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.