Strange things happen in Skeleton Creek - and when they do, Ryan writes them down and Sarah captures them on video. They've solved old mysteries. They've followed clues all over the country and underground. They've investigated secret societies. They've found their answers.
Or so they thought. Because there are still some secrets that Ryan and Sarah haven't uncovered yet. And there's still a shadowy figure standing in their path...someone who doesn't want Ryan and Sarah digging up any more of the past.
The horrible Herdmans are the meanest kids around. They lie, steal, cuss, and smoke cigars -- even the girls. The last place anyone expected to see them is in church. So when the Herdmans storm Sunday school and take over the annual Christmas pageant, everyone braces for the worst. But no one is prepared for what really happens when the rottenest kids in the world take over the greatest story ever told. It's a pageant full of surprises for everyone -- including the Herdmans themselves.
The thing about poodles is that Georgie hates to walk them.
The thing about Jeanie the Meanie is that she would rather write on her shoe than help Georgie with their Abraham Lincoln project.
The thing about Georgie's mom is that she's having a baby—a baby who will probably be taller than Georgie very, very soon.
And the thing about Georgie . . . well, what is the thing about Georgie?
The Thing About Georgie...
What is the thing about YOU?
One of my favorite graphic novels is Calvin & Hobbes by Bill Watterson. One of the reasons I love these books so much is because of the main character Calvin, and how much he reminds me of my youngest son, Hunter. If you have not read Calvin & Hobbes yet we have many copies in our classroom book nook!
The Phantom Tollbooth
Genres: Fiction - Fantasy Books, Humorous Stories
"The Phantom Tollbooth", full of puns, humor and colorful characters, is an original and hilarious classic children's chapter book. Kids in third grade through seventh grade will get a good laugh from the ingenious plays on words in this humorous story. Ten-year-old Milo finds a Phantom Tollbooth in his room. After driving through the tollbooth gate, Milo embarks upon a fantastic journey that takes him to Dictionopolis, the land of words; Digitopolis, the land of numbers; and many other unusual places. Along with watchdog Tock and the Humbug, Milo goes on a quest to bring back the Princess of Sweet Rhyme and the Princess of Pure Reason to the Kingdom of Wisdom from the Castle in the Air. "The Phantom Tollbooth", written by Norton Juster and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, is one of the best fantasy books for children.
As an animal lover, there was never a doubt in my mind that John Grogan's MARLEY: A DOG LIKE NO OTHER would not win a place in my heart. However, upon completion, I was surprised to note that, not only was Grogan's effort entertaining and heartwarming, it also possessed a profound, lyrical undertone that certainly works to help readers - both young and old - to come to terms with the life, and death, of a beloved pet. John is a likable character, whose ability to put up with just about any crazy behavior Marley decides to embrace is hilarious. His easygoing personality, and obvious love for Marley only makes the reader enjoy his presence from beginning to end. Jenny, while not as prominent of a character, also displays a warmth that transcends from the pages of the book to the reader, making her a mother-like figure from start to finish. While the children - Colleen, Conor, and Patrick - make very small appearances, their personalities and loving ways shine through, giving the reader the chance to observe their gentle, loving ways with Marley, even as he reaches old age. However, while all of the human characters add a sense of depth to the tale, it is Marley who still captures the show, bringing his irresistible, yet oh-so-wacky personality to the forefront. Marley is a dog that can't be ignored. His constant slobbering, incidents with various screen doors, and inability to control his bowel movements only work to make him more lovable; while his fascination with everything around him - from leaves to chipmunks, and everything in-between - truly go to make him an inquisitive, canine Casanova. While it is difficult for the reader to view Marley go from a playful, exuberant pup, to a full-grown dog in old age - as his hearing and sight begin to fail - knowing that Marley had such a wonderful life makes his demise more bearable, and instills a sense of calm and peace within those who delve into the pages of MARLEY: A DOG LIKE NO OTHER. Two paws up!
Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer
Take it from Cliff, being the oldest of six kids is not easy under the best of circumstances. Who can be Mr. Reliable all the time? How do you deal with a brother who enjoys sitting under the kitchen table for punishment? Or explain to your sister that she can't divorce herself from the family just because they eat meat? Or figure out what your baby brother wants for Christmas when he asks for a yidda yadda? Told in the first person, each lively, humorous episode from Cliff's fifth-grade year focuses on one of the kids. Together they create a strong, satisfying story of a large, closely knit family.
Go to Chatting About Books to hear some recommendations for books for kids about Greek Mythology.
This book had me from the first page. I love how you can hear Jack's voice and how he slowly shares the story of his beloved dog Skye. At first his writing is short and he is really grumpy about writing, but then he begins to open up to his teacher and tell his story. Jack is funny and honest about how he feels and I found myself wanting to know more about him. Lucky for me there is a follow up to the book...Hate that Cat!
