It's a Book

It's a Book by Lane Smith

Two readers compare a book to digital media, and learn that books are still valuable.

My Thoughts - This is a laugh-out-loud hillariously funny book! The story is full of satire about technology and clearly gets the point across that books are still good! The names of the characters are Mouse, Jackass, and Monkey and the last line of the book is very funny! But I don't know how well this would go over as a story time choice with the younger kids!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Confessions of a Former Bully

Confessions of a Former Bully by Trudy Ludwig

Nine-year-old Katie's punishment for bullying classmates includes making up for the hurt she has caused, so she decides to write a book about bullying, why it is not okay, and how to start being a better friend.

My Thoughts - This book is actually the sequel to My Secret Bully, a book I have not read yet. The topic is very important right now, especially to upper elementary students. Katie reveals how being a bully has hurt her and the classmates that she bullied. She gives good tips for how to tell the difference between a bully and friend, as the line might not be clear to some children. She gives her readers strategies for dealing with a bully. I like her wonderful school counselor too! This would be good to share with a small group, even a book club. I would recommend this book to students, parents and educators!

*Summary taken from CIP data.

Umbrella Summer

Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff

After her brother Jared dies, ten-year-old Annie worries about the hidden dangers of everything, from bug bites to bicycle riding, until she is befriended by a new neighbor who is grieving her own loss.

My Thoughts - This book made me cry! It was a wonderful story about how to deal with a loss. The cover makes it an easy pick for girls, but boys may enjoy the story too.

*Summary taken from CIP data.