BOOK: Secrets at Sea

Secrets at Sea
by Richard Peck

This charming story of a family of mice and their adventures is clever and very fun.  There are plenty of interesting characters, lots of excitement, and a few plots twists.  There is nothing offensive and will appeal to both genders.

Recommended for:  Ages 9 - 12

BOOK: Liar & Spy

Liar & Spy
by Rebecca Stead

I enjoyed this story that's a little bit mystery, a little bit drama, a little bit comedy, and lot of good old plain "human."  I don't know how else to describe it.  It's a wonderful story with interesting characters, and a delightful surprise ending.  This book contains nothing offensive.

Recommended for:  Ages 10 and up (including adults)

BOOK: Tending Roses

Tending Roses
by Lisa Wingate

My book club selected this novel for November.  I bought my own copy because it wasn't available from the library, and I'm glad I did because I know I will end up sharing this book with many people.  Our book club had a great discussion; there are lots of lessons to be learned not only from the story taking place, but the stories told by one of the main characters, Grandma Rose.  It's a novel in the true sense of the word; it's not reality.  Events in the story don't happen exactly the way things happen in real life; they happen the way things SHOULD happen in real life.  The story is set up to teach the reader, and it does.  It's clean, well-written, and contains nothing offensive.  Anyone who has aging parents or grandparents will enjoy this book, along with anyone who has ever been a parent, child, sibling, or family member of any kind.  I guess that's just about everyone. 

Recommended for Adults (and older teens who are emotionally mature)

BOOK: Glamorous Illusions

Glamorous Illusions ("Grand Tour" series)
by Lisa Tawn Bergen

This novel is an enjoyable romance/adventure mixed with a tiny bit of faith and spirituality.  It's clean and fun, plus there is some actual depth to the characters who have good values and morals.  This is the first in a series so the story is not really resolved; in fact, the reader is left hanging just a bit....enough to entice you to read the next book, which unfortunately won't be available for a while.  No matter; I'm sure I will find PLENTY to read in the meantime.

Recommended for age Adults and Teens (14 and up)

BOOK: Anson's Way

Anson's Way
by Gary D. Schmidt

This book was sometimes difficult to read because of the injustice imposed upon the Irish subjects of 18th century England.  Though loosely based on history there is much more fiction than fact, and several plot holes that would probably drive a history buff crazy, but it's a compelling story and an enjoyable read.  There are some scenes of fairly intense violence, and some deep issues at hand so I wouldn't recommend this for elementary school.

Recommended for ages 12 and up