---
title: "Reading Everywhere: historical fiction"
url: https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/historical fiction/
description: "Children's and YA book reviews. Library stuff. Possible overuse of the word AWESOME!"
---

# Reading Everywhere: historical fiction

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Showing posts with label

historical fiction

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historical fiction

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## Thursday, November 1, 2012

### [Book Review and Giveaway: The Diviners, by Libba Bray](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/11/book-review-and-giveaway-diviners-by.html)

Bray, Libba.

The Diviners

. 592 p. 2012. Little, Brown. Hardcover $19.99. ISBN 9780316126113.

What can I say about

[The Diviners](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031612611X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031612611X&linkCode=as2&tag=readineveryw-20)

? It's like Libba Bray sat down and said, "Now, Allison, I know you're a big fan of my work. What would YOU like me to put in my next book?" Because I swear this book was practically tailor-made for me! Let's take a little inventory of the things I loved about this book:

- Extensively researched 1920s setting.
- Plucky heroine with snappy dialogue.
- Diverse cast of characters.
- Fascinating Victorian/early 20th century spiritualism.

Yep, it's awesome! And creepy. Awesomely creepy! Creepily awesome? It may seem a little daunting at nearly 600 pages, but the intricate plot and strong pacing kept me riveted. Bray introduces a large cast of characters, and juggles their intertwining storylines with grace. This is the first volume in a four-book series, and I am definitely looking forward to the sequel.

I was thrilled to get a chance to meet Libba earlier this year at the ALA Annual Conference and chat with her about

The Diviners

. She is just as awesome as you would expect!

Be sure to catch our

[podcast interview with Libba and her amazing editor, Alvina Ling, on Authors are ROCKSTARS!](http://www.authorsarerockstars.com/2012/07/libba-bray-and-alvina-ling-special.html)

While I was reading

The Diviners

, I kept thinking about

[Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab](http://www.blackphoenixalchemylab.com/)

, a small retailer that creates all-natural, hand-blended perfume oils with a "dark, romantic Gothic tone." I could see the Lab having a field day crafting the most incredibly evocative scents to compliment the eerie imagery from this book. In fact, there are already several scents in the Black Phoenix catalog that remind me of

The Diviners

. For example...

OUIJA

Lush parlor rooms draped in thick velvets and gilded in gold, unearthly whispering in the distance, fleeting flashes of wraithlike figures rushing just outside your vision, the chill of a phantom presence brushing by your cheek, the inscrutable knowledge that disembodied eyes are peering at you from darkened corners-- this is the essence of Victorian-era spiritualism: rosewood, oak and teak notes with wispy blue lilac, tea rose, dried white rose and ethereal osmanthus.

OMEN

Deep, mysterious, and full of dark portents: oakmoss, juniper berry, myrrh and patchouli.

THE RAVEN

Sleek, dark, and ominous. Violet and neroli mingled with iris, white sandalwood and dark musk.

INTRIGUE

A sultry, exotic scent that inspires devious plotting and clandestine affairs. It is a scent painted in artifice, veiled in deceit, and slithering with whispered secrets. Black palm, with cocoa, fig and shadowy wooded notes.

VEIL

A quiet scent, soft, calm and enigmatic. A perfume of mystery, of whispers, and of secrets behind secrets. White sandalwood, lilac, gardenia, violet, orris, lavender and ylang ylang.

Are you convinced that Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab goes perfectly with

The Diviners

? Then I have a

giveaway

for you!

This giveaway includes the following:

- A *Diviners* pendant on a black cord, in a small burlap bag.
- Sample vials of Ouija, Veil, and a few other Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab perfumes that remind me of *The Diviners*. (To be honest, I have quite a collection of sample vials, so I'll throw in some random ones just for fun!)

To enter, just comment on this post and tell me:

1. Your favorite thing about

[The Diviners](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031612611X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031612611X&linkCode=as2&tag=readineveryw-20)

(or what you're most looking forward to about this book, if you haven't read it yet).

2. The

[Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab](http://blackphoenixalchemylab.com/)

scent that tempts you the most. (Take some time, browse their catalog! They offer hundreds of scents and the descriptions are alluring. And no, I am not affiliated with this company in any way- just a big fan.)

Be sure to leave your email address with your comment so I can contact the winner. Contest is open to US residents only. Enter by November 8th for your chance to win.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[2:30 PM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/11/book-review-and-giveaway-diviners-by.html)

Labels:

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,

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## Friday, August 31, 2012

### [Book Review: The Dark Unwinding, by Sharon Cameron](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/08/book-review-dark-unwinding-by-sharon.html)

Cameron, Sharon.

The Dark Unwinding

. 318 p. 2012. Scholastic. Hardcover $17.99. ISBN 9780545327862.

I was introduced to this book at the Scholastic brunch at this year's ALA Annual Conference, in which Sharon Cameron and other authors performed an excerpt, readers' theater style, to give the audience a taste of the story. She was fabulously funny and the scene piqued my interest, so I knew I had to read this one! And it did not disappoint.

This is a wonderful debut novel, filled with lush prose and a plot that stands out from the rest of the YA shelves these days. Young, orphaned Katharine finds herself saddled with the daunting task of checking up on an uncle to verify that he is insane, and have him committed to an asylum so he will stop frittering away the family fortune. Only, when she arrives at his countryside manor house, she discovers something quite unexpected: a workshop of wondrous clockwork creations and a community of people who desperately need her uncle to continue with his inventions.

The story is full of mystery, self-discovery, and romance set against a sometimes-cozy, sometimes-eerie English manor backdrop. It's an absolutely delicious setting, and I loved the book's period feel. The language is straightforward enough for a contemporary reader, but Cameron employs turns of phrase that ring true to the mid-1800s setting. Also, it's important to note that there's lots of gorgeous costume description. (I don't know about you, but when I read historical fiction, I want to read about the clothes!)

With the steampunk genre on the rise, Scholastic is really playing up the clockwork machinery aspects of this book in their marketing, but it's not actually a steampunk-heavy novel. On the whole, it's more like an Austen or Bronte novel that just happens to have some mechanical goodies in it. I would recommend this book for any fan of historical fiction who doesn't mind a dash of fantasy.

The story wraps up nicely, but a few hanging threads deliberately leave the door open for a sequel. It was so lovely I didn't want it to end, and I look forward to reading more from this promising new author.

[The Dark Unwinding](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545327865/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0545327865&linkCode=as2&tag=readineveryw-20)

hits bookstore shelves on September 1st. ARC for review received from

[Scholastic](http://www.scholastic.com/)

.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[3:17 PM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/08/book-review-dark-unwinding-by-sharon.html)

Labels:

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[fantasy](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/fantasy)

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## Monday, May 28, 2012

### [Audiobook Review: The Door in the Wall, by Marguerite de Angeli](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/05/audiobook-review-door-in-wall-by.html)

This book is my first pick for the

[Newbery Medal Challenge](http://mrschureads.blogspot.com/2011/12/newbery-medal-challenge-1922-to-present.html)

! Hooray!

As mentioned previously, I'm modifying this reading challenge to make it a little less intense, and will be reading one Newbery Medal winner from each decade (instead of every single winner). And yes, I was going to start with the 1920s, but I have to admit that I keep getting hung up every time I look at the choices for that decade-- they're just not appealing. And it seems I'm not alone, according to

[this article on the Digital Shift](http://www.thedigitalshift.com/2012/04/social-media/early-newbery-winners-pose-a-challenge-to-nerdbery-challenge-participants/)

. So it's not just me. Whew! But... any advice, Newbery fans? I've got to read a 1920s Newbery winner at some point, after all...

Anyway, after waffling for a few months, I decided to forget about going in order and just jump in with whatever title catches my eye. So! My choice for the 1950s is

[*The Door in the Wall*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0440227798/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0440227798)

, by Marguerite de Angeli.

de Angeli, Marguerite.

The Door in the Wall

. 2008. Listening Library. Audiobook $24.00. ISBN

9780739371879

.

Winner of the 1950 Newbery Medal, this title piqued my interest because of its medieval England setting. Robin, the son of a nobleman, has always anticipated growing up to become a knight, but finds he must learn to cope with a different sort of life when he loses the uses of his legs after an illness.

This book is what I'd call a cozy read. I enjoyed the details of medieval life and was inspired by Robin's struggle to come to terms with his physical challenges. His transformation from a spoiled brat to a young man with a sense of purpose is heartwarming, as is the large cast of endearing characters who support and encourage him.

But I have to say: this is not the most suspenseful story ever. An adult with an interest in history (me!) is likely to enjoy it, but the lack of tension in the plot might make it pretty dull for a young reader.

For example: the characters are traveling through a wood, and realize they have to stop for the night. One character mentions he had been this way before, and found a woodcutter's cottage to be a hospitable place to stay. With this kind of setup, you're thinking-- okay, SOMETHING BAD has definitely happened to that woodcutter, and our main characters are about to be attacked by wolves or bandits or zombies. Right? Nope. The band of travelers finds the cottage easily and the woodcutter and his wife are indeed friendly and accommodating. The lack of complications is sort of sweet, really. But will it appeal to today's readers, who expect twists and turns and cliffhangers?

That said, the audio production of this book is truly stellar. Roger Rees, a well-known actor who got his start in the Royal Shakespeare Company, expertly breathes life into the archaic language of the book, making it accessible for contemporary readers. Too, his steady pacing and wide variety of character voices keep the narrative interesting despite its relatively low-key plot. The audiobook is further enhanced by the addition of medieval music and other sound effects at appropriate times (e.g. when the narrative mentions a song being played on a harp, or church bells ringing), making for a memorable listening experience.

If you're going to read

[*The Door in the Wall*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0440227798/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0440227798)

, the audiobook is definitely the way to do it.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[7:00 AM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/05/audiobook-review-door-in-wall-by.html)

Labels:

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,

[historical fiction](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/historical%20fiction)

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## Tuesday, May 15, 2012

### [Book Review: Code Name Verity, by Elizabeth Wein](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/05/book-review-code-name-verity-by.html)

Wein, Elizabeth.

Code Name Verity

. 327 p. 2012. Hyperion. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9781423152194.

I was lucky enough to read an e-galley of this book a couple months ago, and I've been pondering how to review it ever since then. Honestly, I started drafting this review in March, but all it said was: "OMG where to begin??" ...which is more or less how I still feel.

This book is one of my favorite reads of 2012 so far. Possibly my very favorite. Basically, I want

[Code Name Verity](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423152190/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1423152190)

to win ALL THE AWARDS.

It's about two young women who are part of the Allied war effort during World War II. One of them, a pilot, has crashed her plane. And her friend, also in the plane, has been captured by Nazis and is writing out her confession in the hopes of staying alive for just a little while longer.

This

[New York Times book review](http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/13/books/review/code-name-verity-by-elizabeth-wein.html)

explains why it's impossible to say any more without revealing spoilers. Here's what I

can

say, though:

One of the most appealing aspects of this book this book- something that's actually a bit of a rare find- is the beautiful portrayal of a strong female friendship. The main characters are wonderful and memorable on their own, and they're even better together. There's an overall theme of female empowerment, with these two young women acting in untraditional roles during the war. Female characters in supporting roles are layered and complex, too.

There's a very epic, cinematic feel to Wein's writing. I'd love to see this book adapted for the big screen-- but then again, it's more effective in print, because most of it is supposed to be a written narrative. The intricate plotting and astounding twists will keep readers on the edge of their seats wondering

what on earth

is going to happen to these characters.

Despite the fact that there are parts that will make the reader cry, I didn't actually cry a lot... except for one point when I actually cried out in shock and sadness, like someone yelling "Nooooo!" at a movie screen. Yes, I was that invested.

And when I finished reading, I wanted to start again from the beginning.

[*Code Name Verity*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423152190/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1423152190)

comes out today, and you won't want to miss it. ARC for review received from

[Disney Hyperion](http://disney.go.com/books/index)

via

[NetGalley](http://netgalley.com/)

.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[6:30 AM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/05/book-review-code-name-verity-by.html)

Labels:

[book review](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/book%20review)

,

[historical fiction](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/historical%20fiction)

,

[young adult](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/young%20adult)

## Wednesday, April 25, 2012

### [Book Review & Giveaway: Wentworth Hall, by Abby Grahame](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-giveaway-wentworth-hall-by.html)

Grahame, Abby.

Wentworth Hall

. 288 p. 2012. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9781442451964.

### Publisher's description

> And you thought there were secrets in the Abbey...

> The Darlington family of Wentworth Hall, an elite British family, fills their time by caring for their extensive estate, and looking over their shoulders as they struggle to keep up an elaborate charade to hide their scandalous secrets of illicit romances, and bitter betrayals.

> Wentworth Hall is a lush historical novel by debut author Abby Grahame, which is spot-on perfect for fans of Downton Abbey!

[**Read an excerpt.**](http://www.scribd.com/doc/88290355/Wentworth-Hall-Excerpt)

### My review

The Edwardian era is my favorite time period history, and you already know

[I'm a huge fan of Downton Abbey](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/01/downton-abbey-readalikes.html)

, so I had fun reading

[*Wentworth Hall*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442451963/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1442451963)

.

With the story's action taking place in both the upstairs and downstairs of a distinguished yet slightly run-down manor, and a mysterious someone surreptitiously reporting the family's goings-on in a bitingly satirical newspaper column, this book is like a mashup of a British period drama and

Gossip Girl

.

While serious historical fiction aficionados may crave something weightier, fans of Anna Godbersen's

Luxe

series will flock to

Wentworth Hall

. This book is chock-full of delicious drama and appeals to a slightly younger audience than Godbersen's series-- scandal is alluded to, but nothing particularly steamy happens. (Which will be nice to remember at the library when I'm recommending books for 8th graders with a historical fiction assignment!)

The newspaper columns cleverly satirizing life at Wentworth Hall are a true highlight of the story, and the author offers some memorable dialogue amidst the briskly paced plot. My favorite, as one of the maids describes the Darlingtons, who are nearly destitute despite their noble lineage:

> "They're rich and they've always been rich. They can't stop being rich just because the money has run out."

Ha! You can tell Grahame must have had a ball writing this book.

### **Giveaway**

Simon & Schuster is generously giving away a copy of Wentworth Hall to two lucky readers of my blog! I am so excited to bring this giveaway to you. Just fill out the following form with your name and email address for your chance to win.

This contest is open to United States residents only. Must be 13 or older to enter. Entries must be received by 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Monday, May 1st. Prizing courtesy of Simon & Schuster.

Look for

[*Wentworth Hall*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442451963/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1442451963)

in bookstores on May 1st. Review copy provided to me by Big Honcho Media.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[6:00 AM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-giveaway-wentworth-hall-by.html)

Labels:

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[giveaway](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/giveaway)

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## Tuesday, April 17, 2012

### [Book Review: Ladies in Waiting, by Laura L. Sullivan](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-ladies-in-waiting-by-laura.html)

Sullivan, Laura. L.

Ladies in Waiting

. 336 p. 2012. Harcourt Children's Books. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9780547581293.

This tale of three very different girls named Elizabeth in the era of King Charles II features a setting rich with details about fashion, customs, and favorite pastimes of England in the mid-1600s, painting a vivid picture of everyday life inside the royal court and out.

[*Ladies in Waiting*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547581297/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547581297)

explores roles of women at the time, especially their lack of agency, as each of the Elizabeths pursues goals that are frustratingly out of their reach. Romantic entanglements are a prominent feature of the plot, but there is not a perfectly swoon-worthy romance here-- rather, the love stories are all flawed in some way, highlighting the limitations on women at the time and making for quite a thought-provoking read.

Character development is similarly well executed. All three Elizabeths are fully fleshed out and interestingly flawed. Beth is unbelievably naive and bizarrely faithful to her dreams of true love, even when circumstances change for the worse. I honestly couldn't decide whether she was sweet or insane. Zabby is a likable, brainy girl trying to choose between head and heart. Her inner conflicts may prove a bit much for the reader at times, but ultimately make her a three-dimensional character. Headstrong Eliza is delightfully frank, using slang of the time in a most unladylike fashion to hilarious effect. I confess, her bawdy language makes her the most fun to read, and she ended up being my favorite Elizabeth.

Indeed, there's quite a bit of bawdiness in this one, making it most appropriate for an older teen audience, although the impact is softened by the fact that all scandalous content is referenced in antiquated terms likely to fly over the head of younger readers.

A slight drawback for me is the fact that significant parts of the narrative are fictionalized in a somewhat outlandish way. I'm all for fictionalization of events in a historical setting, but when it comes to portraying actual people, I prefer for the story not to deviate too much from reality or believability. Too, the third-person narration sometimes seems to speak from a contemporary viewpoint, explaining to the reader about the customs of the time, and I found that a little distracting.

Overall,

Ladies in Waiting

is an enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction. With its quick pace and lively characters, it may also sway readers who think they don't enjoy the genre. It pairs well with Eve Edwards' Lacey Chronicles (starting with

[The Other Countess](http://readingeverywhere.blogspot.com/2011/07/book-review-other-countess-by-eve.html)

), a series with a similar tone, set about 100 years before this book.

[*Ladies in Waiting*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547581297/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547581297)

hits bookstore shelves on May 8. ARC for review provided by

[Harcourt Children's Books](http://www.hmhco.com/)

via

[NetGalley](http://netgalley.com/)

.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[8:00 AM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-ladies-in-waiting-by-laura.html)

Labels:

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[young adult](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/young%20adult)

## Wednesday, April 11, 2012

### [Book Review: Grave Mercy, by Robin LaFevers](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-grave-mercy-by-robin.html)

LaFevers, Robin.

Grave Mercy

. 549 p. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. 2012. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9780547628349.

This is the third book I'm reviewing for the

[2012 Debut Author Challenge](http://www.thestorysiren.com/debut-author-challenge)

hosted by the

[Story Siren](http://www.thestorysiren.com/)

.

Set in medieval Brittany and layered with inventive supernatural elements,

[*Grave Mercy*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/054762834X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=054762834X)

is an appealing read for fans of historical fantasy. Young Ismae escapes an arranged marriage and finds refuge in a convent dedicated to St. Mortain-- the god of death. Blessed with supernatural powers, she becomes a handmaiden of death, expertly trained in the art of assassination, and is sent on an undercover mission to protect the Breton duchess from those who would betray her. And of course, since Ismae can't just waltz into court, she is accompanied by a handsome nobleman who isn't exactly thrilled to have her along for the ride.

LaFevers offers a tightly-written, suspenseful narrative with believable romance and inventive fantasy elements against a historical backdrop. There's also some unexpected and delightfully dark humor in the midst of political tension; Ismae can be very matter of fact about what she does, sometimes to hilarious effect.

I also enjoyed the thoughtful exploration of women's roles in the Middle Ages; Ismae is driven to serve the god of death not only because she is his daughter, but also because her circumstances in life have been cruel and she has no agency to choose her own path. The reader will root for Ismae on her journey of self-discovery as she learns to claim her power.

This book involves a lot of political intrigue surrounding the protection of the young duchess, Anne, with much hinging on finding Anne a suitable marriage prospect who will help defend the independent state of Brittany from French rule. I found this aspect of the plot fascinating because I read up on Breton history after the first few chapters of the book piqued my interest, so I understood the significance of the duchess and the importance of her marriage for the entire duchy. I'm not sure all the political scheming would come across as quite so interesting to a reader who's unfamiliar with the history of the region, however. Although the history is well incorporated into the story, this book would be enriched by a foreword or author's note.

(Of course, my librarian self says: all the more reason to learn some truly interesting history while you read an awesome book!)

Because

Grave Mercy

is the first volume in a trilogy, I was expecting a cliffhanger ending, and was pleasantly surprised to find a very satisfying conclusion. The next book will focus on one of the most intriguing secondary characters from this volume, and I'll be looking forward to it!

[*Grave Mercy*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/054762834X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=054762834X)

is now available in bookstores everywhere. ARC for review provided by

[Houghton Mifflin Harcourt](http://www.hmhco.com/)

.

Posted by

[Allison](https://www.blogger.com/profile/06628530227439660832)

at

[7:00 AM](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/book-review-grave-mercy-by-robin.html)

Labels:

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,

[historical fiction](https://readingeverywhere.com/search/label/historical%20fiction)

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## Wednesday, April 4, 2012

### [Audiobook Review: Dead End in Norvelt, by Jack Gantos](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/04/audiobook-review-dead-end-in-norvelt-by.html)

|  |  |
|---|---|
| The *Dead End in Norvelt* audiobook along for the ride on my commute. |  |

Gantos, Jack.

Dead End in Norvelt

. 2011. Macmillian Audio. Audiobook $29.99. ISBN

9781427213563

.

Ah, the 2012 Newbery Medal winner. What can I say? I was rooting for Gary D. Schmidt's

[*Okay For Now*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547152604/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547152604)

, so I couldn't help but experience

[Dead End in Norvelt](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374379939/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0374379939)

through the lens of my disappointment. I can't get over the fact that

Okay For Now

wasn't honored by any of the ALA Youth Media Awards. (It

did

just win big over at

[School Library Journal's Battle of the Kids' Books](http://battleofthebooks.slj.com/2012/04/02/the-big-kahuna-match-between-shades-of-gray-vs-life-an-exploded-diagram-vs-okay-for-now/)

, which is completely awesome... but still!)

So, although my perspective on this book may be somewhat biased, I liked

Dead End in Norvelt

quite a lot. I didn't love it-- but I did enjoy this semi-autobiographical tale of a wacky and life-changing summer in the life of young Jack Gantos as he ends up grounded and spends much of his time transcribing obituaries for an elderly neighbor.

That may not sound like an enticing plot, but surprisingly, my favorite parts of the book were the obituaries. I was so moved by the thought of one very dedicated woman dictating not only tributes to her friends and neighbors, but documenting her beloved town's history. Really, really lovely stuff. Indeed, the overall theme of history- Gantos' affection for studying it, the idea that we should all learn from it- is woven throughout the story to great effect.

Still, this book isn't quite as cohesive as I would expect from a Newbery award winner. There are a lot of plot threads and a lot of characters, and I was expecting them to all intersect and come together in some sort of awe-inspiring way, but... they don't. A mystery is solved, the main character learns an important lesson, and the book just seems to trail off in the end.

That said, I'm very much looking forward to attending this year's Newbery Caldecott Wilder banquet at the

[ALA Annual Conference](http://alaannual.org/)

in June to see Jack Gantos speak. If his solid performance on this audiobook recording is any indication, his speech should be fantastic. I did find myself missing the variety of character voices I enjoy in audiobooks narrated by professional actors-- but Gantos has a gift for presenting his own writing in an engaging way with a great deal of heart.

At my library, I often help middle school students who are assigned to read a Newbery winner. I would certainly recommend

[*Dead End in Norvelt*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374379939/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0374379939)

to any reader looking for a humorous pick.

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## Tuesday, March 27, 2012

### [Book Review: The Queen's Lady, by Eve Edwards](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/03/book-review-queens-lady-by-eve-edwards.html)

Edwards, Eve.

The Queen's Lady

. 336 p. Delacorte Books for Young Readers. 2012. Hardcover $17.99. ISBN 9780385740913.

Sometimes you just want a comfort read, you know?

Well, historical fiction fans need look no further than The Lacey Chronicles for their perfect, curl-up-in-a-blanket-and-grab-a-mug-of-hot-cocoa kind of book. This second volume of the series is just as appealing as the first, rich with historical details of Elizabethan England and a large cast of engaging, well-rounded characters.

In the spotlight this time is Jane, one of the supporting characters from

[The Other Countess](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385740905/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0385740905)

, as she becomes involved with the second Lacey brother, James. As in the first book, social customs of the era are illustrated through the tangled web of romantic conflicts faced by the characters.

Edwards explores themes of colonization and racial prejudice in this volume, providing a welcome chance to get better acquainted with Diego, the African-born servant of the Lacey family. We only got a hint of his humor and intelligence in the first volume, and he is more fully fleshed-out here as he tackles discrimination and cultural differences in his attempts to woo his childhood sweetheart.

Readers who loved

The Other Countess

will delight in the brief appearances of Ellie and Will here-- an enjoyable peek at what they've been up to since their happily-ever-after. At the same time, this volume could stand alone, and doesn't depend too heavily on knowledge of its predecessor.

[*The Queen's Lady*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385740913/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0385740913)

is another satisfying historical romance that will leave Edwards' fans looking forward to the third volume in the series.

Already available in England, the US edition of

The Queen's Lady

arrives at bookstores everywhere on April 10th. ARC for review provided by Delacorte, an imprint of

[Random House](http://www.randomhouse.com/)

, via

[NetGalley](http://netgalley.com/)

.

Posted by

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at

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## Monday, March 5, 2012

### [Audiobook Review: The Mighty Miss Malone, by Christopher Paul Curtis](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/03/audiobook-review-mighty-miss-malone-by.html)

Curtis, Christopher Paul.

The Mighty Miss Malone

. 2012. Listening Library. Audiobook $44.00. ISBN 9780307968227.

Is it too much to say that Deza Malone is the most memorable young girl in children’s literature since Anne of Green Gables? Would I be going too far to suggest that we just put a gold sticker on this book right now?

I mean, honestly. This book is SO. GOOD.

In this story of a young girl and her family weathering hard times during the Great Depression, Christopher Paul Curtis returns to a character from his Newbery Medal winning title,

[*Bud, Not Buddy*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0553494104/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0553494104)

.

So, first things first: does this story stand on its own if you haven’t read

Bud, Not Buddy

?

Well, I have something to confess. I read

Bud, Not Buddy

several years ago. Like, we're talking library school, pre-kids-- it was a whole different life. And while I remember loving it, I confess that I did not remember how and where Deza came into Bud's story. Like,

at all

. I’m so ashamed. But my faulty memory serves you well, dear reader, because I can say with absolute confidence that, YES, you can jump into this one without having read the previous volume.

Having looked it up, I was amused to note that the interaction between Deza and Bud differs significantly between the two books-- each character tells their own version of their meeting, and I LOVE that Curtis sets them both up as slightly unreliable narrators. That suits the almost "tall tale" tone of these books just perfectly.

So back to the excellence of

[*The Mighty Miss Malone*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385734913/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0385734913)

...

I experienced this book on CD, and let me tell you, I cried in the car on the way to work listening to it. Not once, not twice, but THREE times! Seriously, you would think I would have learned after the first time to stop listening on my commute, but I couldn’t help it.

This is a powerful story with exhilarating highs and devastating lows-- I sometimes found myself laughing and crying at the same time. And other times, just crying. In particular, the aftermath of a certain boxing match and what it meant to Deza, her family, and her whole community absolutely wrecked me.

I came to love the characters in this book to the point that they became almost real to me-- as if this weren't historical fiction, but a biography. Deza herself is a delightfully flawed character who changes and grows as she experiences more than her fair share of challenges. The adult characters in the book, especially Deza's mother, are well-rounded and fully developed in their own right. I found myself wanting to know what would become of Deza and her family beyond the scope of this book. Basically, I want Christopher Paul Curtis to write Deza's entire life, because I

need

to know what happens to her.

And I would want to have Bahni Turpin narrate the whole thing. As wonderful as Curtis' writing already is, her performance as the audiobook narrator really brings this story to life. She has an incredible range, doing a masterful job with women, men, and children's voices alike. Notably, when one character goes through a physical change after an accident, Turpin maintains the recognizable voice she had created for the character, but manages the distinct difference caused by his new circumstances. And her character voice for Deza's "second brain" made me laugh every time. I am floored by Turpin's talent.

I was struck by the way this story begins with "Once upon a time," and ends with a hopeful yet ambiguous ending. The reader is left with a sense of optimism, but there's no easy "happily ever after" here. This is a story about poverty, and though it's historical fiction, the youth of today will relate as we all struggle with the current economy.

[The Mighty Miss Malone](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385734913/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0385734913)

is already one of my favorite reads of 2012. I want my children to read it when they're older, and I want Christopher Paul Curtis to win a Newbery for it. If he does, I want to be at the banquet to see him speak. And I'll probably cry through the whole thing.

Posted by

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## Monday, February 27, 2012

### [Book Review: Sisters of Glass, by Stephanie Hemphill](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/02/book-review-sisters-of-glass-by.html)

Hemphill, Stephanie.

Sisters of Glass

. 272 p. Knopf Books for Young Readers. 2012. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9780375861093.

The latest book from Printz Honor winning author, Stephanie Hemphill, provides a lovely look at 15th century Venice and centers around a fascinating topic I knew very little about before reading: glassblowing.

[*Sisters of Glass*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375861092/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0375861092)

, a novel in verse, tells the story of Maria, the second daughter of the Barovier family, famed for their glassmaking. Her late father proclaimed that she should marry a nobleman, and thus it must be so-- even though that role would traditionally go to the elder sister, Giovanna. The sisters clash as the family attempts to make a suitable match for Maria. Meanwhile, they've hired a handsome artisan to help maintain the family business, and Maria can't help but take notice of him, although he's far from being part of the nobility.

The setting of the Venetian island of Murano during the 15th century is vibrant, and the characters are believable. The swoon-worthy forbidden romance brings an alluring element to the plot, and many readers will relate to the turbulent yet strongly affectionate relationship between the two sisters.

I included this book in my list of

[Downton Abbey readalikes](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/01/downton-abbey-readalikes.html)

because the plot has a lot to do with the social customs of its era, particularly pertaining to the roles of women. It's curious how much responsibility rests on the weight of a young woman's shoulders- save the family's fortune by making a good marriage!- but they have so little agency. Readers will root for Maria and Giovanna-- they are definitely

girls with goals

.

Personally, one of my favorite aspects of this book was the chance to learn about the art and history of glassblowing on the island of Murano. (My BA is in Art History! I love this stuff!) The Barovier family of this book is a real part of Murano history-- the oldest glassmaking family in the world, with a tradition of glass production that can be traced back to the 13th century, according to

[barovier.com](http://www.barovier.com/forma/company_profile/Company_Profile_Eng.pdf)

.

|  |
|---|
| Coupe de Angelo Barovier, Museo del vetro, Murano. |

Murano glass is still a sought-after art form today. Hemphill's descriptions of the island and its famous glass made me eager to visit Murano someday. I love that this rich tradition is still alive after so many centuries.

|  |
|---|
| Photo of Murano by flickr user Harsh Light |

I only wish this book had been longer. I could have happily read more! And the ending is perhaps a bit too convenient. But it will please those who just love a happy ending-- as well as students who are required to read a certain number of pages for a historical fiction assignment, as the verse format manages to provide a decent page count while the amount of text is light and very readable.

[*Sisters of Glass*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375861092/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0375861092)

is a quick, engaging read, and a good introduction to the verse novel format. Look for it in bookstores everywhere on March 27. ARC for review provided by

[Random House Children's Books](http://www.randomhouse.com/kids/index.pperl)

via

[NetGalley](http://netgalley.com/)

.

Posted by

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at

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## Thursday, February 16, 2012

### [This Looks Familiar: Wentworth Hall](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/02/this-looks-familiar-wentworth-hall.html)

I just stumbled across this upcoming YA historical fiction title and it caught my attention--

[*Wentworth Hall*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442451963/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1442451963)

, by Abby Grahame, coming from Simon & Schuster on May 1.

Excerpt from the publisher's summary:

> It’s 1912, and the Darlingtons of Wentworth Hall have more than just the extensive grounds to maintain. As one of Britain’s most elite families, they need to keep up appearances that things are as they have always been…even as their carefully constructed facade rapidly comes undone.
>
> Maggie has a secret. And she’s not the only one…the handsome groom Michael, the beautiful new French nanny Therese, the Darlingtons’ teenage houseguests Teddy and Jessica, and even Maggie’s younger sister Lila are all hiding something. Passion, betrayal, heartache, and whispered declarations of love take place under the Darlingtons’ massive roof. And one of these secrets has the power to ruin the Darlingtons forever.

So, basically, this book sounds like it's trying REALLY hard to be Downton Abbey for teens. I'm raising an eyebrow, but you know... I just might fall for it! At the very least, I'll order it for my library and flip through a few pages to see if the writing style appeals to me. Who knows? Maybe I'll want to add it to my list of

[Downton Abbey readalikes](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/01/downton-abbey-readalikes.html)

.

I'm really curious, though: did the manuscript get picked up by the publisher because it happens to fit into the current Downton Abbey craze? Was the author specifically asked to write something that would appeal to Downton Abbey fans? Or maybe it's a complete coincidence.

What do

you

think? The publishing industry fascinates me.

Posted by

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at

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## Friday, February 10, 2012

### [Audiobook Review: Hattie Big Sky](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/02/audiobook-review-hattie-big-sky.html)

Larson, Kirby.

Hattie Big Sky

. 2007. Listening Library. Audiobook $37.00. ISBN 9780739350515.

I never knew I was interested in the adventures of a girl trying to prove up on a homesteading claim in 1918 Montana until Kirby Larson wrote

[*Hattie Big Sky*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/073935051X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=073935051X)

. I love it when a book surprises me like that.

Sixteen-year-old orphan, Hattie, inherits a piece of land that must be "proved up" on before it's hers, meaning that she must show evidence that she's living there and must meet certain farming requirements before the land is officially hers. She doesn't know a thing about farming, but she's up for the challenge.

The hardships of homesteading life are brought into vivid detail by Larson, who must have done extensive research. In addition to a multidimensional cast of characters that the reader grows to love and an episodic plot that borders on survival story at times, the setting and time period of the story are fascinating to me. Hattie is facing this incredibly intense pioneer lifestyle-- in 1918.

I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I didn't know people were still homesteading in 1918!

By that time, most people in urban or suburban areas were living comfortably with indoor plumbing and automobiles, not living in a tiny shack and hammering fence posts into the ground. Hattie's struggles to reach her own barn in a blizzard are juxtaposed with a sobering portrayal of the prejudice against German Americans during World War I, and the combination of these elements makes for a truly unique setting. Much more

Little House on the Prairie

than

Betsy-Tacy

.

The story has a satisfying and realistic ending that leaves the door open for more, so I just about squealed aloud when I read that Larson is working on a

Hattie

sequel. I can't wait to spend more time with this character.

I'm glad I experienced this most excellent book in audio format. Kirsten Potter's engaging narration made my daily commute much more vibrant than usual. Her voice sounds a bit more mature than I would imagine Hattie, but she's got a strong, down-to-earth quality that really works for the character. Potter makes the listener believe that this girl is no cream puff-- she's a driven young woman, and she's going to do everything in her power to succeed.

My children, ages three and one, are often subjected to random bits and pieces of whatever audiobook I'm listening to, and let's just say they don't hesitate to give me their opinions. (Seriously: there was another audiobook that actually made the one-year-old CRY every time we listened to it. Oops!) Well,

Hattie

got an enthusiastic seal of approval from my three-year-old. There's a particularly exciting chapter involving a cow, and every time we got into the car after that, it was, "Mama? Can listen to cow story, please?" We all

loved

this audiobook.

[*Hattie Big Sky*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/073935051X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=073935051X)

was named a Newbery Honor book in 2007, and is very deserving of the award. I would recommend this rich and uplifting book to students assigned to read historical fiction for school, as well as readers who are already avid fans of the genre-- it's certain to please most any reader.

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## Tuesday, January 24, 2012

### [Downton Abbey Readalikes](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/01/downton-abbey-readalikes.html)

Welcome to my new obsession: Downton Abbey!

Actually, I'm late to the party on this one. You probably know all about Downton Abbey and are wondering if I've been living under a rock! But just in case you've been under that rock with me, Downton Abbey is a British TV series set before and during World War I.

The story follows the lives of an aristocratic family and their household servants as they weather tumultuous times along with a great deal of scheming and scandal. There are gorgeous costumes, an opulent manor, and the MOST AMAZING one-liners delivered by Dame Maggie Smith. Visit the

[official Downton Abbey website](http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/downtonabbey/)

to learn more.

The show premiered on British television in the Fall of 2010. The first season is

[available on Blu-ray](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FM2ENU/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004FM2ENU)

or Netflix instant, and the second season is currently airing on PBS in the US. My husband and I (and just about everyone we know) are

hooked

.

And, of course, part of being a librarian means that when I get hooked on something, I immediately think:

now, what kind of books go with this?

YA Lit for Downton Abbey Fans

[The Watch that Ends the Night](http://www.blogger.com/goog_339601410)

[, by Allan Wolf](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763637033/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0763637033)

The events of Downton Abbey are set in motion by the sinking of the Titanic, and this novel in verse explores the famous tragedy from multiple perspectives, from first class to third class, including the fictionalized perspectives of real historical figures, and even gives a voice to the iceberg.

Downton fans will enjoy the exploration of social stratification and a forbidden romance.

[***The Luxe*, by Anna Godbersen**](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002IVV3GY/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002IVV3GY)

This four-volume series, touted as

Gossip Girl

for the Gilded Age, takes place a decade or so before Downton Abbey and is set in New York rather than England, but the fast-moving plot features the same types of class issues, romantic entanglements, desperate scheming, stunning fashion, and the occasional scandal. Well, okay-- in this series, it's more than the

occasional

scandal...

Not quite as refined as Downton, but a very fun page-turner nonetheless.

[***I Capture the Castle*, by Dodie Smith**](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031231616X/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031231616X)

Fast forward a few decades beyond Downton Abbey to meet a pair of sisters competing for marriage prospects for both romance and financial gain.

Downton fans will revel in the English countryside setting, the opposing perspectives and goals of the two sisters, and the alluring presence of a castle (though it's a fairly decrepit one in this case). A lovely and romantic read.

[Sisters of Glass](http://www.blogger.com/goog_339601423)

[, by Stephanie Hemphill](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375861092/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0375861092)

Now take your time machine back a few hundred years to 15th century Venice, and you have another pair of sisters at odds with each other over the topic of marriage.

Once again, one sister must marry for money and status in order to secure the entire family's prospects. The author deftly illustrates how very little agency young women had before modern times, and how much depended on a good marriage-- familiar themes for Downton viewers.

Children's Lit for Downton Abbey Fans

[**The *Betsy-Tacy* series, by Maud Hart Lovelace**](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062095870/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062095870)

This wholesome picture of life in turn-of-the-century Minnesota has decidedly less scandal than Downton, but the Edwardian fashion descriptions are divine. Merry Widow hats! Hobble skirts! Any fan of Lady Mary's wardrobe will appreciate Betsy's taste in clothes, too.

Begin with

[*Heaven to Betsy*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061794694/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061794694)

, in which Betsy goes to high school. The highlight of this series for Downton fans may be Betsy's fabulous pre-war European tour in 1914 in

[*Betsy and the Great World*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061795135/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061795135)

.

[Charlotte Sometimes](http://www.blogger.com/goog_339601439)

[, by Penelope Farmer](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1590172213/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1590172213)

One of my all-time favorites, this eerie little book- part speculative fiction, part historical fiction- has a World War I era setting that may interest Downton Abbey fans.

A young English girl, Charlotte, goes to boarding school during the 1960s and slips back in time to 1918, mysteriously changing places with a girl there named Clare. It's a philosophical exploration of identity, and the details of life in 1918, with the war's ever-present effects on day-to-day living, are fascinating.

[Rilla of Ingleside](http://www.blogger.com/goog_339601443)

[**, by L.M. Montgomery**](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0899551378/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0899551378)

The final volume of Montgomery's famous

Anne of Green Gable

s series chronicles the coming-of-age of Anne's youngest daughter on the Canadian home front during World War I. The theme of war changing all aspects of life and society will resonate with Downton Abbey viewers, as Rilla starts out as a fairly frivolous, sheltered young girl and grows into a strong, capable woman.

I think she'd get along well with Lady Sybil.

Want More?

I'm not the only one with the idea to come up with a list of Downton Abbey readalikes-- Whitney at Youth Services Corner did a

[fantastic round-up of books for Downton Abbey fans](http://www.youthservicescorner.com/2012/downton-abbey-read-alikes-for-teens/)

last week.

Articles from the New York Times and the Daily Mail:

[If You're Mad for 'Downton,' Publishers Have Reading List](http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/12/business/media/mad-for-downton-publishers-have-a-reading-list.html?_r=3&hp)

[U.S. publishers rush out books about Edwardian and wartime Britain to cash in on American success of Downton Abbey](http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2085806/U-S-publishers-rush-books-Edwardian-wartime-Britain-cash-American-success-Downton-Abbey.html)

.

Also of interest, your source for all things Edwardian can be found at

[Edwardian Promenade](http://edwardianpromenade.com/)

.

Now get dressed in your finest finery, make yourself a pot of tea (or ring for the maid to bring it), and enjoy!

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## Friday, January 13, 2012

### [Book Review: The Dead of Winter, by Chris Priestley](https://readingeverywhere.com/2012/01/book-review-dead-of-winter-by-chris.html)

Priestley, Chris.

The Dead of Winter

. 224 p. Bloomsbury USA. 2012. Hardcover $16.99. ISBN 9781599907451.

This engaging, atmospheric gothic novel is the perfect antidote to the 80-degee weather we've been having here in Southern California lately. I mean, it's JANUARY. I'd like to feel the cold!

Well, despite the unseasonable temperatures, reading

[*The Dead of Winter*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1599907453/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1599907453)

made me want to wrap myself in a heavy blanket and sit in front of a roaring fire to keep warm. It's deliciously chilling!

The plot neatly comprises nearly all the familiar Victorian gothic tropes: an orphan, a gloomy old manor with a tortured owner; a helpful and loyal servant; a tragic ghost. Oh, and moors. In short, it's pretty awesome.

This book reads like an homage to classic gothic novels, and could be a great introduction to Poe or the Bronte sisters. Occasional SAT words encourage vocabulary building, but short sentences and a fairly straightforward plot make the old-fashioned writing style very approachable for a young reader.

The ambiguous ending works well with the tone of the novel, and the overall effect is genuinely creepy, but not exactly scary-- a solid pick for a middle schooler who likes ghost stories.

[*The Dead of Winter*](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1599907453/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=readineveryw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1599907453)

was published in the UK in 2010, and will hit US bookstore shelves on January 31. ARC for review provided by

[Bloomsbury USA](http://www.bloomsburyusa.com/)

via

[NetGalley](http://netgalley.com/)

.

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## Monday, December 19, 2011

### [Audiobook Review: Moon Over Manifest, by Clare Vanderpool](https://readingeverywhere.com/2011/12/audiobook-review-moon-over-manifest-by.html)

Vanderpool, C.

Moon Over Manifest

. 2010. Random House Audio. Audiobook $25.00. ISBN 9780307941930.

When this year's Newbery winner was announced, I had the same reaction as a lot of readers: Moon over WHAT? It kind of came from left field to win the medal. But let me tell you, that Newbery committee

knew what they were doing

when they chose this title. It's good. Really, really good! To be honest, I had my doubts about how I would like it, but ended up completely riveted.

It's a book in which different threads of story come together in an satisfying conclusion. In 1936, Abilene is sent to the town of Manifest, Kansas, while her father works on the railroad, which he says is no place for a young girl. Her father had spent some time in Manifest as a boy, and Abilene is determined to find out more about his connection to the town. In her efforts to discover the history of her father, she discovers the history of the town itself.

Moon Over Manifest

is one of those seemingly quiet books that kids may not pick up on their own. But if they do, they’ll undoubtedly be drawn into the mystery of the story as it unfolds layer by layer. Boys and girls will both enjoy this book equally, as there are two main characters: Abilene in 1936, and Jinx, the boy whose letters she discovers from 1918.

Of the dual narratives that make up the story, it’s Jinx’s story that really grabs the reader. His story is filled with lively characters, high stakes, and brilliant schemes, and Abilene's story is more of a frame. The storytelling is masterfully executed, as neither portion of the story would have the impact of the two combined. Abilene’s determination to find out more about her father gives emotional weight to the flashbacks, and the structure of the narrative makes for a fascinating puzzle as the reader wonders how the town went from a place full of hope in 1918 to a near ghost-town in 1936. If we didn’t have the picture of the town in 1936, the events of 1918 wouldn’t mean as much to the reader.

This novel works very well as an audiobook. The three modes of storytelling (the main narrative, a newspaper column, and a young soldier's letters home from war) are differentiated nicely with three actors reading the parts. The two secondary narrators, Kirby Heyborne and Cassandra Campbell, bring their roles to life and are a pure pleasure to hear.

The primary narrator, Justine Eyre, has a very distinctive texture to her voice that makes her unconvincing as a young girl, so I’m not sure she’s the best choice for a first-person youth narration. That said, she has excellent pacing, and does a fabulous job with the adult characters. She’s got quite a range, creating distinct voices for each character and using a variety of accents. Also, I enjoyed that her speech is clipped and precise in a way that sounds old-fashioned, like something out of a 1930s movie, making her performance perfect for historical fiction.

I still find myself thinking about this book months after finishing it. I'm so glad I gave it a try, and recommend it enthusiastically to anyone looking for a solid, uplifting story.

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## Wednesday, December 7, 2011

### [Book Review: Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai](https://readingeverywhere.com/2011/12/book-review-inside-out-and-back-again.html)

Inside Out and Back Again

was my "lunch hour" book for a few days, so here it is on my desk at the library.

It's surrounded by my favorite scarf because unlike the subtropical climate of south Vietnam,

it's been co-o-o-ld here in Orange County and I've been bundling up!

Lai, Thanhha.

Inside Out and Back Again

. 272 p. HarperCollins. 2011. Hardcover $15.99. ISBN 9780061962783.

I'm still thinking about this book, reflecting on it several days after finishing it. Reading the author's story of her family's escape from Vietnam just before the fall of Saigon felt personal for me. My husband was born here in California, but his family, too, escaped Vietnam in 1975.

His family rarely mentions their refugee experience because it was so harrowing. The memories are too difficult to talk about, too overwhelming to bring to the surface. The older generation doesn’t want to “burden” their children by discussing what they went through.

I think it’s really important, therefore, that Thanhha Lai has written her family's story. It's fictionalized, yes, but as I understand it, still very much the truth of her own experience, and reflects the stories of so many who escaped Vietnam at that time. Through this poignant novel in verse, younger generations of Vietnamese-Americans can gain perspective on the pain and trauma their parents and grandparents endured to give them the life they lead now.

Even without the personal connection, this is an intensely powerful book. Readers don’t have to be Vietnamese-American or be connected to refugees in any way to feel their heart rate increase as the tension of war infiltrates daily life, perch on the edge of their seat during the desperate escape on a crowded ship, or sigh with empathy at the bullying young H

à

endures as she struggles to adapt to her new life in the United States.

Headstrong H

à

is a relatable protagonist and a keen observer of the world around her. Young readers will champion her for getting angry at the frustrations and limitations she faces as a refugee trying to learn a new language and culture. Lai doesn't sugar-coat, and the effect is stunningly real. The verse format is a perfect fit for her story, eliciting heartbreak or laughter with just a few words.

A fairly quick read that's well worth lingering over,

Inside Out and Back Again

is the winner of the 2011 National Book Award for Young People's Literature.

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## Thursday, November 10, 2011

### [Audiobook Review: Turtle in Paradise, by Jennfer L. Holm](https://readingeverywhere.com/2011/11/book-review-turtle-in-paradise-by.html)

Holm, Jennifer L.

Turtle in Paradise

. 2010. Random House Audio. Audiobook $25.00. ISBN 9780307738301.

Slowly but surely, I'm catching up with the last round of Newbery books before the next batch is announced in January! I liked this story about a girl who is sent to live with her aunt and cousins in Key West, Florida, during the hard times of the 1930s. I didn't quite love it, but I liked it.

With its spunky main character and lighthearted tone, I would hand

Turtle in Paradise

to any elementary schooler with a historical fiction assignment. Despite the fact that there's a girl on the cover, boys and girl readers can enjoy this story equally-- there are plenty of hilarious boy characters.

The episodic feel of this book had me wondering where the plot was, even as far as halfway through the story. And then, after much meandering, I was a bit thrown off by the book's implausible climax, and an ending that felt abrupt to me. But if you like episodic plots, this is the book for you!

To me, it's the setting and characters that shine in this book. The character of Turtle provides some great laugh-out-loud moments with her snappy one-liners, especially involving her distaste for the saccharine child actress, Shirley Temple.

The Depression-era setting is effectively evoked through references to pop culture of the time, such as radio shows and comic strips-- which were called "the funny pages," of course. My grandma used that phrase! When did it go out of fashion, I wonder?

I listened to this book on CD, and highly recommend it in audio format. The narrator, Becca Battoe, is completely delightful. She has a soft Southern accent, which sometimes comes through even in the characters who are supposed to be Northern, but I was so charmed by it, it's easy to overlook any inconsistency. Her pacing is perfect, and (hooray!) she sounds appropriately youthful for a middle grade novel told from a first-person point of view. She suits the sassy character of Turtle perfectly, and her performance really enhanced my experience with this book.

Any young reader who likes historical fiction will find a great deal of charm in

Turtle in Paradise

.

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## Thursday, September 8, 2011

### [Book Review: Wonderstruck, by Brian Selznick](https://readingeverywhere.com/2011/09/wonderstruck-by-brian-selznick.html)

Selznick, Brian.

Wonderstruck

. 608 p. Scholastic. 2011. Hardcover $17.99. ISBN 9780545027892.

Quite simply, this is an incredible book. When I turned the last page, I wanted to start again at the beginning. It's that good. I forgot about the world for a while and completely lost myself in the story and the exquisite artwork.

Selznick weaves together parallel stories about two children separated by 50 years. Rose's story, set in the beautifully depicted 1920s, is told entirely through images, and Ben's story in the slightly gritty 1970s is told in words. Both children are searching for something, both have hearing disabilities, and both find solace at American Museum of National History in New York City.

Tension is sustained as the stories alternate back and forth, and the reader wonders what on earth is going to happen to these two kids. It's remarkable how much Selznick's art conveys. Rose's story is necessarily simpler than Ben's, but each illustration is so expressive, emotions come through with remarkable clarity and the reader becomes fully invested in the plot. Selznick's prose is strong, too. It's more descriptive than the text of his previous novel,

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

, since images substituted descriptive language there, but the writing is still fast-paced and sufficiently straightforward to draw in even reluctant readers.

When the two stories mesh, it takes a minute to sink in. I really had a moment of: "Whoah, wait a minute. What? OHHHH..." I can't say any more, because discovering it on your own is the most fun. But when you see it, you'll know what I mean. The transition is surprisingly emotionally affecting, and just gorgeous.

There are several themes at play in this novel. It's a very affirming book about searching and finding, and also about curating, documenting, and defining one's self and one's experiences. The rather unexpected theme of curation is especially endearing to librarians, as are the references to the Dewey decimal system and Ben's librarian mother.

When the last past is turned, there's a wonderful author's note detailing Selznick's meticulous research. Someday, whenever I have the opportunity to visit New York City, I will be sure to add the American Museum of National History to my list of places to see. In fact, I look forward to sharing this book with my children in preparation for a trip to New York. One of my favorite things to do when traveling as a child was visiting locations mentioned in books, and

Wonderstruck

lends itself perfectly to that agenda. I can't wait to share Ben and Rose with my children and seek out the special places they'll know from this book. Given that my children are currently still in diapers, I'll have to wait a while... but I know they're going to love it.

My big question after reading this title is, of course:

will it win a Caldecott?

I think it's completely deserving, but I wonder if

Hugo Cabret

's win will detract from this title's chances, since the format is very similar. I hope not! I feel like Selznick uses images in a slightly different way here than he did in

Hugo Cabret

, and I'd love to see this one win, too.

Thank you, Brian Selznick, for contributing another amazing book to the world.

Wonderstruck

will be published on September 13. ARC for review was picked up by my library director at BEA and graciously shared.

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## Sunday, July 3, 2011

### [Book Review: The Other Countess, by Eve Edwards](https://readingeverywhere.com/2011/07/book-review-other-countess-by-eve.html)

Edwards, Eve.

The Other Countess

. 352 p. Delacorte. 2011. Hardcover $17.99. ISBN 9780385740890.

In 1582 England, two young people with noble titles but no wealth find themselves irresistibly drawn together, yet their growing attraction is complicated by the fact that the young man must marry for money to restore his family's fortunes... which were ruined by the destitute girl's father.

This cozy historical novel is unabashedly a romance. It's not gimmicky, it's not edgy-- it delivers exactly what you sign up for when you open the pages: a love story for teens set against a richly detailed backdrop of Elizabethan England. Honestly, as an infrequent reader of historical fiction, I wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did, but I found myself completely enthralled and stayed up

way

past a sensible bedtime to read on as the characters faced one obstacle after another.

Eve Edwards skillfully brings 1580s England to life, depicting various levels of a very stratified society, from Queen Elizabeth's court to humble village life. The religious tensions of the time come into play, as do society's strict mores for young women.

A large cast of characters is introduced early on, which can be somewhat overwhelming. But each character is lively and multi-dimensional, with their own intriguing backstory and covert purposes, making the reader eager to read on and discover how their fates will end up entangled.

Through an omniscient third person narration, we shift between each of the main characters' perspectives, but we most often stay with the likable heroine, Ellie. She's realistic and easily relatable-- a well-rounded character who may be uncommonly well educated for a woman of her time, but is not above sneaking a peek at bare-chested boys (hee!). Many teen readers will empathize with her strained realtionship with her father who is the primary cause of her poverty and struggles in life. He means well, but it's like, "OMG my dad’s an ALCHEMIST and half the people we meet think he’s a nutcase, this is sooooo embarrassing." (Uh, only put that in Elizabethan diction.)

The love story is completely swoon-worthy-- there's just the right amount of tension between Ellie and her romantic interest, Will. I was utterly charmed by the banter between the two as their antagonism gradually leads to love. Just as Ellie is a well-developed character, Will is also multi-dimensional and very believable as an honorable young earl plagued with inner turmoil as he struggles between familial and patriotic duty and his own wishes.

My only complaint is that one of my favorite characters drops out of the narrative rather abruptly-- but I can't complain too much, because Edwards will be continuing her story in

The Queen's Lady

, expected to be published in Spring 2012. Yay! Or maybe I should say... huzzah!

The Other Countess

is already available in the UK, and hits US bookstores on July 12. ARC for review was included in my swag bag from

[YA in Bloom](http://www.bridgetobooks.org/2011/04/ya-in-bloom.html)

-- thanks for the awesome read, guys!

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