"Mrs. Barton!  I can't find a good book to read."  I've heard this phrase so many times.  This page lists books that I have read and chose to booktalk at one time or the other.  They are my notes, in no particular order.  All the booktalk books have accompanying Accelerated Reader quizzes.  If you "can't find a good book to read", then try one of these! 

When Zachary Beaver came to town by: Holt, Kimberly Willis. . New York:  Henry Holt and Company, 1999.

In 1971, thirteen-year-old Toby and his best friend meet the “fattest boy in the world.”  Each boy has to deal with a tragic loss while making another person a little bit happier.  Grades 4 – 8.   5.8   12   700

My Louisiana sky by: Holt, Kimberly Willis. New York:  Henry Holt and Company, 1998. 

Living in a small town in Louisiana in the latter 1950s, twelve-year-old Tiger Ann Parker learns that people are afraid of what is “different”.  After being exposed to racism and prejudices toward the mentally challenged, Tiger becomes confused.  After being the bulwark for the family for many years, Tiger’s grandmother dies.  This causes Tiger to reevaluate her role in the family.  Grades 5 – 10.   5.9     8     770

Say yes by:  Couloumbis, Audrey. New York:  G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2002. 

Twelve-year-old Casey is in a predicament after her step-mother deserts her.  Casey must use all her resources and steal to survive.  Teen-aged boy, Paulie becomes a source of support for her, though his means are not legitimate.

Grades 6-9.          5.1        11        510

A year down yonder by: Peck, Richard. New York:  Dial Books for Young Readers, 2000. 

In 1937, sophomore Mary Alice is required to leave her family in Chicago and move to a rural community in Illinois. There, she is to live with her feisty Grandma Dowdel until her family can “get on their feet again.”  Mary Alice learns a lot about dealing with problems from her grandmother’s unique, but wise counsel and demonstrative behavior.  Grades 6 – 10.  4.9    9    610

The executioner’s daughter by: Williams, Laura E. New York:  Henry Holt and Company, LLC, 2000. 

In Medieval Europe, Lily realizes her position in the community as the executioner’s daughter.  Being an outcast from society, she befriends a youthful boy, John, who must make a decision about his friendship with her.  When Lily comes of age, she is expected to help her father with his occupation as a healer and a killer.   Grades 6 – 8.   5.2       8      720

Miracle’s boys by: Woodson, Jacqueline.   New York:  G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2000. 

Twelve-year-old Lafayette must deal with his displaced guilt about his mother’s death, and his older brother’s change since being released from a boy’s home.  Lafayette’s oldest brother, Ty’ree, is accepting the responsibility of raising the two younger brothers on his own after giving up the chance to attend MIT.  Grades 6 – 10.    5.3       8     660

Skeleton man by:  Bruchac, Joseph. New York:  HarperCollins Publishers, 2001.

After eleven-year-old Molly’s parents disappear, she is forced into the custody of her  “great-uncle” whom she suspects is an imposter.  Told in contemporary times, this story weaves old Canadian Mohawk tales which help Molly to solve the mystery of her parents’ disappearance.  Grades 4 – 8.

5.4      7     730

Radio rescue.  by: Barasch, Lynne.    New York:  Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2000. 

In the 1920’s ten-year-old Robert Marx studies Morse code, builds his own “radio shack”, and helps a family get rescued in the hurricane of 1926.  The book is based on the life of the author’s father.  Grades K – 8. 

3.6     2     670

The dark is rising by: Susan Cooper

Will Stanton has just turned 11 years old.  He has just made a very strange discovery:  he has magical powers which enable him to protect the world from the forces of evil.  7.1     19    920

The dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins by:  Kerley, Barbara. New York:  Scholastic Press, 2001. 

Set during the life of the world-famous dinosaur sculptor, Waterhouse Hawkins, this biography tells of his triumphs and tragedies in trying to educate the world about these pre-historic creatures.  The audience is taken to England where the adventure begins, to New York City where Hawkins is disappointed, to New Jersey, Washington DC, and finally back to England.  The story allows the students to understand some of the process that dinosaur sculptors/investigators must go through to reach an acceptable, plausible form.  Grades K – 8.  3.3    2    550    

Martin’s big words: the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  by: Rappaport, Doreen; illustrated by Bryan Collier.   New York:  Jump at the Sun Hyperion Books for Children,  2001.

    This biography tells of Martin Luther King’s non-violent struggle for racial equality for the African-American people.     2.5    2    410

A single shard by: Park, Linda Sue. New York:  Clarion Books, 2001. 

In 12^th century Korea, an orphaned boy, Tree-ear, strives to survive with his old friend, Crane-man.  Tree-ear procures a job as a master potter’s helper who eventually earns a royal commission.  Through hardship, humility, and hard work, Tree-ear finally is awarded his most sought-after prize:  an apprenticeship with the master potter. Grades 5 – 8.   6.8     10     920

 

Homecoming.  by:  Voight, Cynthia. 

Mother leaves 4 children in a parking lot of a mall.  They have 11.50…and promptly spend $4.00 of it on supper at the mall.  They do not trust law-enforcement, because they don’t want to be split up.  Who will they stay with?  Cousin Eunice?  Who wants to be a nun?   5.5    24    630

 Lyddie by:  Paterson, Katherine. 

This is a historical fiction novel about the mill girls in Lowell Massachusetts.  The working conditions are so terrible there, that one of her friends becomes very ill.  Lyddie must decide to speak up and perhaps lose her job, or keep quiet like the rest of the girls.  This is only one of the many decisions she has to make.     6.5     11     860

 

Jip, his story by:  Paterson, Katherine.   

Jip actually does fall off the turnip truck. Jip befriends Put, who arrives caged like an animal.  Put is actually a wise person, just a bit weird.  Jip relies on Put’s wisdom when a stranger comes to town claiming to have been sent by Jip’s grieving father.  There is a big surprise at the end of the book…and it intertwines with Lyddie. – but that’s not the surprise.    5.5    10    860

The slave dancer: by Paula Fox

A thirteen-year-old boy is kidnapped by a crew of a slave ship.  He discovers, to his horror, that he must play music for the slaves that are being shipped.      6.4    10    970

Skinnybones. by:  Park, Barbara. 

Alex is a TALKER.  He boasts his way into a pitching contest with T. J. Stoner, the best baseball player – and the biggest creep in school.  That’s the plot…but it’s not the book….if you’ve never read S. B., you must before leaving middle school…..laugh       4.3     5    590

No promises in the wind.  by:  Hunt, Irene. 

I love this book.  The author also wrote Lottery Rose.  Two teen aged boy must leave home during the depression era.  There is no food for them to eat, so they set out to make their own way in the world.  Needless to say, they encounter many things, and acquire friends along the way.  FAB book

5.9    12    930

Bunnicula.  by:  Howe, Deborah and James.

This book is written by Harold, a dog.  Chester, the cat, is his best friend..they have a great life living with the Monroes until Toby brings home a bunny that he names Bunnicula.  Chester becomes convinced that Bunnicula is a vampire!  OK OK, I know…but this book is hilarious …I used to be skeptical….but…  4.9    4    710

 

Nightmare Academy by:  Frank Peretti  

Runaways are disappearing from the streets.  Nate and Sarah allow their children Elisha and Elijah to investigate while they stay in the van equipped with surveillance equipment.  When a police officer makes them move from that particular curve, they lose contact with their teenagers inside the boys’ and girls’ club.   (explain “front).   When mom and dad pull back in front of the club, it’s turned into a hotel.  The children have disappeared without a trace….secret:  they were taken to a place that knows no truth, no right or wrong, where bears and other wild animals keep the kids in the proper area.…and they are in mortal danger.   16 pts    820

Lily's crossing by: Giff, Patricia Reilly

During a summer spent at the beach in 1944, Lily's friendship with a young Hungarian refugee causes her to see the war and her own world differently.     5.8    7    720

Because of Winn Dixie by:  Kate DiCamillo

India Opal goes to the Winn-Dixie to get a few groceries, and comes back with a dog.  She lives in a trailer park with her Daddy who she calls “Preacher”.  Opal has to get some friends because she just moved to South Florida.  Winn-Dixie helps her achieve her goals.   4.1    7    610

 Ruby Holler by:  Sharon Creech

Dallas and Florida, twins, are left on the door step of the Trepid home for orphans.  After failing to relocate them in a suitable home, after several years, Sairy and Tiller, around 60 years old with grown kids of their own, decide to take a trip.  They want a couple of kids to go with them.  The situation is only temporary though.  The Trepids are thieves who search for Sairy and Tillers money when they go to check out the camping equipment.  Dallas and Florida wonder where their mother can be.  AND…just who is Z? 

5.4    12    660

My Life as reindeer road kill  by:  Bill Myers

Wallace dreams BIG, literally…his dreams are far out.  One night, he dreams that he’s a big star with lots of money…in this dream he encounters Bartholomew, his guardian angel….They have a conversation about Wallace being invited to the Lord’s birthday party, December 25^th.  Wallace says that he needs to get Christ a present; Bartholomew says that that’s a good idea, and begins to disappear.  Wallace calls after Bartholomew…”What do you get the Creator of the Universe?!!”  Well, in the morning, he wakes and is relieved that it’s a dream.  However, he notices something strange on his mom’s kitchen TV as he eats his cereal…something a bit toooooo familiar.  The same conversation being played out in an old movie.!   4.8     5     770

 

Love that dog.  by: Sharon Creech 

         A young boy learns that poetry writing isn’t just for girls.  He works through

        a difficult heartache through poetry.     4.9    4    1010

Send one angel down by: Virginia Frances Schwartz

8^th grade book, parent letter.  This is the story of Aunt Charity and her daughter Eliza, Abram and his grandmother Granny.    Abram tried to shield the horrors of slavery from Eliza, a light-skinned slave who is the daughter of the plantation owner.  The Master's older “real” daughter, Abigail takes offense to Eliza because the slave is so much prettier than she.  As Eliza and Abigail grow up, even Abigail’s suitors notice Eliza.  This causes a great deal of trouble for Eliza.   

4.1     10     610

Journey to the River Sea by:  Eva Ibbotson  .  

 Sent with her governess to live with the dreadful Carter family in exotic Brazil in 1910, Maia endures many hardships before fulfilling her dream of exploring the Amazon River.  When I finished this book,  tears were in my eyes.  It’s a book about dreams, hope and adventure.  The Carter twins are absolutely DREADFUL to Maia.   The family only allows her to live with them because of the hefty allowance that she receives from her trust fund.  In the end, they pay for it.   5.9    17    860

 

Jake's orphan by: Peggy Brooke

Tree wants to escape the orphanage so badly that he’ll work on a farm with a MEAN Mr. Delton Gunderson.  Sadly, he must leave behind his wild, reckless little brother, Acorn.  Before he goes however,  Tree says, “If I don’t come back, I’ll send for you.”  Set in 1926, in North Dakota, Tree learns about cruelty and unexpected kindness.  5.5     13    790

Strays like us. by: Richard Peck 

 Twelve-year-old Molly knows she’s not going to be staying with her great-aunt Fay for long.  It’s just a temporary arrangement till her mother gets out of the mental hospital.  Molly’s been pushed from place to place because of her mother’s feeling unsettled and drug abuse.  Before long, she finds Will, the next-door boy who has more problems than Molly.   4.2     10     650

Cowboy ghost by: Robert Newton Peck 

 Titus Timothy MacRobertson, age sixteen must convince his domineering father and himself that he’s as much of a man as his older brother, Micah.  He wants to accompany them on a cattle drive across Florida.  Read page 92 to class.   4.3    10    740

 

No turning back. by:  Beverley Naidoo 

 Sipho (Seepo) (isipoh in Zulu).  Lives in a time of change in South Africa.  Apartheid is crumbling, and police are everywhere.  His stepfather is an alcoholic which makes him mean.  He beats Sipho, and his mother does nothing about it.  He runs off the live in the streets with other kids and orphans.  Soon, however, he has a stroke of luck and a white family with money allows them to live with them.  Or is he lucky?   4.8    11    730

 

Jade Green by:  Phyllis Reynolds Naylor:    

15 year old Judith has been recently been orphaned.  She winds up on her wealthy uncle’s steps requesting room and board.  She is delighted that she will have a close relationship with her cousin, until she learns that he is 40….and getting a little too close.  Before moving in, her uncle gives her one command…do not bring anything green into the house.  She promises, but can not depart with a velvet green frame that her mother gave her before she died.  So she tucks the frame into the bottom of her trunk and hides it in her closet.  Very soon after that, she begins hearing “mice” in her closet.  OR is it mice?  What’s the deal?...  5.6    10    1040

Henry VIII and his chopping block    by:  Alan MacDonald

Henry VII is the most famous of England’s many kings.  He was mean, rude, and had six unlucky wives. He made the chopping block famous.  When Henry was a young man, however the people of England loved him.  He was very athletic, and loved to hunt, and was what the people thought a king should be.  But as he got older, he got crazier.  He even killed his own wives!  And he got Obese, VERY fat… read 157 and 158.  4.1    7    710

 

Al Capone and his gang   by: Alan MacDonald

Al Capone is the most famous gangster of all time.  He was ruthless, rich, and powerful.  He defined mobster style with his fabulous suits, cars, and women.   Read “running out of time” page 124.   4.1    8    660

 

Wishes, kisses, and pigs  by: Betsy Hearne   

Is it possible to change your brother into a pig?  Why..yes it is.   Is it possible that he might be eaten for dinner? Why...yes it is.      4.6   7   690

Time for Andrew, a ghost story: by Mary Downing Hahn. 

Drew’s parents are on their way to France for an archeological dig, so Drew must stay with Aunt Blythe in her father’s OLD house.  When Drew and his Aunt Blythe find marbles in her old house’s attic, there’s trouble.  A note on the marbles reads:  WARNING These marbles belong to ANDREW JOSEPH TYLER..If you take them you will be sorry 7 June 1910. Aunt Bythe picked up the note and said, “ The poor child must have hidden them up here before he died.”  Then she explained that Andrew had died of diphtheria when he was a boy.   Drew and Aunt Blythe also notice a picture laying on the floor.  The picture looks just like Drew!

     Aunt Blythe goes through the family album and tells Drew the stories of her (and his) relatives.  One night, while Drew is sleeping, Andrew comes back for his marbles.    5.9    11    710

  

S. O. R. losers by:  Avi. 

South Orange River Middle School has a policy.  EVERYONE must be a part of a sports team, no matter what.  Soccer, basketball, something.  S. O. R. is very famous for its all-star teams.  However Mr. Lester, a history teacher, has his hands full when he coaches the Special Seventh-grade Soccer Team….they had all “slipped through the crack” last year, and got out of playing on a team.  Now the smartest, most dedicated academically-gifted kids must play together on the Special Team… do they care?  Will they EVER care if they win a game?   5.4    4    520

 

Belle Prater’s Boy by: Ruth White  Newbery Honor book  - 1996.

When Belle Prater disappears, her son, Woodrow must move in with his grandparents.  Around 1955.  Belle had always said that there was a place in the forest where two worlds met.  Woodrow believes that she went to the other world.  He and Gypsy, his first cousin, become very good friends.   It’s a funny book because Woodrow is so smart and clever.  Gypsy is having nightmares, and she doesn’t know why.  Her father is dead, and she doesn’t remember how he died…and no one talks about it.  Of course, the reader (with Gypsy) eventually finds out what the big secret is.   5.5    8    760

Strawberry girl by: Lois Lenski.  

 When Birdie Boyer moves in next the the Slater family in Florida, there’s nothing but trouble.  Mr. Slater is a no-account who is lazy and drinks all the time.  Mrs. Slater is sooo terribly jealous of what Mrs. Boyer has, she is nasty to her.  The Slaters are cattle people; the Boyers are mostly farmers.  When the Slaters let their cows come on to the Boyers property,  Birdie’s dad gets really angry.  Pigs come on first time, ears get snipped…pigs comes on second time, pigs get dead….then Mr. Slater kills Boyer’s mule…one fuss after another.  Finally, someone is changed when a preacher comes to town. 

 4.6    7    650

Cotton in my sack by: Lois Lenski. 

 Joanda and her family live in Arkansas.  They are sharecroppers on Big Charley’s land.  They work very hard, but can’t seem to save any money.  They live on “furnish” money.  That’s when you get food, clothing, etc. you need starting in March…then when the crop comes in around October, you pay for the stuff at 8% interest…which is especially high.  How can her mother and father make life better for themselves?   5.0   9 points

 

Walking to the bus-rider blues by: Harriette Robinet. 

 June 1956 in Montgomery Alabama.  African-Americans are boycotting the bus company because of the Rosa Parks incident.  For Alfa Merryfield walking can be a problem.  He has a mystery to solve, and to clear his name….it’s going to take time.  While cleaning Dr. Williams house, two thousand dollars turns up missing.  He didn’t take it; neither did his grandmother, or his sister.  The cook was there, but she’s been with the William’s family for many years…what about Mrs. William’s no-good brother?  It’s a mystery that must be solved.  Then, there’s the problem with rent money.  Every month, someone comes into their shack and steals a bit of the rent money right when it’s due.  Who could come into their house and do that?  It’s always when everyone is asleep.  This is an historical fiction mystery.     4.5    9    550

The devil’s workshop. By: Katherine Marcuse. 

It’s German 1454.  Books are made one by one with people, mostly monks, writing each word.  How are books made today?  This is the story of Johann Gutenberg, the man known as the Father of the Print Press.  He developed a method of mass production of books.  Johann's apprentice becomes his most avid supporter.  But, there is a traitor in the mists.  Gutenberg has borrowed lots of money from a wealthy businessman.  Plus the town thinks that Gutenberg is a witch because his workshop is all in secret.  They burned people back then.  

 

Coal Camp Girl by Lois Lenski. 

This is the story of a family who lives in a coal camp in Virginia during the 1950’s.  It tells of the hard ships, of living off the company scrip until payday.  Eating beans and bread.  It tells about working in the dark, dusty coal mine all your life.  And, of always the fear of a cave-in, or poisonous gas.   5.0   9 points

 

The Graduation of Jake Moon by :  Barbara Park.

When Jake’s grandfather is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Jake’s world is turned upside down. He can’t play football, or the drums because he has to go home right after school is out to take care of him.  When his grandfather was still well, he did everything for Jake, even named him.  But now that he is ill, Jake has to take over.  When Mr. Moon disappears, Jake and his family must face a terrible situation.   5.1     8     680

 

The man who loved clowns by:  June Rae Wood. 

Punky,  Delrita’s uncle, has Down’s Syndrome.  Delrita’s parents have taken care of Punky for many years.  She feels like she needs to shield Punky from the jeers and laughter of other kids, so she hasn’t made friends.  Her parents are antique dealers, and they travel around to fairs, etc.  One faithful day, Punky and Delrita find themselves in a state of denial.  Delrita’s parents have dropped them off at a fair, and gone to find some antique treasures.  After being several hours late, Delrita begins to wonder what has happened to them.  They were supposed to pick Punky and Delrita up hours ago.  What’s happened?    5.5   10   870

 

The tale of Despereaux by:  Kate DiCamillo

Despereaux was born a tiny mouse; though he possessed very large ears.  His love of music brought him out into the open when the king was playing his guitar and singing for his daughter.  But, once Despereaux saw Princess Pea, it was true love.  He "showed" himself, which is against all mouse law.  Therefore, he was banished to the dungeon with the rats - terrible creatures who love to torment humans and eat mice.  And the story is about Miggery Sow (Mig), a slow-witted serving girl with a wish - to become a princess!  Princess Pea, Despereaux, Mig, and a rat named Roscuro embark on a journey that will lead them into terrible trouble, and into each others lives.

6.4    9    670

P. S. Longer letter later by:  Paula Danziger and Ann M. Martin.

Elizabeth has all the money in the world with very straight-laced parents.  Tara*Starr's parents were very young when they got married; consequently, they have struggled for a few years.  Finally, her parents have decided to grow up and get decent jobs.  Though Tara*Starr is out-going and loves attention, Elizabeth is quiet and shy.  Of course, they are best friends.  Elizabeth's parents do not want them to be friends because they are really snobs.  Tara*Starr moved away, but the girls continue their friendship through letter-writing.  Then life changes for both girls.  As Tara*Starr's parents settle down, things really get great for her.  But, Elizabeth's father loses his high paying job and her life begins to unravel.   6.1    7    750

The Great Gilly Hopkins by:  Katherine Paterson

Gilly REALLY believes that her mothers wants her to come and live in California, but her mom never seems to get around to getting her.  Consequently, Gilly has been going from one foster home to another.  When she finally ends up with Mrs. Trotter and a "goofy" kid named William Ernest.  Gilly can't believe that she's stuck with this weird "family".  AND worse yet, they have a old blind neighbor that comes to dinner all the time.  One thing that is different about this place, however, is that Trotter seems to accept Gilly for who she really is, and like her anyway.  Gilly is NOT a "nice", loving, fun person.  She's got a BIG chip on her shoulder.  Her language is really not appropriate at times, and she can't seem to make friends (wonder why?).  Finally, she gets in touch with her mother....5.3    8    800

Harvesting hope by :  Kathleen Krull

     Cesar Chavez and his family had lived on their ranch in Arizona for several generations.   They loved their home-place.  When the horrible drought came, they could not raise their crops to pay the bills.   They lost their land and had to become migrant farm workers in California.  The workers’ conditions were terrible and wages were very low.  As the years past, Cesar became a civil rights leader for the farm workers, and lead a peaceful 340-mile protest march through California.  Through his efforts and others, Cesar took charge and the “entire country listened.”

4.8    2    800

Stargirl by: Jerry Spinelli

High school students just don’t know what to make of the new sophomore girl who calls herself Stargirl.  She admits to changing her name several times during her life, though her parents named her Susan.  She dresses funny and always seems to know when everyone’s birthday is so she can serenade them with the birthday song while playing her ukulele during lunchtime.  The cheerleaders ask her to be on the squad since Stargirl’s nemesis turned the position down.  BUT, Stargirl gets in real trouble since she also cheers for the other team.  The hotseat is where Stargirl really makes her classmate angry… and it seems that Leo, her best friend, her boy friend, her only real confidant can’t help her.  The high school crowd is very fickle. They hate her, they love her, they hate her, they love her…..They can’t figure her out.   6.1  11  590

True confessions of Charlotte Doyle, The: by Avi

Charlotte is a very refined 13 year old who needs to sail across the Atlantic

to meet her family in America.  When two families decide not to sail with her, Charlotte finds herself the only female aboard the vessel SeaHawk.  Charlotte finds herself caught between the madness of a ruthless captain and the rage of a mutinous crew.  On which side will she finally find herself?  Captain Jaggery is a terrible person who drives his crew to exhaustion.  He whipped a man so severely that the sailor lost his arm.  At first Charlotte thinks that the captain is her only friend since he is so refined, but after a chilling discovery, she realizes that he is no one’s friend.  This is a tale of sea peril, loyalty, savagery, denial, and truth.  Great book!    6.9   13   740

 

Rope burn by:  Jan Siebold

Richard's parents just got a divorce, sold their home, and moved across town.  Richard's world has been turned up-side down.  The book contains funny proverbial stories about Richard's exploits.  I read it in about one hour - funny.   4.8    4    740

Flipped by:  Wendelin Van Draanen

This is a funny, poignant book about growing up.  Juli's been in "love" with Bryce since 2nd grade until she learns that he's really superficial.  THEN, Bryce realizes that he IS superficial, changes, and falls for Juli - who now at the end of 8th grade decides that Bryce is NOT for her.  So, Bryce tries his best to convince Juli that he has changed.  Hence, the title:  Flipped.  Also, each chapter is in the voice of "flipping" characters.  Alternately, Juli, then Bryce, Juli, Bryce, etc.  I REALLY liked this book a lot.  It has many lessons that middlers need to learn and I need to be reminded of! 

5.5    15    720

The final freedom by:  Bill Wallace

Will Burke really wants a certainly shotgun; while he’s daydreaming about it on the city streets, he runs into the fiercest brave of them all – Geronimo!  Since he is terrified, he lashes out against Geronimo who is quite amused.  Geronimo pretends to get drunk all the time so he can escape from the army of soldiers who are supposed to be watching him.

While making a delivery across the plains, Will runs into a horrible blizzard.  Except for Geronimo’s help, he would have surely died.  One of the best parts of this book is how Geronimo uses his brain to keep the two from freezing to death.  Also, the book dispelled a lot of folklore and myths about this great Native American.  I enjoyed it very much.   4.2    7    730

How Angel Peterson got his name And other outrageous tales about extreme sports

by: Gary Paulsen

Even though this is a TRUE Book and belongs in 813, I decided to place it in the fiction section under Paulsen so YOU can find it.  These are the exploits of Paul and some of his friends.  They do the craziest things - sometimes to get girls' attention - sometimes to break "world records" - sometimes just because they are 13 years old!  Emil decides that he wants to fly this enormous army-surplus kite.  What he doesn't do is let go of the kite when it starts to lift into the air.  Consequently, he also is lifted more than 80 feet with it!  How does he get down?  Does he get hurt?  Read this story and other outrageous sections to see how crazy these guys were.  This book reminds me of my husband, and his telling the family about each scar on HIS body!       6.9    7   1180

Dovey Coe by:  Frances O'Roark Dowell

Dovey does not want Caroline (her big sister) to marry Parnell Caraway, the most "illegible bachelor in their small town" - and it's no secret that she can't stand him.  While all the other girls are flirting with him, Caroline plays it REAL cool.  Dovey can't stand the fact that he's courting her sister or the way he treats her brother, Amos, as if he were stupid - just because he can't hear.

When Parnell turns up dead, Dovey just happens to be in the room with him when the body is discovered.  She's in a real mess, and gets arrested for the crime....but who killed Parnell?   5.9   10   980

Somewhere in the darkness by: Walter Dean Myers

Things were going OK for Jimmy, he was living with "Mama Jean" who loved him very much.  He was usually attending high school in his neighborhood in New York City.  Then, Crab came into his life - his father who wanted to take him on a journey across the country to find out the truth.  Crab needed to prove to Jimmy that he had no part in the killing of that store clerk.  Jimmy and Mama Jean think that Crab is out on parole; however, he's escaped while in the hospital.  Crab has a very serious illness, and takes aspirin like it's candy.  When he finally gets to Arkansas, where the TRUTH is, the police catch up with him.      5.5   11    640

Blizzard’s Wake by:  Phyllis Reynolds Naylor.

15 year old Kate Sterling’s mother dies in a automobile accident 4 years ago.  Zeke Dexter is finally heading home after 4 long years in prison – why was he in prison?  He was the drunk driver that killed Kate’s mom as she was heading to choir practice.  They wind up together during the blizzard of 1941 – which really did happen.  One of really interesting parts of this book is when Kate has to find her way to her dad’s stranded car during the blizzard.

        6.1    13    910

Nory Ryan's song by:  Patricia Reilly Giff

1845, and Nory Ryan's family has lived on the west coast of Ireland for generations.  Maidin Bay is a lovely place, but life is very difficult.  Nory's family plants potatoes while her father fishes to pay the rent to Lord Cunningham, an English lord who is bent on forcing the Irish from their land so that he can raise herds of sheep.  When Maggie, Nory's sister gets married and sails for America, Nory dreams of a time when the Ryans will live in America all together again. 

A terrible famine strikes Ireland and all the potatoes rot in the fields.  Da does not return from fishing when he is supposed to be back and people are starving to death ALL THE TIME.  Everywhere, people are begging for scrapes of food, their eyes sunken back into their faces.

Nory becomes responsible to feed Patch (Patrick, her little brother), and Anna, an old lady who knows about herbs for healing, etc.

   4.9   8   600- a horrific tale a life and death struggle

Greater than Angels by: Carol Matas

1940, and Germans are rounding up Jews for deportation.  Anna Hirsch, her friends and her family are being deported for the South of France.  At least they are not going to the concentration camps in Poland - like Auschwitz.  They think that since they are being allowed into France that the Gurs would be a decent refugee camp, but they see little hope once they get there.  Food is scarce and the living conditions are horrible.  Even worse, is the fear of being deported to a labor camp.  Signs seem to be leaning in that direction.

However, for Anna and the other children at Gurs, their destination is Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a tiny village whose citizens have agreed to care for them.  There, Anna can continue her education and begin helping Rudi with his efforts in the French Resistance.

When things get "hot" at the village, Klara, Peter, and Anna make a run for Switzerland.  When they finally cross over the VERY dangerous route and reach the border, they are told to turn back.  TODAY (maybe not tomorrow, who knows?) the Swiss government has closed the border.  They are arrested, and taken back to France.  Anna tries to visit her mother and Aunt and the mothers of the other children at Gurs, but she can only talk to them through the fence.  She stays in the community a few days, only to finally see the women taken in cattle-cars to their deaths in the labor camps.

Will she ever get to freedom again?  Ms. Matas "unveils a contagious goodness that permeated one corner of a region otherwise enveloped in evil, and celebrates the courage that made these citizens "'greater then angels."'

4.5    7    690

Cracker Jackson by:  Betsy Byars

Alma, Cracker Jackson's babysitter when he was younger, is in real trouble.  Why didn't Alma listen to Sister Rose, the fortune teller, when she said that: "Yes, you will marry Billy Ray - but you will be sorry."  Alma now has little 6 month old Nicole to worry about.  She doesn't mind so much that Billy Ray hits her, but what about Nicole? 

Some of this book is quite humorous,  though the subject matter - abuse - is serious.    5.5   6   710

Sands of time, The by:  Michael Hoeye

Hermux Tantamoq is in trouble again.  All of Pinchester is in uproar about his friend's exhibition.  It seems that her new paintings are of cats!  Everyone knows in this rodent community that "cats" are only found in folktales and superstitious stories.  They've never really existed.  Then an old chipmunk appears in Hermux's shop.  He claims to have a map that leads to the royal library of a cat king.  This cat kingdom would prove that all the city knows about history is false!  Before long Hermux is on the trail of treachery and deceit, leading all the way from Pinchester to an ancient tomb.  And someone is following him.      4.9   14   490

Battle of Jericho, The by:  Sharon M. Draper  - permission slip - a great story for students to read BEFORE going to high school

The Warriors of Distinction club is the most popular "with it" club at school.  Actually, there ARE no other clubs.  Only 15 pledges are selected from the Junior class to pledge the club.  It's a very prestigious honor to be selected.  There are concerns, however, about what the pledges have to endure to become a Warrior of Distinction.  It seems that the Warriors are VERY civic- service minded with their Christmas Toy drive, helping teachers at school, and the custodial staff.  Many dads are sooo proud that their son was chosen to be a part of the elite group.  But, there is much concern about the hazing...

    3.9    16    700    Coretta Scott King Award

Once upon a Marigold by:  Jean Ferris

Christian was lost in the woods as a itty, bitty boy.  Ed, a troll, became his dad.  Ed was very careful to educate the lad about how to be mannerly around folks.  One day, as a young man, Ed begins a long-distant love affair with Marigold, the princess who lives across the river.  He uses p-mail to communicate with her, and they developed a warmth for each other.

Christian finds out that Marigold's "mother" is trying to get her married off to a prince.  Christian leaves his cave, and gets a job in the castle, where he learns of the REAL reason why Queen Olympia really wants to get rid of Marigold, and the queen's husband, the king, also!     6.2    13    840 

Tears of a tiger by:  Sharon Draper - parent permission slip - another great story for students to read BEFORE going to high school

When will kids understand the dangers involved in drinking - especially drinking and driving?  Hazelwood High in horrified by the car accident that kills their #1 player on the basketball team.  Robert Washington, 17, was killed in an accident that could have been avoided.  Read this book to find out how the school handles this tragedy.  Also, find out how the driver of the car, Andy, handles this terrible turn of events that disrupts the lives of so many people.  6.5    6   700     Coretta Scott King Award  

Double Dutch by:  Sharon Draper

As Delia and her friends practice for the International Double Dutch Championship, she must learn to hid a terrible secret.  She does very well in school.  She's made it to the 8th grade, making decent...sometimes great grades.  How does she do it - she can't read a word.  Yo Yo's having trouble with the class bullies - but who isn't?  And Randy's missing a father.  He usually doesn't stay out in his truck more than a few days at a time.  It's been 6 weeks...all the emergency money is gone...all the food is gone.  Randy's a BIG boy, and he's getting pretty desperate.     4.3    12    760

The way things were by:  Norman H. Finkelstein

If your parents and grandparents are always talking about how GREAT things were before you were born, i.e. less pollution, better food, better kids, then this is the book for you.  Become an expert on how things REALLY were back in the "good ol' days."  The facts, "according to Time magazine, are that "'right now, on a day you are lucky to be alive to see, the U. S. is enjoying its best economic and social health in 25 years.  We're living longer, breathing cleaner air, drinking cleaner water.  Crime is in free fall, with violent evildoing near a 22 year low, and the downtowns we once gave up for dead are bristling with coffee bars, green markets, life...poverty rates for elderly and black Americans are at their lowest levels since Washington began keeping track of such matters in 1959."'  Lots of fun and facts can be found in this book.  It's great for "browsing", also.   

Thief of dreams by:  Todd Strasser

Martin's parents work ALL the time.  When, for business purposes they decide to go to China over the Christmas holidays, they ask Uncle Lawrence to "baby-sit" for a few weeks.  Martin is very curious about his uncle's leaving during the night.  He sometimes is out past 3 am.  What could his uncle be doing out so late all the time?  Why does he have a wet suit in his room?  Why does he keep his door locked?  Why does he keep changing rental cars?  Why does he have a fake id?  Why is he so cool, and Martin's dad so lame?    5.1   8    530

Boom Town boy by:  Lois Lenski

Lois Lenski moved to Oklahoma to interview people in their 60s and 70s before she wrote this book.  Boom Town Boy is historical fiction, and gives a very accurate picture of  life during the oil boom years in Oklahoma.  Fortunes was made in one day, and sometimes lost just as quickly.  The farmers, merchants, etc. were not very educated about how to spend their money, and swindlers swept down on the communities like hordes of locust.  I love Lois Lenski's books.     

Blue Ridge Billy by: Lois Lenski

Set in the mountains between Virginia and Tennessee, Lenski portrays the harsh existence of mountain folk before the automobile invades their lives.  These are very hardy, sturdy people who live with hardships we can not imagine. Pappy says:  '"Work never stunted a young 'un...Think money grows on bushes?...Hand me over that dulci-more..."'  'Pappy seized the dulcimer and thre it into the open fireplace.  he found some kindling and started a blaze.  Billy looked on.  His face turned white, but he made no sound. ...Billy knew the dulcimer would never be mentioned again.'   Billy had made the dulcimer by himself (with the help of Uncle Pozy)  Now, Pappy had destroyed it in a second.  "Music does not make corn and beans."     

Last juror, The by: John Grisham

In a small sleepy little town in Mississippi, a horrible murder has been committed.  Everyone knows who did.  The juror finds him guilty.  The town is out for blood.  Why would any juror vote for life in prison?  Because they don't know that "life" means 10 years in Mississippi  - less if the prisoner is a "model inmate" - that's why.  After Padgitt is released from prison years later, jurors are being murdered.  Do you think Danny Padgitt is the murderer?  Think again.....

Giver, The by:  Lois Lowry

In a futuristic time, in a pleasant community, everything seems to be perfect.  No one steals, no one lies, there is not "crime".  At the Ceremony of Twelve, children find out what there are supposed to be for the REST of their lives.  Elders have watched them closely for years, and they decide what suits them best.  And it usually works out great.  There is ONE and only ONE chosen person chosen to be "The Giver".  It is a position of greatest honor and greatest responsibility.  Jonas is chosen to be The Giver.  He will be taught things that no one else in the community knows.  Jonas's father was chosen many years ago at the Ceremony of Twelve to begin learning his career.  When Jonas finds out what he father does for a living, he totally FREAKS out.   He also totally Freaks when he begins his lessons with The Giver.      5.9   9   760

Ice story: Shackleton's lost expedition by:  Elizabeth Cody Kimmel

Imagine being lost for almost 2 years.  Imagine not seeing any civilization for 2 years.  Imagine seeing nothing but white for almost 2 years - no trees, grass...just a blanket of snow, ice, and frigid waters.  Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew set out on the ship called Endurance in 1914. The ship was quickly caught fast in heavy pack ice that surrounds the South Pole.  The crew stayed on the ship until it began to get crushed by the ice.  Skackleton was ready though because he had told his crew to put everything on deck that they MUST have to survive.  When he knew that there was no hope for the ship, then they abandoned it with lifeboats stuffed full of supplies and materials for shelter.  Shackleton and his 27 men had no radio contact, and no one knew where they were, or even if they were in any trouble. 

They would find an ice floe, set up camp and then the floe would begin to disintegrate.  So, they'd have to find another floe to camp on. 

This book is a miracle.  No one should have survived such a series of disasters.  One thing after another happened until Shackleton decided to use one of the lifeboats to go find help at a whaling station.  Imagine a lifeboat out on the frigid, open, churning sea...navigating by sun and stars.  Most of the men were left behind on a small island at the South Pole.  (Elephant Island)  They waited to see if Shackleton would return with help....they waited for months.  706    7    1130

Hannah in between by:  Colby Rodowsky

Twelve-year-old Hannah's world is "precomfordicable".  That's what she calls: comfortable and predicable - just the way she likes life.  She wants to just eat pizza with her parents and "moonbath" (like sunbath) with her friends on Friday nights.  But, lately, Hannah's been keeping a secret.  It has to do with her mother's shaking hands and morning headaches.  Her family is denying that there's a problem.  How can they continue after her mother's fiasco at the wedding she was photographing?  5.3    10   1050

Landry News by:  Andrew Clements

Mr. Larson can not believe that a student could write such terrible (though truthful) thing about him in their "newspaper" - but there is was:

There has been no teaching so far this year in Mr. Larson's classroom.  There has been learning, but there has been no teaching.  There is a teacher in the classroom, but he does not teach.

In his handout from parents' night, Mr. Larson says that in his classroom "the students must learn how to learn by themselves, and they must learn to learn from each other, too."

So here is the question:  If the students teach themselves, and they also teach each other, why is Mr. Larson the one who gets paid for being a teacher?

In the public records at Carlton Memorial Library it shows that Mr. Larson got paid $39,324 last year.  If that money were paid to the real teachers in Mr. Larson's classroom then each student would get $9.50 every day during the school year.  I don't know about you, but that would definitely help my attitude toward school.

And that's the view this week from the News desk.    Cara Landry, Editor in Chief

As you can imagine, this caused a great uproar in the school!  What happens next?  Read the book!    6.1    7    950

Ghost behind the wall by:  Melvin Burgess

12-year-old David lives with his dad in a big London apartment building. David a bit mischievous - well, VERY mischievous - sometimes...kind of a bad person.  He finds out that he can climb through the ventilation system in his building, get in tenants' apartments, and play tricks on them.  Usually, these are funny tricks, like taking someone's left boot.  Then, after a day or two, David will return it... and take the right boot!  Robert Alveston, an elderly man who lives in David's building thinks that he is losing his mind.  David does things in his apartment, and his nasty pranks disturb Mr. Alveston.  One day while in the ducts, David decides to pretend he is a ghost to scare Mr. Alveston.  While David is pretending to be a ghost, he encounters one!  Soon the old man and David are in danger.  The REAL ghost eventually brings David and Mr. Alveston together, and they become allies "against" the spirit.   5.1   10   690

Blueberry Corners by: Lois Lenski

Becky's family is very large, and they must do without many things that we take for granted.  Becky has never had a store-bought dress or bonnet.  It's around 1843, and times are changing.  Their community is getting a train;  new people are arriving.  Becky is finally exposed to the some of the wonders of the world.  There is one thing that she wants more than anything, however:  Becky wants to celebrate Christmas.    

Catherine, called Birdy by:  Karen Cushman

Almost 14-year-old Catherine can not believe that her father would would her to marry such boring, nasty-looking, disgusting old men.  Her father is determined, however, to suit her with a wealthy landowner.  Then, of all the luck, a shaggy-bearded suitor from the north comes calling.  He is by far the oldest, ugliest, most revolting suitor of all....but also the richest.  Catherine's mother is also about to have another baby - but now her mother is OLD!!! - over 30!  Will Catherine be able to get out of this marriage?  Would her father just leave her alone?  Can she just refuse?  She's heard of maidens refusing before and their father's speaking "I will" for them at the marriage ceremony!  Catherine is certainly in a bind.  7.5    13    1170

Marilyn Monroe: Norma Jeane's dream by:  Katherine E. Krohn

Marilyn was born Norma Jeane Mortensen and spent most of her unhappy childhood in a foster home and orphanage.  At 21, she decided to become an actress and changed her name to Marilyn Monroe.  She was very self-conscience, and had very low self-esteem.  Marilyn just didn't feel like she fit in anywhere.  Students had made fun of her at school because she wore tacky clothes.  She was not part of the "cool" crowd.  Even after she was "discovered", she never really felt good in her "own skin".  When Marilyn was just becoming a star, drugs were given to her and other actors frequently.  The long hours and tedious job of shooting movies was daunting for actors.  It was common for them to take "legal" prescription drugs, and people didn't know how bad they were on the body and mind.  This, above all else, probably proved to be Marilyn downfall.    8.6    5    920

Summer of the monkeys by:  Wilson Rawls

OH, boo-hoo!  Real tear-jerker here.  What a wonderful book.  Sometimes, the reader may think that Jay Berry is a bit "dense" for a 14 year old; but this is still an excellent book.  Last student to read it told me that he stayed up most of the night to finish it.  I would have also.  Jay Berry wants to catch the escaped monkeys in the Ozark Mountains.  They fetch 2 dollars each, except for Jimbo, the chimp, who is worth $100.00!  However, Jay Berry is constantly outsmarted by Jimbo.  Catching these monkeys becomes a very high priority for him.  He desperately wants  a .22 rifle and a pony.  When all is done; however, Jay Berry must make a decision as to how to spend the reward money.   5.1  20   810 

A week in the woods by:  Andrew Clements

Mark is the son of very, very wealthy business owners and is raised mostly by a handyman and his wife.  They are very nice, caring people, but Mark misses his mom and dad.  He also HATES to move...and that's what he's doing.  When he arrives in New Hampshire, he does with a chip on his shoulder.  Why make friends in this new school when he'll be heading off to a private boarding school next year???? It's March already.  Now his whole class is headed out for a week in the woods.  At first, Mark is not excited, but as the class prepares to go, he really "gets into it".  But, of course, things go wrong, and Mark winds up "running away" in the woods.       5.4    10    820

Milkweed by: Jerry Spinelli

Misha is a small boy trying to survive in war-torn Poland.  He does not remember his parents or even his name.  Uri, another orphan, has made up a story for him, and has given him the name Misha.  Misha has to endure many hardships - watching people starve to death, seeing a good friend hanged for stealing food, and watching the "jackboots" torment the Jews.  I loved this book.                          5.2    13    510

Crazy lady by:  Jane Conly

I just finished reading this Newbery Honor Book, which has been "challenged" in several schools, and is a controversial read.  Although it was written for middlers, I have placed it in the 8th grade section of the library.  More than the mature subject matter, I believe that the language used is the reason why the book has been "challenged" in some schools.  It is about an 8th grade boy's relationship to his "crazy" neighbor and her mentally-challenged son.  Although Maxine loves her son Ronald dearly, she occasionally "mistreats" him.  Actually, Maxine is a practicing alcoholic.   Her disappointment with life "drives her to drink."  Ronald is afraid of every one and every thing.  As Vernon helps them, he gets to know Maxine and Ronald and he is changed.    4.9    10    570

Olive's ocean by Kevin Henkes

Olive Barstow is dead; she was hit by a car while riding her bicycle.  12-year-old Martha had no idea that a very small kindness she showed to Olive would have such an impact on her.  Olive and Martha hardly even spoke.    

This summer, Martha and her family are going to Grandma's house where Martha will be used by an "older" boy to build his ego (and to win a bet).  Martha learns that she is still young, and need experience and time to learn the "way of the world".   4.8    9    680

Petey by:  Ben Mikaelsen

Imagine being born with all your mental faculties, but being mistakenly diagnosed as an “idiot”.  ("idiot" is what the doctors called Petey in the book)  Petey’s mind is as sharp as yours, but when he was born in 1922, the doctors thought that he would never be able to communicate.  They thought that he would never be able to even think, so Petey has spent his life in institutions.  Actually Petey was born with cerebral palsy.  In 1922, Doctors did not know what they know now about this condition.  Since Petey was unable to communicate, they assumed that he was extremely limited mentally…which was not the case.

For years, he laid in his bed with nothing to do or no one to talk to.  His only contact with humans was when they changed his spoiled pads or fed him.  This was, of course, very frustrating. 

One day, when he was eleven, he was transferred to the male adult facility.  This was his first trip outside in 9 years.    Page 29

Everyone should read this book.   6.1    11    740

Into the land of the Unicorns by:  Bruce Coville

Cara must jump from the bell tower – she MUST!  Her grandmother told her that if she waits until the 12^th bell tolls, she will leap into the land of Luster – the land of the unicorns.  If she doesn’t jump, the man that is chasing her will catch her for sure.  Can she trust her grandmother? – Cara will surely die if her grandmother is wrong!  AND, if she does wind up in Luster, what dangers await her there?  Why is this amulet so important?  Why would Cara’s grandmother give her life to save the amulet?   5.7    8    850

Bucking the sarge by:  Christopher Paul Curtis

Curtis also wrote:  The Watsons go to Birmingham – 1963 AND Bud not Buddy

Luther T. Farrell’s best friend Sparky thinks that Luther has it made.  Luther’s mom is very rich, and smart.  She has lots of rental properties, and is kicking people out all the time for not paying rent on time.  Luther works for his mom, is 15 years old, and drives a van.  He also has a driver’s license that says he’s 18 years old.  Luther’s mom – The Sarge – does NOT make Luther’s life easy, however.  When reading the book, one can hardly imagine that Mrs. Farrell even HAS a child.  She is MEAN, and uncaring!  Luther works at one of her nursing homes – he has to clean up the house, and clean up the men who live there.  One of them gets really mad since he’s not allowed to smoke, so he decides to soil himself to get back at Luther (actually, he’s trying to get at The Sarge, but just winds up making Luther pay for his not being allowed to smoke)   The Sarge SAYS that she’s saving money for Luther’s college education – right now, it should be around $96,000.  Luther’s smart; Luther cares deeply about his education; he is really good in science.  When Luther finds out just how much money his money has actually saved for college…something’s going to give!    7.1    16    1000

Beyond the Western Sea by:  Avi   (book 1 - The Escape from Home)

Thousand of people are starving in Ireland.  Many are being chased from their homes by angry, greedy land owners.  Maura and Patrick O'Connell (15 and 12 years old) are setting off for London to catch a ship bound for America.  Their father has been in America working for a while, and has sent them tickets for their voyage.  At the very end of the book, they finally set sail.  So, what happens the other 290 pages?  They experience theft, liars, and disappointment that would make anyone cry with discouragement.  However, they are such innocent, kind-hearted people that they don't hesitate to help any one else in need.   I really liked this book - it is fast-paced and I'm about to read book 2!    5.5   14   690

Lord Kirkle’s Money (Beyond the Western Sea – Part 2)  by:  Avi

Maura and Patrick have escaped the poverty of Ireland, but what will they encounter on the voyage to America?  What will happen to them when they finally arrive in America?  Aboard ship, they are very crowded and the smell is horrendous in the steerage section.  Trying to comfort 8-year-old Bridy who has lost both of her parents is a daunting task for two mere children in itself.  The passengers in steerage are ill-equipped and ill-prepared for the horrible voyage that will kill many passengers.  AND, to “top it all off”, Mr. Clemspool is on the voyage with them!  You must read the first book (Escape from Home) before you begin this one!      5.5    23    690

Mr. Popper’s Penguins by:  Richard and Florence Atwater

Published in 1938, Mr. Popper’s Penguins won the Newbery Honor Book award.  It is still published today.  That in itself, says a lot for the book.  Mr. Popper, a poor housepainter, is somewhat obsessed with the exploration of Antarctica.  When Admiral Drake (who is a famous Antarctica explorer) speaks to him over the radio, Mr. Popper is thrilled.  He’d like to go and explore with the Admiral, but alas, Popper is just a lowly housepainter.  He can barely feed himself and his family.  So, Drake starts sending Popper penguins. Strange….but when Popper finally get 12 penguins, things REALLY get strange!   4.9   5   910

Daniel’s Story by:  Carol Matas

Although Daniel is a fictitious character, his story was inspired by the more than one million children who died in the Holocaust.  The story opens with his family traveling on a train to their first deportation destination.  They are very upset because the Nazis are making them, along with many other families, relocate from Frankfurt to a ghetto in Poland.  This is a terrible thing, but nothing like the deportation to Auschwitz which they will have to endure in the future.   Even though the trip to the ghetto is hard, Daniel looks back on it during the trip to Auschwitz, as a very easy time.  CAUTION:   7^th grade +  There are a couple of really sad passages in this book.            6.3    7    770

Walk two moons  by:  Sharon Creech

Salamanca Tree Hiddle is afraid “of lots and lots of things.  For example, I was terrified of car accidents, death, cancer, brain tumors, nuclear war, pregnant women, loud noises, strict teachers, elevators and scads of other things.  But I was not afraid of spiders, snakes, and wasps…on that day, when a dignified black spider was investigating my desk, I cupped my hands around it, carried it to the open window, and set it outside on the ledge.  Mary Lou Finney said, “Alpha and Omega, will you look at that!”  Beth Ann was as white as milk.  All around the room, people were acting as if I had single-handedly taken on a fire-breathing dragon.

“What I have since realized is that if people expect you to be brave, sometimes you pretend that you are, even when you are frightened down to your very bones.  But this was later, during the whole thing with Phoebe’s lunatic, that I realized this.”   Page 14  This is a story about how young girls deal with loss and unexpected surprises that happen in life.   6.6   13    770

Devil’s arithmetic, the by:  Jane Yolen

12- year-old Hannah was a happy, Jewish girl growing up in New Rochelle, New York.  She was at the Passover supper with her parents and Aunt Eva at her grandparent’s house in the Bronx.  Hannah had tired of her grandfather’s continuing to tell old stories about his terrible experiences during the Holocaust.  “Not another story….Not that story again!”  As they were celebrating the Passover Seder, she was asked to ‘let the Prophet Elijah’ come in.  So, Hannah went to the door of the apartment and there…she entered the past. She was mysteriously transported into the unspeakable horrors that were.   5.1   8   730

Jacob’s rescue: a Holocaust story by:  Malka Drucker and Michael Halperin

Jacob Gutgeld lived a very good life in Warsaw, Poland, in a beautiful home with his loving family.  He played hide-and-seek and went to school with his friends.  Everything changed when Nazi soldiers invaded Poland in 1939.  It was not safe to be Jewish anymore.  One day Jacob slipped out of the Polish ghetto and met a kind, Christian man named Alex.  He would eventually save Jacob and his brother, David from death.  The Roslan family kept Jacob’s identity a secret, and hid him from the Nazi soldiers.  Fear, hunger, and hardships became a way of daily life for the Roslan family and the children they helped.     5.3   5   680

Artemis Fowl by:  Eoin Colfer

Artemis Fowl is a genius.  Artemis Fowl is a criminal mastermind.  Artemis Fowl is a millionaire.  Artemis Fowl is twelve years old!  Artemis is like James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, and Attila the Hun all rolled into one.  But even he doesn’t know what he’s taken on when he kidnaps a fairy - Captain Short of the LEPrecon Unit.  These aren’t the sweet, little fairies from your bedtime stories.  They are armed and dangerous in defending their underground world.  Artemis thinks he’s on top of this game of high-stakes….which includes lives and millions in gold bullion.     6.2   14   600

Well, the by:  Mildred Taylor

The Well is the continuing story of the Logan family.  Actually, it is another prequel – along with The Land.  It’s 1910, and David Logan, the father of Cassie, Christopher John, Stacy, and Little Man, is 9 or 10 years old.  “Uncle Hammer” is just 13.  A drought settles across the land and people come from all around because the Logans have the only well that hasn’t gone dry.  Black and white folks alike draw from the Logan well.  The Simms, which most readers will remember from Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, are very jealous of the Logans because of their land ownership and their priceless well.  Charlie Simms needs help with his wagon wheel and David limps over to help him.  David can’t hold the wagon up for long…he tells Charlie this…finally David lets go.  The wagon pushes Charlie back and he falls down on the road.  Charlie Simms gets up and slaps David across the face.  Hammer ‘lights into him’ with blazing fists.  Well, you can imagine how that goes over in 1910.  Charlie, a white boy…and Hammer, a black boy beats the ‘tar’ out of Charlie.        4.9    5   760

Truesight by:  David Stahler, Jr.

13-year-old Jacob is born into a futuristic society where everyone in the community is genetically “engineered” to be blind.  Their society believes that by being blind, one can learn and concentrate on what is truly real and important rather then what is superficial.  At each person’s 13^th birthday (much like The Giver by Lowry) they are assigned their occupation.  As his birthday approaches, a far greater change threatens Jacob’s future.  It all starts with the searing pain in his eyes.  5.2   14   860

Silent boy, the by:  Lois Lowry

Katy Thatcher, a precocious 10-year-old befriends the family’s housekeeper’s brother. Peggy, the housekeeper, comes to live with the Thatcher family when she is a young teenager.  Peggy’s sister, Nellie, is the neighbor’s housekeeper.  The neighbors – the Bishops – are great friends with the Thatcher family.  Peggy is a very quiet girl while Nellie is extremely outgoing.  The time is 1910 – 1911 when it is not permissible to be a “loud” young lady.  Peggy and Nell’s brother, Jacob,  is the source of ridicule among the young boys of the town because he is “touched”.  But Jacob has a very special way with animals.   5.6   11   870

Blue eyes better by: Ruth Wallace-Brodeur

Tessa has just lost her brother in a drunk-driving accident.  Her whole family is experiencing the painful absence and unbearable silence in the house.  Now, she is an only-child.  Nothing seems real, and her mother’s love seems to be slipping away, gone alone with Scott and his blue eyes.  Tessa reaches out to her father and an older neighbor lady as her mother leaves to send some time with Tessa’s aunt.  This is a terrible family tragedy.  Will Tessa’s family ever fill somewhat “whole” again?       3.4    7    640

Boots and the seven leaguers by:  Jane Yolen

Gog is your average teenaged troll.  He loves messing around with his best friend, Pook, who is a pookah (type of magic-maker).  Magog is Gog’s “genius” little brother.  The three just HAVE to see the band that’s coming to town – Boots and the Seven Leaguers  - the greatest rock and troll band in the world!  Three days are left and they have NO tickets!  Then Magog comes up with a plan.  Pook can disguise them as older trolls, and they can volunteer their services as ‘roadies’.  In exchange for a lot of hard work the day of the concert, they’ll request tickets.  Great idea!  However, while Gog and Pook are working hard, Magog gets tired.  He curls up under a shelter to nap.  Gog goes to check on his brother later, and someone has snatched him.  Thus begins an adventure into the New Forest where danger lies at every turn.     5.1    10   640

Messenger by:  Lois Lowry

Matty is a young man about to receive his name for the first time.  When children reach a certain age in his village, they are ‘named’.  Matty must travel through Forest to retrieve his best friend’s daughter.  But…Forest is beginning to thicken.  Forest is beginning to kill people who are brave enough to venture in.  Will Matty make it through to bring Kira to her father?  Will Forest allow them to make it back to Village?   6.2   11   720

Ella enchanted by:  Gail Carson Levine

Ella is in quite a ‘pickle’.  At the time of her birth, Lucinda, a fairy, gave her a gift – the “gift” of obedience.  You can just imagine the trouble that this could cause.  When her mean step-sister finds out that Ella cannot refuse a command, she winds up doing some pretty menial tasks.  And, her father is really no help at all…he’s very selfish and only concerned with money.  Ella’s step-mother is not very kind either.  This is Cinderella with many twists.  Great read…funny and entertaining.    5.1   11   670

Nightmare by:  Joan Lowery Nixon

Emily has two perfect sisters.  Angela and Monica give speeches at school, lead programs and accumulate honors and medals.  Emily is the ‘underachiever’ in the family.  Her parents decide that she needs to go to Camp Excel for 6 weeks during the summer.  She is not happy, but Emily cannot dissuade her parents to change their plans for her.  If only she knew the future…then, they would dare send her away.  You see, there is someone at Camp Excel who is determined to kill her.   5.2    11    710

Out of the dust by:  Karen Hesse

Billie Jo’s life has been turned up-side down.  Her parents and she are waiting for the arrival of a new baby when a tragic fire strikes.  Her father can’t talk about it.  The one thing that would make her feel better is to play to piano.  But,  it is impossible because of her wounded hands.  To add to the family’s troubles, dust storms are destroying the family farm and the farms nearby.  Many families are fleeing Oklahoma and traveling to California where there are promises of work and food.          Newbery Medal Winner     5.1    5     (written like poetry, but it NOT awkward to read – GOOD book)

Don’t tell anyone by:  Peg Kehret 

Megan has discovered a field with a group of feral (wild) cats.  While she is feeding them one day, she witnesses a two-car accident.  The van slowly comes to a grinding halt while the other car races from the scene.  She gets a glimpse of the driver of the car.  While trying to help the driver of the van, she is told that the driver is dead. 

This is only one part of the plots that are intertwined in this novel.  Several students have read this book before I read it, and they all liked it.  So, I read it!  Very good…fast-paced, and it is not difficult to follow all the different plot twists.      9 pts   670 

Wreckers, the by:  Iain Lawrence

Mining used to be the way of life for the people of a small village on the coast of Cornwall.  But, it was a terribly hard way to scratch out a living.  A much easier way – they found – was to salvage the bounty from ships that were wrecked off their coastline.  As a matter of a fact, some villagers began showing lights on the coast line during storms.  This caused the ships’ crews that were in the bay area to believe that they could head to safety at the shoreline.  However, just beyond the shore, there are huge, sharp rocks upon which the ships will wreck.  If a ship wrecks, and there are NO survivors, then the ship’s cargo becomes…well, it’s complicated, but it becomes the “salvager’s”.  And…to be sure…some villagers made sure that no one survived.         5.8    12    640

Mick Harte was here by: Barbara Park

Phoebe’s brother is dead.  She heard the ambulance when she was at soccer practice.  Her mom now walks around like a zombie, and her dad hasn’t gotten dressed in days.  Some of Phoebe’s friends understand; some just can’t.  How is this family of four going to become a family of three?  How can they keep Mick close to them when he’s gone?  Very moving and honest…     5.5    4    730

Becca’s story by:  James Forman

Rebecca Case is in love with two beaux…Alex – the one who offers a stable future and Charlie – the one who promises adventure and laughter.  Becca loves them both.  Then the Civil War begins and suddenly Becca is praying for both their safety.  Before the war’s end, one of her soldiers disappears, and the other must fight for her love.    7.1   13   1080

Doomed Queen Anne by: Carolyn Meyer

Anne Boleyn was born without great beauty or wealth, but after training in the French courts, she learns to captivate men’s attentions.  She is determined to rise to the top and become the most powerful woman in England.  After years at the English court, she finally captures King Henry VIII’s attention. Not satisfied with just his heart, she ‘sets her cap’ for the throne – as Henry’s queen.  This book is somewhat candid, so I’m placing it in the 8^th section/parent’s permission section.

6.8    13    940

Belle Starr and the Wild West: by Corinne J. Naden and Rose Blue

Belle Starr is one of the major figures that stands out in our American Wild West Era.  She rode like a man; shot like a man; and sometimes, dressed as one.  Although not a classic beauty, she must have had great charm because men were attracted to her.  She ranched, robbed banks, gave to the poor, and taught children to read.  This is a very interesting biography.  It’s 7.8 RL, but I do not think it’s really that difficult.    Quick  3 points! 

Icebound by: Dean Koontz

This is an 8^th grade section book.  Parent permission is a must.  A team of scientists are stranded on an iceberg after an underground earthquake breaks their position from Antarctica.  They must be rescued because they have just finished “planting” explosives around the berg to get it to separate.  They had NOT expected, however, to be on the berg when the bombs explode!  A Russian submarine crew decides to try the rescue.  Time is running out, and there is a killer among the scientists.     7.9  19   1040    (some ‘language’)

Each little bird that sings by:  Deborah Wiles

Comfort Snowberger’s family owes and lives in their funeral home home.  They’ve had a tough year because two of their own family members have died.  She has a list of  Top Ten Tips for First-rate Funeral Behavior:  1. Don’t fake crying….2.  Bring a covered dish…. 3.  Don’t try to hide death from kids.  If Grandpa has died, don’t say, “We lost Grandpa,” because little kids will want to know why don’t you go look for him.  Just say, “Grandpa died.”  We get it. Kids are better at death than grown-ups give them credit for, unless the kid is Peach Shuggars.  Discourage Peach Shuggars from coming to your funeral.  Discourage Peach Shuggars from visiting Snapfinger, Mississippi.  Discourage Peach, period.

                 This is a funny, and sad book.               4.3   11   760

Phineas Gage: A gruesome but true story about brain science by:  John Fleischman

Phineas was a railroad construction foreman who was blasting in Vermont in 1848.  Something went terribly wrong when a 13 pound iron rod was shot through his brain.  Somehow, he survived to live 11 more years, and became a textbook case for brain science.  Although Phineas seemed to physically recover completely from the injury, he was really never the same.  Before the accident, he was a great foreman who commanded respect from his men.  He was dependable and well liked.  The ‘new’ Phineas was crude and unpredictable.  His story still fascinates doctors today.  This book can be a little difficult to read, but it’s short and has many photographs.      7.5    6    1030

Voices from the fields; children of migrant farmworkers tell their stories by:  S. Beth Atkin

All entries in this book are candid and personal.  It is like listening to the children speak.  Life is tragic, hopeful, sad, and joyful.  Beth Atkin, the author, met and photographed these teens in their environment.  One of the things that truly stands out in the book is the importance of family to all these children.  There is also a chapter on gangs and how one teen learned that life is much easier without begin a member.  Most of these children say that the main reason that they came to America is for a better education.      6.5   6   850

Going to school during the Great Depression by:  Kerry A. Graves

This is a small book about going to school in during the Great Depression!  Though it only has 32 pages, it is packed with information that is very interesting and enlightening.  Not only does it give information about the different types of schools during the 1930s, the book also addresses the way many people had to live during these difficult times.        5.9   1 point

The coffin quilt: the feud between the Hatfields and the McCoys by:  Ann Rinaldi 

Fanny McCoy is only 7 years old when this novel begins.  Most folks say the feud started when the Civil War began.  Some say that it was really the dispute over a few pigs.  However, when Roseanna McCoy ran off with Johnse Hatfield, the hatred between the two clans explodes.  Years of killings, abductions, and senseless raids follow.  Fanny seems to be the only sane person in either family.  I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this book.  I read the “author’s note” at the end of the novel and the bibliography!  Here is a website where I discovered that this is truly an historical novel…much of it factual.   http://www.blueridgecountry.com/hatmac/hatmac.html

                         7.5    11    590

Children of the Swastika: The Hitler Youth by:  Eileen Heyes

This book gives detailed information about what it was like growing up in Germany in the 1930’s and early 1940’s.  Children from 10 years of age were expected to be completely devoted to Adolf Hitler and the “Fatherland”.  Read page 8.  Boys were expected to become great soldiers and girls were expected to become devoted wives and mothers.     

Flight #116 is Down! by:  Caroline B. Cooney

     At the airport, parents and family are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their loved ones who are scheduled to land very soon.  It’s 5:10 pm on a Saturday afternoon and Hiedi Landseth is alone in her family’s mansion on the outskirts of New York City.  At 5:41, she hears a deafening roar and a jumbo jet in route to New York City crashes in the woods behind her home.  Before rescuers arrive, she is the first person on the scene.  What she sees is crumbled steel and fire.  What she hears is ‘screaming’.           6.7      12      710

Beyond the burning time by:  Kathryn Lasky

     Mary Chase’s village is in trouble.  Very soon, her family will be in trouble.  It’s 1692 and the little town of Salem Village is experiencing some terrifying events.  It seems that some teenaged girls have been “bewitched”.  They are being ‘tortured’ by unseen spirits…some ‘specters’.  Are the girls’ actions to be taken seriously?  It seems so since the townspeople have requested the Honorable Cotton Mather come to hear the evidence against the accused witches.

     This is an historical fictional re-telling of the Salem witch trials of 1692 when it seemed that everyone in the area had lost his mind.      5.3      970     6 points

Shipwreck at the bottom of the world by:  Jennifer Armstrong

Like Ice story: Shackleton's lost expedition, this book is about the Ernest Shackleton expedition to Antarctica…but I like this book even more!  Shipwreck has all kinds of great reviews, and I concur.  It recreates one of the most extraordinary stories in history.  Even though it was a ‘failure’, it was a complete success!  Twenty-seven men sailed from England in August 1914, and in 1916, 27 men finally sailed home.  They survived on the last of their rations, penguins, limpets, seaweed, and seals. (yummy)    To save his crew, Shackleton and a couple of his men sailed 800 miles during the winter…in a little boat to find help for the stranded sailors. 

     Using the diaries, notes, and photographs of the men, Armstrong paints an exciting, and terrible picture of the ordeal that these men has to endure.  6.5   1090          10 points

Joyride by:  Amy Ehrlich

How in this world is Nina ever going to feel a sense of home?  For as long as she can remember,    her mother has dragged her from place to place all over the United States.  Just when she was beginning to feel accepted in Montpelier, Vermont, her mom decides to pick up and move to Utah.  Another road trip in the van…with all their belongings piled high around them.  While looking for a place to live, they usually sleep in the back of the van on a mattress.  Since she is in middle school now, this is becoming more of a pain than an adventure. 

After Montpelier, they move to Utah for a few months, then they move to Venice Beach, California.  Something strange happens there – something that has never happened before.  While Nina and her mother are on the street, and then again at the beach, someone recognizes her mother.  Nina’s mom is adamant they these strangers are not correct…she is NOT who they think she is.  Then, Nina finds over $16,000 in her secret chest…then, some strange men in suits come around asking questions….then her mom decides to move to NYC!  What’s going on???

I REALLY liked this book, it was fast and exciting to read.    5.3    690    14 points

Dreadful future of Blossom Culp by:  Richard Peck

Since her pa took off, Blossom has lived with her strange mother as long as she can remember.  Mrs. Culp has strange ‘seeing’ powers.  Blossom has also inherited some of those powers from her ma.  All the kids at high school think she’s REALLY strange…her cloths are weird and her personality is too!  She does not fit into the ‘click’, and her best friend hides in the girl’s bathroom all day long.

Her mother receives a premonition just before Halloween.  She forbids Blossom to go near Old Man Leverett’s house.  Mrs. Culp knows that something really bad is going to happen there.  Blossom’s curiosity can’t be squelched, so, of course, she goes there one night.  All of the sudden, during an electrical thunderstorm, she is transported through time, to modern day…did I mention the year that Blossom was born?  1900!

Her powers (and the electrical storm) had placed her in the same room (at Old Man Leverett’s house), but there is a computer there and everything is neat and remodeled!  And a boy…790     5.6     11

Darby by:  Jonathon Scott Fuqua

In 1926, nine-year-old Darby is confused by the racism she sees in Marlboro County, South Carolina.  Her best friend is a tenant farmer’s black daughter that lives behind her house.  They play together, work together, and love each other like sisters.  When she begins writing little columns for the weekly newspaper, Darby becomes a ‘celebrity’ in her town.  Then, one day, she decides to write about being ‘nice to all people, regardless of race, etc.’ That’s when trouble begins to really get out of hand for her, her friends, and family.     790    5.2    12 points

Devil and his boy, The by:  Anthony Horowitz

Born in the 15^th century, Tom has never known the love of his parents.  His mother died when he was born, and his father died when he was thrown from a horse.  Since Tom has been orphaned for many years, he has been in servitude to very wicked innkeepers.  He has no shoes, even through the winter months – he is scrawny and weakly.  One day, a distinguished gentleman rides to the inn.  He starts asking Tom strange questions like:  Do you remember your father’s name?  What about your mother?  How long have you been orphaned?  These are questions that no one has asked him before….through a turn of events, Tom finds himself pursued by a terrible criminal named Ratsey.  Ratsey wants to kill Tom because he knows too much information…information that could get Ratsey and others hanged.  

SLJ – “A rollicking good tale!”

Booklist – “Mixing history with adventure, Horowitz offers a rousing story set in Elizabethan England”.         610        5.2        11 points

Here today by:  Ann M. Martin

In 1963, thirteen year old Ellie lives on the ‘weird side of the tracks’ with a motley crew of neighbors…2 old ladies that have never been married…a family that will never fit in…and her own family among others.  Mean-spirited teenaged kids like to come to their street and vandalize their property.  It’s tough.  But, even more tough -  is living with her mother.  Her Mom has this crazy dream of becoming an actress.  Mrs. Dingman abandons the family to pursue her dreams.  Ellie then becomes the ‘mother’ of the household…cooking…cleaning and looking about her younger siblings.  She does all this while trying to deal with the outcast status in school and frightening acts of prejudice toward the ‘misfits’ that live on her street.     790     6.1     15 points

Hush by:  Jacqueline Woodson

     Thirteen-year-old Toswiah finds that her life has been totally changed.  She has lived in beautiful Colorado all her life, but now, she and her family must move to a strange city.  For years, her extended family was police officers, their wives, and their children.  They had sleepovers and picnics together.  Now, her father has testified against 2 police officers – he has broken the ‘Code’ – and the family is getting death threats.  The family is forced to give up all traces and memories of their past.  Toswiah is now Evie, and her father sits in the window all day …dejected and depressed.  How can life change so quickly?           640        5.4             9 points

Hatchet by:  Gary Paulsen

      Believe it or not!!! I’ve finally read Hatchet!  This is not my first Paulsen book, but it is definitely my favorite.   Thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is on his way to visit his father for the summer.  The pilot of the Cessna has a heart attack (while in flight) and Brian must find the safest way to land the plane.  Suddenly Brian finds himself stranded in the Canadian wilderness armed with nothing but a hatchet as a tool and defense weapon.  READ this book before you leave Middle School!    1020   6.3    10 points

Brian’s Winter by:  Gary Paulsen

What if Brian wasn’t rescued before the winter set in where he was stranded in Canada? How could he survive?  This is the sequel to Hatchet, and almost as good.  As soon as I finished Hatchet, I started reading Brian’s Winter.  I LOVE this book – adventure, adventure, adventure!   1140   7.3    9 fast points

River, the by:  Gary Paulsen

Brian is happy to be home where food and warmth are plentiful.  Then, one day, three men come to the door.  Derek, one of the men, wants to travel with Brian back to the wilderness so he can learn how Brian survived without anything but his hatchet.  Derek works with soldiers teaching them survival techniques.  After much discussion, Brian decides to go – to help others learn to survive. 

Yet another one of Paulsen’s great adventure books…….960  6.3  6 points

Day of tears by:  Julius Lester

Historical Fiction – Lester draws on historical sources to fictionalize a real event.  In 1859, in Savannah, Georgia, the horror of the largest slave auction in American history is retold.  This is a very moving book.    5.6   9 points

Surviving Hitler: a boy in the Nazi death camps by:  Andrea Warren

Fifteen-year-old Jack Mandelbaum is torn from his family to go to a concentration camp for Hitler’s Final Solution to annihilate Europe’s Jewish population.  At these camps, simple existence is a constant struggle.  Will Jack’s will to survive win?  Very moving book -   Biography -    820     6.2     8 points

Legend of Jimmy Spoon by:  Kristiana Gregory

12-year-old Jimmy is sick of working for his father at his store.  He’d much rather be fishing or playing outside.  Henry Spoon, his father, has told him that he can have his own pony when he turns 14.  But, Jimmy is NOT happy about this decision.  He desperately wants a pony now.  When two Shoshoni boys offer him a horse, on the condition he ride with them to their camp, Jimmy sneaks away from his family to follow the boys.  When Jimmy arrives at their camp, he is expected to stay!   I liked this book very much…finished it in about 4 or 5 hours.        790    5.3    9 points

Jason’s gold by:  Will Hobbs 

Selling papers in New York City, Jason had left home just 10 months ago.  Now, he was excited about the new headlines.  “Gold discovered in Alaska!”  Although he is 16 years old, Jason, has a wandering spirit.  And, he is determined to get