August 5, 2013

Wow!  I do not know where the time has gone this summer.  It has been wonderful for me to read and enjoy time with my family and friends.  I have big news for my readers.  I am beginning a new position this Fall in Somersworth, New Hampshire as a Reading Specialist for Idlehurst Elementary School.  Another thing that has kept me busy is taking two online courses although I always find time to read.  Below are some of my favorites.

Rise of the Balloon Goons by Troy Cummings
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I always enjoy reading the first book in a series.  Alexander Bopp is like many children who move to a new area.  He wants to meet friends and feel safe.  Well in this story he goes on an adventure that makes him feel accepted by his community.  Good for readers middle grade 2 to grade 4.  Themes in this story include fantasy, friendship, adventure.  Guided Reading level is not available at this time on the Scholastic Website.



The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I need to get a personal copy of this text.  In my opinion it was very well-done and would be a great read-aloud for younger children.  The big theme in this story is the importance of books and having children write their own story.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is told from the perspective of a 16 year old girl with cancer.  She meets a great love that gives her so much joy and a gets one last trip to Amsterdam to meet a favorite author.  The end of the story made me tear up.  I would recommend this story for middle school readers and up.  Wow!  This story is worth the read.



Terrific Connections with Authors, Illustrators, and Storytellers: Real Space and Virtual Links by Toni Buzzeo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I just finished reading this text for an online course that I am taking this Summer.  I absolutely loved it because of the resources listed and the practical experience of teachers/librarians who have shared successful and not successful author visits.  Wonderful text!

An Invisible Thread: The True Story of an 11-Year-Old Panhandler, a Busy Sales Executive, and an Unlikely Meeting with Destiny by Laura Schroff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved reading this story which is based on real life.  I often wonder what are the differences that a caring adult can make in child's life and this story was amazing.  I recommend it!!!


You can find a directory of all my reading on goodreads.com.  My login name is xavxandiana.  I hope everyone continues to read as much as they can.  As always I welcome your feedback.

Diana Pettis