REVIEW: A HANDFUL OF STARS BY CYNTHIA LORD

Published by Scholastic Press, 2015. Hardcover, 184 pgs

    The bookseller I purchased this from said this was a wonderful middle grade book about big issues without being a "big issue" book. She couldn't be more correct. This cute and deceptively simple story features twelve year old Lily and her old dog Lucky, who live in Maine near a blueberry farm. One day Lucky gets away and  crosses into the blueberry fields where a little girl Salma is working her plot. Salma catches Lucky by giving her a peanut butter sandwich. When Lily takes Salma's family a thank-you pie, the two strike up a lovely friendship.

      Accepting change, evolving friendships, and the impact of art as a medium of expression are explored in this contemporary novel. The reader also glimpses loss through the lens of Salma, since her family never stays in one place. Lily's loss of her mom weighs heavily on her own day to day experiences. Together, the two teach each other about meaningful, lasting friendships. From a mutual love of painting to bonding over animals, this coming of age story set in Maine is sure to delight. And, of course, who can resist that cover?

REVIEW: THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE BY KATE DICAMILLO

Published by Candlewick Press, 2006, Hardback, 200 pgs

I'm always on the lookout for engaging children's books, especially since I'm encouraging a seven year old to read. In trying to participate in #ReadKidsLit for November, featured on YouTube by Leslie from Words of a Reader channel, I was browsing titles at my library. The wonderful Hannah Lamb (whose channel is also her name) loves Kate DiCamillo, and that has further encouraged me to pick up her work.

After reading the first page, I stopped until my daughter, Natalie, could get home from school. The beautiful illustrations and the connection between this little girl's "pet rabbit" is similar to my daughter's love for her ratty old stuffed cat. We follow Edward Tulane, an arrogant china rabbit who belongs to a sweet, attentive 10 year old named Abilene. Every morning, she sits him in a chair facing the window with a watch on his leg- so that he will be able to know the exact time and see her return from school at 3:00pm. Edward is not grateful to be owned by the doting Abilene, and often finds her conversations boring and insubstantial. He wishes for greater adventures and more self-satisfaction. Through various circumstances, he unintentionally gets his wish to travel and have life experiences. With these positive and negative experiences, his attitudes towards love and friendship evolve.

This is a wonderful story about appreciation for life and love, and teaches children not to take things for granted. There were some deeply sad moments, and I cringed a lot at some truly callous adult behavior. Unfortunately, this is the world we live in, and Di Camillo gives a realistic representation. I think Natalie was a little young for a couple scenes, but they were easily glossed over. I also edited out a brief part about a drunk man for when she's older and has more context. I was very impressed with Kate Di Camillo's writing and storytelling. It's so engaging, and you get the added benefit of teaching valuable lessons to kids.

REVIEW: THEODOSIA AND THE STAFF OF OSIRIS (BOOK 2) BY R.L LAFEVERS

Published by Sandpiper (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), 2008. Paperback, 387 pgs
Review of book one in this series- Serpents of Chaos
       I'm so excited to get back to Theodosia's world, with her witty humor and demure black cat, Isis. The Serpents of Chaos are wreaking havoc again- and it's up to Theodosia and Lord Wigmere (leader of the Brotherhood of the Chosen Keepers) to eradicate them once and for all. Another secret society becomes involved in the mysterious mummy case for good measure. Theo is also aided once again by her friend Sticky Will- the pickpocket from book one.

      The side story of Grandmother Throckton's search for a proper governess for Theodosia was super entertaining, especially with there being a slew of applicants before a match was found. As with many adult characters in this story, the ones who don't outright ignore her are hateful and she's forced into a battle of wits to move forward with anything. That part of the book started to get me a bit down. It's handled in a semi-comical way, but like the first installment, she's a total latchkey child as her parents go off gallivanting. Very little thought goes into leaving her food or a chaperone. Most of the other adult figures are openly hostile or form thinly-veiled insults about her being a bother or too smart for her own good. Poor Theo! Good grief. I wanted to grip all the adults by the ears and scream at them, or do worse to others (like her parents, they could have an unfortunate accident and she'd probably be better off in the care of ANYONE else).

     I love the simple fact that Theodosia knows her way around a library. She is a bit like Matilda in her forced underage self-sufficiency and solitary quest for knowledge. Theo also seems like she could be the daughter of Alexia Terrabotti from Gail Carriger's Parasol Protectorate series. Theo and Alexia are head strong and resourceful, and have a similar sense of humor and manners. They also have very vocal opinions on unnecessary nonsense. I would preorder a mashup novel of those two characters immediately!

     This book was just as strong as the first, even though I missed Isis a bit. However, as I saw a fellow Booktuber (Allyson) mention on her channel, the cat makes appropriate entrances throughout, making the book feel realistic. To throw her in at other random points would feel forced and contrived. This reader is just a little odd in her feline obsession. I could read any story where cats randomly jump in with no bearing on the narrative- and I'd be just peachy. I highly recommend this book to any middle grade readers or adults who love museums, Egyptology, Archeology, CATS, cheeky young heroines, and mysteries on the lighter side.

REVIEW: CRENSHAW BY KATHERINE APPLEGATE

*Disclosure: I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Readers Copy of this book at BookExpoAmerica.

Expected Publication: September 22, 2015 from Fiewel & Friends, a division of Macmillan. Hardback, 256 pgs

    Before I start this review, I would like to endorse this author as a nice human being. I was in line for the book at Book Expo America this past May, and saw her interactions with other readers, specifically younger kids (who were in the age category for this book- 8-12). I heard her asking what they wanted to be when they grew up and really engaging with them. I heard her say that writing was the best job in the world and she highly recommended it. It's great to hear someone so in love with their craft! 

      My first reading experience with Applegate was the One and Only Ivan. My review is here. The beautiful way she wrote the human and animal interaction made me excited to pick up her other work. When I heard the premise for this middle grade novel, I made her line a priority at Book Expo America so I could get my hands on it.

    Jackson is a fifth-grader whose family has fallen on hard times. The plausible reasons for this are revealed throughout the story, which is done in a well-paced way that allows the reader to connect with the family's hardships. I thought her depiction of his parent's glass half-full positivity inspiring. I hope young readers will be grateful for what they have and think carefully about how they can help those who don't. There are many good takeaways from the book

    I appreciate the way Applegate tackles tough issues that kids face and does it in a heartfelt, easily understandable, and appropriate manner. As a parent, I would love nothing more than to shelter my kids from the harsh threats of the world. Unfortunately, since this isn't reality, it is wonderful to have stories that tackle difficult subjects well. 

   I was a bit surprised that Crenshaw was more of a background character than I originally thought he would be. However, his representation of comfort through a tumultuous time was the crucial point, no matter what animal form that took. I'm sure Applegate carefully considered an animal that matched the traits needed. Also, imaginary friends bring joy and help fill any voids, and I love the idea that they will always be around when needed the most. I wish books like this had been given to me as a child, I'm so impressed with the great literary choices our children have today.

REVIEW: The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Published by HarperCollins Childrens, 2012. Hardcover, 304 pages

SUMMARY: One of the cutest books on earth. If you don't find it so you might not have a soul. Too strong? That might not be the best summary. I suppose I'll continue. This beautiful story of friendship follows a Gorilla named Ivan and his friends- Stella the elephant and Bob the dog at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. The story follows Ivan's musings on human behavior, his past life in the jungle with his family, and the ways in which he entertains himself to pass the monotonous days. Ivan's life changes with the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant who is meant to be a new revenue source  for Mack's dying enterprise. Ivan is determined to make a better life for this little one and begins to use his "art" as way to improve their circumstances. Applegate based this novel on a true story of a gorilla named Ivan who was kept alone in a mall cage in Washington for almost three decades before increased pressure finally forced him to be relocated to Zoo Atlanta.

WRITING: There are often very few words per page, even though they pack an emotional punch. This sparse style is effective, especially when describing strong emotions like love, grief, boredom, and hopelessness. While I love this style in books, I was a greedy reader and wanted the story to be longer. I can see how this might dilute the content, but it would have made me happy to spend just a little longer with them.

PACING: The pacing is exactly as it should be. I immediately understood the sadness and acceptance of Ivan's living situation, even while chuckling at his confusion over "Human face licking" on TV.

PLOT: Applegate focuses heavily on the ethical treatment of animals, especially those who are kept in tight, unnatural environments. It raised the question of what our moral obligation is to wild animals.

CHARACTERS: There are two elephants, a witty gorilla, a little nut-brown stray dog named Bob, an evil animal trainer, a down-on-his-luck custodian (George), and Ivan's artistic human friend Julia. A full cast of cuteness. It's hard not to repeat how CUTE this book is. 

FINAL RATING: 5 STARS
I wouldn't change a thing. While the book was terribly sad in many parts, it was pure joy in showing that animals are far more capable of forming non-judgmental, innocent friendships. They are also intelligent beings that need the proper environment to thrive. Their young age (like little kids) allows them a wonderful freedom from preconceived notions and prejudices. They just want to play and talk, with no regard to socioeconomic status, race, or religion. What would the world look like if this continued to adulthood?

Ivan talking about Stella the Elephant "We don't have much in common, but we have enough. We are huge and alone, and we both love yogurt raisins." 

However, like all youngsters, these precious creatures aren't immune to jealousy and silly fights.

I want a sequel. I want to stay with these animals. I hope to get to Applegate's author booth at BookExpoAmerica and beg for more (while getting my book signed). The story is totally adorable from beginning to end. I occasionally find this expression annoying but feel it adequately describes The One and Only Ivan- "It gives you all the feels."

Review: Matilda by Roald Dahl

Published by: Penguin Young Readers Group 1st American Edition, 1988 Hardcover, 240 pages


SUMMARY: Ah, Matilda. My hero! A wonderful, gifted little girl who is a math and reading prodigy by the ripe old age of five. Self-taught through her local library, Matilda escapes her surroundings by reading Dickens and Hemingway. Her used car salesman dad and bingo playing mom blame her for all their shortcomings, treating her deplorably. The story focuses on Matilda's struggles at home and in school as she makes her way through Kindergarten. Through it all, she remains the ideal kid- lacking conceit and self-consciousness while having a sweet personality.

WRITING: This is my first Roald Dahl book. The dude is dark. However, he is quite witty in describing children and adults. I appreciate an author who who is smart enough to realize that children are more perceptive than we give them credit for, and have the ability to be brutally honest.
"Do you think all children's books ought to have funny bits in them?" Miss Honey asked.
"I do...Children are not so serious as grown-ups and they love to laugh" (Matilda)
Matilda is straight forward and looks at life simply but accurately. I was utterly in love with all facets of her personality.

PACING: Appropriate...this is a short children's book and didn't suffer structural problems that often plague literary fiction and fantasy. The story moved along well.

PLOT: Wowser. I was a bit astonished at the extreme physical violence, verbal abuse, and even a cuss word. I wouldn't recommend this to early readers, but rather late middle school to high school reading set. I realize Dahl was playing with extremes, but the ranting and raving of Ms. Trunchbull and the Father were excessive in my opinion. It was blatantly clear that these miserable human beings wanted to squash any happiness or success in others, but it felt like the reader was beat over the head with the hatefulness. It wore on me after a few chapters.

CHARACTERS: Wonderfully done. With characters like Trunchbull, Ms. Honey, Hortensia, Lavender...you could get a sense of personality simply from the names. The over-the-top father is a caricature of madness, and Dahl isn't subtle about making him a shady and ridiculous person.

FINAL RATING: 4 STARS
 Matilda is one of my new favorite characters. Obviously without her there would be no book, but if I hadn't loved her so completely this would get three stars. Dahl also did a great job using the characters as a way to bring attention to social issues...such as resilient children who succeed in spite of atrocious parenting, and how decent teachers must often become the "parent"/mentor and pick up the slack. The book certainly left me feeling a bit disturbed and surprised, but that is obviously the point. The illustrations by Quentin Blake add depth and comedy to the story, and greatly enhance the reading experience!! I recommend to young adult readers looking to root for an adorable protagonist, even though it is technically labeled a children's book. 

Review: Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos by R.L Lafevers

Published by Houghton Mifflin, 2007. Hardcover, 344 pages


SUMMARY:
It is London, 1906, when Theodosia Throckmorton roams the halls of The Museum of Legends and Antiquities. Her father is the head curator, and she is busy banishing ancient Egyptian curses from artifacts with her beloved cat, Isis. Her archnemesis, Clive Fagenbush, "smells of boiled cabbage and pickled onions", and often sneaks around thwarting her plans with his spying. In this first installment, the Heart of Egypt goes missing and Theo uses her skills in Egyptology (aided by her parents inattention) to investigate before the world is doomed!

WRITING:
R.L Lafevers did a good job describing things from an eleven year old girl's perspective. Her annoyances, interests, and observations were appropriate for the time period and her uncommon living situation. I don't know of another kid who sleeps in a sarcophagus regularly. I loved her trusty feline companion and their deep bond. Also, we don't use the word "muttonhead" enough in our culture. I also want to perform the exorcism cleverly outlined on page 78 for my own evil orange tabby, Cat Deeley.

PLOT:
The plot is quite fantastical as Theo is left to her own devices and gets in life and death situations, travels great distances, and is allowed to do things that children just wouldn't be able to do unnoticed today. However, this is before helicopter parenting and the rise of Child Protective Services. Plus, this is a fun adventure for children and requires suspension of belief.

PACING: Everything moved well towards the conclusion. I loved hearing about the staff at the museum and also the secret society members. It was fun to hear about Egyptian Gods and rituals, and I'm glad Lafevers took the time to include them and create the necessary spooky atmosphere for the story.

CHARACTERS:  Theodosia, her grandmother, Henry, and Will were the most developed. I also liked Wigmere and hope he will continue to feature in the series. While her parents rushed in and out of the story, the father was still interesting in his nutty-professor aloofness.

FINAL RATING: 4 STARS
This book is eerily reminiscent of another one of my favorite children's/Young Adult series...Alan Bradley's Flavia De Luce character from The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie (book one). The similarities are startlling: both are young girls in England in the 1900's (Flavia is later in the 1950's), have mothers who have been away on expeditions, and are often left alone to explore and learn about their environment. The Fathers love them as best they can, and often underestimate them since they are children. Theo's dad states "a mere child wouldn't understand" and other condescending remarks quite often throughout the story. Theo also references how her parents "get annoyed when she's underfoot".

This was a library copy but I will be buying the entire series for future reading to my children. I highly recommend this as an imaginative, delightful, and engrossing read!