Proxy by Alex London

Interest Level: 8 grade and up 

Reading Level: 6.1 grade
Lexile: 690
Genre: science fiction

Currently on pg. 77, chapter 10

Amazon summarizes the book: "Syd’s life is not his own. As a proxy he must to pay for his patron Knox's crimes. When Knox crashes a car and kills someone, Syd is branded and sentenced to death." If I were to continue with Amazon's description it would ruin the book. I read further and wish I hadn't. I am carrying the book around hoping to find a minute here and there to read it.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Finished the book

3 out of 4 stars

It was a little slow at times but I think that all in all I would recommend it. I will be adding it to the LRMS library collection. I think that the subject matter would appeal more to the elder middle school student and the high school student. Good ending. The author wraps up the story nicely.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Currently on pg. 278, chapter 12

SPOILER ALERT - The Latte Rebellion's sit-in goes wrong. Now I understand why Asha is at a school board meeting for a disciplinary hearing.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Currently on pg. 130, chapter 6

I am trouble with the fact at this point in the flashback portion of the storyline that Asha, Carey, and Miranda have not thought that they might be doing something wrong. They are deceiving those people that purchase the T-shirts. Makes me wonder.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Currently on pg. 112, chapter 5

This book is about a couple of high school seniors, Asha and Carey. They hope to raise money for a graduation trip. They decide to sell t-shirts promoting the Latte Rebellion, a club that raises awareness of mixed-race students.

At this point in the book, Asha is in trouble with the Ashmont Unified School District school board. The book jumps back and forth between Asha sitting in a school board meeting for a disciplinary hearing and the birth and growth of the Latte Rebellion. So far the 'rebellion' is no more than a club. I am unsure how, why, or when Asha steps over the line and gets into this predicament. So thus, I read on.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Currently pg. 24, chapter 1

So far so good.

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Interest Level: 8 - 12 grade

Reading Level: 5.8 grade
Lexile: 880
Genre: realistic fiction

There is a quote in the front of the book, some 'words of praise', written by Justina Chen Headley. I have read her books North of Beautiful and Girl Overboard and loved them. Don't steer me wrong Justina.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea

Finished the book

AWESOME BOOK!!!
5 out of 5 stars!

I am so jazzed! There is a sequel. And I have put it on my Christmas list. I like that the author made the teacher human and not perfect. The students are believable characters. My favorite character is Anna. I also love her mother. It will be interesting to see if Anna remains my favorite after the sequel. Jessica is a close second. I like Anna because she is kind, wise beyond her years, and has had a realistic life. In fact all the students are portrayed as realistic characters. No one has the Leave It To Beaver perfect life. Also, I love happy endings. When I read a book or see a movie, more than not I want to see (or read) a happy ending. I read and go to the movies to escape. Life is challenging enough and does not always have a happy ending. So, I want a happy ending! SPOILER ALERT - This book has a happy ending.

I said in an earlier post that this book may join the list of my all time favorite realistic fiction books. It officially has.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea

Currently on pg. 157, chapter March-Anna

My daughter (a college student) told me that many of her friends that are education majors read this book for a class they were taking. It is SO good. I read 156 pages this weekend! Have you read Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen, The Beloved Dearly by Doug Cooney or Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie S. Tolan? They are some of my all time favorite realistic fiction novels. Well, this one may join the list. With a little over 100 pages left, I am thinking I need to slow down. I don't want the book to end.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea

Interest Level: 3-7 grade

Reading Level: 4.1 grade
Lexile: 560
Genre: realistic fiction

Ever teacher wants to make a difference in their students' lives. This book is about a "rookie" teacher at a school in Connecticut and how he changes seven students lives for the better. I have high hopes for this book.

Knightley & Son by Rohan Gavin

Finished the book

3 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to the mystery/Holmes lovers. Good ending.

Knightley & Son by Rohan Gavin

Currently on pg. 270, chapter 25

Now it is getting exciting. SPOILER ALERT - Alan Knightley has been kidnapped. Clive is trying to kill Darkus. Tilly has run away from school. with less than 45 pages left how will the author wrap this all up?

Knightley & Son by Rohan Gavin

Currently on pg. 216, chapter 18

Did you see the code in the book, The Code? I didn't.

Knightley & Son by Rohan Gavin

Currently on pg. 134, chapter 11

I have a complaint. Life needs to slow down a bit so I can read more. I feel like things are building. I WANT MORE TIME TO READ!

Knightley & Sons by Rohan Gavin

Currently on pg. 86, chapter 8

I agree with Horn Book Guide. This book does have a Holmes-ian influence. I love all that is Sherlock Holmes. I like the BBC TV show Sherlock. I like the CBS TV show Elementary. I like the Robert Downey Jr. movies. I have had a hard time reading the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle novels although I keep trying. I have liked the young adult books; Death Cloud by Andy Lane and Eye of the Crow: Boy Sherlock Holmes' 1st Case by Shane Peacock. They are both have a Holmes-ian influence. I am enjoying the book so far and are looking forward to some action and plot twists.

Knightley & Sons by Rohan Gavin

Currently on page 18, chapter 2
Interest Level: 5-8 grade

Reading Level: 5.6 grade
Lexile: 870
Genre: mystery

I am always looking for a good young adult mystery to add to the library collection. Reviews of this book have been good. The Horn Book Guide said it had "an entertaining Holmes-ian influence and enjoyable quirky characters." The Kirkus Reviews called it "a rousing page-turner with one fault: It ends." Well, fear not the sequel K-9 is due to be released February 17, 2015. Stay tuned.

Hound Dog True by Linda Urban

Finished book

When I read that this book was about a shy girl, I was interested. Then I read that Mattie learns that "one small, brave act can lead to a friend who is hound dog true." I thought, okay I want to read this. I have a soft spot for kids that are shy. Most the time if you take the time to get to know a shy kid you will have a made a pretty great friend.

I thought that the author ended this book well. SPOILER ALERT - I was happy that it looked like Mattie and her mother would be staying put for awhile. I was pleased that her and Quincy became friends. I thought that ending it with the class introductions was perfect.

I recommend this book. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Hound Dog True by Linda Urban

Currently on pg. 90, chapter 21

I LOVE Mattie, the main character.

SEMI-SPOILER ALERT - At the end of chapter 11, Mattie is having a sleepover with Quincy. She is nervous about it. She decides to put on her pajamas before Quincy gets there then she won't have to change in front of her. Mattie comes down stairs still feeling self conscious.  "Pajamas aren't much different from naked if everybody else around is in regular clothes." As she enters the room, Mattie's eyes are down. "Mattie does not need to see their faces to know they are watching. How far does she need to walk into the kitchen for them to stop? One step? Two?" 

Another SEMI-SPOILER ALERT - In chapter 16, Mattie watches out of her window while Quincy gets into her aunt's car. She hears Quincy's aunt ask Quincy, "Should we ask Mattie along?" They do not ask Mattie. "Could be any reason Quincy does not say yes, she tells herself. Doesn't have to be that she thinks Mattie is babyish or boring. Could be Quincy and Miss Sweet were going on a quick errand. Could be they were going to the store to get something private." 

I can SO relate. I have felt the same way in similar situations.

Hound Dog True by Linda Urban

Currently on pg. 30, chapter 7

Interest Level: 3-6 grade
Reading Level: 4.1 grade
Lexile: 710
Genre: realistic fiction

Linda Urban is also the author of A Crooked Kind of Perfect. A Crooked Kind of Perfect has been a book that get consistently checked out from the LRMS library. It is also written to the 3-6 grade audience. I have not read A Crooked Kind of Perfect but have been told that it is pretty good.

I chose to read Hound Dog True because it sounded like it would be an interesting story. Also if I spent another $4.00 on my Scholastic Book order, I got some free bookmarks. I thought the LRMS students would like the bookmarks so I bought another book. They are Minecraft bookmarks.

The main character, Mattie is starting the 5th grade in two weeks. I think it said that this will be her fifth school. I was lucky enough to go to the same elementary school and same high school for all my education. I can only imagine how difficult it would be to always be the new kid.

This book is only 147 pages long. It should be a quick read. It is what I like to call a 'beach book'.

The Runaway King by Jennifer Nielsen

Finished the book

I liked it! I will more than likely read The Shadow Throne, the third and final book, at some time. This series is called the Ascendance Trilogy. At the end of this book, Kerwyn calls Jaron 'the Ascendant King of Carthya.' I have to admit. I had to look up the word 'ascendant'. It means a position of dominance or controlling influence; possession of power, superiority, or preeminence. It fits. I liked the ending. I would give this book 3 1/2 out of 5 stars. I think middle school students will really like it and will rate it much higher.

The Runaway King by Jennifer Nielsen

currently on pg. 145, chapter 20

Jaron/Sage is still not with the pirates but there has been excitement as of late.

SPOILER ALERT - Along with the thieves that were to lead him to the pirates, Jaron/Sage revisited the man who assisted him and became his friend, Harlowe. They then robbed him. Later when Jaron/Sage came face-to-face with King Vargan, he had to think quickly as to not be discovered.

I am no longer bored.

The Runaway King by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Currently on pg.122, chapter 17

Alright already, let's get to the pirates. SPOILER ALERT - Erick and Fink have grabbed Jaron (who is now calling himself Sage) and are supposedly taking him to the pirates.

I guess there is some internal struggle as to whether the pirate king would welcome an uninvited guest. I am getting bored. It is time to either get to the pirates or not.

Runaway King by Jennifer Nielsen

Currently on pg. 66, chapter 10

SPOILER ALERT - I am at the part where Jaron has just told Mott and Tobias that he plans on joining the pirates. I think that this will make for a good plot twist.


Amarinda or Imogen? I have to wonder if Amarinda is plotting against Jaron. Because I am unsure, at this point I am hoping that Jaron and Imogen will end up together. But if Amarinda is on Jaron's side, she is my choice for him.

It is time for the pirates!!! Who doesn't like a pirate story? Arrrgh! Read on!

The Runaway King by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Currently on page 50, chapter 8

Interest Level: 5-8 grade
Reading Level: 5.0 grade
Lexile: 710
Genre: historical/realistic fiction

The Runaway King is book two in the Ascendance trilogy. The fact that I am reading a sequel says a lot about the first book. I like the setting; castles, kings, courts, swords and such. In the first book, King Jaron, presumed dead, returns to claim the throne of Carthya. He is young, not yet of legal age. His regents are not confident in his ability to lead.

SPOILER ALERT - This book starts out with an assassination attempt and King Vargan and the pirates threat of an invasion. The title of this book makes me think that Jaron will panic and run from the throne. Stay tuned.

Lisa's War by Carol Matas

Finished the book

This book is what I call a 'beach book'. You can take it to the beach and read it in a day or two.

Keeping in mind that this book is aimed at younger reader, I give the book 4 out of 5 stars. A good read. You can't beat historical fiction.

Lisa's War by Carol Matas

Currently on page 18, chapter 3

Interest Level: 3rd - 7th grade
Reading Level: 3.8 grade
Interest Level: 600
Genre: historical fiction

This book was given to me about 5 years ago by a student. At that time I worked in the library at other middle school in our school district. It was April and I had decorated for Queen Margrethe II of Denmark's birthday. He said that since my great grandfather was born in Denmark and I seemed to have a fondness for the country, I should read this book. I told him I would read it and get it back to him by the end of the school year. He said he got it out of the free box at the Wilsonville public library, he was done with it, and I could keep it. I do like Denmark. I was lucky enough to visit it in the summer of 1981. I also like historical fiction. It is a short read, only 111 pages. So, I grabbed it out of my 'to read' stack of books.

Fact - On April 9, 1940, the German army invaded Denmark. Denmark surrendered within days. This is when the book is set. SPOILER ALERT - Lisa's and her family are Jewish. Her parents are worried about the German invasion. Lisa's brother, Stefan, is angry that Denmark didn't fight the Germans harder and longer. The Germans claim that nothing will change in Denmark. They will rule their own country. Lisa's family had heard about Jews in Austria and Germany going missing but nothing has been confirmed. It could all be rumors.

The Public Library by Robert Dawson

Finished the book

Anne Lemott wrote a short story, "Steinbeck Country" for this book (p.164-166). In it she said something that reminded me of my colleague and friend, Katie Sullivan. She wrote, "On this afternoon, parents read to their children in whispered Spanish, and the air felt nutritious." It seemed like something Ms. Sullivan would say, the air being nutritious.

How I love books and libraries. I give this non-fiction book 5 out of 5 stars.

The Public Library by Robert Dawson

Currently on page 162

Trona, California is known for its isolation and desolation. In 2000, it had a population of 2,742. It is also the hometown of my very dear friend, Lauretta. The Trona Branch Library is pictured on page 87. Although I have been to Trona, I did not visit the library, It looks much like I expected it to. I have also added the Central Library in Philadelphia (p.82) and the Main Library in Salt Lake City (p.115, 123, & 133) to my must-see list. Also the exteriors of the Main Library in Deuth, Minnesota (p.110) and the Willard Library in Evansville, Indiana (p.120) would draw me inside. In chapter 4 "Urban and Rural Libraries", there are three moving written pieces entitled "The Northeast Nevada Regional Bookmobile" (p.96), "Practicing Seva" (p.104), and "Spreading Enlightenment" (p.106). I highly recommend this book if only to read these three stories. Twenty-one more pages to go. I knew I would end up reading this one cover to cover.

The Public Library by Robert Dawson

Currently on page 32

Interest Level: 7th grade and up
Reading Level: 5.8 grade
Genre: non-fiction

The author that wrote the foreword for this book is from West Sacramento. I grew up in, I guess what would be called, north Sacramento. And no, I don't know him, Bill Moyers, or any of the Moyers. I picked up this book because there are some beautiful libraries in our country. I think the Woburn Public Library in Woburn, Massachusetts (pg. 20) is a very recognizable library and quite stunning. I would like to visit the Peterborough Town Library in Peterborough, New Hampshire (p.26) the next time I visit my friend, Melanie. Built in 1833, it was the first library supported by the community through taxation.

I would start this paragraph with the words 'spoiler alert' but it is information that I am sure you know. And if you don't, you should. The library matters!!! Libraries are the great equalizers among the social classes. They are refuges in times of need; natural disasters, economic distress, personal turmoil, and more. The library is currently in a state of change. As we move to a more technology based world, this book sings the praises of the library and spotlights the need for their existence.

The book is full of many beautiful pictures but also has written pieces entitled 'The Spirit of the Library', 'A Country Without Libraries', and 'What the Library Means To Me', just to name a few. Even though this is a coffee table book and lends itself to perusing, I plan to read this book cover to cover.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Finished the book

NOOOOOOO!!!! There will be a sequel titled The Wicked Must Rise slated to be published on March 30, 2015. The author did finish this book off nicely. In all honesty if the next one was already written, I would probably read it. Come March will I read the sequel? I don't know. It will depend on what else there is on my nightstand at that time.

SPOILER ALERT - Dorothy doesn't die in book one. I know, 'duh'. If she had died there probably wouldn't be a book two. I did like how at the end of the book Amy seems to join forces with the Wizard and Pete. One of the three major players (the scarecrow, the tin man, and the lion) does die or so it seems.

I will give Dorothy Must Die 3 out of 5 stars. Don't read it if you get upset when authors mess with classic story lines.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Currently on page 410, chapter 40

With only 42 pages left, I am wondering how the author is going to wrap this up. I REALLY do not want the book to end in a cliff hanger. I am enjoying the book but not enough to read a sequel.

SPOILER ALERT - The plan has finally been revealed to Amy. She is suppose to kill Dorothy during the party by stabbing her. She is not sure if she will be able to kill someone, even someone as horrible as Dorothy.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Currently on p. 308, chapter 31

SPOILER ALERT! - When Amy, disguised as Astrid, injects the scarecrow's brain with brain matter. Eeww! Disgusting!

Still carrying the book around. Still enjoying it.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Currently p.183, chapter 19

Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Lion have become evil. Dorothy now has the ability to preform magic. And she has trashed Oz. Will the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked's plan to defeat Dorothy work? Will Amy's training in magic be enough in order to prepare her to battle Dorothy?

As of now, Nox is my favorite character. Could he and Amy be a couple? The author has revealed how Nox came to the Order of the Wicked. I am anxious to see what happens next.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Currently on page 134 chapter 14

Interest Level: 8th grade and up
Reading Level: 4.75-6.25 grade
Lexile: 720HL(High-interest/Low reader)
Genre: fantasy

Amy gets sucked up by a tornado and lands in Oz but Oz has changed. After Dorothy left Oz for Kansas, she returned and stayed. Now Oz is not like it was in the book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz or the movie The Wizard of Oz.

I have read and liked Wicked by Gregory Maguire. If you are a purist and do not like authors to mess with the classics, then don't read this book. I personally am enjoying it.

SPOILER ALERT - Up is down. Right is left. Backwards is forwards. Good is evil. It appears in Danielle Paige's Oz that Dorothy is bad. As of the end of chapter 13, Amy has joined forces with Mombi and Glinda's twin, Glamora, both self-proclaimed wicked witches. Amy isn't sure if she wants to return home or how she would get home. And the Oz she is currently in is definitely not ideal. So, what is she to do?

Mi amigo Conejo por Eric Rohmann

Interest Level: K-3

Reading Level: Preschool
Genre: picture book

Ratón y Conejo son amigos. Conejo tiene buenas intenciones. Un día lanza el avión de la Rata a un árbol. Los animales tratan de ayudar. Los animales están enojados con Conejo. Después, Ratón está en el avión. Ratón le rescata a Conejo. Ellos suben el árbol.

Las ilustraciones son bonitas, pero me gusta Clara y Asha mejor.

Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

Finished the book

I give Flora & Ulysses a thumbs up. Flora is struggling with her parents' recent separation. She finds comfort in the friendship of a squirrel and the boy next door. The parallel story-lines of all the supportive characters draws you in. Why does William Spiver want to be called by his full-name? Why is he traumatized? Will Flora's mom accept Ulysses? Is Ulysses in danger from a yet identified arch nemesis?

SPOILER ALERT - Being sucked up by a vacumm changes Ulysses. He develops super strength. He can communicate by typing. He writes poetry. And he flies. Ulysses helps Flora find her voice and reconnect with her father. William Spiver, the boy next door, remained my favorite character. At the end not only did his sight return but he got the girl.

A cute story. An easy read. I recommend this book.

Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

Currently on page 91, chapter 28

SPOILER ALERT - Flora's neighbor gets a Ulysses 2000X vacuum for her birthday. It is super strong and pulls her into her backyard where it sucks up a squirrel. Flora saves the squirrel and names him Ulysses. Ulysses is no ordinary squirrel but is he a superhero like Flora thinks? Either way, they become fast friends. And Flora, a self proclaimed cynic, could use a friend.

My favorite character so far is William Spiver. He is Flora's neighbor's nephew. He has temporary blindness induced by trauma.

Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

Currently on page 37, chapter 12

Interest Level: 3-7th grades
Reading Level: 4.3 grade
Lexile: 520L
Genre: fantasy

A cute book so far. Other Kate DiCamillo books that I have liked include Because of Winn-Dixie, The Tale of Despereaux, and The Magician's Elephant. I have high hopes.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by Green & Levithan

Page 37 The end of chapter 2 & I'm finished

The first chapter of Will Grayson, Will Grayson introduces Will, his best friend Tiny, and Jane. Tiny's boyfriend breaks-up with him via Facebook. Will and Jane take care of a drunk not so tiny Tiny. The second chapter is written in a verse-like form. In it Green & Levithan introduce another Will Grayson. He is a loner living in a dysfunctional home. He is in love with a boy online.

Tiny is miserable. Will #2 is miserable. I would describe the first two chapters as dark and disturbing. This book is not appropriate for middle school and not my cup of tea. I'm moving on to something more enjoyable.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green & David Levithan

Currently on p. 18, chapter 1

Interest Level: 8th grade and up
Reading Level: 930L/6.8 - 10.2 grade

SIDE RANT: I was recently given the advice that I should write this blog as if no one is reading it. When I was given this advice, I thought, "No. Wrong." Not only should I write this blog as if all the students that have ever passed through my library are reading it. I mean that is my audience. I should write it as if my mother (and/or mother-in-law) were reading it. In fact, shouldn't we all approach what we not only write but what we say as if everyone on the planet might read it.

I chose to read Will Grayson, Will Grayson because I read John Green's Fault in Our Stars and Paper Towns and I liked them both. These books, in my opinion, were appropriate for middle school students. As of page 18, I am under the impression that this book, Will Grayson, Will Grayson, will not be in the Laurel Ridge Middle School library. Stay tuned.

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

Finished the book.

No doubt this is my pick for the 2015 Oregon Readers Choice Award!!!

• The ending was a tiny bit sad but historically accurate.
• I love how Marlee compares the people in her life to beverages.
• I like how Levine wrote about the STOP committee prepares to get the word out about the school board election WITHOUT the aid of computers.
• Levine has Marlee's father (I believe it was her father) say, "Things could be different if the right people find their voices."

This book illustrated what a dangerous time the late 1950's (and longer) were for both whites and African Americans. I would hope that if I was a school age child at that time that I would do the right thing. Or if I were an adult that I would do the right thing and have the courage to allow my child to as well. Levine did an excellent job in showing how integration affected both races. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!!!!!!!!

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

Currently on page 162, chapter 32

As I stated in an earlier post, I am developing at attachment to Marlee. The following link was posted by a Facebook friend of mine. Check it out. It is enlightening.
http://playfullytacky.com/2014/07/16/things-you-should-know-about-introverts/ 
As a parent of an introvert, I wish that everyone knew and understood these 16 things.

SPOILER ALERT!! In The Lions of Little Rock, Liz sees value in Marlee's introvert ways. She asks Marlee to teach her how to be quiet. This warms my heart. All any of us want is to be accepted just the way we are.

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

Currently on page 61, chapter 13

Interest Level: 5-8th grades
Reading Level: 360L/3.9 grade

This is the last Oregon Readers Choice Award nominee that is in my To-Read stack of books. AND I think this will be the one I vote for. I love, love, LOVE historical fiction! This book is set in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1958. First, do NOT read the back of the book or the flyleaf on the dust-jacket. I am sorry I did. Still, I am staying up late reading. I am enthralled with this book. The main character, Marlee, reminds me of my youngest daughter. So, of course, I adore her. I am off to do my Spanish homework so that I can hang out in the hammock and read!!

Clara y Ahsa por Eric Rohmann

This summer I am taking a Spanish class. In honor of that class and its most excellent teacher....
Interest Level: 4 yrs and up
Reading Level: Preschool

Clara es una niña joven. Clara tiene un amigo imaginario. Su nombre es Asha. Es un pez. Toman un baño. Asha ayuda con el disfraz de Halloween de Clara. Juegan en la nieve. Juegan en el cielo. Clara debe ir a la cama. Pero cuando Clara va a la cama tiene un amigo Nuevo, un aligátor. El libro es bueno. Las ilustraciones son bonitas.

The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Finished the book

 

I want to read the sequel!! This says a lot. I very rarely read sequels. I recommend this book.

 

The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Currently on p. 284, chapter 48

Okay, I am hooked. At this point, I am planning on reading the sequel. I want to know if there is a future for Imogene and Sage.

SPOILER ALERT!! I speculated that Sage was really Jaron but the reader doesn't find out for sure until the end of chapter 43. Kudos to the author for the journey of suspecting but not know if Sage is truly Jaron.

With 58 pages left to read, I am recommending this book. In fact it is in the running for my choice for the 2015 Oregon Readers Choice Award.

The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Currently on pg. 166, chapter 28

There are a couple of ways you can tell if I like a book; how quickly I read it and if I take it everywhere with me.

Side rant - Always, always, ALWAYS have a book with you. Seriously, you could be stuck waiting for your ride (or for your child to get out of band). No problem, read your book. You could find out that you don't have enough time to go home between running errands and your appointment. Go to Starbuck's or park in the shade and READ. Your friend stands you up for lunch. Cool. You can read during lunch!!! Always, always, ALWAYS have a book with you.

I am carrying The False Prince around with me. Whether I will read the other two books in the trilogy is yet to be seen. I stated in an earlier post that I did not know if I like this book or was simply using the book to avoid doing my homework. I have decided I DO like it. With about 175 more pages to read, stay tuned!

The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Currently on p. 59, chapter 10
Interest Level: 5-8th grade
Reading Level: 710L/4.8 - 6.2 grade

Think The Prince and the Pauper with a twist.

Semi-SPOILER ALERT! - Conner, a regent in the court of King Eckbert, has a plan. He gets four orphans that resemble the king's lost son, Jaron. He plans to try to pass one of them off as Jaron.

So far, I am enjoying the book. I do find myself looking to pick up the book when I have a free moment. In all honesty, that could be simply to avoid my summer school Spanish class homework.

Ungifted by Gordon Korman

Awesome, awesome, awesome!! I love, love, LOVED this book. One of the best realistic fiction books I have read in awhile. I am torn between this book and Colin Fischer (another realistic fiction) for my favorite ORCA book. I still have two more ORCA books to read so we shall see. 'Why did I like it?' you ask. Well.....

SPOILER ALERT!!

This story does not have the perfect Disney ending but I like that. Life does not have a Disney ending, but the ending is happy. I love how the characters grow. If I had to pick a favorite character, it would be Donovan. Although, I like Chloe and Noah as well. I would highly recommend it.

Ungifted by Gordon Korman

Currently on p. 230, chapter Unschooled

I LOVE this book. If you like realistic fiction. I highly recommend it. It has humor. It has a bit of suspense. It has just a tiny bit of romance. When I finish it tonight, I will then tell you what the story is about. Right now, I want to get back to the book. I have only 50 more pages to go. I want to see  how it ends.

Ungifted by Gordon Korman

Presently on page 11, chapter Unidentified

Interest Level: 5-8th grade
Reading Level: 730L/4.4 - 6.3 grade

I have previously read two of Gordon Korman's books, Swindle and Schooled. I enjoyed both of them. I am confident that Ungifted will be equally as good.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Currently on p.460, chapter 48

Alright, alright. I hate to start raving about this book after so many pages, 357 pages to be exact. However, chapter 38 was the chapter that grabbed me.

SPOILER ALERT! When Grady and Edaline request that Sophie's adoption proceedings be canceled, I almost shed a tear. Okay, it may not be the waterworks of Fault in Our Stars and the Divergent series but the story at least brought on some emotion. THEN Sophie gets kidnapped. Now there is suspense. Where will Sophie live? With Grady and Edaline or with Alden and Della? Will Sophie escape or be rescued from her captures?

The author has 28 pages to get me to the point that I want to read the sequel. We shall see.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Currently on p. 342, chapter 36

Okay, I am finally hooked. Will Sophie get a boyfriend? Will it be Dex, Fitz, or Keefe? Is Biana really Sophie's friend? How much more trouble can Sophie get in before they she gets expelled from Foxfire (the elf school)?

There are roughly 150 pages left in the book. In those 150 pages will the author get me to the point that I will want to read the sequel? (Yes, there is a sequel, Exile.) Time will tell. In the meantime, I am pulling for Dex. I hope Biana isn't playing Sophie and turns out to be a true friend. And in order to keep the book interesting, I hope Sophie continues to break the rules but does not get expelled.

Stay tuned.

The Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Currently on p. 188, chapter 20

I have not been moved to write about this book. I am perplexed about why. As I have said before it is an enjoyable story. So, perhaps a plot summary up to chapter 20.

SPOILER ALERT! Sophie is an outcast. She doesn't fit in. She eats lunch alone every day. At 5 years old she bumped her head and began to hear other people's thoughts. One day she is approached by an elf. He tells her that she is an elf, not a human. He takes her back to the elf world. She begins to make the move from the human world to the elf world. Some elves approve and some do not.

See what I mean, enjoyable enough. Just not riveting.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Currently on page 130, chapter 15

My question of how Sophie got into the human world has not yet been answered. I have yet to develop an attachment to any of the characters. I am unsure why that is. They are all very likable characters. As of this point, there is no clear adversary in the story. I am missing that element of rivalry. I hope that doesn't speak ill of my character. :)

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Currently on p. 49, chapter 7
Interest Level: 5-8th grade
Reading Level: 670L/4.7 - 6th grade

So far I am enjoying "Keeper of the Lost Cities". I want to find out how Sophie's presence in our world will be explained. I like how the story grabbed my interest from the beginning. I also think
that this story, a fantasy, is a nice change to the last book I read. Keep your fingers crossed this one has potential.

Beyond Courage by Doreen Rappaport

Finished book

The subtitle of this book is "The Untold Story of Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust." I believe that many think that the Jewish people of the 1930's & 1940's simple walked to their deaths like lambs to the slaughter. Although it is true that many people could not believe that "resettlement" in reality meant the gas chambers, this book tells the story of those Jewish people who fought back against the Nazis. This is such an important time in mankind's history. It must be told. It is hard to wrap my head around a tragedy of this magnitude. I would recommend this book. It is important to know the stories of Mordechai 'Motele' Shlain, Ester Heiber, Petr Ginz, and so many more.

Beyond Courage by Doreen Rapport



Interest Level: 5 -8th grade
Reading Level: 1030L/7.4 - 10.4 grade

What's next? Another ORCA (Oregon Readers' Choice Award) book.

Colin Fischer by Miller & Stentz

Finished the book!

Wow!!! I loved it!

SPOILER ALERT! I thought the authors did a great job in describing Colin's aspergers. They made Colin a very likable character. I think that it is important to portray people with disabilities in a positive and realistic way. I, also, enjoyed learning some of the history involving aspergers. I loved the ending. The twist regarding the gun was awesome!! The authors totally left it open enough that a sequel could be written. I would love to see Wayne's character develop. I would imagine that a family like the Fischers could really benefit that young man.

I HIGHLY recommend this book. These authors have brought their gift of screenplay writing to young adult fiction.

Colin Fischer by Miller & Stentz

Currently on p. 128, chapter 8

The end of the school year is super busy in the library. I wish I had more time to read. I have really been enjoying this book. It is the kind of book that I carry around just in case I have a free moment to read. SPOILER ALERT! When Colin went to Wayne's house, I was on the edge of the seat. Six and a half more days of work! And then I plan on reading, reading, and then more reading!!

Colin Fischer by Miller & Stentz

Currently on p. 16, chapter 2

Please do not think that my slow reading is in anyway a reflection on this book. It has great potential. It is just a very busy time of the year. Only 8 1/2 more days of school left!!!

I know that I already discussed whether or not to read the introduction. Well on the same thread of thought, DO read the footnotes. They are really part of the story not just definitions.

So far, I like Colin.

Colin Fischer by Ashley Edward Miller & Zack Stentz

Currently on p. 5, chapter 2

I am unsure about whether or not to recommend that you read the introduction. After I read it, I thought, 'this could be a really good book'. My first impression was that reading the introduction was helpful. I know that a lot of people skip the introduction. I am NOT sure if I am recommending that you read it or not. Did the intro give too much away? The fact that I have already read it and now cannot unread it puts me out of the discussion at this point. I am the kind of person who reads not only the introduction but the back of the book and the side flaps of the jacket cover. Sometimes I even read the acknowledgments before starting the book.  I will try to remember to chime back in on this topic when I finish the book. So read it or not, it is up to you.

Colin Fischer by Ashley Edward Miller & Zack Stentz

Interest Level: Young Adult

Reading Level: 870L/5.8 - 9.1 grade                                                

 

Storybound by Marissa Burt

Finished the book.

I thought this book was confusing. SPOILER ALERT! I am still not sure if the muses' tales are read by the characters or someone else or anyone else. Una being the daughter of the Enemy and the Red Enchantress was a surprise. I thought she was going to be the king's daughter. That was an interesting twist. The Enemy returning reminded me of Voldemort's return. The plot did wrap up with the Resistance pledging to fight the Enemy together. However, the words "to be continued" were the last words of the book. Although, the book got a lot better when Una and Indy went into the exam together, I will not be reading the next book. If there are any fans of this book out there reading this, please comment.

Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently on p. 209, chapter 17

I am HALFWAY through the book. I have decided that I will try to write a synopsis of the plot. I am unsure if I can because I am having a hard time focusing on the story. So, SPOILER ALERT! Una gets 'written in' to the town/realm of Story. She meets Peter. They discover that there is something amiss in Story. They join together to right the wrongs and clear up Story's history.

Sound good? It's not.

Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently on p. 196, chapter 15

Five or six more pages and I am half way through this book. My goal is to have this book done by the end of the three day weekend. SPOILER ALERT! I am at the point where Una and Peter are at the bank and have just discovered that books that Peter's parents have locked up in the safety deposit box are blank. I am guessing that there is something that has messed up history thus resulting in the empty pages.

Yawn! I can't wait to move on to something else.

Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently on pg.178, chapter 14

I have decided that since this book is an ORCA nominee that I need to put myself in a better frame of mind, just put my head down and read. But I do need to read more than 10 pages a day or it will take me a month to finish the book. It has been said that there are only a certain number of plots in all of literature. Well, that may be true but it is hard not to draw parallels between this book and others. For example, SPOILER ALERT! Una's roommate, Snow, goes 'home' on the weekend to her cousin's, the Wortons. She sleeps in the attic. This reminded me of Harry Potter, the Dursleys, and his room under the stairs. That same weekend Una goes home with Peter to his house, Bramble Cottage. Una is in awe of Peter's home and cannot stop wondering what it would have been like to grow up in place like Bramble Cottage. Does this bring another set of characters to mind? Upon arriving at The Burrow, Ron Weasley says, "It's not much but it's home." To which Harry response, "I think it's brilliant." Also Peter's parents hold a secret meeting in the middle of the night. The Order of the Phoenix?

Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently on page 116, chapter 10

What did my mother say? If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all..............

Friday, May 16, 2014 Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently p. 90, chapter 8

It feels funny to write the words 'spoiler alert'. I can't imagine anyone reading this blog would even pick this book up. That is unless their tastes are greatly different than mine. They may use this blog as a mirror. Whatever, I say they do the opposite. Regardless, SPOILER ALERT!! The information regarding Una's parents brings me hope. I foresee Una's parents to be from Story and that is why she was abandoned. But then the question would be, why abandoned her in our realm. For her own safety? This, although predictable, could add a nice twist to the story; Una discovering this fact and then searching for them.

Thursday, May 15, 2014 Storybound by Marissa Burt

Currently on p. 80, chapter 7
Interest Level: 3-6th grade
Reading Level: 670L/4.7 - 6th grade

I started this book before the last book in The Selection series (The One) came out. I got to page 51 and then set it aside to read The One. In all honesty if this book wasn't an ORCA 2015 book nominee, I wouldn't pick it back up. At this point, this book seems to be a rip-off of Inkheart by Cornelia Funke. In my opinion, the fairy tale genre is a hard one to excel in. There are fairy tale base novels that I like; The Sisters Grimm, A Tale Dark and Grimm, The Goose Girl, and more. And I love the television shows Once Upon a Time and Grimm. So, I will continue to read Storybound and work toward getting the two questions I need for the ORCA quiz (coming in September to the LRMS media website). In the meantime, the nights of reading late into the wee hours of the morning (with The One) are over. I am back to falling to sleep while reading.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014 (later in the day) The One by Kiera Cass

Finished the book

I LOVED THIS BOOK! And I loved the ending. I liked all the twists and turns up to the very end. I am SO sad that the series is done. SPOILER ALERT!! What!?! The southern rebels shot Celeste. I went from hating Celeste in book 1 to sort of liking her in this book. Bummer. I liked the scene with America and Maxon under the table during the battle in chapter 30. Maxon's speech about how his heart was America's was so good. As I read the acknowledgements, I did as instructed and put my hand on the page and with a bit of sadness I received my high-five.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014 The One by Kiera Cass

Currently on p.288, chapter 30

I have only 21 pages left!!!! I know I will finish the book today. :( SPOILER ALERT!! Oh my!!! Seriously! Kriss, a rebel? Even when August said that the rebels had another girl besides America that they wanted Maxon to choose, I didn't have any idea which one it was. I also didn't expect that she was a plant. AND How I wish America would have told Maxon about Aspen sooner.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 The One by Kiera Cass

Currently on p. 196, chapter 21

Okay, I read 3 chapters last night. There are 32 chapters plus the epilogue. If I keep up this pass, I will be done with the book in four days. Yes, I am still obsessing about this. But a good thing is that I will be able to loan the book to Megan and that will make her happy. So, that is a good thing. SEMI-SPOILER ALERT! - I liked what America did at the Convicting Ceremony. I think that it is important for her character to keep doing these types of things. We, the readers, should be worried whether or not she will push the king too far and be kicked out of the Elite.

Monday, May 12, 2014 The One by Kiera Cass

Currently on p. 156, chapter 18
Interest Level: Young Adult
Reading Level: 670L/4.7- 6th grade


I am enjoying the book. I thought it was a bit slow starting out. I am at that point now (almost halfway through the book) that I am wanting to read it all the time because I want to find out what happens. But I don’t want to read the book because I know it is that last book in the series and I don’t want it to end. I am pleased with America’s choice between Maxon and Aspen. I also like the new characters, Georgia and August.