Playing Hearts

Summary: It begins the way it has always begun: with a card on Mabel’s pillow. But Mabel has been in Underland before, and she’s not so anxious to go back. No matter what name it takes, Underland is always bizarre, always mad, always dangerous.

There’s the Queen of Hearts, terrifying, powerful, and possibly insane. There’s Hatter, purple-eyed and undoubtedly mad. March Hare has always been one sandwich short of a picnic, and Sir Blanc is missing his wits.

And then there’s Jack. Jack the aristocratic son of the Queen. Not quite mad, but not far off. Disinclined to help anyone but himself. A liar. And, thanks to an ancient ceremony performed by the Queen, Mabel’s fiancé.

Fall into the rabbit hole with Mabel as she climbs through tea-pots, battles the Jabberwock, and attempts to overthrow the Queen of Hearts herself.

Don’t lose your head.

And whatever you do, don’t be late...

Thoughts: As mentioned previously, I love retellings, especially of Alice in Wonderland. Also, in case you didn't pick it up in previous posts (here and here) I really love W.R. Gingell's writing style, she manages to capture a great sense of humor along with some very real and loveable characters. This story is no different and masterfully weaves a new take on an old story that had me pretty captivated the whole time. I really appreciated the world-building in here, despite not being a big book, Playing Hearts does a good job of shaping Wonderland and it's systems of rules and madness. I really loved it and highly recommend for any and everyone who wants some a new twist on Alice and her Wonderland. 

Content: Magic and violence, clean for most ages but will probably be most enjoyed by teens and adults. 

Merry Christmas (almost) and happy holidays! Wishing a joyous season to you all!

100 Cupboards

Summary: Twelve-year-old Henry York is going to sleep one night when he hears a bump on the attic wall above his head. It's an unfamiliar house—Henry is staying with his aunt, uncle, and three cousins—so he tries to ignore it. But the next night he wakes up with bits of plaster in his hair. Two knobs have broken through the wall, and one of them is slowly turning...

Henry scrapes the plaster off the wall and discovers doors—ninety-nine cupboards of all different sizes and shapes. Through one he can hear the sound of falling rain. Through another he sees a glowing room—with a man strolling back and forth! Henry and his cousin Henrietta soon understand that these are not just cupboards. They are, in fact, portals to other worlds.

Thoughts: This was a fairly creepy and fascinating book. A bit like The Magician's Nephew meets a Goosebump story, 100 Cupboards has a vaguely classical feel to it combined with a uniquely creepy element, it tackles the idea eagerly that not every world would be friendly and not everyone will wish you well on your journeys. Good writing, good characters, and a better plot to keep you entertained, this was a fun read!

Content: Pretty creepy at times, good for older middle-graders, at least twelve and up!

Momo

Summary: After the sweet-talking gray men come to town, life becomes terminally efficient. Can Momo, a young orphan girl blessed with the gift of listening, vanquish the ashen-faced time thieves before joy vanishes forever?

Thoughts: From the author of The Neverending Story, Momo is a sweet and curious tale about time, magic, friendship, and community. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it as a read-aloud for families!

Content: Some magic but otherwise a clean tale for all ages. 

The Supernaturalist

Summary: In the future, in a place called Satelite City, fourteen-year-old Cosmo Hill enters the world, unwanted by his parents. He's sent to the Clarissa Frayne Institute for Parentally Challenged Boys, Freight class. At Clarissa Frayne, the boys are put to work by the state, testing highly dangerous products. At the end of most days, they are covered with burns, bruises, and sores. Cosmo realizes that if he doesn't escape, he will die at this so-called orphanage. When the moment finally comes, Cosmo seizes his chance and breaks out with the help of the Supernaturalists, a motley crew of kids who all have the same special ability as Cosmo-they can see supernatural Parasites, creatures that feed on the life force of humans. The Supernaturalists patrol the city at night, hunting the Parasites in hopes of saving what's left of humanity in Satellite City. Or so they think. The Supernaturalist soon find themselves caught in a web far more complicated than they'd imagined when they discover a horrifying secret that will force them to question everything they believe in.

Thoughts: This was a fun sci-fi story about a bunch of street kids and dystopian style city. Colfer's writing style is engaging and fun with good characters and an interesting plot. A great read for fans of the sci-fi genre, especially in regards to world-building.

Content: Some mild language, violence, and creepy scenes. Good for middle-grade readers and up. 

The Guardians Series

Summary: Of course you know the Guardians. You’ve known them since before you can remember: Santa, the Tooth Fairy, the Sandman, the Easter Bunny, Jack Frost. But...where did they come from? And what nefarious evil-doer forced to band together to protect the children of the world?

Thoughts: So, this series came out after the movie Rise of the Guardians that it's connected to. I put off reading these books for years because it looked like another scheme to milk the franchise and that usually produces underdeveloped stories meant to sell, not engage. Eventually, though, I caved on a rainy day and rented the first book from the library. Currently, my only regret is that I didn't just buy it outright. These books are amazingly well written, beautifully illustrated, and full of riveting plot and fascinating characters. This series is written with the beautiful, dreamy quality of fairytales and classics. I cannot recommend them enough, they are the type of books you read a million times and grow old with. This is one story broken up into a series so the books are meant to be read in order to fully enjoy them. 

Content: Magic and some frightening scenes. Otherwise, good for all ages!

Bed-Knob and Broomstick

Summary: When prim and proper Miss Price from next door falls off her broomstick, Carey, Charles and Paul discover that she's actually a witch. In order to keep them quiet, Miss Price gives the three children a gift - an enchanted bedknob that will whisk them off anywhere they want, for as long as they keep her secret. And so their adventures begin...

Thoughts: This is a classic story who's movie may be more well known than the book. Though I did grow up on the film, I only had the chance to read the book recently and it was adorable! Good writing, funny story, and endearing characters! Right up there with E. Nesbit!

Content: Magic and witches but otherwise good for all ages! 

Breadcrumbs

Summary: Once upon a time, Hazel and Jack were best friends. They had been best friends since they were six, spending hot Minneapolis summers and cold Minneapolis winters together, dreaming of Hogwarts and Oz, superheroes and baseball. Now that they were eleven, it was weird for a boy and a girl to be best friends. But they couldn't help it - Hazel and Jack fit, in that way you only read about in books. And they didn't fit anywhere else.

And then, one day, it was over. Jack just stopped talking to Hazel. And while her mom tried to tell her that this sometimes happens to boys and girls at this age, Hazel had read enough stories to know that it's never that simple. And it turns out, she was right. Jack's heart had been frozen, and he was taken into the woods by a woman dressed in white to live in a palace made of ice. Now, it's up to Hazel to venture into the woods after him. Hazel finds, however, that these woods are nothing like what she's read about, and the Jack that Hazel went in to save isn't the same Jack that will emerge. Or even the same Hazel.

Thoughts: The Snow Queen is one of my favorite fairytales and I'm constantly looking for retellings, similar to Alice in Wonderland. One retelling that came highly recommended was this book. Honestly, it was hard to get into the story in the beginning as it started off pretty slowly. Once it finally picked up though, it was a pretty good story and a fascinating retelling, really capturing the fairytale feel of the original story. I definitely recommend it!

Content: Some creepy scenes and magic. Otherwise, clean for all ages. 

The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance

Summary: Murder, mystery, and adventure aren’t your typical birthday presents . . .
But for Theo, anything that breaks up his ordinary routine is the perfect gift.
A mysterious “illness” and Theo’s guardians force him into a life indoors, where gloves must be worn and daily medical treatments are the norm. When Theo discovers a suspicious package on his birthday, one person from the past will unlock the secret behind Theo’s “illness” and change his life forever.
Thoughts: There's not a lot I can say about this book without giving away plot. Suffice to say we really enjoyed this book! Great mystery, good writing, and engaging characters make this a must-read!

Content: Some mild language and creepy moments. Otherwise good for most ages!

The Iron Trial

Summary: Most kids would do anything to pass the Iron Trial.

Not Callum Hunt. He wants to fail.

All his life, Call has been warned by his father to stay away from magic. If he succeeds at the Iron Trial and is admitted into the Magisterium, he is sure it can only mean bad things for him.

So he tries his best to do his worst - and fails at failing.

Now the Magisterium awaits him. It's a place that's both sensational and sinister, with dark ties to his past and a twisty path to his future.

The Iron Trial is just the beginning, for the biggest test is still to come . . .

Thoughts: despite falling into a fairly common section of middle-grade literature with wanna-be's for Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, this book actually stands on its own feet pretty well. An interesting plot and good writing barely make this story stand out, what does put it in the spotlight is the curious cast of characters. The main three, especially, are fun to follow in this book but hold a lot of potential for the rest of the series. All in all, a good book that leaves you curious to see where it goes next.

Content: Magic, mild violence, and a few mildly creepy scenes put this book on the older side of middle-grade books, thus, generally ok for most ages. 

Hannah Coulter

Summary: Hannah, the now-elderly narrator, recounts the love she has for the land and for her community. She remembers each of her two husbands, and all places and community connections threatened by twentieth-century technologies. At risk is the whole culture of family farming, hope redeemed when her wayward and once lost grandson, Virgil, returns to his rural home place to work the farm. 

Thoughts: Hannah Coulter is the bittersweet tale of a life gone by. We see Hannah's childhood and early adult life during war times and how the world recovered afterward from the loss and damage left behind. We see a quiet tale of times changing and how the land and people change with it, moving on and coming full circle at the same time. A moving book that is well written, with the background of life itself more of a focus than the specific people. The cast is still well developed and enjoyable, almost guaranteed to make readers cry.

Content: War, adult relationships, and other hard topics plus writing style make this a good read for adults. 

A Glory of Unicorns

Summary: An award-winning author compiles twelve stories from popular fantasy writers to demonstrate the importance of magic in everyday life and show how unicorns are a prime source of this power.

Thoughts: So rarely do we see any modern stories depicting unicorns without wings or sparkly rainbows. I love this book because of its compilation of vastly different stories, and poems, that all depict accurately interesting unicorns. 

Ok, rant over. Really though, this book is great. There's a little something here for every fantasy fan and we highly recommend it!

Content: Some mild violence and language in some of the stories and magic in just about everything. Still good for most ages!

Alex and the Ironic Gentleman

Summary: Often mistaken for a boy because of her haircut and name, Alex Morningside is an inquisitive girl of ten-and-a-half who attends the prestigious Wigpowder-Steele Academy. Unfortunately, though she loves to learn, Alex just can’t bring herself to enjoy her classes. Her teachers are all old and smelly and don’t seem to know about anything that has happened in the world the past thirty years, and her peers…well they are quite simply ridiculous. Luckily for Alex, the new school year brings an exciting new teacher. Mr. Underwood makes lessons fun and teaches her how to fence. But Mr. Underwood has a mysterious family secret - the swashbuckling and buried treasure kind - and not everyone is glad he has come to Wigpowder-Steele. When the infamous pirates of a ship called the Ironic Gentleman kidnap Mr. Underwood, Alex sets off on a journey to rescue him, along the way encountering a cast of strange and magical characters, including the dashing and sometimes heroic Captain Magnanimous, Coriander the Conjurer, the Extremely Ginormous Octopus, and the wicked Daughters of the Founding Fathers’ Preservation Society.

Thoughts: This was a funny and cute story about a small girl and a crazy adventure. Good writing and interesting characters carry the story along. My one problem with the story is that it starts off fairly realistic with an almost real-world setting, but quickly spirals into fantasy and some of it felt a little disjointed with the rest of the story. But, had I been aware of it beforehand, I may have enjoyed it more. I still recommend giving it a try for a fun, lighthearted, read.

Content: Some mild violence. Otherwise, good for all ages!

The Looking Glass Wars

Summary: Alyss of Wonderland?
When Alyss Heart, heir to the Wonderland throne, must flee through the Pool of Tears to escape the murderous aunt Redd, she finds herself lost and alone in Victorian London. Befriended by an aspiring author named Lewis Carrol, Alyss tells the violent, heartbreaking story of her young life. Alyss trusts this author to tell the truth so that someone, somewhere will find her and bring her home. But he gets the story all wrong. He even spells her name incorrectly!

Fortunately, Royal Bodyguard Hatter Madigan knows all too well the awful truth of Alyss' story and he is searching every corner of our world to find the lost princess and return her to Wonderland so she may eventually battle Redd for her rightful place as the Queen of Hearts.

Thoughts: I love the story of Alice in Wonderland, it's what C.S. Lewis would refer to as a "myth" where the story itself is riveting and fascinating despite the form it takes. This, I think, is one of the reasons there are so many retellings of this classic tale, and why we enjoy them so much.

I really did enjoy this book. I've seen it get a lot of backlash but most of what I've seen it get hit for is typical YA tropes. This is a YA book, make no mistake. It's not great and it's not groundbreaking, but it is an interesting read. If you like YA or at least don't mind it, then you might enjoy this story. I thought it was an interesting take on Alice in Wonderland and I found the characters truly enjoyable and fairly believable. The culmination of the story was engaging and I was hooked beginning to end. So, for those of you who, like me (Ants) enjoy a good retelling, you'll probably enjoy this addition to the list!

Content: Being a YA book, there is a fair amount of violence, mild language, and tough topics. As such I would suggest this series for older teens and adults. 

The Gawgon and the Boy

Summary: When David falls ill his tough old Aunt Annie offers to tutor him, and he soon grows fond of The Gawgon, as he nicknames her because of her resemblance to the terrifying Gawgon Medusa of Greek myth. Together they embark on exciting imaginary adventures rescuing King Tut's treasure, scaling mountains and outwitting master criminals.

Thoughts: Another classic from Lloyd Alexander, this lighthearted and humorous tale is a great read for families. David and his Aunt go on plenty of great adventures that spark the imagination and get kids thinking about great literary characters and historical events. It's a nice quick read for anyone wanting something relaxed and easy to go through, with engaging characters, a sweet story and good writing.

Content: A bit of mild language, otherwise good for all ages. 

The Last Bogler

Summary: With the plague of bogles in Victorian London barely contained, bogle hunter Alfred Bunce needs all the help he can get. So Ned Roach becomes a bogler’s apprentice, luring child-eating monsters from their lairs just like his friends Jem and Birdie. It’s dangerous work that takes Ned into mysterious and hidden parts of the city.
 
But times in London are changing. As the machine age emerges, the very existence of bogles is questioned, and the future of bogling is in jeopardy. And the stakes get even higher for the team of boglers when an old enemy appears—a threat that may be deadlier than any bogle…

Book 1 How to Catch a Bogle

Book 2 A Plague of Bogles

Thoughts: The final installment in this thrilling trilogy, The Last Bogler does not disappoint! After the wild ride Catherine Jinks has lead us on so far, I had high expectations for this book and was a little worried with its slow start. But it quickly picks up the pace and takes a turn that no one saw coming, culminating in a strangely satisfying conclusion.

Content: This series is definitely creepy and could be categorized as scary even for younger audiences and non-horror fans like Ants. There's a bit of mild language and some violence. A good read for preteen ages and up. 

The Golden Dream of Carlo Chuchio

Summary: A beautiful Kirkassi girl, cold-eyed villains and smiling killers, a bazaar merchant peddling slightly used dreams—could any young adventurer ask for more? Not Carlo Chuchio, who is seeking hidden treasure on the legendary Road of Golden Dreams.

With Baksheesh, the world's worst camel-puller, Carlo leads a caravan through the realm of Keshavar. Robbed of all but his underdrawers, mistaken for a mighty warrior and then for a crown prince, Carlo risks his life for a prize that may not even exist.

Thoughts: Lloyd Alexander is a masterful writer and blends eastern myth with western humor to create excitingly unique stories. This one is no exception and will have you laughing and reading eagerly to see where on earth this story could possibly be going! Full of fun, fantasy, and adventure, The Golden Dream is a great read for a slow day!

Content: Aside from some magical elements, the story is clean for all ages!

Paul

Summary: An intimate portrait of a complex individual through whom God was at work, turning the world upside down. With vivid imagination and scholarly depth, award-winning author Walter Wangerin Jr. weaves together the history of the early church with the life story of its greatest apostle--Paul. Wangerin begins to unfold Paul’s incredible life by imagining the childhood and early family life of a boy then called "Saul." A fierce prosecutor of Christians before his conversion, Paul never lost his fiery dedication, boldness, and strong personality. After his shocking encounter with God on the road to Damascus, he applied his formidable strengths to spreading the gospel. Wangerin deftly reveals Paul’s character through each stage of his life, and enables us to see Paul the person, living and complex, viewed through the eyes of his contemporaries: Barnabas, James, Prisca, Seneca, and Luke. Paul’s rich interaction and brilliant dialogue with friends and foes, leaders and slaves, Jews and Greeks, creates a swift and intense historical drama around the man who spread the seed of the Gospel to the ends of the known world. 

Thoughts: This was an exciting and riveting story on the famous apostle's life to whom we owe a very large part of the New Testament. The storytelling was great and the characters were well defined. While I can't attest to the theological soundness of it all, I can say that it's a great story and well worth the read!

Content: Some violence and mature themes. Best for teens and adults. 

The Princess Tales 1-2

Summary: Once upon a time...A kind sister and a cruel one. A charming prince. A spiteful fairy. A hundred-year snooze. A pea under a pile of mattresses. A kiss.

All the familiar ingredients, but why is the punished sister happy? Where did that extra prince come from, and what does a flock of balding sheep or a fleck of tuna in a chocolate cake have to do with anything?

Thoughts: I love Gail Carson Levine's writings. She turns all the typical fairytale concepts into crazy and humorous tales that are modern enough to be easily read by all ages while retaining all the most loved aspects of their older contemporaries!

Content: Aside from magic, perfectly clean for all ages!

Joey: How a Blind Rescue Horse Helped Others Learn to See

Summary: The heartwarming true story of a blind horse named Joey.
At the height of his show career, this beautiful Appaloosa’s majestic stature, strength, and willingness to work made him the perfect partner. But when an injury cost Joey his show career, he moved from one owner to the next, ultimately experiencing severe abuse and neglect. A rescue group found Joey nearly dead from starvation—and blind.

Then he came to Hope Reins—a ranch dedicated to helping hurting kids who had been abused, emotionally wounded, or unwanted. By teaching these children to care for rescued animals, the Hope Reins staff were convinced they could reach kids with love and hope and show them that we are never forgotten by God.

But could the financially struggling ranch afford to take care of a blind horse that no one else wanted? Could Joey somehow learn to trust people even though the world had hurt him so badly? And what would happen—to Joey, the kids, and Hope Reins—if they failed?

A true story of friendship destined to become a classic, Joey will touch your heart and reveal the power of finding light in the darkness.

Thoughts: This is an amazing story. I had the privilege of working at Hope Reins for a short period while I lived in NC and I loved the work these people did for families from all walks of life. The story of Joey is the beginning of it all and it shows the heart and foundation of the wonderful people who founded Hope Reins. The book itself is a heart-rending and then heart-warming story of loss and love and I highly recommend it.

Content: There are some hard and mature themes in the book so, even though it is largely clean, I recommend it for teens and adults. 

Kisses From Katie

Summary: What would cause an eighteen-year-old old senior class president and homecoming queen from Nashville, Tennessee, to disobey and disappoint her parents by forgoing college, break her little brother’s heart, lose all but a handful of her friends (because the rest of them think she has gone off the deep end), and break up with the love of her life, all so she could move to Uganda, where she knew only one person but didn’t know any of the language? A passion to make a difference. Katie Davis left over Christmas break her senior year for a short mission trip to Uganda and her life was turned completely inside out. She found herself so moved, so broken by the people and the children of Uganda that she knew her calling was to return and care for them. Her story is like Mother Teresa’s in that she has given up everything—at such a young age—to care for the less fortunate of this world. Katie, a charismatic and articulate young woman, has gone on to adopt 14 children during her time in Uganda, and she completely trusts God for daily provision for her and her family, which includes children with special needs.

To further her reach into the needs of Ugandans, Katie established Amazima Ministries. The ministry matches orphaned children with sponors worldwide. Each sponsor's $300/year provides schooling, school supplies, three hot meals a day, minor medical care, and spiritual encouragement. Katie expected to have forty children in the program; she had signed up 150 by January 2008; today it sponsors over 400. Another aspect of the ministry is a feeding program created for the displaced Karamojong people—Uganda's poorest citizens. The program feeds lunch to over 1200 children Monday-Friday and sends them home with a plate for food; it also offers basic medical care, Bible study, and general health training.

Katie Davis, now 21, is more than fascinating, she's inspiring, as she has wholeheartedly answered the call to serve.

Thoughts: I loved this story so much! Katie paints a clear picture of a whole new world, the good and the bad. She refuses to discriminate between the cultures she calls home and she fills each image, whether of the States or of Africa, with love and beauty. The simplicity of this book and the lives it shares hold your heart till the very end. Highly recommended for everyone wanting to explore new lands and cultures!

Content: The book covers some hard topics like sickness, abuse, poverty, rape, and many other issues these people faced. While everything is handled with care, we still suggest it for teens and adults. 

So You want to be a Wizard

Summary: Nita Callahan is at the end of her rope because of the bullies who've been hounding her at school... until she discovers a mysterious library book that promises her the chance to become a wizard. But she has no idea of the difference that taking the Wizard's Oath is going to make in her life. Shortly, in company with fellow beginner-wizard Kit Rodriguez, Nita's catapulted into what will be the adventure of a lifetime—if she and Kit can both live through it. For every wizard's career starts with an Ordeal in which he or she must challenge the one power in the universe that hates wizardry more than anything else: the Lone Power that invented death and turned it loose in the worlds. Plunged into a dark and deadly alternate New York full of the Lone One's creatures, Kit and Nita must venture into the very heart of darkness to find the stolen, legendary Book of Night with Moon. Only with the dangerous power of the wizardly Book do they have a chance to save not just their own lives, but their world...

Thoughts: This was a wild ride of a book! It started out pretty slow and cliche but I had no idea what was going on by the end. Honestly, it was pretty enjoyable but weird at the same time. While this book won't be making my favorites, it definitely stays to remind me that it wasn't just a fevered dream. if you ever want a book that refuses to be normal, read this one!

Content: Magic, mild language, and mild violence. Fine middle-grade readers and older. 

The Shadow Thieves

Summary: See that girl, the one with the bright red hair, overstuffed backpack, and aura of grumpiness? That's Charlotte Mielswetzski. And something extra-ordinary is about to happen to her.

Oh, it's not the very cute kitten that appears out of nowhere and demands to go home with her. It's not the sudden arrival of her cousin Zee, who believes he's the cause of a mysterious sickness that has struck his friends back in England. It's not her creepy English teacher Mr. Metos, who takes his mythology lessons just a little too seriously. And it's not the white-faced, yellow-eyed men in tuxedoes, who follow Charlotte everywhere.

What's so extraordinary is not any one of these things....It's all of them. And when Charlotte's friends start to get sick one by one, Charlotte and Zee set out to find a cure. Their quest leads them to a not-so-mythical Underworld, where they face rhyme-loving Harpies, gods with personnel problems, and ghosts with a thirst for blood.

Charlotte and Zee learn that in a world overrun by Nightmares, Pain, and Death, the really dangerous character is a guy named Phil. And then they discover that the fate of every person -- living and dead -- is in their young hands.

Thoughts: This was a fun read following in the footsteps of Percy Jackson. Full of mythology and fun this was a good read for most fans of these tropes as well as anyone living in Minnesota where most of the author's books are set as well as where Ants happened to be living when she read it which made it all the more enjoyable!

Content: The mythology side of this book lends itself to some creepy, dark, and magical scenes but it's otherwise clean for all ages.

The Marvelous Misadventures of Sebastian

Summary: When fourth fiddler Sebastian loses his place in the Baron's orchestra, he has to leave the only home he knows--which turns out to be the least of his troubles. He rescues a stray cat from a group of tormentors, who then smash his precious violin; and the troubled young boy he tries to help turns out to be the Crown Princess, on the run from an arranged marriage. Sebastian, Princess Isabel, and Presto the cat soon find themselves fleeing stuffy officials, hired assassins, furious guardsmen and sentries--and, in their journey, find out what is truly important in life.

Thoughts: I (Ants) am an avid fan of Lloyd Alexander's works. From Prydain to Vesper Holly and everything in between. This book is no exception. Following closely after the end of his most famous work, The Prydain series, this book still has a pretty classical feel to the writing style while, story-wise, falls into the same category as his more lighthearted and humorous works. I really enjoyed this one as it had a bit more meat to it than his usual standalone works while still remaining a neat little story. 

Content: Aside from some mild danger, this is a clean read for all ages!

The Magic Tree House

Summary: When Jack and Annie discover a mysterious tree house filled with books, they never dream that it will take them on exciting adventures around the world and throughout history! The story begins with Dinosaurs Before Dark, when Jack and Annie are whisked back to the prehistoric past. With a total of twenty-eight adventures, kids will never get tired of traveling the world and completing missions with their new friends Jack and Annie.
 
Books in this set include: Dinosaurs Before Dark (#1), The Knight at Dawn (#2), Mummies in the Morning (#3), Pirates Past Noon (#4), Night of the Ninjas (#5), Afternoon on the Amazon (#6), Sunset of the Sabertooth (#7), Midnight on the Moon (#8), Dolphins at Daybreak (#9), Ghost Town at Sundown (#10), Lions at Lunchtime (#11), Polar Bears Past Bedtime (#12), Vacation Under the Volcano (#13), Day of the Dragon King (#14), Viking Ships at Sunrise (#15), Hour of the Olympics (#16), Tonight on the Titanic (#17), Buffalo Before Breakfast (#18), Tigers at Twilight (#19), Dingoes at Dinnertime (#20), Civil War on Sunday (#21), Revolutionary War on Wednesday (#22), Twister on Tuesday (#23), Earthquake in the Early Morning (#24), Stage Fright on a Summer Night (#25), Good Morning, Gorillas (#26), Thanksgiving on Thursday (#27), and High Tide in Hawaii (#28).

Thoughts: Unlike most people reading this review, I did not grow up reading the Magic Tree House stories. I did, however, get to read several of this first series to my students aged 3-10, and they adored them. We enjoyed going through the different ages and eras together as well as hunting down the next book at every store or library we went to. Each book prompted further study into dinosaurs, astronauts, how the body works, and plenty of other things. These are also great for early readers to start on by themselves. They offer fun and adventure while teaching and helping curiosity to grow. A great series for read-a-loud's, especially if you're willing to go the extra mile and help them research answers for all the great questions these books will prompt!

Content: Since they are geared towards little kids, they are perfectly clean. There is some magic seen in the function of the tree house itself and the myths it ties into but is otherwise good for all ages! 

The Kneebone Boy

Summary: Life in a small town can be pretty boring when everyone avoids you like the plague. But after their father unwittingly sends them to stay with an aunt who’s away on holiday, the Hardscrabble children take off on an adventure that begins in the seedy streets of London and ends in a peculiar sea village where legend has it a monstrous creature lives who is half boy and half animal. . . .

Thoughts: Despite the intentionally creepy vibe this book puts off, it follows more closely in the footsteps of E. Nesbit than A Series of Unfortunate Events. This gives it a comfortable sense of mystery and family that is perfect for a rainy day with a hot cup of something good. I really fell in love with the story and the characters. The plot develops well and certainly ends in a surprise I did not see coming. It's one of those books that should be reread after the first reading to better see the clues dropped. All in all, a really great feel-good kinda story!

Content: Some scenes feel a little creepy in the moment but are later revealed to not have been as dangerous or eery as they appeared. Otherwise, a clean read for all ages!

The Empty Grave

Summary: Five months after the events in THE CREEPING SHADOW, we join Lockwood, Lucy, George, Holly, and their associate Quill Kipps on a perilous night mission: they have broken into the booby-trapped Fittes Mausoleum, where the body of the legendary psychic heroine Marissa Fittes lies. Or does it? This is just one of the many questions to be answered in Book 5 of the Lockwood & Co. series. Will Lockwood ever reveal more about his family's past to Lucy? Will their trip to the Other Side leave Lucy and Lockwood forever changed? Will Penelope Fittes succeed in shutting down their agency forever? The young agents must survive attacks from foes both spectral and human before they can take on their greatest enemy in a climactic and chaotic battle. And to prevail they will have to rely on help from some surprising--and shadowy--allies.

Read about the previous books:

Book 1 The Screaming Staircase

Book 2 The Whispering Skull

Book 3 The Hollow Boy

Book 4 The Creeping Shadow

Thoughts: This is the fifth and final book of, as of yet, the only series of ghost books I've not just enjoyed but actually loved. I've ranted about the characters, writing, and world-building in past reviews so check those out for sure. As for this book, all I have to say is that it is a good ending to a spellbinding series that has kept me going for over a year. While the conclusion isn't exactly all I hoped it would be, it fits the series perfectly and cements these books onto my favorites shelf. Absolutely necessary to all readers of the series and a must for lovers of ghost stories and great characters, definitely check these out!

Content: Like the rest of the series, these books are dark and downright scary. They won't bother a seasoned veteran of the horror genre (like Epic) but should be read carefully by younger or more sensitive readers (like Ants). Mild language and a few rude remarks from the Skull in the Jar added to the list and we recommend this series for teens and adults. 

Deadweather and Sunrise

Summary: It’s tough to be thirteen, especially when somebody’s trying to kill you.

Not that Egg’s life was ever easy, growing up on sweaty, pirate-infested Deadweather Island with no company except an incompetent tutor and a pair of unusually violent siblings who hate his guts.

But when Egg’s father hustles their family off on a mysterious errand to fabulously wealthy Sunrise Island, then disappears with the siblings in a freak accident, Egg finds himself a long-term guest at the mansion of the glamorous Pembroke family and their beautiful, sharp-tongued daughter Millicent. Finally, life seems perfect.

Until someone tries to throw him off a cliff.

Suddenly, Egg’s running for his life in a bewildering world of cutthroat pirates, villainous businessmen, and strange Native legends. The only people who can help him sort out the mystery of why he’s been marked for death are Millicent and a one-handed, possibly deranged cabin boy.

Come along for the ride. You’ll be glad you did.

Thoughts: This was a sweet and interesting coming of age story set in the past with a backdrop of high-seas adventure. The story keeps a good pace and the characters are well done. It feels a bit like Treasure Island for a new generation. Really enjoyable and good for almost all ages.

Content: A bit of mild language and violence. Otherwise, good for any age.

The Reluctant Assassin

Summary: ​The reluctant assassin is Riley, a Victorian boy who is suddenly plucked from his own time and whisked into the twenty-first century, accused of murder and on the run.
Riley has been pulled into the FBI's covert W.A.R.P. operation (Witness Anonymous Relocation Program). He and young FBI Agent Chevie Savano are forced to flee terrifying assassin-for-hire Albert Garrick, who pursues Riley through time and will not stop until he has hunted him down. Barely staying one step ahead, Riley and Chevie must stay alive and stop Garrick returning to his own time with knowledge and power that could change the world forever.

Thoughts: Author of the acclaimed and much-loved series, Artemis Fowl, Eoin Colfer has tried his hand at many different types of books. While always quick with wit and an interesting tale, this definitely isn't quite on par with his more famous series. 

Now that that's out of the way, this was a really good story in its own right. I will admit to having picked it up because of the author and how much I missed Artemis, but once I got over how completely unrelated this book was from that work, I really enjoyed it. The historical and modern settings were great, the characters were well written and fun to follow, and, by the end, I was truly invested in the story for its own sake. So, while I won't recommend it to anyone seeking the flavor of Artemis, I will recommend it to anyone looking for a good story on spies, friendship, time-traveling, action, and comedy!

Content: A bit of mild language and violence. Otherwise, clean for kids of most ages.

Lyonesse Series

Summary: Lyonesse is the land of legends and magic. It's the forgotten land where King Arthur once resided with Merlin and his Knights of the Round Table. But thousands of years after the great king walked this country, it has become a place of shadows, where men hunt and capture the monsters that lurk below in the dark depths of the sea. Lyonesse is slowly sinking, and it is up to one boy, Idris, to save his people and his land. Can he stand up to the forces of evil that aim to stop him? 

Thoughts: This miniseries, composed solely of these two books, has become one of my favorites. Fantastical writing on par with Lloyd Alexander or even Tolkien creates a world from the legends of Camelot and Atlantis. Deeply moving, well written with good characters and better world-building, I was riveted from beginning to end despite a rather long wait in between as I struggled to find the second book. 

The first book, The Well Between Worlds opens well and the second, Darksoltice, closes unforgettably. These are not standalone books and I highly suggest reading them back to back to fully appreciate the flow of the story. They do tend to lean on the darker side of things with an almost dystopian feel mingled with the fantasy here. Even so, these are truly great books! 

Content: The creatures from the wells come in many forms, some of them resembling women and it is stated, though never shown, that men will sleep with them. Lewd comments are occasionally made to or about female characters, Mild language. The biggest issue would be how dark the stories are, often becoming creepy or violent. Recommended for teens and adults. 

The Mysterious Howling

Summary: Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children: Alexander, age ten or thereabouts, keeps his siblings in line with gentle nips; Cassiopeia, perhaps four or five, has a bark that is (usually) worse than her bite; and Beowulf, age somewhere-in-the-middle, is alarmingly adept at chasing squirrels.

Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Only fifteen years old and a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position. Though she is eager to instruct the children in Latin verbs and the proper use of globes, first she must help them overcome their canine tendencies.

But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these three wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the vast forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners and socially useful phrases in time for Lady Constance's holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?

Thoughts: I loved this book! Mowgli and siblings meet Mary Poppins in this story about a young governess who has got much more than she bargained for! Through trial and error, she sets about teaching her young wards but she also has to protect them from sinister forces lurking all-around ten. This book offers both a compelling mystery as well as a heartwarming tale, ensuring that you remain riveted till the last page and yet, carrying the story gently and in a way that is easily read by all ages. Despite being such a small book, it carries quite a bit of story in it and comes recommended for any age.

Content: Due to the mystery side of the plot, several scenes may be creepy for younger audiences. Otherwise, a clean read. 

Crown of Three

Summary: Toronia, a kingdom composed of three realms, is wracked with civil war. King Brutan rules with an iron fist. Cruelty and suffering abound. The kingdom’s only hope comes in the form of Brutan’s illegitimate triplets, prophesied to kill the king and rule together in peace. But the road to the throne is long and bloody. Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, the triplets face a desperate fight to secure their destiny. Will they survive long enough to rule?

Thoughts: The book opens with a classical fantasy plot full of stars, prophecies, and conspiracies. After that, we start to develop more into the cast but with a heavy plot constantly lurking in the background.

This whole book is filled with potential. While a good read in itself, it feels more like a prologue to the rest of the series that promises much more in the high fantasy genre. 

What really appealed to me about this book was that the story focused on triplets, a bit of an uncommon plot line outside of mysteries trying to pull a fast one. As such, I was curious to see how the author would pull this off. He does so with skill, developing each of the children into their own unique person and it's easy to enjoy them each as individuals while still being able to see their similarities. 

All in all, a great read that promises good things for the rest of the trilogy! 

Content: Some violence but otherwise a clean read for all ages.

Hello...

And yes, I'm well aware that we have not been nearly as active as we hoped to be. But, Ants here to assure you that we're going to try posting a little more committedly for this summer at least. I'm on a break from school right now so I have a little more of my mind put together because, as any college student can attest, trying to think of anything other than due dates and ramen is a feat of superhuman strength during the school year.

So, here's the promise/update, hope to see you all in the future, look forward to some pretty neat books!

Ants