Miss Caroline Recommends
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
For kids ages 8+. I have a feeling this will be an award-winner! It sure has my vote. One of the best kids’ books in some time; this is the story of August, who was born with numerous facial deformities. After years of surgeries and home-schooling he decides to make a brave move: enrolling in the 5th grade in public school. A very real, honest look at what it’s like to be different and how kids and adults respond in both positive and negative ways. Told from different points of view, this book is funny, poignant and extremely well written. You’ll want to cheer for August as he navigates through middle school and learns what true friends are made of. A great selection for readers young and old.
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce
For ages 7+. A positively magical story! A gorgeously illustrated book about the amazing gifts that authors leave to us in the form of written words. Mr. Morris Lessmore is in New Orleans writing when a hurricane strikes. Everything goes topsy-turvy and houses and books are strewn about. Morris stumbles upon a strange library of flying books and begins to care for the curious collection, acting as both guardian and librarian. The inspiration he finds in the library encourages him to begin writing again and to leave behind a magical book of his own for the next library care-taker to find. Based on the animated short film of the same name, this gorgeous story is perfect for those who love the magic of books and libraries or any reader who loves a whimsy story.