Children of the Rush

 Author: James Russell

ISBN: 9781991166807

Hi Everyone

Upon visiting Central Otago in New Zealand, you will discover a wealth of gold mining history that remains intact. There are old stone houses (many partly collapsed); hills that during winter get covered in snow; and towns like Clyde that maintain a historical street frontage. If you wish to travel to Gabriel's Valley, you will also find that much of the gold mining history is still able to be seen.

Gabriel's Valley is where this story is based. I have been to both Dunedin and Gabriel's Valley, so reading this, I was able to envision the townships and the children. It was quite an adventure reading through these pages. 

As for the story itself, I enjoyed how the author has interwoven both the history and the depth of hardship that adults and families endured during this time in history, along with a story of friendship and loyalty. The story is rich with history, yet still has an element of imagination (or maybe truth). 

It was refreshing to read a historical children's novel. I would like to see many more like this written. Living books. Ones that we can read time and again, while still finding new snippets of information to ignite our wonder of the history that has been left for our children to discover.

Description:

It's 1861, and gold fever is sweeping New Zealand.

Otherwise sensible adults have gone mad and will do anything to get their hands on the precious metal But two children have been caught up in the rush. Michael and Atarangi couldn't be more different, but they share one thing: each has a remarkable and magical talent. 

Circumstances conspire to bring the children together in remote and inhospitable goldfields, and they're thrust into a world where lawlessness, greed, and cruelty reign.

When the children find out that a cut-throat gang stalks the goldfields, preying upon the innocent, they have a choice to make: turn a blind eye, or fight back?

Happy reading

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Nevermoor - The Trials of Morigan Crow

 Author: Jessica Townsend

ISBN: 978-0-7344-1807-4

Hi Everyone

My favorite series of all time, 'Inkspell', has almost been knocked off its perch. Nevermoor has taken up the battle for first place on my favorites list. With adventure and imagination, intertwined in a plot that grabed my attention from the first page, I am hooked. If the rest of the series continues to live up to the same standard, then I have two series that I would recommend to readers of all ages.

'Morrigan Crow is cursed'..... that is how we are introduced to Morrigan.  How wrong and stupid can people be? She is not even present at most of the events, yet she was born on the wrong day, which makes her a 'cursed child'. I found this concept fascinating, mainly because everyone believed it and the self-fulfilling prophecy effect took hold of Morrigan.  

We see this all around us, beyond the book. How often do we tell children the same thing often enough (sometimes once) only to see them take it on as part of their identity. I studied this in my education studies, we all know it, yet children constantly get told they can't do things right, or at all. I hear it quite regularly from some of my students, 'I'm just not good at ...', 'I have (whatever label they have been given).....". The list of limiting beliefs is long. No! Young people have the ability to learn if we would just stop giving them belief systems that tell them otherwise. Okay, I agree some things are hard, even almost impossible, but give them a chance and some extra time, and you will be amazed at what can be achieved.

Jupiter North knew there was more to Morrigan and whisked her away to a secret magical city called Nevermore. I really like Jupiter. His answers to Morrigan's questions are limited, wise, and confusing all at the same time. And then there is Fenestra - the cat, if you can imagine a huge cat. Typical of a cat, Fen is grumpy, competitive, and knows everything. And Jack, he is annoying, but an important part of the story, so don't leave him off the list; his character gave a little extra something to the book.

Then there is information that takes form near the end of the book, or is it just the start of the story for the rest of the series?

Right now, I could go on for hours about Nevermoor. I have the next three books in the series. I will review them as I get through each one. They better not let me down. I have big expectations now.

Description:

Morrigan Crow is Cursed.

Born on an unlucky day, she is blamed for all local misfortunes, from hailstorms to heart attacks - and, worst of all, the curse means that Morrigan is doomed to die at midnight on Eventide.

But as Morrigan awaits her fate, a strange and remarkable man named Jupiter North appears. Chased by black-smoke hounds and shadowy hunters on horseback, he whisks her away to a secret, magical city called Nevermoor.

To stay in the safety of Nevermoor for good, Morrigan will need to pass four difficult and dangerous trials - or she'll have to leave the city and confront her deadly fate.

Happu reading

For private tutoring with Richelle

Anne of Green Gables

 

Hi Everyone

No one is ever too grown up to read Anne of Green Gables. Anne is just adorable! She talks more than me :)

The story is a classic, and I see why. Every page has something special. The language is witty, clever, elegant, and rich. I have read plenty of children's and young reader's books, but this one tops them all. I see history intertwined amongst the literacy, which will enable many talking points if read aloud to young people.  

Overall, I think anyone's reading list is not complete unless this is either added or already read. It is one of the best classic series on the market.  Now that is giving Anne of Green Gables some major credits because I like reading the classics and I have many of them on my favourites list.  I still think this one needs to be one of the top children's literature titles. 

When you find a copy and a spare moment, take the time to journey with Anne of Green Gables. Then we can all have a talk about Anne, literacy, and a bit of history.  I have the whole series to read so I will keep you updated.

Description: 

People are surprised when Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, both very set in their ways, decide to adopt an orphan boy. But no-one is more astonished than Marilla and Matthew themselves when the boy they are expecting turns out to be a very talkative, very imaginative, very read-headed, very female girl. Anne has arrived at Green Gables. Her adventures, dreams, sorrows and joys are set down here in one of the most popular books ever written.

Happy reading

For private tutoring with Richelle

The Taylor Turbochaser

 Its a Road-Trip Rollercoaster!

Author: David Baddiel

ISBN: 978-0-00-836538-7

Hi Everyone

As we roll into 2023 and back into lessons, we have a good range of new books on the bookcase.  Here is the first one I have read this school term. 'It's a Road Trip Rollercoaster', definitely.

I laughed my way through this book.  One of my students is now laughing her way through it.

My impression of this novel is beyond words. It is unique. That is what I would describe this novel as, 'unique'.

Take a girl, and add her brother and friends. Take a family broken by an accident that put the girl in a wheelchair. Add to the equation - that girl loves cars. She also needs a new wheelchair.... 

Now add to the mix, one of the friends being an inventor...

What do you have?

An adventure like no other.

I am sure this book will have many young readers wanting more.  There are illustrations the whole way through that will keep the reader glued to the pages.  This book is well worth adding to any young reader's bookcase.

Description:

Well, a Ford Transit van. Which might sound strange. You'll have to read this book to find out why.

BUT AMY HAS NEVERE BEEN ABLE TO DO THE THING SHE DREAMS OF MOST: TO DRIVE.

UNTIL NOW...NEVER

Happy reading

Private Tutoring:

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Animal Magic

 Animal Magic
By Cherie Amazing
ISBN: 9781787009080

 

 

Hi Everyone 

The illustrations are bright, big, and vivid documentations of the words on each page. They are enough alone to make any child pick it up over again to make up their own story.

Alongside the beautiful illustrations, Cherie Zamazing has written a brilliant piece of imaginative artistry that will capture any audience. The literary use of onomatopoeia brings the story alive with words such as bubble, fizz, squawk, swish, and, swoop, highlighted in fancy large print amongst the sentences. Not only can this book be read and enjoyed, but it can also be used to highlight poetic usage in numerous ways.

A very cleverly formed, illustrated, and written picture book.

 

Description:

When a young boy accidentally knocks a painted fish pebble into the water, he cannot believe his eyes…

‘Suddenly, there was a flash of light and a bubble and fizz! Peter jumped back and saw a new colourful fish swimming around the fishbowl. Peter’s pebble had come to life!’

Cherie Zamazing’s charming illustrations perfectly capture a young boy’s wonderment as his creativity provides the magic for an adventure beyond his wildest dreams.

Happy Reading

Private Tutoring Link

Friendly Day

 Author: Mij Kelly and Charles Fuge

ISBN: 9781444936018

Hi Everyone

Today I have a special guest with me. She is one of my great students and she is going to help me tell you what we think of 'Friendly Day':

What was the book about? The book is about friendly day which is a day when they are not mean. 

What was your favourite part? The mouse longed for friendly day in her cave meanwhile outside the dog still cried sadly.

What was your favourite sentence? My favourite sentence in the whole book was 'He tricked the cat, but now he sat and longed for friendly day. Meanwhile outside, the dog still cried. The bear gave him a pat.'

Who is your favourite character? It is the kittens because they look really cute. 

Did you like this book and why? Yes because it is a good book and the animals are friendly and kind.

Description:

Hooray - It's friendly day! 

A day for sharing a day for caring, when everyone is nice, when cow reads snail a fairy tale and cats do NOT eat mice. 

A warm tale full of friendship, love and hugs!

Thank you to my friend and student for her input and thoughts of  'Friendly Day'.

Happy reading

The Book Jumper

Author: Mechthild Glaser

ISBN: 978-1-250-14423-2

Hi Everyone

The concept behind this novel is fantastic. I want to be a book jumper!

When Amy Lennox visits her grandmother, she discovers the ability to book jump. What exactly does that entail? Well, she can go into the books and interact with the characters.  Just imagine that for one minute.  

See....

Don't you want to be a book jumper?  

What would you tell some of the characters that you have read about? Now that is telling 😄😏😒😖

With being a book jumper there is the downside. Doesn't everything come with all angles?  For Amy, there was a bit of fixing up to be done. A bit of mystery to solve. A bit of background knowledge to discover along the way.  

Fantastic!  

This one comes with my high recommendations for any young adult reader, and for those of you that still enjoy books from every genre and age bracket. Don't let your reading ever be limited by your age.

Description:

Amy Lennox doesn't know quite what to expect when she and her mother pick up and leave Germany for Scotland, heading to her mother's childhood home of Lennox House on the island of Stormsay.

Amy's grandmother, Lady Mairead, insists that Amy must read while she resides at Lennox House - But not in the usual way. It turns out that Amy is a book jumper, able to leap into a story and interact with the world inside. As thrilling as Amy's new power is, it also brings danger: Someone is stealing from the books she visits, and that person may be after her life. Teaming up with fellow book jumper Will, Amy vows to get to the bottom of the thefts - at whatever costs.

Happy reading

Mrs Chippy the Cat

 Author: Susan Brocker & Raymond McGarth

ISBN: 987-1-77543-708-6

Hi Everyone

Who is Mrs Chippy?

Mrs Chippy is Chippy McNeish's tomcat that journeyed on the Endurance with Shackleton and his crew to the Antarctic in 1914.  Based on the true story of the expedition, your children will enjoy this picture book as they not only learn about a much loved cat but also they ships experience as it got trapped in the ice of Antarctic.

Not only will they enjoy a lovely story book they will learn a little history.  At the back are photos of the real Mrs Chippy and Chippy McNeish and an extra snippet of history.

I have read this now with quite a few of my young students - or rather they have read it to me - and they are so many talking points to encourage the comprehension of the reader.  Not only have we read the story, we have had to venture further and look up the ship and the crew to see what else could be found.  The avenues for extra learning, from just one little 'picture flat' book, are enormous.  The opportunities to stop and talk whilst encouraging the comprehension of the young reader are immense.  This book has been a great investment to my reading collection.

I recommend books like this one, simply for the history and extra avenues that you take as your young reader enjoys what they see as a enjoyable little story book.

Description:

Mrs Chippy, trotting along the ship's railings, was the first to spot the pack ice. It spread out before the endurance like floating white chunks of a gigantic jigsaw, penguins and seals watched the ship from the ice floes as they sailed by, and whales and orca popped up to spy on them...

This is the tale of Mrs Chippy, a tom cat who was a loyal and loved companion to the crew on Ernest Shackleton's 1914 expedition to the Antarctic aboard the Endurance.

Mrs Chippy was the best mate of the ship's carpenter, Chippy McNeish. A statue of the cat lies on his grave in Karori Cemetery, Wellington.

Happy reading

Anne of Avonlea

 Author: L. M. Montgomery

Hi Everyone,

I have been so blessed to be given the opportunity to read some really old books!  Now, when I say old I mean a treasure! This one was published in 1926.  I have read it and been transported in time.  In more ways than one.  To hold and read this book, knowing the owner and their age; knowing the story behind them receiving it: knowing the joy that they got from reading; knowing... just knowing the history I hold in my hand, is a gift.

Then there is the history written on the pages. It's like being transported back 95 years to a time well before mine.  I read this seeing Anne and her friends living in a totally different time to ours but also knowing that in some aspects things have changed very little.  The world around us is continually changing and so are people, but reading this I and see people unchanged in many ways too. There was a certain connection still available to today's reader, that I grasped with every breath. I feel like I have been on a roller coaster ride between the 'Oh No!' moments and the 'shear laughter' moments, and there was even a moment that I wanted to cry.  

I was taken by the importance of good character.  Considering this was a children's book in it's time, I was impressed by how much I myself, learnt of the expectations of good character which was placed within the writing of this children's book.  There was not one perfect person in the story, but good character was defiantly intertwined within the pages.  I am sure just reading these books would have had children learning of the moral and social expectations of their time, and they were interesting to read about.  

I was also intrigued by the age in which Anne started teaching. Sixteen. I think of our sixteen year olds today, they are still the student and still have a few years of education before them.  Anne was a first year teacher and she took on the challenge like a professional. Sometimes we think we have come so far, but reading 'Anne of Avonlea' I am left questioning some things? That has to be a sign of a book worthy of being called a Classic.

As I finish the final pages I am reluctant to put the book down, knowing that I put down more than a book.  I put down a book full of history and memories.  In between the tattered cover lies thick pages entailing more than Anne's story, it tells of history.  I am left thinking that there is more history in these books that the history text books can show us.

Lucy Maud Montgomery (1974-1942)

A school teacher and minister's wife, Montgomery became a writer of popular juveniles almost by accident. Asked to prepare a short serial for a Sunday school paper, she drew on her girlhood memories of Prince Edward Island to produce the enormously successful 'Anne of Green Gables' (1908), to which she wrote six sequels.  Her ventures into adult fiction were not a success.

Taken from: Benet's Readers Encyclopedia - Fourth Edition

- 'Anne of Avonlea' is book two of the 'Anne of Green Gables' series

Happy reading

The Bad Luck Lighthouse

Author: Nicki Thornton
ISBN: 9781912626304

Hi Everyone

I love the library more now than ever at the moment.  As my love for different genres has widened, I find a new gem (or today, 11) just begging me to take it home.  I have taken a real liking to the shelf with the 'new books'.  Some of these I have noticed, are actually older titles but the library obviously has a new copy.  When I get them home and finally decided which one I am going to start with, I feel like I have been shopping at the bookstore.  I especially like the new books when I have requested they purchase a title, when they come in I know am reading that particular book first.  There is nothing quite like a new book and I can admit that I enjoy the newbies, even if they have to be sent back in three weeks. 

The Bad Luck Lighthouse came from the 'new books' stand at our library.  I found so much to think about in this book.  It is quite interesting what you can learn from a simple book.  Don't stop at the classics, I find there is something between the pages of every book if we are willing to sink beneath the surface and actually ponder what  is happening. This includes children's books and children reading them should be encouraged to think about what they are reading, between the lines, looking at anything that grabs their interest

Actually, I say throw away the multi-choice tests and fill in the gap sheets for books at schools and talk about the books.  When I say talk about them I don't mean ask questions that have an answer. Ask questions that need a conversation, an opinion, and a little thinking about characters and life.  If I had been shown how to think in these ways, about the events in a book as a child, I would have liked reading so much more - I may have pick a book up and read it.  There you go confessions of a student past.  I didn't read at school!  In fact I spent years saying I hated it!  With a passion!  Come on all you adults out there, if we stop testing the kids with random right/wrong questions and just have a conversation maybe more kids might like what they encounter. Maybe or maybe not, after all it is just my opinion.  An opinion from a childhood non-reader.

Today I read everything.  I have lots of catching up to do.  Lots of pondering the happenings between the pages of books from every age and every genre.  Fun!  

Fact: Never give up on a child.  They may not enjoy reading now but there is always time.  Enjoy reading for them and to them, they deserve to hear the story.  By hearing the story, one day they may just be an avid reading.... Never give up.

Back to the book at hand 😁  What was just a story became a brilliant piece of literature.  

It was in the suspense category and there was plenty of that.  I could have put it in the mystery section too but the librarians labelled it 'suspense'.  This was also a book with plenty of magic.  It was a book that showed people can often be more than you see. I feel that everyone had either a personal secret, a secret identity, a secret life, or simply didn't know what they had to offer and that had to be brought to the surface too.  It was like judging a book by its cover only to find the inside was nothing that you predicted.  Every character evolved in some way as the book progress.  No-one seemed to be who I thought they were.  Secrets unraveled everywhere.  

This may be a children/juvenile fiction book but from this book there are so many talking points and avenues that one can take a conversation down.  As you or you children read it, think about it.  Think about what we can hide from the world.  Think about what how your kids or yourself judge others without really knowing the real person below the surface. I am sure if you open your mind as you read this you will see so much more in the mystery and suspense.  And, it's actually a really good read. Enjoy the friendships and the magic.  Enjoy the journey.

Description:

Welcome to the bad luck lighthouse

In solving the mystery at the Last Chance Hotel, Seth has discovered a world of magic. Swept up in a new case at Snakesmouth Lighthouse - the murder of eccentric owner Mina Mintencress - he is determined to prove himself.

With the help of his cat, Nightshade, Seth must put his new-found magic to the test. Can they unmask a sinister sorcerer... before it's too late?

Happy reading

The Sailing Ship Tree

The Sailing Ship Tree

Author: Berlie Doherty

ISBN: 9781846470448

Hi Everyone

Here we have another book finally read that has been waiting to be picked up for months.  I purchased this book from Young Reflections off one of their sale tables.  Hence, I am not sure that they will still have it but it is well worth taking an afternoon out to browse their shop, it is one of my favorite education stores.  

The book description grabbed my interest first.  So I thought it only respectful to include the description part way through my written thoughts this time around - 

Description:

This is the story of the Big House by the Mersy and the people who lived there.  In particular the twins Walter and Dorothy, whose father is the butler; Master George, the desperately lonely son of the wealthy owner; and Tweeny, the little maid treated hardly better than a slave.

In a way the house belongs to all of them, though the lives of the servants and masters couldn't be more different.

When disaster strikes and Master George needs help, the four children find refuge in the branches of a beautiful chestnut tree in the grounds of the house and three create a daring plot to help him escape to a new world.

Did it live up to my first impressions?

I have to admit that it didn't grab me within the first few pages, so I put it down.  For quite a few months I struggled to pick it back up.  But, I am extremely pleased that I did pick it back up and start reading again.  Maybe I wasn't in the right mood the first time; or maybe it was a slow starter; either concept is possible but once I manage to find myself landed inside the pages there was no way I was closing the book.

I have no idea how big there sailing ship tree was but my imagination made it into something big and wonderful.  Not in fantasy way, rather in a vision of a really old tree that wanted as much company as the children.  It seemed like a place I would have gone to hide and feel safe and powerful.  For different reasons each child loved the tree right to the end.

The story was inter-twined with history and full of unexpected situations.  There was a part that I admit to being shocked by the twist in plot, but it did all work out in the end.  An ending that made the whole book seem real.  I envisioned the final pages with precision in my own little mind.  How the author wanted me to see it is beyond my knowledge but I give her credit for how she finalized it.

When I had finished this little gem, I went searching for information about the author only to discover her web page Berlie Doherty . On her page you will find out about how she came to write the book, an interesting read in itself.

Well, I have students due any minute so I will have to leave you all with a little homework for yourself:

1.  Find out where you can get yourself a copy and read it
2. Take a look in on https://www.berliedoherty.com/ and find out about the making of this story and the author.  It will be well worth the time

Happy reading

The Glimme

The Glimme
Emily Rodda & Marc McBride
ISBN: 978-1-86291-957-0

Hi Everyone,

I purchased this book over the Christmas holidays because of the cover and the pictures inside.  It is one of the most wonderfully presented novels I have ever come across.  There is 376 pages of well written text and amazing pictures to accompany it.  I just had to have it purely because of the presentation.

Six months later and I thought I would pick it up and see what the story told. I could be a little bias here because I enjoy both fantasy and children's genre, so if you are like me... you might need a copy for your bookcase too.  I enjoyed the journey that Emily Rodda took me on.  There were times that I had to stop and think about what character was taking the limelight, and I found that at times I was wanting the story to go a little faster.  I expected the housekeeper to turn up in the Glimme world but to my surprise she didn't, rather there was quite a twist at the end in which she was drawn back into the plot.  The end was in fact, very well written as it connected each character back into their rightful places while leaving a little speckle of unexpected which didn't leave the story in a state of 'normal/regular' old story line.

My favorite characters were the giants.  I would have stayed with them right there on the pages.  They were a breath of fresh air placed into the story and I applause Emily Rodda for including them in their rightful place.  They made me smile and keep turning the pages to see if they were still with me in the pages.

Now, for you to get a good idea of this wonderful gem of a book I have included the following youtube clip which was put on youtube by Children's Book Council of Australia.  It is a reading of The Glimme by Emily Rodda.  You will get a glimpse of the pictures that adorn the pages and an idea of the story.

While I was watching this clip I thought I would check out the Children's Book Council of Australia (click link to check it out too).  It is worth checking out, there are a few good reviews and readings on their page.

There we go, you now have two assignments...

1.  Pick up a copy of The Glimme and read it for yourself
2. Take a look at The Children's Book Council of Australia's youtube page

Description:

Finn's life in the village of Wichant is hard.  Only his drawings of the wild coastline, with its dragon-shaped clouds and headlands that look like giants, make him happy.

Then the strange housekeeper from a mysterious clifftop mansion sees his talent, buys him for a handful of gold and then reveals to him seven extraordinary paintings.  Finn thinks the paintings must be pure fantasy - such amazing scenes and creatures can't be real!

He's wrong.  Soon he is going to slip through the veil between worlds and plunge intothe wonders and perils of the Glimme.

Happy reading

The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden
Frances Hodgson Burnett
978-0064401883

Hi Everyone,

It has been a long time since I last submitted a review for you all.  It has been quite a year as I am sure you will all agree!  Through all this - whatever you want to call it - there is always an opportunity to learn something about life.  My country has been in lockdown just like many of you out there.  I found myself at home (a place I love to be) and being made to remain in this quiet place.  It was so quiet without traffic, even though I live out in the country.  I heard birds singing like never before, I saw horses running that I had walked past daily but never noticed playing, I felt a calm all around that is hard to explain.  In all that calm there was no library open!  But.... I have a Kindle.

I opened my Kindle and went searching for a classic.  Why a classic? I have no answer except that for some reason this past year I have discovered a new world of literacy in the pages of a good classic.  My search led me to The Secret Garden.  I remembered how much I loved the movie and clicked 'buy'.  A choice I have not regretted since.

When I started reading I thought about all the links to the world we are in today.  Mary lives in India where she is looked after by everyone but her mother.  This is not to say that we don't look after our children today as of course we do, but I have noticed that many people have opted not to send their little ones back to school or day-care here yet where prior to our lockdown it was almost a given that I'd send my kids to day-care, kindergarten and school.  Then, they had an outbreak of Cholera and Mary was sent to live with her uncle.  Hence, I thought 'interesting' and kept reading.

Oh my goodness was I in for a treat.

Mary was a little ratbag, to say the least. Talk about being an entitled little brat.  Then she finds Colin.  What can I say about Colin, he is worse.  Now don't be too quick to judge these little ones! They are only 10 years old and know nothing else of the world other than that which the adults have shown them, or rather in this case - not shown them.  

As Mary explores the outside world of the garden and finds the secret garden that dwells within, she is transformed.  As the garden is weeded and loved, so too Mary is weeded and transformed.  She finds a friendship in Dicken, who is such an adorable wee lad, and learns a simple thing called kindness.  Mary and Dicken introduce Colin to the world beyond his bedroom walls and he too transforms.  

How many of you have been transformed through all the changes around you.  In my country there is by far more little acts of kindness happening and I hope that it grows just as it did in Mary, Colin and the garden.  

One of the things that really sparked my interest was the way in which they found words played a pivotal part of what happened.  Every word and thought created an action and reaction.  I hear this flicked around the place loads and found it of great interest that a kids book from 1911 (109 years ago!) acknowledged it.  They also put emphasis on the importance of fresh air, play and good hearty natural food in their improvement of health.  I sat reading thinking "Come on! They are still studying this but knew about it all naturally back in 1911?)  

So, I was left thinking "How far has the world come".  We have another pandemic.  We are acknowledging more and more that our thoughts and words have an effect (do a search and see all the new books entering the market on this topic).  We are constantly saying that we lack vitamin D and need to get outside more.  They knew all this, as a natural fact, over 100 years ago and it was naturally written into a children's book!

Maybe we should all go back and read the old children's books.  Or, at least try reading a classic there is a wealth of knowledge to be taken from these pieces of literature.

Is that enough to get your interest sparked?  Try reading a classic, I for one am going to read more of them, now that I have discovered a world from the past that actually wrote some good stories.

Happy reading

Jorie and the magic stones

Jorie and the Magic Stones
Author: A H Richardson
ISBN:  9780692358924

Hi Everyone

I have just had the pleasure of reading this fantastic little novel!  Thank you to A. H. Richardson for allowing me a copy to read and review; I love a good children's novel and this one has left me with a smile on my face.

I will definitely be reading the next books in this series!

Normally it is the characters that draw me into a book, but in this case it has to be the worlds.  More often than not there are worlds within worlds in a good fantasy read, but this really interested me because the world the kids entered was under water.  But, not in the water.  Interesting thought.  This is what first got my attention. 

Then there was the dragons.  I am always sucked in by dragons.  I can't help it, I actually find them adorable.  In this book the dragons change.  It kept me on my toes.  

Of course there has to be at least one character which gets on my nerves and in this book it was the irritating professor.  He was so nosey and annoying.  Fantastic writing and character building.

I found the story evolved very quickly near the end but this was good because I often find that my students get bored of reading if things don't move along in the plot.  What I also liked was that the kids can leave reading at the end of this novel if they wish, or pick up the next one.  It becomes their choice as there was no definite cliff hanger at the end of the book.  I for one will have to see where their adventures from here take them though.

Overall a great little read that I would highly recommend to your young readers.

Description: 

When Marjorie went to live with her frosty maiden aunt, she couldn't imagine the adventures she would have with dragons - good and bad - and all the strange creatures that live in a mysterious land beneath the Tarn. The spunky 9-year-old redhead forges an unlikely friendship with an insecure young boy named Rufus who lives with his crusty grandfather next door. When Jorie - for that is what she prefers to be called - finds a dusty ancient book about dragons, she learns four strange words that will send the two of them into a mysterious land beneath the Tarn, riddled with enchantment and danger. Hungry for adventure, the children take the plunge, quite literally, and find themselves in the magic land of Cabrynthius. Upon meeting the good dragon, the Great Grootmonya, Jorie and Rufus are given a quest to find the three Stones of Maalog - stones of enormous power - and return them to their rightful place in Cabrynthius. Their mission is neither easy nor safe, and is peppered with perils in the form of the evil black half-dragon who rules the shadowy side of the land. They have to deal with a wicked and greedy professor, the tragic daughter of the bad dragon, caves of fire, rocky mountainous climbs, and a deadly poisonous butterfly. Jorie must rely on her wits and courage to win the day? Can she do this? Can she find all three Stones? Can she save Rufus when disaster befalls him? Can she emerge victorious? She and Rufus have some hair-raising challenges, in which they learn valuable lessons about loyalty, bravery, and friendship.

This was available from: Amazon, Book depository and Fishpond

Happy reading

Star of light

Star of Light
Author: Patricia St John
ISBN: 978-0-8024-6577-1

Hi Everyone

It's been a while since my last post for a couple of reasons.  First being that my kids and students come first and its been a busy term.  Second because I was challenged to read some of the books from my bookcase and the first one on the top left shelf was a 1256 pages long!  I also have a few books coming up that authors have sent to me.... so keep watching this space there is more coming your way very soon.

This book is part of the Sonlight curriculum, I have a few books from this curriculum is really is a good curriculum to follow through.  Star of Light is an easy little read and was first published in 1954.  While reading it I was able to sense the different era of which the book was written.  The characters were nice, the plot was nice, the scenes were nice.  It reminded me of a Sunday school book.  Because of this I think is best suited for a younger reader with a good reading vocab and comprehension.  I enjoyed it but found myself wanting to skip pages as it didn't really move fast enough.  I would have liked to read more about what happens to the little blind sister, Kinza.  I felt she could have added more depth to the story.

So, with the students I have coming through, I (in my opinion) think 10-12 years cover recommendation is a little on the older side.

Overall though, it really is a good read.  It has some talking points in the story line and definately has a good moral principle behind the plot.

Description:

Hamid does not want his little blind sister, Kinza, to be sold to a beggar, by thier stepfather, so he decides to rescue her.  Together they escape from thier mountain village to a town where there may be a new home for Kinza.  But this is only the start of their adventures.  Will Kinza be safe?  What will happen to Hamid who dares not to go back home.

This was available from: Amazon, Book depository and Fishpond


Happy reading

Sadako and the thousand paper cranes

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
Author: Eleanor Coerr
ISBN: 978-0-14-240113-2

Hi Everyone,

This one made me want to cry!

It is a beautiful little story of a girl full of life, only to have that life taken from her by lukemia.  I had this on my book case, one of the many curriculum novels I have waiting for me to read.  I have had my children read them and I am now making my way along my shelves.  It is only 65 pages long but it gets a message of joy, life, heart ache and strength across in such a meaning full way.

I have to say I have never read a book, written for the young, with such beauty and power.  I wanted to run with Sudako, sit with her, and then help her friends far beyond her story's end.  When I finished the book I had to search the internet for more information.  I have handed the book on now to another adult to read, as her story stretches far beyond her town.

I would like to see this book read by many after me will definately be handing it on to friends to read.


Description:

The star of her school's running team, Sadako is lively and athletic... until the dizzy spells start.  Then she must face the hardest race of her life - the race againse time.

Based on  a true story, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes celebrates courage that made one young woman a heroine in Japan.

This was available from: Book depository, Amazon and Fishpond

Happy reading

Don't ever look behind door 32

Don't Ever Look Behind Door 32
B. C. R Fegan

Hi Everyone,

I was sent this book by the publishers of B. C. R. Fegan and I have to say I continue to place this author on the top of my favourite picture book authors list!

This book is a simple concept really.  A couple of kids go to stay at a place and they are told not to look behind door 32.  Through the pages they discover what lies behind the other doors, and the imagination is brilliant, but they keep being reminded not to look behind door 32.  In the final pages, of course, they find out what is behind the forbidden door.  I have to say I was a little taken by what was behind this door as it was simpler than what I envisioned.  It is actually a good talking point to have with your kids, to see what they think may be behind the door.

The illustrations make this book a piece of art.  I love the pictures!  Anyone who has been following me for a while will know how much I enjoy children's books, particularly well illustrated, catchy ones.  This books ticks both the boxes.  The book rhymes, so it is easy to read... And the pictures are a real treasure.  I love the pictures! They bring this book to life :)

If you are looking for a gift, pick this book.  If you are looking for a bedtime story, pick this one.  If you are like me and like children's books, pick this one.

Description:

The magical Hotel of Hoo is a mysterious place with some very unusual occupants. As our guests explore the strange hotel, they are invited to experience everything it has to offer with just one warning… don’t ever look behind door 32.

This imaginative picture book aims to take children beyond the first ten cardinal numbers, and introduces them to the patterns of counting in a fun and accessible way. With rooms to explore and unique objects to count, children will enjoy lingering on each page as they make their way closer to the forbidden door.

   

This was available from:

• Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Ever-Look-Behind-Door/dp/0648101916/
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36700744-don-t-ever-look-behind-door-32
• Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dont-ever-look-behind-door-32-bcr-fegan/1127094125
• Book Depository: https://www.bookdepository.com/Dont-Ever-Look-Behind-Door-32-B-C-R-Fegan/9780648101901
• Fishpond: https://www.fishpond.com.au/Books/Dont-Ever-Look-Behind-Door-32-B-C-R-Fegan/9780648101901

Happy reading

The Green Ember

The Green Ember
Author: S. D. Smith
ISBN: 978-0986223501

Hi Everyone

There is nothing more refreshing than reading a kids novel.  This is one my daughter would have loved a few years back.  I have told her she needs to read it... time will tell if she does or not now that she is a little older.

I thought the characters were divine!  Heather and Picket stole my heart right from the first few pages.  Picket had an attitude and spark about him which I just loved.  He was little but proud, that's the best way for me to describe him.  Always ready to prove himself but not always quite ready: according to everyone else anyway.  But prove himself he does!  Good on you little Picket.  Heather was a typical older sister.  She was a bit of a know it all in her own little way too.

I also liked the world within the pages of this novel.  I often forgot I was reading a book with rabbits as characters.  The background was painted with descriptive words that formed a firm picture in my mind.  This is great for you young readers.  When one can envision what they are reading it makes the comprehension so much easier.  This is the kind of reading we need for your young readers.

Overall I would recommend this book for any young reader.  It grabbed me and left me wanting to pick up the next book just to take a peak at what would happen to these characters from here.

Description: 

Heather and Picket are extraordinary rabbits with ordinary lives until calamitous events overtake them, spilling them into a cauldron of misadventures. They discover that their own story is bound up in the tumult threatening to overwhelm the wider world. Kings fall and kingdoms totter. Tyrants ascend and terrors threaten. Betrayal beckons, and loyalty is a broken road with peril around every bend.

Where will Heather and Picket land? How will they make their stand?

This was available from: Amazon

Happy reading