Book 1 of The Unicorn Rescue Society. This fun middle grade book is reminiscent of The Magic Treehouse and would definitely appeal to readers of that series. This plot line is pretty standard magical creatures living among us without anyone being aware. You have one group protecting from the other group. The style is simple…

Book 2 of Goosebumps. Even at the start of this classic series, RL Stein keeps the chills alive. This was a wonderful novel packed with mystery and wonder. The appeal of this series is great for the young who aren’t quite ready for Stephen King horror. A wonderful little book with plenty of twists.

Book 4 of Monsterious. This fun short novel has a surprising twist ending as well as the normal “more to follow” ending. This is a fun little read for those reluctant middle school aged readers. Lots of detective work and a good example of showing kids doing mundane work as well. That said, I like…

Book 9 of Young Wizards. The young wizards are growing up. This is an interesting change as it is not about The One who they are opposing in every novel. This was a fun nod to Edgar Rice Burroughs. He is even mentioned a couple of times. I am very excited to see how she…

Book 103 of the Boxcar Children series. This little mystery focuses around a stolen sword and there are plenty of people that have a motive. That said, this was a great example of things happening when you get to work. I was glad to see that this series has gotten right back to its roots…

This is a book about woodcraft speaking of what to do out in the wilderness by an expert who used to write for Field and Steam. He outlines what has worked for him and although dated gives a lot of great information. If you are interested in learning more about the outdoors you could go…

This is an oldie but talks to the morals and work ethic of a bygone generation. If you are interested in learning or understanding more about both the roots of The Boy Scouts as well as learning more about bushcraft. If anything this is a place I wish I could have sent my children to.…

This classic takes us in verse through one pivotal moment in a child’s life. One I wish would duplicate in a happy ending more often. I love that it talks about the circle of violence going on so long that no one remembers the initial infraction. Deeper as we look, how often do the “rules”…

Book 2 of The Unicorn Quest. The girls are still trying to find the unicorn. We get to be with the Gemmers for a good portion of this one and get to see a little more in depth the magic and how it works. The bond between the sisters grows and without giving too much…

Book 4 of Animorphs Megamorphs. This book takes us back to the beginning and what would have happened had the Animorphs never existed. It is a fun alternate timeline that lets us see the intrepid youth in a whole new light. More than anything it helps us realize that the weight of responsibility that we…