I’ve decided to add a new feature to my blog posts: Books I’m currently reading, Recommended reading for fiction and nonfiction, and a daily quote.
Currently reading:
Crusade for Kindness: Henry Bergh and the ASPCA by John J. Loeper (Atheneum, 1991)New York of the 1800s is vividly described: the horrific abuses of work animals, the unsanitary conditions of slaughterhouses and dairies, and the cruel notions of sport, none of which were examined until wealthy Henry Bergh founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals. His campaign evoked ridicule and hostility, so he was well covered in the newspapers of his day.
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis (Scholastic, 1999) “It’s funny how ideas are, in a lot of ways they’re just like seeds. Both of them start real, real small and then… woop, zoop, sloop… before you can say Jack Robinson, they’ve gone and grown a lot bigger than you ever thought they could.” So figures scrappy 10-year-old philosopher Bud–“not Buddy”–Caldwell, an orphan on the run from abusive foster homes and Hoovervilles in 1930s Michigan. And the idea that’s planted itself in his head is that Herman E. Calloway, standup-bass player for the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, is his father.
Children’s Writer Guide to 2009. Edited by Susan M. Tierney (Writer’s Institute Publications, 2009) The Institute keeps sending this annual offering and I can’t stand the thought of not reading all the great articles about the craft, business, and marketing of children’s literature.
Recommended Fiction
Clementine by Sara Pennypacker-(5-10 year olds) I laughed out loud as my son and I read this together. Fabulous word choices and a fun, fun plot.
Recommended Nonfiction
The Great Fire by Jim Murphy (9-12 year olds) The rising story arc and magnificent research that Mr. Murphy poured into this true story of Chicago’s 1871 fire is spellbinding. This is probably my all time favorite nonfiction book.
Quote for the Day: All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure. —–Mark Twain (1835-1910)
I completely agree with you about Clementine. Author Sara Pennypacker is on my shelves, too. I can’t get enough of Clementine. I’m waiting to see if Ms. Pennypacker starts a series for brocoli or brussel sprout or rutabaga!
Thanks for the info! I’m planning on listing the books I’m reading, too. It’s a great way to find a new gem that you haven’t read yet!