Text and Java

As a promise to myself to read more middle grade books, as they ARE my number one reference clients, I have upped the amount of books I usually read. So far, so good. I am trying to read a wide spread of genres, but so far I have mostly read fiction. Really, really good fiction.... Bigger Than a Bread Box by Laurel Snyder Published: 9/27/11 Reviewed copy from my library (at my request for purchase-whoot!) From Goodreads : A magical breadbox that delivers whatever you wish for—as long as it fits inside? It's too good to be true! Twelve-year-old Rebecca is struggling with her parents' separation, as well as a sudden move to her Gran's house in another state. For a while, the magic bread box, discovered in the attic, makes life away from home a little easier. Then suddenly it starts to make things much, much more difficult, and Rebecca is forced to decide not just where, but who she really wants to be. Laurel Snyder's most thought-provoking book yet You know wh...

The Flint Heart By Katherine Paterson and John Paterson Illustrated by John Rocco Out now! Review copy from my library I was not sure I would enjoy this one, as anyone who knows me knows that my tolerance for fairies (or pixies or brownies) is minimal. This is a charmer, however. From the moment the story first begins, in the Stone Age, I was transfixed. I do love how the story remains constantly intelligent: there are words in the story I needed to look up. "So the message was sent, the charades were acted, and the cold collation eaten." (271) This is a story that does not "talk down" to to children, and in fact, forces them to ponder such things as whether or not it is wise to consider the Point of View of someone else, the value of a hot-water bottle (made in Germany), and what could make a simple, kind person decide to make it their mission in life to be in charge of everything and every one. The tale reminded me very much of Alice in Wonderland...

In my quest to read more Middle Grade books, I am trying to read many of the books that folks think may win the 2012 Newberry. I am working my way along this ongoing  list . Today, I would like to share my thoughts on Sparrow Road by Sheila O'Connor. This book was not for me. First, the History major in me was going crazy trying to place this novel in time. Here is my mathematical formula for narrowing this down: First, no mention of cellphones or internet= time <1995 Mama's "hippie" stint in Amsterdam= time >1969 Several mentions of "paisley" and peasant blouses= 1970's Raine is 12, going on 13 + Mom (hippie)= late 70's to early 80's Final result= 1978-1989 Still, it is a range. Next, my major, major problem with this story is that it features a bunch of non-functioning adults who rely too much on a 12 year-old. A 12 year-old that they do not tell the truth to, and then expect her to make mature decisions. HUH? Several time...