March 2015

One of the best books I’ve read this year. Haunting tale of two boys, born fatherless blocks apart in Baltimore with the same name, who follow very divergent paths. Thought-provoking and captivating.

Honestly, the book is 288 pages, but the back is filled with book club questions – so I don’t count those! Normally I try to focus on first-time authors and lesser known works, but Boo’s National Book Award winner is truly beautiful modern day literature. Its Indian characters could be any of us, and I hope you treat yourself to a wonderful afternoon reading this treasure.

Who knew you could create an entire university course based on the mathematical concepts hidden within episodes of The Simpsons. This delightful book will reward you throughout.

Swanson’s adult-level Manhunt is one of the best books I’ve read in the past 20 years, and I am so grateful he created a young adult version that is sure to intrigue teens about the hunt for President Lincoln’s assassins. Social studies made riveting!

Burroughs is one of my favorite science fiction writers of all time, and besides his Tarzan books I have always devoured his John Carter series. This book is the third in that series, and it will serve as a great hook for many reluctant readers.

I recently met a teenage reluctant reader who had never seen Gary Larson’s Far Side cartoons and was appalled! How can one go through life without tasting one of the funniest cartoon strips of all time. If you are ever sick or grumpy, there are two anecdotes: watch The Price Is Right and/or read The Far Side. Guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

How could you NOT pick up a book with this title? With great illustrations by Daniel Salmieri, this book makes for a very fun read aloud you and your kids will enjoy.

This book makes a great writers’ prompt. Such a clever idea, as the two authors (Scieszka is probably my favorite living children’s author) tell the story of a boy who picks up a sappy book called The Birthday Bunny and decides to turn it into a story that he’d actually like to read. Brilliant concept, with fun illustrations by Matthew Myers.

I have seen kids sit and stare at this book for hours, giggling at the funny photos of squirrels. Definitely a book you need in your library.

 I think I am going to start sharing this book with my corporate audiences, as it shows how to embrace life’s messes. Better than half of the self-help books I’ve read in the past three months. Oh – and a very engaging read aloud for kids, too.