Pirates

by David L. Harrison

You think you know all about pirates, don't you? You might be surprised to find out that the life of a pirate wasn't exactly the way it is usually portrayed in movies and cartoons. Pirates' careers were usually very short, three or four years at most. The loot they plundered was always split equally amongst the crew, with the injured receiving a bit more and the captain receiving a double share. In 1720, there were about 2,000 pirates, but by 1726 only 200 remained.

Although pirates are a popular topic for books aimed at younger readers, what sets this book apart is it's factual nature delivered in verse. Obviously, the younger the audience, the less focus can be placed on the nitty-gritty lifestyles of this scurvy bunch. Upper elementary readers will enjoy the detailed illustrations that bring the verse to life.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow
by James Rollins

Still trying to put the pieces together after his parents' sudden death, Jake is left with many questions. Are his parents really dead? If so, why? Can their journals from the last expedition provide clues? When he receives a special invitation for him and his sister to attend the museum's exhibit of the Mayan artifacts discovered by his parents, Jake is not only anxious to attend, but is hopeful that he will find answers to his questions. At the exhibit, Jake and Kady are allowed to view the artifacts before the other attendees. It is during this time that they are magically transported to another time and place. Can they get back? Is this magical world a clue to their parents' disappearance?

This fantastical novel is a great read for upper elementary students. It's blend of time travel, historical information, and other-worldly creatures keeps readers turning the pages for more. I'm looking forward to sharing this with my students as much as I am looking forward to the next installment in the series!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

All Stations Distress! April 15, 1912:

The Day the Titanic Sank

by Don Brown

"The Unsinkable Ship" has a storied history and the events leading up to her unlikely end are intriguing. Many famous families from Britain and America were aboard Titanic on her maiden voyage from England to New York in 1912. The luxurious ship offered travelers the finest of amenities, including staterooms, restaurants, and a swimming pool. Although it didn't seem that anything could sink this floating palace, an iceberg proved to be an unbeatable enemy late in the night. From the misuse of life boats, to the disadvantages of the second- and third-class passengers, only 711 of the 2,200 passengers survived the sinking.

Young readers will enjoy the facts and fast-paced text about one of history's favorite mysteries.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Down, Down, Down: A Journey to the Bottom of the Sea
by Steve Jenkins

Did you know that half of the Earth is under water that is more than a mile deep? Did you know that more humans have walked on the moon than have been to the deepest part of the sea? Unbelievable, right? Travel through the various levels of the oceans and get an up-close look at some of the amazing creatures that live there.

The ocean is an ever-popular subject with readers of all ages. This nonfiction work is quite accessible for elementary-school readers and Jenkins' breathtaking artwork doubles the appeal of this book. A great resource for research and pleasure reading alike, I have no doubt that this will be a favorite among my students.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Dying to Meet You
by Kate Klise

Although his parents have abandoned him, Seymour is happy. He lives in an old Victorian mansion with his cat and a ghost that he can only see when she allows him to. He is trying to earn enough money to buy the house from his parents when the house is unexpectedly rented out for the summer by a "has-been" author trying to overcome writer's block. At first, Seymour isn't worried because he has successfully scared away all potential buyers. Until now. Will he scare away the author? Can Olive, the ghost, help?

If you like funny ghost stories, this is the perfect book for you! I enjoyed the format of letters and news clippings format that gave this story life. I think young readers will like this fast-paced book and look forward to the next in the series. I'd better add the second book to my purchase list right now!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee
2010-2011 Horned Toad Tale nominee

Home of the Brave
by Katherine Applegate

Learning to assimilate to the American way of life is thrilling, exciting, fun, and confusing all at the same time. Kek is a refugee from Sudan living with his aunt and cousin in Minnesota. He knows that his father and brother were killed in the war, but he does not know the fate of his mother. While he waits for her, he learns how to speak English, goes to school, makes a few friends, and struggles to deal with all of the unknowns. He was comfortable and knew many things in Africa. In America, he is lost.

This story of a refugee's life and struggles in a new country is touching. The text in verse is the perfect format. I liked being able to read a section, then stop to ponder the emotions Kek was dealing with in each situation. I tried to imagine myself in his shoes and feel the gravity of his situation. What a powerful way to tell the often overlooked story of any refugee and the struggles they face when arriving to our over-the-top country. I'm glad the author dared to write a book on this topic for children and I am looking forward to sharing it with my students.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

The Cabinet of Wonders

by Marie Rutkoski

A simple girl named Petra lives with her father and pet spider in a very small village filled with artisans and poor families that rely on their skills and magic to survive. Her father's magical gift of manipulating metal with his mind is amazing, but Petra wonders what magical gift she was born with. After being commissioned by the prince of Bohemia to build an astronomical clock, her father is taken to Prague where he begins his masterpiece. Many months pass and Petra's father is brought back home in the back of a horse-drawn wagon. She is stunned to see that his head is bandaged and his eyes are gone, stolen by the prince! The prince wears them as he attempts to complete the final part of the clock. Without telling her family, Petra makes a plan to travel to Prague, get a job working in the castle, and steal back her father's eyes. How can a twelve-year-old girl do this alone? Will she return to her family safe?

This powerful combination of history and fantasy is sure to have readers believing in Petra's determination and cheering her on as she attempts to avenge her father! I was completely absorbed in the story, finding myself thinking about what would happen next even when I wasn't reading! Rutkoski builds worlds and characters that are captivating, while she weaves in just enough history to make the story believable. I can't wait to read the next book in the series and share this new treasure with my students!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

That Book Woman
by Heather Henson

Cal is proud that he is the oldest boy in his family. He loves to help his Pap plow the fields and round up the sheep when they wander off. He doesn't have time to spend with his "nose in a book" like his sister, and he surely does not understand why a person would waste so much time that way. He doesn't have much use for "chicken scratch." Much to his surprise, a Book Woman comes to their house every two weeks, rain or shine, carrying a satchel full of books (treasure in his sister's eyes!) Cal is determined to figure out what motivates the Book Woman to bring books to his family through all types of weather, including bitter cold and snow.

Truly a book to be cherished by book lovers, this is the story of the Pack Horse Librarians, or Book Women, who traveled the Appalachian mountains delivering books in Kentucky during the 1930s. Written in dialect, the text draws the reader into the story. Small's illustrations are the perfect medium to capture the era. This book portrays the very reason why librarians love their jobs and would do anything to help turn book skeptics into readers!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Tap Dancing on the Roof: Sijo (Poems)
by Linda Sue Park

A sijo is a form of poetry that originated in Korea. It has a fixed number of stressed syllables and is usually divided into three or six lines. The feature that makes sijo so unique is that the last line usually contains a twist or surprise.

Prior to reading this book, I was unaware of this form of poetry. I'm glad that there is now a collection for children and cannot wait to share these with my students. I especially liked the poem called "School Lunch." I wonder which will be my students' favorite?

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

14 Cows for America
by Carmen Agra Deedy

After returning to his home in Kenya during the summer of 2002, Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah shares the story of heartache that America was experiencing after the tragedies of September 11th. The Maasai people believe that in order to take away another's pain, you should give them something close to your own heart. Cows are a most revered animal to this tribe. Wanting to help carry the burden of so much sadness in America, the Maasai generously give fourteen cows as a symbol of their goodwill.

Intrigued by the title, I had no idea of how deeply I would be impacted by this book. The story is a true testament to the power and goodness inside people all over the world, despite the horrors of 911. The illustrations are breathtaking and even after reading the book several times, I still find intricate details I had not seen before. The last picture of the Twin Towers reflected in the young Maasai warrior's eye is an image I won't soon forget. I have waited a long time for someone to create a book for young readers that would share a bit of hope after the tragedies we faced that fateful day. I am so glad we finally have one and I can't wait to share it with my students next school year.

Please visit http://www.14cowsforamerica.com/ for more details about the story. You can also view a book trailer here.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau
by Dan Yaccarino

Although Jacques was a sickly boy when he was young, he did not accept the thought of a future with limitations. He swam in the ocean to build his strength and discovered that the ocean and its inhabitants fascinated him. Besides his love of the ocean, he loved to build things and take apart things just to see how they worked. This combination of intrigue, determination, and wonder shaped Jacques into the famous underwater explorer, inventor, and protector that the world remembers today.

The simplistic text in this book introduces young readers to the amazing underwater scientist while highlighting the characteristics needed for success in any field. Yaccarino's vibrant illustrations capture undersea life and draw the reader into Cousteau's world. Facts are presented in easily accessible text, while quotes from Cousteau give the reader a deeper glimpse into his personality.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Mudshark
by Gary Paulsen

Lyle Williams was a born thinker and this fact made him the go-to guy for information about anything. Did you lose your homework? Ask Mudshark. Lost your pet cat? Mudshark will know exactly where to find him. No one knew exactly why Mudshark was so cool, everyone just knew that he was. One day, the librarian introduced the school to her new pet parrot and Mudshark's life began to change. He now had competition for title of "the answer guy"...a parrot that loved to talk!

Paulsen's voice shines through in this chapter book about the power of kids. I think my students will enjoy learning about Mudshark and finding out how he solves the biggest mysteries at his school, the missing erasers and whether or not a parrot can be psychic. The fast-paced text keeps the reader engaged and leaves you wanting to know more about the adventures after this story ends.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Surfer of the Century
by Ellie Crowe

There once was a surfer that mastered monster waves everyday. He could find the best Bluebirds and ride like nothing you've ever seen before! In fact, one day he found the perfect wave and rode for nearly two miles! Does this sound like a tall tale? Believe it or not, it's the true story of Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian surfer. He was born to swim, with large feet and hands to help propel him through the water at amazing speeds. His dream was to race against the best swimmers from the mainland United States, but he faced many challenges on his quest to become the best in the world.

This biographical tale is loaded with historical facts and examples of perseverance and dedication as well. What a great way to introduce young readers to a real-life hero that overcame obstacles to fulfill his dream. Waldrep's illustrations invite the reader into the sunny, Hawaiian environment and make you feel as if you're riding alongside Duke!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

The Uglified Ducky
by Willy Claflin

Have you ever thought you were being raised in the wrong family? This is the question readers face as soon as they begin reading this story. Baby Moose mistakenly becomes part of a duck family, but quickly learns that he is not a proper duck. He cannot waddle, quack, swim, or fly. Mother Duck quickly takes him to the doctor for a few quick remedies, but Baby Moose simply cannot overcome his differences. Feeling like a failure, he stumbles upon some beautiful furry beasties with antlers and admires their stately ways. Thankfully, the furry beasties show him that he truly is the Moose he was born to be!

This version of the Ugly Duckling will have readers laughing as they empathize with Baby Moose. Although the ending is expected, young ones will enjoy hearing the adventure that leads Baby Moose to his destiny.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Sparrow Girl
by Sara Pennypacker

Although the adults around her won't listen, Ming-Li knows that the sparrows are truly not an enemy. Even though they are determined to eliminate every bird from their town, she is convinced that she must do whatever she can to save as many birds as possible. She finally persuades her brother into helping her and they successfully rescue seven sparrows. She is unsure how great her punishment will be, but feels certain that she has done the right thing.

This story, based on the Sparrow Wars of 1958 in China, captures the spirit and honest determination of a young girl beautifully. The fast-paced text couples well with Yoko Tanaka's amazing illustrations to portray the somber, yet hopeful storyline. I can't wait to share this story of an unlikely hero with my students next school year!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet
by Graham Salisbury

Would you want to go to school everyday if you lived in Hawaii? Probably not! Calvin Coconut has always lived in Hawaii so it doesn't feel so special to him. Although he loves spending time at the beach, it's not like a vacation.
When this book begins, summer is winding down and school is about to start up again. On top of his nervousness about going into fourth grade, Calvin's mom has just announced that one of her friend's daughters is coming to live with them. Preparing for fourth grade, giving up his room for the new girl, moving into the storage room in the garage, and dealing with Tito the school bully consumes is a lot to handle. Can Calvin figure out a way to not be such a magnet for trouble and mayhem?

What a great book for summer time reading! Calvin is a strong character that learns to control his impulsiveness, as well as any fourth grader I know! Elementary readers will easily identify with him and his "troubles," and might even learn a thing or two about becoming responsible.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Squirrel's World
by Lisa Moser

Squirrel is busy, busy, busy! He loves to help his friends all the time. Sometimes, however, his "help" makes more work for Mouse, Turtle, and Rabbit.

Emerging readers will delight in this fast-paced story that has as much energy as Squirrel himself! The illustrations capture the emotions and energy of the animal characters. This would be a great recommendation for readers that are embarking upon their adventure into beginning chapter books.

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

The Hinky-Pink
by Megan McDonald

Anabel, not Anabella, is a talented young seamstress that dreams of sewing with the finest fabrics instead of the simple repairs to which she is accustomed. She would love nothing more than to sew a ball gown for a princess! One day, quite unexpectedly, she gets her chance. Although she is locked in a tower and has only one week to create a masterpiece, Anabel is thrilled to be surrounded by silk, chiffon, and organza. Unfortunately, each night she is bothered by someone or something that is determined to destroy her bed linens and not let her have any sleep. Each morning, she awakes very tired and her sewing is less than perfect. Finally, Anabel figures out what this unseen adversary is searching for and accomplishes her goal of creating the best Farfalla gown for the princess!

Megan McDonald creates a quaint, updated version of this old tale. Alongside Brian Floca's illustrations, complete with nods to Old Italian landmarks, this book will delight princesses and princess-hopefuls alike!

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee

Umbrella Summer
by Lisa Graff

Annie is certain that her symptoms that indicate she has several diseases or other health problems. She also feels that a person can't be too careful to prevent accidents. She stocks up on Band-Aids and is sure to wear her bicycle helmet wherever she goes (even if she's walking to her best friend's house down the street.) Since her brother died unexpectedly, she spends every minute trying to prevent another tragedy in her family. The grown-ups around her are very worried, but they don't know how to help her. After a misunderstanding with her best friend and acquiring an unlikely new friend, Annie learns how to stop worrying, put down her "umbrella," and begin to enjoy life.

When I first started reading this book I was confused about who Jared was and why his death was such a bid deal to Annie. I also couldn't understand how a 10-year-old could be so preoccupied with health problems. However, the more I read, the more I began to understand Annie's situation. The author does a great job giving the reader a glimpse into the characters' thoughts and emotions. I could hardly put the book down because I wanted to know what happened next. Was Mrs. Finch's house haunted? Would Rebecca forgive Annie? Would Doug figure out a way to help Annie? Would Annie figure out a way to help her parents? You'll have to read this book if you want to know the answers to these questions!

2010-2011 Horned Toad Tale nominee

2010-2011 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominee