Yonder that must be taken into consideration. In it, a lady had been posing for a portrait in the French style for the tenant in Grandma's attic. Needless to say, Grandma did not take kindly to that, and when the woman raced out through the streets screaming, wearing only an enormous snake that Grandma had conveniently failed to warn them about (apparently it kept the rats down in the attic), Grandma was supremely satisfied. The scene isn't described very much, however. Otherwise, these are very fun books all around. A Long Way from Chicago is a Newbery Honor book, and A Year Down Yonder won the 2001 Newbery Award. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Summary: A Long Way from Chicago: Joey and his little sister Mary Alice find out that they must spend a week at their grandma's house during summer vacation every year. They are terrified at the prospect, and their apprehension is well-founded. Joey records seven incredible, week-long tales, ranging from a supposedly moving corpse to vandalism charges to a questionably old veteran. Prepare to meet the most unique, headstrong old woman you are ever likely to see.
A Year Down Yonder: After her summer visits have ended, Mary Alice finds herself in need of a place to stay during the Great Depression. So she leaves her Chicago home and stays at Grandma Dowdel's house for one year, while Joey goes to find work and her parents move into a small apartment. And what a year it is. Barbed wire halos, tricks and treats, and a disastrous attempt at a nice conversation with the new boy in town combine to show that Grandma hasn't changed a bit. Will Mary Alice be able to survive a whole year in her company?
Other: These books are very amusing. The ways Grandma does things are not always legal, but she always shows that she did them for the best, to help her community and the grandchildren she loves. I enjoyed the humor; however, there is one scene in a Year Down Yonder that must be taken into consideration. In it, a lady had been posing for a portrait in the French style for the tenant in Grandma's attic. Needless to say, Grandma did not take kindly to that, and when the woman raced out through the streets screaming, wearing only an enormous snake that Grandma had conveniently failed to warn them about (apparently it kept the rats down in the attic), Grandma was supremely satisfied. The scene isn't described very much, however. Otherwise, these are very fun books all around. A Long Way from Chicago is a Newbery Honor book, and A Year Down Yonder won the 2001 Newbery Award. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
One for the Murphys--Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Carly Conners is used to her life; she doesn't know how it could be any different. Las Vegas and her mother has taught her to be tough, until one day, her life takes an abrupt, shocking turn, and she wakes up in the hospital. The eighty days that she spends with her foster family makes her incredulous, suspicious, angry, and grateful in turn. It takes a while for her to learn to love the Murphys, but when she finally does, she struggles with her longings for the family she's been missing and the mother who she's not sure she loves anymore.
Other: This is a very sweet book. It is a great healing story, and I really enjoyed it. Carly is a great, quirky, funny character, and it's easy to relate to some of the family dynamics in the book. It's overall a great story about family, friends, and unconditional love. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
Summary: Carly Conners is used to her life; she doesn't know how it could be any different. Las Vegas and her mother has taught her to be tough, until one day, her life takes an abrupt, shocking turn, and she wakes up in the hospital. The eighty days that she spends with her foster family makes her incredulous, suspicious, angry, and grateful in turn. It takes a while for her to learn to love the Murphys, but when she finally does, she struggles with her longings for the family she's been missing and the mother who she's not sure she loves anymore.
Other: This is a very sweet book. It is a great healing story, and I really enjoyed it. Carly is a great, quirky, funny character, and it's easy to relate to some of the family dynamics in the book. It's overall a great story about family, friends, and unconditional love. (Ages 10+) ~Amy
The Outsiders--S. E. Hinton
*RA
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Ponyboy, his two older brothers Darrel and Sodapop, and their gang can depend on each other. They're like family, living in the rough, poor part of town. They know their lot. Smart and a bit of a dreamer, Ponyboy knows where he stands in the pecking order of life. The rich, society teens are always roughing the greasers up, but after a mugging turns into a murder, Ponyboy's life will never be the same.
Other: I read this in fifth grade, and it instantly became my favorite book. Countless books later, it's still on my "favorites" list. The characters are well-drawn, and the societal conflicts are really revealing. It is a really sad book at times, and there are some pretty rough scenes. Still, the characters and emotions are incredibly well done, and the ending isn't as bad as some other S. E. Hinton books (as a matter of fact, I read That was Then, This is Now, and it really put me off of S. E. Hinton). Although I feel as if one should be at least in 6th grade before reading this, I loved it. (Ages 12+) ~Amy
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Ponyboy, his two older brothers Darrel and Sodapop, and their gang can depend on each other. They're like family, living in the rough, poor part of town. They know their lot. Smart and a bit of a dreamer, Ponyboy knows where he stands in the pecking order of life. The rich, society teens are always roughing the greasers up, but after a mugging turns into a murder, Ponyboy's life will never be the same.
Other: I read this in fifth grade, and it instantly became my favorite book. Countless books later, it's still on my "favorites" list. The characters are well-drawn, and the societal conflicts are really revealing. It is a really sad book at times, and there are some pretty rough scenes. Still, the characters and emotions are incredibly well done, and the ending isn't as bad as some other S. E. Hinton books (as a matter of fact, I read That was Then, This is Now, and it really put me off of S. E. Hinton). Although I feel as if one should be at least in 6th grade before reading this, I loved it. (Ages 12+) ~Amy
Peak--Roland Smith
Genre: Realistic fiction
Summary: Peak loves to climb. Born of two avid mountain climbers (hence his name, Peak), he doesn't get to climb mountains very often, as he lives with his mom, who no longer participates in the grueling exercise now. Instead, he climbs skyscrapers. This, unfortunately, lands him in trouble, and the dad that always ignored him finally showed up to bail him out of his tough spot. Nice of him, right? Yeah, but his dad also has an ulterior motive. He wants Peak to be the youngest climber to ever make it to the top of Mount Everest. Can Peak make it to the top?
Other: This was an interesting book, with detailed facts about mountain climbing. A couple of heads up's: Peak's mom and dad were not married and Buddhist Sherpa (mountain guides) do play a part in the story. Besides that, it's a good read with nice morals about family. (Ages 12+) ~Amy
Summary: Peak loves to climb. Born of two avid mountain climbers (hence his name, Peak), he doesn't get to climb mountains very often, as he lives with his mom, who no longer participates in the grueling exercise now. Instead, he climbs skyscrapers. This, unfortunately, lands him in trouble, and the dad that always ignored him finally showed up to bail him out of his tough spot. Nice of him, right? Yeah, but his dad also has an ulterior motive. He wants Peak to be the youngest climber to ever make it to the top of Mount Everest. Can Peak make it to the top?
Other: This was an interesting book, with detailed facts about mountain climbing. A couple of heads up's: Peak's mom and dad were not married and Buddhist Sherpa (mountain guides) do play a part in the story. Besides that, it's a good read with nice morals about family. (Ages 12+) ~Amy