My (Longer Than Usual) Week in Books

2014-09-12 10.11.13

Usually I post about 5 books. Maybe 6. Today there are 12!  I finished some novels, explored  a few picture books and graphic novels, and tried out a new audio book platform.

Three Bears in a Boat, by David Soman

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This is a sweet little book about bears who go sailing in a boat. The illustrations are marvelous. I think this story is about making mistakes, taking a risk, and the value of going home.

Prehistoric Actual Size, by Steve Jenkins

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I’ve loved Steve Jenkins’ book, Actual Size, for years, as a wonderful way to share not only amazing animals rendered in cut paper collage with students, but to really have great lessons in perspective. This one is at least as good. The artwork is spectacular, with foldouts that just keep going and going. Love it.

The Red Pencil, by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Shane W. Evans

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This book. This book moved me, this book leaves me almost speechless. Thank you so much to Andrea Davis Pinkney. Everyone needs to read this lovely tale in verse.

Elora of Stone, by Jaime Lee Mann

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This is a fun middle grade fantasy that I got from NetGalley. I think it would especially have appeal for elementary readers just finding their place in longer chapter books. The premise, and the twists which keep us guessing are most engaging.

The Book Whisperer, by Donalyn Miller

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What can I say about this wonderful resource for teachers, except that every reading specialist and classroom teacher should read it? I reread it for a talk I was giving. It’s worth revisiting regularly.

Inked, by Eric Smith

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This one has an interesting premise. The ink, tattoos given to members of the community at a certain age, has interesting significance within the society. Most fascinatingly, it’s almost animated. I won’t give away the rest, but if you like a teen dystopian fantasy kind of a read, this one will fill the bill.

Eye on the Wild: Sea Otter, by Suzi Eszterhas

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This is a lovely little book, part of a popular nonfiction series. I really liked the gentle text, informative and accessible for young readers, and I love the photographs. I only wish there were actual citations at the back. I think it’s the library teacher in me, but a nonfiction book which gives me no sources is hard for me to swallow for any age, since finding out more is exactly what kids are all about.

Gaston, by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Christian Robinson

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What a lovely book about acceptance, and about parents who discover how to let their children be exactly who they are. The expressions on the dog faces are wonderful.

Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar, by Keith Richards, illustrated by Theodora Richards

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I love having bags of books to catalog for the school, because if I’m fast I can read them first. I left this one on the bottom of the pile, though, and it was simply because I am prejudiced. I have to confess that I do not like the Rolling Stones. I never have, and I never will. However, this book is so lovely, and I’m so very glad I opened the cover and started to turn the pages. Check out the artwork, and read the lovely story.

The Tyrant’s Daughter, by J.C. Carleson

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This was a very interesting book to listen to on audio. I got it originally from NetGalley, but decided to finish it with my ears. This book puts the experience of being a stranger in a strange land in a new light. The commentary at the end is particularly interesting, including some of the points about writing fiction from real events, and the author’s description of how she created a story which was an amalgam of news stories from all over the globe. It would be a good read for older middle school students.

The Year of Billy Miller, by Kevin Henkes

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This was such a fun book to listen to. Fast to read, great for those kids ready for early chapters, this is a delightful story about a kid who finds success with the support of the adults and friends around him. I found it just really fun to follow Billy Miller through his year in second grade.

The Explorer: The Mystery Boxes, edited by Kabu Kibuishi

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If you are familiar with graphic novels, and in particular with the “Amulet” series, you’ll know this guy’s work. This is, however, an anthology of artists telling stories all on the same theme. There are a couple of “Explorer” titles and a series of title on “Flight.” It’s fun to see a variety of artists represented in one book – that’s a great way to find out about new books to try.

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About vst3in

I am a writer, avid reader, library techie, birder and runner. I make felt and teach others. I love colors and textures and birds and books. I'm working on a historical novel and reading lots of books for young people. I am running to get stronger, and I sail with my husband. This blog contains thoughts about all these things.
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2 Responses to My (Longer Than Usual) Week in Books

  1. barbaraberkley says:

    I put “The Red Pencil” on hold and “The Tyrant’s Daughter” on my list. Thanks! 🙂

  2. vst3in says:

    Oh, enjoy those! The Red Pencil is the third novel in verse I’ve read in the last month and they are all so moving and lovely.

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