Tess Brooks is a carefree eleven year old that loves her life on Bethsaida Island. But that all may change if the island can't get enough students to support the school staying open. The residents come up with the answer. Several families foster children and Tess's family does its part by bringing 13 year old Aaron into their home. Nothing makes Aaron happy. All that he wants is to be with his mother. He and Tess scheme a plan for him to see his mother while he is performing at a community concert and the results are disastrous. Can Aaron find his place in the family and make the island his home?

Awards nominated: 2013 Bluestem Nominee

Reviewed by: rn

Date read: 5/23/2012

ISBN-10: 0545035325

ISBN-13: 9780545035323

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Fifteen-year-old Cole Matthews has been angry his whole life, and he takes his anger out on everyone around him. When he faces prison time for beating up a fellow student, he sees 'Circle Justice' as a way to beat the system. A Native American tradition, 'Circle Justice' attempts to heal the offender, the victim, and the community. When the Circle decides Cole's punishment will be one year alone on a remote Alaskan island, Cole figures he will simply swim away. He burns his shelter and supplies, is mauled by a large white 'spirit bear', and is nearly killed. When he is finally rescued, he spends 6 months in the hospital. Upon his release, Cole must convince the court and the 'Circle' that he has truly repented. Will Cole take responsibility for his actions? Will he ever return to the island? Can he help the student he beat up?

Similar authors: Gary Paulsen, Will Hobbs

Awards nominated: Rebecca Caudill Nominee 2004

Reviewed by: donna

Date read: 6/28/2011

ISBN-10: 0380977443

ISBN-13: 9780380977444

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The Hardy boys are proud of their famous detective father, and when their best friend's car is stolen, they seize the chance to solve their first case. Then another friend's father is arrested for stealing valuables from his employer, and the boys think the car thief might be the real culprit in the case. Will they solve the mystery in time to clear an innocent man? Will they find the stolen treasure? Readers will enjoy this first book in the Hardy Boys Mystery series for its fast, action-packed pace and its satisfying resolution. The old-fashioned slang is an amusing bonus.

Reviewed by: emc

Date read: 10/28/2011

ISBN-10: 0448089017

ISBN-13: 9780448089010

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Lumphy, Stingray and Plastic are back along with their friends the mice, the rocking horse, Tuk Tuk the towel and sheep. The Girl is getting older and spends more time playing soccer, going to sleep overs and playing with those Barbies that don't even talk. The toys are on their own so much they begin to wonder, does she still love them? Preceded by Toys Go Out by Emily Jenkins.

Similar authors: Milne, A.A.

Similar books: Winnie the Pooh

Reviewed by: caroll

Date read: 10/21/2009

ISBN-10: 0375839356

ISBN-13: 9780375839351

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Lumphy, a stuffed buffalo, Stingray, a stuffed stingray and Plastic, a something round are the best of friends. The belong to 'the girl' who loves them. When the girl is asleep or at school the toys have adventures and fun together. They also experience fear, loss and jealousy. These characters will capture your heart. This is a good read aloud for Kindergarten and up. Followed by Toy Dance Party by Emily Jenkins.

Similar authors: Milne, A.A.

Similar books: Winnie the Pooh

Reviewed by: caroll

Date read: 10/21/2009

ISBN-10: 0375836047

ISBN-13: 9780375836046

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