Sutcliff, Rosemary. Knight’s Fee.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2008 285p 10.95 978-1-59078-640-6 jr/sr
A few decades after the Battle of Hastings, a fig falls from a parapet and an orphan boy’s life changes forever. Sutcliff combines well-drawn characters with authentic dialog, historical detail and a story that takes the reader to another time and place. Knight's Fee is a compelling story about the early Norman period in French and English history. We meet Randal, a ten year old orphan boy, who lives in Arundel castle. He survives by caring for the dogs living with them in the kennel. Lord Hugh Montgomery, one of the sons of William the Conquerer, is returning home from battle and as he enters the castle, Randal accidentally drops a partially eaten fig onto his horse.
Later Randal is identified as the culprit. Brutally shaken just short of death, Randal is saved through the intervention of Montgomery’s minstrel. The minstrel gives Randal into the care of Sir Everard d’Aguillon, an honorable and just knight, and will become the squire of d’Aguillon’s grandson, Bevis. Meanwhile, Randal has learned an important secret that will affect the course of history.
This is a great read for students as well as adults. It has an interesting plot, characters to care about and dialog that allows the reader to travel back in history.
I wish that the publisher had chosen a better cover. This edition is dark blue-gray with the image of chess piece representing the knight. It does not do a good job of conveying the adventure inside the cover.
Spadaro, Trish
Showing posts with label Front_Street_Books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Front_Street_Books. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Johnson, Peter. Loserville.
Johnson, Peter. Loserville.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 150 17.95 978-1-59078-581-2 hs/adult
Nobody knows how much pain Derek Grace is experiencing in Loserville, not even his friends, in this tragic novel about a teenager who sees no recourse other than to run away from his family and friends. Loserville is a thought-provoking book that will have young adults and parents discussing what went wrong in Derek's life to lead him stage his own suicide and disappear. Derek did not seem to be on this path, and that is what is disturbing. Surrounded by good friends who exhibited somewhat questionable yet not atypical teen behaviors, Derek's pain was not evident, not until he appeared on a reality TV show called Loserville, run by egomaniac, Jesus, who takes a family, dissects its problems on nationwide television, then treats the children like they're at boot camp, crushing and never helping. Derek's role models were hopeless, and that is part of what contributed to his lack of direction. His English teacher, Mr. Sparks, was a user, offering his home, marihuana, and companionship to a small group of students in return for kicks and some help with his summer business. Derek's father, in mourning after the death of Derek's mother, was unable to communicate with Derek, especially after he married a young, recovered drug addict, the sexy Claudia. Derek's friends, all preppies, were fun-loving and supportive. In a vague way, we can feel that something bad is going to happen. Even after his disappearance, there is no one to help Derek's friends cope with the loss. Derek's girlfriend Coco is left with a tattoo depicting a cross with a letter D wrapped around it, a permanent reminder of their relationship. The session at the tattoo parlor, which might have foreshadowed a cataclysmic event, seemed to be a normal rite of passage. The final moments at a golf course which shows the friends celebrating the end of the summer, represented a happy time before the climax, Derek's appearance on Loserville. MS.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 150 17.95 978-1-59078-581-2 hs/adult
Nobody knows how much pain Derek Grace is experiencing in Loserville, not even his friends, in this tragic novel about a teenager who sees no recourse other than to run away from his family and friends. Loserville is a thought-provoking book that will have young adults and parents discussing what went wrong in Derek's life to lead him stage his own suicide and disappear. Derek did not seem to be on this path, and that is what is disturbing. Surrounded by good friends who exhibited somewhat questionable yet not atypical teen behaviors, Derek's pain was not evident, not until he appeared on a reality TV show called Loserville, run by egomaniac, Jesus, who takes a family, dissects its problems on nationwide television, then treats the children like they're at boot camp, crushing and never helping. Derek's role models were hopeless, and that is part of what contributed to his lack of direction. His English teacher, Mr. Sparks, was a user, offering his home, marihuana, and companionship to a small group of students in return for kicks and some help with his summer business. Derek's father, in mourning after the death of Derek's mother, was unable to communicate with Derek, especially after he married a young, recovered drug addict, the sexy Claudia. Derek's friends, all preppies, were fun-loving and supportive. In a vague way, we can feel that something bad is going to happen. Even after his disappearance, there is no one to help Derek's friends cope with the loss. Derek's girlfriend Coco is left with a tattoo depicting a cross with a letter D wrapped around it, a permanent reminder of their relationship. The session at the tattoo parlor, which might have foreshadowed a cataclysmic event, seemed to be a normal rite of passage. The final moments at a golf course which shows the friends celebrating the end of the summer, represented a happy time before the climax, Derek's appearance on Loserville. MS.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Wild Things.
Carmichael, Clay. Wild Things.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 240p 18.95
978-1-59078-627-7 elm/ms
Stubborn, self-reliant, eleven-year-old Zoe, recently orphaned, moves to the country to live with her prickly half-uncle, a famous doctor, and sculptor, and together they learn about trust and the strength of family. Clay Carmichael has hit the mark in this novel about an orphaned eleven year-old girl who is too precocious, too independent, and too tough for her own good. Zoe Royster needed to develop these personality traits as a defense mechanism to protect her feelings from her negligent mother; consequently, she trusts no one but herself. Her father was never a presence in her life and when her mother dies, Zoe is claimed by an uncle she didn't know she had. Her uncle is Dr. Henry Royce, who left a promising medical career to pursue an even more successful career as a metal sculptor. The title refers to many wild things besides Zoe: the feral cat that contributes to the story by providing background information and foreshadowing, the sculptures that Henry creates, the albino deer and his companion. From the first page Zoe commands the attention of the readers, who want to know more about her unconventional past. She is a multidimensional character who surprises and enchants. Carmichael has taken care to provide Zoe with equally well rounded characters. Zoe's narrative provides the structure of the story, with perfect pacing and plot development. The dialogue is a joy, particularly the first few chapters of conversation between Zoe and Henry, where the reader begins to wonder how this relationship between the two of them will turn out. It turns out just fine, despite the sadness, and the tragedies that they encounter. Readers can leave Zoe knowing that she finds the love that she deserves. RZ
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 240p 18.95
978-1-59078-627-7 elm/ms
Stubborn, self-reliant, eleven-year-old Zoe, recently orphaned, moves to the country to live with her prickly half-uncle, a famous doctor, and sculptor, and together they learn about trust and the strength of family. Clay Carmichael has hit the mark in this novel about an orphaned eleven year-old girl who is too precocious, too independent, and too tough for her own good. Zoe Royster needed to develop these personality traits as a defense mechanism to protect her feelings from her negligent mother; consequently, she trusts no one but herself. Her father was never a presence in her life and when her mother dies, Zoe is claimed by an uncle she didn't know she had. Her uncle is Dr. Henry Royce, who left a promising medical career to pursue an even more successful career as a metal sculptor. The title refers to many wild things besides Zoe: the feral cat that contributes to the story by providing background information and foreshadowing, the sculptures that Henry creates, the albino deer and his companion. From the first page Zoe commands the attention of the readers, who want to know more about her unconventional past. She is a multidimensional character who surprises and enchants. Carmichael has taken care to provide Zoe with equally well rounded characters. Zoe's narrative provides the structure of the story, with perfect pacing and plot development. The dialogue is a joy, particularly the first few chapters of conversation between Zoe and Henry, where the reader begins to wonder how this relationship between the two of them will turn out. It turns out just fine, despite the sadness, and the tragedies that they encounter. Readers can leave Zoe knowing that she finds the love that she deserves. RZ
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Hippie Chick
Monninger, Joseph. Hippie chick.
Front Street Books, 2008, 156p, $16.95, 978-1-59078-598-0.
Monniger writes a suspenseful, nuanced book. Known as the Hippie Chick, Lolly is an experienced sailor. Her sailboat makes her one with the ocean. She loves the feel of the boat, the wind, and the water. One night as she is sailing on her own, a come about goes wrong and the boat capsizes. Knowing that no one knows her exact location, she accepts the fate of possible death. Reminiscent of Survivor and Lost, Lolly must decide how to survive after being tossed into the sea. When a manatee nudges her, she realizes a set of three manatees may be her only chance of survival. They carry her to a warm mangrove lagoon where she rests and learns of manatee’s daily routines. As she rides through the ocean clutching the manatee, she becomes one with them. After a helicopter rescue Lolly accepts but does not revel in her celebrity status. Her friendship with Nick, an older teen, and her grown-up understanding of her mother add depth of character to this slim yet powerful book about acceptance and love of all living things. While there is one preachy passage, this book flows smoothly and the characters are extremely well depicted. Readers will empathize with Lolly. Animal lovers will eagerly read this book and gain understanding about our need to leave wild animals wild and to protect their habitats.
Strongly recommended for grades 8-12. Animal lovers, concerned ecologists and those looking for adventure will all be satisfied by this slight, powerful novel of survival and acceptance of family as well as the need to be concerned for the environment. LMN
Front Street Books, 2008, 156p, $16.95, 978-1-59078-598-0.
Monniger writes a suspenseful, nuanced book. Known as the Hippie Chick, Lolly is an experienced sailor. Her sailboat makes her one with the ocean. She loves the feel of the boat, the wind, and the water. One night as she is sailing on her own, a come about goes wrong and the boat capsizes. Knowing that no one knows her exact location, she accepts the fate of possible death. Reminiscent of Survivor and Lost, Lolly must decide how to survive after being tossed into the sea. When a manatee nudges her, she realizes a set of three manatees may be her only chance of survival. They carry her to a warm mangrove lagoon where she rests and learns of manatee’s daily routines. As she rides through the ocean clutching the manatee, she becomes one with them. After a helicopter rescue Lolly accepts but does not revel in her celebrity status. Her friendship with Nick, an older teen, and her grown-up understanding of her mother add depth of character to this slim yet powerful book about acceptance and love of all living things. While there is one preachy passage, this book flows smoothly and the characters are extremely well depicted. Readers will empathize with Lolly. Animal lovers will eagerly read this book and gain understanding about our need to leave wild animals wild and to protect their habitats.
Strongly recommended for grades 8-12. Animal lovers, concerned ecologists and those looking for adventure will all be satisfied by this slight, powerful novel of survival and acceptance of family as well as the need to be concerned for the environment. LMN
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Planet Pregnancy
High, Linda Oatman. Planet Pregnancy.
Front Street Books (see Boyds Mills), 2008, $16.95, 978-1-59078-584-3.
This is a free verse narrative about handling an unplanned pregnancy while single and still in high school. Sahara knows she won’t marry the boy, “he doesn’t work, and he’s a jerk. He’d be a bad dad, just like the dad I never had.” She first hides out in oversize clothes, then claims date rape, thinking that’s easier on her mom (focused on future success and college) and religious best friend.
It’s touching, funny in places, and students already are asking for another book by the author.
This is a must for every high school. You’ll probably need at least two copies. SG
Front Street Books (see Boyds Mills), 2008, $16.95, 978-1-59078-584-3.
This is a free verse narrative about handling an unplanned pregnancy while single and still in high school. Sahara knows she won’t marry the boy, “he doesn’t work, and he’s a jerk. He’d be a bad dad, just like the dad I never had.” She first hides out in oversize clothes, then claims date rape, thinking that’s easier on her mom (focused on future success and college) and religious best friend.
It’s touching, funny in places, and students already are asking for another book by the author.
This is a must for every high school. You’ll probably need at least two copies. SG
The Lucky Place
Vincent, Zu. Lucky Place, The.
Front Street Books (see Boyds Mills), 2008, 230p, $17.95, 978-1-932425-70-3.
Front_Street_Books, Vincent, alcoholism, cancer, families, life_struggles, coping
Cassie grows up in 60’s suburbia torn between her two fathers. Sykes, the “Old Daddy” is an alcoholic gambler who once left her at the racetrack because he was too drunk to remember. Ellis, the “New Daddy” loves and raises her from the age of three after her mother divorces Sykes. Cassie loves Ellis as a father but feels guilty about it. Sykes rarely contacts Cassie and her brother and offers no support, eventually leaving their lives forever. Cassie tells the story from age three to age 12 and the author is able to show this maturing process in the writing. Cassie is the type of child that feels responsible for making everything okay, keeping her own thoughts inside. When Ellis becomes ill from cancer, Cassie takes on the burdens of her mother and the rest of the family. The story will grab readers from the start and compel them to read to the very end. The characters are real, if not always endearing and the story line is smooth and captivating. This is an emotional title that is at times quite heart wrenching. The chapters are short vignettes of Cassie's life and thoughts. The book contains mild curse words. This book will appeal to mature middle school and to high school readers, especially girls. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note.
Cassie grows up in 60’s suburbia torn between her two fathers: the one who loved her but was unable to be her father and the one who nurtured and loved her throughout her childhood. The writing is stark and engaging and the characters are real. For mature middle school and high school readers. TW
Front Street Books (see Boyds Mills), 2008, 230p, $17.95, 978-1-932425-70-3.
Front_Street_Books, Vincent, alcoholism, cancer, families, life_struggles, coping
Cassie grows up in 60’s suburbia torn between her two fathers. Sykes, the “Old Daddy” is an alcoholic gambler who once left her at the racetrack because he was too drunk to remember. Ellis, the “New Daddy” loves and raises her from the age of three after her mother divorces Sykes. Cassie loves Ellis as a father but feels guilty about it. Sykes rarely contacts Cassie and her brother and offers no support, eventually leaving their lives forever. Cassie tells the story from age three to age 12 and the author is able to show this maturing process in the writing. Cassie is the type of child that feels responsible for making everything okay, keeping her own thoughts inside. When Ellis becomes ill from cancer, Cassie takes on the burdens of her mother and the rest of the family. The story will grab readers from the start and compel them to read to the very end. The characters are real, if not always endearing and the story line is smooth and captivating. This is an emotional title that is at times quite heart wrenching. The chapters are short vignettes of Cassie's life and thoughts. The book contains mild curse words. This book will appeal to mature middle school and to high school readers, especially girls. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note.
Cassie grows up in 60’s suburbia torn between her two fathers: the one who loved her but was unable to be her father and the one who nurtured and loved her throughout her childhood. The writing is stark and engaging and the characters are real. For mature middle school and high school readers. TW
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Niner by Theresa Martin Golding
Golding, Theresa Martin, Niner.
Front Street Books (Boyds Mill Press),2008,208p,$16.95, 978-1-59078-549-2
Realistic Fiction
When twelve-year-old Macy discovers a locket on her front steps, she begins a journey to find out about whom she really is and why her adoptive mother has been gone for almost a year.
Philadelphia native Golding nails the Philadelphia setting of this novel, from the descriptions of living with the El rumbling overhead to the shops on Frankford Avenue. The setting contributes to the authenticity of the story of Macy, a biracial adopted girl who longs for her missing adoptive mother while at the same time wondering about the birthmother who abandoned her. After two foster home placements, Macy has been adopted into a loving family and she has a younger sister, Deena, the biological daughter of her adoptive parents. One fateful day Macy discovers a locket on her front lawn, convinced that the locket is a message from her missing mother. A series of misunderstandings places Macy, Deena, their friends Ty, and Eugene, in a dangerous situation. Macy does her best to handle the situation on her own, but it ends in tragedy. The locket prompts Macy to question who she is and where she belongs, but no matter how much her father reassures her, Macy believes that she is the reason for her mother’s absence. It isn’t until her father tells her that no matter what she looks like, no matter the color of her skin, that they are alike where it counts: in the heart, that Macy stops worrying about her genes and begins a patient wait for the return of her mother. The characters are well-developed, and well-defined and the reader identifies with Macy at every turn. The pacing and development of the plot keep the reader engaged and although an astute reader will make the connection in the last few pages between the events at the beginning and the end, this does not take away from another surprise at the end. It is a bittersweet story with much heart, most of it Macy’s.
Highly recommended for the adoption issues discussed by the main character. Subplot involving the mystery of the locket will also keep readers engaged. RZ
Front Street Books (Boyds Mill Press),2008,208p,$16.95, 978-1-59078-549-2
Realistic Fiction
When twelve-year-old Macy discovers a locket on her front steps, she begins a journey to find out about whom she really is and why her adoptive mother has been gone for almost a year.
Philadelphia native Golding nails the Philadelphia setting of this novel, from the descriptions of living with the El rumbling overhead to the shops on Frankford Avenue. The setting contributes to the authenticity of the story of Macy, a biracial adopted girl who longs for her missing adoptive mother while at the same time wondering about the birthmother who abandoned her. After two foster home placements, Macy has been adopted into a loving family and she has a younger sister, Deena, the biological daughter of her adoptive parents. One fateful day Macy discovers a locket on her front lawn, convinced that the locket is a message from her missing mother. A series of misunderstandings places Macy, Deena, their friends Ty, and Eugene, in a dangerous situation. Macy does her best to handle the situation on her own, but it ends in tragedy. The locket prompts Macy to question who she is and where she belongs, but no matter how much her father reassures her, Macy believes that she is the reason for her mother’s absence. It isn’t until her father tells her that no matter what she looks like, no matter the color of her skin, that they are alike where it counts: in the heart, that Macy stops worrying about her genes and begins a patient wait for the return of her mother. The characters are well-developed, and well-defined and the reader identifies with Macy at every turn. The pacing and development of the plot keep the reader engaged and although an astute reader will make the connection in the last few pages between the events at the beginning and the end, this does not take away from another surprise at the end. It is a bittersweet story with much heart, most of it Macy’s.
Highly recommended for the adoption issues discussed by the main character. Subplot involving the mystery of the locket will also keep readers engaged. RZ
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