Jillicious Reading - Fourteen (Plus One!) Favs of 2014

The past semester has been crazy busy.  They all are, but with added responsibilities at work, it seems I have struggled more than ever to find time for all I want to do.  I haven't read as much as I like and have blogged even less.  But, it's a New Year, a fresh start, and a chance to begin anew!  

I thought I'd start with some of my favorites of the past year.  Then, I'll try to post my recent read more regularly in 2015 ... and maybe even actually keep up with my progress on Good Reads!  

Here's to great books and new beginnings! 

Picture Books

1.  Sparky
by Jenny Offill, illustrated by Chris Appelhans
This unusual pet can't do many tricks but turns out to be the perfect companion. I adore sloths, so that drew me right in.  But, I quickly fell in love with the charming illustrations, the humor, and the hand-lettered text.  Sparky! is a true delight.  

2.  Gaston 
by Kelly KiPucchio, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Gaston isn't quite like his sisters, and Antoinette isn't quite like her brothers.  But, as it turns out, each pup is in the right dog house.  I love this book's bold, abstract artwork, sense of humor, and messages of acceptance and belonging.  And, of course, all the dogs! ... with funny names ..... and some wearing kerchiefs!   :)     

3.  The Farmer and the Clown 
by Marla Frazee
When a little clown bounces off of a circus train, an old farmer rescues him. I am a longtime admirer of Marla Frazee and pretty much love everything she does.  But, this wordless book is a true stunner.  Frazee packs so much story, feeling, and heart in the pages of this book.  From the big open skies and the wide horizons to the expressions and movements of the little clown, every stroke is perfect and meaningful.  This gentle story of unexpected surprises and journeys home is a grand achievement.  
** This is my prediction for the winner of the Caldecott Medal :) 

Nonfiction

4.  Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla 
by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by G. Brian Karas
My first reading of Ivan was the display copy in the exhibit hall at ALA Annual and within minutes I was in tears.  I loved The One and Only Ivan so much, and I felt this was the PERFECT picture book companion.  Katherine Applegate retells the story brilliantly and G. Brian Karas's artwork is so compelling, expertly depicting the gorilla and his journey.  After reading, it took me several minutes to pull myself together.  The book's editor was standing there; she felt so sorry for this crazy, sniffling mess of a woman that she gave me an Ivan tote bag!  :/ 

5. The Scraps Book: Notes from a Colorful Life
by Lois Ehlert 
I would love to be an artist and love all things having to do with art.  So, of course, I adored Ehlert's book telling how she grew as an artist, developed her unique collage style, and became a book illustrator and author.  My favorite page says: "I created lots of art, though not for books right away. But I didn't worry. Everyone needs time to develop their dreams.  An egg in the nest doesn't become a bird overnight."  This is wonderful encouragement to a dreamer who is still developing.  ;) 

6.  Brown Girl Dreaming 
by Jacqueline Woodson
Jacqueline Woodson contributed a beautiful memoir to the world this year.  Brown Girl Dreaming tells her story of growing up in two very different worlds - South Carolina with her grandparents and then Brooklyn with her single mother.  She describes how she overcame a struggle to read and eventually found her voice in the gift of weaving words into amazing stories.  Click here for my original post about this outstanding book.
** This is my prediction for the winner of the Newbery Medal  :)   

7. El Deafo 
by Cece Bell 
Another memoir, I loved this year was El Deafo.  This is Cece Bell's story of growing up hearing impaired and how she learned to embrace her difference and see it as a superpower!  I wrote about this unique, inspiring graphic novel memoir in this post too. 

Middle Grade

8.  The Meaning of Maggie 
by Megan Jean Sovern
Maggie is not your typical 11 year old and is also very different from her two older sisters.  While they are interested in boys, make-up and popularity, Maggie is focused on her grades, stocks, defending her Science Fair win, and being President of the United States one day.  That is until the whole family's life is turned upside down when her father is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and confined to a wheelchair.  This is the story of "the year that changed everything." 

Maggie is a hilarious, honest, spunky character.  I love her uniqueness, and the way she deals with her family, more the parent than the youngest daughter.  The novel is an authentic look at how a family pulls together to face the challenges of illness .... there are moments of laughter, tears, breakdowns, and triumphs.  And Maggie is an unforgettable narrator, calling it all like she sees it every step of the way.  

9.  Courage for Beginners 
by Karen Harrington
Seventh grade is not going how Mysti planned at all.  Her longtime friend, Anibal, is suddenly popular and has left her at the table of misfits in the cafeteria.  Her father is in the hospital and she is having to hold the family together because her mother doesn't leave the house - something no one knows about.  It's all getting to be a bit too much.  But maybe a new friend and a quirky Texas History teacher will help Mysti find the courage she needs to carry on. 

Karen Harrington is one of my new favorite authors.  I love her Texas settings, her quirky characters, her female heroines who are stronger than they think they are, and the way she explores mental illnesses.  Courage for Beginners is funny, honest, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. I can't wait for her next book!   

10.  Revolution 
by Deborah Wiles
This follow-up to Countdown takes place in the summer of 1964 - the Freedom Summer - in Greenwood, Mississippi.  Sunny doesn't know what it all means, just that volunteers are coming to the town from up North to register blacks to vote and the town's adults are not happy about it.  Sunny has her own problems as she is trying to get used to her new stepmother and siblings. As the summer progresses, though, her world view starts to expand.  Local businesses start to close so they don't have to serve blacks, and Sunny starts to wonder what's right and what she really believes.  

Wiles once again effectively uses newspaper clippings, song lyrics, photographs, excerpts from speeches, Bible verses, and other memorabilia to set the stage and provide details of the time period.  She skillfully blends Sunny's story with the historical landscape.  Sunny is plucky and daring - the right character to question what is happening and to begin to think for herself.  The book is tied to the characters in Countdown in a clever way.  This is a quality novel and an excellent introduction to (or a brush up on!) the Freedom Summer.  

Young Adult 

11.  To All the Boys I've Loved Before 
by Jenny Han
To Jenny Han:  I love your books and this one is my favorite!  Click here to read my original post about this engaging novel that explores the challenges of family, loss, identity, and first loves. 

12.  The Winner's Curse 
by Marie Rutkoski
The Winner's Curse is a very original novel. That's what I loved about it.  It was quite different from anything I'd read in a while.  And the cover ... Isn't it awesome?  Click here to read my original post about this novel that will pull you into a new, compelling world.  

13.  We Were Liars 
by E. Lockhart
This is the most talked about book of the year.  And for good reason.  It is beautifully written and completely surprising.  E. Lockhart is such a talented writer, and she stuns and succeeds with this gem.  Click here to read my original post about this incredible novel. 
**  This is my prediction for the winner of the Printz Award  :) 

14. Belzhar 
by Meg Wolitzer 
Jam's boyfriend Reeve has been gone for over a year but she is still mourning and cannot move on.  Her parents enroll her in a therapeutic boarding school in rural Vermont - The Wooden Barn - hoping there she will receive the help she needs.  When she arrives, Jam finds herself enrolled in a Special Topics in English class, a highly coveted course, that will be studying only the works of Sylvia Plath.  When she and her few fellow students in the class begin the journal assignments, they are mysteriously pulled into another world where they can return to their pasts.  But, as the pages of her journal begin to fill up, Jam must face some truths and make some important decisions about her reality. 

A boarding school in New England + an exclusive English course + an inspiring teacher + troubled teens who heal through reading and writing + surprising plot twists + an amazing cover featuring a book, a journal, pens, and Keds! :) = an outstanding book and an instant hit with me!  I loved it. 

**  my prediction for a Printz Honor ;) 

And one more ... 
I Kill the Mockingbird
by Paul Acampora
Three 8th graders are excited about their summer reading list, because they love to read.  But, since everyone doesn't, they decide to launch a campaign to increase interest around To Kill a Mockingbird, the beloved novel of their former teacher.  This involves hiding the book on bookstore and library shelves to increase demand.  Their efforts start to take off and do get people reading and talking about the classic novel.  But things quickly start to spin out of control. 

To Kill a Mockingbird is, not surprisingly, one of my favorite novels, so I was intrigued with the premise of this book right off.  Then add a beloved teacher, kids who love to read, and a campaign to get others to read .... sold!  And that's not all!  There's snappy dialogue, oodles of talk about books and reading (so many great quotes!), clever humor, and important lessons learned.  This book is a must-read for book lovers and middle school teachers. 

2014 was filled with many, many great books.  I could easily have listed 14 plus one more! What were YOUR favorites?   

Here's to hoping for more time to read and blog in 2015!  Cheers!  

ALA Midwinter 2014

2014 has been a whirlwind!  It's time to catch up on some posts.  Let's start with some recent literary events. 

I was not made for cold weather.

 
The ALA Midwinter Meeting was held in January in Philadelphia. It was bitterly cold as evidenced in the photo on the right.  Travel buddy Mary and I were walking down the street squealing as we were pelted with freezing snow; clearly, no one confused us for native Philadelphians. But, in spite of the bone-numbing temperatures, I had a wonderful weekend in Chilly Philly (my first visit to the city).  Here are some highlights: 

**Scholastic Author Reception 
Scholastic hosts these fun events where a group of their authors perform a readers' theater of excerpts from each other's upcoming releases.  The mix of books, genres, styles, and personalities is always a delight, and this gathering was no different.  The reception featured Julia Donaldson, Jon J. Muth, Natalie Lloyd, Cynthia Lord, Rodman Philbrick, Deborah Wiles, and Lucy Christopher. 

Natalie Lloyd is a debut author, and she completely charmed the room (again! ... she was

also featured at the Scholastic event at NCTE and won a legion of fans there as well).  Her debut novel A Snicker of Magic is an enchanting story celebrating words, family, and new beginnings.  I expect we will continue to see great things from this talented lady!

I also particularly loved Muth's unique Hi, Koo! full of endearing haiku poetry perfectly illustrated by his gentle artwork. Two more spotlighted books I am really excited about are Cynthia Lord's Half a Chance ( I loved her first novel Rules) and Deborah Wiles' Revolution, the second in her Sixties Trilogy.  I have been eagerly awaiting this follow-up to Countdown.  It will surely be another powerful story of this tumultuous, important time period told in Wiles' heartfelt style.  And, isn't the cover excellent?? 

**Random House Dinner 
Random House hosted a lovely dinner with authors E. Lockhart, Dana Reinhardt, and Jenny Hubbard. It was a delightful evening celebrating excellent writing for young adults. I had read the incredible We Were Liars and loved hearing the back story to this unforgettable novel as well as learning about the additional upcoming novels featured at the event.  

I have since read And We Stay, a melancholy story of a teen who experiences a great tragedy but finds healing through poetry and the spirit of Emily Dickinson.  It was written by the talented and very Southern Jenny Hubbard (Paper Covers Rock) and edited by the equally talented and absolutely fabulous Rebecca Short whom I had the pleasure of chatting with throughout the evening. After reading this moving story, I am now eager to visit the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst, Massachussets (Emily Dickinson's home and an important setting in the novel) and I also plan to revisit Dickinson's poetry with fresh eyes. 
       

**Exhibition Opening at The Barnes Foundation 
Thanks to the ever-connected Mary, we were able to attend the opening of a special exhibition at The  Barnes Foundation. The Foundation holds an extensive collection of Post-Impressionist and early Modern art amassed by Dr. Albert C. Barnes. Dr. Barnes was committed to "the advancement of education and the appreciation of the fine arts" ... be still my heart!  I was completely awed by what had been Dr. Barnes' personal collection which includes hundreds of pieces by Renoir, Picasso, Rousseau, Matisse, and one of my very favorites, Cezanne. 

The exhibition opening that weekend was Magic Ladders created by artist Yinka Shonibare. Shonibare's work "cites the artistic and intellectual history of Europe. His sculptures - life-sized mannequins clothed in the Dutch wax fabrics associated with Africa - offer a dramatic, playful, irreverent examination of identity, history, and politics. [The] show focuses on education, enlightenment, and opportunity, ideals embraced by Dr. Barnes." (-taken from The Barnes Foundation website)

The exhibition was fascinating.  I loved the fabrics, the mix of patterns, the striking images.  The mannequins were bold and arresting and each portrayed a powerful message.  My favorites, of course, were the child-sized figures climbing ladders of books (volumes taken from Dr. Barnes' own library) representing the growth that is attainable through knowledge and education.   

The exhibition was sponsored by Anthropologie and select stores will have pieces inspired from the art.  I hope Dallas is one of these select stores!  

The visit to the Barnes Foundation was an unexpected addition to the trip, and such a treat.  I highly recommend a stop here if you are ever in the Philadelphia area.

** ALA Youth Media Award Announcements
The award announcements is always one of the highlights of Midwinter.  There is such excitement in the air as early risers line up to enter, last minute predictions are being made, the doors finally open, the crowd scrambles for seats, the selection committees enter the room, and the officers take the stage.  When the announcements begin, there are wild cheers as favorites win and gasps or even stunned silence when suprise titles are named; but it is always exciting and a wonderful celebration of the literary excellence created the previous year.  

I was so pleased with the outstanding selections and congratulate the authors and illustrators on their awards and the committees on their hard work. A few of my personal favorites that received acknowledgement this year were: 

•  Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo (Newbery Winner)
• One Came Home by Amy Timberlake (Newbery Honor)
• Flora and the Flamingo by Molly Idle (Caldecott Honor)
• Mr. Wuffles! by David Wiesner (Caldecott Honor)
• P.S. Be Eleven by Rita Williams-Garcia (Coretta Scott King Author Award)
• When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kook Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop illustrated by Theodore Taylor III (CSK/John Steptoe winner)
• Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell (Printz Honor, Odyssey, Honor)
• Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle (Odyssey Honor, Stonewall Honor)
• Nino Wrestles the World by Yuyi Morales (Pura Belpre Illustrator Award)
• The Lightning Dreamer: Cuba's Greatest Abolitionist by Margarita Engle (Pura Belpre Author Award)
• The Nazi Hunters: How a Team of Spies and Survivors Captured the World's Most Notorious Nazi by Neal Bascomb (YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults)

There are always some books you would like to have seen come away with an award.  For me, I really would like for Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by Peter Brown to have received Caldecott acknowledgement.  I felt the color, contrasts, pacing, and humor in this book were all brilliant. I also would love to have seen Winger by Andrew Smith and All the Truth That's in Me by Julie Berry earn Printz recognition.  Both of these unforgettable teen voices and their powerful stories were unique contributions to young adult literature that I would like to have seen celebrated. 

But, so it goes. Comparing our favorites to the winners is all part of the fun!  I appreciate the work of the committees, trust the process, and look forward to next year's announcements.  I also hope to someday serve on one of the committees and get to be a part of, what I am sure, is an intense, arduous, but incredibly rewarding experience.  

**Friends, Food & Fun
Of course, the best part of these conferences is enjoying good food in fun cities with good friends! 

A late dinner with  Karen & Mary!

Favs of 2013

SO many great books released in 2013.  Here are my favorites of the year:



Picture Books


The Day the Crayons Quit
by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
Hilarious collection of letters from the crayons who have had enough!  Overworked, ignored, or misunderstood, they quit!  This clever story is perfectly drawn with Jeffers' charming artwork and lettering.  Innovative and witty, The Day the Crayons Quit is a must for every picture book shelf.   



Exclamation Mark
by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Ted Lichtenheld
Exclamation Mark is different and is trying to find his place in the world.  Funny and perfectly PUN-ny, this little book has a simple but important message for readers of all ages. Particularly for those who appreciate humor, word play, and a brilliant blend of text and illustration.   

Mr. Tiger Goes Wild
written & illustrated by Peter Brown
Mr. Tiger doesn't really like his prim, proper world and goes a little ... wild.  He learns some things in the wilderness as do his prim friends while he is away.  Another riotous romp from Peter Brown, complete with his detailed, whimsical, perfectly hand-crafted illustrations. His use of line and color (ORANGE!) are pure genius. 

Paul Meets Bernadette
written & illustrated by Rosy Lamb 
Paul swims around and around in circles in his fish bowl ... until Bernadette arrives. Bernadette sees things differently and shows Paul a whole new way to view the world.  The artwork, created with broad strokes reminiscent of Monet or Matisse, adds to the charm and beauty of this gentle book celebrating the impact one individual can make on the world ... even one as small as a fish bowl. 

Flora and the Flamingo 
written & illustrated by Molly Idle
This wordless interactive book is a pure delight.  Plump little Flora, in a pink swimsuit and bathing cap, imitates the moves of her friend the flamingo.  Although not quite as graceful, her efforts result in pure fun.  Young readers will want to flip the pages again and again ... and likely mimic the dance!  Created by a former DreamWorks animator, this duo begs to star in an animated short, whether it's on the screen or in the reader's mind.   


Middle Grade

Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures 
by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by K.G. Campbell 
Another Flora! ... and equally as endearing.  Flora Belle Buckman, a self-described cynic, steps in to help a squirrel in a tangle with a vacuum cleaner.  The squirrel (AKA Ulysses) survives and emerges a superhero with special powers and a penchant for poetry.  DiCamillo has woven another quietly brilliant tale with her exquisite word choice, endearing characters, and trademark charm.

Counting by 7s
by Holly Goldberg Sloan 
Willow Chance is a 12-year-old genius.  She has an amazing knowledge of nature and medical conditions, but knows very little about getting along with others.  When tragedy hits, Willow must learn to exist in a new reality and makes an unexpected impact on those around her.  The writing is impeccable, and Willow a true gem.  This tragic, but ultimately hopeful tale is one-in-a-million.  


P.S. Be Eleven 
by Rita Williams-Garcia 
Delphine and her sisters are back!  Returning home from time spent with her estranged mother, Delphine must reconcile what she has experienced and her newly found independence with her grandmother's old ways, the changes happening in her family (her father is dating!), and the trials of 6th grade. Rita Williams-Garcia has created an excellent sequel to an excellent book.   I can't wait for #3! 

Star Wars: Jedi Academy 
by Jeffrey Brown 
This little book completely surprised and delighted me!  Roan dreamed of entering the Pilot Academy, like his father and older brother before him.  He doesn't get in, but instead is invited to the mysterious Jedi Academy.  Told through journal entries, clippings, report cards, doodles, and letters, Star Wars: Jedi Academy tells the ups and downs of Roan's first year at the Academy.  The book is clever and entertaining, but also surprisingly perceptive as it addresses topics such as bullying, making friends, not giving up, and handling new situations. It has huge reader appeal and makes you want to pull out your old collection of Star Wars action figures (yes, I've got 'em.. even the Land Rover!) and maybe even start your own journal.  Read it you must, love it you will. ;





Young Adult

One Came Home  
by Amy Timberlake 
It's 1871 in Wisconsin, and Georgie's sister has disappeared.  The town assumes the worst, but Georgie, armed with only her sharpshooting skills and pure determination, sets out insistent on finding her.  Part adventure, part mystery and wholly original, One Came Home is a True Grit for tweens & teens (and 40-somethings!), immediately transporting readers to a different time and into the heart of a plucky unforgettable heroine.  Funny, smart, and insightful. 


The Fire Horse Girl 
by Kay Honeyman 
Jade Moon is born under the worst sign of the Zodiac for Chinese girls ensuring that she is willful and stubborn, traits not desirable in young girls.  While her grandfather worries about marrying her off, she dreams of a different future.  Her chance comes when a distant adopted cousin arrives with an opportunity to go to America.  But, admittance to this new country is not easy for the Chinese in 1923 and detainment at Angel Island is almost unbearable.  Jade Moon's strength and will turn out to be just what she needs to survive. This well-researched novel gives readers an authentic view into Chinese immigration as well as a strong, feisty teen to root for as she navigates her new world.  

Going Vintage 
by Lindsey Leavitt 
I am a sucker for romance, quirky, loveable characters, and books that make me laugh... Lindsey Leavitt creates all three superbly!  When Mallory's boyfriend "cheats" on her with an online girlfriend, she swears off all technology.  Armed with a to-do list her grandmother made as a teen in 1962, Mallory decides to "go vintage," to return to a simpler time, and to try to accomplish her grandmother's goals.  The challenge proves to be a little more than she expected (How does she run for pep club secretary when her school doesn't even have a pep club??).  Through it all, Mallory makes many new discoveries about herself, her family, and those around her.  Reviewers have claimed Linsdsey Leavitt's books have "humor and heart." I wholeheartedly agree and can't wait for the next one!   



Winger

by Andrew Smith
Ryan Dean West is the youngest in his junior class at an elite boarding school on the West Coast. He is a frequent target for bullies, but his wits, determination, and prowess on the rugby field help him rise above.  This year he is set on making Annie, his best friend and love of his life, see him as more than a friend and a younger boy.  But the year brings more than anyone anticipated.  This honest look into the mind and heart of an insecure, hormonally-charged 14-year-old boy is a true achievement. It's wickedly funny, intelligent, surprising, and absolutely heartbreaking.  



And my two very favorites of the year ...  

All the Truth that's In Me
by Julie Berry 
Four years ago, Judith and her best friend disappeared.  Her friend's body was found in the river; Judith returns to town two years later, mutilated and unable to speak.  Viewed as cursed and ignored by the town and her family, Judith silently pours her heart out to Lucas, the boy she has loved since childhood.  With echoes of The Scarlet Letter and Speak, All the Truth That's in Me is an exquisite, completely captivating novel.  Readers are immediately pulled into Judith's silent world and compelled by the mystery surrounding her disappearance.  This quiet but determined girl grabs hold of your heart as she searches for answers, for hope, and for her lost voice.  References to Joan of Arc, emphasizing sacrifices for love, and the use of the Psalms as a mode of healing are brilliant.  This rich, beautifully executed story stays with the reader long after the final page is turned.



Fangirl 
by Rainbow Rowell 
Cath and twin sister Wren have been inseparable for years.  They share a love for the fantasy series Simon Snow and the world of fanfiction surrounding the beloved stories.  But, as they prepare to go away to college, Wren seems to be pulling away from Simon and from Cath.  Wren has always been the more confident, extroverted sister and trying to navigate college without her is a big challenge for reserved, socially-awkward Cath.  But, the year is full of surprises, new friendships, trials and triumphs, and unexpected love. Is it possible for Cath to leave the boy wizard's magical world behind and fully embrace her own reality?  This novel is simply outstanding.  The characters are real, complicated, and funny; the dialogue quick and unforgettable (I have read the conversations over and over, treasuring the humor, originality, and emotion). This is a story that wedges into your heart and never leaves. It is pure magic.  

NOTE:  I LOVED Rowell's Eleanor & Park, also released this year; but I decided to select just one to spotlight in this list and Fangirl won out. The deciding factor? Levi ;) I am head-over-heels for this guy! 

These were the standouts for me from a year of many excellent reads. What were your 2013 favs?   

Jillicious Reading: We Were Liars

We Were Liars
by E. Lockhart

Summary: Cadence Sinclair Eastman is the oldest grandchild of the flawless Sinclair family.  Her summers are spent on a private island with her cousins ... her best friends ...and the boy she loves. Together they are The Liars. Then, friendships turn destructive, lies are told, secrets are buried. Cady desperately seeks to discover the painful truth behind the accident and the family's false facade. 

Thoughts: We Were Liars is a truly remarkable novel.  It is like none I have ever read.  From the first page, the reader is swept into the "perfect" world of the Sinclairs and absorbed by the secrets this privileged family hides.  

Lockhart masterfully crafts vivid characters - Johnny, he is bounce, effort, and snark... Mirren, she is sugar, curiosity, and rain... - and tells a haunting tale that stuns at every turn.  It is tense, atmospheric, exquisite. 

I highly recommend this book to teen and adult readers looking for a captivating, unforgettable story.  And if anyone asks how it ends, LIE!

Read We Were Liars, if you ... 

• are a fan of E.Lockhart 
• enjoy sophisticated, intelligent writing
• like suspense, plot twists, and surprises
• are intrigued with the lives of those who "summer" on islands ;) 
• want to read the book that everyone will be talking about!

Click here to learn more about E. Lockhart and her books.  Click here to hear the author reading an excerpt from We Were Liars.    

Note:  We Were Liars will be released May 13, 2014.  Click here to pre-order a copy!

Jillicious Reading: Counting by 7s

Counting by 7s
by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Summary:  Willow Chance is a twelve-year-old genius.  She doesn't get along well with others and prefers to keep company with plants or with her loving, accepting parents. In addition to master gardener, Willow is also a walking medical dictionary, always ready to diagnose a medical condition whether the "patient" is ready or not. Finding comfort in nature, knowledge and counting, Willow leads a quiet but happy life.

But, then her world changes in a tragic instant.  Willow must now find a way to continue on in an unsettling existence where counting by 7s will no longer bring her the comfort she needs. 

Thoughts: Counting by 7s is a unique book about a unique girl.  I immediately fell in love with Willow Chance and her quirks; she is brilliant and funny and provides wise insight into the world.  Author Holly Goldberg Sloan tells the story of this odd but charming heroine in her distinct, lovely writing style.  It is hilarious, thought-provoking, heartbreaking, and inspiring.  The tragedy of the story ultimately becomes a triumph because of this special girl.  It reminds us of the impact one person can make on so many lives.  Counting by 7s is a powerful, inspiring novel to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

Read Counting by 7s, if you ... 

• enjoyed Wonder (R.J. Palacio),  Mockingbird (K. Erskine), Anything but Typical (N.R. Baskin),or Out of My Mind (S. Draper). 
• read Holly Goldberg Sloan's exquisite book, I'll Be There
• like books with unique, quirky, memorable characters
• have ever felt like an outsider or a loner
• enjoy stories of kids overcoming obstacles, differences, and loss
• appreciate excellent writing 

Novelist Holly Goldberg Sloan is also a director, producer, and screenwriter.  Visit her fabulous website to learn more about her life, inspirations, and writing.

Jillicious Reading: One Came Home

One Came Home

by Amy Timberlake

Summary:  When her sister goes missing and a body turns up in her sister's favorite dress, Georgie is not convinced.  She is certain that Agatha is alive and sets out on a journey to find her.  Although she is determined and quite a sharp shooter, Georgie is not prepared for all that awaits her on the Western frontier. 

Thoughts:  I thoroughly enjoyed every word of this novel.  Author Amy Timberlake's expert writing builds a loveable, plucky heroine in Georgie and sends her on an unexpected adventure that is suspenseful, humorous, and moving. The lyrical writing is to be savored; here's an example: 

Ma's grief, in particular, wore on me like sandpaper. She dragged her sorrow room to room, and I found out that viciousness nested inside me. When I saw receipts left in the till, or noted that Ma had forgotten to mark down a sale, I mentioned it. I become a fault-finding expert; bins missing their lids, eggs gone bad, a customer unattended, a boy in a fancy blue serge suit with a fist in the penny candy. I knew I shouldn't do it, but the part of me that was unredeemed spoke.

I just love that ... "the part of me that was unredeemed spoke."  What a lovely way to describe the ugliness that lives within us. I highlighted many expertly penned passages throughout this engaging mystery novel.
  

Read One Came Home if you ... 

• enjoyed True Grit
• are a fan of historical fiction
• like feisty heroines
• enjoy suspenseful mysteries
• appreciate fine writing and outstanding word choice

Click here to visit the author's website and to learn more about One Came Home and Ms. Timberlake's writing.  I eagerly await her next novel!

The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate


Summary:  Ivan is the only gorilla in his "domain", a glass enclosure in the run-down Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade.  Ivan's friends are Stella, a wise elephant, and Bob, a feisty little stray dog.  When Ruby, a baby elephant, comes to live at the mall, Ivan decides something must be done to ensure that she finds a better home and a better life.  

Thoughts:  I fell in love with Ivan as soon as I opened the book.  He is a wild gorilla who has had to learn to live in captivity.  Through his years, he has come to understand humans: 

Humans speak too much.  They chatter like chimps, crowding the world with their noise even when they have nothing to say.  It took me some time to recognize all those human sounds, to weave words into things.  But I was patient. Patient is a useful thing to be when you're an ape.

Ivan tells this touching story about friendship, art, dreams, and finding your spot in the world.  His tender point-of-view is fully believable and adds to the charm of the story.  The layout of the book - it feels almost like a novel in verse - and the gentle illustrations add to the special appeal.  This is a book for readers of all ages, a reminder that humans leave a lasting footprint on the earth and that doing the right things makes a difference for every life.  I loved Katherine Applegate's Home of the Brave, and she triumphs again with another memorable story sure to touch the heart of all who read it.  


Read The One and Only Ivan if you ...

• are an animal lover
• enjoyed Applegate's Home of the Brave
• like stories about the power of hope, friendship, and/or art
• enjoy tearjerker, "tissue" books
• like novels-in-verse 
• enjoy illustrated novels
• appreciate beautifully-crafted writing
• are looking for a heartwarming story you won't soon forget

Click to read more about the book, the author, and the real Ivan, the gorilla who inspired this tale.    

Wonder
by P.J. Palacio

Summary:  Due to a genetic disorder, Auggie was born with extreme facial anomalies.  Even after 27 surgeries, his face continues to gain him cruel nicknames throughout the neighborhood like "Freak" and "Freddy Krueger."  After a life of homeschooling, Auggie is going to attend a private school.  And all he is hoping for is to be treated like a normal kid.

Thoughts:  Wonder is my favorite book of 2012.  Told mainly through Auggie's words and interspersed with viewpoints from other characters, this novel is an unforgettable story of acceptance, tolerance, and love.  It will make you laugh out loud one minute and cry the next.  Auggie is an incredible character - brave and kind, a kid you can't help but cheer for!  He and his loving family show that true beauty comes from courage, strength, and kindness and that the ugliness on the inside is far worse than any "abnormalties" on the outside.  A thoughtful, uplifting book for readers of all ages.

Read Wonder if:

• you have ever been the new kid
• you have ever felt like you don't fit in
• you like realistic books with strong, memorable characters
• you enjoy stories that make you want to stand up and cheer!

Visit author R.J. Palacio's website, watch the booktrailer, and check out Wonder today.  

The Fault in Our Stars
by John Green

Summary:  Hazel is 16 and has terminal cancer.  She meets Augustus at a support group for teens with cancer.  As they fall in love, they wonder how to live and how to make their short life count.    

Thoughts:  John Green is a rock star of young adult literature.  And, this book proves that he truly deserves this status.  His writing is smart, funny, and unforgettable. Hazel and Augustus are such incredible characters, and I plan to reread the book soon just to get to know them all over again.  I have long appreciated John Green and his powerful writing, but The Fault in Our Stars has turned me into one of his crazed super fans.  

Read The Fault in Our Stars if:

• you are a John Green fan (although if you are, you've probably already read it!).
• you like clever, smart writing.
• you enjoy realistic fiction.
• you like strong, memorable characters.
• you love books that make you laugh and also make you cry.
• someone you care about has cancer or if you are struggling with an illness yourself.

Read more about this book and the others by the incomparable John Green on his website or join his other "Nerdfighter" super fans on the Nerdfighters ning.      

Jillicious Home Cooking: Classic Favorites

Anne of Green Gables
by Lucy Maude Montgomery

Summary:  Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister living on Prince Edward Island, decide to adopt an orphan boy to help them run their family farm.  They are quite suprised when Anne Shirley, a fiesty, red-headed girl arrives instead. 

Thoughts:  This classic novel is a true treasure.  I recently listened to the audio version and fell in love with it all over again.  The charming setting, delightful characters, and lovely language are worth revisiting again and again.  I have since listened to the sequel, Anne of Avonlea, and am currently waiting for the third novel to arrive at the library!  If you haven't read it or haven't read it in a while, definitely add it to your list. 

Read Anne of Green Gables if ...

• you have never read it.
• you love plucky, spirited heroines.
• you like cozy stories set in small towns.