The Trumpeter of Krakow by Eric P. Kelly*

Newbery Medal in 1929

 My son is focusing on medieval history this year for history & English. Later this year he will be reading this book to experience medieval life in Poland.

Joseph Charnetski's family home in Ukraine is burned and their fields are destroyed. He, his father and mother flee to Krakow. Their family guards something special and valuable-the Great Tarnov Crystal. Men will kill or "sell their soul" to obtain it. Throughout the story, Joseph & his parents encounter difficulties and adventures because of their dedication to protect it.

Very exciting and an immersive experience into this time period.

*Highly recommend (especially for boys   So many historical novels are written from a girl's perspective.)

Considerations: violence/fighting, black magic, hypnotism, being possessed or influenced by the devil is mentioned

-I own this book.

Books Up the Mountain by Caroline Starr Rose illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard*

 A Packhorse Librarian Story

Readers will be amazed at the packhorse librarians' dedication to delivering and sharing books and reading material to the people in Appalachia in Kentucky. The words are poetic and lyrical with alliteration scattered throughout. The illustrations are wide in size, creating a feel of sweeping terrain. I always look at the end pages --I love how the left one depicts fall while the right one displays winter (the seasons where the book starts and then ends).

The author's note offers interesting information about this service.

*Highly recommend. (It's temporarily out of stock on Amazon)  Published by Waxwing Books-Sarah Mackenzie's (from Read Aloud Revival) business.

-Borrowed from the library.

You Can Move Mountains by Richard Ho illustrated by Daniel Miyares*

 I did not grow up with television. One of my son's friend's nicknames on one of their group chats was "Bob Ross". My son briefly explained who he was. When I saw this picture book on display at my library, I borrowed it as a joke and also out of curiousity. 

The illustrations captured my attention. The words, I think, were based on how Mr. Ross would talk while he was painting, which, of course, I cannot appreciation. The illustrations are incredible. One side shares an overview of his life (the text is NOT explicitly about his life. They connect but in a subtle, clever manner. ); the other side offers a depiction of how he would create his work. 

I love the end pages.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

Around the Year by Tasha Tudor*

 I love Tasha Tudor. When I was a young teen, my neighbor introduced me to Tasha Tudor. My neighbor, my mom, and I even attended an event where she demonstrated her illustrations and talked. 

This book illustrates a poem she wrote about the seasons. The items she features for each season instantly transport one to that time of year. I love the illustrations-especially the borders. I wonder if she inspired Jan Brett to create intricate borders. 

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

Anxiety -Anatomy & Cure by Robert W. Kellemen*

 The Gospel for Real Life series

I bought this short book (42 pages) at a conference my church recently hosted. Over several weeks I read it. The ideas and truths would have better adhered to my brain if I would have read it in one sitting or in a couple of days.

Mr. Kellemen dissects what anxiety is and takes the reader to the root causes. Then he offers biblical ways to combat it. I liked how he focused on Philippians to counsel the reader about anxiety. He also integrates the practical with the biblical.

At the end of each section, he presents a question to encourage the reader to apply the truths and ideas (called, "Applying the Gospel to Daily Life").

*Highly recommend.

-I own this book.

Beowulf a new verse translation by Seamus Heaney*

 Mr. Heaney has translated this old tale into one modern readers can read, understand, and enjoy. 

I loved the kennings, word choice, and the characters'  honorable traits.

*Highly recommend.

Consideration: graphic violence a few times

-We own this book.

Cadmus Henry by Walter D. Edmonds*

 I have not read many books about the Civil War from the south's perspective, so I enjoyed reading this book. Although, by the end of the book, the reader can infer Cadmus might be swayed by the north's viewpoint.

Cadmus longs to join Peninsular Campaign with General John Bankhead Magruder against General George B. McClellan. Because he is too young, he serves as a volunteer aide- a clerk. After weeks of sitting at a desk, when an opportunity arises to scout and map out the north's position, he seizes it, not realizing he will be scouting from a hot air balloon! Adventures ensue!

I really liked reading about the Civil War from a young man's perspective. The author highlights many issues and points but in an engaging narrative.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed via ILL.

To Stay Alive by Skila Brown

 A novel in verse about Mary Ann Graves who traveled west to CA with the infamous Donner Party. Readers are transported into the group's struggles with Mary Ann's narration. And yes, the poems relate how they ate members from their party to survive! This book will provoke a lot of discussion! 

A fascinating account!

I recommend it for high school and older.

-Borrowed via ILL.

Freedom to Read by Lesa Cline-Ransome illustrated by James E. Ransome

The Story of Teacher Mary Peake and One Mighty Oak Tree

Ms. Cline-Ransome combines two stories by alternating pages about each one-Mary Peake and an oak tree. The last word/words from the previous page transition(s) into the following page as its starting word/words. Mary Peake teaches Blacks how to read in secret until she is asked to teach during the Civil War under the oak tree. Eventually Hampton University was founded and built near the oak tree where Mary had taught.

Very interesting! The author's note provides more information about Mary, Virginia's laws,the tree, and the college. I like how she included a photo of Mary, of the tree, and of her grandfather, who attended Hampton University.

-Borrowed from the library.

Pancake Pie by Sven Nordqvist

 Originally published in Sweden

Farmer Festus celebrates his cat, Mercury's birthday three times a year with a pancake pie. This particular birthday promises to be quite stressful. No flour in the pantry-so Farmer Festus must ride his bike to the store. One problem-his tire is flat, so he crosses to the toolshed for the tire pump. BUT the toolshed door is locked. The key to the toolshed? At the bottom of the well . . .and so the saga continues. Will Mercury's birthday be passed before he indulges on his pancake pie?

Children will enjoy listening to this crazy story. The illustrations are odd but enchanting. The imaginative child who pours over details will lose themselves in the illustrations.

-Borrowed via ILL

Cradled by Annie Vanderheiden*

 At a recent conference my church hosted, I saw this teeny book. My pastor's wife and I were discussing what a great gift it would be to give to a mom with a newborn. I bought this book to give to someone who will be giving birth to her second child . . .praying it will be an encouragement to her. 

Mrs. Vanderheiden highlights the tasks a mother performs for her newborn and reveals how God does the same for us as mothers (feeding, changing, sleeping, soothing, washing, nurturing, praying, anticipating). How I wish this book had been written & published when I was a first time mom (and for when I gave birth to my second son)!

I started to read it, but felt guilty as I felt the book breaking of its newness! But I am still highly recommending it based on the little I read!😁

-Giving as a gift

Caminar by Skila Brown

 Carlos lives in Guatemala during the 1980s where the government army is attacking villages to prevent them from joining the rebels/guerillas. As the army creeps closer to his village, he believes he is old enough to defend his mother and village. His mother, however, tells him to hide in the jungle. He is obedient. He climbs a tree and clings there all night. The next morning he hears the rebels traversing the jungle. When he approaches them, he discovers that his village has been wiped out by the army. Guilt weighs his soul. Then a chance to redeem himself arises.

A novel in verse

I read this book in one sitting. I did not learn much about the actual civil war in Guatemala but more about how the country people must felt enduring this turmoil. I loved the variety of poems Ms. Brown incorporated.

-Borrowed via ILL

Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson

 Elsbeth Culpepper and her father move to Boston from Philadelphia after her mother and siblings die from the smallpox. Mr. Culpepper is employed as a sailmaker. Elsbeth is a kitchen maid in a separate location. She longs to apprentice as a seamstress. When her employer,a Loyalist, flees Boston, Elsbeth finds new employment, where the head kitchen maid is cruel and nasty. With the backdrop of the Revolutionary War, readers experience this era and the smallpox inoculation first hand through Elsbeth's first-person account.

I enjoyed this riveting tale. Ms. Anderson researches extensively and knows how to develop credible characters and how to immerse the reader into the historical event. 

Warning: Elsbeth is a liar. Lying is her natural defense and solution. Her lies eventually get her into trouble. I still liked her as a character-her compassion, her perseverance, her cleverness are all admirable. 

-Borrowed from the library.

The Tomten and the Fox adapted by Astrid Lindgren illustrated by Harald Wiberg

 Adapted from a poem by Karl-Erik Forsslund

A hungry fox, named Reynard, visits a farm hoping to capture a hen. The Tomten, who has watches the farm, approaches the fox and dissuades him from his pursuit with a bowl of oatmeal. The author talks to Reynard directly throughout the story. 

I just learned earlier this summer that tales about Reynard the fox were written during the medieval era. I wonder if the original poem is referencing the medieval fox tales?

-Borrowed via ILL.

Clackety Track Poems About Trains by Skila Brown illustrated by Jamey Christoph

 Clever, engaging poems about trains

Perfect way to introduce a train-loving child to poetry.

-Borrowed from the library.

The World of William Penn by Genevieve Foster*

 This "The World of" is longer and more hefty than other ones I have read by Ms. Foster (nine parts/sections, 188 pp).

Readers will not only learn about William Penn's entire life but about other men who impacted the world during his life. The format is narrative and very engaging. Her transitions from man to the next man are clever.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed via ILL.

Big Enough by Regina Linke**

 When Ah-Fu's grandfather asks him to bring the ox home, Ah-Fu's confidence dwindles as various creatures instruct what he should not do as he bring the ox home. The ox is a gentle creature and assists Ah-Fu to gain confidence.

A feast for the eyes-the reader will linger on each page. The artwork is beautiful and offers unique perspectives. 

A book that celebrates imagination

**Highly, highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

The Golden Road by L.M. Montgomery*

 The sequel to The Story Girl 

Readers can join Sara Stanley and her cousins  and friends for another year of fun, mysteries, and misunderstandings. Together they create a magazine, Our Magazine,where they report interesting tidbits and news from their lives and town. I love escaping into this world!

*Highly recommend. BUT consider-The Awkward Man creates a room for his fantasy woman, which was a bit weird--he escapes into his mind of  his fantasy of being married to her. Good opportunity to discuss living in a fantasy world & its dangers.

-I own this book.

Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell

 Elaine of Ascolat, known as The Lady of Shallot, has grown up with Arthur and his fighting men. She sews their clothes and mends their wounds. The only other woman in the camp is Morgan, who teaches her how to gather plants, flowers, herbs to create healing salves. Two events disturb Elaine's normal rhythms-Arthur becomes lead warrior and decides to attack the Saxons (they have only defended their home, were not ever on the offense) and another woman, Gwynivere, joins the group. Will her father and brothers die in this attack? Although Gwynivere is pledged to marry Arthur, she and Lancelot seem to be pursuing each other. Elaine is heart-broken---she loves Lancelot.

Labeled as "YA"

A novel in verse, which I read in one afternoon   

An exciting tale & perspective during the time of Arthur and his loyal men   I love Elaine's tom-boy nature & her relationship with her father & brothers.

Considerations: girl-power perspective (but the author does NOT degrade men or minimize their gifts), men check out Elaine's figure (not graphic-she can tell they are looking at her developing/changing figure), she & another young man become a romantic couple at the end-very sweet-they share a kiss-they had been friends for years (I like the author's emphasis on the importance of developing a friendship first before romance.), violence -Saxons kidnap the girls & are cruel/violent 

-Borrowed from the library

The Big One by Dashka Slater illustrated by Myo Yim**

 The Big One has been spotted. The villagers are packing their gear to catch The Big One. Nana, the oldest elder, and Mina, the smallest villager, form a team to catch it. Do they have the grit and gumption to be successful?

I loved this book-the word choice, the figurative language, the detailed illustrations (many different perspectives). The end pages are creative/clever. I learned something too-- I had never heard of sea-wolves! 

*Highly, highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

 

The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner

 Finn kicked over a gravestone. He is failing seventh grade. Instead of having to pay for the headstone, the daughter of the deceased, requires Finn to hike the 46 Adirondack peaks with the deceased's dog. To pass seventh grade, he must compose poems about a hero.

As he hikes and writes poems to describe the hikes and his dad, a local hero who died, Finn discovers more about himself and his father.

A family member recently made it his goal to hike the 46 peaks in the Adirondacks. As a result, I was especially curious to read about the different peaks. Ms. Messner is a 46er, so she writes with authority about the hikes.

Discuss- alcoholism, death, lying, vandalism, 9/11, covid

-Borrowed from the library.

The Lost Package by Richard Ho illustrated by Jessica Lanan*

 A package is packed with love and care. Along the way, it flies out of the mail transport truck and lies on the city street. Will the recipient ever view its contents? 

A sweet book about traditional mail and a brief look into the postal service. 

Mr. Ho unashamedly exalts the USPS (his author's note is very interesting!).

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

Escape Across the Wide Sea by Katherine Kirkpatrick

 In 1686 Daniel and his parents flee France. As French Huguenots, they are in danger of death if they do not convert to Catholicism. Not able to secure a boat to England, they find themselves on a slave ship, sailing from France to Africa to the Caribbean, and then finally to New York. Along the way, Daniel develops his views about slavery, endures many difficult situations, and discovers how to impact others' lives.

I like how the readers will begin to comprehend the depth of people's faith by reading this book. Daniel's parents would not compromise their faith. Explicit details how to come to Christ are not included. In the author's note she explains a bit about Calvinism.

Ms. Kirkpatrick immerses the reader into this time period. Readers will understand the Triangular Trade very well after reading this book. Not many historical fiction books have been written about the French Huguenots. I would recommend including this one when studying the 1600-1800s. The chapters are short and exciting-perfect for reluctant readers.

A couple of glossaries are included.

Consider/discuss: the cruelty of slavery is shown in detail

Project Hail Mary-movie*

 My oldest son watched this film in the theater while at college. He mentioned that he would like us to watch it. So we had a rare movie night (we typically only watch one show at a time when we watch together) and all enjoyed this movie.

Ryland Grace, a middle school science teacher, becomes involved with the top scientists in the world to save planet Earth. With his degree in microbiology & a paper he wrote years ago, they consider him an asset and the one who can find the "cure" to stop the sun from being eaten. One major problem-the people who are launched into space to find the "cure", will not return to earth. They will die. Dr. Grace does not go willingly. Waking up from an induced coma, he discovers he is the only one on the team alive. Will he be able to survive & save Earth's inhabitants?

Ryan Gosling, who plays Dr. Grace, is incredible. The viewer likes his character immediately. I loved the humor & the likable/admirable characters. My youngest son loved this movie because it was slower paced, and it valued story/plot development & did not depend on non-stop action.

*Highly recommend.

Based on the book by Andy Weir.

We watched via Prime.

Seeking Persephone-miniseries**

 My friend told me about this 4-episode miniseries. My husband, oldest son, & I watched it on Roku (the commericals for the 1st three episodes were so annoying!! We aren't used to commericals!). This mini series is probably one of my favorites of all time! 

Persephone, the eldest child of the Lancaster family, has been holding the family together since she was twelve-years-old and her mother died. The brothers join the military to support the floundering family finances. When the Duke of Kielder writes a letter asking to marry her and also stating that he will support the family, her father consents. At her wedding, Persephone discovers her husband is a recluse and a bitter man. Will he ever come to love her?

I love the characters-so admirable & well-developed, the story line was engaging & well-paced, the romance was sweet & showed nothing inappropriate.  

Based on the book by Sarah Eden (she has written a series about all the Lancaster siblings-- Persephone is the 1st book.) The story incorporates elements from Beauty & the Beast and the Greek myth about Hades & Persephone.

**Highly, highly recommend. I cannot wait to read the book! I requested it via ILL.

Consideration: Sarah Eden, the author of this series, is Mormon. No religion is preached or woven into this film. The only connection it has to the Mormon community is that it is a clean romance. 

1776 Year of Independence by Genevieve Foster*

 Ms. Foster, in a narrative and an engaging style, offers the readers an overview of the events in 1776, not just in the United States, but also around the world. Three parts: The American Colonies, Artists & Scientists, and Around the World.

Ms. Foster's books are known as "horizontal history".

*Highly recommend.

-I own this book.

Bread of Angels by Tessa Afshar*

I do not choose to read Christian fiction often (I have reasons.). My friend handed this book plus another one by this author to me one Sunday without me asking for them. I decided to give this author a chance. I ended up enjoying the novel!😊

Ms. Afshar reimagines how Lydia, the seller of purple, becomes a successful business owner and a believer in Christ. She begins in Thyatira when Lydia is a teenager and living with her father, a merchant and purple dyer. After a series of betrayals, Lydia travels to Philippi to start over. Readers experience what life was like during this era & interact with Paul, Silas, Timothy and others mention in Philippians. 

Consider: One gathering the believers are speaking in tongues. Readers can infer that one evil man would use young girls for his pleasure.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from my friend (But it is available in my public library system.)

Candle Island by Lauren Wolk*

A great summer read! 

Lucretia & her mom move to Candle Island, Maine to escape---her father's death, journalists who want to interview her artist mother. Candle Island contains its own secrets-vandals, children with special gifts, a hidden room. 

I was captivated by the author's poetic sentences, her development of the setting (I wanted to move to Candle Island & explore it!), and her plot pace-how she revealed the secrets to the reader. Ms. Wolk also created likable, distinct characters. I appreciated Lucretia's relationship with her mom-so sweet.

The description of yummy meals Mrs. Sanderson made & served gave me the desire to knock on their door & ask to partake!

*Highly recommend but--Lucretia seemed too wise beyond her years . . .yet when I learned her full story, I could understand why she seemed a lot wiser than a typical 12-year-old.. . . Despite this slightly downside to the book, I still consider this novel as one of my favorite middle grade novels I have read in awhile.

-Borrowed from the library.

The Inspired Homeschool by Jennifer Pepito*

 Mrs. Pepito focuses on outstanding men & women from history who were homeschooled for at least part of their lives to offer encouragement and principles to current homeschooling moms. 

The individuals featured in this book are: Jesus, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Benjamin Franklin, Elizabeth Goudge, C.S. Lewis, Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Dickens, Blaise Pascal, Berthe Morisot, Booker T. Washington, & Joan of Arc. Mrs. Pepito highlights aspects of their education that we can emulate. At the end of each chapter she offers suggestions to reinforce the concept introduced plus additional books about the person or other ideas mentioned. 

She promotes her business, The Peaceful Press, throughout the book. She also is a proponent of Charlotte Mason, whom she quotes & references often.

I thought this book would focus more on each person's life & their homeschool experience, not be a "how-to" book. It was NOT falsely advertised. I just arrived at that conclusion independently (or by not reading the summary carefully!). This book would be most useful for mothers with younger kids (junior high & younger).

*Highly recommend for mothers who are beginning to homeschool or who have years left to homeschool. Becoming more aware of historical figures who were homeschooled is my favorite feature of this book.

-I own this book.

Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson

 After living in NYC for a decade, Jane feels compelled to return to her teeny Colorado home town, Avila Falls, for her mother's birthday. The town she dreamed of escaping throughout her high school years. . . 

She thought she had her career path figured out in NYC-ghostwriting memoirs for famous actors/actresses/musicians and writing her own novel. Upon returning to Avila Falls,, however, she begins to question the identity she has formed for herself. Meeting her old crush and seeing how her parents and, also her mentor, are aging cause her to ponder anew if the life she has been living is truly fulfilling.

A very predictable novel-Hallmark-like (Jane's friends even equate her weeks at home like a Hallmark movie 😀💖) I would have no issues sharing this novel with a teen. It is a very clean, sweet romance.

This genre is not my favorite, but I did enjoy reading (even though it was very predictable) & immersing myself into Jane's world and the beautiful Colorado setting. Mrs. Clarkson has created likable characters and a setting that you want to visit.

A great, light read with an uplifting tone. 

-Borrowed from the library.

*The author is Sally Clarkson's daughter-in-law. 

Page Two With You , the 2nd book in the series, is forth-coming.

The Outermost Mouse by Lauren Wolk illustrated by Kristen Adam*

 Sarah Mackenzie recently recommended this picture book on RAR. 

The Outermouse Mouse loves her life along the ocean in a small cottage. One day she notices the tide coming closer & closer to her home. Even though she tries to block the ocean with a line of sand and a wall of shells, the ocean just devours and scatters them. Eventually the man even leaves. A storm descends upon the house and mouse. Will our mouse find the courage to endure?

I love the illustrations as much as the words, especially the depiction of shells and sea glass.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

Book #1-The Roman Britain Trilogy The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff*

 After Marcus is injured & can no longer serve in the Roman military, he travels to northern Scotland to seek out what happened to the Ninth Legion, the one his father led. The Ninth Legion, four thousand men, simply disappeared. Marcus also hopes to recover the eagle standard. With his former slave Esca, he enters the unknown and experiences an adventure of a lifetime!

Ms. Sutcliff immerses the reader into this time period and bonds them with Marcus, Esca, and Marcus's uncle, Aquila. I like her writing style and word choice.

Some facts were not correct-Romans giving "thumbs up" & "thumbs down" in the manner we do today & salting the fields in Britain. 

*Highly recommend.

-I own this book plus the other two in this series.

The Bremen Town Musicians text set

 The Brothers Grimm recorded this fairy tale. It takes place during the medieval era. 

1. The Bremen Town Musicians retold by Louise Simonson illustrated by Lisa Weber

A donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster are no longer useful to their owners. Fearing that their owners will put them to death, they leave their homes, meet each other along the way, and form a band. On their way to Bremen Town, they encounter a group of bandits rejoicing over their recent thievery success. They scare the robbers out of the house & secure a home for themselves.

Warnings: People believe the house is haunted. The thieves think ghosts,monsters, a witch, and a werewolf chase them out of the house.

2. The Musicians of Bremen retold & illustrated by Niroot Puttapipat

The illustrations in the retelling are beautiful. 

Warning: The one robber reports that a witch scratched him, a troll stabbe him in the leg, & a demon hit him with a club.

-Borrowed both from the library.

Reynard's Tale by Ben Hatke

 I was researching tales that were written during the medieval era and read about Reynard the fox. The library system in my county only owned this graphic novel version of the tales. I was not impressed. I would not want kids reading it. I THINK the library has it shelved as a juvenile book. The publisher has it labeled as young adult. But the cover, book size, sentence & book length make it appealing to younger kids.

Reynard avoids an evil king's summons by fleeing & returning to the place where he stays for the winter. Along the way he encounters danger, pursuers, and former lovers. A surprise ending.

Warnings: Most of the women  show at least cleavage. The mermaids' chests are somewhat or fully exposed. One woman has a dress with a long slit-shows lots of leg. Reynard gets drunk with a woman & spends the night with her. An illustration shows him waking up in the bed beside her. She is on her stomach with the blanket pulled down halfway down her back. The reader can tell she is naked. The reader will infer he had a relationship with another woman & produced an offspring with her. He says the word "dn" & bstd". 

-Borrowed from the library.

Saving the Liberty Bell by Megan McDonald illustrated by Marsha Gray Carrington

 Ms. McDonald illuminates how the bell (eventually called the Liberty Bell) was hidden from British soldiers during the Revolutionary War. A farmer & his son haul it to Bethlehem, PA, where their wagon breaks down. Another farmer carries it to its final hiding destination-Allentown's Zion Reformed Church. I found the author's note interesting.

The bold illustrations and first person narration will make this story appeal even more to kids.

-Borrowed from the library.

The Pied Piper of Hamelin by Robert Browning illustrated by Kate Greenaway*

 While preparing for my son's history course, I read about how this poem is based on some historical truth. This addition defines archaic words. My son will be reading this poem & researching the different theories on this event.

I love the old-fashion illustrations.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

The Bell Family by Noel Streatfeild*

 The Bell family lives in a vicarage in London. With a reverend's salary, the parents need to become creative when it comes to purchasing food, clothing, and booking a vacation. What they lack in material wealth, they are rich in escapades. Each child contributes to the excitement-Paul who wants to be a doctor must deal with pressure from a grandfather to abandon his dream and join the family business, Jane who longs to be a professional dancer but must attend a charity school, Ginnie says whatever is on her mind and is disciplined the most often, and Angus collects catepillars in matchboxes.

An entertaining story  I enjoyed every minute! Some awesome adult characters

British writing does not utilize commas like Americans. I had to adjust to this writing style. Also, sometimes her sentence structures were different, which caused me to reread.

Warning/discuss: keeping secrets from each other (eventually each character comes clean), the word ass is used a few times (I don't think that is a curse word in Great Britain).

*Highly recommend, especially for readers who love realistic fiction, character development, & stories about large, boisterious families.

-Borrowed via ILL

The Great Train Robbery by Michael Crichton

 When my niece was in high school, her history teacher required his students to read this book during the summer. She recommended this book to me this summer. I can understand why a history teacher would utilize this book. Mr. Crichton immerses the reader into Victorian England, 1855-1856. What research he must have done to weave in so many details about this time period! The narrative format prevents the reader feeling like Mr. Crichton is forcing facts. He integrates them seamlessly. He also incorporates terminology/words the population would have said & explains them in the context. 

While I read it, I felt like I was reading a historical fiction novel, not a nonfiction account.

This novel shares with the world how gold was stolen off of a train that was traveling from London to Paris. Months before the actual robbery, the men involved were carefully planning it. Because of Mr. Crichton's careful, extensive research, the reader witnesses each little plan unfold & tested/evaluated.

I did not finish this book. One scene kept resurfacing in my mind. One of the men had syphilis. During this time, people thought one cure for it was for the man to have relations with a virgin. This man had relations with a supposed virgin to "cure" him. Although the scene wasn't overly graphic, it was enough that parts of it come randomly to my mind. What disturbed me the most was the girl was probably 12 years old. The rest of the book may not have any more sexual scenes, but I did not want to allow for the possibility. Other references to prostitution and relations were included but not as explicit as this one.

 I tend to romanticize earlier eras. This book, however, reinforced how man has always been wicked without God.

-Borrowed from the library.

A Book of Giants by Ruth Manning-Sanders illustrated by Robin Jacques

 This collection of short stories about giants would have entralled my oldest son when he was in elementary school. Most of the stories center on an unlikely male who outwits terrifying giants. I thoroughly enjoyed reading these clever stories.

Warning: violent, graphic killings-chopping off heads, gouging eyes etc

-Borrowed via ILL.

The Charlotte Blood Chronicles Death in the Aviary by Victoria Dowd

 Charlotte Blood's editor-in-chief sends her to investigate a year-old murder. Her cover? She is there to write an article about the family's ravens. 

The wealthy Ravenswick family lost its heir a year ago on New Year's Eve in 1928. As Charlotte resides and investigates at the Abbey, the secretive family and the moors seem to be plotting against her. A couple of near death incidents convince her that something sinister is uniting the family.

As the reader uncovers the Ravenswick family secrets with Charlotte, they also realize that Charlotte is stumbling upon her deceased husband's seemingly double-life. And who is her landlady, Mrs. C? Is she really only a landlady who writes mystery novels (which no one seems to have read!) and who likes to drink whiskey? Charlotte's own life is interesting, not just the mysteries she solves. I am looking forward to book #2 in September. 

The setting on the moors is also a character. This book is gothic!

Warnings: The dead heir's wife is having an affair with his brother. The brother's wife knows this and accepts it. Some sentences about them "messing around" and flirting/foreplay is mentioned. Celeste, whose father is having the affair,  has seen them being intimate and recorded her observations in her journal. Nothing too descriptive but still enough that I would not share this book with a high schooler. Celeste is a disturbed young girl. I felt so sorry for her yet she creeped me out a bit with her violent descriptions in her journal.

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold*

 Aidyn, a reporter for the Kansas City Star, asserts herself too far. Her superiors send her on an assignment that is perceived as insulting-writing someone's obituary. Clara Kip has been admitted to a hospice care unit. Intitially Aidyn assesses her subject as ordinary. As she begins to ask questions and research this woman's life, she discovers not only an interesting life but one that has impacted others for eternity.

I loved Mrs. Kip! She reinforced the importance of truly loving people and reminding oneself that each person before us are eternal souls. She also teaches the reader how to live and to die well. 

I did not think the character of Aidyn was well-developed. I did not connect to her or like her. It seemed like she was only necessary to reveal Mrs. Kip.

*Highly recommend but see my above assessment.

-Borrowed from the library.

Dante's Inferno A graphic novel adaptation by Paul & Gaetan Brizzi*

 Twin Brizzi brothers allow a wider audience to appreciate Dante's great work. I have not read The Divine Comedy and find even the idea of reading it intimidating. My son, who will be a junior this coming school year, will be reading Dante's Inferno. He's not intimidated! When I found this adaptation, I was thrilled. It helps build schema and gives confidence to read the original work. I am undecided if I will have him read this adaptation because of the warning below.

I read online that the brothers are working on adpatations for the rest of The Divine Comedy!

*Highly recommend for high school through adult (To be expected: the setting is hell, the people are evil & act evil!)--but read warning below before handing to a high school boy.

Warning: All the people are naked. Some illustrations depict women's full breasts. The women are grotesque so they are not alluring. But would seeing them lead a boy to seek to look at more appealing images? 

-Borrowed from the library.

Let's Go Home by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin*

 I savored the illustrations in this book. I have not read through a picture book this slowly in a long time! 

With her perfect word choice and pacing, Ms. Rylant welcomes the reader into a home and reflects with them the wonderful attributes each room contains. Her words and Ms. Halperin's images will summon memories in the reader's mind. 

The illustrations are whimsical and detailed. The reader will feel like they are visiting an actual home as they gaze at each page. 

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library (but if I see it in a store, I will buy it!).

The Blue Hill Meadows by Cynthia Rylant illustrated by Ellen Beier**

 What a lovely collection of stories about the Meadow Family-Sullivan, Eva, Ray, and Willie who live in Blue Hill, VA with their dogs, Lady & Sam. The four stories, one for each season, focus on Willie, a third grader. Over the course of a year, Willie gains two dogs, goes fishing for the day with his father, gets stuck in a blizzard at his teacher's house, and gives his mother the best Mother's Day gift ever.

The illustrations suit the tone of the stories perfectly!

**Highly, highly recommend.

-Borrowed from the library.

The Garden Adventures of Griswald the Gnome by Daniela Drescher Translated by Anna Cardwell

 Originally written in German

Griswald loves living in his rain barrel. Each short chapter focuses on a different adventure he experiences. The narrator is a human who owns the garden and lives in the house.

The illustrations are beautiful. 106 pages

-Borrowed via ILL.

The Capybaras by Alfredo Soderguit translated by Elisa Amado

 The chickens are content with their mundane lives. Then the capybaras arrive. They are different. Can they be trusted? Until hunting season is over, the chickens agree to allow them to stay. Rules are established. The rules are broken. Then a capybara performs a heroic feat and transforms the chickens' opinions of them.

I liked the dry, subtle humor. The illustrations add to the story. While reading it, I was wondering if the author was trying to express his opinion on immigration. 

-Borrowed from the library.

We Were Tired of Living in a House by Liesel Moak Skorpen illustrated by Joe Cepeda

 Three siblings pack a bag with sweaters, socks, mittens, and earmuffs and decide to live in different locations-a tree, a raft, a cave ,and by the sea, until an event occurs to convince them to move to the next place.

Would be a fun book to share with toddlers & preschoolers! 

-Borrowed from the library.

The Little Silver House by Jennie D. Lindquist*

 Readers continue experiencing Nancy's year with Grandpa & Grandma Benson while her mother recovers from an illness. Even though spring in the country enthralled her, autumn and Christmas in the country offer their own wonders. A boarded-up house in the country captures her and her "cousins'" thoughts. Who lived there? Why is it boarded up? 

I especially related to Nancy's love for flowers and for the beauty of God's creation. I loved learning about the Swedish customs & traditions at Christmas. Although only the last 1/3 of the book is dedicated to Christmas, it would be a great book to read at Christmas. The Swedes know how to celebrate this season!!

I thought Nancy's character became a bit flat in this book (& was also flat in the 3rd book). I highly recommend it because of the delights mentioned above.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed via ILL. (It's almost $59 on Amazon!)

Golden Name Day by Jennie Dorothea Lindquist*

 Award winner- Newbery Honor in 1956

When Nancy's mother becomes ill and is hospitalized, she travels to country to live with Mr. & Mrs. Benson for a year. The Bensons and their family are old friends of her mother's. Nancy calls the Bensons, Grandpa & Grandpa & their relatives "aunt/uncle". This family is rooted in the Swedish culture. One tradition is celebrating one's name day. Nancy is disappointed when she discovers that her name is not Swedish, and therefore, does not have a designated day. The disappointment consumes her. Will she waste her year at Grandma & Grandpa's trying to figure out a way to have a "name day"?

I liked this one better than book #3, The Crystal Tree. Nancy's character was more flawed and realistic. Her character development was apparent.

*Highly recommend.

-Borrowed via ILL.

The Old Sleigh by Jarrett Pumphrey & Jerome Pumphrey

 A boy assists his father in delivering wood on their  large sleigh. When it breaks, the boy utilizes the material to build his own small sleigh. The tradition continues when the boy becomes an adult.

Part of a series-modes of transportion with the word "old" in the title.

-Borrowed from the library.