MOLLY’S FAMILY by Nancy Garden, illustrated by Sharon Wooding (FSG, 2004). Friday is Open School night, and so Molly draws a picture of her family to help decorate the classroom. But then Tommy says Molly’s family can’t be a real one because she has a Mommy and a Mama Lu (by the way, she has a puppy, Sam, too). What is Molly to think?
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BREATHING UNDERWATER by Alex Flinn (HarperCollins, 2001). Wasn’t long ago that Nick and Caitlin were in love. How did they end up in court with a restraining order being issued against him? In this first person narrative, Nick tells the story himself. It’s certainly rare — perhaps unprecedented — to read of an abusive relationship from the perspective of the abuser.
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BREAKING POINT by Alex Flinn (HarperCollins, 2002). Paul Richmond is cannon fodder for the elite of his high-toned private school. Then Charlie Good asks for his help in computer lab, his help fixing a grade, his help with more violent pursuits. A cutting edge novel for thinking readers trying to survive the social and moral landmines of high school. Ages 12-up.
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PERIOD PIECES: STORIES FOR GIRLS, edited by Erzsi Deàk and Kristin Litchman (HarperCollins, 2003). An anthology collection of short stories about girls starting their periods for the first time. Contributing authors: Dian Curtis Regan; Linda Sue Park; Jane Kurtz; Rita Williams Garcia; Bobbi Katz; April Halprin Wayland; Johanna Hurwitz; Uma Krishnaswami; Carmen T. Bernier-Grand; Kristin Litchman; Cynthia Leitich Smith, and Erzsi Deàk.
SPITTING IMAGE by Shutta Crum (Clarion, 2003). Jessie is the child of a single mother who wonders why nobody will tell her about her dad. A story of friendship, family, and community set brilliantly against its historic Kentucky backdrop. Crum is a debut novelist to celebrate. Ages 9-up. This interview was conducted via email in 2003. Visit author Shutta Crum.
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SAHARA SPECIAL by Esme Raji Codell (Hyperion, 2004). Sahara is special–not because of her history in “special education,” not because of what her official school file might say. And Miss Pointy, a tour de force in human originality wrapped up in one fifth grade teacher, helps her realize that through journal writing and her own unique style of support. Fresh,
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ONE LITTLE MOUSE by Dori Chaconas illustrated by LeUyen Pham (Viking, 2002). This perfectly rhyming picture book is not only a celebration finding the just-right home, it also makes a great counting book. Pham’s illustrations are cute without being too cutesy and also humorous in how evocatively they convey the little mouse’s emotions. Ages 4-up. Especially recommended to pre-K teachers.
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THE SEA CHEST by Toni Buzzeo, illustrated by Mary GrandPre (Dial, 2002). A book that lovingly and poetically captures the stirring magic of a foundling babe who becomes a treasured sister. Maita says: “I longed for a time I might not be the only child the craggy island knew.” The time is now. Spectacular, musical, and deeply affecting. This interview was conducted via email in 2002.
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DOWN CUT SHIN CREEK: PACK HORSE LIBRARIANS OF KENTUCKY by Kathi Appelt and Jeanne Cannella Schmitzer (HarperCollins, 2001). A fascinating and inspirational look at the courageous and determined women who brought books to the rural areas of Kentucky during the Great Depression. This foray into nonfiction by Schmitzer and super-versatile Appelt is a must-read not only for librarians and their fans but also history buffs and particularly those who enjoy books with strong,
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