tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19440986424016903872024-03-07T22:20:20.413-08:00Bella the BookwormBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-74802025635890278832013-07-02T20:38:00.002-07:002013-07-02T20:38:41.380-07:00Chop, ChopTitle: <i>Chop, Chop</i><br />
Author: L. N. Cronk<br />
Approximate reading level: Junior High<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Summary: David and Laci have known each other since pre-school. When Laci gets her hair cut short to donate it, young David is not happy. They grow up going to the same church and the same school. However, as they enter junior high, they're friends--not very close, but not enemies, even though David still doesn't like Laci's grow-it-out-to-cut-it-and-donate-it hairstyle. When Greg moves to town, they both develop a friendship with him, and grow closer to each other as well. The three grow closer to God as well, through trips and activities with the youth groups led by Greg's parents. But shortly before Christmas their senior year, tragedy strikes. His experience with death causes David to sink into an emotional numbness. What will it take for David to let go of the hurt and open his heart to anyone again?<br />
<br />
Review: This book has a Christian background. All of the main characters (including the narrator, David) attend church, and there is a lot of discussions about God. However, being a Christian does not mean having a perfect life, and that fact comes through in Cronk's writing. Dealing with the violent death of his friend is a struggle for David, and it may also be difficult for some readers. Even in his numbness, however, David is sometimes still able to recognize that God is helping him through the prayers of others. <br />
This book does contain some objectionable elements--namely, a school shooting in which a student and teacher are killed. However, the event is not described in detail, as the narrator does not witness the event. <br />
<br />
I loved reading this book! I found it through an e-mail I've signed up for that lets me know about free and discounted e-books. Even with low finances, I can afford a free book! (By the way, the Kindle edition is still free on Amazon.) I didn't realize it was the first in a series until I finished and saw the next book mentioned at the end. As soon as I can, I plan on reading the rest of the series.<br />
*****Five stars</div>
Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-44550928394858861982013-06-04T12:23:00.000-07:002013-06-04T12:23:34.296-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: The Last BattleThere's been a few family crises recently that have kept me from posting, but here's the last review of the <i>Chronicles of Narnia</i> series. I hope to post more regularly, but my family is keeping me busy. :)<br />
<br />
Title: <i>The Last Battle</i><br />
Series: <i>The Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Approximate reading level:<br />
<br />
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Summary: There is trouble in
Narnia, and Aslan is supposedly behind it. But would Aslan really
command the magical, living trees to be cut down and sold, killing
the dryads and other tree spirits? Would he really sell the talking
beasts, dwarfs and others into slavery? But who would dare to do such
a thing without Aslan's approval? The king is confused and calls for
help from the “kings and queens of the past” to help deliver
them. Narnia has survived many attacks, but it may have now brought
about its own destruction.
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Review:
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As evidenced by the
title,
this is the final book in the <i>Narnia </i>series. It is somewhat emotional, as those who truly love Narnia fight against those who only want what will benefit them the most. Aslan rescues those who truly fight for the good, while allowing others to have what they want--even if it's not what is best for them. This can be a good example of how we can sometimes want things that can be harmful to us. Battle scenes may be disturbing for some readers, but they are necessary to the plot. <br />
Enjoy all seven books in the <i>Chronicles of Narnia </i>series. **** 4 stars<br />
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Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-81699485226991577372013-04-13T07:53:00.000-07:002013-04-13T07:53:04.618-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: The Silver ChairTitle: <i>The Silver Chair</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Series: <i>Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Approximate reading level: 9th grade<br />
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Summary</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The story begins at Eustace's school,
where he finds a schoolmate named Jill crying because of the bullying
of other schoolmates. He begins telling her about Narnia, when they
hear the bullies returning. They run towards a door in the wall
around the school, hoping to find it unlocked so they can escape the
bullies. Instead, they find their way into Narnia, where they meet
Aslan, talking owls, Marshwiggles, giants, and more. Aslan sends
them on a quest to rescue Prince Rilian, giving them four signs to
guide them along their way. They explore more new areas of Narnia
and meet more Narnians that previous explorers from other books never
knew about. The success of the quest depends on Jill's remembering
the signs given by Aslan at the beginning of the quest, which she
does as long as she follows his instructions.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Review</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A magical enchantment and the threat of
the main characters being eaten by giants may be disturbing. The
importance of following instructions is seen when Jill forgets
Aslan's signs because she does not follow his instructions to
remember them. An evil witch also turns into a snake—the same
snake which killed the queen earlier in the story. This is another
great story in the <i>Narnia </i><span style="font-style: normal;">series
containing examples of bravery and forgiveness. Another great read
for older children and adults and a great listen for younger
children.</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
****4 stars<br />
</div>
Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-56182215840978855202013-04-06T16:19:00.000-07:002013-04-06T16:24:16.672-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn TreaderTitle: <i>Voyage of the Dawn Treader</i><br />
Series: <i>Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Approximate reading level: 7th grade<br />
<br />
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Summary</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Lucy and Edmund are again called to
Narnia, this time with their cousin Eustace rather than Peter and
Susan. They enter through a picture into the ocean and are pulled
aboard King Caspian's best ship, the Dawn Treader. King Caspian and
his shipmates are traveling east from Narnia, seeking the seven lords
who were lost when sent exploring under King Miraz's reign. Some of
the seven lords have died, and some have been enchanted. As always
when in Narnia, the children have many adventures and meet many new
and wondrous creatures. Before the children reach the end of the
world and return to England, Eustace is profoundly changed by his
part in the adventures.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Review</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
There are fewer battle scenes in this
book than in the other <i>Chronicles of Narnia, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">but
there are still some scenes that may worry some children. Eustace's
hard-learned lesson about his bad attitude may be quite helpful for
some children. Li</span>ke the other books in the <i>Narnia </i><span style="font-style: normal;">series,
I thin</span>k this book is good to read to young children who are
unable to read it alone as well as for older children (or adults) to
read on their own.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
**** 4 stars</div>
<i> </i>Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-86214933167660199102013-03-26T09:46:00.002-07:002013-04-06T16:03:19.152-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: Prince CaspianTitle: <i>Prince Caspian</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Series<i></i>: <i>The Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Approximate reading level: 8th grade<br />
<i> </i><br />
Summary: Caspian is the next in line to become king of Narnia--that is, until his uncle Miraz takes over. So, when Miraz has a son, Caspian's life is in danger. He flees, and eventually calls the High King Peter, and his brother and sisters King Edmund and Queens Susan and Lucy by magic back to help him regain his rightful place and to bring Narnia back to its former glory with talking beasts and living trees. Although ages have passed in Narnia since they were last here, it's been only one year for the children in England. But magic is magic, after all, and it doesn't take long for them to regain their royal abilities they learned earlier in Narnia. <br />
<br />
Review: Some children may be disturbed or frightened by the account of Caspian's life being in danger at the hand of his own family. As in other Narnian stories, there are battle scenes--however, they are not described in gruesome detail, again, like in the other books. The book can be appropriate for older children to read on their own, or to be read to younger children. <br />
**** Four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-87831699425532298792013-03-12T19:50:00.003-07:002013-04-06T16:09:50.310-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: The Horse and His BoyTitle: <i>The Horse and His Boy</i><br />
Series: <i>The Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Approximate reading level: 8th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: Shasta overhears a conversation when he learns that the man he lives with is not his father and is willing to sell him to another man. While wondering out loud what kind of man his new owner is, he finds a talking Narnian horse named Bree. They decide to help each other escape a cruel master and begin a series of adventures that crosses multiple countries and the desert and brings them to meet many people, from royalty to a hermit. Come along with Shasta and Bree and save a country, learn from Aslan, and find out Shasta's true identity.<br />
<br />
Review: More battle scenes may make this story intense for some children. Also, although there are some important lessons learned--humility and concern for others among others--some are learned the hard way. For example, Avaris (whom Shasta meets on his travels) suffers injuries equal to the ones she caused to be inflicted on a servant when she escaped. Characters discuss the possibility of ghouls in the Tombs nearby one of the cities they must travel through, where they decide to meet if separated. <br />
I think the questionable elements are handled well and that this is another good book to read. I think the <i>Narnia </i>series is also a great series to read to children younger than the approximate reading level--as long as the reader is sure the child(ren) can handle such items as the battle scenes and mention of ghouls.<br />
**** four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-65350783706112091872013-02-25T22:24:00.001-08:002013-04-06T16:13:57.761-07:00Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The WardrobeI think this is the third time I've read <i>The Chronicles of Narnia </i>and I still can't put it down. But finding the time to read (mostly in the car) is easier than finding the time to write.<br />
<br />
Title: <i>The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe</i><br />
Series: <i>The Chronicles of Narnia</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Approximate Reading Level: 7th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: "Always winter and never Christmas." This is the curse that Narnia is under when the children get there. Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are sent away during the war for their safety, away from the air raids that often happened in major cities. While there, Lucy discovers a way to Narnia, although it isn't there all the time. At first, the others don't believe, but when they travel to Narnia too, they have no choice. While there, they help Aslan (the lion in the title) rescue Narnia from the White Witch. They have many adventures and many trials, including a traitor among them. How can they defeat the witch's magic and reclaim Narnia? Will they ever be able to return to England? You'll have to read to find out.<br />
<br />
Review: I love the way the <i>Narnia</i> series reads. Lewis tells the story as though you're sitting next to him listening, rather than reading decades later.<br />
Fantasy elements in the story include talking animals, a magical portal between worlds, and mythical creatures. Battle scenes may be intense for some children. A traitor is judged, but forgiven; and good triumphs over evil in the end.<br />
****4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-27275127587983632282013-02-02T15:08:00.001-08:002013-02-02T15:20:39.020-08:00Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's NephewWow, has it really been over 3 months since I last posted? Yikes! Sorry :( A lot has happened since then. My "part time" job scheduled me for way more than part time hours, and there's been a couple new additions to the bookworm family (one canine, one human). :) Here's hoping I'll be able to post more regularly than every 3 months, although I won't guarantee every week.<br />
Keep reading,<br />
Bella<br />
<br />
Title: <i>The Magician's Nephew</i><br />
Author: C. S. Lewis<br />
Series: The Chronicles of Narnia<br />
Approximate Reading Level: 7th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: In <i>The Magician's Nephew</i>, readers see how Narnia began. Digory and Polly, two young children living in London, England, are sent on an incredible journey by Digory's uncle. They visit an in-between place, a world between worlds. From here, they visit a world much older than their own, and a world much younger than their own. A danger is brought into the new world of Narnia, but Aslan is forgiving, and allows Digory and Polly to bring back some magic into their own world.<br />
<br />
Review: C. S. Lewis is a wonderful writer, and his fantasy worlds come alive. He often talks directly to the reader, bringing him into the story. Uncle Andrew uses the word "dem" several times, a variation of "damn" in C. S. Lewis' time. In another scene, one character objects to the "harsh language" used by another. However, the language used is no longer "harsh." Good morals, regarding stealing and lying, are well represented.<br />
<br />
****Four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-73945195012662138562012-10-25T01:22:00.002-07:002012-10-25T01:22:22.956-07:00Indian Captive: The Story of Mary JemisonTitle: <i>Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison</i><br />
Author: Lois Lenski<br />
Approximate independent reading level: 8th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: Almost twenty years before the Revolutionary War, the Jemison family lived on the frontier of America. Mary, also called Molly, lives in a log cabin with her parents and five siblings. Although some of the neighbors have decided to return east because of worry about the Indians, Molly's father is sure his family is safe enough and plans on staying to plant his corn. But the Indians arrive the next morning and take most of the family captive, although the two older brothers are able to escape to tell the neighbors. Molly and a young neighbor boy are separated from the rest of their families and hurried away by one group of Indians. She is taken to live with a tribe of Seneca Indians to replace a tribe member who was killed. The story that follows describes her first year with the Senecas, as she attempts to escape, learns their rituals, and tries to discover how or even whether a white girl can live with the Indians.<br />
<br />
Review: Molly Jemison actually lived, and the events in this story actually happened, although the author does take some liberties with timing. The author is authentic to Seneca culture and to Molly's experience. I think this could be an interesting as well as an informative read on the Seneca Indians and on what it might be like to be completely alone in a strange place with strange people, ripped from family.<br />
**** Four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-51246794968982605382012-10-08T21:47:00.000-07:002012-10-08T21:51:17.209-07:00If You Give seriesTitles: <i>If You Give a Mouse a Cookie; If You Give a Moose a Muffin; If You Give a Pig a Pancake; If You Take a Mouse to School; If You Give a Pig a Party</i><br />
Author: Laura Numeroff<br />
Illustrator: Felicia Bond<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Summary: There are five books in this cute little series. Each starts with a child engaging in the title activity, which seems to be simple and straightforward. But each begins a chain of events that is as funny as it is both exhausting and messy, and which eventually runs full circle. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Review: I don't remember which of these books I first found on the bookshelf of the daycare or home I was working at, but I do remember thoroughly enjoying it. So when I found a boxed set with more books than I was aware of on the shelf at a local secondhand children's shop for just a few dollars, I just couldn't resist buying it. The story lines are simple and easy to follow, while also providing an opportunity to engage young children. "What do you think will happen next?" can be asked often throughout these stories, as well as "What would you do if . . .?" This second question can be asked both in reference to the child in the story or in reference to the animal (If someone gave you a cookie, what would you want to go with it?) </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The pictures are beautifully done, without unnecessary details, but still allowing for engaging reading. For example, in <i>If You Give a Pig a Party</i>, a hide-and-seek scene suggests a game of "Can you find Pig and her friends?" </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Well-drawn pictures and a catchy, repetitive storyline work together to make these books great read-alongs for young children. I give them all four stars.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
****</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bonus: Guess who two of the guests are at Pig's party. :) </div>
Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-55397747082801664462012-09-11T12:16:00.000-07:002012-09-11T16:09:10.326-07:0011 BirthdaysFriends,<br />
I apologize again for another late post, but this one comes with good reason--I started a new job last week. I will do my best to keep up with postings, but please understand that helping to support my family must come first.<br />
Love,<br />
Bella<br />
<br />
Title: <i>11 Birthdays</i><br />
Author: Wendy Mass<br />
Target Audience: Upper Elementary<br />
Approximate Independent Reading Level: 7th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: Leo and Amanda were born on the same day, but they're not twins. In fact, they're not related at all. But sharing a birthday is the beginning of a story that leads to their becoming best friends--at least for awhile. But when a fight leads to magical problems, they must work together to solve a problem bigger than they could have ever imagined.<br />
<br />
Review: This story is fantasy, with an element of magic. But the magic is not meant to be harmful. The story contains no Christian elements, but can still be used to teach Christian truths--such as the importance of forgiveness. Working together is another important element in the book. There are some elements of lying to adults as the children attempt to figure out how to solve their problems. In their defense, however, the truth is completely unbelievable and would have sounded like a lie, and they do their best to not lie to or disobey their parents.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-47109543723395940002012-09-02T22:35:00.002-07:002012-09-02T22:35:18.054-07:00The Journal of Scott Pendleton CollinsMy last post from the "My Name is America" series (at least until I find some more :D )<br />
<br />
Title: <i>The Journal of Scott Pendleton Collins: A World War II Soldier</i><br />
Author : Walter Dean Myers<br />
Setting: Normandy, France 1944<br />
Target Audience: Junior high-High school<br />
Approximate independent reading level: 9th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: Scott Collins is not long out of high school when he joins the army. His journal records his experiences as he goes first to England, then fights through France. Scott meets local people as well as other soldiers. Not all of the men he fights alongside make it home. The journal covers only three months of the war, but they are an event-filled three months. Scott survives the war and returns home, although he never outlives its effects.<br />
<br />
Review: Scott does describe some of the gruesome results of war involving destruction of the towns and some injuries sustained during attacks. The writing is good, and the historical information at the back of the book includes a map of Normandy. Obviously, the book cannot be used as a source of factual information, such as for a report, but I think it's a good fictional representation of what a young soldier may have gone through.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-13872274690149355432012-08-23T15:17:00.001-07:002012-08-23T15:17:19.058-07:00Dear America: My Secret WarHello again,<br />
And life has gotten in the way again. I apologize for being late again with this post, but the last couple weeks have been pretty hectic. They included a couple of doctor's appointments, an unexpected trip out of town for a funeral, and many other little problems. But I hope you enjoy this book. I have one more "Dear America" book after this one (there are several more, but I don't have them).<br />
Enjoy!<br />
Bella<br />
<br />
Title: <i>My Secret War: The World War II Diary of Madeline Beck</i><br />
Author: Mary Pope Osborne<br />
Setting: Long Island, New York, 1941<br />
Target Audience: Junior high<br />
Independent Reading Level: 8th<br />
<br />
Summary: Madeline and her mother recently moved into a boarding house in Long Island. Her father is on an aircraft carrier somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. The story begins in late September of 1941, as Madeline is having trouble in her new school. American warships are protecting merchant ships (since they are being attacked by German submarines), but America has not yet entered the war. The book continues as Pearl Harbor is attacked, and America enters the war. Madeline starts a club so that local kids can help with the war effort by doing things such as collecting scrap metal. Madeline has to deal with many problems, including worry about her father, the other residents in the house, and other girls at school who do not want to include her. As the book ends, Madeline must leave her new friends and begin life in a new city again. <br />
<br />
Review: The book does cover a sensitive topic--war, but I think Osborne does so in a good manner. As with other <i>Dear America </i>books, historical information is included about the era. Madeline's worry about her father is often evident, but Osborne balances this with real life often distracting her from writing letters to her father. I think this is a good book to expose young adults to World War II.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-39918096004520222872012-08-07T00:04:00.001-07:002012-08-07T00:04:27.146-07:00A Time for CourageTitle: <i>A Time for Courage</i><br />
Author: Kathryn Lasky<br />
Target Audience: Upper Elementary<br />
Independent Reading Level: 5th grade<br />
Setting: Washington, DC 1917, Women's Suffragette Movement and WWI<br />
<br />
Summary: Kathleen Bowen is given a diary by her mother for Christmas. At first, she thinks her life is too boring to write about. But as women petition and picket to gain the right to vote and America enters the Great War, she soon finds quite a bit to write about in her life and that of her family. <br />
<br />
Review: Kathleen is like most girls her age. As she writes, she worries about school, her mother's participation in the movement for women's right to vote, and the possibility of her father's going to war. Kathleen's character is dynamic--by the end of the book, she is more focused on others than at the beginning of the book. More focus is given to the women's suffrage movement than to the war,
but some people Kathleen knows are involved in helping wounded soldiers
and that part of the war is described. As with the other books in the <i>Dear America </i>series, a historical note and pictures are included at the end of the book describing actual events and people of the time. Also, the book is interesting as well as educational.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-11123999690193328632012-07-29T17:13:00.002-07:002012-07-29T17:13:36.670-07:00West to a Land of PlentyHey!<br />
Time's fun when you're having flies! Whoops, sorry--guess I've been
hanging out around the local frogs too much lately :) I meant to say,
Time flies when you're having fun! Here's this week's review.<br />
Keep reading,<br />
Bella<br />
<br />
Title: <i>West to a Land of Plenty: The Diary of Teresa Angelino Viscardi</i><br />
Author: Jim Murphy<br />
Setting: New York to Idaho Territory, 1883 <br />
Target Audience: Middle School<br />
Approximate Independent Reading Level: 8th<br />
<br />
Summary: Teresa and her family are Italians living in New York with
several other Italian families on their street. "Poppa" has come home
and announced that they will be leaving their home in New York to go to
Idaho territory, where they will be able to get a large plot of land and
farm it. Also, they will not be looked down on as they are in New
York. Teresa is very upset about leaving her home and her friends, and
she writes in her diary at the suggestion of her teacher. Her younger
sister Antoinetta, who goes by Netta, also writes in the diary
sometimes. The trail is long and hard, with many sicknesses and
dangers. Several people decide not to continue or die along the way.
Teresa's (almost) daily story shows how the journey changes her and
others.<br />
<br />
Review: Another book in the "Dear America" series, this book is again
written in a diary format. Teresa's arguing with Netta is comparable to
the sibling rivalry in most families. Teresa uses a few Italian words,
but they are close enough to the American to be determined from
context. Different typesets are used to make it easy to determine
whether the writing is Teresa's diary entry or something else (Netta's
diary entry or a letter that Teresa pasted into the diary. I think the
book is well-written in Teresa's voice (and others when appropriate),
including spelling and grammatical errors. The use of historical
fiction makes this time period in America's interesting.<br />
**** 4 stars<br />
<br />
Happy reading, y'all!Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-62187252978444643932012-07-21T02:24:00.002-07:002012-07-21T02:24:53.064-07:00Quackadack DuckHey, y'all!<br />
<br />
Taking a quick break from the <i>Dear America</i> series this week for a short read. This week flew by, and I can't believe I'm a day late on posting again! <br />
<br />
Bella<br />
<br />
Title: <i>Quackadack Duck</i><br />
Author: Allen Morgan<br />
Illustrator: John Beder<br />
Target Audience: Young children (a read-aloud book)<br />
Approximate (independent) reading level: 3rd grade<br />
<br />
Summary: A troll likes to make mischief and collect pennies. One day, he comes across a duck egg as it is hatching. The baby duck thinks the troll is his mother, and begins copying the troll. At first, the troll is upset and ignores the baby duck; but he soon feels pity for the duck and lets him into his home, naming him Quackadack Duck. When the duck follows him to the market and is taken by a man with a poultry store, the troll must choose between his treasured pennies and his new friend.<br />
<br />
Review: The story is well-written and the artwork is just as good and also flows well into the story. The words are rhythmical and sometimes rhyming, which makes it more fun for young children. The story also teaches a good lesson about the importance of friendship.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-40655085647333118272012-07-14T09:56:00.001-07:002012-07-14T09:56:58.577-07:00My Heart is on the GroundHi, folks!<br />
I missed last week AND am late this week--WHOOPS! I had a couple of family trips over the last two weeks an was unable to finish reading my book in time. Hope y'all enjoy this review, and I should be back on track next Friday.<br />
God bless,<br />
Bella <br />
<br />
Title: <i>My Heart is on the Ground</i>: <i>The Diary of Nannie Little Rose, a Sioux Girl</i><br />
Author: Ann Rinaldi<br />
Setting: Carlisle Indian School, Pennsylvania, 1880<br />
Target Audience: Upper Elementary-Middle School<br />
Approximate reading level: 6th grade<br />
<br />
Summary: Little Rose lived on a reservation with her family and tribe until her father decided to send her to the school for Indians in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. There, she was forced to lose her Indian language and customs and take on those of the white people--even being required to take a new name, Nannie. In her diary, she writes about her first year away from home. She meets new friends and welcomes old ones and grows in her understanding of "white" customs and language.<br />
<br />
Review: Nannie Little Rose's writing improves while at the school, but may be difficult to understand at times. There are some controversial elements, such as Nannie's hurting herself in a time of grief, and the Indians being forced to give up their clothes and hair. These are historically accurate, however, and contribute to the story--not gratuitous at all.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-48573851966359417032012-06-29T19:41:00.001-07:002012-06-29T19:41:16.638-07:00The Journal of Joshua Loper: A Black CowboySeries: My Name Is America (Dear America)<br />
Title: <i>The Journal of Joshua Loper: A Black Cowboy</i><br />
Setting: The Chisholm Trail, 1871<br />
Main Character: Joshua Loper, a 16-year-old black cowboy<br />
<br />
Summary: Joshua is a cowboy and has just been told he will be helping drive his boss' cows up the Chisholm Trail to be sold. He is black at a time shortly after the Civil War, when this is an important distinction. His diary covers his journey from Mr. Muhlen's ranch in Texas to Abilene, Kansas as he deals with stampedes, the excitement of his first time on the trail, tricks played on him by other members of the cattle drive, and even a great loss. His first entry is April 30, and he describes his journey until the group arrives in Abilene July 15. Mr. Muhlen has also arrived for the sale of his cattle, and tells Joshua, along with some of the other trail hands, that he wants them to return to the ranch and bring back another herd of cattle. Joshua arrives home, but doesn't have much time to spend with his mother before heading back out on the trail as the book closes.<br />
<br />
Review: I think the diary format makes these books interesting. The author includes a "Historical Note" at the end of the book with a description of "Life in America in 1871" and pictures of the towns and people who inspired Joshua's story. A fold-out map of the Chisholm Trail is also included as the last page. There are some grammatical errors, but they are accurate to how an individual like Joshua would have talked and written. Joshua makes several references to church and prayer. I have enjoyed reading this book more than once, and will read it again.<br />
**** Four stars<br />
<br />
Keep reading,<br />
BellaBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-30611855963182052332012-06-23T09:19:00.000-07:002012-06-23T09:19:50.751-07:00Dear America: A Picture of FreedomTitle: <i>Dear America: A Picture of Freedom (The Diary of Clotee, a Slave Girl</i><br />
Author: Patricia C. McKissack<br />
Setting: Belmont Plantation, Virginia, 1859<br />
Target Audience: Upper Elementary--Middle<br />
<br />
Summary: The book is written in diary format, from the perspective of a 12-year-old slave girl who works in the kitchen on a Virginia plantation. She taught herself to read and write while fanning the Master's son William during his lessons. This act could earn her a severe beating if her Master finds out, as well as result in her being sold to another Master in the "Deep South"--both scary ideas. So, she must keep her learning--and her diary--a secret from everyone. Even the other slaves might tell on her if it means some benefit for them. In the book, Clotee writes about her life for about 13 months. She learns about abolitionists, the Underground Railroad, and the dangers of learning too much.<br />
<br />
Review: I think this book is very well-written. There is a clear difference in Clotee's writing over the course of the book as she learns more. The book does include some incidents which, though historically accurate, may be considered problematic, such as beatings of slaves. A few spots may be difficult to understand, due to poor English and historical words or phrasing, but I believe most readers will be able to figure out what is meant by the context. I think reading the book may be helpful in understanding what slaves went through in early America. A "Historical Note" at the end of the book explains how slavery ended and some important people involved, such as Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman. <br />
**** Four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-73886754708839184472012-06-15T17:23:00.003-07:002012-06-15T17:23:56.767-07:00My America: Five Smooth StonesTitle: <i>My America: Five Smooth Stones (Hope's Diary--Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1776)</i><br />
Author: Kristiana Gregory<br />
Target Audience: Elementary<br />
Approximate reading level: 4th<br />
<br />
Summary: The author writes as Hope, a nine-year-old girl living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the start of America's history as a new country. The book is written as her journal. Entries are short and not daily, but mostly dated (a few are marked as something like "the next morning"). The author includes a "Historical Note" at the end of the book to put some of the details from the book in historical context.<br />
<br />
Review: A few words may be unfamiliar due to the historical usage of words and language ('twas, 'tis, arithmetick, dost, for example). I enjoy this type of book because it can make history more interesting because the story is told from the point of view of an average person. The book mainly covers daily life, but also mentions historical events such as the writing of the Declaration of Independence and George Washington's Christmas night attack on the British soldiers. <br />
**** Four stars<br />
<i> </i>Bellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-50426119075276636932012-06-09T00:06:00.000-07:002012-06-09T00:06:16.988-07:00TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY<span style="color: red;">A note to parents: The book reviewed below covers difficult topics. I believe these topics are important because many teens today are dealing with them, even if the parents don't know about it. Please carefully read the summary and review, and if you have any more questions, feel free to e-mail me at <a href="mailto:BellaBookworm@yahoo.com">BellaBookworm@yahoo.com</a> and I will do my best to answer. You may want to read this book with your teen or before he or she reads it. Or, you may at least want to discuss it with him or her after he or she reads it. This is not a light reading book.</span> <br />
<br />
<br />
Title: <i>TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY</i><br />
Author: Jay Asher<br />
Target Audience: High school<br />
Approximate reading level: 8th <br />
<br />
Main characters:<br />
-Hannah Baker, a high school student who recently committed suicide and has left behind a series of tapes explaining why<br />
-Clay Jensen, the narrator, from whose point of view we hear Hannah's story<br />
<br />
Summary: When Hannah Baker decides to take her own life, she also decides to leave behind 7 audio cassette tapes explaining why she made this decision and telling her story, along with the stories of several others in the school--those who affected her decision. We learn her story through Clay, as he listens to the tapes. The author also gives Clay's reactions alongside Hannah's story. At times, Hannah's story, and Clay's reaction to it, are interrupted as Clay wanders through town visiting places where the stories that impacted Hannah's decision happened, meeting and talking to others.<br />
<br />
Review: Because Clay's story is told directly alongside Hannah's, rather than the book being divided into two parts or even divided by chapters, the impact of the story is stronger. Many controversial topics are covered, or at least referenced: bullying, teen suicide, teenage drinking/drunkenness, sexual assault, and drunk driving. But it also shows that you have an impact on those around you, even when you don't realize it. Something that seems small and unimportant to one person may be devastating to another. Your actions have consequences. Unfortunately, these topics are influencing teens today, and even "Christian school kids" are not totally exempt. Bullying was present in my Christian school, and I think at least one of these other topics was as well. Even the teen that has never had to deal with any of these topics (which I believe most, if not all teens have had some experience with bullying in some form) can be reminded that the little things are important, and that we should treat others with the kindness that Christ showed us. <br />
This book is not Christian in nature. The only reference to religion at all is when Hannah says, "<i>And you, lucky number thirteen, you can take the tapes straight to hell. Depending on your religion, maybe I'll see you there.</i>" However, some Christian principles can be taken from it, such as treating others how you would want to be treated and with love.<br />
I would like to suggest discussing this book with your teen if he or she reads it. You may find out that your teen knows someone in Hannah's position (or even in some other problem situations in the book). <br />
I'm not sure I can say I enjoyed reading this book, because it is a sad, somewhat heartbreaking story. But it is definitely a page-turner. When I needed to stop reading, I couldn't wait to get back to Hannah's story and see what happened to make her believe she had no other choice, as well as seeing what Clay learned from her story.<br />
**** Four stars<br />
<br />
Matthew 7:12a "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them;"<br />
<br />
Love in Christ,<br />
BellaBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-12411651676861123672012-05-30T12:25:00.001-07:002012-05-30T12:25:22.340-07:00Half MagicTitle: <i>Half Magic</i><br />
Author:<i> </i>Edward Eager<br />
Illustrator: N. M. Bodecker<br />
Approximate reading level: 5th grade<br />
Main characters: Siblings Jane, Mark, Katherine, and Martha<br />
<br />
Summary: The four children are out on a summer day, looking for adventure, when Jane finds (what she thinks is) a nickel on the sidewalk. When she later makes a wish, it comes true--but only halfway. After thinking long and hard all afternoon and evening, she comes to the conclusion that it was not a nickel, but a magic charm. Unfortunately by this time, her mother has borrowed the nickel from her dresser for bus fare. But thankfully, something strange happens while her mother is visiting family and she does not spend the nickel. What follows is a series of adventures as the children take turns wishing and try to double wish so they will get what they actually want when it only half comes true.<br />
<br />
Review: I think this book is well-written. Magic is involved, but no harmful magic. The adventures are interesting and do not turn out perfectly--even magic can't fix everything, even when the children try to wish double so that half of the wish will be what they actually want. They use the magic to help others as well as themselves.<br />
****Four starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-51249930338867688342012-05-09T17:21:00.001-07:002012-05-09T17:21:39.651-07:00The Indian in the CupboardTitle: <u>The Indian in the Cupboard</u><br />
Author: Lynne Reid Banks<br />
Approximate reading level: Sixth grade<br />
Main character: Omri, a young boy in England<br />
<br />
Summary: The book starts with Omri's birthday. He receives several presents, including a plastic Indian from his friend Patrick and a cabinet from his brother Gillon. Although the cabinet locks, there was no key left with the cabinet. But Omri's mother has a collection of keys, and he finds one that fits. Somewhere in the key, or the cabinet, or the combination of the two Omri discovers a magic that will change his life drastically.<br />
<br />
Review: The book takes place in England, so there may be a few words that may be difficult for American children to understand (Some examples include <i>biscuit </i>for <i>cookie </i>and <i>lorry </i>for <i>car</i>.<i> </i> This fantasy does include magic, although it is never purposefully used for harm. Omri is a young boy faced with a difficult decision and a sudden weight of responsibility, and he fares well. The book is well-written, although again, there may be some difficulty with a few words due to language differences.<br />
<br />
5 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-79594820097595756052012-04-15T00:02:00.000-07:002012-04-15T00:02:46.614-07:00Caddie WoodlawnTitle: <u>Caddie Woodlawn</u><br />
Author: Carol Ryrie Brink<br />
Approximate Reading Level: 5th grade<br />
Main characters:<br />
--Caddie Woodlawn, 11-year-old pioneer<br />
--Caddie's brothers and sisters: Clara and Tom (older); Warren and Hetty (younger)<br />
--Caddie's parents<br />
<br />
Summary:<br />
When the Woodlawn family left Boston to travel west, they know the trip will be difficult, but the don't realize just how difficult. Caddie and Mary are young and weak, and Mary doesn't survive the trip. So, Mr. Woodlawn makes an agreement with Mrs. Woodlawn--she can have any other girls if only he can experiment with Caddie. Instead of keeping Caddie inside learning to cook, clean, sew, and all the other things "proper" girls learned in the late 1800's, he wants to allow Caddie to run with her brothers to get fresh air and exercise to help her grow strong and healthy. The book follows one year of Caddie's adventures as a tomboy with brothers Tom and Warren. And there are plenty of adventures (and trouble) for three young children to get into. Towards the end of the book, Caddie begins to wonder if perhaps being a young lady won't be so bad.<br />
<br />
Review:<br />
This book was written by Caddie's grandaughter, who based the book on her grandmother's stories, but added a few adventures to help further the plot. There are a few words and spellings that show the time period the story took place that may make it difficult ("to-night" and "dast," for example), but most readers should be able to determine meaning from context. I enjoy historical fiction, and this book is one of my favorites since I discovered it in my Children's Literature class. The book is not overtly Christian and teaching salvation as some other books I have reviewed, but still has good morals.<br />
**** 4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1944098642401690387.post-33378193327913679312012-03-23T19:20:00.000-07:002012-03-23T19:20:37.104-07:00The Incredible Rescues: The Young Refugees Book threeTitle: <u>The Incredible Rescues</u><br />
Author: Ed Dunlop<br />
Target Age: 9-12<br />
Approximate Reading Level: 5th grade<br />
Main Characters:<br />
Hans<br />
Gretchen<br />
Miklos--a Hungarian Jew who befriends Hans and Gretchen<br />
<br />
Summary:<br />
Hans and Gretchen are now in Budapest, Hungary. The story opens with Hans and Gretchen hiding in a trainyard watching Nazis loading Jews onto death trains heading for Auschwitz. They later meet Miklos, who is working for Raoul Wallenberg. Mr. Wallenberg left neutral Sweden to help Jews in Hungary escape, even though he himself is not Jewish. With their father's permission, Hans and Gretchen take Miklos' place after he is injured and help Mr. Wallenberg mainly by carrying food and messages and by taking pictures. However, at times, they are even facing Nazis and Arrow Cross members (young Hungarians who assist Nazi soldiers) to help Jewish people escape transportation to certain death. Although they are always in danger, one attempt at help puts Gretchen in even more danger than usual--on a train bound for Auschwitz.<br />
<br />
Review:<br />
I have enjoyed this series multiple times, and am sure I will again. This may be partly because I am interested in historical fiction regarding the Holecaust, but it is also because they are well-written. Again, any phrases in foreign languages are explained at the back of the book. This book also includes an Epilogue which explains that some of the characters and events actually happened. Hans explains the plan of salvation to Miklos, but at another point struggles with trusting God due to what has happened to Gretchen. I believe the book shows a good example of the Christian walk--it's not always easy, but God provides the strength as it's needed.<br />
4 starsBellahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12403999156834074270noreply@blogger.com0