The title of this novel caught my attention at the start. I was interested in what the difference was between a Phoenix and a Firebird or were they thThe title of this novel caught my attention at the start. I was interested in what the difference was between a Phoenix and a Firebird or were they the same? Here is what I found...
{The phoenix and the firebird are both mythical bird-like creatures, but they have some distinct differences:
The phoenix is a mythical bird from Greek and Egyptian mythology. It is known for cyclically burning itself to death and then rising renewed from the ashes. The phoenix is associated with the sun, fire, and renewal. It is often depicted as a large, beautiful bird with red and gold plumage.
In contrast, the firebird is a mythical creature from Slavic folklore. It is typically described as a large, magnificent bird with glowing, luminescent feathers, often in shades of red, orange, and gold. The firebird is known for its mystical powers and is often sought after by heroes in Slavic folktales. Unlike the phoenix, the firebird does not cyclically burn and regenerate itself but is more associated with bringing good fortune to those who glimpse or capture it.
So in summary, the key differences are the phoenix's strong associations with the sun, fire, and cyclical rebirth, versus the firebird's connection to Slavic folklore and its glowing, luminescent appearance and mystical powers, without the same cyclical regeneration motif.}
This middle-grade novel offers an engaging mix of early 20th-century Russian and Chinese life, filled with exciting fantasy elements. It begins with an intriguing beginning that pulls readers in right away. The story follows two heroines, Lucy and Su, who set out on a mission to save Lucy's father from a wicked tyrant. Su, who became Lucy's friend when she moved to China three years earlier, stands by her side. Together, they build a strong bond based on trust and support, as they learn to be courageous as they forge ahead on this dangerous journey.
The story is even more thrilling because of the inclusion of Russian and Chinese folklore. Young readers will be fascinated by the many strange and mystical creatures they meet along the way. I enjoyed the many riddles the girls had to figure out to help them in their quest to find Lucy's father. This makes the book appealing to a wide range of readers, not just for middle-grade or teen readers. The writing flows well, and the intriguing legends will be well-liked by readers of all ages. The authors did a phenomenal job and it was especially amazing to have the appendices at the end to send me off for continued learning about Chinese and Russian mythology.
The Phoenix and the Firebird is a great new fantasy adventure that readers, young and old will enjoy reading....more
Mossycoat is the second book in The Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed the first book and the second one lived up to my expectations. In this bMossycoat is the second book in The Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed the first book and the second one lived up to my expectations. In this book, Troll Princess Horra Fyd is determined to protect her kingdom from the Erlking. I found Horra's character development in this second book to be remarkable, both physically and emotionally.
The introduction of Rowan, the seed that transformed from Woodsly, added an intriguing element to the story. The world-building expanded, shedding light on the Erlking's formidable power. I'm eagerly looking forward to the third book to discover if Horra and her companions can finally defeat the Erlking....more
I have been enchanted by the Best Friends Dog Tales series starting with the first book, Stella, and the second book, Gus. Millie, a spirited Border TI have been enchanted by the Best Friends Dog Tales series starting with the first book, Stella, and the second book, Gus. Millie, a spirited Border Terrier left by her family to fend for herself on the streets, has also captured my heart. Millie becomes a caregiver to Little Pup, but their bond is shattered when she is snatched by a man in a van and sent to the pound. Fortunately, dog trainer Lee recognizes Millie's potential and takes her in. Under Lee's guidance and alongside another dog, Belle, Millie learns about obedience, trust, and overcoming her difficult past. When Millie crosses paths with Tori, a young girl struggling with her own challenges, a special bond forms. Tori is allowed to train Millie, leading to a transformative journey for both. This aspect of the story showcases how they help each other heal and regain trust.
The Best Friends Dog Tales not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons to children about responsibility, kindness to all beings, and the importance of friendship. As an educator, I have enjoyed sharing these stories with my students and am eager to introduce them to Millie's tale. Through Millie's narrative, children will be engrossed in her journey of finding her human companion....more
Sleeping Spells and Dragon Scales offers a unique blend of fairy tales and reality.
The story follows two friends, Liam and Alaina, who both face healSleeping Spells and Dragon Scales offers a unique blend of fairy tales and reality.
The story follows two friends, Liam and Alaina, who both face health challenges, Liam's unknown at first. Using a school project on Fairy Tales, they explore possible solutions to Liam's issues. Alaina thinks that the idea of fairy tales and magic might hold real-life remedies for Liam's condition. Buried in books and stories, they have hope that maybe this could be the key to his recovery. Reflecting on her firsthand and courageous experience with Type 1 Diabetes, Alaina believes she can support Liam during this tough period. Many moments of heartache are spread throughout the book on their quest and their friendship goes through tremendous ups and downs.
Through its heartwarming narrative, this middle-grade novel teaches a valuable lesson on finding strength while dealing with adversity. Wendy S. Swore once again delivers a charming and thoughtful read for young audiences....more
"A treasure greater than any you can imagine." This was the message that started it all.
It was great to be back in the fun and crazy world of Graysen "A treasure greater than any you can imagine." This was the message that started it all.
It was great to be back in the fun and crazy world of Graysen Foxx. This young Indiana Jones-like detective is once again on a mysterious treasure hunt. Graysen makes going to school at Ordinary Elementary a true adventure He's on the hunt for a creepy old picture to win a Halloween contest. Graysen is looking for clues about a secret society of super-smart kids called "The Illuminerdy".Yes, the name of this group made me giggle. In his search, he finds a spelling bee medal, and from here the chaos begins.
There is always so much humor in this series. J. Scott Savage keeps the laughs coming the whole book. Here's an example, "This isn't Star Wars and we aren't inside a trash compactor."
Another funny chapter tickled my teacher's funny bone and this part really made me LOL! Raven says, "You don't want to know how many abandoned rooms there are in this place. I think I found the mummified remains of a substitute teacher next to a jammed copy machine waiting for her word search sheets to finish printing."
One aspect that I loved about this second book is how teamwork helped to solve the mystery. I like how Savage puts ways for kids (and adults) to learn new things and readers don't even realize it. They enjoy the ride so much they forget they are gaining new information they'd normally learn in school. Readers will also see that every person has unique and valuable talents. Graysen and his friends learn to appreciate each other as each person had a gift to help in the treasure hunt. One was good at Math and another was really good at building things.
This book and series are so much fun. It would be a great class read-aloud and also a great book to read with your children or grandchildren. Savage has such a gift for writing for this age group. As an older person, I'm so pleased to be able to read about Graysen Foxx's adventures and be taken away in childhood fun for a few hours.
I always love to find a new Christmas story. This story is for tweens and up. It tells of an adventure in a faraway kingdom where mystical forces ruleI always love to find a new Christmas story. This story is for tweens and up. It tells of an adventure in a faraway kingdom where mystical forces rule over mere humans. This tale is somewhat dark in places and could scare young children. Fantasy lovers will love the mythical feel of this fable. With only 42 pages in the book, there are enough details to draw readers in and become invested in the characters and the final outcome. I really liked how at the end of this fantasy-filled adventure we get a new version of how Santa came to be.
One thought I had while reading, was how this fable would have played out as a full-length novel. It has all of the important elements of a great novel: the brave hero, an evil sorcerer, threatened children that need saving, a damsel in distress, and enough magic to bring a sense of wonder. The best thing, if you purchase this book, all proceeds from the sale of this book go directly to The Last Road Dog Animal Sanctuary. The Great Tree can be added to your collection of Christmas books to share with family and friends. ...more
Have you ever wondered how a fish out of water would survive in our crazy, technological, social-media-filled society? The Wild Journey of Juniper BerHave you ever wondered how a fish out of water would survive in our crazy, technological, social-media-filled society? The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry by Authors Chad Morris and Shelly Brown has written a story for middle-grade readers that shows you exactly this.
Eleven-year-old Juniper has lived her whole life with her family off the grid and learning to love nature. When her younger brother Hank becomes ill, the family is forced to re-enter modern society to get medical help for him. This is when the changes begin for Juniper whose POV is used to tell this story. There are many humorous moments as Juniper is introduced to many things we take for granted, like a fridge, microwave, a shower, using a flush toilet, and eating pizza for the first time. I really liked Juniper who despite realizing she really doesn't fit in doesn't change to make her blend in. She truly is a strong and confident girl who loves her family and will support them whatever it takes.
There are some strong themes of bullying, split families, and anxiety attacks, that are beautifully written for this age readers to understand. This novel also has such wonderful characters from Zombie the Goose, grumpy Mrs. Nakamura, stuck-up Sophie, and Juniper's cousins. Readers will learn lessons of having confidence in your own gifts and talents, standing up for others...even if you don't like someone, and staying strong as families in any circumstance.
Chad and Shelly write the best books for Middle-Grade readers. The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry is another accomplishment in their growing list of novels that change kids' lives as they navigate the journey toward being an adult. I highly recommend this heart-filled book....more
I was truly excited to read Just Gus because I've read another book by this author called, Stella. I loved this first book and my 2nd-grade class alsoI was truly excited to read Just Gus because I've read another book by this author called, Stella. I loved this first book and my 2nd-grade class also loved it a lot. {My review for Stella is on my blog if you're interested.} Just Gus is another wonderful story featuring a dog, this time named Gus, and how he positively impacts a young boy named Diego.
Just Gus has the same people and animals in this book as Stella did. I was excited to head back to Esperanza's farm, with her daughter Cloe, and their dogs Stella and Nando. We briefly met Gus in the other book and we get to know him much better here as the entire story is told from his point of view. All of the dogs on the farm have different jobs and I like the way the author "explains" this in the book without being boring or above the heads of young readers. I also loved having Diego be the main human character who learns to need and love Gus and vice versa. Diego is suffering from social anxiety. Gus helps Diego deal with his feelings and overcome a lot of his anxiety.
Of course, some things happen to both Gus and Diego that test them and help them become strong and brave. My favorite thing is how Gus and Diego become best friends. It is very heartwarming to see this relationship develop. I feel that all kids and tweens who love animals will take to this book and love Gus just as much as I did....more
Graysen Foxx is the kind of kid I think I've taught before. You know, the one with a huge imagination, lots of energy, and a perchance to often take tGraysen Foxx is the kind of kid I think I've taught before. You know, the one with a huge imagination, lots of energy, and a perchance to often take the road less traveled. The minute I started reading this new novel by Author J. Scott Savage I knew I'd found a new book my students were going to love. This middle-grade adventure novel is full of humor, action, and great mysteries to solve. What kid doesn't dream about looking for lost treasure? This treasure happens to be somewhere at Graysen Foxx's school.
Some things that I know will resonate with kids between the ages of 8-13 are:
-puzzle solving
-friendship
-standing up to bullies
-sticky hands (they are always the things that go first in my class store!)
-rumors about teachers and principals: present and past
-cafeteria food
-looking for secret treasures
This creative and imaginative read will keep kids reading as Graysen is searching for former principal Redbeard's treasure. His arch nemesis, Red Raven, is always there to mess up Graysen's plans and steal his thunder and his prizes. With the help of third-grade twins Maya and Jack, Graysen always has great back up whatever situation he finds himself in. There are other groups involved in the excitement like the Second-Grade spy network working for Raven, and the fierce sixth graders that run the school.
Boys and girls will find the novel a lot of fun. This book will make a great class read-aloud. It will be fun to see what other adventure Graysen Foxx goes on in the next book. ...more
I was thrilled to receive the chance to read The Paper Daughters of Chinatown: Adapted for Young Readers. I read the original best-selling novel The PI was thrilled to receive the chance to read The Paper Daughters of Chinatown: Adapted for Young Readers. I read the original best-selling novel The Paper Daughters of Chinatown by Heather Moore. This book really touched readers and became a big hit. I was excited to read the version adapted for young readers done by both Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill.
I was very impressed by how the authors told this story for young people. The main ideas showed the sad facts of young girls being sold into slavery and prostitution without showing the more gritty and sordid side. The message of the love and empathy shown by Dolly and the other women who worked at The Occidental Mission Home for Girls is clearly shown in this new adaptation. My heart was again touched by the courage and fortitude of Dolly and her helpers. Tien Fu Wu's story is highlighted in this version as she struggles to learn and to trust again after being sold as a slave several times. Her story is one that will stay with you for quite some time. At the end of this novel, the main character focus of the original novel, Mei Lien was brought into the spotlight.
I truly enjoyed reading this adapted version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown. Though the harshness from the original has been toned down, I'm glad there is a way to share the stories of the many girls whose lives were turned upside down but were given hope and redemption because of Dolly Cameron and The Occidental Mission Home for Girls. ...more
Abby's Pony Love is a cute story for any child that has wanted something so much it almost hurts. It also will be loved by children who love horses. TAbby's Pony Love is a cute story for any child that has wanted something so much it almost hurts. It also will be loved by children who love horses. This novel tells Abby's story of wanting a pony and getting a job at a barn. She falls in love with a horse that she names Glory. She wants her but can't afford to buy her. Abby struggles as she sees the new owners riding Glory and not appreciating the horse as much as she does.
This book actually reminds me of my niece when she was young. She also loved horses and got a job at a barn, but she was lucky to get her own horse. She did have to work very hard to keep her horse there and to train for competitions. Now as an adult, she once again has a new horse and is loving riding it.
The messages that are great for kids were about working hard, overcoming jealousy, learning to be happy for others, and creating friendships with those you didn't think you had a lot in common with. I feel that this book would be perfect for 7- 13-year-old kids. It would also be a fun read for parents with their kids, or a teacher to read out loud to their class. This is the first book in a new series called Dream Pony Riders. ...more
Virtually Me is a cute story based on virtual learning during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Each character in this story is dealing with self-esteem issues wVirtually Me is a cute story based on virtual learning during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Each character in this story is dealing with self-esteem issues where they can hide behind a "mask" with their virtual self at the virtual school.
There are so many great lessons for kids to learn from this novel. The main characters all have different reasons for going to the virtual school. The reasons all have to do with their outside appearance but find out a lot about themselves emotionally. Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko all have such different personalities and find themselves in funny situations. The humor is spot on for the age group that will be reading this novel. OK, the humor made me really LOL too. Chad Morris and Shelly Brown have a knack for writing fun, young characters that kids can relate to. This will be another hit with Middle-Grade readers....more
My first thought after finishing The Boys in the Boat was, why have I not read this book before? This was such an amazing story of courage and perseveMy first thought after finishing The Boys in the Boat was, why have I not read this book before? This was such an amazing story of courage and perseverance. This is the incredible true story of the nine blue-collar young men who beat all odds, made the Olympic team, and then took home the gold in the 1936 Olympics that took place in Hitler's Germany.
In this adaptation, the author focuses on one team member the most, Joe Rantz. The author says that he met Joe who by then was an old man. After Joe told Brown his life story, the author knew it needed to be written and shared with others.
The overall message that kids and adults gain from Joe and his teammates' story is that you don't give up. When you have a dream you fight for it. That the way to become winners in anything, is to work as a team. Joe always was in his own head so much it hindered his ability to do his best while rowing. He learned from the wonderful advisors and teachers in his life that he needed to let go of just thinking of himself and learn to think as a team. Once he let go of "self" he was able to embrace those he worked with and they became unstoppable.
The book gives a brief look at what was happening in Germany before the Germans invaded Poland starting WW2. Hitler wanted a certain perfect picture of his country to show the world they were staying in line after WW1. Behind the "perfect picture", the concentration camps were being built. It was quite the victory for the American boys to win the Gold medal in rowing right in front of Hitler.
I highly recommend this book adapted for tweens and teens and sharing with them the messages of working as a team, being determined, and enduring hardship. ...more
As a second-grade teacher, I'm always on the lookout for something new to use as a Read Aloud for my class. Odder is a darling book that teaches kids As a second-grade teacher, I'm always on the lookout for something new to use as a Read Aloud for my class. Odder is a darling book that teaches kids about Odder, an otter that lives off the coast of central California. Bringing the otter to life through the pages of the story, we get to know this cute, little, adventurous otter who tends to find trouble wherever she goes.
Odder's story is written in Free Verse by Author Kathleen Applegate. Free verse is the name given to poetry that doesn't use any strict meter or rhyme scheme. Because it has no set meter, poems written in free verse can have lines of any length, from a single word too much longer. I love the opportunity this book gives me to teach this style of poetry to my students.
Here is an excerpt from the book...
Questions
Her mother called her "Odder" from the moment she was born.
Something about the way the little pup never settles, something about the way her eyes were always full of questions.
To Eat or Not to Eat
A few feet away from Odder, her favorite companion, Kairi drifts on her back, aimless as a log.
Kairi, two years older than Odder, has shiny ebony fur. Odder, smaller and more agile, has a deep brown coat and caramel-colored head.
Play, Odder wants to know, or eat?
First, we eat, then we play, answers Kairi, who is always practical, a cautious sort.
This touching story is based on true life events in the 90's at the Monterey Bay Aquarium program that paired orphaned otter pups with surrogate mothers. Odder’s story is told with humor, adventure, action, and a lot of playfulness tossed in. It also teaches kids about one of the most cutest, intelligent, rambunctious, chatty, curious, and sociable animals found in the animal kingdom. I can't wait to share this story with my second graders, because I know that they also will be charmed by the delightful little otter called Odder....more
The Gathering starts with a normal boy, Sam, living a normal life in Utah. The only thing not normal about Sam is that he has very freaky dreams. He hThe Gathering starts with a normal boy, Sam, living a normal life in Utah. The only thing not normal about Sam is that he has very freaky dreams. He has lived by just ignoring those dreams. One day his dream about a terrible earthquake comes true and his life changes. This was really weird to read this as I live in the same area where this book takes place. We had an earthquake here in 2020. We know that someday a huge earthquake will happen like the one that takes place in the novel.
Sam's life changes in ways I didn't anticipate. He learns about his "special gift/s" from his grandmother. There are a lot of religious references in the book. Some of the things are the gift of healing, speaking to God, praying, and different churches. This book is about "The End of Times" and the things that have been prophesied in The Holy Bible. It also truly shows how with teens and adults we'll need to choose which side we want to be on, good or evil. There is a lot of angst where you do sit on pins and needles wondering what will happen to Sam and his friends and Grandma. This book would be a book to read together as a family. I'm sure that you'd have some great discussions with your teens.
If you're looking for a good book for your teens to read or read together as a family, then The Gathering is a wonderful choice. The end will come someday and this novel gives us one look at what may come.
Warning: There are some parts that show the earthquake happening & the aftermath but nothing graphic. It could be unsettling to younger children.
A young, mischievous boy of seven lived in a small village in India. Chellamuthu hung out with a gang of unsavory boys which eventually led to him beiA young, mischievous boy of seven lived in a small village in India. Chellamuthu hung out with a gang of unsavory boys which eventually led to him being kidnapped and sold to an orphanage. This novel is based on the true life story of Chellamuthu, who was later named Taj Rowland by his adopted American family.
The Orphan Keeper is the heartbreaking story of a boy who only wants to return home but finds so many obstacles in his way. As he journeys to America and becomes assimilated into a new family and life, his Indian life, memories, and self disappear.
Hidden deep within Taj he knows there's something there that's a clue to his past. It isn't until he's going to college in London and living with an Indian family, that memories start coming back to Taj. It's really quite amazing how little things like people's accents, certain smells, and foods are triggers for him. With divine intervention and help from family and friends, he eventually finds his family. His Indian mother never gave up hope about her son being alive and returning someday.
The Orphan Keeper is such an emotional journey for the reader as you feel the grief of a lonely boy, the heartache of a mother losing a son, and the steadfast man who longed to find his family and home. The novel is written so well and so very enthralling it's hard to put down. There are many life lessons for readers about bravery, perseverance, and never losing hope. This version of The Orphan Keeper is a great read for teens and adults. If you haven't read this novel before or it's been a long time since your first read of the original, I highly recommend this book be the next one on your list to read. ...more
Champion’s Quest: The Questmaster’s Trap is the second book in this series. I have to admit, even though I really, really, liked the first book, this Champion’s Quest: The Questmaster’s Trap is the second book in this series. I have to admit, even though I really, really, liked the first book, this new novel was even better. I loved how more confident each of the characters was as they had already won a quest. I did think the switch-ups that happened to the team were very clever. Each of them was given new opportunities to learn and grow. The new team member of The Wild Crows was also a great addition. I really liked Sierra and her spunky personality. Of course, it was good to be back with Lucas, Miles, and Jasmine. With more action, escapades, and fierce foes to defeat and outwit, reading The Questmaster's Trap will be an adventure for the young and the old.
Sprout: Book Three- The Mission, was a great ending to this trilogy. (I highly suggest you read books 1 & 2 before reading this last book). It has beeSprout: Book Three- The Mission, was a great ending to this trilogy. (I highly suggest you read books 1 & 2 before reading this last book). It has been so much fun to see Sprout's journey as he's tried to figure out what his mission on Earth was. He was supposed to save and change mankind for the better. Sprout being a young boy, struggles a lot in seeking out who he is and why he was sent from another planet to help.
I love how Sprout is so kind and loving to others. He is still supported by his "siblings" Pete and Cassie who are determined to do what they can to help him. In the three books in the Tree Boy series, all three kids have become braver and more empathetic. I love this story in that it's showing kids they also can do brave things. In addition, there is the important message that love and kindness can change people's lives for the better. It's good for young people to realize that there is a superhero inside all of us.
This middle-grade fantasy will be wonderful for ages 8-14 especially. It's good clean fun, with character lessons intertwined into a story with action, suspense, and delightful characters. ...more
This second book in the series picks up right after the first one ended. Readers are anxious to know who Sprout really is and where he comes from; I kThis second book in the series picks up right after the first one ended. Readers are anxious to know who Sprout really is and where he comes from; I know this reader did! I love how Sprout continues to learn how to be a part of this world. One minute he's trying to fit in as a human boy and the next he's trying to figure out how to use his newfound powers.
One of my favorite parts of the book was when Sprout finally found his Guardian. There was an instant connection and you could really feel his bond to his people and where he came from. It was a sweet moment that sadly turns tragic the next day. This actually shocked me when something happened to take his Guardian away.
This book is filled with more action and scary moments for Sprout and his adoptive brother and sister. They seem to smell trouble and always find it along the way. There are many talking points for families that want to read this together about telling the truth, responsibility, and following your heart.
I know that there's one more book in this series. I look forward to reading about Sprout's journey as he continues to grow and develop into the being that his creators hoped he'd become. This middle-grade fantasy is great for readers between the ages of 8-15 and any older person that likes a good story that shows the struggle between good and evil and rising up to one's highest potential....more
Sprout was such a fun book. It is a Middle-Grade book written for kids ages 8-12 but this adult loved it! There were so many unique and interesting twSprout was such a fun book. It is a Middle-Grade book written for kids ages 8-12 but this adult loved it! There were so many unique and interesting twists found in this novel. The main character, science-loving Pete finds a huge seed out in the forest. He thinks his science fair project is made. He takes it home to sprout and out comes a baby. The entertainment starts here as we get to know Sprout who is innocent, honest, and loyal.
There are also other big themes interwoven into this story. The subjects of bullying, parental expectations, loneliness, and acceptance are a few. There is a mysterious plot of finding out who is counterfeiting money in the area. Readers are also left to wonder where Sprout really came from. I loved Sprout and I know kids will love him too. I'm so happy to know that there are two more books in this series that will explain more about Sprout and where he's from. The dialogue between Sprout and others made me laugh but everyone couldn't help but love him, even the bullies.
I highly recommend this novel for classrooms, your kids, and your grandkids. Carolyn Frank has created this wonderful character Sprout who is special in many ways. This novel would make a great Christmas Gift....more
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