Review: The Best Man

The Best Man by Richard Peck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book! Richard Peck does it again!!! What a great current story about Archer who quickly takes us from first through much of the book in 5th and 6th grade. A book about family, love and friendship. I have too many great things to say about this book, but I don't want to give anything away - the way this story is woven and Archer the main character is so enjoyable. It's always great to find a book with a male main character that both male and female audiences can read.

This book is at LV IMC. Readers of all levels will enjoy this book. Some will not pick up on the sarcasm and humor if they are younger, but they will not be lost by the story! A great book for both parent & child to read together to talk about!

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Review: The Woman in Cabin 10

The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lo Blacklock, a travel writer, is going to go on a luxury yacht for a private press tour. While Lo is leaving her broken private life behind for a week, a burglar break in and a possible break up with boyfriend Judah, she needs to "get it together" to show her boss that she can handle this assignment. The yacht, Aurora, is beautiful, luxurious and filled with top press and a variety of photographers and other wealthy investors. Lo is still struggling with the stress and anxiety from the break in which leads her to being sleep deprived and drinking too much at dinner on the first night. Just when Lo is finally asleep she is woken by a scream and hears splash. Lo runs to the veranda and thinks she sees a hand in the water and blood smeared on the veranda next door. As Lo tries to make sense of what has happened in cabin 10 she has a hard time finding support from security on the boat since nobody was assigned to cabin 10. It was to be empty for the entire trip. Lo knows what she saw, and is determined to find out what happened to the woman in cabin 10.

A thrilling story with many twists and turns - it will not disappoint.

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Review: Inexcusable

Inexcusable by Chris Lynch
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Did you like Speak? If so, this book takes a dramatically different look at date rape from a male's perspective. The story itself was told in a choppy format, and I didn't enjoy the writing that much. I'm not sure if this was Chris Lynch's idea of showing how main character Keir's thoughts were all over the place due to events that took place. In any case, it was interesting to see how Keir lives his senior year and the ups and downs that take place. Disappointed his sisters don't attend his high school graduation he ends up going to see them with high school princess Gigi - the girl who he rapes. Keir doesn't believe he has done anything wrong and expresses to Gigi she never said "no." While I didn't think this was the best book I have ever read, I did like getting to Keir's realization about what his actions mean and what will happen to his future.

*This book is not available in the LV IMC

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Review: Parrotfish

Parrotfish by Ellen Wittlinger
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

New to LV IMC shelves - hardcover & paperback

Angela has just announced she is transgender when beginning the book. Her family is trying to be accepting of what is going on, but like any family has questions and are confused. Angela recently came out as a lesbian, but upon reading more and understanding that her gender is actually male she decides upon a name and Grady is born.

This book has very comical moments. Grady is realistic in the fact that nothing is going to change dramatically overnight for his family, friends and his classmates. Parrotfish has everything you hope for a teenager to have in regards to support in their life. Grady starts to develop a strong friendship while also dealing with the bullies who may not accept him.

Parrotfish will not disappoint. It's a very gentle introduction to being transgender and focusing more on how family, friends and the transgender teen figure out who they really all are.

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Review: What Light

What Light by Jay Asher
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

For fans of Jay Asher, you will not be disappointed in his new book. We've been waiting for 10 years to see something else from the Thirteen Reason's Why author. However, if you are hoping for as dramatic of a story you will not get it here.

Sierra lives with her parents on a Christmas tree farm in Oregon and every year from Thanksgiving through Christmas they drive to the lot in California her family has had for over 30 years to sell trees. Sierra basically has two lives and two sets of best friends in Oregon & California, except this could be her last year on the tree lot.

As Sierra is realizing how important her life in California is, she also overhears her parents mention this may be the last year on the lot due to not making as much money. Enter Caleb, a funny and handsome boy with rumors swirling about him and his past.

Will Sierra and Caleb enter a relationship? What about the Christmas tree farm? What will happen to her California life if she is not to return again?

A perfect read during the holiday season reminding us about family, love and the magic of the holidays!

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Review: Through the Woods

Through the Woods by Emily Carroll
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

5 creepy tales told with equally scary illustrations. Fans of ghost and horror stories will be drawn to this graphic novel. I'm excited to add this title to our school's collection which is currently on the 2016 Abe Lincoln list. Recommended audience grade 8 and higher. Some students in grade 7 will be drawn to this book as well.

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Review: Everything, Everything

Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A truly great story by Nicola Yoon. Madeline is sick with "bubble baby syndrome" and cannot leave her house. She's never been to school, let alone outside since she was diagnosed as a baby. Her life is lived in the walls of her house among her books and online tutors. Her mother constantly worries about her health. Maddy is lucky to have nurse Carla care for her and be the one true friend she has ever had until someone moves into the neighborhood. Madeline discovers friendship with Olly, the boy who moves in across the street. Can someone fall in love through a window? Can Olly accept Madeline for who she is? A book that will tug at your heart. Cleaver illustrations (created by Yoon's husband David) help create the vivid pictures for this story.

Recommended for students in high school.

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Review: Nerve

Nerve by Jeanne Ryan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow! What a FUN book! I devoured this book in one day. Vee, a shy high school junior, decided to enter the open dare competitions on NERVE. She's tired of playing second fiddle to her best friend Sydney who once again is star of the school play's production. Vee's normally shy and quiet persona changes as she gets braver with each dare she completes with her partner Ian. Now competing on the show as a finalist with Ian to win amazing prizes and cash. As each dare is relieved, so are the risks for Vee. This book is fast paced and will keep you on the edge of your sheet wondering what Vee will do next to win the next prize. There is always a price to pay for fame & fortune...how will Vee dare to go?
*Recommended for a high school audience - strong language and sexual references

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Review: Ugly

Ugly by Robert Hoge
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

For fans of Wonder, this is a must read! Robert Hoge's personal story of what it was like growing up as a disabled child with a facial deformity. Hoge's younger readers version reads like a story which will make many students excited to read it. Don't pass it up!

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Review: The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B

The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B by Teresa Toten
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Adam is a 16 year old boy who struggles with obsessive compulsive disorder. The book centers around his meeting in his group therapy sessions. Group has now decided to take on superhero names and try to be more than they really are to help them with their progress. Adam, now Batman, is also instantly attracted to Robyn - the newest member of group. As Batman and Robyn continue to get to know one another, they each help each other with trying to recover. Batman also struggles with the dividing of time between his parents as well as his mother slowly spiraling out of control with her hording problem. Adam's mom constantly reminds Adam he cannot tell about her problem because she will be taken away. This further causes more stress and anguish to Adam's everyday struggles. Another frightening thing also begins to happen to his mother where the plot thickens and things become much worse. Adam is an unlikely hero in this story of growth & acceptance. While I liked the book, I think it could be hard for teens to follow who don't understand OCD, hording, therapy, group therapy and being medicated for these struggles. The author does create a vivid enough picture that will help readers understand.

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Review: The Secret Language of Sisters

The Secret Language of Sisters by Luanne Rice
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Roo (a Senior in high school) and Tilly (2 years younger) are as close as sisters can be. In the last year they have dealt with the sudden loss of their father. Tilly is at the library impatiently waiting for Roo to pick her up. Tilly is texting her to find out when she will be there. That is when Roo makes the mistake of her life by taking her eyes of the road for 3 seconds to respond to Tilly's text.

That's when everything changes. A book that will shock readers as well as push this book into other's hands to read about what one bad decision can do to the lives of so many.

Emotional and easy to relate to in regards to family, friendship and love. It will be hard to put this book down.

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Review: The Kind Worth Killing

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The last time I read a thriller was The Girl on the Train and Gone Girl. This book was equally as satisfying! Swanson tells the story of Ted and Lilly who meet on a flight from London to Boston. Ted shares with Lilly about the affair he has learned his wife is having, and says he could kill his wife. That's when things get interesting - Lilly offers to help. A book that goes through many twists and turns and always keeps the reader surprised! This book will not disappoint!

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Review: The Honest Truth

The Honest Truth by Dan Gemeinhart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Marc is sick. Mark has been sick for a long time, and doesn't know how much more he can take. He's been dealing with cancer throughout his whole childhood and has decided he is done fighting. Marc and his dog Beau are leaving - forever. It has been Marc's dream to climb Mt. Rainier and he will get there or die trying to.

I wasn't even sure I was going to read it when I bought it for the library, and then something kept drawing me to it. I'm so glad I did. This book brought me to tears. A boy and his dog - that's all you need to get started, the words on the page will do the rest. I am excited to recommend this book to all students! I know some boys and girls who will love it! Don't pass it up.

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Review: Sweet

Sweet by Emmy Laybourne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Laurel and her best friend Viv will be spending a week on a luxury cruise which is launching a brand new sweetener that promises fast weight loss. Solu is going to be launched to the public at the end of the cruise while during this week all passengers get advanced access to have Solu.

Tom is a childhood actor who was known as "baby Tom-Tom" and being overweight. He is 19, fit and trim, and covering the publicity for the cruise and Solu. Both Tom and Laurel opt to not take Solu. Laurel has been seasick since the start of the trip and Tom is worried it will mess with his already strict diet and workout schedule. Viv (Laurel's best friend) is taking it and is feeling great.

The book is told from both Laurel & Tom's point of view. They don't know each other when the ship takes to sea, but eventually end up meeting and are interested in each other. As Laurel & Tom's relationship begins to develop so does the passengers appetite for Solu. The wonder sweetener begins to resemble something more like an addictive drug which makes passengers start to behave erratic.

The book begins as a dream trip and focuses on fun reality stars, lavish food and a beautiful ship. If you like the luxury lifestyle, pop culture and some horror mixed in - this is the book for you!

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Review: Honor Girl: A Graphic Memoir

Honor Girl: A Graphic Memoir by Maggie Thrash
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A memoir told in in graphic novel format replays Maggie's life as a young girl who went to a sleep away camp every year. Maggie has an encounter with older counselor Erin during a lice check and develops feelings for Erin.

Maggie struggles with fitting in at camp, but feels most comfortable during rifle shooting. Maggie is unsure if Erin feels the same about her - plus the age difference is 4 years.

When Maggie is 17 she reunites with Erin. Read on to find out what happens.

A good memoir that is honest. Because of strong language, I cannot support putting this in my school library, but it may be available at the public library for checkout.

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Review: All American Boys

All American Boys by Jason Reynolds
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rashaad and Quinn are both high school seniors who attend the same school, but do not know each other. They have a friend in common named English who is on the basketball team with Quinn and English has been Rashaad's best friend since they were kids. Rashaad is African American and Quinn is Caucasian. Both young men getting ready for a Friday night party.

The book is told from each boy's perspective switching off every chapter sectioned off by a day of the week. Rashaad is going into a convenient store to buy a bag of chips before meeting his friends. Quinn outside of the store waiting to ask someone to buy him beer to bring to the party. And then everything in their world changes.

Rashaad in the store leaning down to get his phone, a women behind him who doesn't know he is there falls backward over him, a police officer in the store, a man behind the counter who thinks Rashaad is trying to steal the chips. Chaos erupts and Rashaad ends up handcuffed and dragged out to the sidewalk where he faces an intense, could be deadly, police beating.

Quinn sees it all unfold on the sidewalk, and when the police officer's face is in view is when Quinn realizes it is his best friend's older brother, Paul.

A community, school and friendships will be tested, questioned and ended in this story. A story that unfortunately is too real today. I would suggest this book for high school and higher - could be an excellent, teachable moment in classrooms if your school will allow a book with such a high use of language.

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Review: I am J

I am J by Cris Beam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Meet J, born as a female but knows he is a boy. Readers will be introduced to J's world and his discovery of realizing who he is, transgender. J has a best friend Melissa who is interested in a career as a professional dancer, but struggles with cutting. As J becomes more confident about who is, it begins to cause problems at home with his parents. J soon moves in with Melissa and her mother while things play out at home. J also begins to attend an alternative school especially for LGBTQ students. All takes place during J's senior year in high school. Will J move back home, go to college, continue to This book is honest and real. If you know someone who is transgender, I believe it would be an emotionally connecting book. The back of the book also include excellent references for support as well.

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Review: This One Summer

This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I wish I could put this book on our shelf. However, I believe the reality of the conversations in the book as well as realistic language how teens and tweens speak when adults aren't around, could make for some unhappy parents.

Rose and her family go to a cottage every summer. This graphic novel depicts what it is like to grow up as a young girl. Rose is changing from child to young adult and isn't "stupid" to her parent's problems.

A quick read, realistic in nature and very honest. Don't be fooled by the language and content in the book, it's realistic and similar conversations are taking place away from adult ears.

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Review: The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story

The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story by Vivek J. Tiwary
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I wanted to enjoy this book so much more! I intended on purchasing it for my junior high, but there is now way I can put it in my collection. Too many swear words and inappropriate comments throughout out to either offend and/or distract my students from hearing the story of Brian Epstein "fifth Beatle."

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Review: Ghosts

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Raina Telgemeier does it again! Fans of Smile, Sisters & Drama will not be disappointed by her newest graphic novel. Set in California, Cat & little sister Maya recently moved to a town that is windy and only sees sun 65 days a year. Cat struggles with making friends while Maya is a young, fun girl who brings a breath of fresh air to any situation. The purpose of their move was for Maya who has cystic fibrosis. A serious take on illness and the uncertainty of death, but told in a fun way incorporating ghosts and Day of the Dead celebrations which is huge part of the community in which they live.

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Indian Prairie Library Writing Contest

Indian Prairie Library - writing contest options:

Option 1 - Grades 7-12
Submissions for original short stories, poetry, and song lyrics. A cash prize will be awarded to a winner in each category. All details and entry forms can be found on our website at writeon.ippl.info Entries will be accepted through Saturday, Oct. 22.

Option 2 - Grades 5-6
Students can enter submissions for original short stories and poetry. A $25 gift card for Barbara's Bookstore will be awarded to a winner in each category. The entry forms can be found on our website at http://ippl.info/calendar-events/ages/mid-kids Entries will be accepted through Monday, Oct. 31.

Review: Frida & Diego: Art, Love, Life

Frida & Diego: Art, Love, Life by Catherine Reef
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I hope some of my junior high students choose to read this biography for a book report assignment. Very interesting life of Friday & Diego, both famous artists, and how they became married. Catherine Reef's narrative about married life, political interests and of course their lives as artists is told more like a story. Many photos and pictures of their art.

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Review: I Am Princess X

I Am Princess X by Cherie Priest
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I always struggle with trying to find a good, strong mystery for our junior high library. Even though this is classified as a YA book, it is appropriate for grades 7 & 8. Appropriate language and the way the story is told is fun! Libby and May were best friends who created stories about Princess X. May did the writing while Libby drew the adventures until one night Libby and her mother were killed driving off a bridge. May, now 16, is alone and still morns the loss of her best friend. While visiting her dad in Seattle, she sees a Princess X sticker. Nobody knew about Princess X except Libby, May and their parents. Is it possible that Libby is still alive?

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Review: The Kidney Hypothetical: Or How to Ruin Your Life in Seven Days

The Kidney Hypothetical: Or How to Ruin Your Life in Seven Days by Lisa Yee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book, and I'm glad I read it before shelving! A fast read with short chapters and enough of a story to keep it moving. I will only mark this book HS/YA for my middle school readers who are much more advanced and mature. While the content is innocent in nature the overuse of some language could be bothersome. However mild in nature compared to a lot of YA books. Told from a senior boy's perspective who has lived the life his parents have wanted and in the shadow of his deceased brother until he meets Monarch who helps him see who he really is. This book is light and funny, yet with enough weight to consider one's own path in life.

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Review: Because of Mr. Terupt

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I waited entirely too long to read this book. I have heard so many great things about it, but it always got pushed aside. Mr. Terupt, a brand new teacher, and his class of 5th graders are chronicled throughout the school year. Told from multiple perspectives of male and female students who are struggling with interpersonal relationships. Mr. Terupt is the type of teacher who lets things happen and wants students to learn by their mistakes. With a shocking twist during the book, these students will grow more than ever. There is too much to write about without ruining the book, but I believe this should be a required reading of elementary students.

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Review: Archie, Vol. 1: The New Riverdale

Archie, Vol. 1: The New Riverdale by Mark Waid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm a huge Archie comic book fan so some might not agree with my 5 star rating. However reading this brought me back to when I was a kid and my grandparents would let me pick out Archie comic books at the drug store. This version gives Archie and the gang a modern day look. Same old Archie, clumsy and fun. Story begins with Archie & Betty broken up, and teasers follow, but you will find out why. Veronica is also introduced as well as Jughead Jones's backstory. A fun read about all of the kids in Riverdale.

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Review: Drama

Drama by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This graphic novel takes place during Callie's 8th grade school year. She has found a love for theater and is in stage crew. This book is full of drama both figuratively and literally. These are a new group of characters that Raina Telgemeier has created and are different from those readers have been used to from Sisters and Smile. Personally this book was my favorite of the 3 she has written.

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Review: Smile

Smile by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great graphic novel where the author brings their own tragedies to life using humor. Raina, a sixth grader, has an accident where she severely inures her two front teeth. The reader will follow her on a long journey of braces and headgear! That's not the only thing focused on the book - all of the fun of being a sixth grader: friends, boys & life in general.

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Review: Because of Mr. Terupt

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I waited entirely too long to read this book. I have heard so many great things about it, but it always got pushed aside. Mr. Terupt, a brand new teacher, and his class of 5th graders are chronicled throughout the school year. Told from multiple perspectives of male and female students who are struggling with interpersonal relationships. Mr. Terupt is the type of teacher who lets things happen and wants students to learn by their mistakes. With a shocking twist during the book, these students will grow more than ever. There is too much to write about without ruining the book, but I believe this should be a required reading of elementary students.

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Review: El Deafo

El Deafo by Cece Bell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cece Bell writes a graphic novel based on her own childhood experiences growing up deaf. I particularly like how Cece allows for the reader to understand her emotions and what it feels like being around others who ask questions that make her feel bad about being deaf. A good reminder to teach our children how to talk to people with disabilities - not treating them like they have a disability. This book will make you laugh out loud and see how El Deafo truly is a super hero! Another great graphic novel showing how any type of reading a child does is good reading! Enjoy!

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Review: Wonder

Wonder by R.J. Palacio
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

I cannot believe it took me so long to read this book. EVERY child and adult should read this heartwarming, heartbreaking and amazing book. There's too much to say without getting "into" it and ruining it for those who haven't. The moment you start, you won't be able to put it down. Palacio writes her characters so perfectly that one actually feels like they know Auggie and everyone in his world. Wonder is the type of book that fully opens your heart and charges the reader to continue with its message.

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Rebecca Caudill Nominees 2017 book trailers!

RC Nominees for 2017

Review: Being Jazz: My Life as a (Transgender) Teen

Being Jazz: My Life as a (Transgender) Teen by Jazz Jennings
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've been "shopping" for new books to add to our library collection in regards to LGBTQ. This memoir by Jazz Jennings is a perfect addition for those students either wanting to educate themselves about transgender people or are transgender themselves. Jazz takes the reader on her journey as early as a 2 year old all the way up to almost 15 years old and currently filming a second season of her reality show. Jazz's family is absolutely supportive and amazing which is what really makes this memoir so special. Many statistics are given about the suicide rate, violence against transgenders and just lack of understanding throughout the book which makes you embrace her family that much more. Jazz has taken on every challenge and struggle any transgender student may have to face in regards to athletics, school community, friendships and of course dating. The book is engaging and has peaked my interest to even tune in to her reality TV show on TLC. What I think is most beneficial to those who read the book is the abundant amount of resources at the end of the book. Resources include: websites, depression outreach services, books for kids, books for teens and adults, educational books for parents of a transgender child as well as movie/TV shows.

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Review: Eleanor & Park

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Overall I enjoyed this book. The way it was written from two perspectives and almost poetic drew me in immediately. I too was just as caught up in Park & Elanor's relationship as they were with each other. Without spoiling the ending, I wanted it to go on a bit longer, but was still satisfied at the end...kind of. Definitely not being put on my junior high library shelves due too much language.

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Review: Since You've Been Gone

Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Honestly my favorite book this summer. Best friends Sloane & Emily couldn't be more different, yet have been attached at the hip for 2 years. Suddenly Sloane has disappeared with her family and the only clue Emily has is the list that Sloane mailed to her. Sloane being outgoing and never afraid of a challenge, writes different lists for Emily to try and get her out of her comfort zone. All Emily wants is her best friend back and the only way she can think to be successful is completing "the list." Can Emily really skinny dip, hug a Jaime as well as complete 11 other tasks on the list? The book is cleverly written and takes place in present time with flashbacks that fill in pieces of Sloane & Emily's relationship. Through Emily's adventures she meets knew friends who you will bond with immediately. I didn't want the book to end so I could continue to follow in Emily's life to see what her next adventures would be. Looking forward to reading another book by Morgan Matson!

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Review: The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My favorite Monarch nominee as of right now. A clever story that is from the imaginary friend's perspective. Cute, imaginative and instantly draws in any reader. The illustrations are fun too!

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Review: Unfriended

Unfriended by Rachel Vail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Excellent book to add to any middle school library collection. This book takes place during 8th grade and told from multiple perspectives. Both male and female perspectives from the same group of friends. Truly (main character) once was best friends with Natasha who "dumped" her for the popular kids. Truly has moved on and is now best friends with Hazel. That is until Natasha invites Truly to come sit with her one day at lunch at the popular table. Natasha clues the reader in on "her plan." A story that revolves around the inter workings of friendship in middle school as well as how social media & cyber bullying heighten all amounts of gossip! A read worth sharing with your children for them to understand the danger of social media and how to deal with conflict in their life. I really enjoyed the story and felt like I got to know the characters. I wasn't thrilled with the ending, but I would still recommend it to a reader.

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Review: Sisters

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This fun graphic novel is perfect for students in grades 6, 7 & 8. Raina is on a 3 week vacation with her family driving from California to Colorado. During this story, flashbacks fill in how Raina & her little sisters relationship has developed over time. Laugh out loud funny and easy to relate to. Great for reluctant readers as well as anyone looking for a fun read. Also by Raina Telgemeier: Smile & Drama. All 3 books are at the Lakeview Junior High IMC.

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Review: Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas

Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas by Natasha Yim
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A cute take on Goldilocks & the three bears. Goldy Luck lives in China and finds herself at her neighbors house, a family of pandas, and goes through the motions of eating, sitting and sleeping. A cute lesson learned in the end and incorporating Chinese New Year. My kids loved it!

Monarch 2017 Nominee

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Review: Rhyme Schemer

Rhyme Schemer by K.A. Holt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A perfect read for reluctant readers in grades 6,7,8. Kevin the main character's journey from being the bully to being bullied. A clever book, written in verse, where all students can relate to Kevin.

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Review: The Boy at the Top of the Mountain

The Boy at the Top of the Mountain by John Boyne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was so excited John Boyne came out with a new novel. While this books isn't emotionally as powerful as The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, it is thought provoking and heart-breaking. A young boy, Pierrot, becomes an orphan, and ends up being taken in by his Aunt Beatrix. She is a servant for a wealthy man during World War II. Pierrot finds out it is none other than Adolf Hitler. Pierrot is quickly liked by Hitler who takes him under his wing, and from that moment a young, innocent boy is changed forever.

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Review: The Crown

The Crown by Kiera Cass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The fun spirited Selection series came to a nice ending. I so enjoyed this series - the fun and lighthearted characters whose biggest problem was finding true love and literally living happily ever after. I look forward to following Kiera Cass's future novels and I hope will find them just as enjoyable.

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Review: When I Was the Greatest

When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am extremely excited to add this book to our library's collection! Jason Reynolds is a talented author who writes honestly about the realities of city life. I believe any student who picks up a Jason Reynolds book will not only enjoy it, but will leave with a clear message.

Ali is a high school boy who is best friends with brothers Noodles and Needles. They spend every day together hanging out on "the stoop." When Ali and the boys are told they can get into a party they have no business going to, one can only assume something will go wrong.

A quick read. Great for male reluctant readers because of the length, but just as important to hand this book to boys or girls who can learn a lot about loyalty and staying true to who you are.

This book will be placed as an H book for high school.

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2017 Rebecca Caudill List

Mrs. Wilson and I are working on reading all of the Rebecca Caudill's for 2017.  The list of books this year are awesome, and I can honestly say I am excited about every single one of them!  As I read books from the list I will post reviews just like any other book I read.  In the meantime, this blog is currently reviewing Caudill's.  Take a look! http://www.litlaughlearn.com/2016/02/2017-caudill-resources/

Review: Red Queen

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dystopian fans will not be disappointed in the Red Queen. Fast paced read which will cause you wanting more and moving on to the 2nd book immediately. Clever writing both humorous and full of sarcasm. Those who rule are silver blooded and look down on those who are of red blood. Mare the main character ends up living in the world of silvers while her own identity is being covered up as a red because lightning skills have surfaced which no red has ever had before. Mare is thrown into a world of high society kingdom as well as being betrothed to Maven the younger of two princes. Of course no story would be complete with romance especially involving the 2 princes, Cal & Maven.

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Review: The Nest

The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is currently getting a lot of praise. I personally enjoyed it, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reflective story about family and the power it can have on each other. 4 siblings waiting to receive "the nest" a substantial sum of money their father put away for them but ended up growing to an immense amount. Instead of focusing on what was right in front of the them, the Plumb family members, Leo, Bea, Jack and Melody were waiting for "the nest" to make everything alright in regards to their personal lives. That is until Leo finds himself in a great deal of trouble and the nest is used to help him out. This family has been broken before, but with the nest nearly gone how will they resolve their personal family relationships with the ones they love as well as with each other? A thoughtful and reflective book that has a conclusion in which a reader will feel satisfied and not wondering "what next."

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Review: You Are My Best Friend

You Are My Best Friend by Tatsuya Miyanishi
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

In the second book of this series, Tyrannosaurus is the main character who is bullying other dinosaurs on the land. It's not until Tyrannosaurus almost dies (and is rescued by an unlikely friend) that he realizes how terrible he has treated others. This story has a nice focus on friendship, but it is a bit wordy and advanced for a young K-2 student. A book that could be read aloud in a classroom, but I believe there are better choices available.

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Review: The Art of Being Normal

The Art of Being Normal by Lisa Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Two transgender teenagers from Britain each trying to be who they really are. Leo Denton, born as Megan, has just started a new school and end up bravely punching out the school bully. David Piper, a grade 10 student, grapples with how to come out to his parents and friends that he knows he is a girl. All parties believe him to be gay, but what will they think when he reveals his true self? Told from each David & Leo's perspective, and demonstrates the importance of why people need to start educating themselves and children about people going through these hard life transitions and the support they need. I rated this book highest on Goodreads because it was tastefully told with no language that is offensive, which is hard to come by these days in YA fiction. A book that should be available to students in middle and high school.

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Review: Orbiting Jupiter

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

I was immediately pulled into this book. Jack (12) narrates the story about Joseph (14). Jack's parents' foster Joseph who has been in juvenile detention centers and has been abused by both his father and other juveniles. Joseph is also a father at the age of 13. Be ready with a box of tissues and a roller coaster of emotions while reading this short yet deep text. It will not disappoint, and it will leave you with wanting to talk about the book long after you finish it.

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Review: Do Princesses Boogie?

Do Princesses Boogie? by Carmela LaVigna Coyle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Follow main character, Princess, as she jumps, wiggles and boogies throughout the book. Young pre-school age children will enjoy this book's rhythm as they can clap along and move and grove. A sweet book about having a great attitude!

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Review: The Art of Secrets

The Art of Secrets by James Klise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Author James Klise writes an intriguing book about the Kahn's, a Pakistani family, who are the victims of arson. Klise tells their story using multiple perspectives. Saba, daughter of the Kahn's attends a prestigious high school in Chicago. Two siblings, Kevin & Kendra Spoon, organize an auction which will help raise money for the Kahn's to try to rebuild their life. There are also e-mails, texts and newspaper articles which are used throughout the book as well. The twists and turns will stay with the reader long after finishing the book. I imagine great discussion in the classroom at the conclusion of this novel. Students will question characters in the book and truly think about the consequences of one's actions & motives. An excellent read for students in grades 7-10.

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Review: Kuma-Kuma Chan's Home

Kuma-Kuma Chan's Home by Kazue Takahashi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A cute and charming tale about a young boy who visits his friend Kuma-Kuma Chan. This is no ordinary friend, but a little bear! The boy and bear spend the day together and pre-school age children will surely love the idea about what a bear does all day in his home. A fun read aloud that will spark a lot of discussion with young minds!

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Review: The Most Magnificent Thing

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

A great book to read aloud with children. A lesson to be learned about taking one's time and what to do when you get frustrated. Children will relate to this young girl who is trying her best to build what she sees in her mind. Funny animal characters incorporated within the book to give a good giggle as well!

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