Monthly Archives: January 2011

Jan20

Great Beginning Chapter Book 7-9 year olds

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Crystal Palace Cover

"The Crystal Palace: Rescue of the Baby Fairy Prince" by Michelle Hauser


Review for “The Crystal Palace: Rescue of the Baby Fairy Prince” by Michelle Hauser.

I’m always curious about new crystal and fairy books. This one came under my teacher radar on one of the discussion boards. After ordering, I was surprised at the child friendly candor and easy readability. This is a great book for struggling readers. If your child loves fairies, this will feed the need.

The story begins with a sleepover visit to grandma’s. The granddaughter, Karina, takes her two good friends, Emily Jean and Katie, on a slumber party adventure. They discover that in her specially decorated bedroom of crystals a visit from her grandmother’s tooth fairy, Angela, reveals a problem. The Baby Fairy Prince is missing. The girls must help Angela find him. Off on an adventure with fairy magic, rainbow travels and leprechauns, any reader will discover a safe and fantastic fairy world adventure.

This is a great book to share as a read-aloud or for independent readers.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Jan2

New Cutting Edge YA Fantasy

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Shadowmagic by John Lenahan


I saw this book on an Amazon.com board for new book releases. I liked the fantasy angle and the concept. Lenahan’s writing style isn’t your typical fantasy writing. He has a real humorous voice that after a bit, grows on you. I do like the connection to the real world. The main character continues to miss our reality and wonders how to get back. A lot of Narnia comes to mind as the main character goes through a lot of difficulties to solve the adventure.

I did like the characters, the imp, hot-headed girl, and the banshee sidekick. There were enough character traits to make them enjoyable and want you to keep reading. The plot wasn’t so predictable, and the twists involved were fun. I enjoyed this book over all and would recommend it to any fantasy reader that wants a new take on what fantasy can be.

Available in Paperback and Kindle Editions.
Rated: 5 out of 5 stars

Jan2

A Different Perspective on Growing Up

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No Irish Need Apply by Edward C. Patterson


I’ve been seeing a lot of posts in the Indie Author world on Amazon and the Kindle boards with this author. So, I wanted to see what the buzz was about. Boy, am I glad I did. This is a great book if you want to get a perspective on what it would be like to be so different in high school; you’re more than alone but estranged. Dedicated to PFLAG, Parents and Family of Lesbians and Gays, this book can give you an understanding of what it might be like growing up gay in today’s high schools.

I really enjoyed the writing style of Edward Patterson. His humor and imagery really pulls you in the book. There is a realistic sense to the minds of these boys, and the build up to the end is a window to their pain. I was able to predict the ending a bit. But by that time, like any well-led reader, I wanted it to happen.

This book does have some areas that would delve into more adult and teen reading. I would not have middle school readers try this book. It is definitely written as an edgy YA. It is a good read for families trying to understand what is behind the feelings of someone who is gay in their family.

Available in Paperback, Kindle and Smashword Editions

Rated: 5 out of 5 stars

Jan2

Took Me Back to My D & D Days

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The Legend of Witchbane by Kevis Hendrickson


The Legend of Witch Bane is a D & D adventure come to life, but of course more with a Norse Mythology twist. The first thing that struck me about this book was the Grimm’s Fairy Tale narration style of the novel. It took some getting used to, but it grew on me. I loved the characters relating to the world of fairy and crossing over into Norse Mythology. It was good fun traveling along with the three children to solve the curse of their kingdom. I felt I was 13 again playing D & D. I think kids will enjoy this, and some adults too, esp. if they’ve played a few role playing games.

Available in Paperback and Kindle Edition

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars