Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk

Recommended for students who enjoyed reading Wolf Hollow, who enjoy stories of family, history, adventure, and mystery

When I purchased Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk, I did not even make the connection that she was also the author of Wolf Hollow (http://thetalesofareader.blogspot.com/2016/10/wolf-hollow-by-lauren-wolk.html).  After reading it, however, I am beginning to understand her as an author.  While the stories are VERY different from each other, many of the characters resemble each other.  Crow is very much like Annabelle in that she is strong, loving, pure, and adventurous.  Osh is very much like Tobey in that he is secretive, strong, brave, and has moved on from a previous life.  Along with Miss Maggie, this trio makes a charming group who belong together in so many ways.

This book held an extra special interest to me due to the historical fiction aspect of Penikese. Many years ago, I read and fell in love with Alan Brennert's novels of the leprosy colonies of Hawaii.  Beyond the Bright Sea reconnected me with that interest, so I plan to do more research and reading about the island of Penikese.

Invisible Emmie by Terri Libenson

Recommended for readers of graphic novels, artistic students, and those students who feel that no one sees them

I read this whole book, Invisible Emmie by Terri Libenson, with one particular student in mind. To me, that is a true testament to the honesty of this book.  This is the story of Emmie who is quiet, shy, and artistic, and Katie who is well liked, well known, and confident.  When the paths of these two cross due to an embarrassing note, we begin to see different sides of each girl as they discover more about who they really are and who they really want to be.

This book will appeal to so many of my fourth graders, both boys and girls, not only for its entertainment value, but also for its lessons in surviving school.  With its comic strips, funny graphics, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid style writing, I can't wait to share it. 

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

Quotable Conversation

      "I know your're right, but--but...it's just so much harder for Melody."

      "No, it's harder for us. we have to figure out what's in her head."

Recommended for anyone and everyone who works with children in any capacity

I have to be honest and tell you that I have put off reading this book for a while now.  I can't tell you how many times I have heard the comment, "What do you mean you've never read Out of My Mind?  I knew I would someday, but I just had this idea that it was going to be sad and heartbreaking--and it absolutely is, but it is also uplifting and beautiful, and funny and clever.

Melody spends her days in a wheelchair being looked upon by others as being less than able in every possible way; however, with the right people in her corner, she is able to finally share all the wonderful and intelligent ideas that are inside her head.  She finds her voice and shares it with the world, but not everything or everyone is so accepting of this new voice.

I know of many schools who have had their teachers read this for a book study.  I get it.  It contains such a remarkable lesson about how important it is for us, as teachers, to find whatever works for each individual child we encounter.

It only took me a few years to read it, but I am so glad I finally did.  Melody will stay with me forever.  I will carry her into my classroom daily for the rest of my teaching career.

The League of Unexceptional Children by Gitty Daneshvari

"When greatness calls...average answers"

Recommended for anyone who likes to laugh out loud, who loves to read mystery, "who's struggled to be noticed in a sea of above-average overachievers"

In The League of Unexceptional Children by Gitty Daneshvari, a different kind of hero emerges--average, normal, forgettable.  When Jonathan and Shelley are sought out by the government for a covert operation due to their ability to go through life totally unacknowledged, they can't believe their fate.  With clever humor, boundless adventure, and an amazing amount of fun, this book is going to be a favorite of my fourth grade students.

I will be adding it to my read aloud list for the 2017-2018 school year.  Since this book is the first in a new series, I know I will be adding the next installments to my classroom library.

GEORGE by Alex Gino

"Be who you are."

Quotable Quotes:  "My point is, it takes a special person to cry over a book.  It shows compassion as well as imagination."

"...we're not supposed to let people's expectations limit our choices."

Recommended for anyone who feels different, struggles to "fit in", feels that they have to hide their truth

George by Alex Gino is the touching story of George who looks like a boy but knows she's not one.  With the help of her very supportive best friend, Kelly, George finds her way through bullying, acceptance, and life.

This book is similar to Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart except it is written for a younger audience.  As society continues to acknowledge more and more that gender does not just consist of two options, these types of books are becoming more and more important.  ALL children need to be able to read mirror books and this book will definitely serve as a wonderful and helpful mirror to many.

Thank you, Alex Gino, for your bravery and honesty in writing this book.

Confessions of an Imaginary Friend by Michelle Cuevas

"You're only as invisible as you feel."

Recommended for EVERYONE.  I am adding this to my read aloud list for the 2017-2018 school year, AND I have a list of previous students that I will be dropping this off at their homes starting today.

I have to be honest--I really don't think there is much that I can say about this book without giving away spoilers.  Just know that your emotions will be on a roller coaster ride that will be WELL WORTH IT.  This is one of the most original, touching stories that I have come across in a while with characters that I did  not want to say goodbye to when the book ended.

I had never heard of Michelle Cuevas or any of her other books.  I just happened to come across the title at my local Barnes &Noble, and it interested me.  I have now placed an order for her other books and can not wait to read them.

Please, please, please pick up this book--you will be glad you did!