It's Monday, What Are You Reading? June 3, 2013

Please visit the amazing blog: Teach Mentor Texts 

who host this terrific meme each week. 

Since I did not read that much this week, I will turn my post into a What Am I Reading?/Mini Review post of what I finished this week.

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

I did not know anything about this book before choosing to read it.  Imagine my surprise when what seemed to be a realistic fiction novel morphed into a fairytale/fantasy.  I enjoyed reading about Hazel's journey to into the unknown world of the White Witch (yes, like the witch from Narnia) to save her best friend, Jack who has disappeared. Although presented with dangerous and difficult obstacles, Hazel never turned back or gave up....nice example of "girl power".  The book contains 320 pages. I think students in grades 4 through 7 would like Breadcrumbs best.

See what others think about Breadcrumbs.  

The Story Snoops

Bookalicious

Here is a book trailer.

 I rate this audiobook 4 out of 5 stars.

I finished listening to Splendor's and Glooms by Laura Amy Schlitz.  I wanted to read this book after watching the Newbery Award presentation and seeing all the recognition it earned.  It is also on the 2013-2014 Maine Student Book Award list.  I tried to read it months ago, but abandoned it because I thought it was pretty creepy. After several people recommended the audio version, I decided to give it another try.  Splendors and Glooms is an incredible, intricately woven story.  Laura Amy Schlitz is masterful with her use of vivid, descriptive language.  The tale is full of mystery, suspense, and yes.....dark creepiness.  The book is 400 pages long and is listed for ages 9 and up by the publisher. Although the superior writing and incredible storyline(s) cannot be denied, I find it hard to imagine that many 9-10 years olds would enjoy reading it. Having said that, I do have a copy available in my 4th grade classroom for any student who wants to give it a try.

See what others think about Splendors and Glooms
Common Sense Media
The Book Smugglers
New York Times

I am currently reading...

Capture the Flag by Kate Messner

What Are You Reading My Friends?