April 2012 Book Reviews
2012-04-02 Author: Hill Country Book Store
For Younger Readers
Little Pearly’s Hope by Martin C. Fry
Little Pearly’s Hope is a story, written in rhyme, about Pearly, a young oyster suffering pain because of the grit inside her shell. Many of her friends try to cheer her but nothing takes away her pain. Her loving and gentle Grandmother Pearl helps her to overcome the pain with the power of hope and understanding. Pearly soon learns that she is making her very own pearl to share with the world. For ages 3 to 6.
The Secret of Sleep by James Breslow
Artie is a young mole who is having trouble sleeping and goes in search of a solution. Ingabird Goose involves him in a task to sneak into the town dump and retrieve some toys. Unfortunately, the dump is heavily guarded by a group of very fierce dogs, which presents quite a challenge for Artie. Through perseverance, ingenuity and teamwork Artie is triumphant and is able to get a good night’s sleep. For ages 3 to 6.
For Older Readers
Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos
This year’s winner of the Newbery Medal is a novel for a reader that likes quirky adventures. The story is part autobiographical, part fiction, written in the spot-on teenage narrative voice of Jack. His mom lends him out to help a feisty old neighbor to type obituaries about the founders of his utopian town. As the history unfolds, the mystery and adventure takes off on a wild, humorous and character building ride. For ages 10 to 15.
Another Whole Nother Story by Cuthbert Soup
This is a humorous fast-paced adventure story about a father, his three children and a time machine. The second in the series, this time the family is off to end an ancient family curse. Their landing in the year 1688 is bumpy, and now the family not only has the task of returning a goblet to a king in order to end the curse, but they also have to find parts to repair their ride home. This is a funny, quick read for fans of time travel tales and action-adventure stories. For ages 12 and up.
