Blended

Blended by Sharon Draper, 308 pages

“Piano-prodigy Isabella, eleven, whose black father and white mother struggle to share custody, never feels whole, especially as racial tensions affect her school, her parents both become engaged, and she and her stepbrother are stopped by police.” I wasn’t completely expecting how this story was going to go but I loved it.  I’m sure that plenty of kids can relate to Izzy’s story and even kids who haven’t had her experiences can sympathize with her troubles.  She’s an extremely likable and relatable character.  I would highly recommend this for older elementary kids.

The Golden Child

The Golden Child by Wendy James  352 pages

Beth Mahoney blogs about her life with her husband and two daughters, painting a picture of a busy, happy life. Originally from Australia, they've been living in New Jersey (US) for the last ten years. When Beth's husband has a job relocation back to Australia, the move couldn't have come at a more perfect time: Charlotte, Beth's youngest daughter, has been accused of being the ringleader of a group of girls whose bullying has landed another child in the hospital.

Once they settle in Newcastle, the family settles into their new life, with the girls attending a prestigious all-girls school. Popular Charlotte, however, is soon being accused of again bullying a classmate, this time to the point of the other girl's suicide attempt. Charlotte denies she's at fault, but the bullied child's parents are seeking retribution. Beth, caught between what her husband and mother-in-law believe, and her wish to believe her own child, is forced into an impossible situation.

I liked this book, which felt very realistic. You get Beth's perspective, mainly, although throughout the book are pages from someone's online blog (and it's not Beth's), which lends another perspective on the story. I found myself sympathizing with Beth and feeling that Charlotte was a nasty little girl, while at the same time wondering about Beth's other daughter and what impact this was all having on her. I also sympathized with the mother of the girl who attempts suicide, although she's not necessarily a likable character.

This book has a steadily increasing, almost relentless pace, and I found myself eager to find out what was going to happen at the end. I found the book very satisfying and, without revealing any spoilers, will say that there is a reveal of something which I found very surprising.

Between The Lines

Between The Lines by Nikki Grimes, 216 pages

“Darrian dreams of writing for the New York Times. To hone his skills and learn more about the power of words, he enrolls in Mr. Ward's class, known for its open-mic poetry readings and boys vs. girls poetry slam. Everyone in class has something important to say, and in sharing their poetry, they learn that they all face challenges and have a story to tell-whether it's about health problems, aging out of foster care, being bullied for religious beliefs, or having to take on too much responsibility because of an addicted parent. As Darrian and his classmates get to know one another through poetry, they bond over the shared experiences and truth that emerge from their writing, despite their private struggles and outward differences.” This book almost makes me like poetry.  Grimes’s characters have some interesting things to say about poetry that I actually agree with.  I can’t say that I like the poems in this book better than others I’ve read, but I really enjoy the story and I may be able to better appreciate poetry in the future. This is a great book for teens who like realistic fiction, regardless of whether or not they like poetry.

American Street

American Street by Ibi Zoboi, 324 pages

“On the corner of American Street and Joy Road, Fabiola Toussaint thought she would finally find une belle vie--a good life. But after they leave Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Fabiola's mother is detained by U.S. immigration, leaving Fabiola to navigate her loud American cousins, Chantal, Donna, and Princess; the grittiness of Detroit's west side; a new school; and a surprising romance, all on her own. Just as she finds her footing in this strange new world, a dangerous proposition presents itself, and Fabiola soon realizes that freedom comes at a cost. Trapped at the crossroads of an impossible choice, will she pay the price for the American dream?” I liked this book but not as much as I wanted to.  This is a good book for teens who want gritty, realistic fiction.

Children of Exile

Children of Exile by Margaret Peterson Haddix, 296 pages

“A twelve-year-old girl raised in a foster village is returned to her biological parents, and discovers home is not what she expected it to be.” I read the second book in this series first, which I would not recommend.  I like the series better now that I’ve read the first book since it explains quite a bit.  This will be a good read for kids who like science fiction and books about relationships.

Twisted

Twistedby Hannah Jayne, 313 pages

“Guilty until proven innocent... Bex has always been her daddy's little girl. After her mother left, it was just the two of them. Sure he spoiled her with clothes and jewelry, but what father doesn't dote on his daughter? Except Bex's dad is alleged to be a notorious serial killer. Dubbed "The Wife Collector" by the press, her father disappeared before he could stand trial. And Bex was left to deal withthe taunts and rumors. Foster care is her one chance at starting over, starting fresh. But Bex's old life isn't ready to let her go. When bodies start turning up in her new hometown, the police want to use her as bait to bring her father in for questioning. Is Bex trapping a serial killer or endangering an innocent man?” This was creepy and satisfying.  There was enough doubt about everything that I wasn’t sure until the reveal at the end who was guilty and who was innocent.  This has been one of Jayne’s best books, in my opinion.  Teens who like thrillers will read this

Redeemed

Redeemed by Margaret Petersen Haddix, 406 pages

“Jonah was able to save all of time from collapsing but in doing so gained a twin brother, Jordan, who must learn what has happened and do his own part to save time--and his parents.” I enjoyed the end of this series a lot.  The entire series was fun but the books really should be read in order.  Kids who like science fiction will love this.

The Whole Thing Together

The Whole Thing Together by Ann Brashares, 293 pages

“Summer for Sasha and Ray means the sprawling old house on Long Island. Since they were children, they've shared almost everything--reading the same books, running down the same sandy footpaths to the beach, eating peaches from the same market, laughing around the same sun-soaked dining table. Even sleeping in the same bed, on the very same worn cotton sheets. But they've never met. Sasha's dad was once married to Ray's mom, and together they had three daughters: Emma, the perfectionist; Mattie, the beauty; and Quinn, the favorite. But the marriage crumbled and the bitterness lingered. Now there are two new families--and neither one will give up the beach house that holds the memories, happy and sad, of summers past. The choices we make come back to haunt us; the effect on our destinies ripples out of our control . . . or does it? This summer, the lives of Sasha, Ray, and their siblings intersect in ways none of them ever dreamed, in a novel about family relationships, keeping secrets, and most of all, love.” Reading this was a little like reading a soap opera.  I enjoyed it, and this is the type of book that teens who like realistic drama will enjoy.

The Tale Of Angelino Brown

The Tale Of Angelino Brown by Alex T. Smith, 258 pages

“When Bert discovers a tiny boy angel in his pocket, he takes the angel home to his wife and they happily raise him as their own son.” This was a sweet book that would probably only appeal to kids who really enjoy reading.  There is some adventure and fantasy about it, but not enough to truly satisfy kids who really like those genres.  This book has an old-fashioned feel, which some kids may like, but as I say, this book is more for kids who just truly love to read.

The Most Important Thing

TheMost Important Thing: Stories About Sons, Fathers & Grandfathers by Avi, 216 pages

“One of the most beloved writers of our time presents seven short stories exploring the vital ties between fathers and sons. Luke sees the ghost of his father but can't figure out what Dad wants him to do. Paul takes a camping trip with the grandfather he's just met and discovers what lies behind the man's erratic behavior. Ryan has some surprising questions when he interviews his prospective stepfather for the job. In a compellingly honest collection of stories, multiple-award-winning author Avi introduces seven boys--boys with fathers at home and boys whose fathers have left, boys who spend most of their time with their grandfathers and boys who would rather spend time with anyone but the men in their lives. By turns heartbreaking, hopeful, and funny, the stories show us boys seeking acceptance, guidance, or just someone to look up to. Each one shines a different light on the question ‘What is the most important thing a father can do for his son?’" This was a good, solid collection of stories.  I think that it would have a lot of appeal for elementary age kids, especially boys.

Rebound

Rebound by Kwame Alexander, 414 pages

“Before Josh and Jordan Bell were streaking up and down the court, their father was learning his own moves. In this prequel to Newbery Medal winner The Crossover, Chuck Bell takes center stage, as readers get a glimpse of his childhood and how he became the jazz music worshiping, basketball star his sons look up to.  A novel in verse with all the impact and rhythm readers have come to expect from Kwame Alexander, Rebound will go back in time to visit the childhood of Chuck "Da Man" Bell during one pivotal summer when young Charlie is sent to stay with his grandparents where he discovers basketball and learns more about his family's past.”  This is a great book for reluctant readers.  Despite its length, there is a lot of white space because it is in verse.  A great pick for teens who like realistic fiction, especially boys.

Children Of Refuge

ChildrenOf Refuge by Margaret Peterson Haddix, 262 pages

“Many surprises await twelve-year-old Edwy Watanaboneset when the Freds return him to Cursed Town, including that he has siblings in Refuge City who he will join in boarding school.” I didn’t realize that this was the second book in the series and I hadn’t read the first when I started it.  I definitely would not recommend reading these out of order.  It was very clear that I had missed a lot.  However, this is typical; Haddix and kids who like science fiction will undoubtedly want to read this series.

Fridays With The Wizards

FridaysWith The Wizards by Jessica Day George, 234 pages

“When the dangerous ancient wizard Arkwright escapes the dungeon and goes missing within the Castle, Princess Celie must find the wizard and save her family.” I really love this series.  Celie is an awesome character and I love her whole family and entire cadre of friends.  This series is a must-read for kids who like fantasy.

Forever Or A Long Long Time

Forever Or A Long Long Time by Caela Carter, 311 pages

“Flora and her brother, Julian, don't believe they were born. They've lived in so many foster homes, they can't remember where they came from. And even now that they've been adopted, Flora still struggles to believe in forever. So along with their new mother, Flora and Julian begin a journey to go back and discover their past -- for only then can they really begin to build their future.” This is one of the saddest, best books I’ve read in a long time.  Even though these kids’ experience was not mine at all I completely related to Flora.  I want to give this book to every kid, but the length will probably make it better for older kids who enjoy reading.

Coco: A Story About Music, Shoes, and Family

Coco:  A Story About Music, Shoes, and Family by Disney-Pixar        Audio Book:  5 hours, 36 minutes     Hardback Book: 256 pages       

Miquel dreams of being a musician like his hero, Ernesto  de la Cruz, but, because his great-grandfather left his great-grandmother to go play guitar for the world, his mother won’t let him.   The family lives together in the same house and no one since Grandmother Coco has been able to sing or dance or play music because it leads to heartbreak and reminds them of great-grandfather’s leaving.   The family trade is making shoes and that is what Miguel is expected to do, too.   Miguel feels like he will die if he cannot play music and has secretly collected bits and pieces of musical instruments from the square where he shines shoes (until he is old enough to learn how to make shoes)  by taping these odd bits and pieces together he has fashioned a version of a guitar for himself.    He collects photos, video tapes  albums, any memorabilia he can find depicting Ernesto de la Cruz.     Happily dreaming among his treasures of one day playing guitar for the world.   Sadly his mother comes across him playing music on his make-shift guitar one day and breaks it!   He feels as though she has pulled his heart from his chest and screams at her he does not want to be a part of the family any more!   Be careful what you wish for…when the Mexican celebration Dias de los Muertos  (Day of the Dead) comes, like Alice down the rabbit hole – Miguel is about to find out what can happen when wishes come true.     A good story, I enjoyed it, very well told.    I’m glad I know the story – now – I want to see the film.    Very good story.    This would be good for a class studying different cultures and countries.    Enjoyable story for young and old.

One Plus One

One Plus One by Joho Moyes             Audio Book: 12 hours, 19 mins.        Paperback Book:  432 pages                   

 

Great story.  O.K. the lead character made me really angry at times, but, that is the sign that the author really has the reader fully engaged when you are so committed to the story that what these fictional characters do, per the stroke of the writer, can elicit emotional responses from the captivated reader.    So good Jojo Moyes writing is.     Lead character, Jess, is in a financial nightmare.   Her husband has left her with two kids, his teenage son through an affair he had with a meth addict that is dumped on their doorstep by the mother  when the boy is 8 years old.   Jess’ heart goes out to him so she is all for raising him, then she and her husband have a daughter, Constanza.   One day, the husband just decides to up and leave and moves back in with his mother leaving Jess and the kids high and dry.   The Dad stops working so survival of the family is now on Jess’ shoulders.   She doesn’t hassle her ex because she feels he is having mental issues and just needs some time away.    They live in a dodgy area where a family of bullies runs the neighborhood and the school.    The family of bullies are real low-lifes that are always picking on the kids and harassing, beating up or stealing from all the neighbors.    Jess is trying to stay ahead of the bill collectors and keep food on the table so she works two jobs, tending bar (pub) and working with her best friend and co-worker at the bar cleaning houses whenever they can get a job.  The kids get hassled at school and in the neighborhood, the son uses mascara in a rock star/Goth/Punk kind of way more as artistic expression of who he is not as a sexual expression.   He has no friends at school and is constantly used as the bullies’ punching bag.   His sister is a Math Wiz even though she is just 8 years old now herself.   The other kids, less educationally minded give her grief, too.    She also has no friends and has to constantly keep an eye out for the bullies to whom age nor gender matter if they want to do something awful to you they will.   Respect is not in their category.    Then there is the millionaire stock trader up on charges for insider trading.    So much goes on in the story, some will make you laugh, gasp and at least one part will make you cry.     Everyone in the story starts out as one way but all go through radical trials by fire.    An excellent story it will keep you wanting to get to the end to see how it all ends up.   Man!   Good book.   So much to tell but not to spoil.   Treat yourself and read or listen to this one.    

Just Dance

Just Dance by Patricia MacLachlan, 116 pages

“On a farm in the middle of the prairie, ten-year-old Sylvie struggles to understand why her mother gave up singing on stage while she sets off on an adventure of her own as the town reporter.”  This is a sweet story for early readers.  There’s not much action, but younger readers that are okay with a quiet story will enjoy this.

Beartown

Beartown by Fredrik Backman     418 pages

The saga of a small town and the ripples that one action causes all unfold from the various viewpoints of the grownups and children in Beartown.

This is a deep story, iceberg deep. On the surface is the story of the Beartown hockey team. Below it are all the different stories, complex and intricately told, of the people and children who make up the town and the team. Watching the different story lines unfold is one of the beauties of Backman's writing. Every character has their own voice, their dreams and their fears, and together, each voice paints a picture of the town. It's sad and it's bleak, it's hopeful and it's full of love. 

If you're into realistic fiction, especially of the small-town variety, this book is for you. Even if you don't appreciate or know anything about hockey, Backman draws you in, because this is not just about a hockey town, it's about the people that make up this hockey town. I found it infinitely frustrating, yet valuable, to read each character's reactions to/handling of rape, from the parents on down to the children. It will break your heart, but in the end, it's important because this story is build on empathy. 

The writing is beautiful, heartbreaking, and so well done. Though it was painful to get through in some parts, in the end, I feel it was worth the struggle. I highly recommend it. I listened to the audiobook of this story, which was very well done, and I'd recommend it, too.

Big Little Lies

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty     460 pages

Big Little Lies follows three women, each at a crossroads:   Madeline is a force to be reckoned with. She's funny and biting, passionate, she remembers everything and forgives no one. Celeste is the kind of beautiful woman who makes the world stop and stare. While she may seem a bit flustered at times, who wouldn't be, with those rambunctious twin boys? New to town, single mom Jane is so young that another mother mistakes her for the nanny. Jane is sad beyond her years and harbors secret doubts about her son. But why? While Madeline and Celeste soon take Jane under their wing, none of them realizes how the arrival of Jane and her inscrutable little boy will affect them all.

A well put together novel about the relationships connecting three Australian women. Moriarty is a master of characterization and plot development. The story unfolds slowly over time, the conflict taking shape amidst the past events leading up to a present-day murder that is only hinted at through snippets of interviews with all those present on the night of the murder. Slowly these jigsaw puzzle pieces fit together to reveal the big moment - the murder - and the aftermath.

I quite liked the suspense kept - it wasn't immediately obvious what would happen at the end. I also enjoyed getting to know each of the women and how little things about them were revealed in very small ways. They felt like real people. Their struggles also felt very real and their reactions very human. A lot of tough subject matter resides within this story - domestic abuse, rape, bullying, to name a few. I think the author handled these subjects well and they didn't feel like they were being used just as a plot device, but that they were things that needed to be included because the author was trying to relay real-life, silent, tragedies. The overall message seems to be that we need to remain vigilant in our fight against these tragedies, to pay attention, to ask the right questions and not to forget that these things happen anywhere and to anyone.

I don't really know too much about Australia, but this tight-knit community at Pirriwee seems like a very difficult place to be different. All the residents seem to be of the same type - minus their wealth. Every character seemed to be white with a nuclear family set up, very suburban. At times, it felt like another world, suspended in a bubble, but maybe that was due to the small-town nature of the community being portrayed. It didn't hinder my enjoyment of the story, but it did take away a little from the feeling of realness of the story.

Anyways, I'd highly recommend the book. It's a page-turner and it's so well executed. If you like suspense and mystery, it's a good one.

The Ninth Hour

The Ninth Hour by Alice McDermott       256 pages

This book opens on a winter afternoon in a small tenement apartment. A young Irish immigrant sends his wife on an errand and then, closing the gaps in windows and doors, opens the gas taps. In the aftermath of the resulting fire, Sister St. Saviour, a nun, appears to direct the way forward for his young widow and unborn child.  This thread of the nun, the young widow, and the child, is followed through the story, over years, and weaves it way into the lives of other characters.

This story, set in the early part of the twentieth century, spans decades, although the story is never belabored or boring (at least, I didn't think so because I settled in with this book and just kept turning the pages).  I enjoyed how the author wove the stories of the characters together, and the characters, themselves, were so clearly outlined that they were easy to imagine.

Admittedly, this book was on my TBR list, although I didn't anticipate I'd get to it anytime soon. However, my husband gave me the book on Christmas Eve and I wound up settling in and really getting into the story. I deliberately read slowly (or at least tried to) and by the end, even though it was a good ending, I was disappointed that I had reached the last page. If I had known the book would be this good, I would have grabbed it as quickly as I could have and not put it off to read in the next few months.