Fabulous Reads

Framed by Malcolm Rose

2012-01-15T16:11:00.000-08:00

Title: Framed (Traces #1)
Author: Malcolm Rose
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Mystery
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: Moderate descriptions of murder scenes
Premise: "Forensic scientist Luke Harding and his robot assistant must solve a series of on-campus murders, especially since Luke is being framed for the murders." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This was a fast and intriguing read. Set in the future in England the majority of people are brown-skinned and the white is considered the minority. In this world people are also "paired" together to produce the best genetic result based on the field that they are in. So if you are brilliant in science you will be paired with a mate who is also in science. If you are in athletics than you will be paired with a mate who will help produce the best genetic offspring for athletics.

What's even more intriguing about the world that Malcolm Rose created is his main character, Luke. Having just barely graduated as the youngest forensic investigator ever he is almost instantly put on assignment to investigate a murder at his own school. I also love "Malc" (Mobile Aid to Law and Crime). He is a mechanical "Watson" to Luke as "Holmes". I love the relationship between these two characters as they work to solve the crime where all the clues point to Luke himself as the main suspect. This book is a unique twist on the typical murder mystery. Some of the descriptions of the crime scenes might be too gruesome for some readers, but other than that I definitely recommend this book as an enjoyable read.

The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

2012-01-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

Title: The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus Book 2)
Author: Rick Riordan
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fiction/Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Demigod Percy Jackson, still with no memory, and his new friends from Camp Jupiter, Hazel and Frank, go on a quest to free Death, but their bigger task is to unite the Greek and Roman camps so that the Prophecy of Seven can be fulfilled." (King County Library System)
Opinions: Whereas the first book was from Jason's point of view visiting Camp Half Blood and those there that help him on his quest, this book we are back to Percy Jackson who is visiting Jason's home camp. I like the idea of this series of visiting two different cultures, Roman and Greek, where the pantheon of Gods is basically the same, but with different names and personalities. I like the idea of these two camps getting together and working through the disaster the Gia, the Earth goddess is throwing at them.

In this particular book I think my favorite characters are Hazel and Frank, Percy's fellow questers. Their histories are fascinating and their abilities brilliant. I love seeing things from a Roman standpoint; so even though Percy is the son of Poseidon, in the Roman world he is the Son of Neptune. It can be a little confusing at time, but still a brilliant idea. I especially love the Amazons and the harpies. I think mostly because they live in the Northwest - a place I'm personally very fond of. Mr. Riordan's continual attention to detail and imagery draws the reader in from the very start and makes this another one of his series that is hard to put down. I highly recommend it.

Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George

2011-12-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

Title: Tuesdays at the Castle
Author: Jessica Day George
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: LOVE
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Tuesdays at Castle Glower are Princess Celie's favorite days. That's because on Tuesdays the castle adds a new room, a turret, or sometimes even an entire wing. No one ever knows what the castle will do next, and no one-other than Celie, that is-takes the time to map out the new additions. But when King and Queen Glower are ambushed and their fate is unknown, it's up to Celie, with her secret knowledge of the castle's never-ending twists and turns, to protect their home and save their kingdom.

Opinions: I fell in love with Jessica Day Georges' writing several years ago when she wrote "Dragon Slippers". Then fell deeper in love when I read, "Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow". So it was with great excitement that I picked up "Tuesdays at the Castle". Although I admit, I didn't have any idea what it was about. So I was very pleased to find out it was about a magic castle that could grow and change as was needed to help the royal family.

This is an interesting story of intrigue, bravery and there is some funny moments too. I love the practical jokes. I love Celie and her siblings. But honestly, one of my favorite characters was the castle. It was amazing. I wanted to go and visit it.

Jessica Day George is an amazing author with a great command of storytelling. I hope she plans to write another book about Celie and the Castle. I would be first in line to buy it. I loved this one so.

Contest Winners Announced!!!

2011-12-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for participating in our holiday contest. We received some awesome ideas of traditions. The two winners of our contest are..............drum roll please...........

1st Place - Becky Rose
2nd Place - Jenny Moodie

As 1st place winner Becky gets to choose between The Hourglass Door by Lisa Mangum or Being Sixteen by Allyson Condie. Jenny will receive whichever book Becky did not pick. If you two lovely ladies could email us your addresses to fabulousreads@yahoo.com and I will get the books out to you as soon as possible.

Congratulations to our winners and we hope all of you get lots of books to read for Christmas. ;-)

Stay tuned for future glorious posts and contests that will be coming in the new year.

Slayers by C.J. Hill

2011-12-13T17:25:00.000-08:00

To enter our contest, go here.

Title: Slayers
Author: C.J. Hill
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: There is dragon violence and a battle scene. The "Slayers" are teenagers that use firearms to protect people from the dragons.
Premise: Dragons exist. They’re ferocious. And they’re smart: Before they were killed off by slayer-knights, they rendered a select group of eggs dormant, so their offspring would survive. Only a handful of people know about this, let alone believe it – these “Slayers” are descended from the original knights, and are now a diverse group of teens that includes Tori, a smart but spoiled senator’s daughter who didn’t sign up to save the world.

The dragon eggs have fallen into the wrong hands. The Slayers must work together to stop the eggs from hatching. They will fight; they will fall in love. But will they survive?

Opinions: I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! I am a huge fan of C.J. Hill's other works (this book is written under a pseudonym) and was a bit hesitant to read this one. Cause it is a far cry from the other types of books she's written. But BOY HOWDY! is this one good!

Tori has always been obsessed with dragons and she has always believed that they were real, then she goes to "Dragon Camp" and discovers that not only are they real but she was born with special abilities that allow her to fight them.

This book follows Tori and the other Slayers as they train to save people from a Dragon attack. But of course there are adjustments for everyone to make and lots of learning for Tori. Okay, and honestly, I could go on and on about the things I liked, but I don't want to give any spoilers. So just know that this is an AWESOME book. (Can you tell I really liked it?) And I am super excited for the next book in the series.

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

2011-12-11T20:43:00.000-08:00

To enter our contest, go here.

Title: Between Shades of Gray
Author: Ruta Sepetys
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Rating: LOVE
Alerts/Warnings: There is a mention of a groping in a prison camp and some brief mentions of forced prosititution. But nothing graphic.
Premise: In 1941, fifteen-year-old Lina is preparing for art school, first dates, and all that summer has to offer. But one night, the Soviet secret police barge violently into her home, deporting her along with her mother and younger brother. They are being sent to Siberia. Lina's father has been separated from the family and sentenced to death in a prison camp. All is lost.

Lina fights for life, fearless, vowing that if she survives she will honor her family, and the thousands like hers, by documenting their experience in her art and writing. She risks everything to use her art as messages, hoping they will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive.

It is a long and harrowing journey, and it is only their incredible strength, love, and hope that pull Lina and her family through each day. But will love be enough to keep them alive?

Opinions: Such a powerful, heart-wrenching book. I sobbed several times in this book. There was a moment when I had to stop reading because I was crying so hard. As I was reading this book I realized how little I knew about what happened in Russia and the neighboring countries during Stalin's reign of Terror, and this book opened my eyes to it. Intellectually, I knew that Stalin was horrible and that he caused the death of millions of people. But I had never had a class on it or read a book about it. That changed this week when I read this amazingly touching novel.

Lina, her brother Jonas and her mother Elena, are "deported" from their home to Sibera. They don't know where they are going and people are dying all around them. But they are determined to stay together and to stay alive. You follow their journey for over a year and find that even through all the stink and horror they go through, there is still hope and determination to not let these horrible people beat them.

This is a power and moving book that I highly recommend. It is an amazing debut novel for Ruth Sepetys and I for one am anxious to read what she writes next.

The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow

2011-12-09T20:26:00.000-08:00

To enter our contest go here.

Title: The Berlin Boxing Club
Author: Robert Sharenow
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: LOVE!
Alerts/Warnings: This deals with Nazi Germany so there are some moments of racism. There are also some mentions of male genitalial in connection to circumcision and trying to hide his heritage. There is nothing graphic.

Premise: Fourteen-year-old Karl Stern has never thought of himself as a Jew. But to the bullies at his school in Naziera Berlin, it doesn't matter that Karl has never set foot in a synagogue or that his family doesn't practice religion. Demoralized by relentless attacks on a heritage he doesn't accept as his own, Karl longs to prove his worth to everyone around him.

So when Max Schmeling, champion boxer and German national hero, makes a deal with Karl's father to give Karl boxing lessons, Karl sees it as the perfect chance to reinvent himself. A skilled cartoonist, Karl has never had an interest in boxing, but as Max becomes the mentor Karl never had, Karl soon finds both his boxing skills and his art flourishing.

But when Nazi violence against Jews escalates, Karl must take on a new role: protector of his family. Karl longs to ask his new mentor for help, but with Max's fame growing, he is forced to associate with Hitler and other Nazi elites, leaving Karl to wonder where his hero's sympathies truly lie. Can Karl balance his dream of boxing greatness with his obligation to keep his family out of harm's way?

Opinions: Wow! Can I tell you this is one of the best books I have ever read about Nazi Germany. Don't get me wrong, there are some powerful and touching books out there, but this one just spoke to me.

Robert Sharenow is an amazing author with a great talent for writing and storytelling that draws you in so that the story consumes you in that delicious way that you don't want to do anything but read and discover what happens. I cared so much about Karl and his family that I couldn't stop thinking about them even when I wasn't reading the book. Then when I was reading another book (review coming soon) that took place around the same time, I kept thinking about what Karl and his family would have been doing.

While the topic is sad and depressing, I loved how Robert Sharenow slowly depicted the denegration of the lives of the Jewish people in Germany. I felt that through the course of the book I was falling with Sterns. I was so drawn in that I felt like I was part of the Stern family and the Berlin Boxing Club.

This is an amazing book that everyone should read. It is a profound book that is written by an amazing storyteller who is also an impressive writer.

Secrets of the Magic Ring by Karen McQuestion

2011-12-07T16:46:00.000-08:00

To enter our contest go here.

To see my review of "Celia and the Faeries" by Karen McQuestion click here.

Title: Secrets of the Magic Ring
Author: Karen McQuestion
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: When nine-year-old Paul explores the hole dug for his backyard swimming pool, he discovers a box containing a ring—a ring that turns out to be magical. Moments later, a mysterious boy shows up demanding the ring; luckily, Paul’s trusty dog Clem scares him away. To keep the ring safe, Paul hides it in his pillow case, where, to his horror, it’s discovered by his mother, who loans it to his Aunt Vicky. Things get even stranger when Vicky, a non-swimmer, falls into the now-finished pool and discovers that her greatest secret wish has been granted—she can swim! As the ring gets passed around and wishes are made, a wild series of talents and circumstances threaten to turn their lives upside down…forever.

Opinions: I have to admit to being very excited to read this book. I really enjoy Karen McQuestions writing style. She has a unique voice and talent for writing kids in a way that makes you believe that it's real. I love that her writing and characterization is so beautiful that I'm sucked into the characters and I truly believe that what is happening and their choices could be real. Especially in a fantastical setting, it makes you think, "Huh, maybe this could be."

Paul was one of my favorite characters in "Celia and the Faeries" and I was thrilled to find him the main character in this book. Again I really liked the relationship between him and Celia. I also liked that he loved his parents but he was also frustrated with them. But as a mom, I could see both perspectives and I loved that.

I loved the wishes and that unexpected things kept happening. This was a fun, sweet book that I thoroghly enjoyed. I look forward to reading to my boys when they are just a little bit older. (I don't think my 2 year old is quite ready for it yet.) But it is a book that I know they will love, I mean, two words, Talking Dog. You're hooked now aren't you?

The Secret Kingdom by Jenny Nimmo

2011-12-05T08:21:00.000-08:00

To read my review of the first book in the Charlie Bone series please click here: Midnight for Charlie Bone.

Title: The Secret Kingdom (Book 1 Chronicles of the Red King)
Author: Jenny Nimmo
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fiction (or mid-grade depending on the library)
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Timoken and his sister, Zobayda, under the protection of a forest jinni and accompanied by a talking camel but pursued by evil virideed, straddle the world of men and the world of enchantments, seeking a home while remaining young by drinking a potion called Alixir." (King County Library System)
Opinions: If you loved the Charlie Bone series then you definitely should read this book. This book tells the beginnings of the life of the Red King from the Charlie Bone series and how he became who he was. I loved delving into a life of a man that we only saw peripherally in the other series. I love the world that Jenny Nimmo has created, especially the magical abilities of various characters. I am fascinated by her creating of the Viridee and I LOVE Gabar the camal. This book is full of adventure, magic, and intrigue and is definitely worth the read. I just recommend that you read the Charlie Bone series first (this book will make much more sense if you do).

The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan

2011-12-01T19:38:00.000-08:00

For my review of book one of the Kane Chronicles please click here: The Red Pyramid.

Title: The Throne of Fire (Book 2 Kane Chronicles)
Author: Rick Riordan
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Carter Kane and his sister must prevent the chaos snake Apophis from breaking free in a few days' time or the world will come to an end. To have any chance of battling these Forces of Chaos, the Kanes must revive the sun god Ra." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I am LOVING this series. Now that I'm used to the switch between point of views each chapter I have really gotten into the plot a lot easier this time around. I love the intensity/urgency that Sadie and Carter must keep up to reach their goal. I love the underlying humor. I LOVE BES!!!! I mean how can you not love a speedo wearing dwarf god. Rick Riordan is brilliant with his characters.

Sadie and Carter continue as strong characters as they work together to try and revive the Sun God Ra in time to fight off his arch-enemy Apophis. I love the strength they find while working together, but also the truths they discover about themselves when alone. I love seeing new magicians working with the Kane's and the new talents that they possess. This sequel is a definite must read.

CONTEST TIME!!!!

2011-12-01T09:54:00.000-08:00

Hello world. It's a new month and time for a new contest and we are giving away TWO fabulous prizes.

To enter you can:

1. Leave a comment on this or any other post until 9 pm on December 15th answering the following question - What is your favorite holiday tradition? (1 entry)
2. Follow our blog (3 entries)
3. Post a link to our blog on your blog. Please leave a link to your blog (5 entries)
4. Blog about our blog or giveaway on your blog. Again please leave a link (5 entries)
5. Convince someone to follow us and enter this contest. If they do and put your name down you get 10 entries!
6. Write a review for us. There is no limit to the number of reviews you write for us. Please use our format. (Below) Email us your reviews at fabulousreads@yahoo.com Also if you would like us to link to your blog, please give us your blog address.

Title:
Author:
Reviewer:
Genre:
Rating:
Alerts/Warnings:
Premise:
Opinions:

What prizes might be worth all of this effort? Well, how about an autographed copy of Being Sixteen by Allyson B. Condie and an autographed copy of The Hourglass Door by Lisa Mangum. To read our reviews of these two books please click here: Being Sixteen, The Hourglass Door.

The first place winner will get their choice between the two books and the second place winner will get the other book. Win a book for yourself or to give away for the holidays. Remember the contest will go from today, Dec 1, to 9 pm pst on Dec 15th. We look forward to hearing from you and to reading your responses.

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

2011-11-16T07:42:00.001-08:00

Title: The Wednesday Wars
Author: Gary D. Schmidt
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "During the 1967 school year, on Wednesday afternoons when all his classmates go to either Catechism or Hebrew school, seventh-grader Holling Hoodhood stays in Mrs. Baker's classroom where they read the plays of William Shakespeare and Holling learns much of value about the world he lives in." (King County Library System)
Opinions: We just read this book this week for book club and I have to say that I LOVED IT!!!! I love the humor and the emotion that comes from Holling, a seventh grader on Long Island, as he learns to deal with the struggles of life, along with the impacts of the Vietnam War on those around him, through studying the works of Shakespeare. I love his English teacher Mrs. Baker - she is one of my favorite characters of all time. I love the relationship that she and Holling build over the school year and the strength they gain from each other. I just have to say that personally I did not like Holling's father at all, but I think that was intentionally written that way by the author. All of the characters feel so real, like you would have known them personally. The storyline is fascinating and it was really hard to put the book down when I got into it. I especially love Holling's comments on Shakespeare and the characters within his plays. In my opinion, this book is a definite MUST READ.

Pirate King by Laurie R. King

2011-11-07T15:39:00.000-08:00

To read my review of the first book in the Mary Russell series please click here: The Beekeeper's Apprentice.

Title: Pirate King (Book 11 Mary Russell series)
Author: Laurie R. King
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Mystery
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Sent to Lisbon and Morocco, where a British studio is creating a silent film version of "The Pirates of Penzance," Mary Russell investigates a series of crimes targeting the production and confronts a high-stakes situation when actual pirates orchestrate a hostage situation. "As Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes embark on their 11th adventure together, they find themselves immersed in the world of silent filmmaking. Here, the pirates are real-- and unlike the shooting done with a camera, this sort can be deadly" -- from publisher's web site.
Opinions: I LOVE/ADORE the Mary Russell series by Laurie King. So I was ecstatic to find that a new book was released last month. As soon as I could I went ahead and purchased it, eager to delve into its pages as soon as possible. At first I was confused by the concept of this story, but the longer I remained reading the more I fell into the fun of it. This was not quite typical to the rest of the series (even Mary Russell admits to this in the beginning of the book). But I love seeing Mary challenged in new areas and stretched in new ways as she works within a moving picture company to investigate some suspicious actions and the disappearance of the company's original assistant. I also love the intrigue of a story set in Portugal and Morocco and the idea of crossing paths with pirates. So as an ardent lover of this series I highly recommend that if you love Sherlock Holmes and mystery books than please rush to your nearest library or book store and begin the fun journey as your follow Mary Russell from one mystery to another.

Scumble by Ingrid Law

2011-10-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

To read my review of Savvy please click here: Savvy.
To read Stephanie's review of Scumble please click here: Scumble.

Title: Scumble (Companion to Savvy)
Author: Ingrid Law
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Junior/MidGrade Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Mibs's cousin Ledge is disappointed to discover that his "savvy"--the magical power unique to each member of their family--is to make things fall apart, which endangers his uncle Autry's ranch and reveals the family secret to future reporter Sarah." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I LOVE this book. I loved the first one, Savvy, and the joy continues on in this companion book. I guess it is considered a "companion" book rather than a sequel as it deals with a cousin of Mibs from the first book and the struggle he undergoes trying to learn how to control his savvy. This book also takes place a good 9+ years after the first one does. I loved that we still get to see some of the same characters from the first one as side characters in Scumble.

I really loved Ledger and what he learns about himself and how he grows along the way. I found Sarah Jane (SJ) to be a quirky character that added some intrigue. As much as I loved Ledger, I think my overall favorite character has to be Rocket (Mib's brother) and how he grows by watching the struggles that Ledger undergoes. Overall, I found Scumble a highly satisfying and fun read. You should really check it out (but first read Savvy so that things make sense).

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

2011-10-19T20:31:00.001-07:00

Title: Frankenstein
Author: Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Horror
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: Murder
Premise: "Tells the story of a scientist who discovers the secret of generating life from lifeless matter, and puts this knowledge to use by creating a monster being." (King County Library System)
Opinions: We read this book for the book club I'm in this month to celebrate Halloween. Let me tell you, the story of Frankenstein is not like what most people think it is. It is much more interesting. If you want to read a clean horror book, then this is the book for you. Bad stuff definitely happens in this book (and most often by choice), but the descriptions are clean and not overly gruesome. The narrative voice doesn't vary much between Walton, Frankenstein, nor the creature, but the imagery is incredible and the story alluring. The creature is articulate, Frankenstein is intriguing, and even Walton (the person Frankenstein is telling his story to) has a major purpose in the story.

This turned out to be a fantastic book for our book club, creating lots of discussion about character, choices, and ethics. Be aware that our book club did notice that there are some minor differences between releases of this book (for example, depending on what release you read the character Elizabeth has a slightly different relationship to Frankenstein). Keep in mind, though, that if you have an active imagination like I do that this book may still be too scary for your taste (I made sure to lock all my doors and check under the bed when I was done reading).

Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

2011-09-28T15:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting this review, but I just had a baby at the start of this month and it has slowed down my ability to read and post reviews momentarily. I hope to be back in full swing shortly.

For our reviews of the first two books in this series please click here: Wings, Spells.

Title: Illusions (Wings #3)
Author: Aprilynne Pike
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fantasy/Chick Lit
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: Mild Swearing
Premise: "As her senior year of high school starts, Laurel is just beginning to adjust to Tamani's absence when he suddenly reappears, telling her he must guard her against the returning threat of the trolls that pose a danger both to her and to Avalon." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I enjoyed this book much more than Spells. I was glad to see Klea was back and that she brought someone else intriguing along with her for us to get to know. I loved the idea of seeing how Tamani interacts with humans now that he tries to integrate into high school. The complications between Laurel, David and Tamani continue to build in some intricate ways that sometimes left me feeling overwhelmed and wanting to ring Laurel's neck (but that's just me). I was frustrated learning that this wasn't the end of the series and honestly said "Huh...okay" when I was done reading it. I felt this book was more about the interweaving of relationships with little glimpses of the overall story arch to heighten the intrigue. I'm REALLY curious to see where Aprilynne Pike goes with the story in book four. The good news is that Aprilynne posted on her blog last week that a name has been determined for that fourth and final novel....DESTINED....and is expected to be released late April of 2012. I look forward to seeing what (or who) Laurel is destined for.

Fall by Jennifer Hurst

2011-09-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

Go here for information about Jennifer Hurst's giveaway for Fall.

Title: Fall
Author: Jennifer Hurst
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Paranormal Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: One swearword, one incident of implied sex
Premise: "Women and construction shouldn't mix. At least, that is what the client, Mr. Blackwell, thinks when Twenty-one year old Julia D. Halstead is promoted to project manager to remodel a turn-of-the-century schoolhouse into a bed and breakfast. However, the schoolhouse contains a dark secret that has been hidden for nearly a hundred years. A secret that will unleash the furies of Hell and cause the Angels in Heaven to weep as ethereal brothers, Matthew and Nathan, battle over Julia's very soul." (Book Jacket blurb)
Opinions: So I wanted to have a fresh opinion of this book. I didn't read Karen's review, nor did I read anything about the book. I just dove in. And here's what I thought.

It took me probably 25 pages to get into the story. But once I did, I really did. I liked the pacing and I liked the characters, especially Nathan and Meagan. I have to admit that I was a bit confused at times in the first 75 pages but nothing too major. I assumed I would get it later, and I did. (Which was nice, I hate being left hanging.)

And in all honesty, this is probably not the type of book I would pick up to read. HOWEVER! I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed it. It was fun and entertaining. Quirky (and I like quirky).

My one fault is that I don't know if there is going to be a sequel. (I'll find out I'm sure.) The ending was done in such a way that it wasn't clear to me.

I love that JD is a strong and fiercely independant woman. I love that issue of choice and consequence throughout the novel. I love the way Jennifer Hurst builds her characters and tension. She is a very talented writer and I look forward to more books from her.

Overall, an enjoyable read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. :)

Warning: For those who may be uncomfortable with sex in books there is one instance of sex. It is not described, but you know it happens and that the person is faced with consequences for those actions throughout the rest of the story. I loved that there was a balance between the choice and consequences for all of the characters' actions throughout the story.

A Red Herring Without Mustard by Alan Bradley

2011-09-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

To read the reviews of other books in this series please click here: The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, The Weed the Strings the Hangman's Bag.

Title: A Red Herring Without Mustard (A Flavia de Luce Novel)
Author: Alan Bradley
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Mystery
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: Mild Swearing, Moderately graphic descriptions of murder scenes
Premise: "Flavia had asked the old Gypsy woman to tell her fortune, but never expected to stumble across the poor soul, bludgeoned in the wee hours in her own caravan. Was this an act of retribution by those convinced that the soothsayer had abducted a local child years ago? Certainly Flavia understands the bliss of settling scores; revenge is a delightful pastime when one has two odious older sisters. But how could this crime be connected to the missing baby? Had it something to do with the weird sect who met at the river to practice their secret rites? While still pondering the possibilities, Flavia stumbles upon another corpse, that of a notorious layabout who had been caught prowling about the de Luce's drawing room. Her investigations will reveal more of Buckshaw's secrets as well as new information about Harriet, the mother Flavia never knew." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This is the third book in the murder mystery series that stars eleven year old Flavia De Luce. Like its predecessors it is ripe with intrigue, twists, and clever solutions revolving around chemistry. It is brilliantly written, but some of the descriptions of the scenes when the dead are found bothered me a bit (granted I am nine months pregnant and that maybe part of the reason). This particular novel not only revolved around solving the reasons behind vicious attacks and murders, I was really intrigued with the struggles that Flavia deals that force her to face the struggles of adulthood at her tender-but-brilliant age and to see her father from a different view point. If you enjoy a good murder mystery I think you will love the continuation of this series.

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

2011-08-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

Title: The Red Pyramid (Book 1 in the Kane Chronicles series)
Author: Rick Riordan
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "After their father's research experiment at the British Museum unleashes the Egyptian god Set, Carter and Sadie Kane embark on a dangerous journey across the globe--a quest which brings them ever closer to the truth about their family, and their links to a secret order that has existed since the time of the pharaohs." (King County Library System)
Opinions: Rick Riordan has expanded on his revisiting of different pantheons through modern twists and plots. This time, instead of using the Greek Gods as he did in the Percy Jackson series, he is focusing on the world of Egypt and its plethora of deities (though he frequently makes not-so-veiled comments about the Gods from his other series throughout the book).

This book was intriguing on many levels. I love the fact that Rick Riordan adds additional complexity of characters by dealing with a multi-racial family and the difficulties that entails (especially when it comes to others' prejudices). I also enjoyed seeing Sadie and Carter's relationships growing through the story as they had only seen each other twice a year since their mother's death 6 years earlier. I enjoyed being able to learn more about the various Pharaohs, gods, and Egyptian history. The narrative perspective took a little getting used to as the story is being "told" via a tape recording by Sadie and Carter (the main characters) and has been transcribed into book format for our reading pleasure. So you will find that even though each chapter is told from a specific character's point of view, the other sibling often butts in with their own comments (which siblings tend to do).

I think my favorite character of all was the cat-goddess Bast. She is spunky, tenacious, mischievous and draws the reader in. Bast would then quickly be followed by Khufu, the basketball-playing-eat-anything-ending-in-O loving baboon. He was hilarious, brilliant, lovable, and fascinating.

At times it was difficult to try and keep track of all the various gods, versions of gods, hosts, demons, magicians, hieroglyphics, familial relationship, etc., but the story was compelling and inventive. Also, for a first book in a series it was rather lengthy, but I think the detail required to cover all that was covered required it (if that made any sense at all). I look forward to reading more of this series and hope you do as well.

FALL contest sponsored by author Jennifer Hurst

2011-08-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I posted a review for Fall by Jennifer Hurst. To see my feedback click here: FALL. In association with the release of her book Jennifer is hosting a contest. Here are the specific details:

In conjunction with this blog tour, Jennifer is holding a contest. It will involve any of the blogs that Jennifer visits or where her book is featured and will close on December 31st, 2011. The entrants have to answer three questions about the book they’ve read (bought, borrowed, or stolen - shame on you) and post a link to Jennifer's website on their Twitter, Facebook, or blog (need link for verification).

Then the names will be entered in a random name picker generator (http://textmechanic.com/Random-Line-Picker.html) and announced on Jennifer's website (www.jenniferhurst.com) on January 31st, 2012. The winner will receive a gift certificate for a night’s stay at the actual bed and breakfast where the story takes place.

Other prizes include an autographed copy of FALL, and she will randomly select 3 contestants’ names to use in the sequel to FALL. Plus, they will receive a free copy of that book when it is published.

Each blog that Jennifer Hurst visits will have a different set of questions people can answer, and they may enter as many times as they want - but they can enter once per blog site that they visit. So the more sites you visit, the more you can enter your name, thus increasing your chances of winning the gift certificate, a copy of the book FALL, and your name in the sequel.

Get the book, read the book, and then read over the questions below. Once you have your answers, e-mail them to Jennifer. fall.jenniferhurst@gmail.com

Your privacy is respected and your email address will NOT be used for anything but the contest. Once the contest is over - your email address will be deleted from the database.

Here are the questions for you to answer:

1) What kind of work did Nathan do for JD at the project site?

2) What did JD give Gramps for his birthday?

3) What was the name of the Doctor who treated JD?

If you would like to visit the other sites, go here for the master list of all participating sites: http://fallbyjenniferhurst.wordpress.com/

Best of luck, and thanks for participating

The Forgotten Locket by Lisa Mangum

2011-08-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

For my reviews of the first two books in this trilogy please click here: The Hourglass Door and The Golden Spiral.

Title: The Forgotten Locket (Book 3 of The Hourglass Door Trilogy)
Author: Lisa Mangum
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Rating: FABULOUS!!!!
Alerts/Warnings: Some violence
Premise: "Abby travels back in time to attempt to save Dante and defeat the wicked designs of Zo." (PG Library System)
Opinions: Finally!!! The last book in the series has been published and my hero of a husband bought it for me for my birthday (then he even hunted down the author and had it autographed for me). I read the first two books in this trilogy last year only to learn that I had a year to wait until the last installment arrived. Well, time has passed and I earned the prize for patience and it was worth it.

Lisa Mangum did a superb job weaving the conclusion of this trilogy. Her words flowed like poetry across the page. My heart was constantly torn, wondering what was going to happen next and how Abby, Dante and their friends would overcome the evil plot of Zo. I could not predict how the story would twist, yet the flow of imagery and plot wove a beautiful tale of inner strength and courage. I love Abby more than ever. I love her tenacity, her passion and her ability to stand for what is right even as her world tears itself a part around her. In this last novel I came to respect even greater Orlando (aka Leo). He is a brilliant character with courage beyond boundary. I so wish I could give you details, but being a story dealing with time-travel I worry that anything I reveal now may ruin it for those who have yet to read the earlier two books. Please, please, please read this book.

By the by, my sweet husband even had the author autograph a copy of the first book in this series for a future giveaway on Fabulous Reads. So stay tuned, and do all you can to try and win it. It is a worthy prize for any and all of you.

FALL contest sponsored by Author Jennifer Hurst

2011-08-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

As part of her online blog tour and in honor of the release of her book FALL in paperback, Jennifer Hurst is sponsoring a special contest. Here are the details that we can provide to you at this time:

The FALL contest will involve any of the blogs that Jennifer Hurst visits or her book is featured on and will close on December 31st, 2011. The entrants have to answer three questions about the book they’ve read (bought, borrowed, or stolen - shame on you) and post a link to Jennifer's website on their twitter, facebook, or blog (need link for verification).

Then the names will be entered in a random name picker generator (http://textmechanic.com/Random-Line-Picker.html) and announced on Jennifer's website (www.jenniferhurst.com) on January 31st, 2012. The winner will receive a gift certificate for a night stay at the actual bed and breakfast where the story takes place.

Other prizes include an autographed copy of FALL, and she will randomly select 3 contestants names to use in the sequel to FALL, PLUS they will receive a free copy of that book when it is published.

Each blog that Jennifer Hurst visits will have a different set of questions people can answer and they may enter as many times as they want - but they can enter once per blog site that they visit. So the more sites you visit, the more you can enter your name, thus increasing your chances of winning the Gift certificate, a copy of the book FALL, and your name in the sequel.

Additional information will be forthcoming, plus Jennifer will give us the three specific questions for the readers of our blog to answer as part of the entry process. Please stay tuned.

Fall by Jennifer Hurst

2011-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Stephanie and I have been asked to participate in an on-line blog tour to support the author in the release of this book. Usually, only Stephanie or I will write a review for a book, even if we both have read it. However, this time we have been asked to provide dueling or co-reviews. As such, I have read the book first and am posting my review of it now. Then, I am sending it to Stephanie who will read it and post her review in September. We hope that this will better help you decide whether or not this book piques your interest so that you choose to read it.

Also, please stay tuned for details regarding an author-sponsored contest in relation to FALL that will be posted later today.

Title: Fall
Author: Jennifer Hurst
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: One swearword, one incident of implied sex
Premise: "Women and construction shouldn't mix. At least, that is what the client, Mr. Blackwell, thinks when Twenty-one year old Julia D. Halstead is promoted to project manager to remodel a turn-of-the-century schoolhouse into a bed and breakfast. However, the schoolhouse contains a dark secret that has been hidden for nearly a hundred years. A secret that will unleash the furies of Hell and cause the Angels in Heaven to weep as ethereal brothers, Matthew and Nathan, battle over Julia's very soul." (Book Jacket blurb)
Opinions: I had the pleasure of reading this book almost a year ago, as it was still a work in progress, and to provide my feedback on it for the author. I had a hard time putting it down then, and I must say that I love what Jennifer has done with the finish product. Paranormal romances are usually not my first choice of books to pick up and read, but I was instantly intrigued with Fall's premise. I was fascinated by the idea of JD (Julia), a strong woman trying to make headway in a male dominated field and wondering if she'll ever fall in love, then melding the story with the idea of Angels and Demons playing a major part in what happens in her life. I loved getting to know JD and experiencing with her each twist of the story. And I love that she is personal enough and quirky enough to wear pink leopard spotted construction books to work, and relishes a good chocolate chip milkshake with brownie broken up through out it. I was fascinated by Nathan and Matthew and the choices that they made, but honestly I think my favorite other characters are Liu (the oriental general store clerk) and Meagan (the mother of four precocious and unique boys). I also was entranced by the locale of the story, Torrey, Utah. I loved that it is a little known place and that the construction project that JD worked on is based on a true school building that has been made into a bed-and-breakfast. Plus, the descriptions of the area surrounding Torrey made me want to pack a bag for the weekend and go check it out.

Warning: For those who may be uncomfortable with sex in books there is one instance of sex. It is not described, but you know it happens and that the person is faced with consequences for those actions throughout the rest of the story. I loved that there was a balance between the choice and consequences for all of the characters' actions throughout the story.

Overall, I found this book unique, intriguing, and a fascinating twist on an adult romance that made it hard to put down. Please take a moment to read it yourself and let me know what you think.

The Witches of Dredmoore Hollow by Riford McKenzie

2011-08-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

Title: The Witches of Dredmoore Hollow
Author: Riford McKenzie
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Junior Fantasy
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Strange things begin happening at Elijah's New England home just before his twelfth birthday in 1927, especially after two aunts he had never met whisk him away to Moaning Marsh, where he realizes that they are witches who need something from him in order to remove a curse." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This was a very different read and I liked it. Elijah is unusual in that he openly admits that he is afraid of, and worries about, everything. So when some worries come to reality Elijah is forced to find strength within himself to overcome his fears. I loved that he is forced to fight against very unusual odds in this unique world that the author has created and the struggle to find balance within one's own family. I'm afraid to tell you much more about the story for fear of giving too many things away.

Black Star, Bright Dawn by Scott O'Dell

2011-08-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Title: Black Star, Bright Dawn
Author: Scott O'Dell
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Bright Dawn must face the challenge of the Iditarod dog sled race alone when her father is injured." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This is a wonderful story of an Eskimo young woman named Bright Dawn who struggles between the white world and the Eskimo world. Her father is given the opportunity to train for the Iditarod, but when he is injured Bright Dawn finds herself taking his place. This is an easy read that was intriguing and wonderfully written. I loved Bright Dawn's strength, courage, kind heart, and her willingness to trust in her lead dog, Black Star. I loved following along with her on her life-altering journey. I highly recommend this read for everyone, but especially for young women so that they may know that they can accomplish anything that they put their minds and hearts to.

The Wright 3 by Blue Balliet

2011-07-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

For my review of the first book in this series please click here: Chasing Vermeer.

Title: The Wright 3 (Sequel to Chasing Vermeer)
Author: Blue Balliet
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fiction/Mystery
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "In the midst of a series of unexplained accidents and mysterious coincidences, sixth-graders Calder, Petra, and Tommy lead their classmates in an attempt to keep Frank Lloyd Wright's famous Robie House from being demolished." (King County Library System)
Opinions: The Wright 3 is a brilliantly written sequel to Chasing Vermeer. I love the difficulties and opportunities provided to Petra and Calder as Calder's friend Tommy returns to Hyde Park. The trio have to decide whether or not to work together as a group rather than the old friendship of Tommy and Calder fighting against the new friendship of Calder and Petra. I still love the eclectic characters and backgrounds. I love that this story revolves around the history of Frank Lloyd Wright and his work and making a mystery out of one of his creations. I even still love and admire Ms. Hussey's unusual technique of teaching school and getting the kids excited in what they are learning about. Overall, I highly recommend this book. If you loved Chasing Vermeer you will love The Wright 3.

Celia and the Fairies by Karen McQuestion

2011-07-15T08:33:00.001-07:00

Title: Celia and the Fairies
Author: Karen McQuestion
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: When Celia Lovejoy's parents announce that her grandmother is coming to live with them, Celia is delighted. Now while her parents work at their toy company, she can spend time with Grammy instead of going to bossy Paul's house. When her grandmother tells stories about the fairies living in the woods behind Celia's house, her parents are quick to dismiss it. "Just a lot of nonsense," says her father with a wave of his hand. Her mother reminds her that a ten-year-old girl is too old to believe in magic. But if there are no fairies, how to explain the glimmers of light she sees from her balcony at night? And why does she dream of a fairy girl begging for help? All of the answers are in the woods, if only Celia is brave enough to find out.

Opinions: This is such a cute book. I love the sweetness of the story. Celia is a great character. I love that she feels real. She reads like an girl and not like an adult trying to sound like a girl. (Which is nice and a job well done for Karen McQuestion.) She is spunky and I liked her character.

It isn't a long book. I read it in less than 2 hours. But I enjoyed it. I liked that at the end I didn't have loose questions that hadn't been answered and I wasn't frustrated by the ending. I finished and was satisfied. (I love when I feel satisfied when I finish a book as opposed to frustrated and want to pull my hair out.)

I think my favorite aspect of the book was the relationship between Paul and Celia. It felt very real to me. I could see the tension of wanting to grow up and change and wanting to stay young. I felt the relationship was unique and appealing to me. (I think it reminded me of a friend from my childhood.)

Overall, it was a sweet and fun book. I loved that it felt like a book from my past and that it could have happened. It was beautifully written and had a magical feel to it that was grounded in childhood magic. I highly recommend this book and hope you take the opportunity to read it.

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliet

2011-07-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Title: Chasing Vermeer
Author: Blue Balliet
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fiction/Mystery
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "When strange and seemingly unrelated events start to happen and a precious Vermeer painting disappears, eleven-year-olds Petra and Calder combine their talents to solve an international art scandal."
Opinions: Stephanie recommended years ago that I read this book and I finally did, and once again I do not regret reading anything that Stephanie recommends. This is a fantastic mystery written for pre-teens that even I enjoyed. It was imaginative, intriguing, and was hard to put down from start to finish. I love the eclectic backgrounds that the author uses for each of the characters. I love the code Calder creates using pentominoes and the twists and turns of the plot. I also wish I had had a teacher like Ms. Hussey. This is a fun mystery that I highly recommend that you check out. I think you will thoroughly enjoy it (in fact I insisted that my husband read it before we have to return it to the library).

Middle School Is Worse Than Meatloaf by Jennifer L. Holm

2011-07-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

Title: Middle School Is Worse Than Meatloaf
Author: Jennifer L. Holm
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Junior/Mid-Grade Fiction
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "The first year of middle school can be exciting, or scary, just ask Ginny." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This is not your typical book. Instead of being written in paragraph form this book tells the story of Genevieve (Ginny) Davis and her year in 7th grade through post-it notes, lists, bank statements, etc. It was like learning about someone's life by reading through their bulletin board at home, or going through the contents of their desk. It was a highly unique method of telling the story. Through these glimpses of her life we learn about the struggles of losing a best friend, dealing with a parent getting remarried, and the struggles of having a delinquent teenager for a brother. Once you get over the different way the story is told, Middle School Is Worse Than Meatloaf becomes quite a fascinating tale of how to survive life in Middle School. Please give it a read and let me know what you think.

Winners!

2011-07-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

We have our winners! Aren't you so excited?!?!

So the winner of the book is.......CHERYL!

*****tosses confetti*****

We will send you a list of books to choose from.

The winner of the $5 amazon.com gift card is..........ALISON!

******tosses confetti and blows horn*******

Congrats to our winners and thank you for the reviews we did got. We are excited to share them with you.

Have a wonderful day friends and happy reading!

Last day to enter!

2011-06-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

Our giveaway ends tonight! So today is the last day to enter and send us those reviews. The contest ends tonight at 9pm EST. Winner will be announced either tonight or tommorrow (depends on how late my meeting goes tonight).

Go here or all the ways you can enter, and email your reviews to fabulousreads@yahoo.com.

Make sure you leave a way for us to contact you if you win.

Gilbert the Great by Jane Clarke & Charles Fuge

2011-06-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Title: Gilbert the Great
Author: Jane Clarke & Charles Fuge
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Gilbert, a great white shark, plays with Raymond, a tiny fish, every day. But who will Gilbert play with when Raymond's family moves away?" (King County Library System)
Opinions: This is a sweet little book about how its hard to watch a friend move away and how to make new friends. It was a fun book with a good lesson, but not one that my daughter seemed over intrigued by. She looked at it only one other time after reading it and then ran off (granted one of her favorite shows came on the television and may have contributed to the distraction).

Ghost Ship by Mary Higgins Clark

2011-06-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Title: Ghost Ship: A Cape Code Story
Author: Mary Higgins Clark (Illustrated by Wendell Minor)
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "While visiting his grandmother on Cape Cod, nine-year-old Thomas encounters a ship's cabin boy from centuries past." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I am a huge fan of Mary Higgins Clark's adult mystery novels, so I was intrigued when I learned that she had also written a children's picture book. I was especially excited as I have been to (and dearly love) Cape Cod and its history. As a result, I really LOVE this book, but I feel it is more for older children than toddlers. I read it to my three year old and both of us were fascinated by the incredible artistry of the pictures on every page, but each page also has several paragraphs of writing making it difficult for younger readers. However, it seemed that the pictures kept my daughter's attention enough that I was surprisingly able to read the entire story to her. I loved the actual story itself as well and could see how it would capture a young child's imagination. If you have a patient reader or one with a love of stories of sailors, shipwrecks, ghosts, etc., then I think you and your young reader will really enjoy this book.

Contest is ending soon!

2011-06-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

June is quickly coming to an end. Which means our contest is coming to an end. There is still time to enter and send us those reviews. We still haven't gotten 10, so it is still a $5 gift card, but it doesn't take much to push it up to the next level. :) Also we are giving away a book. If you win you get to pick. We have some awesome choices. Almost all signed as well. So enter. It doesn't take long and you have good odds.

For all the ways to win entries go here.

Stephanie

PS Sorry for the lack of posts recently. My family has all been sick for the past 3 weeks. And really I haven't done much of anything.

Knuffle Bunny Free by Mo Willems

2011-06-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Title: Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion
Author: Mo Willems
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Rating: Like
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "While traveling with her family to Holland to visit her grandparents, Trixie once again loses her beloved Knuffle Bunny." (King County Library System)
Opinions: While Stephanie has read several of the Knuffle Bunny books before, Knuffle Bunny Free was my first experience with them. Released just this last year, this book is a great way to help kids learn that at some point they get bigger, and older, and can truly survive short periods of time with that special toy, blanket, etc. that they take wherever they go. If you have a child who is having a hard time letting go of that special something, this might be a great way to introduce them to the idea that they will survive and that they can keep that special item in their hearts and memories forever. The style of the book was very different from what I'm used to in my limited experience with picture books, but my three year old loved it (maybe because she has a very special bunny all her very own that goes almost everywhere with her).

My Family Plays Music by Judy Cox

2011-06-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Title: My Family Plays Music
Author: Judy Cox (Author)/ Elbrite Brown (Illus.)
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: " A musical family with talents for playing a variety of instruments enjoys getting together to celebrate." (King County Library System)
Opinions: My husband is a percussionist for the community band in our area and he loves to teach my daughter all about the instruments. I picked up My Family Plays Music at our library just randomly and it turned out to be all about a girl who plays different instruments to support each member of her family who plays different styles of music. This girl is a percussionist. My husband was so excited to have a book that teaches children about all the roles a percussionist plays. The beauty of this book is that my daughter literally wouldn't put it down. She read and reread it every day until we took it back. In fact, she took it to bed with her and would read it over and over again until she fell asleep, pointing out each type of instrument and saying what it was. I've never seen her so addicted to a book as this one. As such, I recommend this as an amazing, fabulous book and a great way to teach children about different styles of music and different instruments. Plus the style of illustration is so different and beautiful and it won the Corretta Scott King/John Steptoe award for new talent.

Jazzmatazz! by Stephanie Calmenson and Bruce Degen(Ills)

2011-06-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.

Title: Jazzmatazz!
Author: Stephanie Calmenson and Bruce Degen (Illustrator)
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: When a piano-playing mouse slips inside a house to get warm, watch out! In no time he has a whole family, then a whole town, making music. They're drumming, fiddling, singing, dancing, and jazzmatazz jamming!

Stephanie Calmenson's sing-aloud words and Bruce Degen's eye-dancing pictures bring music to every page.

What kind of music will you make? (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This was one of those randomly selected books from the library that I just threw in my bag cause the title appealed to me and the pictures looked cute. Little did I know how much we would read and love this book.

This bookstarts with a piano playing mouse and builds through the house until everyone inside and out of the house is singing along and making music too. Each animal or person has a visual shape and color and when all the music comes together so do all the colors and shapes. I love that as the words (which we chant/sing in a jazzy rhythm) build into a fun sound that is also so very visual. And usually we are all bouncing (alright dancing) by the end of the book. The illustrations are beautiful and the words are fun and it has a great rhythm.

We love this book. It is one of our all time favorites that we read over and over and over again. And the kids like it too. :)

Pajamas Anytime by Marsha Hayles and Hiroe Nakata (Ills)

2011-06-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.

Title: Pajamas Anytime
Author: Marsha Hayles, Hiroe Nakata (Illustrator)
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: You can't help but have comfy fun in pajamas all year round. And not just when you're sleeping! If January's snow closes school for the day or a February cold keeps you sofa'd from play, it's time for pajamas. When your September school party has you all dressed for bed and in pumpkin October when ghost stories are read, only pajamas will do. This lilting book is perfect for snuggling at bedtime or any other time. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: We read this regularly at bedtime. Any guesses as to why?

This book has several appeals for me. I like that it goes through a year and talks about all the different months. Not only that, but if you are paying attention gives a brief blip about what generally happens during that month.

The lilting poetry is fun. We have a rhythm that we read it at, and whenever anyone reads it to my kids NOT in that rhythm they tell them they are reading it wrong. (But with kindness and love I'm sure.)

The illustrations are gorgeous watercolors. I am amazed what people can do with watercolors. They are just beautiful.

Overall, a fun and delightful story that will give you plenty to look at visually, and fun words to go to sleep by.

Flotsam by David Wiesner

2011-06-11T06:58:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.
Title: Flotsam
Author: David Wiesner
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: A bright, science-minded boy goes to the beach equipped to collect and examine flotsam--anything floating that has been washed ashore. Bottles, lost toys, small objects of every description are among his usual finds. But there's no way he could have prepared for one particular discovery: a barnacle-encrusted underwater camera, with its own secrets to share . . . and to keep. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is a visually stunning book that has no words. I love that it tells the story without words. AND it does it so well, that you know exactly what the story is.

A young boy is on the beach and finds an underwater camera. He takes it and gets the film developed. The pictures he sees both on the land and on the see shock and amaze him as he discovers things about under the ocean and the history of the camera.

Seriously, just thinking about this book is giving me goosebumps. It's that amazing! This is one of those books that I will look at for hours and find new things in the illustrations. This book won the Caldecott Medal the year it was published, and it was my pick to win. Frankly, how could it not have. IT IS AMAZING! It is worth the time to look at, even briefly, and even if you don't have kids. (I was pregnant the first time I looked at this book. So amazing.)

Hippos Go Berserk by Sandra Boynton

2011-06-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.
Title: Hippos Go Berserk
Author: Sandra Boynton
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: How dull, to be one hippo all alone... until the one calls two other hippos on the phone. Soon three more hippos are at the door, bringing along another four. Before the night is through, a houseful of hippos (and one beast) has joined the one hippo for a boisterous bash. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Before I had kids, I didn't know who Sandra Boynton was. *hangs my head in shame* Boy was I missing out!

Sandra Boynton mixes fun illustrations with a creative mind that makes for fun stories. Like this counting book. You count up to 9 and back down again as the hippos arrive for a party and then leave. It's cute and fun. My kids love it. So do I. I admit to sitting around just staring at the illustrations. Sandra Boynton sneaks in all sorts of little quirky things (like a version of Whistlers Mother). The rhythmic language of the book is fun and definately adds to the appeal of the book.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst

2011-06-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.
Title: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Author: Judith Viorst, Ray Cruz (Ills)
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Alexander knew it was going to be a terrible day when he woke up with gum in this hair.

And it got worse...

His best friend deserted him. There was no dessert in his lunch bag. And, on top of all that, there were lima beans for dinner and kissing on TV! (goodreads.com)

Opinions: You have probably read this book. But I couldn't not review it for picture book month! It is one of my favorites. I have my copy from when I was a little girl that my kids read. It is thoroughly tattered, bent and torn, but we tape it back together and keep on reading it. Part of me loves that it is so damaged. It's just like the story of Alexander. Sometimes life doesn't go the way you want it to. Sometimes you wake with gum in your hair and you forget to count 16. But you make it through.

Life isn't about the easy stuff. It's the sticky stuff that makes life interesting. This book ran through my mind constantly while I was in China. Sometimes things are tough. Sometimes it seems like nothing goes right. But running away doesn't solve the problem. And when you stand strong, you will be stronger for it.

This is a great book, no matter what your age or where you live. It will hit a chord with you. Even in Australia.

The Paperbag Princess by Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko(Illustrator)

2011-06-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.

Title: The Paper Bag Princess
Author: Robert Munsch, Michael Martchenko (Illustrator)
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: WORSHIP
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Elizabeth, a beautiful princess, lives in a castle and wears fancy clothes. Just when she is about to marry Prince Ronald, a dragon smashes her castle, burns her clothes with his fiery breath, and prince-naps her dear Ronald. Undaunted and presumably unclad, she dons a large paper bag and sets off to find the dragon and her cherished prince. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is a favorite in my house. By both me and my boys. It's a little tattered, a little torn, a little mended, and much loved. It is regularly picked by both boys to read for bedtime. And I do not mind. I love this book.

Princesses get a lot of crud in this world. They are picked on and trapped and really can't think for themselves in a lot of stories.

BUT in this story Princess Elizabeth looses everything and then does something about it. She goes after Prince Ronald to try and save him from the dragon. How awesome is that! She decides that she wants something, and she goes that uses her brains to accomplish it! I love that this book shows a strong female with smarts using them to her advantage. Then in the end, she stands up for herself again. (Not going to tell you, but you will know when you get there, and we all say that line aloud. It's the second to the last line of the book.)

The illustrations are fun and truly this is a great book about strong, smart females and how to treat each other. I love love love that my boys love this book. It gives me great fodder for talking about how to treat women and how not to underestimate anyone.

I don't know if you can tell, but I have loved this book for years. It's worth reading. Go read it. Go on. It's worth it!

The Queen of Style by Caralyn Buehber and Mark Buehber

2011-06-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.

Title: The Queen of Style
Author: Caralyn Buehber and Mark Buehner
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Queen Sophie rules a small, happy kingdom of farmers, but she herself isn’t happy. Nobody ever comes to her with a problem, and she is bored to tears . . . until she spots an ad for the Royal College of Beauty correspondence course. Soon she is memorizing directions and practicing her lessons in a frenzy. She starts writing proclamations, demanding that her subjects come to the castle so that she can cut and curl and color their hair. Even the sheep must be coiffed. It’s not long before Sophie finds herself facing an angry—though very stylish!—mob. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Queen Sophie is bored and so she finds her passion.....doing hair. So she practices on her subjects and their sheep. She is having a great time, until she realizes that her subjects are not. They don't like having to come and get their hair cut or dyed or whatever she needs to do. Sophie feels bad because she never realized that everyone wasn't having as much fun as she was.

Okay, so this book teaches a great lesson. What is fun for you is fun, but not everyone might think so. Forcing people to play how or what you want, isn't fun in the long run. Playing together is much better.

I love the illustrations. They are so fun. Especially the sheep. Don't forget to look for the sheep. I love that the people have these elaborate hairdos that just keep getting more interesting.

This is a fun book with a great message for kids. And yes, I read it to my boys. And yes, they liked it. And yes, my husband had issue with that. But that's okay with me. It's a GREAT story.

Three Hens and a Peacock by Lester L. Laminack and Henry Cole

2011-06-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter our contest. Go here for all the ways to enter.

Title: Three Hens and a Peacock
Author: Lester L. Laminack and Henry Cole (Illustrator)
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Easy Reader/Picture Book
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Nothing unusual ever happened on the Tuckers farm. Until the day that peacock showed up... When a glamorous visitor lands unexpectedly in their midst and begins attracting customers, three hardworking hens protest: How come we do all the hard work and he gets all the attention? To keep the peace, the wise old hound dog suggests a swap. The hens and the peacock soon find out that others jobs aren t always as easy as they seem. What will happen when three gussied-up hens spend the day prancing and parading at passing cars? And will that peacock ever figure out how to lay an egg?" (Good Reads)
Opinions: This book is a fantastic way for kids to learn that you can't always understand someone until you have walked in their shoes (so to speak). I read it to my three year-old daughter and she promptly took it out of my hands and re-read it to herself (adjusting the story as she felt along the way) over-and-over again. The pictures are well done and definitely kept her fasincated time and time again.

300th Blog Post mean fabulousness for YOU!

2011-06-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

Have you enjoyed the last month of fabulous book reviews? Good! It was a lot of work. But we stayed on track pretty well and had blogger not gone out in the middle of the month, I think we would have 100% fabulous. (So I'll go with 99% fabulous.)

So to celebrate our 300th blog post we are doing two things.

1) June is going to be Children's Picture Book Month! :) Karen and I have kids and read lots of picture books. So we will be reviewing a bunch of them this month.

And number 2 is EVEN BETTER! (I know, it's tough to beat Picture Book Month. But we try.)

2) CONTEST!!!

And what are we giving away? Well, that depends on you!

Here's how it's going to work. There are lots of ways to gain entries and 2 (possibly more prizes).

To enter you can:

1. Leave a comment on this or any other post until the 30th answering the following question - What is that one book you read over and over and it still resonates with you? (1 entry)
2. Follow our blog (3 entries)
3. Post a link to our blog on your blog. Please leave a link to your blog (5 entries)
4. Blog about our blog or giveaway on your blog. Again please leave a link (5 entries)
5. Convince someone to follow us and enter this contest. If they do and put your name down you get 10 entries!
6. Write a review for us. There is no limit to the number of reviews you write for us. Please use our format. (Below) Email us your reviews at fabulousreads@yahoo.com Also if you would like us to link to your blog, please give us your blog address.

Title:
Author:
Reviewer:
Genre:
Rating:
Alerts/Warnings:
Premise:
Opinions:

BUT WAIT! There's MORE!

Karen and I love to get reviews from you, and obviously, you like to see lots of reviews too. (The number of hits in May was 10 times higher than any other month in the past 3 years.) And honestly, we can't keep it up. We read lots and we love to review. But our families would miss us. :) So we need your help. Incentive coming!

For every book you review you get an increased number of entries.
Book Review 1= 5 entries.
Book Review 2= 7 entries
Book Review 3= 9 entries
Book Review 4= 11 entries
and so on and so forth. Every additional book review you write increases your chances of winning.

So what fabulous prize are we giving away?

Well, that depends ON YOU!!

See here's the deal. The more reviews we get and the more followers we get, the more we will be giving away.

We are going to start with a $5 amazon.com gift card. BUT if we get 10 reviews, that gift card then becomes a $10 amazon.com gift card. And it keeps on going, but it gets more demanding everytime. We will increase the amount at 10, 30, 60, 100, 150, 200, 300. Each time by an increment of $5. I honestly don't think we will be getting to 300, but feel free to prove me wrong! I'll keep putting money on the gift card as long as you keep writing reviews.

We are also giving away a book. But it could be more than one book. AND if you win, you get to pick! (We'll send you a list to pick from.)

The other half of the giveaway is based on followers. We currently have 35 followers. If we get 10 more followers we will give away 2 books. Again it will go up at 10, 30, 60, 100 followers. Each time we reach a new level we will give another book away. (Each winner will get one book.)

So are you excited!! We are! I'm excited to see your reviews. I hope you send us so many we can continue posting multiple times a week.

(Please check to make sure we have not written a review for the book you are submitting. Any reviews that are for books that have already been reviewed will not count. And we want your reviews to count! So check using our search button on the right hand side of the page.)

And so it begins.

Good Luck!

Contest ends June 30th at 9pm PST. All reviews and entries must be received by that time. Winners will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond. If they do not respond an alternate winner will be chosen. If you are under the age or 18 you must have a parent or legal guardian give consent if you win.
We have also in the past have had people have problems with our comment section. If you have a problem, you can email us your entry at fabulousreads@yahoo.com

Holes by Louis Sachar

2011-05-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

Title: Holes
Author: Louis Sachar
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "As further evidence of his family's bad fortune which they attribute to a curse on a distant relative, Stanley Yelnats is sent to a hellish correctional camp in the Texas desert where he finds his first real friend, a treasure, and a new sense of himself." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This book was a Newberry Award winner back in 1999. I read it upon recommendation of my friend and co-blogger Stephanie and LOVED it. This book is an easy read, but wonderfully done and parts of it are just brilliant. I love that the reason the Yelnats family (by the way Yelnats is Stanley spelt backward) is cursed is because of their "no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing great grandfather." The stories you learn about Kissing Kate Barlow, Sam the onion man, and Stanley's grandfather are fantastic. I think it is fantastic that, though Stanley is wrongly accused of a crime and sent to a boys correctional farm for it, he has the opportunity to set everything straight in the end, not only for himself but for his entire family. The cast of characters that you meat at the correctional camp are brilliant and inventive. The courage and inner strength that Stanley shows to help his friend Zero is heart-warming. Overall, this is a wonderful book and a quick read, so if you have the time please read this book.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

2011-05-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

Title: The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Historical Ficiton
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: There is some cursing and issues of racism. Also there is one chapter dealing with a nude man that has some mildly crass language.
Premise: Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.

Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.

Minny, Aibileen’s best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody’s business, but she can’t mind her tongue, so she’s lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town to know her reputation. But her new boss has secrets of her own.

Seemingly as different from one another as can be, these women will nonetheless come together for a clandestine project that will put them all at risk. And why? Because they are suffocating within the lines that define their town and their times. And sometimes lines are made to be crossed. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I feel like there is a good probablity that most of you will have read this book already. But I very much enjoyed it. So for the couple(?) of you that haven't read this book. I'm here to tell you what all the hulabaloo is about. (I know you are so excited, aren't you?)

The Help follows 3 women, 1 Caucasian and 2 African American, in the South in 1962. None of them are happy with how they are treated. They all want to rise above what everyone wants of them and to be treated with respect.

So they write a book. A book telling the truth about how African American women are treated in the South. Especially in the homes that they work.

This is a powerful look at racism and love and true acceptance. I love the range of characters and the way the story shows you several walks of life and how people choose to handle the problems that come their way. It is moving and beautifully written. This is definately NOT a book for young adults. But it is well worth the read.

Avalon High by Meg Cabot

2011-05-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

Title: Avalon High
Author: Meg Cabot
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Teen Fantasy
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some mild language and a fantasy fight scene.
Premise: To newcomer Ellie, Avalon High seems like a typical American high school, complete with jocks, nerds, cheerleaders, and even the obligatory senior class president, quarterback, and all-around good guy. But it doesn't take Ellie long to suspect that something weird is going on beneath the glossy surface of this tranquil hall of learning. As she pieces together the meaning of this unfolding drama, she begins to recognize some haunting Arthurian echoes, causing her to worry that she has become just a pawn in mythic history. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I spent a semester in college where we discussed Arthurian legend. I read Malory's "Le Morte de Arthur" in Middle English. I thought there was no way I would ever watch or read anything Arthurian again. Much less enjoy it.

That being said, I enjoyed this book. It takes the Arthur tale and puts it in modern day context with a nice twist. I like Meg Cabot's writing. I like her characterization. I like how you can read it and figure out who the different people are in the school and in the Arthur legend.

Now, in all honesty, I watched the movie first in China. Which I enjoyed. BUT the book is VERY different from the movie. I wish I had reversed it.

Meg Cabot is a very talented writer. She is amazing at getting into the souls of her characters and giving them situations that are true to how they behave and act. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Scumble by Ingrid Law

2011-05-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

Title: Scumble
Author: Ingrid Law
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some theivery
Premise: Nine years after Mibs's Savvy journey, her cousin Ledge has just turned thirteen . . .
But Ledger Kale's savvy is a total dud--all he does is make little things fall apart. So his parents decide it's safe to head to Wyoming, where it's soon revealed that Ledge's savvy is much more powerful than anyone thought. Worse, his savvy disaster has an outside witness: Sarah Jane Cabot, reporter wannabe and daughter of the local banker. Just like that, Ledge's beloved normal life is over. Now he has to keep Sarah from turning family secrets into headlines, stop her father from foreclosing on Uncle Autry's ranch, and scumble his savvy into control so that, someday, he can go home.

Starring a cast both fresh and familiar, Scumble brilliantly melds Ingrid Law's signature heart and humor with the legendary Wild West. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Savvy is one of my favorite books. So admittedly I was very excited about Scumble. And I very much enjoyed it. However, it took me longer to get into it. Now granted, Savvy starts with a hurricane. It's hard to top that.

Scumble takes place 9 years after Savvy. Mibs and Fish are briefly in it. But the book follows Ledge, their cousin who gets his savvy on his birthday just like all of his family. His savvy, however, is making things fall apart.

So his parents decide that it is safe to go across the country to Uncle Autry's ranch for a wedding. And then things start to fall apart, literally.

I really enjoy this idea that we all have an inate talent for something. Whether it's supernatural or not. Once we discover it we have to learn how to control it. I think that is what is so appealing to me. We find what we are good at and develop it so that we have control and use our talent to the best of our ability.

I for one hope that Ingrid Law writes another of these books. I really enjoy them.

Teen Idol by Meg Cabot

2011-05-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Title: Teen Idol
Author: Meg Cabot
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Teen Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: High school junior Jenny Greenley is so good at keeping secrets that she's the school newspaper's anonymous advice columnist. She's so good at it that, when hotter-than-hot Hollywood star Luke Striker comes to her small town to research a role, Jenny is the one in charge of keeping his identity under wraps. But Luke doesn't make it easy, and soon everyone—the town, the paparazzi, and the tabloids alike—know his secret...and Jenny is caught right in the middle of all the chaos. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Okay, I know. Teen Idol? Stephanie, are you kidding me? But hear me out.

This is a fun book. It is almost every girl's dream that her movie crush will come to her high school. But Jenny isn't like all the other girls. So when Luke Striker comes to Jenny's high school she is given the responsibility to show him around and keep his secret. Hilarious chaos insues. Especially when Jenny realizes that she is not Mayo but Special Sauce. And seriously the part with the red sequeined lightning bolt dress had me laughing out loud. (Best part: that was based on Meg Cabot's show choir dress in high school. LOVE IT!)

Teen Idol is my go to book when I just need a happy, fun book that I know is clean and will keep me laughing and entertained for a couple of hours. It's super fun. Don't knock it till you try it, deal? Deal.

Savvy by Ingrid Law

2011-05-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

Title: Savvy
Author: Ingrid Law
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: YA Fiction/Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "Recounts the adventures of Mibs Beaumont, whose thirteenth birthday has revealed her "savvy"--a magical power unique to each member of her family--just as her father is injured in a terrible accident." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I love the Beaumont family and how each one earns their own "savvy" or ability at the age of 13. Mississipi (aka Mibs) is looking forward to learning what her own ability will be. I mean come on...her grandpa can move mountains, one brother can control electricity, and another can make a water storm. If I were Mibs I would be eager and nervous wondering what my ability would be as well. I love how this story shows the relationships between siblings - hostile at times, and incredibly supportive at others. I love that when there Dad is hurt the siblings will work together, with some unlikely friends, to do anything to get to their father. This is a fabulous book that is inventive, well written, and is about who you are, who you can become, and about family. And I'm so excited cause I just found out that there is a sequel. CAN'T WAIT!!!!

My Brother Michael by Mary Stewart

2011-05-29T20:09:00.000-07:00

Title: My Brother Michael
Author: Mary Stewart
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Romance/Suspense
Rating: Like (I think)
Alerts/Warnings: Two overheard sex scenes, Some swearing, violence, murder
Premise: "Nothing ever happened to Camilla Haven -- until a stranger approached her in a crowded Athens café, handed her the keys to a black car parked by the curb,and whispered, "A matter of life and death."

The ride was Camilla's first mistake..." (Good Reads)
Opinions: I just reread this book for the third or fourth time and I have to say my opinion has changed over time. When we initially wrote our Top 100 book list over a year and a half ago this book was on the list (I even own it). I've been reading Mary Stewart books since a pre-teen and like I said this is not the first time I've read this book. The last time I read it was before I was married a good 10+ years ago. I still love seeing Greece through the eyes of the main character. I first fell in love with Greece because of Mary Stewart's descriptions in this book, and I still long greatly to visit this incredible and ancient land because of this book. I love the main character's struggle to find strength within herself after having ended a previous marriage. I love Simon and learning about the history of his brother Michael and what happened during World War 2 in Greece. My ultimate favorite character is a teenage boy by the name of Niko that we see periodically through the story. His vibrant energy is only matched by the kinds of clothes that he wears.

Where my attitude has changed in regards to this story is the reference to sex in the book that I don't recall so vividly from previous read throughs. Pardon me if I spoil a part of the story, but I feel compelled to explain why it bothered me. There are two scenes in the book were the main character is uncomfortably nearby when another pair of characters is having sex. Concerning how graphic it could be, I would say it was fairly clean and brushed over to some degree (I mean the main character does everything to ignore it this side of plugging her ears and saying "I'm not listening".) The biggest concern is the second time this happens it ends in the death of one of the characters because that person had learned too much about what their partner was involved in and the partner couldn't let the person live. So as romance books go the description is moderately clean, but I still felt it was highly disturbing to me at this stage in my life. As such, even though I LOVE the rest of the story, I feel compelled to take this book off of my Top 100 list and sell my copy. That is just my personal opinion. I still love Mary Stewart as an author and leave the decision up to you whether or not you choose to read this book.

Clementine by Sara Pennypacker

2011-05-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

Title: Clementine
Author: Sara Pennypacker
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: LOVE
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Clementine is having not so good of a week.

* On Monday she’s sent to the principal’s office for cutting off Margaret’s hair.
* Tuesday, Margaret’s mother is mad at her.
* Wednesday, she’s sent to the principal...again.
* Thursday, Margaret stops speaking to her.
* Friday starts with yucky eggs and gets worse.
* And by Saturday, even her mother is mad at her.

Okay, fine. Clementine is having a DISASTROUS week. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Clementine is quirky and funny. Think Ramona Quimby. People are always asking her to pay attention. Yet they don't understand, she is paying attention to what she wants, not what they want her to. Clementine is a cute book that follows Clementine during a week in her life as she deals with haircuts and coloring, a war against pigeons.

Sara Pennypacker is quite talented at creating a unique voice for Clementine that feels fairly accurate for a hyperactive third grader.

I love this book and so does my son. There are enough illustrations to keep him entertained and the story is fun and twisty enough to keep his attention when there aren't pictures. But 4 year old aside, I was entertained.

This is a fun story. I enjoyed it very much.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

2011-05-29T07:41:00.000-07:00

Title: The Invention of Hugo Cabret
Author: Brian Selznick
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Graphic Novel (?) Picture Book (?)
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise:Orphan Hugo Cabret lives in a wall. His secret home is etched out in the crevices of a busy Paris train station. Part-time clock keeper, part-time thief, he leads a life of quiet routine until he gets involved with an eccentric, bookish young girl and an angry old man who runs a toy booth in the station. The Invention of Hugo Cabret unfolds its cryptic, magical story in a format that blends elements of picture book, novel, graphic novel, and film. Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator Brian Selznick has fashioned an intricate puzzle story that binds the reader like a mesmerist's spell.(goodreads.com)

Opinions: Have you ever picked up a 500 page book and thought, "Great, this'll give me something to read for an hour." Then you read it in less than an hour and think, "Shoot, now what am I going to do?"

Okay, so that happened to me when I read this book. I was working for a bookstore and saw it the day it came in. I needed something to read during lunch, so I decided to start it during lunch and then read it over a couple of days. It didn't work out that way, and I'm so glad that it didn't.

This book is told as much by the illustrations as it is my the words. It takes place in a train station in Paris and discusses the classics of film and automatons and building things.

I have to say that I didn't expect this story to be so beautiful nor the illustrations to touch me like they did. I LOVE this book and think you should give it a shot. I mean, what the hay, right? How many people can say they read a 500 page book in an hour? :)

Spells by Aprilynne Pike

2011-05-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

Title: Spells
Author: Aprilynne Pike
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Teen Fantasy
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: There is some violence, mild sexual references and some swearing.
Premise: Six months have passed since Laurel saved the gateway to the faerie realm of Avalon. Now she must spend her summer there, honing her skills as a Fall faerie. But her human family and friends are still in mortal danger--and the gateway to Avalon is more compromised than ever.

When it comes time to protect those she loves, will she depend on David, her human boyfriend, for help? Or will she turn to Tamani, the electrifying faerie with whom her connection is undeniable? (goodreads.com)

Opinions: "Spells" is the sequel to "Wings". I very much like the idea behind these books. Laurel as a faerie trying to protect her family and friends from Trolls who are trying to take over Avalon.

It's fascinating and very well written. I like that we get to see more of Laurel as a fae and her trying to fit in to both these worlds she is being placed. It is definately interesting to see the pull she gets from both sides.

Overall, it's a great book. There are more "alert" moments in this book than in Wings. But I very much have enjoye this series and am anxious to read the next book in the series.

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma by Trenton Lee Stewart

2011-05-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Title: The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma (Book 3 of the Mysterious Benedict Society Trilogy)
Author: Trenton Lee Stewart
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None that I recall
Premise: "When an unexplained blackout engulfs Stonetown, Benedict Society members Reynie, Kate, Sticky, and Constance follow clues on an adventure that threatens to separate them from their families, friends, and even one another." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I just have to say that Kate is by far my favorite character in this book. She is spunky, brilliant, and ingenious. I still love Reynie, Sticky and Constance, but Kate is my favorite. I love that we get to enjoy the company of Mr. Benedict more and I think the things we learn about Constance are absolutely brilliant. Isn't it annoying how little I'm telling you so that you have to go find out for yourself? ;-) Mr. Curtain does do what he can to capture the society as well as get the whisperer back in his hands and the kids must work together to save the day...but will they? (There, was that enough more to intrigue you.)

I also really enjoy how well Mr. Stewart does in tying up the trilogy. I felt completely satisfied with the ending. So overall, yes I think you need to read this entire series...so go to the library now and check it out. Then tell me if you agree.

Belles on Their Toes by Frank Gilbreth Jr. and Ernesting Gilbreth Carey

2011-05-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

Title: Belles on their Toes
Author: Frank Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Biography
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: A couple of curse words and some smoking.
Premise: Life is very different now in the rambling Gilbreth house.When the youngest was two and the oldest eighteen, Dad died and Mother bravely took over his business. Now, to keep the family together, everyone has to pitch in and pinch pennies. The resourceful clan rises to every crisis with a marvelous sense of fun — whether it's battling chicken pox, giving the boot to an unwelcome boyfriend, or even meeting the President. And the few distasteful things they can't overcome — like castor oil — they swallow with good humor and good grace. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is the sequel to "Cheaper by the Dozen". It takes off where the first one ends and follows the family through all of the children getting married.

I like "Belles on their Toes" better than "Cheaper by the Dozen" for a couple of reasons. 1) It's in chronological order. So I'm never confused as to where they are or how many kids there are. 2) As the children get older, more and more interesting things happen that happen to be quite funny.

Having read both of these books many times, I have to conclude it would have been crazy growing up in the Gilbreth family. And I have a lot of respect for the parents (especially since I've become a mom). I like that this one highlights the mom and shows how much love and respect the kids have for her. Also how determined they were to stay together and work together to do so.

Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

2011-05-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

Title: Cheaper by the Dozen
Author: Frank Gilbreth Jr. and Ernesting Gilbreth Carey
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Biography (kind of)
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: A couple of curse words.
Premise: No growing pains have ever been more hilarious than those suffered loudly by the riotous Gilbreth clan. First there are a dozen red-haired, freckle-faced kids to contend with. Then there's Dad, a famous efficiency expert who believes a family can be run just like a factory. Finally there's Mother, his partner in everything except discipline. How they all survive such escapades as forgetting Frank Jr. in a roadside restaurant or going on a first date with Dad in the backseat or having their tonsils removed en masse will keep you in stitches. You can be sure they're not only cheaper, they're funnier by the dozen. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is such a fun book about this large family. It is not in chronocological order, so it takes a little bit to get used to where they are and how many kids are alive at the time. But I love that it gives a look at this very quirky huge family of two people who brought about change in motion study.

I have read this book many times over the years. I've seen 2 of the movies made about this book. Honestly, neither are all that accurate. ESPECIALLY the one starring Steve Martin. I enjoyed it, but don't go in expecting anything like that movie.

I enjoy the book more and more as the kids get older and start dating. It's funny and cute and just worth the time to read.

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart

2011-05-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

Title: The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey (Book 2 of the series)
Author: Trenton Lee Stewart
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: MidGrade Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: none that I can recall
Premise: "Reynie, Kate, Sticky, and Constance, all graduates of the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened and members of the Benedict Society, embark on a scavenger hunt that turns into a desperate search for the missing Mr. Benedict." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I've read some reviews about this book that discouraged me. Some people criticize that this story is just not believable. In my opinion, suspend reality and just enjoy it. I loved reading more about Reynie, Sticky, Constance and Kate as they travel the world trying to save their beloved mentor, Mr. Benedict, from his evil twin Mr. Curtain. They must fight against the Ten Men - so called for the number of weapons they tend to use - and search out clues for Mr. Benedict. Along the way the fearsome four must also overcome issues within themselves that may stop them in their endeavor if not overcome - ego, trust, etc. So in spite of some other negative reviews, I still personally highly recommend this book.

Just Ella by Margaret Petersen Haddix

2011-05-27T07:21:00.001-07:00

Title: Just Ella
Author: Margaret Peteresen Haddix
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: It's a familiar story: In spite of the obstacles put in her way by her wicked stepmother, Ella goes to the ball, sweeps Prince Charming off his feet, and is chosen to be his bride. Now she's comfortably ensconced in the palace, awaiting marriage to the man of her dreams. It's happily ever after time, right?
Wrong! Life for Ella has become an endless round of lessons and restrictions; even worse, Prince Charming turns out to be more like Prince Boring. Why can't she talk with him the way she can with Jed, her earnest young tutor?

Slowly, Ella comes to realize she doesn't want the life she fought so hard to win. But breaking her engagement proves more difficult -- and dangerous -- than escaping her stepmother's tyranny. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Years ago when I was working for a bookstore I would often find myself helping people find books for young adults and teens. (Shocking, isn't it?) I still remember the day that a 12 year old girl asked me for the sequel to Ella Enchanted. I was so confused because I knew there wasn't one. So after a good chunk of time I found this book. I'm still not sure this was the book she was looking for, but because of her, I read this book. So I am grateful to her.

I like fairy tales. I'll admit it to anyone who asks. My problem with fairy tales is the idea that at the end when the princess and prince marry that they will live "happily ever after". And honestly that is my issue with the Cinderella tale. She knew this guy for less than 3 days. Who is this guy? And what kind of creep is he that he wants to marry someone based on how she looks?

So the appeal of this book is that you see that everything might not have been what you thought it was. The Prince could be boring. Lessons all the time. No choices.

I really love a firey heroine who takes control of her own life and destiny. This is a great story about how you need to know what you want and be strong enough to go for it. And when it counts, admit that you are wrong and change your direction.

Secondhand Charm by Julie Berry

2011-05-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

Title: Secondhand Charm
Author: Julie Berry
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: Some fantasy violence.
Premise: In a secluded village, magic sparkles on the edges of the forest. There, a young girl named Evie possesses unusually strong powers as a healer. A gypsy's charms—no more than trinkets when worn by others—are remarkably potent when Evie ties them around her neck. Her talents, and charms, have not escaped the notice of the shy stonemason's apprentice. But Evie wants more than a quiet village and the boy next-door. When the young king's carriage arrives one day, and his footman has fallen ill, Evie might just get her chance after all . . . (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I don't like snakes. At all. Period. End of Story.

HOWEVER. I loved this book. And honestly there weren't a ton of snakes in the book. But the few snakes did skeeve me out some. (I'm a bit too squeemish about snakes.)

Okay, moving away from the snakes.

Evie is a great character and I love that we follow her journey. I found myself suprised many times throughout the book. I think that this story was so different and well told and I was suprised by the twists that it took. I love the idea of serpentinas (as long as there was no possible way that I could ever be or run into one). It was so different that I loved it. It was not something I would have ever considered, but I liked it so very much.

This is Julie Berry's 2nd novel. The first, The Amaranth Enchantment, was equally well done. I have nothing but positive things to say about Julie Berry. And I hope she continues to write, because I will be a fan for as long as she does.

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

2011-05-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Title: The Mysterious Benedict Society (Book 1 of the Mysterious Benedict Society Series)
Author: Trenton Lee Stewart
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: MidGrade Fiction
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: None that I can recall
Premise: "After passing a series of mind-bending tests, four children are selected for a secret mission that requires them to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I love Reynie. What kid doesn't go through feeling like they are out of place, or don't fit in. I love that he works one-on-one with a tutor to excel in his brilliance. I love that he takes a chance and takes the very odd tests to get into the society. I love the group of kids that are part of the society (I mean their names alone are masterpieces - Sticky Washington, Constance Contraire, and Kate Wetherall). Each one unique, each one with his/her own realm of expertise. I love that they work together to solve the mystery of the nefarious plans going on at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened. This is a great tale of self-esteem, cooperation, friendship and so much more. Please take time to read this one.

Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn

2011-05-26T08:10:00.001-07:00

Title: Ella Minnow Pea
Author: Mark Dunn
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some mentions of corporal punishments towards citizens of the island
Premise: Ella Minnow Pea is a girl living happily on the fictional island of Nollop off the coast of South Carolina. Nollop was named after Nevin Nollop, author of the immortal pangram,* “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” Now Ella finds herself acting to save her friends, family, and fellow citizens from the encroaching totalitarianism of the island’s Council, which has banned the use of certain letters of the alphabet as they fall from a memorial statue of Nevin Nollop. As the letters progressively drop from the statue they also disappear from the novel. The result is both a hilarious and moving story of one girl’s fight for freedom of expression, as well as a linguistic tour de force sure to delight word lovers everywhere. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: What an quirky fun idea for a book! I thought it was entertaining and interesting look at what would happen if letters are lost from use. Not only is is interesting to think about would happen if you were no longer allowed to use the letter z or q or a or j. Think of all the words that you can no longer use if you lose even one letter.

I think that this book appealed to me on two levels. 1) It was an interesting look at a totalitian government that is completely ridiculous. However, I find the idea intriguing that there are so few people in the community that see the terribleness of the leaders. I do think that it is a fascinating look at governmental rule and how much power we give our leaders and the trust that we give them to take care of our society.
2) It appeals to me as a lover of words. I love that as the letters disappear from the statue, they disappear from the novel. So that soon it becomes so degraded it becomes hard to say anything.

This is a delightful book that makes you think and ponder language and politics. An interesting combination to be sure, but it makes for a fun read.

She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell

2011-05-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

Title: She Walks in Beauty
Author: Siri Mitchell
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: Talks about tennements, addiction, brief mention of having a child out of wedlock. The thing that people might find the most troublesome are the issues that are mentioned around the corsets and female body parts not staying where they are supposed to. (This is a novel of society in the 1890's. I have done a great deal of research into this time period and everything is accurate and non graphic. There are mentions of all the things I listed above, but I honestly felt it was accurate and was done in a tasteful way so as to give the necessary information to create a real world, but not so heavy handed so as to offend or distract. But that's my opinion. Take it as you will.)
Premise: For a young society woman seeking a favorable marriage in the late 1890s, so much depends on her social season debut. Clara Carter has been given one goal: secure the affections of the city's most eligible bachelor. Debuting means plenty of work--there are corsets to be fitted, dances to master, manners to perfect. Her training soon pays off, however, as celebrity's spotlight turns Clara into a society-page darling. Yet Clara wonders if this is the life she really wants, especially when she learns her best friend has also set her sights on Franklin De Vries. When a man appears who seems to love her simply for who she is, and gossip backlash turns ugly, Clara realizes it's not just her heart at stake--the future of her family depends on how she plays the game. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I loved this book. I thought it was a very accurate look at the life of a debutante in the late 1800's. It is disturbing how society wanted a woman to look, to act, to be. We follow Clara who has a brilliant mind and spitfire spirit. Clara has no desire to be a debutante. She has little desire to dance, flirt and woo her way into the heart of the city's most eligable bachelor. Yet, she has little choice. She is a woman in the 1890's. So she does as her father and aunt demand.

This is a really interesting book about trying to be true to yourself and doing what your family wants. I mentioned above that I've done research on this time period (when I was in college for a class project and paper) and I can honestly say that in my opinion it is one of the most brilliantly accurate books about the 1890's that has been written in the twentyfirst century (at least that I have read).

I loved the characters and how they dealt with each other. I also loved the love story and how it all turned up. I found myself surprised several times. This is a wonderfully, fantastic book. I very much enjoyed it. (Can you tell that I liked this book?)

As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth by Lynne Rae Perkins

2011-05-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Title: As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth
Author: Lynne Rae Perkins
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Train.

Car.

Plane.

Boat.

Feet.

He'll get there.

Won't he?

Opinions: The premise has you intrigued, doesn't it? Honestly, I read that and I wanted to read the book. Which is funny, cause I usually want to know more about a book. But this one was really interesting. Ry is on his way to camp and opens a letter and discovers that his camp has been cancelled. So he gets off his train looking for cell phone reception and the train leaves him. Thus begins Ry's journey to get home. He goes on every type of transportation possible trying to get home.

I liked Ry's character, but I liked Del more. (Del is one of the people Ry meets.) Even more than that, I like the overall theme of searching for the people you love. This is a beautifully written story. I liked that Ry found good people to help him and that the author didn't take the idea that a young kid was going all over the country by himself. Or that he wasn't taken in by thugs or something. I like the simplicity of this book and the physical journey as well as the emotional one.

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

2011-05-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

Title: The Westing Game
Author: Ellen Raskin
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Junior Mystery
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None that I can recall
Premise:"This Newbery Medal-winning novel now features updated cover artwork. The mysterious death of an eccentric millionaire brings together an unlikely assortment of heirs who must uncover the circumstances of his death before they can claim their inheritance." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This book is amazing. Even though it is written for younger kids I love this book as an adult. I love the way Ellen Raskin weaves the clues and gets apparent strangers to work together to try and solve the mystery of Sam Westing's death. The winner then wins millions of dollars. I love Turtle with her sassy braids and her brains. I love the humor and play on words and the way she unfolds the clues. Whether or kid or a kid at heart, if you love mysteries this book is for you.

Pollyanna Grows Up by Eleanor H. Porter

2011-05-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

Title: Pollyanna Grows Up
Author: Eleanor H. Porter
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: The sequel to Pollyanna finds the effervescent orphan on the verge of womanhood. Her crippled legs cured, Pollyanna takes her glad heart to cheer new friends in Boston before travelling to Europe with Aunt Polly and Dr Chilton. But growing up brings sorrows as well as joys, and when she returns after six years, with Dr Chilton dead and Aunt Polly fallen on hard times, even Pollyanna has trouble maintaining her usual cheerful outlook. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: So we get to see Pollyanna again. She is as delightful as ever. She moves to Boston for a season while her aunt and uncle travel abroad for business. While there, we meet new people and see how Pollyanna learns to love and give all she has to others. Then six years pass and we get to see Pollyanna as a woman. She is still cheerful and full of life, yet a bit more mature.

As stories go, I like this story more than the first Pollyanna book. It's a delightful story and very compelling to see how Pollyanna reacts to things as an adult. I have to say the thing that I dislike about this book is Pollyanna's aunt. She drives me up the ding dang wall. But I also understand why her character behaves the way she does, (most of the time).

All in all, this is a delightful companion of books that helps you look for the good and realize that life isn't as bad as you might think it is.

The First Girls of Baxter Academy by Pamela Roskin

2011-05-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Title: The First Girls of Baxter Academy
Author: Pamela Roskin
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: Some mild language and mentions of female monthly cycles.
Premise: The year is 1971, and Baxter Academy is perfect just as it is: it’s got the history, the prestige, and the beautiful New England campus. It’s just missing one thing—female students! But Becky (the women’s libber), Maggie (the hippie chick), Sheila (the day student), and Louise (the senator’s daughter) are about to give the academy exactly what it has always needed.

The girls thought the biggest challenge would be getting into the school—little did they realize they would have to fight so hard to stay. Luckily, they have each other to see them through the most amazing and adventurous year of their lives when they become the very first girls of Baxter Academy. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Okay, this was another China book. I was looking for something to read, and it was there for $1. I thought, "Huh. That sounds interesting. For a dollar, I'll try it." So I did. It was a compelling mix of female characters. All of them are at the school for different reasons. One is dying to go. One has no where else to go. One is on scholorship. The last is there because her father needs a daughter there to help turn the school back into boys only. A feminist book to be sure. Please don't let that put you off. I mean Feminist, not Fem-nazi. It is a interesting look at our society in the early 1970's. It is well-written and often very funny. I enjoyed it tremendously.

Roxanne by Jane Claypool Miner

2011-05-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

Title: Roxanne
Author: Jane Claypool Miner
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Teen Historical Romance
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None (no seriously! NONE!)
Premise: From small town girl to Hollywood star, her heart would belong to only one boy. Theirs would be the greatest love story Hollywood had ever known.Roxanne has come from a small town to Hollywood with one dream: to become a star. And she will do anything to succeed: change her looks, her name, and her friends.She has to decide if she should succumb to John Randolph, the movie producer's son, who can introduce her to all the right people. Or if she should follow her heart to Gary Marlowe, a glittering star who has eyes for all of the beautiful bit players and extras on the set. But Roxanne knows she is not going to settle for being just another extra - to Gary or to Hollywood ... she's going to have it all! (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Okay, I know. I know. This is a romance novel. But I promise you, it would be rated G if it were made into a movie. There are a couple of kisses and that is all. It is very tame.

Roxanne is an Oklahoma girl who's mother has a dream that Roxanne will be a movie star. So they pack up and move to Hollywood. Roxanne struggles to make a name for herself in the movies, while she also tries to figure out who she really loves. It is a fun and interesting look at Hollywood during the Depression. And honestly, it is just a fun book.

NOTE: Roxanne is out of print. So don't hate me for reviewing this book. You can get it at some libraries, on amazon or if you live close to me and, you know, have my phone number, I'll lend it to you. Cause I'm just that awesome.

Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter

2011-05-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

Title: Pollyanna
Author: Eleanor H. Porter
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: When orphaned 11-year-old Pollyanna comes to live with austere and wealthy Aunt Polly, her philosophy of gladness brings happiness to her aunt and other members of the community, somewhat to their surprise. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Have you seen the movie 'Pollyanna' with Hailey Mills? It was made in the 1950's? Okay, so I have. It was one of my favorites growing up. Several years ago, I read the book. I really liked it. I thought it was fun. Then when I was in China I read it again. (Yes, another China book.) I truly believe that there are times in our lives when books really hit a chord and for me Pollyanna hit me like a freight load of bricks. How wonderfully refreshing to read a book about a girl who does nothing but look for the good in everything. By the end of this book I found myself doing the same and I have to admit, if for no other reason than to get a good dose of Pollyanna's optimistic attitude, than it is worth it to read this book. The plot is a little weak, but the strength of character more than makes up for it.

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

2011-05-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

Title: Ella Enchanted
Author: Gail Carson Levine
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Teen Fantasy
Rating : Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: "That fool of a fairy Lucinda did not intend to lay a curse on me. She meant to bestow a gift. When I cried inconsolably through my first hour of life, my tears were her inspiration. Shaking her head sympathetically at Mother, the fairy touched my nose. 'My gift is obedience. Ella will always be obedient. Now stop crying, child.' I stopped. So begins this richly entertaining story of Ella of Frell, who wants nothing more than to be free of Lucinda's gift and feel that she belongs to herself. For how can she truly belong to herself if she knows that at any time, anyone can order her to hop on one foot, cut off her hand, or betray her kingdom and she'll have to obey? Against a bold tapestry of princes, ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and fairy godmothers, Ella's spirited account of her quest to break the curse is a funny, poignant, and enchanting tale about an unforgettable heroine who is determined to be herself." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This book is a brilliant retelling of the classic fairytale Cinderella, but in the truly masterful way of author Gail Carson Levine. This book has all the main characteristics of the original fairytale, but with humor, strong female characters, and unusual twists and turns. One of my favorite characters is the fairy cook, Mandy. She is brilliantly written and uniquely done. Then there is Ella, who strives to be strong and defy her curse in anyway she can. I love that she becomes friends with Prince Char first and they get to know each other rather than instantly falling in love. I love that Ella has the ability to mimic languages and voices, which helps her out of more than one tough situation. I also love that she takes it upon herself to find Lucinda and/or the cure to the curse instead of just mopping around bemoaning her fate. Though I love the movie staring Anne Hathaway, the movie can never touch the beauty and the details of the original novel. Filled with magic, fantasy, love, and humor, it is no wonder that this story received a Newberry Honor.

Ellen Tebbits by Beverley Cleary

2011-05-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

Title: Ellen Tebbits
Author: Beverley Cleary
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None (Unless you have issues with girls talking about long underwear in a completely innocent way. But it does mention underwear.)
Premise: Ellen Tebbits has an embarrassing secret that she'll never share with anyone. That is, until she meets Austine—and discovers that Austine has the exact same secret! Soon the girls are best friends who do everything together—attending dance class, riding horses, and dodging pesky Otis Spofford, the neighborhood troublemaker.

But then Ellen does something terrible . . . and now Austine isn't speaking to her. Ellen desperately wants her best friend back. How can she show Austine how sorry she is?

Opinions: I really like this book about friendship and trying to fit in. Ellen is a completely likable and believable character. I honestly could relate to her as a girl. That is what I think Beverley Cleary excells at. She can write believable characters in realistic situations, but with enough zing to be entertaining. This is why I believe she is such a beloved author.

Anyways, Ellen Tebbits (the book) follows Ellen through a year where she makes a new friend and then learns about forgiveness and acceptance.

Magyk by Angie Sage

2011-05-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

Title: Magyk
Author: Angie Sage
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some fantasy violence and darkness
Premise: The seventh son of the seventh son, aptly named Septimus Heap, is stolen the night he is born by a midwife who pronounces him dead. That same night, the baby's father, Silas Heap, comes across a bundle in the snow containing a new born girl with violet eyes. The Heaps take this helpless newborn into their home, name her Jenna, and raise her as their own. But who is this mysterious baby girl, and what really happened to their beloved son Septimus? (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is the first book in a very interesting series. I have to admit that the first time I read this book, I was a little confused for the first 50 pages or so. But then I figured out the timeline and figured out what was going on. At that point I started to really enjoy this book. A series of random events thrust several people together to keep the Princess safe. I like that Angie Sage has made a magical world and has set definitions for magyk and explains in concisely and matter of factly.

Admittedly, this is my favorite book in the series so far. I like how she weaves several stories together and how she has made a new world where the minor characters are just as important as the main ones. It is an interesting multiple perspective book.

Airs Above the Ground by Mary Stewart

2011-05-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

Title: Airs Above the Ground
Author: Mary Stewart
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Romance/Mystery
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Some swearing, some violence
Premise: "Vanessa March never thought to look for her missing husband in Vienna--until she saw him in a newsreel shot there at the scene of a deadly fire. But her hunt for answers only leads to more sinister questions in a mysterious world of beautiful horses." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I LOVE this book. I am a huge fan of Mary Stewart and have been reading her books since I was ten. They are full of mystery and suspense with just the perfect touch of romance. There is mystery around a double murder, drug smuggling, an old horse with a questionable past, a missing husband, and is set in the Swiss Alps. What an awesome combination. I love that the main character is a female veterinarian who is searching for truth about her absentee husband. I love that her desire for truth leads her into the depths of a massive mystery. I love that she is accompanied by a seventeen year old son of a friend whose seeking his own brand of freedom. This unlikely pair make a unique detective duo that have a quirky bond and sense of humor. I even love the way Mary Stewart describes the scenery - it was so vivid that I long to be there in reality even now. Even though this book was written in the 60s it is still a fabulous read for our day.

Dogs Don't Tell Jokes by Louis Sachar

2011-05-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Title: Dogs Don't Tell Jokes
Author: Louis Sachar
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise:Twelve-year-old jokester Gary Boone knows he was born to be a comedian, it's the kids in his class who think he's just a goon. Winning the school talent show would be Gary's dream come true, but on the big night his dream nearly backfires--with hilarious results.

Opinions: This is a funny book. There are parts of this book that are just plain silly, but there is a learning aspect of the book. I like that Gary knows what he wants to do and follows his dream to become a comedian. No matter what anyone else says. It is fun, quirky and honestly has a suprise ending. (I really didn't see it coming, and that's something for me.) It's a fun book and the only downside is that after I read it I decided to tell jokes (some from the book) over and over until I drove everyone around me nuts. It's a fun book for both boys and girls.

14 Cows for America by Carmen Agra Deedy, Thomas Gonzalez (Illustrator), Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah (Collaborator)

2011-05-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Title: 14 Cows for America
Author: Carmen Agra Deedy, Thomas Gonzalez (Illustrator), Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah (Collaborator)
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: In June of 2002, a very unusual ceremony begins in a far-flung village in western Kenya. An American diplomat is surrounded by hundreds of Maasai people. A gift is about to be bestowed on the American men, women, and children, and he is there to accept it. The gift is as unsought and unexpected as it is extraordinary. A mere nine months have passed since the September 11 attacks, and hearts are raw. Tears flow freely from American and Maasai as these legendary warriors offer their gift to a grieving people half a world away. Word of the gift will travel news wires around the globe. Many will be profoundly touched, but for Americans, this selfless gesture will have deeper meaning still. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: There are very few picture books that I have been so incredibly moved by. And honestly, this one far surpassed any others. This is a beautifully moving story about helping Americans heal after the tragedy of September 11th. Not only is this a beautiful story, but it is true. I think that is why it is so amazing. On top of that, the illustrations are gorgeous. I have to say that this is one of those books I read regularly to my kids, but keep high up so that it stays nice. This is a book I want to have to read to my grandkids and greatgrandkids. It shows the good in people and the kindness you can show to those around us. I love this book very very much. I hope you take the time to read it. It's a picture book so it will take you less than 5 minutes. But it is worth it. So very worth it.

Talk of the Town by Lisa Wingate

2011-05-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

Title: Talk of the Town
Author: Lisa Wingate
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Christian Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: The show American Megastar is the hottest thing on television but its associate producer, Mandalay Florentino, is worried. She's just arrived in the tiny town of Daily, Texas, to arrange a surprise "reunion concert" for hometown finalist Amber Amberson. Only it turns out everyone in town seems to know the secret. And paparazzi are arriving. Word from Hollywood is that Amber has disappeared with a "bad boy" actor. Can anything go right in this tumbleweed town? Imagene Doll loves her town of Daily, Texas, but things are lonely without her beloved husband. Life seems dull. At least until that fancy-dressed woman pulls into town, looking terrified and glamorous all at once. Soon life's not the least bit boring as Imagene and the rest of Daily find themselves at the center of a media maelstrom--with a young girl's future on the line. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: There are a couple aspects of this book that are completely unbelievable. BUT those things aside, I really liked this book. It was kind of like American Idol with a twist. I like that we get the perspective of Daily, Texas native Imagene Dall and Hollywood associate producer Mandalay Florentino. You get the perspective of both the big city and the small town. I liked the romance in the story, and honestly there were several parts that were very suprising to me. Plus there were laugh out loud funny parts that had my husband asking what was so funny.

Okay, and in all honestly, I probably wouldn't have picked this book up in America. (Yes, it's another China book.) But I'm so glad that I did read it. I thought it had a sweet message, a sweet romance and plenty of humor. It was a great balance and I very much enjoyed reading it.

Christy by Catherine Marshall

2011-05-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

Title: Christy
Author: Catherine Marshall
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Historical Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some violence and death
Premise: "Young Christy Huddleston begins a new life in the mountain hamlet of Cutter Gap as a teacher at a mission school where she comes to know and care for the wild highland people." (Pleasant Grove Library System)
Opinions: I read this book as part of book club and was hesitant about reading it at first. The descriptiveness can be overwhelming at times, but the story completely endearing. Christy is an intriguing character, full of her own preconceived notions about life when she leaves her privileged upbringing to help those less fortunate than herself as she goes to work as a teacher. She soon finds herself being taught instead and growing greatly from her time with the wonderfully vivid mountain folk. The trials that she and the other characters endure are at times heart wrenching and called for lots of Kleenex on my part. Then there is the love story aspect where Christy must decide between two incredibly different men. Overall, I found this story a completely engaging read and was grateful that my book club suggested we read it.

Toby Tyler or Ren Weeks with a Circus by James Otis

2011-05-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

Title: Toby Tyler or Ten Weeks with a Circus
Author: James Otis
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Classic story of a little orphan boy who runs away to join the circus, only to learn, unhappily, that his new employer is a cruel taskmaster. 30 illustrations enhance a story that will tug on the heartstrings of readers of all ages as they enter the world of an old-time traveling circus. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Yes, this was a China book. I had read it years ago, but didn't remember it. So when I saw it was free, I read it. It was entertaining. It is a great story about learning how the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence. Toby thinks that life would be better with the circus, but he soon realizes that the circus isn't fun if you have a cruel employer. This heartwarming tale about finding good people to trust and learning to find the good in your life is a wonderfully uplifting story when you need one. But truly life does stink for Toby for quite awhile. But it gets better at the end. Also it is pretty different from the movie (which I loved too) but it's good in a different way.

Invitation to the Game by Monica Hughes

2011-05-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

Title: Invitation to the Game
Author: Monica Hughes
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Science Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: none
Premise: It's the future, and most jobs are done by machines. Now that school is over, Lisse and her friends are consigned to a bleak neighborhood for the permanently unemployed. Then they receive an invitation to the Game, which transports them to a paradise. Is it a dream or a computer simulation? Each time they play the Game, the new world seems more and more real...

Opinions: I have to say that I love books about societal structures. I love books where you see how a society is built and how people make it better or live with the worse. For me, this book is fascinating. I love that you get to see how this group of friends try to make a life for themselves in the world and then how after they start playing the Game, how the Game seems to become more like the real world. It is an interesting look into a what if. And honestly, I'm not going to tell you the what if so I don't spoil the book. But I loved this book.

The Castle in the Attic by Elizabeth Winthrop

2011-05-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Title: The Castle in the Attic
Author: Elizabeth Winthrop
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: Some fantasy violence
Premise: William has just received the best present of his life. It's an old, real-looking stone and wooden model of a castle, with a drawbridge, moat, and a about the castle. And sure enough, when he picks up the tiny silver knight, it comes alive in his handWilliam can't wait to play with it—he's certain there's something magical. Sir Simon tells William a mighty story of wild sorcery, wizards, and magic. And suddenly William is off on a fantastic quest to another land and another time—where a fiery dragon and an evil wizard are waiting to do battle . . . . (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is one of those stories I read ages ago that I have never forgotten. I still think about it and ponder the magic of it. I am not a huge fan of toys being alive when you aren't around (ie The Doll's House or Toy Story). I mean they are entertaining and all, but that just kind of creeps me out. So this story appealed to me that the knight was really alive. He just didn't come alive until William held him. This is an adventure story about playing to your strengths and doing good for all unselfishly. I have loved this book for years and am anxious for my son to be old enough to read it with me. (The fantasy violence is still much for him, but he's young.)

Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

2011-05-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

Title: Freckle Juice
Author: Judy Blume
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Chapter Book
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Andrew wants freckles more than anything else, so Sharon offers to sell him her secret freckle recipe. When Andrew turns green from the recipe, and blue from his own freckle-making brew, it's doubtful he'll ever wish for freckles again! (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I read this a LONG time ago and really liked it. I thought it was funny and creative and interesting. Plus I have a blue freckle, so it was a little funny that Andrew had blue freckles. Last week I read this book to my son who thought it was the greatest book ever. He laughed all the way through it and thought it was funny. And you know what? Even though I didn't laugh as much as my son, I still very much enjoyed it. I liked that it had a lesson, but that it wasn't hit you over the head lesson. It was more of a slight tap on the head lesson. I highly recommend this book.

The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley

2011-05-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

Title: The Blue Sword
Author: Robin McKinley
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Junior Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Violence associated with battle
Premise: "Harry, bored with her sheltered life in the remote orange-growing colony of Daria, discovers magic in herself when she is kidnapped by a native king with mysterious powers." (King County Library System)
Opinions: First off all I love that the female lead's name goes by the name "Harry". I just do. I'm funny that way. I also love Corlath, the king of the hill people. Even though he initially kidnaps Harry I find that he's easy to get to know and really like. McKinley does a fantastic job in her creation of the land of Damar. I feel like a part of it as I read this story. I love Harry's journey to find her own inner strength and to become the heroine she was destined to be. I love the trials she faces and the lessons she learns. Robin McKinley is a brilliant fantasy author. She has re-written several of the classic fairytales in her own unique style, but The Blue Sword has to be my all time favorite's of hers. Please take time to read this book.

The Star Maker by Laurence Yep

2011-05-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

Title: The Star Maker
Author: Laurence Yep
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Minor mentions of gambling (with some negative consequences) and bullying/teasing/namecalling
Premise: If only Artie had kept his mouth shut.

But his mean cousin Petey was putting him down, so Artie started bragging.

Now he has to come up with enough money to buy firecrackers for all his cousins by the Lunar New Year.

Luckily, there's one person he can count on . . . Uncle Chester!

Newbery Honor Book author Laurence Yep celebrates family and Chinese New Year traditions in this story of a boy and his uncle who discover that age doesn't matter when it comes to helping out a friend. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Part of the appeal of this book for me was that the characters are all Chinese and it is dealing with Chinese Americans in San Fransisco. Now I fully admit that I enjoy lots of things Chinese at the moment. So that being said, I liked this book. It wasn't a long book (took me less than an hour to read). Nor was it a book that I think will change the world in any drastic way. But I loved the quietness of it. It was a pleasant story of Artie who figures out what is important to him and what does and does not matter.

I liked the prologue and the epilogue that talk about the reality of Laurence Yep's childhood and how he lived and celebrated his Chinese heritage (This book is based on Mr. Yep's childhood). This is a quiet book, but a very beautiful book. I like that it gets to the point and doesn't drag it out. I very much enjoyed reading it.

The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy

2011-05-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

Title: The Scarlet Pimpernel
Author: Baroness Emmuska Orczy
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Historical Fiction
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Some swearing, some description of violence associated with the French Revolution
Premise: "In 1792, during the French Revolution's Reign of Terror, an English aristocrat known to be an ineffectual fop is actually a master of disguises who, with a small band of dedicated friends, undertakes dangerous missions to save members of the French nobility from the guillotine. His friends and foes know him only as the Scarlet Pimpernel. But a ruthless French agent is sworn to discover his identity and hunt him down." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This is a fantastic story about love and overcoming pride. It is also a wonderful and slightly unusual look into aristocratic society and how they dealt with the French revolution from not only the French aspect, but from the English who did what they could to help those in need. The story is a bit difficult to get into at first due to the various dialects used to show differentiation in social classes. If you can get past that then this book is hard to put down and full of wonderful twists and turns.

Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand

2011-05-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

Title: Seabiscuit
Author: Laura Hillenbrand
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Biography
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: There is some mild language and there is a chapter that talks about the practices of jockey's to stay small that is highly disturbing. While it is interesting to the history, it is not necessary to the story. So if you feel squemish, skip this chapter.
Premise: Laura Hillenbrand has woven together the many strands of lives that improbably create a phenomenon -- in this case, no raging storm, but legendary racing history. The little horse, Seabiscuit, with his crooked legs and sad tail, was at first thought lazy, but with the help of a trinity of men -- his trainer, his owner, and a jockey -- would make racing history and find a place in the hearts of thousands of fans in Depression-era America. Laura Hillenbrand has done what only great writers can do: She has taken a story that in other, less capable hands would be fodder strictly for the racing crowd, and written as dramatic and informative a biography of a horse and of 1938 America as you'll find. When you read this book, an America mired in the Depression and searching for something to believe in comes alive. The faith of those Americans in the little horse with heart will awaken your own, and when you read Seabiscuit's racing scenes, even the most skeptical reader will find themselves jumping up and down, shouting at Seabiscuit to "Run!" (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I really like this book. I don't particularly like biographies (I think I've said that before.) However, I love the way Laura Hillenbrand writes. She weaves the information and story together in such a way that I don't think about the fact that I am reading a biography. Yes, there are chapters on just information that don't move the story along, but they are so fascinating that I didn't care. There is one chapter that gave me the squeemies, but it was also very factual and gave a very accurate look into the sport of horse racing. I really enjoyed this book and have read it many times since it was published in 2002. And if you’ve seen the movie, the book is much better. (Although I do have to say, I liked the movie too.)

Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink

2011-05-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

Title: Caddie Woodlawn
Author: Carol Ryrie Brink
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: At age 11, Caddie Woodlawn is the despair of her mother and the pride of her father: a clock-fixing tomboy running wild in the woods of Wisconsin. In 1864, this is a bit much for her Boston-bred mother to bear, but Caddie and her brothers are happy with the status quo.

(goodreads.com)

Opinions: This is the first novel I was ever given and ever read all on my own. I know, crazy that I remember that. But this book was an important step as a reader. This was the first book that was mine. It wasn't the libraries, it wasn't my sisters. It was mine. It was personal to me. So does this jade my review? Maybe. But I've read it many times since and I can read it for just reading it and I still think it is a great book.

The book follows Caddie through one year in her life as she grows from a tomboy into a strong young woman. It gives a great example of being a strong woman as well as a glimpse of life in the frontier. It is great storytelling. The writing isn't amazing, but the story is compelling and fun.

Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees

2011-05-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

Title: Giraffes Can't Dance
Author: Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: the giraffe longs to dance, but his legs are too skinny and his neck is too long. His knees buckle whenever he tries to twirl. At the Jungle Dance, the warthogs waltz, the chimps cha-cha, and the lions tango. "Giraffes can't dance," they all jeer when it's Gerald's turn to prance. But there is one little creature who believes in Gerald. "Everything makes music," the cricket explains, "if you really want it to." So Gerald starts swaying to his own sweet tune. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I love this book. It is such a great book. My kids love it too. My 4 year old always brings it to me and asks to read about poor Gerald. But I love this book for several reasons. 1) The story is great. I love that it teaches that it is okay to be yourself and to find the true place you fit as opposed to the place where everyone thinks you should. 2) The illustrations are amazing. These watercolors are truly suprising (at least to me) that they are watercolors. I love just looking at this book. 3) The rhythm of the book is appealing and feels like a dance to me as well.

I am so glad we have this book in our home library and it is one of the books I would recommend to add to your picture book library. (Even, if I didn't have kids, I would buy this one. Cause I love it so. But I'm a bibliophile. So.....do whatever you want. I won't know. Unless you tell me. And that would be fun. Do you own this book?)

Leepike Ridge by N.D. Wilson

2011-05-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Title: Leepike Ridge
Author: N.D. Wilson
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Ficiton
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: Some mild violence and a corpse.
Premise: Eleven-year-old Thomas Hammond is in for the ride of his life when he's swept downstream and underground aboard a crumbling raft of Styrofoam. Washing up on a dark subterranean "beach," his only companions are an impulsive dog named Argus and a corpse, from which he takes a flashlight and an all-too-limited supply of batteries. What Tom finds under Leepike Ridge—a castaway, four graves, a tomb, and buried treasure—will answer questions he hadn't known to ask and change his life forever. Now, if he can only find his way home again. . . .
(goodreads.com)

Opinions: I came across this book randomly and fell in love with it. So I shared it with my husband and he loved it too. N.D. Wilson is an amazing writer. He tells good stories and writes them well. He has amazing imagery and dialogue. I am truly amazed by how talented he is.

Leepike Ridge is an adventure story, with a little bit of mystery. Its high intensity is balanced with some humorous moments as well. I like that it is not just a treasure hunt book. It deals with real people and emotions. It talks about bravery and cowardice. It is a unique book and I thoroughly loved reading it.

Dave at Night by Gail Carson Levine

2011-05-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

Title: Dave at Night
Author: Gail Carson Levine
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Rating: Love
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: When orphaned Dave is sent to the Hebrew Home for Boys and treated cruelly, he sneaks out at night and welcomed into the music- and culture-filled world of the Harlem Renaissance, where he discovers the power of friendship

Opinions: Dave is a young boy who is orphaned and his uncle is willing to take his brother, but not him. So Dave is sent to the Hebrew Home for Boys. There he meets the brothers and he is treated cruelly by the staff. But he can't control his need to escape. So he discovers a way to go out at night to see the world. In the world he becomes involved in the Harlem Renaissance. In both the HHB and with his new friends he learns about love and true friendship.

This is an amazing book based on some of the experiences Gail Carson Levines' father had as a boy. So there is a touch of truth in this book. But it feels like more than a touch. It is beautifully done and a very moving story. I enjoyed it very much. I like that it gives you a look at serveral different lifestyles and situations. Also it taught me about the Harlem Renaissance. (I knew the Harlem Renaissance had occured, but I didn't know exactly what it was.) I really loved this book.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

2011-05-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

Title: Jane Eyre
Author: Charlotte Bronte
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Historical Romance/Classic
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Some violence/Death
Premise: "
Opinions: This is a beautiful, but dark, tale of love and honor. I love to follow Jane as she discovers herself and the path the she wants to follow in life. I love the incredibly complex characters throughout the story and the twist of mystery within. This is not a frivolous story, but one of people who feel so real, people who make mistakes and poor choices and must pay for them. This is a story of a hard life and how to endure it and come out on top. If you want to read a story about a woman of great strength than read this book.

The Candymakers by Wendy Mass

2011-05-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

Title: The Candymakers
Author: Wendy Mass
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction
Rating: LOVE
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Four children have been chosen to compete in a national competition to find the tastiest confection in the country. Who will invent a candy more delicious than the Oozing Crunchorama or the Neon Lightning Chew?
Logan, the Candymaker's son, who can detect the color of chocolate by touch alone?

Miles, the boy who is allergic to merry-go-rounds and the color pink?

Daisy, the cheerful girl who can lift a fifty-pound lump of taffy like it's a feather?

Or Philip, the suit-and-tie wearing boy who's always scribbling in a secret notebook?

This sweet, charming, and cleverly crafted story, told from each contestant's perspective, is filled with mystery, friendship, and juicy revelations. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: Okay, here it is. This is the second of my two favorite books on perspective. Aren't you SO excited to know what it is? I know. I know. I'm that kind and good to let you in on this. :)

The Candymakers follows four contestants who are trying to make the best new candy for a contest. There are sections in the book following each of the contestants and you get to see their side of the situation. You learn why Logan freezes up and what is in Miles' backpack. You get to see why Philip is so standoffish and why Daisy has a best friend named Magpie.

This book is fun and entertaining. Not only do I like the multiple perspectives, but I like the story. I love me my Wendy Mass. She has a quirky style and a good understanding of characters and motivations.

PS I didn't feel this way, but my husband thought it was a little slow at the beginning. I have to disagree, but I wanted to give a heads up. If you think it's slow, keep reading. It really is a great story.

Stars Collide by Janice Thompson

2011-05-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Title: Stars Collide
Author: Janice Thompson
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: Christian Fiction
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: None
Premise: Kat Jennings and Scott Murphy don't just play two people who are secretly in love on a television sitcom--they are also head over heels for each other in real life. When the lines between reality and TV land blur, they hope they can keep their relationship under wraps. But when Kat's grandmother, an aging Hollywood starlet with a penchant for wearing elaborate evening gowns from Golden Age movies, mistakes their on-screen wedding proposal for the real deal, things begin to spiral out of their control. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: I liked this book. It is a cute book about a girl who works on a TV show. It is funny, but not as funny as the "Weddings by Bella" series. I definately loved Grandma and I think that is one of Janice Thompson's strengths. She builds believable and likeable characters. There was very little that was suprising to me, but I enjoyed it. I thought the romance moved a bit quickly, but once I got to the end I better understood why it moved the way it did. This was heavier of the Christian aspect than "Fools Rush In" but I didn't feel that it was overpowering the story. All in all, an enjoyable read.

Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

2011-05-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

Title: Les Miserables
Author: Victor Hugo
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Adult Classic/Historical Fiction
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: some intense scenes, cruelty and death (it has been a while since I've read this so I don't recall specific details of language)
Premise: "In this story of the trials of the peasant Jean Valjean--a man unjustly imprisoned, baffled by destiny, and hounded by his nemesis, the magnificently realized, ambiguously malevolent police detective Javert--Hugo achieves the sort of rare imaginative resonance that allows a work of art to transcend its genre." (Good Reads Description)
Opinions: I read the unabridged version in college. The size alone is daunting, but I have to say it was one of the best books I have ever read. In fact, if you want to get the true beauty of the story than I must insist that you read the unabridged version. Way too much is cut out of the abridged version (the story is still basically covered, but you miss the beauty, the majesty of the story). The depth of character is fully blossomed within the unabridged story, where as it is just beginning to flower in the abridged. This is a story about Jean Valjean and all the people that enter into his life who influenced it (for good or bad) and how he overcomes some of the greatest obstacles to find the true self within. The characters are poignant and the plot fascinating and heart-wrenching. This is a story of growth, love, sacrifice and so much more. This is a definite FABULOUS read.

2011-05-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

Title: The Tale of Despereaux

Author: Kate DiCamillo
Reviewer: Stephanie
Genre: YA Fiction (Fantasy?)
Rating: Worship
Alerts/Warnings: Some mild disturbing images in a dungeon (they were a little disgusting, but nothing graphic).
Premise: The adventures of Desperaux Tilling, a small mouse of unusual talents, the princess that he loves, the servant girl who longs to be a princess, and a devious rat determined to bring them all to ruin. (goodreads.com)

Opinions: This book came out when I was working for a large bookstore. I read it that summer and quickly fell in love with it. Not only that, but it was my pick for the Newbery that year (which it won). Reader, it was just that good. There was no doubt in my mind that it deserved to win. Now, I made my husband read this book and he was skeptical. But he really liked it. You follow Despereaux, a princess, a rat and a serving girl in a journey to discover being loved and caring for others. It was beautifully written. I love that it is written to you. You are an active part of this book, Reader. You are part of this story. For me, I connected more to it, because I felt involved in it. It is a delightful adventure and well worth the time to read it.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

2011-05-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Title: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter Book #7)
Author: J.K. Rowling
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: FABULOUS
Alerts/Warnings: Mild Language, Moderate-to-Heavy Violence, Death/Murder
Premise: "Burdened with the dark, dangerous, and seemingly impossible task of locating and destroying Voldemort's remaining Horcruxes, Harry, feeling alone and uncertain about his future, struggles to find the inner strength he needs to follow the path set out before him." (King County Library System)
Opinions: I love this book. I mean I LOVE this book. Granted this book will make you cry (being pregnant I think I went through an entire box of Kleenex). I think that J.K. Rowling did a fantastic job tying up all the loose ends and I loved the ending. My favorite characters were Kreacher, Ron, Neville, Hermione, and Mrs. Weasley has a fantastic moment that made me cheer. As this is a story of good trying to overcome evil, and being the concluding book in the series, there are a lot of fights/violence and several tense scenes to get through so I don't recommend it for younger readers (unless being read to as a family or pre-approved by the parents). Overall this is a fantastic end to the series and was really hard to put down until the very last page.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by JK Rowling

2011-05-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

Title: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2 of the Harry Potter series)
Author: JK Rowling
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: Adore
Alerts/Warnings: Some violence and brief but intense scenes
Premise: "When the Chamber of Secrets is opened again at the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, second-year student Harry Potter finds himself in danger from a dark power that has once more been released on the school." (King County Library System)
Opinions: Just like its predecessor I read this book in under a day. I could not put it down. The imagery is vivid, the characters captivating. It far surpasses what you see in the movie (and I loved the movie). The reason I gave this a rating of ADORE instead of FABULOUS is that I have an active imagination and I don't like spiders and snakes. So certain scenes involving those creatures still creep me out severely, but that's just me. Just be aware that if your younger readers wish to read this book they may or may not have the same reaction as I did. In this book I would have to say my favorite characters are the Weasley twins and Ginny. I know that they are supporting characters, but I felt distinctly drawn to them for personal reasons. You'll have to read the book and see if you agree or tell if there is someone else you preferred and why.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

2011-05-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: JK Rowling
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Somewhat intense scenes when Harry faces evil
Premise: "Rescued from the outrageous neglect of his aunt and uncle, a young boy with a great destiny proves his worth while attending Hogwarts School for Wizards and Witches." (King County Library)
Opinions: It has been several years since I read this book. In honor of the second half of the book seven movie coming out this summer I thought I should re-read the entire series. I forgot just how AWESOME this book is and SO much better than the movie. It is imaginative, funny, tense, and intriguing. My favorite characters continue to be Ron and Hagrid. They are complex and have wonderful personalities and senses of humor. This book is easy to dive into and hard to get out of. Even the second time reading it I had a hard time putting it down and read it in about a day. The story line draws in youth and adults alike. Some people may be concerned because it deals with witchcraft. In all honesty, I think it is an incredibly written basic tale of good versus evil. It even teaches about right and wrong and consequences. Overall I highly recommend this to all readers, especially if your child is not a fan of reading. This book is sure to draw them in.

Alcatraz Versus the Shattered Lens by Brandon Sanderson

2011-05-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

To read my reviews of the other books in this series then please click on the following links: Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians, Alcatraz Versus the Scrivener's Bones, and Alcatraz Versus the Knights of Crystallia.

Title: Alcatraz Versus the Shattered Lens (Book 4 of the Alcatraz series)
Author: Brandon Sanderson
Reviewer: Karen
Genre: Mid-Grade Fantasy
Rating: Fabulous
Alerts/Warnings: Clean violence (you know a battle is happening, but nothing gory is described)
Premise: "When a hero is needed to save the doomed kingdom of Mokia from the evil Librarians, thirteen-year-old Alcatraz Smedry, whose family talents include getting lost and breaking things, answers the call." (King County Library System)
Opinions: This book is amazing. In fact the whole series is amazing. If you have a warped sense of humor (or appreciate a warped sense of humor) then this is the series for you. The humor drives this book and is zany and yet the characters still learn about inner strength and the difficulty of choices throughout. In fact, I have a step-son who is not fond of reading and I convinced him to read the first book in this series and he LOVED it and now wants to read the whole series. I'm not sure I can give a more glowing review than that.

Explanation of Forthcoming Reposts of Reviews!!!

2011-05-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

Last week blogger was down for a few days and all the books we had scheduled to be released during that time did not get posted on our Fabulous Reads blog. However, those of you who follow us through our Facebook feed actually did get to see all those books. I'm not sure why. However, in order to successfully make our goal of 99 reviews in a month I need to make sure they are reposted. So to those on Facebook we ask for your patience as you will be seeing several books for a second time.

We thank you for your patience.

Karen & Stephanie
Fabulous Reads Bloggers

PS. Stay tuned for an awesome celebration at the end of the 99 reviews that will blow you away (we hope).