Companion Reads: Longitude, and Carry On, Mr. Bowditch

 We read two books back to back in our morning reading time (for homeschool), which proved to be great companion reads. They both had to do with sailing and in particular, navigation at sea. Longitude, by Dava Sobel, was nonfiction, while Carry On, Mr. Bowditch, by Jean Lee Latham, was historical fiction. We understood the troubles of Nat Bowditch so much better, having just read an entire book about finding "lunars" vs. other means of calculating longitude, and even knew some of the technical terms.

If you have access to both of these books, give it a try and let me know if you liked it too!

 

Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Kind, by Dava Sobel

3.5 stars: Thorough and meaty. 

This one has been on my shelf for at least 5 years. I finally decided to read it to my kids as a way to make it first priority for me as well. Ha! It worked! We made it our way through it, a little each day.

For hundreds of years, the "longitude problem" was the bane of every sailor and captain's existence. It was easy enough to determine which latitude your ship was at, while at sea, but longitude was a whole different beast. Many, many ships sunk and thousands of lives were lost over the centuries due to mistakes in calculating longitude.

Finally the British throne came up with a competition, complete with a hefty award for whomever could solve this problem in a satisfactory way. There was a board overseeing the competition, which ended up going on for a couple of decades. The board members not only received the entries, but they were in charge of testing their accuracy and viability, and perhaps most importantly--doling out the prize money.

For a very long time, prevailing opinion was that the longitude problem would be solved by astronomy. Calculating "lunars" and/or the positions of certain stars became the basis of that school of thought. Then there was another idea completely: using a clock. It would have to be a clock like no other, however. It would have to keep nearly perfect time at sea, despite the constant motion of the ship, and have to be impervious to moisture and salty air.

As far away from astronomy as the workbench from the observatory, this idea was looked down upon by the Board as being almost too practical. Longitude was the realm of mathematicians and scholars, not something that could be solved with raw materials and rough hands--no matter how intricate the arrangement of gears and springs. It took the clockmaker in question--John Harrison--most of his life to perfect his creation and receive his just rewards.

* * * * *

This was actually a good read aloud for school mornings. I mean, I definitely felt smarter after reading it each day! Ha! Truly, though, it gave us some great fodder for discussion. We took it in smaller chunks, and although my kids weren't necessarily clamoring to keep reading each day, it got our minds working first thing in the morning, which was a good thing. That being said, this is definitely geared towards adults. I am fairly certain none of my kids would have picked it up to read on their own--or stuck with it, for that matter. It's well written, but it's got a lot packed in there.

Fascinating subject, really. There's so much that we take for granted about our modern life. GPS systems, anyone? Amazing how one person can make such a difference. One person approaching a problem differently, seeing a unique solution to the problem, then using his skills toward the solution, persisting through setback after setback. 

That was the biggest takeaway for me: do what you do best, persist through failure, and you will make a difference. It may not be solving the biggest problem of your time, but then again, maybe it will be. 

Now we want to take a field trip to go visit the sea clocks! 

   

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch, by Jean Lee Latham

* Newberry Medal winner in 1956

3.5 stars: Great way to visualize and bring to life the history we read about it Longitude.

Nat Bowditch grows up in a family that has fallen on hard times. His father, Habbukuk, used to be a sea captain until his ship was dashed into pieces. Since then he has become a cooper, but has never gotten past his failure at sea. There are many children and only just enough food and clothing to go around. He learns early (from his big brother Hab) to pretend like he doesn't feel the cold in the winter when he doesn't have a coat to wear.

Nat loves mathematics, which makes him unique in his family and at his school. His mind just takes to it, and he can understand and work out complicated problems from a young age. He has dreams of going to Harvard after school. Then his father indentures him to the ship chandlery in town for 9 years. Nine years! His life is over!  Or so he thinks. He doesn't realize it is the start of a lifetime of learning and opportunities. Also, he finally gets enough to eat and warm clothes to wear.

* * * * *

We read this book right after Longitude. It was a great tie-in to all the history we learned about in that book. The problem of finding longitude is one of the central themes of the book. Apparently this was the time period when chronometers (sea clocks) were available, but still very expensive, so most ships still used lunars--which involved taking the position of the moon in relation to certain stars and calculating longitude based on that. Nat's mathematical skill enables him to work "lunars" with extraordinary accuracy, and he even ends up teaching all the men he's sailing with how to work them as well. We highly appreciated the digs at Nevil Maskelyne, who was the rival and enemy of the clockmaker in our nonfiction book. So that part was fantastic.

I feel like the book was probably as accurate as historical fiction can be, so it was good to get a feel for what it would have been like to live back then, in a sailing town.

Here's the thing: so many people died! At first, it was a bit of a blow as we read along. By the end, my kids were taking bets on who was going to go next. It was so bad! I will not name names, but I will just say--do not get overly attached to any of the characters, particularly those who are closest to Nat. Since it was the story of a good portion of his life, the deaths are mentioned in a rather abrupt or cursory manner, then after a paragraph or two we're moving on.

Edited to add: We are not as heartless as we may seem. None of us realized as we read that Mr. Bowditch was a real person. That poor man! Wow. He overcame a lot of suffering. I can't imagine the author would have included all of those deaths if they hadn't really happened. It makes his accomplishments that much more incredible.

Favorite sayings: 

"sailing by ash breeze" --this comes up throughout the book, but it's explained early on. When a ship is becalmed, the only way to move forward is by "ash breeze," meaning--get out the oars and row! The oars were usually made of ash wood. Nat spends most of his life sailing by ash breeze, finding his own chances for learning, and studying on his own--everything he can get his hands on--as his hopes and dreams take a very long time to realize.

"she has eyes in the back of her heart" 

"I'm just like a chair you stumble over in the dark," Elizabeth said. "It isn't the chair's fault, but you kick it anyhow." ... "Your brain. It's too fast. So you stumble on other people's dumbness. And--you want to kick something." 

Saffy's Angel, by Hilary McKay

My oldest daughter was home sick from school this week, and so we had a chance to do some reading together. It was my turn to pick the book and I was so delighted to share one of my all-time favorites with her.

Saffy's Angel, by Hilary McKay


5 stars: If you haven't read this one, you're in for a treat!


The Casson family are all artists, to one extent or another, and live in the Banana House (so named because it's inscribed over the door, though no-one knows why). Well, all except Bill--the father. Bill lives in a studio apartment in London during the week, being a proper artist, and only comes home on weekends (and for certain midweek emergencies.) Eve, the mother, prefers to paint in the garden shed in the backyard. She has always believed her children are more clever and capable then herself, and thus lets them do exactly as they please.

All of the children are named after paint colors. Cadmium Gold, or "Caddy," the oldest: taker of many, many driving lessons--but not the test, fixer of her siblings problems, mother hen, and guinea pig breeder. Saffron--Saffy--comes next. Her world is rocked when she finds out she was adopted as a 3-year-old, and that her siblings are actually her cousins. Indigo: the only boy, dreams of being an explorer despite his many fears; fiercely protective of his sisters, who make up his pack.  And then there's Rose. Permanent Rose; stubborn, completely self-assured, sensible (in her own way), Rose.

When Saffy learns of an angel--the angel in the garden--left to her in her grandfather's will, it sets in motion a chain of events that brings a new friend into her life, takes her to Italy and back, and helps her finally discover her place in her family.

* * * * *
I have adored this book ever since I first read it, and all of the times since. It's not very long, but it has so much heart! That was really cheesy. I stand by it. It was just magical to read it with my 9 year old daughter. She laughed--with me--in all the right places! It was one of those books where the characters are drawn so well, that at the end, you say things like, "Well, that's Rose for you." We couldn't decide if our favorite parts were the driving lessons, or Rose's notes, or the trip to Italy, or... I'm so happy to have read it again, and so SO happy that my sweet daughter shared in that experience with me.

There are 6 books total in there series: a prequel, Caddy's World, followed by this one, then Indigo's Star, Permanent Rose, Caddy Ever After, and Forever Rose.

If I can remember that far back, it seems like I liked this one and Forever Rose the best.

A Little Gem for January

I ran across this book last fall and thought it would just be perfect for an afternoon read-aloud this winter. I bought it and ended up reading it with my kids right away. I'm glad now that I didn't wait, since this and every other book we own has been packed into boxes since the fire. Anyway...

We loved it! This is the kind of book that makes you want to go out an recreate the story for yourself and your kids. In fact, our garden is kind of sunken, so it would probably be perfect for an ice rink! Too bad this winter has been so warm--it wouldn't stay frozen. [That is the first time in my life I have ever written THAT statement!]

So if you need a warm, nostalgic look at the joys of winter, find this one! Or use it to supplement your Winter Olympics watching. It won't take you long to read, but you'll be glad you did.

Twelve Kinds of Ice, by Ellen Bryan Obed
Illustrated by Barbara McClintock

5 stars: A little gem!

This slim book tells all about how the author's family used to make their vegetable garden into an ice skating rink every winter, complete with hockey, figure skating, and a big show at the end. Before Garden Ice comes, however, you have First Ice, Second Ice, Black Ice, Stream Ice, and others.

* * * * *
I'm not much of a skater, but this one had me dreaming of flooding the garden this winter and strapping on some skates! The black and white illustrations perfectly matched the subject and were scattered liberally throughout the text. A book to savor together.

Series Spotlight: My Father's Dragon, by Ruth Stiles Gannett

I have had a copy of My Father's Dragon for the longest time. It was one of my favorite books I remembered reading growing up, and I have read it to each of my children multiple times. It wasn't until a few years ago, though, that I even realized it was a trilogy.

I went to buy a replacement copy and came across the other 2 books. So I bought all three in the compilation book: Three Tales of My Father's Dragon. After reading the other two, I have wished ever since that I had just stuck with the original. It is by far the best of the three.

This preference is reflected in my reading aloud. I've read the first one to them many times; the second and third? Maybe once or twice each. They seem to like the others okay while I read them, but they don't request them.

My Father's Dragon (My Father's Dragon #1), by Ruth Stiles Gannett
Newberry Honor 1949

5 stars: A sentimental favorite!

Elmer Elevator meets an old alley cat who tells him a fantastic story. There's a baby dragon that has been captured on Wild Island and used as transport across the river for all the animals. As Elmer is unhappy with his mother anyway (she doesn't like old alley cats), he decides to run away to rescue the baby dragon.

The alley cat is the only explorer ever to visit the island and leave alive, so he makes the perfect advisor for Elmer as to what to pack for the trip. He makes his way to the island and ends up using all the things in his pack to outwit the wild ferocious animals.

* * * * *
I've read this one to my children many, many times. Most recently, my 5 year old asked me to read it to him. I know he has been around for previous readings, but he was younger, so may not have been paying attention.

It was just as much fun for him as it has been for the rest! There's something very satisfying about having the list of all the things in the pack, and then seeing how each item is used--in different circumstances that you might originally expect. For kids who are counters, keeping track of the tangerines is also enjoyable. In addition, there's a delightful, subtle humor throughout the story. One of our favorite characters is the mouse with the speech impediment. The illustrations round it all out perfectly.

 

Elmer and the Dragon (My Father's Dragon #2), by Ruth Stiles Gannett

3 stars: Quirky and enjoyable in its own right.


Elmer and the Dragon are headed back to Popsicornia, to take Elmer home, when the little dragon's wings just give out. Unfortunately, they are flying over the ocean at the time. Fortunately, they happen to land on a submerged sandbank and are able to make it over to the nearby island once the tide goes out.

They find themselves on Feather Island, where all the escaped pet canaries go--including Elmer's! As they find out, the canaries all dying of curiosity--eventually--due to a secret kept by generations of the canary kings. Elmer and the dragon are able to help solve the mystery; (having hands is a big help), which cures all the birds of their dreadful disease.

* * * * *
Well, this was no My Father's Dragon, but it was a funny little story that made a decent sequel to Elmer's adventures from the first book. My 5 year old quite liked it. I thought the canaries were a nice touch. The "mystery" wasn't much to speak of, but hey--there was treasure, so that made up for a lot.

Elmer's parents were happy to have him home again and didn't ask too many awkward questions, so I guess all's well that ends well.

The Dragons of Blueland (My Father's Dragon #3), by Ruth Stiles Gannett

2 stars: A bit tired.

Boris--that's the dragon's name--drops off Elmer at home, then starts his own journey home to the Mountains of Blueland. After nearly getting caught by a determined farmer, he manages to make it across the desert and to the mountains, only to discover that there are hunters keeping his family captive in a cave. The men don't look like they're going to leave without taking some dragons with them.

Boris knows a secret entrance the cave, so he sneaks [almost all the way] in and tells his family to sit tight--he will go for help. Who does he get to help? Why, Elmer Elevator, of course! Elmer soon packs his bag with a few essentials for making a ruckus, and off the two go to save the day.

* * * * *
This is my least favorite of the trilogy. There are some plot points that don't make sense: Boris makes his way home very slowly with a few close calls with humans, but when he's going to and from picking up Elmer, he manages the journey much more quickly and easily. Also, why doesn't the dragon family blow a little fire (just enough to singe the men--they are nice dragons, after all) and scare them away?

Mostly, though, it's boring. As I said, the longest part of the story is Boris' journey home the first time. Then there's several more pages of picking up Elmer and going back, then the big climax comes and goes within just a couple of pages. Reminiscent of the first book, Elmer packs specific items in his bag, but instead of each item having an unusual and charming purpose, they all basically have the same purpose at the end, which is easy to guess and promptly executed.

I will say my 5-year-old seemed to enjoy it as much as the other two.

* * * * *
Have you read this whole trilogy? What was your take on the last 2 books?

Jane of Lantern Hill and Along the Shore, by L.M. Montgomery

If you couldn't tell, L.M. Montgomery is one of my favorite authors. I read a few of hers this summer--one with my daughter, and one just for fun. I've read both of them multiple other times.

By the way--do you re-read books? My husband hardly ever does and can't quite understand why I do it. For me, not knowing what's going to happen is only part of the enjoyment of a book. In fact, some of these I enjoy more as times goes on--having read them so many times I'm able to pick out details or nuances I might have missed the first time around. It feels like a visit with an old friend.

I would recommend both of these if you're looking to expand your L.M. Montgomery reading beyond the Anne books.

Jane of Lantern Hill, by L.M. Montgomery

3 stars: Enjoyable, comfort read.

One of the few L.M. Montgomery books I hadn't read. It was good, if somewhat predictable. Downtrodden, imaginative, feisty girl escapes from under her grandmother's thumb to good old Prince Edward Island, to spend a summer with her (until-then) deadbeat father. She finds him to be everything a father should be. She blossoms under the influence of Dad's trust, warm friends, and lovely scenery. Returns home to stand up to grandmother.

My husband can always tell when I've been reading Montgomery, because I start to say things like "mustn't". Maybe someday I will visit PEI, though in some ways I'm afraid to, since I'm pretty sure it's not the unspoiled landscape from these books.

(Originally reviewed on Goodreads, January 2014)


Update from July 2017:

Read aloud with my daughter. Well, we read some parts of it aloud together, then she would read some on her own. This time around, I was a bit more frustrated with Jane's mother, and thoroughly enjoyed Jane's friends.

Along the Shore: Tales by the Sea, by L.M. Montgomery
Edited by Rea Wilhurst

3 stars: Lovely diversion for short chunks of time.

One of L.M. Montgomery's short story collections, taken from stories published in various magazines. The stories run the gamut from playful to heart-wrenching to haunting--mirroring the moods of the sea, perhaps.

Quite a few involve romance, unrequited or otherwise: "Fair Exchange and No Robbery" was a bit predictable, but fun. "A Sandshore Wooing" was likewise light-hearted, while "A Strayed Allegience," and "Mackereling Out in the Gulf" had more serious undertones. "The Waking of Helen" was tragic.

This one also includes a few that she later rewrote for her novels, but it was interesting to see them in their original form. "The Lifebook of Uncle Jesse" was hardly changed at all when she later used it in Anne's House of Dreams; and Paul Irving with his rock people show up in another, though the short story version has a different ending and flavor to it than the Anne version.

Montgomery's love for the sea shines through all of these stories. Perhaps "The Magical Bond of the Sea," about the shore girl who has a deeper connection to the shore than even she realizes was somewhat autobiographical.

In any case, this is one I enjoyed. Some of our most fun family vacations have been to the coast. This made me want to go back!

(Finished reading July 9.)

* * * * *

Which of the non-Anne books by Montgomery are your favorites? There's a whole stack of these short story collections. Have you read any of the others?

January Read-Alouds: Dominic and The Royal Babysitters

We had some downtime in January (isn't the entire month basically downtime?), so we had a chance to read out loud some more!

Usually now the scene is me reading out loud to the younger two, while my oldest (nearly 9 years old), reads his own book and half listens in. I always count it a victory if I can get him interested enough to put his own book down! Hee hee.

Dominic, by William Steig

4 stars: Dominic is resourceful, brave, and kind. What a hero!

Dominic is a dog who decides to seek his fortune, so off he goes a-wandering. With no real timeline or plan in mind, it's amazing how quickly adventures find him! In particular, he has several run-ins with the Doomsday Gang, who have been terrorizing the countryside for some time. Dominic is not afraid of them and thwarts their schemes many times before a big final showdown.

* * * * *
We quite enjoyed this story of a courageous dog who helped all who crossed his path.

(Finished reading Jan. 2)




We ran across this next one at the library and picked it up on a whim. Unexpected hit!

The Royal Babysitters, by Clementine Beauvais

4 stars: Over the top silly. My kids loved it! I liked it. The rating is the average. :)

Anna and Holly are super bored. Also, they need money. There's an outer space vacation that sounds completely fabulous, if only they could afford it.

Meanwhile the King and Queen are all set to go on vacation, but they can't find anyone willing to babysit the royal offspring. Apparently, word has gotten out.

Double desperation works wonders! The girls get the highest-paid babysitting job ever and Their Highnesses get a vacation. Neither Holly nor Anna has much experience babysitting, but really, how hard could it be?

That's when they discover that there are actually 6 babies. Yup. Plus the older brother (okay, okay, Prince Pepino.) Not to mention an imminent invasion from King Alaspooryorick of Daneland (boo! hiss!). He got wind of the Royal Vacation and decided it would be a grand time to invade. Again.

It's up to the girls, the Prince, and some explosively stinky nappies (among other things) to save the day! Also, at some point they're going to have to find all the babies again, because they keep going missing!

* * * * *
I was going to just read part of this one afternoon, but it was so ridiculous and funny that we kept right on going until it was done. Very British humor. ALL the kids were into it, which was a definite plus. There are 2 more in the series if you like this one!

(Finished reading Jan. 15)

* * * * *
Have you run across any good read-alouds lately?
What about exploding diapers? (Actually, don't answer that.)

Reading Traditions: Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White

One of our family's reading traditions is that I read Charlotte's Web with each child the year before they start kindergarten.

I don't know if anyone but me would even recognize this as a tradition, to be honest. It's one that I treasure, but we sort of fell into it. I have always loved the story of Charlotte's Web and wanted to share it with my oldest son. It just so happened to be around 6 months before he started kindergarten. It also just so happened that while the book was right at his 4 1/2 year old attention span, his younger sister was not nearly as interested, being only 2 at the time.

That was okay, though, because it provided the two of us with some special bonding time sharing this classic book. Well, I couldn't let my daughter miss out! So when she was getting ready for kindergarten, I read it with her, too. Big brother was already in school all day, so he wasn't around for a second dose, and little brother was still just a baby. Once again, we had a great experience reading it and talking about it together, just the two of us.

Just recently it was little brother's turn. (I can hardly believe it!) I pulled it out a few weeks ago for us to read while the older two were in school. It was so enjoyable to share his delight with Wilbur's antics and the other animals in the barn. He was quite worried when we stopped on the chapter where Wilbur finds out what the humans have in store for him. I kept reassuring him that Charlotte would find a way to save Wilbur, but he was anxious to get back to the story to learn how she would do it.

This is my boy who more often than not, checks out board books from the library instead of picture books. (Boy, will he be excited when the new baby comes and I get down our very own box of board books!) We read picture books together too, but he's never requested a chapter book until we started reading this one together. Once we started, he wanted to read it every day.

At times when I've read it, Wilbur has come across as whiny and self-centered. This time, he reminded me of a young child: eager to please, readily admitting when he didn't know something, while at the same time needing constant reassurance. Charlotte was definitely the "adult" in the friendship. (p.s. As much as I enjoy this book, my general views on bacon and spiders have not changed.)

My little guy didn't have much to say about the ending. However, as soon as we finished, he asked if we could read it again. I don't remember the other two doing that!

* * * * *
What reading traditions do you have in your family?

2 Potential Read-Alouds: Nancy & Plum, and The Magic Half

I read both of these as a preview to reading them out loud to my kids. Then December happened, the books became due (despite multiple renewals), and back they went before we ever sat down and read them together.

At least now I know what they're all about. There's always next time!

Nancy and Plum, by Betty MacDonald

3 stars: Two orphaned sisters take matters into their own hands.

Nancy and Plum are two orphans who live at Mrs. Monday's Boarding School. Life is not rosy for these sisters, as they are Mrs. Monday's favorite scapegoats whenever anything goes wrong. They live by their wits most of the time, with a bit of sass thrown in. They're definitely not afraid to tell Mrs. Monday what's what, which as you can imagine, does not do much to further her good graces. They do have an under-the-radar champion: Old Tom, Mrs. Monday's brother, the resident handyman and animal caretaker.

One fateful day they discover that they haven't been as forgotten by their extended family as they had supposed. They find an empty doll box addressed to them, the contents of which they have recently seen in the arms of Mrs. Monday's niece Marybell. That is the last straw. They decide they simply MUST get away from The Boarding School. So begins their adventure.

* * * * *
I think my kids would really enjoy this one. Nancy and Plum are a good balance for each other: Plum being the more impulsive, reckless (or brave, depending on your point of view) one, and Nancy a bit more timid but still willing to jump into any scheme.

The ending is warm and happy, but with enough obstacles along the way to cast into doubt a time or two.

(Finished reading Nov. 18.)

The Magic Half, by Annie Barrows

3 stars: A time-travel friendship, twins, and trouble.

Miri is unique. Well, her whole family is unique. There are 2 sets of twins with her in the middle: brothers older, sisters younger. The only sibling without a built-in partner, Miri often feels unnoticed, left out, or unimportant. When the family moves to an old farmhouse she gets her own room, for better or worse.

One day she discovers a way to travel back in time to 1935. Same house. There she finds another girl her same age named Molly. Molly's life is much worse than Miri's. Molly has an abusive adoptive family to put up with. Her older brother, in particular, is cruel and takes delight in terrorizing Molly. Miri wants to help Molly, but can't figure out how to make the magic work the way she wants it to. Before anything gets resolved, Miri finds herself back in her own time, but now she has a purpose: finding out more about Molly and trying to figure out how to save her.

* * * * *
Another one by Annie Barrows! I enjoyed this one, but I don't think I'm going to read it out loud to my kids. I think it would be too much for my daughter and youngest son, for sure. From what I can remember, Molly's physical abuse happens offscreen, but Miri overhears verbal abuse. Molly has bruises to show for her brother's treatment of her and truly fears for her life (with good reason, as it turns out.)

The resolution to Molly's perilous situation was well-done and satisfying, and the ending for both girls was truly magical. I just don't know that all the ending stuff would overcome the creeping anxiety from the middle part of the book. At least not for my younger two, and I don't know that my oldest son would be interested.

I will keep it in my for later on down the road, though. I found out on Amazon just now there is a sequel to this one as well, titled Magic in the Mix.

(Finished reading Nov. 25.)


* * * * *
What potential read-alouds have you come across lately?

Series Spotlight: Ivy + Bean, by Annie Barrows

This is a series my 1st grader and I have been enjoying together. I found them when I was looking up Annie Barrows, having read 2 of her adult books: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, and The Truth According to Us. I had no idea she also wrote middle grade fiction!

They are right on target for my 7-year-old's reading level and the situations are things she can relate to, as well. There are usually 11 or 12 short chapters, with plenty of lively illustrations by Sophie Blackall--1-2 pictures per 2-page spread. We read the first one together to introduce her to the series. Since then, she has read some completely on her own, and we have taken turns with some of the others.

Probably the best part is that they're funny! At one point, as my daughter was reading on her own, she started laughing so much she could hardly explain what was happening. Always a good sign!

Luckily for all of us, there are many (many) books in the series.

Here's a sampling of what we've read so far:

Book 1: Ivy + Bean

Ivy and Bean are second graders, and next-door neighbors who never meant to be best friends. To tell you the truth, Bean had always pegged Ivy as completely boring and possibly weird. Despite her mother's suggestions to make friends, Bean always resisted...until the day she got into a rather tight spot and Ivy came to her rescue with an ingenious plan. That sealed it. They have been friends ever since.

* * * * *
Read this one first if you possibly can. You could get by without it, but it's a great introduction to the series, and some later references will make a lot more sense if you've got this one under your belt. The rest can be read in any order.

Book 3: Ivy + Bean: Break the Fossil Record

Ivy and Bean's second grade classroom has become obsessed with world records! Everyone wants to break one--after all, how hard could it really be to balance spoons on your face, or eat a whole bunch of M&M's? Ivy and Bean are desperate to be the first world record breakers in their class. After a few (rather unfortunate) false starts, they decide to become the world's youngest paleontologists. Bring on the shovels!

Book 6: Ivy + Bean: Doomed to Dance

After reading a book about ballet, Ivy and Bean are absolutely certain that they must become ballet dancers. After some begging and pleading, they get to join a class--on the condition that they have to stick it out for the entire 4-month session. No quitting. They are not worried at all. Piece of cake! Until the first lesson, that is. Oh boy. This was not exactly what they had in mind. Only 15 lessons to go...unless they can figure out a way to get out of it.

Book 7: Ivy + Bean: What's the Big Idea?

It's Science Fair time, and Ivy and Bean are partners. Their classroom's theme is global warming. Try as they might, the girls can't think of a project that has to do with global warming. Until they get a brilliant idea...

Book 8: Ivy + Bean: No News is Good News

The latest thing in the second grade is Belldeloon cheese. Well, perhaps it would be more accurate to say the packaging of Belldeloon cheese is the newest craze. You see, each individual portion is wrapped in red wax that can be used for all sorts of things. Ivy and Bean are determined to get their hands on some! Unfortunately, neither of their mothers will buy it for them. It costs $5 for a small package. So they need $10.

Actually, what they really need is a money-making scheme. Pronto! After a discussion with Bean's dad, they decide on just the thing: they will write a neighborhood newspaper and sell subscriptions. All there is left to do is snoop around and find out some news-worthy things to write about.

Book 10: Ivy + Bean: Take the Case

Ivy and Bean, girl detectives, are determined to solve all the neighborhood's mysteries. If only they can find some. Surely there must be something mysterious and unexplained happening on their street. They even get the neighbor kids involved. Just when it seems they leave on the most boring street in the entire world, a genuine mystery comes along. Who better to take the case?




* * * * *
Though the protagonists are girls, I think the quirky situations and humor would draw boys in, as well. Have you read these? Any favorites we should be sure not to miss?

2 Read-Alouds: Freddy the Detective & A Mouse Called Wolf

Our read-aloud time has taken a serious dive since school started, partly because we don't have a set school-year routine for it. (Any tips?)  However, we have managed to read a couple, one on our recent trip. We've got another trip coming up this month, so I've got a few more lined up for that. Captive audiences and all that!

A Mouse Called Wolf, by Dick King-Smith

3 stars: A charming story, simply told.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mouse has always had a musical bent. His family lives in the walls at Mrs. Honeybee's house, and one of their mouse-holes is perfectly positioned for him to hear her playing the piano. Eventually, the lonely elderly woman and the little mouse become friends. Then one day, something magical happens: little Wolf opens his mouth and sings! Beautifully, too. Their friendship is cemented.  Later, when Mrs. Honeybee needs help, it will be up to Wolf to save her.

* * * * *
I read this to my two youngest (ages 6 and 4.) We all enjoyed it. It wasn't a spectacular hit, but it was warm, cozy, solid storytelling. So far I have liked everything of Dick King-Smith's that we've read. I'm beginning to think he can't go wrong!

(Finished reading Oct. 12)

Freddy the Detective (Freddy the Pig #3), by Walter R. Brooks

4 stars: Barnyard mysteries solved, plus one for the humans for good measure.

Freddy is quite the pig. (The other animals on Mr. Bean's farm are no slouches, either.) Now that they're back from their vacation to Florida, Freddy has been reading a lot of mysteries, specifically Sherlock Holmes. He decides to take up detective work amongst the animals.

His first case isn't long in coming. The Beans' little boy is missing a toy train, which apparently vanished without a trace. Detective Freddy knows better and sets out to investigate. When he finds out it was the rats, he is not at all surprised. Unfortunately, getting the train back to its owner is going to be a lot harder than he had anticipated, even with Jinx the Cat's help.

Before long, his caseload is very busy. The animals decide to elect a judge, and even make a jail in the barn for those who need it. Even the humans come to him for help at one point, which Freddy is happy to give--as long as he gets the credit. The rats and the train remain an enduring problem, which one day comes to a head as his friend Jinx is accused of murdering a crow!

* * * * *
First of all--I picked this one up not knowing it was 3rd in the series. It was fine on its own, for the most part, though there were numerous references to a trip to Florida and its aftermath for the animals and Mr. Bean.

I thought the way Freddy interacted with humans was well-done. Though the farm animals talked amongst themselves, Freddy didn't speak English, or anything. Still, he managed to get his point across well enough.

Several of the animals had entertaining personalities. Charles the henpecked Rooster was pretty funny, and the rats were suitably insulting and outrageous. The friendship between Freddy and Jinx the Cat was not as well defined--they had a falling-out a few times. Maybe having read the earlier books would help that come into focus a little more.

We read this one in the car and it was great for that. The plot kept us interested, and was straightforward enough that we could still follow what was going on even with lots of interruptions. The kids put some of the mysteries together before Freddy did and it was fun to hear them talking about it.

Little did I know this is a series of 27! They were originally published starting in 1927. I had never heard of them before I found this one. Our library has a rather random assortment of them, but I did manage to find #1, Freddy Goes to Florida, for us to read next.

(Finished reading Nov. 13)

* * * * *

Have you read any of the Freddy series? Do you have a favorite to recommend?

Reading with My 8-Year Old: The Castle in the Attic books

As my oldest has gotten more and more into reading his own books, there are not nearly as many times when he is willing to sit down and just listen to a book I'm reading aloud to everyone else. Car trips are one exception (captive audience!), but usually he is reading his own book while sort of listening in to what I'm reading at the same time.

So I'm trying to do better about noticing what he is reading and--at least every now and then--picking it up myself. I even skimmed a few of the Hardy Boys he's been reading lately, but with those you read one and you've basically read them all. [He just protested that statement. Ha! I stand by it.]

His 3rd-grade teacher read this first book to the class, and he came home wanting to discuss it with me. It had been so long since I had read it that I couldn't remember much. We owned a copy--a thrift-store find--so I quickly remedied that situation. Then I was able to find the second book at the library. He was excited, because he said there was a long waiting list in his class for it. (Public library, for the win!)

The Castle in the Attic, by Elizabeth Winthrop

4 stars: Solid storytelling, with a hook that's hard to resist: toys coming to life!

William's housekeeper is leaving the family. She has been his best friend, cheerleader, and confidant for the past 10 years, and he can't accept the fact that she's really going. His parents aren't awful or anyting, they're just busy, and not very connected with his life.

Before she leaves, she gives William an amazing gift--a large play castle. Yes, it's in the attic. (How did you guess?) He has always been fascinated by the castle and now it's his to keep and play with! He should be more excited. It's just that, no castle can replace her. Then she also gives him something else--a silver knight just the right size for the castle.

When William holds the knight something amazing happens--the little man comes alive! He tells William the story of an evil wizard who must be defeated in order for Sir Simon to reclaim his kingdom. It's not until later that William realizes he will have a role to play in this quest. By then, it's too late to back out.

* * * * *
William was small for his age, but he's strong, thanks to his gymnastics. However, it was not his physical size or strength that mattered in the end, but what was inside his heart. The quest itself, including the big showdown with the wizard, wasn't overly long or suspenseful. The ending was quite satisfying.

Right on point for this age group. Ultimately, this was a story of redemption and growth for William. There's something he wanted so badly that he was willing to risk hurting someone he loved to achieve that end. The resulting consequences, however, were more serious than he anticipated. He was sorry for what he had done at that point, but "sorry" didn't change what had happened. Fortunately, there was a way to redeem himself: the quest. He became just as determined to succeed and make things right as he was to get his own way earlier.

Considered a children's fantasy classic. I want to read it to my younger 2--I'm sure they would both enjoy it, as well.

The Battle for the Castle, by Elizabeth Winthrop

3.5 stars: Kids will be happy to return to this world for another adventure.

In this second installment, William is now 12, but still short and small for his age. His friend Jason has grown several inches lately, and has gotten really into biking. He is constantly talking about training and working out. William still does gymnastics, but is thinking about quitting. It's becoming harder and harder to find common ground with Jason.

A rite-of-passage for boys in their town is "jumping the trains;" essentially, climbing onto a train car as it slows down close to town, then going up and over the other side and jumping off before the train gets going too fast. It's dangerous and the very thought makes William's stomach curl, but he feels like he has to do it to be accepted by Jason and their other friends.

Then for his birthday, his former housekeeper sends him a magical token that can take him back to the world of the Castle. Speaking of the Castle, he still has it upstairs, but hasn't really played with it very much lately. This time he decides to tell Jason about the token, the magic, and the Castle. Skeptical at first, Jason soon becomes eager to experience it all for himself.

The two friends re-enter the magical world of the Castle, only to find that a different threat hangs over Sir Simon's kingdom--one that Sir Simon himself refuses to even acknowledge. It will be up to the boys, and a girl named Gudrin, to defeat the plague that is poised to descend upon the Castle, destroying everything and everyone in its path.

* * * * *
This one was as much about William becoming confident in himself--despite what he saw as flaws--as it was about another adventure in the Castle. William came to recognize his own leadership abilities when the chips were down. He also realized that physical prowess was not the only helpful attribute in hard situations. His ability to think under pressure was just as useful as big muscles, if not more so.

My one quibble was with the ending. After building up some good suspense, the solution itself was a bit anti-climatic. After they won, I thought--"Wait, that was it? That's all it took?" I don't think kids will mind, though. The creepiness of the rats in the first place may make the quick resolution a relief.

One of my favorite parts of the book, from a parent's perspective, was William's realization at the end about jumping the trains, and Jason's respect for him in that moment.

If you've read the first, this one must follow!


* * * * * *
Have you read either of these? Which one was your favorite?

Mini Theme: Halloween-ish Books (Middle Grade)

I wanted to read some seasonally appropriate middle grade books, in hopes of finding some that I could share with my kids. I don't love Halloween--at all--and I never read horror on my own. I wasn't looking for truly scary books, just some with a pinch of Halloween flavor.
If that sounds like it would be right up your (somewhat deserted, not very dark)--alley here you go! Enjoy!

Bunnicula, by Deborah and James Howe

5 stars: Just reading it myself, probably a 3-4 star read, but as a read-aloud--5 stars all the way! This was such a fun book to share together!

Harold, the family dog, tells the strange story of a new pet brought home from the movie theater--a black and white baby rabbit with red eyes. The family names him Bunnicula, because they were watching Dracula when they found him all alone in a shoe box. Something is not quite right with this bunny, though.

Chester the cat is convinced that Bunnicula really is a vampire and he tries to convince Harold as well. The completely white, drained vegetables the family has been finding in the kitchen proves it! First the vegetable drawer, then the world!!

* * * * *
I was pleasantly surprised! I've known about this book for a long time, but never really taken the time to read it. It was not scary--it was funny! The interactions between Harold and Chester were the best. The vampire bunny sucking the juices out of all the vegetables was so ridiculous it was just funny, as well.

Just this week, I read it to my kids in one sitting. We were all giggling through the whole thing! In fact, I think that's the most we have ever laughed during a read-aloud! Even my 8-year-old, who was reading his own book on the other couch, kept stopping to hear the dialogue between the dog and cat and laughed right along with us. I call that a win! There's a whole series of these--I'll have to check out the next ones.

(Finished reading Oct. 18)

The Door by the Staircase, by Katherine Marsh

3 stars: Mary must make herself a home with Madame Z--and hopefully, not get eaten.

Mary Hayes, a resourceful orphan from the Buffalo Asylum for Young Ladies has come up with an escape plan. She almost makes it too, except that a very strange whirlwind bars the way, causing her to get caught. The next morning, she is resigned to a long and dreadful punishment, when Madame Z shows up and actually adopts her! Takes her away that very day. Mary can hardly believe her luck!

In fact, Madame Z takes very good care of her, feeding her lots of delicious meals and providing her with warm clothing and boots that fit. Even Yulik the cat seems to like her, which Madame Z admits is unusual. Her new home is just outside a small town known for its magic acts, and Mary soon makes a friend--a boy named Jacob. Jacob is the son of one of the magicians, and he not only has very quick hands, he can spot a fake every time.

Mary can't let herself completely settle into her new life, though. She just feels there's something a little...off about Madame Z. Hard to pinpoint. Some of it has to do with the door by the staircase. You see, when Mary stuck her finger in the lock it bit her. Also, the oven in the kitchen is very, very large. In fact, large enough to fit a whole person inside it.

As the strange and unexplainable events pile up, Mary comes to believe more and more in magic---real magic. She also realizes that her very life may be in danger, despite the kindness Madame Z has shown her so far. How will she get out of this one?

* * * * *
In this Baba Yaga tale, Mary proves herself to be every bit the heroine: smart, capable, and loyal. She handles challenges admirably, with her sidekick Jacob.

It was more suspenseful than scary. There were some tense moments, but they didn't last too long. I guess kids might get scared by the several mentions of eating children. It comes up several times; a bad habit that Madame Z has gotten into.

I would recommend this one to ages 10+, though it could go younger if your child has already been exposed to these types of fairy tales. It certainly wasn't any scarier than the first Harry Potter, for instance. I actually think my older 2 (ages 8 and 6) would be fine with it, if I read it out loud to them. They're not familiar with the Baba Yaga stories, but they've definitely heard Hansel and Gretel multiple times.

(Finished reading Oct. 19)

The Nest, by Kenneth Oppel

2 stars: To be honest, this book freaked me out!

There's something wrong with Steve's baby brother, but his parents won't tell him what it is. They're just gone to the hospital a lot, and worried when they do come home. Steven has worries of his own. There are wasps everywhere--strange large white and black ones. He has started having very real dreams about a wasp queen. She is telling him that they are going to fix his brother--and it has something to do with the large wasps' nest steadily growing bigger under the eaves of his house. Before long, Steve will have to make a choice. The consequences that follow will change his life and his family forever.

* * * * *

If you have a wasp phobia, or claustrophobia, don't read this one. I don't have either, but I was cringing by the end. It has the feel of a B-movie, where something considered harmless--or relatively so--becomes an unstoppable force, pursuing with evil intent.

I specifically told my 8-year-old NOT to read this one, as he gets stung several times per summer by wasps, usually for no good reason. I think this book could give him nightmares. I am not targeted by wasps, and I still shuddered inside when I thought of that attic.   

However, for your family, it might be just the thing to get you and your kids into a Halloween mood! Perhaps a good one to preview first, though, before handing it off. It's short, so a quick skim wouldn't take long. It's a little creepy.

For ages 10+.

(Finished reading Sept. 1)

The Spindlers, by Lauren Oliver

3 stars: Big sister to the rescue! + soul-stealing spidery spindlers.

One morning Liza realizes that her younger brother Patrick is no longer himself. It's not something she can put a finger on, exactly. He's quiet instead of noisy. He gives perfect answers to her tricky questions, but there's a hardness to him--a blank space where there used to be a whole boy.

She knows just what is wrong, too. Their babysitter told them all about the spindlers, before she went off to college. They are like spiders, but they come in at night and fish your soul out of your body, then replace it with an egg sac. She has no proof, but Liza knows that Patrick's soul has been taken by the spindlers. She is determined to get it back, no matter what perils she may face in the Underworld.

* * * * *
Okay, I really don't like spiders. Maybe for someone who doesn't mind spiders, this book would not merit a place on this list at all. The adventure itself isn't overly intense. Liza meets up with a rat who has a funky fashion sense, and who becomes her guide to the Underworld. Along the way to the Big Showdown with the spindlers, there are some other interesting characters they run into and have to deal with.

There were echoes of several other books in it, including Gregor the Overlander and Alice in Wonderland. It's quirky and a bit predictable. For ages 8 and up.

(Finished reading Aug. 29)

Which Witch? by Eva Ibbotson

4 stars: As good as I remembered!

Arriman the Awful was an evil wizard prodigy, but now he's growing a bit weary of all the blighting and smiting. Not that he wants to turn good, you understand, oh no. Just that it might be nice to have some time to develop some other hobbies once in awhile. He goes to a fortune-teller by the name of Esmerelda, who foretells a new evil wizard is coming, even greater than Arriman himself. This new master of darkness will take over from Arriman, leaving him to do as he pleases.

Except that as the years pass, the new Wizard doesn't come. Finally, Arriman faces up to the dreadful idea that perhaps he is meant to marry (a witch, of course) and produce an heir...who will then replace him. He decides to hold a contest for all the local witches. The winner will be his bride.

Unfortunately, the witches of Todcaster do not have much to offer these days. There's old Mother Bloodwort, who in times of distress turns herself into a coffee table; the ever fighting Shouter sisters; Mabel Wrack, daughter of a mermaid; and Ethel Feedbag, whose favorite footwear is Wellies with manure on them. Oh let's not forget Belladonna, of course, but as she is a white witch there's no possible way she could win the contest anyway.

Despite the obvious shortcomings of the contestants, the contest must go on. Arriman is not a quitter. Each witch must perform a spell for a panel of judges. The darker the better. May the best witch win!

* * * * *
This one is a sentimental favorite. I had a copy of it that I read several times growing up, though it has probably been 10 years since I've read it last. It's poking fun at the Dark Wizard trope, and the characters are so overdrawn it's just amusing.

This time around, Arriman's faithful assistants who shore him up ("No use turning back now, sir") were probably my favorite part of the whole book. Mr. Leadbetter, secretary, was an ordinary human (albeit with a small tail), and Lester was an ogre.

It was interesting reading it from the persepective of a parent, wondering if I should read it to my kiddos. Not yet. I think they would get sidetracked by the sorta creepy stuff (a ghost who murdered all 7 of his wives, the ghoul, everything about Madame Olympia,) and not see the humor in it.

Content: Covens and witches, evil spells, and some nasty characters. For ages 12+.

(Finished reading Oct. 12)

The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame

We just finished reading this one together last week. It took awhile!

I had actually never read it, myself, so I didn't really know what to expect. The most I knew about it was that a toad and some friends went on some kind of adventure down the river. (I know! And I call myself a children's librarian!) I was partly right. There is a toad...and a river.  They never really go all together on the river, though, and while Toad does venture from home, the other 3 do not. It's much more about their life in the English countryside through the course of about a year, than it is about any grand adventure they set forth on. Toad would be the exception to that, as he creates adventure wherever he goes. So--in case I am not the very last soul to have read it, and you were wondering--there you go.

The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame
Illustrated by Michael Hague

3.5 stars: Some parts we loved and some that really dragged, but overall a positive experience.

Mr. Rat and Mole live together in a home in the riverbank, Mr. Badger lives in the Wild Wood, and Toad lives in Toad Hall. So these animals are English gentlemen. Mr. Toad is the impulsive troublemaker, with the silver tongue, charm, and money to talk his way out of his escapades (usually.) The others do their best to squash him regularly, so that he doesn't get too conceited and make a nuisance of himself. Mr. Rat is a very practical and straightforward chap, friendly to everybody and eager to solve problems. Mole is a bit timid at first, but eventually comes into his own. Badger does not suffer fools gladly (Toad!) and is known to be quite fierce, though underneath he has a loyal and soft heart.

It's a meandering sort of story. Their adventures are of the more genteel sort--getting lost in the Wild Wood, searching for a lost otter pup, trying to keep Toady out of trouble (which proves to be impossible), finding Mole's old home and staying in it for awhile. We find out how Mr. Rat and Mr. Mole meet and decide to become friends and flatmates. We go along on the fateful picnic when Toad's obsession with driving fast in a motorcar first besets him. Toad has some high times by himself, because of his own rash decisions and muddled thinking whenever he comes near a motorcar, and eventually the friends are all reunited to restore Toad Hall to its rightful owner.

Toady is so naughty, but somehow loveable, too. Like this:

"Toad sat up slowly and dried his eyes. Secrets had an immense attraction for him, because he never could keep one, and he enjoyed the sort of unhallowed thrill he experienced when he went and told another animal, after having faithfully promised not to." (p. 182)

You just feel that he does need a good squashing--regularly! Good thing his friends provide it for him.

* * * * *
To be completely honest, I wish we had found an abridged version--which are abundant, by the way. Goodreads has pages and pages of them. Many of the events in the story were fun or thrilling or exciting, but then there's also long paragraphs talking about the beauty of the light falling across the grass, or the habits of migrating animals. I found myself summarizing quite a bit after yet another long soliloquy on some topic or another. The chapters with Toad in them moved along the most smartly. One of the very slowest was when the Sea Rat came through and told stories to Mr. Rat, almost convincing him to give up hearth and home for a life of adventure.

Perhaps now that we have all heard the original and know the story, the kids will be able to pick up an abridged version on their own, and jump right in with delight. At least, that's my hope. I would love to hear it on audio, read with a proper British accent.

I can't finish without mentioning the illustrations by Michael Hague. They were utterly charming. There were around 5 per chapter, including a mix of smaller ones, full page, and full 2-page spread. They really brought the story to life for us. In fact, they were the reason I picked up this version over the other 3 right next to it on the library shelf.

* * * * *
Do you have a favorite version or illustrator of this book? What classics have you never gotten around to reading?

Last of the Summer Read-Alouds

I guess since school started last week, it's about time to get this post up! Our last installment of summer read-alouds were all sequels of books we had read earlier.

Gooseberry Park and the Master Plan, by Cynthia Rylant
Illustrated by Arthur Howard

4 stars: Kona, Stumpy, and the gang work together to save Gooseberry Park's animals from an awful drought.


There is a drought going on and all the animals in Gooseberry Park are suffering. Stumpy is worried about her babies--and all the other babies, too. If something doesn't happen soon to help, the weakest animals will not survive. What they need is a plan.

So the friends get together and come up with a bold plan. It's going to involve the firehouse dog, a cat, a possum, a couple hundred owls, drinking straws, chewing gum, and the big tank of water inside the fire truck (inside the fire station.) Many, many things could go wrong, but if they don't at least try, the animals of the park may not survive the summer. 

* * * * * *

A sequel to Gooseberry Park, though this one stands on its own. We enjoyed this one just as much as the first. It could start some great discussions on serving others, community involvement, friendship, and how to get an owl to help you. :) Murray the bat was our favorite character--he's so funny!

(Finished reading Aug. 14)

Here Comes McBroom! by Sid Fleischman
Illustrated by Quentin Blake

5 stars: Three more hilarious tall tales about intrepid farmer Josh McBroom, his dear wife Melissa, all 11 children, and of course, their wonderful 1-acre farm.


In "McBroom the Rainmaker," there's a drought so fierce that the children have had to teach polliwogs how to swim--they had never seen any water! The skeeters are also the worst anyone can ever remember. McBroom comes up with an ingenious plan to take care of the drought and the woodpecker-sized mosquitos all at once.

I don't usually read ghost stories to my kids, so they were not sure what was up when we started in on "McBroom's Ghost." There's all sorts of trouble when a dry-bones starts mimicking all the sounds around the farm. Plus, Heck Jones--their hee-hawing scoundrel of a neighbor--has bought a whole bunch of razorback hogs, which he feeds by way of turning 'em loose on the McBroom's property. I have to quote one of my favorite parts:
    
     "Well, I'll admit he was right about that. We fenced our farm, but those infernal hogs busted through and scattered the pieces like a cyclone. We strung barbed wire. It only stopped them long enough to scratch their backs. Barbed wire was a comfort to those razorbacks."

Makes me smile just typing it out! By the end of this chapter my kids were laughing (and relieved, I think!) Spoiler: it's not actually a ghost causing all the trouble.

When a cyclone sucks up every inch of McBroom's marvelous topsoil, he and the family follow it to see where it dumps it all. Unfortunately, the pile is so big and so far away, that they aren't going to be able to get it home without help. Along the way, they find all sorts of rare and unique creatures, including the Sidehill Gouger, the Desert Vamooser, and even the extremely endangered Great Hairy Prairie Hidebehind. Well, they try to find the Hidebehind. Problem is, it's always hiding behind you, so it's awfully hard to catch sight of. They end up starting "McBroom's Zoo" with all their marvelous animals--for a time anyway. Just long enough to make some cash, so they can hire help in transporting their topsoil back home again.  

* * * * *

Another hit! Just like the first, McBroom's Wonderful One-Acre Farm, this one was filled with all kinds of colorful words like "gallinippers," "confounded," "flapdoodle," "hornswoggle," and "shoofly pie," among many others. Fun to read and fun to listen to! Not only that, this time around the kids could recite all 11 children's names with me! The stories themselves were short, self-contained, and satisfying.

I'm really glad I bought these two. We'll definitely be re-reading them again!

(Finished reading Aug. 12)

Talking to Dragons (Enchanted Forest Chronicles #4), by Patricia Wrede

3 stars: Daystar is finally old enough to wield the sword--if he can figure out what he's supposed to do with it.

Daystar has lived with his mother Cimorene on the edge of the Enchanted Forest his whole life. She has taught him all kinds of rules for living near or with enchanted beings. Also, a whole lot about dragons, most especially, to ALWAYS be polite to a dragon--whether or not it is polite to you.

One day, a wizard shows up--who seems to know his mother, strangely--and Cimorene melts him. Shortly thereafter, she hands Daystar a sword and sends him off into the forest, with hardly a word about what he's supposed to do or how. Daystar is supposed to figure it out on his own.

Once he's in the forest, he meets up with a fire witch named Shiara, who has a trouble controlling her magic and her temper. Oh, she's also got a bunch of angry wizards after her, as well. They decide they would probably both be safer travelling together, while Daystar tries to figure out what in the world he's supposed to be doing.

* * * * * *

First, I have to say it: Daystar is a dumb name. Setting that aside, we liked the story. It was good to have cameos by all of our old friends and enemies, including Morwen, Telemain, Kazul, Antorell, and of course, Cimorene and Mendanbar. Of the new characters, the jelly-like Quozzle was probably our favorite.

Like the previous two installments, this is the story of a hero's journey, so there's quite a bit of wandering, setbacks, and wrong turns. The ending was probably my favorite part, just because we finally got to the exciting battle between the wizards and everybody else. It was satisfying to have everyone all back together again at the end, too. (Wait, was that a spoiler? Sorry. You had to know it was coming, though.)

There were some things that bothered me (other than Daystar's name, I mean.) For one, the whole premise of the book is that no-one can tell Daystar anything about the sword or what he's supposed to be doing with it. Supposedly, because if he knows what he has, it will allow the wizards to find him and the sword right away. So Daystar spends pretty much the entire book bumbling around, with practically everyone he meets knowing more about his quest than he does. I prefer my heroes to be capable and smart, (like Cimorene, incidentally), rather than just happening to stumble on the right path through politeness and good fortune.

Secondly, Cimorene and Daystar's relationship was a bit odd. So, he's grown up with his mother telling him all this stuff for survival in the Enchanted Forest, but when it comes to his father, all we get is--it didn't come up. WHAT? And apparently, Daystar never pushed it, because let's be honest-- he's a bit intimidated by his mom. Again, what?! 

I mean, Cimorene obviously still loved Mendanbar, and it seems there would have been a great deal she could tell THEIR SON without compromising the whole Plan to Defeat the Wizards. Also, I really can't imagine a teenage boy just letting that drop--no matter how much he loves/respects/fears his mother. Particularly in a (one assumes) otherwise loving relationship with his mom. He doesn't even seem to wonder very much about his dad. How did feisty, convention-breaking Cimorene manage to raise such a docile, passive boy? Just baffling.

Anyway, for me it was probably a 2-star read, but my kids liked it enough to bump it up to 3. We've also listened to all but the first now, and enjoyed that experience even more than me reading them.

For reviews of the others, follow the links: Dealing with Dragons, Searching for Dragons, Calling on Dragons.

Content: clean

(Finished reading July 30)

* * * * * *

As usual, we didn't read as many as I had planned this summer, but that's okay. For the most part, we really liked the ones we did read, and it's the positive experiences together with books that counts as much as anything. How did you do with summer read-alouds this year?

More Summer Read-Alouds

It seems our only theme for read-alouds this summer is SHORT! Somehow, even with mostly unscheduled days, we have to squeeze in time for reading here and there--between all the playing, you know. Except for The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, which in comparison have seemed to go on and on; we're still plugging away at the last one.

8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel / 1 Dog = Chaos, by Vivian Vande Velde
Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman

4 stars: Short, action-packed, and funny.

This is the story of Twitch, the school-yard squirrel, who runs into school after hours to escape an owl, and Cuddles, the principal's dog. The owl flies away, but Cuddles follows him through the door. That's when all kinds of crazy starts happening.

Each chapter is told from the point of view of a different animal, most of them classroom pets, from Green Eggs and Hamster, in the first-grade classroom, to the school of neon tetras from third grade. Some of the animals are trying to save Twitch, some just give advice, but all of them are involved in making a gigantic mess.

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You could tell from the cover that this one was going to be funny. The chapters were very short, most in the 4-5 page range, and each had 2-3 illustrations as well. This one begged to be done with different voices for each animal, but just a heads-up--there are 11 of them! I tend to top out around 3, but I did my best.

Anyway, the kids enjoyed it. We read it all in one sitting; it took about an hour.

(Finished reading July 3.)

Calling on Dragons (Enchanted Forest Chronicles #3)
by Patricia Wrede

2 stars: A lot of talking, but we finally got into some action towards the end.

Told from Morwen the witch's point of view, with many asides by her cats. Morwen first discovers something a little fishy when her cats discover a 6-foot tall rabbit named Killer in the garden. One thing leads to another, and before long she discovers evidence that wizards have been in the Enchanted Forest again.

When she brings all this to the attention of King Mendanbar and Queen Cimorene, they also discover that Mendanbar's sword is missing. This is the sword that's linked to the magic of the Enchanted Forest, as well as to the spell to keep wizards OUT of the forest. The wizards have somehow managed to steal the sword.

Of course, someone is going to have to go find it. Mendanbar can't go, because he's the other pillar of the spell protecting the Enchanted Forest from wizards. Cimorene has to go--even though she's pregnant--because only someone related to the King can even hold the sword. Morwen, Telemain, and Kazul come along for support and protection. Killer, the ever-hungry bunny turned blue flying donkey, has to come to stay out of trouble until someone has time to fix him. The cats come just because they're cats.

Little do they know there's going to be big trouble at the castle while they're gone.

* * * * * *

This has been my least favorite of the series so far. It seemed like most of the book was the characters talking, arguing, or getting lost on the way to get the sword. Killer added quite a bit of comic relief, which was sorely needed. We also liked the story of Rachel's tower. Once they finally found the sword, things picked back up again all the way to the end.

We're going to check out the book on cd--I'm interested to see if listening to someone else read it will be a better experience.

On to the next (and last!)

(Finished reading July 8.)

The Adventures of Miss Petitfour, by Anne Michaels, Illustrated by Emma Block

4 stars: Clever, whimsical, and delightful, like Miss Petitfour herself.

Miss Petitfour wears her hair in a messy bun, has 16 cats, and prefers to get around by tablecloth. She gathers up the corners, lets the wind puff it up like a balloon, and the cats all grab on to be the tail. This is a collection of 5 different adventures--all just the right size to fit into one magical day.

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This was such a funny little book. I mean that in both senses of the word. It had amusing things that happened, like a giant ball of hangars wreaking havoc at a Jumble Sale, and it was just a bit odd in a delightful sort of way.

Every character is a little quirky. The bookshop owner, who divides her shop into the "Ho-Hum" (books where nothing ever happens) and the "Hum" (adventure books.) Mr. Coneybeare and his confetti factory, Colonel By and his walloping wife. It's a quaint little village full of eccentric people, where the signs for each store are in the shape of what is sold inside. Miss Petitfour fits right in!

Every so often, the author inserts herself into the story to talk about words and writing. When the author uses a big word that may be unfamiliar, she defines it in a humorous way, then proceeds to use it several more times in the chapter. Each time the new word is highlighted in red. It reminded me a bit of the Lemony Snicket books in that way, but with a much happier outlook!

Then she also talks about words used in writing. For example: "Certain words are like twists of crumpled paper jammed into the hole in the bottom of a leaky pail, to keep the story from spilling out too quickly. Words like meanwhile, by the way, it is interesting to note and that reminds me of. Adults use these words all the time when they are afraid things are getting too exciting."

Nearly every page has a watercolor illustration on it to add to the charm.

If you love words, whimsy, and don't mind repeating the names of all those cats at least once a chapter, this is the book for you. [Okay, I will admit, sometimes I just shortened the cat-name recitation to "all the cats!"] 

(Finished reading July 13.)

The Birthday Ball, by Lois Lowry

2.5 stars: Mostly fun, but crude in a few places. I wish I had been the one reading it, instead of listening to it!

I read this one on my own back in May and tucked it away in my mind as one to read to my kids at some point. Here's my review from Goodreads:

Princess Patricia Priscilla is turning 16 soon and is completely, utterly bored with her life. So she switches clothes with her maid and attends the village school for a few days, as "Pat." Delicious, her cat, comes along. Meanwhile, her 3 awful suitors (from whom she is supposed to choose a husband at her Birthday Ball) also prepare to win her. The schoolmaster happens to be quite handsome, despite his attempts to be stern. Something must be done, but Princess Patricia doesn't really see a way out of her predicament.


This had the feel of a Roald Dahl book. The characters are all wacky--from the hard-of-hearing Queen, to the butterfly-obsessed king, even down to the kitchen help (triplets who sing)-- they are all drawn large and slightly ridiculous. I got the impression that Lowry relished making the suitors as terrible as possible--all of them with personal hygiene problems and personalities that would make any normal person run away in fright.

I want to read it out loud to my kids--I think the humor, the word play (for instance, everything the Princess says to her cat rhymes with its name), and the over-the-top antics would really appeal to them.

* * * * * * *

So when we were packing for our trip last week, I saw the audiobook at the library and snatched it up. Perfect! Except... I had forgotten how crude the Conjoined Counts were--mostly bathroom words, and "butt" etc.--though they do have a laugh over "balls" at one point. Yeah. Thankfully that one went over my kids' heads, but I was embarrassed, and my husband gave me a hard time about it later.

You know how when you listen to something, any questionable parts sort of hit you in the face? After that, we skipped over the parts that talked about the Conjoined Counts. Had I been reading it, I would have edited as I went along and all would have been fine. Oh well. Live and learn, I guess.
Just--word to the wise.

(Finished listening July 23.)

Gooseberry Park, by Cynthia Rylant

4 stars: Friendship, loyalty, and humor abound.

Kona is a chocolate Labrador who belongs to Professor Albert, along with a wise hermit crab named Gwendolyn. One day, on a walk in Gooseberry Park with the professor, Kona meets a young squirrel named Stumpy. Rather than chase her or bark at her, something strange happens--the two become friends. By extension, Gwendolyn becomes friends with Stumpy too, because Kona tells them about each other.

When Stumpy is ready to have babies, Kona is super excited (Gwendolyn is too.) Stumpy decides her old nest, completely full of her collection, will never do, so she sets off across the park and makes a new nest. Clean and new, just right for babies. A bat named Murray lives just above her new home, and the two of them become friends as well.

Then one night a terrible ice storm ravages the town. Kona, listening to the tree branches crashing down is terribly worried about Stumpy and the babies. He just has to make sure they're all right. Thus begins his heroic journey to the park to check on the little family, and the beginnings of a group rescue effort.

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This one was great! If I needed one to redeem myself after The Birthday Ball, this one fit the bill. :) Short chapters, with a small illustration every 1-2 pages helped keep even my 4-year-old interested. The animal characters each had a distinct personality: Kona was courageous and loyal, Murray kept us laughing, and Gwendolyn was the wise older soul with good advice. The plot was straightforward, but came together nicely.

My 8-year-old pretended to not be listening after the first half (nice try!), but the younger two admitted to really liking it.

I was happy to see there's a sequel out as well: Gooseberry Park and the Master Plan. I plan to get to that one soon!

(Finished reading July 24).