George’s Secret Key to the Universe, by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
J HAWKING
George’s parents do not approve of computers – or any other technological amenities. So, when George stumbles into the lives of his neighbors, he discovers a brave new world. Annie and her scientist father, Eric, have a computer which produces a portal to outer space. With the proper equipment, George steps deep into the solar system with them. When Eric drifts too close to a black hole, it’s up to George to think fast and plan an impossible rescue. NASA photos from space, black and white drawings, and the expertise of physicist Stephen Hawking make this a remarkable astronomical read.
~ Pamela, Ballard
Juliet Dove, Queen of Love, by Bruce Coville
J COVILLE
Once again, the Magic Shop appears to help another child in need. Twelve-year-old Juliet is very shy. When she wanders into the Magic Shop, a mysterious woman gives her a beautiful amulet. Soon, every boy she meets falls in love with her, causing all the girls to hate her. Worse yet, the amulet will not come off and it seems Juliet will not be able to get it off until she helps free Cupid, the god who is trapped inside the amulet. The Magic Shop’s owner sends some rats to help her out, but will they be up to the job?
~ Joanna, Fremont
Strawberry Hill, by Mary Ann Hobberman
J HOBERMA
Ten-year-old Allie and her family are moving to Strawberry Hill. Allie envisions a magical hill, covered with wild strawberries, and a white picket fence surrounding a picturesque house. But Strawberry Hill is just a street like any other and Allie struggles to adjust to the changes in her life, making new friends and going to a new school. Despite the hardships of the Great Depression, Allie finds magic in the small joys of everyday living and the value of a true best friend.
~ Jane, Central
Up a Road Slowly, by Irene Hunt
J HUNT
When seven-year-old Julie’s mother dies, she is left to live with a strict schoolteacher aunt. Over the course of the following ten years, Julie slowly grows from an angry, desolate seven-year-old, into a smart, thoughtful, and kind young woman. This is an old-fashioned story depicting the ordinary events of everyday life: cruelty to a schoolmate, jealousy of a sister’s new life, first love, death, and growing up; a story that many readers are sure to identify with.
~ Christiane, Queen Anne
Leave a Comment