Speaking of great authors, it was pointed out to me that I have not placed a Lois Lowry book on any of my lists. I apologize for the oversight. While everyone knows and loves Lowry’s compelling Newbery-winning The Giver, I’d like to recommend her latest fantasy, which highlights all of Lowry’s writing strengths. You can literally read this book at the bookstore (believe me, I did), and it is a couple of hours well-spent.