Molly, 13, and Colleen, 19, find themselves with just eighteen dollars after paying the bills after the death of their once well-to-do father in Illinois. Action had to be taken and it was in the form of applying to work for the Harvey House chain of restaurants even though Molly was only 13 and the age to work was 18. Colleen helped dress Molly to look 18 and off they went to Chicago where they were hired and sent to Raton, New Mexico. They learned how to accomplish what was expected of Harvey Girls who were paid well, furnished uniforms and a place to sleep, but Molly always wanted to go back to Streator, IL so she made plans for Colleen to marry a Chicago salesman to accomplish this act. Will Molly's schemes work to get her back to her old life or will she stay out West with her new-found friends? This book explores a little known part of women's history as well as showing the racism and prejudice that existed in the West. Enjoy this thoroughly charming book.

Reviewed by: cjones

Date read: 12/21/2011

ISBN-13: 9781935279518

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Laurie and his friend Andy are awakened, while camping out, by a huge explosion. Later, they watch in horror as a huge machine resembling a three-legged octopus blasts a farmhouse into flames. This is only the beginning. On returning home, Laurie learns that similar Tripods have landed near his home in England and in Russia and the United States. No one knows where they come from or what their purpose is. The three Tripods are quickly dealt with, but now a television program, 'The Trippy Show,' has begun to enthrall nearly everyone who watches it. When Laurie's sister, Angela becomes enrapt and shouts, 'Hail the Tripod!' when crossed, Laurie's father and family know that they cannot rest easy and hope the Tripods will all go away. Joined by Andy, whose mother has joined the 'Trippies,' they watch in horror as more and more people become enthusiastic Tripod supporters, forced by Trippies to wear skull caps that brainwash their wearers to obey the Tripods. Where can they escape this madness? This is the prequel to the Tripods trilogy, which begins with White Mountains.

Reviewed by: vverscaj

Date read: 12/20/2010

ISBN-10: 0613618297

ISBN-13: 9780613618298

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As Miranda's mother is preparing to be a contestant on 'The $20,000 Pyramid,' Miranda is trying to come to terms with strange notes that have begun surfacing for her. The first note states, 'I am coming to save your friend's life and my own. I ask two favors. First, you must write me a letter.' Miranda and the reader end up having a lot to wrap their minds around once the author of the letters is revealed. This book is intriguing and thought provoking from start to finish! Also available on audiobook.

Similar authors: Margaret Peterson Haddix

Similar books: Found and Turnabout by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Awards won: John Newbery Medal

Reviewed by: jb

Date read: 2/17/2010

ISBN-10: 0385906641

ISBN-13: 9780385906647

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Minli and her very poor parents live in a 'home' where the Fruitless Mountain and the Jade River meet. Her mother is always complaining about how poor they are and her father, Ba, tells stories in the evening to Minli to take her mind off the plight of the family. A goldfish peddler entices Minli to spend one of her two coins on a goldfish in a bowl of water. Minli decides to try to reach Old Man of the Moon who she thinks can change the status of her family. Read this story to enjoy how Minli, the flightless dragon, and a few others learn some very important lessons. The Chinese fairy tales that are included in almost every chapter enhance the Asian culture of the story but can apply to any culture.

Awards nominated: Rebecca Caudill Award Nominee 2012

Awards won: Newbery Honor Book 2010

Reviewed by: cjones

Date read: 1/17/2011

ISBN-10: 0316114278

ISBN-13: 9780316114271

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Commenter: Valerie, grade 52

A young boy has an amazing love for his two hound dogs. Together, they find victory and sadness.

Reviewed by: St. Charles Reader

Date read: 11/19/2009

ISBN-10: 0553274295

ISBN-13: 9780553274295

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Commenter: Adf, grade 12