Navigating Early review

At the end of World War II, Jack Baker, a landlocked Kansas boy, is suddenly uprooted after his mother’s death and placed in a boy’s boarding school in Maine. There, Jack encounters Early Auden, the strangest of boys, who reads the number pi as a story and collects clippings about the sightings of a great black bear in the nearby mountains. Newcomer Jack feels lost yet can’t help being drawn to Early, who won’t believe what everyone accepts to be the truth about the Great Appalachian Bear, Timber Rattlesnakes, and the legendary school hero known as The Fish, who never returned from the war. They embark on a quest on the Appalachian Trail in search of the great black bear. But what they are searching for is sometimes different from what they find. (goodreads summary)

After the passing of his mother, thirteen year old Jack Baker relocates to Morton Hill Academy in Cape Felty, Maine. His father decides to move him closer to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard where he is stationed in the Navy. Jack finds himself trying to adjust to a new life ahead at the boarding school while trying to come to terms with his mother's sudden death. Soon after his arrival, he notices an unusual boy named Early Auden.  Jack learns things about Early that he finds intriguing such as; he sometimes shows up for class and then disappears, has his own workshop in the school's custodial room and clearly has a knack for numbers. To Early, the number pi is an adventurous story that he sees in shapes, color and texture. He can perform amazing calculations in his head and calms himself by sorting jellybeans by number and color when he becomes upset.  Early's Pi stories are very real to him and he feels a need to help save him after a professor announces that the number eventually comes to an end. When the boys find themselves alone at school during fall break, they decide to take a trip down the Kennebec River in search of the mythical Great Appalachian Bear and help Pi return from the dangers of being lost.  Along the way, they meet several characters who have a strange similarity to Early's Pi stories that help create an adventuresome journey for the two themselves. Most importantly though on their quest, the boys learn that sometimes what you end up finding is not necessarily what you've set out looking for.

This story was filled with adventure, imagination and so beautifully written that it definitely pulls in the reader. Even though Early's story of Pi is fictional, it is so believable that it is a story within a story itself.  There is depth to the characters and tale that makes this not just a typical adventure story either. It is more of a read between the lines story and its reader will find true friendship, self discovery, meaning of hope and character development. I imagined Early, that despite his differences, a character truly exceptional and gifted telling that magical tale from what he sees in his mind from a set of numbers. I envisioned Jack feeling lost and unsure of his place in a complicated world searching for answers to his own questions.  It had a detailed 1945 setting including the woodlands of Maine that had me traveling easily through that era. The journey turns to many dangers along the way when they encounter a band of thieves, the thought of what is behind the giant bear prints, and making it back to the academy alive just to name a few. They also meet other characters that offer help and hope and continue on their epic journey to save Pi, even though Jack questions what is reality or insanity as their adventure seems to run parallel to Early's Pi story. It eventually sorts out and explains many things for each boy in more ways than one. Jack and his father both had good character development. I always like books where not only children are shown to grow, but adults do as well. It had some drawn out parts but just as many thrilling and exciting ones to keep you page turning. There are also great new vocabulary words and descriptive word choices that kids will find. This is a book for thinkers and good choice for either boys or girls. At the end of the book, the author also discusses the concept of Early's character and the number pi in her author's note. I usually read a book during summer vacation to my kids. I know this will be a great pick and look forward to sharing this one with them in the upcoming months. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-13.~

Title: Navigating Early
Author: Clare Vanderpool
Pub. Date: January 2013, Delacorte Press
Genre: adventure, middle grade
Hardover, 306 pgs.

One Wrong Step review

 

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen comes a brand-new, spine-tingling adventure about two kids and their fight for survival on the unforgiving trails of Mount Everest.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

After the death of his mother, Atlas Wade tries to deal with his heartache by climbing mountains with his dad.  When his dad joins on with an expedition, hoping to be the first team to summit Mount Everest, Atlas wants to prove to his dad that he is ready for the extensive climb.  But his dad feels it is best for him to stay behind and wait while the team goes on without him.  As the group ascends towards the summit there is a sudden avalanche. When Atlas hears no word from anyone in the group, he makes the decision to head up the mountain determined to find survivors.

 

Set in 1939, with the threat of World War II approaching, this story is an action-packed historical fiction perfect for the middle grade reader who has an interest for adventures on Mount Everest.   The story not only is about climbing but is also about dealing with grief, trust, learning from past and present mistakes and the importance of teamwork.  At the start of each chapter, I loved that the book offers so many different educational facts about the mountain, climbing terms, weather or medical issues the group encounters.  It also includes a summit map of Everest and where Atlas's location is as he moves up the mountain in search of the missing team.  It was not an easy feat for Atlas and Maddie as they faced a severe snowstorm, altitude sickness and the fear of a possible Nazi Spy following them. But as expected with a lot of problem solving and determination, this is what kept them moving onward with the hopes of finding their fathers alive.  There are chapters that are slow but then the story will ramp up in excitement and I found myself wanting to keep turning pages to see what happens.  Then, it comes down again until the next climatic moment of their dangerous journey.  Maddie's character helped open up Atlas to things in his past that helped him understand his feelings better by letting go the anger and sadness of loosing his mom.  The writing is so detailed that I felt like I was on a climb of Mount Everest myself feeling every cold blast of wind and blowing snow.  The title is perfect for this book because one wrong step could change Atlas and Maddie's lives instantly and I found myself on the edge of my seat a couple of times holding my breath for these kids.  The ending did wrap up fast and was predictable but all in all it will be a good read on a hot summer day to get in those reading minutes.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-13.~

 

Title: One Wrong Step

Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen

Pub. date: March 2024, Scholastic Press

Genre: historical fiction

Hardcover, 336 pgs. 

 

Felix Powell, Boy Dog review

 

In this funny, young middle-grade novel about friendship, family, and animals, Felix Powell is magically transformed from a boy into a dog.(goodreads summary) 

 

 

 

 

 

Felix is excited to spend his $5 at the local thrift store that his Nan gave him.  When he spies a special blue blanket, he knows exactly what he wants to spend that money on.  Felix isn't like other 8 year olds.  When he grows up he wants to be a Wildlife Biologist who studies primates.  He also enjoys spending time with his dog Mary Puppins and has a special talent speaking to her.  But when he and Puppins play a game with his newly purchased blanket, it magically transforms him into a dog!   At first he enjoys being a dog and hanging out all day with Puppins. But soon he remembers all the things he likes best about being a boy and worries that he won't turn back in time for his Bean Fest plans with Nan.

 

This a unique story for the older elementary reader about family, friendship and imagination. After turning into a dog, Felix has an adventurous day with Mary Puppins smelling, playing and experiencing everything about being a dog. When Felix and Puppins run into the neighborhood cat with an aloof attitude, the interactions give Felix mixed emotions about some negative feelings he is experiencing. There is nice conflict resolution easy for young readers to understand expressing empathy. Felix and Puppins show problem solving and teamwork to help Gumbo the cat out of a predicament they caused.  It has short chapters and is fast paced keeping readers attention to the end and finding out whether he is successful in returning back to a boy.   There are also lively black and white illustrations to break up the pages giving great visuals along with the story. This is the first book in a series for Felix with more curiosity and adventures to come.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 8 - 9.~

 

Title:  Felix Powell, Boy Dog

Author: Erin Entrada Kelly

Pub. date: July 2024, Greenwillow Books

Genre: Middle Grade

Hardcover, 149 pgs.

 

Wild Wave review

 

Another WILD adventure from Rodman Philbrick, author of Wildfire and Wild River. Wild Wave is the adventure of two kids trapped in the aftermath of a tsunami.(goodreads summary)I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle Schoolers Nick Chase and Jess Hardy are spending a Saturday morning at an animal rescue sanctuary called the Friends of the Wild. Jess is a volunteer and Chase is gathering information for a school podcast assignment for one of his classes.  Suddenly, out of nowhere, an earthquake hits and everyone is frantic.  When they look over the bay area, the water is gone and boats are overturned on their sides. Only mud is left where the sea should be.  Nick and Jess's instinct tells them to run as a tsunami hits destroying everything in its path.  As the two kids run for high ground, they depend on each other for survival by working together and putting their courage to the test. 

 

This was a heart pounding and exciting middle grade novel. The story begins immediately by plunging readers into Nick and Jess's fight to stay alive.  As the rushing floodwaters push them deep into the forest, they begin to wonder how they will make it to safety or if they will ever see their families again.  They eventually find Mr. and Mrs. Bumper, the high school soccer coach and the science teacher at their middle school stranded in the forest.  Knowing they need to help save them as well, they decide to continue to trek out on their own, readily prepared by the Bumpers to face the dangerous elements ahead.  Remaining level headed and working together was a key part of the story for their survival. The numerous cliffhangers throughout makes you want to keep turning the pages. The chapters are fast-paced and short which would work well for reluctant readers.  We learn a lot about Nick and Jess as characters and their families.  They show their vulnerabilities and fear like any person would in a challenging situation such as this. But they also demonstrated maturity, strength, problem solving, courage and hope in finding their families alive.  Readers will relate to the pair and cheer for a positive outcome.   A great adventure story to end the summer with or pick up at the upcoming school book fair.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-12.~

Title:  Wild Wave

Author: Rodman Philbrick

Pub. date: August 2024 Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade fiction, adventure

Hardcover 192 pgs.

 

 

 

 

I am a Meadow Mermaid review

 

A farm girl with a big imagination turns her landlocked home into an ocean playground in this dreamy picture book for little mermaids everywhere.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

A short but beautiful picture book about a farm girl who dreams of being a mermaid. By using her imagination, it takes her on a mermaid adventure for a day even though she lives on a farm.  She hears the sea in the wind, blowing wheat becomes waves and notices seahorses in the distance.  When she stumbles upon another girl who has fallen on her bike, she makes a new friend who likes to play make believe just as much as she does.  The text is poetic and simple while the illustrations are even more dreamy.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-6.~

Title:  I am a Meadow Mermaid

Author:  Kallie Goerge, illustrated by: Elly MacKay

Pub. date: June 2023, Tundra Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish review

In this strikingly illustrated debut with a quirky, surreal sensibility, the tale of an Arctic expedition invites readers to discover an elusive creature.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Is the giant Arctic jellyfish real or just a myth.  Dr. Morley is determined to set out with her crew on an Arctic expedition to find the answer.  Once there they find narwhals, beluga and orca whales, a polar bear and frozen landscapes; but no sign of the elusive giant creature.  Should they continue on exploring or consider it a failed adventure and return home?

I absolutely loved this debut story written and illustrated by Chloe Savage!  With determination and teamwork, Dr. Morely and her crew travel through the frozen Arctic as we experience their days on the research vessel through wonderful illustrations.  Throughout the book, there are pages with cutaways of the ship where we get to observe the crew going about their daily life.  Kids will enjoy hearing about the expedition and love looking at all the details. The jellyfish seems to be following along, staying just close enough to keep an eye on the crew but still hiding out of site. There is a bit of humor when you really pay notice to the different scenes. After all the hope and hard work of trying to find the giant and coming up with nothing, Dr. Morley is ready to leave for home. But not without a possible surprise at the end.  This was a fun read and afterwards I decided to look up if there was such a thing as the giant Arctic jellyfish. I learn so many new things everyday.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7. 

Title: The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish

Author: Chloe Savage

Pub. date: June 2023, Candlewick Press

Genre: picture book, science

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

The Little Rabbit review

 

From beloved author/illustrator Nicola Killen comes an enchanting spring story about a magical friendship between a little girl and her stuffed rabbit who comes to life.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

Ollie and bunny are waiting for the rain to stop so they can venture outside.  It finally clears and the two head outdoors for a very magical afternoon.  Suddenly the breeze blows and bunny seems to come to life.  He runs with some rabbits but finds himself in a dangerous situation. But Ollie has an idea of how she can help him.  

This sweet story has imagination, adventure and a little bit of springtime magic.   The pages are beautifully illustrated.  The simple color palette of grey, green and yellow is soothing and some pages have surprise cut outs and shimmers of gold.  The story is gentle and calm making it a wonderful quiet read for bedtime.  It inspires getting outdoors and letting your imagination flow.  Perfect book for the spring season and I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

 

Title:  The Little Rabbit

Author:  Nicola Killen

Pub. date:  February 2019, Simon & Schuster

Genre:  picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs. 

The Indestructible Tom Crean review

At the turn of the twentieth century, Antarctica is the last unexplored continent. The ice is unforgiving. It can break the human spirit. It takes many men willing to face hardship, danger, and years away from home to journey to this uncharted end of the earth. This is the story of one. His name is Tom Crean.

 

 

 

 Born on the West Coast of Ireland,  Tom Crean grew up on a large family farm.  But, as others have done from his countryside before him, he joined the British Navy at 16 and took to the seas. After ten years of working his way up the ranks, the ship Discovery is ready to leave for Antarctica and Tom is ready to step up for the adventure.  Soon to follow are two more harrowing explorations, one on the Terra Nova and the second on the Endurance, putting Tom's courage and strength to the test.

 

I love when I find new historical figures to share that I myself never knew about. This is a fascinating book about the early explorations of the Antarctic and one incredible hero, Tom Crean.  The expeditions take place from 1901- 1917 and details the crews perilous journeys through the unforgiving snow and ice.  What these men endured in the name of discovery and science is unbelievable.  I cannot imagine how anyone could survive the harsh environment but Tom is one of those heroes who persevered to save others.  Filled with many facts and details, it would make a wonderful addition to an explorers unit for the classroom or a project for grades 4-5.  The illustrations are done in soft water colors and pencil with plenty of detail and maps of the explored areas.  This book is Tom's story that needed to be told.   I  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 6-9.~  

 

Title: The Indestructible Tom Crean

Author:  Jennifer Thermes

Pub. date:  Januray 2023, Viking Books

Genre: nonfiction

Hardcover, 52 pgs.  

 

 

The Adventures of Tintin review

Don't miss this expanded novelization of the action-packed film! Tintin stumbles across a model ship at the Old Street Market. Only it isn't any model ship--it holds a piece of the puzzle to finding the resting place of Red Rackham's treasure! But Tintin isn't the only ones after the notorious pirate's booty. With dangerous treasure seekers at their heels, Tintin and his dog, Snowy, are on a high-stakes thrill ride, that takes them from land to sea, from open air to the ocean floor! (goodreads summary)




Tintin is a young newspaper reporter who loves a good story!  While perusing the local market, he purchases a model ship only to find he is not the only person interested in this fascinating item. Barnaby, an American, gives Tintin a verbal warning about the ship and Sakharine, a man insisting on purchasing it even after Tintin tells him no. Curious as to why so much interest, he examines the model and finds a parchment hidden inside the mast with a secret message. With his reporter instincts, he sets out to discover the origins of the ship and learns that the Unicorn was commandeered by Sir Francis Haddock and holds an exciting mystery of pirates and possible hidden treasure. The tale of the Unicorn states that it sailed the Barbados Seas in 1676 but was attacked by pirates leaving Captain Haddock as the only lone survivor. According to the Captain, there is a secret behind the Unicorn that only a true Haddock will find. When his apartment is ransacked and the model is stolen, Tintin's nose for reporting kicks in. With his trusted dog Snowy, the two embark on an exciting adventure and discover the truth behind the Unicorn that takes him not only to many places but meeting many unusual people that could help make this the best story ever!

I don't recall ever reading a book filled with so much adventure starting on page one and continuing all the way to the end.  The nonstop action kept rolling along from one exciting part to another and it was truly a fun read.  The details of Tintin being kidnapped, a daring escape from a large vessel, outsmarting henchmen and flying an airplane for the first time over rough seas (just to name a few) gave me images of Indiana Jones. Tintin and Snowy are highly intelligent characters and extremely diligent on piecing together one clue after another of this puzzle leading them to the true story and making for a great pair of heroes. Several other characters also make it lively, funny and no doubt heart pounding at times from the bumbling Interpol Detectives to the Villain who is also looking for his own answers to the mystery.  There are several things that do stand out in the book. A character is shot and killed on Tintin's front porch steps along with other scenes of bullets flying. There is also the breaking of whiskey bottles either being thrown at people or over their heads knocking them out cold. Even Tintin gets knocked out with a clunking of a candlestick over his head. There was quite a bit of alcohol references and drunkenness on the part of Captain Haddock too but his character developed in the end.  All of these together would make for a good discussion about what is reality and what is entertainment. I did find this fast-paced story interesting and know it will keep readers wanting to read until the end. I enjoyed the exciting plot and writing style that took me from a laugh to an Oh No, look out! part with a turn of a page.  I do look forward to watching the movie but satisfied I read the book for now. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10 and up.~

Title: The Adventures of Tintin
Author: Alex Irvine
Pub. date: November 2011, Little, Brown & Co.
Genre: adventure, mystery, middle grade
Hardcover, 227 pgs.

Running Wild review

Twelve-year-old Willa and her twin brothers have survived with their father in the Alaskan wilderness for five years. But Willa knows this can't go on--they must escape.(goodreads summary)






For the past five years, twelve year old Willa lives with her dad and ten year old twin brothers in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.  Choosing to live life off the grid, her dad moved the family there after the death of her mother.  At first, it seemed like happy times as they built their homestead with a flourishing garden and learned various survival skills.  But as the years pass, life is becoming harder and Willa's dad more withdrawn. The thoughts of survival are a continuous worry for her.  She misses her old life of fruits and vegetables from the local market, attending school and having a normal life of a twelve year old girl.  Hunting has been unsuccessful and food is becoming more scarce. Willa is concerned there is not enough rations to last the upcoming harsh winter.  When her dad travels to town for supplies he tends to be gone for longer amounts of time bringing back alcohol upon his return. He seems to be drinking more which is making him distant and at times violent towards her brothers.  Longing for a better life and having fears of not making it through the upcoming winter gives Willa the courage and strength to escape with her brothers to Fort Yukon for help.

Winter is right around the corner and there is no better time for an Alaskan adventure and survival story.  It is told from Willa's viewpoint and she makes for a believable character.  There were times I felt she seemed older and to mature for a 12 year old girl living in the middle of nowhere but I guess under the circumstances why would she not be. She is also unaware of the changes happening to her body for a girl her age which are mentioned various times in detail throughout the story which cause her concern.  After her dad goes on a hunting trip, she decides it is a good time to embark on a risky and dangerous journey to Fort Yukon.  Along the way they encounter loosing supplies, tangling with a bear and the risk of frigid temperatures and storms. The kids were taught many survival skills from their dad that came in useful on their trip. Planning their escape was a huge undertaking but Willa was aware of the many dangers they could face. Especially traveling down the river on a makeshift raft with two ten year olds and a wolf pup who did come to their rescue when needed. She strongly felt they would not survive through the winter and feared for her brothers lives if she had not taken the chance.  There were a couple of times the children second guessed their adventure due to the fear and devotion to their father.  But Willa's courage and strength kept her strong knowing that a different outcome awaits if they did not go to the nearest town for help as soon as possible.   She was a level headed character, caring, ambitious and saw things a lot more realistically than her dad who was suffering from grief and depression.  She also knew her dad needed help too.  The writing depicted the Alaskan wilderness and cold well enough to visualize the extreme and harsh environment the kids lived in and faced. The siblings determination for survival keeps them going in search of a new life.  The story moves along nicely with a few thrilling action parts making it an anticipating page turner.   It was a short and easy read (under 200 pages) making this a good choice for reluctant female readers when it comes to adventure or survival stories.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11 and up.~

Title:  Running Wild
Author:  Lucy Jane Bledsoe
Pub. date:  September 2019, Margaret Ferguson Books
Genre: realistic fiction
Hardcover,  195 pgs.

   

Storm Runners Book 2: The Surge review

Chase and his friends Nicole and Rashawn have just survived Hurricane Emily, the storm of the century, but their troubles are just beginning. Although they've made it to the safety of Nicole's family's farm--the winter home of the Rossi Brothers' Circus--the floodwaters are rising and they need to reach higher ground. The circus's lions have escaped their cages, and a dangerous and unpredictable leopard is also on the loose. Have Chase and his friends lived through a terrifying night only to face a new disaster? (goodreads summary)



Chase and his two friends finally make it back to the safety of Nicole's farm after a harrowing night of survival from Hurricane Emily's force. Unfortunately upon their arrival, the floodwaters are rising and dangerous animals are at large roaming the farm. Besides facing these hurdles, "Pet" the circus elephant, is about ready to give birth to a new baby any minute. The generator is also on the brink of running out of gas and the barn they are in will be losing the lights within an hour. They need to get to Chase's dad's fifth-wheel where there are plenty of cans of gasoline available. The only thing that could be standing between them is Hector, the aggressive leopard and the thought of four other hungry lions lurking the grounds.

This book picks up right at the end where the first one left off.  The chapters bounce back and forth between Chase trying to get through the dangers of reaching the gasoline on the other side of the property, to his father trying to get back to the farm himself. It still has the same adventure and excitement moving along each chapter as in the first book. Especially when the leopard and lion came into the picture.  There were a few sad moments when some of the animals died and another had to be put down by Nicole herself. These elements in the story only add to the urgency of the situation and for their survival themselves. The birth of the baby elephant did seem a bit descriptive and I did get a clear picture of that, too.  Making it through rising floodwaters, wind and dangerous animals really put these kids to the test. I lost track that they were only middle schoolers at one time, as they managed to think out each situation with such a level-head and face it calmly.  Again, this book is quick and fast-paced with short chapters that may hook reluctant readers.  The first book in the series, Storm Runners, should definitely be read first to help give a good understanding of the storyline. These characters really have to survive a very long night only to prepare themselves for more adventure awaiting them in the third book of the series. I think this is a "just right book" for grades 6-8.~

Title: Storm Runners Book 2: The Surge
Author: Roland Smith
Pub. date: September 2011, Scholastic
Genre: adventure, middle grade
Hardcover, 133 pages


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Spy School review

Ben Ripley may only be in middle school, but he’s already pegged his dream job: C.I.A. or bust. Unfortunately for him, his personality doesn’t exactly scream “secret agent.” In fact, Ben is so awkward, he can barely get to school and back without a mishap. Because of his innate nerdiness, Ben is not surprised when he is recruited for a magnet school with a focus on science—but he’s entirely shocked to discover that the school is actually a front for a junior C.I.A. academy. Could the C.I.A. really want him?Actually, no. There’s been a case of mistaken identity—but that doesn’t stop Ben from trying to morph into a supercool undercover agent, the kind that always gets the girl. (goodreads summary)


Ben Ripley does the same thing everyday feeling that his life is not very interesting.  That is...until he arrives home from school one day and finds Alexander Hale, CIA Agent/Spy sitting in his kitchen. His life changes abruptly when he discovers he has been recruited to attend the Academy of Espionage of the CIA. Ben has dreamed of becoming a spy and chooses to leave his family and friends, who all think he will be attending a Science Academy because of his nerdiness and high math skills. He soon learns that he has been recruited for his cryptography skills and finds on his first day that there are others who also want him for various reasons as well.  He is thrown full force into the world of fighting ninjas, nonstop action and danger, assassins, secret tunnels, bombs, kidnapping and of course, Erica the pretty girl, who is also the daughter of Alexander Hale.  Ben and Erica team together in hot pursuit of exposing a mole at the Academy who is leaking information to a special secret agency about Ben's ability and a secret code he may have developed. With Ben's life on the line and danger at every turn,  he will soon know if he really has what it takes to be a special CIA agent or stay in his uninteresting life but only if he makes it through this adventure alive.

This book is definitely for the reader who loves action, adventure and anything spy related. It has twists and turns in every chapter and there were so many characters involved that it took awhile for the mole to be revealed. It was fun to try and figure out who I thought the mole was only to find that I was wrong more than once. The story was fast-paced and may attract the attention of reluctant readers. It is not only for boys who like spy novels but girls may find this likable as well. Erica is a strong main character and portrayed as a heroine in many instances as she saves Ben from danger on more than one occasion. She definitely has spy skills and intelligence and knows how to use them. The adults in the book though are quite clueless and the kids are definitely the ones who are written with all the smarts.  It does have a wide variety of good vocabulary giving kids an opportunity to find new words. I did find minor cursing starting about 25 pages in and a couple other times towards the end. The action and peril is ongoing throughout each chapter moving  you to the next one quickly. In such a short time, Ben does show character development and discovers that he is capable of more than he thought and what it really means to be a CIA agent. There is good indication that there is room for another book or two with Ben and his Espionage friends in the future. I think this is a "just right book" for grades 6-8.~

Title: Spy School
Author: Stuart Gibbs
Genre: fiction, adventure
Pub. date: March 2012, Simon & Schuster
Hardcover, 291 pages

Storm Runners Book 1 review

Chase Masters and his father are "storm runners," racing across the country in pursuit of hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. But when the hurricane of the century hits, Chase will be tested in ways he never could have imagined. (goodreads summary)







Chase and his father never seem to stay in one place very long.  After the loss of Chase's mother and sister, his father decides to take his building skills on the move to become the Masters of Disaster.  When people need help in rebuilding their communities after a natural disaster strikes, Chase's father John and his helper Tomas' are there to assist. This time they are heading down to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Emily, predicted to hit the St. Petersburg area. Chase is used to relocating to different places quickly and starting new schools, never staying more than a few days. He will be residing with the Rossi family on their farm which is used as a winter haven for a travelling circus and several exotic animals.  On Chase's first day of school, he figures out that the hurricane will change routes and will hit exactly where he is staying in Palm Breeze, instead of the St. Pete's area 40 miles away as predicted. Not believing him when he tells the school Principal they are safer to remain at school, Chase and the students are sent home on the bus. A sudden gust of wind blows the bus off its wheels with Chase, Nicole Rossi and a third student Rashawn on board. The three must fight for their lives to survive the hurricane's force and make it safely to shelter before it is too late.

This story is full of high adventure and heart pounding elements that will keep its' reader hooked with every turn of a page. I think it may also appeal to reluctant readers because it is a fast-paced, short read that is quite thrilling.  I especially like books that portray characters who remain level headed and calm in situations of crisis. This survival story is not short on peril and the characters handled the many life threatening circumstances they came upon.  From pounding hurricane wind and rain, roads breaking away from under them to crossing a flooded refuge full of alligators, it was hard to imagine that this story is based in one day's time.  I found Chase, Nicole and Rashawn very knowledgeable and full of problem solving skills making them strong, likable characters.  I also found myself learning about hurricane's, survival skills and that Chase's go bag filled with items in case of a disaster is a good idea. The ending was a bit of a surprise cliffhanger, which I did not see coming. Some may not like the book ending the way it did. But then again, I view it as a way to keep kids interested in reading and having another book in hand.  The last chapter gave a little foreshadowing for the next book and I am looking forward to following the series. The second book, The Surge, is available now and the third, The Eruption, just came out this month. I think this is a "just right book" for grades 4-7.~

Title: Storm Runners
Author: Roland Smith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Pub. date: March 2011, Scholastic Press
Hardcover, 143 pgs.

Wild Life review

Erik is preparing for his first-ever hunting trip when he learns that his parents are being deployed to Iraq.  A few days later, Erik is shipped off to North Dakota to live with Big Darrell and Oma, grandparents he barely knows. When Erik rescues a dog that’s been stuck by a porcupine, Big Darrell says Erik can’t keep him. But Erik has already named her Quill and can’t bear to give her up.  He decides to run away, taking the dog and a shotgun, certain that they can make it on their own out on the prairie.  In this story of adventure and survival, Erik learns about the challenges and satisfactions of living off the land, the power of family secrets, and the pain of losing what you love. (goodreads summary)


Twelve year old Erik arrives home with exciting news that he passed his hunter safety course and is looking forward to his first outing with his best friend and father. It is soon overshadowed when Erik learns that both parents are being deployed to Iraq at the end of the week. Arrangements have been made for him to move to a very small, underdeveloped town in North Dakota to live with grandparents he does not know.  When Erik arrives, his grandmother is sweet but his grandfather "Big Darrell" is very cool and does nothing to welcome him into his home.  Erik cannot believe he will be living in this remote area for 6 months or maybe even longer. When a stray dog in need of help shows up at the farm with porcupine quills in its nose, he befriends the dog and feels that his life may be bearable after all. But to his dismay, Erik's grandfather says "No dogs" and strictly forbids it into the home. Unfortunately, the owner of the dog has also been located a couple of days later and is ready to take her back. Not only does he have a hard time adjusting to his new surroundings but also does not want to return the dog.  While Erik is alone one day, he decides to see what is behind the closed door that his grandparents do not want him to enter in. Inside, he finds a bedroom shrine from Erik's uncle who died at an early age from the Vietnam War.  When he notices his uncle's old hunting gear, gun and a few other supplies in the closet, he decides to run away to survive living a pioneer life on the land away from any adults telling him what to do.  Besides, what more does he need when he has supplies and a faithful dog by his side?

This story is a quick and fast paced survival/adventure read.  It moves along in a matter of five days time and Erik is faced with a few challenges such as finding shelter, hunger, thirst, sickness and snowy weather. Naturally, things do not go as planned for him and eventually realizes this adventure could be harder than he thought.  The writing was not only wonderfully descriptive but also gave me detailed feeling of the setting and characters.  Because of the fast pace, it just may capture some reluctant readers in need of a bookshare book.  I thought there were some great vocabulary words that kids may find new and noteworthy as well.  Hunting and cleaning pheasants and a rabbit is mentioned in detail but I guess that is part of the true survival experience Erik faces. Both Big Darrell and Erik had to come to terms with loss and change that made for some character development for each person.  I also thought the cover art was eye-catching and beautiful.  I think this is a "just right book" for grades 5-8.~

Title: Wild Life
Author: Cynthia DeFelice
Genre:  Fiction
Pub. Date: April 2011, RR Donnelly & Sons
Hardcover, 177 pgs.

Storm Mountain review

Impossible! Suicidal!  That's thirteen-year-old Cat's reaction to her impulsive, irrepressible cousin Ty's harebrained scheme to spread the ashes of their late fathers at the summit of the same treacherous mountain that claimed both their lives.  But when Ty sets off on his own--stealing her dog and her father's ashes--Cat is forced to follow against her better judgement. (goodreads summary)

Cat's mother is away for the weekend and she has made the perfect plans. To hang out with her beloved dog Mugs, make the best pizza ever, have a shot of mocha and stay up all night. Unfortunately, her cousin is left alone for the weekend too and shows up at her door and changes the plans in an instant.  According to Ty, he has a dream about his father that leads him to the idea he should spread his ashes atop Storm Mountain where both he and Cat's father lost their lives two years ago. Cat is against the idea from the beginning, aware of the dangers the mountain holds. The next morning, Ty takes off on his own willing to fullfill the destiny of his dream.  Angrily, Cat faces the trecherous mountain in search of finding Ty and bringing him to his senses. The story unfolds one survival adventure into another as the two make their way through the wilderness dependent on Cat's mountaineering skills to lead them home. They come face-to-face with an avalanche, falling into an ice crevasse and hoping to survive an oncoming snowstorm in a snow cave shelter just like their fathers tried but unfortunately cost them their lives. Something Cat is determined not let happen to them. The story is fast-paced and the chapters are short and quick.  It strives for humor with Ty's character but Cat doesn't play along. It is a survivial against the elements kind of story and would be a simple and fast read.  It would be a "just right book" for grades 5-7. ~

Title: Storm Mountain
Author: Tom Birdseye
Genre: Adventure/Survival
Pub. Date: June 2010, Holiday House
Hardcover, 135 pgs.

Jump review

Jump. That is what P.K. has done. A totally wild, crazy jump from a restrictive life with her family into a life of total adventure—rock-climbing out west with a guy she barely knows. At first, everything's amazing. Not only are they climbing in awesomely beautiful national parks like Yosemite but they seem awesomely made for one another. P.K. is in heaven. And then the cops show up . . . with an arrest warrant. And P.K. has to decide who to believe: this amazing guy whom she trusts with her life—or the cops, who want her to believe that he may take her life.  (GoodReads description)


P.K. is a high school student misunderstood by her parents and is being sent away to a boarding school in the fall. P.K. is not at all happy about this decision. She loves the thrill of rock climbing and devises a plan to run away on a climbing adventure.  Critter escapes from a psychiatric hospital after being placed there by his parents because of his attempted suicide and the lack of support and understanding from them. The two characters meet up accidentally at a local climbing gym and plan to run away together as strangers to Red Rock for the climb of their lives.  The book is told in alternating voices between P.K. and Critter. I liked how the author wrote through their thoughts and point-of-view individually.  The chapters are short and some have just a few sentances.  Anyone who is into rock climbing would understand the lingo between the climbers. (I found myself learning alot about rock climbing that I did not know). P.K. and Critter hitchhike their way to Las Vegas, meet other climbers, run from the cops and some romantic feelings develop along the way between the two. I did feel though that the book made running away with a stranger to easy a choice for a teenager. The idea of meeting a teenage boy that you know nothing about and go on the road with  made me a little uneasy. The author did have a couple of  situations that showed the dangers and consequences of being a runaway which I liked. Also, the thoughts of wanting to be back home came up more than once.   Critter has some unusual life philosophies and is looking for accceptance from P.K.  Along the way, P.K. is trying to figure him out.  Some parts were dragging and I found myself wanting to get past them faster than I was.  I did understand an underlying message that we need to listen to our kids and be more accepting of who they are.  I think this book would be appropriate  and a "just right book" for ages 15 and up.  I would like to read other titles by this author.~

Title: Jump
Author: Elisa Carbone
Genre: Realistic Fiction, young adult
Pub. Date: June 2010, Penguin Group
Hardcover, 255 pgs.
book source: local library