The Night Gardener by: The Fan Brothers

The Fan Brothers have created a beautiful picture book with The Night Gardener.  William lives on Grimloch Lane and one day we wakes to find a wise owl on his lane.  Each day there is a new delight not only for William but for the entire street.  The final creation is amazing, be sure to check it out.  When William notices a stranger one night he follows the stranger to the park where they work together to create an even better park.  The season changes things in the park but all the people of Grimloch Lane are changed too.

I am sure you will enjoy this picture book, not only for the amazing pictures but also for the sweet story.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Sundown Kid A Southwestern Shabbat by: Barbara Bietz

Author Barbara Bietz does a wonderful job of telling the story of a Jewish family who move to a new town in her book The Sundown Kid A Southwestern Shabbat.

A young boy with his parents move out west, leaving behind their family and friends.  They are the only Jewish family in their new town and each week there is too much soup for just the three of them.  Momma feels lonely and the young son wants momma to be happy.  He finds a way to bring joy to his mom and to the entire town.  I also felt this joy!

The story of friendship and sharing is what this story is about and I enjoyed reading it and I hope you will too.

This book will be available January 2017.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Pirasaurs! by: Josh Funk

Josh Funk has written a book that young children will love.  What could be better than dinosaurs as pirates!  When you read Pirasaurs you will be delighted at the adventurous dinosaurs.  One small dinosaur is new to the pirate crew and he is doing all he can to be the best dinopriate he can be.  This little guy teaches all the bigger dinosaurs an important lesson about friendship as they search for the spot marked with the "X".

I love pirates so any book with pirates is a winner with me.  I read this book to my students and grades K-3 loved it!  I know you will too.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Dragon was Terrible by: Kelly DiPucchio

Who would take candy from baby unicorns, burn all the Kingdom's marshmallows, burp in church and spit on cupcakes?  Dragon would!  The king offers his brave knights a wonderful gift if they can tame Dragon and when they fail the gift is offered to anyone in the Kingdom.  Will anyone be able to tame this terrible dragon?  Author Kelly DiPucchio has a wonderful surprise ending in her newest book Dragon was Terrible.  You may think you know how this will end but I was delightfully surprised and I am sure you will be too.

Make time to read this story you will love the gift as much as I do.  When you have finished reading this book be sure to share it with a friend.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Good Night, Baddies by: Deborah Underwood

Have you ever wondered what witches, giants, trolls and wolves do at bedtime?  Author Deborah Underwood in her book Good Night, Baddies answers this question for you.  A story told in rhyme tells how the baddies are tired at the end of their day of scaring people, trying to blow down houses, and poisoned apples that Snow White didn't find.  They all visit and chat during dinner and after bedtime stories they sleep tight.

A delightful story that you and your children will love reading over and over again.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Saltwater Taffy by: Eric Delabarre

Make sure you have some free time when you sit down to read this book once you start reading you won't be able to put the book down.  Saltwater Taffy written by Eric Delabarre is a story filled with adventure, fun, friendship and life lessons that you won't  forget.

Scott, Gary, Jaq, Jimmy and Zippy's  summer had begun as any other.  Hanging out in their secret clubhouse, riding bikes and playing baseball.  Their rag-tag baseball team has made it to the city championship but that takes second place when they once again begin a search for pirate treasure.

In Port Townsend, Washington there is rumored to be the treasure of pirate Jean Lafitte.  Each year the city celebrates this hidden treasure by seeing who can find and solve the next clue.  When Scott along with his brother Gary and friends Zippy, Jimmy and Jaq, find the next clue and are double crossed and lose the clue they don't give up on the treasure hunt.  They keep close eye on their rivals and are able to solve the clue leading them to the final piece of the treasure map that belonged to the pirate Jean Lafitte.  As they follow the may their summer is unlike any other they have experienced.   As they work together to stay ahead of other treasure hunters they learn more about themselves and each other.

They encounter a variety of adventures as they throw water balloons at their rivals, explore "old man Sheesley's property and sneak out to explore a nearby island.  They also find the strength to go on when things get a bit hard.  They are chased by a bear and have to get across a very old bridge.  I was very nervous for them all as they crossed this bridge.  What exactly does saltwater taffy have to do with anything?  The answer to this question will surprise you!  Will they finally find the treasure?  When they have to deal with a cave-in the reader will wonder if they will make it back in time to play the city championship baseball game?  This is a MUST read story!

I loved this story.  So much summertime adventure for these five friends.  I also loved all the "treasure tips" offered by the author.  I was able to learn life lessons as I came to know these children.  The life lessons are important to the characters and to the reader alike.  When your child finishes this book I'm sure they will be on the lookout for adventures of their own.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Leo a Ghost Story by: Mac Barnett

Leo a Ghost Story written by Mac Barnett is a sweet story about Leo who has been a house ghost all of his life.  When a family moves into his home and he tries to serve them tea they are scared.  Leo doesn't want to bother the people so he leaves his home.  He is now a roaming ghost. When he meets a kind girl who invites him to play with her his life changes forever.  However, this new girl believes that Leo is her imaginary friend.  What will happen if she learns the truth?

After reading this book invite a few imaginary friends over for a play date.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

the Girl Who Drank the Moon by: Kelly Barnhill

Magic is at the center of Kelly Barnhill's book The Girl Who Drank the Moon.  If fantasy stories are why you like you will love this book.

There is a witch in the forest near the town of Protectorate and each year the youngest child is taken to the forest and left for the witch.  The people believe that by offering this sacrifice they will be safe from the witch.  This witch is kind and is very confused that a child is left every year in the forest.  She takes each child to families on the other side of the forest.  Families that will love the child and they look forward to the witch's visit each year.  As the witch travels to the town she feeds the child starlight which blesses the child throughout his/her life.  On one journey she accidentally feeds a child moonlight instead of starlight.  This means that the child will have magic and so the witch keeps this child (Luna) in order to raise her herself.  The witch lives with a swamp monster and a tiny dragon the three of them raise Luna and when Luna's magic begins to develop they do their best to stop Luna from using the magic.

There is one man in the Protectorate that wants to stop the witch from taking any more children.  The Protectorate believe that the witch kills the children and since his child is now the youngest he wants this practice of sacrificing a child stopped.  Can he help his people and the witch?  Will those that have raised the abandoned children be able to keep the children?  So many questions in this fairy-tale and you will want to read this book to find the answers.

I enjoyed this new fairy-tale/fantasy story and I'm confident that you will too.

Happy Daily Reading!
Deanna 

Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians by: Brandon Sanderson

Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson is the first in the Evil Librarians series.  This book is a fast paced adventure that I know many readers will enjoy.

Alcatraz Smedry has lived in a variety of foster homes for most of his 13 years.  He moves to different homes because of his "talent" of breaking things.  He isn't sure why he is able to break so many things without even trying but the families cannot have him in their homes for very long.  On his 13th birthday he receives an anonymous package of sand.  Then a strange old man appears at his current home claiming to be his grandfather and he wants to know where is the bag of sand.  The sand has been stolen!  Alcatraz is confused by these two events and wonders if he should he trust this old guy?  He decides it cannot be any worse than his foster homes so off they go and Alcatraz is on the adventure of a lifetime.

The Smedry family has unique talents and the family is supposed to keep the world safe from the Evil Librarians that can be found everywhere.  The Evil Librarians keep secrets from the world, Alcatraz learns that the history he has been taught isn't always the truth, it is just what the Librarians want him and others to know.  Alcatraz always thought of his ability to break things as a curse not a talent.  But when he learns of one cousin who has the talent of tripping and he sees that the tripping talent really does help them get out of a serious situation he sees his breaking things as a unique talent not a curse.  It is these strange talents that enable the Smedrys to take care of the Librarians and our world.

This is a story that all lovers of adventure will not be able to put down until they turn the last page.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

I'm Not Scared by: Dan Crisp

Author Dan Crisp's book I'm Not Scared introduces readers to a cute cat who isn't afraid of anything.  Yes, I said anything.  Monsters, Giants, Lion, Tigers and Bears he isn't afraid of anything.  That is his story until someone is at the door.  You and your children will love the ending of this fun read aloud.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna 

Stars So Sweet by: Tara Dairman

Tara Dairman's third book in the All Four Stars Series, Stars so Sweet, is just as good as the first two.  I highly recommend this series to any foodies and any non-foodies.  The characters in the series are relatable to all of us and most of us do enjoy a good meal or at least good desserts!

In this book we find Gladys Gatsby beginning middle school.  Her summer food reviews for the New York Standard were excellent and she has been offered a full time job as the Standard's new food critic.  How can she have a full time job and be a full time middle grade student?  Her aunt Lydia has come to live with her family and tries her best to help Gladys keep up her work as a food critic.  Aunt Lydia misses Paris and helping Gladys is just what she needs to get moving forward in her own life.  Sandy, Gladys' neighbor wants to be a food legend at his new school.  Not just a regular foodie, he wants to be a legend for eating the most gross food ever found.  Parm and Charisse, two of Gladys' friends seem to be adjusting to middle school and get Gladys involved with many clubs by having Gladys bake items for bake sales.  Each club on campus needs to raise their own money this year so when Gladys' baking skills become known each club on campus wants their own bake sale.  Gladys is soon involved in almost every club on campus. She is one busy young woman.  She decides it is too much to handle and she must come clean, lying to her parents, the editor at the Standard and to her friends is getting to be too hard.  However, she loves all the cooking she is doing...can she come clean and still get to do what she loves?  And what about Hamilton?  Why is he not answering her emails?

I loved this book and all of the characters in the book.  I could relate to most of the situations that involved life in middle school and I was laughing at Sandy and his experiences at eating all the gross foods he and Gladys could find.  You will be surprised at what makes him a legend at his school!

I hope that when you have finished reading this book (and hopefully the entire series) you will want to try some of the foods that Gladys cooks in the books.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes

It was 15 years ago when all of our lives were forever changed.  Author Jewell Parker Rhodes in her newest book Towers Falling has written about this event in a remarkable way.  After reading this book your life will once again be changed forever.

Deja is a fifth grader who is currently living in a homeless shelter.   She is the new girl at her school and is confused by the assignments given to her as they all have to do with the two towers that are missing from the skyline out her classroom windows.  What she wonders is what can those towers have to do with her?  Deja makes friends with Ben and Sabeen who also do not know much about these towers since they fell before they were born.  As we come to know these three students we see how all three of them have had their lives influenced because of the towers.  Each of them have experienced different things because of the towers and as they question and learn they see how they are all connected because of the towers.  From the teachers to their individual families all were changed by the events of September 11, 2001.

Deja's father is distant and is unable to keep jobs.  She comes to learn why he is like this and comes to acknowledge that even though America had this horrible experience, we as Americans must come together to help each other heal.  We need to keep hope alive in our individual lives in order to help the world be a better place.

I loved this book and I really hope we can have a sequel to this story.  I'd love to see where Deja, Ben and Sabeen are ten years from now.  I'm sure they will have done their best to make the world a better place.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who has middle grade children, it is a good story about an important day in our history.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Going Wild by: Lisa McMann

One month from today on September 27, 2016, I high recommend that you go to a bookstore and buy this book!  I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Readers Edition and I know you will enjoy this new book series from author Lisa McMann.  Going Wild is the first of trilogy which will keep you up late at night turning page after page to see what happens next.  This is one exciting adventure.

Charlie and her family move from Chicago Illinois to Navarro Junction Arizona right before the beginning of a new school year.  Charlie isn't sure that this small town will be as much fun as Chicago was because in Chicago she had friends and soccer.  On the day of the move an anonymous package arrives that says "Charlie, you will know what to do".  Charlie just throws the package into the moving van with the rest of her things and doesn't think about it until unpacking a few days later.  When she opens the package she finds a strange looking bracelet.  She wears the bracelet and when she tries out for the school soccer team she is suddenly running VERY fast.  She isn't sure why she was able to run so fast but is thrilled when she makes the team and makes new friends.

One day running into class just a bit late she notices increased strength.  She cannot explain what is happening and she cannot remove the bracelet either.  As she goes through the first few months of  school a few different things begin to happen to her, once when she is angry she accidentally damages a school bathroom!  Her new friends try to help her remove the bracelet and to try to figure out why Charlie has these super powers that seem to be out of control.  Charlie is never sure when the powers will begin to work.  As her friends help her she begins to see the patterns that help her use the bracelet to her advantage.

Her powers are noticed by the wrong people and when a friend is kidnapped she is soon on the chase to rescue him.  As he is rescued a handful of other bracelets are found.  Her friends are excited to see what these other bracelets will do and it looks like Charlie's family is in danger.  Will she be able to help her family?

This is a great story that will keep your interest from the very first page.  There are lots of soccer references as Charlie is a good player with or without the bracelet.  Many of Charlie's school experiences are those that we all face in school.  We are also entertained by comics and superheroes throughout the story.  I am sure all readers grades 4 and up will love this new series. I don't want to give away too much information but after you read this book I would recommend a visit to your local zoo.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Roller Girl by: Victoria Jamieson

Another Graphic Novel (Comic Book Style) that surprised me at how much I enjoyed the story.  This isn't just a "picture" book it is a story that we can all relate to.  It is also a 2016 Newbery Honor book.  You will want to read this book very soon.

Roller Girl is the first book by author/illustrator Victoria Jamieson and I am looking forward to more books by her after reading Roller Girl.  Astrid and Nicole have been friends since the first grade but as they enter the summer before Junior High things begin to change.  When Astrid's mom takes the girls to a Roller Derby game Astrid is thrilled and cannot wait to begin a Roller Derby summer camp.  She is sure Nicole will join her at this camp.  However, Nicole has other plans, she wants to attend Dance summer camp.  As each girl begins to make new friends doing their new interests they begin to not get along like they used to.  Will their friendship survive the summer and Junior High?

This book will show the ups and downs of friendship and you will learn about the sport of Roller Derby.  Astrid loves the game but learns that it is harder than she thought.  Through hard work and lots of practice her skills become better and I'm sure she will continue playing the sport she loves.

Thank you, Victoria Jamieson for helping me see how wonderful a graphic novel can be for all readers.

After reading this book go out and roller skate!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Curiosity House The Shrunken Head by: Lauren Oliver & H.C. Chester

Four orphans are living with Dumfrey in his Dime Museum of Freaks, Oddities, and Wonders and their lives are about to change dramatically.  In The Shrunken Head from the Curiosity House series by Lauren Oliver and H.C. Chester we find out the special talents of these four orphans and see how these talents help them save their home and the family they have there.

This is a book that jumps into a great adventure as soon as you begin reading.  Dumfrey is very excited to show his customers his newest find, a shrunken head.  However, after the first showing the head is stolen.  One of the customers is also found dead the very next morning.  Soon a local newspaper reporter is snooping around the museum and writing stories that put the children in danger.  As the children try to avoid the newspaper man they uncover other clues to the stolen head but they also find more people dead.  Is the reporter correct in his statement that the head is cursed?  With the help of their special talents the children are able to uncover the truth and help themselves and all those that live in the museum.  Some of the information that the children uncover will leave you breathless as there a few surprises as you come to the end of this book.  

You will love the special talents of these children, I'm not going to give them away to you as you must read this book.  In fact, I'm sure a few of you will want at least one of these talents.  I think this is another great book and look forward to reading more in this series.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Return BOOK TWO: Legacy of Secrets by: Ridley Pearson

Book one in Ridley Pearson's newest series ended with a cliff hanger so I had to read book two as soon as I could.  The Legacy of Secrets picks up where Disney Lands ended and it didn't disappoint this reader.  I loved it and I look forward to book three!

Finn, Charlene, Maybeck, Willa and Philby (all who are DHIs) find themselves in the Disneyland park on opening day 1955.  They are there to retrieve a fountain pen owned by Walt Disney but soon find themselves working with a young Wayne the man who creates the DHIs in present day.  An old Hotel that reminds them of the Tower of Terror seems to be headquarters of what will become the Overtakers.  Finn tries to find a way to stop the Overtakers before they begin but what will that mean to their own futures?

The DHIs encounter a few problems because of the lack of technology of the 1950s and this causes a few problems as they work to find Walt's pen.  They do their best to blend into the guests at the park but find that hard to do.  Some of their adventures become quite dangerous.  Will they ever be able to complete their task?  It is an important task as it will save all of the Disney parks.

In the present time Jess and Amanda are attending imagineering school and are trying to find a way to bring their friends back to the present.  Jess and Amanda work with a few new friends and begin to figure out who is responsible for the creation of the Overtakers.  When Finn is able to send a message to Amanda and Jess through time the girls work on finding as much information as they can without getting caught and losing their place in the school.  They also must find a way to communicate with Finn.  They are able to find a way to communicate but can they also save their friends?

This is one action packed story that will have you staying up late turning page after page.  I think any fan of Disney will love this book but if you like adventure you will love it too.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

School's First Day of School by: Adam Rex

A new school has been built in a town and it is very nervous about having children come through her doors.  Author Adam Rex captures the emotion of being nervous when doing something for the first time perfectly in his new book School's First Day of School.

School's only friend after being built is Janitor and that is just fine with school.  Janitor takes the time each day to clean the building and visit with school.  When Janitor tells school that teachers and students will be coming soon School is very nervous.  At first School is happy seeing so many children but when a few students say they they hate school and one girl cries as she enters school which makes school feel bad. School accidentally sets off the fire alarm and feels very sorry.  Can school make it through day one?  Will the children return to school?  When Janitor and school visit at the end of the first day School is hopeful that they will return.

I really liked this book and will be reading it the first week of school to my own students.  I like how the school is experiencing the feelings that most of us feel on the first day of school.  I know you and your child will also like this book, especially if you have a child that is attending school for the very first time.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

It Came in the Mail by: Ben Clanton

 Do you remember when you were a child and you wished for mail?  In Ben Clanton's newest book It Came in the Mail Liam looks every day, almost every minute, to see if he has received mail.  He never finds any mail until one day he has an idea!  What if he sent mail?!  If he sent mail maybe he would receive mail.  He writes a letter to his mailbox asking for mail and soon he is getting all sorts of mail.  A dragon, an elephant, a funny bone and much more.  What will Liam do with all this mail?  You and your child will enjoy finding out when you read this book.

I enjoyed this story and I look forward to sharing it with the children in my world.  I may just need to write a note to my mailbox and see what is delivered to me.

After reading this book write a note to a friend and send it in the mail.


Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Return BOOK ONE: Disney Lands by: Ridley Pearson

If you are a fan of the Kingdom Keepers series you will want to pick up The Return BOOK ONE: Disney Lands at your local library or bookstore very soon.  I didn't realize that Ridley Pearson had written the first of a new series with the Kingdom Keeper characters until I attended the 2016 LA Times Book Festival.  It was a highlight to meet Mr. Pearson, take a photo and get my book signed.

The five Kingdom Keepers (Finn, Philby, Charlene, Maybeck and Willa) have graduated from High School and will be headed off to different colleges soon.  Finn is convinced that their friend, Wayne, has one more assignment for them.  Finn crosses over and figures out a couple of clues left by Wayne, Finn is taken back in time to Disneyland's early years.  It takes awhile for Finn to convince the others that they need to find Walt Disney's fountain pen and put it where they can find it to save the Disney parks.  The others know they have already saved Disney parks and were able to get rid of the villains.  Finn knows they have done this but in all the photos of Walt's office the fountain pen isn't there and he believes they need to place it on his desk so that it is there when they need it in the future.  Soon all five are crossing over and headed back in time to opening day of Disneyland.  The park in 1955 is very different than the park they know today.

Friends of the Keepers, Jess and Amanda, are attending Disney's School of Imagineering and are soon helping them again.  They are trying to be careful about what they are doing so that they can stay in the school but they are learning some interesting secrets about Disneyland.

Fun and adventure fills this book.  I had to go and buy book two of the series the day after finishing book one.  Keep looking here for my review of book 2.

Happy Daily Reading!
Deanna

Ridley Pearson and me at the 2016 LA Times Book Festival

All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook by: Leslie Connor

Perry T. Cook and his mom Jessica are two heroes in my opinion.  After you read Leslie Connor's book All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook I think you will agree with me.

Perry was born and raised (for the past 11 years) in the Blue River Co-ed Correctional Facility in Surprise, Nebraska.  This is a correctional facility for those that have not intentionally committed violent crimes.  Perry has attended local schools and considers his life to be very blessed.  He has one friend, Zoey, as they begin Jr. High.  This is when a new District Attorney (Tom VanLeer)  is assigned to the area that covers Blue River Facility and he hears about Perry's living situation he gets Perry moved out ASAP!  Perry is now living with the VanLeer family which happens to be Zoey's family.  Perry just wants to get back to living with his mom.  Jessica Cook is up for parole soon and Perry wants to make sure the parole happens so they can begin life outside the facility.  Jessica has worked hard to get her life back together, earning a degree while in the facility and having a plan for her and Perry once she is paroled.

Perry can now only see his mom once a week and that isn't enough for him or his mom.  When Perry and Zoey get the chance to volunteer at the community library and help deliver books to Blue River he is happy to see his mom, the other residents and to show Zoey his home.  While many are happy with this extra visit it is important to not let Mr. VanLeer find out.

When Perry is assigned a school project to write about how he came to live in Surprise, Nebraska he decides to write the stories of the residents in the facility.  Not all of them want to talk but some do and he finally learns the truth about how his mom ended up at Blue River.  Perry finds out that the parole hearing has been delayed and that Mr. VanLeer isn't doing what he promised to Perry.  It is up to Perry, Zoey and a very unlikely friend to help Jessica Cook get the parole she deserves.

I enjoyed hearing all the stories of the Blue River community.  The people who are involved with Perry are family to him and they truly are like any of our own families.  I learned that our past doesn't define our future we can work and change what our life situation is and make things better for ourselves and our families.  I highly recommend this book for all readers, grades 5 and higher.

Happy Daily Reading!
Deanna

The Boy Who Cried Ninja by: Alex Latimer

You are going to be fooled by the title of Alex Latimer's book The Boy Who Cried Ninja.  This book isn't the story you think it might be.

Tim is a boy that nobody believed.  A giant squid eating not just his homework but his entire book bag.  A sunburned crocodile breaks the TV antenna.  One is true and one is false Tim gets into trouble for telling the truth and for telling lies?!  Can he find a way to no longer get into trouble?  He decides to invite an unusual group of guests to a party and hopefully this party will get him out of trouble once and for all.

This is a fun story and one you will want to share over and over again.  In fact, invite a few friends over for a book reading party and enjoy this book with them.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Raymie Nightingale by: Kate DiCamillo

Kate DiCamillo has written another book that you won't soon forget.  In fact, I'm sure you will become a friend to Raymie Nightingale.

Life at Raymie's home has been turned upside-down her dad has run away with a dental hygienist.  Raymie thinks of a plan that will bring her dad back home.  Her plan is to enter the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition when she wins her father will see her picture in the newspaper and he will come home.  She begins taking baton twirling lessons for the talent portion of the competition.  At the lessons she meets Louisiana Elefante and Beverly Tapinski.  Louisiana is also wanting to win the title of Little Miss Central Florida Tire and Beverly wants to make sure the competition doesn't happen.  Their baton instructor doesn't teach the girls much of anything during their lesson time but the girls do become friends.

Raymie learns that she needs to do a good deed for the application for the competition so she visits a local home for the elderly to read to the residents for her good deed.  When she isn't able to read to anyone and her book gets left behind it takes all three of the girls to get her book back.  It isn't as easy as one may think, but their friendship continues to get stronger.  Each girl is searching for something that she has lost and when Raymie saves Louisiana from drowning each girl finds what they really needed isn't what was lost it was what they have found in each other.

This is a great book about the summer adventures of three girls.  Each of these girls has personalities and life circumstances that we can all relate to in one way or another.  I highly recommend this book for all readers who want a few new friends.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Ballet Cat Dance! Dance! Underpants! by: Bob Shea

Bob Shea has written and illustrated a variety of picture books for children.  I just finished reading his second book starting Ballet Cat Dance! Dance! Underpants and it made me giggle.  I'm sure that you and your child will giggle with delight reading this book staring Ballet Cat and her friend Butter Bear.  This is a perfect first reader for the dancer in your family.

Ballet Cat just cannot understand why Butter Bear will not do any super-high ballet leaps.  Butter Bear comes up with many things to do instead of the super-high leaps which frustrates Ballet Cat.  Will Butter Bear ever let Ballet Cat know the real reason for no high leaps?  Read this book to find out and leave a comment letting me know if you and your listeners giggled just like I did!

After reading this book dance with one of your friends.

Happy Daily Reading!
Deanna

the Misadventures of Max Crumbly Locker Hero by: Rachel Renee Russell

From the wonderfully creative author, Rachel Renee Russell we have the first book in her new series The Misadventures of Max Crumbly Locker hero.  Readers who enjoy Dork Diaries or Diary of a Wimpy Kid will love Max Crumbly!

Max is headed off to middle school after being home schooled by his grandmother for all of his life.  Life at the middle school isn't what he expected and even though he tries to be a super hero just like those he reads about in comic books he really isn't any kind of super hero.

The school bully keeps locking Max inside Max's school locker!  He is saved by Erin, the best looking girl in the school, early in the day but when he finds himself locked inside his locker after school nobody is there to save him.  It is a three day weekend and he begins to panic!

Amazingly he is able to break out of his locker finding himself in an old boiler room with no way out.  He finds the cover for the ventilation system and he is soon crawling all over the school through the vents.  He overhears three men who plan on stealing the school's new computers.  He is sure he can stop them, but soon they are chasing him!  As Max tries to get away from these not-so-smart thieves he finds himself in some crazy situations.  Can Max save the school computers?  Will he ever get out of the school?  Will he remain the superhero of the ventilation system?  You will be surprised how he finds a way to move about quickly in the vents.

I found myself giggling at Max and cheering for him all at the same time.  I know that kids of all ages will love Max Crumbly, Rachel Renee Russell is an author that seems to really get middle schoolers.

After reading this book make a commitment to never bully anyone!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

President Squid by: Aaron Reynolds

If you have not decided who will get your vote this election year this book may help you decide.  President Squid by Aaron Reynolds is a perfect book for an election year or even for anyone who might think of becoming President.

Squid is sure he has all the qualifications to be President.  He wears a tie, has a big house, is famous, etc....  He is sure he is perfect for the job.  When he finds out that it just might be too much work for him will he change is mind?

This is a fun story that I'm sure your child will want to hear over and over again.

Happy Daily Reading!
Deanna

Aly Rutherford and the Ancients by: Mary Ann Eisenberg and Wendi Willson

 I was able to meet these authors at the LA Times Book Festival this is a self published book and it is one I think anyone who enjoys fantasy stories will love.  It was a page turner for this fantasy loving reader.

MaryAnn Eisenberg and Wendi Willson in their book Aly Rutherford and the Ancients take us on an adventure like no other.  Aly's mother goes missing after an earthquake in Mexico.  She is sent to stay with her MeMar in California.  She doesn't want to be there she wants to find her mother, she is convinced that her mother has been kidnapped.  Aly is soon spending time with Nicholas a young boy who is her neighbor and his brother Dylan.  They explore around their neighborhood trying to stay away from bully, Dave.

Aly has a unique disk that she found after her mother disappeared.  The three find that others in their town have disks as well.  MeMar tells Aly that she is a descendant that needs to save humankind.  Aly isn't given any help as to what she is supposed to do to save humankind but when she begins talking to two white Ravens she thinks maybe she finally has some help.  However, her biggest help comes from Dylan and Nicholas.  They discover ancient lava tubes with the same markings as the disks and as they continue to watch the others with disks a few answers with more questions arise.

Aly is a smart girl who does the best she can in difficult situations.  I know readers will enjoy getting to know Aly and will be cheering for her as she figures out what she is meant to do with her life.  I am sure she will figure out all she needs to do but we all have to read the next book in the series to find out.

After reading this book go and do some bird watching, maybe you can talk to birds too.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Amazing Authors and Me at the 2016 LA Times Book Festival

A Penguin Story by: Antoinette Portis

It's hot outside so it's time to enjoy a cool picture book with your children.  A Penguin Story by Antoinette Portis is the perfect cool down book on a hot summer day.

Penguin is sure that there is more in the world than black, white and blue.  Setting out to search for more there isn't time for fishing or playing with the other penguins.  When something new is found all the penguins are excited.  Now, is there even more out there?

I really enjoyed this book, it is simple but very cute and I am sure your child will love it.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Hilo The Boy Who Crashed to Earth by: Judd Winick

I think that author Judd Winick has written and illustrated a new favorite comic book style book with Hilo The Boy Who Crashed To Earth.

I am going to be honest as I'm not usually a big fan of the "comic book" stories that are so popular right now.  However, after reading this book I will probably be looking for and reading more of these. I LOVED this story and I think it could only be told in this format.

Hilo literally crashes on earth and meets D.J. who becomes Hilo's first friend.  D.J. has a family of talented siblings and busy parents.  D.J. believes he has no talents but I know he does and it is an important talent, being a friend.  D.J. helps Hilo as Hilo tries to remember who he is and where he is from.  Since Hilo arrives in just his underwear the first thing D.J. does is get him some clothes.  Hilo isn't sure about the clothes but at least he isn't going to school in his underwear!  Gina, D.J.'s childhood friend has moved back to town, also becomes Hilo's friend.  She is the one who believes that he really did crash into earth.  Most of the others in the story don't believe this.  Gina sees Hilo's powers and learns his secrets and is soon helping D.J. and Hilo fight robot bugs.  That is right, robot bugs!  Where exactly is Hilo from?  Are the bugs really looking for him?  Will more people or bugs be crashing into earth?  Hilo helps D.J. and Gina as much as they help him, that is what true friends do for each other, in my opinion.

This is a story about being a friend and being there no matter what for your friend.  I think it is a story that should be shared with all ages and I know your child will love reading and/or hearing this story over and over again.  Be on the lookout for book #2 in the series.

After reading this story spend sometime with a few of your friends.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

If You Ever Want To Bring A Piano To The Beach, DON'T! by: Elise Parsley

 As you prepare to head to the beach this summer be sure to read Elise Parsley's book If you Ever Want to Bring a Piano to the Beach, Don't!.  This is the perfect beach story for you and your children.

Magnolia is a girl with big ideas and she doesn't want to bring the regular toys to the beach she wants to bring her piano.  She assures her mother that she will take care of the piano while at the beach and that it will be the perfect beach toy.  However, things don't always go the way we plan and this is what Magnolia learns while she and her siblings are playing at the beach.

Of course, after reading this book head off for a fun day at your local beach.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Are We There Yet? by: Dan Santat

Author Dan Santat has written and illustrated another awesome picture book in his newest book Are We There Yet?.  It is the perfect summer vacation road trip book.

As a family sets off to visit grandma's house the first hour is exciting but then the ride gets boring.  As the drive continues things are not as bad as the young boy first thinks.  The ride just might be as fun as the destination.

This book will take away any boring thoughts you may have about your next road trip.  It is unique in a few ways and I'm not going to give anything away.  It is a must read!  The reader and those listening will never think of long car rides in the same way again.  The book is also an exercise for your imagination.  You will enjoy every page as the story as well as the illustrations are so great.  

While you enjoy this summer season be sure to keep reading each day!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Sword in the Stove by: Frank W. Dormer

What a fun story!  Author/illustrator Frank W. Dormer has created the book The Sword in the Stove the story is one that just may have you and your children giggling with delight.

When a sword is found in the stove one thinks it belongs to their friend but the other is convinced it is Pirates!  What will the pirates do to them?  More items are found in the stove and there is more imagination that will have you and your children laughing and quickly turning the pages.

I thought this book was a great story and it made me giggle.  I encourage you to read this book and then create your own story, what can you find in the stove?  Or someplace else?

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Key to Extraordinary by: Natalie Lloyd

Natalie Lloyd has written a great book, one you won't soon forget.  The Key to Extraordinary is a story that will stay with you and will make you smile whenever you think of these characters that have made a home in your heart.

Emma and her family live above the family's bakery, the Boneyard Cafe.  The Cafe is famous for its Boneyard Brew which is hot chocolate with a special secret ingredient.  Whenever you have some of the brew your worries are washed away.  The Cafe is located near a famous cemetery where Emma holds free tours for all who happen to visit.

Business at the Cafe is slow and grandma is thinking of selling.  Emma's mother has passed away and she feels "the big empty" (missing her mom) most days.  Happiness is found for Emma whenever she is in the Cafe surrounded by family and friends.  Emma is hoping she can have her Destiny Dream soon so she can help save the Cafe.  All the women in Emma's family have a special Destiny Dream that shows them what they are to do with their talents.  Emma is sure hers will be what must be done to help her safe the Cafe.  When Emma does have her dream she wonders what it can mean but it becomes clear as she and her friends work on finding a treasure that hasn't been found in decades.  Many have tried to find the treasure but Emma is sure that her Destiny is to actually be the one who finds it.  Her friends have a few adventures as they look for the treasure and they each find inner strengths that they didn't know they had.  Facing their fears and helping each other these three friends do more than find a treasure.  You will have to read this book to find out what happens.  As you read enjoy some hot chocolate and then add your own secret ingredient as you finish the story.

This is a special book with many thoughts about family and friends that I found to be 100% true.  I loved this story and think that we all can find our own Key to Extraordinary!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Thank You Book by: Mo Willems

Author Mo Willems' Elephant & Piggie series is one of the best series for beginning readers.  The series comes to an end with the book The Thank You Book.  I have enjoyed sharing these books with my students and with my beginning reader friends.  I know you will enjoy this book as well as the others in the series.  Mo Willems is one awesome children's book author and illustrator.

This is a sweet story about showing gratitude to those that help us throughout our lives.  Piggie wants to thank everyone and Elephant is sure someone will be forgotten.  Piggie goes and finds all the friends made throughout the book series.  Elephant keeps saying someone will be forgotten.  Can Piggie really find and remember everyone?  I will let you, the reader, find out if Piggie truly remembers everyone.

Be sure to show your gratitude to others each and every day.  Thank you for visiting my blog I appreciate you!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Lincoln Project by: Dan Gutman

Flashback Four is a new series by author Dan Gutman and the first in the series The Lincoln Project will have you eagerly waiting for book number two.

Luke, Julia, David and Isabel receive invitations from Chris Zandergoth (Miss Z) and even though they don't know who sent the invitation they are curious enough to go and learn more.  It is at Miss Z's company that the four meet for the first time and are surprised to learn that they have been selected to go back in time to get a photo of an American historical event.  Miss Z has invented a smart board that takes people back in time and she believes that children can get the job done better than adults.  Miss Z wants a photo of President Abraham Lincoln giving the Gettysburg Address.

Once the four arrive in Gettysburg it isn't as easy as they think it will be.  They arrive one day too early and they need to try to fit into the 1863 lifestyle.  Which is VERY different than life in 2016.  A couple of them are tempted to take an item or two from 1863 and bring it back to the future.  This cannot happen!   When President Lincoln gives his speech they must act fast, it is a short speech.   But, do they get the photo for Miss Z?  Miss Z is a collector of photos she believes that if you don't have a photo you don't have proof that the event really happened?  So, come along on a great adventure with the "Flashback Four" to see if they get the shot for Miss Z.  The adventure is worth it as you learn more about our history as well as enjoy the adventures of our four time travelers.

After Reading this book go and read some more about President Lincoln.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard by: Jonathan Auxier

"Once Upon a Time" is the beginning to many wonderful stories but I really love the beginning of author Jonathan Auxier's newest book Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard.  This book begins with "It has often been said that one should never judge a book by its cover."  This book has a nice cover but the story is so great that once you begin reading you won't want to put it down.  You might still admire the cover but you will LOVE the story within the pages.  

Sophie is a young girl who works repairing books at her family's bookstore.  She doesn't remember her mother since her mother's death occurred when she was very young.  When a mysterious book (the Book of Who) is brought to Sophie to repair and she finds her mother's name in the book, Sophie begins a life changing quest to find out more about her mother.  Peter Nimble and his friend Sir Tode are the two that bring the book to Sophie from Professor Cake.  Professor Cake advises the trio that they must work together to find and protect four books (The Book of Who, The Book of What The book of Where and the Book of When) that will save the world, not just Sophie's town of Bustleburgh.  Professor Cake tells them that "worlds and everything in them are made real by the stories that inhabit them...stories are a type of magic spell...the impossible becomes a little more possible.  When a populations loses its stories, it loses its capacity for wonder...what remains is a life of drudgery and toil."  You see the inquisitor of Bustleburgh is insisting that all the books be burned on Prye day.  He believes that the "nonsense" of books is not needed in the world and he will stop at nothing to make sure all the books are destroyed.  He even wants to find the books that Sophie, Peter and Sir Tode are trying to save.  

Many times Sophie and others face death to fulfill their quest.  They find friends and enemies as they travel near and far.  I think one of the best parts of the story is when the books begin to fly and tell their own stories.  Imagine so many books sharing their marvelous stories at once!  Can Sophie really be the last Storyguard?  Can she really do this important job?  She must because if we lose our stories we lose "what if" and we don't want that to ever happen.   

There is advice from the author too!  He suggests that if the reader ever meets an author he/she should shower the author with gifts and praise.  I haven't had the chance to meet Mr. Auxier but I hope he accepts my praise for this book in my review and perhaps a gift if we ever do meet.  

Happy Daily Reading

Deanna

Echo by: Pam Munoz Ryan

This is one amazing story...author Pam Munoz Ryan's Echo is a book you will enjoy reading and one you won't forget.

An enchanted harmonica brings happiness to a boy in Germany, another in Pennsylvania and a young girl in California.  The owners are not only living in different areas of the world they are decades apart in ages.  Each individual's story of obtaining the harmonica is interesting.  It becomes a blessing to each family helping all of them obtain their dreams and finding happiness.  As you continue reading each individual story you really come to love each character and his/her family.  Everyone of them has hardships that they must endure.  The harmonica is what gives them peace.  Can the gift of music really change a life?

The three children grow and as adults they come together one very special night.  You just might find a tear in your eye, I did, as you read about this night. You will be amazed at how the harmonica  changed their lives for the best.

I know you will love this Newbery Honor book.  Buy this book or find it at your public library quickly!  After reading this book you might want to learn how to play a harmonica.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Mabel Jones and the Forbidden City by: Will Mabbitt

Author Will Mabbitt continues the adventures of Mabel Jones in his book Mabel Jones and the Forbidden City.  This time Maggie, Mabel's baby sister, has been taken by an evil witch.  Mabel must travel through the Forbidden City in order to rescue her sister.  Along the way she meets some old friends and makes a few new ones as well.  Can she make it through another daring adventure?

Let me tell you, YES she can!  Mabel is one girl that finds adventure everywhere she looks.  Luckily she is friends with pirates and some other unlikely heroes that help her in this quest to save her sister.  There are some amazing treasures too.  Can she keep her sights on saving her sister or will diamonds distract her too much?

I know that you will love this story as much as the first one.  I look forward to more Mabel Jones adventures.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Demon Dentist by: David Walliams

It took me awhile to get my hands on this book.  I had heard great things about it and I had to know for myself if what was said was true.  And it is all true!  I literally couldn't put Demon Dentist by David Walliams down once I began reading.

This is the story of Alfie who is being raised by his father.  Alfie's father is quite ill so Alfie is the one taking care of his father and himself.  Alfie has only been to the dentist once in his life and it wasn't a pleasant experience.  In fact Alfie never brushes his teeth and he is known as the kid with rotten teeth at his school.  When children begin finding bugs and other disgusting items under their pillows instead of coins from the tooth fairy Alfie and his friend Gabz try to find out what is going on in their town.

Miss Root is the new dentist in town.  She visits the school and while teaching students about proper care of their teeth she is shocked at Alfie's teeth.  She now wants to see Alfie in her chair ASAP.  Of course Alfie does all he can to avoid her.  However he is also trying to avoid the crazy social worker Winnie.  Winnie isn't sure Alfie's dad is healthy enough to take proper care of Alfie.  Winnie is one crazy lady who wears crazy clothes and eats all the food in Alfie's home!  Alfie wonders how can he or is dad take care of each other when she is the one eating all their food.

This is one great story.  It is so much fun with all the characters doing some strange and amazing things.  You will be so surprised at what is happening with all the teeth from the children in this town.  

Children will enjoy that there are many drawings in this story and if your child enjoys stories by Roald Dahl they will definitely enjoy this story.  I am confident that your chid will want to find more books by author David Walliams.  I would recommend this book as a family read together story as I know readers of all ages will love it.

After reading this story make an appointment to see your dentist.  Perhaps you will want to take a copy of this book to your dentist.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Bounce, Stretch, and Wiggle by: Doreen Cronin

These three books might be books that you have already read but I just discovered them and shared them with my younger students.  We all fell in love with these stories and had a fun time wiggling and stretching with the dog who stars in the stories.  Thank you Doreen Cronin for writing these books, Bounce, Stretch, and Wiggle.  I love them all and plan on giving these as gifts to many of my young reader friends.

As you read these alone or with your child you will have a fun time getting up and moving.  These books make reading more than just a sitting activity.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Genie in a Bottle by: Sarah Mlynowski

Fairy Tales are stories that I enjoy reading and when there is a unique twist in the tale I love it even more.  Author Sarah Mlynowski in her series WHATEVER AFTER takes readers into fairly tales in which the heroes must fix the problems that they have created in order to insure a Happily Ever After for the fairy tale characters.

Genie in a Bottle is the Ninth book in the series and it is a good as the others.  Siblings, Jonah and Abby once again go through the magic mirror and find themselves in the middle of a game similar to dodge ball.  Abby ends up hurting another player in the game and that player is Aladdin.  Now he isn't in the street when the evil Dracul is looking for a child to go into the desert and get him the magic lamp of the genie.  Abby and Jonah end up going with Dracul in hopes that they can get the genie to Aladdin.  However, when Abby sets the genie free by mistake they must work even harder to get Aladdin to meet the princess.  They are able to meet a new genie that has limited powers but with her help and the flying carpet that Jonah loves they just might get the princess and Aladdin together to enjoy their Happily Ever After.

At the 2016 LA Times Book Festival I was able to meet the wonderful Sarah Mlynowski.  It is always fun meeting authors of books that I enjoy.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Me and Sarah Mlynowski

Where's the BaBOOn? by: Michael Escoffier

This book is a great read aloud that all my students enjoyed.  I loved sharing it with them too!

Author Michael Escoffier in his book Where's The BaBOOn? takes readers on a hide and seek adventure.  Readers are not only looking for animals they are looking for words inside of other words.  For example when asked Who is the Headmaster? the animal that is the Headmaster is found in the word Headmaster as well as in the picture, Hamster!  Illustrator Kris Di Giacomo does a great job with each page and the reader is anxious to turn the page to find the next animal.  And exactly where is that BaBOOn?

After reading this book I suggest you head off to a zoo near you!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Island of Dragons by: Lisa McMann

This is the seventh and final book in Lisa McMann's series THE UNWANTEDS.  I've been anxious to read this book and Island of Dragons did not disappoint me in any way.  If you have not read this series of books, I highly recommend them to you.

Aaron and Alex are together on the island of Artime.  They are bringing together the people of Quill and Artime into one community on the island.  Most of the residents of Quill are happy with the changes but there are a few that want the old Quill back.  Aaron is wanting to return to the island of Shipwrecks where he has found his personal peace and the company of three dear friends.  Alex agrees to take Aaron back but once they are on the island of Shipwrecks word comes that the pirates and the people of Warbler are getting ready to attach Artime.  This will be one huge battle and Alex will need all the help he can get.  Aaron agrees to go back and fight alongside Alex.

The people of Artime are outnumbered and their magic isn't working as good as it usually does.  The pirates really prepared themselves to be protected from the magic.  The creatures of the sea and the dragons come to help Artime but the real heroes will surprise you.

I loved this book, as well as all the previous six in the series.  If you enjoy fantasy and adventure this is the series you need to read.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

The Real Boy by: Anne Ursu

The Real Boy by Anne Ursu was a book I enjoyed reading and I'm sure you will too.

Oscar, an orphan, has been living with the Barrow Village's magician for a few years.  He spends his days alone working in the basement with herbs for the magician to use.  Oscar likes to be alone, he is unsure how to act around people.  He is very happy working with the plants and talking with his pet cats.  Wolf is the apprentice to the magician and makes Oscar's life miserable.  Oscar does his best to stay away from people, especially Wolf.  When the magician leaves on a trip Wolf decides to explore where he shouldn't and is found dead the next day.  Oscar finds himself alone in the magician's shop and he does his best to meet customer's needs.  When he finds damage to the herb garden in the woods he begins to worry about his future.

Callie is the apprentice for the Barrow Village's healer and she too has been left alone to run the healer's shop.  It isn't a good time for her to be running things because the children of Asteri are becoming ill, something that has never happened before.  Callie comes to the magician's shop to find herbs to help her try to cure some of the children.  When she sees Oscar struggling to run the shop she steps in to help him.  Soon Oscar and Callie are doing all they can together to figure out what has happened to the children and to their home in the woods.

This is a story you will not soon forget.  It has magic, friendship, adventure, etc...I know you will come to love Oscar and cheer for his success.

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

Red - The True Story of Red Riding Hood by: Liesl Shurtliff

Liesl Shurtliff is an author I was able to meet at the 2016 LA Times Book Festival.  I was so very excited to meet her and I was excited to get her newest book just a few days before it was released to the public.  It's now a New York Time's Bestseller!  Get your copy soon.  

Red-the true story of Red Riding Hood is the third book dealing with fairy tales written by Liesl and it is another great book!  Red is first introduced to us in the book Rump she is a friend of Rump and their relationship is mentioned in this book.  However, it is Red's new friend, Goldie that we really get to know in this story.

Red's Granny is very sick and Red is asked to go and get the ingredients for the medicine that will help Granny.  As Red sets off to find the ingredients she learns about magic that can help her Granny live forever.  Red meets Goldie when Goldie is trying to get some honey from Red's beehive.  Goldie follows Red and soon they are working together to find the magic that will help Granny.  Red and Goldie face water sprites, a wolf, dwarfs and a huntsman as they are in the woods.  They also face danger when they come close to obtaining the magic for Granny.  However, is magic really what is needed?  Is the biggest danger facing them the wolf or the huntsman?  Red learns much about herself and because of her adventures she is a better and stronger person.

After reading this book go outside and have your own adventure!

Happy Daily Reading
Deanna

PS  Be sure to check out my reviews of Liesl Shurtliff's other books.

Author Liesl Shurtliff