Summertime "To Be Read" discoveries K-MS

 
What's on your Summer 2B Read shelf?

Gracey Zhang

ISBN: 9781338648263

Publisher's Synopsis:

From the PW Flying Starts creative force, Gracey Zhang, comes a touching and beautiful story about community, finding your own voice, doing what you love the most, and expressing your passion with FORTE! Rubin loves the beautiful sounds that are played by the orchestra. He wants to learn to play the violin and make his own music. But when Rubin plays, it doesn't sound like he imagines it should. Rubin goes into the forest to practice alone and despite only getting the violin to screech, he finds an unlikely audience that loves his unique style. In another inspiring and lyrical picture book that deftly dives into the psyche and heart of a child's viewpoint and experience, the creator of Lala's Words, Gracey Zhang, offers confidence to everyone who longs to master something that can be difficult and shows that there is only one way to do something that is to do it your own special way.

"Rubin loved the sounds...

They drifted around him and lifted him up..."

MrsK's Review: Storytime Read Aloud

Within a small town, Rubin enjoys listening to the Maestro's orchestra. When the Maestro places a violin in his hand... Rubin learns that his music is in need of some finer-tuned practice. So Rubin heads to the forest to practice the sounds he's been hearing.

With his first sounds, the forest creatures gather and join in with the sounds of his violin. Every evening Rubin would be in the forest clearing and every evening his audience joined in with their own unique voices.

With an ending concert, Rubin discovers that as his heart soared... so to did his unique violin voice.

Beautifully crafted, joyously performed,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

Gracey Zhang is a freelance illustrator and animator with a BFA in illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design. Born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, and educated in the United States, she is now based in New York, where she rides the train while thinking of warmer climates.

Brandon Todd

ISBN: 9781338805819

Publisher's Synopsis:

Grab your compass and join the Adventure Friends -- Miguel and Clarke -- in this full-color early reader series! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow! Clarke is new to town and ready to explore. Miguel loves meeting new people and going on adventures. With their walkie-talkies and compass in hand, these new friends map out their neighborhood and search for hidden treasure! With easy-to-read text and full-color artwork throughout, this adventure-filled early reader series is sure to be a hit with beginning readers! And after seeing Miguel and Clarke use their super-cool mapping skills across four short stories, readers may even be inspired to make their own neighborhood maps!

MrsK's Review: Read Aloud - 2nd Grade:

Such a perfect summer reading book. Is there any better time to explore the area around your home than on those lazy summer days? What about those long...evenings in which you have nothing to do? Why not begin a treasure-hunting group of friends and go exploring... even if it's only your backyard!

That's exactly what Clarke and Miguel decide they will do, especially since Clarke is new to the neighborhood. Explorations with a friend is absolutely the best summer-time memory. 

While you enjoy these great adventures with C&M, you learn what exploration tools you would pack for your summer adventures. As you explore, you can create your own area map... everything you need to know is in this book!

Be a summer explorer...stay safe...make good memories,

Mrs.K

Meet the Author:

A pinch of humor, A dash of sweetness, and served with a side of curiosity. Picture books can shape our views of the world. I’m humbled to be a small part of that.

   

Mitali Banerjee Ruths

ISBN: 9781338799613

Publisher's Synopsis:

In this full-color early chapter book series, Priya starts a party-planning business to help save the planet -- one party at a time! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! Priya is excited to plan her aunty’s birthday party. She will donate the money she makes to help the cutest endangered animal on the planet, the quokka! But the party is this Saturday! With so many items on her to-do list, can she get it all done in time? Priya sends out handmade invitations, makes DIY decorations, and sets an orange-only snacks menu -- including pumpkin samosas! Will Priya’s very first party be a success? With speech bubbles, easy-to-read text, and vibrant artwork on every page, this series is perfect for newly independent readers!

MrsK's Review: Gr.1-2 Reality Fiction

Have you ever enjoyed planning a party? Do you enjoy celebrating with family or friends? Do you have the "gift" for knowing exactly what someone's celebration should look like? If so, then this is a book full of party-planning ideas.

Priya has started a party-planning business that raises money for animals in trouble. Awesome... right?

Do you know what a Quokka is? Don't worry, you will by the time you've read this book. These animals are adorable! As Priya plans her Aunty's birthday party, you are given insights about what a party planner does. There are so many ideas... read with a party-planning journal... you just might start your own party-planning business. Start with creating your own paper-chain curtain... on a summer day... open your window and watch as a summer breeze whispers through your curtain!

What summer parties could you plan?

MrsK

Meet the Author:

Mitali Banerjee Ruths grew up in Houston, Texas, and dreamed of becoming an astronaut someday. She has worked as a babysitter, an ice cream seller, and a medical doctor. She now works as a creative director at a software company. She writes early in the morning on paper and types late at night on her computer. She loves telling stories, eating cookies, knitting sweaters, and going for walks in beautiful landscapes. She now lives in Canada with her husband, three kids, and their dog Tux. One day, she would like to orbit the earth and knit in zero gravity with floating yarn while watching a sunrise every 90 minutes.

Sayantani Dasgupta

ISBN: 9781338766738

Publisher's Synopsis:

When 10-year-old Kinjal hears a strange noise in the middle of the night, he grabs his twin sister, Kiya, and the two go searching in the forest at the edge of their new house. There, they find Snowy and Midnight, two winged pakkhiraj horses from the Kingdom Beyond Seven Oceans and Thirteen Rivers who have come to this dimension to seek help -- bees are disappearing, along with the nectar the pakkhiraj horses need to survive.

Whisked away to a magical realm, the twins must use Kiya’s scientific skills and Kinjal’s love of books and language. But then they discover that the disappearance of the bees is more nefarious than they thought, and the plot goes all the way to the top.

MrsK's Review: GR 3-4 Fantasy

How would you stop a Chaos monster from destroying the Solar System? What becomes an unknown quest for Kinjal and Kiya swiftly becomes a hidden secret about their dog Thumbs-Up, as well as their parents.

What happens next "had no explanation..." What the twins experience on a stormy night will break the laws of "space, time, and every scientific experiment." Thumbs-up rushes outside... begins whining and yipping... and then... what Kiya hears becomes the "beginning" of the rest of their saga.

Many of us have longed to see winged horses, yet on a stormy night, it would not be the traditional "beautiful experience. Especially when the only way to save your pet is to get on the backs of these powerful creatures and fly away from their home, their community... their universe.

So many questions... where is this Sky Kingdom? What is the Great Blah? Even though the Sky Kingdom is beautiful and overflowing with lush areas, there are sections that are dying. What is killing off the source of the creatures' "honey" food source? Could the twins really be the ones that could bring an end to the poisonous destruction?

A novel that will take you "out of this universe..."

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 I spend my life at the intersection of the stethoscope and the pen. But besides all this, what I also do is teach my students to listen by writing stories. I have them do listener response – writing in reaction to a poem or story we read in class. I have them write to a prompt – ‘when was the last time you witnessed suffering?’ I have them write ongoing personal illness narratives – weekly narratives in which I ask them to tell of the same experience but from a different point of view or genre or form to help unpack not only their own personal stories (stories which inform how they, in turn, will listen to the stories of others), but discover how stories work – in regard to plot, form, function, and voice.

Jeff Smith

ISBN: 9781338726381

Publisher's Synopsis:

Jeff Smith's bestselling, award-winning BONE saga returns with this hilarious sequel to Tall Tales! Smiley Bone, Fone Bone, and their Rat Creature pal, Bartleby, take a group of young scouts to a legendary landmark that the Bone cousins found when they were kids. They share stories around a campfire, spinning tales of trips to the moon, the delights of quiche, an imagined monster come to life, and an encounter with the two stupid Rat Creatures gone hilariously wrong! This volume includes stories written by Jeff Smith and Tom Sniegoski and illustrated by Jeff Smith, Stan Sakai, Katie Cook, Matt Smith, and Scott Brown.

MrsK's Review: GN Fun for all ages

There is something wonderful about reading a comic book, especially on a summer morning. If you haven't met Bone or it's been a while since you've read a Bone comic... this is definitely one to check out.

When a young group of scouts campout in a legendary landmark, Smiley Bone, Fone Bone, and Rat Creature are sure to spin a few campfire stories...

Excellent summertime read... and then retell... around the campfire,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 Born and raised in the American mid-west, Jeff Smith learned about cartooning from comic strips, comic books, and watching animation on TV. In 1991, he launched a company called Cartoon Books to publish his comic book BONE, a comedy/adventure about three lost cousins from Boneville. Against all odds, the small company flourished, building a reputation for quality stories and artwork. Word of mouth, critical acclaim, and a string of major awards helped propel Cartoon Books and BONE to the forefront of the comic book industry.

Roland Smith

ISBN: 9780545803502

Publisher's Synopsis:

What happens when the power goes out? And doesn't come back for days... weeks... even longer? Master of middle-grade suspense Roland Smith explores the possibilities in this action-packed novel!
Henry lives with his parents and extended family on a 40-acre property they all call the Aunt Farm. Even with dozens of aunts, uncles, cousins, and animals running around, life on the farm has always been comfortable and routine. But that all changes the day a passenger jet drops out of the sky and onto their land. And then all the phones go dead... And the cars won't start... Having spent a lifetime relying on the comfort and convenience of electricity and technology, now Henry and his family have only one hope for survival: each other.

"Hunger makes a thief of any man."

Pearl S Buck

MrsK's Review: Middle School Survival

What would you do if you were out on your farmland on a cold-crisp morning... where just being alone at the creek meant it was a good start to your day... and then a bright flash lit up the sky? Would you feel a sense of dread? For Henry, that's exactly how his entire life changed. Oh and just to let you know... that passenger jet that just fell out of the sky isn't a typical daily experience!

Henry lives on his family's forty-acre farm, a farm that has been in his family for seventy-two years. His father is the Portland Zoo director and his mom left her CEO position when he was born. Tech was a guarded tool on the farm, in spite of the fact that they had their own wind turbine. Most of his aunts and uncles lived around him and life consisted of daily chores, schooling, and family everywhere.

So, on the morning that the jet fell from the sky, Henry's farm life would become one of survival. What will happen when the food supply gets low? How old must you be to go into the city during an EMP outage? Think about it... cars are stranded... looting has created a danger zone... even if you had an older vehicle that wasn't out of commission, you had to have security... as in armed and ready to do whatever it would take to keep from being ambushed.

Caroline is Henry's neighbor. Not only have they grown up together. Turning thirteen hasn't been the easiest time of their friendship... and yet, Henry was not expecting to see Caroline sitting between her mom and dad at the crash sight. Now, she is "talking" to him. It's not like she's a ghost, it's just that she carries on a conversation that has quite the attitude.

The Wonderland Compound has become the envy of all who live around Portland, Oregon. The WC has electricity, food, their own bartering coins, items to trade for, and of course a secured "dead car" border. The challenge is that there are some who have decided to take over the compound. Will Henry survive a mishap trip into the Portland Zoo?

Roland Smith has an amazing "home-run" hit with this stand-alone novel. If you've read his survival series: Thunder Cave, IQ, and Storm Runners... you must get this novel! If you have not read any of this author's books... I can tell you, as an educator, every year his novels have been an "enthusiastic" hit with our learners. His mastery of "page-turning" hooks is beyond comparison. His narratives are so well crafted that these characters never leave you... you always want another book to be written.

Get ready for a night into morning read,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

Roland Smith is an American author of young adult fiction as well as nonfiction books for children. Smith was born in Portland, Oregon, and graduated from Portland State University and, following a part-time job at the Oregon Zoo in Portland, began a 20-year career as a zookeeper, both at the Oregon Zoo and the Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, Washington. After working to save wildlife following the Exxon Valdez oil spill, in 1990, he published his first book, Sea Otter Rescue, a non-fiction account of the process of animal rescue. Smith continued to draw upon his zoo experiences for other non-fiction titles, including Journey of the Red Wolf, which won an Oregon Book Award in 1996.
In 1997, Smith published his first novel, Thundercave. The book continues Smith's theme, as teenage protagonist Jacob Lansa follows his biologist father to Africa where the father is researching elephants. The Lansa character also appears in 1999
s Jaguar and 2001's The Last Lobo. Other novels by Smith include The Captain's Dog: My Journey with the Lewis and Clark Tribe, Zach's Lie, Jack's Run, Cryptid Hunters, and Sasquatch (novel), about a boy who searches for Bigfoot. Peak is the story of a teenage boy obsessed with climbing mountains, Elephant Run, and Tentacles(novel). In 2008, Smith published the first book in the series I, Q, titled Independence Hall. Smith's books have won "Book of the Year" awards in Colorado, Nevada, South Carolina, and Florida, as well as in his native Oregon. Smith lives in Tualatin, Oregon with his wife and stepchildren.

Seasoned Readers: Summertime Escapes

Dorothy Gilman

ISBN: 9780449208281

Publisher Synopsis:

Mrs. Virgil (Emily) Pollifax of New Brunswick, New Jersey, was a widow with grown children. She was tired of attending her Garden Club meetings. She wanted to do something good for her country. So, naturally, she became a CIA agent. This time, the assignment sounds as tasty as a taco. A quick trip to Mexico City is on her agenda. Unfortunately, something goes wrong, and our dear Mrs. Pollifax finds herself embroiled in quite a hot Cold War—and her country's enemies find themselves entangled with one unbelievably feisty lady.

"... so often nothing more is needed for volunteer work

then a good set of teeth!"

MrsK's Review: Espionage Mystery

Mrs. Pollifax has quite the talent for portraying the truth. During her doctor's appointment, she was given the wonderful news that she was in excellent health. At the age of 60+, this news didn't quite calm her feelings. Although her family is now grown, she has spent her time volunteering where ever there was a need. Today, her doctor has planted the seed that everyone, no matter what their age, to live to their full potential. What would Mrs. Pollifax want to do? The one thing she dreamed of doing... all those years ago...

The very next day, Mrs. Pollifax is in Washington DC. She has decided to volunteer as a spy for the CIA. As you probably are already pre-judging, Mr. Mason is stunned when he meets with Mrs.P. Spies don't just walk into the CIA and volunteer to give their life for their country. Spies are trained... not just anyone who walks in off the streets. Unsure of what to do, Mr. Mason asks Mrs.P to wait in a small room. Unfortunately, when Carstairs shows up to meet with a seasoned spy, he finds Mrs.P awaiting Mason's return. And so this is how Mrs.P will find herself in Costa Rica... picking up a package from an obscure book store... and waking up in an unknown location in an Albania detention cell.

Please, do not be alarmed... she is not alone. There is one other person who was taken from the bookstore. A man who is known as Farrell. There will be guards, senior officers, a mysterious person in the cell next to them, and of course a plan for escape.

If you enjoy the espionage genre... if you enjoy the quick-witted debates between characters... if you enjoy Miss Marple Mysteries or Murder She Wrote... this is your TBR series... 

Live to your fullest potential...

MrsK

Meet the Author:

   Dorothy Gilman was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to minister James Bruce and Essa (Starkweather) Gilman. She started writing when she was 9 and knew early on she was to be a writer. At 11, she competed against 10 to 16-year-olds in a story contest and won first place. She attended the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and briefly the University of Pennsylvania. She planned to write and illustrate children's books. She married Edgar A. Butters Jr, in 1945, and this ended in divorce in 1965. Dorothy worked as an art teacher & telephone operator before becoming an author. She wrote children’s stories for more than ten years under the name Dorothy Gilman Butters and then began writing adult novels about Mrs. Pollifax–a retired grandmother who becomes a CIA agent. The Mrs. Pollifax series made Dorothy famous. While her stories nourish people’s thirst for adventure and mystery, Dorothy knew about nourishing the body as well. On her farm in Nova Scotia, she grew medicinal herbs and used this knowledge of herbs in many of her stories, including A Nun in the Closet. She traveled extensively and used these experiences in her novels as well. Many of Dorothy’s books feature strong women having adventures around the world. In 2010 Gilman was awarded the annual Grand Master Award by the Mystery Writers of America. Dorothy spent much of her life in Connecticut, New Mexico, and Maine. She died at age 88 of complications of Alzheimer's disease. She is survived by two sons, Christopher Butters and Jonathan Butters; and two grandchildren.

Miranda James

ISBN: 9780593199480

Publisher's Synopsis:

Librarian Charlie Harris and his faithful feline companion, Diesel, have inherited Charlie’s grandfather’s house, along with a deadly legacy: a decades-old crime scene, in this all-new mystery in the New York Times bestselling Cat in the Stacks series.

Charlie has always believed that his grandfather had sold his house to his longtime tenant, Martin Hale. So when Martin dies, Charlie is surprised to discover the house was not left to Martin but instead belongs to Charlie. As he and Diesel check out the house he remembers fondly from his childhood, he is pleasantly surprised that it is in better condition than expected. That is, until they find a literal skeleton in a closet.

While the sheriff’s department investigates the mysterious remains, Charlie digs deeper into the past for clues to the identity of the bones and why they are there. But the cold case heats up quickly when Martin’s grandson is found dead on the farm.

As Charlie delves into his own family history, he encounters many people who might have been motivated to take a life. But Charlie and Diesel know that things are not always what they seem, and that secrets seemingly lost to time have a way of finding their way back to haunt the present.

MrsK's Review:

I adored the cover... who wouldn't! Charlie has just inherited his family's farmhouse. There are challenges... regular little nuances of those who claim ownership... being back at the farm after 4 decades... or might be a silly episode of a skeleton in a closet... it definitely won't be Diesel his coon cat.

Sean is Charlie's son. Given his attachment to legal matters, of course, he does have a degree as a  . Sorting through who really owns the farm, which farmers will continue renting parcels of land, and there are always some outside issues when his father has a cold case to investigate, as well as a mysterious homicide.

Given all of the legal ramifications, along comes the dead man's sister. Alissa arrives in time to identify her brother's body. Who even cared about her brother, he was in town only to lay claim to the farm that their dad had said was theirs. She hasn't been on the farm since that one horrible day... she was so little then... she really doesn't want to be at the farm.

With many clues, mischievous detours, and a promise that Charlie might accept an outcome that comes out of nowhere. Enjoy a summer moment in the shade with a mysterious inheritance...

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 

Miranda James is the pseudonym of Dean James, a seventh-generation Mississippian who recently returned home after over thirty years in Texas. A mystery fan since the age of ten, he wrote his first novel at the ripe old age of twelve. The only copy of The Mystery of the Willow Key vanished years ago, but since it was highly derivative of the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden mystery series, that’s probably a good thing.

Currently a librarian at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Dean has published articles on topics in library science, the history of science/medicine, and mystery fiction. His first book, which he co-wrote with fellow librarian Jean Swanson, was By a Woman’s Hand (Berkley; 1994). Jean and Dean won an Agatha Award for Best Mystery Non-Fiction and were nominated by the Mystery Writers of America for the Edgar for Best Critical-Biographical Work for this popular reference book. A second edition followed two years later, and Dean and Jean collaborated on two further projects, Killer Books (Berkley; 1998) and The Dick Francis Companion (Berkley; 2003). In all, he has co-authored or co-edited six works of mystery reference and one short story anthology.

Emily Henry

ISBN: 9780593334836

Publisher's Synopsis:

Nora Stephens’ life is books—she’s read them all—and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby.

Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away—with visions of a small-town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute.

If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

"When books are your life..."

MrsK's Review:

Meet Nora. She is a NY city literary agent. Her life revolves around her clients and their stories. She lives out her days serving those authors. Day after day! To the point that she never gets the guy, and her sweet sister has a plan to get her out of her rut.

Libby is the younger sister. She's pregnant, a mother, and is married to the love of her life. Before her next child is born, she has planned a "much-needed" retreat with her sister. Which happens to be planned in her favorite author's best-selling small town of Sunshine Falls.

On the day that Nora received a phone call from her current love interest, she is entering the restaurant where she has a meeting for her client's newest book. This lunch meeting does not go well, especially since she was late. Charlie Lastra is a "no-nonsense" editor who is already in opposition with Nora. There is no way that Nora will ever use him as an editor now that she has met him. So why does she continue rethinking that horrible luncheon?

Charlie has an exceptional insight into what makes a best seller. His insight into marketing could make a difference for Nora's client. His only challenge is that he doesn't like Nora's lack of appeal, plus she was unprofessionally late to their meeting. After a few quick-witted text messages, neither Nora nor Charlie has any plans of working together. 

So, when Libby "kidnaps" Nora for a much-needed retreat, Nora is all in. Since their mother's death, Nora has always tried to do anything her sister needed and this is one of those moments that Nora must do... even if it means that she will participate in Libby's "Life Changing Vacation List."

When they arrive in Sunshine Falls, some things are just like Libby's favorite book and other things are a façade. Nora is hoping that Libby doesn't become disenchanted. Libby is acting weirder by the day. And then it happens... Nora meets... well you have to read the book, won't you!

Excellent characters will entertain you, and quick-witted humor will enchant your hours within the covers of this romance. Are you ready for a summer romance complete with a book store and book lovers?

MrsK

Meet the Author:

   

Emily Henry is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Book Lovers, People We Meet on Vacation, and Beach Read, as well as the forthcoming Happy Place. She lives and writes in Cincinnati and the part of Kentucky just beneath it.

Laura Childs

ISBN: 9780451489616

Publisher's Synopsis:

While viewing the harbor's Gaslights and Galleons Parade from the widow's walk of Timothy Neville's Charleston mansion, local banker Carson Lanier seemingly tumbles over a narrow railing, then plunges three stories to his death. But a tragic accident becomes something much more sinister when it's discovered that the victim was first shot with a bolt from a crossbow.

At the request of the mansion owner, Theodosia investigates the tragedy and is soon neck-deep in suspects. An almost ex-wife, a coworker, a real estate partner--all had motives for killing the luckless banker, but one resorted to murder to settle accounts.

"Tall sailing ships... glowing white lights... Charleston Harbor..."

and an unidentified man falling to his death...

MrsK's Review:

Meet Theodosia the delightful protagonist-tea-shop investigator. Her greatest passion is the Indigo Tea Shop and sailing. There is nothing better than refining the tea menu or refurbishing the décor of the tea shop... unless it's the possibility of solving a crime. Given the evening's party, a "thunderous roar" pierces the night... is that really a man screaming as he is sliding off of the neighboring roof? Theodosia is not about to wait...

Drayton is the sixty-ish tea sommelier who is passionate about blending teas, as well as all types of history. Since joining Theodosia at the tea shop, he is thrilled with work and a grounding force for the many escapades' of Theodosia.

Haley is the tea shop's chef, she runs the kitchen like a "drill sergeant and is the perfection of an energetic enthusiastic comrade.

Detective Pete Riley, the one that makes Theodosia smile; can smooth-talk her into slowing down; and will ultimately help her uncover the truth. 

Watching the man "spinning and bouncing" off the roof was like a "hideous pinball machine" horror show. Could one of the canons from the sailing ships be involved? Was the man shot? Being the first at the death scene meant that Theodosia was not going to wait around for the Charleston police. After all, she is the one who checked for the pulse. She must find out why this man is "skewered" on the fence.

If there is one thing that makes for a great summer mystery it's the joy of reading about tea shops. All of the great new teas and the absolutely calorie-free yumminess! 

Enjoy, MrsK

Meet the Author:

Laura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.

Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life, she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fundraising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.

Francine Rivers

ISBN: 9781414370651

Publisher's Synopsis:

Once Leota’s garden was a place of beauty—where flowers bloomed and hope thrived. It was her refuge from the deep wounds inflicted by a devastating war, her sanctuary where she knelt before a loving God and prayed for the children who couldn’t understand her silent sacrifices.

At eighty-four, Leota is alone, her beloved garden in ruins. All her efforts to reconcile with her adult children have been fruitless. She voices her despair to a loving Father, her only friend.

And God brings a wind of change through unlikely means: one, a college student who thinks he has all the answers; the other, the granddaughter Leota never hoped to know. But can the devastation wrought by keeping painful family secrets be repaired before she runs out of time?

"I come to the garden alone

While the dew is still on roses

And the voice I hear falling on my ear

The son of God discloses..."

MrsK's Review:

Leota has been a woman who nurtured her garden with hope, specialized attention, a beautiful design of color, and thoughtful conversations with her Lord. Just as Leota is entering her last season of life, she knows the sadness of a garden she can't take care of. The longing for a family that has a life of their own. The worst was the struggle with so many memories and only an empty house that is overflowing with eighty-four years of items. She had tried so hard to keep her family together... and failed so miserably. Will the rekindled hope of her granddaughter bring reconciliation with her daughter? Nora has learned the value of accepting what she can't change... yet will she find the joy necessary to move forward?

Corban is attending Berkeley. When his professor returns his proposal for the term paper, the grade is not what he expects. What does the Professor mean by "...it lacks the human element?" Walking thru his emotions, Corban has understood he needs to do a case study to understand how the elderly embrace life. With the guidance of Ruth, he agrees that the case study must be a woman. His next step is "who" that might be? Will Corban discover the truth about what the elderly need? Will he find his own pathway to a trusting truth found in an elderly woman?

Nora is Leota's daughter. Lack of control is not acceptable in any form. Common sense is what Nora prides herself in... after all... look at how she's created a life without her mother's influence. Yet, when her daughter informs her that she has other plans for her future. San Francisco nor God has any connection to her plans for her daughter's life. Will she finally let go of her past resentments and learn the value and joy of living by faith?

Anne is Nora's daughter. While attending a Christian summer camp, she began realizing that maybe there was a bigger plan for her life... at least bigger than the "elite" plans that her mother is determined to manipulate her into accepting. Breaking free will it be a "leap of faith," or will it become a wedge between them... just like her mother and grandmother? Will she stand strong against the "falsehood" of pleasing others?

Most everyone rekindles a gardener's heart once the winter's chill has moved into a season of springtime rebirth. The tempting call of renewing flower pots and hanging baskets lifts our souls. Many have found the blessed solace of "tending" a garden bed or pruning and reshaping those cherished trees and bushes that were planted years ago.

Leota's story is a bitter/sweet glimpse into a woman's life of unfolding truths. For this reader, I visited with Leota off and on for many moments during the latter days of my career... in the season over 60... and with children reaching their mid-life realizations... Leota's story found its mark every time. Areas of gratitude... moments that cracked my heart... insights into healing wounds that needed forgiveness. What I can assure you of... is a beautiful walk with a character that will remind you what it means to walk "seasoned" before our Lord...

MrsK

"...And he walks with me and he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known.

He speaks and the sound of his voice

Is so sweet, the birds hush their singing

And the melody that he gave to me

Within my heart is ringing.

And he walks with me and he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known.

Merle Haggard

Meet the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers continues to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her numerous bestsellers include Redeeming Love, A Voice in the Wind, and Bridge to Haven, and her work has been translated into more than thirty different languages. She is a member of Romance Writers of America's coveted Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Spring into a Egg-citing New Title: K-12

Bountiful New Explorations

Rachel Piercey

ISBN: 9781419751585

Publisher's Synopsis:

My woodland’s full of animals,

of every different kind.

So shall we stay here for a while

and see what we can find?

Experience the everyday wonder of nature in this first book of poetry, exploring a magical woodland year. With poems by acclaimed writer Rachel Piercey, join Bear on his journey from spring to winter with lots of friends to meet, places to explore, and things to spot along the way.

MrsK's Review: Seek & Find Read Aloud

If you go down to the woods today... you might find... playful critters; flowers and trees; changing seasons; and of course delightfully woven poems. This is a wonderful experience for the entire family or for an early morning "Look & Find" discovery. 

*Homeschooling parents, there are so many avenues for your learners at any age. Animal research projects, creative writing pieces, extended outdoor "walk-abouts," as well as sketching to label journaling experiences. Nature explorations is a must "beyond the covers" activity,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 Rachel Piercey is a London-based poet, editor and tutor who also writes for children. She studied English Literature at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, where she was President of the Oxford University Poetry Society and won the Newdigate Prize in 2008. She also has an MA in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway.

MrsK's Spring Walk-About Resources:

        

Jessica Khoury

ISBN: 9781338652390

Publisher's Synopsis:

In the Clandoms, everyone is born with wings, with tight-knit communities formed around bird types: Jay, Falcon, Crow.

Ellie Meadows dreams of growing up to join the Goldwings -- the famed knights who defend all the people of the Clandoms. It was a Goldwing, after all, who saved her life on that terrible day her parents were killed. There’s just one problem: Ellie is a Sparrow, and the Goldwings are almost invariably picked from the higher clans like Eagles and Ospreys. This rigid hierarchy means that Ellie is destined to become a farmer.

Determined to honor her parents' memories and prove herself worthy of the Goldwings, Ellie sets out on her own for the capital. But her journey will be dangerous. Foul creatures called gargoyles lurk behind every cloud, ready to slay anyone unlucky enough to be caught outside in a storm -- just as Ellie's family was.

Soon her path intertwines with a colorful band of fellow outcasts, each with their own aspirations... and their own secrets. Ellie's new friends offer not just roadside companionship. They'll challenge her ideas of right, wrong, and what truly makes a hero.

"Was it just the lightning that had woken him?

Or had some inner sense detected danger?"

MrsK's Review: Grades 3+ Fantasy

Nox is an outcast in the Forest of Bluebriar. He and his fellow outcasts have a mission, one in which they will be compensated for theft, as well as the one true quest that Nox must see through to completion.

Ellie is a sparrow who has spent all of her flying moments preparing to join the knighted Goldwings. Becoming a Goldwing has never been an accomplished feat for the Sparrow clan, yet, Ellie is determined to win the yearly competition. She knows that her calling is to defend all life from the dreaded gargoyles behind the clouds. What begins as the first leg of the competition, becomes an "off-coursed" journey with Nox and his group of outcasts.

Fantasy is a wonderous adventure, especially when it is woven with self-discoveries... Delightfully detailed characters... Foes that you don't want to be foes... and an honored quest that is as old as time.

Once you enter the covers of Clandoms, you will be experiencing an adventure that will lead you to the sequel.

Such a delightful tale of adventure... a must-read to share experience for all fantasy or Robin Hood fans. A perfect read-aloud for a family storytime!

MrsK

Meet the Author:

   Jessica Khoury wrote her first book at age 4, a fan fic sequel to Syd Hoff's Danny and the Dinosaur, which she scribbled on notebook paper, stapled together, and placed on the bookshelf of her preschool classroom. Since that day, she's dreamed of being an author.
When not writing, Jess enjoys spending time with family, playing video games, and oil and watercolor painting. She is also a professional mapmaker and spends far too much time scribbling tiny trees and mountains for fictional worlds. Jess currently lives in Greenville, South Carolina. She is the author of the Corpus trilogy, The Forbidden Wish, Last of Her Name, and The Mystwick School of Musicraft.

Jason Fry

ISBN: 9780062230201

Publisher's Synopsis:

Treasure Island meets Battlestar Galactical in book one of the swashbuckling sci-fi adventure series SLJ called space opera in the classic style in a starred review, from New York Times bestselling author Jason Fry.

The relationship between Tycho Hashoone, his twin sister, Yana, and their older brother, Carlo, isn't your average sibling rivalry. They might be crew members together aboard the Shadow Comet, but only one of them can be the next ship captain. So when the Hashoones find themselves in the midst of a dangerous conspiracy--one that will pit them against space pirates, Earth diplomats, and even treachery from within the family--each sibling is desperate to prove his or her worth. The only trouble is, if they don't work together, none of them may make it out alive.

Perfect for fans of fantasy adventures like Ranger's Apprentice and such space-age epics as Star Wars, The Jupiter Pirates: Hunt for the Hydra is a wholly original saga about a galaxy on the brink of war and one unforgettable family caught in the crossfire.

"Outside the viewports, lays deep space, 

filled with stars like spilled jewels."

MrsK's Review: Grades 4-6 Science Fiction

Welcome to the intergalactic world of the Jupiter Pirates. Where various space cultures are having disputes that might lead to a galactic war.

Meet the Hashoones, for generations, their spacecraft, Shadow Comet, has been known as an entrepreneur business among many. Whether they are considered space pirates or space privateers, their goal is to be guardians of the cargo for the sake of their homeland. Enemies of their Grandfather want them destroyed. Enemies of their Father and Mother wanted them to abide by the galactical rulings (codes). The newest generation, well this saga is all about their training, learning, and deciphering what their mission might be. 

Tyco has been in training as the Comet's newest navigator. With a few of those intercepts, he has learned that it's not just the cargo... before boarding, it's all about answering the ultimate question, "What is the ship's allegiance?"

Carlo is the older brother, at sixteen he is the ship's piloting controller. His training is exceptional, trustworthy, and crucial when preparing to board other spacecraft.

Yana is Tyco's twin sister. her training has been in monitoring the ship's sensors and engineering systems. 

Their allegiance is with the Jovian Union and its struggle with Earth. Yet, sometimes when the threat of war begins, allegiances might need renegotiation.

Enjoy this quick-pacing galactical series where the "moons of the outer solar system have formed the Jovian Union against Earth's government...

MrsK

"Laws don't come floatin' out of deep space...

they look like the folks what made 'em."

  

Meet the Author:

In addition to Jupiter Pirates, I've written or co-written more than 30 novels and short stories set in the Star Wars galaxy, including The Essential Atlas, The Essential Guide to Warfare, The Weapon of a Jedi, and the Servants of the Empire quartet.

I spent more than 12 years at The Wall Street Journal Online, where I wrote or co-wrote the Real-Time and Daily Fix columns. My non-fiction work has appeared on ESPN.com, Yahoo! Sports, Poynter.org, Deadspin, and Baseball Prospectus. I blog about the New York Mets at Faith and Fear in Flushing and live in Brooklyn with my wife and son.

 

Coyote Peterson

ISBN: 9780316452403

Publisher's Synopsis:

Wildlife expert and YouTube phenomenon, Coyote Peterson, is back with the sequel to the bestselling Brave Adventures: Wild Animals in a Wild World. Once again, Coyote and his crew voyage to new environments and encounter an even more eclectic ensemble of the planets' animals. From a slimy octopus to elusive tree climbing lizards to nomadic wolverines--this book promises to be another fast-paced, wild experience. Coyote will take readers for a hike through a snake infested island, kayak the ocean to discover a migrating pod of killer whales, and track a pride of lions across the South African savanna! You don't want to miss these never-before-told brave adventures, guaranteed to be a hit with Coyote's 13 million fans as well as animal lovers around the world! Includes over one hundred hand-drawn, black-and-white illustrations throughout.

 MrsK's Review: Grades 6-8 Animal NF/Reality Fiction

Have you ever gazed up at the clouds to locate imaginary animals? Have you ever wanted to know more about a real lion, panda, whale or lizard? Have you heard of famous wildlife explorers like Jacques Cousteau, Steve Irwin, or Jane Goodall? Even if you can't answer yes to these "I Wonders," this is a must experience book!

Meet Coyote Peterson, a wildlife explorer for all ages. As a young boy he had amazing "back yard" adventures that lead to hours of discovery at the library and with Zoo books. Today, he is bringing his wildlife adventures into your hand with thrilling animal quests. Some of the animals are ones he has "longed" to meet, some are newly discovered, all are uniquely created in environments around the world.

Journey with Coyote to Snake Island, tide pools, and Orcas Island. Jump upon the back of a dangerous Caiman reptile. Dive into the Great Barrier Reef for a moment with a Eastern Pacific green sea turtle. Head "outback" in search of the King of the Savannas. Or head to Alaska to meet the phantom of the wilderness, the fearless wolverine.

Grab your explorer journal, a pencil... for when you enter the covers of this book you will want to note the animal facts... sketch your own version of the animal... and maybe begin your discoveries of the amazing animals beyond your own backyard.

MrsK

https://www.youtube.com/@BraveWilderness/videos

Meet the Author:

Since early childhood, animals have played a significant role in Coyote Peterson’s life. As he passed through high school and into college, Coyote discovered his second passion in his love for film and television. While a student at The Ohio State University, he studied video production, writing, and directing. His deep admiration for wildlife and video production inspired him to combine the two mediums.

Today, Coyote is proud to be an Emmy Award-winning host on YouTube’s “Brave Wilderness” channel. With an adventurous nature and a joyful curiosity for wildlife, Coyote’s personality creates a friendly and inviting space while getting up close with animals to uncover the true stories behind some of our planet’s most misunderstood creatures. Known for his trademark leather cowboy hat, backpack, and bandanna, many of our youngest fans are driven to emulate him as he educates viewers about the world of animals and fosters a future that conserves environments and their species. Forever dedicated to the joys of storytelling, Coyote is constantly honing his craft to ensure audiences of all ages can partake in his animal adventures. Coyote’s vision for the future of the Brave Wilderness brand is vast. Whether he is diving into the water to catch a giant turtle or putting himself up against the sting of a bullet ant, he aspires to educate and entertain above all else!

Emily Inouye Huey

ISBN:  9781338789942

Publisher's Synopsis:

Sam Sakamoto doesn't have space in her life for dreams. With the recent death of her mother, Sam's focus is the farm, which her family will lose if they can't make one last payment. There's no time for her secret and unrealistic hope of becoming a photographer, no matter how skilled she's become. But Sam doesn't know that an even bigger threat looms on the horizon.

On December 7, 1941, Japanese airplanes attack the US naval base at Pearl Harbor. Fury towards Japanese Americans ignites across the country. In Sam's community in Washington State, the attack gives those who already harbor prejudice an excuse to hate.

As Sam's family wrestles with intensifying discrimination and even violence, Sam forges a new and unexpected friendship with her neighbor Hiro Tanaka. When he offers Sam a way to resume her photography, she realizes she can document the bigotry around her -- if she’s willing to take the risk. When the United States announces that those of Japanese descent will be forced into "relocation camps," Sam knows she must act or lose her voice forever. She engages in one last battle to leave with her identity -- and her family -- intact.

MrsK's Review: Grades: YA Historical Fiction

Sam is facing the goodness of being an American. She is gifted with the talent of "seeing" the world through the lens of a camera. Yet as a young Japanese American, the crucial day of December 7, 1941, will stretch Sam's world into a life that wasn't of her making. When all she has been raised to value as an American becomes fear, hate, and ugly, Sam will be torn from her truth... We are Americans.

This book is excellently woven with the horrendous truth of what fear does to neighbors, friends, and communities, as well as how the power of "humanity" can "shine" through the ugliness of fearful deceptions. Educating through history is the "key" to raising up the next generation. Empathy is the hope of understanding. Yet, in today's society, the truth gets derailed and lost. Read and discuss the weaknesses of humankind, as well as the strengths of those who stand for individuals that are being "irrationally" persecuted.

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 
Emily writes historical fiction for children and teens. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University and is a former teacher. During World War II, Emily’s family was evacuated from their homes and farms in California and Washington State. Her grandparents, Charles and Bessie, met and married in Wyoming’s Heart Mountain Internment Camp. Her father was born in the camp hospital. When the war ended, the family was sent to Utah, where they started over and where Emily still lives, now with her husband, Robert, and their four children. Besides books, Emily’s passions include education, the arts, the outdoors, and her family.