Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 13

In this +Scholastic books compilation, there are a couple titles for the younger readers you know and a couple for the older. Please note that I have no material connection to anyone who works for Scholastic or authors any books marketed through the company. I am simply a bookworm who supports the Scholastic Brand!

But and For, Yet and Nor: What is a Conjunction? (Mar. 1, 2010) by Brian P. Cleary.

   Brian Gable, illustrator.

“But and For, Yet and Nor” is just one of many books in Cleary’s Words are CATegorical series. His series focuses on different parts of speech, but by avenue of high-spirited rhyme that presents grammar-learning in a fun, carefree way and not an I’d-rather-get-my-teeth-pulled way. In this book, Cleary concentrates on conjunctions, not only giving the definition of them, but especially by giving examples in word and type. To name a few, he explains how they can bridge phrases or link words and even brings up the common misconception that conjunctions can’t start a sentence. I think these books are terrific, and I highly recommend them for school and classroom libraries. They’re wonderful books for intermediate elementary students and their teachers.

            How many conjunctions can you spot in this summary/review?

Ladybug Girl (Mar. 13, 2008) by David Soman & Jacky Davis.

Little Lulu is Ladybug Girl. She’s got to find her own fun, because her parents have work to do. She momentarily puts on her pouty face, but finds adventure out-of-doors with her dog, Bingo, after her big brother denies her request to play with him. He tells her she’s too little, but she thinks that is ridiculous in her preschool-age way.

            Like so many children, Lulu finds adventure through her imagination. She’s a self-appointed hero with her trusty sidekick, Bingo. This cute tale provides a platform for empowering youngsters using a subtle, fun and kid-friendly approach. The watercolor and line illustrations catch Bingo’s adorably floppy ears and Lulu’s adventures, not to mention Lulu herself in her ladybug costume. She positively stands out amidst the almost-muted backdrops. But I suppose that is the point. After all, Lulu is Ladybug Girl, and she is not too little!

Spellbinding (Apr. 1, 2013) by Maya Gold.

When her teacher gives the class a genealogy assignment, sixteen-year-old Abby Silva discovers she’s the descendent of an accused witch of the Salem Witch Trials. As she delves into her ancestry, mysterious things occur: objects move without aid and things catch fire. Abby doesn’t want to believe that she willed those things to happen. She just wants to be a “normal” teenager, albeit one who’s less invisible and more confident. She wants her school’s “it” boy, Travis Brown, to look at her instead of his odious girlfriend. There’s also the baffling yet attractive Rem Anders, who lives and works in nearby Salem. He’s hot and cold, but perhaps for good reason. Can Abby make sense of her ancestry and who she is before a reckoning tries to make the choice for her?

            This book is like a much lighter version of Stephen King’s “Carrie.” This YA paranormal novel read more like upper middle-grade fiction. That doesn’t mean it’s a watered down book with no substance. It has plenty of conflict. There’s conflict of the regular high-school-garden variety in the forms of friend issues and mean girls. Then there’s the paranormal variety such as magic and ill-intentioned witches. It keeps the reader’s attention with individual characters and an easily-visualized setting. The ending is tied up like a nice bow. Could it have been darker and more intense? Sure, but not all books have to be, and it is fine that “Spellbinding” isn’t. After all, it’s by Maya Gold and not by Stephen King.

Splendors and Glooms (Aug. 28, 2012) by Laura Amy Schlitz.

Though he has more rags than riches, Gaspare Grisini is a master puppeteer. His prowess with the puppet theatre catches Clara Wintermute’s fancy, so he comes to the Wintermute home to put on a show for her twelfth birthday party. The daughter of a wealthy and renowned physician, Clara never wants for necessities and then some. The opposite is true of Grisini’s orphaned assistants, Lizzie Rose Fawr and Parsefall Hooke. Their clothes are shabby, recompense is miserly, and they never know if they’ll have enough for a next meal. To them, the Wintermute home represents everything they don’t have: doting parents, an abundance of food, warmth, riches. Clara is enamored with the puppet theatre, but then she disappears. Grisini is suspected of kidnapping her, and Lizzie Rose and Parsefall are determined to solve the mystery. As they investigate, they open up Grisini’s suspicious past and his wicked intentions. Unbeknownst to them, they flee London only to be ensnared by Grisini’s rival, an old witch with two inheritances to dole out. One is amazing, the other is deadly.

            Schlitz earned a Newberry Honor for this middle-grade, historical fantasy novel. This story mixes magic and mystery, mishaps and misdeeds in order to create a mystical literary concoction. The book is more serious than not, but it is richly written. It is dark, but not so dark that I wouldn’t let a twelve-year-old read it. For those concerned, British slang is used, and I did see one instance of a word that rhymes with “stitch.” The splendors of the book are wondrous and positive, whereas the glooms are frightening and nightmarish (to the characters, not to you). Schlitz’s narrative and characters are so well-drawn that one can’t help but be swept up into the story, unsettling bits and all.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 12

If you didn’t know before, I’m sure you’ve realized by now that my favored books usually fall into the young adult (YA) category. This compilation features all YA titles. If you enjoy reading YA novels, read on. If YA is not your thing, I encourage you to read on anyway. Even if you don’t find something that appeals to you, maybe you’ll find the next big read for a YA reader that you do know!

Everneath (Jan. 24, 2012) by Brodi Ashton.

There is an underworld known as the Everneath. Those who live forever are called Everlivings. Cole Stockton is an Everliving, which means he needs to completely drain the emotions off one person every century in the Feed to give him another century of “life.” Those that Everlivings feed off of are called Forfeits. They feed for a century in Everneath years, but that’s only six months in Surface years. Nikki Beckett is a Forfeit, but Cole’s surprised when she looks like herself after the Feed. She doesn’t know how that happened; she just kept thinking of her boyfriend, Jack Caputo. Because Nikki looks the same, Cole wants her to become an Everliving like him and capture the throne. Nikki wants to remain on the Surface, but she only has six months before the Shades claim her for the Tunnels for eternity. If she can prevent her return to the Everneath, she wants to do it, because finding the words to say good-bye to her family and friends is far more daunting.

            The initial thing I learned about this book was that it’s a retelling of the Persephone myth. The initial thing I thought when I read that the immortal characters feed on the emotions of others was, “Oh, they’re like vampires, except instead of craving blood, they crave emotions.” Is that weird? Yes. But the weirdest? No. I like the inspiration of the myth that the story comes from and Ashton’s first-person narration of Nikki shows the difficulty of building back up all that she lost (in feelings and relationships). I never had to muddle through the book, but sometimes the reading felt slower to me, though it gained speed near the end of the book. I think the plot is interesting, and I do wonder about the fate of the star-crossed lovers.

Illuminate (Mar. 6, 2012) by Aimee Agresti.

She’s that girl. The one who was found abandoned in the woods when she was five. Now Haven Terra is a sixteen-year-old outcast who’s ordinary, shy and super smart. Along with her classmates Dante and Lance, they receive prestigious internships at Chicago’s ritzy Lexington Hotel under the direction of the young, glamorous and powerful Aurelia Brown and her striking second-in-command, Lucian Grove. Aurelia wields great power and influence. Anyone who is important knows her, and everyone else wants to be part of her A-list group. Haven, Dante and Lance work alongside Aurelia’s striking cohorts known as the Outfit. They get access to the hotel’s exclusive nightclub, Vault, where each night is themed according to one of the seven deadly sins. Haven can’t seem to help falling for Lucian, but her gut tells her something’s off. The Outfit members seem more like robots, and she discovers that Aurelia has a very sordid plan with Haven as her number one target. Aurelia takes directions from the Prince, while Haven begins taking direction from … a blank book. What is Haven’s true role in all of this? Gone are her days of being ordinary, but she will long for those days before the end.

            It’s a confluence of meek and strong, good and bad, timid and powerful. For the most part, I think “Illuminate,” the first in a planned trilogy, is well-written. Her main characters are easily discernible, even Dante, who’s in the wings for most of the book. This YA paranormal suspense tale has none of the broodiness of Twilight, nor the lovey-dovey aspect. I wouldn’t say the book is arresting, but it is magical in its own mysterious way. Foul language is included, but it’s minimal. Watch out for the baddies, though. They’re not grim reapers so much as they’re soul reapers.

Of Poseidon (May 22, 2012) by Anna Banks.

To call them mermaids (or mermen) and to assume they have goldfish-like fantails is to annoy them. They are Syrena, and their powerful tails look like the dorsal fins of sharks. Galen Forza is a twenty-year-old Syrena prince, a Triton Royal. He meets eighteen-year-old Emma McIntosh when she walks into him, literally. Sparks fly instantly between them. Is it something known as the pull? Or, at least for Emma’s part, is the attraction just due to Galen’s handsomeness? Galen and his sister, Rayna, obviously in human form, are on land for a reason. At least Galen is. He’s the Syrena ambassador to the mostly unaware humans while Rayna is the beautiful but rude twin sister who’s avoiding her mate, Toraf. Galen’s had it on good information that there is a girl who can talk to fish. Signs point to Emma, but she doesn’t look like a Syrena. What does that mean? And even if she is of Poseidon, fat lot of good it does Galen, for he can’t rightfully be with her. Which is horrible, because Emma’s the only person he’s ever wanted to kiss.

            This is no Disney’s The Little Mermaid, but I still really enjoyed this novel. “Of Poseidon” is full of humor, teenage sarcasm and the right amount of seriousness to prevent the book from being watered down or tepid. This spirited tale has weight and lots of unanswered questions as the first in a trilogy. Emma and Galen are likable characters despite their sometimes obstinate personalities. Even Rayna is likable, if you can get past her hotheaded exterior. The budding romance is expected and predictable, but not unlikable. The only things I didn’t care for were Emma’s chapters in the first-person and Galen’s in the third. It would’ve flowed better if both narrative viewpoints were the same. But other than that, this fish-out-of-the-sea novel is entertaining!

The Selection (Apr. 24, 2012) by Kiera Cass.

The nation is no longer the United States – it is Illéa – but there is still an America. America Singer is the middle of five children and lives in a nation with a very strict caste system. She and her family are a Five (of eight castes). The system can be very strict, and if you’re caught doing something unacceptable, you suffer for it. Out past curfew? Jail time. Convicted of treason? Death. The Ones live a posh life; they are the royalty and include King Clarkson, Queen Amberly and Prince Maxon Schreave. Prince Maxon is coming of age, and Illéa tradition says that he must find a bride. Whereas a princess would’ve been married off to solidify relations with other countries, a prince married a woman of the people to keep up morale.

            Hence, the selection. America is pressured into applying even though Aspen, a caste below her, is the love of her life. She becomes one of the Selected and is whisked off to a palace to compete (in a ladylike way, of course) for a prince she thinks is boring and for a crown she doesn’t want. But when America actually talks to Prince Maxon, she finds that he isn’t the shallow, too-formal person she thought he was. He’s, well, he’s a gentleman. If Prince Maxon finds favor with her, can she discard her love for Aspen?

            This first in a planned trilogy is affable, but it isn’t wow. The dress descriptions are detailed, but other expected points are not. For instance, what does Illéa look like? And what of the rebel attacks? There are multiple attacks, but no one knows their purpose, and even if they do, there isn’t anything formative mentioned. In short, the book is quaint and charming, but it lacks in world-building. I like America’s headstrong personality, Aspen’s dedication to his family and Prince Maxon’s thoughtfulness. “The Selection” is pegged as a YA dystopian novel, but if you want to read dystopia along the lines of “The Hunger Games” or “Divergent,” this is not the dystopia you’re looking for. Think instead of “The Bachelor,” only in book form.

Unraveling (Apr. 24, 2012) by Elizabeth Norris.

There’s a clock counting down to something that’s likely catastrophic, as if the gelatinous material that used to be flesh and bones on unidentified victims wasn’t proof enough of something unnatural. Janelle Tenner is about to start her junior year of high school and already she has died and been brought back to life. By classmate Ben Michaels. The thing is, she’s never talked to him before. She has defined him as a loner who hangs out with the stoner crowd, along with his buddies, Elijah Palma and Reid Suitor. Her FBI-agent father is on the case regarding the victims and the countdown clock, and Janelle launches her own investigation in a very junior-agent sort-of-way with her best friend, Alex Trechter. Her investigation is going to bring her back to Ben and his buddies. She does attend school some of the time in the novel, manages to help junior agent Taylor Barclay save face in front of a superior (think “ulterior motives”), dodges family friend/agent Ryan “Struz” Struzinski, deals with her mentally unstable mother, cares for her little brother Jared, and even manages a day trip to Disneyland amidst all the chaos. The chaos that is Wave Function Collapse, manipulating molecular structure and multiverse. So pretty much she has to find a way to save the world!

            If you judged this book by its title, you might guess that it’s a dystopian novel, but it’s not. It is science fiction and romance for the YA set, though it’s not heavy sci-fi. Vulgar utterances are present throughout the book, and while it’s not laden with obscenities, they are present often enough, for anyone concerned. Some elements, such as Ben’s healing ability, could’ve been more fully explained (it is part sci-fi, after all), but the story is multi-layered. I appreciated how easy it was to get to know the characters, for they are fleshed out very nicely. Although it isn’t a dystopian novel, I think fans of that genre would like this novel. And likewise if you’re a fan of light science fiction and/or potential end-of-the-world stories.

Trondhjem's Pie & Ice Cream Social 2013

Most who know me know I like to put together an annual poem to promote the Pie & Ice Cream Social of the church that I grew up in. This year is no exception. The 2013 Social is on Sunday, Sept. 15, beginning at 5 p.m. This poem is the eighth one I've created for my home church.

Trondhjem’s Pie & Ice Cream Social 2013

Listen up, All! Please perk up your ears!

The Pie & Ice Cream Social’s almost here!

September 15^th is coming up quick;

Get here at five for your prime pie pick!

We’ll serve up our “famous” sloppy joe feast.

They’re messy, but worth it, to say the least.

Potato chips will accompany the meal,

And with donations freewill – what a deal!

If you want pie the most, that is all right –

You’re sure to find one to fit your pie appetite.

Will there be apple, strawberry or cherry,

Or something non-fruit? The choices will vary.

The silent auction takes place upstairs.

If the bidding is tough, some may “win” by a hair!

WELCA has a homemade quilt to raffle.

With tickets one dollar, the cost will not baffle.

Naatz Farms will be present to give wagon rides.

Their horses are pros, and they know their strides.

The donations for rides are always freewill,

So ride as much as you’d like to get your fill.

Our baked goods table will again be up.

It’s best to look at that after you sup

Unless you want a specific treat,

Then by all means, look before you eat!

Please join us on the 15^th at five.

TLC will be a busy, buzzing hive.

We all want to greet you, so please come out.

There’ll be much to see, of that there’s no doubt!

"A Simple Change" by Judith Miller

A Simple Change (Aug. 1, 2013) by Judith Miller.*

There’s a fast lane, even in 1881, yet Jancey Rhoder gives up her privileged life in Kansas City for a simple and humble one in the Amana Colonies in Iowa. She is torn, not to leave behind her suitor, Nathan Woodward, but to leave behind the youngsters she taught at Charity Home, an orphanage in the city. Her mother is very ill, and she wants to be in close proximity to her in order to help care for her.

            Life in the Amana Colonies brings unforeseen challenges to Jancey’s life, many of which might have been prevented if she’d made different choices. Like choosing to keep her curiosity to herself. Or choosing to stay in Kansas City. Or choosing God’s direction instead of surging ahead with her own plan. Jancey is faithful, has a good heart and means well, but sometimes her good-heartedness isn’t for the better. When things begin to go awry, who can she trust? Will she turn to Nathan? Her parents? The Amana elders? Ritter Hetrig, an Amana man around Jancey’s age?

            Jancey’s life doesn’t begin as simply as one might imagine from the setting. There’s a new way of life to adapt to, new rules to abide by and new personalities to meet. Jancey’s biggest struggle isn’t adapting to a new life, but in waiting for His answers in His time, not hers. And that probably resonates with most all of us. Knowing we want answers may be the simplest part, but the waiting can be the hardest. After all, patience isn’t a virtue because it’s easy to possess! While this historical Christian fiction novel is nice, it did seem to read slower than I would’ve liked. That said, I also think that works for the novel. Jancey’s life in the Amana Colonies is to be full of faith and honest work for the good of all (not just the individual), but at its core, it’s a simple life. Not simple as in plain and slow and boring, but in a serene way. The tone of the book matches that, though things do pick up speed in the final chapters.

* 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.”

"Blood and Bone" by Don Hoesel

Blood and Bone (July 1, 2013) by Don Hoesel.*

Years ago, Dr. Jack Hawthorne traded in his life of dangerous adventure for one as an unassuming university professor, husband to Dr. Esperanza “Espy” Habilla-Hawthorne and father to two boys. A past choice has returned to haunt him when someone demands that the bones of Elisha the prophet be brought to him. It is said that Elisha’s bones not only have the power to heal, but restore life. A rogue operative wants them and will use whatever means necessary to obtain them, even stooping to use Jack’s sons’ lives as leverage.

            Unfortunately for Jack and Espy, the bones are not where they buried them thirteen years ago. To complicate matters, they are being pursued by two factions that’d like to see them dead, and the one faction has its own discord which affects the Hawthorne parents. They are both the helped (at unexpected times) and the hunted. Will they also be the saved? One thing’s for sure: the Hawthornes would walk through fire and brimstone if they had to in order to reunite with their sons. They’ll span the globe to sort out the clues and get their boys back.

            It is apparent that Hoesel is a talented writer. In this Christian suspense fiction novel, well-researched history and fiction gray the lines between fact and the writer’s imagination. The suspense isn’t suspenseful in a scary way and the plot moves right along. The only thing I didn’t really care for were all the adversarial groups. One is understandable to make a story. Two can work to give the story layers and more depth. But a rogue operative and two adversarial groups, one of which has two faces? That can be overkill. But fortunately, Hoesel makes it work.

* 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.”

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 11

Here is another round of +Scholastic books. These were my first books by each of these authors. Please note that I am in no way connected to Scholastic except through my love of books and personal support of their brand.

            I thank my brother’s fiancée, Katie, for recommending Cinder!

The Apothecary (Oct. 4, 2011) by Maile Meloy.

It’s 1952, and Janie Scott is a fourteen-year-old who suddenly moves from Los Angeles to London. Her parents are television screenwriters. They’ve been blacklisted¹ by the House Committee on Un-American Activities². Still, Janie isn’t distraught by her parents’ predicament so much that she’s distraught for herself. The flat in London is cold, and Janie’s terribly homesick. On top of that, she has to wear a school uniform and learn Latin. But she meets Benjamin Burrows, son of the apothecary, and she’s moved by his defiance. Benjamin’s dad entrusts them with the Pharmacopoeia right before he goes missing. As they work to keep the book out of enemy hands, they uncover seemingly impossible things and encounter many faces. Who can they trust?

            I was pleasantly surprised by this middle-grade novel. It’s witty and inventive with enough intensity to move the plot along without making it scary and enough humor to keep it from being too serious. The book is part magic and part science with an element of history – a good choice for anyone who enjoys historical fantasy. There is mystery, danger and adventure. It contains the smallest bit of young romance, but it’s not enough that it should scare away a male readership. Make room in your imaginations for “The Apothecary!”

¹The Hollywood blacklist.

²This committee was abolished in 1975. (Yes, it was real!)

Cinder (Jan. 3, 2012) by Marissa Meyer.

In this future Earth, there are six Earthen countries. Linh Cinder resides in New Beijing, capital of the Eastern Commonwealth, and she’s a second-class citizen who’s more a possession than a body with rights. That’s because she’s a cyborg. She knows nothing of her past before she was eleven. She’s sixteen now and is a gifted mechanic. She pays her horrid stepmother’s bills. All of them. She has two stepsisters: one nice (Peony) and one not-so-nice (Pearl). Cinder’s life interconnects with Crown Prince Kaito’s, and she soon gains insight into his major stressors. His father, the emperor, is in the fourth and final stage of letumosis. No cure has been found for the disease, which covers the body in a bruise-colored rash. Fourth stage is reached once the finger tips turn blue-black. Furthermore, the ruthless Lunar people (they live on the moon) watch with Queen Levana trying to bedazzle her way onto an Earthen throne through the manipulation of bioelectricity. Any Lunar has this ability, except for shells. Queen Levana uses it for glossy bully purposes as much as for just plain evil ones. Cinder will find that her role will become far more important than simply being a cyborg-mechanic.

            I was initially unsure of “Cinder,” wondering if I’d like a book centered on a gifted-mechanic cyborg. It turns out that I did! “Cinder” is a YA science fiction book with fairytale ties set in a dystopian future. “Cinder” is not a remake of the Disney version of Cinderella, so don’t set yourself up for a classic retelling of that beloved story. It is Meyer’s take on the tale, and there are similarities. You may see the “pumpkin” in the car, and of course there’s the terrible stepmother. The characters are distinctive, and the storyline is decent. The book is perhaps too predictable at times, but the author’s writing is skilled, her world-building is sound, and the racism (even of an atypical kind) is still racism enough to rankle the nerves. This is the first book in a series.

Mockingbird (Apr. 15, 2010)  by Kathryn Erskine.

What would it be like to view everything in black and white? I’m not referring to TVs before they were in color. I’m talking about Caitlin Smith’s world. For her, everything is black or white, good or bad, easy or hard. She is an eleven-year-old with Asperger syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. Her brother, Devon, taught her and guided her, but he’s dead now. She wants to find closure after she learns the definition of it. Caitlin works with her school’s counselor, Mrs. Brook, who wants her to find friends, learn finesse (the tactful kind) and show empathy. She doesn’t want to, because it’s hard and sometimes she just Doesn’t Get It. But life is more than black or white, and Caitlin may find that it’s not all so bad or scary.

            A National Book Award Winner (2010), “Mockingbird” is a realistic, middle-grade fiction novel. While the sorrow of the story stems from a school shooting, it is not a book that focuses on violence. It is more a book that focuses on the healing (closure) of a main character who lives with Asperger’s and the grieving community. This is a fine selection, not just for middle school students learning about disorders and realistic tough stuff, but also for high school psychology classes as a discussion topic. While she doesn’t wear a snazzy suit or have superpowers, Caitlin is still a hero who works to learn more, understand more and be more, as we all should.

Pegasus: The Flame of Olympus (May 22, 2012) by Kate O’Hearn.

An unexpected thunderstorm is ravaging the East Coast with NYC in the heart of it. Its intensity seems unusual, but not as unusual as discovering that Pegasus – yes, the winged stallion – has crashed onto Emily Jacobs’ apartment building’s roof. Pegasus is injured and is displeased with Paelen’s actions. Paelen is an Olympian thief, and he’s in a tight bind elsewhere. Meanwhile, Olympus is in danger of being snuffed out by the Nirads, smelly stone giants of gray marble sporting four arms. The Roman gods struggle to defeat them. To complicate matters in NYC, Emily, her friend Joel, Olympian Diana and Pegasus are being pursued, not just by kill-thirsty Nirads, but also by the CRU (Central Research Unit). The CRU deals with “unexplained phenomena,” and all taken by them are never seen again. But it’s imperative they stay alive. They must retrieve Pegasus’ bridle and find Vesta’s Flame (Hestia, for those more familiar with the Greek) and save Olympus. Will anyone be lost? Will Olympus be restored?

            The story is energetic, and it is a decent tide-over for Rick Riordan fans. I still much prefer Riordan’s writing; however, a review quote of his was on the book, which is what prompted me to purchase this title. The pain and anger (yes, there is violence) make this story especially strong emotionally. There is also plenty of daring and adventure mixed with fantasy in this upper middle-grade tale. I appreciate this story of modern mythology combined with our world and how O’Hearn distinguishes her world from similar ones such as those from Riordan.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 10

It’s been on the back burner of my mind to re-read for awhile. I’m happy to note that I not only got around to re-reading the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series (trade paperback editions) by Rick Riordan, but I also put this compilation together!

            Prophecies are a big part of these books, so I have included the prophecy poems (with the exception of the very last one, the next Great Prophecy). Some might consider them spoiler-ish, so I’m giving you fair warning now. Ignore them if you want to; read them if you’re not worried.

            Look for the film version of “The Sea of Monsters” coming August 7!

The Lightning Thief (July 20, 2005).

Would you walk a mile in Perseus “Percy” Jackson’s shoes? He’s about to be kicked out of boarding school – his sixth one in six years – and monsters are after him. He makes his way, at great personal cost, to Camp Half-Blood, a safe haven where demigods go to train, learn, and, if they’re “lucky,” get sent on a quest. Percy’s on Greek mythology overload, because that’s exactly what he thought that all was: myth. But suddenly the reason he’s never known his father is because – surprise! – Daddy is a Greek god. There’s no time for Percy to really process this, for Zeus has accused him of stealing his master lightning bolt. He has until the summer solstice to return the bolt, otherwise the gods will be at war, and that’s not good for anybody. But who would pin such a crime on an inexperienced newbie who’s just learning who he is? Why? He’s about to find out with new friends Grover Underwood and Annabeth Chase, but before he goes, he needs to see the Oracle about a quest …

“You shall go west and face the god who has turned.

You shall find what was stolen, and see it safely returned.

You shall be betrayed by one who calls you a friend.

And you shall fail to save what matters most, in the end.” (p. 141)

            I love these books because they’re humorous and craftily-written and are full of action and adventure. I even enjoy the chapter titles. For example, Chapter 1’s title is: I Accidentally Vaporize My Pre-Algebra Teacher. While classified as upper middle-grade fantasy, they are a delight to any age group. Riordan is terrific at building Percy’s world: it’s an outrageous mix of the real and the mythical that works wonderfully. It’s a world that I want to be a part of. And it’s not all about slaying monsters or getting into trouble. It’s also about saving and protecting those we care about.

The Sea of Monsters (April 1, 2006).

It’s been a pretty good year, as Percy Jackson hasn’t been attacked by monsters. But on the final day of school, a dodgeball game turns deadly – at least, if you consider being attacked by ugly cannibal giants (Laistrygonians a.k.a. “Canadians”) deadly. Percy’s made a new friend, Tyson, and is worried about his best friend, Grover, who’s in danger. When Annabeth shows up unexpectedly, she only shares more bad news: Camp Half-Blood’s magical borders are poisoned and are therefore failing. There’s only one thing that can save them, but it’s been lost for centuries. Percy’s raring to save Grover, but the new activities director gives the quest to his arch-rival Clarisse. No matter, for Grover’s his best friend, and best friends will do crazy things to save each other. The usual things, you know, like sail through the Sea of Monsters (a.k.a. the Bermuda Triangle) and narrowly miss death a dozen times, get turned into a rodent, battle a huge Cyclops -- yep, usual things like that!

“You shall sail the iron ship with warriors of bone,

You shall find what you seek and make it your own,

But despair for your life entombed within stone,

And fail without friends, to fly home alone.” (p. 234)

            One of the best things about Riordan’s writing is that, no matter how bleak or dangerous a situation seems, he keeps it funny, easy-to-read and action-packed. There is never a dull moment in Percy’s life, which means there is never a dull moment when reading this book.

The Titan’s Curse (May 1, 2007).

The winter holidays are approaching, and Percy Jackson is going to aid Grover after Grover alerts him that he’s found two new sibling half-bloods. Their parentage is unknown, but they are potentially powerful. Early on, a fellow demigod goes missing, along with a major goddess. Percy’s nightmares suggest his old enemy has upped his level of no-goodness. He wants to go on the rescue mission, the quest, but he’s not chosen. Fortunately, he has help from a helpful winged horse (a pegasus) named Blackjack, the occasional god or goddess and the Hunters of Artemis, who, by the way, don’t like him because he’s a boy. But that’s the least of his worries, because the missing demigod will be killed on the winter solstice, and they have to find some unknown beast before the enemy does. In just five days.

“Five shall go west to the goddess in chains,

One shall be lost in the land without rain,

The bane of Olympus shows the trail,

Campers and Hunters combined prevail,

The Titan’s curse must one withstand,

And one shall perish by a parent’s hand.” (p. 89)

            I feel I should mention that these books would be good choices for reluctant readers, male or female. I think these books would fit especially well with the male set, as they’re full of humor, action and adventure, fantasy, swordplay and, of course, the slaying of monsters. The books are a thrill ride that don’t stop until the last page.

The Battle of the Labyrinth (May 6, 2008).

Ancient monsters long-forgotten are rising as the Titan lord gathers form. The enemy army is looking for a way into Camp Half-Blood without going up against its protected borders by wending their way through a very large, ever-shifting labyrinth that offers dangers around almost every corner. Percy and company want to find the maze’s creator, Daedalus, and retrieve the string before the enemy does. Percy’s a powerful demigod, but it will still take plenty of ingenuity on his part and that of his friends to survive and make their way back to Camp Half-Blood in time to defend their camp, their only safe haven.

“You shall delve in the darkness of the endless maze,

The dead, the traitor, and the lost one raise.

You shall rise or fall by the ghost king’s hand,

The child of Athena’s final stand.

Destroy with a hero’s final breath.

And lose a love to worse than death.” (pp. 348-349)

            This book especially focuses on alignment, as in, our allies and our enemies. Sometimes those lines are not as black and white as we’d think them to be. Sometimes those lines are gray and blurry. A nemesis may become a friend, while a friend may turn enemy. Even those we expect to be our allies because we do something as major as, say, save them from painful death, may become traitorous in the end. These books are highly entertaining to read, and they are thought-provoking as well, if you care for them to be.

The Last Olympian (May 5, 2009).

The demigods have spent the past year preparing for the culminating battle with the Titan lord and his large army of dangerous monsters, titan brothers and rogue demigods. Percy and his friends struggle to strategize with a limited number of demigods, as too many have disappeared, perished or turned foe. They can’t even expect help from their godly parents, not that they’re ever openly helpful anyway, for they are battling Typhon, the most horrible monster of all, and the daddy of all monsters. The gods are trying to overcome Typhon so he doesn’t reach New York, but even they, with all their immortal and godly powers, are struggling. It appears that no one’s guarding Olympus, so it’s up to Percy and his friends to keep it safe. Because if Olympus falls, the gods will fade, and the world as they know it will end. Percy makes a choice with the help of a friend to, er, strengthen himself. Surely they will be heroes at the end of it all, but what will it cost to get there?

“A half-blood of the eldest gods

Shall reach sixteen against all odds,

And see the world in endless sleep,

The hero’s soul, cursed blade shall reap.

A single choice shall end his days.

Olympus to preserve or raze.” (p. 55)

            This book is a strong and powerful conclusion to the series. It is riveting, exciting and compelling all at the same time. Just as there are moments of triumph, there are also moments of sadness, desolation and fear. The book is as witty as Riordan’s other books, so even amidst chaos and desperation, humor is never far behind. This concluding story ties up the series quite well, and I got through it all without any satyrs attempting to eat the furniture.

            To me, the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series is a must-read and a must-own. This magical series is a winner! Celebratory laurel wreaths for everyone!

"A Most Peculiar Circumstance" by Jen Turano

A Most Peculiar Circumstance (June 1, 2013) by Jen Turano.*

The year is 1880, and Miss Arabella Beckett is a progressive woman of her time. She’s an independent, fiery woman with a beautiful face that people remember, and she doesn’t see herself as a wife who’d sit demurely by and cater to her husband’s every whim. She is a strong supporter of the women’s suffrage movement, but finds herself in a jam that handsome private investigator Mr. Theodore Wilder gets her out of. Their personalities clash, to say the least. Theodore is soon away again on an investigation, while Arabella becomes very interested in the disappearances of ladies of the night. She wants to find the missing and help the night ladies find reputable occupations. She believes that it’s God’s will for her to devote her life to assisting women in need, but she’ll learn in frank conversations that she’s been judgmental. And the truth hurts. But likewise, others have been judgmental of her, and they learn that Arabella isn’t all fire and “masculine” thoughts, but is also full of compassion and feeling. However, it’s her fire that not only gets her in trouble, but steels her when her life is in danger. Will Theodore come to her rescue in time?

            I thoroughly enjoyed this Christian historical romance story. I found Turano to be an entertaining storyteller who combines honest faith, a thrilling plot and delightful humor to create a captivating novel. I definitely plan to read more from this author. Although Arabella has her damsel-in-distress moments, I still found her to be a strong female lead, and even the chauvinist can be chivalrous. Turano shows us in words that love just may be the most peculiar circumstance of all.

* 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.”

"Undeniably Yours" by Becky Wade

Undeniably Yours (May 1, 2013) by Becky Wade.*

When her father dies, Meg Cole returns to Whispering Creek Ranch to attempt to take over her father’s controlling share in Cole Oil. She doesn’t want it, not just because she’s in way over her head, but her heart does not reside in oil, no matter that its presence has made her a very wealthy heiress. Her sanity seems to be holding on by a mere thread, and she’s given her late father’s favored Thoroughbred racehorse farm six months to get its affairs in order before she shuts it down. Whispering Creek Horses’ (WCH) manager, Bo Porter, doesn’t want it to close. He’s performing his dream job on his dream ranch. He also feels responsible for WCH’s twenty employees, which include his brother. Bo feels he ought to resent Meg, but instead he can’t stop thinking about her. There’s a kindness and vulnerability about her that he didn’t expect, and it shows when Meg invites a stranger, Amber Richardson, and her toddler son to stay. Amber has a connection to Meg that takes her back to a dark time in her life five years ago. It’s one of the reasons Meg’s so guarded now, but she can’t stop thinking of Bo either. Can their relationship grow beyond friendship? Even when it’s tested in an anguishing way?

            “Undeniably Yours” is a Christian, contemporary romance, fiction novel. Meg and Bo are devout in their faith, and they trust God to see them through the toughest of times, though sometimes they must remember to give their worries to Him and take the time to hear Him. It is a pleasant novel that fuses faith, trepidation, romance, kindness and a touch of suspense. I thought the book’s pace was mostly steady. It didn’t gallop so much as trot along nicely.

* 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.”

"There's a 1st Grade Class"

The 2012-2013 school year has come to a close. I spent time volunteering in a 1st Grade classroom and concluded my time with the 1st Graders on a fun note by presenting them with a poem I wrote. It's a dedication to the wonderful students they all are, and, I hope, continue to be in the years to come. It's also dedicated to their teacher, who's now an official retiree!

There's a 1st Grade Class

There's a 1st grade class that's funny, smart and sweet.
In this room there are 16 pairs of feet.

    One time there was a day for Fancy Nancy,
    And they dressed up and looked trés, trés fancy!
    Some of the boys wore ties and looked like young kings,
    The queens wore skirts, tiaras and pretty, shiny rings.

        The class learned some history with the help of dolls
        Of lifetimes long ago when there weren't any malls.
        It's great that the dolls made them very chatty --
        Can they name the four they met before Addy?

There's a 1st grade class that is so much like yours.
They learn in a room that's without any doors.

    They received postcards in their Postcard Project.
    Each postcard that came was a special object.
    How exciting that they posted all 50 states,
    Plus D.C. and some countries -- so cool, so great!

        The students visited a place called Quarry Hill.
        They had fun even though the day was gray and chill.
        They saw an owl, snakes, fish, ducks, toad eggs,
        And many bees: a bee has how many legs?

I know a 1st grade class; I'm with them right now.
Their teacher, Mrs. Follmuth, is wonderful and wow!

    Gage runs fast like a Greyhound; it's a breed of dog.
    Weston's as fast as a cheetah when he's on a jog.
    Adalia and Whitney are little fairies.
    They fly with sparkly wings and are very merry.

        Landon's strong like the Hulk, but is his skin green?
        Mattix has a monster-scare-away machine.
        Sammy flies around like a graceful butterfly,
        While Taylor rides a dragonfly high up in the sky.

            Logan and Skylar are as tough as bears,
            And Maysen keeps a pet dinosaur upstairs.
            Avery and Ruby wear puffy, glittery gowns.
            Since they're princesses, are they wearing their crowns?

                Marshall has a hat that is shaped like a French horn,
                And Kennedy and Haylee have twenty unicorns.
                For you, 1st Grade, I give you this rhyming depiction.
                Can you say which part was fact ... and which part was fiction?

Thanks to Mrs. Follmuth, you've learned lots of things new.
I hope some of you become teachers like her, too!

Lisa "Rutabaga"

May 2013