Skimmer and Finn: The Circle in the Sky by Christopher Francis

 

Genre: Children, Middle Grade, Graphic Novel

Source: I received a copy to facilitate my review. The opinion expressed here are my own.

This was so much fun to read. This is the third book in the Skimmer and Finn series.  Trapped on a planet with two other humans and a host of other creatures, Skimmer and Finn meet another robot similar to Skimmer, only with upgrades.  He knows where the human kid's parents are waiting for them. They are on Othello 13. Finn steps up to be the hero to find a way to get them there. I laughed and laughed at Finn.  The questions he asked as he was on his quest were hilarious. I read some of them to my husband. His response was, "You're laughing because you can picture some of your students asking questions like that." He was correct.  In my opinion, Christopher Francis, the author, has never grown up. That is great for readers everywhere because he writes books that kids and adults can relate to in one way or another. I have loved all of his books.  This series makes my sides hurt from laughing.  Need a quick, light, fun read?  This is the book for you.  Literally one of the best things I've read all summer.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

 

Genre: children, realistic fiction

Source: I own a copy

I’ve had this book on my shelf for years. Every time I start it a kid asks to read it. Summer is the best time to read a book. If you want to teach students how to show kindness and be empathetic, then this is the book for you. August Pullman has some issues with his face.  We all know how hard it is going to a new school. It is even more difficult when your face is deformed. He tries to head it off when he notices the kids are looking at him, letting them know that it is okay to look at him because he does look different.  He is bullied by the older kids.  He eventually learns to make true friends who stand beside him.  There are so many great lessons to be learned throughout this book.  This is a definite read whether you are a kid or an adult.

Made With Love by Tricia Goyer, Sherry Gore

 

Genre:Amish Fiction

Source: I own a copy

 I live four blocks from Pinecraft, and  I know Sherry Gore, one of the authors of this book.  She was not born into the Amish lifestyle like most. She chose to become Amish. A major difference when you visit the setting in this book, compared to most Amish fiction, is the location. Pinecraft has a small community of full-time residents. Once a year, the buses come in with Amish from up north. They have houses, apartments, and motorhomes for them to rent. Instead of horse and buggies, most of the Amish travel by two or three-wheeled bikes, or they walk. When Lovina’s family moves to Pinecraft, she finds an area that uses modern conveniences. Most, but not all, use electricity. Some of them have their own phones. They are very welcoming to outsiders.

I love a good Amish novel. What I liked about this one was how normal everyday life was. I’ve read some Amish novels where the romance is so strong, and that is what they wanted to focus on. This one focuses on the business of opening a pie shop, with the romance coming in naturally.

Lovina wants nothing more than to open a pie shop, where she can make and sell pies.  Her mother has heard rumors about the contractor’s previous behavior, and so she is not thrilled with her daughter’s relationship with him. You know how it is with mothers and their daughters. They scrutinize everything about their new boyfriend. One issue I can relate to is that someone made a comment about Lovina, and for years, she believed it. I work with teens and see the effect that one negative comment, especially from a relative, can have on that child’s life. Why do we believe things we are told that hurt us?

Some aspects of this book that resonated with me include learning to forgive yourself and letting the past go. It also focuses on reaching for and pursuing your dream, even when others are not fully behind you.  There are pie recipes at the back of the book. Overall, it is a great read. On a side note, if you decide to visit the real Pinecraft, in Sarasota, Florida and you want pie you must visit Yoder's Restaurant for the best Amish Pies.