The Boys Who Challenged Hitler by Phillip Hoose

Interest Level: YA

Reading Level: 6.9
Lexile: 970L
Genre: Nonfiction

Finished the book

I do not gravitate toward non-fiction novels. On the whole, I find them dry and difficult to read. That is not the case with this book. Knud Pedersen's story is both interesting and compelling. This book is a 2018 ORCA nominee. With only one more nominated title yet to read, this book has my vote for the 2018 ORCA award. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Denmark, World War II, or stories about young heroes.

Lumberjanes: Beware the Kitten Holy by Noelle Stevenson

Finished the book

My daughter told me that the illustrations in this book made her pick it up and page through it. I do see how this book may appeal to middle school students. I am curious to see how well it is received when we return to school in the fall. As for me, this book was not my cup of tea. I found the plot non-existent and the concept ridiculous. The story-line appears to be continued in volume two of the series. I say 'appears' because I am assuming that now that the nemesis has been introduced that he will be defeated. I will not be reading the second volume or recommending this book.

Lumberjanes: Beware the Kitten Holy by Noelle Stevenson

Interest Level: 5-8 grade

Reading Level: 3.5
Lexile: NR
Genre: Action adventure graphic novel

Currently on pg. 72

I am not a huge fan of graphic novels. I love superhero comics and comic strip collections but I haven't really found a graphic novel that I love, yet. I chose to read this book because it was one of the 2018 Oregon Readers' Choice Award nominee. I am not entirely sure but I think it is a story about five friends and their summer together; as they earn their merit badges for the Lumberjanes.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Finished the book

OMG!!! Read it!!!

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Interest Level: 3-6 grade
Reading Level: 5.0
Lexile: 790
Genre: Realistic Fiction

Currently on pg. 127

August was born with a facial difference that some may call a deformity. Up until now (middle school) he has been home schooled. At this point in the story, I love Summer, hate Julian, and are disappointed in Jack. This book inspired the Choose Kind movement. In November, there will be a movie starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay as Auggie.

Listen, Slowly by Thanhha Lai

Interest Level: 5-8 grade

Reading Level: 5.3
Lexile: 800
Genre: Realistic Fiction

Finished the book

Mai is a typical California middle school student. She is only interested in her summer vacation spent at the beach with her friend and trying to her her crush to notice her. But that is not how Mai will be spending her summer, she is going to Vietnam. Her grandmother wants to find out what happened to her husband during the Vietnam War. Mai's summer is ruined or is it?

I thought that the writing itself was good but I just wasn't drawn into the story.