Summer Reading: Great Single Books

http://www.chrisgrabenstein.com/kids/escape-from-mr-lemoncellos-library.php

My previous post detailed 4 great book series to get kids interested in summer reading.  What if your child isn’t ready for or interested in an entire series?  Here are some of my family’s all-time favorite single books…

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Based on a true story, Ivan is a gentle gorilla who has lived in a glass exhibit at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade his whole life. He makes friends with other animals in the exhibit over the years and doesn’t question his situation much. But the arrival of a baby elephant named Ruby gives him a new perspective, and he concocts a creative plan to get Ruby home to her family.

Told from Ivan’s point of view, this beautifully written book makes a powerful statement about animals kept in captivity for human entertainment. Be prepared to think a little differently the next time you go to a zoo or pet store! 

Available at https://blogs.iwu.edu/edu270literature/2014/05/27/the-one-and-only-ivan/

 

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein

http://www.chrisgrabenstein.com/kids/escape-from-mr-lemoncellos-library.php

Kyle Keeley is in the sixth grade and loves games. His hero is Luigi Lemoncello, the most famous game designer in the world, who has just built a new library in Kyle’s small town.  Kyle wins a spot as one of twelve kids invited for an overnight sleepover in the library, where he and the other kids must solve a series of hidden clues, riddles and puzzles in order to find a hidden escape route and get out of the library the next morning.

The book is very fast-paced and a bit of a game in its own right. Readers are asked to solve puzzles and answer riddles alongside the characters, and there are plenty of hidden references to real-life authors and books to keep everyone entertained. It’s a great book for kids who love mysteries, puzzles or strategy.

 

 

 

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

https://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=003128

During World War II, German troops begin “relocating” Jews who lived in Denmark. Annemarie Johansen’s family is part of the Danish Resistance and agrees to conceal Annemarie’s best friend Ellen as a member of their family to protect her.  As the story develops, Annemarie’s family embarks on a trip to smuggle Ellen and other Jews across the sea to Sweden.  Annemarie, who is 10 years old, struggles with bravery and understanding.

The book’s account of the heroism of Danish citizens is truly moving, and reminds us of compassion and human decency even in the world’s darkest moments.   It’s a definite departure from the usual fantasy, science fiction and teeny-bopper romances that are so popular at the moment, and has the potential to make readers confront their own feelings about loyalty and friendship.  The book is more suitable for sixth graders and up, and be ready for some deep questions about that time in history.

 

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

This book is different from most others in that it is a graphic novel – how fun!

Written by a real-life roller derby girl, the book details the life of 12 year old Astrid.  Astrid will be starting junior high in the fall and has recently discovered roller derby.  She signs up for derby camp away from her old friends and dance camp.  What follows is an uplifting story of growing up, letting go, finding new friendships, and discovering confidence – all in the setting of a non-conventional sport.  Perfect for girls making any sorts of transition!

http://www.victoriajamieson.com/books/

 

Still not convinced that your kid is up for summer reading?  In my next post, I’ll detail some other fun library activities that are suitable for all ages.

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Karen Fancher
Karen Fancher is a “relapsed Pittsburgher.” Raised near Latrobe, PA, she studied pharmacy at Duquesne University but was lured away by the sunny skies of Florida shortly after graduation. She spent 10 years in Tampa, and during that time acquired an insightful daughter, a kindhearted son, a Midwestern husband and a spoiled cat (but not in that order). In 2010, the entire crowd relocated home to Pittsburgh. She is currently a professor in Duquesne University’s School of Pharmacy, where she teaches oncology. When she’s not on an adventure with her family, you can find her cooking, reading or daydreaming about musical legend Sting.