AC in the MC...a book blog for all ages

I'm on the move!

2011-05-14T20:57:00.001-04:00

Please join me as I migrate to a new blog host. New address is: www.acinthemc.com

Three for the Adults

2011-02-21T11:21:00.002-05:00

Unbearable Lightness by Portia deRossi is a powerful memoir about eating disorders and body image. If you can't hack the whole thing, read the epilogue...especially if you have a daughter (but know boys are also susceptible to anorexia and bulimia).

I debated about reading this book for a long time but when it appeared on a number of top ten lists I decided to give it a try. I've read (and liked) other books by Emma Donoghue but none were like this one. Jack and his mom just celebrated his fifth birthday...in the same room they celebrated his previous birthdays, in the same room his mother has been kept since she was abducted when she was nineteen. Room is told from Jack's perspective. It takes a while to get used to his uneven voice but it's worth sticking with it as his mother's heroic attempts to make life "normal" in an eleven by eleven room are awe-inspiring.

Though shelved in the self-help section of the book store, psychologist and researcher, Brene Brown would prefer her book, The Gifts of Imperfection be in the self-fulfillment section (if one existed). Her research on whole-hearted living is wonderful food for thought and her guideposts, gentle reminders that it's not about being perfect but about finding balance (checkout her engaging TED talk here).

A Handful of Books...plus one

2011-02-21T10:37:00.006-05:00

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a twin? Have you ever wondered what it's like to be different? Sundee T. Frazier explores both in her novel The Other Half of My Heart. Twins Keira and Minni are eleven years old - they are opposite in just about every way, including the color of their skin. Their mom is African American and their dad is white. Keira has her mother's skin color while Minni has her dad's. Minni thinks she knows what it's like to be different but it isn't until a summer vacation with their maternal grandmother preparing for the Miss Black Pearl Pageant that Minni truly understands.

Geronimo Stilton, mouse, newspaper editor and in this book, an unwilling student of karate, is a hit with kids. The pages are colorful and engaging, perfect for the eight year old set.

Much to the dismay of the third graders, I had never read a Judy Moody or Stink book. Now I have and I can see why the kids like them. Easy to follow stories of likable kids who make mistakes and then learn a lesson. Good old fashioned fun.

The Candymakers by Wendy Mass is a delightful read. Four twelve year olds meet up at the Life is Sweet Candy Factory as part of an annual contest. Over the course of a few days they are given all the help necessary to come up with the next great candy and will present it at the annual candy convention along with the 28 other winners. Logan, Miles, Daisy and Phillip are all there for different reasons, all are desperate to win. Each character is given a chance to narrate their story and it is through these various perspectives the parts become the whole.

When a book goes through two kids in the same family in one night it's a pretty good sign. The Stonekeeper (Amulet) is the first book of Kazu Kibuishi's graphic novel series tells the story of siblings Emily and Navin as they try and save their mom with the help of the magical amulet. While not a big fan of fantasy I do enjoy a well put together graphic novel - this was a perfect combination.

Three Picture Books Worth Checking Out

2010-12-31T16:50:00.004-05:00

Often times parents will ask us to steer their kids away from the picture book section thinking they are too easy as their child becomes a better reader. As politely as possible I try and let the parents know picture books have the power to spur and engage wonderful conversations. With that in mind I would recommend the following three non-fiction picture books for that very reason

Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson by Charles R. Smith is the biography of boxer Jack Johnson. As an African American in the early 20th century he wasn't allowed to fight for the heavy weight title. This is a story that covers courage, desire, prejudice, and the value of hard work and believing in yourself.

She Loved Baseball: The Effa Manley Story by Audrey Mernick is another story that explores the role of racism and prejudice in society. Prior to getting involved with baseball, Effa Manley was a believer in being heard - no matter how long it took. She organized protests and wrote letters to share her beliefs but it was in the world of baseball that Effa made her mark. Manley loved baseball and with her husband owned a Negro League team. She treated her players with respect, making sure their needs were taken care of so they could be successful ball players. When the Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, Effa set out to make sure the Negro League teams were compensated for players MLB drafted. When she realized the Baseball Hall of Fame made no mention of the Negro League, she made herself heard. A great read.

Librarian on the Roof: A True Story by M.G. King tells the story of a wonderful Texas librarian by the name of RoseAleta Laurell. Determined to update the Dr. Eugene Clark Library in Lockhart, Texas and create an environment where her patrons, especially children, would want to spend time, she came up with an unusual way to raise the necessary funds. Good stuff.

Three More (it's been a good week)

2010-12-31T16:27:00.008-05:00

Justly or unjustly I often judge a book on whether or not I would like to be friends with the characters. Are they likable? Interesting? Can they laugh at themselves? Jake by Audrey Couloumbs is a simple Christmas story of family, immediate and extended. Jake himself is delightful as are all of the characters you meet. I would definitely hang out with Jake. Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett is an engaging mystery that's been around for a while (in fact, there are a couple of follow-ups). Sixth graders Calder and Petra are deep thinkers who find themselves in the midst of an art heist. They too are likable. I could see myself helping them solve future mysteries. Sophie Simon Solves Them All by Lisa Graff stars - Sophie Simon, a brilliant third grade loner who has no interest in making friends. She is at first glance, not particularly likable. But thanks to classmates who you would want to be friends with, who take the time to find the likable in Sophie, I changed my mind as the story finished up.

And for the Adults....

2010-12-27T20:19:00.004-05:00

Running the Books by Avi Steinberg is a fascinating look at his life as a prison librarian. Steinberg tells engaging stories about the prisoners he works with - it's hard not to root for both the librarian and those incarcerated. That said, it's real life and Steinberg discovers early on that life is complicated when one works in a prison.

Anita Shreve has become one of my go to authors when I want to escape - she weaves a good story but doesn't tax your brain. Her latest, Rescue, tells the story of a 21 year old paramedic who falls in love with someone he rescues. Sheila is far from perfect but Watson, as the EMT is known, can't help but think there's more to her than the drinking. And there is, but it takes 15 years and raising their daughter alone for him to find out.

Little Bee by Chris Cleave seems to be big amongst the book club crowd. I spent most of the book yelling at Sarah and Lawrence. I will say, I appreciated the author's note at the end of the book, "Researching Little Bee made me grateful for the most basic gifts like safety and peace and the simple right to work." But my goodness, could he have not made the characters a bit more likable?

Good Reads for Kids

2010-12-27T18:03:00.004-05:00

I've read three books for kids recently that I have thoroughly enjoyed. Gary Paulsen's Lawn Boy was delightful - what's not to like when a 12 year old boy, looking to make a bit of money to repair his bicycle tire, ends up running his own, very successful business. Throw in a crazy grandmother, a hippie stockbroker and a fighter name Johnny Pow and you've got yourself a good story (in less than a 100 pages for the reluctant readers out there). Having just discovered Lawn Boy I was happy to see Lawn Boy Returns arrive with our latest shipment of books. It is equally good - all of the same characters plus some good old fashioned bad guys. Pure fun.

I also picked up Knots in My YoYo String, Jerry Spinelli's memoir of growing up in Pennsylvania. His language is simple while his descriptions place you right in the middle of his neighborhood. Good stuff from the author of Maniac Magee, Loser, Star Girl and a handful more.

Bink and Gollie - Kate DiCamillo does it again!

2010-11-29T18:59:00.003-05:00

Is it a fiction book? Is it an everybody book? I'm not sure where it will end up in our library but what I do know is, Bink and Gollie is good fun. It's rich in vocabulary while celebrating the joy of friendship and the importance of respect and compromise. The illustrations are plentiful and expressive. Just about a perfect book.

Justin Case School, Drool, and Other Disasters

2010-11-28T21:03:00.002-05:00

In Justin Case, Rachel Vail has created a thoroughly engaging character who struggles with being a son, big brother and third grader. Told in daily diary entries from just before the first day of school in September to the end of June, the reader rides the roller coaster of being eight. Vail does a great job capturing the angst and awkwardness of third grade with just the right amount of humor.

Two for the Adults

2010-11-28T17:42:00.005-05:00

Let's Take the Long Way Home by Gail Caldwell is an incredibly touching memoir of her friendship with author Caroline Knapp (Drinking: A Love Story, Pack of Two). Knapp died of cancer at age 42 and Caldwell has honored their relationship with sensitivity, grace and kindness.

A Scattered Life, Karen McQuestion's debut novel, grabbed me from the first page. Interesting and complex female characters, all flawed and yet you root for each of them to find peace. I saw a train wreck coming and couldn't wait to see how McQuestion untangled things. But to be honest, I was disappointed. I had invested myself in the book and the characters and felt the author knew she had come to the end but wasn't quite sure how to do it. Will this keep me from reading another book by McQuestion? Probably not - she has character development down. Hopefully, the rest will come.

Books, Books, Books

2010-11-26T12:29:00.006-05:00

It's taken me two months to get back to the blog but I'm excited about some of the books I've read recently. It's heavy on the kid stuff for now but adult reviews will follow in the next day or two.

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell was written fifty years ago. I'm sure I read it when I was in elementary school but decided to revisit it for old times sake and I'm glad I did. It is as much a story of survival as it is a story of a girl coming into her own on her own. The details of how Karana, who is stranded on an island off of the California coast deals with being alone for eighteen years (foraging, hunting, etc) can be a bit monotonous but my goodness it is an empowering story based in history. Well worth a read.

I finally spent some quality time with The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart. My nephew mentioned it first and then 5th grader Ava told me in no uncertain terms I needed to read it. I'm glad I did. Thrown together by circumstance (all are orphans of various ages who are gifted), the four members of The Mysterious Benedict Society learn the value of thinking differently, listening well and working together. It is because of their willingness to accept their fate they agree to work with Mr. Benedict to help save the world. Plenty of twists and turns await the reader. Don't be put off by the number of pages - it's worth the investment of your time.

When a student says, "Ms. Coupe, you have to read this book. I've read it 14 times and I never get tired of the children's heads being cut off," what choice does one have? A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz is quite simply, a great read. Mr. Gidwitz takes Hansel and Gretel on a tour of seven other Grimm fairly tales and weaves a story that is so thoroughly engaging you lose sight of the horror (despite the author's numerous warnings). Really good stuff - no wonder A Tale Dark and Grimm is on a number of "best of" lists.

Ratfink by Marcia Thorton Jones is a story of Logan, misunderstood fifth grader. He sets out to be a different kid when school starts but his reputation precedes him and he is never given the benefit of the doubt, even by his parents. Throw in an aging grandfather who has moved in with Logan and his folks, a new girl who acclimates very quickly and has some bullying tendencies and you have a book that you want to both yell at and embrace.

Tricia Springstudd has written a delightful book about community. What Happened on Fox Street chronicles the ups and downs of 11 year old Mo Wren. Her mom has died and her father works long hours to support Mo and her little sister. Fox Street might not have any foxes but it does have the woods where Mo often escapes and every summer, Mo's best friend, Mercedes, visits her grandmother, a long time resident of Fox Street. Fox Street is also a treasure chest of memories from when Mo's mom was alive so when things start to shift in the neighborhood, Mo struggles to keep her balance. Fox Street is a story about love and change and acceptance. Hard stuff for a lot of people but Ms. Springstudd handles the story with grace and kindness. (As an aside, Ms. Springstudd was college roommates with Mrs. Serellier, our ESL teacher here at North Mianus.)

The same student who recommended A Tale Dark and Grimm stopped by the Media Center on Wednesday and said, "Ms. Coupe, I read this book last night. It's from Perrot and I have it for two weeks. I think you should bring it home and read it." So I did. And I enjoyed it immensely. Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea chronicles a teacher's first year from the perspective of seven students: the class clown, the genius, the bully, the angry one, the fat girl, the "bad influence" girl, and the new girl. Told with sensitivity, Mr. Terupt is a story of mistakes (by both students and teacher) and forgiveness; acceptance and understanding. As an added bonus - one of the math challenges Mr. Terupt has the kids do in the book is one my dad used to love. Nothing better than the dollar word game.

Three books for a Sunday

2010-09-26T10:57:00.004-04:00

I knew I hadn't posted in a while (the whole neck thing has definitely slowed me down) but didn't realize it's been as long as it has. That's not to say I haven't been reading, I have. Just not as much as usual. Here are three books I've made my way through recently...with more to come.

Mentor A Memoir by Tom Grimes is the third best book I've read about the writing process (Stephen King's On Writing and Ann LaMott's Bird by Bird are a bit better, in my opinion). In Mentor, Grimes chronicles his friendship with writer Frank Conroy, his personal struggles as a writer and his battle with anxiety. It is an incredibly honest book and Grimes chooses each word carefully (as Conroy taught him). I found it dragging a bit toward the end. And slightly depressing.

Dirty Sexy Politics by Meghan McCain was an interesting read. John McCain's daughter, a graduate of Columbia University, is no dope. She speaks frankly about her experiences on the campaign trail, how she was treated and how the republican party needs desperately to change in order to be more appealing to her generation. It is a memoir as much as it is a plea for tolerance and acceptance - two things republicans, as a whole, aren't particularly good at.

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, the third and final book in The Hunger Games Trilogy, was as head shaking as the first two. I will not attempt to recap the story as I cannot do it justice. To say it is about survival of the fittest isn't fair. Collins has weaved intricate and dynamic relationships in a world where fear is foremost in everyone's mind. Unlike Gregor which is a great elementary series, Hunger Games is most definitely a middle school and beyond book (I heard about the series from an adult who said, "It's the best worst book I've ever read,").

Powerless by Matthew Cody

2010-08-12T19:47:00.002-04:00

When Mrs. Jarombek visited in May to share some of her favorite books Powerless was among them. I was sitting in the back when she picked it up and Ian, now in sixth grade, said under his breath, "Great book." And they were right. I loved Powerless. It is a book that explores so many things - friendship, good vs. evil, what it means to be a hero (and do you have to have a super power to be a hero). The characters are well developed as is the story. And the best part? I just checked Matthew Cody's website - he's working on a sequel. This is a book best read by mature fourth and fifth graders.

Ladder of Years...Ann Tyler

2010-08-12T19:37:00.002-04:00

I talk a lot about having a balanced book diet with the kids. And I since I try and practice what I preach I picked up Ann Tyler. I figured she would be my protein, my main course. And Ladder of Years is written beautifully but you know what, sometimes the main course looks pretty but doesn't have any taste. I am perhaps being a bit harsh but this is a book I became frustrated with early on and the only reason I stuck with it is because I wanted to see if Delia decided to return home after abandoning her family (on a whim, I might add). I imagine there are people who read this book and say of course that's how Tyler had to end the story. I am not one of them. Which means - if you choose to read the book we may have plenty to talk about.

The Greatest Catch A Life in Teaching...Penny Kittle

2010-08-06T19:22:00.003-04:00

Wow. Penny Kittle is thoughtful, kind, and incredibly observant. She is the kind of teacher I wish to be. There is so much food for thought in this little book - about teaching, about writing, about living. A gift.

Night of the Howling Dogs by Graham Salisbury

2010-08-02T18:12:00.002-04:00

This is the last of the Nutmeg nominees and it's an adventure story not to be missed. Senior patrol leader of his Hilo, Hawaii, scout troop, eighth-grader Dylan looks forward to camping on the coast in the shadow of a volcano despite the presence of Louie, the troop bully. The hike down to the volcano is tougher than expected and then the troop is hit with not just an earthquake but a tsunami as well. It is amidst disaster that both Dylan and Louie have to let go of preconceived notions and rely on one another to help save their friends. Based on a true story.

That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo

2010-08-02T17:52:00.003-04:00

I finished this book a week ago and I still can't decide whether or not I liked it. As the readers of this blog know, I am big into whether or not I can relate and/or root for a character. Split into two parts and filled with flashbacks, Richard Russo creates characters that are memorable; likable I'm not so sure. Jack Griffin returns to the Cape for a wedding. His father's ashes are in the trunk and his mother (long divorced from his father) constantly on his cell phone. The Cape is a place they vacationed as a family, memories plentiful. But his parents were bitter academics and Jack discovers maybe he's more like them than he would like. Over the course of that first weekend he explores his relationships not only with his parents but his wife and daughter, too. Fast forward one year, his daughter is getting married in Maine and life is far more complicated than it should be. There are laugh out loud scenes and Russo gives you plenty to think about.

Elephant Run by Roland Smith

2010-08-01T16:03:00.000-04:00

One of the good things about the Nutmeg Award is I end up reading books I wouldn't normally pick up. Elephant Run by Roland Smith is a perfect example. Set during World War II, it tells the story of Nick Freestone, a young man who is sent to Burma to live with his father on a teak plantation. What his mother didn't know when she rushed to get Nick out of England and away from nightly bombings was that the Japanese were on the verge of taking Burma over. Elephant Run looks at WW II from an angle I was unaware of. There are people who are incredibly cruel and there are people who are true heroes. When you finish the book, walk away with the heroes.

A Soft Place to Land by Susan Rebecca White

2010-07-28T21:50:00.003-04:00

Recommended by my niece, ASPTL celebrates the joys and frustrations of being a sister. As is often the case when I read a book, I look for someone to root for. I'm still thinking about it. The story is complex (partly inspired by Sully's dramatic Hudson River landing of a plane) and the characters are flawed but ultimately, they do the best with what they have. Is that good enough for the reader? It was for me.

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

2010-07-28T21:48:00.000-04:00

Eleven year old Caitlin and her father are suffering from a tremendous loss - their brother and son has been killed by an another angry student at his middle school. At first glance you might ask if this is appropriate for elementary school - if you have a mature fifth grader the answer is yes. This is about so much more than a senseless shooting. Caitlin has Asperger's syndrome and her brother Devon interpreted the world for her. As she faces the biggest obstacle of her life she's relying on the school counselor and friends who don't quite get her. Erskine does a masterful job celebrating friendship, forgiveness, and empathy. Join Caitlin as she searches for closure - you won't be disappointed.

Iron Thunder by Avi

2010-07-26T13:14:00.002-04:00

Another Nutmeg nominee, Iron Thunder is a historical fiction novel based on the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac. . Tom Carroll is but 13 years old in 1862 when his mother asks him to find a job to help put food on the table. And what a job he finds - errand boy for Captain John Ericsson - inventor of the first ironclad ship. Will something made of iron float? Will it be capable of fighting of the rebel "sea monster," known as the Merrimac. Plenty of action including Tom being wooed by a rebel spy.

Seaglass Summer by Anjali Banerjee

2010-07-26T13:03:00.003-04:00

Poppy has the summer of her life planned - while her parents fly off to India to visit relatives, Poppy has convinced her uncle to let her stay with him on on island off the coast of Washington state where he is a vet. Poppy wants one thing in life - to be a vet like her uncle. Interestingly she's never had an animal as her mother is allergic. There are plenty of lessons to be learned - both from humans and animals alike. Join Poppy, Uncle Sanjay, Hawk, Duff, Mr. Pincus and a whole host of other characters as she learns the ins and outs of island living.

Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer Holm

2010-07-22T09:01:00.001-04:00

Jennifer Holm, author of the Baby Mouse graphic novels has written an engaging story about Turtle - a young girl trying to find her place in the world. It's the 1930s, money is scarce and when her mother takes a job working for a woman who doesn't like kids, Turtle is shipped off to Key West, Florida to live with an aunt. Turtle is a resourceful girl (you have to be when you're constantly battling with a cousin named Beans) and gets a big old helping of family history as summer passes. And oh yes - there's a treasure map.

Notes From the Dog...Gary Paulsen

2010-07-22T08:36:00.000-04:00

Gary Paulsen does a lovely job telling the story of Finn, an awkward fourteen year old boy who doesn't have a lot of friends and is reluctant to take a risk making one (or two). Enter Johanna, a graduate student who is house sitting next door. It turns out Johanna has a lot on her plate - she has cancer, just broke up with her boyfriend and is training for a triathlon. Somehow she convinces Finn to plant her a garden. Read Notes From the Dog to find out if friendship blooms. (For fifth grade and up.)

For You Mom, Finally by Ruth Reichl

2010-07-22T08:24:00.005-04:00

I have read most if not all of Reichl's memoirs - she is a wonderful storyteller and For You Mom, Finally is no different. Unfortunately, it's only upon deep reflection we can truly understand the lessons of our mothers - especially mothers who grew up in 1940s and 50s; women who didn't have the opportunities women today do and wanted desperately to make sure their daughters did (whether they made it explicit it or not). Reichl uses a box of old notes and letters to help tell her mother's story - she is gentle and forgiving. For You Mom is beautifully written. (As an aside, my favorite Reichl book is Garlic and Sapphires about her time as the restaurant critic for the New York Times. Amazing stories.)

Eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff

2010-07-17T21:35:00.000-04:00

Slowly but surely I'm working my way through the Nutmeg nominees. Eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff isn't a book I would have normally picked up but am glad I did. Part mystery, part human interest story, Eleven tells the story of Sam, an eleven year old boy who discovers some unsettling news about his past. Not a great reader, he reaches out to the new kid - Caroline, for help putting the pieces of his life into a coherent story. It is a story about friendship, about family, about unconditional love - well worth a read.

Food Rules...Michael Pollan

2010-07-17T17:45:00.003-04:00

Fascinating food for thought (that is too obvious a pun to pass by)...a lot of it makes sense, some of it isn't any fun....and while I don't abide by them all the rules, I do occasionally glance at the book and wonder how I'm doing.

Tip It! The World According to Maggie Griffin...for adults

2010-07-16T11:09:00.002-04:00

For those who know me, they know I watch Kathy Griffin religiously - I admire her willingness to take on issues (Don't Ask Don't Tell) and her ability to see the absurd in everyday life. Oh sure, I spend some time asking myself, "Did she just say that?" but all in all it's good fun. I read her Official Book Club Selection last year and was pleasantly surprised to see her mom's Tip It! at Barnes and Noble the other day. Maggie Griffin is a saint - not because she puts up with her daughter but because she understands and accepts Kathy for who she is. The respect these two have for each other is wonderful. And it seems they follow a simple rule - don't take life too seriously and when life gets you down - tip it.

Andrew Clements...No Talking

2010-07-08T19:44:00.003-04:00

Andrew Clements has mastered writing for the third through fifth grade population. In each book he creates characters that kids can identify with. No Talking explores the power of words and the importance of listening. Oh sure, he throws in some cooties and boys are better than girls stuff along with a humorless principal but ultimately the message he delivers is - it's not always who wins but what we learn along the way.

From Fluff to Substance

2010-07-08T18:46:00.005-04:00

My mind, partly mush from the fluff of last weekend, is now engaged in Sue Miller's latest, Lake Shore Limited. I've also downloaded Anne Tyler's Ladder of Years to my Kindle. Looking forward to reading some beautiful language and well woven family drama. (I think it's only a coincidence that a beach is on both covers.)

A Gas of a Book

2010-07-06T09:33:00.005-04:00

I was a bit surprised when Mrs. Belmonte pulled Doctor Proctor's Fart Powder out of the box. I couldn't remember ordering it but am glad I did. While the story is light, the language funny, author Jo Nesbo has given the reader plenty to think about when it comes to being different and dealing with bullies. We all need friends like Lisa and Nilly.

Nutmeg Books

2010-07-06T08:10:00.007-04:00

Every year the kids of Connecticut have an opportunity to vote for their favorite book from a list of ten novels. At North Mianus we celebrate with the 5th Grade Nutmeg Book Bowl. For a list of the 2011 nominees, click here.

My summer reading will include finishing up the Nutmeg books (I reviewed a couple in April). Yesterday I read The Thing About Georgie by Lisa Graff. Put simply, it is an incredibly sweet book about a fourth grade boy who is a dwarf and how he deals with his place in the world. And yet there are far more layers. What does it take to be a good friend? What will it take to be a good older brother? Are there conditions on the love his parents have for him based on his dwarfism? Good stuff all around.

Rivals by Tim Green

2010-07-03T14:18:00.001-04:00

Just finished this book . Green creates a good 21st century baseball story* along with a little bit of mystery. Towards the end of the book I think I found a mistake. If you read Rivals and think there is a mistake also, email me. A little prize will go to the first student who discovers what I did. (I just emailed the author to see what might have happened. I'll let you know if I hear back.)

*I grew up on Matt Christopher.

Crunch by Leslie Connor

2010-07-02T21:32:00.005-04:00

Leslie Connor has written a thoroughly delightful book titled Crunch. It is a story of family, friendship and bikes. Good stuff to discuss throughout.

Fluff for the Weekend!

2010-07-01T10:02:00.002-04:00

I stocked up my Kindle with fluff - a perfect way to start summer vacation. My writing will be limited as typing with a ruptured disc is still a bit painful.

A Week's Worth of Books - Kids

2010-04-18T10:54:00.004-04:00

On My Honor by Marion Dane Bauer rips at your heart. Two friends go for a bike ride, a dare goes wrong and only one comes back. At what point should Joel tell the whole story and when he does will forgiveness follow?

The Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute, graphic novel by Jarret Krosoczka is a whole lot of fun. Super hero lunch ladies, spatula helicopters and more. Part of a series that's bound to have many fans.

I finally read Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Patterson. Put simply, it is a gently told story of friendship and acceptance (although I did want to yell at the parents a few times).

MJ Auch's One Handed Catch, a 2011 Nutmeg Book Award nominee is a very enjoyable read. Friendship, family, resilience, and determination are all prominent pieces to this sports story. Times have changed since 1946 - I wonder how an 11 year old boy i 2010 would deal with the adversity of losing his hand to a meat grinder.

A Week's Worth of Books - Adults

2010-04-16T18:21:00.005-04:00

In Anne Lamott's Imperfect Birds we catch up with Rosie, former teenage tennis phenom. At 17, Rosie is an A student and an accomplished liar who struggles with addictions of all kinds. Elizabeth, her flawed and recovering addict mother wants desperately to believe Rosie isn't as bad as she is, while her husband unsuccessfully tries to set boundaries (both because of his own limitations and because Rosie is a master manipulator). I love Anne Lamott's work and I found Imperfect Birds to be gut wrenchingly hopeful.

The Condition by Jennifer Haigh is an intense family drama. Every one of the characters is flawed - from the mother who desperately wants a perfect life to the workaholic husband to the three kids who flee as soon as they get the chance. I laughed, I yelled, I cried.

In Linda Fairstein's Hell Gate, Alex, Mike and Mercer are back on the job investigating human trafficking. Not a light subject but as usual, thoroughly researched. With Fairstein you get a tightly wound mystery, some New York City history and politics. Good stuff.

The Kids Are All Right, a memoir written in alternating voices by the Welch siblings of Westchester County tells the story of a family devastated by their father's accidental death in a car accident, a mother dying of cancer and their children who struggle unsuccessfully to remain together. It's not easy; it's not pretty. Somehow, though, there is hope.

The Usual Rules, a novel of September 11th by Joyce Maynard is a compelling story of how one blended family deals with the loss of their wife and mother. The last forty pages packed quite a punch.

Newbery Honor Book...Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

2010-03-28T20:57:00.004-04:00

When a student tells you they've read a book 14 times because every time she goes back she sees something new, that's a pretty good recommendation. Today I finally read Newbery Honor Book, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin. Wow. Lin is an incredible storyteller and because I fear I cannot do her book justice, checkout: Where the Mountain Meets the Moon and go to the bottom. The reviewers from School Library Journal and Booklist did a far better job than I could ever do. And then - read the book.

Think Twice by Lisa Scottoline

2010-03-28T17:38:00.003-04:00

There are some authors who I've read for years - their characters familiar. When I saw Lisa Scottoline had a new book I waited for it it to appear on the shelves of Rowayton Library. Think Twice was there for the taking on Friday and I spent Saturday afternoon becoming reacquainted with lawyers, Mary, Bennie, and Judy. Is it great literature? No. Is the identical twin storyline believable? No. But it was fun catching up with some old friends.

For kids...

2010-03-24T08:29:00.007-04:00

When I read a chapter book for kids the question I often ask myself is, "Would I want to be friends with the main character?" I found two books recently where the answer to that question was yes.

I'll be honest - I only picked up Dessert First by Hallie Durrand because of the title. Who wouldn't want dessert first? As it turns out, Dessert isn't just a food group, she's a young girl figuring out how the world works. She's helped along the way by her fondue restaurant owning parents and Mrs. Howdy Doody, her delightful third grade teacher. Put simply, this is a sweet but not too sugary story of one third grader's struggle with figuring out right from wrong.

How Oliver Olson Changed the World by Claudia Mills was recommended by my favorite children's librarian Kathy J and she was right on with this recommendation. Oliver's parents are the doting, over protective type. Wanting nothing more than for their son to succeed, they decide it's best for them to do his projects. As it turns out, Oliver wants something too - to do his own projects. Can the Olsons let go of their need to control? Can Oliver speak loud enough for his parents to hear and understand? Read How Oliver Olson Changed the World to find out.

For the Adults...

2010-03-21T09:32:00.004-04:00

Someone mentioned the book Go Ask Alice recently. I remember reading it way back when and thinking it was a book my parents probably wouldn't approve of. Well I reread it and three things struck me - there is no way I understood what was happening within the pages of that book. I wish I could go back to that Amy and have a conversation. I was also struck by the parents love for their daughter, despite the choices she made, the parents were always there to help pick up the pieces. Lastly, being a teenager has always been hard - technology may hasten things but kids can be cruel.

Jodi Picoult's new book House Rules offers an engaging and compelling story. While I have not read all her books, I often find myself thinking, "I can't believe how predictable this story is," and then wham, I'm blindsided by a twist I never anticipated. So yes, there's a twist in House Rules. Is it as jaw dropping as My Sister's Keeper? No, but the character development is superb and Picoult does a masterful job of writing from five different perspectives, including that of 18 year old Jacob, a young man who has Asperger's Syndrome. It is a book you won't want to put down and you don't want to end.

It's Not That I haven't Been Reading....

2010-02-21T17:03:00.004-05:00

I spent January and February weeding the fiction section at school. Inevitably as I scanned the shelves I'd find a book that caught my eye and put it aside to read. Unfortunately, none of them were great reads and some weren't appropriate for a K-5 school. That all being said, I did do some reading over February break and I have some ADULT recommendations along with a quick review of Harriet the Spy.

The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak is a book I've heard about for the last few years and finally read. After taking some time to adjust to Death as the narrator, I quickly realized what all the buzz was about. Leisel is a displaced nine year old foster child when the story begins in Germany in the early 1940s. I read in awe as she grew into a plucky teenager. Encouraged by her foster parents, her neighbors (in particular, Rudy) and a surprise visitor, Leisel realizes the power of words long before she can read. I felt much like I did after I read The Gurnesey Literary and Potato Peel Society - dumbfounded by complete disregard for human life and the desire for power.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein is the story of Enzo, Denny and eventually Denny's wife and daughter. Enzo, the narrator, happens to be a dog. Denny is a semi-professional race car driver. Metaphors abound as Enzo explains life and observes the nice and not so nice people who populate this book. If you're a dog lover it's worth a read but be prepared to learn a whole lot about racing cars.

Luna by Julie Anne Peters, is fascinating. I debated about adding this to the list but decided to simply because if you've ever wondered what it's like to be transgendered; that is to say, to feel as if you were born in the wrong body, this book does a masterful job of explaining. Written for high school students, Peters gives the reader characters you alternately root for and against. Simply put, Luna is a celebration of self acceptance.

Undiscovered by Debra Winger. A meandering memoir celebrating Winger's various roles as daughter, mother, and actress.

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh. Didn't read it as a kid; read it now because Suann has such fond memories of it. When I mentioned that Harriet was just plain mean Suann didn't remember that part, just thought it was cool Harriet figured out ways to spy on a bunch of different people. (And she had a notebook.) As I read I kept waiting for Harriet to see the light. I think she finally did on the last page but it was too late and too weak a resolution for me.

Newbery Winner - When You Reach Me

2010-01-20T11:32:00.003-05:00

Author Rebecca Stead writes of family, friendship and time travel in this year's Newbery Award winning book, When You Reach Me. As readers, we need to be open to what we might have previously considered impossible. When You Reach Me takes place in NYC in 1979; the characters, led by 6th grader Miranda are flawed yet incredibly likable as they struggle to find their place in the world. Put your thinking caps on when you pick up this book - it's thoughtful and engaging.

Two More...

2010-01-18T21:20:00.004-05:00

Yes, I Know the Monkey Man by Dori Butler is the sequel to Do You Know the Monkey Man. Fortunately, there's enough background information in the second book for the reader to make sense of the previous story. To say it is a book that tugs at one's emotions is a bit of an understatement. To say it is a book about twins who were separated at three years of age is also an understatement. To say it is a book about trying to figure out where you fit in the world or a book that wonders how deep a parents' love runs or a book about forgiveness, also understatements. Yes, I Know the Monkey Man is appropriate for mature fifth graders and middle schoolers.

Are you one of those people who wonders why we can't fly like a bird or walk the ceiling like a gecko? Perhaps you have a child or niece or nephew who asks similar questions. If the answer is yes then Just the Right Size by zoologist, Nicola Davies may be the perfect gift. Davies explains in relatively simple terms why size matters when trying to replicate some of the more exciting animal feats. A fun read.

Friends and Family

2010-01-17T21:15:00.006-05:00

Kathy Mackel's A Season of Comebacks tells the story of twelve year Allie, a softball pitching phenom, her ten year old sister, Mol, their Dad, the coach and Chris, Mol's best friend. It is a story about being a good sister, a good parent, and a good friend; it's understanding your limitations and accepting that being the best doesn't preclude you from still having fun. Despite some questionable baseball strategy, A Season of Comebacks is a crisply written story that effective weaves sports and friendship together.

Neil Armstrong is My Uncle & Other Lies Muscle Man McGinty Told Me by Nan Marino takes place the summer of 1969. Not only is it the year of the moonwalk, it's also the year Tammy's best friend, Kebsie moves away. Kickball is king; friends fight; people are misunderstood. It's hard to be Tammy; sometimes it's hard to like Tammy but I will say even though you can't believe some of the things she says, you root for her from page one. You also root for Muscle Man. This is a book about friendship and forgiveness. It reminded me an awful lot of the neighborhood I grew up in.

Dog Lost by Ingrid Lee is a tough read. Not because of the writing but because Ms. Lee writes about the world of dog fighting. Unfortunately, dog fighting is a reality - people are cruel, the author tells us and yet if we look hard enough, there is hope. Hope may look like a ten year motherless boy, a teenage girl in desperate need of a kidney transplant, an eighty year old widow, an alert and caring police officer, or a sensitive fifth grade teacher. Hope can also be found n a pit bull named Cash. Dog Lost brought me to tears more than once, for much different reasons. A tough read, yes, but a read well worth the time.

It's Going to be a Book-Filled Weekend!

2010-01-15T20:46:00.010-05:00

I'm working my way through a stack of new books. There's nothing better than opening up a box from Follet and realizing you made some good choices.

Song of Middle C by Alison McGhee is a new everybody book told from a beginning piano player's perspective. The narrator, a young girl, whose name we never know, practices and practices and practices for her first recital. When the evening comes she is prepared, right down to her lucky underwear. Does the practicing pay-off? Is her lucky underwear needed? Read Song of Middle C to find out.

The Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall is a non-fiction book. Author Hall provides beautiful language to celebrate the seasons of an apple tree - from the bare branches of winter to the robins of spring and summer; from the apples of fall to the homemade pie the family makes. Of course it would be much easier if the whole pie grew on a tree but Hall does the next best thing and provides an easy to follow recipe.

Panda Kindergarten by Joanne Ryder is another new non-fiction book. In China, at the Wolong Nature Preserve, baby pandas go to kindergarten. Yes, kindergarten. Once they are weened from their mothers, these baby pandas, born in captivity, spend their days with other cubs learning about the world. Ryder and photographer, Dr. Katherine Feng, capture and celebrate the joys of panda-hood with grace.

Tarra and Bella: The Elephant and a Dog Who Became Best Friends by Carol Buckley. Have you seen this video? I did and then I read the book. Buckley uses simple language and photographs to tell the story of the unlikely friendship between a pachyderm and a canine which blossomed at the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.

If the World Were Blind (A book about judgment and prejudice) by Karen Gedig Burnett delivers a powerful message about how we judge people - whether it's by the color of their skin, the way they dress, the language they speak, the shape of their body. It is a call to action with thoughtful discussion questions at the end that encourage reflection on our won behavior and how we treat others.

A Reading Vacation

2010-01-02T15:00:00.006-05:00

Spent four days in North Carolina walking the beach and reading. Which for me, is perfection. A little non-fiction, a little historical fiction, a little fluff.

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession by Allison Hoover Bartlett is an engaging read about book thief John Gilkey and the book seller, Ken Sanders, who tracked him down. It is fascinating to read Gilkey's story - despite stealing over one hundred thousand dollars worth of rare books and being jailed on numerous occasions, he doesn't think he did anything wrong. Sanders is the good guy in this story, someone you'd like to have a cup of coffee with but it's Gilkey who engages the reader.

Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay came highly recommended. It is a fictional account of the round-ups that took place in Paris in 1942. Jewish families living in France were routinely taken from their homes and brought to Vélodrome d'Hiver outside the city, then transported to Auschwitz. It is a part of WW II that is rarely spoken about and de Rosnay weaves a heart breaking story of strong willed ten year old Sarah. Told in alternating voices, it gets a little heavy handed at the end but is worth the time if for no other reason than to learn about a part of history not often included in our textbooks.

Schooled by Anisha Lakhani. NYC private schools, highly paid tutors, spoiled kids. Enough said.

Everything for a Dog

2009-12-22T10:55:00.002-05:00

Did you ever read A Dog's Life? Ever wonder what happened to Squirrel's brother, Stone? The last time we saw him he was being carried away from the mall parking lot he and his sister were dumped in. Thankfully, Ann Martin has written Everything for a Dog, where we learn exactly what happened. I wish I could say he immediately ended up in a nice home where he lived happily ever after but then it would be a short book. Told in three voices, Everything for a Dog celebrates perseverance, both boy and canine.

Looking for Calvin and Hobbes by Nevin Martell

2009-12-22T10:26:00.008-05:00

I can't tell you how often a student comes into the Media Center looking for a Calvin and Hobbes book - a boy and his tiger who we have not seen for fourteen years continues to entertain kids of all ages. Nevin Martell grew up on Calvin and Hobbes; he has very fond memories of reading the strip every morning while he ate his cereal and now that he's a writer decided to find out what exactly happened to the cartoonist, Bill Watterson who created the strip and why after ten glorious years (for us) he decided to walk away.

Looking for Calvin and Hobbes is a book for adults; a book that covers a whole lot of ground. Watterson never gave an interview to Martell so Martell interviewed other cartoonists about the reluctant legend. Put simply, Watterson walked away in 1995, disgruntled and disillusioned. What Martell describes is fascinating on a number of different levels - it is an intimate look at how cartoonists create characters; the cut throat environment of syndication and the power of the almighty dollar (did you know Charles Schultz earned 30 to 40 million dollars a year towards the end of his career).

Is it enough to say Watterson is a tortured artist? Probably not but if it is that simple then we are all the more lucky to have been gifted for ten delightful years.

A Blizzard of Books

2009-12-22T09:14:00.006-05:00

One thing this weekend's snowstorm was good for was plenty of reading. I have three to recommend for the 8 - 10 year old set. All three charming and good fun, with a little bit of sibling rivalry thrown in.

Chicken Feathers by Joy Cowley is quite simply the story of a boy and his pet chicken, Semolina. Semolina isn't your run of the mill chicken either. She talks - but only to Josh and she likes her whisky. Josh has his own stuff to deal with - his pregnant mom is in the hospital on bed rest; his neighbor may have a new boyfriend and his grandmother doesn't like chickens in the house. Reading Chicken Feathers is a thoroughly delightful way to spend a winter afternoon.

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies tells the story of a brother and sister. Born 14 months apart, Evan and Jesse are each other's best friend...until the letter from school arrives towards the end of the summer. Evan gets angry, Jesse reacts and suddenly there's a bet about who can sell the most lemonade. Will Evan's outgoing personality outsell the very deliberate business plan Jesse has drawn up? Wondering what the letter from school said? Read The Lemonade War to find out.

Star Jumper - Journal of a Cardboard Genius by Frank Asche chronicles the very vivid imagination of Alex as he builds a cardboard spaceship in an attempt to escape the trials of living with his little brother. As Alex often reminds us, Einstein has nothing on him.

U is for Undertow by Sue Grafton

2009-12-08T10:32:00.003-05:00

I LOVE Sue Grafton. I LOVE her private investigator, Kinsey Millhone. I wait and wait for each new book and then when it arrives I savor it. Oh sure, I want desperately to dive right in and read until I'm done but I don't. I read a chapter or two and then go and do something. Come back and read some more. I just don't want the book to end. If you have never read a Sue Grafton mystery go find A is for Alibi and start.

In U is for Undertow, it's 1988; Kinsey still uses a typewriter to record her reports, still uses index cards to organize her investigations, still heads to the public library to search microfiche. There is a terrific mystery and Grafton artfully tells a story that started in the 1960s. Great character development; great plot; good, clean fun.

Websites to Checkout

2009-12-08T10:18:00.003-05:00

I have come across a number of interesting websites about books and reading recently and thought I'd share.

Daniel Pink's 10 Favorite Books of the Year (for adults)

New York Times Best Books of the Year (for adults)

New York Times Notable Books for Kids

New York Times Best Illustrated Books for Kids

105 Ways to Give a Book

New York Public Library - 100 Titles for Sharing and Reading 2009 (for kids)

How Stories Save Us by Pam Allyn

The Hunger Games - Young Adult

2009-12-08T10:10:00.004-05:00

When someone says, "Amy, you have to read this book - it's the best worst book I've ever read," what choice do I have?

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins grabs you by the throat and pulls you in. You quickly become appalled by what's going to happen and then can't walk away until you find out the resolution. If I were to break it down in it's simplest form I might say The Hunger Games is a futuristic version of survival of the fittest...for 12 to 18 year olds. Twenty four are chosen (12 male, 12 female) but there can be only one survivor. Collins weaves an incredible tale - twists and turns abound. It is not for the faint of heart but those who get through it, book two recently came out and book three is due next summer.

Time to Catch Up - Adult Reviews

2009-12-05T07:26:00.005-05:00

I traveled to San Diego over Thanksgiving break which afforded me plenty of time to read. Twelve hours in an airplane and a little bit of insomnia work wonders when you have a list of books to get through.

The Crowd Sounds Happy by Nicholas Dawidoff is a memoir. We learn early on that Dawidoff's father suffers from mental illness and his mother leaves with the kids, settling in New Haven. Despite not having access to TV or a daily newspaper (limited money meant cutting corners where they could); Dawidoff develops a love for baseball, in particular the Boston Red Sox. This isn't a quick read but if you know someone who grew up with a transistor radio under their pillow, it may be a worthwhile purchase.

Speed Shrinking by Susan Shapiro would qualify as chick lit. Julia, an expert on sugar cravings, is left to fend for herself as her best friend moves away, her husband goes out to California to pursue an acting job and her long-time shrink relocates to Arizona. Is it great literature. Nope but I will say it brings up some interesting issues about food (not to mention the mental health profession).

One more...

2009-11-17T12:33:00.001-05:00

Another one to make you cry. The title says it all: Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle (Brian Dennis, Mary Nethery and Kirby Larson). It did get me thinking, would any of my dogs travel seventy miles to find me? Maybe if I had cheese.

Browsing at Barnes and Noble

2009-11-17T11:26:00.006-05:00

I recently had a chance to browse the children's section of Barnes and Noble - I found a book that made me cry, a book that made me laugh, a book that left me in awe and a book that made me wish I had a five year old niece or nephew.

14 Cows for America by Carmen Agra Deedy, in collaboration with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah tells a simple story of how one man from Kenya (who was studying in the US) was so altered by the events of 9/11 (he was in the city ) that he returns to his village and tells his community they must do something. An amazing story with beautiful illustrations.

The Dunderheads by Paul Fleischman with illustrations by David Roberts tells a rollicking story of students determined to get revenge on their tyrannical teacher, Miss Breakbone. Every student has a special gift - whether it's throwing spitballs or making paperclip chains and the Dunderheads need to work together to prevail. This isn't great literature but it is a fun read and not too intimidating.

Jerry Pinkney is amazing - in his brand new The Lion and the Mouse he wordlessly leads the reader/observer so successfully that you are left with your mouth agape. The illustrations are vibrant, fill the page and express emotion while at the same time reminding us we are all capable of great things, no matter our size. Aesop would be proud.

Otis by Loren Long is the story of a reliable tractor who with his delightful personality manages to calm the animals around him, in particular a new calf. Despite his wonderful work ethic, the farmer eventually replaces Otis with something bigger and better and sends Otis out behind the barn where he is left unused and forgotten. Oh sure the yellow tractor is bigger but is it better? Does the new tractor know what to do when the calf flees into the muddy pond? Can the new tractor rescue the calf? Can Otis. A perfect read for kindergarten and first grade.

Guilty of Judging a Book by its Cover

2009-11-14T14:16:00.002-05:00

So in the Media Center Mrs. Belmonte and I have our favorite books - one of hers is Stranger in the Woods. Every time a student borrows it she gets excited. Me? I never understood why - the cover sort of creeped me out. Last week I decided to venture further than the cover. Stranger in the Woods and the two books that follow: Lost in the Woods and First Snow in the Woods are wonderful stories that combine beautiful language and incredible photography by Carl Sams and Jean Stoick. Check them - they'd make great holiday gifts.

It's been a while...

2009-11-08T13:18:00.006-05:00

Sorry for the lack of updates - once school got going I lost all sense of time. Here we go...a handful of books I've read...

For adults, A Change in Altitude by Anita Shreve was a big disappointment for me. I have really enjoyed her work in the past so when I decided to devote all my spare time last weekend to starting and finishing a book, I chose Shreve's new release. For me it came down to not having anyone to root for. Because of my past history with the author, I did not apply the 50 page rule and kept hoping that things might get better. They didn't. The best part was learning a little about Kenya.

Kathy Jarombek, Director of Youth Services at Perrot Library recommended some great books recently. Among them - Tsunami (by Kimiko Kajikawa), There are Cats in This Book (by Viviane Schwarz) and Wolves (by Emily Gravett). All three received rave reviews at our school wide reading celebration last week.

And for the Adults...

2009-10-04T17:22:00.005-04:00

You've heard me use the term book diet - here are three books that exemplify this idea (at least in my mind).

The Imposter's Daughter by Laurie Sandell is a graphic memoir. It seems Ms. Sandell's father isn't who she thought he was. The deception he wove and his wife enabled is impressive but this is also a story of how we view ourselves - should our lives be defined by our past? Where do we find the fortitude and inner resources to forgive and change. I picked this book up expecting something completely different than what I got. My guess is that Sandell set out to write a memoir about life with her dad and realized that she was as big a part of the story as he was.

The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley is a wonderfully funny murder mystery. You can't help but love eleven year old sleuth Flavia as she uncovers the mystery of the dead body she found in her father's garden.

Official Book Club Selection by Kathy Griffin is an engaging look at a performer who has truly worked her way to the top. Yes she can be crass; yes she can be incredibly indelicate but she is a gifted storyteller who has a tremendous amount of love for her parents and understands that fame is fleeting. This book had far more depth than I thought it would. Not Pulitzer Prize winning depth but a sweet, tender depth (along with some laugh out loud inappropriateness).

The Unfinished Angel by Sharon Creech

2009-10-04T17:11:00.003-04:00

I love Sharon Creech and am incredibly comfortable with her style so it was a surprise to read The Unfinished Angel - a thoroughly delightful surprise. As a comparison, I am known for making a really good chocolate chip cookie so you might arch your eye brows were I to show up with meatballs. It might take a few bites but you would eventually realize I make a mean meatball too. In The Unfinished Angel Sharon Creech invites us to Switzerland where her unnamed angel is looking for a purpose. Enter Zola, a feisty and determined girl who helps the angel find her way. Subtle humor and well defined characters make this a lovely read.

Return of the Homework Machine by Dan Gutman

2009-09-29T09:58:00.003-04:00

Dan Gutman is back with the same cast of characters from The Homework Machine. A quick and fun read, the students once again tell their story through an interrogation by Police Chief Rebecca Fish. If you remember, Benton was receiving mysterious phone calls at the end of the original book - do they continue? Will the foursome try and make another machine (sixth grade is hard)? Will their new teacher, a former military man, rule the classroom with an iron fist? And where exactly did the machine land when they catapulted it into the Grand Canyon? Take a hike through Return of the Homework Machine - you won't be disappointed with the adventure.

Some stuff for adults

2009-09-07T11:42:00.006-04:00

Friday I stopped by the library and found James Patterson's Swimsuit on the shelf. Fluff for a Saturday at the beach. I read it and then wondered what exactly a shrink would say about Patterson and his collaborators - they weave these stories of evil and once you pick up the book you're engaged, whether you like it or not (which begs the question why do I keep going back for more).

One book I finished and highly recommend if you're looking to make a change in your life is Changing for Good: A Revolutionary Six-Stage Program for Overcoming Bad Habits and Moving Your Life Positively Forward by James O. Prochaska, John Norcross, and Carlo DiClement. It's a fascinating look at how people change and reassuring in it's simplicity. Great food for thought (ie. change isn't linear), it offers simple suggestions on how to make meaningful change.

I was at Barnes and Noble on Friday night and I stopped by the New Biography section and found a memoir by David Small, a children's book illustrator. Why is this memoir different? He wrote it graphically. It is a very quick, heart wrenching read. The reason I mention it is because some scoff at whether or not graphic novels are "real" books. Can a graphic novel adequately tell a story? If you read Stitches there will be no doubt.

Anything but Typical

2009-08-23T11:43:00.008-04:00

If you liked Rules by Cynthia Lord then do yourself a favor and pick up Anything but Typical by Nora Raleigh Baskin. What Baskin has done is masterful. Written from the perspective of Jason, a twelve boy with autism, the reader experiences what life is like for him and how he negotiates a sometimes unfriendly world. The empathy Baskin has for her characters is awe-inspiring. And parents, if you're looking for an adult version of what it's like to be autistic, try reading Born on a Blue Day, a memoir by Daniel Tammet.

The Red Blazer Girls

2009-08-23T11:28:00.002-04:00

I'm always looking for a good mystery and The Red Blazer Girls not only filled that need but also brought me back to my days as a uniform wearing high school student (although our blazer was an ugly brown polyester not an engaging red). Four seventh grade friends, an old woman with a mysterious letter, her ex-husband and their estranged daughter, an eavesdropping maid and her creepy husband make for some interesting characters in Michael Biel's first book (and I didn't even mention the nice looking boy who not only helps but complicates things). Filled with puzzles both literary and mathematical, The Red Blazer Girls is a fun and innocent read for sixth graders and up.

Fluff and Not Fluff

2009-08-15T07:25:00.006-04:00

James Patterson takes the reader on a wild ride in Cross Country. After a brutal murder in the DC area, Detective Cross travels to Africa in search of The Tiger and sees brutality and desperation up close. Of course he escapes death time and time again. It's not great literature but it's fun for a day at the beach (when you don't have to watch the kids in the water....). The story did give me pause as Patterson's descriptions of Africa are heartbreaking.

Yesterday was memoir day at the beach. Autobiography of a Face by Lucy Grealy tells her story, the story of young girl who does battle with Ewing's sarcoma. Discovered quite by accident, the cancer, Lucy learns, has a five percent survival rate. Despite parents who don't quite get how to care for a sick child (be tough, show no fear, don't cry), Lucy perseveres through years of daily radiation treatments, weekly chemo appointments, endless teasing by boys and 30 operations in two different countries. Is she a hero? I would say she showed heroic qualities at different parts of her life. Conflicted, complicated may be more apt descriptions.

Ann Patchett, author of Bel Canto, wrote a memoir of her friendship with Lucy five years ago titled Truth and Beauty. Patchett and Grealy went to Sarah Lawrence together, though their knowledge of one another was minimal. It wasn't until the Iowa Writer's Workshop that they forged a bond. I read it when it came out simply because I love Patchett. If I remember correctly, Patchett paints a hard picture of what it's like to be Grealy's friend (though she knew Grealy was a gifted poet).

One more thought

2009-08-09T10:04:00.002-04:00

I was lamenting recently that as my nieces and nephews grow they migrate from my area of book expertise (is there nothing better than picking out a picture book) but Friday night as I shopped at Barnes and Noble I had the most delightful realization - I only lose them for a short amount of time. Today, one of my favorite people in the whole world turns 23. My niece Megan is working as an MSW with at risk kids in Rhode Island. Yesterday I went up to see her first apartment and hangout for awhile. As a birthday present I brought with me three books and explained to her the reason for each one: The Help (great literature; well developed characters); Janet Evanovich's One for the Money (fluff at it's best) and Changing for Good by James Prochaska, John Norcross, and Carlo Diclemente (it's good to read books that make you think, plus Prochaska is a clinical psychologist and professor from URI, her new home state). But perhaps the best part of the day was spent at Border's browsing the fiction section - we had great conversation about books we've read; books we want to read and what some of our favorites are (although she was reluctant to use the term favorite, "I don't think I've had enough experience with books to have a favorite,"). I love being an aunt.

Never enough time

2009-08-09T09:56:00.003-04:00

I made two stops on Thursday - one at school and another one at the Rowayton Library. At school I picked up some new books and at the Rowayton Library I left with five books, including a Playaway of The Time Travelers Wife (thanks for the suggestion Mrs. F). In addition, I've got a number of books downloaded to my Kindle. It's safe to say they'll be even more reading than normal going on. The question is, will it be at the beach under the sun or at home in the big red chair. Only the weather knows.

Lucy Rose Big on Plans by Katy Kelly

2009-08-09T09:39:00.002-04:00

In Big on Plans, Lucy Rose tackles summer - all 92 days of it. Written in diary format we peak in on Lucy's life in Washington DC where she lives with her mom, her grandparents just a stone's throw away. It is a tough summer on so many different levels for Lucy Rose - she and her friends Jonique and Melonhead are put in charge of ridding an apricot tree of squirrels; her dad and mom are on the verge of getting a divorce and there's a new girl in town who just doesn't like her. But if Lucy Rose is one thing, she's plucky. And I find when one is plucky, life, no matter how hard it is, can be bearable and dare I say, enjoyable (especially when you're surrounded by people who love you).

Scat by Carl Hiaasen

2009-08-09T09:03:00.005-04:00

I really enjoy Carl Hiaasen's adult books - they are funny and engaging. Scat is his third book for kids and while humor is in play, the books, written for upper elementary and middle school audience are more ecological mystery than anything else. In Scat the cast of characters ( Nick, Marta, Smoke, Twilly, and Mrs. Starch) do battle with the Red Diamond Energy Corporation as they fight for the survival of the Florida panther. Should you choose to read Scat be prepared to devote some time to the story; at 371 pages there's a lot to take in but it's well worth it.

Calvin Coconut Trouble Magnet

2009-08-02T20:50:00.002-04:00

Calvin Coconut Trouble Magnet by Graham Salisbury describes the adventures of an impish boy desperate to hold onto summer (despite the reality of school beginning in a few days). Set in Hawaii, Calvin takes us on a rollicking ride as he negotiates life with Stella, his new "sister," Tito, the school bully and Mr. Purdy, former Army drill sergeant, now fourth grade teacher. With simplicity, Graham Salisbury gives us a story about friendship and family. And if Calvin is the kind of guy you'd like to hear more from, book two, The Zippy Fix will be available in September

And some 1st grade favorite reads...

2009-08-01T18:02:00.000-04:00

Mercy Watson

The Missing Piece
Arthur’s Honey Bear
Mouse & the Motorcycle
Dinosaurs before Dark
Flat Stanley
Goalkeeper in Charge
Andrew’s Loose Tooth
History of NY Yankees
How Things Work
Sister Magic the Trouble w/ Violet
Pinkalicious
The Giving Tree
Too Many Dogs
No David
Bark George
Burger Boy
Who Broke Lincoln’s Thumb
Secrets of Droon
Magic Tree House
Nancy Drew
Christopher Counting
I’m not Cute
Atomic Ace

Book Reviews...from some 3rd graders

2009-08-01T17:40:00.000-04:00

Prior to school ending I worked with some of the third graders on writing book reviews. I have been remiss in posting. We're going with the better late then never line...

Looking for a good mystery? Annie and KK, daughters of the first woman president live in the White House and have heard all the stories about the Lincoln Bedroom. Their goal is to find out whether or not Lincoln’s ghost really haunts his old bedroom. Does he or does he not? Read The Ghost, The White House and Me to find out.
Kara & Allison

Matilda is a kid genius and had some tricks up her sleeve. With mean parents and a fierce principal she has to find her way out of problems. With all these people around her, can she prove she’s smart?
Grace, Ryusei, & Gaby

Looking for adventure? Join Coraline as she travels through locked doors and magic mirrors searching for her parents. Will she find them and the lost children before time runs out? Read Coraline to find out!
Jenna

Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of school for the tenth time when he overhears his friend Grover talking to his teacher about escorting him to a “half blood camp." Percy doesn’t know what to think or who to turn to. The Lightning Thief sends the reader on an action packed adventure. Fasten your seat belt and read it.
Gregory & Connor

Fantastic Mr. Fox should definitely be on your summer reading list- it’s funny and silly. The Farmers who aren’t as smart as they think they are try to kill the foxes (and all the other animals) again and again. Read FMF to see if the farmers ever succeed.
Simon & Philip

Beach Reads

2009-08-01T15:36:00.000-04:00

I received an email from a friend this morning with a list of NPR listeners Best Beach Reads. She wondered how many I had read and how many were actually read on the beach. After looking at the list I realized two things - there's a whole lot I haven't read and perhaps my definition of a beach read is very different than a listener of NPR. I was happy to see Barbara Kingsolver mentioned multiple times; Pat Conroy, too. And I can't argue with Harry Potter at number one but a few books screamed high school English instead of beach chair. What do you think? Click the beach chair for the list.

Lucky Breaks by Susan Patron

2009-08-01T15:20:00.000-04:00

Lucky lives with her French guardian Brigitte in Hard Pan, California (population 43). Despite it's small size, Hard Pan has a way of teaching Lucky some of life's most important lessons, especially the week before her 11th birthday. In addition to Brigitte, Lucky has her best friends Lincoln and Paloma, Miles a six year old boy genius and a whole bunch of quirky locals to help her find her way. Susan Patron won the Newbery Award for the first book in this series: The Higher Power of Lucky. I found Lucky Breaks equally engaging.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

2009-08-01T15:00:00.000-04:00

Caroline Robbins was right. The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a wonderful read. From the first page you are drawn into life in Jackson, Mississippi, 1962. Told in three alternating voices, The Help explores the relationships between white women and their African American maids. Miss Skeeter is 22 years old, a college graduate living at home. Unlike her friends, she wants a life beyond wife and mother. Thanks to Constantine, the maid who raised her, she sees with her heart, the color of one's skin doesn't matter. Aibileen is a black maid who has helped raise 17 children. Her only son was killed in a work accident when little was done by his bosses to help save his life. Loving and smart, Aibileen understands the dynamics of being black in the south and is ready to shake things up. Aibileen's best friend Minny is the third narrator. Married with five kids and an abusive husband, Minny has been blacklisted by the women of Jackson - she steals, she talks back, she is disrespectful. Not all of it true, Minny eventually finds work with Miss Celia and realizes that Skeeter is colorblind and on her side.

Great Website

2009-07-28T16:56:00.001-04:00

Sue and I are often stumped when asked what book comes next in a series. I just came across a great website that will help us out: What's Next?

It includes lists for both adult and youth series.

The Value of Friends

2009-07-28T15:48:00.001-04:00

I heard from Caroline Robbins this morning and she says, The Help by Kathryn Stockett is not only the best book she's read this summer but the best book she's read in a long time. I picked it up at the library last week so I put the book I'm reading down and dove right in this morning. Already, I am hooked.

One of the things we talk about with the kids (and I apologize if I mentioned this before) is the value of recommendations. As I was reading The Help at the beach today one of my favorite "book recommenders, " Annie, walked by and struck up a conversation. She lives down the street from my brother and his family and I see her every so often. Inevitably we talk books. When she saw what I was reading she said it was on her list and suggested another book, The Outlander by Gil Adamson. "Great page turner," said Annie (who loves to read so much she would occasionally hide in the closet so her kids wouldn't find her and she could finish reading a book).

And one more note from Caroline Robbins: Jane Green will be at Just Books in Old Greenwich on Tuesday, August 4th.

Janet Evanovich - Fluff at its best

2009-07-28T15:39:00.000-04:00

I will admit there may be some who question why I'll take a Janet Evanovich mystery over a Jane Green novel but in my book you can't go wrong when there are ample opportunities to laugh at inappropriate topics. In Finger Lickin' Fifteen, Evanovich has once again placed Stephanie, Lula and Grandma Mazur into situations that are completely unbelievable but engaging in a summer beach chair kind of way. It's a quick, easy read that will have you smiling right up until the last page.

Chick Lit - Oh my goodness

2009-07-26T14:35:00.000-04:00

Last summer I was introduced to the Chick Lit genre. I read some Jane Green stuff and a book by Elin Hilderbrand. It was good for passing an afternoon on the beach. Well I just finished Green's latest - Dune Road. Wow. I often suggest to the kids that every story starts with the question, "What if...." Suffice it to say, Jane Green asked a lot of what ifs (there is a bit of a spoiler ahead but what I give away is fairly predictable): What if the main character is recently divorced, has a distant mother who has rejected her from birth, falls in love with Steve who is actually Jed, her best friend's conniving ex-husband while finding out that she also has a half sister she never knew about who grew up in England. And that's only half of it. Jane Green lives in Westport and draws a fairly harsh picture of life on the Gold Coast. As most of you know, I am not an expert on family life in Fairfield County but allow me to say, if even just a little bit of the story has some truth there's some exciting stuff going on :-)

Last Two Nutmegs

2009-07-23T15:31:00.000-04:00

Just finished the last two Nutmeg nominees, Paint the Wind by Pam Munoz Ryan and Stumptown Kid by Carol Gorman. .

Horse stories are popular in the media center. We have a lot of kids who take riding lessons and they naturally gravitate towards the Marguerite Henry shelf. I am not an expert in this area but I think Ms. Ryan has put together a terrific story about a young girl who is desperate to find a connection with her horse loving parents who were killed in a car accident. Raised by her bitter and overprotective paternal grandmother in California, Maya is kept from her mother's Wyoming ranching family. When she is finally reunited with Moose (her grandfather), her Uncle Fig, Aunt Vi and cousin Payton will she fit in? Take a gallop through Paint the Wind and find out.

We are often asked what's next after Matt Christopher, the prolific author of sports stories. Mike Lupica and Dan Gutman have written a number of upper elementary sports themed novels that we recommend. Now we can add Stumptown Kid to our list. Kid takes place in Holden, Iowa, 1952. Baseball is king and the desire to make the Wildcats, a team of 11 and 12 year olds, far greater than anything Charlie has ever felt. Brad Lobo has no use for Charlie and provides enough distractions during tryouts that Charlie doesn't make the roster. Enter Luther Peale, a twenty something African American who has found his way to Holden to start a new life. Mr. Peale and Charlie strike up a friendship and Luther who has played some ball, starts coaching a rag-a-muffin team to take on the Wildcats. Unfortunately, being African American in Holden in 1952 is a big deal and racism is rampant. Ms. Gorman explores the topic with sensitivity and raises the bar when it comes to sports stories.

Two More Picture Books

2009-07-22T15:38:00.000-04:00

In the spirit of summer vacation I offer you two picture books on the subject: Pictures from Our Vacation by Lynne Rae Perkins and A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever by Marla Frazee.

I have wonderful memories of family vacations - my parents would pile us all in the car and head down to Bayhead on the Jersey shore. A U-Haul filled with trunks (two weeks of clothes and beach towels for nine people takes up a lot of room), bikes and other assorted sports equipment, trailed behind. Perkins and Frazee capture the joy of summer vacation beautifully. My favorite sentiment is from Pictures when the narrator realizes that some of the best memories reside in our hearts, not in our photo albums.

Picture Books

2009-07-22T14:49:00.000-04:00

I am stuck at home today waiting for the invisible fence guy to come and repair a break in the line. What to do? Make my way through a stack of picture books, most with a dog theme. Here are some of my favorites.

Chowder by Peter Brown - back when Jenny Lawton owned Just Books Too we were lucky enough to have Peter visit our first grades twice. He is a young author with a great sense of humor. His two Chowder books and Flight of the Dodo get a lot of use in the Media Center. If you've never heard of Chowder or the Wubbingtons you're missing out (plus you have to like an author whose website is: www.somebrownstuff.com)

Dog Blue by Polly Dunbar - there's something to be said about having a dream come true.

The Bookshop Dog by Cynthia Rylant - truth be told, my dream has always been to own a bookstore, dog by my side. For now, I live vicariously through Cynthia Rylant.

Martha books by Susan Meddaugh - after reading a Martha book I'm always tempted to feed our dogs some alphabet soup.

Bad Dog School by Barbara M. Joosse - are perfectly behaved dogs fun to have around?

Smartypants (Pete in School) by Maira Klaman - Pete is my favorite naughty dog as he too is a wheaten like my Oscar and while he's never eaten the pants off a math teacher...

Houndsley and Catina and the Quiet Time by James Howe - a simple beginning chapter book about friendship. Were we all to have friends like Houndsley we'd be in good shape.

Dog Show by Elizabeth Winthrop - a perfect definition of what it means to be man's best friend.

Stella Unleashed: Notes from the Doghouse by Linda Ashman - Ashman captures a dog's life in poetry.

The Girls from Ames: A Story of Women and a Forty-Year Friendship by Jeffrey Zaslow

2009-07-19T15:30:00.000-04:00

The Girls from Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow is a fascinating look at 11 women from Ames, Iowa who have been friends for more than 40 years. Zaslow not only profiles the individual women but also examines the value and benefits of friendship, in particular female friendships. I am of similar age to the women in the book and it was fascinating to note that their proximity to cornfields did not make them any less different than me - a girl from Larchmont NY. Love, joy, sorrow, adversity - they see each other through it all. While I don't go back 40 years with too many people, those I do share a history with are special. There is something to be said for having a friend you can call anytime, day or night, and know that they are with you no matter what.

Grow: A Novel in Verse by Juanita Havill

2009-07-19T15:21:00.000-04:00

If you enjoyed reading Love that Dog or Hate that Cat (both by Sharon Creech) you might want to pick up Grow: A Novel in Verse by Juanita Havill. Twelve year old Kate joins Berneetha, the neighborhood "fat lady" to transform an empty lot into a beautiful garden. Along the way we meet up with Harlan, a troubled young man who wants to be given a second chance along with a host of others who realize the value of community. A quick and delightful read.

The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin

2009-07-19T14:55:00.000-04:00

Another Nutmeg nominee, The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin, provides a look at what it's like growing up Chinese American. It can't be easy being the only Chinese student in her grade but Grace manages it with finesse and balance. When her mother explains The Year of the Dog is a good year for friendship and "finding herself," Grace sets off on a year long search for both. I love opportunities to look at the world from different perspectives - Grace Lin has has done a masterful job of allowing the reader to experience life as Grace, a young Chinese American girl. Told from Grace's perspective along with vignettes from her parents' lives, The Year of the Dog is a feel-good read.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

2009-07-16T13:30:00.000-04:00

Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows have written a thoroughly delightful read. Told in letters, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society celebrates friendship and books. Taking place over eight months in 1946, we meet and get to know intimately characters who you'd want very much to invite to dinner. The end of the war serves as a backdrop and while suffering is part of the story, it doesn't overwhelm you. Sometimes I wonder what is the highest compliment one can give to a book and I think this is it - I didn't want The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society to end. (An interesting side note, Annie Barrows is the author of the Ivy and Bean series for kids.)

More Nutmeg Books

2009-07-14T09:59:00.000-04:00

I have been putting a dent in the Nutmegs. Here's what I've read - the quick overview is from nutmegaward.org and then I follow with my thoughts.

Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix

"What would you do if your parents dropped you off at an unknown aunt’s house in the middle of the night, in an unknown town, where everyone you met looked at you as if they just saw a ghost? This is Bethany’s living nightmare, and it takes all her courage to slowly unravel the truth.

I've never read a Haddix novel and am glad I finally did. Double Identity is fast-paced and has it's fair share of twists and turns. Some interesting questions arise about cloning so don't be afraid to discuss them with an adult.

Rules by Cynthia Lord

"If you have to tell your autistic brother “to keep his pants on in public,” how can you hope for a normal life? Catherine discovers that her own behavior with new neighbor Kristi and wheelchair-bound Jason make her look again at what “normal” really means."

Put simply, Rules is a delightful story about what it means to be a sister and discovering the gifts in the people around you - even if they are related.

Drita My Homegirl by Jenny Lombard

"Drita emigrates to New York City from Kosovo. During a social studies project, she meets Maxie, a native New Yorker who can’t seem to stay quiet in school. What can two girls from such different worlds possibly have in common? More than you think."

Told in the voices of Maxie and Drita, Jenny Lombard does a great job of exploring the ups and downs of being an outsider and what it takes to be a friend.

The Film Club by David Gilmour

2009-07-10T16:37:00.001-04:00

Canadian film critic and novelist David Gilmour's memoir, The Film Club, is both a book about a parents love and how to watch a movie. When he saw his son Jesse failing and unhappy in high school, Gilmour told him he could drop out of school if he (Jesse) agreed to watch three movies a week with him (Gilmour). Jesse jumped at the opportunity. If you can suspend judgement of Gilmour's parenting style and appreciate a father's unconditional love for his son, this book is a good read. If you are a movie buff and are interested in how a critic looks at a film, this book is a good read. (As an aside, having read The Film Club I realize how simple my own take on movies is - did I enjoy it or not? There is a list of the movies mentioned and I'm looking forward to seeing them, perhaps with a new eye.)

A Dog's Life: Autobiography of a Stray by Ann M. Martin

2009-07-09T22:03:00.000-04:00

Ann M. Martin, lives and writes in upstate New York. She also volunteers for an animal rescue organization. In her book, A Dog’s Life she tells the story of Squirrel, a puppy born in a gardening shack surrounded by cats and mice and other assorted animals. Squirrel’s mother took wonderful care of Squirrel and her brother Bone – showing them how to hunt and find food but when they reached an age where they could take care of themselves she left and Squirrel and Bone were left to fend for themselves. Told from Squirrel’s perspective, A Dog’s Life explores what it takes for a stray dog to survive – moving from town-to-town, where to find water, how to deal with traffic and highways, when to trust and when not to. It is by no means an easy life but it does become a way of life for Squirrel. And based on her encounters with humans you can understand why she might prefer to be on her own. When you read A Dog’s Life perhaps you’ll ask yourself the same question I did – will Squirrel, who from all appearances sees like a lovely dog (I’d invite her to live with me), ever find someone to love and be loved by? Read the book and find out.

Knucklehead by Jon Scieszka

2009-07-09T18:18:00.000-04:00

Do you have brothers? Did you ever wonder what it would be like to have brothers? Jon Scieszka (rhymes with Fresca), author of The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, The Stinky Cheese Man, and Cowboy and Octopus was one of six boys. Knucklehead is a tribute to growing up Scieszka. Thirty-eight vignettes tell the family story (did you know seven pounds is enough to break a collarbone). Jon's mom was an RN, his dad, an elementary school principal. Instead of calling the boys by their names his parents would often call them knucklehead. As in, "Which knucklehead took a bite of the turkey last night and filled the hole in with stuffing?" Or, "Hey knuckleheads, get in the car, it's time for church."

Being the sixth of seven, I was often called KevindebbiebrendantimmydeirdreAMY. This memoir made me laugh...and laugh...and laugh. It is perfection - no matter what size your family is. How perfect? I'll be ordering two copies for my elementary age nephews (all the nieces are too old for it).

The 50 Page Rule

2009-07-08T16:35:00.000-04:00

There is a librarian out in Washington state who introduced me to the 50 page rule. Her theory is that giving a book 50 pages to reveal itself is plenty of time. If at 50 pages you are not engaged, don't care about the characters and dread the thought of finishing the book, put it down - there are too many good books out there to waste time with one that doesn't speak to you. (I wish I was aware of this rule back in 1984 when I was reading Stephen King's Christine.)

Archer's Quest by Linda Sue Park

2009-07-06T17:52:00.000-04:00

One of the nice things about doing the Nutmeg Book Bowl with the fifth grade is I have to read books I might normally pick up. Archer's Quest by Linda Sue Park is one of those books. Kevin is twelve and home alone - he had a half day of school and his parents are working late. He's finished with all but his social studies homework and is doing a fine job avoiding it when suddenly there is a man in his room brandishing a bow and arrow. Not only is he brandishing a bow and arrow but he used it to nick the button at the top of Kevin's hat. Who is this man? Would you believe the Korean king, Chu Mong who founded the Koguryo Kingdom in 37 BC? What follows is a delightful time travel story of a 21st century boy trying to help a Korean King from 2000 years ago get back to his home.

Ice Bound by Dr. Jerri Nielson

2009-07-06T09:43:00.000-04:00

When I saw Dr. Nielson's obituary a couple of weeks ago I decided to pick up her book Ice Bound: A Doctor's Incredible Battle for Survival at the South Pole. If you don't remember - Dr. Nielson was the lone physician at the South Pole during the polar winter of 1999. Her job was to care for all the physical and emotional needs of her 40 colleagues. Because it gets so cold during the polar winter, planes cannot land or depart. It is shortly after the last plane leaves that Dr. Nielson discovers a lump in her breast. She keeps an eye on it for three months before deciding she needs help - but where does one get help when you are ice bound? Ice Bound is not just Dr. Nielson's story - it is the story of 41 people who come together as one to help a friend; it is the story of an oncologist in Indiana who finds a way to be both hopeful and honest with a patient she has never met; it is the story of a family who loves their daughter and sister so much they would do anything for her. It's not an easy read (her back story is fascinating) but it does give one pause (much like Three Cups of Tea) - how different is their DNA than mine?

Attack of the Turtle by Drew Carlson

2009-07-04T12:55:00.000-04:00

While I didn't do it on purpose, the timing was perfect for reading the historical fiction novel, Attack of the Turtle by Drew Carlson. Set in Connecticut and New York during the summer of 1776, Turtle tells the story of 14 year old Nathan Wade, a fisherman's son, who works with his cousins David, a 33 year recent Yale graduate and 27 year old Ezra, a farmer, to build the first submarine used in warfare. Special appearances by Dr. Benjamin Franklin, Generals Putnam and Washington, give the reader a good look into what it must have been like to for the Patriots as they battled the British in NY Harbor.

Olive Kitteridge and Other Books I Hope to Read

2009-07-04T07:08:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I sat down with the NY Times Book Review, chatted with colleagues and created my own summer reading list. While I will be reading plenty of kids books I also need to feed my soul with the adult variety. For the record, I enjoy both the fluff and denser, character driven books. I'll read a memoir or two as well.

Yesterday I met Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge and was engaged by the second page. Set in a small coastal town in Maine where people are a bit more complex then one might think, Strout weaves 11 stories together in which Olive plays either a major or minor part. She is an incredibly flawed and engaging character who you want to alternately cheer for and yell at. Sometimes I judge a book by whether or not I'd like to be friends with the main character - I think Olive would have frustrated me but I could see having dinner with the Kitteridge family every so often.

The rest of my list:

The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by MA Shaffer and Annie Barrows
The Downhill Lie by Carl Hiaasen
The Film Club by David Gilmour
The Crowd Sounds Happy by Nicholas Dawidoff
The End of Overeating by David A. Kessler
The Help by Kathryn Stock
Ice Bound by Dr. Jerri Nielson

And if I can get my hands on the new Janet Evanovich, James Patterson and Jane Green books...

The Ghost's Grave by Peg Kehret

2009-07-02T19:07:00.001-04:00

When the first line of a book is, "The night I moved in with my Aunt Ethel she shot a bat in her kitchen," you know you're in for an unpredictable ride. A crazy aunt (who makes the most amazing cakes), a ghost with a peg leg desperate to be an angel (but can't until he finds love in his heart), and an unsolved robbery (can you say one hundred thirty thousand dollars) make Peg Kehret's The Ghost's Grave a most enjoyable read.

Three Cups of Tea - A Family Affair

2009-07-01T08:12:00.001-04:00

I may be a bit late to the "tea party" but I just finished this book and am in awe of Greg Mortenson. I fear that I will butcher his story so put simply, Greg has made it his mission to educate the children (in particular the girls) of Pakistan and Afghanistan. His journey is inspiring. The people he meets, the lives he changes, the difference he has made and continues to make gives one pause. The good news is the publishing world realized it was a great story and have produced three versions: one for adults, one for young adults and a picture book. I imagine dinner table conversation possibilities are endless.

Looks Like a Reader to Me

2009-06-29T14:03:00.001-04:00

Meet Oliver, our new labradoodle. Named after the poet Mary Oliver, he joins Oscar (as in Oscar Wilde) and Conway (after Jill Kerr Conway, author and first female president of Smith College).

Conversations

2009-06-26T17:18:00.000-04:00

A few years ago a mom came to me and said she was disappointed that one of the books her third grade daughter had borrowed from the public library dealt with inappropriate topics. For the life of me I can't remember what the topics were but I was relieved to find out her daughter hadn't borrowed the book from the school library. Well, we actually had five copies of the same book - it was a Nutmeg nominee. What this mom was dealing with is what a lot of parents deal with - children who are capable of reading books far above their maturity level.

Authors today are dealing with serious subjects. Good authors treat these subjects with care and sensitivity. They create characters who you want to root for and want to be friends with, characters who make you laugh and may make you cry. This is the reality of the 21st century.

I think the two toughest things to be these days is a kid or a parent. I am not an expert on either (although I am a pretty good aunt) but cannot emphasize enough the importance of keeping open the lines of communication. As I spoke with the parent I mentioned earlier, I realized that her daughter had come to her with questions about the book and as it turns out a wonderful dialogue ensued - how great a gift is that? Whether we are parents or teachers (or aunts) we need to be open to the gifts of conversation.

Ian and Y2C2 Were Right

2009-06-26T10:23:00.000-04:00

When Ms. Lau visited to talk about Young Young Critics to our 3rd and 4th grade she mentioned that I, Lorelei by Yeardly Smith was voted top pick by Perrot's book group. According to Ian, one of our 4th (now 5th graders), "Don't pay attention to the cover; it's not just for girls and if you liked Diary of a Wimpy Kid you'll really like this."

To be honest, I'm not a big fan of any DOAWK but Ian's sales pitch was intriguing. I just finished I, Lorelei and have to say - it is a lovely read. Lorelei at 11 is experiencing both highs and lows: she made the school play but her parents are not getting along; Bo, one of the most popular boys in her class has asked her to study but her best friend Jenny is not being particularly nice. When your mom isn't always available, who to turn to? Lorelei starts a diary and each entry starts with, "Dear Mud..." Mud, as we find out early on, is Lorelei's cat who died. All the things she might have said to Mud were he alive, she writes to him. And it is through writing Lorelei learns that life isn't perfect and that she, along with her brothers, can make it together.