Rating: 5 stars A Dazzling Display of Dogs by Betsy Franco and illustrated by Michael Wertz is a humorous and clever collection of poems about dogs doing what dogs do: riding in the car, sleeping, usurping a favorite chair, snuggling with a teddy bear, escaping, running, barking. The vibrant and vivid colors of the illustrations … Continue reading A Dazzling Display of Dogs by Betsy Franco and illustrated by Michael Wertz
Month: June 2015
Interview with Brian Hare, author of ‘The Genius of Dogs’
Brian Hare, author of "The Genius of Dogs," wrote a revolutionary book that will change the way people think about their dogs. Dr. Hare met with me during the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) conference in Spokane, Washington. He was there to present his findings on "Dognition." He defines Dognition as how dogs use … Continue reading Interview with Brian Hare, author of ‘The Genius of Dogs’
Interview with Matthew Cody, author of the ‘Supers of Noble’s Green’ series
Matthew Cody should be a familiar name to those who read or recommend middle grade fiction. He wrote the popular series "The Supers of Noble's Green" including "Powerless," "Super," and "Villainous." He also wrote "Will in Scarlet," about a companion of Robin Hood. His books appeal to kids because they feature ordinary kids who come … Continue reading Interview with Matthew Cody, author of the ‘Supers of Noble’s Green’ series
‘Why Dogs Eat Poop’ by Francesca Gould and David Haviland
Rating: 4 1/2 stars "Why Dogs Eat Poop: Gross But True Things You Never Knew About Animals" by Francesca Gould and David Haviland is a nonfiction book for middle grade readers that will fascinate kids with its detailed and, at times, really gross information about animals that do disgusting things. The Contents reads both alliteratively … Continue reading ‘Why Dogs Eat Poop’ by Francesca Gould and David Haviland
‘Rain Reign’ by Ann M. Martin: Touching middle grade tale about a girl and a dog
Rating: 5 stars With "RAIN REIGN," Ann M. Martin cements her status as an author who writes fabulous stories about people and animals alike. In "RAIN REIGN" Martin brings to life the powerful connection between dogs and children, and how having a dog can make a huge difference in the life of a child. Rose Howard … Continue reading ‘Rain Reign’ by Ann M. Martin: Touching middle grade tale about a girl and a dog
‘Saving Grace’ by Jane Green: What if someone stole your life?
Rating: 5 stars In her brilliant new book "Saving Grace," Jane Green explores many themes. What makes a perfect marriage? Does one ever overcome a horrible childhood? How can someone steal into your life and take away that which you love before you realize it's happening? To outward appearances, Grace and Ted Chapman seem the … Continue reading ‘Saving Grace’ by Jane Green: What if someone stole your life?
‘The One and Only Ivan’ by Katherine Applegate
Rating: 5 stars "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate is a book that almost defies definition. It's a book that should earn six stars on the five star rating system, but only five stars are allowed. It’s not quite a children’s book, but it’s not an adult book either. Rather, it’s a book … Continue reading ‘The One and Only Ivan’ by Katherine Applegate
‘Tuesdays at the Castle’ by Jessica Day George: First in a delightful series
Rating: 5 stars Jessica Day George brings it all to her "Tuesdays at the Castle" series. The first book includes gripping action, fabulous characters, well-written dialogue and best of all -- a magic castle. The castle is at its best, or worst, on Tuesdays. That's when it changes. And the main character, Princess Celie, wants … Continue reading ‘Tuesdays at the Castle’ by Jessica Day George: First in a delightful series
‘Out of the Easy’ by Ruta Sepetys a beautiful story about 1950s New Orleans
Rating: 5 stars "Out of the Easy" by Ruta Sepetys is a gripping novel. It's a book that can easily cross over from young adult fare to adult reading. The story, about a girl growing up in New Orleans, is beautifully told. From the beginning, when the reader learns about Josie, the daughter of a … Continue reading ‘Out of the Easy’ by Ruta Sepetys a beautiful story about 1950s New Orleans
‘Ashes’ by Ilsa J. Bick
Rating: 5 stars "Ashes" by Ilsa J. Bick is a book one should think very carefully about beginning. After all, finding time to read a 465 page book without stopping might be difficult. But it's guaranteed to be worth your while. Absolutely. During the first chapter, the reader is grabbed by the neck and shoved … Continue reading ‘Ashes’ by Ilsa J. Bick