Book Review: 'Into the Wild' by Jon Krakauer

✰✰✰✰½ In 1992 a young college graduate hitchhiked his way to Alaska and trekked into the Alaskan wilderness alone for an epic journey of survival and self-discovery. Going by the name Alexander Supertramp, the young man had given away most of his possessions, donated $24,000 to charity, and abandoned his car two years before. Charming and affable, Alex left a lasting impression on many people. Nevertheless, he yearned for wanderlust, never staying in one place too long. Alaska had always held a lure for him, and Alex entered the wilderness with adventure in his heart. A mere four months later, hunters and hikers would find his severely emaciated body in the back of an abandoned bus leaving everyone to wonder what happened.

The Bottom Line: Highly recommended reading for fans of nonfiction, adventure, and survival. This book will resonate with adults of all ages, but especially with those in college and those who enjoy hiking in the wilderness. Krakauer has the ability to impart detailed information in a way that keeps the reader turning the pages. If you’ve ever longed for solitude and adventure, check out this book about one young man following his passion.

Book Club Notes: Our group was looking forward to this discussion because we enjoy the author’s writing style. This book is a quick read and the movie doesn’t deviate much from the book. McCandless’ passion for following his dreams, for stepping out of his comfortable life is a sad and yet inspiring tale.

Discussion questions are readily available online. I found this study guide and this one to be especially helpful in preparing for our meeting. Additionally, this article was a good read and included interesting photos, diagrams, and trivia. We also discussed why people were risking their lives and traveling to Alaska to visit the bus; you can read about the fascination here. The bus has since been moved and has found a new home at a museum. You can visit the virtual exhibit and read about the conservation project to preserve the bus here.

Overall, we enjoyed both the book and the movie. McCandless possessed an adventurous spirit and perhaps a certain naïveté. Had he taken a map with him or chosen to visit in a different season, perhaps tragedy could have been averted, and we would never have known about his travels. Highly recommended for book clubs.

Details: Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. Paperback published by Anchor Books in 1997. 240 p. ISBN: 978-0-385-48680-4 

Book Review: 'Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen' by Anne Nesbet

✰✰✰✰ Darleen Darling is a young silent film star who's life is about to get even more daring. When her family's studio decides to generate some extra publicity with a fake kidnapping stunt, things go terribly wrong. Not only does Darleen get kidnapped for real, but she stumbles upon another kidnapping already taking place. To her surprise, the captive is none other than heiress Miss Victorine Berryman!

It's evident quite quickly that the two captives are in a heap of trouble. When it's obvious help isn't coming, the two young girls quickly become friends and hatch a plan to rescue themselves. With daring escapes, murderous plans, and danger around every corner, their daring rescue unfolds like an adventure movie serial. Will the two manage to outwit their captors or will evil prevail? Check out this captivating read to find out.

The Bottom Line: This tale of adventure is a quick read that will keep kids in middle school turning the pages. The escapes and plots are fun to read, but the budding friendship between two very different (and very resourceful) young ladies is what really shines through. I'm looking forward to reading more mysteries featuring these two clever heroines. Highly recommended for young fans of mysteries and historical fiction. 

Details: Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen by Anne Nesbet. ARC published by Candlewick Press in 2020. 368 p. ISBN: 978-1-5362-0619-7  [NOTE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.] 

Book Review: 'The Wonderling' written & illustrated by Mira Bartók

✰✰✰ The groundlings are part human, part animal creatures from a different time and place. Like many abandoned and orphaned groundlings, Number 13 was taken to Miss Carbunkle’s Home for Wayward & Misbegotten Children. Number 13 can’t remember a time when he wasn’t here. To make things worse, he doesn’t even have a real name.

One day Number 13 sees a tiny creature being bullied even worse than himself; he finally decides to do something about it. In a show of unusual courage, he saves the little ball of fluff and makes a real friend. The first of many new friends, this is just the beginning of an adventure for Number 13. The duo will be tested time and again as they uncover a diabolical plan and try to prevent it. In a race to save the sounds of music, Number 13 and his ragtag group of friends will have to rely on their instincts, bravery, and each other if there’s any hope of overcoming evil.

The Bottom Line: This long fantasy is reminiscent of a Dickensian world with a nod to King Arthur and the knights of the round table as well. Filled with symbolism, references to classic works of fiction, and delightful black and white illustrations, this adventurous tale of friendship and overcoming fear may appeal to advanced middle grade or YA readers.

Details: The Wonderling written & illustrated by Mira Bartók. Reprint edition published by Candlewick in 2019. 464 p. ISBN: 978-1-5362-0890-0 Note: I received a free advance reading copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.  

Book Review: 'Catch Me If You Can' by Frank W. Abagnale

✰✰✰✰½   Follow the adventures of Frank Abagnale Jr. as he assumes the roles of pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all before the age of 21. As a master of disguise and a brilliant forger, Abagnale charmed his way through a much more innocent time in American history, the 1960s. It was a time of trust, when people generally respected authority, bank security was lax, and people were more gullible.

Throughout his career as a con artist, the FBI was following his trail. There were many close calls; yet, Abagnale was always a step or two ahead of the law. Abagnale was both cunning and very lucky. Nevertheless, all good things must come to an end. It was only a matter of time before the FBI caught up, and Abagnale's inevitable downfall was as spectacular as his life on the run. Follow the author from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows as he gets caught in his own web of lies.

The Bottom Line: This entertaining, quick read is filled with lots of twists and turns. Abagnale's story will keep you on the edge of your seat as he cons just about everyone he meets. A life of crime just came naturally to the author, and yet there is a redemptive quality to his tale. Highly recommended for anyone interested in true crime, con artists, law enforcement, adventure, and ethical dilemmas.

Book Club Notes: In this book club, members can choose to read the book, watch the movie, or both. Many members had seen the film years ago, so reading the book gave us a chance to learn about the man behind the cons.  Needless to say, this was a very animated discussion. We talked about how the author was a smart young man who worked very hard at being a fake. Instead of pursuing a traditional education, he created his own career. He had nerve and confidence, but keep in mind that these events took place at a very different time in American history.

 While we enjoyed the movie, we liked the book better. The book was rich in details, and it was a "rollicking read."  Nevertheless, the movie did genuinely capture the essence of the book better than some other films based on real events. We were left with one question though: Are the events in the book true? We had to conclude that we'll probably never know for sure, and that's part of the mystery.

On a scale from 1 - 5 with 5 being the highest, ratings ranged from 3.8 - 5 resulting in an average of 4.5. We enthusiastically recommend this title for book clubs looking for an entertaining book or film to discuss. The following sources are available online for discussion questions for this book/film: BookRags, ESL Movie Lesson, and the USNA.

However, for this particular book, it was easiest to organize the questions by following the chapters. Here is my list of questions supplemented with a few from the above resources:

Chap. 1: Frank's own father was his first mark (the checking account & the Mobile credit card scam). Why did his father allow it? Would you have allowed it?

Frank said he thinks a lot of people fantasize about being a super criminal. 14 Do you agree?

Frank says women were his downfall. How did he treat women?

Chap 2: When things get difficult, Frank always chooses to run away. Why? Was he too pampered as a child?

Discuss his family dynamics growing up.

Discuss the effects of his parent's divorce on him? And for children in general.

Frank soothed himself with con man’s salve that “…if people were stupid enough to cash a check without verifying its validity, they deserved to be swindled.” 25 Do you agree? Discuss.

Chap. 3: Frank enjoyed the respect & attention he received by pretending to be a pilot. Why didn’t he actually pursue a real career?

Why didn’t anyone ever question him? He wore the uniform of a Pan Am pilot, so he must be one. Why do people just accept?

He kept a journal of phrases, technical data, information, names, dates, places phone numbers, thoughts,…anything necessary to pull off the scam. “It was a combination log, textbook, little black book, diary & airline bible…” 63 Discuss Frank’s Journal.

Discuss living a lie…for years. And multiple lies at that. How difficult is it to keep track of everything?

Chap. 4: Frank switched from being a “pilot” to being an “MD” after a close call. He had lots of close calls. Discuss his luck.

Frank enjoyed the perks of being a doctor; and it was more relaxing. How do you feel about Frank impersonating a medical doctor? Do you think it was ethical?

Chap. 5: Frank reinvents himself as a lawyer this time. By the end of the chapter, he is a professor of sociology. Discuss how he learned all of his different roles.

Chap. 6: Discuss life on the run.

Frank says the most successful check swindlers have 3 factors in their favor: 1.) Personality – charming, well dressed, courteous. 2.) Observation is the only necessity for successful innovative larceny. 3.) Research – A con artist’s only weapon is his brain. 129 Do you agree? Discuss.

Discuss how paperhanging is a numbers game.

Frank had so many scams going throughout his career. Question: Was the author just a juvenile delinquent or something more? 

Chap. 7: Discuss bank security in the 1960s compared to today. How have things changed? What role did Frank have in the changes?

Sometime in Boston he skipped out of bail. He upheld his "code of honor." In his entire career, he never swindled a regular person as an individual. He sent money back to the bail bondsman. 182 Discuss Frank’s "code of honor." When did he break it? (Cheryl in Ch. 8)

Chap. 8: Frank was back to impersonating a pilot. Discuss the Pan Am recruiting scam. What kind of women did he choose for his make-believe crew?

Chap. 9 & 10: With O’Riley hot on his trail, Frank moved to France. Discuss this decision & his life in France.

Discuss his time in Perpignan prison.

How does French prison differ from American or Swedish prison?

Did Frank learn anything in prison?

Eventually Frank made a break for it when he got back to America. Discuss his decision to run.

Other questions:

Upon being up for parole, why did Frank ask not to be sent to New York?

Why was it hard for Frank to work a regular job?

Why didn’t he return to his illicit lifestyle?

Discuss his work for the FBI.

Today, Frank is a security consultant and assists the FBI with fraud prevention programs. Discuss how Frank is doing today & why did he change? Do you believe he has truly changed?

Do you think he regrets his criminal past?

Why did Frank embark on a career of crime in the first place?

Miscellaneous:

Which scam was the most outrageous?

What allowed Frank to evade authorities for so long?

Would he have been as successful today?

Do you think Abagnale was truthful in his book? Or were some of the escapades embellished?

What motivated Frank to share his story.

How would you describe Frank?

Talk about the writing style of the book.

Please share a specific passage or quote from the book/film that left an impression on you.

Please rate this book/film on a scale from 1 – 5, with 5 being the highest and tell us why you gave it that rating.

Details: Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake by Frank W. Abagnale with Stan Redding. Trade paperback published by Broadway Books in 2000. 294 p. ISBN: 978-0-7679-0538-1

Book Review: 'The Book of Pearl' by Timothée de Fombelle

✰✰✰½ A young man suddenly finds himself transported to a strange world in a different time. It is just before WWII in Paris, and a couple takes him in. He eventually takes their name and as Joshua Pearl, he sets out to make his way in the world. Along the way he begins to lose his memories of this fairy tale beginnings. Pearl spends his free time seeking out objects to prove the existence of his other life and his long lost love. With time running out, Joshua and his true love must find a way to break the curse that was placed on them long, long ago.

The Bottom Line: This is a strange and wonderful adventure set in another time. It is a pleasure to read and absorb; however, the shifting points of view are confusing at times. If you dare to pick this book up and start reading, you will be swept away by this poetic tale of first love. Recommended for teens and adults who enjoy literary fiction, fairy tales,and romance.

Details: The Book of Pearl written by Timothée de Fombelle and translated by Sarah Ardizzone & Sam Gordon. Advance Reading Copy published by Candlewick Press in 2017. 368 p. ISBN: 978-0-7636-9126-4   NOTE:  I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Lost Property Office (Section 13)' by James R. Hannibal

✰✰✰✰½ Jack Buckles has arrived in London with his mom and sister to search for his missing dad. It seems that their father has disappeared without a trace, so when his little sister Sadie thinks she has caught a glimpse of his coat, she takes off after him. Jack, in turn, takes off after her. When he finally catches up, he finds himself at the Lost Property Office.

As he fills out the appropriate paperwork, Jack learns that things are not always what they seem. His dad is actually a Tracker and has been kidnapped by the mysterious and dangerous Clockmaker. If Jack wants to save his father, he and Gwen, an apprentice clerk with the Ministry of Trackers, must recover what is known as the Ember. There’s not much to go on, but Jack does possess a magical ability to read clues on objects. As Gwen helps him hone his skills, Jack must learn to trust himself. Working as a team, Jack and Gwen follow the clues of a mystery dating back to the Great Fire of 1666. With family secrets and twists and turns, this is one mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Bottom Line: This fast-paced read will appeal to the middle grade set. With lots of action, adventure, and just a hint of the supernatural, this debut series is fun for all. Enthusiastically recommended for kids in grades 5 – 7 and libraries.

Details: The Lost Property Office (Section 13) by James R. Hannibal. Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers in 2016. 400 p. ISBN: 978-1481467094

Book Review: 'Tiny's Big Adventure' by Martin Waddell

✰✰✰✰✰ Tiny Mouse has never been to the wheat field before, but his sister, Katy Mouse, has. Together they scamper to the field. There are so many things Tiny has never seen before, but Katy knows what everything is. The two siblings are having a grand adventure, until Tiny gets lost amongst the stalks of wheat. What's this here? What's that over there? Suddenly everything seems scary. Luckily, it's Katy Mouse to the rescue.

The Bottom Line: This tiny tale of big adventure is a winner. Lawrence's detailed engravings are stunning and engaging. Little ones will have as much fun looking at the illustrations as they will listening to the story. The large print makes it easy to read for beginning readers. Highly recommended for children in grades Pre-K – 1 and for storytime.

Details: Tiny's Big Adventure written by Martin Waddell & illustrated by John Lawrence. Hardcover picture book published by Candlewick Press in 2004. 32 p. ISBN: 0-7636-2170-6 

Book Review: 'The Tiptoe Guide to Tracking Fairies' by Ammi-Joan Paquette

✰✰✰✰✰ Join the children in the book as they go exploring for fairies. Do you know where the fairies hide? Fairies can be everywhere if you only know where to look. This book teaches you about the tell-tale signs of fairies. Once you learn the signs, you and your friends can have a magical adventure searching for these delicate creatures in your own backyard.

The Bottom Line: This enchanting picture book features a colorful blend of artwork and photography. The text is engaging and encourages both children and the young at heart to discover the beauty of nature and the magic of possibilities. This book reminds me of the long, lazy, summer days of my childhood. Highly recommended for summertime reading for kids ages 4 – 7.

Details: The Tiptoe Guide to Tracking Fairies written by Ammi-Joan Paquette & illustrated by Christa Unzner. Hardcover picture book published by Tanglewood in 2009. 32 p. ISBN: 978-1-933718-20-0

Book Review: 'Beware, The Snowman (Goosebumps) by R. L. Stine

✰✰✰ After losing her mother, Jaclyn DeForest lived with her aunt in the crowded city of Chicago. She was happy there. Unfortunately, her aunt suddenly decides to uproot the middle schooler and move to the wintry, isolated village of Sherpia. With nothing to do, Jaclyn goes for a long walk. Along the way she notices that there are identical creepy snowmen in front of every house. When her new friends offer to help her build one, Jaclyn decides there is something weird going on. At night there are strange howling noises, and it's always snowing. Jaclyn feels like there is something her friends aren't telling her. With danger lurking just up the way, Jaclyn comes face to face with an evil so dark, there just might not be a way home.

The Bottom Line: This fun, quick read is perfect any time of the year. Middle grade readers will enjoy the surprise twist ending of this supernatural tale. Recommended for kids who enjoy horror.

Details: Beware, The Snowman (Goosebumps) by R. L. Stine. Hardcover published by Scholastic Inc. In 1997. p. ISBN: 978-1-4242-3699-2

Book Review: 'The Wishing Spell' by Chris Colfer

✰✰✰ Things just aren’t the same after Alex and Connor Bailey’s father dies suddenly. Although their mother tries hard, their finances are stretched to the limit, and she never has time for the twins. Thus, when their grandmother gifts them with a magical book filled with fairy tales, it is only a matter of time before the twins become immersed in it. An accidental discovery takes the twins to a fairy tale land where they meet the characters of their favorite childhood stories. It’s a dream come true, right? Well, unfortunately things are not all they are cracked up to be in the land of stories, and the twins are worried about their mom. As if things couldn’t get any worse, they learn that the only way home is by the wishing spell.

With the help of frog, a journal filled with riddles, and a bit of luck, the twins quickly gather the items needed to activate the spell. However, someone else is also longing for the wish. With the clock ticking, the twins are running out of time before they will be trapped forever in a fairy tale land filled with danger. Will they be able to make their escape in time? Check out this first, fast-paced book in The Land of Stories series to find out their fate.

The Bottom Line: Most of the characters in this charming tale will be familiar to middle grade readers. Recommended for readers who enjoy fairytale mash-ups, this book contains lots of adventure with plenty of twists and turns to keep kids interested.

Details: The Wishing Spell (The Land of Stories) by Chris Colfer. Paperback published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers in 2013. 464 p. ISBN: 978-0-316-20156-8

Book Review: 'As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust' by Alan Bradley

✰✰✰✰ After finally putting her mother to rest, Flavia de Luce is suddenly banished from her beloved ancestral home, Buckshaw, and England. Transported to Canada, Flavia is enrolled in Miss Bodycote’s Female Academy like her mother had been. Before Flavia has time to settle into the boarding school, a gruesome corpse is discovered. Quick as a wink, Flavia is on the case. In between attending classes, making friends, and avoiding new enemies, Flavia must navigate a minefield of dangerous situations. Along the way she discovers that students have gone missing and that Miss Bodycote’s is no ordinary school. With danger around every corner, the stakes are high as Flavia rushes solve the mysteries and discover more information about her family’s secrets and her own personal destiny,

The Bottom Line: In this installment Flavia faces new challenges, while continuing to be as charming and brilliant as ever. This cozy series is a must-read for both adult and young adult mystery aficionados. Like previous installments, this book is a quick and fun read perfect for weekend or beach reading.

Details: As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust: A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan Bradley. Hardcover published by Delacorte Press in 2015. 416 p. ISBN: 978-0-345-53993-9

Book Review: 'Night of the White Stag' by M. C. Helldorfer

✰✰✰✰½ After the King's war ended, Finder's father never returned. With his family starving for food, young Finder sets off for the castle on Christmas Eve in search of some. When he loses his way, he stumbles upon an old blind man who is hunting for the mythical great white stag. Finder has his doubts, but he helps the old man in his quest. With a little trust, Finder discovers that miracles can happen.

The Bottom Line: This story was inspired by medieval literature and folklore. It takes the reader along on a wintry dream vision. Lavishly illustrated in detailed colored pencil, this tale of bravery will pull you in as good prevails. For children in grades 3 – 4.

Details: Night of the White Stag written by M. C. Helldorfer & illustrated by Yvonne Gilbert. Hardcover picture book published by Random House in 1999. 32 p. ISBN: 0-385-32261-5

Book Review: 'Drummer Boy' by Loren Long

✰✰✰✰✰ One wintry day a surprise gift is left on a doorstep. A little boy opens the gift to find a toy drummer boy. The little boy loves this gift, and when all is quiet the drummer boy plays his drum. All is well until one day the drummer boy is accidentally swept into the trash. Alone, the drummer boy begins a long, cold, and scary journey across the city. At each step along the way, the drummer boy plays his drum. After being nearly buried in snow, the drummer boy almost loses hope. Will he ever see the little boy again? Check this book out and read it with your child to find out.

The Bottom Line: By sharing this heartwarming tale, you'll rediscover the true spirit of Christmas. This beautifully and richly illustrated picture book will take you on a holiday journey. Highly recommended for kids in grades 1 – 3.

Details: Drummer Boy written & illustrated by Loren Long. Hardcover picture book published by Philomel Books in 2008. 40 p. ISBN: 978-0-399-25174-0

Book Review: 'Library of Souls' by Ransom Riggs

✰✰✰✰ The third installment of the Miss Peregrine trilogy dives right back into the action. The situation is bleak as our heroes Jacob Portman and Emma Bloom along with Addison, a talking dog, continue to search for their beloved Miss Peregrine and the other missing ymbrynes. Their urgent quest transports the trio from modern-day London to Victorian England via a boat ride with the sinister boatman, Sharon, as their guide.

As the trio makes their way through the dark alleys of Devil's Acre, hallowgasts and wights are around every corner. Time to save Peculiardom is running out as Jacob struggles to understand and harness his special peculiar gift. The quest eventually leads them to a library in which the essences of peculiar souls are stored.

It doesn't look good for the Peculiars or the Ymbrynes as they bravely enter a final showdown against their evil nemesis, Caul. Will darkness take control of all Peculiardom or will goodness prevail? You'll be on the edge of your seat as the epic battle is fought.

The Bottom Line: Our peculiar friends are once again faced with adversity and loss. Despite all odds, they persevere and overcome by using their unique gifts and working as a team. This book was packed with adventure and action, while the ending of this trilogy was bittersweet. Riggs has created a hauntingly beautiful fictional world that I have enjoyed immensely. The story along with the vintage photos makes a lasting impression.

Enthusiastically recommended for young adults and adults who enjoy fast-paced adventures with a supernatural twist. To get the most out of this trilogy, I highly recommend reading the books in order. For those of you who long for more stories of the peculiar, Tales of the Peculiar is due out in September, and I can't wait to read it. Enjoy!

Details: Library of Souls: The Third Novel of Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. Hardcover published by Quirk Books in 2015. 464 p. ISBN: 978-1-59474-758-8

Book Review: 'Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye' by Tania Del Rio

✰✰✰✰✰ The Warren Hotel has seen better days. After twelve generations of Warrens taking care of it, Warren the 13th is eager to assume the responsibility as caretaker. Although he already serves as the hotel's long bellhop, waiter, groundskeeper, and all-around gofer, Warren the 13th is too young to take over. After all, he is only twelve.

So when his uncle's new wife, Annaconda, tears up the hotel by searching for something, Warren the 13th sets out to put things back together. Unfortunately, Aunt Annaconda won't give up. She's determined to find the mythical and legendary All-Seeing Eye and have it all for herself. When Aunt Annaconda brings in reinforcements in the form of her two witch sisters and an evil little apprentice, things really start to heat up. Suddenly the once very empty hotel is full of people searching for the All-Seeing Eye. It's up to Warren the 13th and his new friends to find the eye before the others. Can they discover the hotel's secrets before Aunt Annaconda, her witch sisters, and the other guests destroy it? Pick up this engaging book to find out.

The Bottom Line: This quick read for middle grade readers is wonderfully Gothic in style. The book includes fun puzzles and gorgeous illustrations. The book uses a Victorian style layout with two columns combined with the limited color palette of red, black, and white. It has an almost Steampunk feel to it. Warren the 13th is a sweet young boy who posses a sparkling optimism and good work ethic. This charming tale of friendship and family with eccentric characters will appeal to kids who enjoy something a little different. Enthusiastically recommended for kids in grades 5 - 9. Fans of Edward Gorey may also want to check this out. I'm looking forward to the next installment; I hope it includes more puzzles and cleverness.

Details: Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye: A Novel written by Tania Del Rio & illustrated by Will Staehle. Published by Quirk Books in 2015. 224 p. ISBN: 978-1-59474-803-5 NOTE: I received a free advance reading copy from Quirk Books in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Dead in Their Vaulted Arches' by Alan Bradley

✰✰✰✰ It's the spring of 1951, and Flavia de Luce's long-lost mother, Harriet, has finally returned to her beloved ancestral home, Buckshaw. It seems the whole town of Bishop's Lacey has turned out to welcome Harriet home. The gathering includes extended family, friends, a famous politician, and a mysterious stranger, who ends up dead soon after delivering a cryptic message to Flavia. Immediately Flavia's interest is piqued, and she must once again don her sleuthing hat. Working around her grieving family, with the funeral just hours away, Flavia must work quickly to uncover even more family secrets and discover the cause of her mother's untimely death.

The Bottom Line: Flavia is captivating, sweet, and just a little bit morbid at times. Her character continues to mature as she is confronted with death on a personal level; however, she's still that spunky, tomboyish free spirit I adore. As more family secrets are revealed, Flavia uncovers and struggles with her destiny. This quick and quirky mystery is enthusiastically recommended for both YA and adult readers who enjoy cozies set in England. It's always fun to read about Flavia's fascination with science.

Details: The Dead in Their Vaulted Arches: A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan Bradley. Hardcover published by Delacorte Press in 2014. 336 p. ISBN: 978-0-385-34405-0

Book Review: 'The Lotus Caves' by John Christopher

✰✰✰✰✰ The year is 2068, and life in the moon's Bubble is boring. When Marty's best friend is forced to move back to Earth earlier than planned, fifteen-year-old Marty is left alone. Everything changes when Marty befriends a classmate named Steve. As an orphan, Steve is used to being an outcast and a loner. It isn't long before Steve and Marty's new friendship leads to trouble. Having skipped school, the pair takes a crawler out to the abandoned First Station. 

What starts out as a quick and harmless adventure quickly goes awry when the crawler skids out of control. The friends awake to find themselves in a cave beneath the moon's surface. Much to their surprise they find food, oxygen, plants, another human, and alien life. At first the place seems magical, but the more they consume, the more obedient they become to the alien creature in charge. As the days go by, it becomes harder and harder to resist submitting to the creature. Before forgetting who they are, Marty and Steve make a plan for their escape. However, the creature just might have other plans for them.

The Bottom Line: This is classic science fiction at its best. I remember reading and rereading this book in grade school during the 1970s, and I have been searching for a copy to own ever since. I'm happy to write that the book has retained its magic. The themes of friendship and believing in yourself are just as current today as when it was written. Very highly recommended for kids in middle school. Also, highly recommended for adults interested in sci-fi.

Details: The Lotus Caves by John Christopher. Paperback reissue edition published by Aladdin in 2014. 288 p. ISBN: 9781481418379

Book Review: 'Hollow City' by Ransom Riggs

✰✰✰✰½ The most peculiar children you have ever met are back in the next installment of the series. As Jacob Portman struggles to understand and control his newfound peculiar ability, the group continues to London on a quest to restore Miss Peregrine to human form. With time running out, the group makes their way through the war-torn city in search of another time loop that will take them to the last free ymbryne. Only Miss Wren can help them save their beloved headmistress. Along the way the peculiar kids encounter other peculiars and fantastical beasts while trying to stay clear of hollowgasts and wights. The second adventure will leave you wanting more as Jacob comes face-to-face with the most difficult decision of his young life.

The Bottom Line: The second novel picks up exactly where the first novel left off. Once again the intriguing vintage photos and text work well together to provide the reader with a unique experience. This book is a fantastically dark page-turner. The peculiar children demonstrate teamwork, friendship, and loyalty. Enthusiastically recommended for teens and adults who enjoy books with supernatural and time travel twists. For the best reading experience, be sure to pick up and read Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children first.

Details: Hollow City: The Second Novel of Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. Paperback published by Quirk Books in 2015. 416 p. ISBN: 978-1-59474-735-9 NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Cruelest Miles' by Gay Salisbury & Laney Salisbury

✰✰✰✰ The harsh winters of Alaska are legendary, but in 1925 a deadly diphtheria epidemic raged through the land and created a crisis like none before. Earlier in the year, the town doctor had realized that his supply of diphtheria antitoxin had expired. Although he ordered more, it failed to arrive on the last ship before the town became icebound. In all his years practicing medicine in Nome, Dr. Welch rarely had call to use the medicine, so he wasn’t worried. Unfortunately soon children were suffering from symptoms of severe sore throats. At first it looked like tonsillitis, but the germs at work proved to be a lot more deadly and fast. With a blizzard rapidly approaching, the only chance to save the people of Nome depended on teams of sled dogs. Twenty mushers and their dogs, the most famous of which was Balto, participated in the 1925 Serum Run. This is the thrilling journey that inspired the Iditarod Sled Dog Race in Alaska.    

The Bottom Line: While this debut book by two cousins is sometimes repetitive, it is a quick, compelling read that keeps you hanging. With no roads, rails, flights, or boats available, this is a story of courage, survival, and adventure. It became a race against both time and the elements where the slightest miscalculation can cost you your life. Additionally, this book explores the bond between man and dog. Also, included in the book are many fascinating historical tidbits, black and white photos, and a map. Enthusiastically recommended for dog lovers, nonfiction aficionados, and history lovers.

Book Club Notes: This was a quick read for the group to tackle. While many of us were familiar with the story of Balto, it was interesting to learn about the other mushers and dogs involved in the serum run. The men pushed themselves and the dogs to their physical limits. Without hesitation, many sacrifices were made, not for glory, but simply to help fellow humans. It was also interesting to learn about life in Alaska including local folklore and native culture. It's all about survival and helping others in need. Overall, we gave this book an average of 4 stars. Most of us enjoyed the history and trivia included in the book. However, a few members disliked the trivia while others simply lost interest in the writing style. Groups considering this book can find a reading group guide at W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 

Details: The Cruelest Miles: The Heroic Story of Dogs and Men in a Race Against an Epidemic by Gay Salisbury & Laney Salisbury. Paperback published by W. W. Norton & Company in 2003. 320 p. ISBN: 978-0-393-32570-6