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August 2012 Book Reviews 2012-07-29 Author: Hill Country Bookstore |
For Younger Readers
I Must Have Bobo
by Eileen and Marc Rosenthal
Willy’s favorite playmate is Bobo, his sock monkey. There is only one problem – Willy’s cat Earl also prefers Bobo as his favorite playmate. Willy spends many wonderful adventures with Bobo that express the playful imagination of children as they forge their first friendships with a beloved stuffed toy. And the mischievous Earl with his “Boboknapping” ways has a wry personality brought out in his expressions. This story has a hunt-and-find element for young readers as Willy searches for Bobo. The illustrations, with their nostalgic muted coloration, add calmness to the story that makes it a winning bedtime read. For ages 4 and up.
A Boy and A Bear and A Boat
by Dave Shelton
A boy asks a bear if he may have a ride in his boat to “the other side.” Simple…or is it? This quietly comedic adventure, in which an unlikely friendship is formed between the boy and the bear, is filled with tension as the two face challenges such as storms, hunger and a sea monster. Their developing relationship alternates between irritation with and affection for each other. The language is refreshingly clear, clever and humorous and yet vague, for there is no journey’s end. It’s a book that allows for questions to be asked and pondered with no definite answers given. For ages 6 to 12.
For Older Readers
Shakespeare’s Secret
by Elise Broach
It’s hard enough trying to fit in being the new girl in sixth grade, but it’s even worse when your father named you after a female Shakespearean character: Hero. An old eccentric neighbor shares with Hero the story of a missing million dollar diamond from a necklace owned by Anne Boleyn – that it might be hidden in Hero’s new home, and the hint that finding it may reveal a secret truth about William Shakespeare. Hero is swept up in the search for the diamond and is helped by one of the most popular boys in the school. A wonderful summer read for young mystery enthusiasts. For ages 8 to 14.
Ship Breaker
by Paolo Bacigalupi
This futuristic sci-fi novel is set on the Gulf Coast, where young teenage boys are scavenging ships for copper wire to scratch out a meager living and survive another day. Teenage Nailer is faced with a dilemma when he discovers an elegant clipper ship beached by a hurricane and its lone survivor, a beautiful and wealthy young girl. Does he strip the ship of all its value to meet his immediate needs or does he escape with the girl for the potential of a better future? The characters are ethnically and morally diverse and the plot is fast-paced and packed with conflict. For ages 8 and up.
