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Books to Read
Hello, reading friends! Here you will find the latest books I love--this is ever changing, so check back again for new finds!
The Mysterious Howling takes elements of a Victorian mystery and what Publishers Weekly calls “a Snicketeque effect,” and combines them with quirky, positive writing to create a masterpiece for older children. There are many mysteries to follow—Penelope’s family, the origins of the wolf children, Lord Ashton’s monthly disappearances. The elements of Victorian England are prevalent and determine elements of events, including the design of the Christmas ball. Children can also learn about life for both the rich and poor during this historic period. This novel will keep children on edge as they watch the wolf children (The Incorrigibles) navigate tricky situations and can appreciate their very silly, offbeat humor. Librarians could have students read this book and perform a three part play of their choice from a scene in the book, just as was done at the Christmas ball.
Dewey Bob follows a young raccoon who has recently grown too old for his home. He leaves the "family pants" and finds a new house of his own, a nice, hollow tree. Once moved in, Dewey realizes the tree needs some decorating in order to feel like home. Dewey loves to indulge in collecting, so he hunts for treasures, like buttons, straws--really any knick-knack works! Even after the house is decorated, he still feels lonely, so he next attempts to collect friends, which does not go to plan, and he is left with a small kitten with broken legs. He finds helping the kitten run free is better than keeping it for himself. Children will delight in the multimedia illustrations and Dewey's very, very thick back-woods accent. Dewey learns how to overcome loneliness and make friends, an encouraging lesson for children of all ages.
Hoot Owl, Master of Disguise is humorous and entertaining for a wide range of ages. The illustrations are bold, capturing the eyes of younger children, and artistically pleasing for adults. The storyline is simple, and repetition keeps children captivated despite the smattering of more complex situations and vocabulary. Children will also enjoy Hoot Owl’s adventures, as the reader can feel the intensity (and, silliness!) of the hungry owl’s personality. Adults and beginning readers will catch the humor in Hoot Owl’s over-confident personality as he invents costumes and fails to gobble up small animals. And, each little animal, so preciously illustrated, escapes unharmed, helping this book maintain a cheery, lighthearted nature.
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