A Garden of Books

Book Review: The Name of The Star, Shades of London Book One by Maureen Johnson

2012-01-14T13:47:00.001-06:00

It is difficult to find a book in young adult fiction that is not enhanced by a theme of ghosts, vampires, werewolves, special sensory talents, or sorcery. These themes seem to be the tantalizing bite (no pun intended) that lures readers in to young adult fiction. I'm not as swept up in this, may I call it a faze, as other readers are. When I was a teen, Stephen King, was well, king of the horror books and movies. I read a few of his books, until I was scared silly. Now, I gravitate toward history and biographies, and The Name Of The Star grabbed my attention as it has a Jack the Ripper theme. When I was in London in the fall of 2001 I took part in a Jack the Ripper walking tour, it was quite interesting. I love history, especially British history. I'd waited a while for this book to be available for me to check out from the library, I instead bought a copy.
The story is centered on Aurora or Rory. The time period is our current era. Rory is 17, and has recently moved from Louisiana to London to spend her last year of high school in a boarding school named Wexford. Wexford is located in the east end of London, near the areas where Jack the Ripper during the 1800's brutally and savagely murdered women. Rory is a chatty girl, easy to like, comical, bright, brave, and wise. She is quick to make friends with her room mate. She settles in to a change in the structured environment at boarding school, as well as academic classes she takes, and a dreaded physical education class. The day she arrived in London was the day the first modern day London copy-cat murder took place. A murder uncannily reminiscent of Jack the Ripper murder's.

This is a well-written book. I can understand why I'd heard good things about it. I enjoyed reading it, it was an absorbing read, hard to put down. The characters are easy to relate to, they are realistic in that we see both good and bad sides of their persona. There is light-hardheartedness in that the seriousness of the story is off-set by Rory's comical trait. Rory is an admirable character. She does not have a defiant behavior; but is rather grounded and serious about her grades and current life choices. Her parents are minimal and way in the back-drop of this story. The focus is on Rory and the gradual revealing of how she too will become involved in the copy-cat murders.

Link @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Name-Star-Shades-London/dp/0399256601/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326569900&sr=1-1
Hardcover $11.55
Kindle $10.99

I bought my copy at Target, hardcover for $10.98

Link @ publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780399256608,00.html?The_Name_of_the_Star_Maureen_Johnson#

Published by Putnam Juvenile September 2011
384 pages
For ages 12 and up/Young Adult Fiction

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Freedom Series Book 1, Deliver Me From Evil by Kathi Macias

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day--January 11, 2012

Abolition: the act or process of abolishing or being abolished.
Abolitionist: one who favors the abolition of a practice or institution, esp. of capital punishment or slavery.
Slave: a person who is the legal property of another or others and is bound to absolute obedience; a human chattel. A drudge; a person working very hard. A helpless victim of some dominating influence.
Slavery, bondage, captivity, servitude, imprisonment, confinement, duress, oppression, repression, subjugation, domination, yoke, restraint, fetters, shackles, chains, bonds, irons.
Definitions from Oxford Pocket American Dictionary of Current English
and The Synonym Finder J. I. Rodale

UNICEF "reports that across the world, there are over one million children entering the sex trade every year and that approximately 30 million children have lost their childhood through sexual exploitation over the past 30 years." Quote from Lisa L. Thompson's testimony, for further reading read link below for Human Trafficking.
See also link for UNICEF further figures:
http://www.unicef.org/indonesia/Factsheet_CSEC_trafficking_Indonesia.pdf

Links for more information:
http://www.humantrafficking.org/events/64
There are four available downloads of testimonies. I downloaded, printed, and read Lisa L. Thompson's testimony.
http://breakingchains.ning.com/
"Fight for the freedom of innocent children who have been subjected to the chains of bondage through prostitution, abuse, and trafficking." From Breaking Chains Website
http://notinmytown.net/

Published by New Hope Publishers 2011
320 pages
Christian Fiction

Link @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/deliver-me-from-evil-freedom/kathi-macias/9781596693067/pd/693067?product_redirect=1&Ntt=693067&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP
Paperback $10.99

Author links:
http://kathimacias.com/
http://www.christianspeakersservices.com/kathi-macias---christian-speaker--author.html
http://kathieasywritermacias.blogspot.com/

Kathi Macias has written a brave, sobering, frightening story of child sex trafficking in America.
It is rare for me to read a book and feel so uncomfortable that I had a hard time keeping my seat. I often had to take a break and walk around the room, or house, or even leave my house in order to digest what I'd just read. This is a book that when the reader finishes the last page there can no longer be naivety or apathy; but instead propelled, to be an abolisher, and an abolitionist, and an advocate, for the safety of children!

Mara is a teenage girl living in the San Diego, California area. Mara was born in Mexico, and when she was a young girl her father sold her to be a slave in the sex trade. Mara, her name means bitter. A name that reflects her life. She only speaks when she is told to do so, her head is bowed in submission, she is only fed if she is obedient, her clothing is provocative, she sleeps when she is told she can. She has no freedom, her every move has limitations. She is a prisoner in a world where people use and abuse her body. They do not care if she lives another day except that they would loose out on making money off her body.
Chanthra a teenage girl lives in the Golden Triangle region of Thailand. She had been raised in a Christian home, but went to live with people who had promised her parents they'd care for her. Instead Chanthra is forced to be in the sex trade. Her owner gives her drugs to dull her painful life. She works a shift, sleeps, abuses drugs, works a shift, sleeps, abuses drugs. Her life is a horrific imprisonment.
Jonathon is a senior in high school. He lives in San Diego, California with his family. He will be going to Bible College in the fall. He knows it will make his parents happy if he goes to Bible College, yet he is unmotivated and unfocused on his life beyond baseball. In a chance encounter the world he thought he knew would be shaken and he would never be the same again.

This is a book I'll never forget. It was emotionally difficult for me to read what these young girls endured, yet awareness is the first step in stopping this horrifying reality.
Kathy has written several books with themes that bring to light and break barriers against culture, prejudice, and abuse. She writes on themes that many people not only won't talk about, but they don't believe are really happening.
Mara and Chanthra were forced in to an enslaved existence. Each moment that ticks slowly by is with the foremost thought of survival. Kathy Macias has written so realistically of their suffrage and pain that my skin prickles.
The slave owner's conversations, actions, and persona is written candidly. Their putridness nearly trickled out of the pages of the book.

Weaved in to this story is a common theme in Kathi's books, the power of prayer. The Holy Spirit's prompting in Christian's to pray for others, including other people we have never met or known.
This must have been a difficult book to give birth to. In writing it Kathi must have felt exhausted at times.
Book Two in the Freedom Series is Special Delivery--available early March.
http://www.amazon.com/Special-Delivery-Freedom-Kathi-Macias/dp/159669307X/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1326283834&sr=8-9
This posted review will also appear on my blog @ A Well-Watered Garden.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day: January 11

2012-01-07T13:10:00.001-06:00

Links for more information:
http://www.notforsalecampaign.org/
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/12/30/presidential-proclamation-national-slavery-and-human-trafficking-prevent

Author Kathy Macias has written a book Deliver Me From Evil---The Freedom Series that I will be posting a review on soon.
Link for Facebook Book Tour:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/CSS-Virtual-Book-Tour-Kathi-Macias-The-Freedom-Series/123360954410242?ref=ts&sk=wall
A review on this book:
http://www.danieldarling.com/2011/12/a-novel-every-christian-should-read/

Link from Blog Talk Radio on this subject:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/jon-hansen/2012/01/08/off-the-cuff-an-intimate-conversation-with-special

Awareness!
Annette

Book Review: When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

2012-01-07T12:38:00.000-06:00

"I've thought a lot about those veils. I wonder if, every once in a while, someone is born with out one. Someone who sees the big stuff all the time. Like maybe you."

Published by Yearling 2009
Fiction for ages 8-12

Miranda age 12, lives with her mom in New York City. They live in a small apartment, living on meager pay. Miranda's mother is a paralegal. Her mother's boyfriend is Richard. Richard is a nice guy, always eager to be loving and helpful to Miranda and her mother. Miranda's mom is practicing to be a contestant on the $20,000 Pyramid Game Show. Miranda is savvy about her neighborhood: where to walk, who to talk to and who not to talk to, and always locks the apartment door. There is a strange person that Miranda names "the laughing man," she sees him often on the street corner and he makes strange comments to her, Miranda is puzzled. One day the apartment door is found unlocked when Miranda comes home from school. Miranda and her mom's extra apartment key is missing, as well as Richard's boots. Then strange notes arrive. These notes lead Miranda to believe that something bad is going to happen.

When You Reach Me is primarily focused on Miranda and her life living in New York City; which includes school, friends, and daily life during this period. Weaved in to When You Reach Me is the strange "laughing man" and his comments to Miranda while she is walking down her block. As the story progresses his significance increases. Miranda at 12 is coming in to an age of peer pressure, boyfriends, a developing body, an awareness or consciousness of her and her mothers life, and a maturity of the world around her. Miranda is a perceptive and bright girl. She is neither beautiful or undesirable, she is average in her appearance (or so she believes.) She is a character that can easily be related to by young girls. She is admirable in her relationship with her mom and her mom's boyfriend. Miranda has a growing consciousness of her environment, yet she does not let that change her personality, instead she "rises to her abilities."

When I first began reading When You Read Me I was not sure I'd like this book. It did seem to be going in one direction. About midway through the book I realized I'd been wrong, instead the book began to peer in to another direction. That direction was a twist, a pleasant surprise.
I do like Miranda's character. I do like her quirky mom. I especially liked it that this story did not morph in to a dysfunctional type home-life.
Over-all I really liked this book and will be passing it on to my granddaughter!

Winner of John Newbery Award 2010

John Newbery Award Page:
http://ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newberymedal/newberymedal

Authors site:
http://www.rebeccasteadbooks.com/index2.html

Link @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/When-You-Reach-Yearling-Newbery/dp/0375850864/ref=tmm_pap_title_0
Paperback $6.99
Kindle $6.99

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: The Mirror of N'de by L. K. Malone

2011-12-08T09:47:00.001-06:00

I'm a newby to reading fantasy fiction. Having stated that, I was somewhat lost in the beginning of the story because I was in uncharted reading territory. It did not take long though to be swept up in this amazing story!

Link @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Mirror-Nde-Novel-L-K-Malone/dp/0825426677
Paperback $10.79

Link @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/the-mirror-of-nde-a-novel/l-k-malone/9780825426674/pd/426674?product_redirect=1&Ntt=426674&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP
Paperback $11.99

Published by Kregel November 1, 2011
328 pages
Young Adult for ages 13-17/Fantasy Fiction/Allegory

The story begins with a dream that Hadlay has had, when she awakens she is left not understanding it's strange message. She is troubled by this dream and eventually tells her parents and friends. She is told not to tell anyone else for fear of retribution and punishment. Thirteen year old Hadlay Mivana is a Ramash and they are ruled by the Oresed. The Ramash live as mistreated abused servants to the Oresed. Hadlay as well as several other Ramash children are chosen to be initiates in an apprenticeship program in the Oresed Tower. Hadlay had not wanted to be chosen, but she and her friends are. She excels in her studies. There is jealously and trouble-makers amongst some of the students. Hadlay perseveres because she wants to help her people, yet at what cost?

I have to admit when this story first began I was a little lost. I've only read a couple of fantasy fiction books. I think fantasy fiction requires a certain area of the brain in which to read and understand. That little area of my brain has not been used enough.
Although, I was quickly intrigued and anxious for each page to turn; I wanted to know what would happen to Hadlay and her family and friends.
Hadlay is a bright, independent minded, insightful, brave, and loyal character. But, because she is young she trusts too easily.
This is a deep multi-layered story of peoples and cultures on top of other peoples and cultures. Those that are the over-seers are the conquerors, and those enslaved are the workers.
The author used an Akkadian language for names of characters and a few other chosen words in the story. The Akkadian language is the earliest attested Semitic language in Babylon, Ur and Chaldea.
I felt the messages given to Hadlay from her dreams could not be a work of anyone else but God. God's name is never used in the story, instead the story is given as an allegory.
The story is written with great creativity and I was amazed at the plot, scenes, climax, and ending. At no point did I feel the The Mirror of N'de was awash with predictability.
I'm hoping for a book 2, surely there will be?
This is a phenomenal story and one that has not been told from this angle. I loved it!

Thank you to LitFuse Publicity Group and Kregel Publications for my free review copy!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Triple Dog Dare, One Year of Dynamic Devotions For Boys by Jeremy V. Jones

2011-12-01T20:25:00.001-06:00

"The Bible is full of action. Remember how David slew Goliath, Daniel faced those lions, Paul survived a shipwreck and Jesus stood up for a woman about to be killed? God made boys to take His truth and do something with it, to man up and change the world. These action-packed devotions for boys ages 9 to 12 are filled with godly truth and bold spiritual challenges that transform time with God into the adventure of the day."

Published October 2011 by David C. Cook
384 pages
Non-Fiction/Christian Devotional for Boys
For ages 9 and up

Link for the book @Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/triple-dare-year-dynamic-devotions-boys/jeremy-jones/9780781404570/pd/404570?product_redirect=1&Ntt=404570&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP#curr
Paperback $9.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Triple-Dog-Dare-Dynamic-Devotions/dp/0781404576/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1322792993&sr=1-1
Paperback $10.19

Thank you to David C Cook and B and B Media Group for my free review copy!

Yesterday I reviewed a devotional book for girls entitled Truth and Dare, One Year of Dynamic Devotions For Girls by Ann-Margret Hovsepian. This book in every way focuses on young girls from the front cover to its content, through to the dare project and journaling.
Triple Dog Dare, One Year of Dynamic Devotions For Boys by Jeremy V. Jones. This devotional book also in every way focuses on young boys from the bold edgy primary colored front cover, through to the devotional content of truth and dare, to the mission accomplished section.
I noticed that the devotional sections are briefer than in the girls devotional. The writing is more to the point, less descriptive chat.
Each day marked by the day of the week, has a Bible verse to read, devotional part is entitled "Truth" section and a living it out by "Triple Dare" section , then a "Mission Accomplished--- What did you do? What did you learn?" section.
The author impresses upon the reader to stand up for what they believe, to not back down but to live out what they know in their heart is right.
The devotional book to me is perfectly geared for young boys in that it reaches them the right way in getting their attention. It lifts them up, gives them a goal, encourages them and strengthens them.
Weekend sections are 2 pages in length. For example "How to Build Up Your Body"---this weekend section focused on physically building up strength by exercise. Another weekend section focuses on how to handle a bully.
There are pages marked "Your Page" a short sentence is started and the reader is to continue free writing, for example: "I feel closest to God when....."
I have 2 sons both now grown. I would have loved to have given them this devotional book when they were young boys.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Truth and Dare, One Year of Dynamic Devotions For Girls by Ann-Margret Hovsepian

2011-12-01T18:35:00.001-06:00

"Dear Jesus, thank you for being the truth. Help me to dare to live for you. Amen."

Published October 1, 2011 by David C. Cook
Non-Fiction/Christian/Devotional for Girls
384 Pages
For ages 9-12

This book has a Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/truth.dare.devotions?sk=wall

Link for book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Truth-Dare-Dynamic-Devotions-Girls/dp/1434702081/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1322787805&sr=1-2
Paperback $10.79

Link for book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/truth-dare-year-dynamic-devotions-girls/ann-margret-hovsepian/9781434702081/pd/702081?product_redirect=1&Ntt=702081&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP
Paperback $9.99

The first thing I noticed about Truth and Dare, One Year of Dynamic Devotions For Girls is the eye-catching front cover. The cover is in pastel hues, predominantly pink. Pictures of girly stuff are decorated on the front cover: a diary, mirror, dress, fashion ad. Also in the menagerie there is a feminine hand reaching for a large ornate gold key.Could this possibly be a metaphor in that the key stands for God's Word.
"He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure." Isaiah 33:6
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Proverbs 1:7
I know many Christians who never open their Bible. It sits on a shelf, somewhere, although it might even be misplaced, a little dusty perhaps, maybe still in a plastic wrapping case, it was probably a gift from a friend who thought they needed comfort from the words within---yet was never opened to reveal its treasures.
But, if when a person is young and they begin to read and hide God's Word in their heart, seeds will be planted that will certainly bear fruit.
The devotionals are brief: a Bible verse to read followed by Truth which is a small devotional paragraph, then Dare which is to help the reader apply what has been read, then a journaling area. The author states in the introduction that 15 minutes for each day in the morning reading the 1 page, then another 15 minutes later in the day before bedtime to review.
The devotional can be started at any point and repeated in the next year because the days of the week are the only dates given.
For the weekend 2 pages are given for devotional reading. Also included in weekend readings are testimonies and applications from girls that love God.
The devotional impresses upon the reader God's love for them no matter what others tell them, no matter if they feel "different" or not fitting in, "inner beauty is worth more-lasts longer-than outward beauty." Most importantly, "God's love for you and the love you have for others-is free."
This devotional for girls would be a wonderful Christmas present! Is there any better gift than God's Word?

Thank you to David C. Cook and B and B Media for my free review copy!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: The Three Trees, A Traditional Folktale by Elena Pasquali, with illustrations by Sophie Windham

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

There once stood three trees on a hillside, each with their own dream. The dreams they dreamed would be fulfilled in a way they'd never imagined. They would each take part in the greatest story that has ever been written.
I loved this book! It is a beautiful story, and a much cherished story! It is a story of hope and redemption, and of regeneration and triumph.
I read this book to my two grandchildren last weekend, both of them listened very attentively.
One of my favorite memories of my own children is reading to them aloud before bed at night. I'm building good memories now in reading to my grandchildren.
I loved the illustrations such as the sweet and friendly faces of the animals. Even the arachnid's and insects are illustrated in charming detail.
Colors of federal blue, sea green, poppy red.
The illustrations have an Americana or Folk Art feel.
The pictures--illustrations alone would hold the interest of children, gazing at the various and intricate detailed artwork. On each page my grandchildren and I played "eye-spy".

About the Author: Elena Pasquali studied romance languages at university and has a special interest in researching folk tales. She worked for some years in children's publishing before going on to be an author in her own right.

About the Illustrator: Sophie Windham has illustrated books for Bloomsbury and Orchard, and was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal for Unicorns! Unicorns! by Geraldine McCaughrean.

Thank you to Kregel and Lion Children's for my free review copy.
Kregel Book Tour November 7-11

Published September 1, 2011 by Lion Children's
32 pages
For ages 5-7

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://store.kregel.com/productdetails.cfm?PC=2630
Hardcover $14.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Three-Trees-Traditional-Folktale/dp/0745962890/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1320413894&sr=8-2
Hardcover $11.69
Paperback $6.61

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Across the Wide River Book 1 by Stephanie Reed

2011-10-25T17:11:00.000-05:00

"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother." 1 John 3:10 NIV

Link for the authors site:
http://www.stephanielreed.com/

For more information on the Underground Railroad in Ohio:
http://www.ohiomemory.org/cdm4/results.php?CISOBOX1=underground%20railroad&CISOOP1=all&CISOFIELD1=CISOSEARCHALL&CISOOP2=&CISOFIELD2=&CISOBOX2=&CISOROOT=all

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Across-Wide-River-Stephanie-Reed/dp/0825435765/ref=pd_sim_b_1
Paperback $9.99
Not available on Kindle

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/across-the-wide-river-1/stephanie-reed/9780825435768/pd/35763?item_code=WW&netp_id=344196&event=ESRCG&view=details
Paperback $8.19

Stephanie Reed has written another book as well:
The Light Across the River

Thank you to Kregel Publishers and Stephanie Reed for my free review copy.
The Kregel Book Tour was August 15-19.
www.kregel.com/blogtours

Published by Kregel 2011, originally published 2004
Christian Non-Fiction
Biography/Underground Railroad/Early 19th Century/Slavery/Abolitionist's
Written for young adult reader's, but I feel for adult reader's as well.

When Lowry Rankin is almost 9 years old, he and his family move from Kentucky to across the Ohio River to Ripley, Ohio. Lowry's father is Reverend John Rankin a Presbyterian minister and abolitionist. At an early age Lowry is deeply affected by slavery. He witnessed the abuse and brutality of black slaves under the bondage of white slave masters. The Rankin family's red brick home in Ripley, Ohio becomes the first stop in the pre-Civil War Underground Railroad.

Rankin family home in Ripley, Ohio.

Across The Wide River follows the family's mission in helping runaway slaves once they cross the Ohio river. The story also tells Lowry Rankin's life story and his development in to a young man.


Looking out the Rankin family home window at the Ohio River.

I loved this book!
I wish the book had been longer, there was so much more of the story I would have loved to read.
Across The Wide River gave me a better view of what it was like for the runaway slave escaping across the river in fear of their lives, with the hope of freedom on the other side.
I learned what it was like for those that escorted the black men and women and children to their next destination.
The network of people involved in the Underground Railroad was larger that I realized. In looking back when I was in school it is a shame that we did not study more about this history.
The abolitionist's were faith driven and heroic in their willingness to put their life in danger for the sake of others.
The author Stephanie Reed had a life long mission to study and write about the Underground Railroad that was in Ripley, Ohio. She states that as a young girl she would pass by the Rankin home on her way to visit her grandparents. She stated that she "spent years doing library research." She noted that she interviewed descendants of the Rankin's.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: The Light Across the River Book 2 by Stephanie Reed

2011-10-25T17:06:00.000-05:00

In Book 1 Across the Wide River the main character is the oldest Rankin child--Lowry. In The Light Across the River we are introduced to the 7th child in the Rankin's family of 13 children. His name is Johnny. The Rankin family lives in southern Ohio and just across the Ohio River from Kentucky. The year is 1837. The Rankin family is apart of the network of the Underground Railroad. Not only are the parents involved in helping black slaves escape to Canada, but the Rankin children when they are old enough are also involved in this mission. When the book begins Johnny is considered "too young to keep a secret," he has the reputation in his family of not being able to discipline his mouth from telling any kind of information. Johnny feels pushed aside, unimportant. But as the story unfolds Johnny will become apart of a sweeping and dangerous journey that has touched many American lives, and is considered to have pushed emotions to the edge in bringing about the Civil War.
The story of the Rankin family is based on true historical information that the author Stephanie Reed worked tirelessly to bring in to the two books:
Across the Wide River
and
The Light Across the River.

I have loved these two books!
For the main reason is that they are just good stories of people that were willing to sacrifice all that they had and loved, in order to help others to reach freedom.
I felt the author wrote in perfect detail what it must have been like for a slave to flee in fear to an unknown land, knowing that the slave-traders and their slave-masters were pursuing them.
I felt the author has a gift for descriptive writing that makes the reader feel as if they are "there."
In story the author makes comparisons such as the kindness and gentleness and extravagant sacrificial love of the Rankin family--versus--the cruelty abuse and horror of the slave-trader.
The author writes of the warmth of a fireplace and plenty of food to eat in a free persons house--versus--the sparsity of clothing and food in a bare and cold slaves home.
The mistrust of a slave towards any white person is understandable, as of yet they'd only encountered those white people that wanted them in bondage. It took patience and the earning of trust for any slave to accept the kindness of these strangers across the river. I felt Stephanie did a great job of bringing these issues in to the story.

Thank you to Stephanie Reed and Kregel Publications for my free review copy.


View from the Rankin family home looking across the Ohio River

Map of the routes of the Underground Railroad

Published by Kregel Publications April 2008
216 pages
For ages 9-12

My previous review of Book 1 Across The Wide River by Stephanie Reed:
http://awell-wateredgarden.blogspot.com/2011/08/book-review-across-wide-river-by.html

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://store.kregel.com/productdetails.cfm?PC=1195
Paperback $10.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Light-Across-River-Novel/dp/0825435749/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319461493&sr=8-1
Paperback $9.34
Kindle $8.79

I did not find The Light Across The River @ Christian Book, only book 1 is available there, Across The Wide River.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Treasures from Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson

2011-09-29T17:47:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest regrets in my life is that I don't remember more of the stories that my own grandmother's told me. I was 10 when my paternal grandmother died. I was 26 when my maternal grandmother died.
I do remember them sharing with me how hard they worked: building a fire in the yard and boiling water in a large kettle in order to wash clothes. Wringing clothes out by hand and then hanging them on the clothes-line outside---(what about in the winter wouldn't they freeze? I did not think to ask that question.)
I remember my grandmother's telling me about the layers of clothes they wore, the thick stockings, wool underwear, sturdy button up shoes, and the petticoats....and those annoying cumbersome itchy binding corsets.
Everything was made from scratch.
The men worked in the field, the women worked at home.
My grandmother's were born during an age when there were no cars, no indoor plumbing, no electricity.
They were born during a time when babies were born at home.
People did not go to the doctor unless near death. This was also an age when many children did not live to become grown-ups.
"Back in the day" had a deeply defining more serious meaning.

Arleta Richardson has written the Grandma's Attic series to reach out to young girls ages 8-12. They were written in order to give them a home-spun, entertaining, and applicable books to read. They were also written to tell "true tales of yesteryear that bring timeless lessons for today, combining the appeal of historical fiction for girls with the truth of God's Word. Each captivating story promotes godly character and values with humor, understanding and warmth."
The Grandma's Attic series follows the young life of Mabel a girl born in the 19th Century. Mabel grows up to be the grandmother of Arleta and she freely shares stories from her girlhood.

In Book 4 of the Grandma's Attic Series---Treasures from Grandma's Attic---there are several stories that deal with honesty. We learn that Mabel often looses or misplaces things, she also dilly dallies (day dreams).
There is a teaching given on page 131 "beauty is as beauty does." My, I've heard that many times in my life, except what I was taught is pretty is as pretty does. And that is what my granddaughter know very well!
I believe this book has been my favorite. Mabel is a little older, still best friends with Sarah Jane. By book 4 I understand that Mabel is a precocious, bold, intelligent girl. Yet she is still just a girl and creates more havoc for herself than need be...she has a patient mother.

Published by David C. Cook August 2011
160 pages/for girls ages 8-12

Thank you to David C. Cook and B and B Media for my free review copy!

To read the reviews of the first two Grandma's Attic books:
http://missdaisyanne.blogspot.com/2011/05/book-review-in-grandmas-attic-by-arleta.html
http://missdaisyanne.blogspot.com/2011/05/book-review-more-stories-from-grandmas.html

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Treasures-Grandmas-Attic/dp/0781403820/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1317333009&sr=1-5
Paperback $6.99
Kindle $5.59

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/treasures-from-grandmas-attic/arleta-richardson/9780781403825/pd/403820?product_redirect=1&Ntt=403820&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP
Paperback $5.99

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson

2011-09-29T16:43:00.000-05:00

The Grandma's Attic series were written for girls ages 8-12. My own granddaughter Celeste that just turned 8 has really enjoyed reading this series. An 8 year old does not have the ability to give a critical review of a book, they just know if they like it or not. Celeste has expressed that the stories are funny, this means they hold her attention. They also encourage an interest in her mind to ask me questions about my own childhood.
When we share stories of our childhood with our children and grandchildren they then relate to us on a more deeper level than just as a parent or grandparent. We are sharing apart of our lives with them, we are speaking on their level, and they will feel we are more approachable because of this.

Grandma's Attic Series Book Three--Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson
Published by David C Cook August 2011
160 pages/For ages 8-12

Mabel and her best friend and also partner in mischievous antics is Sarah Jane. The two of them live near each other, attend school together, and are the best of friends. Mabel and Sarah Jane live in the 19th Century, yet the experiences they have any girl of any age can relate to. For example they had a new idea for clothing, wanting to break away from their mother's views of what is appropriate, the two girls decide to try something "new". Their "new" idea backfires and creates more of a problem than they anticipated.
Weaved in to the stories which are meant to be entertaining to a young reader, are also hidden jewels of wisdom.
"I want you to know that there is a time for justice and a time for mercy. God doesn't give us the blessings of life because we deserve them but because He loves us." page 97
Mabel grows up to be the grandmother of the author Arleta Richardson. Arleta shares the stories that her grandmother told her when she was a young girl in the pages of the Grandma's Attic series.
I have enjoyed reading these books and I have one more review to post for Book 4.
My favorite story from this book is the first story told, face cream and wax....need I say more?

Thank you to David C Cook and B and B Media Group for my free review copy!

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/still-more-stories-from-grandmas-attic/arleta-richardson/9780781403818/pd/403818?product_redirect=1&Ntt=403818&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP
Paperback $5.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Still-More-Stories-Grandmas-Attic/dp/0781403812/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1317332066&sr=8-2
Paperback $6.99
Kindle $5.59

Link for my previous reviews on Books 1 and 2:
http://missdaisyanne.blogspot.com/2011/05/book-review-in-grandmas-attic-by-arleta.html
http://missdaisyanne.blogspot.com/2011/05/book-review-more-stories-from-grandmas.html

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Did You Know This Week is Banned Books Week?

2011-09-29T14:55:00.000-05:00

I'm happy to be back blogging!
Shortly after moving in to our new home in mid August, my husband had surgery on his left shoulder to repair 2 torn places. He is still home recuperating, but gradually improving each day. It's difficult to read and especially to blog when I now have 2 people in my home to care for (my hubby, and my dad).

This is Banned Book week, did you know that? I'll not be diving off in to the political discussions about book banning. Personally I am a discerning reader, but not a book banner. I received an email recently from Redeemed Reader. They are on Facebook if you are interested, they also have a blog to read, and you can subscribe to their blog posts. Redeemed Reader focuses on Christian centered books for children and young adult. They lined up several discussions on the topic of Book Banning.

Link for the Beginning Discussion:
http://www.redeemedreader.com/2011/09/banned-books-week-live-it-love-it-get-the-t-shirt/

A second post entitled What Gets a Book Banned:
http://www.redeemedreader.com/2011/09/what-gets-a-book-banned/

Another post entitled The Use and Abuse of Youth Literature:
http://www.redeemedreader.com/2011/09/the-use-and-abuse-of-youth-literature/

They asked a question of their reader's on this topic that I am asking my reader's to answer.
If you could place one Christian kid's book in every library in America, what would it be? and why?

For more information about Banned Book Week:
http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek/index.cfm

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Masterpiece by Elise Broach and illustrated by Kelly Murphy

2011-07-24T13:58:00.000-05:00

"The ink flowed smoothly off his legs across the page. Though he'd never done anything like this before, it seemed completely natural, even unstoppable. He kept glancing up, tracing the details of the scene with his eyes then transferring them onto the paper. It was as if his legs had been waiting all their lives for this ink, this page, this lamp-lit window view. There was no way to describe the feeling." page 29-30

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Masterpiece-Elise-Broach/dp/0805082700
Paperback $11.60
Kindle $7.99

I bought this book at a Scholastic Book Fair at my granddaughter's school.

Authors list of books
www.elisebroach.com
www.kelmurphy.com

Published by Scholastic September 2008
Fiction for ages 8-12
292 pages

Marvin is a responsible boy, obedient and respectful to his parents. Actually, he is thought of as a marvel to his family, they dote on his accomplishments. Marvin though is a beetle, and he lives with his family under the kitchen sink in an apartment in New York City. The humans in the apartment are the Pompaday's. James Pompaday is a boy that feels rather pushed to the side by his family. James receives a pen-and-ink set for his birthday from his artist father. Marvin wants to be a true friend to James (even though Marvin is a beetle). Marvin draws a picture for James with this new birthday gift. A new adventure begins for both James and Marvin, taking them to the Museum of Art and the mystery art thief.

Innsbruck Castle by Albrecht Durer 1471-1528

I loved this book!
I have noticed that in many children or young adult stories one of the "characters" is often a mouse, or some other little animal that could be considered cutesy. But in the Masterpiece the character Marvin is a beetle. I loved that! I considered that quite creative.
The story has elements of friendship, kindness, bravery, commitment, loyalty, compassion, and respect for all God's creatures.
The story also deals with divorce, step-parents, and children's feelings after a divorce.
The story has a mystery, in the art thief case.
The story is creative and has an artistic element.
The story shows family love and closeness in Marvin's family. Once again this is expressed not through humans but through the beetle family.

There are several pen and ink drawings throughout the book. Great attention to detail is given in the facial expressions of the characters. Even in the bug-eyed beetles they were given little expressions.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Portaits, Dancing Through Fire by Kathryn Lasky

2011-07-24T10:03:00.000-05:00

"She was balanced en pointe on one foot and whipped the other around. Then the second. She had not even completed the second when she thought, almost unconsciously, Oh, I can go around again. It was as if another force had possessed her, a force that allowed her, inspired her to do this third rotation. She had no fear, no second thoughts. It was beyond her control. She was just doing it!" page 37

About the author:
http://www.scholastic.com/gahoole/author.htm

Link for the book at publisher:
http://bookwizard.scholastic.com/tbw/viewWorkDetail.do?workId=1163176&FullBreadCrumb=%3Ca+href%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww2.scholastic.com%2Fbrowse%2Fsearch%2F%3FNtx%3Dmode%2Bmatchallpartial%26_N%3Dfff%26Ntk%3DSCHL30_SI%26query%3Dportraits%2Bby%2Bkathryn%2Blasky%26N%3D0%26Ntt%3Dportraits%2Bby%2Bkathryn%2Blasky%22+class%3D%22endecaAll%22%3EAll+Results%3C%2Fa%3E
Hardback $9.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Portraits-Dancing-Through-Kathryn-Lasky/dp/043971009X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311352526&sr=8-1
Hardback $9.99

Published October 2005 by Scholastic
176 pages
Reading Level 4.3
For ages 9-12


The dance class by Edgar Degas 1874-1876

Sylvie Bertrand is a "little rat" a young pupil at the Paris Opera Ballet, the year is 1870. Her widowed mother is a laundress and tries desperately to provide for her and Sylvie. An older sister Chantal drops by occasionally for money or food. Sylvie is a dedicated and talented student of ballet. Sylvie's problem is not technique, nor form, nor talent. She must grow another quarter of an inch for her to be promoted to next level.
Her thoughts are on growing; but more sinister events are unfolding in France---war. For a young girl that has thought only of ballet; war and political events seem remote and far away for Sylvie. Sylvie will dance in the foyer de la danse (where classes and rehearsals were conducted) while a war threatens her homeland.

This is a lovely story and I enjoyed reading it!
At times I wondered if this was a young adult story or an adult story. The main character Sylvie is a child, but there are worldly situations going on in her family and in Paris and in France and in Europe, all threatening the life that she has known.
Realistically isn't this the life for many children, menacing forces edging close to a child's world if not living in the same house.
Sylvie is a tender hearted young girl, she notices the delicate and sickly people that need other humans affection and help. Even though Sylvie's world is ballet and she is a talented dancer, she is not arrogant or conceited---she thinks of others.
She is respectful to her mother, there was not a hint of disrespect in her demeanor.
Sylvie is a innocent and rather naive girl, but she is gutsy and brave.
I loved the references to ballet terms, French words, and the environment or back drop of Paris.
The cover on the book is of L' Etoile or The Star also known as Dancer on the Stage, painted by Edgar Degas 1878.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Update

2011-07-19T13:03:00.001-05:00

Our home is under contract and we will be moving (hopefully) the middle of next month. We have a contract on the home we will be moving in to. Do not look for a post from me until about the 1st of September.
I have already started cleaning up and out things that needed to be discarded, and also of course packing.
I am looking forward to reviewing more books for you from the new office/library that I will have.
Until then read good books and enjoy the rest of the summer!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Book Review: Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff

2011-07-19T12:55:00.000-05:00

Hollis Woods has finally found a home she can "fit in with." But, circumstances beyond her control will threaten this little nest. Through her experience Hollis will learn things about herself she never thought possible.

Published by Scholastic 2002
For ages 9-12
176 pages

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Pictures-Hollis-Woods-Newbery-Honor/dp/0385326556
Paperback $6.99
Hardback $11.16
Kindle $6.99

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/search?query=picture+of+hollis+woods

By the age of 12 Hollis Woods has lived in almost 1/2 dozen foster homes. After settling in at each home she eventually leaves, scoots out the door, it's as if she has gotten "enough" and wants to leave A.S.A.P.
Then she is placed in to the home of an elderly retired art teacher, Josie Cahill. Josie has a moody cat named Henry. A bond quickly grows between Hollis and Josie. Often during the story Hollis day dreams of her previous foster family, she has conversations with Steven--he is her trusted confident. Hollis begins to understand that Josie's aging may make it difficult for her to continue living there and she worries about the future for both of them.

This book was made in to a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie in 2007.
It is a winner of the Newbery Honor Book award.

I loved the character Hollis. She is sharp, quick, witty, feisty, artistic, independent, and a scraper.
There is a tender spot in her heart that reaches out to Josie and for that I have kind regards for this young girl that has lived through many trials.
There were times early in the book that I was not sure if Steven was a real person, but the book does reveal the answer in time.
The book is touching. There is not physical displays of love, but the love the exudes from the heart of Hollis is memorable.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Cry of the Giraffe, Based on a True Story by Judie Oron

2011-06-24T11:41:00.000-05:00

Authors site and for more information on this incredible story:
http://judieoron.com/

http://youtu.be/lAlUc2UxP0I

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Cry-Giraffe-Judie-Oron/dp/1554512727
Hardback $16.48
Paperback $10.36

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://site.annickpress.com/catalog/catalog.aspx?Title=Cry+of+the+Giraffe

2011 USBBY Outstanding International Books Honor List
2011 Sydney Taylor Notable Book for Teens
White Ravens Collection, International Youth Library, Munich
2011 Helen and Stan Vine Canadian Jewish Book Award
Amelia Bloomer Project 2011 List, ALA
YALSA Hidden Gems

Cry of the Giraffe is on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cry-of-the-Giraffe/152399418116528?sk=wall

Published by Annick Press July 2010
208 pages/Non-fiction/Grades 8 and up
Slavery/Ethiopian Jew/Refugee/Abuse/War

Once again I've read a story I'd not heard of before. The true story of Jewish refugees fleeing the destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple that traveled and settled in Ethiopia. These Jewish Ethiopians lived in their own communities for a long time, waiting until they could settle back in the land of their father's. They called themselves Beta Israel or House of Israel. When Israel became a statehood in 1948 they waited patiently for the ability to resettle there. In the 1980's Ethiopia became ever more hostile to them and they began fleeing to Sudan to await a hopeful flight out of Sudan and to Israel. While waiting in these refugee camps in Sudan the abuse, neglect, starvation, and disease was horrifying and rampant. Families were torn apart literally, some never seeing each other again. Others were parted for long periods of time. More than 4,000 would die.
There are120,000 Ethiopian Jews living in Israel now.
Cry of the Giraffe is the story of Wuditu a young girl living in a village in Ethiopia with her brother Dawid and mother. Their mother was the first wife of their father Berihun. He had a second wife and several daughters with her. Each of the wives lived with their own children in separate houses.
This family early in the book began to leave Ethiopia walking with a guide all the way to Sudan. After reaching there they wait in a refugee camp, hoping that soon they can leave for Israel.

When the book begins Wuditu is age 9. She loves school, loves her family, she is dedicated to caring for her siblings, she fondly thinks of her brother Dawid. Early in the book we understand that Wuditu is going to endure hardship, but what experiences she goes through was depressing to me. It is more than sad, it is heart breaking and not understandable. Adults use her and abuse her more than they would an animal. She is collateral chattel a slave. She experiences abuse because she is a girl, and because she is a Jew.
This book is more than heart stirring, it is unforgettable.
There are situations that happen toward the end of the book that a young adult may need strong guidance.
This to me is not a book a young person should just be "let loose" to read alone.
In my opinion it is important for young people to understand what is going on in other countries. Countries that's cultures and religions and oppression and war have diluted the thinking of those in control of the people.
Many in this world do not have a vote or a voice. Judie Oron gave a voice to little Wuditu.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: The Outsider's by S. E. Hinton

2011-06-17T12:12:00.000-05:00

Original cover

Author's site:
http://www.sehinton.com/bio.html

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Outsiders-SE-Hinton/dp/014240733X
Paperback Platinum Edition $8.00

Published originally by Viking Penguin in 1967.
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780670532575,00.html?The_Outsiders_S._E._Hinton
208 pages/Fiction/Young Adult/Coming of Age/Gang Violence

An article was recently published in The Wall Street Journal entitled Darkness Too Visible by Meghan Cox Gurdon. This article has been talked about in other blogs and commented on profusely. It seems to have created a swarming beehive of strong opinions. But, in Meghan Cox's article she mentioned the book The Outsider's by S. E. Hinton. She noted that it was this book that began an industry of young adult literature period, and that it also began young adult books with the theme of, "family dysfunction and violent, disaffected youth." On Wikipedia it mentions that S. E. Hinton after this book was published was named "the voice of youth." On S. E. Hinton's website she expresses that she is a private person; by being a private person by nature it must have been startling to become, "the voice of youth." After reading the article by Meghan Cox Gurdon I made a trip to the library looking for this book (I never read it as a youth). I remember the film, but not the book. I want to mention that this book is on the list of most frequently challenged books 1990-2000. Considering the books that are proliferate on store shelves and libraries: books about witchcraft and demonology, books on vampire's and dragon's, werewolves and ghost's, and books with strong sexuality. Surely The Outsider's is no longer on "that list".

The Outsider's voice is from 14 year old Ponyboy Curtis. He and his 2 older brothers: Darry age 20 and Sodapop age 16 live alone--their parents died. These boys live in Tulsa, Oklahoma (not mentioned in the book, I read this on another site). Ponyboy is in school and does well, he could have a productive future.
All 3 boys are in a gang called The Greaser's. The other gang in town is the Socs, the upper crust society of teenage youth. The 2 gang's rumble often. The Socs are portrayed as being uppity snobbish forceful kids that want to put their dominance over The Greaser's. The Greaser's are portrayed as lost kids, settling for what life has handed to them, they are tough on the outside, yet have strong bonds for each other---treating each other as their family. Some themes in The Outsider's are "it's us against them", youthful vigor yet insecurity, dreams of something better yet not knowing how to get there, violence is the answer yet they find out it's not, and ultimate sacrifice of love.
There are a few words that are reminiscent of the 60'-70's:
Greaser's
digs
for kicks
hood
hoodlum
weed
corn-poney
rumble
I'm surprised the word far-out was not in the book!

I found no cursing in the book (I feel I must always mention this for parents benefit). The violence in my opinion was tame. The boys smoke cigarettes and weed-- but it is added to the story minimally.
The strength in this book is the bond between The Greaser's. What they have is more than just friendship, they are a family unit with strong feelings of protection and sacrifice for each other.
I really liked this book and can understand why it was accepted so positively by youth when the book was published in 1967.
But, we've come a long ways since 1967, hmmm I wonder what young adult books will be like in another 44 years?

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Cause, Reconstruction America 1863-1877 by Tonya Bolden

2011-06-04T13:23:00.000-05:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Cause-Reconstruction-1863-1877-Tonya-Bolden/dp/0375827951
Hardcover $15.56

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.randomhouse.com/book/15624/cause-by-tonya-bolden/9780375827952/?view=print
Hardcover $19.95

Author's site with synopsis:
http://www.tonyaboldenbooks.com/cause-reconstruction-america/

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers December 2005/144 pages
Non-fiction/Civil War/Reconstruction After Civil War/American History
For ages 9-12...but I'm much older than 12.

This year I've taken part in a Civil War Reading Challenge through War Through The Generations. This is my 3rd year to take part in a War Through The Generations Challenge hosted by fellow blogger's--Serena and Anna. Thank you to Serena and Anna both for hosting these challenges!

Books on the Reconstruction can be one-sided, meaning an author can express his own feelings about the Civil War through the pages of their book. I did not feel that Cause by Tonya Bolden was written in anyway slanting to one side or the other. Views are expressed by those people that lived during this time period from both sides of the Civil War. Views are expressed from the Presidents that were in office during this period.
Views are expressed from freed slaves that lived during this time period. I feel this is a balanced book from any angle.
The author stated early in the book that "more than 60,000 books have been published on the Civil War Reconstruction ." At this point what more could anyone add?
This year marks 150 years since the beginning of the Civil War. We do not mark this anniversary as if it is a celebration, but rather as a remembrance of America's history. And all Americans whether white or black or red or brown are American. We each have our own feelings, our own views, our own thoughts, and especially and praise God our own VOICE. I guess that is the answer as to why we have 60,000 books on this subject-----because we have a VOICE.

I usually give a synopsis on the book and then I share my feelings about the book. This time I'm going to share what I learned from this book that I did not know before reading it, as well as my feelings about the book.

Even though the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments were written and became apart of the Constitution there were many Americans that were either against or were in a quandary as to what to now do with the freed slaves. I am specifically referring to people who lived in the north and even President Abraham Lincoln.
I did not know that he pondered over sending freed slaves to West Africa and or Central America.
I find this odd because by the mid 1800's the freed slaves had been in America long enough that by sending them back to Africa would have been absurd. Absurd to think they would be able to survive in a land that they did not know. They knew, the land of America.
I did not know that after John Wilkes Booth shot Abraham Lincoln he shouted out in Latin, "Thus always to tyrants."
I did not know...and want to read more about this, that the Chinese came to this country not just because of the gold rush, but many were brought here by the railroad promising jobs. There were areas of China that were in a famine and men were eager to work. There duties in building the railroad were "chisel/pick/shovel/blast tunnels", for low wages.
I did not know that President Andrew Johnson was "stubborn, combative, shrewd, and sometimes crude."
I do know that if he were President during our age he would not be considered politically correct.

I really liked this book!
It is not too much to digest. Just the right information for a young reader, including an adult that wants a quick book to read on this subject.
There are many photograph's, black and white.
I read this book late one night, staying up because it held my interest.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Everything I Was by Corinne Demas

2011-05-31T22:51:00.000-05:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Everything-I-Was-Corinne-Demas/dp/0761373039
School and Library Binding $13.46
Kindle $9.99

Published April 2011
Carolrhoda Lab, Lerner Publishing Group
209 pages/Fiction, Young Adult

The publishing group Carolrhoda's aim is to promote "provocative boundary pushing literature for teens."

Irene is 13 and she lives in Manhattan New York City with her parents. They live in a luscious penthouse apartment. Irene attends a private school. Irene's mother has a strong penchant for spending money, and her doting and passive husband indulges her. When he looses his job their lives change dramatically.
They eventually move in with Irene's paternal grandfather. Even though there is tension in the home. The home is exactly what Irene has needed, a home, not a pampered palace.

I really liked this book and immediately became charmed with Irene.
She is not an overtly strong character, but believable.
She hides her emotions, stuffing them. She does not fully understand what has happened because her parents have hidden things from her and she is left to assume.
I liked the fact that she had a grandfather that loved her and listened to her---really paused and listened to her.
I disliked her mother. Hard to not be critical of her. Her dad needed to man-up. Pardon me I just had to let that out.
Irene is not only dealing with this life up-heave by moving, but she has a body that is developing from a child into a teenage girl. She also has angst about meeting new friends. She wants privacy yet wants companionship. She knows she has had something missing in her life yet did not know how to express it.
I saw 1 instance of cursing (I state that because I know some parents do care about this.)

Blissful Reading!
Annette

A Few Blog Bits of Interest

2011-05-27T14:18:00.000-05:00

A few blogs that I found that you maybe interested in:

Ms. Yingling is one of my favorite blogs focusing on books for middle schoolers especially boys.
http://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/

A blog post on 18th Century books:
http://janeaustensworld.wordpress.com/2011/05/19/18th-century-childrens-book-the-history-of-goody-little-two-shoes/

http://www.thebookcellarx.com/

http://shelfelf.wordpress.com/

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Book Review: The Other Side of Dark by Sarah Smith

2011-05-22T20:13:00.000-05:00

A book I'd would not have normally read, but did and really liked it!

Published by Antheneum Books For Young Readers in 2010/320 pages
For 7th grade and up, or for ages 12 and up
*I disagree about the reader age given by publisher, of course my own opinion, but I feel this book is more adequate for high school age readers.

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://books.simonandschuster.biz/Other-Side-of-Dark/Sarah-Smith/9781442402805
Hardcover $16.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Other-Side-Dark-Sarah-Smith/dp/1442402806/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1306108207&sr=8-2
Hardcover $11.89
Paperback $7.99
Kindle $9.99

Teenage Katie Mullens has an amazing gift, she sees ghosts. Not the ghostly visions that we see in the movies. But full human apparitions of those dearly departed souls. Her gift began after her mother died tragically about a year ago. Katie lives with her step-dad. Katie has few friends, she's known at her school as crazy Kate. Katie is also an artist, she is rarely without her sketch pad and pencil. At a park Katie meets a new boy named George, George has down-syndrome.
Law is a bi-racial teenage boy that has gone to school with Katie for a long time. He secretly had a crush on her several years ago. His parents are educated career oriented professionals, they have high aspirations for his future. Law's parents frown on his friendship with a girl that is not the right color, nor the right economic bracket for their son. Law's father in his booming voice expresses distaste for Law's procrastination over a speech Law must give. Law just wants to study history of architecture, but he knows his father will not approve.
Katie and Law live in a town with a strong history of events that are painful for all, slavery. The Pinebank estate built in the 1800's is set for demolition. It was built by a man that was not only a slave holder but the wealthiest man of that era. Katie and Law will make a discovery that will upend their town and in the process develop a relationship.

I love history!
I love books that tell me a tale of true history and then create interesting characters that have quirky characteristics. I especially love it when the author weaves in characters not usually in books, such as the down-syndrome character named George. George is a sweet, lovable, steadfast character. He is someone we all want to rescue and this kept my interest through out the book.
Katie is quirky in her gift of seeing ghosts, yet I was never afraid of what she saw. I was never frightened, nor was there carnage or messiness in these apparitions. This gift was described more in sarcasm, or comedy. At times she wanted it to just go away so she could be normal. I believe that may refer to what all teenagers want, to fit in to be normal.
Both Katie and Law are characters that strive at all times to do the right thing. I admired them.
I was swept away by the story and once the historical content came in to be I became even more enamored.

There is only 1 thing that I disliked about this book. There are many 4 letter curse words. I'm not referring to Hell and Damn, but other more degrading wasteful talk. I'm sure the author added them because she feels that most youth speak this way. I'm an adult and don't. Don't need to, I can fully express myself without using those words. I'm aware that many feel that these words are not a big deal, they are just another word.
I wanted to let my readers know because there are a few of us out there that believe cursing is a big deal. And they may not want there child, even if they are a teenager, reading this book. Which is a shame because there were elements of this book that I really liked.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Home Is Beyond the Mountains by Celia Barker Lottridge

2011-05-22T18:40:00.000-05:00

A story of astonishing bravery!

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Mountains-Celia-Barker-Lottridge/dp/0888999321/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1306104947&sr=8-1
Hardcover $13.22
Paperback $8.95

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://groundwoodbooks.com/gw_titles.cfm?pub_id=1432

Published in 2010 by Groundwood Books
Young Adult for ages 12 and up/224 pages

Samira age 9, her older brother Benyamin, baby sister Maryam, and their parents are living in an Assyrian village in northern Iran. During the summer of 1918 they flee carrying only what they are able to carry hoping to travel to where the British refugee camp is located. The Turks have invaded their area of Iran, an area that Samira's people have lived for centuries. The Assyrians speak the Syriac language and they are members of the Orthodox Church. For many days they travel along with others escaping. They travel through harsh environment and extreme weather, they travel over the mountains, they hide from Turkish army troops. The journey is perilous and with dangers at every turn.

This event is a true part of history I'd not heard of. I feel ignorant of history in the middle east, having only read a few books on this subject. I hope to continue to read books on this subject, as well as to continue to read books on children of other cultures.

The perilous journey of Samira is harrowing, what she endured astounding. Beyond doubt Samira is the heroine in this story.
She is a character that inspires any age reader. She is mature and wise beyond her 9 years of age, and as she grows she continues to transform in to a person of integrity and astounding greatness.
The people that care for those in the refugee camps work tirelessly for the children.
The children often must leave one camp and go to another, yet the workers are as understanding and supportive as they can be.
While in the camps Samira is given responsibilities as all the older children have.
The functions of the camp are explored as well as the health care and education they are given.
This is a story of adventure, fortitude, and family love.
The story is based on true events and of the authors mother and aunt growing up in Iran.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: More Stories from Grandma's Attic, Book 2 by Arleta Richardson

2011-05-21T14:14:00.000-05:00

In my previous post I'd neglected to mention that Arleta Richardson's Grandma's Attic books are a series that were originally published in 1974, then revised in 1999, and now re-published by David C. Cook in 2011. My friend Becky at Becky's Book Reviews told me they were a favorite of hers as a child! Last night when I visited my 7 year old granddaughter I gave her the 1st book In Grandma's Attic and she ran off to her bedroom to read it. She is in the 1st grade, but reads at a nearly 4th grade reading level!

Published by David C. Cook April 1, 2011/144 pages/For reading level above 2nd Grade/Non-Fiction

Link for the book at publisher:
http://www.davidccook.com/catalog/Detail.cfm?sn=106806&source=search
Paperback $6.99

Link for the book at Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/More-Stories-Grandmas-Attic/dp/0781403804/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1305989689&sr=1-1
Paperback 8.99 (pricey)
Kindle 7.19

Link for the book at Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/more-stories-from-grandmas-attic-repackaged/arleta-richardson/9780781403801/pd/403801?product_redirect=1&Ntt=9780781403801&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCN
Paperback $5.99 (great price)

There are 2 more Grandma's Attic series books to be published this year.
Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic July 2011
Treasures from Grandma's Attic July 2011

Little Arleta and her Grandma Mabel have an endearing relationship. Arleta often asks her Grandma Mabel to tell her stories of when she was a little girl. Grandma Mabel was born in the early 20th Century. This was an era of long skirts for girls, high top shoes with button closures, no electricity or indoor plumbing, childhood diseases that there was no immunization for, and long walks to school in the environment. It seems like a different world to Arleta, and her curiosity about this time prompts her to asks her Grandma Mabel to tell her those treasured stories. When Arleta Richardson grew up she wrote many of these stories down and they became apart of her books entitled Grandma's Attic series.

I have fallen in love with the first 2 books in this series that I've read. They remind me so much of my own visits with my grandmother's and of the stories they shared with me.
I can't wait to find out what my 7 year old granddaughter thinks of these books, as I've given her book 1 to read and I know she is reading it now.
Some examples of stories that Grandma Mabel shared with Arleta are: a kid goat raised in the house, the big snowstorm, pig in a poke, and a popping rag doll.
Grandma Mabel was a curious little girl and was constantly getting herself in to mischief. The stories are told with a twinkle in Grandma's eye, yet the reader understands that she would like for her granddaughter Arleta to learn from these stories, not just be entertained.

Thank you to David C. Cook and B and B Media Group for my free review copy.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: In Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson

2011-05-20T10:36:00.000-05:00

"Tell me about when you were a little girl...."

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Grandmas-Attic/dp/0781403790/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1305898394&sr=1-1
Paperback $6.99
Kindle $5.59

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/in-grandmas-attic-repackaged/arleta-richardson/9780781403795/pd/403795?item_code=WW&netp_id=832309&event=ESRCN&view=details
Paperback $5.99

Published by David C. Cook April 1, 2011/144 pages/For ages 9-12/ Non-Fiction

Little Arleta loves her Grandma Mabel and she often asks her to tell stories of when she was a little girl.
Grandma Mabel was born in the early 1900's. This was a time of long dresses, wagons pulled by horses, no electricity, no inside plumbing (in rural areas), everything was handmade or preserved, and girls wore bonnets. Grandma Mabel's stories are full of nostalgia. Grandma Mabel as a young girl was full of curiosity and mischief. Arleta is amazed at the antics of her grandmother as a young girl. During this time of storytelling the two of them grow a closer bond, and for the rest of Arleta's life she will remember these memories.

I felt this is a great book for little girls--reading level 2nd grade through 5th grade.
The stories seem so far removed from the current culture we live in, it really is from another age. An age of no computers, or Twitter, or Blogger, or Facebook, and no television. Children read books, or played outside, or listened to stories that their parent's or grandparent's told. This was also an age when children had chores to do, as soon as they were old enough responsibilities were given to them in order to the perform household or farm functions.
Examples of various stories are: the button basket, hoop skirts, childhood diseases, tongue stuck to frozen pump handle, and the dark root cellar.
Arleta's respect and admiration for her grandmother is tender. It brings back memories of my own relationships with my two grandmother's. I too remember their stories of "when they were a little girl."

Thank you to David C. Cook and B and B Media Group for my free review copy!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Texas economy suffers each time student drops out of high school

2011-05-16T12:39:00.000-05:00

Article on drop out rate in Texas! Sobering.

Texas economy suffers each time student drops out of high school

Book Review: Fair Weather by Richard Peck

2011-05-16T10:59:00.000-05:00

A Texas Bluebonnet Award Nominee

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Fair-Weather-Richard-Peck/dp/0803725167
Hardcover $12.08
Paperback $6.99

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780803725164,00.html?Fair_Weather_Richard_Peck
Hardcover $16.99

Published by Dial Books--Penguin on September 10, 2001 (the day before 9/11)
Historical Fiction/For ages 9-12 (the main character is almost 14)

The year is 1893 and Rosie Beckett is almost 14, she lives in a rural area of Illinois. Her father is a farmer. They are "plain country people". Rosie's older sister is Lottie age 17 and her younger brother is Buster age 7. Rosie's aunt Euterpe sends them train tickets to travel to Chicago, to attend the World's Columbian Exposition Fair to honor the 400th anniversary of the discovery of America.

I loved this story! An event that I knew little about--The Chicago's World Fair came alive for me in the story of Rosie and her family.
The opening sentence set the tone for the story, " It was the last day of our old lives, and we didn't even know it." That sentence was a prediction of the amazing life altering changes that would occur in this family. The late 1800's was coming to a close and astonishing inventions were right on the cusp of development. It was an age of exciting discoveries and advancement.
History is brought a live in the story of the Beckett family.
The story is a learning tool for children yet it does not feel as such.
To me their grandfather is the most interesting and eccentric character in the book. He has lived through many life experiences in his life, he has met many fascinating historical figures, yet is at ease with new inventions and change. Change is hard for many people especially as they grow older, but the grandfather seemed to cherish these new fangled ideas with excitement.
Rosie the main character and voice soaks in her world with intelligence. She is a girl with humor, solid work ethic, obedience to parents, a love of learning, and a restlessness for adventure.


Above 3 photographs are from The World's Columbian Exposition.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: See What I See by Gloria Whelan

2011-05-16T09:24:00.000-05:00

A character to admire!

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/See-What-I-Gloria-Whelan/dp/0061255459/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1305553248&sr=8-1
Hardback $12.74

Link for the book, plus excerpt @ publisher:
http://browseinside.harperteen.com/index.aspx?isbn13=9780061255458

Published by HarperTeen on December 28, 2010/208 pages
Young Adult Fiction

Kate Tapert age 18 has recently graduated from high school. She won a scholarship to art school, but needs a place to live. Her estranged dad the famous artist Dalton Quinn lives in the same city as the art school. After showing up at his house with her suitcase, she is greeted icily by him, yet she finds beneath his cold cruel exterior that he needs her.
Kate's plans are about to change!

I liked Kate Tapert's character. She has confidence, foresight, creativity, determination, charm, and she is intuitive. A father she basically does not know, and he pushes her away when she tries to draw close to him; yet she does not shrink back in what she sees needs to be done for him. In determined manner she sets to work for his behalf.
I found elements of the story sad in what happens all to often in marriages that end. There are unresolved feelings of anger, sadness, and bitterness that trickles down or pours down to the children. Often the kids feel the brunt of whatever went wrong with the demise of the marriage. The kids deal with the aftershocks, blow-ups, and lectures on what is wrong with the other parent. In Kate's character we do not see resentment, nor unforgiveness, nor rebellion. Instead Kate appears to have her life together. She is level-headed, has dreams and goals, and is resolute in what she wants to accomplish. She is an admirable character and one that a young adult person that is going through some of the same life experiences as Kate, can look up to and emulate.
I also feel the book gave the reader an education in how to deal with difficult people. That difficult people we encounter maybe taking out on us their anger, but most of the time the problem is within them, it has nothing to do with us, but something in them....and we cannot fix them!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: How Huge The Night by Heather Munn and Lydia Munn

2011-05-11T14:27:00.000-05:00

I could not put this book down, more than a page turner, I consider it to be an outstanding story and one I will not forget!

This book was provided for free to me for review by LitFuse Group and Kregel Publications.

Published April 30, 2011 by Kregel Publications
Fiction but based on real events/304 pages
Young Adult

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://store.kregel.com/productdetails.cfm?PC=2520
Paperback $14.99
Link to read an exerpt:
http://store.kregel.com/client/excerpt/978-0-8254-3310-8.pdf

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/how-huge-the-night/heather-munn/9780825433108/pd/433108?item_code=WW&netp_id=856137&event=ESRCN&view=details
Paperback $11.29

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/How-Huge-Night-Heather-Munn/dp/082543310X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1305131060&sr=8-1
Paperback $11.69
Kindle $5.00

If you would like to read more information about the true story based on this book, I found a few links:
http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/article.php?ModuleId=10007518
http://www.auschwitz.dk/Trocme.htm
http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Holocaust/Chambon.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andr%C3%A9_Trocm%C3%A9

Review:
Julien Losier age 15 has recently moved with his parents and younger sister from Paris to the town of Tanieux. Tanieux is a small town in southeastern France. Tanieux is the town where his father was born and his paternal grandfather still lives. Julien's only memories of this town was visiting his grandfather during Christmas time, "a winter town, a cold, stone village huddled on its hillside." Julien's father is a teacher and his mother originally from Italy has a beautiful operatic voice. The year is 1940 and Hitler's Wehrmacht is marching across Europe, and soon they will be in France. Julien's parents have taken in a boarder, a young Jewish boy named Benjamin. Also weaved in to the story is Nina and Gustav. They are young teenage siblings living in Austria. Their ill father makes Nina promise to leave the country after his death. Nina and Gustav's plight is out of desperation and obedience to their father.
I read this book in 48 hours. I could not put the book down!

There are 3 significant things that I loved about this book.
1. The story is based on real events that happened during World War II. The town of Le Chambon sur-Lignon saved 5,000 Jewish children from death.
This to me was miraculous!
A town of Protestant people, descended from the Huguenot's defended, protected and kept safe 5,000 children. They were Jewish children unloved and hated by the many (Nazi's) that were intent on eradicating them.
2. The use of environment or facial expressions, or props to deepen the impact of the story for the reader. Some examples are:
Julien asked his mother about her experiences during World War I. "Moma looked at him, her face half in shadow.... She was looking at the candle as if it was the last light on earth. He stared at her.... She did not look at him. They sat for a long time, watching the candle quiver in the dark..... She looked at him, and her mouth lifted in the ghost of a smile."
This way of writing has a huge impact, it grips the reader drawing you in, grabbing your heart and twisting it a little.
Another example:
"They sat in silence, while outside the open window, the evening sky darkened slowly into night."
We know from this that the characters fear what lies ahead. They also feel their lives are descending in to the night--the abyss of uncertainty.
3. Christian belief lived out in action. How often I read fiction books that are full of Bible verses (which I love God's Word), yet the characters are mere puppetry. How Huge The Night makes an unforgettable impact because the people live out their faith in Jesus no matter the cost. I am reminded of what Ed McCulley stated in Beyond Gates of Splendor, "I have 1 desire now to live a life of reckless abandon for the Lord, putting all my energy and strength in to it."
That my reader is bold, vibrant, FAITH.

I highly recommend this book! This book would be excellent for book discussion in a school classroom, or book club. I recommend this book for ages 5th grade and up.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Life Book Movement

2011-05-11T14:18:00.002-05:00

The Life Book Movement has big plans for the 2011-12 school year.

Printing is underway for 1.2 million Life Books, and half of those have already been spoken for. Don’t miss your chance to let the churches in your area know how they can get involved in this fall.

What is the Life Book Movement? Founded by The Gideons International, The Life Book Movement is an innovative strategy to reach high school students with the Word of God. The movement is a Christian mission centered on The Life Book, a unique presentation of Scripture designed to engage high school students with the truth of God’s Word, created by Carl Blunt, president and CEO of The Life Book Movement. The Life Book presents a brief overview of the Old Testament and the Book of John using an interactive format with honest student comments and real-life questions in the margins. Readers are drawn into the only story that can change their lives forever.

The Life Book Movement works with churches throughout the country by providing free copies of The Life Book for students to give as gifts to their friends and classmates during school. Blunt’s organization brilliantly takes advantage of a student’s freedom to distribute religious literature by getting The Life Book into the hands of Christian high school students and having them pass the books out to classmates at school—a practice that is acceptable, as long as the books are not distributed by school staff or other adults. In less than two years since the Life Book Movement got it’s start, over half a million Life Books have been distributed and the movement is growing by leaps and bounds.

Summer is almost here, but now is the time to think about mobilizing your students to reach their classmates this fall. Don't miss out! 1.2 Million students will be reached with God's Word in the coming school year and we want Christian students in your area to reach them. If you wait until the fall, you may be too late - books are being spoken for every day.

Watch the promo video here.

A full online version of The Life Book is available for you to take a closer look at by clicking here.

www.thelifebook.com – www.twitter.com/carlblunt – www.facebook.com/carlblunt

Book Review: Book One-- Bad Connection, The Secret Life of Samantha McGregor by Melody Carlson

2011-04-26T12:37:00.000-05:00

Samantha McGregor has a rare "gift", she has vividly real dreams and visions. She must be careful who she tells because it seems most people assume the worst in her "gift". But, if she does not share her "gift" how else will she be able to help her friend Kayla?

Published by Multnomah August 15, 2006/256 pages

Price for paperback from publisher $12.99 and ebook is available
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781590526927

I could not find the book available @ Christian Book site but I did find the eBook version for $8.99:
http://www.christianbook.com/bad-connection-ebook-melody-carlson/9780307562364/pd/10968EB?item_code=WW&netp_id=854395&event=ESRCN&view=details
Authors website:
http://www.melodycarlson.com/

An excerpt from Bad Connection:
http://www.melodycarlson.com/BadConnection-chap.pdf

Bad Connection is Book #1

Book #2 Payback

Book #3 Beyond Reach

Book #4 Playing With Fire

Bad Connection begins with a heart racing adrenaline rush experience of a car crash. Almost 17 year old Samantha wonders how to put the pieces together of her experience as well as how to understand her mysterious "gift". The recent death of her dad, her mother's long hours at work, and her older brother Zach's penchant for trouble, has Samantha's home life lacking in peacefulness. At school she has a few close friends, but far from an active social life. She outwardly displays her Christian beliefs, most respect her. She is wise beyond her years, a thinker, an observer. She has the ability to perceive other peoples feelings and problems.
Samantha's friend Kayla has disappeared. Samantha cannot shake the horrible feeling that something has happened to Kayla. Then the dreams and visions begin.
What is the wisest choice for Samantha in how she can help?

The theme of this series in that Samantha McGregor has a God given gift for dreams and visions is certainly rare in Christian Fiction. I believe it is a subject that is misunderstood, fearful, often misused, and for some people taboo. The author brings out the various feelings about dreams and visions. Samantha being a teenager is dealing with all the angst of growing up, peer pressure, opposite sex, communication with parents, as well as her "gift".
At the back of the book is a list of books and websites on visions and dreams.
Samantha is characterized as a mature adolescent, that is not interested in rebellion as much as some of her peers. She has the ability to foresee consequences and this is admirable and encouraging for teen readers.
She seems to be more interested in quality relationships as opposed to a quantity of casual friends.
I liked this book, and thought it held strong points for young adult readers. I had already stated that Samantha is a mature and level headed teenager. I feel that she is a wise girl and gives encouragement and inspiration to readers. I also felt the story gave an enticing theme choice in a dominated young adult book world of vampires and occult.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Life Book Movement

2011-04-08T10:31:00.000-05:00

Getting the Word out in public high schools

The Life Book Movement nears the half-million mark in books distributed

Are we trading in our right to free speech, especially our freedom of religion, in exchange for being non-offensive and politically correct? Separation of church and state may restrict public prayers in schools, but there is still an avenue for high school students to rightfully distribute God’s Word in their schools.

Founded by The Gideons International, The Life Book Movement is an innovative strategy to reach high school students with the Word of God. The movement is a Christian mission centered on The Life Book, a unique presentation of Scripture designed to engage high school students with the truth of God’s Word, created by Carl Blunt, president and CEO of The Life Book Movement. The Life Book presents a brief overview of the Old Testament and the Book of John using an interactive format with honest student comments and real-life questions in the margins. Readers are drawn into the only story that can change their lives forever.

Blunt says, “In mission-speak, it’s like we’re helping students get God’s Word into a closed country (public high schools) to reach an unreached people group because studies show that only 4% of today’s teenagers are Bible-believing Christians.” The goal is to ensure that every student in every high school in the United States has an opportunity to receive the gift of The Life Book. This approach presents a phenomenal opportunity to impact a generation with the good news of Jesus Christ.

Local churches contact The Life Book Movement to schedule saturations, described to students as a short-term mission trip to their local high school. Local church youth ministries work together in targeted areas to ensure The Life Book is offered to students in each chosen high school. The churches receive the books at no cost from The Life Book Movement and provide the books, along with some evangelism training, to the students in their youth groups. The students then spend a week or two passing them out to their friends and classmates at school.

In less than a year and a half, almost 320,000 copies of The Life Book have been distributed. That number is expected to increase by 200,000 by the end of May 2011. This year alone, saturations have occurred in over 80 locations in 26 states. According to Blunt, 1.2 million copies are being printed for distribution in the 2011-2012 school year.

www.thelifebook.com – www.twitter.com/carlblunt – www.facebook.com/carlblunt

Blissful Blogging!

Annette

Groundwire

2011-04-07T10:43:00.000-05:00

Are you compassionate and caring?

Are you a good listener?

Do you want to share the message of hope with others?

Groundwire needs you!

Teens today can be overwhelmed searching for meaning amidst depressing hopelessness, negative self-image, and the pressure to be perfect. Groundwire, a current and innovative outreach, has become a ministry where teens find comfort, guidance, and answers delivered through multi-media communication. Groundwire leverages media and technology to meet teens exactly where they are — viewing, listening, texting, or chatting — and to invite them to voice their questions and struggles so they can find answers in the message of the Gospel.

The ministry builds its impact through broadcasting that strategically places television and radio spots on secular stations. Teens listening to popular radio broadcasts or viewing favorite shows on networks like MTV, VH1, Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim programming, and Comedy Central are interrupted by direct spots. These spots catch their attention, resonating with where they are today. Teens responding to the broadcast messages are invited to visit Groundwire’s website where they can chat with a live spiritual coach available day and night, as well as find a collection of resources such as podcasts by Groundwire’s founder and executive director, Sean Dunn, and daily devotionals.

To meet the needs of hurting teenagers across the country, Groundwire is looking for additional online coaches. Are you interested?

FAQ’s regarding volunteer spiritual coaches

What is Groundwire?

Groundwire is an international ministry aimed at broadcasting hope to students all over the world by leveraging the most effective media formats. Their radio spots are heard on both mainstream and Christian stations and their TV commercials are aired on MTV, VH1 and the Cartoon Network among others. Each spot points their audience to the Groundwire website where spiritual coaches are available to answer questions, encourage with biblical hope and pray for chatters.

What is the Coaching Line?

www.grounwire.net does not simply offer content, but conversation. The coaching line is an instant message platform that connects chatters with trained coaches in order to provide one-to-one real time conversation. Volunteers all over the world offer their time and talents in order to meet the needs of those searching.

Who is capable of being a spiritual coach?

Spiritual coaches are sold-out Believers who are committed to the Great Commission and love people. They realize that although they are not perfect, God can and desires to speak through them and they realize that technology offers amazing opportunities to minister to people all over the world. Coaches need to be over eighteen and willing to submit to a background check and go through the necessary training.

What are some of the needed qualities of a coach?

Compassionate, teachable, good listener, sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading, patient, resilient and authentic.

What type of commitment are you looking for?

The typical coach offers two to four hours weekly on line, however some offer up to ten. Coaches set their own schedule on a monthly basis and coordinate with team leaders to offer the line sufficient coverage.

Can I coach from home?

Once a coach has been trained and given their log in information they can offer support from any location with internet connectivity.

Who would I be talking to?

Although Groundwire media buys are aimed at youth and young adults, and the majority of chats are in that age range, chatters have ranged from eleven to sixty-seven years of age and from over one hundred countries. The issues are very diverse ranging from the extremely depressed and suicidal person to the fifteen year old who is struggling with relationships.

What does the training look like?

Training begins when an application is completed and returned to the Director of Coaching. From that point the majority of training is done online and consists of learning how to deal with the different types of conversations that might take place. There are a series of written responses that take place in email format and then an online mock chat as well.

What type of oversight is offered?

In order to protect the integrity of the Groundwire mission and message, layers of organization and accountability are built into our procedures. Coaches are encouraged and offered additional training on an ongoing basis. Each chat is read to protect volunteers from accusations of inappropriate behavior as well as to ensure a consistent message is being presented. Each coach is assigned a team lead that will act as a mentor in an ongoing manner.

How will this benefit me as a person?

Seeing God speak through you to comfort someone who is struggling builds your confidence. On top of that the skills and discernment you will discover as you serve the Lord in this type of face to face ministry translate into your everyday life and the other areas where you serve.

Let your audience know how they can become Groundwire spiritual coaches!

For more information or to get download an application, visit www.groundwire.net/coaching.

Blissful Blogging!

Annette

Book Review: Singer of an Empty Day by Flora Ann Scearce

2011-03-24T10:51:00.000-05:00

Link for the book @ Publisher:
http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60799-081-9

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Singer-Empty-Day-Flora-Scearce/dp/1607990814/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1300715182&sr=8-1
Paperback $19.99

Published by Tate Publishing July 2009/364 pages
Non-Fiction---the story is based on the life of the authors mother

Book 2 in this series is entitled Cotton Mill Girl published June 2007
Link for my review of this book:
http://missdaisyanne.blogspot.com/2010/09/cotton-mill-girl-by-flora-ann-scearce.html

These 2 books---Singer of an Empty Day and Cotton Mill Girl are some of my favorite books. I love them!
They are Southern stories, Appalachian Mountain stories, early 20th Century stories. The time period for both books are 1907 through World War I years. The author is currently writing a 3rd book that will be a continuation of Cotton Mill Girl.
The only thing I disliked about the book is the price @$19.00, especially for a paperback that is difficult to hold open.

Selena "Sippy" Wright and her younger sister Marietta or "Met" live with their parents Jim and Rachel up on Utah Mountain in North Carolina. When the book begins it is 1907 and a tragic fire burns their cabin. They move in with Sippy's great grandmother and other family members. The cabin is small and inadequate for all of them to live in. Sippy's daddy then built a new cabin only a holler from family. Sippy's mother soon delivers a stillborn baby boy after being sick during much of her pregnancy, I feel she had toxemia. Sippy's father is gone for long periods of time working at a Cotton Mill in another town. Soon the family makes a big decision to move and leave all that they'd known and loved up on Utah Mountain.

Singer of an Empty Day is a story that I became completely involved in: it is a page turner, it is memorable, and it reminds me of my own grandparents and the stories they shared with me.
I learned about the typical food that they ate and the schooling that they had. How they survived the cold winters, including the sparseness of available food. I learned that they wasted nothing, everything was used-- from old newspapers used to cover the walls of their homes, to eating unfamiliar parts of animals.
The unavailability of close doctors made sickness and delivery of babies difficult. Even with having a midwife to deliver a baby, and using medicinal mountain medicine, sickness and death happened.
I learned it was common for men to work a job far away and only come home to family occasionally, always just in time to create a new baby.
I learned that it was the staunch determination of the women that kept the home, and the children fed and clothed and safe.
The life of a child during the early 20th Century is detailed and powerful. They did not live in a world of television and school sports, or the latest techno. gadgets and toys. They too worked hard and often suffered because of sickness or malnutrition, or because their parents did not feel they needed to attend school any longer but instead go to work. Going to work as a child brought its own problems as well, in that the children often worked long hours and were prone to accidents and abuse by adults.
Several Mountain songs are given in the book. Mountain songs were carried over from the settlers that came to the Appalachian Mountains from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
This is an eye opening book and one that a person of young adult years through adult years would enjoy reading.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

2011-03-04T11:56:00.000-06:00

http://www.poetryfoundation.org/bio/claude-mckay

After the Winter

by Claude McKay

Some day, when trees have shed their leaves

And against the morning’s white

The shivering birds beneath the eaves

Have sheltered for the night,

We’ll turn our faces southward, love,

Toward the summer isle

Where bamboos spire the shafted grove

And wide-mouthed orchids smile.

And we will seek the quiet hill

Where towers the cotton tree,

And leaps the laughing crystal rill,

And works the droning bee.

And we will build a cottage there

Beside an open glade,

With black-ribbed blue-bells blowing near,

And ferns that never fade.

I love this poem!

Blissful Reading!

Annette

Book Review: Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

2011-03-04T11:36:00.000-06:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Fever-1793-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0689848919
Paperback $6.99
Not available on Kindle

Link for the book @ Publisher---plus a video interview with the author.
http://books.simonandschuster.com/Fever-1793/Laurie-Halse-Anderson/9780689848919
Hardcover $6.99

Website for the author:
http://madwomanintheforest.com/

Published September 2000 by Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing/Aladdin Paperbacks
256 pages/For grades 5-9
Fiction/Historical Fiction/Colonial America

This book won A Lifetime Achievement in Literature For Young Adults American Library Association Margaret A. Edwards Award

This is my 4th book in the past year by Laurie Halse Anderson. The previous books read with reviews are:
Catalyst, Speak, and Wintergirls.

I loved this book and felt that it's an excellent book on the history of the late 1700's in Colonial America. It is of course a historical fiction book and based on the Yellow Fever outbreak that occurred during this time period.
Mattie (Matilda) Cook and her mother and grandfather own a coffeehouse in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The year is 1793 and it is late summer. The heat and humidity is stifling and unbearable. Insects including mosquitoes are swarming. Mattie's days are spent helping her mother and Eliza the coffeehouse cook. Mattie at age 14 at times feels like a child and yet an emerging young woman at the same time. Her mother pushes responsibilities at her and yet does not trust her with others. There is talk of people down by the river sick. The sickness seems to overtake a person quickly, causing high fever. Soon though this sickness takes over the city of Philadelphia and changes lives forever.
The character Mattie transforms during the story and I loved this. She is a character that "rises to the crisis that is before her". Her small family is all she has, they have been her security and comfort. The crisis of this disease changes her situation and she must make adult decisions. I felt that the author did a splendid job of showing Mattie in a realness; she is both a heroine and yet we see her humanity albeit a young girl.
I felt the fear in the situation that the characters were living through. A disease that no cure can fix. A disease that is often deadly.
I have recently become interested in Colonial America and this book added to my own education of this time period.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Say You're One of Them by Uwem Akpan

2011-02-25T10:59:00.000-06:00

Link for book @ Publisher:
http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780316086370.htm

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/say-youre-one-of-them/uwem-akpan/9780316086370/pd/086370?item_code=WW&netp_id=684028&event=ESRCN&view=details
(on back order) Paperback $11.99

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Youre-Them-Oprahs-Book-Club/dp/0316086371/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1298650381&sr=1-1
Paperback is $8.01
Kindle is $9.99

This book was an Oprah's Pick Selection for 2009

Published by Hatchette Book Group, Little, Brown and Company June 2008/360 pages
Non-fiction/Slavery/Abuse/African Stories of Children

I really have debated on whether or not this book should be reviewed on this blog that is devoted to children/young adult books. In my opinion this book should not be read by a child younger than 15 or 16, and even then if the child is sensitive in nature not at all.

This book is a compilation of 5 stories of children living in Africa. Their stories are all tragic, depressing, sad, disturbing----not a book to read before bedtime.
One of the stories is of a young boy riding a bus along with others that are Christian (I use that word loosely), he is a Muslim. He tries to keep his identity hidden, lying and trying to pass himself as a Christian. The story ends graphically violent.
Another story is of a boy that's family wants him to go to school, so his older sister prostitutes herself at age 12 in order to earn money for the family.
I know that this book was given accolades by Oprah and others but I did not like this book, I disliked it very much. I'm aware of the horrible atrocities of what is going on in Africa, India, Pakistan, the middle east, Belarus, and a host of other countries. But, I do not want to read the details of children that are sexually abused. I know it happens, it happens in America as well, but I don't want to buy a book and read about it. If I'd known that this book had this information in it I would not have bought it.
The book I feel was written with an intent of educating the world about what children in Africa are going through. They feel that the news we are given is downplayed, so that we are not given the horribleness of their existence.
I also had difficulty in reading the book, it is filled with broken English and with the language of the people living in Africa (their language without translation).

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Links for More!

2011-02-10T09:38:00.000-06:00

Link for a great post on Top 10 Classic Books for ages 9-12.
http://winningreadings.blogspot.com/2011/01/winning-kids-little-nippers-top-10.html

Visit Becky's blog @
http://zero-to-eight.blogspot.com/
She has posted several books for younger children and they are all a delight!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Book Review: iShine NLT Bible for Tween Girls

2011-02-10T09:14:00.000-06:00

To learn more about the iShine Bible:
http://www.ishineministries.com/ishine-books/

Published by Tyndale, link for the book:
http://www.tyndale.com/iShine-Bible-NLT/9781414348155
$19.99

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/nlt-ishine-bible-for-girls/9781414348155/pd/348155?item_code=WW&netp_id=839263&event=ESRCN&view=details
$16.99

Published by Tyndale February 2011/ Soft Leather Like, Pink/Rockin Ruby Color/1024 pages

This Bible is also available in blue for Tween boys

Thank you to Tyndale for my free copy for reading/reviewing.

I felt that the first thing that stands out about this new Bible for tween girls is that it is personal, approachable.
There are sections in this Bible that speak directly to the person reading the Bible. The sections are on self-image, and being valued and loved by God.
I did not feel that the Bible is presented in a dorky kind of way, but would be pleasing to a tween.
(Is the word dorky showing my own age?)
There are several photo's of tweens in the Bible, both boys and girls.
There are smart phone codes to find out more information about the Bible.
The translation is New Living Translation---this translation is easy to read and understand.
In the front of the Bible is further study type stuff---What is the Bible, Finding Your Identity in Jesus, Growing In Faith, and The Bible Talks About (a variety of subjects).
The Bible is small. I have a small hand and it is the length of it----about 6 1/2 inches long and about 4 1/2 inches wide.
Not a red letter edition.
There are some references located at the bottom of each Scripture page.
The print is tiny, too tiny for my eyes, but maybe okay for tweens.
Overall I felt this would be a great Bible for tween girls and I can't wait to give it as a gift!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

February is Black History Month

2011-02-10T08:22:00.000-06:00

Blissful Freedom!
Annette

Book Review: We Troubled The Waters by Ntozake Shange and Paintings by Rod Brown

2011-02-10T08:09:00.001-06:00

Published by Amistad Collins an Imprint of Harper Collins 2009/32 pages/Ages 9 and up
Link @ Publisher:
http://www.harpercollins.com/books/We-Troubled-the-Waters-Ntozake-Shange?isbn=9780061337352&HCHP=TB_We+Troubled+the+Waters

I first have to express the power that this book has on the reader. The bold and almost touchable pictures exude emotion---passion. On each page is a poem sharing the history of civil rights, the feelings of African Americans, the leaders that gave their all for freedom, the everyday life of African Americans.
There are a couple of photographs that could be too disturbing for a young child. My 7 year old granddaughter would be upset by them, but then explanation will be necessary to any child being read this book.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Ginger and the Mystery Visitor by Charlotte Voake

2011-02-10T07:40:00.001-06:00

Published by Candlewick Press 2010/Ages 3 and up/40 pages
Link for the book @ Publisher:
http://www.candlewick.com/cat.asp?browse=Title&mode=book&isbn=0763648655&pix=n

I loved this book!
A little girl that has an adult cat named Ginger and a kitten notices a visitor peering at them through the window. This visiting cat that has been peering at them through the window eventually makes himself at home in their home one day. The little girl attaches a note to the collar of this cat for the owner. That is when the fun begins!

I liked the large and bold print of the lettering and the large watercolor images on each page. The artist gave expressiveness to the little girls face, as well as her bewildered cats and the confident visiting cat.
I loved the story and it made me laugh aloud! A very true tale, reminds me of my own cat Noelle!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Mathilda and the Orange Balloon by Randall de Seve and illustrated by Jen Corace

2011-02-10T07:25:00.000-06:00

Published by Balzar + Bray An Imprint of Harper Collins 2010/32 pages/for ages 3-6
Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/books/Mathilda-Orange-Balloon/?isbn13=9780061726859&tctid=100

Young Matilda is a gray sheep. Her small world appears to be gray or green. One day she spots an orange balloon and then wishes to become one herself!
The story of Mathilda is about imagination and the possibilities of dreams.

Orange is my least favorite color, yet it is a color that you cannot miss. For Mathilda orange is so radically different than her blah or bah world! The orange color catches her eyes and her imagination.
I felt this was a good story to open up the eyes for a young child to their own environment, to make them more attentive to what is going on around them. A fluffy sheep seems to be such a docile and dim animal, yet gentle for a child.
The illustrations are simple and focused on the sheep, little color is used except in the bold orange.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Three Cups of Tea The Young Readers Edition by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin and adapted by Sarah Thomson

2011-02-03T13:55:00.000-06:00

I'd heard about the first book written for the adult reading audience, Three Cups of Tea and often thought "I need to read that book". Instead, I purchased the Young Adult Readers Edition to read and review on A Garden of Books.

I read the entire book yesterday evening, I was just entranced with the story of Greg Mortenson and his loving devotion to building schools for the children of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The story begins with Greg making a trip to Pakistan to climb one of the mountains there named K2. After Greg's sisters death, he had wanted to do something in honor of her by placing her necklace on top of this mountain, but he got lost. I guess that could have been the end of that story, instead he wandered into a village and was taken care of by a family that introduced him to a need that would become his life endeavor and mission---building schools for kids.

I thought this was a great book! In so many ways!
It is a book that can be used in the classroom to introduce students to a Muslim nation, the middle east, poverty and illiteracy, war.
It is a book that introduces kids to what can become their future as well--humanitarian work. As an adult I wonder, "what can I do?" This book is an encouragement to think not just about what is going on in our own city or state or country, but what other peoples needs are and that we can really do something to help. When I learn about another people group it gets my mind out of the box so to speak. The world is much bigger than my own back yard!
I loved Greg's honesty in telling his story, he shares the mistakes he made, the gambles he made, and patient hope in fulfilling the goals.
Greg was willing to sacrifice much in his life in order to fulfill his promise to build schools, he is a man of integrity and certainly true grit.

Included in the book is a foreword by Dr. Jane Goodall, an interview with Greg's daughter Amira, a time-line, glossary, list of characters, discussion questions, information about Pennies for Peace, other books available, there are also many photographs throughout the book (several in color).

http://www.threecupsoftea.com/

http://www.threecupsoftea.com/about-the-book/three-cups-of-tea-youth-editions/

http://www.amazon.com/Three-Cups-Tea-Young-Readers/dp/0142414123/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1222723107&sr=1-1
Paperback $8.99
Kindle $7.99

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Three-Cups-of-Tea/Greg-Mortenson/e/9780142414125/pwb=1&
Paperback $8.81
Nook $7.99

http://www.penniesforpeace.org/
http://www.ikat.org/
http://gregmortenson.blogspot.com/
http://www.davidoliverrelin.com/

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: How To Write For Kids Magazines While Working on a Debut Novel by Vicki H. Moss

2011-01-26T10:11:00.000-06:00

Link for the book @ authors site:
http://www.livingwaterfiction.com/store.htm
Paperback $13.95

Link @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/How-Write-Kids-Magazines-Working/dp/1450583806/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1295981646&sr=8-1
Paperback $15.00

Authors site:
http://www.livingwaterfiction.com/
Published by Create Space May 15, 2010/114 pages

This book was provided to me for free from the author for reading/reviewing.

At 114 pages this book is more like a magazine than a lengthy how to book on writing tips for magazines.
It is a great beginning for anyone interested in writing for children's magazines. The author includes samples from her own published works in kids magazines. She gives advice: in what publishers want, in researching for your writing topic, organization, submitting photographs, choosing a title, rejection. The author writes more on rejection than any other topic covered. She writes that writers must grow thick skin in order to deal with rejection. "Never forget perseverance is the key, work on the craft." My favorite chapter was The Bones of Writing. In this chapter she talks on a issue I do not hear as much about in writing circles---because everyone wants to be the next great writer, she writes about the pay. Most writers are not going to be a best selling novelist. Vicki gives an exact amount of what to expect in writing a kids magazine article.
At the end of the book is a lengthy list of children's magazines to write for including their website information.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

My List of Books Read for 2010

2010-12-20T13:33:00.000-06:00

Total number of books read on this blog, 52.

Children and Young Adult Non-Fiction:
1. The Elements of a Writer by E. B. White
2. From Cover to Cover, Evaluating and Reviewing Children's Books by Kathleen T. Horning
3. Counting Coup, Becoming A Crow Chief On The Reservation and Beyond by Joseph Medicine Crow with Herman J. Viola
4. Sitting Bull Remembers by author Ann Turner and illustrated by Wendell Minor
5. When Harriet Met Sojourner by Catherine Clinton, illustrations by Shane W. Evans
6. Harriet Tubman, Secret Agent by Thomas B. Allen
7. Music For The End of Time by Jen Bryant and illustrated by Beth Peck
8. Black Elk's Vision by S. D. Nelson
9. Years of Dust, The Story of The Dust Bowl by Albert Marrin
10. Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons
11. A Thousand Small Sparrows, Not One Is Forgotten, Amazing Stories of Kids Helping Kids by Jeff Leeland with Marcus Brotherton
12. The Year of Goodbyes by Debbie Levy
13. Under a Red Sky by Haya Leah Molnar

Young Adult Fiction:
1. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell (historical fiction)
2. Stuart Little by E. B. White, with illustrations by Garth Brooks
3. Chosen by Ted Dekker
4. The Tiger Rising by Kate Dicamillo
5. Lady Carliss and The Waters of Moorue by Chuck Black
6. A Wrinkle In Time, Book One In The Time Quintet by Madeleine L'Engle
7. Blessing's Bead by Debby Dahl Edwardson (historical fiction)
8. The Happiness of Kati by Jane Vejjajiva
9. Akavak, An Eskimo Journey by James A. Houston
10. The Spiderwick Chronicles Book One, The Field Guide by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black
11. Ashes by Kathryn Lasky (historical fiction)
12. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
13. The Capture, Guardians of Ga'hoole by Kathryn Lasky
14. Solitary, Book 1 of The Solitary Series by Travis Thrasher
15. Cotton Mill Girl by Flora Ann Scearce
16. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
17. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
18. Catalyst by Laurie Halse Anderson

Children Fiction:
1. That Book Woman by Heather Henson, with pictures by David Small
2, Farm Flu by Teresa Bateman, illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott
3. Little Blue by Gaye Chapman
4. Mercy Watson Goes For a Ride by Kate DiCamillo, illustrations by Chris Van Dusen
5. Louise The Adventure of a Chicken by Kate DiCamillo and illustrations by Harry Bliss
6. Wish You Were Here Toot and Puddle by Holly Hobbie
7. Library Mouse by Daniel Kirk
8. Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes
9. Crow Call by Lois Lowry and illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
10. The 108th Sheep by Ayano Imai
11. Insects: Biggest! Littlest! by Sandra Markle, Photographs by Dr. Simon Pollard
12. Ms. April and Ms. Mae, A Fable by Karen Dugan
13. Back Of The Bus by Aaron Reynolds Illustrated by Floyd Cooper (historical fiction)
14. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen, illustrated by John Schoenher
15. Old Possum's Book Of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot and Axel Scheffler
16. The Shoe Box by Francine Rivers
17. Once Upon MacDonald's Farm by Stephen Gammell
18. I Always Get My Way written by Thad Krasnesky and illustrated by David Parkins
19. Thats Where God Is by Dan and Ali Morrow
20. Noah's Garden by Mo Johnson and illustrated by Annabelle Josse
21. Bag in the Wind by Ted Kooser and illustrated by Barry Root

When I began this blog (actually I changed genre from adult reads to children and young adult in 2010), I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Meaning this genre was huge! I have learned so much and I'm continuing to learn. I have enjoyed the reading adventure. I am looking forward to 2011 and what magic carpet rides in literature I will take.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Annette

Reading Challenge for 2011

2010-12-17T10:51:00.000-06:00

Link for more information:
http://zero-to-eight.blogspot.com/2010/12/young-readers-2011.html

Becky is the author of this reading challenge. There is freedom in this challenge---reading as many books as you like.

I am not going to commit with a certain number of books I'll read. I will read as many as I can!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Book Review: Bag in the Wind by Ted Kooser and illustrated by Barry Root

2010-11-19T10:25:00.000-06:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Bag-Wind-Ted-Kooser/dp/0763630012/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290182379&sr=8-1
Hardcover $13.49

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.candlewick.com/cat.asp?browse=Title&mode=book&isbn=0763630012&pix=n
Hardcover $17.99

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Published by Candlewick Press February 23, 2010/48 pages/For ages 4-8

The author Ted Kooser is a previous U.S. Poet Laureate 2004-2006, Pulitzer Prize winner of 2 poems he wrote--Delights and Shadows. Bag in the Wind is the first children's book he has written.

Illustrations are by Barry Root, watercolor and gouache, he has illustrated 2 other children's books.

A woman driving a bulldozer pushing garbage in a landfill sees an empty plastic yellow bag. The bag is a nameless, voiceless adventurer in this book on recycling. The wind blows the bag, it travels across the landscape, visits people along the way, and teaches the reader the importance of re-using/recycling/thinking before throwing away an object that can be re-used.
The book has wonderful illustrations of a rural area in the autumn/winter. There is great detail in the watercolor pictures of the land, trees, streams, snow, birds. People are less significant in the larger picture of recycling, our recycling affects our world at large--we are the tool used in order to recycle, but it affects in a positive way the world we live in.
The story is probably too much for a 4 or 5 year old, in my opinion more understandable to a 6-8 year old. It is not that recycling cannot be taught to a 4 or 5 year old, it is because of the lengthiness of the story that a 4 or 5 year old would not sit still and their minds and bodies would wander.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Catalyst by Laurie Halse Anderson

2010-11-19T09:36:00.000-06:00

I have 1 more book to read by this author, Fever 1793, and then I've decided to move on to another author.

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Catalyst-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0142400017/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290177830&sr=8-1
Paperback $7.99

Link for the book @ Publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780670035663,00.html?Catalyst_Laurie_Halse_Anderson
Hardback $17.99
Paperback $7.99

Author's site:
www.writerlady.com

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Published by Viking-Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers September 30, 2002/240 pages/for ages
12 and up

I have to admit that this was not my favorite from the author Laurie Halse Anderson. I read this book quickly, in 1 evening. Could it be that I'm becoming bored with teen angst and drama?
Kate Malone is in the final months of her senior year in high school. She is a chemistry and science and math whiz, a member of the National Honor Society, a cross country runner. She is a facts and figures kind of gal, she has a analytic and logic type mind. Her dream is to attend MIT. She has a boyfriend named Mitch, he's a great kisser. Her mother died 9 years ago, her dad is a pastor, she has 1 younger brother Tobey.
On one hand Kate is in a whirl of busyness at home: laundry, house cleaning, caring for her sick asthmatic brother, cooking, reminding her dad and brother of their own duties. Kate has taken on the role of mom in addition to her school work and high school activities. She has a problem sleeping, relaxing.
When the neighbor's house burns and this family moves in with Kate and her dad and brother, she is at first insensitive and selfish. I wondered where this part of the story would fit in, but it was important, it gave Kate another dimension to her character that I liked.
What I liked most about Kate's character was that she took seriously and did the best she could in filling in with caring for the home and her brother and dad, since her mother had died. I thought her dad was pre-occupied or inept in not knowing what Kate was going through in keeping up her school work, and also juggling her home responsibilities. I'm sure he was engaged and focused on his own duties at church, which Kate I felt resented. Kate needed counseling, she was at times chilly and sardonic, not wanting to feel anything, not wanting to confront these unresolved areas of her life that were like a blinking light going, "yield, yield, prepare to stop or suffer the consequences of stuffing your emotions."
Kate's friends are introduced in to the story as well as a boyfriend. Although they are apart of the story, it is Kate that is the speaker and the focus is on her.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

More on Eating Disorders

2010-11-12T11:10:00.000-06:00

Links for more information:

http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

http://www.anad.org/

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eating-disorders/DS00294

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/thin/

Russell's Sign which is scarring from sticking fingers down throat in order to vomit.

A list of books given by Amazon on Anorexia:
http://www.amazon.com/Recommended-Books-About-Anorexia/lm/3M8K5Z4GDKZ47

Book Review: Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

2010-11-12T10:41:00.000-06:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Wintergirls-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/067001110X/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1289576759&sr=8-1
Hardcover $12.23
Kindle $8.99

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780670011100,00.html?Wintergirls_Laurie_Halse_Anderson
Hardcover $17.99
eBook $8.99

Published by Viking Juvenile March 9, 2009/288 pages
Young Adult Fiction/For grades 8th and up

If I were to use only a list of verbs to review this book they would be:
Tragic
Waste
Sad
Sorrowful
Haunting
Profound
Caustic
Acerbic
Acidulous
Grisly
Austere
Manic
Madness
Hysteria
Ravenous
Empty

This book is not for the faint of heart, or the overly sensitive, nor should it be read on a day you are feeling depressed. This is one of the hardest books I've ever read, not because it is poorly written, nor because it is not a profoundly affecting read; but because it has a strong bite to it. It bites and shreds your tender soul until you cry in pain---for the main character Lia.

Lia age 18 is a senior in high school living in Amoskeag, New Hampshire. She is living with her dad and step-mother Jennifer and their daughter Emma age 8. Lia's mother is a physician living in the same town.
In the opening pages Lia's best friend Cassie has been found dead. Lia and Cassie have the same gut gnawing
compulsion, they are anorexic nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Add to this Lia cuts herself. Lia's family is toxic in their behavior with each other and in how they respond to Lia's serious problem.

This is not a book where I respond by saying---I loved this book! There is nothing at all to love about this book except the education that I received from reading it, and of course my ability to have greater empathy with the people that have these eating disorders.
It is scary, frightening, to know there are young women that are so deeply troubled, lost, empty emotionally, that they starve themselves until they disappear. When they see themselves in a mirror it is not with reality that they see themselves, but with a distorted image that peers back at them mocking and terrorizing them.
Lia obsesses about calories, every single tid-bit that goes in her mouth or could go in her mouth, she thinks of the calories.
She obsesses about her pounds and the "perfect" number, which gets smaller and smaller.
The distorted image she has of herself widens to include all areas of her life, she sees nothing as it really is. Plus, she has forgotten was normal is.
The books main focus is on her eating disorders and cutting; but her tangled disjointed dysfunctional family is explored.
Often Lia is impersonal speaking of herself in the 3rd person; isn't this called depersonalization disorder?
Neurosis is present in her throughout most of the book.

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: Under A Red Sky, Memoir of a Childhood in Communist Romania by Haya Leah Molnar

2010-11-12T09:42:00.000-06:00

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Under-Red-Sky-Childhood-Communist/dp/0374318409
Hardcover $12.23
Kindle $9.99

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.macmillan.com/underaredsky
Pubished by Frances Foster Books Farrar Straus Giroux March 30, 2010/Young Adult Non-Fiction/Grades 6-9/320 pages
Memoir/Holocaust/Romania/Communism

Author's site:
http://hayaleahmolnar.com/
and her blog:
http://www.hayaleahmolnar.com/blog/

Eva Zimmerman is living in a small apartment with 7 adult family members in Bucharest, Romania. When the book begins the year is 1957 and she is 6 years old. During this time period Romania is a Communist nation and the memories of World War II are fresh. Until the age of 7 Eva did not know she was Jewish, it comes as a shock to her that she'd not known before. Her family had wanted to protect her from anti-Semitism. Her family members are strongly opinionated and often have loud ugly arguments; Eva's safe place is in a kitchen pantry. The adults quarrel and fight, yet they are loving towards Eva. Eva's grandfather is a loving and gentle man, often sacrificing for the benefit of Eva. The book follows the lives of Eva and her family until 1961. We are told of the family's experiences during the Holocaust, their lives under Communism, Eva's school life, her friends. Eva has an inquisitive and brilliant mind. She often asks questions of her family members that stun them, they are unprepared and uncomfortable in answering. Eva is sensitive to her family members unrest and dislike of each other; yet she knows they love her.

I loved this book!
I have read many books on the Holocaust; but this is the first book on Communism I've read.
The author Haya gives her family members 3 D quality, I love it that she writes of their facial expressions.
Eva is given greater depth by the author, by giving the reader her inner feelings and insecurities. She is a strong girl that has many limitations in Communism; she has been taught though to have a will and a voice in her own home.
The book cover is lovely, a collage of several family photo's, all in blue tones.
The author has shared in the book several family photographs all bringing a clearer face to her family.

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: The Year of Goodbyes, A true story of friendship, family, and farewells by Debbie Levy

2010-11-09T11:30:00.000-06:00

Link for book @ publisher:
http://disney.go.com/books/year-of-goodbyes-the--1423129016

Link for book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Year-Goodbyes-friendship-family-farewells/dp/1423129016/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1289322220&sr=8-1
Hardcover $11.55

Author's site:
www.debbielevybooks.com

Published by Hyperion Books For Children on March 16, 2010/144 pages/For ages 10-11 or middle school grades.

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

The author has written this book based on an account of a poetry type album her mother kept during the year 1938. Her mother's name is Jutta Lieselotte Salzberg. When 1938 begins Jutta is 11 and living in Hamburg, Germany with her parents and younger sister Ruth. They are Jewish, and during 1938 the governing Nazi Party is working to destroy and eradicate all Jew's. Time is running out for all of them, they are fearful and anxious for a way of escape. Jutta and her friends keep poetry type albums named poesiealbum. They are a more serious and intimate form than the American style autograph book. In the writings of the poesiealbum, Jutta and her beloved friends express their fearfulness, anxiety, frustration, anger, and sadness in what is going on outside their homes and close-nit group. They are fearful for their parents and fearful for their futures.

This is a deeply personal account written in short sentences; but with words that display the horror of the situation for the Jew's during the Holocaust. Children speak honestly, and Jutta is a young girl that is in a whirlwind of impending doom. The book is frightening, emotional, and memorable.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

An Award!

2010-11-04T11:43:00.000-05:00

I received the Life Is Good Award from The Book Bee!

I am supposed to pass this award on to 15 new blog's! I'm so sorry but I just don't have the time to search for 15 new blog's in addition to answering 10 questions about myself, although I appreciate so much the award!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Vacation

2010-10-21T15:29:00.000-05:00

Early Saturday we are leaving for vacation in Colorado. My sister will be staying with dad, our dogie, and fluffy cat. Look for a new post in the first week of November.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Review: A Thousand Small Sparrows, Not One Is Forgotten, Amazing Stories of Kids Helping Kids by Jeff Leeland with Marcus Brotherton

2010-10-14T09:21:00.000-05:00

Link for book @ publisher:
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781590529331
Paperback $13.99

Link for book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Small-Sparrows-Amazing-Stories/dp/B003F76E0K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287063237&sr=8-2
Paperback $4.54
Kindle $9.29

Published in 2007 by Multnomah Books, 256 pages
Non-fiction/Kids Helping Kids/Sparrow Club USA

This book was published by me for reading/reviewing.

100% of proceeds from this book goes to Sparrow Club

"Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
Luke 12: 6-7 NIV

Sparrow Clubs is a group of children that help other children and their families that have been affected by a serious illness. At times the need is financial, at other times the need is to spend time with the child and family. Some of the children that are involved in Sparrow Clubs were once the recipient of help from the organization.
The children that become involved in mentoring or organizing financial assistance are selflessly dedicated to their calling.
A Thousand Small Sparrows is a book full of amazing stories of children and their families that have been affected by cancer, other illnesses, or an accident. Each chapter has a different child's story. The stories are powerfully moving, they are also inspiring.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Kitten and The Falling Leaves

2010-10-14T08:26:00.000-05:00

"See the kitten on the wall,
Sporting with the leaves that fall!
Withered leaves, one, two, and three,
From the lofty elder-tree.
Through the calm and frosty air
Of this morning bright and fair,
Eddying round and round they sink
Softly, slowly. One might think,
From the motions that are made,
Every little leaf conveyed
Some small fairy, hither tending,
To this lower world descending.
-But the kitten, how she starts!
Crouches, stretches, paws, and darts!
First at one, and then its fellow,
Just as light, and just as yellow.
There are many now-now one-
Now they stop and there are none.
What intentness of desire
In her upturned eye of fire!
With a tiger leap halfway,
Now she meets the coming prey.
Lets it go at last, and then
Has it in her power again."

William Wordsworth

Are we raising a generation of nincompoops? | AP Nation - The News Tribune

2010-10-03T18:40:00.001-05:00

Are we raising a generation of nincompoops? | AP Nation - The News Tribune

This is an article about the current generation of children that often do not know how to use can openers, tie shoes, zip jacket, etc. I find this odd considering the mind set of so many kids that want independence; how can you be independent if you can't even tie your shoes?

Books that were mentioned in the above article:

http://www.amazon.com/Winter-Our-Disconnect-Teenagers-Technology/dp/1585428558/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286149939&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Dumbest-Generation-Stupefies-Americans-Jeopardizes/dp/1585427128/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1286150020&sr=1-1

And a book entitled Free-Range Kids by Lenore Skenazy
http://www.amazon.com/Free-Range-Kids-Children-Freedom-Without/dp/0470471948

http://www.josseybass.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470574755.html

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Book Review: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

2010-10-01T12:23:00.002-05:00

It is unlike me to give so much information away about a book; but because the book was published 10 years ago and because I felt the need to show some of the information on this post....please excusez-moi it could be a spoiler.

Published by Penguin Group, Copyright 1999, my paperback is the Platinum Edition published 2006,
197 pages
Young Adult Fiction for 10 and up

Amazon link for book:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142407321/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0142414735&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1ABCWX3NYT1CJB2MC627
Paperback $8.00

Borders link for book:
http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=0142407321
Paperback $10.00

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780142407325,00.html?Speak_Laurie_Halse_Anderson
Paperback $10.00

For another review of Speak, plus commentary on book banning:
http://operationreadbible.blogspot.com/2010/09/why-christians-need-speak.html

An article on banning of Speak:
http://www.news-leader.com/article/20100918/OPINIONS02/9180307/Scroggins-Filthy-books-demeaning-to-Republic-education

Authors link:
http://madwomanintheforest.com/

Banned Book Week:
http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek/index.cfm

This is banned book week--September 25 through October 2. I have never participated in this; but after reading Becky's review on Operation Actually Read Bible---I decided to read Speak and see for myself what the "chatter" is all about.
I read Speak in 1 day. It was immediate that I identified with the main character Melinda--not in every way; but in many of her angst feelings of being a teenager and a freshman in high school. Almost all of the trauma that I endured from my peers was in middle school--specifically 7th grade. Many of the girls I went to school with were devilish in their needling, badgering, abusive behavior. Although it was a long time ago, I still have scars. Whenever peer pressure and especially abuse happens we tend to feel as if we are the "only one". We isolate ourselves and don't talk about it. In the abuse in my own home growing up, I didn't talk about it, for one---I did not think that anyone would believe me; but shame has a lot to do with silence as well.
Silence... but inside you are screaming. This is how Melinda felt, silent; yet unable to open her raw and burning throat that wanted to express what had happened.
In my parents generation people did not talk about certain things: incest, abuse, alcoholism, divorce, rape, a child born out of wedlock, prison, mental illness, any kind of handicap. Adults may have whispered about such things, gossiped even; but they were never discussed in an open mature manner. Not talking about it brings even more shame, false guilt, criticism, judgment. Not talking about it can cause depression and even suicide.
I am appalled that this book would be banned; I feel it should be (if not required reading, then encouraged) at least by high school----then it should be discussed. I understand what these people are thinking in wanting to ban the book--that the book may promote abuse, or foul language, or they feel the book divulges too much information. I feel strongly that the book could help those that are going through abuse, this book could open a door for someone that desperately needs to speak and be heard and the courage to come forth.
I read an article recently (wish I remembered where) that many young men do not understand what rape really is. They do not understand the violence that rape is, nor the lasting affects of it. Another words many young men are hazy on what the definition of rape is.
Some statistics on rape:
73% of women know their rapist
The United States has more rapes than any other country
Only 37% are reported--another statistic gave me 16%
There is a woman raped every 1.3 minutes
1 in 4 college women are raped
1 in 12 men have raped and 84% of them did not believe that what they did was rape

And the statistics above are not of all of the children that have been sexually abused.

The book begins on the first day of Melinda's freshman year of high school. The book is entirely of her voice, what she hears, what she sees, what she experiences. She is the epitome of an isolated individual amongst a sea of people. It is immediate when beginning this book that something horrible has happened to her.
While I was reading Speak I felt as if I was perched on the shoulder of Melinda--viewing all that she saw, hearing all that she heard---yet as the story unfolded I became even more involved.
It is a prolific writer that can transport the reader not only into the story, but deeper still into the character.
Laurie Halse Anderson has written a story that will always remain with me, it is haunting---it makes me remember, and maybe make peace with those ghosts from my own past.

This book was purchased by me @ Border's for reading/reviewing.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Child Labor

2010-09-18T12:03:00.000-05:00

A child working in a cotton mill.

A picture from 1909, children that want to abolish slavery--child labor.

Another photo of child labor 1910.

Child labor is still common in some parts of the world, picture below is of a child in Vietnam.

For more information on Child Labor laws in the United States:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Child_labor_laws_in_the_United_States

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Cotton Mill Girl by Flora Ann Scearce

2010-09-18T11:31:00.002-05:00

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-5988671-8-3
Paperback $17.99

Link for the book @Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Mill-Girl-Flora-Scearce/dp/1598867180/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1284735325&sr=8-9
Paperback $16.19

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises in 2006, 328 pages
Historical Fiction/American History/Cotton Gin/World War I/Coming of Age/Industrial Age/Child Labor

Cotton Mill Girl is actually book 2, the 1st book is entitled Singer of an Empty Day published in 1997.
I have tried to find out if a book 3 has been written, but have been unsuccessful in finding out. I've heard that the author had intended to write a book 3; but as these books have been self-published this could be the reason that there is not a book 3 yet.
I had a nice chat on the telephone yesterday with a librarian at the Gaston Library in North Carolina. In 2007 the author visited this library and held a book signing event. I have tried to do a little more research on this author but have been unsuccessful, I've emailed her but no response yet.
Cotton Mill Girl is based on the author's mother. I don't know what is factual and what is fictional. There are a few photo's in the back of the book and on the cover is the photo of the author's mother.

The heroine/protagonist of Cotton Mill Girl is Selena "Sippy" Burzilla Wright. When the story begins it is early summer 1912. Selena will be 13 the following November. Her mother died when she was 9 and her papa has remarried a woman named Clemmie. Selena has 1 younger sister nicknamed Met, her name is Marietta. "Sippy" or Selena as she prefers and Met had been living with their grandmother and aunt; but their papa has moved to another town and is working in a Cotton Mill along with his new wife. Their papa comes to get them and they travel by train to Gastonia "Boomtown". Selena loves school, she loves her teachers and loves to read and write. Met is a handful for Selena, she is rebellious and defiant. Selena's summer days are spent caring for the house and for Met. Her only escape is the movies with her best friend Doreen. Life is about to change for all of them, Selena will need to mature quickly. Cotton Mill Girl follows the life of Selena from age 12 until age 18.

Cotton Mill Girl is rich in description and imagery, I felt I was "there". All the senses are explored in this novel: the sights, smells, tastes, hearing, and the feeling that something is not right.
During this time period 1912-1918, the Spanish Influenza was undeterred in spreading across the world, often causing death. World War I was beginning and Europe and then America would be involved in this war. The Cotton Mill was a main job for many workers of any age in North Carolina, there were no child labor laws; every able body person was needed to work in order to survive. Education was not enforced nor thought necessary for those of age for working, if you could read and write and figure--then that was enough. This was a time when the entertainments were Church, window shopping, a silent movie, the ice cream parlor, or a box lunch auction.
With all that happened in Selena's life she was resilient, hard working, hopeful, stoic, teachable, wise, passionate, and surely blessed. She did not feel sorry for herself, but persevered onward accepting her life.
There are Scripture and hymn references in this book. Her experience of trusting Jesus as her savior is given. There is nothing in this book that would be unsuitable for an adolescent or adult.
If I had to compare this book to any other books written I would choose those books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Both authors are endearing, they take the reader back to "their" time period with vividness, the heroines are admirable and cause the reader to identify in some way with them.
I have fallen in love with this book and will continually cherish the story of Selena. I am hoping to purchase the first book Singer of an Empty Day from Amazon soon.

I am saddened that a major publishing company did not pick this book up, shame on them, they missed out!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Solitary: The Solitary Tales Book #1 by Travis Thrasher

2010-09-16T10:20:00.003-05:00

Link for book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Solitary-Novel-Tales-Travis-Thrasher/dp/1434764214
Paperback $10.79 and Kindle $9.99

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/solitary-tales-travis-thrasher/9781434764218/pd/764218?item_code=WW&netp_id=763690&event=ESRCN&view=details
Paperback $11.99

Link for the book @ David C. Cook:
http://www.davidccook.com/catalog/Detail.cfm?sn=106597&source=search
Paperback $14.99

Website for Travis Thrasher

Solitary: The Solitary Tale Series Book #1 published by David C. Cook in 2010, 336 pages
Young Adult Fiction/Suspense/Mystery/Romance, for ages 12 and up

Wow!!! This is an awesome book!
I read the last half of this book on the night that tropical storm Hermine came through central Texas, with the wind howling and heavy rain falling it was a perfect back drop for a suspense novel.

Chris Buckley is a 16 year old boy that has just moved to the town of Solitary, North Carolina with his mom Tara Buckley. Tara was raised in the town of Solitary and when her marriage fell apart Solitary seemed like the perfect place---perfect faraway place to move to. On the first day at the new high school Chris meets 3 girls that befriend him, 1 girl in particular catches his eye--Jocelyn. Chris and Jocelyn have a building relationship, but there is always a sense of a hidden problem in her life. Chris encounters the local bullies at school, he uses his wits and charms and out-maneuvering to try and escape. All throughout the novel the storyline is building and building with crescendo, till the point that I was ready to scream and throw my hands up in the air and state "what is going on here?" What I mean is a darkness and shadowing of evil is eluded to all throughout the book, little snippets of it here and there, strange signs, all of which continue to lead the reader on-ward, trying to figure out exactly what is going on. Chris not only has charm and charisma, but he is comical and sarcastic. He is a thinker, less a reactor. He ponders and plans. He is curious--maybe to bold in his curiosity, at times I felt like "no way, I would not do what he is doing." The story Solitary has several characters that are all "odd" some even "creepy". The book is an entree of characters, each seem to have their own secrets and strange behaviors. Some characters that because of their title the reader would think is a trusted person, but then in Solitary is there anyone that can be trusted?

Blissful Reading!
Annette

This Week Is Book Blogger Appreciation Week

2010-09-13T07:19:00.000-05:00

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Holiday

2010-09-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

I will be taking the next few days off from blogging for the Labor Day weekend.
I hope your holiday will be relaxing!
For my readers on the east coast I hope that Hurricane Earl is only a minimal storm for you!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

2010 Children's Book Award Winners

2010-09-02T09:37:00.000-05:00

2010 Caldecott Medal---This award is given to the illustrator of the most distinguished picture book for children.
Link for more information about Caldecott Medal

The 2010 Winner:
The Lion & The Mouse by Jerry Pinkney, Little, Brown and Company

2010 Caldecott Honor Awards:

Red Sings from Treetops by Joyce Sidman

All the World illustrated by Marla Frazee (winner)
and written by Liz Garton Scanlon

John Newbery Medal, is awarded to the author of the highest in written achievement for children's book:

The 2010 winner is When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

The Newbery Honor books:

Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice by Phillip Hoose

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

The Mostly True Adventures of Homor P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Guardians of Ga'hoole: #1 The Capture by Kathryn Lasky

2010-09-02T08:36:00.000-05:00

Link for the book @ Publisher:
http://store.scholastic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay_null_10965_-1_10052_10051

Published by Scholastic in 2003, Paperback, 240 pages, For ages 9+ and grades 4-8

Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 1: The Capture (2003)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 2: The Journey (2003)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 3: The Rescue (2004)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 4: The Siege (2004)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 5: The Shattering (2004)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 6: The Burning (2004)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 7: The Hatchling (2005)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 8: The Outcast (2005)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 9: The First Collier* (2006)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 10: The Coming of Hoole* (2006)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 11: To Be a King* (2006)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 12: The Golden Tree (2007)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 13: The River of Wind (2007)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 14: Exile (2007)
Guardians of Ga'Hoole Book 15: The War of the Ember (2008)

* From the Legends of Ga’Hoole

Guardians of Ga'Hoole: A Guide Book to the Great Tree
Guardians of Ga’Hoole: Lost Tales of Ga’Hoole
Wolves of the Beyond #1: Lone Wolf
Wolves of the Beyond #2: Shadow Wolf

(Information from Wikipedia)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guardians_of_Ga%27Hoole

The first set of three books have been made in to a movie that will be in the theaters September 24.

The Forest of Tyto is where Barn Owls dwell, and Soren is three weeks old when he is snatched by patrols of evil owls and taken to a canyon named St. Aegoluis. A variety of owls have been snatched from the various owl kingdoms: Great Horned Owl, Great Gray Owl, Western Screech Owl, Snowy Owl, Long-eared Owl, Elf Owl, Burrowing Owl, and Barn Owl. These young owls are made to labor--they are enslaved.
Soren and his friends think only of escaping, but they first must learn to fly.

I have a great love for owls! I have noticed themes of owls: from notebooks, to lunch kits, to fictional book themes, to jewelry; owls seem to be everywhere!

I felt this book was exceptional in teaching a lesson in encouragement and steadfastness in helping others.
Soren is a knightly character, he has chivalry--courtesy, honor, generosity, and bravery.
I loved this book, I noticed that on the Scholastic website there is an activity link for teachers.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

A Classic

2010-08-26T21:37:00.002-05:00

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Earlier this summer Becky @ Becky's Book Reviews and I decided to do a Buddy Book Review. We chose To Kill a Mockingbird as our first read.
Becky's review was posted earlier this week, the link for the review is:
http://blbooks.blogspot.com/2010/08/to-kill-mockingbird.html

Amazon link for the book:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061743526/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_2?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0446310786&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1BERQT4E6T9G9PY0EEHX

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.harpercollins.com/books/Kill-Mockingbird-Harper-Lee/?isbn=9780061743528

Link for those interested in reading along with others or to obtain a widget:
http://tokillamockingbird50year.com/?cm_sp=bookpage-_-tout-_-XMSAD_TKAM

Published by Harper Collins 50th Anniversary edition 11 May 2010, 336 pages, Fiction/Coming of Age Story/Classic
Originally published on 11 July 1960
I purchased this edition--hardback--on the very day that was the 50th Anniversary--11 July 2010

When To Kill a Mockingbird was published (1960) Jim Crow laws were in force. Blacks could only drink out of water fountains designated "For Colored Only", sitting in the back of the bus was the only option, whites and blacks did not mix in public schools, in the movie theaters a specific area was, "For Colored Only"--or in the town I live in they were not allowed at all in the four movie theaters in town. Most people did not talk about it, it was, "just the way things were". A new generation of people during the 1960's put words and actions in to the streets and newspapers and books and television. They did not cease in their mission for equality and freedom for all people--regardless of the color of their skin.

When Harper Lee wrote To Kill a Mockingbird she wrote what on first appearance is a coming of age story, of a brother named Jem and his sister named Scout growing up in a small town in Alabama during the depression years. It is a large story though that touches on several life issues: single parent, poverty, abuse, alcoholism, mental illness, ignorance, illiteracy, racial hatred and prejudice, loneliness, grieving a death, childhood angst, bullying, wanting to be accepted.
It is also a story that reminds all of us of when we were children: long hot summer days with little to do, walking barefoot everywhere, actually allowing our imagination to carry us away in thought, first day of school, teachers that we know "for sure" have it in for us, taking joy in small treasurers, innocence, spying on our siblings, cooties.
There is something in the story that all readers can identify with--personalize--and in this it becomes apart of you. It is a story that you always remember, and when you do think of it, there is a feeling of tenderness and warmth.

If I had to choose which character was my favorite, I don't know who I would pick.
I love Jem for his brotherly protection of Scout. He seems to me to be a man in a young boys body, an old soul.
I love Scout because she is bold and honest, resourceful, insightful, precocious.
I love Atticus because he lives what he believes. There is no pretentiousness in him. He is the definition of quiet unmoving strength. He is not a demonstrative man, yet the love for his children is always apparent.
I love Calpurnia because she loves this family--Jem and Scout are "her children".
I love Boo Radley he is thought of as the "unknown entity" a "phantom", he is a significant character that is talked about throughout the book, yet does not make a fleshly appearance until the end.

I am the leader of my churches book club, we will be meeting in early November to discuss To Kill a Mockingbird. I have enjoyed immensely reading this story again, glad that Becky and I chose this book to Buddy Review.

I have two favorite quotes from the book.
"Maycomb was an old town, but it was a tired old town when I first knew it. In rainy weather the streets turned to red slop; grass grew on the sidewalks, the courthouse sagged in the square. Somehow, it was hotter then: a black dog suffered on a summer's day; bony mules hitched to Hoover carts flicked flies in the sweltering shade of the live oaks on the square. Men's stiff collars wilted by nine in the morning. Ladies bathed before noon, after their three-o'clock naps, and by nightfall were like soft teacakes with frostings of sweat and sweet talcum."

"He turned out the light and went into Jem's room. He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning."

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Blogger Hop!

2010-08-20T12:01:00.000-05:00

It's Friday and Book Blogger Hop! This weekly event that begins anew on Friday's is hosted by
Crazy-For-Books. This week the blogs that I visited are:
http://thesmartyowl.blogspot.com/
and
http://www.moonlightbookreviews.blogspot.com/

The question for this week is, "How many blogs do you follow?"
I follow 100 blogs. Everyday I read my blog reader scanning the titles of posts, some I read and some I do not. Every month I create a post over @ my other blog A Well-Watered Garden entitled Roundabout.
I visit all of the blogs that I follow reading them over the past few weeks, then repost on Roundabout those that I found that were noteworthy.

I noticed this week on Book Blogger Hop! that there are mainly young adult blogs, hmmmmmm.

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Noah's Garden, When Someone You Love is in the Hospital by Mo Johnson and illustrated by Annabelle Josse

2010-08-10T13:35:00.000-05:00

Published by Candlewick Press in 2010, 32 pages, for ages 4-8, hardback book

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://www.candlewick.com/cat.asp?browse=Title&mode=book&isbn=0763647829&pix=n

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Noahs-Garden-When-Someone-Hospital/dp/0763647829/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281460425&sr=8-3

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

A young boy named Noah loves to play in the garden. While in the garden he imagines he is a seaplane or pirate. He does not understand why his baby sister Jessica cannot come to play in the garden as well. He wishes for his sister to be able to play with him, but she cannot because she is in the hospital.
The book is based on a true story. Written in order to help other children deal with the sadness of an ill sibling.
I was moved by this story. I feel it is noteworthy in that Noah's Garden enters the little mind and world of a young child that is read this book and is dealing with an ill sibling.
The watercolor illustrations are bold and lovely. I loved the facial expressions, the shadowing and tones that were used.
The type font is large and easy to read.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Blogger Hop!

2010-08-08T14:27:00.000-05:00

Book Blogger Hop was created by Crazy-For-Books as a way for book bloggers to unite in meeting one another and encouraging each other. Each Friday starts a new round of sign ups!

The question this week is what kind of music do I listen to while I am reading?
I don't listen to music, I prefer solitude. I do prefer to read in my favorite chair surrounded by my stacks and piles of my books.

Today I visited the following blogs:
http://thesmartyowl.blogspot.com/2010/08/blog-hop-and-follow-friday.html

http://yachapters.blogspot.com/

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons

2010-08-07T13:54:00.000-05:00

Publisher link for book:
http://www.holidayhouse.com/title_display.php?ISBN=9780823421688

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?keywords=9780823421688

The authors website:
http://www.gailgibbons.com/
Published by Holiday House 2008, 32 pages ages 4-8, hardback,

Book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Gail Gibbons is noted to be a top author in non-fiction children's books and I can understand why. Elephants of Africa is edifying yet friendly to a child. The type font is large and bold---easy to read. The pictures in watercolor are large and close up, each page is filled with glorious elephants. The information given in the book about elephants would be excellent not only for home reading but for use in school. Elephants of Africa gives information about what they eat, where they live, maps and illustrations are given.
I am thinking of purchasing this book I loved it so much!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

That's Where God Is by Dan & Ali Morrow and illustrated by Cory Godbey

2010-08-07T12:50:00.000-05:00

Published by David C. Cook 2010, 36 pages, for ages 4-8, hardback

The authors website:
http://www.danandalimorrow.com/home.htm

Link for the book @ Christian Book:
http://www.christianbook.com/thats-where-god-is/dan-morrow/9781434764348/pd/764348?item_code=WW&netp_id=769828&event=ESRCN&view=details

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Thats-Where-God-Daniel-Morrow/dp/1434764346/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281202228&sr=8-1

This book was provided for me for free from David C. Cook to read/review.

I loved this book!
A grandfather leads his young grandson on a discovery of where God is. The little boy through out the book with observant eyes and ears looks for God in his world.
There are Bible verses (NIV Reader's Version) interspersed in the book such as:
"Anyone who lives by the truth comes into the light. He does this so that it will be easy to see that what he has done is with God's help."
The books illustrations are in water color with cheery colors. The faces on the characters are modest; yet they are faces that have joy.
I could give a lengthy review directed towards descriptive details about how wonderful this book is, but the most important thing about this book is that is explains on a child's level exactly where God is. It also gives a great opportunity for further questions and teaching time about God.
On a personal level I led my granddaughter to invite God in to her heart, what a priceless eternal moment!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

I Always Get My Way written by Thad Krasnesky and illustrated by David Parkins

2010-08-07T12:10:00.001-05:00

Published in 2009 by Flashlight Press
Link for book @ publisher:
http://www.flashlightpress.com/I_Always_ALWAYS_Get_My_Way.html

Link for book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Always-ALWAYS-Get-My-Way/dp/097997464X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1249201399&sr=1-1

Hardcover, for ages 4-8, 32 pages

A Cybils Award Nominee

Emmy is a whirling dervish in a little body, constantly and creatively getting in to mischief. Her parents are sorely patient with her as well as her older brother and sister. She is comical and exhausting.
My granddaughter was fascinated with Emmy's escapades and was rushing me to finish the book so she would know what happened to Emmy. This book is a joy to read! I recommend this book......all though I would make sure the child hearing the book does not "feel enticed to follow Emmy in her mischief".

This book was borrowed from the library for reading/reviewing.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Once Upon MacDonald's Farm by Stephen Gammell

2010-08-07T11:57:00.001-05:00

I had a difficult time finding a front cover picture of the book, maybe the hardback is out of print now. I did find a paperback @ Barnes and Nobles:
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Once-upon-MacDonalds-Farm/Stephen-Gammell/e/9780689713798/?itm=1&USRI=once+upon+macdonald%27s+farm
It is the same book, same story, difference only in hardback versus paperback.
The book that I read/reviewed was borrowed from the library.

Stephen Gammell is the illustrator/author of several children's books. I found a short biography of him and listing of his books @
http://www.childrensliteraturenetwork.org/aifolder/aipages/ai_g/gammell.php

Published by Simon & Schuster Children's Books for Young Readers, originally published in 1984, the edition I read in 2000
Pencil illustrations, 32 pages, for ages 5-8

What song and story are all children taught when young? Old MacDonald Had A Farm.
It is refreshing to find a twist on an oldie but goody favorite.
I found this book in the library yesterday when I took my granddaughter for our weekly visit. I am aware that this book is older, yet this should never ever deter a reader from a book. Books to me never age, they only become more precious.
Farmer MacDonald is a bit lonely on his farm and he recruits some interesting animals to help. MacDonald has a sense of humor and is somewhat daft, but we love him anyway and laugh along with him.
This book is sure to bring giggles and rolling of eyeballs, it is a light hearted enjoyable read.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Summer Break

2010-07-20T19:38:00.003-05:00

I'm taking a summer break from blogging this week and most of next week.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Years of Dust, The Story of The Dust Bowl by Albert Marrin

2010-07-12T12:18:00.003-05:00

Amazon link for the book:
http://www.amazon.com/Years-Dust-Albert-Marrin/dp/0525420770

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780525420774,00.html?strSrchSql=years+of+dust+by+albert+marrin/Years_of_Dust_Albert_Marrin#

Published by Dutton Children's Books--a division of Penguin in 2009, 128 pages, hardback edition, ages 9-12, non-fiction/history

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

During the 1930's while the Great Depression was going on another horrific disaster was taking place, the Great Dust Bowl storms. The states affected were New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. The most infamous dust storm was on Sunday April 14, 1935, this day would be known as Black Sunday. Years of Dust by Albert Marrin teaches the history of the plains, the environment of the land, the peoples that had lived there, and how the farmers claimed the lands after the ranchers left. Drought and insect infestations helped to cause the dust storms, but also during the 1920's the farmers increased production of crops. Later soil conservation would be implemented and farmers would learn to rotate crops and to rest the land.
The book is filled with large photographs (all in black and white) of the approaching storms, several photographs are of the people that were known as apart of the great migration to the west coast, primarily California. Even though these people were traveling to a state that was unaffected by the dust storms and drought and held promise of plentiful agriculture, the trip there was hazardous and long, and once arriving the people lived in distressing and unsanitary camps.
I felt this was an interesting book, it could be implemented in the class room when studying about this time period. The photographs are large and speak loudly of what the people endeavored.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Black Elk's Vision, A Lakota Story by S. D. Nelson

2010-07-07T10:56:00.001-05:00

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Black-Elks-Vision-Lakota-Story/dp/0810983990

More Links of interest:
http://nativedigest.com/blackelk.html

http://nieveroja.colostate.edu/issue4/black.htm

http://www.manataka.org/page28.html

http://algonkianchurchhistory.blogspot.com/2010/03/black-elks-vision-and-two-roads-map.html

Published by Abrams Books for Young Readers in 2010, 56 pages, for ages 9-12,
History, Native American,

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Black Elk was the cousin of Crazy Horse. Black Elk was born in 1863, he was Oglala Sioux.
This book was originally published in 1932, it has been re-released in 2010. The book is told from the words of Black Elk; he speaks about his life before his people were made to live on the reservation and about his life afterwards. The book is most famous for his special visions, he started having visions as a boy. Black Elk was involved in the battles of Little Bighorn and Wounded Knee. Later he would travel with the Buffalo Bill Wild west show, traveling across America and even across the ocean to Europe. He eventually settled on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota.
The book has photograph's as well as acrylic and black charcoal pictures. The illustrations were what caught my eye in the library--they are beautiful.
Black Elk's story is fascinating and yet tragic. It is fascinating in that this world--his world of the Native American's is so far removed from my Caucasian life. They treated the land and environment with respect, they did not misuse any animal for their own sport. The buffalo was hunted and all of the buffalo carcass was used, nothing was wasted. His story is tragic in that this group of people and what they went through was injustice and incomprehensible. I have thought about how often with people groups like African American's, or Native American's, or other groups have been branded as (non white and thus not human). In thinking they were not human or sub-human there was justification in abusing them or wiping them out. This is the same thinking that the Nazi's believed that the Jews were not people that were valid, they were sub-human and thus expendable and even annihilated.
I loved this book! It is an awesome book for use in the classroom---teaching and discussion would be paramount.

Following picture is of Black Elk and his wife and daughter, the late 1800's. He died in 1950.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Ashes by Kathryn Lasky

2010-07-07T10:19:00.001-05:00

Published by Viking-Penguin Group in 2010, 320 pages, for age 11 and up, historical fiction, young adult

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Ashes-Kathryn-Lasky/dp/0670011576

Authors site:
http://www.kathrynlasky.com/KK/Home.html

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Gabriella lives in Berlin, Germany with her parents and older sister Ulla. The time period for most of the book is 1932 during the rise of the Nazi party and Adolph Hitler. Gaby's father is an astrophysicist working in the university. Her mother is a pianist. Older sister Ulla is finishing her school studies and has become involved with a young man. The family is close friends with Albert Einstein and his wife, they spend much time together. Gaby's family is anxious and fearful about Hitler and the Nazi's sickening ideology. Their country is changing dramatically. Gaby struggles with the normal angst of being an adolescent; but more entanglements are happening in her life by those that believe in the Nazi party.
The book is written in the first person's perspective, which is Gaby a young adolescent girl. Her feelings are expressed freely in the change in her country, the change in her sister Ulla, and her anxieties about her peers. Many of her neighbors and school friends are disappearing because they are Jewish. The German people are expected to adhere to Hitler and his dream of a blonde hair race of peoples. Gaby has blonde hair, yet does not want any part of this ideology. She is a strong character, she is a person of insight and conviction.
I thought this was an interesting book, I liked it. It gave me (of course fiction) an idea of what an adolescent girl endured during this period in German history. She feels as if she does not have a valid voice because of her age, and because of fears of retaliation. I saw a maturity develop in her during the course of the book.
I especially felt connected to her because of her love of reading. She carried a book with her wherever she went (I can relate).
I counted one curse word in the book (I make mention of this for the parents, some do not want their child to read or hear a curse word).
Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Shoe Box by Francine Rivers

2010-07-06T21:37:00.001-05:00

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Shoe-Box-Childrens-Francine-Rivers/dp/1414305680/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1278468616&sr=1-1

Tyndale House Publishers Link:
http://www.tyndale.com/The-Shoe-Box-%28Children%27s-edition%29/9781414305684
Authors Link:
http://francinerivers.com/

Tyndale House Publishers, published 2005, 32 pages, for ages 4-8

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Timmy is brought to live with a loving couple named David and Mary Holmes. The couple is kind and loving towards Timmy. They are especially patient and hopeful that a bond will occur between them.
Timmy's previous life with his parents has left deep scars. Timmy often carries with him a shoe box that when questioned about what is in it, his only reply is evasive and guarded.
This is a Christmas story, a parable. I read this story aloud to my granddaughter, and in reading the final pages my throat was tight and achy in trying to hold back my tears. I loved this book and am thinking of buying it as a Christmas present for my grandchildren.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Old Possom's Book Of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot

2010-07-06T21:07:00.001-05:00

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Old-Possums-Book-Practical-Cats/dp/054724827X/ref=pd_sim_b_3
Published by Harcourt Children's Books, republished 2009, 80 pages, ages 4-8
First published in 1939

T. S. Eliot--Thomas Stearns Eliot 1888-1965

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

This is a delish book about cats and their ticklish quirky names and lives. The book is written as funny poems dedicated to cats. It is fun to read, especially aloud. I'd found this book by accident browsing through the library last week. It is exciting to know this book was the basis for the long running musical Cats!
There are several chapters and each of them are short. The illustrations by Axel Scheffler are vibrant and exciting.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Happiness of Kati by Jane Vejjajiva

2010-06-29T11:15:00.000-05:00

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Happiness-Kati-Jane-Vejjajiva/dp/1416917888

Antheneum Books for Young Readers Published in Thailand in 2003, Published in U.S. 2006
144 pages, ages 9-12
www.simonsayskids.com

The author Jane Vejjajiva is the sister of the Prime Minister of Thailand.
This is her first novel.

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Kati is 9 years old and in the fourth grade. She lives in a coastal community in Thailand with her maternal grandparents.
Kati's mother is ill with Lou Gehrig's disease. Kati has lived with her grandparents most of her life.
Her mother was an attorney as was the grandfather (now retired). The father of Kati is not in the story.
The book begins with showing the reader the daily life of Kati: food, school, transportation, the environment of her home and community, her Buddhist religion. The book then descends in to the reason the book was written: in helping Kati deal with the serious disease of her mother, the affects on the family, the outlook of the future, the disease and its ramifications on how others see this disease.
This is a book dealing with serious themes. It would not be appropriate for all children, maybe most children.
I would not read this book to a child unless the child has a terminally ill relative, this book could be used in helping the child---yet it also shows a peek at the culture of Thailand.
I would not recommend this book to just anyone, a parent would need to read the book first then decide.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

The Spiderwick Chronicles Book One The Field Guide by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

2010-06-29T10:44:00.001-05:00

Amazon link for the book:
http://www.amazon.com/Field-Guide-Spiderwick-Chronicles-Book/dp/0689859368

Promotional page for The Spiderwick Chronicles on the publishers website @ Simon & Schuster:
http://promo.simonandschuster.com/Spiderwick/

Holly Black site:
www.blackholly.com

Tony DiTerlizzi site:
www.diterlizzi.com

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, published 2003, 128 pages, for ages 6-10

This book is Fantasy Fiction

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Siblings Mallory, Jared, and Simon, and their mother Helen, move in to an old and quirky family home.
Soon after arriving the three siblings hear strange sounds inside the walls. Mallory takes the lead in creating a hole in the kitchen wall, what they find within the hole in the wall creates more curiosity about what kind of creature is making these strange sounds.
The Field Guide Book One sets the stage for all of the series in The Spiderwick Chronicles. These books have been successful with older elementary age children and in to middle school. Children of this age gravitate towards the mysterious and fantasy type fiction; I suppose it is an escape type reading and the fantasy part appeals to a child's imagination.
Personally I'm not drawn towards fantasy fiction, it is just not my "cup of tea". Looking back at when I was a child I might have read this type of book.
I do feel this book was written with keen imagination and creativity. It is a story that does not leave the reader disinterested nor ready to take a nap. It is not a long chapter book, it is easy to digest. The story in book one leaves the reader ready to devour book two. I loved the character traits in the three siblings: Mallory the older sister--motherly bossy type, Jared and Simon twin brothers and each having distinct traits--one braver than the other.
This book may cause some in the Christian reading community to pause and then not want their child to read----some have problems with fantasy fiction period unless it is C. S. Lewis.
Personally I did not have a problem with this book; although I know my 6 1/2 year old granddaughter would not be ready for this story--she scares easily.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Library Advocacy Day

2010-06-29T10:03:00.000-05:00

Library Advocacy Day from ALA Washington on Vimeo.

Akavak, An Eskimo Journey by James Houston

2010-06-23T11:08:00.000-05:00

This is a book that was written in 1968, original publisher Harcourt, Brace & World, NY--Library Binding
80 pages, ages 9-12
I borrowed this book from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

I am anxious to read more books on Alaska and the far north; this book "called out" to me while I was in the public library last week.

Akavak is a youth and he is given the mission to take his aged grandfather to visit his brother before his grandfather dies. His grandfathers brother lives farther north in the land named Kokjuak. Akavak and his grandfather will have to travel far in the icy elements of the terrain. Akavak is given instructions by his father on traveling, but soon after they leave his grandfather persuades him to do something else.

I thought this was a well written book; I was kept in suspense because of the hazardous trials that they endured. Akavak is torn between obeying his father or his grandfather. He is faced with grown up decisions and struggles with uncertainty. I felt the book did bring to my mind easily the terrain and environment of life in the far north of Alaska. The author wrote of the food they ate, clothing, and their housing.
I enjoyed reading this book!

Amazon link for the book:
http://www.amazon.com/Akavak-Inuit-Eskimo-Legend-James-Houston/dp/0152017313

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

2010-06-18T20:47:00.001-05:00

The authors website:
http://janeyolen.com/

Link for the book @ Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Owl-Moon-Jane-Yolen/dp/0399214577

Published by Philomel Books in 1987, 32 pages, A 1988 Caldecott Medal winner

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

On a winter night a little girl and her father go looking for owls. The night is cold, snowy, quiet and still.
They walk in to the woods under a full moon that casts shadows. The father calls for an owl and there is no response. Their anticipation is hidden behind silent frigid faces.
I thought this book was splendid! The bond that is strengthened between the girl and her father is moving.
The authors description of the owl outing on a snowy night made me too feel as if I were following a long with them. The illustrations were in soft shades of blue and gray, and milky white. Many of the pictures show animals bedded down in the forest for the night.
It is in the special times like these between a child and his or her parent that will be remembered for a lifetime.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Back Of The Bus by Aaron Reynolds and illustrated by Floyd Cooper

2010-06-16T10:35:00.001-05:00

Link @ Amazon for the book:
http://www.amazon.com/Back-Bus-Aaron-Reynolds/dp/0399250913/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1276699772&sr=1-1

Link @ the publishers:
http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780399250910,00.html?Back_of_the_Bus_Aaron_Reynolds
For ages 4-8, 32 pages, published by Philomel Books a division of Penguin Young Readers, published 2010

This book is such a great book, and should be read in the classroom. My granddaughter Celeste of course asked me several questions, in her little lifetime she does does not know about segregation. In my own lifetime (I was born in 1964) I vaguely remember when integration began in school (1st grade for me). My father--age 87 remembers well segregation. I am so proud of my father, he told me that he would on purpose sit in the back of the bus just to make a point that he was no different than people of color. I love my daddy more and more everyday.
Back of the Bus is based on the true historical story of Rosa Parks a woman that was tired from her day at work, and she sat down in a seat on the public transportaion bus in Montgomery, Alabama. When she was told to move to the back of the bus where people of her color sat, she refused, and then she was arrested.

http://www.rosaparks.org/bio.html
The fictional part of the story that the author weaves in to the real story, is of a little boy and his mother that are sitting in the back of the bus traveling to their home observing what is happening to Rosa Parks. The little boy does not understand and his mother is concerned about what this act will mean for them.
The illustrations and words are full of the immensity of the little boy's world. The facial expressions are evocative and demanding from the reader to grasp the importance of this act.
This is a world---and a prejudice---that I cannot grasp, it sickens me.
Yet, this act (what Rosa Parks in courage did) was a beginning, that even through today should incite us to not allow prejudice and hatred and segregation to happen ever again. (I guess I'm preaching)
This is a great book, be prepared to explain to the child on a level that they will understand about this story.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Summer Reading 2010

2010-06-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

My granddaughter and I are off to the library today, last week I checked out 17 books!!
We've read every single one of them, so back to the library we go!
I am so thrilled that my granddaughter is learning to read. She loves to practice writing words, she makes books from scrap paper and cut up card board boxes (to be used as the front and back cover). I consider her a
pre-published author!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Blessing's Bead by Debby Dahl Edwardson

2010-06-16T09:10:00.002-05:00

Link for the book @ publisher:
http://us.macmillan.com/fsgyoungreaders.aspx

Age range 10 and up, 192 pages, Fiction, Young Adult,

The authors website:
http://www.debbydahledwardson.com/
The authors blog:
http://www.debbydahledwardson.com/blog.htm
This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing.

Blessing's Bead is a multi generational story of two young girls from different time periods that live in the Arctic Circle.
In the first story Nutaaq and her older sister Aaluk are traveling to a trade fair. The sisters are close, their bond is strong. The time period is the early 20th Century. They live in the Arctic Circle and they are Inupiaq--Eskimo Inuit Native Americans. A Siberian young man that is wearing blue beads has his eye on Aaluk. Nutaaq is watching their interest in one another. The trade fair is an event that they all look forward to, the ability to meet and socialize with others and trade their goods is necessary. Historical events will take place and life changes for these two sisters.
Many years later another young girl named Blessing is traveling with her brother to live with their great grandmother at the Arctic Circle. They had been living in Anchorage, but were taken away when their mother was no longer able to care for them. Life in the Arctic Circle is a challenge, yet there is a strong bond with their great grandmother. Blessing finds a blue bead and her great grandmother shares with her the story.

I loved this story! It was hard for me to put this book down, I finished reading this book in just a few hours.
The book gave me a perfect picture image in my mind of what life is like living in the Arctic Circle. The vivid imagery made it easy for me to feel the icy cold weather.
This is a people group and a part of the world that I knew little about and I am glad that I read this book.
I loved the blending of the two stories together, and the effect on the generations.
I loved the depth of love and selflessness shown in the families.
The writing is simple and easy to understand and read.
The book would be an excellent tool to use in the classroom.

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Book Blogger Hop!

2010-06-11T13:47:00.000-05:00

Today is Friday and it's Book Blogger Hop! This is a great way to meet new blogger friends and see new blog's.

Today I met:
An Avid Reader's Musings and Once Upon A Review.

Blissful Blogging!
Annette

Insects: Biggest! Littlest! by Sandra Markle, Photographs by Dr. Simon Pollard

2010-06-10T22:47:00.006-05:00

Link for book at the publishers:
http://www.boydsmillspress.com/books/nonfiction_picture_book/insects_biggest_littlest.html

Published by Boyds Mills Press, 2009, 32 pages, ages 5-7

My granddaughter enjoys going out in the backyard and collecting insects. Not just any insect, but pill bugs and snails. She is too girly-girl to collect crickets, or anything she perceives to be "gross" or that might jump on her. When we were at the library yesterday we looked for books on insects. Some of the books we saw were to detailed and scientific for a 6 1/2 year old. The book Insects: Biggest! Littlest! was just her "size".
The book at 32 pages goes over Praying Mantis, Giant Stick Insect, Moths, Butterflies, Weevils, Honeybees, and several more insect varieties. Each are displayed morphed in view--all their little faces and insect parts are easily seen. A brief explanation is given for each of the insects taught.
I found this to be a fascinating book and my granddaughter loved it! Of course I heard several eews and yucks, but she was glued to each page peering at each of these creatures.
The language is thankfully adapted to her age level so that she not only could understand, but not become lost in too long of explanations. The photography is wonderful and I'm still staring at the eyes of these insects, they look like they are looking at me too!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Ms. April & Ms. Mae, A Fable written and illustrated by Karen Dugan

2010-06-10T22:12:00.005-05:00

The Gryphon Press, published 2009, 40 pages, ages 4-8
Link for the book at the publisher:
http://www.thegryphonpress.com/bk_aprmae.html
and at Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Ms-April-Mae-Fable/dp/094071907X/ref=sr_11_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1238102540&sr=11-1

Yesterday I took my 6 1/2 year old granddaughter to the public library to register her for the summer reading program. Both of us chose books for me to read to her and for her to read to herself. We left with 15 books!
Ms. April & Ms. Mae, A Fable by Karen Dugan was one of the books that I chose.
I was immediately drawn to the book because of the delightful cover. The story is of two best friends Ms. April and Ms. Mae. They live on a large piece of land that is a sanctuary for many other animals. A terrible sickness over takes Ms. April and their little sanctuary is threatened. What will the animals do?
This is a beautifully illustrated book. The pictures are of friendly sweet faced animals. The story is warm and inviting, funny and light hearted. The story has more than one lesson to learn not only for children but adults as well!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Review-The 108th Sheep by Ayano Imai

2010-05-21T11:11:00.005-05:00

Published by Tiger Tales--link:
http://www.tigertalesbooks.com/

Link for book at publishers:
http://www.tigertalesbooks.com/books.php?id=163

Published 2006, 21 pages
According to publisher for ages 3-7, Amazon states ages 4-8
Ayano Imai wrote and illustrated this book.
She is the author of another book entitled Chester.

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing...and treasuring.

The first thing that I noticed about this book is the thickness of the paper. The paper reminds me of cold press water color paper. The picture drawings appear to be in pencil--mainly charcoal gray. The drawings are detailed and lovely.
Emma the little girl who cannot sleep, has droopy-sleepy-round eyes and pinky cheeks. Emma tries everything to help her to sleep, she soon decides to count sheep. Her counting surpasses the 10 that she had hoped would help her to drift off to sleep. When she gets to the 108th sheep (he has a problem). Emma must help him, in order to help herself.
Emma, I understand where you are coming from...I too have problems sleeping.
There is a sweet slumber of a moral in this story; but if I told you I'd be steeling the joy of reading this to your little one.
I read this book to my granddaughter and she loved it, as do I.
Great bedtime book, great teaching lesson for children....and for adults as well!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Review-Crow Call by Lois Lowry and illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline

2010-05-21T10:32:00.004-05:00

Link for the book:
http://store.scholastic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay_null_38682_-1_10052_10051

Publishers weekly Best Book of the year for 2009

Scholastic Press , 2009, 32 pages
Publishers state for ages 4+, Amazon states for ages 9-12. (I read this book to my 6 1/2 year old granddaughter and she loved this book--in my opinion I believe ages 9-12 is not accurate.

Other books by Lois Lowry:
Number The Stars, The Giver, The Willoubys, Gathering Blue, The Birthday Ball
She is the author of 30 books!

This book was borrowed from the library for the purpose of reading/reviewing...and treasuring.

The book I read is a hard back library edition. The front cover appears to be water color; created with warm golds, sepia and browns. A lone little girl named Lizzie is dressed in a mans shirt, and is gazing upwards in to a tree where a flock of crows have just flown away from. She is perfectly still, as if wanting to relish and soak in this precious moment. The pictures throughout the book display a cold and still morning outing between Lizzie and her father. The father has recently returned home from war, and he and Lizzie are warming up the bond between them that had been disjointed because of his absence. They are hunting crows that have and will destroy farmers crops. Liz is apprehensive about this; yet she wants to spend time with her father.
Great book! Timely for this period in our nations history with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
This would be a great book to read to children who need help understanding the strained relationships that happen during a war with the absences of children away from their parents.

Attention authors!!!!!
I feel that more books need to be written (minus any political beliefs) focusing on helping children and young adults deal with a parent coming home from war!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Review-Library Mouse by Daniel Kirk

2010-05-21T09:54:00.005-05:00

Link for the book @ original publisher:
http://www.abramsbooks.com/Books/Library_Mouse-9780810993464.html

Abrams Books For Young Readers link:
http://www.abramsbooks.com/abramsyoungreaders.html

Abrams Books link:
http://www.abramsbooks.com/abrams.html

My copy of this book is from Scholastic, bought at a book fair at my granddaughters school.
www.scholastic.com

This book was purchased by me for the purpose of reading/reviewing....and treasuring.

For ages 4-8, 32 pages, published 2007

You've probably noticed how many children's book characters are either mice or rats. I find that interesting, can someone explain this?

The cover of Library Mouse shows a mouse with drawstring pants holding a Popsicle stick sword surrounded by books. Comical that the mouse is standing on a cat book with 1 large eye underneath his feet. All the illustrations are colorful, vibrant, bold. They are pictures that pop out at you.
Sam is the literary mouses name and he feels blessed to live in a library. Sam decided that he will write books, and during the night he places these newly written books upon the shelves in the library. Soon he is a famous writer and his readers want to know who he is? What will Sam do?

This book brought tears to my eyes it is such a special book! The book is endearing, approachable, memorable; the book holds a precious key for children, a key that will take them through a door of opportunity and magic.

More books by this author on Sam the mouse:
Library Mouse: A Friend's Tale and Library Mouse: A World To Explore
Blissful Reading!
Annette

Review-Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

2010-05-21T09:20:00.003-05:00

Link for the author's website and more information on book.
http://www.michelleknudsen.com/library_lion_77788.htm

Other books by this author:
The Dragon of Trelian, Argus, The Bridge to Highlandsville, Big Mean Mike.

My copy of this book is by Scholastic, I shopped at a Scholastic Book Fair at my granddaughter's school yesterday and purchased several books. I read this book to her in her classroom yesterday. She listened attentively and remarked how much she loved this book!

This book was purchased by me for the purpose of reading/reviewing....and treasuring.

www.scholastic.com
This book is A New York Times Bestseller
For ages 4-8, 48 pages, originally published under Candlewick Press 2006

Miss Merriweather is in charge of the library and she is punctual about keeping the rules. A lion visits the library and becomes quite at home there. As long as he follows the rules all will be fine.
When an accident happens the lion must make a choice, will he break the rules in order to help?

A lion in the library roars my imagination, and for this the author has created a wonderfully beloved book. The book is a teaching lesson in making wise decisions no matter the cost, it is written in a story form easily understood by young children. The illustrations are soft and muted, maybe as a way to offset the loudness and fear of a lion.
I highly recommend this book!

Blissful Reading!
Annette

Vacation

2010-05-11T08:46:00.000-05:00

My husband is home on vacation this week, so I'll not be posting...spending precious time with him!

Blissful Blogging!
Annette