The Knight and the Dragon
October 2008
By Tomie dePaola
Ages: 4-8
"Once upon a time, there was knight in a castle who had never fought a dragon..."
Tomie dePaola's clever illustrations tell most of the story in this humorous twist on the age-old dragon vs. knight conflict.
In this book, the true hero turns out to be the wise librarian who helps the two main characters come up with a peaceful
resolution in the end. It seems like every time I read this book to my children, which is often because it is such a hit, I
discover a new teachable moment. This book is funny and unpredictable, so prepare to be enchanted.
Reviewed by K. Newton
The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
October 2008
By Jeanne Birdsall
Ages 9-12
When the Penderwick family goes away for a vacation at Arundel cottage, they have no idea the changes they will affect in the life of one young boy.
The Penderwicks is a timeless family adventure story with true charm and heart, earning it numerous awards,
including the National Book Award for Young People's Literature. Jeanne Birdsall's narrative is full of well developed characters;
every reader is sure to find at least one they can relate to. This appealing story is a pleasure to read, and readers will want to
indulge in more of the family's adventures.
Reviewed by K. Newton
Twilight (The Twilight Saga)
October 2008
By Stephenie Meyer
Young Adult
It is almost impossible to review the book Twilight without referring to the entire four book series.
Stephanie Meyer introduces readers to a world that is both new and almost intrinsically familiar in her series that follows a
seemingly ordinary, uprooted teenage girl and her loved ones. While the story is sometimes predictable, it is always gripping.
Every book in the series brings breadth and depth and pulls the reader more thoroughly into the hybrid world in which the protagonist,
Bella Swan, exists. Thrilling, heart-wrenching, and consuming� The Twilight Saga is fabulous fantasy literature.
Reviewed by K. Newton