SUMMER FUN COOLING OFF?
Send the kids to a bookstore
Heartwood Hotel: A True Home Kallie George, illustrations by Stephanie Graegin Harper Collins (Ages 6 to 9)
This is the story of Mona, a young mouse who, after being flooded out of her home, finds shelter and work in a tree-based hotel for birds and small animals. First in a new series of chapter books, the text will appeal to any child whose imagination leans toward tiny creatures escaping danger, finding safe haven and, occasionally, displaying great courage. Charming pencil drawings by Stephanie Graegin enhance the story.
Ms. Bixby’s Last Day John David Anderson Walden Pond Press (Ages 10 and up)
Now available in paperback, this is the kind of book I would’ve devoured as a child during summer vacation — especially if I’d had to say goodbye to a favourite teacher. Parents who read the publisher’s bumf about this book might balk at the fact that Ms. Bixby’s departure stems from a cancer diagnosis. They should know, however, that the author has crafted a story rich not only in youthful insights and emotions, but also in rollicking humour and literary references. What could have been a depressing book is, instead, a paean to inspiring teachers and the children who remember them.
Anderson tells the story from the viewpoint of 12-year-old boys — creative, adventurous Topher; book-smart, worrywart Steve; and tough, thoughtful Brand. When their beloved Grade 6 teacher is forced into hospital before the school year ends, missing the farewell party that was planned, the boys embark on a mysterious plan of their own.
Knock About With the Fitzgerald-Trouts Esta Spalding, illustrations by Sydney Smith Tundra Books (Ages 7 to 11)
This is the second volume about five island-dwelling siblings whose various parents and stepparents have done a lousy job of parenting. As a result, the kids have learned to fend for themselves, and anyone who has read the first volume (Look Out for the Fitzgerald-Trouts) will be happy to hear they continue to triumph.
In this new book, they manage to acquire a home of sorts. Yes, I know they found one in the first book as well, but Johnny Trout, rude and nasty father of 11-year-old Kimo, evicted the children with nary a thought of their well-being. Resourceful and responsible Kim, Kimo’s older ( by four months) stepsister, makes it her mission to find them another dwelling and, after a series of mishaps, meets with success when the kids win a fishing boat at a local fair. Enter Johnny Trout (OK, RE-enter), who makes off with the boat AND Kimo’s deed of ownership.
The Unexpected Life of Oliver Cromwell Pitts Avi Algonquin Young Readers (Ages 9 to 13)
This story will appeal to anyone with a taste for historical fiction. And even though it’s set in a totally different time and place (1724 in County Dorset and, eventually, London, England) it, too, features a father who is less than stellar. Oliver’s dad, a gruff and opinionated lawyer disliked by many, suddenly disappears one day, having apparently abandoned his motherless 12-year-old son. The boy ends up doing a stretch in the poorhouse before escaping and becoming embroiled with an unsavoury highwayman.
After a series of heart-stopping adventures, he is reunited in London with his 18-year-old sister, Charity, who has fallen on hard times and resorted to working as a pickpocket. After a stint in prison, the two siblings are transported to the American colonies — on separate ships. A lively read, to be continued in Book 2.