Tales from the Rushmore Kid

November Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Novels:

In I CRAWL THROUGH IT, by A. S. King, Stanzi won't take off her lab coat and dissects frogs with a clinical passion. She's in love with Gustav, who builds a helicopter that is not technically invisible, but Stanzi can only see it on Tuesdays. China, Stanzi's best friend, repeatedly turns herself inside out due to a nasty encounter with a weatherman—on any given day, she might be an esophagus or a stomach as she walks down the street. Everyone is aware of this. The dangerous bush man sells letters for a kiss. The brilliance of this novel is that everything makes sense! (YA)

THE THING ABOUT JELLYFISH, by Ali Benjamin, has a classic mid-grade feel to it. Seventh grader Suzy Swanson hasn’t spoken since she learned of the death of her former best friend, Franny Jackson. Suzy is convinced that Franny died from a poisonous jellyfish sting and not from drowning, like everyone else thinks. Suzy uses her love of science to help work through her grief and to understand her complicated relationship with Franny. This debut novel explores the power of friendship, jellyfish, and the importance of moving on. (MG)

ZEROES, by Scott Westerfeld, Margo Lanagan, and Deborah Biancotti, is the first in a promising new series about a small group of teens who have strange “superpowers”—Ethan has the Voice, which speaks for him whenever he is in a jam (which sometimes makes things WAY worse), Kelsie, can control a crowd’s emotions (until she is carried away by them herself), Blind Flicker can see through everyone else’s eyes, Chizara can control technology, Anonymous is extremely hard to keep track of, and finally there is Nate/Glorious Leader, who melds them into a group.  Together, they are drawn into a mission to save Ethan, while evading murderous drug dealers and Ethan’s DA mom. This is great action enhanced by awesome-yet-marginal superhero-ness, and harkens back to Westerfelds early work on his Midnighters series.  (YA)

 

Hanging Off Jefferson's Nose - Book Trailer Number 3

This was a really fun trailer to do for my book, Hanging Off Jefferson's Nose. My friend, song writer/musican Jack Conrad, wrote a theme song for the book. My editor went wild and arranged to put it on Amazon and Barnes & Noble for a free download with the book.

Evil Librarian--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

November’s Book Pick (still in the spirit of Halloween and Day of the Dead) is EVIL LIBRARIAN, by Michelle Knudson.

This SCBWI Sid Fleishman Humor Award winner is all about the demons—or maybe it’s about the cute love interest—or maybe the plays the thing:

Before the new handsome but creepy librarian showed up, all Cynthia Rothschild had to worry about was getting super-crush Ryan Halsey to notice her, and coming up with the perfect prop chair for her school's production of Sweeney Todd. But when Mr. Creepy ensnares Cyn's best friend in a weird and disturbing relationship, she begins to suspect he may not be human. And when teachers and students behave like zombies, and begin to disappear, Cyn knows she has to act to save Annie, her entire school, and this year’s awesome production of Sweeney Todd.

Merrily Kutner - Writing Tip of the Day.

I met Merrily for the first time at this year's SCBWI National conference.  Pretty, kind, and fun, Merrily was a blast to hang out with. Not only is she a poet, she teaches writing classes at UCLA extension. I asked her to give us a writing tip of the day. She gave us two, one from her and one from our dear departed Sue Alexander.

The best tip I ever got was from Sue Alexander: Type out 5-10 pages of your favorite picture books in manuscript format. Now analyze what the artist chose to illustrate.  Check to see what actions or words were illustrated and what was told only in the pictures.

October Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

It seems like there are so many great kids books coming out lately! Recently I have read and loved these:

Novels:

THE NEST, by Kenneth Oppel, with moody, atmospheric illustrations by Jon Klassen, is a wonderfully creepy changeling story. Steve's parents are worn out from caring for their new baby, who is sick with a mysterious set of problems. Steve, a big-time worrier, is just supposed to get a grip and not add to the family’s troubles. But once Steve is stung by a wasp, he begins to have visitors in his dreams. At first he thinks they’re angels. But gradually Steve realizes that something bad is happening, and it involves both him and the new baby. Only read The Nest if you enjoy being creeped out—and I know I sure did when I was a kid! (MG)

Newbery medalist Laura Amy Schlitz (also Newbery Honor with Splendors and Glooms) has another winner in THE HIRED GIRL. Fourteen-year-old Joan is tired of cleaning the chicken house and scrubbing the privy, hauling ashes and sweeping muck out of her family's house day after day, and year after year. She yearns to be a writer, a lady who strives for "truth and refinement." But what chance does she have on her family’s small farm, with Ma dead and no one else to keep house for the men? Stubborn Joan will not be denied, however. When Pa burns her favorite books, Joan takes a secret stash of money left to her by Ma and runs off to seek her fortune in Baltimore. Schlitz packs this always engaging novel with plenty of interesting details from the early twentieth century setting, but they never overwhelm the story of how Joan’s fierce pursuit of her goals plays out. (Upper MG)

Suzanne Morgan Williams - Research Tip of the Day

Author and SCBWI RA for Nevada Suzanne Morgan Williams writes exceptional books. Her novel Bullrider has won numerous awards. I asked her how she did the intricate research for the novel and what I got was the Research Tip of the Day.

The Night Gardener--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

October’s Book Pick is the wonderfully creepy THE NIGHT GARDENER, by Jonathan Auxier.

Newly orphaned Molly and Kip desperately need food and a bed, and they are willing to work for it. After slogging through the ominous “sourwoods," they find themselves facing a remote house that looked "like something from a horrible fairy tale. It might as well have come with a drawbridge and boiling cauldron.” But worst of all was the tree, which was grown up and over the house, as if it were part of it. Molly and Kip stay on as servants, and slowly the secrets of the house are revealed: muddy footprints that appear in the night, a mysterious locked door, and the strange transformation of all who inhabit this cursed place. Molly, a budding storyteller, and Kip, transforming from a boy into an insightful young man, serve as strong, complex characters to see this tale through.

September Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Here are some great books I have enjoyed recently—what are you reading now?

Novels:

Brian Selznick’s new hybrid novel, THE MARVELS, is another jaw-dropingly beautiful, poignant story from the creator of Caldecott-winning, The Invention of Hugo Cabret. Beginning on a ship in 1766 and following a theatrical dynasty through the years, this story begins with wordless illustrations, continues with text-only pages, and brings us back around to illustrations for the ending. The Marvels doesn’t feel like a repeat of what Selznick has done before. It’s lovely—don’t miss it! (MG)

GOODBYE STRANGER, by Rebecca Stead (Newbery winner for When You Reach Me), is so wonderful that I immediately reread it just as soon as I had finished it the first time. In fact, each of her books, including Liar & Spy, are so intricately plotted and satisfying, I have done this for all of them. Bridge, Tabitha, and Emily have been great friends for years but now, in seventh grade, so many things are changing. While Goodbye Stranger is an examination of the benefits and boundaries of friendship, there is also much more going on. Along with the narrative of the three friends, and also new-to-the-group Sherm Russo, there is a mysterious thread, told by an unnamed character who is experiencing something of a crisis. Stead is a master at pulling the strings of her plot together into a satisfying novel that feels a cut above the usual middle grade fare. (MG)

And I have just read the second and third books in THE MAGIC THIEF series, by Sarah Prineas. Maria Johnson recommended these to us some time back, and I have already talked about Book One. Books Two and Three do not disappoint! The main character, Connwaer, reminds me very much of the narrator in The False Prince—he’s a charming guttersnipe recently elevated to a better state of affairs, he’s a bit of a scoundrel, and he’s thoroughly in control of his own destiny. Much fun, and I believe that the series extends even after the trilogy has been concluded—I intend to find out. (MG)

Laurie Lazzaro Knowlton - Writing Tip of the Day

I have known Laurie Lazzaro Knowlton for many years and she is such a kick. Laurie is a prolific writer, illustrator and champion of the SCBWI. It has been a pleasure to hear her speak on the writer's life. Today she gives us a great Writing Tip of the Day.

The Right Word--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

September’s Book Pick is the gem of a picture book, THE RIGHT WORD: ROGET AND HIS THESAURUS, written by Jen Bryant and illustrated by Melissa Sweet. The text of this nonfiction book is clear and concise. It’s packed with information, and will easily support multiple readings by kids of all ages. But, beyond a doubt, the text is helped immensely by the brilliant design and illustrations that make THE RIGHT WORD very special.

Sweet’s art is made from watercolor paintings, embellished and collaged into layers and layers on each page, with each element supporting and furthering the text. Sometimes the story is laid out as a list, sometimes a list will support the story. The use of color is brilliant:

adjective

1. a brilliant student: bright, intelligent, clever, smart, astute, intellectual; gifted, talented, able, adept, skillful; elite, superior, first-class, first-rate, excellent; informal brainy. ANTONYMS  stupid.
2. his brilliant career: superb, glorious, illustrious, impressive, remarkable, exceptional. ANTONYMS  unremarkable.
3. a shaft of brilliant light: bright, shining, blazing, dazzling, vivid, intense, gleaming, glaring, luminous, radiant; literary irradiant, coruscating. ANTONYMS  obscure, dark.
4. brilliant green: vivid, intense, bright, bold, dazzling. ANTONYMS  dull, dark.
5. There is so much information packed into these 32 pages plus back matter, but not once does if feel heavy or didactic.

If you have not yet read THE RIGHT WORD: ROGET AND HIS THESAURUS, run—don’t walk—to your nearest library or bookstore and find yourself a copy!!

--Lynn

 

Happy Labor Day

Labor Day reminds me of the end of summer, maybe a new school uniform instead of a hand-me-down, and the possibility of liking my teacher. Which didn't happen often.

Let's wave the flag for all of us who labor so hard on jobs we like and even jobs we hate. And to those who teach our children, keep us in good health and risk their lives to keep us safe, a very special thank you.

Happy Labor Day!

Fab Four Friends Blog Tour - Susanna Reich & Adam Gustavson

The Fab Four Friends

Many books have been written about the Beatles and their journey to become the iconic band 0f the Golden Age of Rock and Roll.  What is remarkable about Susanna Reich's book “Fab Four Friends, the Boys Who Became the BEATLES,” is how she weaves the stories of Paul, George, John and Ringo and their childhood friendships and how they were molded into a band.  Susanna tells the story of the boys' many family trials and personal hardships growing up in post-war England, and how they found salvation in their music.   Though the boys' experiences were somewhat atypical, any child can relate to hanging out in one’s bedroom listening and enjoying the music of their era.   Adam Gustavson's fabulous illustrations depicts the bandmates' childhoods with joy and action. This is the premier book for kids on how a bunch of determined teens grew into the greatest rock band in history: the BEATLES.

Next Day Blog Tour Stop:  Alphabet Soup

August Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

What great books have you read lately? Here are some of my recent favorites:

Novels:
THE CROSSOVER, by Kwame Alexander, who many of us were lucky enough to hear give an extraordinary speech at the SCBWI Summer Conference, delivers his Newbery-winner about a basketball phenom in rap-tinged verse. The story is extremely readable—the verse makes it flow quickly, and for me as a writer I was able to think about structure, using each of his poems as building blocks. (YA)

THE IRON TRIAL, Book One in the MAGISTERIUM series, by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare, is strong, well-written mid-grade fantasy. I suppose my biggest issue with mid-grade is when the voice doesn’t sound authentic, and instead of getting swept away I can picture an adult trying to sound like a kid. This series (which includes the second installment, The Copper Gauntlet, due out in September) has a voice that sounds just right for the material. And it’s exciting material—Callum Hunt is a dorky misfit who tries to hide his magic, but the powers that be find out and send him to magician school, where he gets into all kinds of trouble. Really strong MG fantasy here!  (MG)

Okay, so I read two more books in the Bloody Jack series, VIVA JACQUELINA! and BOSTON JACKY, by L. A. MEYER. Just when I thought I had had enough, these two were like visiting a good old friend—not much felt surprising, but the usual twists and turns of the writing, and Jacky’s voice and over-the-top antics will always entertain. And the Boston Jacky one has a fabulous ending, setting us up for the series finale, which I need to get to—immediately! (YA)

Writing Tip of the Day - Barbara Bietz

Today my Writing Tip of the Day is from my good buddy Barbara Bietz. We've been in the same writers' group since 1994, and I value her precise critiquing, good humor and hand-holding over the years.  Not only has she published a successful middle grade novel, Like a Maccabee (Yaldah, 2006), she was on the committee of the Sydney Taylor Book Awards and has a popular blog, Jewish Books for Children.  I give you Barbara Bietz's Writing Tip of the Day.

 Barbara says:

“Voice” is an illusive concept, difficult for most of us to define. Over the years I have formed ideas about voice that help keep me from getting stuck.

I think of voice as an extension of the adage, “write what you know.” When a writer is immersed in a world that feels natural and comfortable, the voice will come organically.

 

All the Bright Places--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Our August Book Pick is ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES, by Jennifer Niven.

I found this wonderful story to be uplifting and heartbreaking in equal measure. What was most striking to me about it is the contrasting trajectories of the two main characters, Violet and Finch. They first meet upon the ledge of a bell tower, each of them contemplating a jump. Finch, as is clear pretty early on, is bipolar, and Violet is the survivor of a car accident that killed her older sister.

In one of his "awake" phases, Finch does his best to charm Violet (of course he has a crooked smile!) and he eventually succeeds. Through his attention and energy, he allows Violet to begin to live again--to break out of her self-imposed stasis and mourning and realize she will not be betraying the beloved sister who cannot grow with her. Finch, meanwhile, becomes more and more unpredictable as he senses himself moving towards a "sleep" period. He eventually takes to his closet to wait out this inevitable dark time, beyond the reach of anything Violet can do for him.

From North to South - Book Trailer - René Colato Laínez -

.I have known René Colato Laínez for many years. I am impressed with his lyrical writing and his personal insight into the immigrant experience. I am also honored to have produced two of his book trailers. From North to South is the touching story of José missing his mamá after she has been deported. José visits her in Tijuana where she waits for her proper papers. René is donating a portion of his royalties to El Centro Madre Assumte, a safe house for immigrant women and children.

July Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Read any great books this month?

Here are recent my favorites:

Novels:
GONE CRAZY IN ALABAMA, by Rita Williams-Garcia, is the third installment of the trilogy which began with Newbery Honor book, One Crazy Summer. It features the irrepressible sisters Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern, now off to visit Big Mama in Alabama. A strong finish to the series. (MG)

IREMONGER BOOK ONE: HEAP HOUSE, by Edward Carey, is terrific and bizarre. It feels pretty Dickensian, but the magic of the Birth Objects takes it well into the realm of fantasy. Wholly original, and well and creepily told, I can't wait to read volume 2! (Upper MG/YA)

And at last--a new Penderwicks story!! THE PENDERWICKS IN SPRING, by Jeanne Birdsall, is another delightful romp with the Penderwick family, whose original book was a National Book Award winner. This time we are mostly following Batty, who is now in fifth grade. Rosalind is off in college, and Skye and Jane busy with high school friends, which leaves Ben (third grade) and new sister Lydia to help with the adventures of a new dog walking business and secret-keeping. Delightful stuff, as always. (MG)

The Adventures of Beekle--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

July's Book Pick is this year's Caldecott winner, THE ADVENTURES OF BEEKLE, THE UNIMAGINARY FRIEND, by Dan Santat.

I think this is a beautiful piece of bookmaking. From the charming dustcover with raised type for the title, to the different yet coordinated cover underneath (apparently called the "case cover") on the book itself, to the thick paper the story was printed on, readers will likely feel, before they even begin reading. that this experience is going to be special.

And it is. The endpapers let us know right away that poor Beekle is alone. The other imaginary friends are each happily paired off with his or her own person. Contrast that with the closing endpaper, where Beekle proudly stands with his new name and very own child. Kids will love looking for that on repeated reads. And once the story starts, the gorgeous full color art tells a wonderful tale that enriches the text. Neither is as good alone, just like Alice and Beekle.

Happy 4th of July

This week is the Fourth of July.

Fireworks, hot dogs and flags-a-flying is what the Fourth of July means to me.

We are fortunate to live in a great country where our votes count and we can make a difference.

Enjoy your family, enjoy the day and enjoy the picnic of life in America!

June Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Here are some of my recent favorites:

Novels:
CARTWHEELING IN THUNDERSTORMS, by Katherine Rundell, relates the journey of Willhemina Silver, from beloved farm where she was born in the wilds of Africa, to boarding school in stiff, crusty England following the death of her father. It's an exuberant, beautifully told tale.It's the 2015 Boston Globe/Horn Book Fiction Award winner. (MG)

ECHO, by Pam Munos Ryan, is another well-crafted piece of writing. This one blends three very different stories of children who are connected, through time and their love of music, by a mysterious, melodious harmonica, one which has been touched by magic and a prophecy. Each story is compelling in its own right, but taken together we get an intricately woven, ambitious novel for young people. (MG)

NIGHTBIRD, by Alice Hoffman, features still more gorgeous kiddie lit prose, this time telling the story of Twig Fowler, who lives in Sidwell, Massachusetts, a town where fairy tales may well be real. There is a curse on Twig's family, and she and her mom keep mostly to themselves. But when a new family moves in next door, descended from the witch who first spelled Twig's ancestors, things begin to change. (Upper MG/YA)

Greg Trine - Writing Tip of the Day

I have known Greg Trine for many years.  Not only is he the author of the popular Melvin Beederman  and The Adventures of Joe Schmo series, he and his wife Juanita have been part of my entourage for the past few costume balls at the SCBWI Summer conference.  Not surprising, Greg's tip has to do with writing humor.

I'll Give You the Sun--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

June's Book Pick is the 2015 Printz Award winner, I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN, by Jandy Nelson. It's her second book, after THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE, which was an amazing debut for her.

Interestingly, I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN is told in the alternating POVs of a pair of twins: Noah at age 13, and his sister Jude at 16. We quickly become aware that Noah's part of the story occurs before whatever monumental events and betrayals come together to break apart this family, with Jude's part of the story taking place after.  

At the outset, Noah is a sensitive, artistic kid, passionate about his art,  and beginning to fall in love with the boy next door. Jude is the wild twin, surfing, cliff-diving, and wearing her dresses as short as possible. When their mom decides that they should both apply to a prestigious local arts high school, jealousy and competition begin to sour the close relationship these two have always shared. By the time Jude's narration takes place, Noah has stifled all of his artistic inclinations, and is living a lie as a popular jock with Jude's former in-crowd friends. And Jude is hiding in skull caps and lumpy clothes, filling her pockets with good luck charms, and making clay sculptures that are broken, each and every time, by her mother's ghost (she is absolutely sure of this).

May Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Here are my favorite recent book picks:

Novels:

Can it be that 100 SIDEWAYS MILES is Andrew Smith actually being vaguely lighthearted? Playful even? Maybe not, but I loved this book (tho he says he hated writing it!) because it has his signature way of weaving elements from start to finish into a cohesive and intriguing whole, his offbeat sense of humor, and a highly improbable, but still completely accessible, plot. When Finn Easton was four, a dead horse fell from a bridge onto him and his mother, causing her death and his epilepsy. His dad made him into a character in a bestselling science fiction book, which leads to some interesting encounters. And he sees the ghosts of two little girls who died in a flood near his house a century ago. Pretty normal stuff! This whacky but heartfelt novel goes on the road when Finn's girlfriend moves back to Chicago, and he and his best friend set out to visit a college in Oklahoma. (YA)

In FISH IN A TREE, by Lynda Mullaly Hunt, sixth grader Ally has been fooling everyone for years. To hide the fact that she can't read, she acts out and plays dumb. Actually, Ally is anything but dumb. She's a gifted artist who has moved around a lot, attending seven schools in seven years, and she's got dyslexia. It takes a substitute teacher and some unexpected friends to break through and help Ally celebrate who she really is. Ally is a likable character and readers will root for her all the way. (MG)

Memorial Day Thank You

From the very beginning, from the birth of our nation, men and women have gone forth to serve our country. They go, they sacrifice...and some never return.

Today we remember them.

Today we thank them.

And today we pray, for those who continue to serve in the most dangerous of places, a safe journey home.

Art for Art sake

Sketch book drawings are the purest form of art for art sake.  A quick impression of life on the run.  Just instincts, a flick of the wrist and sometimes a lot of nerve.

During a guided tour of the Versailles I was powered walked through by Attila the Hun guide and was not allowed time to stop and sketch.  I wanted to draw the famous Hall of Mirrors, so I hung way way back and blended into the Japanese tour group behind. Being 5 foot one, this wasn't very difficult.   After taking a few photos with my new best friends, I quick penciled a sketch of the room and planned to water color later at the hotel. 

Eventually, the tour guide Babette, hunted me down and scolded me in french. I smiled and pretended to be dumb American.

Art for art sake.

Brown Girl Dreaming--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

May's Book Pick is the National Book Award winner and Newbery Honor book, BROWN GIRL DREAMING, by Jacqueline Woodson, a memoir in verse.

The author has roots in Ohio, in South Carolina, and then later in New York City. Her story tells of growing up in the 1960s and 70s, of learning the ways of the world and the wonder of storytelling.

In the most elegant yet accessible language, Woodson plants her narrative firmly in history: her place in the broader history of American race relations, as well as in the more personal history of her extended family. Both histories figure prominently in how she makes sense of her world and they provide a firm base for her to come into her own.

I'm in awe of the seamless way she weaves her way through her childhood, as she figures out her place in the past, in the present, and with hints of the future to come.

What do you think (or not) makes this such a memorable story?

--Lynn

April Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

What have you been reading lately? Here's my list:

 

Novels:

 

2015 SCBWI Sid Fleischman Humor Award winner, EVIL LIBRARIAN, by Michelle Knudson, is funny! Also a bit creepy, with plenty of high school romance thrown in to make a thoroughly enjoyable read. Cyn's best friend, Annie, falls in love with the new librarian at school, but he turns out to be a demon. Luckily Cyn's crush, Ryan, is on board with trying to rid the school of anything not entirely human. Warning: there may be sequels. (YA)

 

THE TAPPER TWINS GO TO WAR (with each other), by Geoff Rodkey, is a good example of an engaging story told through interviews, text messages, photos, and screenshots. It describes a war between twins Claudia and Reese that begins with a misunderstanding (who really ate that last toaster pastry??) and escalates into a series of embarrassing pranks (cyber and otherwise) played out in front of their Upper West Side prep school's sixth grade class. The characters are well-defined and the format makes this a light, enjoyable read with heart. First in a series. (MG)

 

Editor Steve Meltzer

I am one lucky author.  When my former editor left Dutton in 2006 I was assigned the wonderful Steve Meltzer.  Over the years Steve has become one of my good buddies as well as my outstanding editor.  Generous to a fault, he always takes my calls, was game to be interviewed for my blog tour and endures my requests for a Writing Tip of the Day every time I see him. Today's Tip is about submitting.

El Deafo--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

This month's Book Pick is the Newbery Honor book, EL DEAFO, by Cece Bell. 

EL DEAFO is a graphic novel memoir based on Cece's experiences growing up deaf (she contracted meningitis at age four and it left her without the ability to hear). She's horrified by the large and obvious Phonic Ear device she has to wear at school, which marks her as unmistakably different from everyone else. Lonely and alienated, Cece has trouble speaking up for herself. She creates an alter ego, El Deafo, who is powerful enough to say what Cece cannot, but  for the most part El Deafo's assertiveness remains in Cece's mind (and is contained in comic strip thought bubbles). 

 

Cece's troubles are not so different from those of any other kid who feels different while growing up. Basically, she wants a good friend who really "gets" her. Unfortunately, many of the friends she makes along the way do not, but that's a pretty typical childhood thing. Cece develops a crush when a new boy moves onto her block and, with love in the picture, she finds a way to use her Phonic Ear to great advantage. 

 

March Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Here are some of the best books I managed to read in February:

Novels:

ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES, by Jennifer Niven, gives readers a compelling look at depression and bipolar disorder through the eyes of two extremely engaging characters. We first meet Violet, less than fully functional and considering all options after the death of her sister, and Finch, obsessed with death but talking Violet into living again. These two make a connection and we join them on an exploration of life (and their home state of Iowa). It's charming, funny, sad, and a terrific read. YA

RAIN REIGN, by Ann M. Martin, shares the journey of Rose Howard, a girl on the autism spectrum who is obsessed with homonyms. Life isn't easy with a dad who doesn't understand her and classmates who are less than kind, but luckily Rose gets strong support from her uncle and her beloved dog, Rain. When a storm hits and Rain goes missing, events spiral out of control. Through it all, though, Rose stays true to herself and to her principles. This is one of a number of middle grade books with autistic girls as protagonists, along with Counting by 7s and The Categorical Universe of Candace Phee. All three are strong choices. MG

The Kite that Bridged Two Nations - Picture Book Trailer/Book Launch

My good friend, the talented author Alexis O'Neill, just released her new picture book from Boyds Mill Press, The Kite That Bridged Two Nations.  The book is getting raved reviews...

“Memorable and dramatic.”
-- Kirkus Reviews

“The style lends itself to a terrific read-aloud. Teachers can use this book to make curriculum connections in science, social studies and expressing emotion in narrative writing, to name a few.”
-- Bookitkids, Amazon Reviewer

This week Alexis has her book launch at Niagra Falls, where the story originally took place, but  I recently attended her local book launch in Ventura, California at a kite flying party with other kidlit authors. Alexis, Barbara Bietz, Mary Ann Fraser, Yuki Yoshino and I participated.

Not only did we have a hoot of a time flying kites, this photo made it into Publisher's Weekly!

Alexis's book is taking the kidlit world by storm, and her much aclaimed book trailer is drawing a lot of attention. I must say I am as pleased as punch to have produced it. Congrats to Alexis. She is an inspiration to all, and I know I am not alone when I say she deserves every success for her hard work and generousity to many in the Kid Lit and the SCBWI community.

West of the Moon--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

March's Book Pick is WEST OF THE MOON, by Margi Preus. This beautiful story elegantly blends Norwegian folklore into a historical fiction plot line. It's a lovely edition put out by Abrams/Amulet, with evocative jacket art and carefully chosen typefaces and interior art.

When Astri's aunt sells her to an odious goatman for two silver pieces and a package of meat, Astri bides her time until she can escape. Spring comes and the goatman means to marry her, but Astri runs away, taking with her a strange girl who spins wool into fine yarn, and all the "treasures" she can find in the goatman's house. She grabs the sister she was forced to leave behind at her aunt's, and the three girls head for the harbor and a ship that's waiting to take them to their father in America. Astri spins stories as they go, until their journey resembles a valiant quest to find a white bear (really a prince) in a legendary castle, aided by spells, curses, and a magical hairbrush.

February Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Novels I have recently read and loved include:

THE IMPOSSIBLE KNIFE OF MEMORY, by Laurie Halse Anderson. For years, Hayley Kincain has been on the road with her dad, trying to outrun his PTSD and lose his memories of the war in drugs and alcohol. But when Hayley is a high school senior, the pair settle down in what was Hayley's grandmother's house, trying to find a bit of normal. Spoiler alert: It won't be easy. This YA reaches out and grabs you right in.

GLORY O'BRIEN'S HISTORY OF THE FUTURE, is another winner by A. S. King. Using her flair for inserting an element of fantasy into her realistic novels, this time she has Glory drink a potion made from desiccated bat, which gives her the ability to see into the future. For Glory, whose mother committed suicide when Glory was four and who doesn't know whether or not she will follow in her mom's footsteps, the question is whether she herself has a place in this future she is seeing. Not as gloomy as it sounds! This could pair well with Andrew Smith's Grasshopper Jungle, showing a similar epic scope, but told from a female point of view. (YA)

The Poem That Will Not End - Joan Bransfield Graham

Joan Brandsfield Graham is one of my favorite people.  Her new book The Poem That Will Not End is a fabulous book.  Here is the book trailer that I produced for the book.

We Were Liars--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

February's Book Pick is WE WERE LIARS, by E. Lockhart. She has done it again. Author of 2008's wonderful The Disreputable History of Frankie-Landau Banks, WE WERE LIARS is a gem of a novel.

Seventeen year old Cadence Sinclair, of the rich and beautiful Sinclair family, has been through a terrible trauma. When the novel opens, she is in awful shape. She takes lots of pills for her crippling headaches, she keeps her blond hair dyed black, and she is in the process of giving away all of her earthly possessions. She hasn't been to her family's private island since her mysterious accident the summer she and the other Liars were fifteen. Until then, the four Liars had spent their summers together, running wild and forging deep bonds of friendship. And love--Cady and Gat have fallen in love. But there is more to life than this idyllic little island. Gat isn't one of the Beautiful Sinclairs, and the eventually the Liars begin to see that all things in this world must come to an end. When Cady returns to the island to piece together the mysteries of her past, the Liars spend one last bittersweet summer together.

2014 Favorites--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Can you name your favorite books from 2014? I don't want to try to predict Caldecott/Newbery/Printz winners, but I thought I'd share a few of my favorites from last year:

 

Picture Books:

BLUE ON BLUE, written by Dianne White, illustrated by Beth Krommes
PEGGY: A BRAVE CHICKEN ON A BIG ADVENTURE, by Anna Walker
GASTON, written by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Christian Robinson
BAD BYE, GOOD BYE, written by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Jonathan Bean

Chapter Books/Mid-grade:

DORY FANTASMAGORY, by Abby Hanlon
EL DEAFO, by CeCe Bell
BROWN GIRL DREAMING, by Jacqueline Woodson
WEST OF THE MOON, by Margi Preus
THE CATEGORICAL UNIVERSE OF CANDICE PHEE, by Barry Jonesberg

Young Adult:

EGG & SPOON, by Gregory Maguire
GRASSHOPPER JUNGLE, by Andrew Smith
WE WERE LIARS, by E. Lockhart
I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN, by Jandy Nelson

--Lynn

January Recommendations--Lynn Becker Book Picks

Once, again, I've been reading a lot of excellent kid's books lately!

Novels:
The wonderful EGG & SPOON, by Gregory Maguire, features a peasant girl from a remote and starving village, an aristocratic girl traveling through the country by train, the Tzar, the Tzar's godson, a Faberge egg, the Firebird's egg, a legendary ice dragon, and Baba Yaga, along with her chicken-legged hut, among many other Russian-themed elements. It all comes together in this sophisticated literary YA (and crossover) novel that is a pure pleasure to read.

In Meg Wolitzer's BELZHAR, Jam Gallahue is sent to a school for kids who have suffered through enough trauma that they don't fit in at at their traditional schools anymore. She and four of her classmates are chosen for a special English class, assigned Sylvia Plath to read, and given special journals. What Jam and her classmates discover as they write is both comfort and nightmare. BELZHAR is compelling YA.

Jennifer L. Holm (Babymouse, Turtle in Paradise) crafts a strong MG featuring eleven-year-old Ellie and her scientist grandfather, Melvin, who has turned up looking strangely like a dorky teenager (who still dresses like her grandfather). Melvin has discovered a "fountain of youth" but now that he looks like a kid, he can't get back into his lab to finish his experiments. THE FOURTEENTH GOLDFISH is funny and very readable.

Mr. Tiger Goes Wild--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Happy New Year! Here's wishing you lots of books to read, write, and illustrate in 2015!

January's Book Pick is the witty and wonderful Mr. Tiger Goes Wild, by Peter Brown.

In a world where animals dress formally and act with the utmost decorum, Mr. Tiger is bored. He wants to loosen up. So he drops down on all fours, sheds his clothing, and runs off to the wilderness. But the wilderness isn't his home, and Mr. Tiger misses his friends. Happily, things have changed a bit when he returns to the city.

Petra - sketchbook art

Sketch book art is the purest form of art for art sake.  It is more about the feel of a place than the actual likeness.  The Bedouin push their wares, smelly camels saunter by and my guide waits on the side as my pencil works it's magic.  And I have my sketch.

Petra is amazing with all the buildings carved right out of red sandstone. This is one of the magnificent royal tombs, the Urn Tomb.  Sketch on the left, photo on the right.

December Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

What have you been reading recently? I have especially enjoyed these books in particular:

Novels:

If you enjoyed Jonathan Stroud's Lockwood & Co. (or even if you haven't yet) don't miss JACKABY, by William Ritter. This paranormal-infused detective story, which takes place in New England in 1892, is chock-full of personality, murder, and supernatural beings. Abigail Rook arrives in New Twiddleham needing a job, and the only one who will take her on is a rather strange man, Mr. R. F. Jackaby. Her first day on the job lands her right in the middle of a murder investigation, and things only get crazier from there. This is high on my list of favorite books for 2014. As a bonus, check out the first paragraph--it's pretty nearly perfect.

If you like steampunk, check out the STOKER & HOLMES novels, THE SPIRITGLASS CHARADE, and THE CLOCKWORK SCARAB. Evaline Stoker, sister of Bram, and Mina Holmes, niece of Sherlock, find themselves investigating a couple of strange cases involving missing society girls, vampires, fraud, and murder. And yes, this series is paranormally infused too. It's good fun.

MORTAL HEART, by Robin LaFevers, is a strong, strong finish to her HIS FAIR ASSASSIN trilogy. This one is told from the point of view of Annith, a handmaiden of Death who seems to be on a path to be the convent's next seeress. But Annith wants to venture forth to prove herself on a mission before being locked away in solitary service to Saint Mortain for the rest of her life. She wants to see if she may serve the god of Death in a manner more truly befitting her. So she strikes out on her own, whereupon she does, indeed, find plenty of adventure, romance, and courtly intrigue.

Paperboy--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

PAPERBOY, by Vince Vawter, is this month's Book Pick, and I'm happy to say that I enjoyed it every bit as much the second time around, rereading so I could talk about it here.

This is a really complex story in a tidy MG package. The author tackles his main issue of stuttering, but also takes on race relations, bullying, what it means to be a parent/what it means to be a son, growing up, coming of age, standing up for what you think is right, etc. There is even a crush that has the potential to be cringe-worthy, but it feels honest and true, and never takes up more than its share of the story.

The setting, late 1950's Memphis, also plays an important part and, in Vawter's hands, it comes through loud and clear.

November Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

These are some books that I would like to recommend this month:

Novels:
One of the MG books I enjoyed most this year (along with El Deafo) is THE CATEGORICAL UNIVERSE OF CANDICE PHEE, by Barry Jonsberg. I think this book suffered by being released so soon after Counting by 7s, as the description might sound somewhat similar. The main character, Candice, is likely on the autism spectrum and is seen as beyond weird by her classmates. But her quirky way of dealing with family, friends, enemies, tragedy, adversity, and teachers, along with her warm-hearted intentions, makes for a rich and rewarding read. I almost didn't pick it up, but I'm so glad I did!

CLARIEL, by Garth Nix, is a long-awaited prequel to his fabulous Abhorsen trilogy. Clariel, a loner who wants only to hunt in the Great Forest, is forced to move to the capital city of Belisaere, where strange people and customs stifle her. When she is attacked by a Free Magic creature, she discovers her own powers as a Berserk, and finds herself increasingly drawn to Free Magic sorcery. You can enjoy this even if you haven't yet gotten to the rest of the Abhorsen books, but why not just read them all? In fact, the audio is an excellent idea, performed perfectly by Tim Curry. (YA)

And HOLD ME CLOSER, NECROMANCER, by Lish McBride, is a really fun read. It's the only zombie entertainment I have allowed myself, and I'm glad I did (despite a few nights of icky zombie dreams). College dropout Sam finds out that he's a necromancer and has made a powerful enemy. It's witty, there's a lot of action, and a severed head gets to deliver many of the best jokes. (YA)

The Lucy Variations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

November's Book Pick is The Lucy Variations, by National Book Award Nominee Sara Zarr.

Those of you who have read any of her other work, including The Story of a Girl, Sweethearts, or How to Save a Life, know that she has a terrific knack for crafting strong and believable realistic YA. Her characters are usually high school girls navigating the ups and downs of getting close to adulthood--and figuring out the changes that come with getting there.

I have thought a lot about what works for me in The Lucy Variations, and I think it's the way she has created a flawed yet thoroughly understandable character in Lucy, one that readers can relate to despite Lucy's special circumstances, which include her huge talent for playing the piano and early professional success with it. She still has problems with family dynamics, with friendships, and some cringe-worthy crushes on teachers and tutors. Zarr also manages to weave all her elements into a smooth plot.

You may also want to check out Zarr's Story of a Girl, Sweethearts, and How to Save a Life, along with Roomies, co-written with Tara Altebrando.

--Lynn

October Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Have you read any great books recently? Since last month, here are some of my favorites.

Novels:

LOCKWOOD & CO.: THE WHISPERING SKULL, is the second installment in the new series by Jonathan Stroud (who is also the author of the wonderful Bartimaeus books). Lockwood & Co. features a London that's overrun with supernatural activity. The agents, Lucy, George, and Anthony Lockwood himself, are hired to oversee the exhumation of a dangerous grave. Belonging to a dark arts practitioner who died horrifically, the grave is thought to house a "Type Two Visitor." When the coffin is opened for the agents to seal the bones, a terrible relic is found, and George's fascination with it allows a nasty ghost to escape. When the relic itself goes missing, Lockwood & Co. must find it before it falls into the wrong hands. If you haven't already read the first book in the series, don't wait! The books are a fine blend of creepy mystery and wry humor. I would call this upper MG for the 10 - 14 year old crowd.

Also out recently is Jandy Nelson's second book, I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN. Her debut novel, The Sky is Everywhere, was a Book Talk book in the past, and if you haven't read that one, trust me, you do NOT want to miss it! I'll Give You the Sun is her terrific second book about twins Jude and Noah who, at thirteen, are as different, and yet as close, as twins can be. By the time they are sixteen, however, a huge rift has formed and they are all but cut off from each other. I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN is narrated alternatively by Noah as a thirteen year old, and Jude as a sixteen year old. It's an interesting device and Nelson carries it off beautifully. (YA)

Sophie's Squash--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

This month's Book Pick is the 2014 Golden Kite winner for picture book text, SOPHIE'S SQUASH, written by Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrated by Anne Wilsdorf.

October brings lots of squash to the markets. Kids will get plenty of chances to adopt one of their own, and they might want to after reading this story.

When Sophie picks out a squash at the farmer's market, her parents think they will eat it for dinner.  Not so. Sophie names the squash Bernice and adopts it into their family. Though Sophie is warned that the squash will become blotchy and gross, she's hearing none of it, at least until the evidence becomes too strong to ignore. Then Sophie buries Bernice in "good, clean dirt" with "a little love" (advice from the squash farmer) and she waits until the snow melts to find out how Bernice did out there all winter.

September Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Here are some of my favorite books from this past month:

Novels
I finally read the conclusion of the YA Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy, called DREAMS OF GODS AND MONSTERS, by Laini Taylor. I've rarely read a fantasy as wonderful as the first book, and then the second one was completely depressing. This third and final installment is a fitting and somewhat lovely ending to the whole saga. I felt very satisfied when I shut the book. If you've read the first two, make sure you get a chance to finish up with this one.

THE NIGHT GARDENER, by Jonathan Auxier, is a wonderful, darkly magical MG that's got to be on Newbery committee radar. I loved this old-fashioned tale of two orphans who need to work as servants at a sinister house, that's engulfed by a sinister tree, and is harboring sinister secrets behind a small, mysterious door. Even though it's British and set in an earlier time, I found the aura of creepiness to be remarkably similar to Holly Black's Doll Bones.

NIGHTINGALE'S NEST, by Nikki Lofton, has also got to be under Newbery consideration. This is MG magical realism on a very fine level. It's based on a Hans Christian Anderson story, but with a contemporary setting. Little John works to clear brush from Mr. King, the richest man in town. His younger sister has recently died, and his mom seems to be losing it. His dad drinks too much, and Mr. King is an ogre. When Little John hears Gayle singing, he also finds that her voice has the power to heal. It's a lovely and touching story.

Winger--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

September's Book Pick is WINGER, by the increasingly prolific Andrew Smith. Although WINGER was published in 2013, he already has GRASSHOPPER JUNGLE and 100 SIDEWAYS MILES coming out in 2014. (GRASSHOPPER JUNGLE, by the way, is weirder and more epic in scope than Winger, and is quite possibly a masterpiece--so far, it's my pick for the Printz this year. I haven't read the Sideways Miles book yet.)

I have to admit that the cover of WINGER made it really hard for me to open the book. Every time I saw that guy in the prep school outfit, with the bloody tissue sticking out of his nose, I picked up something else. Even when I heard over and over how great the story was. I finally must have focused only at the back cover, which is an artist's rendering of the photo on the front, and somewhat more appealing to me.

Sailing to Freedom - Book Trailer - Martha Bennett Stiles

Martha Bennett Stiles was the winner of a book trailer on the Hanging Off Jefferson's Nose Blog Tour Comment raffle. As it turns out, her new book, Sailing to Freedom, has just been released. I was delighted to produce a trailer for her.

August Recommendations--Lynn Becker's Book Picks

Have you read any great books this month?

I finally caught up with HOW TO CATCH A BOGLE, by Catherine Jinks. Orphan Birdie is apprenticed to the Go-Devil Man, a bogler named Alfred. She considers herself lucky to be helping to catch bogles rather than working in the sewers of London. But the job is dangerous each and every time she sings within her circle of salt, and she and Alfred can't let anything distract them as they lay their traps. When other orphans begin to disappear, Birdie and Alfred have their work cut out for them. This is appropriately creepy Victorian fun, and I look forward to the sequel, coming out in November. (MG)

THE ISOBEL JOURNAL, by Isobel Harrop, is a quirky scrapbook, full of the musings of one young woman who is just beginning to figure out the meaning of her life. It's not a traditional narrative by any means, but taken as a whole it is strangely satisfying. (YA)

SINNER, by Maggie Stiefvater, returns to the werewolves of the Shiver/Linger/Forever trilogy. In this one, Cole St. Clair, is a famous musician (also a werewolf), trying to stay clean after faceplanting onstage from a drug overdose. He swears to Isabel that he has come to LA for her. Never mind that he's also managed to land himself a six week stint on a reality show, where he will be recording his new album in front of the world. So what's Isabel to believe? Relentlessly restless, and always a player, Cole longs to find a home in this sun-soaked city, but only if he can convince Isabel that their love is real. Sinner is a terrific follow-up to the Shiver trilogy, but it can also stand on its own for readers willing to believe that a bad-boy rocker in LA can be a werewolf! (YA)

Valerie Hobbs-Writing Tip of the Day

I have known Valerie Hobbs for many years. I have enjoyed her wonderful stories and her marvelous master classes. I also produced a book trailer for her last novel, The Best Last Days of Summer. I cornered Val at the SCBWI Summer Conference and asked her to give us a Writing Tip of the Day.