Monthly Archives: May 2015

Starry River of the Sky

Starry River of the Sky by Grace Lin This is a companion to Lin’s lovely book,  When the Mountain Meets the Moon. A young boy runs away from home with no destination, only the wish to be far away from … Continue reading

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Princess in Black

The Princess in Black by Shannon and Dean Hale One of the latest and most adorable entries in the world of beginning chapter books comes from Shannon Hale (and her husband/sometimes writing partner). Princess Magnolia is sweet and beautiful and … Continue reading

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Saint Anything

Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen Sydney’s brother Peyton has always been the center of attention: first because of his daring and charisma, later because of his trouble with the law.  When things get bad for Peyton, Sydney all but disappears … Continue reading

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The Slippery Map

The Slippery Map by N.E. Bode (took me a while to get that) Gah.  Unlike the charming letter Suzanne Selfors used to begin Smells Like Treasure, N.E. Bode’s letter feels adult and dry.  Evidently our author is dealing with a … Continue reading

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Bone Gap

Bone Gap by Laura Ruby I came to Bone Gap with no expectations.  This is fairly unusual for me, seeing as I usually pick books that fit a specific theme.  So I was immediately taken with a sense of foreboding … Continue reading

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Smile

Smile by Raina Telgemeier In sixth grade, Raina is not looking forward to getting braces. But then a freak accident turns what was going to be a routine procedure into an ongoing dental hell.  And so, Raina’s journey through middle … Continue reading

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Ms. Rapscott’s Girls

Ms. Rapscott’s Girls by Elise Primavera It must be acknowledged that many parents are too busy to properly care for their children.  But Ms. Rapscott’s School is only for those children of the very busiest parents in the world. These … Continue reading

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Four Disgusting Creatures Non-Fiction Books from Elise Gravel

The Rat,  The Slug, The Fly, The Worm by Elise Gravel Gravel’s non-fiction series is almost irresistibly cute.  I picked one up during my hunt for Level M books and my toddler, who is not yet two, insisted that I read it to … Continue reading

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The Humming Room

The Humming Room by Ellen Potter Roo has always kept to herself.  Perhaps it was this tendency that kept her safe as her family was killed.  Once Roo is officially on her own, rather than just functionally on her own, … Continue reading

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Let’s Go Geocaching

DK Readers: Boys’ Life Series: Let’s Go Geocaching by John McKinney Ed Note:  This was originally scheduled to be posted during my Nov. treasure hunt month, but it got delayed.  Oops! I would expect after reading a passel of scavenger … Continue reading

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