What Are You Reading?

“It’s Monday! What are you Reading?” is hosted by Sheila at Book Journey. It is a chance for book lovers to share their reading accomplishments as well as what is on the proverbial nightstand. She even does a giveaway. Subsequently Jen and Kellee at Teach Mentor Texts added an opportunity for those reading kidlit to join the fun. Since I read both I will post to both. Check them out, join the conversations, and discover more great books.

Must haves for my classroom library are marked with *.

The Gendarme by Mark T Mustian
History I had no idea about, the Armenians' forced exodus from Turkey. The story is intricately woven following a present and past duel timeline.

*The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis
This is not just fun to read, with a powerful female protagonist, but helps kids understand a different time.

Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks (audio)
Didn't love it, but found the way the story wove together to be interesting with characters I cheered and cried for.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (audio)
So many of my students have loved these books. I can see the interest in having history feel exciting, but I don't need to read the rest.

*Lirael by Garth Nix (2/3 in series)
These get better and better! I have them cued up for my husband to read this summer (when he has time). The way he creates a new world with enthralling characters and rioting storyline is reminiscent of how I feel of Tolkien's writing. Read them!

*Guys Write for Guys Read compiled by Jon Scieszka
I couldn't help but read excerpts of this to my classes as I went. Gross and funny, just what most boys want. I can tell you I will never think of oysters or olives the same way.

*Abhorsen by Garth Nix (3/3 in series)
See above. Some series fizzle, this one never did - always a new aspect to the world I couldn't have imagined and characters I don't want to leave.

Have Mother, Will Travel by Claire and Mia Fontaine (audio)
Mother / daughter memoir of travel and relationship.