tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76594209433729207622024-03-18T05:48:47.954-07:00Mark My WordsThis blog began in 2009, and it's transformed through different styles over the years. I've become a reviewer for the Young Adult Books Central (YABC) and posts for those books have their own look. I've also been a judge for Cybils.com since 2010 to determine the best books of the year in the category of elementary/middle-grade speculative fiction. You'll see reviews for these top books in some of my January posts from the past.Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.comBlogger1449125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-73216848250331479982024-03-18T05:48:00.000-07:002024-03-18T05:48:09.759-07:00The Observologist: A Handbook for Mounting Very Small Scientific Expeditions by Giselle Clarkson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4QGQ8GALjhiiuXstXl92u7JEdaZoudNSWNmorUPHQ7nsKbbtpmkvUIm6v6TWxowofPvY82bHy4I3ZOxKqV8fYSQQL2bQNjvuQIQb0alTjukaWjuiiEygVRRg0zAcJ0zdKCvNkJSX-KVApkFgRSJzGbb5iGEFEW5ee1wS-1o_juamQQlUZnmBs4L0ng2Q/s466/observe.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="357" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4QGQ8GALjhiiuXstXl92u7JEdaZoudNSWNmorUPHQ7nsKbbtpmkvUIm6v6TWxowofPvY82bHy4I3ZOxKqV8fYSQQL2bQNjvuQIQb0alTjukaWjuiiEygVRRg0zAcJ0zdKCvNkJSX-KVApkFgRSJzGbb5iGEFEW5ee1wS-1o_juamQQlUZnmBs4L0ng2Q/w306-h400/observe.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author speaks directly to young readers in a
light-hearted voice as she shares facts about tiny, common creatures. This
technique helps to create a connection between the book and young readers. They’ll
like that the book suggests they look down by their feet (maybe even lie on the
ground), be curious and patient, and flip over rocks and wet logs. The topics
are organized into four groups based on where they can be found. Kids can look
in Damp Corners (slugs, fungi, and lice), around Pavement (ants, lichen, and
worms), in Weedy Patches (bees, caterpillars, and wasps), and Behind the
Curtains (cockroaches, moths, and spiders). Other random information is
described that readers might not think about. They can learn how to safely move
a spider, how to save a moth from drowning, or how to recognize insects by
their sounds. The final pages include an index where readers can locate
specific topics.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Color sketches, comics, and diagrams help young readers
visualize the information being shared. An illustration of a fruit fly shows
its “striking red eyes” and “handsomely tiger striped abdomen” as the fly says
its elderly granny is “twenty days old”. Other diagrams point out body parts found
on ants and earthworms. Kids can also see how millipedes and centipedes differ and
how to tell apart common wasps and honey bees. A short comic strip depicts how
a spider traps its prey. Many young readers like gross things so how about including
drawings of different bird poop to tell which birds made them? One page displays
the droppings from worms, roaches, and spiders while a variety of tiny eggs are
shown on another. Everyone knows spiders have eight eyes but readers can see
different possibilities of their pattern. The “hand-written” captions
accompanying every illustration are very informative without being overly
serious. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Some readers might not appreciate all of the topics or the more
serious information but it’s better to be thorough than leave interesting
things out. If you don’t like reading about slimy, creepy things then my
recommendation is to deal with it! This is a fun book to read.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">I just realized this could be a good book for bathroom reading in
addition to an entertaining resource for school. The casual voice of the
narrator makes the information easy to read and enjoyable. Overall, I highly
recommend you give this book a shot!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-79136328270835740622024-03-17T06:18:00.000-07:002024-03-17T06:18:12.022-07:00Cloudlanders by Christopher Mackie<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGEZy12Djo1EJz0axcDpy4v1ZToSDyTbzmVBDNiG3KMQzufHP45iTLH9LLIuCNYdJTthGGMZztlRU4VNmpStQuT5lK8cZaSgET2HDCxG52jmhVAK6gTViqHv2lN2vlpTlJj0S1s5og4KW-byo4OFvO4MYhEySuq8PFB48LOPzmXAFo9kzDhV5yVLY6AKG/s445/cloud.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="292" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGEZy12Djo1EJz0axcDpy4v1ZToSDyTbzmVBDNiG3KMQzufHP45iTLH9LLIuCNYdJTthGGMZztlRU4VNmpStQuT5lK8cZaSgET2HDCxG52jmhVAK6gTViqHv2lN2vlpTlJj0S1s5og4KW-byo4OFvO4MYhEySuq8PFB48LOPzmXAFo9kzDhV5yVLY6AKG/w263-h400/cloud.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>What worked:<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Magical lightstone lifts the land of Bastion up into the
skies and the leaking magic reveals creatures and characters of all kinds. This
prepares readers for the appearance of many strange, unexpected things. The
seven-foot mushroom called Kurt, the fairy made of gemstone named Flicker, an
invisible boy named Boy, and a magical Auger are only a few of the magical
beings. A giant, talking wolf named Lycan can morph into any kind of creature,
including a human, and he becomes a prominent character. All technology has
been banished from the kingdom so the appearance of a crashing aeroplane raises
quite a stir. All of these imaginative qualities help to build an entertaining
plot.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">While the characters are trying to survive their various
predicaments, some questions are raised that create a mystery to solve. Bastion
was forced to escape into the atmosphere because of the Wavewrecker down on the
planet and it will never forget that this piece of land escaped it. Its agents have
infiltrated Bastion and they’re trying to undermine the citizens and release
the lightstone. One of these Tidekins is covertly introduced as an innocent
character so readers will need to figure out which one is up to no good. A strange
boy crashes onto Bastion and his emergence from nowhere is full of intrigue. He
can’t talk and has mechanical body parts which makes his arrival unexplainable
and concerning. It seems there’s an imminent, catastrophic threat to the
kingdom that the characters and readers will need to figure out before it’s too
late. Palatin Flint is married to the queen but citizens are leery and fearful
when he comes to their towns. No one knows about a terrible thing he did in the
past but the issue resurfaces in the later parts of the book.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The author focuses on different characters in alternating
chapters which allows the story to jump between settings. These chapters mainly
follow Aliana and her brother Garrett. Aliana is an adventurous risk-taker and she
joins the story as a bounty hunter searching for Lycan. The exchanges between
these two characters add a touch of humor to the story as they become partners in rescuing a young girl. Garrett is a thinker who loves to research and discover
new artifacts from society before the Lift. While Aliana is out exploring
different areas across Bastion, Garrett’s chapters are located in the city of
Floatania. Other chapters follow Kurt as he tries to keep the aeroplane pilot
safe from Paladin Flint. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Flicker is a main part of the story early on but then she inexplicably
leaves Kurt in a time of need. Readers are left to wonder why for most of the
book until she returns with a compelling revelation. Also, leaving the settings
after some chapters break the momentum developed at those points in the story.
The changes help build anticipation but they stop the flow of emotions that
were being created.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">I wouldn’t describe this book as “laugh-out-loud” as the
synopsis says. The author has created innovative conflicts with memorable
characters and that is always a model for successful books. Overall, this book
will be enjoyed by lovers of speculative fiction and I recommend you give it a
shot.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-63033086235461032202024-03-15T08:57:00.000-07:002024-03-15T08:57:09.318-07:00The Climate Diaries (The Academy 1) by Aaron Arsenault<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4LDx3QQhqhaD6R_UdNhsZx2X4QAsZOCQ2IqTZPHaQ-7mG4v6RLUNlMZIZRNa0vZWXdTBcxa2YVZB0jaVtBrrFshOhbrpjdxBCelFWPObj1iTeoK8bOoPT_wxepbqHGBhXZFOss0uYNvohjEDXOfsUsQTtoXKP5-go1NB5QQKIJap4xrnUooOisGf1oXQ/s386/climate.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="386" data-original-width="255" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4LDx3QQhqhaD6R_UdNhsZx2X4QAsZOCQ2IqTZPHaQ-7mG4v6RLUNlMZIZRNa0vZWXdTBcxa2YVZB0jaVtBrrFshOhbrpjdxBCelFWPObj1iTeoK8bOoPT_wxepbqHGBhXZFOss0uYNvohjEDXOfsUsQTtoXKP5-go1NB5QQKIJap4xrnUooOisGf1oXQ/w264-h400/climate.png" width="264" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The topic focuses on climate change and the opposing views
that are debating the issue. Jax is the main character and he’s recruited by
CAT, a secret world organization combating the causes and effects of climate
change. Short chapters mixed in share the view that any atmospheric changes are
natural and humans are overreacting to normal weather patterns. Efforts to
improve pollution and global warming will cost trillions of dollars and people
will lose jobs that are dependent on fossil fuels. Their attitude is that we
shouldn’t thank businesses that have given us everyday fuel sources and
plastics by forcing them to close due to environmental concerns. The book blends
information about climate change throughout the plot so readers will learn
something while being entertained. The mid-term project for the recruits is to
find a way to decrease methane emissions in cow farts!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The introduction of CAT, the Climate Action Taskforce, to
the story makes it sound like a CIA operation. Agents dressed in black suits
and dark glasses arrive at Jax’s home and present him with a choice between
going to juvenile detention or attending the Academy. He’ll be trained there to
become a CAT agent. The agents show up in a solar-powered, bulletproof,
amphibious car with an exoskeleton made from tungsten. Academy candidates are
flown in a windowless drone to an unidentified location, somewhere in the
world. The secrecy and high tech of CAT are reminiscent of a covert government
agency. There are clues provided about the Academy director that will make
readers think he’s a shady character.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Jax is an intriguing character due to his diverse attitudes
toward saving the environment and intolerance for bullies. He’s a genius but he
doesn’t play well with others! Another recruit named Grace may be more
interesting though. She has a superior, condescending attitude and immediately begins
calling Jax, August, and Kylie nerds because of their knowledge and excitement
about the environment. Grace says she attended the Academy the previous year
but it’s clear she didn’t stay for the whole thing. She interrupts the
counselor whenever he mentions her past participation so Jax realizes she’s
hiding something. It doesn’t help that Grace is chosen captain over him so Jax
is determined to prove himself superior to her at any cost. Their ongoing feud will
keep readers wondering how bad it will get.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Jax is a difficult protagonist to root for. He’s arrogant and self-centered,
and he doesn’t like being shown up by anyone else. He gets pleasure from
antagonizing the people he targets. Jax doesn’t do well with rules and limits
and he quickly gets offended or annoyed by authority. While his behavior and
attitude make him difficult to like, these qualities help the plot’s conflict
grow and increase the tension. Hopefully, the events at the end of the book
will cause Jax to change his combative ways in the sequel.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The cow fart methane problem is real; there was a story about it
on my local news program this morning! The author skillfully includes facts
about the climate crisis without making it annoying or overwhelming for
readers. Jax’s personality is hard to tolerate but it certainly helps keep
readers interested. I highly recommend you give it a shot! Can’t wait for the sequel.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></div><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-25706364297610262612024-03-13T11:10:00.000-07:002024-03-13T11:10:13.105-07:00The Spider's Lair (Stitch Head 4) by Guy Bass<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5joS4s4NWzmKwMsWZEpqW3BS0DeAKD07Yya6J7g1E23gmeuEBiQwK3hLc9OB8kt-FXj8i5In9eXfq9dY50yNrZwgEBraePiEOYjhVQb1hjW3PcKVhmnlEnNLTdp5ZxF60bp7dQmWlvQ8SbP_-AoHv6e9vSeSJ8QXMpgPdvJh1aHsiyHWKkwHeLwO-QZD/s466/spider.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="302" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5joS4s4NWzmKwMsWZEpqW3BS0DeAKD07Yya6J7g1E23gmeuEBiQwK3hLc9OB8kt-FXj8i5In9eXfq9dY50yNrZwgEBraePiEOYjhVQb1hjW3PcKVhmnlEnNLTdp5ZxF60bp7dQmWlvQ8SbP_-AoHv6e9vSeSJ8QXMpgPdvJh1aHsiyHWKkwHeLwO-QZD/w259-h400/spider.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Stick Head is the main character and his greatest quality is
helping others. The mismatched creatures living together in a castle care for
and support one another as a family of oddities. Stitch Head cleans up all of
the messes that result from the doctor’s other creations so he automatically
decides to help a human named Arabella escape from an orphanage. Stick Head
realizes he doesn’t look completely human so he must maintain a disguise while
going undercover. Ivo, a small, slender creature with one arm, will be even
more difficult to hide so he pretends to be a doll. Pox, a monkey-bat, and the
Creature, a huge three-armed monstrosity, want to help but hiding their
appearances is impossible. The gothic illustrations accompanying the narrative artfully
help readers visualize the various, unique characters.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Arabella is a curious character as she’s quite contrary and
doesn’t need a reason to give someone a quick kick. She even has kicking shoes!
While she’s the character who needs to be rescued, she’s not a big part of the
action once the plot moves to the orphanage. Initially, Stick Head can’t find
her anywhere. The behavior of the other orphans is unexpected as the plot
transitions to a sort of mystery with Stitch Head trying to find an
explanation. Stitch Head suspects the creepy, watchful professor can see through
his disguise but the woman running the place is constantly singing a song about
the wonderfulness of being an orphan. Hidden passages are found behind the
orphanage walls with one of them leading to the lair of a giant spider!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Not surprisingly, the story includes levity arising from the
creations, dialogue, and events. The Creature calls the orphanage the AWFULAGE
with some of his loudly spoken words printed in all capital letters. Many of
the chapters begin with Mad Musings from crazy Professor Erasmus Erasmus like “Science
without madness is like a castle without monsters.” The song Madame Venin repeatedly
sings is titled “It’s Not So Awful Being an Orphan” with lines describing a
father being a bother and a mother being a nag. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">It would be nice to know more about the creations and their
origins, especially Stitch Head. The line between creations and humans isn’t clear
except that the creations were made, not born. Stitch Head doesn’t need to eat,
but he does in this story, and a couple of comments bring up the question of creation
life spans. Stitch Head gets banged around a bit and takes some tumbles but it
doesn’t seem to hurt him too badly. I may be the only one with these questions
and perhaps more clarity can be gained by reading the previous three books in
the series.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is the fourth in the Stitch Head series but it can be
read independently. It’s a charming story of friendship with a creative quest to
bring everything together. Overall, it’s a fun read and I recommend you give it
a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-56627260965757849102024-03-11T12:56:00.000-07:002024-03-11T12:56:28.217-07:00The Day I Fell Into a Fairy Tale by Ben Miller<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYYUGlgLBKRao9VUn_TXOnJRNK6cNOHQFaj9d66U55BRKjgWH0mK_QkUeuWVq8gpgl-VnZVskSiRF27RJOO6VrSHp_yXFL8jWBfKK-sQ6s1FP6HenWM1AxP44WOlNffq2vj_GZUKPaCAqvZaLMs4wrYJRT_OV1W57O5yKRG_V61gFfL7kVzktqH3a9s-j/s466/day.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="309" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYYUGlgLBKRao9VUn_TXOnJRNK6cNOHQFaj9d66U55BRKjgWH0mK_QkUeuWVq8gpgl-VnZVskSiRF27RJOO6VrSHp_yXFL8jWBfKK-sQ6s1FP6HenWM1AxP44WOlNffq2vj_GZUKPaCAqvZaLMs4wrYJRT_OV1W57O5yKRG_V61gFfL7kVzktqH3a9s-j/w265-h400/day.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book’s cover shows Lana smiling as she tumbles through a
portal but it’s not a happy experience in the book. The story is darker than
that as Lana is pushed into the portal by a creepy little man at Grimm’s
supermarket. Fairy tales are fun to read but many of them are filled with dark,
evil characters doing dark, evil things. The witch wanting to eat Hansel and
Gretel and another witch wanting to kill Snow White are two examples. This book
centers on the tale of Sleeping Beauty, with references to a couple of more, as
Lana finds herself dropped into a castle where everyone has fallen asleep for
100 years. The little man at Grimm’s warns Lana that the stories in a book are
scarier than she might expect which ensures she’ll read it. Everything is going
as the little man plans.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot touches on the inevitable transition from childhood
to becoming an adult. Lana misses playing with her older brother as he’s always
in his bedroom studying something. Harrison understands the importance of being
successful in school so he doesn’t have time for childish games. Perhaps this also
mutes a youthful imagination as he scoffs at Lana’s tales of traveling through
a portal into a fairy tale. Lana doesn’t understand why her brother is becoming
more serious and she wants them to go back to their times of playing in the
backyard. Middle-grade years are a time of change that can be difficult for young
boys and girls and for their siblings too.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book includes occasional chapters that share a version
of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. These sections are written with a different
font that notifies readers the story has been interrupted by the fairy tale. This
information prepares readers for what’s about to occur or to provide the
setting characters are about to enter. Later on, the fairy tale takes a twist
as Sleeping Beauty and the prince have twins that they name Hansel and Gretel. The
portal that transitions the story into the make-believe world is found in
various candy displays around Grimm’s. It’s presented as a tunnel slide into
the fairy tale that characters can climb back up to return home. All kids can
relate to tumbling down a slide!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The appearance of Grimm’s supermarket happens overnight and the
town readily accepts this magical event. It’s unclear if the citizens have been
enchanted by the little man but their obsession with the “bargains” they find
inside seems to have a mystical angle. Do the townspeople know the store is a
result of magic?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book will appeal to lovers of fairy tales and adventures in a
new world. The relationship between Lana and Harrison is enjoyable as they try
to rediscover the close bond they once had. Overall, the story is entertaining
and I recommend you give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-53177082881720721712024-03-10T13:36:00.000-07:002024-03-10T13:36:01.814-07:00The Taste of Storm and Brine (A Talisman Series Novella Vol. 5.5) by Brett Salter<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDyluypGPj9nMmXRAm84JHoNveZGM5a3ksraYdEmdHt8CmZWXMqfK-K6IvUuhqD5lrY3Inee6cgSy3BFDw8Ghz8ZiBogg3DXQtXFuK70m-j1HXZVanQuABi3CnFSWm1EaUYBCV02q4VUYMGZUyMt-nHKcnpAZjZcEBPKA3SwUKMqLI7iG-Vdl5az9kgJD/s1718/taste.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1718" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDyluypGPj9nMmXRAm84JHoNveZGM5a3ksraYdEmdHt8CmZWXMqfK-K6IvUuhqD5lrY3Inee6cgSy3BFDw8Ghz8ZiBogg3DXQtXFuK70m-j1HXZVanQuABi3CnFSWm1EaUYBCV02q4VUYMGZUyMt-nHKcnpAZjZcEBPKA3SwUKMqLI7iG-Vdl5az9kgJD/w251-h400/taste.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story revisits ocean dragons that were first introduced earlier
in the Talisman Series. The characters this time are four scouts who guard the
waters north, south, east, and west of the Den from unwanted visitors or
invaders. The opening pages find Starboard chasing down an elusive Garm until
he realizes he’s now outnumbered. The action scene is reminiscent of battles
found in previous books. Much of the plot involves the impending Garm invasion
and the mixed feelings among the ocean dragons about humans. Some dragons don’t
want anything to do with them since humans can’t be trusted. Others have
visions of humans and dragons reuniting to fight the Garms as they once did
long ago. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Humor is incorporated throughout the book, mostly from the
dragons’ personalities. Starboard likes to talk like a pirate as he says, “Tis
a situation most foul, indeed.” Driftwood likes surfers so he likes to say “dude”,
says humans were “flaking” on dragons, and dreams of surfing “gnarly bangers”
and “ten-foot curlers”. Tampa uses incorrect names for the other dragons but
Starboard’s not sure if it’s intentional or if she simply doesn’t care. Bismark
is a self-centered braggart who annoys the other scouts. The narrator also adds
some amusing aside comments directed to readers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Driftwood comes across a fishing boat leaking oil everywhere and
it’s farther from shore than he’s ever seen humans before. Even the humans on
board are anxious about their excursion into these waters. Later in the book,
the dragons encounter the humans again but there aren’t any concerns about the
oil spill or questions about why the ship was in the waters over Oceania. Readers
are left to wonder why Driftwood is no longer alarmed and why the boat showed
up in the first place.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot moves swiftly and the book can be completed in one
sitting if a motivated reader chooses to. For readers who’ve not read any of
the other books, this one offers an excellent taste of the author’s writing style
and the tense relationships between dragons, Garms, and humans. I recommend you
give this book a shot.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-61911971096229377682024-03-08T11:36:00.000-08:002024-03-08T11:36:49.351-08:00Nemesis and the Vault of Lost Time by PJ Davis<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFUHCq_c5MtYrnES9Qe417Z6EILO3CcIxJwQq-GmqTbX1d_EbAYmrmBi-3SWTY1GskiODKF1PBTxC8YD1TfodHdAltLnpfq949jXlQrE23hiNVbVGtM-cdCVzOFc-xvMZPezuoMTddka0K6NcNxtPhRuVpEFQzB0VPKL7veYL2HR0BbjsKswJNRkA_beb/s466/nemesis.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="291" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFUHCq_c5MtYrnES9Qe417Z6EILO3CcIxJwQq-GmqTbX1d_EbAYmrmBi-3SWTY1GskiODKF1PBTxC8YD1TfodHdAltLnpfq949jXlQrE23hiNVbVGtM-cdCVzOFc-xvMZPezuoMTddka0K6NcNxtPhRuVpEFQzB0VPKL7veYL2HR0BbjsKswJNRkA_beb/w250-h400/nemesis.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author adds a creative twist to an apocalyptic plot by
making a connection to familiar human experiences. Everyone zones out at times
or gets a sense of déjà vu. Sneezing and yawns happen every day. The plot
suggests these common events are evidence of time (life force) being stolen
from individuals. Boggarts collect the stolen time and deposit it into a vault,
hidden in the dimension of Nemesis; Nemesis is a place, not a person. Once
enough life force has been accumulated, Abaddon will lead an army of goblins, trolls,
and all kinds of other monsters in an invasion of Earth and start an Armageddon.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Max is the main character and he’s an awkward seventh grader
who’s often picked on for his unusual habits of daydreaming, dozing, and
drooling in class. He’s the one who has a personal connection to the plot and
decides he needs to destroy the vault. Max is able to manifest a special ability
by calming his mind and seeing his surroundings in new ways. He has two close
friends to support him. Derek adds levity to the narrative as he’s impulsive, always
hungry, and he’s often complaining about the danger they’re putting themselves
in. Max calls Sam the group’s voice of reason as she’s very intelligent and
excels at analyzing tricky situations. Together, they form a trio of fun,
relatable characters that are commonly found in middle-grade novels.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot includes a bit of mystery as the characters and
readers don’t fully understand everything that’s happening. Max finds a book
written in Latin and he’ll need to decode the dead language to unlock secrets
about the strange feelings he’s been having. There aren’t any instructions on
how to enter another dimension and scholarly adults have failed to uncover the
way. How are three kids supposed to succeed? In addition, Max’s father
supposedly died in an explosion but hints are dropped that this may not be the
truth. Max’s main motivation to take on the quest is to pursue the possibility
that his father may still be alive. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story references science theories that may have some basis in
reality. I have no idea. The references to theta waves and calculus equations
will surely sail over the heads of most young readers. Mentioning Benedictine
monks and the Renaissance will not have any meaning to them. However, most
readers should be able get the gist of why the author includes these
descriptions and still fully enjoy the story.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The basic format of the story will be familiar to lovers of
middle-grade books although it’s unique to find a main character who taps into
his abilities by calming his mind and emotions. Overall, it’s an exciting, action-packed
adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-82725038215053873392024-03-07T12:46:00.000-08:002024-03-07T12:46:17.310-08:00Wrath of the Rain God (Legendarios Book 1) by Karla Arenas Valenti<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedDD0mYbjXkyNA32XoQZEpdpo3RMz6fJpjA5sMV_L6QMLpi4rUA496Pe74lv9ppnDPwj0DZVWtUTNLAu9aGyY9fIp_Z0dqhNAej6N6l6-xwUEzWmiHbwl74I0MfTSgIpsCSTRRF-uyr8lyC8BNrnEASfmefkQZFPo-4krFqmWiQAv8j4brzt_i4biKvdD/s466/wrath.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="308" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedDD0mYbjXkyNA32XoQZEpdpo3RMz6fJpjA5sMV_L6QMLpi4rUA496Pe74lv9ppnDPwj0DZVWtUTNLAu9aGyY9fIp_Z0dqhNAej6N6l6-xwUEzWmiHbwl74I0MfTSgIpsCSTRRF-uyr8lyC8BNrnEASfmefkQZFPo-4krFqmWiQAv8j4brzt_i4biKvdD/w265-h400/wrath.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book’s synopsis reveals most of the entire plot. Martin
and Emma do not want to move but gifts from their abuela help them feel a
connection to Mexico. Abalone shells and Emma’s obsidian necklace are other reminders.
Abuela gives the twins a magical book about Mexican legends although the kids
don’t realize its powers until later. Emma’s necklace has powers of its own and
it becomes an important piece of jewelry during their adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot incorporates elements from the Mexican culture as
the family moves from Mexico to Chicago. The book opens with their abuela in
the kitchen cooking for the family’s goodbye party. Martin and Emma are eating
churros and hot chocolate as their grandmother prepares frijoles in a ceramic
pot. Tamales and flan will also be included as part of the family’s comida. Abuela
uses several Spanish phrases when speaking to the twins but readers should still
be able to use the context to understand them. Transporting back to the time of
the Aztecs shares more about the pre-Mexican culture and beliefs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Martin and Emma have no trouble arguing, just ask Abuela,
but the story’s challenges force them to become a united team. Martin isn’t
about to let Emma enter the portal alone and he’s always by her side even if he
doesn’t fully agree with her decisions. They display great bravery during the
adventure as they don’t hesitate to help frightened villagers who’ve fallen
victim to torrential rains. It takes guts and brains to face two angry Aztec
gods and find a way to make them both happy. The twins’ empathy for the defenseless
villagers motivates them to never give up.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story doesn’t use in-depth descriptions of the events and
characters so more advanced readers will find it lacking. However, the writing
style results in a faster pace that will appeal to many readers and keep them
mentally engaged. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The fast-paced narrative includes a good deal of action and
results in a wholesome, feel-good story. Overall, it will be enjoyable for young
readers and I recommend it to average, intermediate-grade students.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-90381841452430226062024-03-06T11:01:00.000-08:002024-03-06T11:01:47.753-08:00Closet of Dreams by Mark Ukra & Tara Mesalik MacMahon<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3lSa3brh5d90-gNpFtB2FFEvlRlE0CVac19-4bQdZbT8UNLg-Nikw0VWejwKO7_dqEBW8fQzH7gyJ6nJ9-qA1yeRn-c-MpmOZMlUQEx34zhhELjhuPtOBJ15uYdonRh3J392GfXIvIhPn1AoITr7z8NCucuMlcha0naONMa5QwdZq_aw9_vRaCOQ3uw7/s445/closet.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="302" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3lSa3brh5d90-gNpFtB2FFEvlRlE0CVac19-4bQdZbT8UNLg-Nikw0VWejwKO7_dqEBW8fQzH7gyJ6nJ9-qA1yeRn-c-MpmOZMlUQEx34zhhELjhuPtOBJ15uYdonRh3J392GfXIvIhPn1AoITr7z8NCucuMlcha0naONMa5QwdZq_aw9_vRaCOQ3uw7/w271-h400/closet.jpg" width="271" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot is presented in simple language without complications
or hidden meanings. It will be very easy to follow for young readers. Child is
bullied at school and he finds ways to avoid after-school confrontations with Eddie
and his gang. It doesn’t always work as Eddie thinks Child ratted him out to
the principal. Child finds refuge from these stressful situations and storms by
entering a closet holding positive memories, like his grandmother’s old
baseball jersey. The closet allows Child to escape his fears and direct his
attention on pursuing his dreams. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Child enjoys caring for the former circus animals at the
park where they’re given the freedom to roam the grounds. The elephant, hippo, and
bear still wear costumes from their performing days and they enjoy their lives
at the park. As the synopsis points out, the animals can talk although that’s
not revealed until the story has moved along a bit. The plot begins as regular,
realistic fiction but gradually becomes a make-believe tale of a boy and his
animal friends. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Child lives with his grandmother, Gamma, and they display a
very close bond. They don’t have much money so they help out at the Kid’s Park
and are allowed to live free in a basement. Child tells her about all of his
problems and Gamma helps him handle the stress or offers suggestions on what he
might do. She supports his efforts to finally join a little league baseball
team and helps him find a solution when the season is in doubt. Together, they
present a loving boy and his grandmother for young readers to enjoy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story may be overly uncomplicated for more mature readers as
everything falls into place without much fuss. Child’s anxiety doesn’t develop
into a problem as it’s eased by going into the Closet of Dreams or remembering
advice he’s been told. In addition, the idea of animals playing baseball doesn’t
shock anyone, not even a little bit, yet Child promises to not reveal they can also
talk. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book best fits students in the third and fourth grades. It’s
a sweet, pleasant story that shares Child’s common challenges in an easy-to-read,
fast-paced, tender way. I recommend this book for young, emerging readers.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-45748290352876116642024-03-02T10:34:00.000-08:002024-03-02T10:34:30.518-08:00Lili Gray and the World's Most Embarrassing Superpower by Ada Loewe<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYaB8HdZjotjw9I5H-tQVF4squBEz-uZ8cbbXNhOb9nERUuYtDMaf7I6t-6NdZmwkFuVCJ_SqeMIhzk4NIaTphunbVRyKZXujge8OipeITaFEmwZJd3gjiDgf7Lo0-8sNSaEfX3IAG9Hsx2WPamvU4vOBBnYcmuZU3K3TYAMvIKF2Q1JgM8rOyYnKD1Ml/s466/lili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="302" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYaB8HdZjotjw9I5H-tQVF4squBEz-uZ8cbbXNhOb9nERUuYtDMaf7I6t-6NdZmwkFuVCJ_SqeMIhzk4NIaTphunbVRyKZXujge8OipeITaFEmwZJd3gjiDgf7Lo0-8sNSaEfX3IAG9Hsx2WPamvU4vOBBnYcmuZU3K3TYAMvIKF2Q1JgM8rOyYnKD1Ml/w259-h400/lili.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is sure to interest many elementary readers due to
its juvenile humor. Lili’s superpower happens to be her powerful farts that can
launch her high into the air. The opening chapters describe the moment she
first discovers her ability during an awkward show-and-tell incident. She
doesn’t fully understand what’s happened until her best friend shows her a
picture of the hole in her classroom chair. Lili realizes she’s seen this type
of hole before in her deceased mother’s journal. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Lili’s relationship with her stepmom may resonate with young
readers who are experiencing the same family situation. Lili can’t believe
Bella’s kindness is real and assumes she must have ulterior motives. Lili can’t
adapt to the changes in her family structure and there’s now a baby on the way.
Bella just wants to be a loving parent to Lili so she’s patient and understanding
even when Lili doesn’t deserve it. The plot itself is silly but it still points
out some of the complexities of new stepparents.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story is obviously intended to be funny with farting being
a major component. It’s one of those things that everybody goes through but it’s
embarrassing when it happens in public. Lili must deal with this every time she
uses her superpower. Her best friend Ale is a genius but he doesn’t pick up on
social cues. This can lead to amusing comments and interactions with Lili and
others. Men find Bella very attractive so it’s comical to see how silly men act
around her. The author manages to include the old kids’ rhyme about “Beans,
beans…” that will bring smiles to young readers and adults remembering their
childhoods.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story’s climax is a bit over the top as Lili and another
character face off in a farting showdown. Young readers will probably find it
uproariously hilarious while others will think it’s disgusting. However, if you’ve
read enough of the book to reach the climax then it shouldn’t bother you too much.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book tells the funny origin story of a young superhero, for
those readers who aren’t bothered by the topic of flatulence. Lili’s emotional
concerns with her stepmother offer a connection for many young readers.
Overall, this book will enjoyed by those with a matching sense of humor.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-60009017935639089192024-03-01T05:00:00.000-08:002024-03-01T05:00:28.215-08:00The Underdogs of Upson Downs by Craig Silvey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjrNavHTnXD9tjvrVW17XCsNZGDzCVLOfFfmxvLvP3n4YB6Ud2619qDV6wkmpeaWp5rRpY6eae87R31_eDKmEPT5KfW1ci1lgdAV2l3BQxzb6KAHA9LFbfT3C30RAMQ-fN3GEx0PbBF8V-kO_0nu9txMkTeMZg3FH88uPh77YxgPWoVofIGQghwbmhBU3/s466/dogs.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="308" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjrNavHTnXD9tjvrVW17XCsNZGDzCVLOfFfmxvLvP3n4YB6Ud2619qDV6wkmpeaWp5rRpY6eae87R31_eDKmEPT5KfW1ci1lgdAV2l3BQxzb6KAHA9LFbfT3C30RAMQ-fN3GEx0PbBF8V-kO_0nu9txMkTeMZg3FH88uPh77YxgPWoVofIGQghwbmhBU3/w265-h400/dogs.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Annie and her dog Runt make a delightfully unique pair of
characters. Annie prefers to be by herself so others think she’s strange. She
sees herself as a fixer and she’s happiest when trying to find remedies for
anything not working correctly. Annie’s immediately concerned by the drought
that’s slowly killing Upson Downs and by the possibility of her family losing
its farm. She feels a strong connection to her deceased grandfather Wally since
he was an eccentric inventor. The rainmaker she builds by following Wally’s
plans doesn’t work as she expected so her attention becomes focused on saving
the farm. Annie also wonders what her father is doing in his greenhouse and why
he feels a need to lock its door. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">A neighbor is one of the plot’s antagonists as he’s dammed
up a river, keeping precious water from the other farms in the area. The man
collects everything imaginable but not because he actually wants them. His
motivation is owning anything other people might want just so he has them, and
everybody else doesn’t. Another antagonist is a fame-hungry dog owner who’s
finished second in sixteen national agility competitions. He’s an egotist
always looking to make headlines and he sees Runt and Annie as challenges to
winning the tournament this year. He’ll do anything, no matter how devious, to
keep Runt from stealing his fame and glory.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Runt used to be a runaway mutt, tormenting shop owners and
the town’s deputy. Annie found him outside her school one day and they’ve been
inseparable ever since. Runt is always by Annie’s side but he doesn’t like to
interact when other humans are around. He’ll follow Annie’s hand gestures on
command unless he sees people watching. His laser-focus on Annie exemplifies
their tight bond but it’s also the source of his inability to perform in
public. Runt’s cuteness and intelligence will endear him to readers and they’ll
cheer on this amazing underdog.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story is told in third-person, present tense which doesn’t allow
readers to fully connect with the characters. It would be nice to get inside
Annie’s mind during this emotional tale to appreciate the important decisions
and feelings she experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book shares a heart-warming, underdog story that will appeal
to readers of all ages. The author can’t go wrong by featuring a cute dog and
the two antagonists are easy to root against. I recommend you give this book a shot!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-19661308716190304172024-02-27T08:49:00.000-08:002024-02-27T08:49:41.724-08:00Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2J3Z1OIHyu14_CPFZQEap3WfVWzHlXW6rVXXU0LX0lwSSTwrCszkLqtl-lac3t9r3vLFmIpixuBHop70LlcL_8eEMOVq95X0bLBKOOgy_d8Bqws91xAH6bTd8PUO3C1g7_HvbPtpofsaMVI0g6leXf9qiBQUUdDyzVS17c_iKvh3hoE9uBIq27PQ7G54/s466/creatures.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="289" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2J3Z1OIHyu14_CPFZQEap3WfVWzHlXW6rVXXU0LX0lwSSTwrCszkLqtl-lac3t9r3vLFmIpixuBHop70LlcL_8eEMOVq95X0bLBKOOgy_d8Bqws91xAH6bTd8PUO3C1g7_HvbPtpofsaMVI0g6leXf9qiBQUUdDyzVS17c_iKvh3hoE9uBIq27PQ7G54/w248-h400/creatures.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story has an effective hook right from the beginning as
page one informs readers a black doglike creature tries to eat Christopher
while page two lets us know someone is trying to murder Mal. Details aren’t
shared until a little later but readers are immediately captured by curiosity. The
early chapters alternately tell the stories of the two characters until their
separate paths converge. All kinds of animals are drawn to Christopher like a
magnet which leads to teasing from classmates and strange stares from adults.
Mal also has a connection with animals and she defies her father’s wishes by
flying into the air with her magical coat. A baby griffin eventually brings the
two characters together and adds an adorable animal to the cast.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot begins as an adventure to find out why magical
creatures are dying in the Archipelago. They all need the power of the glimourie,
magic emanating from the first tree, but it’s slowly disappearing. All signs
point to the absence of the Immortal, the caretaker of the tree. An Immortal
will always exist as its death will result in a new one arising somewhere in
the Archipelago. An innovative twist arises as the Immortal isn’t always human.
Consequently, no one knows where to find the new Immortal or what form it will
take. Will it be a centaur, dryad, another human, or something else entirely? Christopher
and Mal must locate the new Immortal to save the glimourie from disappearing.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Young readers will be delighted to see all kinds of
mythical, magical creatures such as unicorns, mermaids, and manticores. Some of
the animals are safe and helpful while others, like the kraken, are aggressive
and can destroy ships or eat humans. Christopher and Mal are assisted by a
Berzerker whose ship is navigated by a small creature called a ratatoska. Along
the way, the kids face a dragon that threatens to eat them but later becomes an
ally. The survival of all creatures, both in the Archipelago and the Otherworld,
depends on Mal and Christopher succeeding in their quest. Ironically, some of
the beasts don’t know that killing the pair will result in their own deaths.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot doesn’t have everything work nicely and neatly as in many
other books. Young readers might be surprised and upset when some characters are
seriously injured or die in the course of events. A couple of main characters
are among the casualties. However, the real world doesn’t always work out as people
plan and this story is a reminder. The loss of characters helps to stress the importance
of the conflict and adds suspense to the book.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author develops an imaginative story that blends magical creatures
with a dire quest for survival. The narrative is written with highly
descriptive, colorful language that adds to the reader’s pleasure. This book
will be a sure hit and I highly recommend you give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-11178435539777370902024-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:002024-02-25T06:00:08.441-08:00Keeping Pace by Laurie Morrison<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh37nrIs9qU-I4MZ3xkjT2UTlEuInKj0i0wXWirbYdVuOP_nupj7TP2b-v7nJ61HHb8GMO3dpZlw7a1YjcI5fP5fa9rwLBSXU7Kc4WzXHjJoGfrF31UBL9N9Gfg1iSZ3Gnzz8qRKgFjjlbJrsoSfWXpUJZ0IdV7Pn8DSaGajA72INPY6d3agm881brgTSH/s466/pace.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="320" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh37nrIs9qU-I4MZ3xkjT2UTlEuInKj0i0wXWirbYdVuOP_nupj7TP2b-v7nJ61HHb8GMO3dpZlw7a1YjcI5fP5fa9rwLBSXU7Kc4WzXHjJoGfrF31UBL9N9Gfg1iSZ3Gnzz8qRKgFjjlbJrsoSfWXpUJZ0IdV7Pn8DSaGajA72INPY6d3agm881brgTSH/w275-h400/pace.jpg" width="275" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This story follows the emotional ups and downs of Grace’s
life as she prepares to enter high school. As the synopsis states, middle
school found her obsessed with trying to out-perform her former best friend
Jonah only to finish second to him for the highest academic award. Then, Jonah
informs her that he’ll be attending a different high school in the fall so
Grace won’t have a chance to continue their rivalry. He’s won! Grace is so
fixated on beating Jonah that she doesn’t realize how it’s affecting her social
life. Her cousin Avery stops inviting her to hang out with their friends since
Grace almost always says she’s busy studying for an exam or working on a
project. She’s so consumed with defeating Jonah that maybe she’s failed to
notice they might be friends. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The confusion created by adolescent hormones and tricky relationships
with other people are very common at this age and Grace finds herself thrown
into the thick of it. Jonah starts to become a little less annoying and Grace
allows him to run with her. They chat during their workouts without upsetting
each other and they’re able to reveal feelings and experiences they’ve kept
hidden. Grace and Avery have always been super close, they were born only a
couple of days apart, but Grace wonders if entering high school might change
their connection. Grace begins to notice Avery is hanging out with other people
at the pool and she’s worried she may be losing her cousin. Also, Avery has a
new boyfriend and is busy with high school soccer practices which leaves less
time for her to hang out with Grace. Can their relationship withstand the new challenges?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Grace and Jonah don’t have fathers living with them but for
different reasons. Grace’s parents are divorced and her father has been dating
another woman. Grace is hurt that he doesn’t have much time for her anymore and
babysitting his new girlfriend’s son will be a new experience. Grace’s mother
and sister are “two peas in a pod” which leaves Grace feeling like she’s the
odd person out. Jonah’s father died around the same time Grace’s parents were
splitting up and he’s still dealing with the emotional loss. Grace wants to be
supportive since they were once best friends but their past battles and teasing
remarks make it challenging to talk about feelings. Things seem to be improving
between the pair until Grace’s list of summer goals blows up in her face.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The focus on boy-girl relationships and running long distances may
not appeal to a wide audience. However, the author captures the emotional
confusion of girls at this age and the many challenging situations they may
encounter. The running parts of the story act as a thread that connects the
entire plot.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book should appeal to middle-grade girls as it addresses a
variety of common experiences. The death of a parent or divorce is caringly included
along with the potentially traumatic feelings of first love. Overall, I
recommend you give this tender story a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-91499801875028724272024-02-21T13:07:00.000-08:002024-02-21T13:07:39.186-08:00The Mighty Onion by Mark Crilley<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_OesWAqrTAN6CSUziG_8ULtvNbe5wH8pXeF21A0Q1Rr_l3kEpTEfIgTO-yI9eez8tCQMYPjBmlN9Ysrx5VzXuzvi71h2wjaH1NbC2X3ZhuRvxxU1B-WQLxxCpV_zHu8S9FCJHoxt6FyDcXd1QIMwRN9yrg_ssoYgiiCU-aVYb1XfqiO-CZ7eyTlOhxcF/s445/onion.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="310" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_OesWAqrTAN6CSUziG_8ULtvNbe5wH8pXeF21A0Q1Rr_l3kEpTEfIgTO-yI9eez8tCQMYPjBmlN9Ysrx5VzXuzvi71h2wjaH1NbC2X3ZhuRvxxU1B-WQLxxCpV_zHu8S9FCJHoxt6FyDcXd1QIMwRN9yrg_ssoYgiiCU-aVYb1XfqiO-CZ7eyTlOhxcF/w279-h400/onion.jpg" width="279" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The story goes through the creative process of
writing/drawing a comic book. The book is formatted to share the steps Eliot
goes through from generating ideas to the “published” final product. The
artwork depicts different types of paper as his concepts get more serious. The
pictures show he begins writing on a notepad, then notebook paper, until he is
finally able to purchase some quality drawing paper. Eliot realizes his
weakness is drawing so he enlists the help of a classmate, Pam. Their
interactions are shown on torn pieces of paper as they pass notes during class.
Each completed episode of The Mighty Onion is presented as a comic strip spread
over multiple pages.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The majority of the conflict takes place within Eliot’s
character as he strives to make his comic about the Mighty Onion a smash hit. His
character lacks humility and he thinks all of his ideas are the best. He
ignores any criticism and is infuriated when Pam tries to change a couple of things
without telling him. Pam’s artwork is a huge step up from Eliot’s attempts at
drawing but he never shares a compliment or a thank you to her. Pam is well
aware of this fact and Eliot’s inability to notice social cues makes the
problem even larger.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The plot includes a touch of humor which must be expected in
a story about a Mighty Onion. How many scientists would take radioactive onions
and toss them out the window? Eliot’s warped sense of reality will have readers
shaking their heads as he makes the situation with Pam worse and worse. The
creative process in his mind will show that he has even poorer ideas about the
Mighty Onion than the ideas that make it into the comic. The Mighty Onion is
eventually paired with Guinea Pig Girl as she flies around in her Guinea Copter.
The light-hearted narrative will keep readers amused and entertained.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The strangeness of The Mighty Onion may not excite some readers
but the real story centers on the relationship between Eliot and Pam. The
varied format of the narrative through notes, comics, and journals is not normal
in most novels but it presents it in an interesting way.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">I was not immediately eager to read a book about a radioactive onion
but Eliot’s transformation into a more compassionate person is quite interesting.
The unique presentation adds an innovative twist to story-telling and should appeal
to most middle-grade readers. Overall, this book is a pleasure to read and I
recommend you give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-82544325111503038942024-02-19T09:57:00.000-08:002024-02-19T09:57:38.183-08:00The Lightcasters (Umbra Tales 1) by Janelle McCurdy<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvff8lnd033Y-CKY31Eg3JUEL0mnQOm-uXKCI7i64XO5FD3j_lfgIyCagsCRjq_BQx77U8qjSn93vnPO7ZmUUEDfSF84BefnuP2tNRirxnLC12AV43JV69SlD7OWAP8Uid2jGpBAIfx3lG5_vHkVpfSNQG0Zywrj7lcENCVLpiAP4ZXALd_t09rlRY9qpn/s445/light.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="295" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvff8lnd033Y-CKY31Eg3JUEL0mnQOm-uXKCI7i64XO5FD3j_lfgIyCagsCRjq_BQx77U8qjSn93vnPO7ZmUUEDfSF84BefnuP2tNRirxnLC12AV43JV69SlD7OWAP8Uid2jGpBAIfx3lG5_vHkVpfSNQG0Zywrj7lcENCVLpiAP4ZXALd_t09rlRY9qpn/w265-h400/light.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Umbra are creatures made from shadows and starlight that can
be ferocious fighters. They can change their sizes and they wield sharp teeth
and claws. Most of them have yellow eyes but umbras with red eyes are unnatural
and dangerous. Some of the umbra can be tamed and become loyal partners with
their tamers. If a person fails to tame the umbra it might eat their soul. The
pair are connected mentally and the beasts can project messages into the minds
of other humans. Mia’s parents have umbras that can be found lying around the
house when they’re not out defending the wall surrounding the city. Mia’s
attempt to join with an umbra has unexpected consequences.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Mia is the main character and the opening pages of the book
share an incident from her childhood that scars her for years. She sneaks
outside the wall one day and is almost killed by a red-eyed umbra. This
experience leaves her fearful and leery around umbras which adds a complication
to her character. She’s destined to become a great umbra tamer who will rescue
the kingdom from the Reaper King and his minions. It’s much more difficult to
bond with umbras when the character feels distressed around them. What happens
when the character doesn’t want to make a connection or doesn’t want to become the
savior of the kingdom?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author creates a contrast in settings as shadows take
over most of the kingdom. The first half of the book is dismal with the only
natural light supplied by the moon. This dreary setting lacks color and reminds
me of the opening, black-and-white scenes from “The Wizard of Oz” movie. Later,
the characters arrive in the capital city Stella which is reminiscent of when
Dorothy wakes up in the land of Oz. Vibrant colors offer a stark difference from
the earlier chapters and almost overwhelm Mia. The author’s descriptions artfully
paint mental images to show how the shadows are taking over the kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">I don’t want to share any spoilers so I’ll just say Mia’s lightcaster
powers are confusing. She has trouble controlling them but she receives something
later in the book that is supposed to help. She still struggles to defeat a
minion before a showdown during the book’s climax. The learning or growth in
her abilities is unclear.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book tells a fun, exciting adventure of a young girl who must
unlock her latent powers to save the kingdom. Her character displays humbleness
through it all as the enormous responsibility takes a mental and emotional toll.
Overall, this book should appeal to middle-grade readers and I recommend you
give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-11772875300822117132024-02-16T14:13:00.000-08:002024-02-16T14:13:28.723-08:00Shock the Monkey (The N.O.A.H. Files 2) by Neal Shusterman and Eric Elfman<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAz99xHdClO1FlQm0y48GAGe349A98T6oXe03co2FJpfiF8XKjQfdLXdITFaRJovLj8K88GryWcIeKcIpSoOR82OSzhnVpcPzc1dDkxTnPpUn3dKgLCDGOAUvqDID8pR9IXGkZ1KUsyW7nV7KzLd32nVNVsZj0qvWZh51lccagBZShytN1gdQuXBiijhyk/s466/shock.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="318" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAz99xHdClO1FlQm0y48GAGe349A98T6oXe03co2FJpfiF8XKjQfdLXdITFaRJovLj8K88GryWcIeKcIpSoOR82OSzhnVpcPzc1dDkxTnPpUn3dKgLCDGOAUvqDID8pR9IXGkZ1KUsyW7nV7KzLd32nVNVsZj0qvWZh51lccagBZShytN1gdQuXBiijhyk/w273-h400/shock.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>what<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Noah can manifest characteristics of all the animals on
Earth since his body contains all of their DNA. He can summon the strength of a
bear or elephant, swing from trees like a monkey, or escape from danger as a
bird. Transforming into various animals adds interest and unpredictability to
his character but readers can also learn about these characters. Learning about
animals that can secrete poison, change colors and patterns, or survive with
little oxygen may be new to young readers. These qualities come in very handy
as Noah encounters many dangerous challenges.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The authors utilize a humorous tone throughout the narrative
which adds levity to the adventure. Noah’s “sister” Andi is an android character
with super intelligence and she’s able to camouflage herself as a suitcase. Conversations
between Noah and Andi can become comical. Noah’s friend Ogden is a brainy human
but his sense of appropriate behavior and talk needs work. The kids visit a
little old lady and end up soaring through space in her house. Aliens kidnap a
girl from her pool party after using baby pacifiers to immobilize the adults. A
planet’s main problem is that it’s become an intergalactic, toxic waste dump. Finally,
Noah’s character can present funny situations when he unexpectedly displays
animal traits. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">I sometimes get annoyed when authors use multiple settings but
these authors effectively separate the main characters. Noah is ejected into an
escape pod, Ogden and Sahara ride the house rocket to its end, and Andi is
stranded by herself. Noah’s journey allows him to meet another N.O.A.H. and
provides more information about their potential futures. This new character has
the same ability as Noah but its animals come from another planet. Ogden and
Sahara arrive on the planet Claire where they uncover a malevolent scheme. Ogden
has a crush on the character Claire and he’s determined to rescue his future girlfriend
(even if she doesn’t feel the same way).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The humor of the book may not appeal to serious readers. The situations
and wordplay can get wacky and absurd which some readers don’t appreciate.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">You might want to read the first book to fully understand the
backstory of N.O.A.H. Noah’s ability to become different animals is entertaining
and educational and the amusing tone of the story keeps things light. Overall,
this is a fun book to read and I recommend you give it a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-83705090107724246362024-02-14T12:02:00.000-08:002024-02-14T12:06:16.218-08:00Worst Broommate Ever (Middle School and Other Disasters 1) by Wanda Coven<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6F-Bn7MTQbPkIrP31SUtDI8wps7yIR62kYlafkb4mt_hRmiUI2yRxQ9CIxJifsqZu7BbhTA4Zi8q6vSswzztXIDwKMdWSE4TuQQRaEY07eS9xKULnYQDi443-fIJk-vFscMZB24Zd1g5LMW6dqNBWBBO0BDEaY1jch3iH_1MTLtGXN1S6EmPqEX5f8QL9/s466/broom.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="322" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6F-Bn7MTQbPkIrP31SUtDI8wps7yIR62kYlafkb4mt_hRmiUI2yRxQ9CIxJifsqZu7BbhTA4Zi8q6vSswzztXIDwKMdWSE4TuQQRaEY07eS9xKULnYQDi443-fIJk-vFscMZB24Zd1g5LMW6dqNBWBBO0BDEaY1jch3iH_1MTLtGXN1S6EmPqEX5f8QL9/w276-h400/broom.jpg" width="276" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Most kids don’t attend boarding school like Heidi but everyone
must deal with meeting new classmates. She has the added pressure of living
away from home so she doesn’t have the daily support of her family. Heidi must
learn new routines and touring the large school can be overwhelming. Walking
into a crowded cafeteria on the first day of middle school is intimidating as
students search for friendly faces. Heidi and young readers will share these
experiences which this character relatable. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Bullies and rivalries aren’t unusual for middle-school
readers but this book adds some new twists. Heidi thought attending boarding
school would leave her nemesis and bully behind but they’re assigned as
roommates. Heidi doesn’t know why Melanie has hated her since second grade but attending
a new school hasn’t helped. The story is told from Heidi’s point of view so
readers know immediately that she won’t give Melanie any ammunition to tease
her about. The competition is on. However, readers only get one side of the
story as they don’t know what Melanie is thinking. The book reveals that the two
girls have many things in common but Heidi’s defensiveness won’t let her consider
that they might become friends.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book offers a special focus on friendship. Heidi is ecstatic
when she sees an old friend is also at camp and the two girls quickly find comfort
in each other. Sunny has a nice roommate and all three girls are delighted to discover
they’re all witches. Sunny thinks Heidi is a wonderful friend but she tells
Heidi when things are getting out of control. Forgiveness and understanding are
important between friends and Heidi and her classmates demonstrate these qualities
toward each other. Later, uncomfortable circumstances require Heidi to withhold
judgment toward others and force her to listen and communicate. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author uses different-sized fonts in the narrative but it’s
overdone; small, medium, and large. At first, readers might assume the font
grows larger to emphasize the words but that doesn’t always fit what’s being
said. I assume the author has a reason but it’s distracting trying to figure
out what it might be.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book will be most popular for middle-grade girls since boys
play a minor role in the plot. Heidi’s vulnerability and uncertainty will
resonate with young readers and her rivalry with Melanie adds a familiar
conflict to follow. Overall, this book offers an entertaining trip in the mind
of a girl entering middle school and I recommend you give it a shot.</span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-19487767193107908362024-02-14T11:24:00.002-08:002024-02-14T11:24:00.135-08:00Conjure Island by Eden Royce<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UUe5hDOWORWWQjNcsXjl86lZbB4DMa9QXDjC94hycHHKVfSJFpxJQ4MG1gEDHCbuHnjjlu9zBEx12ywDBiYSRS9X4tiSriu9c_7HHDzXuZB33-cWGTiHjItEnxUl9dcKKzQXEbfrRaaB6PuX9Jp365KQPlKLKNBi9Mby8vW8qyjcz3-SnaHfz6Rx5ncQ/s445/conjure.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="294" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UUe5hDOWORWWQjNcsXjl86lZbB4DMa9QXDjC94hycHHKVfSJFpxJQ4MG1gEDHCbuHnjjlu9zBEx12ywDBiYSRS9X4tiSriu9c_7HHDzXuZB33-cWGTiHjItEnxUl9dcKKzQXEbfrRaaB6PuX9Jp365KQPlKLKNBi9Mby8vW8qyjcz3-SnaHfz6Rx5ncQ/w264-h400/conjure.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is a finalist for a 2023 Cybils Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><p></p><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><p class="MsoNormal">What worked:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Del is unaware she possesses conjure magic but her character
still presents hints that something strange is happening on the island. She gets
sensations that someone is staring at her but she can’t spot anybody when she
looks around. She later sees a shadowy shape that no one else notices. Del’s
afraid to say anything because others might think she’s strange or won’t
believe her. Del is the reason the group protection spell didn’t work so she
doesn’t want to draw any attention. The worries she feels about fitting in
continue and affect many of her poor decisions.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The story promotes a strong sense of family and heritage
even though the connections in Del’s family are damaged. Del’s mother died during
childbirth and Del’s now separated from her gramma for the first time, missing her
dearly. Del’s now spending time with her great-grandmother, Nana Rose, who runs
the conjure school. Gramma never told Del about Nana Rose and Del doesn’t
understand why. Gramma and Nana Rose haven’t spoken in forty years and Del is
determined to find out what happened and fix the problem. She’s lived a life of
moving around with a military father and her innermost desire is to have a
stable home and family. The purpose of Conjure Island is to preserve the
heritage of its people and it offers Del an opportunity to bring peace into the
lives of those she loves. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p>The tone of the book is very positive which is refreshing in
middle-grade literature. Del fears how she’ll be treated by the others and
readers might anticipate she’ll be bullied. That doesn’t happen. Eva immediately
befriends her and offers to help Del transition into the conjuring world. Even
when Del messes up, multiple times, Eva supports her and will do whatever is
needed. The teachers, or sorcells, are understanding of Del’s situation and frustrations
and they constantly provide encouraging words. Del is rescued from a couple of dangerous
predicaments but she’s not severely disciplined by Nana Rose. Readers won’t
find any big egos or characters with hidden agendas to create drama as the
whole plot centers on healing Del’s family.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Nana Rose has everyone perform a protection spell when the camp
first starts but the actual threat is unclear. It seems like the danger must be
more than ravaging wild boars but it’s still a mystery at the end of the book. The
potential conflict simmers in the background throughout the story. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p>The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>The author allows readers to use their imaginations to make
predictions which result in some surprises near the end. The overall story is pleasant
with moments of suspense when Del makes bad choices. I recommend you give the
book a shot.</p></span></div>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-21916714071863053772024-02-14T11:24:00.001-08:002024-02-14T11:24:00.135-08:00The Demon Sword Asperides by Sarah Jean Horwitz<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vd7Ews-xEbVDPjx8XpDHYAJha1Q5R_4DojSTKkSRyn0gPbMwcrn0wAf2CymO_xtqcO-YclaDFHPt-cE531Cj_eMeIMFWE0gj32rwM5lb9LWZ5Uh-bBG7NlhOUJPdTR0sZgHojD6tzK2zCT-AHZJ5ZPgBehzlbvCkO2KHQRGiFa0dxxFHk8brlxcoyV3f/s445/demon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="295" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vd7Ews-xEbVDPjx8XpDHYAJha1Q5R_4DojSTKkSRyn0gPbMwcrn0wAf2CymO_xtqcO-YclaDFHPt-cE531Cj_eMeIMFWE0gj32rwM5lb9LWZ5Uh-bBG7NlhOUJPdTR0sZgHojD6tzK2zCT-AHZJ5ZPgBehzlbvCkO2KHQRGiFa0dxxFHk8brlxcoyV3f/w265-h400/demon.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is a finalist for a 2023 Cybils Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><p></p><div><span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The most innovative aspect of the book is having a demon
sword as a main character, able to mentally communicate with a human main
character named Nack. Asperides has been around for centuries and it’s used to being
paired with ruthless, power-hungry men. Its primary goal is to trap captured
souls and send them into the depths of the underworld. Asperides draws magical
power from these souls which it uses to slay and reek chaos. An intriguing twist
occurs when a wanna-be young knight in training becomes the sword’s new partner
to rescue two female knights in danger. Readers will wonder what’s going to
happen when a kind, young boy becomes the partner of a rare, terrifying demon
sword.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Nack battles an internal conflict throughout the plot. He displays
compassion for an enemy early on but he’s shunned by his family for the kind
act. His major motivation after that is obtaining an angel blade, completing a
brave quest, and then being welcomed back into his family. However, Asperides calls
Nack a coward when the boy fails to decisively kill human opponents and Nack
suffers from self-doubt. He still stands up for defenseless women and children
by slaying demon creatures and he tries to behave kindly toward others. His
ultimate goal is to be welcomed back home but he’s shocked when he enters the
castle of the family’s nemesis to rescue his older brother. Despite being the
master of a demon sword, the anguish, confusion, and insecurity within Nack’s
mind add complexities to the story.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The conflict tying the entire plot together involves Asperides’s
former, undead master and his plan to return to power. Amyral schemes to regain
possession of the demon sword and retrieve his soul from the deepest depths of hell.
Readers will wonder what will happen since Nack and Amyral have been partnered
with the same sword. Who is the rightful master of Asperides? Amyral’s plot
will culminate when the Missing Moon returns after two thousand years so the story
has a built-in countdown clock. Amyral is aided by a young necromancer and her
presence contributes additional twists to the plot. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Some readers might question the pace of the plot and Nack sometimes
comes across as whiny. However, readers must appreciate the evolution of the
characters in addition to the quest to stop Amyral. There’s no continuous
action and the battles aren’t overly descriptive but the changes in personalities,
attitudes, and self-images are what’s important.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Nack, Asperides, and
others are dynamic characters and undergo realizations and transformations throughout
the book. Their emotional adventures will engross young readers as they try to stop
Amyral from releasing swarms of demons from the underworld. Overall, this is an
innovative twist on familiar middle-grade quests and I recommend you give it a
shot.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></span></div>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-89032828469373225012024-02-14T11:24:00.000-08:002024-02-14T11:24:00.135-08:00The Grace of Wild Things by Heather Fawcett<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mWSZfALRaUeD0v_kHtxfv93b5EvKeE5w1AK1RFf8J8pwZhalFwAN3xddnAFm0FhGVY4ZQq9PQbytCyDEzfkCTqPLk2Xh3zM4290F6UouzBnuAEb4qHfcECOB3w0nraGiDoo5l7pZ_dR3Ly2rzcy9NFLnKcWazYSMTvnpdRQYYc2ZO8gzEEkQ9cZqt3b5/s445/grace.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="295" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mWSZfALRaUeD0v_kHtxfv93b5EvKeE5w1AK1RFf8J8pwZhalFwAN3xddnAFm0FhGVY4ZQq9PQbytCyDEzfkCTqPLk2Xh3zM4290F6UouzBnuAEb4qHfcECOB3w0nraGiDoo5l7pZ_dR3Ly2rzcy9NFLnKcWazYSMTvnpdRQYYc2ZO8gzEEkQ9cZqt3b5/w265-h400/grace.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is a finalist for the 2023 Cybils Award in
Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Grace’s colorful, descriptive, inquisitive language is a
highlight of the book as she likes to use advanced words, even if she’s not
certain of their meanings. The expressive language makes some passages almost
poetic and the introduction to every chapter begins with actual lines of verse
from famous writers like Emily Dickinson and Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Friends is
a lovely word with its secret, silent e in the middle and scullion is a
wonderful term Grace calls the bully in her class. Grace has a deep love for
poetry and she often reads poems about birds to her crow named Windweaver. Grace’s
incessant questions are irritants for the witch but they also provide amusing
interactions for readers. Her negotiating skills regarding the witch’s wager to
perform 100 ½ spells is unexpected considering the witch already intends to
steal Grace’s magic. Grace’s reactions to the witch’s salty disposition are priceless
as she often ignores the witch’s intentions and shares positive, enthusiastic comments.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Readers may find the witch perplexing due to her
unpredictable and mysterious character. She lets insults and disparaging
remarks fly when she first meets Grace and reproaches Grace when she tries to
perform spells. The witch can let loose with angry rants one minute but later
walk weakly to bed, nursing a cough. She admits to doing some terrible things
in her life, like changing her little brother into a rain cloud, and doesn’t
offer any help as Grace tries to correctly perform the grimoire’s spells. Later,
Grace is shocked when the witch doesn’t reprimand her and the witch actually
offers a compliment! Readers will recognize the changes in the witch’s
character but there always seems to be something unspoken going on in her mind.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Grace’s cast of friends slowly grows and it’s a motley mix
of characters. Everything is wonderful to the curious Grace when compared to
the boredom she experienced at the orphanage. Windweaver is Grace’s longest,
most loyal friend but he is troubled by how other crows bully him. Sareena lives
at the farm next door and she’s been desperate to find a close friend. Sareena
finds it difficult to share Grace’s attention and fears she’ll lose a best
friend again. Sareena’s little sister likes to pretend she’s invisible and it’s
fun to see other characters indulge her wishes. Grace rescues a fairy named Rum
and their relationship is unusual. They frequently grumble and complain around
each other but it’s clear that much of that is for show. The class bully named
Poppy has a score to settle with Grace and ambushes her in the woods. However,
things don’t go as planned and their encounter results in a surprising
transformation. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Some readers might want a little more closure in the resolution of
the plot. They’ll need to speculate about what happens to Grace as several events
transpire as the story nears its climax. There may have been too many things
happening.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author artfully crafts the story of a young witch, desperate
to find a home, that slowly evolves into an emotional tale of love and
friendship. Grace is a delightful, energetic character who will endear herself
to young readers. Overall, this is a marvelous book and I highly recommend you
give it a shot!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-70510976496698022922024-02-14T11:22:00.000-08:002024-02-14T11:22:00.127-08:00Juniper Harvey and the Vanishing Kingdom by Nina Varela<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg090DWglDkZmNynvhLvyDv6mv2F35afHfqraI86ZQ3LsocFtmiZyTofaUMeYP70Fyu9Rz_mUvY4OAaNVDAiQhchDXzevY3nIuxpDynvPGg630o3M_v4BiTMOXGPH7LXm6_jkogEB175L29zDfHsXqgQuuX5jM9No9DZHih32llG5l64y5MqUK8KXEjkFHq/s445/juniper.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="306" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg090DWglDkZmNynvhLvyDv6mv2F35afHfqraI86ZQ3LsocFtmiZyTofaUMeYP70Fyu9Rz_mUvY4OAaNVDAiQhchDXzevY3nIuxpDynvPGg630o3M_v4BiTMOXGPH7LXm6_jkogEB175L29zDfHsXqgQuuX5jM9No9DZHih32llG5l64y5MqUK8KXEjkFHq/w275-h400/juniper.jpg" width="275" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is a finalist for a 2023 Cybils Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><p></p><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">June’s anxiety over being the new kid in school will be
relatable to many middle-grade students. Unlike many books for this age group,
bullying isn’t a big issue. June doesn’t understand how to approach classmates
so she avoids interactions with potential friends. A lack of confidence is
holding June back but her supportive mother convinces her to take chances and
everything changes once she attends the school dance. Sam and Ollie immediately
accept although they have no idea of the adventure they’ve gotten themselves
into.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Princess Galatea appears in June’s room and thinks June is a
goddess. June has no godly powers and has never heard of Kypros, the world
where Galatea lives, so the whole thing sounds absurd. However, both girls have
been having similar dreams for the past month and June has been drawing
sketches of Galatea from her visions. June has feelings for Galatea so she develops
uncomfortable thoughts whenever they’re together. It’s uncertain if Galatea
feels the same way so the situation remains June’s internal conflict for much
of the story. Middle-grade readers are just beginning to explore their
relationships with the different genders so many of them will be able to relate
with June’s emotions and confusion. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Kypros is slowly vanishing so the main conflict finds
Galatea trying to save her kingdom. She needs to find the Crown of Horn in
order to return to her world. June’s dream of a Kypros goddess being stabbed is
cryptic since June never sees the face of the robed assailant. Galatea is
certain it must be the Dreamtender. The image comes to June while she’s asleep
and the Dreamtender wants to get revenge by retrieving her Crown of Horn. This
plot appears to be straightforward there’s more of a mystery involved. Readers
may notice clues along the way but the entire true story isn’t revealed until
the climax. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">There’s a bit of a disconnect in the plot since the main conflict
is happening in another world. The story doesn’t directly address saving Kypros
until the book nears the end. Most of the book finds the characters gathering pieces
of the Crown of Horn but that will only allow Galatea to return to Kypros.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Much of the story concerns the issues within June’s mind as she
learns to deal with different relationships. The quest to save Kypros connects
the overall story and it becomes a bit of a mystery. I recommend you give this
book a shot. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></div>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-30979913281719177032024-02-14T11:19:00.000-08:002024-02-14T11:19:00.241-08:00The Rhythm of Time by Questlove and S.A. Crosby<p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5DS7iK8EWncU4beCnCjvbCwArfle759OQRrpuxMM_w-NHWDjTyurEkmQrSe2pq40-knn-5c1KXjB4fuIgPk_nshoHeFpTubH0KsZDeQBQPEEjUaG-tB3nbBCJ-4FulSx5wv97DJiw0adLZxVAMhGMDJBTrLXyi8HSY_8MepHXgcUoS0k-Xs5GY3gaBzl/s445/rythm.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="295" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5DS7iK8EWncU4beCnCjvbCwArfle759OQRrpuxMM_w-NHWDjTyurEkmQrSe2pq40-knn-5c1KXjB4fuIgPk_nshoHeFpTubH0KsZDeQBQPEEjUaG-tB3nbBCJ-4FulSx5wv97DJiw0adLZxVAMhGMDJBTrLXyi8HSY_8MepHXgcUoS0k-Xs5GY3gaBzl/w265-h400/rythm.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book is a finalist for a 2023 Cybils Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The simplicity of the plot quickly becomes much more
complicated. Rahim is accidentally transported to 1997 and his sole motivation
is getting back to the present without disrupting history. Fortunately for
young readers, Rahim fails miserably when it comes to being unnoticed after he
befriends Omar, his future father. The most interesting aspect of the story is
how Rahim gets to see a different side of the adults in his life. His father,
uncle, and grandparents display young lives that are in stark contrast to the
adults he’s grown up with. Adults often have dreams and interests as kids that
they’re forced to give up when they start careers and families. Rahim is able
to witness the changes in people he knows and it affects his understanding of
them in the end.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Kasia is Rahim’s home-schooled, best friend and neighbor and
she’s a technological genius. She builds a cell phone that ties into government
satellites and accidentally transports Rahim into the past. She also builds a small
drone that can follow less specific instructions and can become invisible by
going into stealth mode. Her bedroom looks like a computer geek’s dream until
government agents confiscate all of her equipment. Career scientists and Noble
prize winners spend lifetimes trying to understand transporting and time travel
but twelve-year-old Kasia successfully masters the concepts. Her conversations
with 1997 Rahim contribute humor to the book.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Young readers may connect with the musical references
throughout the whole story. Rahim comes up with freestyle verses and he loves
an older-generation group Four the Hard Way, an actual band. Rahim gets
favorable responses when he posts one of his songs but its success makes him
the target of the school bully. Traveling to the past opens Rahim’s eyes to the
fact that his father and uncle share his interest in music. Weaving the culture
of this music into a successful adventure through time travel requires creative
talent from the author. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Believability is a challenging part of this book. Much of the
story is reasonable, in a speculative fiction manner, but some of Kasia’s
creations are a stretch. Even if she comes up with innovative ideas, how does
she amass the materials to actually pull them off? Also, the appearance of
vortexes creates suspense but they allow the characters plenty of time to
resolve the problem.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Helping a young person develop an understanding of the adults in
his life is the most endearing part of the book. It addresses the paradoxes of
time travel head-on resulting in an entertaining adventure into the past. I
recommend you give this book a shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-18537707269259860232024-02-14T11:02:00.000-08:002024-02-14T11:02:00.242-08:00The Bellwoods Game by Celia Krampien<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK46qIo1PYayVNGfQTZ-Yts-33fBxLTenj9DZHzrTrqVui0GKCModn4PnBCmtP6bumLLjTKyHbz3p35XTobgHowAuTc1H-SYPwCMat7liEay1t6-olppw0zs6_VwyGKnX7Tz7xJm3ucQTRkmc3CZtTLKWIIz3Xhmn4_MYtAtXDIV3ksKxyd7SdDpf4KUSD/s466/bell.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="315" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK46qIo1PYayVNGfQTZ-Yts-33fBxLTenj9DZHzrTrqVui0GKCModn4PnBCmtP6bumLLjTKyHbz3p35XTobgHowAuTc1H-SYPwCMat7liEay1t6-olppw0zs6_VwyGKnX7Tz7xJm3ucQTRkmc3CZtTLKWIIz3Xhmn4_MYtAtXDIV3ksKxyd7SdDpf4KUSD/w270-h400/bell.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span>This book is a finalist for a 2023 Cybils Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.</span><span><br /></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Bellwoods Game provides a fresh twist to spooky ghost
stories. There’s no ha</span>unted house where characters find themselves trapped but
the three participants in the Bellwoods Game cannot leave the forest until the
game has been completed. Failure to ring the bell will result in a spirit being
freed to torment the town until next Halloween. Adding to the mystery is the
fact that survivors from previous years can’t/won’t talk about their
experiences so readers are left to imagine what’s going on. The Specter comments that humans fear the unknown and often make it a bigger threat than
what’s real. However, that’s not true in this book. The reality inside the
forest is far worse than the characters ever dreamed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author includes several subplots involving the
characters that generate emotional connections to them. Bailee is the main
character and she’s been ostracized at school for several weeks. The author
doesn’t reveal what happened right away so readers are free to speculate about
what’s going on. Madison is the one person still talking to Bailee but even she
has become more distant since the incident. Noah is present for most of the
narrative as he’s doggedly inquisitive and wants to write an article about the
Bellwoods Game. He’s a new student but remembers issues at his previous school that
still trouble him. Carmen is a know-it-all classmate who no one really talks to
or tries to befriend. Fen has been taking reckless risks recently and it becomes
clear that he’s dealing with internal conflicts too. Even the specter called
Abigail has unresolved problems that will need to be resolved.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author skillfully builds suspense as the plot moves
toward the climax pitting Bailee against the antagonist. Readers will note
clues and become aware of what’s going to happen so the plot becomes a question
of when they will occur. The Specter can attack by altering the forest and
victims must sacrifice something they cherish to escape safely. Characters are
going to be separated and “picked off” one by one so readers are left to wonder
who’s next and how will it happen. Three sixth graders are supposed to enter
the woods and attempt to ring the bell but the author includes two more
non-participants to provide two more potential victims. In addition, Bailee
wants to end the Bellwoods Game for good so readers can speculate how she might
accomplish this impossible task.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Bailee isn’t able to share the truth about her feelings with
others and it’s not clear why. It makes sense that she couldn’t do it when her
classmates first started shunning her but it makes less sense as she begins to
bond with other game participants. Fen treats her unfairly and Noah reveals
some truths about his past experiences but she still won’t say anything about
the problems bothering her. Readers will already know about them so why won’t
she say anything to the other characters?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book presents an entertaining ghost tale with many twists and
turns along the way. As with most exciting climaxes, the characters are left to
formulate a plan to solve an impossible conflict. The climax is the most
creative part of the plot and I recommend you give this book a shot. </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></div>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-28538372146990676792024-02-12T18:50:00.000-08:002024-02-12T18:50:50.731-08:00The Pinchers and the Diamond Heist by Anders Sparring<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUO1ZYtJdCBKwsolxiSta15kai8oGhPN4ykJ8Rz1KSSt2XihUoGFhsoaGLswXyj7lPxdwn2Z6Jnm1MiJ8UwevtNNHwc02ELlYiqixCo42-7QOZ_LhItljgFcKcVcedml72kuUEDp77hs8JH2Cs5AUxWR-qFWr3r4sEH_ftt9aVYq7KwlKfCxFfdKWxZIDK/s466/pinch.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="328" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUO1ZYtJdCBKwsolxiSta15kai8oGhPN4ykJ8Rz1KSSt2XihUoGFhsoaGLswXyj7lPxdwn2Z6Jnm1MiJ8UwevtNNHwc02ELlYiqixCo42-7QOZ_LhItljgFcKcVcedml72kuUEDp77hs8JH2Cs5AUxWR-qFWr3r4sEH_ftt9aVYq7KwlKfCxFfdKWxZIDK/w281-h400/pinch.jpg" width="281" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The contrast in values between Theo and the rest of his
family creates an amusing conflict. Theo cannot lie and gets a stomachache whenever
he tries. He refuses to steal and feels stressed when he’s aware of his family’s
thieving ways. His parents are crooks, his little sister wants to become a
crook, and his grandmother lives in jail for being a crook. Living in that
environment forces Theo to frequently deal with opposing emotions. He loves his
family but he abhors breaking the law.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The book includes some interesting features that will appeal
to emerging and reluctant readers. The opening pages present pictures and
descriptions of each main character. Almost every page has a color illustration
to enhance the story and help readers visualize the events. After the resolution,
the author provides a short quiz to help readers recall important events and
they can read the first chapter of the book’s sequel. Some fun pages allow
readers to create their criminal names and determine the type of criminals that
best fit them. It’s all in fun!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The synopsis reveals way too much information. The narrator recounts
events in the plot but it doesn’t enhance the story with description or
character development. Consequently, the book can be read in one sitting or a
couple of days for those who need more time.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The humorous tone and abundant pictures make the story more approachable
and young readers will hopefully appreciate Theo’s honesty. This book is a
quick read that should appeal to kids learning to read or those without the
stamina to read for an extended time.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659420943372920762.post-77213810468582457422024-02-12T10:29:00.000-08:002024-02-12T10:29:37.083-08:00A Bite Above the Rest by Christine Virnig<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJEbc3gSNFKgkjVi4O6bI2ITLtZquTp1uPMD4_5AIMBOwjBM1GxU4VyHoYVVtsREJ0Uc3OvGtvsEwHdcp2jLJGkwTSTvNdL8RTIL1W3InHKpqJz2-zOdJZ6xL6BcAnT4hrIVyho_GxL57JigqnlVq7xuvSfy_DD-JzLef_gpsExPz1OSaaqt1qLUPJdzw/s466/bite.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="308" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJEbc3gSNFKgkjVi4O6bI2ITLtZquTp1uPMD4_5AIMBOwjBM1GxU4VyHoYVVtsREJ0Uc3OvGtvsEwHdcp2jLJGkwTSTvNdL8RTIL1W3InHKpqJz2-zOdJZ6xL6BcAnT4hrIVyho_GxL57JigqnlVq7xuvSfy_DD-JzLef_gpsExPz1OSaaqt1qLUPJdzw/w265-h400/bite.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What worked:</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Caleb’s difficulty fitting in may resonate with some young
readers. He’s warned that he needs to wear a Halloween costume to school but he
refuses. He’s okay with his decision but it doesn’t make the hallway stares and
bullying any easier. He then chooses to wear creative “costumes” based on puns
and wordplay. For example, he glues plastic coins on his shirt and calls
himself a quarterback. Caleb’s father has passed away and Caleb misses him
dearly. He promised his father that he’d take care of his mother so Caleb feels
like he must keep all of his pain to himself. He doesn’t want to worry her so
he keeps his sorrow and insecurities bottled up inside.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Tai becomes Caleb’s best friend and she’s the most
interesting character. She’s embraced the concept of the town celebrating
Halloween year-round as she’s dressed as a fairy when Caleb first meets her. She’s
also thrilled when Caleb thinks the zombie mannequin on her porch is really
“alive”. She’s most upset that her parents’ idea to start a shop featuring
things to ward off the supernatural, like holy water, wooden stakes, and
amulets, was not granted a permit by the town. Tai convinces Caleb to partner
with her on a class project where they’ll investigate the mayor and the town’s
reasons for not supporting her parents’ plan. Despite the dangers they uncover,
Caleb realizes he doesn’t want to flee Samhain and Tai and lose the closest friends
he’s ever had.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The author tries to leave room for doubt but it’s quickly evident
that real monsters are living in Samhain. Caleb suspects this right away but
he’s forced to find ways to convince Tai and his mom; he won’t tell his mom
about any of it until he’s certain. How can he prove monsters are living in
Samhain without endangering himself? What will happen to the town if the
citizens realize vampires and werewolves are living among them? Caleb and Tai try
to uncover the mystery but discover everyone in town who might have information
has forgotten what they once knew. Caleb is surprised to discover the cause and
the thought of the monsters watching him is unnerving. The author uses these
events to create suspense as the plot counts down to Halloween. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">What didn’t work as well:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The climax is a little anti-climactic as readers might expect more
of a face-to-face confrontation. Caleb’s plan works but, surprisingly, there’s
not more resistance as it unfolds. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The final verdict:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">This book will be hugely popular for lovers of Halloween! Caleb
versus the Samhain monsters is the main topic of the plot but his grief after
losing his father and his budding friendship with Tai are equally engaging. Overall,
this book will be enjoyed by most young readers and I recommend you give it a
shot.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p>Mark Buxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498701153442496324noreply@blogger.com0