Kim's Page

The Casson Family

2012-01-30T12:24:00.000-05:00

I am thrilled to learn that there will be a sixth book in the Casson Family Series. It is called "Caddy's World" and it will be published in the end of March 2012. If you are new to the Cassons - drop on by and check out the series.

Saffy's Angel
Indigo's Star
Permanent Rose
Caddy Ever After
Forever Rose

You will find these titles under J Fic McKay

Newbery Winners

2012-01-30T12:18:00.003-05:00

While I know that most of you watched the Newbery Awards live, (lol!) here is the list of winners for those that weren't glued to their computer screens!

The BEST book of 2011 is "Dead End in Norvelt" by Jack Gantos.

The Honor books are:
"Inside Out and Back Again" by Thanhha Lai
"Breaking Stalin's Nose" by Eugene Yelchin

Happy Reading!!

Calling all Readers

2012-01-16T13:00:00.001-05:00

The Newbery Medal Winners will be announced at 8:45 am on January 23rd. What book do you think should win the award? (In case you don't know, the Newbery Medal is awarded to the BEST book of the year that is written by an American author.)

Anna Hibiscus

2012-01-11T19:18:00.000-05:00

Anna Hibiscus by Atinuke

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have been trying to get this series for our library forever and it finally got here. I am so glad I didn't give up on my quest because this is a lovely early chapter book. Hand to all of your new independent readers. Now I have to work on getting the rest of the series here! :)

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Silent Too Long

2012-01-11T19:09:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that I haven't posted a book since August! Please forgive me. I have been catching up on my Teen reads, but now I'm back.

Unraveling Freedom

2011-08-05T16:15:00.000-04:00

Unraveling Freedom by Ann Bausum

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

During World War One the United States enacted laws which surpressed the civil liberties of certain American citizens. This book asks important questions such as: Why did the government believe that these laws were necessary? Was the government right in passing these laws? Are there parallels today?

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Genius Files

2011-07-29T14:36:00.000-04:00

The Genius Files: Mission Unstoppable by Dan Gutman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Pepsi and Coke are 12 year old twins on a cross country RV trip with their parents. They are unaware that they have been recruited into the Genius Files, a group created where kids are expected to save the world. Lots of action in this one and lots of weird but true facts.

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Moon Over Manifest

2011-07-22T15:03:00.000-04:00

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Abilene and her father have been drifting from town to town, looking for work, for as long as she can remember. Her father, thinking that Abilene needs more, sends her to live with his friend in Manifest, Kansas. She soon discovers a hidden compartment in her bedroom that contains letters written years before. Who wrote these letters and who kept them hidden away?

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Penderwicks at Point Mouette

2011-07-19T11:13:00.000-04:00

The Penderwicks at Point Mouette by Jeanne Birdsall

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don't know how Ms. Birdsall does it - but each Penderwick book is better than the last! This series is a joy to read! It's a perfect summer read. You MUST read it!

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They Called Themselves the KKK: the Birth of an American Terrorist Group

2011-07-15T14:10:00.002-04:00

They Called Themselves the K.K.K.: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Did you know that there is a terrorist group in the United States. That it has been around for many years? This is the history of the Ku Klux Klan; why it began and how it survives. This is NOT a gentle read, but it is definitely worth reading!

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Close to Famous

2011-07-08T12:59:00.002-04:00

Close to Famous by Joan Bauer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Foster and her mom run away from her mom's abusive boyfriend and end up in Culpepper, West Virginia. Foster wants to be a chef on t.v. and she bakes for everyone in town; a great way to meet people! This is a story about strangers becoming family.

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Storm Runners

2011-07-01T12:47:00.002-04:00

Storm Runners by Roland Smith

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Chase is caught in a massive hurricane - alone. You will hold your breath until you reach the end of this book!

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Penny Dreadful

2011-06-25T15:47:00.000-04:00

Penny Dreadful by Laurel Snyder

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Penny had enough money to do whatever she wanted until her father quit his job and they had to move from their mansion in The City, to a teeny-tiny town called Thrush Junction, TN. Her life will NEVER be the same again - thank goodness!!

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Bloody Times

2011-06-18T14:20:00.000-04:00

Bloody Times: The Funeral of Abraham Lincoln and the Manhunt for Jefferson Davis by James L. Swanson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book provides insight to our history immediately after President Lincoln was assassinated. He begins where "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" leaves off.

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January

2011-06-11T13:57:00.001-04:00

January by Gabrielle Lord

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Cal's father has just died from a horrible disease - or so Cal is led to believe. On New Year's Eve a man comes running after him saying that Cal needs to stay alive for the next 365. He needs to run or they will kill Cal like they killed his father. There is one book for every month of the year. Full of action. Think Jason Borne for middle-graders.

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The Other Half of My Heart

2011-06-04T16:29:00.001-04:00

The Other Half of My Heart by Sundee T. Frazier

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Minni and Keira are twins, but no one believes it because they don't look alike. One has light skin and the other has dark skin. (Their mom is black and their dad is white) When they enter The Miss Black Pearl Preteen America Pageant, will this difference break them apart?

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What Happened on Fox Street

2011-05-28T19:21:00.002-04:00

What Happened on Fox Street by Tricia Springstubb

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Mo Wren lives on Fox Street with her sister (The Wild Child) and her dad. Fox Street is a place she loves like no other place in the world. It's perfect. One summer though, things begin to change and Mo is scared that her her world will never be the same.

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A View from Saturday

2011-05-21T16:01:00.001-04:00

The View from Saturday by E.L. Konigsburg

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book defies description. Please just pick it up - you'll love it. It's about four kids - all outcasts - who find each other and create a family. You will smile so much, your cheeks will hurt.

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Jimmy's Stars

2011-05-14T16:50:00.000-04:00

Jimmy's Stars by Mary Ann Rodman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Ellie is very close to her brother Jimmy. When Jimmy is drafted to fight in WWII, Ellie worries ab out him and lives for his letters home. After he doesn't come home for Christmas, like he promised, the War comes closer to home

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No Passengers Beyond This Point

2011-05-10T13:47:00.000-04:00

No Passengers Beyond This Point by Gennifer Choldenko

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

India, Finn and Mouse are told they have 24 hours to pack. They are moving to their Uncle's house because the their house has been foreclosed on. They are to fly alone, because mom needs to stay behind for her job. The plane takes off for Colorado, but it definitley does NOT land there!

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Here Today

2011-05-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

Here Today by Ann M. Martin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ellie needs her mother. She is constantly getting picked on in school and needs some tender loving care. Unfortunately, her mother is so obsesses with becoming an actress that she doesn't notice Ellie or her brother and sister. Instead, Ellie's mom abandons her family and goes to New York to become famous, leaving Ellie to care for her brother and sister. Your heart will ache for Ellie while she makes her way in this world. Get the tissues ready!

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Skulduggery Pleasant - The Faceless Ones

2011-05-01T16:40:00.000-04:00

The Faceless Ones by Derek Landy

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this series. I don't know how it's possible, but it keeps getting better. Listening to the audio book is a gift!!

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Everything on a Waffle

2011-04-27T15:28:00.000-04:00

Everything on a Waffle by Polly Horvath

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Primrose is an amazing kid. Her parents have been lost at sea and although everyone in the town thinks they are dead, she is absolutely sure that they are coming back. In the meantime, she lives with her uncle and learns to cook from a chef that puts everthing on waffles. There are a lot of people who care about what happens to her - and a few that don't. Despite her hardships, Primrose always sees the best in everything. She has a lot to teach us.

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Touch Blue

2011-04-20T12:28:00.000-04:00

Touch Blue by Cynthia Lord

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Tess lives on a small island and her school is going to close because there are not enough students. The island residents decide to bring in foster kids in order to keep the school open. Tess' family welcomes Aaron and he just wants to be left alone. She was hoping for so much more.

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The Watsons go to Birmingham - 1963

2011-04-13T16:57:00.000-04:00

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved this book because of the humor. The "Weird Watsons" from Flint Michigan is a unique family - to say the least. You will be laughing through tears during the first two-thirds of this book. It does become serious - instantly and you are left to work through serious issues. It is bound to lead to several discussions.

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Defiance

2011-04-06T11:52:00.001-04:00

Defiance by Valerie Hobbs

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Toby is finally finished with his cancer treatment. To celebrate, he goes on vacation with his mom. He is so happy to be a "normal" kid that he ignores the lump that he finds. Will he find the courage to face his illness - again?

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Zombiekins

2011-03-29T11:37:00.000-04:00

Zombiekins by Kevin Bolger

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Stanley buys a stuffed animal at a yard sale. He is warned to follow the instructions included with it, but he throws them out without reading them. That was NOT smart! Stanley is about to find out how dangerous a stuffed animal can be!

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Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down

2011-03-22T13:48:00.001-04:00

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautifully written book about an ugly time in our history. When non-white people were not allowed to eat in restaurants with white people. Four boys sat down at a lunch counter and asked for a cup of coffee and a doughnut. A simple act that started a revolution!

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Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester

2011-03-15T14:41:00.000-04:00

The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester by Barbara O'Connor

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Three friends, the best bullfrog in Georgia, a submarine and a know-it-all girl who lives next door. Once again Ms. O'Connor has written a gem!

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Griff Carver, Hallway Patrol

2011-03-08T14:30:00.001-05:00

Griff Carver, Hallway Patrol by Jim Krieg

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Griff Carver is a new student at a new middle school. He had to change schools because of an "incident" at his old school. Unfortunately, his reputation follows him and he is quickly accused of being the trouble maker. In truth, as part of the student patrol (a kid with a badge) he has stumbled upon a counterfeit hall pass ring. As he searches for the facts, will anyone believe what he discovers?

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Mockingbird

2011-03-01T12:56:00.000-05:00

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Catlin has Asperger's Syndrome and has difficulty with emotions. When a tragedy rocks her family and community, she struggles with the aftermath.

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Elijah of Buxton

2011-02-24T11:53:00.000-05:00

Elijah Of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elijah was the first child born in the settlement of Buxton - a village created by freed and runaway slaves. This story weaves Elijah's story with the hardships of everyday life creating a community in the Canadian forest. You'll fall in love with this story. Humorous, sad, uplifting and powerful. A Newbery Honor book.

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Over Sea, Under Stone

2011-02-22T12:32:00.000-05:00

Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The three Drew children find an ancient map in an attic. Little do they know that evil people are looking for that map, and now the Drew children are in danger. This is the first book in "The Dark is Rising" series.

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Daisy Dawson

2011-02-15T11:08:00.002-05:00

Daisy Dawson Is on Her Way! by Steve Voake

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Daisy LOVES animals. She is always late to school because she is stopping to talk to all the animals she sees. One day something amazing happens and she begings to understand the animals that she talks with. This is a wonderful early chapter book series! So cute! I highly recommend.

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Flawed Dogs

2011-02-07T12:17:00.000-05:00

Flawed Dogs: The Shocking Raid on Westminster by Berkeley Breathed

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Sam, a prized dachshund, should live the pampered life of a show dog, but because of another dog's jealously, that is not the life he leads. Funny and sad all at the same time.

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Fablehaven

2011-01-30T12:01:00.002-05:00

Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kendra and Seth are stunned to learn that their grandparents are the current caretakes of Fablehaven, a sanctuary for mythical creatures. It turns out that they both have the gift of seeing these creatures too, which turns out to be both a blessing and a curse. This is my favorite new fantasy series (not new to the library, but new to me). I can't wait the read the rest of the books!

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Cracker

2011-01-27T13:22:00.000-05:00

Cracker!: The Best Dog in Vietnam by Cynthia Kadohata

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Did you know that dogs were used to sniff out bombs and snipers during the Vietnam War? Neither did I. This story is about Cracker's journey from being a pampered and beloved family pet to an Army dog. I LOVED this book. Be sure to read about the real life "Crackers" at the end of this story.

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Woods Runner

2011-01-23T11:48:00.001-05:00

Woods Runner by Gary Paulsen

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Samuel's family is captured by the British at the start of the Revolutionary War. He believes that he is all alone in his attempt to rescue is parents, but along the way the men and women of the Colonies provide him with much needed help. His rescue mission takes him deep into enemy territory. Will he be able to get his family out alive?

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Ninth Ward

2011-01-10T15:59:00.000-05:00

Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Twelve year old Lanesha lives with Mama Ya Ya in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mama Ya Ya is not related to Lanesha by blood, but her mother died giving birth to her and her "real" family doesn't want her. Now a Hurricane is coming and will be devestating to New Orleans. Will Lanesha and Mama Ya Ya survive?

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The White Giraffe

2011-01-09T11:19:00.000-05:00

The White Giraffe by Lauren St. John

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Martine's world is turned upside down and she is sent to live with her Grandmother. She didn't even know she had a Grandmother and she definitely didn't know that her Grandmother owned an wildlife reserve in Africa. Legend has it that there is a White Giraffe on the reserve. Martine is determined to find out if the legend is true. This is the first book in The Legend of the Animal Healer series. If you are an animal lover, this series is for you!

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Princess Posey and the First Grade Parade

2011-01-02T11:32:00.002-05:00

Princess Posey & The First Grade Parade by Stephanie Green

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Are you ready to start reading chapter books? If so, I have a fun new series for you. Her name is Posey and she loves to wear her pink tutu - everywhere. She feels like a princess when she wears it, but her mom doesn't think that she should wear it on her first day of first grade. This is the first book in the Princess Posey series. I can't wait for the second one to get here.

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Keeper

2010-12-26T14:01:00.000-05:00

Keeper by Kathi Appelt

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Keeper is 10 and she lives on the Texas coast with Signe, her dog, BD Best Dog) and her seagull, The Captain. She hasn't seen her mom for over 7 years, but after a very bad day, Keeper sets out to find her in order to ask her advice. The problem is, Keeper believes that her mom is a mermaid. This is an amazingly beautiful story.

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Driven

2010-12-19T17:10:00.000-05:00

Driven by Lee Iacocca

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another wonderful biography from National Geographic. This one is about Henry Ford. He didn't invent the automobile, but he made it affordable for most people. An amazing thing during the 1920s! He had some amazing ideas for his time, but he also was flawed. I learned a great deal from this book.

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Gregor the Overlander

2010-12-12T16:44:00.001-05:00

Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Gregory and his sister "Boots" fall through a duct in their laundry room and end up in "The Underland". The Underland is different from The Overland (what we are used to). There are humans, but they are pale because they have no sunlight. There are also rats, cockroaches and bats, but they are HUGE and they all talk. Ewwwww. This is the first book in the series.

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Sabotaged

2010-12-05T11:29:00.002-05:00

Sabotaged by Margaret Peterson Haddix

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the third book in "The Missing" series, by Margaret Peterson Haddix. This time, Jonah and Katherine are sent to Roanoke Island in order to help, Andrea return to her "real self" - a girl born in 1597. Will they succeed?

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Turtle in Paradise

2010-11-28T11:21:00.001-05:00

Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Turtle is sent to live in Key West, Florida after her mom gets a job working as a housekeeper and they don't allow children. She moves in with an Aunt and 4 cousins, all boys! UGH! She has never met any of them, not only are they difficult to get used to, but so is Florida. She is a New Jersey girl. Talk about culture shock.

I told you that I loved the author's book - "Penny from Heaven". Well now there are Jennifer Holm books that I love. You MUST read them. Really, you must!

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Spaceheadz

2010-11-21T16:46:00.002-05:00

SPHDZ Book #1 by Jon Scieszka

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Brace yourself - Jon Scieszka has a new series that will have you laughing out loud, and scratching your head at the same time. Michael K starts fifth grade at a new school. He knows how important this day is and that if he does something stupid, he would never fit in. Unfortunately, there are two other new students, who somehow know his name - and boy are they WIERD! Worse yet, they follow him all over school and everyone thinks that they are all friends. UGH! Who are these kids and how can he get rid of them?

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Keepers of the School - Book One - We Are The Children

2010-11-14T10:46:00.002-05:00

We the Children by Andrew Clements

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The janitor at Ben's school is dying in the hallway. Before he is put in the ambulance, he hands Ben a gold coin and makes him promise to protect the school - no matter what. Ben agrees, however what he doesn't realize is that his promise will be difficult to keep. This is a new mystery series by Andrew Clements - you know, the author of Frindle!

Layla, Queen of Hearts

2010-11-07T16:48:00.001-05:00

Layla, Queen of Hearts by Glenda Millard

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Layla is needs to find a special person to take to Senior Citizen's Day at school. She could share Griffin's grandma, but she wants someone of her own. A wonderful story about family and love. This is the second book in the Silk Family series. Lovely!

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The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

2010-10-28T19:25:00.000-04:00

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dwight is odd and people often make fun of him, however he folded and origami yoda that dispenses advice. GOOD advice. Is the yoda real - or does everyone just want an easy way to muddle through 6th grade?

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The Water Seeker

2010-10-21T14:44:00.004-04:00

The Water Seeker by Kimberly Willis Holt

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Life's tough in the wilderness. There is so much to do just to survive. This book follows Amos Kincaid's life, from living in Missouri to taking the Oregon Trail in order to start a new life. One thing is for sure, Amos' life is never boring!

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Bink and Gollie

2010-10-20T12:37:00.001-04:00

Bink and Gollie by Kate DiCamillo

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bink and Gollie are total opposites and best friends. LOVE them! I can't wait to read the next book in the series. A FABULOUS early chapter book. I tell everyone I know to read this!!!!

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2010-10-14T17:03:00.001-04:00

The White House by Roland Smith

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Our wait is finally over!! Angela and Q. are back, and with the help of The President of the United States, they hope to stop a terrorist plot. If you like NCIS and Bourne movies, this is a series for you!

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Case of the Lost Boy

2010-10-12T13:52:00.002-04:00

The Buddy Files: The Case of the Lost Boy by Dori Hillestad Butler

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Buddy is a golden retriever and he solves mysteries. The first mystery he must solve is what happened to his owners. But before he can do that, he must break out of the dog pound. This is the first book in "The Buddy Files". A wonderful early chapter book series.

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Falling In

2010-10-07T18:20:00.001-04:00

Falling In by Frances O'Roark Dowell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Isabelle hears a loud buzzing noise - but she can't find whre it is coming from. UNTIL she falls into another world.

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Dewey: The Library Cat

2010-09-20T16:17:00.002-04:00

Dewey the Library Cat: A True Story by Vicki Myron

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A tiny kitten is shoved in the return slot at a local library. The librarians decide that he will be the Library Kitten and things will never be the same. This is a true story. If you liked "Marley: A Dog Like No Other", you'll love this book!

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Melvin Beederman Superhero

2010-09-12T18:56:00.000-04:00

Curse of the Bologna Sandwich, The by Greg Trine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Melvin Beederman just graduated from superhero school and he is sent to Los Angeles to fight crime. He make many mistakes, however and the results will have you laughing out loud. A great early chapter book series.
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The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Susy)

2010-09-04T14:34:00.000-04:00

The Extraordinary Mark Twain by Barbara Kerley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Mark Twain's daughter, Susy, was 13, she wrote a biography of her father. This book tells Susy's story. It's a fun and beautifully illustrated picture book.

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The Queen of Attolia

2010-08-27T12:05:00.001-04:00

The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The sequel to "The Thief". Mystery, suspense, and intrigue. What a book! The first chapter grabs you and you never breathe until the last sentence. FABULOUS! I have fallen for Gen and I can't wait to read "King of Attolia" to find out what happens next!

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Countdown

2010-08-19T19:37:00.003-04:00

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a brand-new trilogy and I am loving it already. Today you go through fire drills and tornado drills at school. Imagine if you also had drill that taught you how to survive a nuclear war. It happened - not that long ago. How would you handle it?

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The Day-Glo Brothers

2010-08-15T14:09:00.000-04:00

The Day-Glo Brothers by Chris Barton

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fun picture book biography about the invention of Day-Glo paint. Who Knew?

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The Naming of Tishkin Silk

2010-08-07T16:38:00.000-04:00

The Naming of Tishkin Silk by Glenda Millard

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Griffen thinks that it is his fujalt that his mom and baby sister are no longer living at home. That is a lot for a kid to handle! This little book is a gem. Please, please, please read it!

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The Boy Who Invented T.V.

2010-08-01T19:51:00.000-04:00

Frindle by Andrew Clements

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Have you ever wondered who gets to decide what words are in the dictionary? I mean, who decides that a word means a certain thing. These are things that Nick wonders about - and then he comes up with an idea - he could make a word up and see if it catches on.

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If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period

2010-07-24T16:29:00.000-04:00

If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period by Gennifer Choldenko

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Kirsten and Walk attend the same private school. Kirsten has been attending the school forever, but it is Walk's first year. Neither has an easy time. Kirsten's parents are fighting and she eats every time she gets upset. Because she is gaining weight, she is teased at school. Walk stands out and even though he is a 4.0 student, it is because he is black, not because he is smart. Then Kirsten and Walk have the rug yank out from under them, and it is up to the both of them to bring life back to "normal"

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Wild Wild West

2010-07-20T15:14:00.000-04:00

Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U. S. Marshal by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A picture book biography about Bass Reeves - a former slave that became a US marshal in "Indian territory" for over 30 years. Well written and great illustrations. A must read!

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New Movie Trailer - Flipped

2010-07-19T09:57:00.002-04:00

Can't wait to see this movie. It is based on the book "Flipped" by Wendelin Van Draanen.

Almost Astronauts

2010-07-17T17:09:00.001-04:00

Almost Astronauts: 13 Women Who Dared to Dream by Tanya Lee Stone

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Once again, I found out something I didn't know. That's why I love books, and why you will love this one too. Waaaaaaaaaaaaay back in the 1960s 13 women wanted to be astronauts. Unfortunately, there were a lot of hurdles put in front of them. Did they suceed? Read and find out.

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Spies of Mississippi

2010-07-15T12:45:00.000-04:00

Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement by Rick Bowers

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I had never heard of the Mississippi State Sovereignty Commission. I certainly never knew that a state government not only spied on U.S. citizens but actively try to discredit those citizens - or worse.

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The Batboy

2010-07-10T12:44:00.000-04:00

The Batboy by Mike Lupica

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Brian gets the job of a lifetime - being a batboy for the Detroit Tigers. His mom isn't too happy, because she doesn't like baseball. It could be because Brian's dad used to be a professional pitcher and they recently got divorced. Brian also lucks out when his favorite player is called back to the Tigers. He thinks it will be great - but will it?

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Penny From Heaven

2010-07-03T13:35:00.002-04:00

Penny from Heaven by Jennifer L. Holm

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved this book! I can't believe that it took me so long to read it. Penny lives with her Mom and her grandparents. Her dad died when she was little and no one in her house will talk about him. Her father's family lives in the same town and they spoil Penny like crazy. They are Italian and there are lots of aunts, uncles and cousins and there is always something happening. This story is about every day things and extraordinary things - all rolled into one. You'll remember Penny for a long time to come. (I have put all of Jennifer Holm's books on my to read list; stay tuned for more reviews)

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Andy Warhol: Pop Art Painter

2010-06-30T16:49:00.000-04:00

Andy Warhol: Pop Art Painter by Susan Goldman Rubin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fun and funky picture book biography about the artist Andy Warhol. He was a VERY unique guy and everybody wanted to hang out with him at his Factory.

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Phinea L. MacGuire

2010-06-22T12:53:00.000-04:00

Phineas L. MacGuire . . . Erupts!: The First Experiment by Frances O'Roark Dowell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Mac loves science and is always doing experiments. Unfortunately, his best friend just moved away. To make matters worse, a new kid, Mac R. moves in and he picks fights with everyone. THEN, Mac is paired with Mac R. for the science fair. Will they ever agree on a project and, if so, will it work?

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Kiki Strike

2010-06-16T12:36:00.000-04:00

Kiki Strike: Inside the Shadow City by Kirsten Miller

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ananka lives a pretty boring life - until a new girl comes to her school named Kiki Strike. After they become friends, nothing will ever be the same. This story is full of action and has a lot of surprises along the way. A fun start to a new series.

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Bystander

2010-06-12T13:51:00.001-04:00

Bystander by James Preller

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A bystander is someone who stands by and does nothing. If you are a bystander and are watching someone get bullied, are you a bully? If you are being bullied, wouldn't you want someone to step up and help you? Well, Eric is the new kid in town and has to deal with a bully. How does he handle it?

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Inkdeath

2010-06-10T11:32:00.001-04:00

Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The conclusion to the Inkheart trilogy and it doesn't disappoint. I will miss these characters! Everything is tied up - but there is still a little wiggle room for revisiting the Inkworld.

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Permanent Rose

2010-06-08T13:42:00.001-04:00

Permanent Rose by Hilary McKay

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Casson Family series and it is just as fabulous as the first two. Love Love Love the Cassons!

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Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester

2010-06-07T11:09:00.005-04:00

Barbara O'Connor is one of my favorite authors. I am so happy that she is coming out with a new book, but it doesn't come out until October 2010. So..... she made a book trailer to help hold us over.

Frindle

2010-06-02T19:43:00.000-04:00

Yellow Death

2010-05-27T13:23:00.000-04:00

The Secret of the Yellow Death: A True Story of Medical Sleuthing by Suzanne Jurmain

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A very interesting account book about Yellow Fever and the doctors from Cuba and the U.S. that developed the vaccine. (I never thought I would find a book about yellow fever interesting - but I did. Trust Me :) )

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Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau

2010-05-25T15:35:00.000-04:00

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
We have all heard about the first man on the moon, but have you ever heard about the first man to explore what is in our oceans? You haven't? Then take a look at this wonderful picture book biography.

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Cracker Jackson

2010-05-17T19:37:00.000-04:00

Cracker Jackson by Betsy Byars

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
After Jackson's parents divorced, his mom hired Alma to babysit him. Alma nicked named him "Cracker". Unfortunately, Alma marries a man that hits her. Can Jackson convince her to leave him before it's too late?

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Out of My Mind

2010-05-17T13:04:00.001-04:00

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Melody is 11 and has never spoken a word. She has cerebral palsy and no one, not her parents, not her teachers and not her doctors knows how smart she really is. Instead, she is taught at a preschool level, EVERY year. That all changes when she gets an electronic communication board. At 11, she is able to "talk" for the first time and she has so much to say. Powerful story. BTW - the author of this book, Sharon Draper, is from Ohio!

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Signing Their Lives Away

2010-05-11T17:06:00.001-04:00

Signing Their Lives Away: The Fame and Misfortune of the Men Who Signed the Declaration of Independence by Joseph D'Agnese

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The author, Mr. D'Agnese, gives us a brief look at all 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence. Each man has a story to tell. For instance, did you know that one of the signers was poisoned by his nephew? Neither did I! Pick up this book and see what else you can discover.

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Dragon Rider

2010-05-07T14:33:00.000-04:00

Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Humans are advancing on the Dragon's territory and one dragon, Firedrake, sets out to find the Rim of Heaven in order to save his species. He is joined by a brownie and a boy on his journey. A fun read, but if you really want to hear a great audiobook - this is it! Brenden Frasier is fabulous

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Mama Miti

2010-05-03T18:56:00.001-04:00

Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a beautiful picture book biography about Wangari Muta Maathai, the first African woman to win the Nobel Prize. She was given the award b/c she started the green belt movement, b/c so many trees were cut down in Kenya.

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Scones and Sensibility

2010-05-03T11:56:00.001-04:00

Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Polly is obsessed with love and romance. She gets all of her ideas from her favorite books. She thinks that everyone should be in love and believes that it is her duty in life to find a love match for everyone! Not everything turns out like it does in books though and she has a LOT of explaining to do

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Binky

2010-05-01T15:27:00.001-04:00

Binky the Space Cat by Ashley Spires

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fabulous new graphic novel series. Binky is getting ready for outer space (which really is just outside because he is an indoor cat). He knows that he will encounter aliens (bugs) but, he is one very prepared Kitty. Everyone will fall in love with Binky! This is a great book for dormant readers.

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2010-04-28T19:14:00.000-04:00

The Cabinet of Wonders by Marie Rutkoski

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Petra and her father live in a small village and have a simple life. Her father works with metals and his hobby is making tin animals that come to life - all they need is oil to survive. Petra's pet is a spider named Astrophil. Because of his beautiful work, the Prince has requested that her father make a special clock for his castle. Unfortunately, the Prince wants to be the only one to work this magnificent clock and steals her father's eyes and wears them. (gross!) Petra sets off to get her father's eyes back - but danger is all around her.

This is the first book in The Kronos Chronicles

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The Pinballs

2010-04-22T15:09:00.000-04:00

The Pinballs by Betsy Byars

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Three kids, Carlie, Harvey and Thomas J, all sent to live with the Masons. They are all foster kids that have had difficult lives but somehow, together they are a family.

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Leaving Gee's Bend

2010-04-22T12:45:00.001-04:00

Leaving Gee's Bend by Irene Latham

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ludelphia lives in Gee's Bend, Alabama a place known for making beautiful quilts. It is a way for the women in this little itty bitty place to remember their history, because each quilt tells a story. Ludelphia's story is about her mother's illness, the new baby and a trip of a lifetime.

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YouTube - A Great Idea

2010-04-20T17:00:00.000-04:00

YouTube by Adam Woog

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ever wonder how YouTube started? Well wonder no more! Read this and you will know who to thank for all those videos you watch the moment you ask for them.

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Mick Harte Was Here

2010-04-18T15:02:00.000-04:00

Mick Harte Was Here by Barbara Park

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mick Harte was Pheobe's younger brother. He was in an accident while riding his bike and died. I am not giving the story away because Pheobe tells you this in the first chapter. This story is about how Pheobe and her parents each deal with Mick's death. Both a tragic and uplifting story.

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The Road to Oz

2010-04-13T16:53:00.000-04:00

The Road to Oz: Twists, Turns, Bumps, and Triumphs in the Life of L. Frank Baum by Kathleen Krull

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
"We are off to see the Wizard . . ." Not really, but you will meet the creator of the Wizard, Dorothy, Toto and the rest. An interesting picture book biography.

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Written in Bone

2010-04-11T14:54:00.000-04:00

Written in Bone: Buried Lives of Jamestown and Colonial Maryland by Sally M. Walker

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Discovery the mysteries that archeology can uncover. You'll be amazed at the stories bones can tell!

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2010-04-10T11:34:00.001-04:00

The Aurora County All-Stars by Deborah Wiles

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A group of boys in a small town play one baseball game a year against a team from the next county over. It is a heated rivalery, and it is a very big event. The pitcher of the team is doublely excited because he had a broken elbow last year and couldn't play. All because of a girl. This year, however, the county is putting on a huge production and the person in charge is the same girl who broke his elbow and the county has cancelled the game.

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One Crazy Summer

2010-04-08T13:26:00.000-04:00

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In 1968, two girls are sent to visit their mother over the summer. The same mother who left them years ago and never bothered to checked how they were doing. When they arrive in Los Angeles, it is clear that their mother still doesn't want them. Thankfully, there is a community center close by where the girls are fed and where they meet friends. This community center is run by the Black Panthers and the girls become involved in their community in ways they never dreamed

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Knights of the Lunch Table

2010-04-07T15:20:00.001-04:00

Knights Of The Lunch Table by Frank Cammuso

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Arthur "Artie" King just moved to a new school. He wasn't very popular in his last school so he makes up a story that he was a dodgeball champion. He becomes fast friends with a three people but they are constantly being picked on by a bully. A dodgeball duel will decide who is the leader of the school. There is also a wise teacher, Mr. Merlyn and a magic locker that only works for Artie. This is the first book in this Graphic Novel series.

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Horror at the Haunted House

2010-04-05T17:01:00.001-04:00

Horror at the Haunted House by Peg Kehret

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
For halloween, Ellen participates in a haunted house. The house is staged in an old mansion and she is Joan of Arc. Unfortunately, not all of the characters are fake. A former resident (a ghost) is trying to tell Ellen something and she won't leave Ellen alone until she does!

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Caddie Woodlawn

2010-04-05T11:10:00.002-04:00

Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink

Frontier life for Caddie and her family is not easy - but Caddie loves it. She is a tomboy through and through, and while her father loves that she is a free spirit, her mother wishes she was more like a lady.

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The Forgotten Door

2010-04-03T15:09:00.001-04:00

The Forgotten Door by Alexander Key

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A boy falls through a hole and lands in a cave. He doesn't remember his name nor his language and he doesn't know where he is. What he does know is that he can communicate with animals. From the same author who wrote "Escape To Witch Mountain"

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