BOOK: Moon Over Manifest

Moon Over Manifest
by Clare Vanderpool

This is a delightful read that is well-deserving of it's Newberry Medal.  It's a wonderful story of family, friendship, hope, hard work, and love, along with plenty of action and mystery... and great characters.  This book will appeal to both boys and girls, as well as adults.

The book contains no offensive language, however, there are some mildly frightening scenes, references to alcohol use (the story takes place during prohibition), and a scene of violence (mostly just alluded too) that might be too much for younger children. 

Recommended for ages 10 and up

BOOK: Beauty Sleep (Once Upon a Time series)

Beauty Sleep (Once Upon a Time Series)
by Cameron Dokey

This retelling of "Sleeping Beauty" was fun and charming, with plenty of twists and turns and lots of adventure.  I think my boys would even like it.  Aurora is spunky and courageous, and the story teaches lessons of doing the right thing no matter what, even when it's really, really difficult.  It's also a story of true love, of course, based on a real relationship, and not just looks, or "love at first sight."  Thank goodness.

There is no inappropriate language and contains nothing more than a sweet kiss.  However, there are a few brief moments of violence, but nothing graphic.

I look forward to reading more of this series.

Recommended for ages 12 to adult

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: 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

BOOK: What Came from the Stars

What Came From the Stars
by Gary D. Schmidt

I couldn't resist checking out Schmidt's latest book since I have thoroughly enjoyed all the others I have read by him.  Once again I was not disappointed.  This capitivating Tolkein/C.S. Lewis-esque story is part family drama, part coming-of-age tale, and part adventure, with a sci-fi twist.  It is also well-written and compelling.

There is no offensive language.  There is some violence in the form of battle scenes, and yet the author somehow manages to leave out all descriptions of violence without taking away from the intensity of the scene.  Authors who feel the need to include gratuitous violence should take a page out of Schmidt's book. 

Recommended for:  Ages 12 to adult

BOOK: First Light

First Light
by Rebecca Stead

I had a hard time getting in to this story, but once I finally did I enjoyed it.  It didn't start coming together though until about half-way through, which seems a long time to stick with a story.  But since I had enjoyed another book by this author, I stuck it out. 

I was a little bit annoyed by a few loose ends (though they are minor), and the author's occasionally "preachy" tone but I can usually overlook that... or pretend that's not the author's intention.  Overall it's a good book... not fantastic, but enjoyable.  There is really no love story, which was a bit surprising for young adult fiction, but actually kind of refreshing.

The book contains nothing offensive (I don't even remember any mild profanity, though it's possible I missed some), but the subject matter is pretty intense.  There is also a brief mention of human reproduction as regarding the paternity of a character(s), but it's not detailed.... just matter-of-fact and brief, but it would be confusing or possibly disconcerting to a child who is unaware of the "facts of life."

Recommended for:   Ages 12 and up

 

BOOK: Love, Ruby Lavender

Love, Ruby Lavender
by Deborah Wiles

I read a lot of children's book since I review them for our school library, especially during the summer when I (supposedly) have more time.  (Ha!)  Even though I read children's book out of obligation (sort of) I generally really enjoy them.  And I always like to have books to recommend to my own children.

This delightful novel was quite touching and tender.  Ruby and her grandmother are very colorful characters, and the small town atmosphere is always fun.  The story is fun and interesting, but there is also a lot to learn from the characters and how they handle difficult things in life.  There is some nice character growth, and plenty of fun. 

The book contains nothing offensive, and it would make a great read-aloud book as well as enjoyable for children to read on their own.  Though the main characters are all female (and strong ones) I don't see any reason why boys wouldn't enjoy this book as well.

Recommended for:  Ages 8-12

BOOK: Out of My Mind (Sharon M. Draper)

Out of My Mind
by Sharon M. Draper

I was surprised and delighted by this excellent book; it's well-written and compelling and teaches valuable lessons about judging those with disabilities and dealing with hardships, as well coping with the normal struggles of growing up and wanting to fit in.

The book contains no inappropriate language, violence, etc., but it deals with some serious issues, making this is a great book for parents to discuss with their children. 

Recommended for ages 10 to adult

BOOK: Straw Into Gold (Gary D. Schmidt)

Straw Into Gold
by Gary D. Schmidt

This is the fourth book by Gary D. Schmidt I have read... and I'm sure I will read more.  I have not been disappointed, but have thoroughly enjoyed them all.

This charming story is a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin with a continuation of the story as we know it.  It's well-written, fast paced, and clever, with plenty of plot twists and turns, but also sweet and tender.  It will appeal to all ages of both genders.

There are a few minor swear words and some mild violence, but really nothing offensive.  

Recommended for:  Ages 9 to adult

BOOK: The Clockwork Three (Matthew J. Kirby)

The Clockwork Three
by Matthew J. Kirby

This partly magical story of three central characters whose stories gradually come together is charming and exciting.  It's well-written and has a very satisfying ending. There are a few small bits of mild violence but nothing offensive. 

Recommended for ages 10 - 16

BOOK: Icefall

Icefall
by Matthew J. Kirby

This excellent book is a story about stories and storytellers, and it's told by a wonderful storyteller.  It's filled with great characters, plenty of plot twists and page-turning action, but also beautiful writing, fantastic imagery and Norse legends brought to life.  Though the narrator is female, the book's appeal easily pulls in readers of both genders.

There is no inappropriate language, but there are some pretty intense moments of battle and some deaths, though no graphic descriptions.  I have no doubt that both my 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter will enjoy this book, and I have no hesitations in recommending it to them.

Recommended for:  Ages 10 - 16 (and beyond)

BOOK: Number the Stars

Number the Stars
by Lois Lowry

This amazing book about how the Danish people bravely smuggled thousands of their Jewish friends and neighbors into Swedish, right under the noses of the Nazis who occupied their country, is all the more thrilling because it's true!  Though the main characters are fictional (a composite of real people) the events actually took place.  

I love that the author doesn't talk down to her reader in this children's book.  She is straight forward and honest about the events that took place, but not graphic in recounting the horrors.  The book is only 137 pages, including an afterword specifying which parts are fictionalized, but that's as long as it takes for the reader to see the whole picture.  Though the story ends satisfactorily (we all know the Nazis are eventually defeated) we are left longing and hoping for that future happy ending.

Recommended for ages 10 and up

BOOK: The Death of Disco Dancer

The Death of a Disco Dancer
by David Clark

My cousin is a friend of this author so I was offered a free copy to review.  The majority of this "Mormon" novel tells the story of several months in the life of the protagonist at 11-years-old, with a few* "flash-foward" moments when he is 40-something. 

The details of growing up in Mesa, AZ in 1981 are funny (and presumably semi-autobiographical), though I'm not sure if that's because I was also 11-years-old and living in Mesa in 1981, or if they will resonate with anyone my age.  However, I think just about any grown man will be able to relate to Todd's feelings and predicaments.  It's very real.  (There is a fair bit of "language," crude humor and "locker-room-talk" that I suppose are "normal" for guys, but made me a little uncomfortable.) 


There are also very moving moments that brought me to tears.  The story is fairly compelling, and the writing is pretty good for a first-time novelist. 

Recommended for:  Men who came-of-age in the last half-century, especially the 80's

* The flash-forward moments interspersed throughout the novel are a little disjointed, probably because they are very brief (averaging half a page) and only occur every few chapters, which was a little disappointing for me since those are the parts I enjoyed the most.  I felt like they might have been more effective combined and then used as a prologue and/or epilogue.

BOOK: Matched (Ally Condie)

Matched
by Ally Condie

This young adult novel was quite interesting.  I would put it in the same category as Twilight and The Hunger Games, though it's far superior to both (and their sequels), in a number of ways. 

1)  There is more depth to the characters and relationships, making this book much preferable for teen readers (or any reader, for that matter).

2)  There is nothing offensive, which is more than I can say about most books for this audience... Twilight, The Hunger Games, et al.  Not even one swear word that I can recall.  Refreshing.

3)  There is plenty of tension and action, but this intriguing story has more depth and causes the reader to really think.

It's not a perfect book by any means, but it is quite good.  In fact, unlike T & THG, I would be fine with my own teenage children read it.  That's saying something.

The sequel, Crossed, was just released this week.  I hope the author doesn't let me down.

Age recommendation:  13 and up

BOOK: When You Reach Me

When You Reach Me
by Rebecca Stead

Wow.  This book took me completely by surprise.  It's a coming-of-age story and a great mystery that will leave you with your jaw on the floor.  I found myself feeling an unusual mixture of emotions at the end of the book... happy but sad, amazed and surprised... half laughing, half crying, utterly shocked, and completely satisfied.

The main character/narrator, twelve-year-old Miranda, lives with her single mom in New York City.  The book is set in 1978, so kids reading it today will be surprised at how the world has changed.... sixth-graders were very independent, roaming the city on their own, and they didn't carry cell phones or iPods or play video games.  BUT the issues of friends, popularity, money, relationships, bullying, etc. will all be familiar to them.

As for content, the only "language" is a couple of uses of deity as profanity, there is a brief kiss, mention is made of the mom's boyfriend not having a key to the apartment (thank goodness), and some brief mild violence.  There are some pretty intense moments and somewhat mature themes, so I would recommend it for older kids and teens (both genders!)... and adults who love a good read! 

Age recommendation:  12 years and up

FILM: Sixty Six (PG-13)

Sixty Six (2006)
Starring Helena Bonham Carter, Eddie Marsan

Jay and I stumbled upon this interesting indie flick and quite enjoyed it.  It's a quirky and heart-warming story.... the director's real-life experiences.... about an English boy (a younger son) struggling to be noticed by his working-class family and have the best bar mitzvah ever. 

The PG-13 rating:  Though I imagine there is a bit of "language" in the film, I never heard any because of the actors' accents.... in fact, I missed a bit of dialogue because of it, but it didn't seem to matter; I still got the gist of it.  (There may have been some language I didn't catch because the Brits use some words that don't have the same meaning to Americans.)  There is a brief reference to male genitals and a glimpse of a nude backside, which were very both very mild.  There is also one uncomfortable (but brief) scene where the boy accidentally glimpses a passionate scene between a man and woman, but the audience doesn't see anything.  I wouldn't want my 13 year old to see it, unless it was edited.

BOOK: Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy

Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy
by Gary D. Schmidt

I couldn't stop myself from reading another book by Schmidt to see if I was still impressed.  I am.  I really like his books and this is another excellent one.

This time the setting is early 20th century in a small town in Maine.  Racism and segregation are central to the story, and there are some pretty intense scenes, including a death (not graphic), that make this book more appropriate for older kids and teens.  There are a couple of uses of common mild swear words.  It's a clean, touching and profound story that includes themes of inter-racial friendship and doing the right thing even when everyone else is against you.  The story is loosely based on actual historical events. 

Recommended for ages 12 and up.

BOOK: Okay for Now (Gary D. Schmidt)

Okay For Now
by Gary D. Schmidt

Wow.  Schmidt's books take my breath away.  I first read The Wednesday Wars more than a year ago when someone selected it for our book club.... and I loved it.  I was completely surprised by what was supposed to be "juvenile fiction" (featuring a 7th-grade protagonist) when it turned out to be filled with mature themes (in a good way), a fantastic plot, great characters, and excellent writing. 

Okay For Now picks up where The Wednesday Wars left off.... sort of....with a different protagonist (he was a minor character before)/point of view and setting (I would recommend reading The Wednesday Wars first, though it isn't mandatory).  The story is sometimes heartbreaking (you are bound to find yourself sniffling through much of it, but there is also plenty to grin about), slightly painful and yet tender.  It's a powerful story about love and loss, overcoming and surviving, friendship and family.  It will leave you feeling that most people in this world are actually good people deep down....and you will want to go hug your family. 

As I mentioned, the themes are fairly mature, and the story takes place in 1968-1969, so a younger reader who doesn't understand the context of the Vietnam war might not get as much out of the story.  I'm glad I read this before my 12-year-old (who I know will love it as he did The Wednesday Wars after I recommended it to him) so we can discuss it.  Amazingly, this is still a story that is totally appropriate for the middle-school set..... Schmidt writes for that audience, but doesn't talk down to them.  And yet, it reads like a novel for adults in many ways.  Schmidt does a great job of writing for both audiences, in a very entertaining style.

The only "language" I recall is one or two common exclamations of deity.

Has anyone else read anything by Gary Schmidt?  I can't wait to read more of his books.

Recommended for ages 12 and up.

BOOK: A Long Way From Chicago (Richard Peck)

A Long Way From Chicago
by Richard Peck

Even though this book precedes A Year Down Yonder, there is no harm in reading them out of order, as I did, since they are actually quite independent of the other, and have different narrators.  But I enjoyed this one just as much.  It's actually a series of short stories detailing the adventures of siblings Joey and Mary Alice who spend a week each summer with their feisty grandmother in a small town.  Great characters, lots of humor, and more.  This book is perfect for both children and adults. 

Age recommendation:  10 and up

BOOK: A Year Down Yonder

A Year Down Yonder
by Richard Peck

This is a sequel to A Long Way from Chicago.  I enjoyed this gentle story set in the 1930's about a big-city teenage girl sent to spend the school year with her larger-than-life grandmother in a very small town.  Mary Alice makes friends, develops a relationship with her grandmother, and learns about life and herself along the way.  Just the kind of story I like.

The book contains nothing offensive, but the subject matter is geared toward older children, teens, and adults.  There is plenty of humor, but also lump-in-your-throat moments.  My favorite line in the book; "She knew me through and through. She had eyes in the back of her heart."

Age recommendation:  13 and up