40 Book Reading Challenge
Here is a list of the books I am completing in the same challenge students are! Attached to each book I have read is a quick summary and review! Don't forget to join us!
Book Challenge Form Link
11. The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski
30. The Hero Two Doors Down by Sharon Robinson
Historical Fiction, 3 out 5 stars
Based on the true story of a young boy's dream coming true, this novel focuses on Jackie Robinson's kind and gentle nature to make a powerful statement of equality in this world. Steve has some issues with getting in trouble at school and reacting without thinking. This often lands Steve in trouble...so much so he is afraid he won't get to attend opening day for the Dodger's! Steve learns about much more than baseball from his new neighbor and develops an unbreakable friendship with his hero!
29. Ashes to Asheville by Sarah Dooley
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This was a touching novel I quite enjoyed. Fella and Zany are sisters separated after the death of their mother from cancer. She was cremated and her ashes are sitting on their persnickety grandmother's mantle. One night Zany sneaks in to steal the ashes and ends up taking Fella and the dog too for a road trip in the middle of the night. The goal: Grant their mother's final wish and spread her ashes in the park beside their old home in Asheville. A powerufl story of love, pain, grief, hurt, friendship, loyalty, and family you don't want to miss! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one.*
28. March: Book Two by John Lewis
Graphic History, 5 out of 5 stars
This one is a continuation of John Lewis and the Civil Rights Movement. It covers John's story as it intertwines with so many others in the movement. From the March on Washington to pieces of Obama's inauguration, this graphic novel continues to tell the story of the fight for equality. I am struck by the inability of people to accept others at is shown so vividly in this book. A must read! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
27. Jungle of Bones by Ben Mikaelsen
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This is my second time reading this one and I was so glad to share it with my homeroom in the mornings before the announcements! Dylan Barstow is a not so friendly, everyone hates me, it's never my fault, kind of kid. His attitude is in need of serious adjustment and his Uncle Todd is there to help. Dylan is less than happy with the idea of spending the summer with his uncle in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, but he doesn't have a choice. Dylan makes quite a mess on his trip to PNG, but can he prove to everyone he is not the screw up they think he is?
26. March: Book One by John Lewis
Graphic History, 5 out of 5 stars
I literally jumped out of my seat in the library the other day when I saw this graphic novel on the shelf! I had the honor of hearing Congressman Lewis speak back in December and it was one of those life-changing moments you don't know how you are so blessed to experience it! Book one tells Lewis' story of growing up and getting into the Civil Rights Movement, giving us a crystal clear picture as to why he answered the call for equality and justice in this world! I can't wait to dive in to book two and three! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
25. Faithful Elephants by Yukio Tsuchiya
Historical, 5 out of 5 stars
I know you are sensing a theme here, but grab your tissues, because you are going to need them! Faithful Elephants is also related to the war with Japan and bombing. The zoos in Japan didn't know what to do with their animals, especially Tokyo, when major cities where being bombed during World War II. This is the story of three elephants who suffered and died due to the war. It not only opens up discussion about the human, animal, and environmental impacts, but gives insight into the devastation Japan faced because of the war as well. We often forget they had troubles too and innocent lives where lost uselessly as well.
24. The Secret Project by Jonah and Jeanette Winter
Historical, 3 out of 5 stars
This one is also about the making of the atomic bomb and the secrecy of "The Gadget." This is a neat story book with great graphics I can't wait to use in class. The story helps give some perspective to those impacted by the testing of the bomb and the urgency with which it was created.
23. Trinity: A Graphic History of the First Atomic Bomb by Jonathan Fetter-Vorm
Graphic History, 3 out of 5 stars
This is the first graphic novel I have ever read. It takes some getting used to; however, I quite enjoyed it. What I liked most about this novel is the way it explains the science of the atomic bomb before ever really explaining anything else. This is purposeful in my opinion because someone had to really know what they were doing and work hard to created the most destructive weapon at that time (setting the stage for what we see today with our nuclear fears). *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
22. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
I broke a rule and watched the show before I read the book. I ended up liking the show better because the concept of this book is hard to visualize as you read. We always talk about white lies aren't a big deal...until they add up and someone gets murdered. Full of whit and honesty, Moriarty touches on some subjects that are hard to listen to, but must be heard. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
21. A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir
Historical Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
20. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
This is one of those books that I pick up every few years or so and read it at different points in my life. I remember the first time I read it, it just stuck with me. Each time I read Speak something different sticks with me. The same words tell me a different story because parts line up with my life differently then they have through previous reads. I also just recently had my copy signed at a conference by the author (stellar moment in my life). Melinda just entered 9th grade and everyone hates her. Literally. I will let Melinda tell her story, but know that she speaks volumes even when she doesn't use any words. Someone just needs to listen. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
19. The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This novel has a strong grounding in true historical narratives, but the author has taken a few liberties with the story lines and characters. Sarah Grimke is the odd ball of a large, Southern plantation, slave owning family in the early 1800s. She knows slavery is wrong, yet she doesn't know any different based on the culture of where she lives. On her 11th birthday she is given a slave, Hetty "Handful," whom she promptly attempts to free. Handful is a strong minded girl who realizes she is a part of a system that is wrongfully keeping her from being free and she must find a way to the freedom she longs for. Their stories intertwine and both women invent their own wings to find their path, story, and freedoms. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
18. An Ember in the Ashes by Saaba Tahir
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
Mrs. Thomas, Ms. Nelson and I are reading this one together (I may have went a little ahead of them)! It is set in a similar world as Ancient Rome and the struggles between Plebeians and Patricians. Elias is a Martial mask in training, one of the strongest, most elite individuals in the whole of the Empire. Laia is a Scholar slave, a timid girl with a family full of secrets. Both are searching for freedom in different ways: Elias from the honor, duty, and way of life he completely disagrees with; and Laia from the society that enslaves her, fear that ensnares, and honor to a family she feels is much stronger than she. Their stories intertwine and this becomes quite a story of fighting for what is right in a world that says you shouldn't, honor and loyalty, and pushing the boundaries of what you have always know and friends you have always had. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
17. The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This one got me. You know from the very beginning the lead is on his deathbed and the entire story is a reflection of his life. The lead however, Enzo, is a dog. Told from Enzo's perspective is the story of love, crisis, and longing as it is intertwined with his desire to be a human. Denny, Enzo's human is a mechanic and rising racer. Tragedy strikes their family and everything they both know begins to change. This one pulls at your animal and human heartstrings! *Note: This one is for adults only!*
16. Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris
Nonfiction, 3 out of 5 stars
The title has intrigued me for a long time and I finally just sat down and read this one. I believe I would have enjoyed it more had this not been my first Sedaris memoir...I felt like I was missing something the whole time because I didn't really know and understand Sedaris and this was not the memoir to help me learn. It was witty at times and dry at others, but overall, not my favorite read. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
15. The Wonder by Emma Donoghue
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
The Wonder was slow to start, but intensified quickly. Lib is a nurse who studied under the famous Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War. She has been asked to attend a young Irish girl with another woman, a nun of the Catholic Church, for two weeks. Their task: Make sure the girl, Anna, doesn't eat any food. Anna and her family claim that she has not eaten for four months and is being sustained on God's will and love alone. In order for this to be claimed a miracle and assign sainthood, they must prove Anna is in fact receiving no food at any time. This story will challenge your understandings of love, faith, and endurance from multiple perspectives. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
14. milk and honey by Rupi Kaur
Poetry, 4 out of 5 stars
milk and honey is the first book of poetry I have read in quite some time. Kaur challenges the reader to enter her experineces through words that read like a narrative of her soul. Heartbreak, happiness, laughter, tears, and much more are bundle into this one.
*Note: This one is for adults only!*
13. When Women Were Birds: Fifty-Four Variations on Voice by Terry Tempest Williams
Nonfiction, 5 out of 5 stars
This is going to go down as one of those life-changing books for myself. This is a memoir in which the author finds herself in the possession of her mothers journals when she passes away. When she begins to read them, they are all blank. Terry Tempest Williams reflects on her life before, during, and after the death of her mother while finding the meaning of voice and what her's is in this world. This one came at the perfect time in my life as I am finding myself in the midst of losing my own mother two years ago. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
12. The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski
Historical Fiction, 3 out 5 stars
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Based on the true story of a young boy's dream coming true, this novel focuses on Jackie Robinson's kind and gentle nature to make a powerful statement of equality in this world. Steve has some issues with getting in trouble at school and reacting without thinking. This often lands Steve in trouble...so much so he is afraid he won't get to attend opening day for the Dodger's! Steve learns about much more than baseball from his new neighbor and develops an unbreakable friendship with his hero!
29. Ashes to Asheville by Sarah Dooley
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
This was a touching novel I quite enjoyed. Fella and Zany are sisters separated after the death of their mother from cancer. She was cremated and her ashes are sitting on their persnickety grandmother's mantle. One night Zany sneaks in to steal the ashes and ends up taking Fella and the dog too for a road trip in the middle of the night. The goal: Grant their mother's final wish and spread her ashes in the park beside their old home in Asheville. A powerufl story of love, pain, grief, hurt, friendship, loyalty, and family you don't want to miss! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one.*
28. March: Book Two by John Lewis
Graphic History, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
This one is a continuation of John Lewis and the Civil Rights Movement. It covers John's story as it intertwines with so many others in the movement. From the March on Washington to pieces of Obama's inauguration, this graphic novel continues to tell the story of the fight for equality. I am struck by the inability of people to accept others at is shown so vividly in this book. A must read! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
27. Jungle of Bones by Ben Mikaelsen
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
26. March: Book One by John Lewis
Graphic History, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
I literally jumped out of my seat in the library the other day when I saw this graphic novel on the shelf! I had the honor of hearing Congressman Lewis speak back in December and it was one of those life-changing moments you don't know how you are so blessed to experience it! Book one tells Lewis' story of growing up and getting into the Civil Rights Movement, giving us a crystal clear picture as to why he answered the call for equality and justice in this world! I can't wait to dive in to book two and three! *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
25. Faithful Elephants by Yukio Tsuchiya
Historical, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
24. The Secret Project by Jonah and Jeanette Winter
Historical, 3 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
23. Trinity: A Graphic History of the First Atomic Bomb by Jonathan Fetter-Vorm
Graphic History, 3 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
This is the first graphic novel I have ever read. It takes some getting used to; however, I quite enjoyed it. What I liked most about this novel is the way it explains the science of the atomic bomb before ever really explaining anything else. This is purposeful in my opinion because someone had to really know what they were doing and work hard to created the most destructive weapon at that time (setting the stage for what we see today with our nuclear fears). *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
22. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
I broke a rule and watched the show before I read the book. I ended up liking the show better because the concept of this book is hard to visualize as you read. We always talk about white lies aren't a big deal...until they add up and someone gets murdered. Full of whit and honesty, Moriarty touches on some subjects that are hard to listen to, but must be heard. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
21. A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir
Historical Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
This is the second book in the Ember series and I LOVED it! Typically second books in a series fall flat for me, but this one was awesome! It is perfectly paced and full of just enough surprises (even if you see most of them coming). I could not put it down. Elias and Laia are further into the revolution? downfall? uprisings? of the Kingdom and are on the run. Helena has been tasked with finding the two of them, even if it is her best friend and the only person who understands her in the entire world. Will Marcus lead the empire to a new and stronger day, or will he let it fall into chaos and destruction? You don't want to miss this one. *Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
20. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
This is one of those books that I pick up every few years or so and read it at different points in my life. I remember the first time I read it, it just stuck with me. Each time I read Speak something different sticks with me. The same words tell me a different story because parts line up with my life differently then they have through previous reads. I also just recently had my copy signed at a conference by the author (stellar moment in my life). Melinda just entered 9th grade and everyone hates her. Literally. I will let Melinda tell her story, but know that she speaks volumes even when she doesn't use any words. Someone just needs to listen. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
19. The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
18. An Ember in the Ashes by Saaba Tahir
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
 |
| Photo Credit |
Mrs. Thomas, Ms. Nelson and I are reading this one together (I may have went a little ahead of them)! It is set in a similar world as Ancient Rome and the struggles between Plebeians and Patricians. Elias is a Martial mask in training, one of the strongest, most elite individuals in the whole of the Empire. Laia is a Scholar slave, a timid girl with a family full of secrets. Both are searching for freedom in different ways: Elias from the honor, duty, and way of life he completely disagrees with; and Laia from the society that enslaves her, fear that ensnares, and honor to a family she feels is much stronger than she. Their stories intertwine and this becomes quite a story of fighting for what is right in a world that says you shouldn't, honor and loyalty, and pushing the boundaries of what you have always know and friends you have always had. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
17. The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
16. Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris
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| Photo Credit |
The title has intrigued me for a long time and I finally just sat down and read this one. I believe I would have enjoyed it more had this not been my first Sedaris memoir...I felt like I was missing something the whole time because I didn't really know and understand Sedaris and this was not the memoir to help me learn. It was witty at times and dry at others, but overall, not my favorite read. *Note: This one is for adults only!*
15. The Wonder by Emma Donoghue
Historical Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
The Wonder was slow to start, but intensified quickly. Lib is a nurse who studied under the famous Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War. She has been asked to attend a young Irish girl with another woman, a nun of the Catholic Church, for two weeks. Their task: Make sure the girl, Anna, doesn't eat any food. Anna and her family claim that she has not eaten for four months and is being sustained on God's will and love alone. In order for this to be claimed a miracle and assign sainthood, they must prove Anna is in fact receiving no food at any time. This story will challenge your understandings of love, faith, and endurance from multiple perspectives. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
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| Photo Credit |
Poetry, 4 out of 5 stars
milk and honey is the first book of poetry I have read in quite some time. Kaur challenges the reader to enter her experineces through words that read like a narrative of her soul. Heartbreak, happiness, laughter, tears, and much more are bundle into this one.
*Note: This one is for adults only!*
13. When Women Were Birds: Fifty-Four Variations on Voice by Terry Tempest Williams
Nonfiction, 5 out of 5 stars
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| Photo Credit |
12. The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
I was so happy to finally read the conclusion to this stellar series! Kestrel is imprisoned and facing the consequences of her actions yet again, while Arin is facing his own difficult decisions and trying to get over Kestrel. They are both caught in a whirlwind of events, meanwhile a war is brewing in the rest of the empire. I can't say anymore or I will give it all away, so you will just have to trust me on this one!
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Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
Kestrel is still facing the repercussions of purchasing Arin at the market. She is also dealing with the impact of her deal with the Emperor and is stuck in the capitol. This novel is full of longing, betrayal, alliances, and secrets. It is a quite aggravating read because you see how Arin and Kestrel are trying to protect each other, but neither of them do, creating a mess and frustration for everyone involved (including the reader!).
Kestrel is still facing the repercussions of purchasing Arin at the market. She is also dealing with the impact of her deal with the Emperor and is stuck in the capitol. This novel is full of longing, betrayal, alliances, and secrets. It is a quite aggravating read because you see how Arin and Kestrel are trying to protect each other, but neither of them do, creating a mess and frustration for everyone involved (including the reader!).
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Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The entire time I was reading it I kept thinking this reminds me of some Peloponnesian history and what do you know...the author read Thucydides to help her create her story. Kestrel is the daughter of the General in Herran. Herran has been taken over by the Valorians who are in control of the territory under the Empire. One day Kestrel finds herself in the market during a slave sale. She is intrigued by a slave who can supposedly sing and bids a high price to purchase him, falling victim to the winner's curse. Things quickly become tricky for Kestrel and the story takes quite a twist!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The entire time I was reading it I kept thinking this reminds me of some Peloponnesian history and what do you know...the author read Thucydides to help her create her story. Kestrel is the daughter of the General in Herran. Herran has been taken over by the Valorians who are in control of the territory under the Empire. One day Kestrel finds herself in the market during a slave sale. She is intrigued by a slave who can supposedly sing and bids a high price to purchase him, falling victim to the winner's curse. Things quickly become tricky for Kestrel and the story takes quite a twist!
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Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This is one of my favorites! We read this one as a class to help us understand what heritage is and spark some discussions related to immigration. Polacco bases this story on her family and the traditions that come from a quilt that has been passed down from generation to generation! It's a sweet little story that makes you appreciate the beauty of family and the things that make you who you are.
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Nonfiction, 4 out of 5 stars
This is quite a hard read. This is the real story of Elie Wiesel's experiences in Buchenwald and Auschwitz concentration camps during World War II. It is difficult to hear his story, but it is necessary to understanding the evil that exists and how there are people in this world that have so much hate in their heart they are willing to dehumanize others and treat them horrifically, even kill. Brace yourself before experiencing this account. * Note: I suggest getting permission from a parent to read this one as it has some strong themes and mature concepts.*
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Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
I have actually read this one twice! Once on my own, the second with students. This is quite a challenging story. It brings up many tough topics such as racism, hate, and poverty. Shad is a boy who lost his father to the Civil War. His brother Jeremiah is now the man of the house and they don't quite see eye to eye. Shad soon finds himself caught up in the brotherhood Jeremiah is a part of post-Reconstruction. He also finds himself teaching tailoring skills to a group of African American children in a secret school. Shad is stuck between remaining loyal to family and doing what he knows is right, even when society tells him it is wrong. This novel walks the line of what is right and wrong, and challenges readers to push themselves to the limit to understand.
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6. The Bronze Key by Holly Black & Cassandra Clare
Fiction, 3 out of 5 stars
Callum and friends are back with even more questions to be answered. Their questions keep leading to more questions...and danger. They quickly learn that the Magisterium is unfortunately not the safe place everyone thought it was. Danger and chaos quickly take over and Call, Aaron, and Tamara are caught right in the middle of it. I can't wait for the next book because I need closure from the events of this one!
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Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
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4.Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan
Fiction, 3 out of 5 stars
Echo is a story within a story within a story. Each different story is connected by one special item. This novel is heartwarming and really makes you realize how we are all one tiny piece of a bigger fabric. We often don't realize how our story connects to others and how one small thing can change someone else's entire existence. It also brings up the power of music and how beautifully we are connected to each other through it. Quite an interesting read.
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3. The Copper Gauntlet by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
Call, Aaron, and Tamara are back at it again in a new adventure! Call is not only stressed out by school, but the fact that his dad is out to get him...or so he thinks. He quickly escapes back to the Magisterium and quickly finds himself in a whirlwind too. Call and his friends go on quite a ride in search for answers to new mysteries!
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2. The Iron Trial by Holly Black & Cassandra Clare
Fiction, 4 out of 5 stars
Funnily enough, this book reminds me a lot of the Harry Potter Series. It's like Harry Potter meets Mortal Instruments with it's own little twist. Callum Black discovers he has magical powers that his father has been hiding from him his whole life. He discovers his life is not what he thought it was and lands in the Magisterium, a school to help him learn to control his powers. Call's schooling so far has been less than pleasant and he has no friends. He soon discovers a whole new world within the Magisterium and gets himself, and his new friends...enemies...frienemies (?) into quite an adventure!
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1. Harry Potter & the Cursed Child Parts I and II by J.K. Rowling
Fiction, 5 out of 5 stars
I fan-girled so much with this book. I grew up reading the original series, so this was a nice little taste to follow-up. It is an interesting read not only because it is written as a play, but it was easy to picture the characters in my head. I loved reading about the continued lives of Harry, Ron, and Hermoine, however, I am so upset that George did not make an appearance. The book flashes back to the original story many times, but the main story is about the children of the original characters. They get themselves in quite a predicament and must work together to get themselves out. The only problem with this book is now I want more and will never get it. Rowling announced she is done with these characters and I will just have to wonder about the new and old characters forever!
