The Absolute Value of Mike by Kathryn Erskine

No this is not a math book.  It is about the relationships that Mike has with his father, Moo, Pop, and other quirky characters.  I think the book (see chapter 2 about Moo and Tyrone) is funny and very realistic.

Check out this website for more information:

http://www.kathrynerskine.com/

POP by Gordon Korman

Truman Nominee 2011-2012

What would you do if a middle-aged man decided to play football with you in the park?  Had Marcus ever heard of "Stranger Danger?" 

Mark has just moved to town.  He is a football player, and he is looking to improve his game so that he could make the team.  He sets his own practice field up in Three Alarm Park.  Before long he has attracked the attention of Charlie Popovich.  There is something about Charlie that isn't quite right.  But Charlie begins showing Marcus the "in's and out's" of playing the game.

What Marcus has discovered is that Charlie is sometimes living in the past, reliving his good ole football days, and his days as a prankster.  Suddenly Marcus is pulled into his activities, and finds himself in trouble.  Can he really "tell" on a man who is well loved by the town?

For information on Gordon Korman and his other books,

Check out his website @

http://www.gordonkorman.com/



Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson

By James Patterson--Children's Choice Author of the Year

I have to admit--James Patterson is also one of my favorite authors.  The stories are good, there is always alot of action, a good twist to the story, and believable characters.  Oh, and the chapters are usually two to three pages for those who read in short spurts.  If you want to feel you have accomplished alot of reading, you are on Chapter 10 before you know it.

Back to this story--One of the best graphic novels that I have seen.  The drawings are great!  The story is funny, and I think the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" fans will love the book as well.

Warning:  The stunts pulled in this book will get you in trouble!  Please do not do them at school!!!

Rafe is out to make school interesting this year--His goal is to break every rule in the  HVMS Student Code Book.  The outcome--You'll Just have to read the book!!!



Jane In Bloom by Deborah Lytton

Truman Nominee 2011-2012

For those of you who like to cry through a book, this one may be for you.  The book begins with Jane losing her sister to an eating disorder.  But that isn't all that she seems to lose.  This is a well written book, a first person narrative told from Jane's observations and feelings.  This is a book worth reading.

First Line: 

"I open my eyes."

Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen

I laughed and I cried.  This is an very good realist fiction book about a disability.  Rather than me tell you about the book, I think that this time, I'll let the author tell  you.  Click the link below!


From the Author's Mouth

Author's Website

Bull Rider by Suzanne Morgan Williams

Truman Nominee 2011-2012

In this story, Cam's brother, Ben comes home from Iraq.  Once the High School Champion Rider, Ben badly hurt, and will no longer be able to ride the Bulls.  Cam is trying his best to keep up Ben's Spirits and willingness to move on.  Will Cam be able to do that?

 

The Last Thing I Remeber by Andrew Klavan

Truman Nominee 2011-2012

I normally have a picture of the book cover--unfortunately  it is not working...Is this a conspiracy? 

Are the homelanders watching this site?

"Suddenly I woke up, strapped to a chair."

Why is Charlie West here being tortured?  What is going on--he just had the best day of his life.  He is great at Karate and he has a new girlfriend.  Her number is written on his arm....wait where did it go?  This is one of those fast paced, action packed adventures that leaves your heart pumping and your mind thinking..."How is he going to get away this time?"

A Friendship for Today

A Friendship for Today

by

Patricia McKissack

This story takes place in the mid-1950's when schools become segregated.  The story is based on Mrs. McKissack's own experience as the only black student in her sixth grade class.  The book, written from Rosemary's point of view shows up happens when changes take place.  She is not only going to a new school, but friendships begin to change, illnesses happen, and then there is also the division of her family.  Walk through the school year as Rosemary experiences so many changes.

By the way, did you know that Patricia Mckissack and her husband are Missouri author's.  The live in St. Louis.

Sports Camp by Rich Wallace

With it being summer, some kids are thinking about going to camp.  There are camps for scouts, church, and sports.  At Camp Olympia, boys participate in a variety of sports--basket ball, softball, water polo, and even swimming, track, and even karaoke.  In this small world of camp Riley worries about the same things everyone worries about, fitting in.  Riley already has a few strikes against him, being the youngest, and smallest at camp.  Even if you don't get the chance, escape with Riley as he explores the life at camp and learns to compete with the best of them.

Boost by Kathy Mackel

Calling all Girl Athletes!  Here is a Book Just for you!

Guys, you will like also!

If you want to be the best at anything not just sports, you need to "Boost" your game.

This is the first book that I have personally read that deals with girl athletes.  (Oh, I remember that there was a soccer player in the Traveling Pants series)

 The story is about Savvy, an 8th grade basketball player,  and her friendships, her trials with making a select team, her family troubles, school, and her relationship with her sister.

The story begins with Savvy and her family moving from New Mexico to Rhode island.  Savvy is trying out for basket ball.  She's got the talent and skills to easily make the team.  But she also likes to challenge herself, and with her new friend Gonzo, they try out for the 18 and under select league.

Occassionally, I was lost due to the basketball terms, but then I'm not a basketball player or sports announcer. However, I was able to tell if the team was winning or not, and I could get a glimps of what was happening and I did enjoy the different plots.

There is also a message about steroids that is very important for athletes!