Secrets at Sea

Secrets at Sea

Richard Peck (2011)

It's Downton Abbey with mice!

Cute story with good dialogue, including a cockney accent, about a family of mice following their family of humans on a cruise to England. Lots of sister dynamics, ball gowns, and a few weddings.

Gregor the Overlander

Summer is here, and with the sun, free time, and slim chance I might get a classroom next fall comes the list of childrens/young adult books to read -- the stack's not too tall yet if you have any suggestions...

by Suzanne Collins (2003)

A good ol' traditional Tolkien-ish fantasy quest, including the unlikely hero full of unexpected bravery, the quarreling companions, the ancient poetic prophecy, and right down to the spiders... these ones are orange with blue blood, but still creepy and gross.  This one adds in a cute and courageous baby sister who sings to giant cockroaches, and a good time is had by all.

Quick paced, fresh ideas, lively battles, and of course more adventures/books to come!

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

by Judy Blume (1972)

Another favorite from my youth, and if you knew my brother and/or sister* you understand how often I exclaimed "I feel your pain, Peter!"

Nothing deep, just good entertainment, especially for for those students with younger siblings.  I found little Fudge (and Mom) more annoying than endearing, but definitely respect Peter's resiliency.

Love Blume's website, lots of personal insights on story origins and comments on censorship.



*this may read as if my brother became my sister, but I have one of each and my brother has, as far as I know, remained very manly.