A book about Cerebal Palsy

Petey

By: Ben Mikaelsen

Genre: Juvenile Historical Fiction

Pages: 256

Published: 2000

Read:  July

4 out of 5

1920 – A boy, Petey, was born with Cerebal Palsy and raised in a mental institution because they thought he was an idiot. . He did learn to communicate by nodding his head and making certain sounds. The story is about how he befriended several staff members, a special fellow resident, and a little boy.

            My daughter recommended it to me when she read it in junior high school.  I thought it was good, but sadder than I expected. I liked that it followed the boy’s entire life and not just a portion. It is definitely a circle of life story.

a Bit Disappointing

Ghost

By: Jason Reynolds

Genre: Juvenile Realistic Fiction

Pages: 192

Published: 2016

Read:  July

3 out of 5

This book definitely had some great qualities and taught some valuable lessons. However, I do feel the story was unrealistic and sugar coated. For instance, the coach never told Ghost’s mother about getting in trouble – some which were very big instances. As a mother, I would be beyond upset and this aspect was never addressed. In real life, I also don’t believe he would have gotten off so easily with stealing an expensive pair of shoes.  I feel the book, Holes by Louis Sacher, taught the life lessons much better. I am very surprised to see this novel as one of the 100 books on The Great American Read.

An true inspiring story

Fish in a Tree

By: Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Genre: Juvenile Fiction

Pages: 288

Published: 2015

Read: February

5 out of 5

This realistic fiction book was based off the author’s own experience through her elementary and middle school years. It is a hopeful and amazing story all kids and adults alike should read, especially those that struggle with learning or parents of such learners.  It is inspiring to hear a child finally having a teacher that understood and took her under his wings to assist her. He not only taught her how to read with her dyslexia, but also her self-esteem.  Ever student needs a teacher that truly cares and encourages them to be the best they can be! I was grateful to have such a teacher myself even though it wasn’t until high school. He helped me more than words can say.

Middle schoolers and sex - not a good mix

Orbiting Jupiter

By: Gary D. Schmidt

Genre: Juvenile Fiction

Pages: 192

Published: 2015

Read: February

3.5 out of 5

I have mixed feelings about this book. It is a well-written powerful story, but I feel that the characters should have been in high school and the book geared towards the older teens. I understand that middle schoolers may be sexually active and could possibly parent a child, however it is way more common for high school teens. However, maybe that was Schmidt’s point – too many adults don’t realize that teens are becoming sexually active at younger ages – authors need to write books to warn them on the difficulty’s they may face. Anyone who reads this book should be aware it is depressing and although it ends on a hopeful note there is a lot of tragic events throughout entire novel.  As a teen librarian, I am not sure to whom I recommend it.  

A book for young middle schoolers on transgender identity

George

By: Alex Gino

Genre: Juvenile Realistic Fiction

Pages: 240

Published: 2015

Read: November

4 out of 5

This book covers an important, but controversial topic. The truth is that books covering touchy subjects, such as homosexuality and transgender, DO need to be written for the young ages.  

I am not one for censoring what kids read, however this one may cover a subject that some kids (grades 3-6) have never heard of or thought was possible - feeling trapped in the wrong gender's body. As a parent, I would allow my 9 year old to read, but would want to be aware he is reading it. This is so we could discuss together and I could answer any questions he may have. Unfortunately, the cover of the book is so dang cute a parent may not even consider that the book would cover a difficult subject.

This book is very well written and age appropriate - Booklist Starred review. I believe its a great one for libraries to own. However I felt the only downfall was that the premise involves a drama production. This was too cliche for me. I prefer when authors avoid stereotypes. 

A Wonderland for boys and girls alike!!

Circus Mirandus

By: Cassie Beasley

Genre: Juvenile fantasy

Pages: 304

Published: 2015

Read: August

4 out of 5

This reminded of a circus version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - what a WONDERLAND for boys and girls alike. As an adult reading the book, it reinforced how important it is to stay in touch with your own imagination and encourage others to do the same. It can be a POWERFUL thing.  Beasley not only draws out your imagination, but creates friends for you in the characters. Enter the circus and meet an elephant who does math or what about an invisible tiger - just let your imagination guide you. Micah along with his dying grandpa believe even if others in their lives feel differently. Do you?

I'm hoping Beasley will take us on another journey to Circus Mirandus again soon.

My favorite childhood book

Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret

By: Judy Blume

Genre: Juvenile fiction

Pages: 149

Published: 1986

Audiobook: 3 cd’s (3 hours 9 mins)

Read: February

5 out of 5

This is my all-time favorite pre-teen book. I read it at least 11 times in two years! I guess you could say I was a little obsessed with getting boobs, my period, and boys. I will never forget “We must, we must increase our bust” and will even admit to practicing a times. This was my first time reading it as an adult and I did enjoy the audio version. I also discovered that the story itself involved more than just Margaret’s physically growing up. Margaret struggles with her religious views because she was raised with no beliefs since her parents have different backgrounds. I did not remember this at all. This book will always hold fond memories for me.  

Entertaining and Musical...

The Secret Life of Ms. Finkleman

By: Ben H. Winters

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 256

Published: 2010

Read: January

4 out of 5

This was a cute story about a special homework assignment, a secret in a teacher’s past, and a school music competition. This book has just enough angles in it to interest both boys and girls – especially those into music and mystery solving. The music aspect references some popular bands and songs, however they may not be familiar to the age appropriate with reading it. This would be a great step up for the kids that enjoy A to Z Mysteries by Ron Roy or The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osbourne. I recommend this book to 3^rd to 6^th graders. 

A great book club choice for kids

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

By: Kate DiCamillo

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 233

Published: 2013

Read: December

4 out of 5

I read this book because it was suggested on a website as a great selection for a YA book club. I feel it is too young for teens, but would be perfect for a kid’s book club. DiCamillo is also the author of the very popular book and movie, Because of Winn Dixie. Both books are a must read for kids, for boys and girls, of all ages. It was very funny and the pictures were great. Ulysses, the squirrel, was named after the vacuum cleaner that sucked him up. After being saved by Flora it was discovered that he had special powers all because of the vacuum. Flora has a great imagination and brings the story to life. 

A Newbery Award Winning Book

Walk Two Moons

By: Sharon Creech

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 280

Published: 1996

Read: November

4 out of 5

Salamanca “Sal” Tree Hiddle travels with her grandparents from Ohio to Idaho to visit her mother’s grave. Throughout her journey, she learns a lot about herself, her mother, and her grandparents. It is a great coming-of-age story that teaches some important lessons applicable to everyone. What I liked about it most was that every age and gender can appreciate the story. My only criticism is that there is so much mystery and adventuristic tales it dilutes the realistic aspect of Sal’s stories. As a side note, my personal thoughts about Newbery Award winning books – I usually don’t like them. As a Teen Librarian, I also notice they just sit on the shelf and look awfully sad. Newberys are chosen by adults and the criteria is on the quality of writing, development of plot and symbolism. As long as age appropriate, the appeal to the audience is not a consideration. This is not a necessarily a bad thing, just usually means the books aren’t as popular with readers as one expects for an award winning book. Walk Two Moons is one of the few exceptions for me – not only does it have the required criteria it also has a very enjoyable story. If you want a more popular and entertaining award-winning book – check out the Rebecca Caudill award winners which is another award Walk Two Moons (along with several other Sharon Creech) has won..

Companion graphic novel to Smile

Sisters

By: Raina Telgemeier

Genre:  YA Graphic Novel

Pages: 208

Published: 2014

Read: October

4 out of 5

This is a companion graphic novel to Smile. They are both biographical in nature. This one is about her relationship with her younger sister. I really like the fact that she tells two stories in one. When her younger sister and brother were born and then when they were older and went on a three week road trip. This one was just as cute as Smile, if not more so, but I felt Smile was funnier. In the back of this one, she included actually photographs of her and her sisters. I would recommend this graphic novel to all middle school girls.

Another Neil Gaiman Audio

Odd and the Frost Giants

By: Neil Gaiman

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 104

Published: 2008

Audiobook: 2 discs (1 hour 30 mins)

Read: October

1 out of 5

I have learned that I either love or hate Gaiman's stories. The ones that are all fantasy I can't get into as much as I would like. My favorites of his are The Graveyard Book and The Ocean at the End of the Lane.  With that said, I listened to this one on my Ipod while cleaning my house, so I was a little distracted.  I continually drifted off and when I started paying attention again I was lost. This story just couldn't hold my interest.  I, personally, didn't care for the story, however I do recognize that Gaiman's storytelling is superb and particularly his narration of his books. I recommend this book to young children, age 7-12, especially boys and girls loving the fantasy genre.   

A great C.O.R.E. fiction novel

Navigating Early

By: Clare Vanderpool

Genre:  YA Historical Fiction

Pages: 306

Published: 2013

Audiobook: 6 discs (7 hours 30 mins)

Read: September

2.5 0ut of 5

I didn't hate this book, but was definitely bored. Almost immediately. However, I can see how others will enjoy this book; even my 8 year old son said he did. Maybe this is a book I should have read versus listened to.  There is, however, a great quality to this book - C.O.R.E. teaching tool.  It's an adventure with two boys seeking a great big bear and the answer to the big question of the mathematical solution of PI. I felt it focused mostly of discovering PI. Therefore, I believe this would be a fabulous book to teach in middle schools. It ties history, mathematics and reading together. Navigating Early would be a great alternative to the same old boring novels our parents used to read in school. I recommend reading the author's note first.

A scary mystery for children

Doll Bones

By: Holly Black

Genre:  Juvenile fiction/horror

Pages: 247

Published: 2013

Audiobook: 5 discs (5 hours and 12 mins)

Read: September

3 out of 5

                  

I have been listening to and reading a lot of children’s scary stories lately and really enjoyed this one. The reader is taken on an adventure with the three 12 year old children and The Queen, a doll stuffed with the cremated ashes of a little girl.  This story reminds me of a scary version of The Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Koningsburg. The children leave on an adventure without telling their parents and little money, sneak into a closed library, and the parents don’t seem to even notice or care (until the end). This story isn’t that scary, but focuses on the adventure the children take to seek the graveyard in order for the little girl whose ashes are in the doll, so the girl can finally be at rest. I recommend this book for children 10-14, who can handle a slightly freaky mystery. 

One of Gaiman's classics

Coraline

By: Neil Gaiman

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 162

Published: 2002

Audiobook: 3 discs (3 hours)

Read: August

3 0ut of 5

Gaiman has the gift of writing and a special talent of writing scary books for children. Sometimes I am surprised he can get away it. I definitely see this book as being too frightening for some younger children. The reader can definitely get hooked by this book. However, at one point near the end Coraline wakes up from her dream/nightmare and I felt that should have been the end of story. I completely lost interest after that. I do love the way Gaiman has of encouraging all his readers to get in touch with their vivid imagination. I am going to watch the movie now and see if it changes my view on the ending of this unique story. 

Not Scary...

Scary Stories: The Complete 3-Book Audio Collection

By: Alvin Schwartz

Genre:  Juvenile Short Stories

Published: 1991

Audiobook: 3 discs ( 3 hours 3o mins)

Read: August

2 0ut of 5

I expected much better. Schwartz is very well known for his Scary Stories Collection, but I am not sure why they are so popular. I realize they are written for younger children, however often I felt he would get to the climax of story and it would just end. “And the dead man walked down the stairs…” The End…WHAT?? You can’t even tell it’s the end except the next story begins.  There were a few good stories, but they were funny rather than even the slightest bit scary. Schwartz does include some great campfire and other haunted games and I thought those were the only worthwhile stories.  I much preferred Neil Gaiman’s audio book collection, which were more unique weird adventures than scary.

A short story audio collection

The Neil Gaiman Audio Collection CD

By: Neil Gaiman

Genre:  Juvenile Fantasy/Short Stories

Published: 2004

Audiobook: 1 disc (50 mins)

Read: August

4 out of 5

                  

This collection of short stories will have listeners of every age smiling and laughing. I believe not every author is the best narrator for their audiobooks, however Gaiman pulls this off fantastically. (Another one of my favorite author/narrator is Richard Paul Evans). Gaiman states that he writes some stories that he intends to only be published in audio form and includes some of them in this collection. Usually with short story collections there is one or two (or more) that I don’t care for, this was not the case for this collection. Fans of Gaiman and/or Shel Silverstein will love these stories. I must say though that my favorite part was the interview of Gaiman at the end of disc which was conducted by his daughter. Absolutely adorable.  

Why was this a childhood favorite?

Socks

By: Beverly Cleary

Genre:  Juvenile fiction

Pages: 160

Published: 1973

Read: August

3 out of 5

I vividly remember loving this book as a child.  For the life of me, I wish I could remember why.  Don’t get me wrong, this book is likeable and cute, but not much happens. There was a happy cat, the couple has a baby, the cat is forgotten, the baby grows up, and then the cat and baby become friends. I wanted more Lady and the Tramp adventures, more laughs and a much more mischievous cat. Ramona Quimby, the famous Cleary character, was a girl who always got into trouble and was constantly cracking me up.  I thought Socks was going to be the cat equivalent, but (at least reading as an adult) I didn’t see it. Most of my enjoyment of reading this story, this time around, was how dated it was. The few ’60 –70’s references was when a cracked a smile.

How much violence is too much violence?

The Return of the Indian

By: Lynne Reid Banks

Genre:  juvenile fiction

Pages: 183

Published: 1986

Read: July

3 out of 5

Being the sequel to The Indian in the Cupboard it’s no surprise that I felt this book had some language and violence issues. I did appreciate that the boys didn’t lie, especially to their parents, in this sequel. They both were good books and this one was even more action packed and entertaining. However for some younger readers, like my son, I felt it had too much descriptive violence. With that in mind, the entire basis of the book is cowboys and Indians so fighting was inevitable. Plus, the target age for this book loves the action fighting scenes. Furthermore, I recently was told by a 4^th grade girl that she enjoyed the book because it had more action and excitement than the “girl” books. I will not be reading the rest of the series. As for my son, if he chooses to when he becomes a stronger reader I will encourage him too. 

A Puzzle-Solving Mystery

Key to the Treasure

By: Peggy Parish

Genre:  Juvenile mystery

Pages: 154

Published: 1966

Read: July

5 out of 5

I first read this book as a kid and remember loving it. The book is very unique in the fact that the puzzles that Jed, Bill, and Liza find can be solved by the reader before reading how the kids solve it. So it's a true puzzle-solving mystery.  I still worked the puzzles myself this time as well. However, I appreciated more of the story as an adult.  It shows the importance of one's family history being past down through the generations.  I feel this is an excellent example of a children's classic and is definitely timeless.  It's about kids growing up in any decade trying to find a lost treasure hidden on their grandparents property over 100 years ago. This book should be treasured by kids of all ages . Join the journey as the siblings find the key to a treasure!