The Fairies of Nutfolk Wood by Barb Bentler Ulman

Mark Twain Nominee

In this intergenerational story (young and old unite), Willa with so many worries becomes a "soul sister" with Hazel an elderly neighbor. What they have in common--a glen with a stump. A stump that seems to provide it's own comforting magic. See how "Change is like a storm. It's all windy and upsetting, but the sun has to come out eventually."(beginning of the story)

Another favorite quote from the story (May is speaking to a nutfolk): "Act the way you want to be, and soon you''ll be the way you act." Really gives you something to think about.

Tell me your thoughts about the quote, or share your favorite quote, scene, character, or ideas about the book.

Author's Website: http://barb.bentler.us/index.htm

All of the Above by Shelley Pearsall

Truman Award nominee

This books is how four different students come together to accomplish a world breaking record with tetrahedron pyramid. The books is written from the point of view of the students, teacher, and parents. This one project changes the lives of those who are involved.

If you are interested in making your own tetrahedron check out this pattern at http://www.korthalsaltes.com/cube_tetra.html.

Or try making a kite: http://mathandecon.ncee.net/35/visuals/lesson7_activity.pdf

Don't forget to tell me about your favorite (or least favorite) character or scene of the book!!

Author's Website: http://www.shelleypearsall.com/

The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett

Mark Twain Nominee

This is more than a mystery and adventure story of three kids trying to save a historical home. It is a puzzler. There are different puzzles scattered through out the book, with more places to investigate in the back of the book.

Follow Petra, Calder, and Tommy as they try to stop a murder by solving the mysteries of the Frank Lloyd Wright's "Robie House."

Let me know what you think! Food for thought: Which character are you most like?

Author Site: http://www.scholastic.com/blueballiett/

Challenge make your own set (see beginning of book) or play online Pentomino at this site:

http://www.surfnetkids.com/games/pentominoes.htm

A Small White Scar by K.A. Nuzum

Mark Twain Nominee

Will has a goal, and he has taken all the steps needed to become the overall winner of a rodeo. It is this rodeo that will make him a man, but free him from his past. There are just a few things holding him back, a brother and the father who needs him to help run the ranch. Will needs to make a decision and it won't be easy.

Share your thoughts on this story.

Archer's Quest by Linda Sue Park

Mark Twain Nominee

In this fantasy story, ancient Korea folklore finds it way into the future. In some strange way, Chu-mung has stumbled his way into Kevin's home. It is Kevin who must find a way to get this king back into his own time. This adventure story has humor, wisdom, and respect.

Don't forget to check the last pages that containe the Chinese Zodiac, Author's note, and The math.

Please share a favorite character, scene, or quote of the book.

If you have just started reading...share your prediction. Please don't give the ending of the book!!

Author's Website: http://www.lindasuepark.com