An Oldie but a Goodie...

When it comes right down to it, there is no better feeling in the world than cuddling up and reading to your children, no matter their age. Earlier this evening, I settled onto Eliza's bed and happily read one of our favourites by Julia Donaldson, Monkey Puzzle. "Hush little monkey, don't you cry. I'll help you find her said Butterfly."

Our baby, Nora (who by the way is not a "real baby - just my baby" as she sternly reminds me everyday) is really beginning to enjoy "reading" her picture books these days. She has an uncanny ability to memorize words which in turn makes her feel very grown up. Monkey Puzzle is a new favourite of hers but an old favourite for the rest of us. Mac, who was in his room next door reading Double Fudge, couldn't resist joining us to read this sweet story of the monkey who lost his Mum.

Then a couple of hours later, it was my turn to read with the boys. We are currently reading The People of Sparks, which is the sequel to The City of Ember. Despite the boys being 8 and 10, they still love to be read to each night. It is like the great equalizer at the end of the day - no matter who argued with who, we are all in our happy place as we read together to end the day. It is my hope that they will let me read to them for many more years!

Here is my recent review for this great post-apocalyptic tale...

The People of Sparks: The Second Book of Ember

Written by Jeanne DuPrau

Recommended for ages 9-12.

$7.99

It had been years since I read the first book in this series, The City of Ember, and I was intrigued with the whole idea of a civilization living below the Earth’s surface. The story has always stayed with me so I was thrilled when Mac came home from school and said that his teacher was reading this really neat book to the class. “It’s all about this world where the people are running our of light and the mayor is greedy and keeps all kinds of food and lightbulbs to himself and there are two kids who are trying to escape because they know there is world beyond theirs…” I knew it had to be Ember that he was referring to. He was shocked to hear that I too, had read the book and loved it. We then made a promise that together we would read the second book in the series.

So now each night, the boys and I live side by side with Lina and Doon as they discover that the residents of Sparks are not what they first believed them to be. Initially, they were welcomed with open arms and provided food and shelter but as the food becomes scarce, the visitors are resented and mysterious things start to happen throughout the village. Just as the two teenagers led their entire community out of Ember, Lina and Doon are now faced with the gargantuan task of keeping peace between the Emberites and the people of Sparks.

Although this book is more than seven years old, it is one that should not be forgotten for those who love science fiction and imagining what would happen to the world if ever there was a natural disaster that ended civilization.

Scaredy Squirrel has a birthday party

Here is my latest review for KVStyle:

Scaredy Squirrel has a birthday party
Written and Illustrated by Melanie Watt
Recommended for ages 4-8.
$16.95

It’s birthday time for the famous, fearful rodent. As he has for all of his birthdays, Scaredy busily plans his party for one. He really prefers to celebrate by himself since there are so many unknowns that could arise if other creatures are invited. A few that are especially frightening for Scaredy are Big Foot, ants, clownfish, ponies and porcupines.

As he ventures off to mail his invitation to himself, he discovers a birthday card from his friend, Buddy. For a brief moment in time, Scaredy thinks it would be a good idea to invite Buddy to his party. So he quickly addresses the invitation to Buddy and hopes for the best. “But inviting a guest is one risky move!” Now the man of honour must start to organize his party for two. He selects the conversation topics for small talk, determines the dos and don’ts of partying (with the only ‘do’ being to sit quietly) and finally prepares the timeline for the one-hour party.

As is often the case, when planning a party – the best-laid plans do not always work out! At precisely 1pm, Scaredy is literally scared out of his tree. Buddy has brought all kinds of friends to join in the celebration. Will Scaredy Squirrel survive the commotion? Perhaps he may enjoy it (even if he won’t admit it)!

This is Melanie Watt’s fifth book in the Scaredy Squirrel series

Winter Wonderland

The snow drifts are high and the sun is shining - a perfect day for skiing. Although our family won't be hitting the slopes for a month or so, Jim and his friends will heading to Sugarloaf this weekend. Let's hope the skiing conditions remain perfect for them...

In the meantime, I look forward to starting my new book club book tonight Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian. Last night I finished Jumpstart the World by CatherinA very strange young adult that addresses a number of issues, the most prominent of which is transgenders.

Elle is a fifteen year old girl who is living on her own in an apartment because her Mom's new boyfriend doesn't care for her. Elle meets Frank (formerly Frannie) and immediately develops a crush on him. The story spans a few months in which a lot happens. Whenever I read a book, I am always thinking of which of our customers would enjoy it. This book has stumped me. I cannot pinpoint exactly who would like this - perhaps a very mature high school student who likes off beat stories.

We are off to Eliza's first-ever basketball game and then to Daniel's hockey game. I guess supper will be pb & j on pita in the van on the way to the rink. As my friend's mother once told her, every meal does not have to be an occasion!!

Happy Reading!

Mary Ann