Archive Winter 2008

Magic Bicycle
Bibee, John

The title says it all…the bicycle is magic!  This is a wonderful fantasy book that will appeal to both boys and girls.  This rusty Spirit Flyer will introduce an unknown world to the young man who finds it in the city dump.  Why do the people at Goliath Toys want this bicycle destroyed?  This is the first book of a series that readers are sure to love!

Piper Reed, Navy Brat
Holt, Kimberly Willis

Based on the author’s own life, “Piper Reed, Navy Brat” stars Piper, a nine year old middle child.  She will take you on a fun journey as she moves (yet again) to a navy base in Florida.  You will also meet her bossy older sister and her talented younger one.  Black and white illustrations add interest to this first of what’s sure to be a charming and timely series.

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen
Berlin, Eric

A New York Times crossword creator himself, Eric Berlin does a marvelous job creating a story that will appeal to all different kinds of readers.  A clever child will love all of the puzzles intertwined in the narrative.  Non-puzzle loving kids can just enjoy the treasure hunt embarked on by Winston.  Darker elements are present but appropriately expressed, and the villain is not as obvious as you think! 

Shots at Sea
Lalicki, Tom

If anyone can stop an assassination attempt on former President Teddy Roosevelt, Nate and his mentor, Harry Houdini can.  Follow them as they board an ocean liner headed for England, and learn the secrets of a famous Houdini trick, and solve the case.

Babymouse: Queen of the World!
Holm, Jennifer L. & Matthew Holm

Drawn in pink, black and white, this graphic novel is girly and full of imagination.  Babymouse hopes to be invited the reigning class queen’s sleepover.  But how much will it cost her?  Will it be worth it?

The Curse of the Bologna Sandwich
Trine, Greg

Melvin Beederman is not your average superhero.  While he graduated at the top of his class from Superhero Academy and sees everyone’s underwear, Melvin takes five tries to clear a building and cannot stop a speeding train.  However, his first assignment is Los Angles.  When there is a mix-up at the dry cleaners with his cape, will Melvin be able to save the day?  A little help from a sidekick may be just what he needs.

Big Break
Crouch, Cheryl

With their band “Chosen Girls” winning band battles and gaining popularity, the bassist Harmony wants their good fortune to extend to others. With her bandmates Trinity and Melody and the boy band KCH, they decide to hold a benefit concert to start a food pantry at a local homeless shelter.  But when an agent approaches Harmony, will her ambition to do good on a grand scale blind her from doing any good?

Edward’s Eyes
MacLachlan, Patricia

Have your Kleenex box handy for this “deeply stirring” story of an 11 year old boy that faces the reality of losing a sibling.  But not before Jake teaches Edward many things, including how to throw a perfect knuckleball.  The surprise at the end of this book will make you want to read it all over!