Books for Kids Who Want Fame and Fortune

So you want to be in show business.  Lots of kids love the idea of being famous.  The books I am profiling this week show kids who are tackling the industry.  They are written by people who understand show business and give kids a real look at what happens behind the scenes.

Admitedly, parts of being famous are pretty glamorous, but there is a whole other side that I think will surprise the children who read these books.  So give your future Hollywood stars a reality check with some books that will give them an inside look into magic of movies and television.  Oh, and these books are so much fun, that even kids without Hollywood dreams will enjoy reading about the adventures in the entertainment industry.

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or Twitter for all the star studded reads your kids will not be able to put down.

Title:       I Represent Sean Rosen

Author:   Jeff Baron

Target:    Grades 5-8

Series:     No

What this book is about:
Sean Rosen has a million dollar idea that will change the entertainment industry.  However, he doesn’t know a soul in Hollywood.  Sean decides to “practice” his approach by trying to get a movie sold to his second favorite company in the entertainment industry.  If that goes well, then maybe he will be able to move forward on his big idea.  Since no one wants to represent a thirteen year old boy, he invents a manager, Dan Welch.  This guy is good, so good in fact that Sean can’t believe his progress.

Why I love this book:
Ok, Sean is such a funny character that I was hooked from the first page.  Think thirteen year old boy who is nerdy, neurotic and full of hutzpah.  His deadpan humor just steals the show.

Of course the fun of the book is to see how far Sean can actually get with his made up manager, who really takes on a personality of his own.  If I have one complaint it is that kids may get frustrated that they never find out what the “big idea” actually is.

Who this book is for:
This book reminded me, in it’s tone, of Timmy Failure. so kids who liked that book should really like this one. 

Final thoughts:
I wish Sean’s manager Dan Welch represented this blog.  I think the two of us could really go places.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: I Represent Sean Rosen  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       The Fizzy Whiz Kid

Author:   Maiya Williams

Target:    Grades 4-6

Series:     No

What this book is about:

Mitch has just moved to Hollywood because his parents are teaching at the local university.  His motto for starting at a new school is to blend in.  However, in Hollywood if you aren’t involved in the entertainment industry you stand out like a sore thumb.  So in an effort to be more like the kids at school, Mitch tries his hand at acting and lands a commercial for Fizzy Whiz soda.  But fame isn’t what he thought it would be and it seems to be keeping him from his new friends instead of helping him fit in.

Why I love this book:

This is a fun look at the entertainment industry.  The author is quite knowledgeable about sets and auditions, so the information felt like a real account of what it was like to be part of producing a commercial.  For kids interested in “the industry” it is a nice primer.

Of course fame always cuts two ways, and Mitch gets to see the good and bad of being famous.  He handles it like a real kid and that makes the book interesting and realistic.   I liked that the author also brought in a bit about the health issues surrounding sugary drinks.

Who this book is for:

Great for kids who have an interest in acting as well as kids who just like a fun read.

Final thoughts:

Hollywood is a tough town, even for a Fizzy Whiz kid!

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Fizzy Whiz Kid  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       Commercial Breaks: Famous for Thirty Seconds

Author:   P. G. Kain

Target:    Grades 4-7

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:
Brittany Rush has been making commercials since she was still in diapers.  However, when her mother scores an overseas assignment in Hong Kong for a year, Brittany has to leave all that behind.  Upon her return she thinks she can pick up right where she left off, but instead of still being the “it” girl, she is now just one of many pretty faces.  Can she discover what makes her special, and when she does, will that change everything?

Why I love this book:
Ok, lets not beat around the bush, this book is not winning any Newbery awards, but this story is one I would have devoured when I was in middle school.  It is surprisingly well written for the tween genre and it also gives quite a realistic view of what it is like to be in commercials, rejection and all. 

The cover really gives the impression that it is a bubble gum novel, which is a shame, because while not deep and thought provoking, it has enough substance and is engaging enough that I though it was a worthwhile read, and I do not suffer idiot books lightly.

Who this book is for:
Great for tween girls who like the idea of modeling or acting.  This is not a sugar coated version of the industry, despite what the cover would imply.  Nothing inappropriate, all good clean fun.

Final thoughts:
This book totally appealed to my inner tween girl!

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon :Famous for Thirty Seconds (Commercial Breaks)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Anton and the Battle for Picture Book Friday

This week I get to talk about one of my favorite picture book authors that is not so well known in the U.S., but I hope that changes!  Ole Konnecke currently resides in Germany, and I am a huge fan of his deadpan humor, minimalist illustrations and all too true observations on kid behavior.  Well, maybe I should say human behavior, because I see adults in these books just as much as kids.  Perhaps that's why I have as much fun reading them to my kids as they do hearing them.

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or twitter for more great authors that you have never heard of, but that I swear to you are actually funny... no really!

Title:       Anton and the Battle

Author:   Ole Konnecke

Target:    Preschool - Grade 2

What this book is about:
Anton has returned for another adventure!  When he runs into his friend Luke, Anton immediately issues the challenge, “I am stronger than you.”  Luke will not be convinced.  As they carry on a series of one upmanship challenges with imaginary rocks, logs and dragons, their bravado is eventually shaken when the neighborhood dog comes by, scaring both boys into a tree.  

Why I love this book:
Ole Konnecke remains one of my favorite picture book authors.  If you haven’t enjoyed his other books you must check out Anton Does Magic and Anthony and the Girls, both just deadpan funny books.

I love that in this book the boys constantly try to get the better of one another with the silliest of challenges, but it is the little local dog that scares them to bits.  Of course when the dog leaves, the boys are completely unfazed and start their competition right where they left off.

My kids absolutely laughed at each new challenge as the imaginary contest grows more and more extreme.  This book reminded me quite a bit of Robot Zombie Frankenstein, another clever book about trying to get the better of your opponent, that elicited the same reactions.

Who this book is for:
Kids who like to laugh.

Final thoughts:
Of course what makes this book so funny is that it rings true to so many conversations you will find on the playground.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Anton and the Battle  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Early Chapter Books for the Girl in Your House

In honor of getting selected as a Cybils (Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards) judge for Early Readers/Chapter Books I thought it was fitting to do a post on this very topic.  These awards are a lovely opportunity for me to find books that may have never made my radar, to discuss books with librarians and book lovers from around the country and to help select a story that is not only well written, but that will also appeal to children.  I feel so lucky!

This week my books are bit female focused, sorry boys.  This was not intentional and I have a few good boy ones in the pipeline I will be blogging about in the coming weeks.  But if you have a girl, whoopee!  This is your week.  Many of these books are continuations of a series, and they are just delightful.  I so appreciate it when the second and third books are just as engaging as the first.

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or twitter for all the best books to get your kids moving into chapter books.

Title:       The Gumazing Gum Girl!

Author:   Rhode Monijo

Target:    Grade 1-3

Series:     This is the first book in a planned series

What this book is about:
Gabby Gomez loves bubble gum.  She chews it non stop.  But when some gets stuck in her hair overnight, her mother is at her wit’s end and tells Gabby no more gum!  Gabby can’t seem to give it up cold turkey, so on the way to school she sneaks one last piece, but when the bubble pops over her entire body, strange changes begin to take place.  She becomes Gum Girl and her feats of sticky stretchiness save the day.  The only problem is that all the pride she feels over helping people doesn’t feel very good when she has lied to her parents about her gum chewing habit.  Oh, and a bad guy is out to get her - Dun! Dun! Dun!

Why I love this book:
The bold comic book illustrations are so striking and fun, they will draw readers to this book immediately.  The story also moves at a fast pace so that readers will quickly engage.  

I like the fact that the author uses onomatopoeia very successfully in the story.  And so you don’t think I am throwing big words around, it simply means words that imitate sounds like Nom! Nom! when she is chewing.  I thought it added a lot of charm to the text.

Another lovely element to the book was the fact that Gabby is hispanic and spanish words are scattered throughout the narrative.  It felt natural and even if you don’t know spanish, the context clues made the words very easy to figure out.

Who this book is for:
This is a great book for kids just making the leap to chapter books.  Large pictures are present on most pages.  Some pages have two or three paragraphs of text, but most have simply a sentence.

Final thoughts:
My only gripe with the book is that it ended quite abruptly with a few loose ends.  While this will probably not bother many kids, for me, I wanted a little more resolution.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Gumazing Gum Girl! Book 1 Chews Your Destiny (Gum Girl Novel, A)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       Penny and Her Doll

Author:   Kevin Henkes

Target:    Kindergarten - Grade 2

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:
Penny receives a wonderful new doll in the mail from grandma.  Penny falls in love immediately.  The only problem is that she can’t think of the right name for her new friend.  Everyone tries to help but nothing really fits.  Will Penny find the perfect name?  (I know you are on the edge of your seat wondering with this one!)

Why I love this book:

I love this book because Penny acts and speaks like a real first grader.  Her thoughts aren’t deep and complicated and there isn’t a serious lesson at the end of the story, she is just a kid who wants to find a name for her doll.    Henkes manages to make her not quite edge of your seat dilemma into a story that is charming and funny with it’s matter of fact tone.

Kid’s will appreciate her frustration in it’s simplicity because this is big stuff to a first grader! 

Who this book is for:

With large type and pictures on every page this is a great book for kids who are just starting simple chapter books.  The pink cover and doll theme puts this book squarely in the girl category.

Final thoughts:

Sometimes the simplest books are the hardest to write.  Henkes does a beautiful job with this series.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Penny and Her Doll (I Can Read Book 1)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       Princess Posey and the Tiny Treasure

Author:   Stephanie Greene

Target:    Kindergarten - Grade 2

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:
Posey’s grandfather buys her a special toy pig which she longs to take to school to show her friends.  However, she is afraid that she will have trouble putting it away and toys that are not put away go into the “consequences drawer.”  When this fate befalls her pig, will Posey be able to get her back?

Why I love this book:

I think all of the Posey books are quite charming and deal with real issues that concern first graders.  I also like that in a simple chapter book, Greene is able to show that not all issues are cut and dry and that real life can be complicated.  Posey is a real little girl as she wrestles with the rules.

Who this book is for:

These books are positioned squarely for girls. This book is for kids who are moving into chapter books.  Pictures are scattered liberally throughout but not on every page.  Large type and smaller pages make this a good transition book.

Final thoughts:

This book works well with the picture book Lily’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes which also deals with bringing things out in class at inappropriate times.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Princess Posey and the Tiny Treasure  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Favorite Picture Book of the Year

Well the time has come, the day is here, the hour is at hand ..... to tell you my Favorite Picture Book of the Year!  I debated waiting until the actual end of the year but things are so hectic that I wanted to give you plenty of time to fawn over this book.

So what makes a book my "favorite."  Well in my world it has to be clever, (check) funny at a child and adult level (check) and a wonderful read aloud (check!)  This top honor went to Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons last year.  While Pete the Cat had me singing in front of a class of Kindergartners, the winner this year allows me to use my best acting chops to deliver a humorous and all to true account of how kids use their crayons.

This does not signal the end of my profiling great picture books this year.  I still have some wonderful contenders that were a close second that I have yet to share with you.  But I didn't want to keep this one under my belt any longer.  I want you to get out there and enjoy it with your kids.

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or twitter.  Buttons are on the bar to the left.  You don't want to miss the funny picture books coming up which include a support group for carnivores .... oh come on, how can you not be intrigued?

Title:       The Day the Crayons Quit

Author:    Drew Daywalt

Target:     Kindergarten - Grade 3

What this book is about:
Duncan is in the mood to color.  He pulls out his crayon box, and low and behold, his faithful crayons are gone, and several letters have been left in their place.  They outline the crayon’s grievances, and they want to be taken seriously.  Beige is tired of playing second fiddle to brown, can you blame him?  Peach crayon is very unhappy about having his wrapper peeled off, I mean now he has to go around naked!  Yellow and Orange just want Duncan to make up his mind and pick a definitive color for the sun, the waffling is causing tension in the box.  And the list goes on!

Why I love this book:
I read a lot of picture books every year, and this one is by far my favorite of the year.  It is the one book I can honestly say I wish I had written!  The clever humor is all too true and both kids and adults will easily be able to appreciate the plight of the crayons.  I think kids will actually think twice when they pick up their crayon box from now on, and maybe even experiment with some new combinations.

The illustrations by Oliver Jeffers are lovely and the crayons are surprisingly expressive.  If I have one complaint (and I really shouldn't because this book is so well done) it is that each letter is written in crayon.  While whimsical, I sometimes  found the text difficult to read, and I didn’t want to miss any of the funny musings. 

Who this book is for:
I can’t think of a child who wouldn’t be giggling by the end of this book.  Poor naked Peach crayon always gets the biggest laugh.

Final thoughts:
Crayons have feelings too and I will try and use beige a little more often, now that I know he cares.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Day the Crayons Quit  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Science Fiction for Kids is Back

I do think this is the year of the Sci Fi Books.  I see it coming back in a big way.  One thing that I believe will propel this genre forward is the release of the book Ender's Game as a movie in November.  This book is really good, and I think kids will have a bit of awakening to sci fi.

One thing that I think has held sci fi back a bit for kids is all the new technology out there.  As their communication methods and game devices become completely intergrated into their lives I think they are less inclined to imagine innovation that will change the way they live, since they are in the midst of actually experiencing it.

However, kids have been primed for sci fi with the rise of Dystopian books such as Maze Runner and Hunger Games.  These books do have sci fi components but they are exploring a world that we fear will occur, taking imagined innovation into the scary, heart stoping realm.  This is especially current as we worry about the way technology can be an invasive, unwanted form in our lives.

Well, I can analyze trends at nausium, but in the end it's about a great story.  This week I am taking on the ever popular dystopian story with a sci fi twist becasue as kids are drawn to these books, so too are great writers who are giving us some extremely compelling narratives.

So read on and may the force be with you, or is it live long and prosper?  Well whatever it is, your kids will be blown away by this weeks selections!

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or twitter so you can be prepared to wow your kids with all the earth shaking books out there.  Oh, and get your kids to read Ender's Game before they see the movie.  They will thank you for it (and so will I!)

Title:Ender’s Game

Author:Orson Scott Card

Target:Grades 6 and up

Series:Yes

What this book is about:
Earth has defeated an attack from an alien species.  In an attempt to stop future attacks, they have sent ships across the galaxy to try and neutralize the threat.  However, they need to groom a great leader to defeat these aliens.  Ender Wiggins is the earth’s great hope.  He is strategic, brilliant, ruthless when he needs to be - and only six years old.  He is taken from his family and sent to battle school to be molded into the hero Earth desperately needs.  But will battle school train him or break him?

Why I love this book:
This is a great book.  Ok .... did you hear me?  Just in case you missed it, this is a great book!  I have no idea why it took me so long to read it, despite the pleas of my son.  I think with the movie release on 11/1/13, I knew I needed to get it under my belt, but now I am just mad it took me so long!  

The development of Ender as a leader is fascinating.  The battle games they play in zero gravity at battle school had me on the edge of my seat.  The reaction to Ender’s brilliance and the threats to his well being had me off balance throughout the story.  This is a can’t put down book in the best possible way.

Who this book is for:
Kids who like dystopian books, especially series such as Maze Runner will love this story.  I do have to warn parents that there is some bad language, although it isn’t rampant.  There are also some mature references, and some violence, so be warned if you have younger kids.  Grade six is the earliest I would recommend it based on these things.

Final thoughts:
Ender’s Game combines powerful messages about war and forgiveness with an incredibly engaging story.  Despite the fact that this book was first published in 1985, it remains current and relevant.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Ender's Game (The Ender Quintet)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:The Roar

Author:Emma Clayton

Target:Grade 5-8

Series:Yes

What this book is about:

Mika lives in London, but it is a London you would not recognize.  Forty years earlier there was an animal plague which forced people around the world to move into walled communities.  The earth around them has been poisoned beyond recognition and is unlivable.  To make matters worse, Mika’s twin sister has been missing, presumed dead from a slip into the sewers.  However, within these bleak conditions Mika has the opportunity to compete in a video contest sponsored by the youth organization.  The prizes include unheard of luxuries such as real food and an apartment where they can see the sky.  He starts to compete as he realizes that perhaps the real prize for him is a chance to find his sister.

Why I love this book:

I had just read Ender’s Game when I picked this book up, so I was ready for more dystopian science fiction.  The similarities to that book are evident, however I am happy to say that it is not a copycat book.  The story was intriguing and fully flushed out and I really liked the supporting cast as well.  Although the one character that disappointed a bit was the bad guy.  He never goes beyond stereotypical so you don’t get a better sense of his motivation.

The story starts out with action and the books keeps up the pace until the end.  I can see kids blowing through this book quickly as it has all the elements of a can’t put down read.

I also like the environmental aspect of the book.  If this story doesn’t make kids think about treating the resources of the world with respect, then nothing will.

Who this book is for:

Great for kids who like dystopian books like Hunger Games, Maze Runner or Ender’s Game.  This book is less violent than the three I have mentioned so if you looking to start your kids out with something compelling but not as deadly, this book is the right fit.

Final thoughts:

The ending is satisfying, but there is still a cliffhanger so be prepared to get the next book pronto.

To purchase this book from Amazon, click on the following link: The Roar  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:SYLO

Author:D. J. MacHale

Target:Grades 6-8

Series:This is the first book in a planned series

What this book is about:

Tucker lives on Pemberwick island and is happy with idealistic island life.  However, when his football teammate drops dead during a game, and he and his best friend Quinn see an unidentified explosion over the harbor, things start to turn ugly.  The island is taken over by a navy group called SYLO who are there to contain the outbreak of an unknown virus.  The only problem is that Tucker and Quinn don’t think there actually is a virus, so why has their island been invaded and all communication to the outside world cut off?  No one is talking, so Tucker and Quinn start to investigate.  Can they solve the mystery?

Why I love this book:

Who doesn’t love a big mystery and as the questions begin to mount, the reader gets completely caught up in figuring out, along with Tucker, what is going on.  The author does a great job of giving us just enough information to keep us guessing.  

I also like the trio of good friends, Tucker, Quinn and Tori.  Tucker is the good guy who loves the island, Quinn is the brains of the group and Tori is quite the strong female.  There is plenty of action as well, which makes this a can’t put down read.

Who this book is for:

I kept thinking that kids who liked Maze Runner would enjoy this book.  There are some deaths and killing so I have targeted the story older.  MacHale is also the author of the Pendragon series so if you kids enjoyed those books than this may be a good fit.

Final thoughts:

It ends on a cliffhanger so be prepared to wait for the next book.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: SYLO (The SYLO Chronicles)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

The Beginner's Guide to Running Away from Home

I have really been enjoying Picture Book Friday of late.  So many wonderful choices are out there that my biggest worry is picking the best one.  Now that's a worry I like to have.

This week I have a less traditional choice, but I say that only because I think the illustrations are different from what most children have seen before.    The story itself is as old as time - running away from home.  Should your children decide to go this route, it's always nice to have a guide.  You do want them to be prepared!

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or twitter.  You don't want to miss next weeks post when I will reveal my Favorite Picture Book of the Year.  I'm ready to do it and I'm not looking back.

Title:       The Beginner’s Guide to Running Away from Home

Author:   Jennifer Larue Huget

Target:    Preschool - Grade 3

What this book is about:
In this story, our main character feels his family doesn’t understand or appreciate him, so he shares with the reader his tips about leaving home.  He gives packing instructions - forget the bandana and stick, you need something bigger.  He shows you where to put the note - on your baby sister where your parents won’t miss it.  He even has you practice your going away speech - with foot stomping.  But thankfully, he also believes in giving his family second chances - even though they don’t deserve it.

Why I love this book:
First off the illustrations by Red Nose Studio will stop and make you pick up the book.  I can’t decide if they are charming or a little creepy, but the more I have read the book, the more I appreciate all the details throughout.  They appear to be clay figures with sets as backdrops and then occasional drawings layered on top.  They are compelling and clever.

The illustrations go so well with the text which has a matter of fact humor that is incredibly appealing.  I mean, what kid doesn’t appreciate knowing that they can pack gum instead of a toothbrush?    Of course there are so many reasons why home is a special place to be, but it’s always nice to know that the running away option is out there, even if you never use it.

Who this book is for:
I think this will make a wonderful read aloud and most kids will so appreciate the humor and empathize with our main character (who doesn’t have a name, by the way, I am not being evasive.)

Final thoughts:
It’s nice to know there is a guide for beginners.  I hate for kids to be unprepared.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Beginner's Guide to Running Away from Home  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Books Your Kids Will Not Be Able to Put Down

I am a huge fan of books for kids that use a diary format.  In these stories, characters are free to reveal their true motivations and their unedited views on things.  I think that these revelations not only help readers develop empathy as they understand why people behave the way they do, but it is also therapeutic to know that they are not alone in some of their less than perfect feelings about things.

Oh, and who doesn't like to know other people's secrets.  Half the fun of a diary format is feeling like you get to learn about something you shouldn't, not that I'm a fan of the gossip.  No gossip here ... well there is that one thing ....

I did want to mention, for those of you with keen eyes who read me like hawk ... yes that's you ... that you may remember The Bully Book from a few months back.  I don't think my readers really gave that book enough love so I reposting it this week.  People .... yes you again .... this is a really good book and your kids will not be able to put it down.  There, I have done all I can to give you a sure thing, if you choose to ignore it, I am no longer responsible!

To get all the latest gossip on children's books, don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or follow One Great Book on twitter!

Title:       Twerp

Author:   Mark Goldblatt

Target:    Grades 5-7

Series:     No

What this book is about:
Julian has done something to get him suspended.  We don’t know what it is, but his teacher has told him he can write a journal for English class this year, instead of doing the other writing assignments, as long as he examines his involvement in “the event.”  What follows is a series of stories about not only Jullian’s year, but his history and relationships with his friends.  He also stumbles on some discoveries about himself along the way - bet you didn’t see that coming.

Why I love this book: 
I loved this book!  I sat down to read it and didn’t get up until I was finished.  Julian does an incredible of job of making us actually forget about the incident, until the end of the story as he intentionally deflects the reason for writing the journal in the first place.  The stories are engaging and I got completely caught up in his life.

There are a few uncomfortable moments when Julian does some things that can be construed as mean.  However, Goldblatt does a fabulous job of making us really like this character and when we understand him, we are a little more willing to forgive him.

This book also has some downright funny moments.  Set in the 1960’s, these friends get themselves into a few very humorous predicaments.  Goldblatt does find the humor in everyday life.

Who this book is for:
I think that kids that have moved on from Diary of a Wimpy Kid or kids who enjoyed Because of Mr. Terupt will really like this story.  

Final thoughts:
Great book, great book, great book.  There you can’t say I didn’t warn you.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Twerp  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       This Journal Belongs to Ratchet

Author:   Nancy J. Cavanaugh

Target:    Grades 4-7

Series:     No

What this book is about:

Ratchet (aka Rachel) is homeschooled.  Her father is one of those “think green” kind of guys who wears t-shirts with strong sentiments, refuses to buy anything new and fixes cars in his garage for a living.  Let’s just say that he can be embarrassing when taken out of his environment.  Ratchet is trying to figure out how she fits in, what is important to her and how to make a friend.  This is no easy task when you don’t go to school, help your dad fix cars and your mother has been dead for as long as you can remember.

Why I love this book:

I really liked the journal format of this book.  The author lays it out as Ratchet’s language arts journal so we get to see Ratchet do poetry, a fairytale, a descriptive narrative and even meeting minutes.  It makes for a clever way to see Ratchet express her feelings.

I also liked the way that Ratchet was trying to define herself apart from her embarrassing father.  While her father may be much more extreme than most, I think that kids universally think that their parents can be an embarrassment and learning to understand them and their values is beneficial for all kids.  I also think most kids will relate to the theme of trying to understand where they fit in, and how difficult it is to find your place.

Who this book is for:

I think that most girls will enjoy this book

Final thoughts:

While Ratchet’s may have had none of the same likes that I did as a young teen, her struggles were so real that they rang true for me regardless!

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: This Journal Belongs to Ratchet  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       The Bully Book: A Novel

Author:   Eric Kahn Gale

Target:    Grades 4-6

Series:     No

What this book is about:

”The Book” has been passed down from sixth grader to sixth grader.   Only a few select students know about this book and it is essentially a manual on how be the most popular kid in school.  Part of this manual involves selecting one unsuspecting student to be the Grunt every year.   In this story, “The Book” and the journal from this years Grunt are intertwined, showing us the mind of the bully and the bullied.  Will our grunt be able to withstand the year and can he help others in the future?

Why I love this book:

I read this book in one day, as did both my sons.  It is a fascinating read, full of suspense.  As our grunt, Eric starts to put the pieces together and realize he is the victim of an organized attack, he tries to get to the bottom of “The Book” but more than that, why he was selected.  You are rooting for Eric throughout and hoping for the best, but human nature is not always kind.

I appreciated seeing into the mind of the original bully, although the author does not take on the issues of why other kids follow.  Gale was bullied when he was in sixth grade, and I think this is why the story rings so true.  However, I don’t want to get you too down.  While there are certainly some difficult moments, the book is so engaging and well written that despite the subject matter you will feel compelled to read on.

Who this book is for:

This book is a quick read and because of the journal format it does not feel overwhelming.  Most kids will be fascinated by this story.  Both my sons couldn’t put it down.  Good book for a reluctant reader.

Final thoughts:

I think in the end what drives this book is figuring out why Eric was selected as the Grunt.  I think we all want to make sure we wouldn’t be the one to get picked, but if we are, what can we do to not be a victim?  This book is truly a can't put down read!

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Bully Book: A Novel  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you. 

Mustache Baby for Picture Book Friday

Happy Picture Book Friday!  This week I am profiling a book that focuses on a common problem for infants - excess facial hair.  Those baby mustaches are no laughing matter, well maybe in this case they are quite a laughing matter.  I mean really, who can resist an baby in a handlebar!

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or follow us on twitter so you don't miss any of the wonderful book recommendations for your kids.

Title:       Mustache Baby

Author:   Bridget Heos

Target:    Preschool - Grade 2

What this book is about:
When Billy was born, he had a curious feature - can you guess?  Why yes, a mustache!  The big question was whether it would be a good-guy mustache or a bad-guy mustache.  It started off lawful and just, as Billy kept peace around the house.  However, it was not destined to stay that way.  Billy turned to a life of crime - cat burglar (literally) cereal burglar (again literally) - but his slow getaway car did him in.  Well we all have bad-mustache days now and again, but it is the new neighbor around the corner who provides Billy with the biggest surprise yet.

Why I love this book:
This book is a wonderful read aloud with it’s tongue and cheek humor.  Billy is perfectly drawn by Joy Ang who captures all the fun and comical aspects of this story.  Just watch Billy’s mustache change as he goes from good-guy to bad-guy!   And the ending is so surprising and unexpected that kids will love it every time (no I will not give it away!)

Who this book is for:
Great book for read alouds. however, the pictures are so well done that I think children will also enjoy this book one on one so they have time to see all the details in the illustrations.

Final thoughts:
This book is silly fun done well.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Mustache Baby  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.

Making Fairytales Fresh and Current for Kids

Books based on fairytales always hold a soft spot for me.  I remember the copy my mother bought me of the stories of Hans Christian Anderson.  These were not all happy stories.  I remember The Red Shoes just breaking my heart and I read the real story of The Little Mermaid before Disney ever had a chance to change it (let's not go near how old that makes me.)

But despite all this, I was enchanted by the stories.  They are ones that I remembered well into adulthood, while so many other books were forgotten.  These stories are now part of our collective culture and children remain fascinated by their retelling.

So when I get to read books that bring out these characters and stories in new and interesting ways, I am always intrigued.  These fairytales are compelling and the books I am profiling today keep their rich history alive and well - but they never loose their often funny, sometimes scary beginnings.

Don't forget to like One Great Book on Facebook or follow us on twitter so you don't miss any great book recommendations!

Title:       The Hero’s Guide to Storming the Castle

Author:   Christopher Healy

Target:    Grades 4-6

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:
In this, the second book in the series, The League of Princes bumble their way into another adventure.  For those not familiar with our heroes, The League of Princes is comprised of the Princes Charming from everyones favorite fairytales.    Stepping out of the shadow of their more famous counterparts, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Snow While and Briar Rose, the princes attempt to keep a stone of great power out of the wrong hands.  However, Gustav is still dealing with his trigger fast temper, Duncan is still giving names to all the animals, Frederick continues his role as head of the grammar police and Liam is questioning his ability to be a hero.  Can these four princes really take on one on the most viscous villains in the kingdom,  the Bandit King, who has just turned eleven?

Why I love this story:
I actually think I enjoyed this second book even more than the first, The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom.  This book was fast, furious and funny!  I just love the play of the four princes who can’t seem to get anything right, but they all have hearts of gold.

Each of the characters is well written, with a distinct and humorous personality.  Even the villains are wonderful, and the new additions in this book were perfect.  Little Tailor was my favorite, and what he can do with a piece of string is priceless, but he is sadly never really respected by the hard hearted villains.  

The illustrations by Todd Harris bring a lightheartedness and whimsy to the story which is a perfect complement.

Who this book is for:
Boys and girls will love this story.  Any kid who likes to laugh and enjoys a raucous adventure should like this book.  While you don’t have to read them in order, I think kids will enjoy the second more if they have read the first book, The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom.

Final thoughts:
A fun quote from  The Hero’s Guide to Being a Hero, ”Knowledge is power.  For instance, don’t you feel much more powerful now that you have the knowledge that knowledge is power?” 

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: The Hero's Guide to Storming the Castle  A portion of each purchase goes back to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       Half Upon a Time

Author:   James Riley

Target:    Grades 4-8

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:
Jack, whose father rose to fame with that nasty beanstalk incident, is taking classes on how to save a princess so that he can escape his life as a peasant.  The problem is he doesn’t seem to be very good at them, and he isn’t too fond of royalty either.  However, when a blue haired girl comes tumbling out of the sky wearing a shirt saying “Punk Princess” he realizes that she needs his help.  There is a huntsman after her and her grandmother has disappeared.  Now if only she would admit she was really a princess, and just where is the kingdom of Punk anyway?

Why I love this book:

This book is great fun.  The interplay of Jack, our punk princess May and a third member of their team, Prince Phillip keep the jokes and quick whited dialogue going at a rapid pace.  There is also action in every chapter and twist and turns galore.  It is impossible to get bored reading this book.

I also love it when authors take the stories we know and love and give us another perspective on the tales.  I think it helps give kids a a more thoughtful understanding of the fact that there is more than one way to look at a situation.  In the case of this book, there are a lot of characters they will know who may not always behave the way they expect!

Who this book is for:

I think that most kids will enjoy this story.  Chapters are not long and each one is packed with action and ends on a bit of cliffhanger, enticing kids to read on.

Final thoughts:

This book definitely ends on a cliffhanger, so be prepared to get all the books in this trilogy.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Half Upon a Time  A portion of each purchase goes back to support this blog at no cost to you.

Title:       In a Glass Grimmly

Author:   Adam Gidwitz

Target:    Grades 4 -8

Series:     Yes

What this book is about:

This is a companion book to Gidwitz’s first book A Tale Dark & Grimm.      I would describe these books as having a central theme, and in the case of this book it is learning to like yourself for who you are.  The themes emerges as our main characters travel through a series of adventures all rooted in the fairytales we know and love.  Our author follows Jack and Jill as they have run ins with goblins, fire breathing amphibians and not so pleasant mermaids.  And of course this wouldn’t be a book by Adam Gidwitz if it didn’t stay true to the bloody and terrifying origin of these fairytales, and if our cheeky narrator didn’t interject himself at just the right moments.

Why I love this book:

I have to say that I enjoyed the foil of the narrator more in Gidwitz’s first book.  The narrator serves to lighten the mood and provide comic relief when the story veers towards the gruesome.  He was strangely absent for more parts of this book and I missed him.  

However, I am always amazed at how clever these books are.  They weave together the stories we know and change them just enough so that they feel familiar, but are full of surprises.  

Who this book is for:

Any kid who gets squeamish will not relish these stories, but for those who like their fairytales to border on the gruesome, with a lot of comic relief, this is the book for you.

Final thoughts:

A book to be relished - if you dare!

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: In a Glass Grimmly  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.