Teach Mentor Texts have adapted this to focus on Picture Books to Young Adult Books.
Each week I'll recap what I've read/reviewed the week before
and then look ahead to what I am planning on reading/reviewing in the upcoming week.
Last week's book adventures:
February has been a slow reading month. As I started in on the Caldecott Honor Books, I found I needed a bit of a break. Let's just say that picture books in the 1940's are nothing like picture books today. Even though, I wasn't able to read a lot of books the ones that I read were wonderful.
The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
Maureen Johnson is best known for her contemporary fiction and humorous presence on twitter. I was curious to see what she would do with a supernatural suspense that blends together an American teenager from New Orleans, an English Boarding School, and Jack the Ripper-like murders. Johnson created an interesting premise and I am curious to see where book 2 takes us.
Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin
Eugene Yelchin garnered a Newbery Honor with his first Middle Grade book. A fast read with complimentary illustrations that provides the reader with a glimpse at the life in the Soviet Union under the reign of Stalin.
Hades by George O'Connor
The fourth installment in O'Connor's Olympians Series and once again he brings together various figures in Greek Mythology and gives readers a new glimpse into well-known stories. This installment doesn't just focus on Hades but also on Persephone and Demeter. Fascinating read.
A Boy Named FDR by Kathleen Krull; Illustrated by Steve Johnson, Lou Fancher
Kathleen Krull explores the early life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and how early experiences shaped him into the president he would one day become.
Worst of Friends by Suzanne Jurmain; Illustrated by Larry Day
There appears to be an interest in Thomas Jefferson and John Adams lately. This is the second one that has come out in the last few months about their friendship. Jurmain continues through the years of their feud and eventual reconciliation. A book to add to a collection of biographical stories on presidents and just in time for President's Day.
On Wednesday, I will be posting the nonfiction picture books I read this past week. There were some fun ones in the pile.
Upcoming book adventures:
My goal this week - try to get back into a regular reading routine again and back on track with #Nerdcott (Caldecott Challenge).
Glory Be by Augusta Scattergood - I started this one but didn't quiet finish it over the weekend.
Fake Mustache by Tom Angelberger - Thanks to a friend I have an Advanced Readers Copy of Angelberger's newest book. I can't wait to dive into this one.
So, what are you reading this week?
Please share! And remember to check in at Sheila's or Jen & Kellee's blog to see what they and others are reading!
These sound like really interesting reads. I still have not read name of the star. Hades looks really good. He's always been one of my faves. Good luck with getting back on track with your goals. You read an amazing number of books. Have a good week!
ReplyDeleteHades was excellent. I nearly go through withdrawal when I have a slow reading week. :-) So excited to get back on track
DeleteSounds awesome. I'm reading The Cabinet of Earths. I'll be giving it away with an author interview the end of March.
ReplyDeleteI just got that one. Hope it is good.
DeleteGreat post, Aly! I have several that I've loved on your list. I almost got the Maureen Johnson one when I was at the library but am not a huge fan of supernatural stuff in books.
ReplyDeleteKatherine
If you try Maureen Johnson's book - try it on audiobook. My book club just read it and those that listened to it liked it more than those who just read it.
DeleteThese all sound good. I have only heard of the first two, so thanks for telling about the others. I am especially looking forward to Breaking Stalin's Nose. I grew up in that time & remember how scary it was.
ReplyDeleteBreaking Stalin's Nose is a good one for students to get a feel for that time period. I can see some good discussion coming from reading that one aloud.
DeleteThe Name of the Star has been sitting on my pile of books for ages, I really need to get cracking on that one!
ReplyDeleteThe Name of the Star starts slow so hang in there. I liked the addition of the supernatural twist to the story.
DeleteI am so glad to see Breaking Stalin's Nose on this list - such a powerful book! It's making the rounds in my classroom now. I just ordered Glory Be and can't wai to read it.
ReplyDeleteBreaking Stalin's Nose was a surprise for me. I wasn't sure what to expect but it is powerful. Glory Be is good so far.
DeleteThis past week I finished Fat Vampire: A Never Coming of Age Story by Adam Rex, read Article 5 by Kristen Simmons and started Wonder by R.J. Palacio, along with reading a bunch of picture book F&Gs from Hachette and Penguin for order prep.
ReplyDeleteWhy haven't I gotten that Angelberger book yet? That's definitely going on my reading list as soon as it shows up.
I need to read Wonder...I just know it is going to be sad.
DeleteI love seeing all the fake mustaches everywhere. I made a Valentine with a fake mustache for my youngest. I think it turned out very cute. I can't wait to read what Tom Angleberger has in store for us next!
ReplyDeleteJen - Do you have a picture of the fake mustache valentine?
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