Rutabaga's Reads 2018: Part 3

For this compilation post, I am happy to present a compilation featuring a few middle-grade books from authors I enjoy. If you have read any of these stories, please add your opinions in the comments below. And, if you have any to recommend – or avoid! – please let me know that in the comments as well!

            Please also beware of spoilers if you haven’t read the previous stories in each of these series. I do avoid spoilers as best I can, so know there aren’t major spoilers. I don’t, say, give away the endings of the stories.

The Empty Grave (Sept. 12, 2017) by Jonathan Stroud.

There is nothing quite like a nighttime masquerade into a heavily guarded mausoleum. Those at Lockwood & Co. are adept and therefore manage to get into the mausoleum undetected. They are looking for the body of a certain someone, and they find a body, but it’s not the one that should be there. And so begins their secretive research (they are being sporadically watched and followed) – “their” being Anthony Lockwood, Lucy Carlyle, George Cubbins, Holly Munro and Quill Kipps. This is on top of their usual jobs from a Lurker in an apartment above a Chinese restaurant to La Belle Dame Sans Merci and jobs in-between. But it’s what they’re researching that may pose the biggest threat to them all. These young operatives will have to survive attacks from foes of both the spectral and human varieties to overcome the real cause of the Problem.

            This group headquartered at 35 Portland Row, London, are an eclectic and crafty bunch. The author has created distinctly different characters with their own strengths and weaknesses. My one bother of the entire series is the lack of diversity. Holly’s character is the only notable one that lends a speck of diversity to a landscape that is both realistic and otherworldly. Having now read all five stories in the Lockwood & Co. series (this being the ultimate story), this is disappointing, as Stroud is so otherwise masterful with this series. It is clever and clandestine, haunted (literally, in locations), humorous and delightfully creepy. Stroud’s writing sucks you into a believable world and spits you back out, though hopefully without being ghost-touched and with all of your appendages intact.

The Ship of the Dead (Oct. 3, 2017) by Rick Riordan.

Thor. Odin. Loki. Valkyrie. Valhalla. Before Riordan’s Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard series, that’s about all I could tell you about Norse mythology. But now, the things I know! (Okay, that was an exaggeration, though I definitely know more about Norse mythology than I did.)

            “The Ship of the Dead” is the final book in the trilogy. Do I wish this series were continuing? Naturally. In the first book, Magnus turned 16. While he should have been awaiting his driver’s license, he’d already been homeless for two years, as his only living parent (mom) had been killed two years before. But he had his best homeless buddies, Blitz and Hearth, to look out for him. And at his ripe old age, his life turned into, “Now that you’re 16, there’s a good chance you’ll die soon. Surprise! Have a happy birthday!”

            So Magnus dies and winds up in Valhalla, thanks to a Valkyrie named Samirah al-Abbas. He learns that he’s the demigod son of Frey, the god of spring and summer. In truth, Magnus is a Vanir (gods of nature) demigod, and their afterlife is overseen by Magnus’ aunt Freya (goddess of love and twin of Frey) in Folkvanger. Yet he is in Valhalla, which is the army that serves Odin. He also learns that Blitzen is actually a svartalf (a.k.a. dark elf, but still actually a dwarf) and Hearthstone is an elf. Hearth is deaf, which his father found embarrassing and appalling, and Blitz has an amazing sense of style. Magnus is also armed with Jack (a.k.a. Sumarbrander, the Sword of Summer).

            By the third book, Magnus has his best floormates: TJ (Thomas Jefferson, Jr., a dead Civil War soldier), Mallory Keen (of Irish descent who wields knives very well), Halfborn Gunderson (a berserker) and Alex Fierro (he/she is gender fluid). Much of the time, they spend their days in Valhalla doing battle to the death (whether actual battle, yoga, pottery, etc. – it sounds quite intense) and getting reincarnated. But they also go on quests. In this book, on “The good ship Mikillgulr!” which, as a nickname, is the “Big Banana,” but the better translation means “big yellow.” Magnus dreams of Loki and his nasty ship of the clipped toenails and fingernails of the dishonorable dead, Naglfar, which means, naturally, the Ship of Nails. Yuck.

            Loki, being free, is trying to start Ragnarok. But before they can attempt a flyting with him, they’ve gotta survive Aegir’s vengeful giant daughters, a tveirvigi with another giant, vatnavaettir (water horses), Hearth’s dragon-dad, thrall giants (i.e. giants that are slaves), more giants in general that mean them harm and a meeting with Njord (Vanir god of the sea) and his beautiful feet who also happens to be Magnus’ grandfather.

            Like in Riordan’s other books, “The Ship of the Dead” is full of action and adventure right from the first chapter. I am always impressed by the diversity of characters he creates and appreciate him more for it. Because not only are his characters diverse, they are complex, each with distinct personalities and backgrounds. You never think, “Wow. Halfborn is pretty much the same as Alex.” Nope. Never. And while many of the problems are on a fictionally gigantic scale centering on the end of the world as everyone, including us non-magic mortals, knows it, there are also things that people may relate to. For instance, Hearth and his maltreatment by his father. So what if he’s an elf? Bullying is no small thing, and in Riordan’s world, it extends past the world of humans. This novel is resplendent in its wit and prose, and it never ceased entertaining me.

The Silver Mask (Oct. 10, 2017) by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare.

Magical prison is not like television prison at all. Well, except for the main character being framed and all that. But Callum “Call” Hunt finds himself in the Panopticon until he isn’t. (Thank goodness for a Devoured of fire!) Call has been blamed for a devastating death, and he’s also feared for the soul they think he houses. But Call is just Call. He leaves one prison for another, and he’s tasked to do the unthinkable; it is something that not even Constantine Madden achieved. The power of chaos can work for good, but is so often thought of as wicked, because even in the best of times, chaos magic is destructive. And Call isn’t the only one wielding chaos magic, only the other person wasn’t imbued with it from birth, nor was it willingly granted to him with, say, a chaos mage’s soul. No. It was stolen, and that mage died.

            Just like I would’ve loved an acceptance letter to Hogwarts, so, too, would I have gladly been an aspirant hoping to be selected by a senior mage as an apprentice and to learn at the Magisterium for five years. The fourth story in the Magisterium series, I read through it almost as swiftly as a Devoured of fire can destroy a magical prison. While middle-grade, this series ramped up its intensity.  It’s not about learning how to control and use magic in the Magisterium anymore; in fact, Call’s never there in this story. Life has reached critical mass when it comes to the nature of a soul, the dignity of life and death and what it is to secure true friendship, especially when that friendship is severely tested. Like the others, this story is filled with magic and wonder, and I can’t wait to read what happens next!

Rutabaga's Reads 2018: Part 2

When I save blog-related documents that I intend to be compilations, I save them with a nickname. It’s very basic, so this one I dubbed “Part Chapter Books.” However, looking at the few books I have here, I could’ve easily termed it “Part American Girl Books.” Consider it however you’d like.

            Please note that I am not a spokesperson for American Girl or Mattel and am in no way associated with either company. I’ve read these books since I was a young girl, and my loyalty to books is apparently very strong!

American Girl: Tenney Shares the Stage (Apr. 25, 2017) by Kellen Hertz.

The recording contract is signed, and Tenney Grant cannot wait to make an album. She always pictured herself as a solo artist, but she’s been partnered with Logan Everett for months. They should be songwriting and harmonizing as equal partners, but they’re out of tune. Both are stubborn, both each think themselves the correct one, Logan thinks Tenney’s songs are too sappy, and she thinks his are too hard-edged. And now, of all things, Logan keeps bailing or he has to rush off to who knows where, and he checks his phone all the time. Will this affect their contract? Tenney originally wanted to go solo, but is their music actually stronger together?

            The third story in the Tenney series from American Girl, Tenney and Logan continue to struggle with being as harmonious off the stage as they are on. As young as they are, the author gives us a look at two fictional characters doing what so many adults have to do: find a work-life balance. It also includes finding professionalism when what one wants to do is speak harshly or, dare I say, stomp one’s foot. The story is also about knowing your passion and using it to help others. For anyone familiar with the American Girl character books, this is another charming story to add to the ranks. The story also celebrates, as American Girl aims to do every day, “a girl’s inner star.”

American Girl: Tenney: A Song for the Season (Sept. 26, 2017) by Kellen Hertz.

The duo known as Tenney and Logan have embarked on their first tour. However, the transportation is far from the tour bus that Belle Starr rides around in, and their hotel accommodations are far from elite (one hotel doesn’t even have a pool). Plus, Tenney didn’t realize how hard touring would be, and she isn’t even leaving the state of Tennessee! Both she and Logan have strong cases of homesickness, though neither is quick to admit it to the other. It simply shows through their tension and arguments. They’re cracking under the pressure. Can they find their balance and holiday spirit before they jeopardize their careers before they’ve barely begun … and in time for Christmas?

            Hertz remains consistent with her main characters. Tenney continues to think she’s the one who’s trying the hardest, Logan continues to be moody, and both are still too stubborn and proud to confide in the other. They’re young, I get that, but youth would not have stopped my parents from reminding me that I needed to halt the uppity attitude and shape up. I wish one of Tenney’s parents would do the same. Aside from that small gripe, it’s a sweet story that has ups and downs. It includes real-life stress that I imagine every performer has experienced and worried about, and I appreciate that the author included such scenarios (e.g. audio issues a.k.a. “every performer’s worst nightmare”). It’s probably too sugar-cookie-sweet for some, but for those who are dedicated to American Girl books, you’ll want to add this one to your ever-increasing collection.

American Girl: Z on Location (Sept. 12, 2017) by J.J. Howard.

Going on a road trip seems like the perfect opportunity for Z Yang to have many #summeradventure moments, as inspired by her favorite superstar vlogger, Winter Costello. Unfortunately, Z has trouble being in the now, and her unofficial title of production assistant for her mother’s film documentary photo shoots is in jeopardy. Will her fervor for the online world and connecting with her Z’s Crew ruin her chances of showing her mom that she’s professional and responsible enough to connect with her vlog idol at VidCon?

            As someone who’s not overly tech-savvy, I am impressed with this character’s passion for vlogging, and I love that her inspiration comes from her mother, an intelligent, strong woman. The author handles the balance very well between Z’s online tech world and the overall story, for never once did I feel overwhelmed by any “tech-speak.” Z makes mistakes, but she ultimately learns from them, which is what I always hope happens when I make mistakes – that I learn from them and grow with those experiences. The author also captures how easy it can be to get caught up in the online world, though without the tantrum-throwing dramatics we’ve probably all cringed at when we’ve seen segments on the news. This is a candid but nice story and is the second in Z’s collection.

            My favorite moment in the story reminds me of so many dogs, especially my parents’ dog, Ellie. A character asks Z if her dog is licking the camera in the picture of her that she has. Z replies, “Yes, Popcorn always wants to check to see if everything is edible.” How true that is!

Rutabaga's Reads 2018: Part 1

It’s been awhile since I’ve done a compilation of any kind, much less picture books, so here one is! It’s a post for anyone who has young kids or grandkids, is an aunt or uncle or other relative, is an elementary school educator or just loves books for all age groups. Enjoy!

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend (Apr. 8, 2014) by Dan Santat.

The story opens on an island where imaginary friends are born. Here they live until they are imagined by a real child and journey to the real world. But the turn never comes for one imaginary being, so he takes it upon himself to venture to the real world. He is unimaginary since no one has imagined him, and even in the real world, still no one claims him. Until one day, where he finds himself named … Beekle.

            I love this story. It is clever and sweet. I would hope it would propel children to make new friends. I count myself as having an imaginary friend when I was young, and this story affirms that there’s nothing strange about having imaginary friends in one’s youth. They can bring conversation or at least friendship and comfort. Minds are sharp and creative, and there are no age restrictions on imagination.

The Animals’ Santa (Oct. 21, 2014) by Jan Brett.

There is always a doubter, and Little Snow is it. His brother, Big Snowshoe, believes in the animals’ Santa, but without proof, Little Snow isn’t a believer. Their other animal friends speculate what type of animal the animals’ Santa could be, but Little Snow still thinks it’s all stuff and nonsense. Can he be convinced?

            I am a fan of Jan Brett books. The way she weaves her stories are delightful and almost majestic. Her brilliant illustrations help my opinion as well, for her illustrations do not simply highlight the words on the pages, as she tends to have other little stories going on along the edges. Her creativity lights up the world, and in a world where there seems to be so much darkness, this is no small thing.

Big Words for Little Geniuses (Sept. 4, 2017) by Susan ^and James Patterson.

   Hsinping Pan, illustrator.

Like the title says, this picture book contains big words for little geniuses! There is a big word for each letter of the alphabet with an illustration to represent it. There are even a couple extra pages at the end with 26 additional big words for little ones to learn.

            I normally do not see an ad for a book in a magazine and immediately think that I must get it. But there’s a first time for everything, and when I saw the title of this picture book, having become a first-time aunt last fall, I knew right away that I wanted it. Naturally, as a proud auntie, I automatically considered my nephew a genius before he was born. And, as a self-professed logophile, purchasing this book seemed like a no-brainer. I expect his first words will be “mama” and “dada.” Next, “Auntie Lisa” and probably “tractor.” And then, how about “bumfuzzle” and “dulcifluous?” *grins widely*

Peanut Butter & Cupcake (July 29, 2014) by Terry Border.

Peanut Butter is new to town, and he’s looking for a friend. He’s got the new soccer ball he received for his birthday and an introductory rhyme for when he encounters prospective friends. But everyone he comes upon seems too busy or unwilling to give him a chance. Is there a friend for Peanut Butter out there?

            I found this story to be superb. The storyline is uncomplicated – a youth (albeit an edible one) new to town wants to make new friends and is having a hard time finding even one – but it’s the images that make the story pop. The illustrations are not something drawn or painted; they’re photographs. The author is known for his Bent Objects, and he has photographed these objects to create the illustrations. It’s clever and fresh; the pages are visually entertaining. I hope no one takes issue with the lack of healthy food objects such as carrots or celery and instead note the value of entertainment. I think preschoolers will be amused by the zany photos, but the droll food comedy may be for those reading the story aloud to the children.

The Pout-Pout Fish Goes to School (June 24, 2014) by Deborah Diesen.

   Dan Hanna, illustrator.

It is Mr. Fish’s first day of school, but everything is hard. He starts by getting lost, and it dominos negatively from there. Will he find his classroom? Or should he forget it and swim home?

            I have always enjoyed rhymes, and this picture book is written in such a form. It flows well and has a great message: you shouldn’t give up on anything, especially when you haven’t learned it yet! This message isn’t just important to instill in young children, but a good reminder for adults as well. Although the pictures are still, they feel animated to me. I think that youngsters will be fascinated by these exaggerated sea creatures with their big eyes and expressive faces.

Skippyjon Jones: Snow What (Oct. 21, 2014) by Judy Schachner.

A Siamese kitty boy who envisions himself as the “handsomest Chihuahua of all” is Skippyjon “Skippito” Jones. Skipping out on listening to the story of ‘Snow White’ with his mom and sisters, he retreats to his room, enters a deep, dark forest, comes across his amigos, Los Chimichangos, and faints on a mission to save Nieve Qué (Snow What). Thoughts of princesas are a snore to Skippito, the idea of tights is humorously offensive, and kissing is gross. So how’s he going to save a princesa when he thinks such tales are fuzzy, shmuzzy?

            Schachner’s Skippyjon Jones stories are so entertaining, and they work very well when reading aloud. The linguistics of the story feature dual-lingo words and puns, which I believe lend the story more verve. This story does not disappoint me with its adventurous main character and the illustrations that work so well with the tale because the author is also the illustrator. ¡Muy divertido!

Cat Has My Back #sol18

Please note: I am not actively participating in the Slice of Life Challenge, but I have a sister-in-law who is. As I texted her earlier this month, “Mayhaps I will participate next year.”

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I have three A-B-C cats. Abacus is male, while Bibbidi and Cannoli are female. See? A-B-C names, so they are my A-B-C cats. They are littermates born last year. I took them in from a couple in our church family. As best I understand, their mother was dumped off, had her litter of five and was killed only weeks later (I thought she got hit by a vehicle on the road, but I also heard she was killed by neighbor dogs, so I don’t know the correct story and don’t want to know).

            They are outdoor cats, but before you get any ideas that I don’t care about my outdoor felines, please think again. They have their designated “cat shed.” They are spayed/neutered and are up-to-date on shots. They are litter box-trained. During the cold months, I have a heated cat tent and a heated water bowl for their use.

            It is obvious that Abacus, Bibbidi and Cannoli were worked with a lot before they came to live here. They enjoy being held – cuddled – and absolutely love attention. They will follow me around like a dog. When Abacus wants to alert me to a possum in the yard or an empty food dish, he will meow at me very seriously (truly, it is a distinct meow). They all like talking to me when the mood suits. They are fantastic mousers.

            The pictures I’ve shared are of Cannoli in one of her favorite spots – on my back – as I’m dealing with their litter box. My mom happened to be at my house and so witnessed this and helpfully took some pictures. She even gave a play-by-play at one point:

·         “She is grooming her paws.”

·         “Now she’s lying out on your back.”

·         “She’s coming close to your neck like she’s going to sniff you or pat you.”

            It turns out that dogs aren’t the only best friends, though I love them, too. It’s just that cats are this woman’s best friends (of the furry variety)!

Cannoli has my back.

Results of Cannoli having my back during Muddy Season.

The Book Bug Baby #sol18

Please note: If you are commenting on those posts actively participating in the Slice of Life Challenge only, stop reading right now. I know of this challenge through a sister-in-law, but did not take up this challenge myself.

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This adorable little guy is my nephew, Liam. As with any proud auntie, I will gush about his adorableness and his alertness and his intelligence. I will proclaim his perfection and revel in his smiles, giggles and coos. I love listening to him “talk.” He’s so expressive about it, as his entire body is often utilized in his “conversations,” from waving his arms to bending his knees up and blasting off as he makes a particular point. Unsurprisingly, I am smitten with him.

            Liam enjoys being read to, which is why I couldn’t help but share this photo. It was taken just over a month ago at four months old. Such command of the book he has! What an avid reader he is! Such a prolific life he’ll surely lead!

            Does it surprise you that I go through withdrawal when I haven’t seen him in over a week?

"A Chance at Forever" by Melissa Jagears

A Chance at Forever (Mar. 6, 2018) by Melissa Jagears.*

Living up to one’s name can be daunting, and Mercy McClain has felt the pressure of it, especially with the reappearance in Teaville, Kansas, of George “Aaron” Firebrook. Aaron was her biggest tormentor as a youth, daily harassing her about her right arm, which never fully formed. Mercy hasn’t seen him in over a decade, as she moved in fifth grade, and when she returned to Teaville, Aaron was no longer in the area. She finds fulfillment working at the local orphanage for Nicholas & Lydia Lowe, participates in meetings and group efforts with the Teaville Moral Society and serves on the school board. Though her heart may feel otherwise, her mind has long expected and accepted her spinster status.

            Aaron’s return throws many wrenches in. The biggest childhood bully she’s ever known is licensed and wants to, of all things, be a teacher. Unfathomable! But Aaron has been working to turn his life around one bullied classmate at a time, and Mercy is definitely on his list. When he lands a job working at the same orphanage as Mercy, he finds she’s also on his mind and perhaps even on his heart. But just because her name is Mercy doesn’t mean she will forgive easily. He’s got his work cut out for him and not just because of Mercy. Jimmy, a young teenager at the orphanage, is an angry, hurting, stubborn bully reminiscent of himself at that age, and he wants to redirect his path. Will he succeed? Can old wounds be healed and new, positive paths be forged? Or are these chances ones which will fail?

            The next story in the Teaville Moral Society series, I thought the pace moved steadily forward. Bullying isn’t new to the news, and I found it interesting that the author chose a lead character who was a bully in the past. He is trying to atone for his vast misdeeds of the past, and that is admirable. Meanwhile, Mercy struggles to forgive Aaron. She knows she should, but it’s too easy to hold onto the grudge. They both find it difficult to let go of the past, but you “shouldn’t let the voices of your past or present define who you are. Let God do that” (p. 94). This inspirational, historical fiction (set in 1909) novel is gripping. The only critique I have is that, with everything going on, I sometimes felt the story was too chaotic. Is that real life? Certainly. But there were too many things going on that weren’t central to the story of Mercy and Aaron. From a very difficult orphan to a fire at the lumber mill to the relationship issues between employees Sadie and Franklin to Caroline, there’s extra stuffing. The author wrote it well, but leaving a few items out would not have detracted from the story.

            Also from this series, which I’ve reviewed: A Love So True

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"A Refuge Assured" by Jocelyn Green

A Refuge Assured (Feb. 6, 2018) by Jocelyn Green.*

Lacemaking is an honest trade and an artisan of such a trade nowadays would be rare, but in the 1790s, being a lacemaker to the queen of France, Marie Antoinette, and other aristocrats is enough to send one to the guillotine. So lacemaker Vivienne “Vienne” Rivard flees Paris, “the Paris she loved – and the Paris she hated,” across an ocean to Pennsylvania. When it becomes necessary to leave Philadelphia out of concern for the safety of her young charge and herself, she goes to French Azilum (Asylum).

            Having met Vienne in Philadelphia on his mail runs between there and Asylum, schoolteacher-turned-militiaman William “Liam” Delaney is drawn to the Frenchwoman who is a different person than he initially assumed her to be. Liam served during the American Revolution, but he now feels caught up in the Whiskey Rebellion. How does he dutifully serve the democracy he fought for, but barely recognizes, when the oppressive whiskey tax impacts his own family? Did he trade one revolution for another? Add in the fact that he lives near French émigrés fleeing their own revolution, including a woman and boy he’s come to care for deeply, and what’s a man to do?

            My first novel from Green, I enjoyed the richness of the story with the details the author wove together – the details based on historical fact and those she used literary license with. She was able to weave fact with fiction seamlessly. This inspirational, historical fiction novel is smartly written, and the faith of the main characters supports them and does not overwhelm who they are. Vienne and Liam are relatable characters that I wish I could meet in present-day real-life. And I appreciate Vienne’s thought, which can pertain to anyone who is struggling to put the past behind them: “It was time to lay aside the shape of her old life.” We cannot move forward when we keep looking at the past. This story isn’t just about fighting for peace and safety; it’s about moving forward despite a traumatic past and forming new relationships (and not just of the romantic variety).

            Humor within the pages that I enjoyed: “He killed an ice cream! Such villainy!” -- Martine to Vienne when she shares her horror over a loathsome man purposely beheading a lobster-shaped ice cream to prove his point (p. 100).

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Like a Giant Tree in a Storm #sol18

Please note: I am not a teacher, nor am I actively participating in the Slice of Life Challenge by the Two Writing Teachers. But one of my sisters-in-law is, and when I came across the inspiration for this piece, I couldn’t help but write up my own little slice. If you are someone participating in the SOL Challenge and want to read slices from active participants only, please do not hesitate to leave this page now. But for anyone sticking around …

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I want to read fortune cookies that have a frivolous fortune, to say something amusing that I know won’t actually happen but am entertained for the briefest of moments.

• “You will move to a mountain chalet.”
• “You will soon find yourself with a great sum of money.”
• “Something pleasantly important will happen to you in the next three days.”

Instead, here is what I read: “Be calm, like a giant tree in a storm.” It was technically my mom’s fortune, but I read it so my mom would not have to put on one of her umpteen pairs of reading glasses (a representative mixture of actual prescription glasses and cheater readers). While not the fortune-made-of-dreams that we would’ve liked, we were still amused.

Because there was some enactment involved. I got up off the counter chair, stood as a sturdy tree trunk and put my arms akimbo like calm limbs. Now picture my mom. She did roughly the same, though her tree-limb arms were all over the place. But she claimed they were calm limbs that happened to be blowing wildly around as she, a giant tree in a storm, remained calm.

It was priceless, and I’m so glad no one else was there to video it.

So, while not a fortune, it is sage advice. The next time you feel like the angry storm or the wild, frustrated winds of an angry storm, be calm. Be calm like that giant tree in the angry storm.

I’d also like to add that those redwood trees have nothing on us!*

* This is a lie, and the writer of this post knows it. As does her mother.

The Positive Page-turner's Challenge: Take 4

I admit that I am a bit mortified with myself. It has been almost 10 months since my last Positive Page-turner’s Challenge! Look how close to a year that is! So my challenge to myself is straightforward and will cover the months of March and April. For half the number of books I read within those two months (chapter books on up), I will donate $10 per book to my home church. For the other half, I will donate a package of bar soap (eight-count or greater) for each of those remaining books. Therefore, if I read 24 books between the two months, I’ll donate $120 to my church and purchase 12 packages of bar soap.

            “Where will the bar soap go?” you might ask. If you’re unfamiliar with my previous challenges, I donate all bar soap to GoServ Global (out of Eagle Grove, Iowa) with the expectation that it will get sent to Haiti. Meanwhile, the monetary donation to my church will go to one of the specific funds. Perhaps the Haiti Project, but I won’t rule out donating it to Sunday School, Altar Guild or another fund altogether.

            Challenges of all sorts can be wondrous, whether you set them yourself (like this one) or take up a suggestion from others. The important thing is that you are challenging yourself to do something more, perhaps even something far larger than yourself. Whether it’s a challenge that pushes you alone or reaches others is up to you. And sometimes, those challenges are not the ones we choose, and if you’re going through any of those, I hope you persevere and rise above them. But this is not a post to focus on the truly tough, the nasty tough, the I-don’t-have-words tough. This is a challenge of positivity in reading. So, with that, happy reading, my friends!

"A Song Unheard" by Roseanna M. White

A Song Unheard (Jan. 2, 2018) by Roseanna M. White.*

Where would you go if you needed a top-notch thief to steal a key before it ended up in the wrong hands, and the person you suspect holds the key is a famous master violinist? If you’re Mr. V, you go to London and find Willa Forsythe – “one of London’s best pickpockets.” She is also a violin prodigy. She poses as a family friend of the wealthy Davies sisters of Aberystwyth, Wales, where they are patrons for the Belgian Symphony Orchestra, which is made up of Belgian refugees. World-renowned violinist Lukas De Wilde is one of these refugees. He is Willa’s target, but he’s also the target of others, who would do him harm and already have, if his healing shoulder is any indication. He wants nothing more than to continue the search for his mother and sister. But with Germany invaders in Belgium, it is too dangerous to travel freely there. His only distraction is the amazingly gifted Willa and his newfound faith. But what will happen when her secret crosses his path? No cipher key will help him then.

            As I would expect from White, she has created a captivating, historical fiction novel with another strong-willed and savvy woman. Willa also has street smarts. But whereas Lukas’ faith grew throughout the story, Willa struggled longer. Because she has been as broken as a destroyed violin for a long time. Incorporating that into the plot, along with points-of-view from Lukas and his sister, Margot, provided extra elements. Instead of one layer like a piece of music for violins only, there were multiple layers like music for an entire orchestra. And White orchestrated well. My attention was kept, and I expect an encore when we are next introduced to Barclay’s story!

            Quotable: “Can a man compose a symphony without paying attention to each individual note? Can he put together an orchestra without caring about each musician in it? It’s ridiculous to posit a Creator who stands back, unconcerned. If we grant a God, we have to grant a complete God.” -- Margot, in a reminiscence by Lukas when he tried to challenge her faith (p. 126).

            Shadows Over England: Book One: A Name Unknown

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”