This month I have two really fun YA titles to recommend, plus a thought-provoking chapter book, and four strong picture books:
Novels:
First up is FANGIRL, by Rainbow Rowell. This was, without a doubt, my most fun book to read all year. I savored every minute of my time with it. When Cath and her twin sister, Wren, go off to college, Cath naturally assumes they will be rooming together. Not so. While Wren tries out life on her own, Cath makes do with a surly roommate, and the roommate's ever-present boyfriend. Cath is a star in the fanfiction world of the Simon Snow books, and now she sees her passion collide with the views of her literary-minded writing professor. Plus, there are issues of mom leaving, dad's mental health, and Wren's chosen lifestyle in college. Not a "perfect" book if I think too hard about it, probably not one of the big award winners this year, but such a good, good read!! Rainbow Rowell is my new favorite author to geek out on. (YA)
Next up is ETIQUETTE & ESPIONAGE
, Finishing School, Book the First, by Gail Carriger. This is a YA prequel to the author's bestselling Parasol Protectorate series, taking readers on an excellent romp in fine steampunk fashion. Fourteen-year-old Sophronia has a simply dreadful time behaving like a proper lady. She would much rather be "fraternizing with technology" or "climbing things--trees, furniture, even other people." When Mumsy sends her off to finishing school, Sophronia finds her experience is very different from how she thought it would be: in addition to learning manners and deportment, Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality teaches all the skills necessary for becoming a top-notch spy. (YA)
Chapter book SADIE AND RATZ
, by Sonya Hartnett, is beautifully illustrated by Ann James. Sadie and Ratz are the names of Hannah's hands. They can be quite mischievous, and they definitely do not always do the right thing, especially where Hannah's four-year-old brother is concerned. But watch out when Baby Boy takes revenge! This is an original, imaginative story for new readers.
Picture books:
WHEN LIONS ROAR, is a clever look at how to keep "the scary" away. It's written by Robie H. Harris (author of the fabulous sex education books for older kids, It's So Amazing, and It's Perfectly Normal) with pictures by Caldecott medalist Chris Raschka. Simple and effective.
MR. WUFFLES! is
yet another smart and beautiful creation by David Weisner. Mr. Wuffles, the cat, wants to play--and aliens are involved! This is a picture book/graphic novel hybrid, making use of full page illustrations, as well as comic book-type panels.
HOW THE METEORITE GOT TO THE MUSEUM, by Jessie Hartland, is non-fiction for older elementary kids. It's complex, yet clear, with lots of information imparted in a pleasing way. And it's got some of my favorite picture book art of the year.
MR. TIGER GOES WILD
, by Caldecott Honor illustrator Peter Brown, tells of how Mr. Tiger grows tired with always being proper. And the wilder--and more tigerish--he gets, the more appalled his friends and neighbors become. Mr. Tiger runs away to the wilderness for a while, but when he returns he is pleasantly surprised! Striking art and design skillfully enhance the tale.
What good books have you read lately?
--Lynn
Comments