Book Review of "Pie"

Pie, by Sarah Weeks

4.5 stars

Description:  The little town of Ipswitch, Pennsylvania was put on the map by the world's Pie Queen – Polly Portman. Polly's pie shop is famous the world over for the luscious pies that are Polly's signature. When Polly shocks the town by suddenly dying, Ipswitch experiences deep grief (not to mention pie withdrawal). The person who misses Polly the most is her niece, Alice. Alice seems to be the only one in Ipswitch who doesn't care why Polly mysteriously “gave” her worth-millions pie crust recipe to her cat. Instead, she investigates the various enigmas surrounding the town after Polly's death, even though it means encountering the more shady characters of Ipswitch.

Concerns: None.

Summary: This short book titled appropriately as Pie is about recognizing one's talents and making friends. Pie accomplishes that goal by weaving a tale of intrigue, suspense, and humor (with plenty of delicious descriptions of pies thrown in!). The amusing happenings in this story will certainly not be forgotten soon by readers; the town's thirst for fame parallels the get-rich-quick mentality in our society, yet approaches that greed with truth. Three cups of humor, two cups of mystery, and one cup of truth: the perfect recipe for Pie.

Book Review of "Raiders from the Sea"

The Viking Quest: Raiders from the Sea, by Lois Walfrid Johnson

4 stars

Description: Briana O' Toole is an ordinary thirteen-year-old Irish girl living in an extraordinary age - the Viking era! When she meets a boy named Mikkel, she knows the stranger is hiding a dark secret, and the O'Toole family prepares for a savage Viking invasion. But all the preparation in the world can't daunt the ferocity of the Norwegian Vikings on the rampage, and Briana and brother Devin soon find themselves captives on a Viking ship. Escape doesn't seem to be an option, but Briana and Devin learn to put their faith in God through all the trials in their new lives, while they wonder if they will ever see their family again.

Concerns: None.

Summary: Perfect for reading aloud, The Raiders from the Sea is a Viking epic that seems to stand alone as one for young readers; it has historical interest while the plot still holds the reader's attention. I also appreciate that the main focus for this story is trusting God in the midst of trouble. All in all, this Viking tale is a unique and enjoyable read that most 8- to 12-year-olds will love!

Book Review of "Hank the Cowdog and The Case of the Measled Cowboy"

Hank the Cowdog and The Case of the Measled Cowboy, by John R. Erickson

5 stars!!!

Description: Slim the ranch hand, Hank and his sidekick Drover, and Little Alfred are instructed to hold down the ranch when the boss leaves town for a few days. But when a blizzard strikes and Slim comes down with the measles, it’s up to Little Alfred and the dogs to take care of him and the ranch – a recipe for disaster. (Hank does all he can to clean up but alas, dogs can only lick up the edible messes.) After trying to start a fire and feed the invalid, things get even more complicated when the five year old boy drives Slim’s pickup in a rescue attempt and Slim falls asleep at the wheel! Will the sick cowboy, Little Alfred and the two dogs be able to make everything right again before Sally May returns?

Concerns: None.

Summary: This, in my opinion the best in the Hank the Cowdog series (and I’ve read most of his 50+ books) because it is such a thoroughly entertaining read! (Not to mention hilarious!) My favorite quote is when Loper says to Slim: “All you bachelors have to do is decide which kind of jelly you want on your peanut butter sandwich.” Classic.

Book Review of "Captive Treasure"

Captive Treasure, by Milly Howard

4 stars

Description: Young Carrie Talbot is traveling with her parents to minister to an Indian mission out west. When the deadly cholera casts a shadow over the group, Carrie and other children trail the wagon train driving a separate wagon for quarantine reasons. But pandemonium breaks out when the small unguarded wagon proves an easy target for Cheyenne and Sioux warriors. Carrie alone is taken captive and she is made to journey back to the Cheyenne camp. She struggles with loneliness for her family, but she appreciates the fact that the Indians are surprisingly kind to her and she find herself growing close to them. If Carrie’s dream of rescue comes true, will she be able to leave her new family?

Concerns: The Indians think that Carrie’s Bible has special powers and there is a brief description of some Indian rituals.

Summary: Having read this book numerous times, I can say with complete candidness that it is well worth the time! Readers will be intrigued by Carrie’s unfailing courage in the face of danger, her steadfast trust in God that changes the lives of many in the Cheyenne tribe, and her gradually dawning love for her captors. This story blends with impressive success its elements of action/adventure with a strong development of the main characters; accomplishing a feat many books today lack. In short, Captive Treasure is, well, a treasure!

Book Review of "A Little Princess"

A Little Princess, by Frances Hodgson Burnett

5 stars!!!

Description: India-born Sara Crewe travels to a London boarding school while her wealthy father goes back to India. Snubbed by some and adored by most, she consequently makes both friends and enemies of her classmates. As a pupil of status, Sara is treated with outward respect by the headmistress, but suspects that Miss Minchin really despises her; when tragedy strikes and Sara is reduced to poverty, she is no longer in doubt. Most of the school imitates the headmistress’s mean treatment of Sara, and when she thinks she can’t bear her circumstances any longer, a monkey and two Indian gentlemen surprise her with unlooked-for kindness, not knowing that Sara’s fate hangs in the balance.

Concerns: Sara believes in magic, although nothing that happens in the story is actually supernatural.

Summary: I can’t quite put my finger on what makes this book so fascinating. It could be the classic rags-to-riches theme that never grows old; or the way the author can depict every lively scene and character with delicious vividness; or perhaps the exceptionality of the courageous and proud Sara herself. Whatever the cause, this long-beloved book is one that no-one should miss. The captivating plot and characters will pull you right into the book and won’t easily let you go until you are through with this marvelous adventure.

Book Review of "Remarkable"

Remarkable, by Lizzie K. Foley

4.5 stars

Description: Visit the town of Remarkable, where you are sure to stay right next door to adventure! You can tour the Museum of Remarkablility and may also have time to meet the rest of Remarkable’s incredibly talented citizens – which actually would include everyone. Everyone, that is, except Jane. Plain Jane Doe (aged 10), is the only one in Remarkable without a single talent. When you first get acquainted you may find her life a bit boring, but don’t pack up and leave town yet, because this is where things start to get exciting: dangerous-minded twins enroll in Jane’s school following the appearance of a mysterious pirate on her doorstep; someone plants a bomb that turns everyone blue; there is a kidnapping conducted by a devious gang of pirates; and even the lake monster gets in on the action! In the midst of all the swirling confusion, you will be right there beside Jane when she discovers the secret that will rock her world. But when the key to fame involves risking the happiness of a friend, will Jane be willing to release her dream of a famous life?

Concerns: There is some brief but uncomfortably intense fortune telling (my reason for not rating this 5 stars).

Summary: This book can only be described as remarkable! I love the sense of humor the author brings to every page, while cleverly enticing the reader to become a part of the story by getting them caught up in the lives of the intriguing characters. After all, who wouldn’t love a story where there are jelly wars, a pirate with two peg legs who can ride a bike, a monster saves the day, and a local dentist who is furious because everyone in Remarkable has perfect teeth?

Book Review of Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables, by L. M. Montgomery

5 stars!!!

Description: Spunky, fun-loving, impulsive scapegrace Anne Shirley is adopted by Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, the two most old-fashioned, quiet, down to earth folks on Prince Edward Island. They’re not exactly the ideal combination, especially in light of the fact that neither Matthew nor Marilla has a spark of Anne’s imagination, the very essence of which Anne practically lives and breathes. Not only does redheaded Anne turn their lives upside down and inside out, but she reaches the whole town as well! Disturbing the peace of the quiet town of Avonlea in ways that sometimes shock the inhabitants, Anne has many adventures, misadventures and just plain hilarious moments in her repertoire. Accidentally dying her hair green; walking a roof ridgepole; playacting in a sinking boat; serving liniment-flavored cake to company; from scrape to scrape, Anne works her way into the hearts of many (definitely including readers!) and we wonder how we ever did get along without her.

Concerns: Anne’s vivid imagination runs away with her sometimes and leads her to believe some woods are haunted.

Summary: I love this book!! 5 stars are by no means sufficient. Montgomery does an amazing job of creating realistic (yet unique) characters in entertainingly funny scenarios. A personal favorite is when Rachel Lynde (the town gossip) finds out that Anne’s temper may just be as fiery as her hair when Anne starts giving Lynde what-for in the most amusing, Anne-like way!

Book Review of Naya Nuki

Naya Nuki: Shoshoni Girl Who Ran, by Kenneth Thomasma  

4 stars 

Description: Shoshoni girls Naya Nuki and Sacajawea live in an Indian village in Montana. The Shoshoni are a strong and brave tribe, but as they travel to the prairie to hunt buffalo, their trip is overshadowed by one terrifying fear: the Minnetare tribe. The Minnetare have a history of attacking the Shoshoni, killing warriors and taking prisoners.  With every step toward the prairie, the risk of enemy attack grows stronger, but it is a risk that will have to be faced – if Naya Nuki’s people don’t get buffalo, they will starve. One fateful day, their fear becomes reality as scouts gallop into camp with the horrifying news: the enemy is near. Naya Nuki, Sacajawea, and others are taken captive and find themselves forced to walk the one thousand miles to the Minnetare village in North Dakota. Every day, escape grows in Naya Nuki’s mind… but the penalty for an attempted escape is death. Will Naya Nuki survive not only the imminent Minnetare chase, but also the dangers of traveling so far in the wildness alone?

Concerns: As a story about Indians, the book contains Indian traditions that are sometimes less than scenic, as well as references to the “Great Spirit”.

Summary:  Naya Nuki is a brave eleven year-old whose wildness survival savvy is remarkable. Travel with her as she battles the challenges of the wild including an encounter with a fierce grizzly, the relentless pursuit of the Minnetare, and a near-fatal buffalo stampede. This extraordinary story has excitement and suspense throughout and combined with the courage and wit of Naya Nuki, it is no less than exceptional.

Book Review of Ginger Pye

Ginger Pye, by Eleanor Estes

4 stars

Description: Jerry Pye wants a dog more than anything in the world. With one hard-earned dollar, he buys himself a puppy that he names Ginger Pye. Ginger quickly becomes an integral part in the family life of the Pyes as Jerry, his sister Rachel, his three year-old Uncle Bennie and Ginger have many adventures (and misadventures!). But their happiness is threatened when a mysterious stranger (none other than the Unsavory Character) follows them in an attempt to dognap their beloved Ginger. When Ginger disappears, naturally everyone blames the Unsavory Character...  but he is not who he seems, and revealing his true identity may be a task only Bennie can accomplish.

Concerns: None.

Summary: Ginger Pye is a story that every eight-year-old and up will be intrigued by, not just for the suspense that keeps one turning the pages, but also for the humor and wit prevalent throughout. Personally, my favorite aspect of the tale is the character Uncle Bennie, whose intellect is surprisingly adept for a three year old, but whose whimsical views of life are nonetheless thought-provoking! Don't miss Ginger Pye – it has all the makings of a legend!

Book Review of Baby Island

Baby Island, by Carol Ryrie Brink

5 stars!

Description: Capable twelve-year-old Mary Wallace and her not-so-capable, ten-year-old sister Jean are traveling alone to Australia when the ship capsizes! In the chaos that ensues, Mary and Jean are put on the wrong lifeboat – the one with the four screaming babies! The two sisters are set adrift with babies Elisha (the “pink” twin), Elijah (the “blue” twin), Ann Elizabeth (the spoiled but lovable one-year-old) and Jonah … whom Mary has a hard time keeping Jean from throwing overboard in hopes it will calm the storm like in the biblical Jonah story. When they reach Baby Island, they have all sorts of misadventures just trying to survive alone on a deserted island.

Concerns: None.

Summary: Practical Mary simply wants to live through this baby-abundant adventure while nutty Jean naturally wants to survive, but also have fun! Baby Island certainly has the means; tracking the mysterious Friday, searching for pirate’s treasure, conversing with a talking parrot, and attempting to keep the identical twins from getting mixed up all contribute to a wild, crazy and witty adventure all the way through!

Book Review of The Strictest School in the World

The Strictest School in the World: Being the Tale of a Clever Girl, a Rubber Boy, and a Collection of Flying Machines, Mostly Broken (The Mad Misadventures of Emmmaline and Rubberbones), by Howard Whitehouse

5 stars!

Description: Fourteen-year old Emmaline Cayley is fascinated with the science of aviation, so naturally she decides to build her own airplane! However, she runs into one problem: she is afraid to fly. To solve this problem, Emmaline enlists the help of Robert Burns (aka Rubberbones) to pilot her plane. But all of Emmaline’s plans come to a screeching halt when she is sent away to a boarding school. This isn’t just any old boarding school – it’s the strictest one in the world. Emmaline must drop her plans for flying machines, instead putting her brain to work finding out what is concealed in the tower that makes all the students tremble in terror. Escape is ever in her mind, but in all the years of the school’s existence, no one has ever gotten out alive.

Concerns: Brief fortune telling.

Summary: I loved this book! It’s hilarious, it’s adventurous, and it is just all-around fun! The lengthy title does not even begin to describe the adventures that await you; the ferocious field hockey games are my personal favorite, the description of Aunt Lucy’s infamous cooking made me shudder in disgust, and Rubberbones’s death-defying feats are a thrill to even the most reckless explorer!

P.S. Proceed at your own risk. There are dangers in every chapter.

Book Review of Tuck Everlasting

Tuck Everlasting, by Natalie Babbit

5 stars!

Description: Meet Winnie Foster, a 10 year old girl who is tired with her boring life as the only child in an annoyingly controlling family. One fateful day, Winnie decides to run away from it all, change her name, and accomplish something great to make her mark on the world. Before she gets far, she stumbles across a mysterious family called the Tucks who, though strange, seem nice enough – until suddenly they kidnap her. As the alarming chain of events unfolds, Winnie realizes that in meeting the Tucks, she discovered a secret that could change the world forever… but the appearance of a stranger with a dangerous proposition threatens the lives of the Tucks and the welfare of the entire world.

Concerns: Some very dubious worldview / eastern religion-y discussions (i.e., we’re all on the wheel of life…); a character is killed.

Summary: I love this book, and since first stumbling across it a year ago, I’ve read it approximately half a dozen times. It is one of those mysterious and yet poignant books that are enjoyed by all ages. It’s a breathtaking adventure of dangers and secrets; Winnie must figure out a way to save the Tucks and keep their deadly (or rather, un-deadly) secret safely hidden. Through it all, she is faced with a choice that could change her life forever.