The Adventures of Commander Zack Proton and the Warlords of Nibblecheese

by Brian Anderson

Book two of a three book series featuring a less than able space commander and a more highly intelligent monkey. In this wacky plot a band of space mice kidnap a busload of second graders as part of a grander scheme to destroy the Earth's moon (which of course is made of cheese). Although not as well written as many other current books, it will still find an audience among reluctant boy readers due to its easy chapters, multitude of illustrations, and silly humor.

1 of 5 stars.

The Bombing of Pearl Harbor, 1941

by Lauren Tarshis

Eleven-year-old Danny Crane was not at all happy that his Ma moved him from the streets of New York to Honolulu. She took a job as a nurse on a military base to keep Danny away from danger. Little did she know that they lived exactly where the first bombs of World War II would fall. Tarshis writes an easily read plot with a nicely developed character. Scott Dawson adds some beautiful black & white illustrations for visual appeal.  A good choice for an easy historical fiction read.

4 of 5 stars. Recommended.

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

by Tom Angleberger

"Is Origami Yoda Real?" Is he just a paper puppet on the finger of super nerd Dwight or does he possess the force? Can he see into the future? That is exactly why sixth-grader Tommy asked everyone to share their Origami Yoda stories. He complied them into this case study, allowed non-believer Harvey to comment and then lent the whole file to Kellen who only added a bunch of doodles. Angleberger draws the reader into the plot by combining believable characters and a plot liberally peppered with spot-on middle school worry and humor, all wrapped up in short easy chapters with "hand-written" fonts on crinkly paper. Although there are many videos available on folding variations of Origami Yoda, readers may be interested in watching Angleberger's version.

5 of 5 stars. Highly Recommended.

Big Nate : In A Class By Himself

by Lincoln Peirce

"Today you will surpass all others." The best fortune Nate could ever receive, and Nate needed help. Dreading the upcoming test he hadn't studied for, Nate spends his day trying to discover the greatness of his fortune only to collect one detention pink slip after another. Peirce successfully combines the readability of short chapters, plenty of his classic black-and-white ink illustrations, and quirky humor to make Nate a likeable hero for many a reluctant reader.

5 of 5 stars. Highly Recommended.

Stir It Up!

by Ramin Ganeshram

When not busy working in the families restaurant, thirteen-year-old Anjali Krishnan dreams of becoming a celebrity chef. With the help of a cooking teacher her dreams are within reach. If she can lie to her parents, make it through the audition without compromising her religious beliefs, and not be intimidated by the other contestants. Ganeshram gives readers a much needed minority character but unfortunately the slow plot keeps the story from really taking off.

1 of 5 stars.

Erak's Ranson

by John Flanagan

Book 7 of the Ranger's Apprentice series actually goes back a little in time to before Will has completed his ranger studies. Readers are introduced to a new setting, Arridi. A desert country that poses new challenges for the rangers. Flanagan brings many familiar characters back to the story along with developing several new friends and foes. As with the earlier books in the series the pace of the story keeps readers engaged and his word choice allows for readers to develop a clear mental image of both characters and settings. I would have preferred to read this book prior to books 5-6 and would make that suggestion to others as it would help keep the suspense of the ending. Additional information about the series such as brief character descriptions and setting maps is available at the Ranger’s Apprentice Official Website.

5 of 5 stars. Highly Recommended.

Knucklehead

by Jon Scieszka

Laugh-out-loud autobiography of Scieszka's live growing up in a family of six boys. From Breaking furniture and collarbones to cooking oatmeal instead of scooping poop Scieszka keeps readers in a constant state of happy. The short chapters are easy to read and scattered with family photographs, memorabilia and topical graphics. There may be some concerns raised regarding the inclusion of Sciszka's exploits with explosives and "pee", but I would not exclude it from my library based on those reasons (and the intermediate boy readers will simply love reading it).

5 of 5 Stars. Highly Recommended.

Figgs & Phantoms

by Ellen Raskin

Mona Lisa Newton is a member of the Figg Newton family of Pineapple. An odd assortment of individuals with circus like talents all searching for their own slice of heaven, or as the Figg Newton's call it, Capri. Mona is an unhappy family member, wishing for less attention and more normal behavior. Raskin creates colorful characters but the plot is rather skittish and difficult to follow at times. The varied signs peppered throughout the book add humor but younger readers may not appreciate the intended puns.  This book would be more appropriate for young adult readers as opposed to intended intermediate audience.

1 of 5 Stars.

Hound and Hare

by Rotraut Susanne Bertner

Hugo and Harley could be best friends, IF their families weren't feuding. Despite their parents wishes they each sneak out to join in the Great Bone Big Race whose outcome has interesting consequences for everyone. An easy reader with picture book appeal, younger readers may enjoy the story line but they may not grasp the humor of the literary puns.

1 of 5 stars.

Princess Posey and the Perfect Present

by Stephanie Greene

Posey loves everything about first grade, especially her teacher Ms. Lee. When Ms. Lee announces her birthday, Posey decides on the perfect present. Five perfectly grown roses from her garden. But her plans go amiss and she learns a little lesson in being silly. Greene offers readers a simply written text with easy chapters, lots of white space and plenty of illustrations.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Faith, Hope, and Ivy June

by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

Catherine Combs and Ivy June Mosley are both chosen to represent their schools in the seventh-grade student exchange program. Each will spend two weeks visiting the other and keep a journal to document their thoughts. Catherine lives in a large comfortable home in Lexington and attends a private all-girl school. Ivy June lives with her grandparents in the mountains of Cumberland Gap, without running water or a telephone. The girls enter the program thinking they are very different, only to discover they are more alike than they could imagine. Naylor uses the girl's journals to create wonderful characters, especially Ivy June.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Adventures in Cartooning : How to Turn Your Doodles Into Comics!

by James Sturm, Andrew Arnold, and Alexis Frederick-Frost

A story within-a-story book about a princess, a knight and a dragon who likes bubblegum being guided through the story by a magical elf. Readers will be so engaged with the story they will probably not realized they are learning about cartooning, until they reach the Bonus Feature and Advance Cartooning Tips at the end of the book. The humor is spot on, the graphics colorful and bold, and the story appealing to both boys and girls. I'll need more than one copy in my library.  The first few pages can be viewed on the publishers website.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

The Secret Zoo

by Bryan Chick

Megan is missing and the animals at the Clarksville City Zoo are acting strangely and giving Noah pages from her diary. Noah, and fellow Action Scouts Ella and Richie, are convinced the animals know something. Using secret entrances, the friends enter a magical and mysterious world where they find themselves befriending animals, learning their secrets, and finding inner strength. The characters lack a bit of development, although Chick creates a fantasy world with his descriptions of the setting which allows the reader to transport themselves into the book with ease.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Grace for President

by Kelly DiPucchio

Grace Campbell can not believe that there has never been a girl president and decides that she'd like to change that starting by running for president in the school's own election.  Grace thinks becoming president will be easy until popular Thomas Cobb enters the race.  Grace thinks it will be even less easy after learning about the 270 electoral votes needed to win.  Tom calculates his win based on boys holding more votes than the girls and relaxes while Grace makes good on her campaign promises.  In early November, the students cast their votes and the best person for the job wins the election.  DiPucchio does a fine job explaining the Electoral College to a younger audience and Pham's illustrations bring Grace to life as she bounds from page to page campaigning.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Duck at the Door

by Jackie Urbanovic

A cold and lonely duck finds a new home for the winter with Irene and her house full of pets. At first Max has a lot to learn, but by April he's learned so much that everyone else is tired and out of patience. Thankfully spring arrives, the flock returns, and life is ordinary again. Until October when there is another knock on the door. Urbanovic's illustrations are bold and colorful and creatively captures the wordless emotions on the animals throughout the story.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

14 Cows For America

by Carmen Agra Deedy

While in the United States on scholarship during the 9/11 attacks, Kimeli Naiyomah feels the impact of the devastation on the American people and wishes to do something to help. He returns to his home in Kenya and shares his story with his Maasai tribe. Together they offer fourteen cows as symbol of life and sacred healing. A simple story brought to life by Gonzalez's beautiful and richly colored drawings. The end note gives additional story details which help to answer questions that are sure to arise. Readers may want to learn more about the Maasai people or follow the journey of the fourteen cows on-line at the publishers website. Also available in Spanish.

4 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

Riding Freedom

by Pam Munoz Ryan

A fictionalized account of Charlotte Parkhurst, legendary stagecoach driver and the first woman to vote in California, if not the United States. In the 1800s orphaned girls had few rights and it certainly wasn't proper for one to better than a boy at horse riding. When life became too constricted at the grim orphanage, Charlotte set out on her own disguised as a boy. Working first as a stable hand and then as a driver until finally heading west. Ryan does a wonderful job bringing Charlotte to life while adding many memorable characters to the story including stable master Vern, fellow orphan Hayward, and mean Mr. Millshark. Many full page pencil drawings by Brian Selznick are peppered throughout the story and add additional interest to the story.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Smugglers' Mine

by Chris Mould

In book five Stanley receives a visitor to the island, MacDowell, an old pirate who claims to have been a friend of Stanley's great uncle Admiral Swift. Stanley is taken with the new visitor and his stories and trusts him to help him with secrets of the map as they explore the underground tunnels for treasure. The new challenges Stanley faces in this book will keep reader's interest as Mould recaptures some of the quality from his earlier books.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

The Darkling Curse

by Chris Mould

In book four of the series readers find Stanley in yet another puzzling dilemma. Sinister and menacing black crows descend on Candlestick Hall foreshadowing the arrival of the Darkling family, who claim that the hall legally belongs to them. Stanley and friend Daisy use secret passages to spy on the Darklings, but it is their quick wit and resourcefulness that bring about a favorable ending. Reader’s unfamiliar with Stanley and the residents of Crampton Rock may not enjoy the book as thoroughly as those who are familiar with the series.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 28Dec2009

Silver Casket

by Chris Mould

In book three of the series, the power of the Ibis is drawing forth the sinister spirits of long dead pirates, including the evil Angel Cuzco. Stanley and Daisy prepare to protect Crampton Rock with the help of the gypsies, clever planning, and a bit of luck. The plot action moves at an uneven pace and is a bit scarier than previous books. Readers unfamiliar with the storyline may wish to read the first two books before reading this one.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 20Mar2010.

The Ice Hand

by Chris Mould

In book two of the series Stanley Buggles return to Crampton Rock for a winter visit. There’s a chill in the air and it is not because of the weather. Stanley must help a headless Admiral find his head, defend the Ibis from the approaching pirates and prevent the Quickening. Although readers are familiar with Mould’s air of creepiness the plot maintains its quick pace and eerie reading that readers will enjoy.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Originally posted 22Apr2009.

The Wooden Mile : Something Wickedly Weird

by Chris Mould

Stanley receives the front door key to his newly deceased great-uncle’s mansion, Candlestick Hall in Crampton Rock. Stanley knew right off that there was something very different about the place, and rightly so as Stanley encounters a talking fish, a creepy candy store owner, a werewolf, and a trio of pirates. Mould offers readers a quick paced story and black-and-white illustrations with just enough creepiness. The first of six books, readers may enjoy visiting the books website for more information on the characters and appropriately creepy noises.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Originally posted 16Feb2009.

The Treasure Keepers

by Chris Mould

The last  book of Mould's Something Wickedly Weird series. Crampton Rock's self-appointed guardian Stanley Buggles and friend Daisy Grouse form the Secret Keepers-Alliance long with the Darkling children. They will need all their skills as Old MacDowell returns on a pirate ship intent on betraying them yet again, that is until he is bitten by the island's werewolf and needs to be locked up himself. The children try their own tricks, along with the help of the talking pike, to save the rock from being blown up for a bit of gold. Unlike the earlier books in the series this book can be read without the others, although the readers would enjoy the background the earlier books would provide.

4 or 5 stars - Recommended.

Misty Gordon and the Mystery of the Ghost Pirates

by Kim Kennedy

It's hard enough being eleven, it's even harder when your farther buys dead people's antiques and drives a converted ice-cream truck. While working with her dad one day, Misty finds a notebook and pair of glasses that uncovers the mystery of the Golden Three and the real history behind the town of Ashcrumb. Although there are some minor plot flaws the overall story line is engaging and at a swift enough pace to keep readers attention. The black-and-white chapter headings add nicely to the overall "antique" feel of the book.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

The Star Maker

by Laurence Yep

Tired of being bullied and called names by his older cousin eight-year old Artie foolishly boosts that not only will he have firecrackers for Chinese New Year's he'll have enough firecrackers for everyone. Uncle Chester promises to help Artie keep his word but time is running out and it doesn't look good. Yep develops Artie and Uncle Chester nicely as well as the background of the colorful San Francisco Chinatown of the 1950s.

2 of 5 Stars.

Esperanza Rising

by Pam Munoz Ryan

In 1930 the world is a privileged place for Esperanza. She is celebrating her thirteenth birthday among the people she loves surrounded by fancy dresses and a comfortable life. But tragically her world changes with the death of her father and the threats of her Tio Luis. Esperanza and her mother become indebted to their former servants when they choose to escape to the hard life of a farm camp in California. Esperanza struggles to adapt to the challenges but finds the strength to rise above her situation. Ryan uses her own grandmother's story for inspiration of this well developed historical tale. The author's note adds additional background to the setting and easily lends itself to further discussion.

5 of 5 Stars - Highly Recommended.

Sideways Stories From Wayside School

by Louis Sachar

Thirty short stories about teachers and students who share a classroom atop a wacky thirty story high school. Strange stories about the fastest drawer Bebe, ice-cream loving Maurecia, upside down reading John, and bad sport Terrence, to name a few. Readers will enjoy the short silly chapters that inner-connect to give an overall view of the wacky world of Wayside School.

4 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

My Dog, My Hero

by Betsy Byars, Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers

Betsy Byars and her two daughters serve as judges for the coveted gold My Hero medal. Eight nominators share their stories of brave and courageous dogs. A portrait and full-colored painting accompany each story, adding additional character and emotions. Readers will enjoy the short chapters, well-written stories, and wide range of situations.

5 of 5 Stars - Highly Recommended.

The Case of the Rock'N'Roll Dog

by Martha Freeman

Cammie and younger sister Tessa are first daughters to the first female president of the United States. Exciting as this may seem it is not without its share of problems. First they need to be nice to their cousin Nate, then they need to control their dog Hooligan, and most importantly they need to figure out why objects keep disappearing from the White House. Failure to accomplish any one of these and the concert by their very favorite group, The Song Boys, might be cancelled. Freeman creates a predictable plot that will keep beginning mystery readers engaged. A front cover seal and book jacket notation indicate that this is the first in the new series titled "A First Kids Mystery."

3 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

Lucy and the Green Man

by Linda Newbery

Lucy loves spending time at Clunny Cottage, out doors in the garden with her Grandpa Will, helping in the garden and sharing in the secret of Lob. Lob, a green man made of the stuff of earth that only a select few could see. When Grandpa Will suddenly dies Lucy struggles with the loss of both her beloved Grandpa and their shared secret. The monthly chapters provide a timeframe for story as the focus alternates between Lucy's grieving process and Lob's journey. Younger readers may struggle with the slow pace and unfamiliar legend.

1 of 5 Stars.

Hamster Magic

by Lynne Jonell

Celia is the youngest of the Willow children and she's tired of being the smallest. When she discovers the families new pet hamster has wish granting powers, she accidentally wishes to be big, people big, not hamster big. Now the children must band together to visit the Great Hamster in the hope that she can reverse the wish and turn Celia back into a girl before their parents find out. Intended for beginning chapter book readers the large text is easy to read with lovely black and white drawings by Brandon Dorman. Jonell doesn't really explain the hamster's magic but readers will find the sweet and simple plot appealing nonetheless.

3 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

The Secret Life of Ms Finkleman

by Ben H. Winters

Mr. Melville's Social Studies class is known for two things: his Special Projects and his floating midterm. The Special Project, to solve a mystery in your own life, starts seventh grader Bethesda Fielding thinking about the mystery of timid Ms. Finkleman. Bethesda's discovery sets in motion a series of events that has the entire school abuzz, a new direction for the Choral Corral, and a change in many a classmates personalities. The arrival of the floating midterm brings its own set of challenges which can bring many plans to a crashing halt. Winters does a fine job creating believable and relatable characters. Although the plot is slightly predictable there are enough little zig-zags from the expected path to provide continued interest in a comfortable read.

3 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

The Newsy News Newsletter

by Karen English

Book three of the Nikki and Deja series find the girls publishing a neighborhood newsletter filled with interesting stories and information. With little new news to report the girls soon learn a hard lesson about making assumptions and listening to gossip. The text is lightly sprinkled with Freeman’s cartoon styled illustrations which add interest for younger readers. English’s two strong characters continue to evolve in this realistic series.

2 of 5 stars.

Originally posted 22Aug2010.

Tsunami!

by Kimilo Kajikawa

Ojiisan quickly gives up his personal wealth in order to save the villagers from the impending danger of the “monster wave”. As Kajikawa builds tension throughout the story, Ed Young enhances the story with many forms of paper and fabrics which creates colorful and bold illustrations. A combination that is certain to delight readers.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 25Oct2010.

Mudball

by Matt Tavares

A cold drizzle turns into pouring rain as Little Andy Oyler steps into the batter’s box for the Minneapolis Millers. As the shortest player in baseball Andy wasn’t expected to get a hit and surprises even himself when he hears the unmistakeable crack of the bat. Tavares does a fine job building drama that even non-baseball readers will enjoy. The muted tones of the watercolor and penciled illustrations evoke the era of the story while bringing the chaos, joy, and mud of the plot to life.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended

Originally posted 25Oct2010.

Animal Heroes : True Rescue Stories

by Sandra Markle

Nine true stories of animal rescues as recounted by their grateful owners. Stories are short and include an interesting and informational tie-ins. Stories include dramatic rescues from shark attacks, hypothermia, hurricanes, floods, and escaping September 11th. Each story ends with a happy afterward. Markle’s personal interviews provide insight to these wonderful human interest stories.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Originally posted 30Jan2011.

Thank You, Mr. Falker

by Patricia Polacco

Autobiographical story of Polacco’s struggle learning how to read. Trisha drew comfort in her artistic ability and the love and warmth of her grandparents. After her grandparents passed away, Trisha’s family moved away from the farm but not away from Trisha’s problem. School continued to be painful for Trisha until one day Mr. Falker discovers Trisha’s secret and helps change her world forever. Polacco’s words and heartfelt illustrations give her personal struggle warmth and depth. A great read-aloud opportunity.

Many resources are available on the web including Polacco’s own website which includes some wonderful bookmarks to print and share.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 30Jan2011.

The Fairy Tale Detectives

by Michael Buckley

The first in a series of detective stories featuring Sabrina and Daphne Grimm. The girls are introduced to Granny Relda and the town of Ferryport Landings. Daphne immediately warms up to Granny Relda, but Sabrina is suspicious and plans to runaway, that is until Granny and her friend Mr. Canis are whisked away by a giant. It is now up to Sabrina and Daphne with the help of their new fairy-tale friends to plan a rescue and maintain the family legacy. Buckley nicely blends a lively plot with familiar fairy-tale characters. A good choice for girls looking for fantasy.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 30Jan2011.

Bad News for Outlaws : the Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal

by Vaunda Michaeux Nelson

Bass Reeves was born a slave but escaped to Indian Territory. After the war he became one of Judge Parker's finest marshals. Nelson honors the memory of this long forgotten larger-than-life western hero with this well written biography. A boldly illustrated picture book divided into short time period chapters filled with colorful language and interesting facts. Educators may appreciate the Discussion Guide available on the Lerner website.

5 of 5 Stars - Highly Recommended.

John, Paul, George & Ben

by Lane Smith

A charming take at five (including Tom) of our founding fathers as young boys. With pen-and-ink textured illustrations that lend a period feel to the text. And, although the target audience will enjoy a lively reading of the book, especially the reference to "underwear", they most likely will not get the intended humor unless they were already familiar with the famous individual's actual accomplishments.

2 of 5 Stars.

Passage to Freedom : the Sugihara Story

by Ken Mochizuki

The re-telling of the little known story of Japanese diplomat, Consul Chiune Sugihara. Refused permission by his government Sugihara defied those orders and hand wrote hundreds of visas to Jews in Lithuania saving thousands of lives before being reassigned to Berlin. Mochizuki and Lee skillfully mix a text that highlights bravery and heroism with sepia-toned images that set the mood of somber reflection.

4 of 5 Stars - Recommended.

The Magic Half

by Annie Barrows

Eleven-year-old Mira has always felt lonely in her unusual family of double twins. Until one day in her new bedroom, Miri looks through a piece of glass. She is magically transported to another time, 1935, where she meets a young girl so much like herself she could be her twin. Miri must now figure out not only how to get home, but how to return to the past and bring Molly back to the future with her. Barrow creates realistic characters in a swiftly moving plot. She deftly handles the issue of time-travel by way of magic, thus side-stepping the need for logic.

5 of 5 Stars - Highly Recommended.

My Havana : Memories of a Cuban Boyhood

by Rosemary Wells, with Sucundino Fernandez

In 2001 Wells heard a radio interview with Fernandez and felt his story grip her heart. As a young boy Sucundino lived in a Havana he thought was built by angels. He loved its vivid colors, strong columns and stone archways. He drew pictures of hits many windows and doors and surrounded himself with its warmth and sunshine. But Dino lived in a tumultuous time and also learned about the unpleasantness of Franco, Batista Che Guevara, and Castro. Eventually forcing his family to flee to America and the "black and gray" city of New York where Dino is intensely homesick. It is quite sometime before he begins drawing again, but when he does he creates a magnificent cardboard replica of his beloved city, filling the moments before with memories of Havana. The black-and-white sketches and full-color illustrations give additional substance to the work. The few photographs will help readers connect with true-life character

2 of 5 Stars