R+ Star Recommend
R
Recommended
A Add per need
M
Marginal
NC Not recommended
Joan Enders, Review Chair
Robert A. Long High School
2903 Nichols Blvd
Longview, WA 98632
jenders@longview.k12.wa.us
Adler, Emily & Echevarria, Alex
TITLE: Sweet 15
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Marshall Cavendish Corporation
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780761455844
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-9
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 240
This is a book that tells the story of Destiny Lozada and her quinceanera. Her Puerto Rican-American family is made up of a hardworking father, a
pushy mother, and a overbearing sister that helps keep the story moving as Destiny decides how she feels about a traditional party and whether she
even wants one. Destiny’s mother is caught up in having the perfect quinceanera, while Destiny’s sister is fighting against traditional female
stereotypes and cultural expectations. Poor Destiny is caught in the middle. Her family can not afford an expensive party and Destiny plans one that
suits her unique style and family budget. This is a entertaining book about girls who are making their way through their teen years of friends, first
boyfriends, and parent’s expectations.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Alcorn, Stephen
TITLE: Odetta The Queen of Folk
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Scholastic Press ©2010
PRICE: $18.99
ISBN: 9780429928180
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 36
Odetta the Queen of Folk is a book about the folk singer Odetta Holmes. It is biographical and written in poetry form. It highlights the plight of black
people in the United States which led to the civil rights movement in the 1960’s. The illustrations are outstanding. They are like music; they flow
with movement and evoke emotion. My main concern with this book is that the message is for a more mature student than the picture book style
would indicate.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Alvarez, Julia
TITLE: How tia Lola learned to teach
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2010
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86460-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 3RD-7TH
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 134
Juanita and Miguel attend elementary school in Vermont having moved there after their mom and dad divorced. Also, their tia Lola who is from the
Dominican Republic lives with them to help out their mom. Now, the school principal has asked that tia Lola come to school and help teach the
students and staff to speak Spanish. There are so many changes in their lives since the divorce and now Papi, their dad, has a new girlfriend. Miguel
is sure that he does not want his crazy aunt coming to his school. Juanita is excited about it. Tia Lola is also not so sure. She does not speak English
very well and is quite unsure of her teaching skill. Tia Lola, however, has a magic about her and soon becomes an integral part of not only the school
but the community. Interspersed in this feel good story about acceptance are many Spanish phrases. This would be a great multicultural addition to
any library. I would highly recommend it.
Reivewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Ardaghm Philip
TITLE: Your Body Boogers and All
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Price Stern Sloan @ 2009
PRICE: 7.99
ISBN: 9780843122305
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Mike Gordon
PAGES: 64
The title is deceiving. I thought this nonfiction graphic selection would be about bodily noises and bodily oddities but it actually is very informative.
“Your left lung is smaller than your right lung to make room for your heart” is a discovery I made from reading this book as well as “Your skin
pumps out salty water, called sweat, to cool you down.” I think upper elementary students might actually read this book with a little encouragement
from a librarian. Illustrations draw the student’s attention.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
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Armstrong, Kelley
TITLE: the Reckoning
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: harperteen, 2010
PRICE: 17.99
ISBN: 9780061662836
INTEREST LVL: Gr 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 391
Chloe, a fifteen-year-old necromancer, balances trying to understand her relationship with Derek, a werewolf, and his brother Simon, a sorcerer while
she tries to enter the nefarious lair of the Edison Group to rescue her aunt Lauren and friend, Rachelle. All this to wrap up in the final novel of the
Darkest Powers trilogy! Adult supernaturals taught the teens how to manage their powers and search for a way to bring down Edison Group. One
of my students torn the book away from me to devour it, her pulse already accelerating. She said it was her favorite of the three because everything
was tied together, and there was more action in the third book. The story still seems somewhat unfinished. Wait until I tell her a companion series is
being released in April.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Bartett, Craig
TITLE: I AM a T.Rex!
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap, 2010
PRICE: $3.99
ISBN: 978-0-448-45443-6
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-1st
ILLUSTRATOR: Jim Henson Company
PAGES: 29
Buddy has been adopted by a group of dinosaurs that do not look like him. He however does not know what species he is. His family is Pteranodon.
He and his mother and sister Tiny take a trip on the Dinosaur Train and they go to many different parts of their world and then they stop at Rexville.
There Buddy meets his first T-Rx and discovers that he is a T-Rex. While he discovers all the things that he has in common with the other T-Rex's
he also knows that the Pteranodon’s are his family and he returns to his mother and they leave in the Dinosaur Train. There is a lot of text and the
vocabulary is a little high for your toddler, however the graphics are just like the cartoon show so it should hold their interest. This gimmick book
might pull the child in you as the adult will hate reading it and feel like you just gave your kids cotton candy before going to bed. This book is
bedtime junk food for your kids. They will love it for all the same reasons that you will hate it.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Bartlett, Craig
TITLE: Buddy’s World
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap, 2010
PRICE: $5.99
ISBN: 978-0-448-45445-0
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Felicia Bond
PAGES: 12
What can I say for this board book it is just an advertisement for Jim Henson’s new T.V. program “Dinosaur Train.” I think that the graphics are
colorful and I can see why this will be a very successful television show. In this board book, the characters are introduced to the reader with no
angle. Why not play up the adoption piece that a T-Rex is living with a Pteranodon family? This book gets a big no thank you. Next time, give an
educational angle, I mean for cry-in-out-loud you are PBS Kids!
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Bartoletti, Susan Campbell
TITLE: The called themselves the K.K.K.
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Heinemann, 2010
PRICE: 19.00
ISBN: 9780618440337
INTEREST LVL: Gr 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: primary source ill.
PAGES: 172
Already a 2010 non-fiction award winner, this book with a haunting cover is an excellent addition to high school libraries. Excellent use of white
space and liberal illustrations hide the higher level reading of the book, making it friendlier to readers. Six disillusioned war veterans, wishing for the
old Southern life and economy, leapt into the fray of racial riots in Memphis and decided to start a club., a fraternity with secret names and unusual
officer names, and drapes of sheets with holes. From the imprnts of period newspapers the reader can see how those holes morphed into frightening
masks. The author often “supposes” or concludes how events transpired. But this is a fascinating look at the KKK and its mission. The author’s
source notes are mandatory as she recalls the visceral reaction to being with the klan and trying to shower and scrub the words and experience away
when she returned home. A great scholarly work with quote attributions, glossary and index.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Base, Graeme
TITLE: The legend of the golden snail
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2010
PRICE: $19.95
ISBN: 9780810989658
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: <45>
Wilbur’s favorite story was The Legend of the Golden Snail and his favorite part was where the Grand Enchanter banished it to the ends of of the Earth. He had
mother read that part twice. He wanted to be the Grand Enchanter and sail the oceans. With his captain’s hat and reciting the magic spell he set out. Along the
tended to the butterfly blossoms, rescued monster crab, and pulled the plug on the earwig ship. More adventures included becoming ensnared by vines and blow
the Maze of Madness. When he finds the snail it is small so he recites the magic verse enlarging it. Wilbur sails it to the Spiral Isles, releases it and gains the m
his ship.
I love the magical flair of this story and the beautiful, colorful pictures enhance the whole story.
My only concern with many of Base’s books is the large size which does not fit well on a bookshelf.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Beard, Alex
TITLE: Monkey See Monkey Draw
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Abrams, 2011
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 978-0-8109-8970-2
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 41
The story has a great readability. While some of the vocabulary maybe foreign, such as “Mbuno Hills in Africa” or “baobab tree” it is not too exotic
that you the reader are unable to imagine what that world might look like. The monkeys are playful and they create many games that are well known
2
to American children. There is a cave that the monkeys are very scared of and will never enter because it is dark in there, but when elephant comes
to play monkey in the middle with the baobab nut it rolls into the dark cave. The monkeys have a decision to make if they are going into the cave
with the elephant or are going to stay outside the cave. Some brave monkeys enter the cave with the elephant, and when their eyes adjust they find
cave drawings done with hands and fingers and feet and toes. They decide that this is a new game so that whenever it rains they use the wet mud and
draw pictures with their hands and feet. They learn that it is not a game for winning but just for fun. On the last page, the author shows how he and
his son created the pictures in the book. This is a great way to introduce and extend the learning using hand feet prints to create animals. Every
monkey in this book is begun from the author’s thumbprint. Help your children see the art in their fingerprints and marvel what animal they can
create.
The only drawback to this book is the publishing. The paper is very easily damaged and because it is a book that could very easily is used to help
teach art I was hoping that the book could have been published in paper that could be wiped off if paint or water got on the book.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Belloc, Hilaire
TITLE: Jim
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Knopf @ 2010
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN: 9780375859700
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Mini Grey
PAGES: UNP
Mini Grey’s illustrations are over the top in this amazing presentation of Hilaire Belloc’s cautionary tale. This would go nicely with Maurice
Sendak’s Pierre. Jim is doomed for a bad end because he does not listen to the advice of his nurse. All the flaps add to the fun of each page. I know a
fifth grade teacher who would love this for her classroom because this would not last as a library check out book.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Berry, Julie Gardner
TITLE: Splurch Academy for Disruptive Boys:
The Rat Brain Fiasco
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap @ 2010
PRICE: 6.99
ISBN: 9780448453590
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Sally Fay Gardner
PAGES: 198
“Breakthrough brain research”, Remedial neuro-therapies” and Patented techniques” are buzz words Cody Mack hears through the keyhole of the
principal’s office. His parents are inside with Mr. Farley, headmaster of Splurch Academy. Mr. Farley assures Cody’s parents they will be extremely
pleased with the results. Cody finds the students dressed in prison garb and when his photo is taken he is supposed to say “brains” instead of
“cheese”. A dog names Pavlov and a nurse with a huge hypodermic needle do nothing to relieve Cody’s growing concerns. Even a phone call to his
parents does not help. Is Dr. Farley’s invention to get rid of the naughty part of Cody’s brain going to work? The beginning humor is great and fast
paced. The middle to end is forced and feels like the author is in a hurry to finish.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Besel, Jennifer M.
TITLE: Malia and Sasha Obama
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone Press, 2011
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781429650007
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Malia and Sasha Obama are just little girls who happen to be living in the White House. Most of their lives routines are just like every child. They attend schoo
homework, do chores, and go to bed at 8:30 p.m. Of course they have secret service guards and cannot go out in public easily, but they do kid activities in the W
House. The girls take piano, dance, and gymnastics. They watch movies and play games, and have parties. The world watches them closely for trend setting. K
read this book may still view them as
American princesses.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Bick, Ilsa J.
TITLE: Draw the Dark
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Lab, 2010
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 978-0-7613-5686-8
INTEREST LEVEL: 9 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 337
Strange things happen to Christian Cage. He sees things from the Sideways Place—the place his mother went when he was very young. He also has
the reputation for being uncommonly weird and rather scary. He managed to make his second grade teacher so nuts she killed herself, and he drew
his aunt’s death. Such secrets are pretty inconvenient since he is living with his uncle. Even his uncle can’t protect him, though, when dreams from
the sideways place compel him to vandalize a barn owned by the town’s most prominent citizen with wolf’s eyes and swastikas. Little by little, with
the help of his uncle, his psychiatrist, and Sarah—the preacher’s popular daughter, Christian begins to piece together the story of a small town whose
Jewish population completely disappeared and the PW camp that was instrumental in ending that population. It’s a fascinating and graphic story that
rivals Stephen King’s worth and sometimes nudges more into the world of adult fiction than young adult fiction. It’s history of German prisoners of
war housed in the United States in small towns combined with the Jewish influence on unions in manufacturing towns makes for an interesting
springboard for discussions about a little known phenomenon. The supernatural overtones are more than just a little creepy, but for students who like
the paranormal, this will be a good addition to the shelves.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Biskup, Agnieszka
TITLE: Chemical Reactions
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429647724
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Cynthia Martin
PAGES: 32
Chemical reactions might not make elementary school students jump up and down but it can be an introduction. This title is included among 24 in the
Graphic Science series. The vibrant illustrations for each panel will draw students in but I am not certain how much they will understand about
3
molecules, endothermic and exothermic reactions. Hopefully, this book will tweak interest in those students so inclined.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Bliss, John
TITLE: Art That Moves
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Raintree @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781410939227
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 32
The lifetime for this book might be limited as technology is constantly changing. I think I will offer this book to a fifth grade teacher as a classroom
library book. Students who give this book a chance will find a book that covers the history of animation as well as current animation techniques.
“Toy Story”, “Up”, “Happy Feet”, “Flush Away” and “Monsters vs Aliens” are some of the animated movies discussed. Japanese animation is
presented. “Make Your Own Soundtrack” and “Make a Flip Book” are two sections devoted to student participation. This is a book in a series called
“Culture in Action.”
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Block, Francesca Lia
TITLE: House of Dolls
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper Collins @ 2010
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780061130946
INTEREST LEVEL: 2n-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Barbara McClintock
PAGES: 61
Poor Madison Blackberry is left alone often in her ultra-modern apartment with a Victorian-style doll house her only company. Even her
grandmother seems more interested in the doll house dolls than Madison. The grandmother makes clothes for the dolls and has never sewn anything
for Madison. Madison loses her patience one profound day and causes the dolls unrelenting grief. It is not until grandmother intervenes, and her
parents stop ignoring her that Madison finds peace of mind. Ms. McClintock’s black and white drawings depict the scenery well. I wonder if the
editor ever considered making this into a picture book. Although this size fits well into small hands.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Boelts, Maribeth
TITLE: Sweet Dreams
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman & Com., 2001
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-8075-4589-8
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-toddler
ILLUSTRATOR: Kathy Parkinson
PAGES: 12
Little bunny is getting ready for bed. With his mother he goes through the steps of getting ready for bed. It rhymes and slowly but surely Little
Bunny says “Good Night.” The graphics are cute and the story is a great board book.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Bolger, Kevin
TITLE: Zombiekins
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Razor Bill, 2010
PRICE: $10.99
ISBN: 978-1-59514-177-4
INTEREST LEVEL: 3RD-7TH
ILLUSTRATOR: Aaron Blecha
PAGES: 206
Stanley and his friend, Miranda, find themselves at the yard sale of the widow Imavitch. Sitting there in the most unsuspecting way is a stuffed
animal called Zombiekins. This is just what Stanley has been wanting to buy, but the widow warns to be sure to read the instructions. Like many
stories of this type, Stanley not only does not read the instructions, but he throws them away. That night, Zombiekins come to life and attacks all of
the toys in the play room. Thinking that the destruction was done by his dog, Stanley takes Zombiekins to school where the stuffy escapes and
proceeds to turn the entire population of the school into zombies. This book is hilarious! It has enough action and suspense to keep reluctant readers
reading and enough strangeness to attract them in the first place. I think this will be a hit with boys, but I’m guessing that the girls will like it too. I
would highly recommend it!
Reivewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Botzakis, Stergios
TITLE: Entertaining and Gaming
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Raintree, 2010
PRICE: na
ISBN: 9781410938442
INTEREST LVL: Gr 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: col photos
PAGES:56
There are lots of exclamation points in the very short “World of Entertainment” chapter, and little information. The entire history of entertainment is
covered in 3 pages, with the rise of movies gardnering four lines, large print. CGI, video arcades and mp3 files get their sentences in the sun. The
rest also read more like a magazine article in a pre-teen zine online than a serious book on entertaining and gaming. Violence, stereotypes and
pirating are dealt with in 4 to 5 pages. On the positive side, the photographs are vibrant and apply to the text. But some of the more graphic
photographs will possibly keep the book out of upper elementary schools where the information is most useable.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Brett, Jan
TITLE: The 3 Little Dassies
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-399-25499-4
INTEREST LEVEL: K-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Brett, Jan
PAGES: 32
How can you not love a Jan Brett book? This one continues to showcase Brett’s incredible skill and passion as she retells the story of the three little
pigs with an African twist. The story of little rock dassies, which she encountered on a trip to Namibia, follows the same winning formula that we
know with the three little pigs. The little dassies are headed to a place cooler, less crowded and safe from eagles. Each builds a house, but the eagle
spots them and quickly demolishes the first two homes (long grasses & driftwood) and takes the two dassies to his nest. A sub-story is told in the
illustrations located on both sides of the main image. The reader sees the Agama Man, who lives amongst the dassies, helping free the first two from
the eagle’s nest. The eagle is unable to destroy the rock home, and upon returning to his nest discovers the two have escaped. Via the chimney he
attempts to enter the rock home where all the dassies are safely hiding. His tail feathers are scorched from the fire. Jan Brett’s illustrations are so
4
incredible and her trademark borders just add to the wonderful feeling of this book.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Brezenoff, Steve
TITLE: Burglar Who Bit the Big Apple
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Stone Arch @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781434221391
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: C. B. Canga
PAGES: 88
I wish that the editor would have highlighted all three main characters in the front of the book – not just Samantha. I like the names Egg, Cat and
Gum but it would be nice to know more about them and how they got their names. On this field trip the foursome tries to solve several thefts near the
Natural History Museum in New York City. I wish that the plot had capitalized on Samantha’s penchant for old movies. I am gathering that Mr.
Spade and Ms. Stanwyck were named after the detective and the actress consecutively.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Brooks, Archer
TITLE: Vampire-ology
RATING: Ad
PUBLISHER: Candlewick, 2010
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN:9780763649142
INTEREST LVL: Gr 5-10
ILLUSTRATOR: drawings, manipulatives
PAGES: np
Not truly suitable for a library, this large coffee table book for the vampire lover in your family is waiting to be enjoyed at midnight. As with other
volumes there are flip pages, and fanciful stories to entertain fans. Vampires from history are presumably Richard III, Christopher Marlowe and Jack
the Ripper, to name a few. Read at your own risk.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Bruel, Nick
TITLE: Bad Kitty vs Uncle Murray
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Roaring Brook @ 2010
PRICE: 13.99
ISBN: 9781596435964
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Nick Bruel
PAGES: 157
Poor Uncle Murray is asked to stay with Bad Kitty and Puppy. Puppy is patient throughout the book but Bad Kitty gives all cats everywhere a nasty
reputation. Uncle Murray could easily be Uncle Buck from the famous movie. Uncle Murray leaves once for a few seconds but returns like Dr.
Seuss’ Horton to complete his responsibility. Presentation and format are pleasant-especially for reluctant readers. Book binding is sturdy.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Bryant, Megan E.
TITLE: Build a Snowman, 1,2,3!
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Price Stern Sloan, 2010
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 978-0-8431-9919-2
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Jillian Phillips
PAGES: 12
What a cute premise, but really four or five objects are all that are needed to make a snowman. It was a stretch to add objects to get to number ten.
However, the snowman was really cute and could be used for a counting game and introduction of snowman building. The graphics are sweet and
age appropriate, but my favorite is the last page pop-up.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Buehner, Caralyn
TITLE: Snowmen all year
RATING:
PUBLISHER: Penguin Group, New York, NY © 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780803733831
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR : Mark Buehner
PAGES: NP
This bright story begins in the winter, as a boy imagines what it would be like if the snowman he has just built could be magical and last, as his
friend, throughout the year. The text rhymes and the illustrations are filled with motion and light. The children have toothy, smiling faces and the boy
and his snowman visit an amusement park, watch fireworks and go to the beach. It's all too fun, to think of a snowman buried in sand and going
swimming! Colorful and fanciful, this is a fun book. Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Mint Valley Elementary
Cartwright, Amy
TITLE: Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Price Stern Sloan, 2010
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-8431-9899-7
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Amy Cartwright
PAGES: 10
The traditional song is given new life with cartoon like graphics. The children make their own dreidel out of clay, and then they paint them, and play
the game. The graphics are sweet and age appropriate, but my favorite is the last page pop-up. This story is great for introducing the traditional song
to your child.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Catel, Patrick
TITLE: What did the ancient Chinese do for me?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Heinemann, 2010
PRICE: na
ISBN: 9781432937478
INTEREST LVL: Gr 4-10
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
This delightful book can be used either for an introduction to an effects of technology class or as a research source for upper elementary students.
The paintings and photos are beautiful. The paired “Then” and “Now” of inventions, religion, farming tools is excellent, and a great segue to having
students research to discover then and nows for other inventions. This is a very tiny and pricey book, but it has excellent uses in many curricula.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Catel, Patrick
TITLE: What Did The Ancient Greeks Do For Me?
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Heinemann @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781432937461
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
5
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 32
Some students find Greek, Roman and Egyptian history fascinating. So this book should do will on an elementary school library shelf. Greeks
provided us with great philosophers, democracy and the Olympic Games. Architecture and art have been dramatically impacted by the early Greeks.
The layout and presentation make this book easy to follow. Photos are high quality.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Chaconas, Dori
TITLE: Good Sports: Cork & Fuzz
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Puffin Books, 2007
PRICE: $3.99
ISBN: 978-0-14-241713-3
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: McCue, Lisa
PAGES: 32
Another tale of two friends, Cork and Fuzz, this story finds them wanting to race and play games. The problem is that both like to win. This creates
some problems, but the two friends decide in the end that it is best to have and keep a good friend rather than win the contests. They end the story
tied together in a two-legged race. The illustrations are cute and the message is good for elementary students. This is a good first chapter book for
emerging readers.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Chambers, Veronica
TITLE: Plus
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Razorbill, 2009
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 978-1-59514-165-1
INTEREST LEVEL: 9 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 271
If fairy tales could come true, Plus would happen to every young woman who has ever had her heart broken. Bee is an overachieving 17-year-old
attending Columbia University. Her life in pre-med is clicking along nicely—until perfection-personified boyfriend dumps her on the night she
decides to give her virginity to him. Bee then does what any self-respecting young woman does. She becomes friends with her former boyfriend’s
ex-girlfriend and she drowns her sorrows in ice cream. It is in the throes of comfort food medication that she encounters Leslie, modeling agent
extraordinaire. With her height, curves, and the added bonus of large doses of intelligence, Bee becomes an instant hit. . .as a plus size model. The
story becomes a romp through the modeling industry with great characters and ups and downs that demonstrate that even apparent success can be
fleeting and the most important asset that any young woman has is to be a strong, confident young woman who IS. While there aren’t any deep,
symbolic meanings hidden within the pages, the theme is strong and worthwhile. The cover is appealing, the prose is relatively profanity-free in spite
of the open discussion of Bee’s contemplated leap from virginity to sexually active. All in all, this is a highly entertaining story with potential as
summer reading or a literature circle for the highly motivated teacher or librarian.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Ciencen, Scott
TITLE: Avalanche Freestyle
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Stone Arch @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781434220097
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Aburtov
PAGES: 49
Dramatic snow scenes keep the action moving between rich snow-boarder Tony Jay and gifted but poor Jack Hewlitt in this graphic novel. Flunkies
hang around Tony because of his father’s money. They are obnoxious and steal a famous snowboard. They frame Jack for the crime. Treacherous
snowboarding drama continues on the slopes. Thank goodness the flunkies are exposed and it looks like Tony and Jack will become friends.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Clark, Karen Henry
TITLE: Sweet Moon Baby
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-95709-3
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-1st
ILLUSTRATOR: Patrice Barton
PAGES: 23
This birth story is so sweet. The kindness that the author gives to an adoption tale is perfect. The baby girl falls asleep as the moon watches over her
as she makes the journey to her new family. She journeys down the river, flies in the air with a peacock, kept dry by a monkey, carried by a panda,
caught by fish all the while her new parents are planning for her arrival. Until, they look up and see the moon’s face looking down on her. I think
that this book was very sweet and for a first book, well it is just plain wonderful, well written and absolutely fabulous water color illustrations.
Patrice’s depiction of this Chinese baby girl is honest, sweet, and beautiful. This adoption tale is one of the best that I have ever read and made my
children sit in awe. Knopf also did a great job at publishing with the gentle details of “20 read to a child!” on the dust cover to the authors and the
illustrator’s story on the back of the dust cover.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Clay, Kathryn
TITLE: Cool Baseball Facts
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429644778
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 24
With two interesting facts on each page, the reader would think this quite a bargain. Sad to say, the book’s length is only 24 pages with the last three
pages a glossary, a bibliography, internet sites and an index. I am guessing the book costs at least $18.00. That’s $2.00 a fact. I realize with the large
print and huge exceptional photos opposite each set of facts that this is definitely meant for primary set. It’s best when primary students get more
from their sports’ books.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Clifton-Brown, Holly
TITLE: Annie Hoot
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Andersen @ 2010
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9780761364443
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Holly Clifton-Brown
PAGES: UNP
6
I read this to one primary library class! There was not a lot of enthusiasm. I think it was the illustrations that drew them to the pages before the text.
Annie is a knitting owl. When her owl friends are not interested in her knitting creations she leaves in a hot air balloon to the rain forest, to the
savannah and to the arctic. Missing her owl friends, she heads home where her friends are more receptive to her knitting garments.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Cole, Henry
TITLE: A nest for Celeste
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen @ 2010
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780061704109
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd- 6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Henry Cole
PAGES: 342
From the moment I began this book I felt like I was inside David Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret. It does not have the intense drama of
Hugo as it tells the story of Celeste’s quest to find a home of her own while helping young Joseph with drawings for John Audubon who happens to
be visiting the Oakley Plantation. Joseph is lonely. Mouse and boy strike up a friendship that sustains them both. An interesting fact about John
Audubon emerges. He kills the animals before he drew them. Henry Cole’s illustrations are many, some full or double page to keep the reader
turning and turning.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Collins, Terry
TITLE: Escape from Pompeii
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429647717
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Cynthia Martin
PAGES: 32
The good news is that Pompeii is an awesome topic about the Mt. Vesuvuis eruption in 79AD and the thousands of people who were buried in
volcanic ash. The bad news is that some students will not have a clue about Pompeii and might pass this gem up. this graphic nonfiction from
Capstone gets students excited about a topic that they might not otherwise study. There are 12 offerings in this Graphic Library series. Hopefully,
these will be a springboard for students to pursue more information about various topics. Isabel Soto is the scientist and time-traveler who takes us to
the site and tries to relay to the reader how truly amazing history can be.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Colum, Padraic
TITLE: The Golden Fleece
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Looking Glass Library
PRICE: $ 10.00
ISBN: 9780375867095
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-9
ILLUSTRATOR: Willy Pogany
PAGES: 351
Jason, a strong-willed youth must prove his work and reclaim his father’s lost throne by bringing home the fabled golden fleece of Poseidon. From
Heracles to Orpheus, great heroes of mythology, follow Jason on a quest full of terrible beasts, enchantresses, and gods and goddesses who walk
among mortals. As the introduction says, this book is an insight into a world of magic, mystery and monsters, heroes, villains, romance, courage, and betrayal,
everything that makes Greek mythology a source of entertainment.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Conrad, Lauren
TITLE: Style
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper Teen, 2010
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN: 9780061989148
INTEREST LVL: Gr 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: color photos
PAGES: 230
In a conversational, girl friend style, Conrad shares tips about dressing and makeup that she has learned from the people who dress and make up her.
I like the fact that she does not sigh and weep over tasks like cleaning out and organizing a closet, but gets right to the job. Simple photographs on
white background sets off the desired fashion looks recommended. The jeans chapter includes great information on different cuts and fits. Makeup
instruction takes a bit more pages than other topics, but it is so easy to come off like a vamp if you are not careful. Lauren has a great young adult
look that teens would do well in replicating. Interestingly enough, most of my young ladies were not interested in reading it. I think her reality show
is setting up some barriers to using an excellent resource on style.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Cook, Kacy
TITLE: Nuts
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Marshall Cavendish, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-7614-5652-0
INTEREST LEVEL: ages 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: Becky Terhune (cover design)
PAGES: 32
Nell finds two baby squirrels, apparently orphaned. She researches online, enlists the help of her younger brothers, and develops a deep bond with
the squirrels. They need her; she needs them, and she will do anything to keep them, even telling a few lies. The book explores this ethical dilemma,
including some realistic consequences. The story is fast-paced, with a satisfying resolution and an author’s note explaining what to do when finding
a wild animal. The debut author’s writing is especially sharp on capturing an eleven-year old’s voice, and the contrast between narrative and e-mails
enlivens the text. (although the spelling is too good to be believable for a post-spellcheck child) Highly recommended, especially for communities
with squirrel mascots, like my hometown!
Reviewer: Jan E.V.W. Hanson, Longview Public Library
Crowther, Robert
TITLE: ABC-The Most Amazing Hide and Seek Alphabet Book
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 1999
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 978-0-7636-5030-8
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-k
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 10
I don’t think that it is that amazing. It is a pull-tab ABC book that really needs some color to make it amazing. I like pop-ups and pull out books but
the graphics are dull and not very interesting for the money. It recommends ages 3 and up but three year olds do not have the fine motor skills to
read this book more than once. And older kids are just not that interested in an ABC book with no color. The animals that pop-out behind the letters
7
are small, and while some of them blink their eyes others are just plain boring. A pull out book is going to have to pop, and this book is more like a
fizz.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Cummings, Priscilla
TITLE: Blindsided
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton Children’s Books, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42161-0
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12 grade
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 226 pgs.
Reading this book made me wonder how I would handle going blind. That is exactly what is happening to Natalie, a 15 year old girl who was born
without irises. Natalie was able to see just fine at first, but as she got older glaucoma set in and her eyesight progressively got worse. Her father and
Natalie are in denial, but her mother knows that she must leave their small community and goat farm to attend the state blind school in Baltimore so
that she can be ready and know how to cope with life once she is blind. Natalie is resistant and refuses to make friends, learn Braille and learn to use
a cane. However, she slowly accepts and learns the lessons she needs and makes new friends, just as her sight completely disappears. Her new skills
are tested one fateful night when she becomes a victim as well as a hero outside the school campus. But it is a bittersweet victory and Nat returns
home vowing never to leave the farm. But life blindsides her with another test that proves to her that she can do whatever she needs to do, just
maybe in a new and different ways and with the help of friends. This is a great read, about challenges and being different, about hope, true friends
and confidence to learn new things. As a bonus and appropriately, there is a Braille chart in the back of the book and each chapter is numbered in
Braille. I think that this is a book that teenagers will relate to, learn from and enjoy, it sure blindsided me.
Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School Media Center
Cupola, Holly
TITLE: Tell Me a Secret
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: HarperTeen, 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780061766664
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: n/a
PAGES: 292
This novel has a lot going on it…the main character Rand, is pregnant in her last year of high school, her sister Xanda died five years earlier in a car
accident, the family is still stunned and frozen from the event, friendships are ruined and repaired and the birth of Rand’s daughter, when it comes, is
seriously premature. There is a cast of characters that take turns upon the stage as Rand struggles through a lonely pregnancy (her boyfriend dumps
her), tracks down the truth about her sister’s death and makes a tenuous peace with her parents in the end. Most of the characters, including Rand
herself, are not particularly sympathetic much of the time. All of them harbor secrets of one sort or another, and this is where the title comes from,
I’m supposing. The author does present a different take on the hackneyed subject of teen pregnancy, but the motif of the sibling/friend killed in a car
crash is seemingly becoming a new cliché. Or maybe it’s just the YA books I’ve read lately. This is a good read although not a particularly hopeful
one.
Reviewer: Cody Walke, Kelso High School
Dell’Oro, Suzanne
TITLE: Let’s Look at Earthworms
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9780761354581
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
I read this nonfiction picture book to some library classes and they found it very interesting. Earthworms are totally taken for granted. In this detailed
but brief text the author takes advantage of every word. He describes their long bodies, tells why sunlight bothers them and tells how an earthworm
stretches when it moves. This book would pair nicely with Yucky Worms by Vivian French. The photos are outstanding and the font size excellent
for emerging readers.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Denise, Anika & Christopher
TITLE: Bella and Stella Come Home
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books ©2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399242434
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 30
Moving to a new house is pretty scary for Bella. Fortunately she has her imaginary friend Stella to help her through the changes. The illustrations
show great expression on Bella’s face as she explores her new house and discusses the differences with Stella. I liked the way Stella is a small stuffed
animal when Mommy is around, but is elephant sized when Bella is alone. It’s a cute book that could be targeted to young students with a move in
their future.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Dewdney, Anna
TITLE: Llama Llama Holiday Drama
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-670-01161-2
INTEREST LEVEL: PreK-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Dewdney, Anna
PAGES: 31
Llama llama is very excited for Christmas and gets caught up in all the chaos. This problem is solved when Mama Llama decides that a cuddle is in
store and will help put an end to all the llama drama. She tells llama llama that while all the gifts are nice, it is really the fact that they have each other
that matters most. This is a simple rhyming book that follows the winning formula of other Llama Llama books. The illustrations are bright and
cheerful and truly emit the turmoil that is felt by baby llama.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Dickman, Nancy
TITLE: Seasons on a farm
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Heinemann Library, 2011
PRICE: $ 16.12
ISBN: 9781432939533
INTEREST LEVEL: 1
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 24
8
An early reader non-fiction book about seasons on the farm and what the farmers do, “Seasons on a farm” has wonderful illustrations.
In spring farmers plow and plant. In summer crops grow. In fall farms are harvested and in winter the farmers repairs equipment.
Each page has one photo and one sentence. There is a content page in the front, a picture glossary in the back along with an index.
My concern is the cost of such a minimal book.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Dickmann, Nancy
TITLE: Meat and Protein
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Capstone Global Library, 2010
PRICE:
ISBN: 978-1-4329-3981-6
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-1st
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 24
I understand that the author needs to use age appropriate words; however this takes it to a whole different level. “Fish comes from animals such as
tuna.” This sentence is just silly. How does this support the main title? “Eggs come from birds such as chickens.” Is there nothing better to say
about eggs being a protein and where they come from? I think that preschoolers can begin to grasp emerging vocabulary and concepts. The Picture
Glossary was also a disappointment. Blood was defined in the glossary; however it was never used in the text, also does not lend to enhancing the
purpose by explaining the effects that protein have on the blood. The photographs were well intentioned by some were just ugly. The people were
all photographed really well, however the food left a nasty taste in your mouth. I say back to the “drawing board” if you please.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Dogar, Sharon
TITLE: Annexed
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin 2010
PRICE: $17.00
ISBN: 9780547501956
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-10
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 332
A fictional story based on the details from “The Diary of Anne Frank”. Peter and his family are hidden behind the bookcase with the Frank family.
He knows the time will come when they will be found. There are a lot of things in their lives they will never experience. Peter and Anne fall in love,
and must hide this from their families. A poignant story told from a different perspective, as only Peter sees it.
Reviewer: Tina Campbell, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
Dooley, Sarah
TITLE: Livvie Owen Lived Here
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Feiwel and Friends, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-312-61253-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 7 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 229
Every house she has ever lived in has her mark somewhere: “Livvie Owen Live Here.” Autism has become an increasingly popular subject, but I
have yet to encounter a book that does as good a job getting into the head of an autistic youth. Livvie is able to speak, but her response to the events
of her world and the changes within it are provocatively addressed from her hearing the whistle of the abandon lumber mill to her missing her Orange
Cat. Livvie’s world is also filled with interesting people: two worn out parents who both work at Wal-Mart and try to keep their family together, an
older sister who has become a parental figure to her, a younger sister who is frequently annoyed by her, a best school friend who communicates using
pictures, and a new substitute teacher who finally understands Livvie’s world. The final blow comes when Livvie’s family is evicted from the trailer
they are renting. The prospect of moving to Neighbor with an “E” from Nabor with an “A” is frightening for Livvie. While there are times when
Livvie’s voice seems a little too sophisticated, or her ability to adapt to change a little too easy to be credible, overall this creates a picture as
comprehensive as this. This is a great entry into fiction by Sarah Dooley, who is a special educator and dedicated this book to her students.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Eastman, P.D.
TITLE: Go Dog. Go!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, New York, NY © 1961
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 9780394800202
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3
ILLUSTRATOR : P.D. Eastman
PAGES: 64
Ok, now I feel old! This is a 50th –Anniversary Party Edition of this classic book! It's got a fancy metallic sheen to the green and gold bands that
make up the cover, but inside it's the same text that I was raised on. This book has an almost cult-like following in my family and everyone knows
where "Go Dog. Go!" comes from. If we want to make each other laugh while soliciting an opinion we ask, "Do you like my hat?" What a clever
beginning reader; the pictures make this simple text of opposites and adjectives simply hilarious. I will root for these dogs who go! Everyone should
read this book, young and old. Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Mint Valley Elementary
Elliott, Laura Malone
TITLE: A String of Hearts
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen/HarperCollins  2010
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-000086-8
INTEREST LEVEL: K – 2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Lynn Munsinger
PAGES: UNP
All the students in Mrs. Wright’s class must make a Valentine for each student in their class. Sam wants to make a very special Valentine for Tiffany,
the most popular girl in class. When Sam’s neighbor, Mary Ann, says she’ll help him make his Valentines, Sam is happy for her help. He thinks he’s
made the best Valentine ever until he gets to school and sees everyone else’s Valentines that they’ve brought to give to Tiffany. Her arms are so full
of Valentines she drops Sam’s and doesn’t even notice. Sam shoves it into his pocket. But in his pocket is another Valentine – from Mary Ann.
Suddenly Sam realizes how special Mary Ann’s friendship has been to him. Will he get a Valentine made in time to let her know what a great friend
she is? The sweet, expressive illustrations help convey the character’s feelings throughout the story and are a wonderful accompaniment.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Englebreit, Mary
TITLE: Mary Englebreit’s fairy tales
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper
PRICE: $19.99
ISBN: 9780060885830
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 125
9
Mary Englebreit writes condensed versions of twelve fairy tales including Cinderella, Rumplestiltskin, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White
and the Seven Dwarfs, and more. Her illustrations are colorful and precious. The characters in her illustrations have a youthful look and bring a sweetness to th
presentation of each tale.
This version of fairy tales will be shelved in the Everybody section for access to a larger audience.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Erickson, John R.
TITLE: Hank the Cowdog: the case of the coyote invasion
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2010
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780670012299
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-4
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 121
Hank is upset that the birds on his ranch are getting better food than he is, so he has plans to knock down the bird feeder and taste their
feed. He gets caught by Sally May who captures the evidence on her camera. He decides bird seed gives him worms. Hank makes friends with a coyote dog an
up with the coyotes, but ends up saving the chicken coop and fools the coyotes. Sally May loves him again.
Hank always seems to get into a trouble situation and comes out smelling like roses.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Ford, Michael Thomas
TITLE: Z
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper Teen, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-073758-0
INTEREST LEVEL: 7 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 276
Who needs profanity when a gory story will suffice? Prepare yourself for coagulated blood and flying body parts, because this book has plenty of
them. If students can stomach the story, though, their minds might be a little more open to a couple of profound messages about what is important in
life and humanity. In this Sci-Fi story, set in 2032, becoming a zombie has nothing to do with being “undead.” Rather, it is a flu virus that has run
amok and has caused the reptilian brain to take over the other parts of the brain. Centers for pain and thought are destroyed by the virus, and the only
known way to kill it is through fire. Josh doesn’t remember the Zombie Wars, so the game he is playing and his reference to zombies as “meatbags”
is all in fun. His mother, whose sister was changed by the virus, doesn’t hold to the same opinion. While she doesn’t outright forbid him to play the
hologame, she tells him that she trusts him to do the right thing. She would never imagined that the “right thing” would morph into Josh’s playing a
real game. His finesse as a player makes him interesting to Clatter, the mastermind behind the games in real time. Clatter is also the provider of “Z,”
a drug that mimics the effects of being a zombie temporarily. By the time Josh finds out that the zombies he is torching are not animatronic robots,
he also discovers that getting out of the game won’t be as easy as he thought. There are several themes worth discussing in the book: humanity, drug
use, generational differences. In fact, it may turn out to be a read-aloud for one of my classes. The blood and gore require caution, but there are
several discussion points worth considering in this book that is sure to be high interest for a number of students.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Freeman, Don
TITLE: One More Acorn
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Viking @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780670010837
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Don Freeman
PAGES: UNP
Don Freeman’s some, Ron, has resurrected an old manuscript he found among his fathers items. His plot is from a visit his father made to
Washington DC in 1963. Earl, a squirrel looking for acorns, is typical Don Freeman’s illustrations. Illustrator Jody Wheeler agreed to complete the
drawings in Mr. Freeman’s style. The story is ordinary. The illustrations are not without charm. The reader will want to make a trip to the nation’s
capital after seeing drawings of many historical sites. Actually, “About the Book” in the back would make an interesting picture book.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Fromental, Jean-Luc
TITLE: 10 Little Penguins
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Abrams Books, 2010
PRICE: $17.95
ISBN: 978-0-8109-9582-6
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-k
ILLUSTRATOR: Joelle Jolivet
PAGES: 22
Counting Pop-up book of penguins what could be more adorable? The drawings are perfect and the directional arrows let the child move the
penguins, as they disappear one by one. The text is a nice rhyme and leads you into rhyming the next number. It is a great book and you know your
kids are going to love the pop-up part of this book.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Ganeri, Anita
TITLE: Lemur
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Heinemann Library, 2011
PRICE: $16.50
ISBN: 9781432941222
INTEREST LEVEL: 2
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 24
I give this book an interest level 2 even though Heinemann rates it a Kindergarten book. I would present it to our second graders as a non-fiction and they woul
successful reading it. Kindergarten would not be able to read it.
A lemur is a mammal that has the appearance of a monkey. They climb trees using their arms, legs, and tail. With thick fur and tufts of hair around their face th
like sloths. Lemurs live in rain forests of Madagascar. Eating and playing fills their day. They like fruit, leaves, and seeds. To keep them safe they lie in troop
they wail and scream to communicate. Baby lemurs travel clinging to their
mother’s belly.
Kids will love to see the great photos of lemurs in this book. It has contents, labeling, a glossary, an index and other websites to explore and is one title of the se
day in the life: Rain forest animals
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
10
Garland, Michael
TITLE: Super Snow Day
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780525422457
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Michael Garland
PAGES: UNP
Reader, you might want to turn to the last three pages first to discover what you are looking for on each page. Tommy wakes up to a winter
wonderland and soon finds out there is no school. Michael Garland’s exceptional illustrations portray Tommy’s enthusiasm as he goes from one
snow adventure to the next. There are extra words on many pages. Can you guess what they mean?
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Gidwitz, Adam
TITLE: A Tale Dark & Grimm
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Dutton Children’s Books, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42334-8
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 8+
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 251
This is the most unusual retelling of the Brothers Grimm story of Hansel and Gretel that I could have ever imagined! This is a story which follows
Hansel and Gretel from their original fairy tale to eight other stories, many of which become quite gory and gruesome. The narrator does have humor
throughout the telling and one almost needs to read the “next” part just to find out how it can even develop more. I realize that many fans of fairy
tales are excited about this book, but on the whole, I would not have it in an elementary library at all. Maybe I am just faint of heart?
Reviewer: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Gonzales, Christina Diax
TITLE: The Red Umbrella
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred Knopt, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86190-1
INTEREST LEVEL: 7-11
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 281
Cuba was an island playground for Lucia and her little brother Frankie after school was disbanded by the new leader, Fidel Castro, until their parents
insisted that they stay at home. The revolution against religion, education, financiers and politicians had begun with bloody evidence in plain view in
the city squares. After her father lost his banking job and valuables from their home are taken by the revolutionary soldiers, Lucia’s parents pay to
have her and Frankie flown to Miami, as part of Operation Pedro Pan in which parents sent around 14,000 of their children to Camelot. For a while
they are in an orphanage. But fortune shined on them as the director remembered a kindness that their father had done for his family. He knew of a
home in Nebraska where the two of them could be together. They find themselves in the home of chatty Mrs. Baxter and not-so-chatty Mr. Baxter
who introduce them to farm chores, hand-me-down repaired clothes, thrift and American Christmas. Lucia experiences the normal challenges of 9 th
grade in a high school’s social strata and her first “like” in America, very unlike Manuel in Cuba. She mourns the indoctrination and loss of her best
friend in Cuba, and worries over the long absence of communications with her parents still in danger in Cuba. This is Gonzales’ first novel which
already won a BFYA award this January. The prose swept me into the upheaval and pain. Each headline at the beginning of chapters became more
and more ominous, but through it all was a wonderful story of a young woman growing up.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Green, Tim
TITLE: The Big Time
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-168619-1
INTEREST LEVEL: 3 - 8
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 277
In this sequel to Football Genius, Troy White is faced with the opportunity to meet his father, a man who has not been in his life—ever. Troy’s
unusual talent for being able to predict plays has made him a hot commodity, and his father, Drew Edinger, is an attorney who is only too happy to
represent Troy’s interests as Troy’s agent. Troy’s mother, Tessa, is suspicious of Drew’s motives. As the story unfolds, we learn she has reason to
be. What Robert B. Parker was to adult fiction, Tim Green is to adolescent fiction. His villains are supremely villainous, and his protagonist is
flawed, but has good intentions. Like Parker, Green’s plots are fast paced with short chapters that propel readers to the next event. Mr. Green
manages to tell his tale without the use of profanity, making the story imminently appropriate for the targeted age of reader. Students who enjoyed
the first novels will be fans of this novel.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Griffin, Adele
TITLE: The Julian Game
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-399-25460-4
INTEREST LEVEL: 9 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 200
Julian Kilgarry is every sophomore girl’s fantasy. Tall, dark, handsome with gorgeous blue eyes, he is both athletic and sensitive. So it’s no surprise
that Raye Archer would love to get his attention. However, Raye is on the outside of The Group—a clique of the most popular girls at Fulton School,
a prep academy. Serendipitously, Ella Parker, the Queen Bee of the Group, comes to rely on Raye for Chinese tutoring. Ella’s eccentricities and
broad mean streak would normally be caution flags to someone as savvy as Raye, but Raye gets caught up in the drama when Ella helps her gain
Julian’s attention with a fictitious Facebook profile. Soon, friends, family, and school are placed on the altar of Julian’s attention and Ella’s approval
until Ella’s games begin to go too far. Raye soon learns that Julian is not the Greek god he is cracked up to be, and Ella is not to be trifled with.
Things quickly begin to spiral out of control. Aside from the rather cliché “mother dying of breast caner,” this is a mean girl read that keeps a steady
pace. There is one relatively explicit discussion of getting to second—or is it third?—base between Julian and Raye. This has the possibility of great
pairings with other stories that deal with revenge. The end is highly satisfactory to those of us who relish the story of a person who rises above
without sinking to tit-for-tat behavior.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Grimes, Nikki
TITLE: Almost Zero: A Dyamonde Daniel book
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s sons, 2010
PRICE: $10.99
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ISBN: 978039925-771
INTEREST LEVEL: 4
ILLUSTRATOR: R. Gregory Christie
PAGES: 112
Dyamonde Daniel is a young girl who loves to look good and thinks appearances are very important. She falls in love with red high-topped sneakers and deman
mother buys her some. She tells her mother she is to give her everything she needs. So her mother does just that, taking away all Dyamonde’s clothes except on
and her pjs. Dyamonde learns to wash her own clothes and feels embarrassed in her one outfit. But, after her one idol, Isabel has a house fire and loses everythi
Dyamonde realizes she is not too bad off and decides to help her friend. Gathering clothes from friends and her own clothes she finds giving is better than havin
Almost Zero proves to be a “closer to home” story when we look around and find this situation is happening often and today’s kids are faced with this environm
day. Direct and real, Dyamonde will be a character many students can relate to.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Grimstone, David
TITLE: Gladiator Boy 1-4
RATING: NR
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap ©2009
PRICE: $4.99
ISBN: 9780448454184
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: De La Rue, James
PAGES: 89
I had high hopes for this series. I know it is very high interest and will garner a certain population of students that don’t readily want to read chapter
books. Book 1, A Hero’s Quest, seemed to live up to my expectation. It was exciting, full of action and ended with a cliff-hanger. The violent aspect
of gladiators was minimal and other than being a little scary when the main character was stolen into slavery, it was appropriate for a school library.
At the end of each book is a character profile and a weapon profile. There is also a cut-out character and arena to build your own scene, and a game
to play with your friends. The second book, Escape From Evil, seemed to have more violence. At the end there was a beheading which was
unnecessary. The third book, Stoweaway Slaves, seemed to really jump into the gruesome. Our main character kills a guard with his bare hands by
twisting his head and breaking his neck. And finally, the fourth book, The Rebels’ Assault, was dripping with violence. Our main characters are slated
for execution with the hopes of bringing runaway characters back. One boy was actually hanged and died. This series had great potential, but allowed
itself to be drawn to the lowest common dominator. It is too violent to have in a school library.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Guarnaccia, Steven
TITLE: Goldilocks and the Three Bears: A Tale Moderne
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2010
PRICE: $18.95
ISBN: 978-0-8109-8966-5
INTEREST LEVEL: K-Gr. 3
ILLUSTRATOR: Steven Guarnaccia
PAGES: UNP
This is a retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears with a modern twist. Included in the illustrations are the designs of modern furniture and
artwork. Also included in the story is a sense of style that these three particular bears possess, including fashion and furniture. The furnishings are
actual designs by celebrated designers over the years and are included on the front cover insides of the book. Yes, this book can always be used in an
elementary school but I can visually see this as a fun way to teach architecture, etc., on the high school level.
Reviewer: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Guillain, Charlotte
TITLE: Dragons
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Raintree, 2011
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781410938046
INTEREST LEVEL: 4
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Dragons are not real, but this book explains about the myths that created the belief in dragons. In Asian countries there is a chili that is called Thai Dragon and i
people who eat it feel like there is fire in their mouths. Dragon stories began in the Bible, in Greek myths,
old legends. In China people believe dragons were friendly and brought them good luck. Stories in Europe were about fierce monsters
and knights would try to kill dragons. Dragons in other countries are described also.
Part of a series of Mythical Creatures, Dragons is one of 6 books.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Gunderson, Jessica
TITLE: Don’t Break the Balance Beam
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Stone Arch @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781434220578
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5h
ILLUSTRATOR: Jorge Santillan
PAGES: 49
Kenzie is a skillful gymnast. Her downfall is the balance beam. She has been terrified ever since she broke a balance beam during a major
presentation to an audience filled with family and friends. With a 2.2 reading level this should appeal to a wide variety of girls. The high-energy and
action-packed illustrations add to the drama. This is not a graphic novel.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Guthrie, James
TITLE: Last Song
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Roaring Brook @ 2010
PRICE: 10.99
ISBN: 9781596345087
INTEREST LEVEL: Pkdg-1st
ILLUSTRATOR: Eric Rohmann
PAGES: UNP
This is a brief Scottish poem by James Guthrie and illustrated by Caldecott award winner Eric Rohmann. While this book might spark some interest
in a pre-school setting – its small size and brevity keep it from being an ideal library book.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Hannan, Peter
TITLE: The Greatest Snowman in The World!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780061284809
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Peter Hannan
PAGES: UNP
Charles Chinchilla, Elvis Wormly and Babs McBoid are looking for some winter wonderland fun. They roll a lot of snow to make a humongous
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snowman that they proclaim the worst in the world. Then they make a snowman that has hundreds of items on it like a broom, hockey stick,
yardstick, hammer, baseball bat and many drawings. The fun truly begins when they try to get the snowman home to the freezer. The ending is
satisfying and delicious. The illustrations depict the text well.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Harbo, Christopher L.
TITLE: Paper airplanes
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone Press, 2011
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781429647441
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
This instruction book has 7 special designs of paper airplanes to make. In the beginning of the book is an illustrated Table of Contents, a page with pictures and
descriptions of the materials, followed by two pages of illustrated techniques. Each plane instruction is written in
clear, elementary language with perfect illustrations. Kids will love this book and it will be well used.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Harris, Trudy
TITLE: Tally Cat Keeps Track
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Millbrook @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9780761344513
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Andrew N. Harris
PAGES: 31
What an awesome way to introduce tally marks to a math class! Most students have seen tally marks but this story about bragging makes the tallies
fun. Tally McNally always won the most tallies whether it was deciding who was small or smaller or who was tall or taller. Which cat could get the
wettest was the final straw. Poor Tally made a fatal mistake. All his cat friends working together helped save him. Information in the back is very
helpful. Illustrations keep the attention of the reader as the story moves along.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Heide, Florence Parry
TITLE: Dillweed’s revenge, a deadly dose of magic
RATING: NR
PUBLISHER: Harcourt, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-15-206394-8
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR: Carson Ellis
PAGES: 46
Dillweed is tired of his lot in life. His parents get to go on adventures. He gets to stay home where the house servants make him do all of the work.
The servants have parties, but he gets to continue to do the work. His chores never end. One day he decides he is done with that and releases some
magic that does away with the servants. When his parents get home, he “wishes” them away too. Then he goes on adventures. This story is perhaps
more twisted than Dahl. The illustrations are delightfully obscure and very much fit the strange story. As much as I might find this story intriguing, I
don’t know where it would find an audience, except perhaps with my own family who are great fans of Roald Dahl. I would not recommend this for
a school library.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Hemphill, Stephanie
TITLE: Wicked Girls
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Balzer + Bray, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-185328-9
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12 grade
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 408 pgs.
Yes, it’s about teenage girls. Yes, they maliciously seek to harm others. Sounds like your typical teenage girl drama book, doesn’t it? However, not
so! This novel, told in verse, is about the Salem Witch trials 320 years ago! Based on fact and documented at the end of the book, this is the story of
one of the more infamous times in American history. Told from the viewpoint of three of the main accusers we can see how a simple game, and the
fear of getting caught, got completely out of control. Mercy was 17 and serving in the Putnam household. As an orphan, she was swept into the role
of afflicted and seer as a way of protecting herself. Ann, at 12 was the ring-leader who insisted upon playing forbidden games and then as a coverup, blamed/accused innocent people. She was hungry for attention and power. The third is Margaret, also 17, who joins the others as a way to be
accepted. She mainly wants to loved and married. Sounds like teenagers we have all known. Through their eyes we see how they encouraged others
to join them in naming witches, how they were well aware of what they were doing and how they, with the exception of Ann, regretted what they did.
The unrhymed verse makes this an easy and quick read and a great way to supplement both social studies and language arts courses that deal with
this time in history or with other literature dealing with Puritans and witch hunts. Its message is both frightening and timeless.
Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School Media Center
Henry, April
TITLE: Girl, Stolen
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Henry Holt & Company 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780805090055
INTEREST LEVEL: 7-9
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 213
Cheyenne has pneumonia and, to make matters worse, her step -mom’s car has been stolen, with her in it. Griffin makes a rash decision, to steal a
car, without thinking of the consequences. They. find out that Cheyenne is blind, so really no threat to run away. Roy, his father, is angry until he
realizes that Cheyenne is the daughter of the president of Nike Corporation. Cheyenne and Griffin form a friendship and Griffin eventually helps her
escape. In order to do this, she must use her other senses to familiarize herself with her difficult surrounding. “Girl, Stolen” is a quick read for Junior
High level.
REVIEWER: Tina Campbell, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
Herbsman, Cheryl Renee
TITLE: Breathing
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Penguin Books, 2009
PRICE: 7.99
ISBN: 9780142416013
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: n/a
PAGES: 262
Growing up fatherless on a small town on the Carolina coast,16 year old Savannah works at the library during summer break, tries to keep her
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younger brother Dog out of trouble, and worries about her Mamma. Mamma is a hardworking and loving mother but can’t keep jobs for very long,
because Savannah has asthma and every severe attack that lands her in the hospital means that mamma is right there by her, too proud to explain the
situation to her bosses, who find more reliable replacements. During the summer the story is set during, Savannah meets Jackson Channing, a boy 3
years her senior at the beach one day, and both of them feel a spark that neither can deny. Through the next months of tests of their love, Jackson
must prove himself worthy of Savannah in her momma’s eyes, and grapple with his own self-worth issues. This is a beautifully told story, told in
Savannah’s first person colloquial speech. The characters are well-developed and interesting, and the plot moves at a brisk pace. This is definitely a
“chick lit” book; fans of Sarah Dessen will especially enjoy it.
Reviewer: Cody Walke, Kelso High School
Hines, Gareth
TITLE: The odyssey
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Candlewick, 2010
PRICE: 14.99
ISBN: 9780763642686
INTEREST LVL: Gr 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: drawings
PAGES: 249
Gareth Hines does it again! He takes a classic story like The Merchant of Venice by Shakespeare and illuminated that world in a graphic novel.
Students will invest time into this long and heavy and delightful visual journey of Odysseus. The story is sufficiently bloody and sexy, but even
Circe discreetly covers her nakedness with long hair. Excellent for a high school collection!
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Hojem, Benjamin
TITLE: Hurricanes: Weathering the Storm
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap/Penguin Group  2010
PRICE: $ 3.99
ISBN: 978-0-448-45466-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th & Up
PHOTOGRAPHER: Various
PAGES: 48
This book is in the All Aboard Science Reader series and packs a lot of information into a few pages. With chapters like ‘Hurricanes: Giant Storms’
that describes how and why hurricanes form, ‘Where and When Hurricanes Strike’ and including the interesting ‘What’s in a Name?’ describing how
hurricanes are given their identifying names, this slim book has volumes of understandable information for young readers. The accompanying
photos/maps/diagrams bring to life the information in the text.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Holbrook, Sara
TITLE: Zombies!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Wordsong @ 2010
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9781590788202
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Karen Sandstrom
PAGES: 56
Sara Holbrook had dome an excellent job of presenting poetry to young people. Her honest introduction would be excellent to read to students. Each
poem is written with humorous and an obvious reflection of the author’s talent. The author has an awesome interest in getting students excited about
writing their own poetry. Each poem has helpful comments written by Ms. Holbrook. The illustrations are carefully drawn.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Hooks, Gwendolyn
TITLE: The Best Trick
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Stone Arch @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781434220523
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Mike Bryne
PAGES: 32
275 word count, reading level 1.2, short sentences and lots of repetition. This makes an excellent combination for a struggling reader. Luke, Jake,
Kayla and Andy are best friends and each has a special pet they bring to school for show and tell. The humorous surprise ending makes a story that
might be mediocre to one that is delightful. Computer generated illustrations are okay.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Huckabee, Mike
TITLE: Can’t wait till Christmas
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-399-25539-7
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3
ILLUSTRATOR: Jed Henry
PAGES: UNP
What a wonderful lesson taught in this colorfully illustrated story about a young boy and his sister leading up to the 12 days before Christmas. I was
immediately drawn into the plot and was anxious to get to the end for the outcome as I myself had done the same mischievous thing as a child. The Author, a
former governor of Arkansas, did a fabulous job of retelling the story of he and his sister Pat, opening one present each day before Christmas and having to
deal with the guilt Christmas morning. While trying to act surprised when opening the presents they had been playing with for two weeks, their parents
discovered the deceitful plan that had taken place without their knowledge. The lesson learned was a hard one, but one that just might just prevent a child
reading this story from doing something similar. I only wish this book would have been written so that someone could have read it to me before I had done the
same as Mike!
REVIEWER: Tanya Lile, Toutle Lake Elementary
Hunter, Erin
TITLE: Omen of the Stars: Night Whispers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780061555152
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-9
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 295
This is the story of three cats, Jayfeather, Lionblaze, and Dovepaw. When evil and ancient cats begin to influence other cats within the clans, only
these three cats can stop them. Cats from all the clans are being converted by these evil cats from the Dark Forests. How are the clans going to react
to each other when no cat or clan can be trusted? The Dark Forests cats are the souls of the most evil and twisted cats. The cats are starting to gain
influence within the clans, Dovepaw is afraid that her sister, Ivypaw, has been training in the Dark Forests. Dovepaw must try and persuade her
sister to return her loyalty to the clan. With Ivypaw’s help to save the clans, Dovepaw, Jayfeather, and Lionblaze learn how to prevent damage before
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it is too late. This is the third book in the series and leaves you hanging and waiting for the next book. Night Whispers is a good book for people
who like adventure and cats.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Ichikawa, Satomi
TITLE: My little train
RATING:
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books, New York, NY © 2010
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780399254536
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR : Satomi Ichikawa
PAGES: NP
Set in someone's play room, this is the story of a little train that takes several toys to the destinations they choose. The pages are large, double-page
illustrations that depict this journey as some child imagines it and yet depicts the real events: the duck is dropped at "the pond" which is actually the
goldfish bowl. The monkey is dropped off at "the forest" which is actually a potted palm. After the bear is dropped off at "the mountain" which is
large pile of pillows on the sofa. When the train tries to go down, it falls! Fortunately, the baby kangaroo has stowed away and is able to help it right
itself. Then they can journey back to Central Station, where the joey joins its mother as the little train picks up another load of passengers. Anyone
with an imagination will love this beautifully illustrated, cheerful story. Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Mint Valley Elementary
Ingold, Jeanette
TITLE: Paper Daughter
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2010
PRICE: $17.00
ISBN: 978-0-15-205507-3
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12 grade
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 215 pgs.
I just love it when I can read a novel and learn something I either didn’t know previously or knew very little about. This novel presents a little known
or understood chapter in 20th century American history in a very readable and interesting way. Between 1888 and 1943, known as the Exclusion Era,
U.S. Laws greatly limited Asian immigration, with a profound impact on the Chinese communities along the Pacific coast. This novel begins in
current day Seattle when 17 year old Maggie Chen accepts a summer internship at a city newspaper. This occurs just shortly after her journalist
father’s recent accidental death. Interspersed with Maggie’s story, is the story of Fai-Yi Li, an illegal immigrant, beginning in 1932 Seattle. The
only way for the average Chinese to enter the country was to pretend illegally to be the son or daughter of Chinese immigrant parent already in the
U.S. legally, thus becoming a “paper” son or daughter. While on an assignment for the paper, Maggie’s father’s death seems to be tied in with a
murder in the International District and political scandal. This leads Maggie on the trail to unearth not only the truth about her father’s death, but also
of his birth and heritage. This book was not just a plain good story, but also a mystery and family saga. Giving insight to immigration, Northwest
history, and journalism, this book could easily be used as supplemental reading for Civics, history, journalism or English classes.
Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School Media Center
Isadora, Rachel
TITLE: 12 days of Christmas
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399250736
INTEREST LEVEL: all
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: <26>
Using the 12 Days of Christmas poem, Rachel Isadora illustrates using African theme. She pays tribute to the dancers of Mali in her
illustrations of the “lords a-leaping” and “ladies dancing” were from women of Swaziland. Many of her illustrations are from
different geographic areas of Africa. In repetition, she uses rebus illustrations to refer to the page before. Kids will view this
as a guessing game and enjoy the rhyme.
This version of the 12 Days of Christmas will be a nice addition to our shelf.
Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Jaffe, Michele
TITLE: Rosebush
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Penquin Group 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9781595143532
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-10
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 323
Jane Freeman plans on celebrating Memorial Day weekend at a party with her boyfriend David Tisch and her two best friends. She arrives at the
party with her friends Kate and Langley. The next thing she remembers is waking up in a hospital bed unable to recall anything from the previous
days. Everyone in her family thinks it was an accident, that she was hit by a car. She knows differently. Someone is trying to kill her and it is up to
her to figure out who it is. She listens for clues, when each of her friends come to visit her in the hospital. Each person gives Jane a different version
of what happened at the party, and how she was injured. Each day she regains memories of what she thinks happened. The story is drawn out and
sometimes repetitive, but still interesting enough to make you want to finish the book.
Reviewer: Tina Campbell, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
Jay, Alison
TITLE: The Nutcracker
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Dial @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780803732858
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Alison Jay
PAGES: UNP
This is a beautiful adaptation illustrated by Alison Jay of the famous Christmas ballet. Poor Clara is upset that her outstanding soldier nutcracker has
been broken by her brother, Fritz. Clara continues her upset feeling after everyone falls asleep. Clara falls into sleep beside the nutcracker under the
Christmas tree. If you need a copy of the Nutcracker for your Christmas library collection, this would fit the bill.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Jeffers, Oliver
TITLE: Up and Down
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Philomen, 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780399255458
INTEREST LVL: Gr Pre-2
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 391
The boy and his penguin from Lost and Found have been found again in this delightful picture book drawn in watercolours (the artist/author insists
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on the “U”). It occurred to the penguin that he was missing a lot by not being able to fly like other birds. He sets out on a quest to do just that. As he
and the boy, with horizontal strips worn on an unfortunately square body, headed out to find a solution, the penguin became excitedly distracted by a
circus ad and left the boy’s side to become…..the penguin cannonball! The boy searches for his friend and finally finds another circus ad showing
penguin with his helmet. He runs to the circus, positions his body to absorb penguin’s landing impact and saves him. They make their get-away on
stilts and a green tricycle to return home to play their favorite game of backgammon. I think this is one of the best circle stories since “The Runaway
Bunny.”
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Johnson, Tami
TITLE: Cerca y Lejos/Near and Far
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone Press, 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 978-1-4296-5337-4
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-1st
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 32
This bilingual book describes what near and far mean, traveling near and far, comparing near and far and when it is better to near and when it might
be better to be far. There are Facts about near and far, a Glossary, and internet site called Fact Hound that can help you find other sites that are safe
for your children to do more research on the subject of near and far. This can be a great book for pre-school students and to help them use new
vocabulary words such as near and far. The picture are all photographs and very appropriate for the text. Although the shark picture is a little scary
my kiddos liked it and kept turning the pages to it to look at it more.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Jones, Jen
TITLE: Cool Crafts with Cardboard
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429647656
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
I have Cool Crafts with Old Wrappers, Cans and Bottles on my library shelf. The girls love these craft books and the best part is that they are made
with recyclables. Decoupage is demonstrated using wrapping paper. Origami envelopes and making paper sounds fun as well as the eco-friendly
bracelet. The presentation and layout are excellent. Step-by-step directions make the projects seem possible as long as you have all the supplies. But
best of all girls learn that reading can be fun.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Jones, Traci L.
TITLE: Finding My Place
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Farar Straus Giroux, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-374-33573-1
INTEREST LEVEL: 7 - 121
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 181
How heavy is the weight of the expectation of representing one’s race? Tiphanie Baker knows. It’s the seventies, and her parents—both
professionals, have decided to leave their pocket of friends and move to the suburbs to a home more befitting their new socioeconomic status.
Unfortunately, that means Tiphanie will be one of two black students at Brent Hills High. Her parents participated in the Woolworth sit-ins, and they
expect her to represent her race with dignity and class. It’s a mandate that’s not easy to fulfill, for while she shares her peers’ upper middle class
background, she doesn’t share their ethnicity. That’s enough of a difference to make her stand out. Life is pretty dreary until Jackie Sue, a social
outcast in her own right, decides to befriend Tiphanie. Trips back for church demonstrate a widening gap between Tiphanie and her former friends,
and she must deal with the epithet of “Oreo”—black on the outside, white on the inside. Finding a balance and confronting racism—in all its ugly
and subtle forms, makes this a book worth reading. The dynamic of Tiphanie befriending poor, white “trailer trash” becomes another interesting
layer. African-American students trying to find their place will relate. It’s a book that would be beautifully integrated into a history class that is
studying the Civil Rights Movement, and it would be equally as useful in any class dealing with diversity. The cover is not one that students would
probably naturally be drawn to, so it may require a little book talking, but the themes are well worth the time it takes to point this book out.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Karlitz, Gail
TITLE: Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Penguin Books
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 9780843199055
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-8
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 143
This book was very well written with kids in mind. This book specifically teaches children how to manage their money. This book includes
information about savings, bonds, stocks, and reading financial pages. There is a thorough, but easily understood glossary that helps explain many
tough to understand terms.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Karsh, Efraim
TITLE: The Arab-Israeli Conflict: The 1948 War
RATING: Ad
PUBLISHER: Rosen, 2010
PRICE: na
ISBN: 9781404218420
INTEREST LVL: Gr 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: B&W photos
PAGES: 96
This “Essential Histories: War and Confict in Modern Times” presents excellent discussions, and quite a high reading level, of the war resulting
from the division of Palestine into Jewish and Palestinian sectors. Dotted with excellent photographs of the personalities, locations, peoples and war,
including color maps, this is a slim but in depth view. As we all know the Arab-Israeli conflict is perpetuated today. It is usable for contemporary
world problems research and adult reading. A chronology, glossary, index and bibliography is included.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Keene, Carolyn
TITLE: The Secret of the Old Clock
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap
PRICE: $ 6.99
ISBN: 9780448455303
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-8
16
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 180
This Nancy Drew story finds Nancy involved in a search for a missing will. Her father, a noted attorney, and her older friend Helen Corning help
her solve this mystery. During the investigation Nancy finds herself at odds with unworthy heirs, and confronting furniture thieves as well. Since this
book is a 80th Anniversary Limited Edition, Nancy’s fashion sense includes wearing gloves and she always seems to be able to whip up a meal from
scratch for friends. There is nothing about cell phones, computers, etc. in this story, which makes it very refreshing to read.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Kehret, Peg
TITLE: Ghost Dog Secrets
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton Children’s Books ©2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780525421788
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd -5th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 184
When Rusty sees a dog chained to a tree without food, water or shelter, he becomes determined to help the poor animal. He receives some
unexpected assistance from a ghost dog that warns him and guides him with this effort. The book emphasizes that individuals can take actions that
will make positive changes. The characters are good role models. Rusty makes some good choices as well as some poor ones and deals with the
consequences. There is good information about the Humane Society and how they help animals. Peg Kehret does not disappoint; this story keeps you
turning the pages.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Keillor, Garrison
TITLE: Cat, you better come home
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2010 (1995)
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-670-01277-0
INTEREST LEVEL: 2ND-5TH
ILLUSTRATOR: Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher
PAGES: 38
This is the story of Puff, the cat, and how she wanted to let her owner know that she expected some of the finer things in life and was not coming
back in until she got them. After a short conversation about her expectations she abruptly disappears. Her owner goes looking for her and finally
finds her on the cover of a magazine. He recognizes her despite her capped teeth, permed hair and mink stole. She was now living in Greece eating
the finest foods, living in a mansion and spending a great deal of money. She then begins traveling Europe with a dog friend of hers and her
entourage of servants and the greatest of luxuries. The dog did not care for her spending habits; so, she left him for an owl. They are together until
one day the yacht they are in sinks and the owl flies off. Puff is presumed drowned. Suddenly, she appears at the door of her original owner and is in
a very sad state. The good life hasn’t been so good to her. He needs no explanation of her absence but carries her in and takes care of her until she is
back to her old self. The moral of this story is to be who you are and make the best of what you have. Although I liked this story, I’m not sure
younger students would get it without a great deal of explanation. The illustrations are fabulous with their rich colors and angular shapes. This could
be used for teaching fables. This also could be tied into current events and the idea of living within one’s means.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Kennedy, Kim
TITLE: Misty Gordon and the Mystery of the Ghost Pirates
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Amulet @ 2010
PRICE: 15.95
ISBN: 9780810993570
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Greg Call
PAGES: 218
After reading the first two pages I was reminded of Raold Dahl’s Matilda. Misty Gordon’s father seems ready to pounce on her for being smart but I
was wrong. Then I thought of Mary Downing Hahn and how awesome it would be if newcomer Kim Kennedy could write like Ms. Hahn. I was
really getting into the insane asylum subplot. Kids get interested in someone escaping from a mental facility. Then that was taken away because
escapee May Nays is too quickly caught. Next I felt as though Rich Riordon had taken over with the Golden Three. I feel as though this chapter book
was all over the place. We need more chapters similar to Peg Kehret, Bill Wallace, the afore-mentioned Mary Downing Hahn and Willow Davis
Roberts. Don’t give up Kim keep trying until you find your voice.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Kenney, Karen Latchana
TITLE: Spin with the spiders
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO Group, 2011
PRICE: $19.95
ISBN: 9781602707894
INTEREST LEVEL: 3
ILLUSTRATOR: Lisa Hedicker
PAGES: 32
Usually I prefer non-fiction with photographs but the illustrations in this book are very attractive and they seem very accurate. Descriptions of spiders on each p
interesting and easy to read yet not condescending. Captions include more information. There
are 35,000 kinds of spiders on Earth and they can live as long as 20 years. A description of spiderlings and types of webs are shown, including the different kind
produced by spiders. Spiders are great hunters and have excellent sensors on their bodies and use venum to stun their prey. Spiders have to protect themselves f
predators by looking like insects or bird droppings. They blend into
their environment to hide themselves.
Including in the book is a chart labeling body parts of a spider, a glossary, index, and website for more information and it is one of the “Bug’s world” series.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Kessler, Jackie Morse
TITLE: Hunger
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Graphia, 2010
PRICE: 8.99
ISBN: 9780547341248
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: n/a
PAGES: 180
Lisa has anorexia. When she is suicidal one night, Death comes knocking at her door and offers her a deal of sorts: Go ahead and die, or take on the
mantle of Famine, one of the Four Horses of the Apocalypse. Soon Lisa is traveling the world on her black steed (which she names Midnight) seeing
the true effects of Famine around the world. She uses her power as Famine to either make things worse or better. This is all used as an allegory for
what she is going through with her eating disorder and how she feels about herself.
17
The metaphor is so obvious that good storytelling seems to be almost incidental. Additionally, the whole Horsemen of the Apocalypse motif is never
really fleshed out so most readers may not understand this fantasy part of the story. An interesting premise but didn’t really succeed in holding my
interest.
Reviewer: Cody Walke, Kelso High School
Kessler, Liz
TITLE: Philippa Fisher and the Fairy’s Promise
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press  2010
PRICE: $ 15.99
ISBN: 978-0-7636-5031-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th – 5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Katie May
PAGES: 274
When Philippa and best friend Robyn overhear Philippa’s fairy godsister Daisy talking through their computer about being picked up at a portal, they
try to figure out the coordinates so they can see her. When they get there, a huge stone circle on a hill, they find some long hidden writing at the base
of one of the stones. Then a crazy old lady shows up walking around the stones. Philippa follows her as she replays the words from the stone out
loud, and is suddenly transported with Daisy to ATC – Above the Clouds. No human has ever been at ATC, what will happen if Philippa is found
out? And that’s not even the most intense mystery/adventure in the book! Fans of Kessler’s Philippa series will love this newest edition, told from the
different character’s viewpoints, each with their own type face.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Kladstrup, Kristin
TITLE: A Night in Santa’s Great Big Bag
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780670011650
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Tim Jessell
PAGES: UNP
Lamb, a stuffed animal, is extremely happy living with his boy Louis. One Christmas eve Lamb becomes so curious about Santa’s toys that he
doesn’t realize he has actually dropped into Santa’s bag. Lamb sees marvelous toys everywhere. One by one the toys leave the bag. How will Lamb
ever get back to Louis? The illustrations are enchanting and endearing.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Kolanovic, Dubravka
TITLE: Everyone Needs a Friend
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Price Stern Sloan, 2010
PRICE: $9.99
ISBN: 978-0-8431-9918-5
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Kolanovic, Dubravka
PAGES: 30
This is a cute little story about friendship and the struggles it presents. Jack is a wolf who lives alone. One day, Walter, the mouse, comes by and Jack
invites him to stay. Jack discovers that he likes having Walter around, until Walter makes a mess and snores too loudly. Walter leaves, but Jack goes
after him because he decides it is better to have a friend than be lonely….even if there are a few problems along the way. This would be a good
companion book to A Visitor for Bear as the elements are similar. The illustrations were cute and warm. However, in my opinion Walter did not look
like a mouse. He looked like a cute, cuddly teddy bear.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Korb, Rena
TITLE: My Brain
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Magic Wagon, 2010
PRICE:
ISBN: 978-1-60270-805-1
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Remy Simard
PAGES: 32
This non-fiction book is divided into Table of Contents, the main body, A Look Inside section, Fun Facts, Glossary, On the Web, and the Index. The
text is very easy to understand and the illustrations are digital cartoon style. This is presented for younger children with very appropriate language
and vocabulary words. There is also a little scientist man at the bottom of the page that gives more information to enhance the learning. The book is
very age appropriate and could be very helpful to young students.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Korda, Lerryn
TITLE: Millions of Snow
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2009
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 978-0-7636-4651-6
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-k
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 28
Little Nye is back with his friends. They are now introducing snow. They help Lester build a man out of Snow and Letter calls him Osbert. As it
approaches nighttime they all go inside except for Osbert and Osbert goes sledding for the night. Outside it still snows and “there are millions of
snow.” The illustrations are cute and the text is simple, it is an easy way to introduce snow and use this before a construction activity. Little Nye is
just a fun way to set off a season.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Korman, Gordan
TITLE: Framed
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780545178495
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 234
Another great Gordan Korman story about Griffin Bing and his friends and their efforts to get out of trouble, Framed, has a surprising culprit. Griffin loses his m
guard which ends up in the showcase replacing a Superbowl ring. Accused by the principal Griffin is arrested by the police and put under house arrest. To prov
innocence Griffin and his friends must find the real thief. They discover
a pack rat has taken the shiny mouth piece and traded it for the ring, but it is an adventure following the rat.
A fast paced and fun story with a twist that is unexpected keeps the reader interested.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
18
Krosoczka, Jarrett
TITLE: Lunch lady and the bake sale bandit
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, Inc. 2010
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86729-3
INTEREST LEVEL: 3-6
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: UNP
At first, the comic style illustrations turned me off as the majority of the characters that are school staff were portrayed as being angry, mean or even a bit
deranged. Since I have had no experience with this series, I had an open mind, but maybe being a school employee myself offended me a bit. The mystery
begins when the kids are preparing for a bake sale as a school fundraiser for fieldtrips, but someone steals all of the baked goods, leaving only a few crumbs
behind. After much investigation by the lunch lady and a group of concerned kids, they discover that a group of kids they call the Breakfast Bunch has also
disappeared. The trail of clues leads them to the school bus garage, where Brenda, the evil bus driver, has the kids tied up. The lunch lady saves the day by
crashing through the window and fighting with Brenda. As the lunch lady pins down Brenda, Buszilla, the possessed bus comes to Brenda’s rescue. After a
ton of melted cheese is used to subdue Buszilla, it is finally overtaken by the lunch lady who saves the day. The bake sale commences, they exceed their goal
in profits and everyone is happy except the tease at the end where the principal plans the field trip but you see a silhouette of what I assume is his secretary
with an evil disposition planning “Project Field Trip.” The illustrations are captivating and I’m sure especially appealing to 3rd grade through 6th grade boys. I
would pursuit obtaining the rest of this series due to the high interest level for hard to motivate boys who like the Captain Underpants series.
REVIEWER: Tanya Lile, Toutle Lake Elementary
Krull, Kathleen
TITLE: Kubla Khan, the emperor of everything
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-670-01114-8
INTEREST LEVEL: 3RD-6TH
ILLUSTRATOR: Robert Byrd
PAGES: 40
Kubla Khan was born in Mongolia. His grandfather was the great Genghis Khan. Although Kubla Khan isn’t well known in history like his
grandfather, he extended his grandfather’s kingdom with the use of the leadership skills that he learned from his mother after his father’s death. In
1260, Kubla was so well respected and successful as a leader that he was elected the Khan of all Khans. He ruled fairly, with wisdom and with
tolerance for all religions as long as they “revered him as the Great Khan.” This volume brings Kubla Khan into the spotlight that he deserves as one
of the world’s greatest leaders. The illustrations are extraordinarily detailed and inviting and are the perfect compliment to the text that is very
accessible to younger audiences. I would highly recommend this book.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Krupinski, Loretta
TITLE: Snow Dog’s Journey
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton/Penguin Group  2010
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42246-4
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd – 4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Same
PAGES: UNP
When the Frost King brings winter to the northern lands, a brother and sister build a snow dog and love him as if real. When the Frost King revisits
and sees the icy dog, he blows life into him and they fly away together. Over time Snow Dog realizes he’d rather be a dog of snow and loved, than be
a live Snow Dog missing the children, so he travels and travels to return to their home. When the children awake and find a snow matted dog at their
door, they bring him in to the fire. Will he melt to a puddle or…? What a lovely, heartwarming story and the beautifully detailed, but softly muted
painted illustrations are a perfect companion to the text.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Kulak, Nancy
TITLE: George Brown, Class Clown: World’s Worst Wedgies
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Grosseto & Dunlap @ 2010
PRICE: 4.99
ISBN: 9780448453699
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Aaron Bleach
PAGES: 124
Reluctant readers rejoice and be glad here is a book that can keep you laughing and reading at the same time. Main character George Brown
absolutely, positively wants “Dude-on-a-Skateboard”. This remote-control toy is available for $15.00 at a local store. George realizes that he is not a
money saver but a money spender. His buddies help but George’s secret super duper belch may ruin all his plans. Illustrations are good.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Kulka, Joe
TITLE: Vacation’s Over!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda @ 2010
PRICE: 17.95
ISBN: 9780761352129
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Joe Kulka
PAGES: Unp
What if dinosaurs are not extinct but have been on vacation for millions of years? This is the humorous premise for this well-illustrated book. Film
developing is not satisfactory. Mail is 10 million years late. All’s well that ends well because T-Rex dreams of his next vacation. You may recognize
this author/illustrator’s name; Joe Kulka’s Wolf’s Coming was a huge success.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Leboutillier, Nate
TITLE: Play basketball like a pro
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429648264
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Elementary school students will enjoy having this nonfiction library book available for check out. Soccer, football and baseball are also in the series.
Many tips are given like using fingertips instead of palm to dribble. Don’t be selfish, talk and listen, and be positive are helpful teamwork hints.
Photos are action-packed and high energy.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Lies, Brian
TITLE: Bats at the Ballgame
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin Books ©2010
PRICE: $16.99
19
ISBN: 9780547249704
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st -3rd
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 30
We are excited to get another Bat themed book by Brian Lies. This one is centered on baseball. Like his previous books, it is done with poetry and is
very fun to read aloud to kids. The illustrations have wonderful details and expression. He uses a lot of baseball terms which can promote vocabulary
discussions. Bats at the Ballgame is sure to be another home run.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Lin, Grace
TITLE: Thanking the Moon: Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-96101-4
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 26
A Chinese celebration of the moon is described in the simple text and colorful pictures. The last pages of the book are the specific details, history,
and significance to the Chinese culture. This is a great book to introduce different holidays to the average American culture. The text is simple and
perfect for little children. The pictures are engaging and done using gouache, and the last two pages are great for expanding the learning.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Lindeen, Carol
TITLE: Living and Nonliving
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429653459
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 24
Brief text describes animals and plants compared to nonliving things like rocks. The information is in large font English and Spanish. This book will
do well on my elementary shelf where one-third of the students are Spanish speaking. Photos help with the facts.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Lindo, Elvira
TITLE: Manolito Four-Eyes
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Marshall Cavendish @ 2010
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780761456513
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd- 6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Emilio Urberuaga
PAGES: 126
The setting for this book about 10-year-old Manolito takes place in Madrid. Manolito lives with his mother, father and baby brother the Bozo. It is
summer and Manolito is sad that they will not be able to take a proper vacation away from their hot apartment. His little brother the Bozo is hilarious
especially when his sits on the lap of the uncle’s Norwegian girl friend. Grandpa is equally humorous as he tries to keep his two grandsons in check.
The mother is famous for her lectures. The father is gone to his job during the week. Demanding Nosy Neighbor Luisa cannot be forgotten. She and
Manolito’s mother fight over a VCR but at the last minute Nosy Neighbor Luisa offers a reconciliation dinner. Illustrations are excellent for the text.
This could be considered a Spanish version of Diary of the Wimpy Kid. Caroline Travalia does an excellent job of translating Spanish to English.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Lowrey, Janette Sebring
TITLE: The Poky Little Puppy
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Golden Books, 1942
PRICE: $10.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86535-0
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Gustaf Tenggren
PAGES: 20
They redid the poky little puppy into a large board book. When I was looking through this book, I had forgotten all the text that is in this book. I
remember really liking it as a child. The illustrations are so adorable, but the clincher is that we love the poky little puppy. He is a sweet looking
dog. We love the fact that he gets treats when one else does, but he also learns his lesson in the end. The board book is a little heavy and large for
little hands. I did not think that this was a great investment to put into a board book. Keep it cheap and in paperback and we will buy more if they
get ruined. The large amount of text you cannot make the book small enough in a board book for it not to be cumbersome.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Ludwig, Trudy
TITLE: My secret bully
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Tricycle Press, 2004
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 978-1-58246-159-5
INTEREST LEVEL: K-6
ILLUSTRATOR: Abigail Marble
PAGES: UNP
This is the best fiction book related to elementary school bullying that I have read. It includes an update from the author who explains what “relational
aggression” is and how kids use relationships to manipulate and hurt others. It begins with a girl named Monica that appears from the illustrations to be in
upper elementary. She is having trouble with her best friend Katie who has been her “bff” since kindergarten. At this point in their relationship, Katie begins,
in a passive aggressive manner, to treat her differently than she has ever before. It began during recess when Katie was whispering to a group of girls while
looking at Monica. When asked what they were talking about she rudely replied “Oh nothing, Mon-ICK-a. I’ll tell you later.” Monica started feeling singled
out more and more as time went on. This added to her frustration and her mom began to notice a change in her and suggested that Monica give Katie a call to
talk to her about her feelings. During the phone call, Katie told her she was just too sensitive about stuff, which made Monica think that something really was
wrong with her. She began to feel very alone and an outsider, which exacerbated into physical illness over going to school and putting up with Katie’s
comments and alienation. Thank goodness, her perceptive mother caught on to the bullying and began role-playing wither her daughter and which gave her the
confidence to stand up to Katie. The Author also included a note to parents and teachers along with discussion questions and additional resources. I will be
sharing this book with our staff and school counselor to incorporate into our anti-bullying program as soon as possible.
REVIEWER: Tanya Lile, Toutle Lake Elementary
Macaulay, David
TITLE: Built to last: Castle, Cathedral, Mosque
RATING: Ad
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin, 2010
PRICE: 24.99
ISBN: 9780547342405
INTEREST LVL: Gr 3 - adult
ILLUSTRATOR: David Macaulay
PAGES: 272
20
Macauley was asked to combine his three works, Castle, Cathedral and Mosque into one colorized book. His introduction explaining his urge to
RUN from the project settled with intrigue and then determining a strategy to make the book work. I appreciate his statement that anything is
buildable, buildings or ideas. What follows is a fictionalized account and colored illustration of the establishment of a castle and the village
surrounding it. The next fictionalized planning and building of the cathedral of the village. The French cathedral took only 90 years to construct and
the story of each phase was punctuated by the deaths of persons hoping to call the cathedral their religious home. Many cathedrals took hundreds of
years, but ninety was fine in this fictional town. Finally is the mosque, the centerpiece of each kulliye complex. As in the other buildings, masses
from high clergy to unskilled laborers worked for years on this structure to honor Mohammed. As in the cathedral I was entranced by the
mathematics involved in the planning and execution of the building. The construction of domes and semi-domes was fascinating. The mosque took
only three years to build, amazing! The strength of the drawings are in the structures, not the people. But Macaulay knows his strengths and plays to
them well. If a library has the separate books, there may be no need for this one. If you don’t have it, buy it.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Macauley, Michael
TITLE: The Inheritance Almanac: an A-To-Z Guide….
RATING: Ad
PUBLISHER: Knoft, 2010
PRICE: 12.99
ISBN: 9780375866722
INTEREST LVL: Gr 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES:216
This alphabetical almanac will certainly find its knitch with Inheritance readers! I like the personal facts about Chris and his family interspersed
throughout. It has lots of white space and is easy on the reader’s eyes. The book is a great resource to keep the names of characters straight,
particularly if it has been a while since the reader has actually read the trilogy. And now is the time to complain that my Eragon readers are very sad
that no fourth novel in the series has appeared! They were promised a fourth novel at the end of Brisingr and it is time to bring it on!
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
MacDonald, Betty
TITLE: Nancy and Plum
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2010 (1952)
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86685-2
INTEREST LEVEL: 3RD-7TH
ILLUSTRATOR: Mary Grand Pre
PAGES: 222
Nancy and Plum is a delightful story of two orphan sisters whose uncle leaves them in the care of a rather wicked woman at her boarding school.
Mrs. Monday deceives the uncle into believing that the children are well cared for but that Nancy and Plum in particular were naughty and in great
need of discipline. Instead, Nancy and Plum are wonderfully respectful, pleasant and resourceful, but they are punished by Mrs. Monday repeatedly
and even left home at Christmas every year. The presents that their uncle sends them are given to Mrs. Monday’s niece, a spoiled and rude child.
Finally, the girls have had all they can take and decide to make a break for it and go off to find work in the city. Even though this story is almost
sixty years old is hasn’t lost any of its spark and doesn’t come across as dated. With a great story like this, it is time for it to find a whole new
audience. I loved it!
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Malone, Marianne
TITLE: The Sixty-Eight Rooms
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780375857102
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-9
ILLUSTRATOR: Greg Call
PAGES: 274
Two sixth-graders, Ruthie and Jack, discover a magical key while on a field trip to the Thorne Rooms in the Art Institute of Chicago. The Thorne
Rooms is a famous collection of 68 miniature rooms set in various time periods. This magical key shrinks Ruthie and Jack down to a size where they
can enter the rooms and explore. Once in the rooms, they find out that beyond the rooms is the entire world of the room’s setting: France a few years
before the French Revolution, Mass. During the Salem Witch Trials, etc. Meanwhile, Jack’s mother has some issues of her own because she is
having a hard time selling her artwork and Jack and her are in danger of being evicted. While the book only has a couple adventures in the rooms, it
lends itself to the opportunity for another book.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Manushkin, Fran
TITLE: Katie Woo, Katie saves Thanksgiving
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: xxxxx, 2008
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781404859883
INTEREST LEVEL: 2-3
ILLUSTRATOR: Tammie Lyon
PAGES: 32
Katie and her family are expecting friends who get help up in the snow. When the stove quits, her mom is unable to cook dinner. Her neighbor, Mrs. West has
full meal for her visiting family. They are unable to come in the bad storm. When invited to come
to Katie’s house, Mrs. West brings the dinner and they all enjoy the meal. Just like the Pilgrims different cultures share a celebration.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Martin Jr., Bill
TITLE: Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, New York, NY © 1967 PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 9780805092448
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2
ILLUSTRATOR: Eric Carle
PAGES: 33
This is a re-issue of a classic Brown Bear, Brown Bear set in a first reader format. It's the same wonderful Eric Carle pictures with Martin's classic
text, but set into a smaller, more manageable book. In addition, the text is followed by a page of reading activity suggestions by reading consultant,
Laura Robb and some actual activities in the back of the book: matching words to pictures, etc. I don't know if this adds to the book as a classroom
title, but Brown Bear, Brown Bear will always be a favorite of mine! Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Mint Valley Elementary
Marx, Mandy
TITLE: Great Vampire Legends
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429645768
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
21
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 32
Vampire Life and Real-Life Vampires are also in this 3-book series that will be a hit for most upper elementary and middle school students. This book
is cataloged as 398.4. That vampires are not real is stressed. That vampires are an explanation for diseases, and sudden death is presented. One
section describes vampires all over the world. “The Blood Countess” will have some students frightfully engaged. They will be begging for more.
Layout and presentation are very pleasing to the eye. Vampires is a hot topic among upper elementary students.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Mavor, Salley
TITLE: Pocketful of Posies: A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin  2010
PRICE: $ 21.99
ISBN: 978-0-618-73740-6
INTEREST LEVEL: K – 2nd
ILLUSTRATIONS: Same
PAGES: 62
This is a wonderful book chockfull of the old nursery rhymes that unfortunately so many children nowadays have never heard. This would be a fun
book to share with younger grade students during storytime in the library. The beautiful, colorful illustrations are hand-sewn fabric relief collages and
are just delightful. Includes an ‘Index of First Lines’ at the back, along with an ‘Author’s Note’.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
McCloskey, Robert
TITLE: Blueberries for Sal
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Puffin Books, 1948, renewed 1976
PRICE:
ISBN: 0 14 050.169 X
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 50
"Blueberries for Sal" is a classic story that speaks to a time that is somewhat foreign you are urban youngsters. The classic pictures are expressive
and still bring about the attention of our pre-schoolers. However, much has to be explained and before you begin reading, but the payoff is
rewarding. Blueberries are introduced and an entire unit can be created around this piece of Literature. I also love the fact that it comes with a read
aloud CD. This has always been a great story and will be great to see on shelves again.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
McCullan, Kate
TITLE: School! Adventures at the Harvey N. Trouble Elementary School
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Feiwel & Friends @ 2010
PRICE: 12.99
ISBN: 9780312375928
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: George Booth
PAGES: 149
Mix Bill Murray’s Groundhog’s Day, Louis Sachar’s Wayside School is Falling Down, Norton Juster’s Phantom Tollbooth and a pinch of near
sighted Mr. Magoo in a bowl and you might have a book that delights and confuses at the same time. Definitely not for a reluctant reader because of
all the puns, this could be a perfect fit for a 4 th or 5th grade student who likes to live on the edge or might be a bit quirky but in a good way.
Presentation and size of book reminded me of Jeff Kinney’s books. However, this is one of a kind as we find Ron Faster going to school with
characters like Adam Up. Izzy Normal and Viola Fuss... Best part is Ms. Roxanne Pebbles greeting students “Good Morning, Future Scientists”.
What a positive way to encourage students.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
McDermott, Kristen
TITLE: William Shakespeare: His Life and Times
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Templar Books,
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42161-0
INTEREST LEVEL: 10-12 grade
ILLUSTRATOR: Various
PAGES: 30 pgs.
My first thought when I saw this book was that it was too beautiful to be on a shelf. I was right! This is a beautiful book. While it is mostly a
picture book, it is full of facts and insight to the world of William Shakespeare’s time and to his life. The premise is that in 1613 William
Shakespeare is compiling a letter within a scrapbook about his life to his daughter. The writing, both visually and in language style, , appears real
and to be in his own words, although fictionalized. Scattered throughout on almost every page is something to unfold, open, or examine. For
example each page has a miniature playbill of one of his plays and when opened there is a description inside of that particular play. There is also a
picture of the outside of the Globe Theater, with a door that can be opened so you can see the inside. Along each page there are editorial comments
that further explain what is on that page. I loved this book, but my only objection is that I’m not sure that this book should be in a school library
where it would either go unnoticed on the shelf, or where it would suffer damage through much handling. Ideally, in the school setting, it should be
on display, loaned out to teachers to use in class, or reserved for in-library use only. Otherwise, I highly recommend this book for lovers of plays,
Shakespeare and all things dealing with history and literature.
Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School Media Center
McDonough, Yona Zeldis
TITLE: Who Was Rosa Parks?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap/Penguin Group  2010
PRICE: $ 4.99
ISBN: 978-0-448-45442-9
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd – 5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Stephen Marchesi
PAGES: 106
This in-depth, but easy to understand story of Rosa Parks life and works is part of the wonderful ‘Who Was...? series. Delving more deeply into other
sections of her life than just the bus moment that made her a part of history, this is a great young-reader biography about an amazing woman during
trying times. Includes a ‘Timeline of Rosa Parks’s Life’, ‘Timeline of the World’ and a ‘Bibliography at the back.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
McMullan, Kate
TITLE: Pearl and Wagner Four Eyes
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial @ 2009
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780803730861
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: R. W. Alley
PAGES: 39
22
Any young student who has struggled with the possibility of wearing glasses will relate to Wagner’s dilemma. Friend Pearl tries to dispel Wagner’s
pessimism. The pizza party ending will have perfect-vision students a little jealous. “Tips fro Glasses” in the back make for a lively discussion. R.W.
Alley’s illustrations add to the fun and excitement.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Meinking, Mary
TITLE: Who Counts the Penguins?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Raintree @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781410938558
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
This ended up being a great read-aloud to fourth graders because of all the interesting facts. The fact that created the most tongue wagging was about
the ice-breaker ship. The most interesting fact for me is that Antarctica is owned by no country. The big print makes it readable for everyone. The
photos are excellent.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Meister, Cari
TITLE: Summer is Super
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429647304
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Jim Lingenfelter
PAGES: 24
First Graphics series is meant for primary students because the “books are easy to read”. Titles in the set include the other three seasons. The text is brief but de
animals, plants, baseball and fun in the summer. The large illustrations are great for primary eyes. Cost of this series might be taken into consideration before p
unless you truly need this type of book.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Milcrim, David
TITLE: Santa Duck and his Merry Helpers
RATING: A+
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons ©2010
PRICE: $16.00
ISBN: 9780399254734
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 30
Nicholas Duck is very excited about helping Santa collect wish lists. Unfortunately his younger brothers and sisters want to help, and they seem to
want to compete to see who could promise the most exciting gift. Nicholas learns a lesson himself about being kind when he tries to teach his siblings
about the spirit of Christmas. I enjoyed this story very much. It is fun and humorous and the illustrations are great. It would be a good read-aloud.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Miller, Kirsten
TITLE: the eternal ones
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: razorbill, 2010
PRICE: 17.99
ISBN: 9781595149082
INTEREST LVL: Gr 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 411
Haven Moore has always lived in Snopes City, Tennessee, the granddaughter to a controlling matriarch who sees Haven’s dead father and Haven as
“of Satan.” Despite the counseling of the esteemed pastor of the local church, Haven continues to have graphic, sensuous dreams involving Ethan
and Constance who lived and loved during the 1920s. Haven knows minute details about New York City though she has never traveled there. Haven
is Constance, reincarnated. When the gossip fallout from her latest vision makes life unbearable for Haven and when a bland, mysterious man
torches the family mansion, Haven escapes to NYC with the help of her dress design partner, Beau (who is my absolute favorite character). She is
drawn to a secret society that harbors people with useful talents to exploit and is drawn to a society playboy who is the reincarnation of Ethan. Cat
and mouse chases, trips to Rome, the freaky gray men and even the devil himself create a tense reading experience. I was eager for the climatic
conclusion and was not disappointed. Keep reading to the last page. Teen gothic romance readers will love the story. Yep, a sequel: All You Desire
is due August 2011.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Moffitt, Debra
TITLE: Only Girls Allowed: The Pink Locker Society #1
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: St. Martin’s Griffin, New York, 2008
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 978-0-312-64502-1
INTEREST LEVEL: 7th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 140
Told from the perspective of an eighth grade girl, Jemma, this book tells the tale of 3 best friends and a new girl who are selected as part of a secret
society. Jemma, Kate and Piper all discover a strange pink locker door in the back of their real locker. They are given the combination to the lock and
enter during their study hall period. Behind the pink locker they find a secret meeting place set up beautifully and always with yummy treats. Bet, the
new girl, rounds out the group. They soon discover that they have been selected to resurrect The Pink Locker Society, a group supported by alumni
who want to see its return after being mysteriously shut down several years before. The girls help other students with tough middle school aged
questions with the use of a website. Jemma has a secret crush on an old friend named Forrest, but he is dating a mean girl named Taylor. Being part
of this society causes Jemma to feel more confident in her own abilities, allows her to grow as a person and causes her to feel good about helping
others. Question topics center around crushes, periods, boobs, weight issues, being the new kid and much more. An actual website is available to go
and visit. It contains information about the books, author, and answers questions, amongst other things. It can be found at www.pinklockersociety.org
The author is the kids’ editor for kidshealth.org and she was inspired to write this book based on her own memories of middle school and the
questions kids asked on the Kids Health website. Middle school girls will enjoy this book and hopefully receive some insight into issues they are
curious about themselves.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Montgomery, L. M
TITLE: Anne of Avonlea
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Puffin Classics, 2009
PRICE: $4.99
ISBN: 978-0-141-32613-9
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
23
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 371
Anne is the heroine that drives me to knees with laughter. I enjoy her spirit and have always believed her to be a “kindred spirit.” Her story has been
passed on in many ways since 1908 with Anne of Green Gables to this great sequel Anne of Avonlea. While the cover has changed and there is now
an Author File, Who’s Who in Avonlea, Some Things to Think About, Some Things To Do, and a Glossary, the character is still our Anne with an e!
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Montgomery, Lewis B.
TITLE: The case of the July 4th Jinx
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Kane Press, 2010
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9781575653150
INTEREST LEVEL: 3
ILLUSTRATOR: Amy Wummer
PAGES: 94
This mystery is a Milo and Jazz mystery written for the early chapter book reader. At the Fourth of July fair there seems to be
all kinds of things going wrong. The music for the ballet dancers was sabotaged, the animals got loose, hot peppers in the fireworks
box and more. There seemed to accidents and many believed the big boys, Zoo Crew were behind the pranks. Milo and Jazz do
some investigating and find out that Winston was behind the pranks so he could distract everyone while he stole the winning pie
from the pie contest so he could win.
This story was simply written yet had an interestingly complicated plot.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Moore, Cathy
TITLE: Escape from Slavery
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Millbrook @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9780761358756
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Mark Braught
PAGES: 48
Ellen Craft is a slave. She and her husband decide she can pass for a white man, escape to freedom in Philadelphia and send for Mr. Craft later. With
several close calls she is able to make it. This book is based on true events. There really was an Ellen and William Craft. The script for readers
theater in the back of the book gives this book more value and importance. Some illustrations are better than others. There are 5 other titles in this
series called History Speaks.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Nesbit, E.
TITLE: The Phoenix and the Carpet
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Looking Glass Library
PRICE: $ 10.99
ISBN: 9780375867187
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-8
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 307
Four British children acquire a carpet, which when rolled out reveals an egg. The Phoenix hatches from the ancient egg that the children found
wrapped in the carpet. The Phoenix talks and reveals that the carpet is magic. The vain and ancient bird goes along with the children in a series of
adventures through time and space. The children were allowed to have 3 wishes per day from the magic carpet. First wish finds the children traveling to foreig
countries. Some of the adventures are finding a suitable husband for their ornery cook to accidentally setting a theater on fire. The four children find
out they have a lot to learn about the power of getting what you wish for.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Ness, Patrick
TITLE: Monsters of Men
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press
PRICE: $ 18.99
ISBN: 9780763647513
INTEREST LEVEL: 7 -9
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 603
This book deals with weighty issues of love, loyalty, trust, communication, and information. Ness also deals with relationships between parents and
their children, leaders and followers, and the responsibilities associated with all of these roles. Then there is the question of redemption…can people
go beyond the point of redemption? The story focuses onto Todd and Viola, Mayor Prentiss and Mistress Coyle, and the Sky and the Return. Todd and Viola fa
monstrous decisions.
The fate of the world is in their hands. The consequences of each action, and each word are vast. Do they follow tyrant or terrorist, save the one you
love or thousands that you do not know? Since I have not read The Ask and The Answer, it was somewhat difficult to follow Monsters of Men. I did
find this book to be fast paced with a number complex adventures that kept the pages turning.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Noonan, Diana
TITLE: Collecting Data in Animal Investigations
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429652377
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Fourth graders investigating wildlife in their city park, making bar graphs and diagram might consider this a math or science book. The series states
Real World Math so I will have to go with the former. This is tool for students to learn about math and science. Mr. Martin’s class studies
chipmunks, dragonflies, sparrows, beer, ducks, and rabbits. Presentation, layout and photos are eye endearing. There are 8 books in this set.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Numeroff, Laura
TITLE: If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper Collins, 1985
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-024586-3
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Felicia Bond
PAGES: 32
Happy 25th Birthday! Our kids still love Felicia’s mouse and the Laura’s cause and effect tale.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
O’Connell, Rebecca
TITLE: The Baby Goes Beep
RATING: A
24
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman & Com., 2003
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-8075-0508-3
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-toddler
ILLUSTRATOR: Ken Wilson-Max
PAGES: 14
This simple board book is great for your infants. I loved the sound effects that you make for what the baby does. I can see this as a great way to
focus a toddler’s attention and teach the beginnings of music and sound even motion. The artistic way that the fonts are displayed gives the baby that
sound to written word connection. This book is a great addition to an infant library.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
O’Connor, Jane
TITLE: Fancy Nancy and the fabulous fashion boutique
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780061235924
INTEREST LEVEL: 2-3
ILLUSTRATOR: Robin Preiss Glasser
PAGES: <30>
While shopping for a birthday present of a pirate patch she spies a fan she wants to own. So, she has a boutique sale of her extra costumes
and accessories. She sells many items and earns enough for the fan, but alas her sister wants one of her necklaces, but has no money. Nancy sells the jewels to
neighbor girls and decides to get it back for her sister’s present. Fancy Nancy is a good big sister to Jo Jo
and a happy ending is evitable when she gets her fan.
One of the best Fancy Nancy stories yet where there is a wonderful message for kids.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Orloff, Karen Kaufman
TITLE: I Wanna New Room
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-399-25405-5
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Catrow, David
PAGES: 32
Alex is at it again in this companion book to I Wanna Iguana. He attempts to convince his parents that he needs and deserves his own room. He does
this through a series of letters and notes to his dad and mom. They respond to each one and his signature usually has something to do with his
particular argument in that letter. This is a fun book and would be great for introducing voice, as well as, persuasive letter writing. The illustrations
are fun and tie in with each letter. Adults and children alike will enjoy this amusing book!
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Paulsen, Gary
TITLE: Masters of Disaster
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Wendy Lamb Books
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780385739979
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-8
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 102
MHenry Mosley has a plan and he is including his two best friends, Riley and Reed. Henry feels that their lives are incredibly boring and promises
to change all that by planning a series of tasks that “Prove Our Manhood and show What We’re Made of”. He also feels that if the plans are
successful, they will “Alter the Course of History and Impress Girls and Get Them to Notice us”. The adventures begin that will change their lives
or make them a little less boring. One of their adventures is making a world record by doing airborne somersaults on a bike from the third story of
a neighbor’s house into the pool below. Reed is the chosen one to accomplish this and in the end he is covered up in used diapers. Other adventures
are going through dumpsters, solving 100-year-old mysteries, and being rugged cowboys on a ranch. None of their plans turns out as the boys
anticipated. Who knew there would be tigers in the forest or dumpster sludge could ignite? Despite these failures, the boys stick to their main
objective. Henry is true and noble in getting the boys noticed by girls. Riley is always ready to document their adventures to bolster their reputation. Reed nev
to end up covered by poop, sludge, or grime continues to be the one to show is fearlessness. Does the plan work, or will they be living dull lives
forever? This book is about boys having fun and getting messy in the process. This could inspire boys and girls to get out and have some fun and
explore what is out there in this big world.
REVIEWER: Lonni Tegelberg, Cascade Middle School, Longview, WA
Pinkney, Jerry
TITLE: Three Little Kittens
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books/Penguin Group  2010
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 978-0-8037-3533-0
INTEREST LEVEL: K – 2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Same
PAGES: UNP
Pinkney takes the classic nursery rhyme and adds his beautifully detailed graphite, color pencil and watercolor illustrations to it to make the tale truly
come alive. His interpretations give Mother Cat and her kittens a human feel, with fully expressive faces and actions. This would be a great read
aloud to younger age listeners. The music, with words, is written on the inside of the jacket cover.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Potter, Ellen
TITLE: The Kneebone Boy
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Feiwel and Friends, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-312-37772-4
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 6+
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 280
The three Hardscrabble children are weird. Living in a boring town in England with their father, the children are often sent to be watched by others
as their father flies to all corners of the world to paint portraits of royalty. Their mother has disappeared and no one knows where, how, or why.
However, this time the children begin an adventure that ends in a seaside village called Snoring-by the-Sea where legend has it that a monstrous
creature lives who is half boy and half animal. The children eventually find their mother who in our reality no longer exists; she has mental health
problems and sees herself as a Sultan. The story itself is well-written and often humorous even though it is bordering on a subject that is on the edge
for young readers. I definitely would not recommend this for elementary.
Reviewer:
Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
25
Quimby, Laura
TITLE: The Carnival of Lost Souls
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Amulet @ 2010
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9780810989801
INTEREST LEVEL: 6th-12th
ILLUSTRATOR: Maria Middleton
PAGES: 345
Jack has been in many foster homes during his young life so when he arrives at Professor Hawthorne’s he thinks he has died and gone to heaven. The
professor has a mysterious agenda of his own that he has been trying to resolve for more thank 50 years. Jack is the Professor’s solution. The solution
is a place between heaven and hell where living dwell with the dead. Purgatory, you say! Absolutely correct, as the author confirms in the epilogue.
This is not a story to love. The characters are gloomy. The idea of performing shows for a dead audience is depressing. The evil Mussini is surely a
dead relative of Mussolini. The pacing is good. I felt as though the author kept the story moving but it could have benefitted from some light hearted
moments.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Raczka, Bob
TITLE: Before they were famous
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Millbrook Press @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9780761360773
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-8th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Artist and author Bob Raczka developed an awesome idea for a book when he saw a painting by 8-year-old Pablo Picasso. The author included the
early art work of Paul Klee, Michelangelo, Albrecht Durer, John Singer Sergeant, Salvador Dali and Artemisia Gentileschi. Artemisia became an
artist in an era when women were not encouraged to choose painting as an occupation. It was probably unthinkable that a woman could possibly
have a s much talent as a man. A fifth grade teacher at one of my school is an art lover. I am going to give this book to her for her classroom library.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Ransom, Candice
TITLE: The lifesaving adventures of Sam Deal
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Lerner @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9780761361770
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Zachary Trover
PAGES: 32
This graphic historical fiction novel presents an important event in shipwreck history. The event happens in North Carolina 1896. The E.S. Newman
is in danger of a disaster that would kill all aboard. Thank goodness former slave Richard Etheridge and his African American team are there to save
the ship. Fictitious Sam Deal, along with his horse, Ginger, fulfills his dream of working with these courageous black men who were not accepted to
work with the white surf-men. Nearly one hundred years later Mr. Etheridge and his team were awarded the Medal of Honor for saving the E.S.
Newman’s passengers and crew. There are six titles in this series. The series is called History’s Kid Heroes. The illustrations capture the excitement.
The text is easy to read.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Rissman, Rebecca
TITLE: Earth Day
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Capstone Global Library, 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 978-1-4329-4057-7
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-k-1st
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 24
Holidays and Festivals are important to teach our students and I like the simplicity of this non-fiction book. Each page has one picture that relates to
the single sentence that is under the picture. The pictures are large and easy to interpret. The text is simple and concrete to describe Earth Day and
its importance to our lives. It discussed how to celebrate Earth Day and emphasized the reason we have Earth Day. This is an easy book to
understand and makes explaining an abstract concept to young children just a little easier.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Rumford, James
TITLE: Rain School
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children ©2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780547243078
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 30
Mr. Rumford brings his experience teaching in Chad to this inspirational book. The students arrive on the first day to learn that their initial lesson is
to build their school. They make mud bricks for the walls and gather grass and saplings for the roof. Once the school is built the students can begin
learning reading and math. At the end of the school year, the rainy season begins and the rain washes their school away. This book highlights the
amazing dedication to education that is needed in Chad. The text is minimal, but effective. Illustrations, also by Mr. Rumford, are rich with color and
movement. I can’t wait to read this book to our students!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Salas, Laura Purdie
TITLE: J is for jingle
RATING:
PUBLISHER: Capstone Books, New York, NY © 2011
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781429644631
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3
DESIGNER: Juiette Peters
PAGES: 32
This is a wonderful alphabet book that covers all aspects of this holiday season, from "G" is for giving, to "U" is for unwrap. Each page is colorful
photograph or period picture, such as the page where the old-fashioned picture shows a Victorian era boy greeting Kris Kringle (K). The text is set in
boxes on the pages. There is much to learned from this lovely book; Jingle Bells (J) was written in 1857, originally called "The One Horse Open
Sleigh." I read this to my first and second graders and they loved it! Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Mint Valley Elementary
Salzmann, Mary
TITLE: Money for Food
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Magic Wagon @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781616410292
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 24
26
Money math classrooms will enjoy this book about spending and saving money. Adam tries to make good choices every time his parents give him
money to spend on food. Adam’s focus is to save money at the same time he is spending it. He made his goal of a $6.50 sundae. The teacher and
classroom can follow all this with document reader and projector. Paper and pencil could be used also.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Savage, Jeff
TITLE: Brett Favre
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publications Company, 2011
PRICE: $
ISBN: 978761366515
INTEREST LEVEL: 4-6
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
Brett Favre, age 40 in 2009 had his best statistical season. Playing for the Minnesota Vikings in 2009, this was his 3 rd pro team his played for. At age 23 by th
he was the youngest quarterback ever chosen. Born in 1969 in Mississippi, his dad a football coach and his mom a teacher, he knew at a young age he wanted to
football. Sitting on the bench was his first experience with college football, but later he became a quarterback and made a name for himself as a legend. Brett F
always slated as the goof ball of the team playing tricks on his teammates.
I appreciated how easy this biography was to read. Students can relate to this football player today.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Schade, Susan, Jon Buller
TITLE: The Noisy Counting Book
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, 1987
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-85937-3
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 22
Yes, they made “The Noisy Counting Book” into a board book. The little boy goes down to the pond to fish and the animals one by one begin to
make noise until the little boy has had it and yells “QUIET.” All is serene until the frog begins his “Ga-Dunk!” It is still relevant and the board book
is better for those younger children.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Scheunemann, Pam
TITLE: Cool Jobs for Young Entertainers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781616131999
INTEREST LEVEL: 3RD-8TH
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
The entrepreneurs in the reading audience will enjoy this nonfiction book. An event will be easy to plan if readers follow the step by step advice and
considerations. A serious consideration is how much money the reader and his friends have to spend on an event. The second consideration is how
much to charge for admission. A haunted house, backyard carnival and a play are highlighted in this book. Ending advice includes plenty of
planning, politeness, dependability and evaluation after the event. Layout and presentation are excellent.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Schuette, Sarah L.
TITLE: Animal Everywhere A Spot-It Challenge
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone Press, 2011
PRICE: $4.99
ISBN: 978-1-4296-4461-7
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Karon Dubke
PAGES: 32
Animal toys are photographed and you are on a mission to find the hidden objects. The objects are not as small as the traditional I Spy photos and
are better for younger children. The “Can you Spot..” language is simple and very easy for a beginning reader to understand. My three year old was
able to find the objects with a little difficulty and it was great for the older kids to read and work on this together. The photos are clear and really fun.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Schutz, Samantha
TITLE: You Are Not Here
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Push, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-545-16911-0
INTEREST LEVEL: 10 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 292
Thank Goodness Annaleah finally recognizes Brian for the player he is and finally lets go of his memory—otherwise this could have been hundreds
of pages longer and equally as painful. Everyone in her circle of friends recognizes the signs of someone who is not as serious about their friend as
she is about him. Sightings of Brian and a blonde girl are explained away while Annaleah sits by the phone waiting for his call. He is her first
lover—except for the “love.” Everyone reading the free verse rant comes to realize that Annaleah is a bootie call, so when Brian suddenly dies of a
heart anomaly, it would have been nice to see her feelings buried and laid to rest with his corpse. Alas, that is not to be, and finally, after 200 pages
of moping, blowing off friends, and being a slug, Annaleah FINALLY begins to start her life over again. Is it an accurate portrayal of grief? Perhaps.
But, truth be told, I’m not sure I want an accurate portrayal of the process by which my hamburger sandwich comes into being, either. If your
collection lacks expensive free verse volumes, this might be worth the investment. Otherwise, there are titles that will be far more illustrative or
uplifting.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Sfar, Joann
TITLE: The Little Prince
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: HMH books, 2010
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN: 9780547338026
INTEREST LEVEL: 6-12
ILLISTRATOR: Joann Sfar
PAGES: 110
A classic tale long revered by both adults and children, this adaptation of Saint-Exupery’s The Little Prince manages to both stay true to the spirit of
the original and yet present the reader with a new take on this wonderful story. Sfar is internationally known for his illustrations and produced this
adaptation with the blessings of the Saint-Exupery family. The nuanced graphic format should be appreciated by a new generation of readers who
perhaps have not been exposed to this magical story.
Reviewer: Cody Walke, Kelso High School
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TITLE: What’s the difference between a Dolphin and a Porpoise
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Picture Window Books @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781404855458
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Bandelin-Dacey
PAGES: 32
Dolphins and whales are popular among elementary school children so the porpoise often gets neglected. The large font, interesting text and
dramatic illustrations draw the reader into the book immediately. Porpoises probably receive less publicity because they do not respond to human like
dolphins do. Porpoises are hard to train. Porpoises do not jump out of the water or move their necks back and forth. The illustrations draw the
reader into the text quickly. I hope this is going to be a series about mammals.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Shores, Lori
TITLE: How to Build a Fuzzy Rocket
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Capstone @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781429644914
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 24
I read this nonfiction science picture book to a third grade class and they enjoyed every word. At least one student wanted to check it out. The entire
book is devoted to this one experiment so it might be considered expensive. However, I believe working with an adult on this step-by-step project
with huge photos to demonstrate could be time well-spent. It’s a good example of using reading shills in a positive way.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Shulman, Mark
TITLE: Scrawl
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Roaring Book Press, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-1-59643-417-2
INTEREST LEVEL: 7 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 230
I used to think the term “multiculturalism” had to do strictly with ethnicity. Imagine my surprise to discover that it really has to do with the many
different cultures. In fact, it encompasses ethnicity, social class, gender, religion. Given that much more expansive definition, Scrawl, has a place in a
multicultural collection. Tod Munn understands poverty. In fact, it’s one of his main reasons for shaking down rich kid:s so that the free lunch card
that he gets—which doesn’t provide enough food to fill him up—can be augmented. Alas, he and his “droogs” (he eschews the word “gang” because
of the connotations) have been caught, and their sentences meted out. Rob and Rex will be raking leaves and doing various landscaping jobs for the
school. Tod will be in the Guidance Office writing a journal. His guidance counselor, Mrs. Woodrow, will be reading and, sometimes, responding to
his journal in which he explains what has lead up to his life of crime. Tod’s journal becomes an outpouring of honest self-analysis that also includes
an indictment of a school system that has discounted his intelligence as well as a game rigged to support the students who fit society’s mold. As Tod
becomes entranced with Luz, a talented young woman, we begin to see his “life of crime” changing. We also get the opportunity to see an advocate
who truly makes a difference with a disenfranchised young man. Readers will soon find themselves hoping that young Tod will succeed in spite of
the system that seems to be setting him up. This is a great book for boys—though not quite as gansta as some of them might hope.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Sidman, Joyce
TITLE: Dark Emperor & other poems of the night
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2010 PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-547-15228-8
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Rick Allen
PAGES: 32
Dark Emperor combines sensory filled poems with factual information about the night and its inhabitants. From the owl to the snail, from the
primrose moth to the oak tree, from the porcupette to the red eft, the creatures of the night are explored through poetry. Additional notes on the side
include characteristics of nocturnal creatures, special adaptations that they have to survive and their camouflage for the daytime. This volume is a
wealth of information on the subject. The illustrations are done with relief printing and create a visual representation that perfectly compliments the
text. Includes a glossary of pertinent terms. This would make a great science unit starter or could be used for a great example of poetry in a language
unit. I would highly recommend it!
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Slade, Suzanne
TITLE: What If There Were No Grey Wolves?
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Picture Window @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781404860209
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Carol Schwartz
PAGES: 24
This didn’t work as a great read aloud. I do see it as interesting to a student reading on his own or a parent reading it to a student. This nonfiction
book is about the “temperate forest ecosystem.” The text describes how each animal plays a critical role. If even one animal is left out of the web, it
can be devastating for all living things. Illustrations are life-like.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Smith, Cynthia
TITLE: Holler Loudly
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780525422563
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Barry Gott
PAGES: UNP
Holler Loudly is an exceptionally loud baby. He scares armadillos and turkey vultures at school and at the movies his booming voice makes everyone
unhappy. No one can enjoy the state fair or the barbershop quartet with Holler around. It’s not until a determined tornado heads towards town that
Holler proves his voice can be helpful. Students, who are loud, can learn there is a time to be loud and a time to be quiet. Barry Gott’s illustrations
add to the fun.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Shaskan, Trisha Speed
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Sobol, Donald J.
TITLE: Encyclopedia Brown and the Case of the Secret UFOs
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton Children’s Books, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42210-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Bernardin, James
PAGES: 84
As a kid, I loved my Encyclopedia Brown books, and I would love to get my students intrigued, as well. Leroy Brown, aka Encyclopedia, is a wellknown sleuth in his hometown of Idaville. He charges 25 cents a case and uses his knowledge to help solve the mysteries that come up. His father is
Chief of Police and he often brings cases to the dinner table, as well. In this book, Encyclopedia is presented with several cases. He asks only a few
questions before he has the answer. Each case lasts a few pages and then Encyclopedia’s solution is found at the back of the book. These are great
stories and after just reading a few, the reader begins to look for clues in each case to see if he/she can solve it before Encyclopedia.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Spelman, Cornelia Maude
TITLE: When I Miss You
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman & Com., 2010
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-8075-8904-5
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-toddler
ILLUSTRATOR: Kathy Parkinson
PAGES: 14
This is a perfect book to share with young children who are missing their parent. Every Head Start and ECEAP classroom has these books in their
room. They are great for helping our children through the difficulty of being left at school and parents leaving. Our teacher love Ms. Spelman’s
books! This is a great addition for those in Early Head Start now that they are in board book!
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Standiford, Natalie
TITLE: Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic Press, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-545-10710-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 313
Well I was compelled to read this book from front to back, but after reading it I don’t know why. Was it relatable? Am I a young rich east coaster
that will one day be ushered out into society at a Debutant ball? Does my Grandmother have more money than God and want to throw my family out
of her will because she feels that she has been offended? Do my parents allow me to call them by their first name or some hip daddy-o reference?
No is the answer to all the above and yet I could not put the book down. The three-part confession that the three granddaughters write to their
grandmother is compelling and fascinating. It has no relevance and is a bit of fluff, but very fun and the three granddaughters are a bit dramatic
however they do reflect the pendulum that adolescents seem to represent.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Steinmetz, Karen
TITLE: The Mourning Wars
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Roaring Book Press 2010
PRICE: $18.99
ISBN: 9781596432901
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-10
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 223
Eunice Williams lives in a frontier village in Massachusetts. They are not allowed to go outside the stockade because the French armies and their
Indian allies have been raiding many of the villages. Eunice’s mother wakes her up in the middle of the night to say they are being taken captive.
They travel far into Canada. She loses her mother and is separated from the rest of her family. In time, she settles into a routine with a Mohawk tribe
and is befriended by Gaianniana, a girl her age. Eunice spends many summers learning the ways of the tribe and is waiting, in anticipation, to dance
with the women. She must choose her new life or to return to her father. She cannot live in both worlds. In the end she chooses love and life with
the Mohawk Tribe that has, also, embraced her.
Reviewer: Tina Campbell, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
Stephens, Sarah
TITLE: Ramble in the Rainforest
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Stone Arch @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781434219923
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Dan Schoening
PAGES: 32
Vocabulary in this book is not for the faint-hearted. The Global Environmental Conference is having a meeting. Princess Diana is an ambassador
from her island. (This might be confusing to adults but it is not our beloved and deceased Princess Diana.) Fazed, reputation, development, orbs,
water treatment plant, and vegetation are vocabulary words that might flummox the average or below average reader. The reading level is 4.5. I
interject this because some students might be fooled by other books that have a similar presentation but are an easier reading level. This is not a
graphic novel. The planet is saved in the end.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Supplee, Suzanne
TITLE: Somebody Everybody Listens To
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dutton Books, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-525-42242-6
INTEREST LEVEL: 9 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 245
Becoming a big star is as much an issue of talent as it is of luck. When Retta Lee leaves Starling, Tennessee for Nashville to pursue her dream of
becoming a country singer, she has a host of role models from Shania Twain to George Strait. She leaves behind parents whose marriage is cracking
at the foundations and a best friend who is working in the Starling hospital as she pursues her own goals of becoming a nurse. The fissures in Retta’s
parents’ measures finally are deep enough that Retta comes back from Nashville early and does some additional soul searching. Each chapter starts
with a brief biography of a country star who made it “big” and the chapters are titled after songs that the artist has sung. It’s a cute quirk. In spite of
obstacles and set-backs, Retta continues her dogged quest to be heard. Her path leads her to a variety of people—villains and saviors—all of whom
make this a story that is pleasantly realistic. There are no deep metaphors or symbols, but the book doesn’t need them. Like macaroni and cheese,
29
this is a book that can be enjoyed on a rainy day, but it probably isn’t going to appeal to everyone. Still, it’s worth having on the shelf.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
Thomas, Jean Monrad
TITLE: How Many Kisses Good Night?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, 2010
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 978-0-375-86146-8
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-per-k
ILLUSTRATOR: Laura J. Bryant
PAGES: 14
This board book is a perfect book for Mommies to pick up just before bed. The flaps in the book, however, are very hard to operate for little hands
so the adult reader will have to help. Laura makes the book complete with her illustrations of the baby and mommy being very tender. While this
book was originally published with different illustrations, the text is simple and the new illustrations are very current and make the book appear fresh
and appealing.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Thompson, Alicia
TITLE: The secret language of birthdays
RATING: Ad
PUBLISHER: razorbiill, 2010
PRICE: 19.99
ISBN: 9781595142320
INTEREST LVL: Gr 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: drawings
PAGES: 404
No changes in the astrological calendar in this fun book. It will appeal to the younger set; more in-depth and less cute versions being preferred by
upperclassmen. Of course, I had to look up my birthday and noticed a distinct younger feel for my friend match and love match. Then, I have “more
energy that a red bull,” so there you go! Each sign has two introduction pages (I am radiant and powerful) with the range of dates for that sign,
element and ruler. I am not too happy that I can easily become a dictator, but happy that I can hone that into positive leadership and a determination
to win! I am woman let me roar. (Leo)
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian, Robert A. Long High School http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
Thompson, Kate
TITLE: Most Wanted
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow/HarperCollins  2010
PRICE: $ 15.99
ISBN: 978-0-06-173037-5
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd – 5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Jonny Duddle
PAGES: 136
Marcus, the baker’s son, is just minding his own business doing his daily chores one day when a young man thrusts the reins of a magnificent horse
in his hands and runs off. Marcus lives in Rome and the ruling Emperor is crazy, crazy enough to appoint a horse to be one of the two most powerful
officials right below the Emperor himself. When Marcus realizes that he is holding the reins of the so appointed Consul Incitatus, he scrambles at
what to do. Of course, he heads home with the horse, which if discovered, could mean death to his entire family. Told as a narrative with background
details loosely based on Caligula who was emperor of Rome between AD 37 and 41, this story is a quick read with accompanying cartoon-style line
drawings. I was a little surprised at some of the more violent details included considering the brevity of text (and large type-style) and many
illustrations made it at first glance seem more geared toward lower grade level readers. Also, the jacket cover illustration and the inside illustrations
were in total contrast with each other. I originally picked the book up, drawn by the life-like illustration on the jacket. I expected inside illustrations,
if any, to be of the same style, but was disappointed with the caricature-like drawings.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Tieck, Sarah
TITLE: Justin Bieber
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: ABDO @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781616139742
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 32
If Justin Bieber remains popular for many years, this book will be a good investment for an elementary school library. This gives a bare-bones
biography of the young Bieber. Large font and photos make this book desirable to a wide range of readers. For those who want to know more, Justin
Bieber, the ABDO website is recommended.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Trafton, Jennifer
TITLE: Mount Majestic
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780803733756
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Brett Helquist
PAGES: 339
How awesome for newcomer Jennifer Trafton to have Series of Unfortunate Events artist Brett Helquist illustrate this chapter book! Persimmony is
bored by her life on the island so when she has a chance to wander away she takes it. New friend Worvil the Worrier tags along as they discover a
giant asleep. His body parts have become part of the island. What to do about the giant?
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Troupe, Thomas
TITLE: The Truth about Elves
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Picture Window @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781404860476
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Robert Squier
PAGES: 32
3rd, 4th and 5th grade students were captivated by this large illustrated and large font book that describes briefly the history of elves and then goes on
to tell about good and bad elves. Included are bits and pieces of their appearance and a sprinkle of their impact on literature. I hope this end s up to be
a series. The illustrations depict the text well.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Tuminelly, Nancy
TITLE: Cool Sandwich Food Art
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781616133665
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
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ILLUSTRATOR: Anders Hanson
PAGES: 32
I ran out of time to read this to a library class. I would have enjoyed seeing their reaction. Each sandwich in this nonfiction book has a theme like a
flower tuna boat, cat’s meowich, grilled cheese bugwich, hippo, racer and UFO. Each sandwich tells ingredients, tools and step-by-step directions.
Photos are obviously well-planned. Introductory information gets students ready for recipe vocabulary. What an exciting reason to read!
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Tuminelly, Nancy
TITLE: Super Simple Dinners
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781616133856
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 32
What an awesome book for beginning chefs! This is one in a series of six. The other series titles are Breakfasts, Lunches, Desserts, Holiday Treats
and Snacks. The information, layout and presentation are excellent. Cooking, Basics, Measuring Tips, Cooking Terms, Tools and Ingredients give
valuable lessons for students. The recipes are presented in step-by-step terms with exceptional photos. One of my elementary school libraries is low
income. I am excited to offer this on the library shelf in the cooking section.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Vanderpool, Clare
TITLE: Moon Over Manifest
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Delacorte Press 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780385738835
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 342
Abilene Tucker is sent to Manifest, Kansas by her father. She arrives feeling abandoned and disappointed. Manifest is a quirky, old, rundown town
with some interesting characters. Her first night at “Shady’s” she finds an old box containing some letters. The mystery begins. Abilene sets out to
get to know more of the citizens in order to hear the history of this old town. Miss Sadie, a recluse, sits and rocks on her front porch. Surely, she
would have stories to tell. Abilene uncovers many secrets in the first summer after she arrives, some that people don’t want uncovered. Most of all
she finds that her father is still alive and she must find a way to lure him to Manifest. “Moon Over Manifest” could have been written about many
small worn out towns; struggle for survival, sickness, love, and deceit.
Reviewer: Tina Campbell, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
Veitch, Catherine
TITLE: Legends of the Sea: Sea Monsters
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Raintree @ 2011
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781410937889
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Barbara McClintock
PAGES: 32
The cover of this book may be just a tad bit terrifying for some elementary school students. There are more photos and drawings inside that are not
for the faint-hearted. That being said, the text and font is geared toward reluctant readers. The clever thumb signal to determine whether a monster is
real, not real or not sure adds to the richness of the information. Bibliography, glossary, websites and index add to the value of this book. Layout
and presentation are carefully produced but not without some squeamish moments from the overly sensitive library crowd.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Vernon, Ursula
TITLE: Dragonbreath: Curse of the were-wiener
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Dial @ 2010
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780525422457
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Ursula Vernon
PAGES: 204
Danny Dragon and Wendell the Iguana are best friends. One day while beginning their lunch in the school cafeteria, Wendell believes he has been
bitten by a hot dog. When hair starts to grow on his back there is no doubt Wendell has been bitten by a hot dog. Detective work begins as they must
find the culprit hot dogs and destroy them. Wendell and Danny travel to Transylvania to get to the truth. They learn potato salad is a hot dog’s worst
enemy and enlist its help. The craziness is sometimes hard to follow but may appeal to reluctant readers. Illustrations go with the text.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Vogel, Julia
TITLE: What are food chains and food webs?
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: ABDO Group, 2011
PRICE: $ 19.95
ISBN: 9781602707962
INTEREST LEVEL:
ILLUSTRATOR: Hazel Adams
PAGES: 32
This book is very interesting, yet I am not so sure elementary students are clamoring for this title. Teachers teaching food chains and food webs would find this
information helpful. The facts are clear and presented in a simple manner.
A food chain shows who eats what and how plants and animals need each other to survive. Plants are the first link in a food chain and this book displays plants
a cycle. People are included in many food chains.
Included in the book is a contents, an index, and words to know.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Warner, Sally
TITLE: Happily Ever Emma
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Viking ©2010
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN: 9780670010844
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Harper, Jamie
PAGES: 109
In this latest edition of Emma, the eight year old has to cope with the idea that her mother is dating. She feels jealous and lonely and of course makes
choices that get her into difficulty. Emma has some personality flaws that help make the story humorous, but aren’t a very good example for our
students. The book is written with humor and is an easy read. All in all, I am sure that our young chapter book readers will enjoy Emma.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
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Watson, Jesse Joshua
TITLE: Hope for Haiti
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-399-25547-2
INTEREST LEVEL: K-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Watson, Jesse Joshua
PAGES: 32
This book made me cry. Told from the perspective of a young boy, it tells the tale of the massive earthquake that devastated Haiti. It did not,
however, take away all hope. Hope for the future. The boy is living in a make-shift neighborhood in the soccer stadium. A group of children begin to
play a game of soccer with a rag ball when a woman comes along and scolds them that they should not be laughing or having fun. A nearby man
acknowledges the woman’s sorrow, but he also understands the power of the game. He tells the children of watching soccer great, Manno Sanon,
play in that very stadium, telling them that Manno was just a city kid like them. The rag ball doesn’t hold up very well, and before too long the man
has returned with a real ball. This one has a signature on it: Manno Sanon. The young boy tells the man that he can’t give the ball away because of
the famous signature. The man’s answer is, “We can let go of the past. Right now we need to think about the future. And the future is you.” The
children hug and thank the man. In turn, he thanks them for reminding him why there is hope for Haiti. The children continue to play and begin to
dream again. The author and illustrator of this book lives in Port Townsend, Washington and with the purchase of this book a donation is made to
Save the Children’s Haiti Emergency Relief Fund. It is a very inspiring book and one you are sure to want in your collection!
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Wells, Rosemary
TITLE: Max & Ruby’s Bedtime Book
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978-0-670-01141-4
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 44
Grandma tells three stories to her grandchildren right before bedtime. Of course one is never enough and Grandma tells the story for when she came
to play restaurant at Ruby’s house and Max served her mud mousse. The other story was when Max saved Dagmar’s life at the lake in which Ruby
and Louise squeezed all the water out of him and let him dry in the sun. In the last story Max spent the entire day in his airplane with a friend. He
went to school in his airplane and came home without ever getting out of his airplane. The stories fit consistently with the Ruby and Max characters
and the illustrations are so cute. I love reading Ruby and Max to my pre-schoolers and they love these stories. Ruby and Max are sweet and funny
and show great social interaction between characters.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Williams, C.K.
TITLE: A Not Scary Story About Big Scary Things
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harcourt Children’s Books, 2010
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 978-0-15-205466-3
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Gabi Swiatkowska
PAGES: 29
If you don’t believe in monsters are they real? Growing up monsters were under the bed and in the closet, but what if you don’t believe in monsters?
What happens to them? This book takes you on the tale of a little boy who walks through a forest that contains bears, wolves, snakes, and one
monster. However, this little boy was not afraid. Why?...because monsters are not real why else. I read and reread this story to my children and they
loved it so much that we had to read it every night for a week. The surprise at the end tickles my daughter and son to their funny bone. So whenever
my son says that he does not want to enter a room without the light on because there is a monster in there we all say, “No one said that you could
keep him.” This makes him feel a little better and my daughter says, “Oh, that is where he went silly monster.” The illustrations lend themselves to
be a little scary, but they are just enough that make them interesting. It is a perfect blend of the unexpected and fits remarkably to the text. Some
pages look as if they were painted right over newspaper and wallpaper with a little bit of paper-Mache. I hope to see this illustrator some more. This
combination almost gives you the sense that you could be reading a Neil Gaiman.
Reviewer: Tyra Smith, Head Start/ECEAP
Willis, Jeanne
TITLE: That’s Not Funny!
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Andresen Press @ 2010
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9780761364450
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Adrian Reynolds
PAGES: UNP
Practical joker Hyena thinks it would be hilarious to leave a banana peel in Giraffe’s path which begins a chain reaction of events among the jungle
animals. Hyena laughs his way through each new embarrassment. However, what goes around comes around. Hyena gets his comeuppance in a most
humorous way – by landing in “elephant’s poo.” Now all the other animals have an opportunity to roar with laughter. Primary students might have
enjoyed this more if they knew the term “laughing hyena”. Perhaps, a nonfiction hyena book could be read before this. The illustrations are just right
for primary eyes – large and vibrant.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Wood, Audrey
TITLE: Piggy Pie Po
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin  2010
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 978-0-15-202494-9
INTEREST LEVEL: K – 2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Audrey/Dan Wood
PAGES: UNP
‘Piggy Pie Po likes to dance, when he wears his party pants’ – this is a brief, large text rhyming book of fun that youngster will get a belly laugh out
of. The three short stories about Piggy Pie Po’s exploits along with the brightly active acrylic illustrations will surely have young listeners howling!
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
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Woolston, Blythe
TITLE: The Freak Observer
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Lab, 2010
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 978-0-7613-6212-8
INTEREST LEVEL: 9 - 12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 201
Reading the dust jacket of this book might give you delusions of the grandeur within. Before you succumb to the siren song, take a look at the
authors who reviewed and commented on the book. If there is such a thing as a literary artiste, these would be the commentators—which explains
why they would love it, and I would be skeptical of the great appeal this book might have. Our main character, Loa, is a loner who has survived
tragedy twice—the loss of her little sister, Asta, to a genetic disease, and her friend, Esther, to a freak accident (getting hit by a logging truck). Part of
Loa’s isolation is her determination to take classes that are going to allow her to escape her small town and go to college (she dreams of Santa Cruz).
Each chapter is drawn from a problem in her Physics teacher’s extra credit jar and is a telling—although not necessarily in chronological order—of
her experiences. By the end of the book, she comes to the conclusion that maybe she has been filtering things through a faulty lens of perception—
and that is probably the greatest message of the book. I think I might have liked it better if the self-discovery had been a little more gradual—it
certainly would have made her voice a little less cynical and a little more endearing. Still, for the students who feel lonely and unloved, this might be
worth reading.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://ihatetoread.blogspot.com
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