book reviews - Christian Library Journal

ChristianVolume X, No.1March 2005LibraryJ O U R N A LJ O U R N A L

The Christian Library Journal ispublished quarterly January throughDecember by Christian LibraryServices. Subscriptions $20 per yearonline. Back issues included. Indexedin Christian Periodical Index.Address correspondence toInfo@ChristianLibraryJ.org, or toChristian Library Services, 1225Johnson Street, Wenatchee, WA98801-3109. Copyright 2005 byChristian Library Services.VolumeX, No.1March, 2005ISSN 1097-1262ChristianLibraryJ O U R N A Lwww.christianlibraryj.orgThe purpose of the Christian LibraryJournal is to provide readers withreviews from a Christian point of viewof both Christian and secular librarymaterials for the Christian reader.Materials reviewed may reflect abroad range of Christian doctrinalpositions and do not necessarily reflectthe views of the staff of the ChristianLibrary Journal.T A B L E O F C O N T E N T SKey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Picture Book Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Nancy HeschDr. Ray LeggMary McKinneyMaxine CambraRosemarie DiCristoSylvia StopforthKaren BrehmerEditor & PublisherEditor: NonfictionEditor: FictionYA NonfictionEditor: YA FictionEditor:Children’s NonfictionEditor: Children’s FictionEditor: Picture BooksChildren’s Fiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Myths and Legends Jane Mouttet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Children’s Nonfiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17YA Fiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30YA Nonfiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Adult Fiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34More Book Lists, Part 1 Donna W. Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Cover: Calm Before the Storm, Eye of the Storm,Out of the Story, by Janice L. Dick. Herald Press,2002 - 2004. Used with permission.Adult Nonfiction Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Published in the U.S.A. ©2005, ChristianLibrary Journal.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

PICTURE BOOKSin browns, greens, blues, and reds. There’s achance some words, written in pale colors onpale backgrounds, might be missed by a lessalert reader; on the other hand, readers eager tosearch out the ‘hidden’ text will be wellrewarded by the charm of the story.The relationship between father and daughter issubtle but deep and loving. Also subtle: the factthat father and mother don’t live together, andthe girl must split her time between them. Thecharacters are African-American, a plus in areaswith diverse readership.Two Old Potatoes and Me is a lovely story thatshould charm young readers as well as readerswho think they’ve outgrown picture books. Abonus: a recipe for mashed potatoes is included.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.Please say please! : Penguin’s guide tomanners / by Margery Cuyler ; illustratedby Will Hillenbrand. LCCN 2003005527.New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0590292242, list cost: $15.95.E. Etiquette—Fiction; Behavior—Fiction; Penguins—Fiction; Animals—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ;26 cm.Grades PS-2. Rating : 5.The note on the front cover of Margery Cuyler’sPlease Say Please! reads, “Penguin has invitedhis animal friends to dinner, and their mannersare all mixed up, Hippo puts her napkin on herhead, and elephant sprays milk everywhere. Oh,My! Just right for young children, this playfulfirst guide to manners is giggle-iscious fun!”Those descriptive words are quite correct. Sucha delightful introduction to manners willfascinate both preschool children and youngreaders.Boys and girls meet Penguin’s friends—Pig,Hippo, Lion, Bear, Elephant, Chimpanzee,Giraffe, and Parrot. These lovable animalcharacters can’t remember their manners. Pigwipes his muddy hooves on the tablecloth, andLion hates cauliflower. Rhino talks with hismouth full. Giraffe burps to show she’s happy.After each manners mistake, we read, “Is thatright? No, that’s wrong.” (Imagine small headsanswering questions with little head shakes!)Will Hillenbrand drew the whimsical animalswith pen, ink, and crayon on vellum. All ofPenguin’s colorful friends teach manners.Certainly, these fascinating characters also showbad manners. Bear throws a spoon across theroom. Chimpanzee grabs the bananas and says,“Gimme, Gimme.” Yet, the animals learn—andthen choose—good manners.I used this book in five story times with smallchildren. Please Say Please! reads well, andprovides ample opportunities for visuals.Hopefully, the children did not go home andpractice the bad manners of Penguin’s animalfriends!Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.The big snow / by Berta and Elmer Hader.LCCN 48010240. New York : Simon &Schuster, 1976, 1948.HBB, 27379108, list cost: $17.95.E. Animals—Fiction; Winter—Fiction. 1 v.(unpaged) : ill. (part col.) ; 26 cm.Grades K-2. Rating : 4.Husband and wife team Berta and Elmer Haderwon the Caldecott Medal in 1949 for The BigSnow. The animals and birds of the woods andfields are getting ready for autumn. Mrs.Cottontail and her baby provide the introductionas they watch birds flying south. Over twentydifferent animals are mentioned in the text asthey “prepare” for winter weather. Then, justafter the full moon, snow begins to fall, andcontinues until the animals have trouble findingthe food they require. A little old man and alittle old woman (the Haders’ self-portrait)emerge from their house to feed the animals,who then quickly spread the word that food isavailable. The illustrations alternate betweenpencil sketches and watercolor paintings.For 21st century children the story is a bit slowand drear. Ecologically, the feeding of theanimals is questionable in this century. Theparade of animals is very long. However, teamThe Big Snow with the four other Caldecottsnow books and a broad view of winter, and artmedia can be studied. The realistic sketches ofthe animals in autumn and winter are superb, thedetail fine. Sketches dance around the edge ofthe pages providing more images. These pencilsketches alternate with lush full-colorwatercolor paintings that have as much detail asthe sketches. Overall, The Big Snow is a gentle,loving, and lovely book.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.*So that’s what God is like! / story byLeAnne Hardy ; illustrated by JanetWilson. Grand Rapids : Kregel Kidzone,2004.HBB, 0825427827, list cost: $13.99.E. God—Fiction; South Africa—Social conditions,1961- —Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 19 x 25cm.Grades K-3. Rating : *5.Temba, a curious little African boy, is theyoungest in his family, except for his newbornbaby sister. He loves to help out and is includedin the joys of a nurturing family. When Tembagoes to church, he learns much about God fromhis Sunday School teacher, the minister, and hisGranny, who sings loudly in the choir. He wantsto learn more about God, and questions Grannyon their way home from church to find out whatGod is like. Temba finds that, although theanswer is not an easy one, it is a very satisfyingone that give him great delight.So That’s What God Is Like! by LeAnne Hardy,illustrations by Janet Wilson, is a wonderfulstory about a young boy’s journey into therealization that a big God can love a little boy.Bright, inviting illustrations are outlined inbeaded ribbon motif that is representative of theZulu people of South Africa. Colors andtextures used are similar to many of JerryPinkney’s latest works. Writing moves andsways, the rhythm adding to the visual impact ofTemba’s inquisitive nature that is both intenseand easily drawn onto the next new excitement.Background as a family of shepherds in a smallAfrican village appropriately emphasizes God’slove for us in our humbleness before Him.Generously sprinkled with scriptures (HolyBible, NIV) throughout. A classic to betreasured and shared with children forgenerations to come. Highly recommended forhomeschooling, cherished one-on-one readingtimes, and church children’s libraries.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Kitten’s first full moon / Kevin Henkes.LCCN 2003012564. New York :Greenwillow, 2004.HBB, 0060588284, list cost: $15.99.E. Cats—Fiction; Animals—Infancy—Fiction;Moon—Fiction; Caldecott Medal. 1 v. (unpaged) : ill.; 27 cm.Grades PS-2. Rating : 5.It is the first time in Kitten’s life that she hasseen a full moon, but she thinks it is a bowl ofmilk in the sky. She determines to have someof that milk by licking at it and ending up with abug on her tongue, by jumping up at it andtumbling down, by chasing it and never gettingany closer. Each time “there was the little bowlof milk, just waiting.” Kitten climbs a tree andsees another bigger bowl of milk in the pond.She jumps down to the pond, then races to itsedge and leaps in, only ending up “wet and sadand tired and hungry.” So she goes home wherethere is a bowl of milk on the porch and thelucky kitten can sleep with its tummy full.Kevin Henkes’ drawings were made usinggouache and colored pencil in shades of gray,black, and white on milk colored paper. Thickblack lines outline the kitten while gray tonesprovide the shadow and detail.Kevin Henkes won the 2005 Caldecott Awardfor this spare, simple, and dear story about ababy kitten. If one only looks at the book for astory, he may be disappointed. But examine theentire book from the jacket, cover, end pages,and the placement of objects on the page, to thefont style and size. This book’s entire packagerepresents outstanding book design. Even theshimmery silver letters on the jacket carry outthe silvery moon theme. Keep the jacket, by theway, for the cover only has a picture of the cat.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSCircles are a repeated design featured in themoon, firefly lights, flowers, paw pads, and thekitten’s eyes. Three especially effective pagesplace the kitten in various poses in the lower leftcorner and the far away bowl of milk (moon) inthe upper right corner. Connecting the twoobjects is the repeated phrase, “Still, there wasthe little bowl of milk, just waiting.” Otherpages feature picture strips or vertical half pagepictures or quarter page picture sequences,lending visual variety. Yet even with all of thisvariety and outstanding book design, somethingfamiliar niggles in the back of this reviewer’smind: Wanda Gag and the flowers and trees andpointy eared cats in Millions of Cats, ClaireTurlay Newberry and the coloring in April’sKittens, Maurice Sendak and Max’s warmsupper still waiting for him in Where the WildThings Are, and an old Hodja folktale about thefoolish man who thought the moon had falleninto a well. None-the-less Kitten’s First FullMoon should take a place on preschoolbookshelves along with the classic GoodnightMoon.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.God bless the child / words and music byBillie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. ;illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. LCCN63200. New York : Amistad, 2004.HBB, 0060287977, list cost: $16.99.E. Children’s songs—United States—Texts; Spirituals(Songs); Songs. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm. + 1sound disc (digital ; 4 3/4 in.).All ages. Rating : 3.Jerry Pinkney won yet another award for hiswatercolor illustrations, this time a 2005 CorettaScott King Illustrator Honor Award for BillieHoliday’s song, “God Bless the Child.” Jazzvocalist Billie Holiday first wrote andperformed the title song “God Bless the Child,”about her desire for stability and independencein 1939. It, along with “Strange Fruit,” becameher two most famous songs. Jerry Pinkney’sillustrations tell an independent story about thegreat migration of African Americans from therural South to the industrialized northern cities,which occurred during the first half of the 20thcentury. A CD of Holiday singing the song isincluded.Holiday’s song is merely the skeletal refrain forPinkney’s detailed illustrations, which depict thesharecropper’s hard life, the decision to leavethe South and abandon the clapboard cabin, andthe arrival in the teeming big city where familymembers worked in sweatshops, assemblyplants, and shining shoes on the street. Familylife, fun times, sad times, rich and poor relativesare all represented. In a detailed artist’s note,Pinkney explains the role of education as thegreat equalizer, and on the last page shows achild in school. Pinkney has been collectingvintage photographs of the Black experience fora long time. He used these photos as inspirationfor his watercolor story. Much as this revieweradmires Pinkney’s work, in general, and thebeauty of this book in particular, she has adifficult time envisioning the usefulness oreffectiveness of this particular title. The youngchild would not have the background tounderstand the stand-alone pictures; an olderchild would consider the title almost a wordlessbook. Northern urban contemporary childrenwould have an especially difficult timeconnecting.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Alicia’s best friends / Lisa Jahn-Clough.LCCN 2002009341. Boston : WalterLorraine Books, 2003.HBB, 0618239510, list cost: $15.00.E. Best friends—Fiction; Friendship—Fiction. 32 p. :col. ill. ; 21 cm.Grades PS-K. Rating : 4.Alicia has four best friends and she likes themall. But when she has a party for them tocelebrate being best friends, they insist she picka best best friend. Unable to choose betweenthem, Alicia gives up and heads off to play withher dog Neptune. Finally figuring it out, Aliciatells her friends they are all her best friend in oneway or another, based on what she enjoys doingwith each of them.Alicia’s Best Friends is a bright, colorful simplyillustratedbook by Lisa Jahn-Clough. It willteach young children that it’s possible, and evendesirable, to have many friends and not belimited to just one best friend. The words areeasy to understand for smaller children withbeginning language skills. The use of drawingsof children of both sexes and various racesbrings out the uniqueness of each of us. Eachchild is given varying hair styles and colors,some with glasses, and all have differinginterests. Alicia even considers her dog Neptuneas one of her best friends. Young children willenjoy finding out you don’t have to have justone best friend; it’s lots more fun to have many.I highly recommend this book for youngsters ofpreschool and kindergarten age.Sherri Myers. Freelance Writer, Upper Strasburg, Pennsylvania.A tale of two dogs / by Steven Kroll ;illustrated by Mike Reed. LCCN2003009321. Tarrytown, N.Y. : MarshallCavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451617, list cost: $16.95.E. Dogs—Fiction. 32 p. : ill. ; 23 cm.Grades PS-3. Rating : 5.“Love overlooks a multitude of sins,” could bethe theme for Steven Kroll’s story, ATale of TwoDogs. Morgan is an adorable puppy that getsinto a lot of mischief—so much mischief, infact, that Mr. Morrison can’t tolerate one moredinner spilled onto his lap. Morgan’s somersaultinto the dinner table is the last straw and the dogmust go back to the pound. The children’shearts are broken and their parents come homewith another dog. “A smaller dog. An olderdog. A quieter dog.” Though the children try toget Peanut to play, the little beagle just liesaround looking sad. Then one day, theMorrisons get a phone call from Peanut’s formerowners, the family that adopted Morgan,wanting to bring Morgan for a visit. Both dogsrun into the arms of their original families, andin spite of the problems that sent the dogs backto the pound, everyone realizes that love mattersmore than a few broken dishes and chewedslippers.Award-winning illustrator Mike Reed’s brightand colorful paintings make this fun story comealive with excitement and will delight his youngaudience. Early readers easily master the text,and younger children will fall in love with thelaughable and heart-warming pictures. Reed’scontemporary illustrations are also found inchildren’s books like Catching the WildWaiyuuzee (S&S, 2000) and The Bug inTeacher’s Coffee (HarperCollins, 1999).Florence G. Craig. Freelance Writer, Telford, Pennsylvania.The red book / by Barbara Lehman.LCCN 2004303050. Boston : HoughtonMifflin, 2004.HBB, 0618428585, list cost: $12.95.E. Wordless books; Imagination—Fiction; Books—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : ill. ; 27 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.On her walk to school, a young city girl finds ared book in a snow pile. While in school shetakes the book from her backpack to look at. Asshe looks at a map, consecutive pictures zoom inuntil she sees a boy on a tropical island whofinds a red book. Inside that book are pictures ofa city, and when his eye zooms in he sees the girlwho is looking at her red book. On the wayhome, the girl buys balloons to fly to the island,but the book falls away. The boy sees thishappen in his book and is distressed until the girland balloon land on his island. What willhappen to the dropped book? A new adventure?Lehman’s representational artwork has beencreated using watercolor, gouache, and ink.Lehman has created a magical story in awordless picture book. However, this is notnecessarily a book for the non-reader; it is abook for the child with a sharp eye and animaginative mind. White margins frame thecoloring book outline pictures, except for thepage on which the girl flies away with theballoons. The red book is somewhere on eachpage, but sometimes it is very tiny. Theobservant eye will also note the many detailsdepicted on the tropical island and the snowycity. Ms. Lehman won a 2005 Caldecott HonorAward for her work, which is reminiscent ofBanyai’s Zoom and Re-zoom (both Viking,1995). If the circulation of Zoom and Re-zoomis any indication of interest, The Red BookC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

PICTURE BOOKSshould be a frequently requested title. Be surethe art teacher and creative writing teacher areintroduced to the book.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Thank you, Jesus / written by CharlotteLundy, illustrated by Heather Claremont.LCCN 2003385306. Mooresville, N.C. :Bay Light, 2003.HBB, 0967028019, list cost: $15.95.E. Jesus Christ—Fiction; Thankfulness—Fiction. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.A moral tale told by both word and picture,Thank You, Jesus relates how a little girl,Madison, fears a kitten because it has only threelegs. Through loving interaction and by tellingMadison how Jesus loves and cares for allpeople, including the needy and sick, Grandmahelps Madison to lose her fear and fall in lovewith the kitten.Eighth in Charlotte Lundy’s Thank You, Godseries, Thank You, Jesus was a ForeWardMagazine Award finalist. A simple story withwhich children will easily identify, this tale hasseveral important themes, including befriendingand realizing the potential of the disabled,grandparent/child relationships, and relatingeveryday life to the Bible. Majoring in smiles,filled with motion and emotion, HeatherClaremont’s colorful, mixed media illustrationshappily amplify this story. A child’s prayerwritten by a Baptist pastor prefaces the story,succinctly stating the major theme of acceptingeach other’s differences.Schools, care givers, and families will enjoyreading this book. Both secular and Christianlibraries will find it useful.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.You’re all my favorites / Sam McBratney ;illustrated by Anita Jeram. LCCN2004045169. Cambridge, Mass. :Candlewick Press, 2004.HBB, 076362442X, list cost: $15.99.E. Self-esteem—Fiction; Parent and child—Fiction;Bears—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 x 27 cm.Grades PS-K. Rating : 4.Three little bears grow up with the reassuringmessage that they are “the most wonderful babybears in the whole wide world.” As time goesby they begin to question if this is true. Moreimportantly, they begin to worry that they aren’tas wonderful as their siblings. Each seeksreassurance from mommy bear, then daddy bear,that they are as special and loved as the others.As daddy bear tells them each that they are themost perfect “first”, “second”, and “third” babybears ever, the little bears are satisfied that theyare special and unique in their own way.You’re All My Favorites is from the same teamwho brought us the classic Guess How Much ILove You. Sam McBratney warmly writes aboutthat special love between parent and child andAnita Jeram’s soft watercolor and pencilillustrations echo the sweet tone of the story.While the story is sweet, it won’t stop mostchildren from feeling those inevitable pangs ofinsecurity or questioning who is “really” theirparents favorite. But as an affectionate reminderof the boundless love between parent and child,this book is a winner.The positive message of this story is universaland should appeal to both parent and child. It isa very nice read-aloud bedtime story and theadorable and soothing illustrations are full ofcharming details.Stephanie J. Teig, BA. Freelance Writer, Plymouth, Minnesota.Young Larry / Daniel Pinkwater ;illustrated by Jill Pinkwater. LCCN96041670. New York : Benchmark, 1997.LIB, 0761450041, list cost: $14.95.E. Polar bear—Fiction; Bears—Fiction; Humorousstories. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 23 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.The Pinkwater’s have collaborated on booksthat address a number of engaging topics, andthis one on polar bears complements their Irvingand Muktuk: Two Bad Bears (Houghton Mifflin,2001). The illustrations are rendered in pen andink and colored markers.Polar bear Larry snoozes on an ice floe andwhen he wakes up finds himself in Bayonne,New Jersey. Stranded at the shore, he gets a jobas a lifeguard and uses his pay to buy blueberrymuffins. The book could easily and quiteappropriately been titled, Hide Your BlueberryMuffins! There’s an interesting twist to the storythat gives children pause for fantasy. The polarbear has a distaste for violence and eatingpeople.Parents will enjoy reading the story with theirchildren. Public library collections can add thistale for its timeless quality and charmingstoryline.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Jazzy Miz Mozetta / Brenda C. Roberts ;pictures by Frank Morrison. LCCN2002026508. New York : Farrar StrausGiroux, 2004.HBB, 0374336741, list cost: $16.50.E. Dance—Fiction; African Americans—Fiction. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 25 x 28 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.Illustrator Frank Morrison won two awards forJazzy Miz Mozetta, a 2005 Coretta Scott KingIllustrator Honor Award and a 2005 JohnSteptoe Award for New Talent Illustrator Award.He paints bright full color pictures depicting thefrenetic action of the story. Brenda Robertswrites a toe-tapping story featuring seniorcitizen Miz Mozetta who puts on her bluedancing shoes, her firecracker red dress, andpizzazzy hat for an evening of old-timejitterbugging. But her friends are achy and tired.When Miz Mozetta sees young break-dancersand wants to learn their moves, they respondthat she’d get hurt, so she pouts her way home.Back home she turns the radio on to the Fat CatBand and dreams about the old times at the BluePearl Ballroom. Her friends change their mind,change their clothes, and come to Miz Mozetta’sfor an evening of foot stomping, whirling, andtwirling to the old radio sound. The youngbreak-dancers hear the commotion and come toinvestigate, wanting to learn the steps to theseniors’ dance. Each senior does a demo andsoon they dance until Miz Mozetta has holes inher blue shoes and dreams about getting new redshoes, her best color.If you enjoy music, if you enjoy dance, if youenjoy jazz or be-bop or hip-hop, you will smileat this intergenerational romp. Roberts fills thetext with dance and music words and sounds. Adance rhythm develops as the words flow acrossthe page. But even more rhythmical areMorrison’s illustrations. Even the angular andbuxom body shapes reflect music notes on somepages. One can picture Miz Mozetta and friendsreliving their jitterbug haunts of the 20s, 30s,and 40s in Harlem. Bodies whirl, twist, andgyrate in the streets and in Miz Mozetta’sapartment. Brilliant colors flash with thedancing feet and foot stomping beat. Thecharacters are all African American, but theenthusiasm is cross-cultural. Share this for fun,share it in a music class, or share it with anintergenerational group. If your budget is verylimited, you may want to pass, but if you haveany extra funds, consider Miz Mozetta.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Nine animals and the well / JamesRumford. LCCN 2002010962. Boston :Houghton Mifflin, 2003.HBB, 0618309152, list cost: $16.00.E. Fables; Numerals—Fiction; Gifts—Fiction; Prideand vanity—Fiction; Animals—Fiction; Parties—Fiction; India—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 21 x29 cm.Grades PS-3. Rating : 5.Author and illustrator James Rumford takescounting with “Arabic” numerals back to itsorigin in India and weaves in a lesson on prideand friendship as nine animal friends travel tothe birthday party of a young raja-king. Eachanimal selects a perfect gift to bring, butbecomes dissatisfied when comparing theirswith the gifts of the other travelers. By the endof their journey, all the gifts are lost and theyarrived empty-handed. But the raja-king’s joy atseeing them makes them realize that theirM A R C H 2 0 0 5 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSfriendship is the greatest gift they could give tothe king who already has everything he needs.Rumford’s lovel, paper-collage designs reflectthe art of the Taj Mahal and transport his readersto far-off India in a time when animals talked.Brush, pen, and pencil decorate the handmadeflowered paper and bring a unique quality of artto this interesting fable. The pictures willfascinate young listeners, and the fluid lines oftext will surprise early readers as, like the goldcoins tossed into the air, “flew, flashing andshining, into the air. Then down they came, likedivers, into what surely was a bottomless well.”Florence G. Craig. Freelance Writer, Telford, Pennsylvania.Who’s knocking at the door? / by CarlaStevens ; illustrated by Lee Chapman.LCCN 2003020299. New York : MarshallCavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451684, list cost: $16.95.E. Old age—Fiction; Domestic animals—Fiction;Kindness—Fiction. 40 p. : col. ill. ; 27 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.Stevens (Lily and Miss Liberty (Scholastic,1992), Anna, Grandpa and the Big Storm(Clarion, 1982)) adds another feather to herpicture-book cap with this story of friendlycooperative between animals and humans.Stevens, who lives in Connecticut with herhusband, two cats and family horse, andChapman, who lives in Mexico with his wifeand two dogs, convey a love for animals. Theirstory centers around an elderly couple who giveshelter to a talking horse, a cow, and two hens ona cold night. In gratitude, the animals save themfrom two robbers.The deep bright colors on each 8 x 11 inch pageprovide a folk art journey as the well-pacedstory unfolds. Children can read the story withinterest and it lends itself to also be told by anadult or teacher or librarian.School and public librarians can add this title forchild and family enjoyment. It utilizes fantasyand fun while also deepening art appreciationand respect for people.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Corgiville Christmas / Tasha Tudor.LCCN 2003051412. Asheville, N.C. :Front Street, 2003.HBB, 1932425004, list cost: $15.95.E. Dogs—Fiction; Animals—Fiction; Christmas—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 x 31 cm.Grades K-2. Rating : 4.While Tasha Tudor’s third Corgi book hasplenty of activity as the Corgiville inhabitantsprepare to celebrate Christmas, it is not really astory. Instead it is more of a collection ofnostalgic glimpses into various family andvillage traditions from a 1920’s country life. InCorgiville Christmas, the Bigbee Browns put uptheir Advent calendar and light their wreath. Allthe shops are decorated and the Corgi pups,kittens, and young rabbits from miles aroundwait patiently for Isaac Stauffer to make hislegendary ice cream. Finally it is time for thetown folk to take a trip to the Christmas Woodsfor the perfect trees. Everyone returns late, bymoonlight.Tudor’s lovely watercolor and crayonillustrations make the book a banquet of imagesfor the reader, whether adult or child. Thepictures are full of activity and color and one canimagine a toddler sitting on Mom or Dad’s lap,pointing at the playful Corgis while the text isread aloud. The illustrations and text match inmood and support one another well.If Corgiville Christmas has a problem, it mightbe the inclusion of so many characters and storenames. These could be confusing at first. Butwith repetitive reading, a child should be able toidentify both the town’s occupants and itsbusinesses by name before long. Children willenjoy learning about other Christmas traditionsbeyond the sphere of their own families.Tasha Tudor’s sweet Corgiville Christmas willbe a welcome addition to any family, homeschool, public, or school library. The book ispure enjoyment and sure to become a seasonalclassic. Recommended.Cathy M. Elliott, BS. Writer/ Library Information Technician,Shasta College, Anderson, California.Seeds! Seeds! Seeds! / written andillustrated by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace.LCCN 2003009318. New York : MarshallCavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451595, list cost: $16.95.E. Seeds—Fiction; Grandfathers—Fiction; Bears—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades K-4. Rating : 4.Buddy Bear receives a mysterious package ofseeds of various shapes, textures, colors, andsizes, and a bird feeder from Gramps. Buddyalso receives five packets and instructions onhow to start a seed collection, make a seedpicture frame, and how to grow grass in a jarthat he can paste a silly paper face on. Buddyhas so much fun that he adds to his seedcollection from the snacks that he and hismother share, shows his seed collection off atschool, and sends a picture of himself in the seedframe as thanks to his Gramps.Seeds! Seeds! Seeds! written and illustrated byNancy Elizabeth Wallace is a delightful storyabout a young bear and his mama bear thatshares the discoveries that can be found in a tinyseed. Whether dried and shriveled or openinginto the different stages of plant growth, new lifeis aptly represented in the colorful illustrations,as well as Buddy’s enthusiasm. Cut paperillustrations are reminiscent of Leo Lionni’sFrederick (Knopf Books for Young Readers,Reissue, 1967) and Ezra Jack Keats’ Peter’sChair (Reprint, Viking Books, 1998) 3-Dcollage illustrations. Each craft that Gramps hassent for Buddy to do, though not completelyspelled out for the reader, can easily be copiedby parents and shared with eager beginninggardeners. Illustrations of seeds and stages ofgrowth are realistic and helpfully displayed.Recommended for one-on-one, home schooling,or small group reading. Although information isclear, best benefits will be reaped throughinteractive reading in this particular book.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Razzamadaddy / by Linda Walvoord ;illustrated by Sachiko Yoshikawa. LCCN2003009319. New York : MarshallCavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451587, list cost: $14.95.E. Fathers and sons—Fiction; Beaches—Fiction;Stories in rhyme. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades PS-K. Rating : 4.“One Daddy, two Daddy, three Daddy, four.Come Daddy, go Daddy, open the door!” Andso begins a little boy’s retelling of the sights,sounds, and general joy he expresses as hespends his day with his father at the beach.Together they frolic, splash, build, snack, andrun through the sand and surf day. Filled withonomatopoeia and alliterative tongue ticklingrhyme, Razzamadaddy by Linda Walvoord is atribute to the special delight children find in theone on one time with their fathers. The bright,stylized acrylic illustrations by SachikoYoshikawa capture the excitement andhappiness of father and his young son together.Some books are meant to be shared and readover and over again, and this is one of them.Although the main character is a boy, little girlswill readily relate to the fun times that can behad with a daddy at the beach.Warm and inviting both to the eye and ear,Razzamadaddy is fun to read and be read to withits abundance of alliterative rhyme. Although itis not stated outright, this story hints the father isnot living at home with its front and end pieceillustrations of the father driving up and thenhugging the child at home. While this showsthat a close relationship with a child does nothave to end when the mother and father’smarriage ends, it is nevertheless a concern thatso many more books are coming out whichshow that divorce is such a dominant factor ofchildren’s lives. While it might have simplybeen an understated reassurance that fathers arestill there for children although they live inseparate homes it would be even morereassuring that art not have to imitate life somuch in pointing out the stark realities of ourculture. Nonetheless, overall, Razzamadaddytaken at face value is a book that young childrenwill be drawn to, and parents, especially dads,will appreciate.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

PICTURE BOOKSPam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.Don’t let the pigeon drive the bus / wordsand pictures by Mo Willems. LCCN2004296657. New York : Hyperion, 2003.HBB, 078681988X, list cost: $12.99.E. Pigeons—Juvenile fiction; Bus drivers—Juvenilefiction; Pigeons—Fiction; Bus drivers—Fiction. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades PS-K. Rating : 5.First time author/illustrator Mo Willems won aCaldecott Honor Award in 2004 for this title.The bus driver tells the reader, or bus riders, orpassers-by that he needs to leave for a while andwants you to watch the bus and definitely,“Don’t let the pigeon drive the bus!” Thepigeon, however, has been waiting and pleads inevery-which-way to drive the bus. He useswords, he pleads, he rationalizes, he simmers, heacts-out driving, he pouts, he screams. In otherwords he uses every tactic a child might to gethis way. When the driver returns, the driverthanks the reader for not allowing the pigeon todrive the bus; the pigeon dejectedly stands alongthe curb, when a semi comes by, and the readeris left to wonder if another story is coming.Speech bubbles provide white areas for thoughtsand comments. Willems uses pastelbackgrounds for his simple cartoon sketches ofthe driver, the bus, and the pigeon. Blue is themajor color for the characters until the red semiarrives.The more often one reads this spare book, themore one sees. Willems is able to give hispigeon more moods and actions simply withbody positions. If the speech bubbles weren’tsharing words and thoughts, the body languagereminiscent of mimes could tell the pigeon’sstory. Willems varies the layout of the bookfrom double-page spreads, to full-page toquarter-page. Size of print is also varied toemphasize pigeon’s actions and frustrations.When this reviewer read the book to primarychildren, they soon chimed in with “don’t let thepigeon drive the bus” or “no” after each ofpigeon’s suggestions. A truck story wasanticipated for the next book, but instead pigeonmeets a duckling that tries to get some ofpigeon’s hot dog in “The Pigeon Finds a HotDog.” Willems is an insightful newauthor/illustrator to continue watching andencouraging. He also has a web site thatfeatures a new sketch each day. Of the fourCaldecott awardees for 2004, Willems’ work isthe most innovative.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Knuffle Bunny / by Mo Willems. LCCN2004304412. New York : Hyperion Booksfor Children, 2004.HBB, 0786818700, list cost: $15.99.E. Lost and found possessions—Fiction; Toys—Fiction; Fathers and daughters—Fiction; Self-servicelaundries—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 x 32cm.Grades PS-2. Rating : 5.“Before she could even speak words,” Trixieand her daddy go down the block, through thepark on an errand to the laundromat. They sortand stuff the clothes into the washer, then gohome. But Trixie soon realizes something, andin language only babies can say tries to explainthe problem. By the time they reach home,Trixie is bawling, playing boneless, andirritating Dad. Trixie’s mom immediatelyrecognizes the problem and they all make thejaunt back to the laundromat where Dad looksand looks, and looks again until he finds KnuffleBunny. “And those were the first words Trixieever said.” Mo Willems blends hand-drawn inksketches in cartoon style with digitalphotographs of his neighborhood on pale olivegreenpaper.Mo Willems won a 2005 Caldecott HonorAward for this humorous, simple family storyabout a toddler’s first words. Willems uses thecartoon style as he did in the Pigeon/Bus book,but takes the book design one step further bysuperimposing the colorful characters on top ofphotographs of his Brooklyn, NY, neighborhoodexpunged of litter, garbage cans, and airconditioners. Willems begins his story on thetitle page with framed “photos” of Trixie’s momand dad’s marriage, her birth, and a familyouting. The endpages show Knuffle Bunnygoing round and round in the washer. With afew facial feature lines, Willems is able toportray numerous emotions on Trixie and herdaddy as well as people they meet both comingand going on their errand. Children howl at thepage where Trixie is sorting the clothesincluding underwear. Speech bubbles are usedfor Trixie speech. The book concludes with thesame-framed picture of Trixie hugging KnuffleBunny as it begins with on the title page. Thereviewer wondered whether primary childrenwould relate to this toddler, but should not have,for they saw younger siblings or themselvesdoing what Trixie did. Mo Willems knowsyoung children, their actions and interests, and itshows in his creative humorous books.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Coming on home soon / by JacquelineWoodson ; illustrated by E.B. Lewis.LCCN 2003021949. New York : Putnam,2004.HBB, 0399237488, list cost: $16.99.E. Separation (Psychology)—Fiction; Mother andchild—Fiction; Grandmothers—Fiction; AfricanAmericans—Fiction; World War, 1939-1945—UnitedStates—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.Grades 1-3. Rating : 4.In this World War II story Ada Ruth’s motherhas gone to Chicago where black women arebeing hired for work. Mother promises she’ll be“coming on home soon,” and that she loves AdaRuth more than rain or snow. Ada Ruth stays inthe south with her sensitive comfortinggrandmother, but misses her mother immensely.She writes regular letters and waits and waits fora letter from her mother. Intermingled with themain plot is a subplot of a stray kitten that seemsto want to stay, who Ada Ruth wants to stay, butGrandma doesn’t. Finally the letter includingsome money arrives. E. B. Lewis useswatercolors for the illustrations.Jacqueline Woodson’s writing is poetic, soft,loving, comforting, and sensitive. E. B. Lewis’paintings depict the same sentiments. Lewiswon a 2005 Caldecott Honor Award for his fullcolorfull-page realistic paintings of blacksouthern home life during WWII. Shades ofblues and browns convey warmth, comfort, andlove between grandmother and granddaughteryet separation. Hugs and caresses abound on thepages as Ada Ruth’s lonesomeness is portrayed.On several pages, including a two-page spread,Ada Ruth is shown all alone with the stray kittenor pensively looking out the window. On threetext pages Lewis has painted oval framedphotographic style pictures of the mother ormother with Ada Ruth. On other text pageswatercolor sketches of Ada Ruth or objects fromeveryday life enhance the page. Thewatercolors are reminiscent of Jerry Pinkney’spaintings of southern black life, but Lewis’ areless detailed and less colorful. Woodson andLewis’ depiction of loneliness transcendsethnicity.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWSCHILDREN’S FICTIONDestiny, valor, and a lizard named Louie /by Michael Ambrosio ; illustrated by BobLangan. Folsom, Calif. : LionXPublishing, 2004.PAP, 0971608539, list cost: $5.95.Fic. Orphans—Fiction; Courage—Fiction. 128 p. :ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 4.Harry Potter mixed with Disney characters!This children’s chapter book is about anorphaned lizard who grapples with self-identityand issues of good and disguised evil. Ambrosiois a former surfer who loves to live and writeadventures. His sense of exuberance addsbounce to the story as he mixes real life themeswith fictional characters. Langan turns toshaded pencil drawings to create a captivatingvisual of the characters in the life of the lizard,Louie. The crafty chameleons have plans forLouie. At first he is insecure and withoutdirection, but gradually figures out the schemes.Children will likely delight in seeing whetherLouie can discover courage, find true love, andanswer the call of his destiny. The action packedscenes speak to the warrior side of boys and theintriguing characters will keep girls involved.Some hard vocabulary is immediately defined ina footnote on the page. A study guide in theback of the book offer questions relating to eachchapter, along with bold-faced vocabularywords to find the definitions or a thesaurus forsynonyms. School and public libraries caninclude this title in their adventure offerings.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Young patriots : inspiring stories of theAmerican Revolution / by Marcella FisherAnderson and Elizabeth Weiss Vollstadt.LCCN 2003115295. Honesdale, Penn. :Boyds Mills, 2004.HBB, 1597082410, list cost: $16.95.Fic. United States—History—Revolution, 1775-1783—Fiction. 141 p. ; 24 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 2.Joint authors Anderson and Vollstadt havecreated stories about fictional children living inthe Revolutionary War period. The text isorganized into five sections (The Road to War,Hostilities Begin, The Revolution in the North,The Revolution in the South, and A NewCountry is Born) and presented chronologically.Historical background is introduced at thebeginning of each story. Interspersed among thepages are maps, definitions, and “Did youknow…” sidebars. Black and gray pencilsketches are also included.The supplementary materials: story sidebars,bibliography, web sites, and historicalbackground to each story are far more valuablethan the stories themselves. The stories tend tobe didactic and contrived, lacking strongconflict and dialogue. A teacher might use someof the stories as read-alouds while studying theRevolutionary War. Few students would selectthis book for free independent reading. Even theformat is dull. In a small library with limitedfunds, this title should not be purchased.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Peter Pan and Wendy / original text byJ.M. Barrie ; illustrated by RobertIngpen. LCCN 2004002579. New York :Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439672570, list cost: $17.95.Fic. Fantasy. 216 p. : ill. ; 25 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.Ingpen, awarded the Hans Christian AndersenMedia for his contribution to children’sliterature, offers illustrations to this work thatconvey both depth and feeling. The colorfulrenditions and quality paper used give both theappearance and feel of a luscious, specialedition. This new edition of a classic firstperformed in 1904 as a play and in novel formin 1911 continues to offer both adventure and asense of fantasy.Librarians seeking an edition of Peter Pan fordisplay and sharing a visual treat along with theworded story would do well to add this edition.Those having Peter Pan (Henry Holt & Co,2003) or Peter Pan and Wendy (Chrysala, 2003)need not replace. Children librarians can useillustrations to accompany parts of the story theymight include in their story hours.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Starfall : Phaeton and the chariot of thesun / Michael Cadnum. LCCN2004058328. New York : Orchard Books,2004.HBB, 0439545331, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Phaethon (Greek mythology)—Juvenile fiction;Apollo (Greek deity)—Juvenile fiction; Mythology,Greek—Juvenile fiction; Phaethon (Greekmythology)—Fiction; Apollo (Greek deity)—Fiction;Mythology, Greek—Fiction. 124 p. ; 22 cm.\.Grades 8-10. Rating : 3.A Griffin attacks the village sheep; Phaetonthrows rocks at it and runs for help. UponPhaeton’s return, the village gossip’s son tauntshim about his lineage. Phaeton’s mother hasalways told him that he is the son of Apollo, thesun god. When he questions her further,determined to know the truth, she reassures andencourages him to find his father and obtainproof. Phaeton leaves the comfort of home andvillage to seek out the truth concerning hisancestry. After trekking across the world,Phaeton finally meets Apollo, who immediatelygrants him a wish. Phaeton desires to provehimself to his father, so he asks to be able todrive his sun chariot drawn by the god’s wildhorses.Starfall: Phaeton and the Chariot of the Sun byMichael Cadnum is the first volume in a trilogybased on Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Cadnum is aseasoned author of books for both adults andteens. Much of his work is focused on legendsand mythology. In this re-telling of the Greekmyth, Cadnum has divided the story into threesegments: family, journey, and outcome.Although dialogue is somewhat stiff, the formalatmosphere adds a genuine quality to the myth.Characters and backdrop are reminiscent ofpictograph on a Greek urn that has suddenlycome to life. A basic understanding of Greekmythology is helpful to the reader.Recommended as a second purchase.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Tales from Silver Lands / by Charles J.Finger, woodcuts by Paul Honoré. LCCN24026940. Garden City, N.Y : Doubleday,1924.Out of print; buy used.Fic. Indians of South America—Folklore—Juvenileliterature; Newbery Medal. 225 p. : col. front., illus.,col. plates ; 24 cm.Grades 3-7. Rating : 3.Tales From Silver Lands relates the stories offair maidens, brave boys, ugly ogres, meanwitches, kindly grandmothers, and terrible stepmothers. The tales occur in various countries ofSouth America. Lands where summer is so hotthat “…because of the heat, when you areinside, you wish that you were out, and whenyou are outside, you wish that you were in.”Silvery, shimmery lands where boys meet starmaidens, children slaughter giants, and woodenmanikins evolve into monkeys. Lands wherethe residents learn to be nice, that unifiedpeoples can accomplish great feats, and thathard work will achieve a good life.Tales From Silver Lands contains nineteen fairytales. As with most fairy tales, magical elementsplay a major role in most of the stories. MostC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S FICTIONwitches in these tales create havoc and are easilyrecognized as evil. However, “he went on to tellof other witches that he knew, saying that therewere many who were not all bad.” The talesmove slowly, often bogged down in lengthydescription, slow plot development, andfrequent use of “be” verbs. The South Americansetting is at times hard to imagine. Sparsedialogue exists in the tales. These tales havemany good morals from which one can learn.Kristina A. Wolcott, BS. Piano Teacher, Freelance Writer, Oroville,California.Mei Li / Thomas Handforth. LCCN64006607. Garden City, N.Y : Doubleday,1955, 1928.HBB, 0385074018, out of print; buy used.Fic. China—Fiction; Caldecott Medal. [48] p.: ill. ;32 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 3.The Wang family, especially Mei Li, is gettingready for the Chinese New Year celebration inNorth China near the Great Wall. Uncle Wangand San Yu, Mei Li’s brother, are heading to thebig city to participate in the New Year Fairwhich Mei Li would like to attend, too. But sheis a girl, and girls stay at home in traditional oldChina. Mei Li bribes her brother with a lapisbluemarble to take her to the city gate. Heagrees. Wide-eyed Mei Li sees donkeys, ponies,camels, fancy clothes, firecrackers, sweet treats,kites, stilt-walkers, a circus troupe, dancingbears, and is finally frightened by a flying hawkkite. She crawls under a basket only to find thatSan Yu was teasing her. A tired Mei Li isreunited with her uncle and brother. The threemanage to get through the city gate before itcloses because Mei Li had been kind to a beggargirl earlier in the day. They arrive home just intime for the New Year feast and midnight whenthe Kitchen God would appear. The illustrationsare black and white lithograph.Thomas Handforth was presented the CaldecottAward for Mei Li in 1939, becoming the secondrecipient. The story is long and didactic for 21stcentury children’s tastes. However, children thereviewer has known, as young as second grade,are fascinated by a new cultural view of oldChina, a New Year Fair, and the Kitchen God.Although the illustrations are black and white,there is so much action and detail that there ismuch for the eye to feast upon. And it is theillustrations that receive the award, not the story,although they should be integrated. Would thebook receive the award today? Probably notwithout significant revision of the story.Probably not because the illustrations stereotypethe Chinese people and their lifestyle eventhough the quality is outstanding. Should thistitle be included in a library collection? Only asa representative in a complete Caldecottcollection for historical study. In a Christianschool the title could be used to start aconversation about Buddhism and the KitchenGod.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.*The cats in Krasinski Square / by KarenHesse ; illustrated by Wendy Watson.LCCN 2003027775. New York :Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439435404, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Jews—Persecutions—Poland—Warsaw—Juvenile fiction; Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945)—Poland—Warsaw—Juvenile fiction; Jews—Persecutions—Poland—Warsaw—Fiction; Holocaust,Jewish (1939-1945)—Poland—Warsaw—Fiction;Sisters—Fiction; Heroes—Fiction; Cats—Fiction;Warsaw (Poland)—History—Warsaw Ghetto Uprising,1943—Juvenile fiction; Warsaw (Poland)—History—Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, 1943—Fiction. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 x 31 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : *5.Both a gripping historical novel and a prettypicture book, The Cats in Krasinski Square tellsa little known chapter from World War II. TheJews are imprisoned and starving behindWarsaw’s ghetto walls. One young Jewish girllives outside the walls, keeping her nationality asecret. In a successful ploy to get food into theghetto under the very eyes of the Gestapo, sheand her stray cat friends distract the ferociousguard dogs while others slip food into theghetto.Award winning children’s author Karen Hesseferreted out as many facts as possible for thisstory, then added the bridging details from herimagination. Written in a simple, compellingstyle which grabs the interest immediately, TheCats in Krasinski Square will enthrall young,and older, readers. The narrative sits withinWendy Watson’s luminous yet muted-tonedpencil, ink, and watercolor full-pageillustrations. Illustrations and narrative enhanceeach other. Concluding Author’s Note andHistorical Note add interesting detail.With a subject reflecting today’s dilemmas, thisbook is recommended for all libraries, schools,and families interested in learning together.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.The stranger next door / Peg Kehret andPete the Cat. LCCN 2001040396. NewYork : Dutton Children’s Books, 2002.HBB, 0525468293, list cost: $15.99.Fic. Witness protection programs—Fiction; Cats—Fiction; Arson—Fiction; Moving, Household—Fiction; Friendship—Fiction; Hilltop (Wash.)—Fiction. 162 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 4.Pete the Cat figures quite extensively in TheStranger Next Door, a mystery written foryoung readers. Pete understands English clearlyalthough it is impossible for him to get thatacross to his humans. His constant meowing isusually met with more food rather than gooddialogue, resulting in a rather large cat and lotsof missed conversation.Alex and his family live in a new subdivisionand Pete is really Alex’s only friend. Bullies atschool make his life miserable and when a newboy moves in, Alex, of course, is hoping to makea friend. What he doesn’t know is that Rocky’sentire life is a secret, one he will not and cannotreveal. When mysterious events beginhappening in the neighborhood and arson firesdestroy two homes, rumors fly. Who isresponsible? Bullies or the new boy, Rocky,who certainly seems to have a chip on hisshoulder.Told in part by Pete the Cat, The Stranger NextDoor is a fun mystery for younger readers withhumor and suspense. Learning how importantfriends are—both human and feline—is a lessoneveryone learns in the end.Peg Kehret writes in a way that draws herreaders into the story and keeps their attentionthrough to the end. A wonderful book forelementary school or library shelves.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.The Gammage Cup : a novel of theMillipins / Carol Kendall ; illustrated byErik Blegvad. LCCN 99055279. SanDiego : Harcourt Brace, 2000.PAP, 015202493X, list cost: $6.00.Fic. Fantasy. 283 p. : ill. ; 20 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 5.This book earned a Newbery Honor Award, andan ALA Notable Children’s Book. Itspublication in paperback provides anotheropportunity for new readers and for earlier onesto reread The Gammage Cup. Five outcastsfrom the conformist society of Slipper-on-the-Water appeal to children (and to many adultstoo): Curley Green (the artist), Gummy (thepoet), Mingy (the curmudgeon), Walter the Earl(the scholar) and Muggles (the averageMinnipin). These turn out to be the onlydefenders of the Land between the Mountainsfrom an impending attack by the cannibalisticMushrooms. Children can relate to thesesympathetic characters for they struggle withtheir lives, and have a curiosity for things not onthe straight and narrow, much as preteens aredoing in their search for individuality.School and public libraries without this timelesstitle can add at minimal cost. It is also anadventure book that makes a gift with richnessof ideas and delight in words for preteens.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.One sky above us / by E. Cody Kimmel ;illustrated by Scott Snow. (Adventures ofyoung Buffalo Bill ; 2.) LCCN 54344.New York : HarperCollins, 2002.LIB, 0060291206, list cost: $17.89.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 1 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S FICTIONFic. Buffalo Bill, 1846-1917 —Childhood andyouth—Juvenile fiction; Buffalo Bill, 1846-1917 —Childhood and youth—Fiction; Abolitionists—Fiction;Frontier and pioneer life—Kansas—Fiction; Kansas—History—1854-1861—Fiction. 177 p. : ill., map ; 22cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 3.E. Cody Kimmel claims to be a descendent ofBuffalo Bill Cody, the protagonist in this middlebook in “The Adventures of Young Buffalo Bill”trilogy. The title is set in 1850s pioneer Kansasduring year following the Cody family’s movefrom Iowa. Kansas is in the center of the slaverybattle, and Mr. Cody is a strong Free-Soilerwhereas many other area settlers are pro-slavery.Mr. Cody is stabbed, and Bill becomes the “manof the family” while his father recuperates inMissouri. Bill must outwit his father’s enemiesas well as protect his mother and sisters. Thestory concludes with the father movingwestward again. In a subplot, Bill and his fatherdevelop a positive relationship with theKickapoo Indians and invite them to a barbecue.Partial page pencil sketches begin each chapter.An afterword delineates which events in thiswestern adventure story are factual.A very unevenly written story: several chaptersare laugh out loud hilarious; others are didacticand dull. Bill is far too wise and capable for hisage—the legend of his future has been writteninto his childhood. As an eight year old he isportrayed way beyond his years. Conversation isstilted, and in other segments very natural.Little has been written about the Bloody Kansasperiod in US history that is adventuresome andchild centered. This title fits that bill.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Fables / written and illustrated by ArnoldLobel. LCCN 79002004. New York :HarperCollins, 1980.HBB, 0060239735, list cost: $15.99.Fic. Fables, American; Children’s stories, American;Animals—Fiction; Fables. 40 p. : col. ill. ; 30 cm.Grades 2-6. Rating : 5.Arnold Lobel received the 1981 CaldecottMedal for Fables. He writes twenty originalfables in the style of Aesop’s fables: animalcharacters acting like humans and a brief storyconcluding with a moral. He has used adifferent animal in each one page story. Severalunusual animals seldom found in traditionalfables include a lobster, baboon, ostrich, camel,rhinoceros, kangaroo, and hippopotamus. Onthe opposite page of each fable is a full-pagewatercolor illustration with pen and ink detail.Fables is a more substantial work than Lobel’sFrog and Toad books or other beginning to readtitles. First, it is not a controlled vocabularyreader; second the stories are more condensedyet more challenging to read; and third themorals all give the reader or listener somethingto ponder. The morals often have a twist on thetraditional morals, thus making them a bit morecontemporary. This title should be paired with avariety of Aesop collections and then compared.LaFontaine fables could also be introduced tothe reader. After reading a number of fablecollections, readers could be tempted to try towrite their own based on proverbs. Theillustrations, like the text, are more substantialthan other Lobel work. Each page is acompletely composed, often humorous, framedpainting filled with many details, which enhancethe fable, or help the young reader understandthe fable. By definition this is a picture book,but it is one for older readers. The reader orteacher would be well served to read one fable asitting, digest it, and later talk about itsrelationship to everyday living. Include this inyour collection with Aesop’s fables and books ofillustrated Proverbs.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.*When dad’s at sea / by Mindy L. Pelton ;illustrated by Robert G. Steele. LCCN2003016772. Morton Grove, Ill. : AlbertWhitman, 2004.HBB, 0807563390, list cost: $15.95.Fic. Fathers and daughters—Fiction; Separation(Psychology)—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : *5.A fiction picture book firmly embedded in theneeds of today’s world, When Dad’s at Searelates how Emily and her mom learn to copewell with the challenges and heartaches causedby Dad’s months-long deployments to sea.Associated themes include mutually helpfulfriendships, the growth of legitimate sorrow,useful coping stratagems which the reader caneasily emulate, and family love triumphing overdifficulties and distance.With enough reality to enhance the narrative,and a dreamlike quality which draws the readerinto the story, Robert Steele’s soft watercolorsably amplify When Dad’s at Sea. Dedicatingthis book to her daughters and other U.S.Armed Forces children, Mindy Pelton’s directand sympathetic narration resonates withauthenticity. While written for the youngerelementary school age child, the verycontemporary problems addressed will berecognized by other ages, and by mothers.Sadness and helplessness may begin this story,but triumph and love dominate it. When Dad’sat Sea is recommended for all libraries, secularand religious, all schools, public, private, andhome, and for all families, military and civilian.Grandparents and friends will also be interestedin this one.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Tales from the manger / by Chonda andDavid Pierce ; illustrated by Matt LeBarre. LCCN 2004000191. Grand Rapids: Zonderkidz, 2004.PAP, 0310708494, list cost: $9.99.Fic. Jesus Christ—Nativity—Fiction; Domesticanimals—Fiction; Animals—Fiction; Conduct oflife—Fiction. 93 p. : ill. ; 21 cm.Grades PS-3. Rating : 4.In Tales from the Manger, Chonda and DavidPierce tell the nativity story from the perspectiveof several barn animals. When two mice realizesomething “humongous” has occurred in thestable, they run to each of the other animals andinvite them to a special birthday party. But theornery ox, the lazy rooster, the baaaad sheep andthe scaredy cat all ignore the invitation untilone-by-one, they realize that the baby in themanger is the Son of God, the one who createdthem. This knowledge changes their attitudestoward others and themselves. “They becamefriendlier, happier and more helpful.” This storyparallels how knowing Jesus Christ transformsthe lives of children and adults and is a uniqueway of teaching the reason for Jesus’ birth.When read aloud, children will enjoy therepetition and lyrical prose. One difficulty withthis story is that younger children may beconfused by the time sequence of the firstchapter in relation to the following chapters.The authors have combined talents withillustrator Matt LeBarre for many storiesincluding Tales from the Ark, with the sameloveable animals in Tales from the Manger.LeBarre has created exciting characters inbrilliant colors and rich textures. His paintingswill enthrall his four- to eight-year-old audienceas well as the adults who read to them.Florence G. Craig. Freelance Writer, Telford, Pennsylvania.Sophie’s world / Nancy Rue. (Faithgirlz ;1.) LCCN 2004008751. Grand Rapids :Zonderkidz, 2004.PAP, 0310707560, list cost: $3.99.Fic. Friendship—Fiction; Imagination—Fiction;Christian life—Fiction. 122 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Sophie’s secret / Nancy Rue. (Faithgirlz ;2.) LCCN 2004014635. Grand Rapids :Zonderkidz, 2004.PAP, 0310707579, list cost: $3.99.Fic. Imagination—Fiction; Christian life—Fiction;Psychotherapy—Fiction; Archaeology—Fiction;Friendship—Fiction. 115 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 3-7. Rating : 4.The Sophie Series by Nancy Rue gives eight totwelve year olds a creative approach to learninghistory through the imagination of sixth gradeSophie. Unfortunately, her playacting often getsher in trouble with her family, teachers, andpeers who don’t understand why Sophie is“different.” At the heart of her conflict is thedesire to be accepted for who she is and not becompared with her jock sister or the populargirls at school whom Sophie dubs “the CornPops.” In addition to learning about history,C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S FICTIONSophie experiences both joy and sorrow throughthe changing dynamics in relationships with thecolorful, diverse characters Nancy Rue creates.The first books in the series begin with 2Corinthians 4:18 – fixing our eyes on theunseen, eternal things. Through counseling withDr. Peter, who wants to help Sophie have “thebest life possible,” she learns to talk to Jesus andobey his command to honor her father eventhough he doesn’t understand her.In book one, Sophie’s World, Sophie is whiskedaway to eighteenth century France asAntoinette. With friends Henriette andMagdalene, they assist Lafayette in daringescapades of valor. Henriette, aka FionaBunting, is a kindred spirit who becomesSophie’s best friend. With the help of a hardearnedvideo camera, the girls make a movie oftheir adventures to entertain their families.Book two, Sophie’s Secret, introduces AuntBaily who adds a new type of conflict intoSophie’s life—that of physical changes or lackof change in Sophie’s case. It causes selfconsciousnessand embarrassment at home andat school. A family trip to see archaeologists’excavations at Jamestown brings both a newlearning experience and more trouble intoSophie’s life. During an attic “dig” Sophiecomes across something that convinces her thatshe is adopted, explaining why her father treatsher so differently than her sister Lacie. Sophiesees God at work in her life through answers toprayer and her greatest desire being fulfilled asher dad finally comes through for her.Florence G. Craig. Freelance Writer, Telford, Pennsylvania.Becoming Naomi León / Pam MuñozRyan. LCCN 2004000346. New York :Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439269695, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Great-grandmothers—Fiction; Brothers andsisters—Fiction; Family problems—Fiction; MexicanAmericans—Fiction; Mexico—Fiction. 246 p. ; 22cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 5.Naomi Outlaw’s real name is Naomi SoledadLeón Outlaw. She is being raised by her Gramwhose last name happens to be Outlaw, but herfather was a León and Soledad was a patronsaint of his town. Thus her rather long, involvedname. Feeling quite settled with Gram and herlittle brother, Owen, life at Avocado AcresTrailer Rancho in Lemon Tree, California, ishappy and peaceful. Then after seven years ofabsence, Naomi’s mother, Terry Lynn, returns.Only she’s not Terry Lynn anymore but now iscalled Skyla. And she’s brought her boyfriendClive who’s a tattoo artist. They want Naomi,but not Owen, to come to Vegas with them!Thus begins Naomi’s journey to Mexico to findher father and in doing so, find out who shereally is! Becoming Naomi León is anunforgettable story written by Pam MunozRyan, author of the award winning EsperanzaRising! Young readers will connect with Naomiand her wonderful circle of friends. Theauthor’s writing mirrors her own Mexicanheritage and her love for that country, its peopleand their culture.Becoming Naomi León is written for olderelementary school students as well as earlymiddle schoolers. Although over two hundredpages, it is a quick read with the reader easilybeing swept up into the story.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.The donkey and the golden light : peace,goodwill, and a new beginning for all / byJohn and Gill Speirs. LCCN 2003022517.New York : Harry N. Abrams, 2004.HBB, 0810948125, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Jesus Christ—Fiction; Donkeys—Fiction;Spirituality—Fiction. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 x29 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 5.A little donkey was born in Bethlehem in astable alongside a human child and travels withhis mother as she carries the mother and child toEgypt to escape persecution later. LittleBethlehem soon grows up and has many ownersthroughout his lifetime. Eventually he is sold todrovers, who are convinced by a group of mento give him to them to carry someone intoBethlehem. The man oddly seems familiar tohim, but only after Bethlehem’s death does heunderstand who this important person is—Jesus.The Donkey and the Golden Light is abeautifully illustrated and inspiring story aboutBethlehem the donkey and the life of Jesusinterwoven in the story’s pages. The dayBethlehem is born, so too is baby Jesus, and weare taken on through both their lives until eachpasses away and Bethlehem finally understandswhat the golden light stands for. Theillustrations are detailed paintings by JohnSpeirs and are inspired by the works of PieterBruegel, a Flemish artist from the 1500’s. GillSpeirs has written the story, which is forchildren with a good understanding of largerwords. This book is one which young childrenwill enjoy and parents will enjoy reading tothem. Highly recommended as a high qualityaddition to any library.Sherri Myers. Freelance Writer, Upper Strasburg, Pennsylvania.The shadows of Ghadames / by JoelleStolz. LCCN 2003021656. New York :Delacorte, 2004.HBB, 0385731043, list cost: $15.95.Fic. Libya—History—19th century—Fiction;Literacy—Fiction; Muslims—Fiction; Sex role—Fiction. 119 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 4.Malika, an eleven-year-old Muslim girl wholives in early 19th century Libya, is about to turnthe marriageable age of twelve. She speaks ofthe daily routines of her society, where, separatefrom men, the women interact and do householdchores on the rooftops of the ancient city ofGhadames. Malika struggles with the desire toescape her life. She is jealous of her brother’sfreedom to read, write, and travel with theirfather. When her father leaves on business, hissecond wife disregards customs and brings aninjured man into their home. While helping tonurse him back to health, Malika gains a newrespect for these women and begins to awakento the sights and sounds of her future life amongthem.The Shadows of Ghadames by Joelle Stolz,translated from the French by CatherineTemerson, is the Mildred L. Batchelder Awardwinner for best children’s book published in aforeign language, then translated into English.Protagonist is fully developed. Dialogue isbelievable. Setting is well-designed to allow thereader a birds-eye view of an otherwiseunimaginable world. Stolz’s sensitivity to theLibyan traditions adds a three-dimensionalquality to this fictional autobiography. Stolz is aFrench journalist and radio broadcaster.Recommended for both school and publiclibraries. Good resource for betterunderstanding of Middle Eastern culture.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Rosetta, Rosetta, sit by me! / by LindaWalvoord ; illustrated by Eric Velasquez.LCCN 2004003522. New York : MarshallCavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451714, list cost: $14.95.Fic. Sprague, Rosetta Douglass—Juvenile fiction;Sprague, Rosetta Douglass—Fiction; Douglass,Frederick, 1818-1895 —Fiction; Segregation ineducation—Fiction; Race relations—Fiction;Schools—Fiction; African Americans—Fiction; NewYork (State)—History—1775-1865—Fiction. 96 p. :ill. ; 21 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 3.Walvoord, a writing and literature collegeinstructor, did her dissertation on FrederickDouglass’s writings. These writings form thefoundation for this juvenile fiction story.Rosetta, the daughter of Douglass, shows up atage nine for class as the only black student at anall-white Quaker school. Racially divisive1880s New York state serves as the setting; thestory follows her separation from the otherstudents, and her father’s strong reaction whenhe learns of what is happening.After the 60 page story, pages are devoted tofactual details about Frederick and RosettaDouglass and important dates in both of theirlives. The black and white pencil illustrationsby Velasquez add to the story.School and public library juvenile collectionsneeding titles on the role and experience ofAfrican Americans in American history can addthis title both for its underlying use of primaryM A R C H 2 0 0 5 1 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S FICTIONsources in creating the fiction story, and forpresenting history in story fashion.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Rescue in the Mayan jungle / written byKarla Warkentin ; illustrated by RonAdair. (Time stone travelers ; 1.) LCCN2003020396. Colorado Springs, Colo. :Faith Kidz, 2004.PAP, 0781440270, list cost: $6.99.Fic. Time travel—Fiction; Brothers and sisters—Fiction; Mayas—Fiction; Christian life—Fiction. 144p. ; 21 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 3.Imagine life under the power of an evil shamanand a false god. This is the culture that twinbrothers and sister Josh, Will, and EllenMackenzie stumble upon when Josh uncovers astrange stone. It mysteriously transports them tothe past and the village of Quinaroo in a SouthAmerican jungle. They make friends withsiblings Puma and Luna and make an enemy outof the Shaman Onamee. Soon, the three set outto rescue Luna from a seemingly impossiblesituation and must decide whether to rely onthemselves ... or God.Rescue in the Mayan Jungle is the first book ina Christian series which is very similar to TheMagic Tree House books by Mary PopeOsborne. The secular series uses magic toexplain time travel; however, this bookattributes it to God. The Shaman appears tohave magical powers, but his tricks areexplained at the conclusion of the book.The most disappointing part of this book is thestereotypical nature of the main characters. Allof the characters have this problem; however, itis depiction of Will that is the most distressing.He is portrayed as being smart but weak andwimpy. Readers may get the misconception thata person who enjoys learning is automaticallypathetic.A classic it is not; however, the book isenjoyable and worth reading. Even though lifein Quinarro is very different from anythingchildren have encountered, they learn to valueand respect the cultural differences. Also, thebook is wrapped up with a useful “FaithBuilding Guide” that discusses life issues andspiritual building blocks.Christine Horn, Church Librarian, Holland, Michigan.Fruitlands : Louisa May Alcott madeperfect / Gloria Whelan. LCCN2002001467. New York : HarperCollins,2002.HBB, 0066238161, list cost: $17.89.Fic. Alcott, Louisa May, 1832-1888 —Family—Juvenile fiction; Alcott, Louisa May, 1832-1888 —Family—Fiction; Utopias—Fiction; Family life—Massachusetts—Fiction; Diaries; Massachusetts—History—1775-1865—Fiction. 117, [2] p. ; 22 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 3.Author Gloria Whelan organizes thisfictionalized biography slice of Louisa MayAlcott via two journals, one for Louisa’s parentsand another secret one for herself. Eight monthsof the Alcott family’s life are chronicled, theeight months the family lived at Fruitlands, autopian community. Ideologue, Mr. Alcott’sgoal was to develop a perfect, self-sufficientlife-style on a fruit farm in Massachusetts. Theyear is 1843; Louisa is ten years old, andBronson Alcott tries to gather like-mindedvisionaries around him. Whelan bases the storyon nine brief journal entries that remain fromthat period. The remainder of the story and thesecret journal are fiction.This is an odd book for children. Whelan hasused her fine literary skill to write a unique bookabout the Alcotts. However, the intendedaudience is elusive. The book is too simple forthe older readers; and the concepts too difficultfor unguided and unstructured reading foryounger readers. Without considerablebackground about New England’s utopianorganizations of the mid-1800s, readers willhave a difficult time appreciating Mr. Alcott’sunusual, sometimes maudlin, sometimesabusive treatment of the people living at thecommune. The reader will know how spunkyLouisa was, but little else of her personality isdeveloped. Fruitlands is far more readable thanthe old Newbery title, Invincible Louisa, butcovers only eight months of Louisa’s life.Becoming Little Women by Atkins containsmore detail, but is not as literarily clever.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.When the circus came to town / LaurenceYep ; drawings by Suling Wang. LCCN2001039290. New York : HarperCollins,2002.HBB, 006029325X, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Self-esteem—Fiction; Frontier and pioneer life—Montana—Fiction; Chinese New Year—Fiction;Circus—Fiction; Chinese Americans—Fiction;Smallpox—Fiction; Montana—History—Fiction. 113p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 4.Ursula and her family run a stagecoach stationin little Whistle, Montana, in the early 1900s.She and her friends enjoy fantasizing aboutbeing pirates as they explore the countryside.Then smallpox strikes. Ursula’s face is leftdisfigured. She refuses to show her face andbecomes a recluse. The Chinese cook feels asalienated as Ursula, and they gradually becomefriends. Ah Sam has an idea: invite his cousinsto stage a Chinese circus. When a blizzardcatches Ah Sam and his cousins in Whistle andprevents them from attending a Chinese NewYear celebration in San Francisco, Ursula, inturn, organizes a community Chinese New Yearcelebration. Based on an historical incidentincluded in Elliot Paul’s memoir, A Ghost Townon the Yellowstone (Random, 1948).Laurence Yep continues to explore his Chineseheritage, but changes location from California toMontana. Lighter fare and for younger readersthan most Yep titles. The reader learns aboutisolated stagecoach station life and Chinesecelebrations, but more than factual details, thereader learns about tolerance, compassion,heritage, and the value of inner qualities ratherthan outer appearance. An interesting andunusual story, which, at times, seems too slick.Time passes very quickly, communications aretoo fast, racist (against Chinese and NativeAmericans) attitudes disappear without muchdiscussion. Nonetheless a fascinating absorbingread.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

Learning Native American CultureThrough Myths and Legendsby Jane MouttetLegends and myths are part of every culture and the various NativeAmerican cultures are no different. They started as part of the oraltradition of the tribes, being passed down from generation togeneration by storytellers. In recent years, authors have begun writingthese stories down for more people to learn from and enjoy. One wayfor non-natives to learn about Native American cultures is to readthese stories which in many cases teach about the religion or cultureof the tribe. In this column and the next I will look at 30 books whichre-tell the myths and legends of Native Americans.Anasazi legends : songs of the wind dancer/ Lou Cuevas. LCCN 99087981. HappyCamp, Calif. : Naturegraph Publishers,2000.PAP, 0879612568, list cost: $12.95.398.2/089/972. Apache Indians—Folklore; Apachemythology; Legends—New Mexico. 206 p. : ill. ; 22cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.Author Lou Cuevas is Apache; he learned thesestories from his Apache medicine mangrandfather. Whether these are Anasazi legendsor ancient Apache legends is hard to determine.The cover claims the stories are more than 500years old, yet the stories repeatedly refer to theNdee (Apache) people. In either case the storiesare legends and are enjoyable to read. There areten legends included in the book. Each chapter(legend) begins with a black-line drawing.Bones in the basket : native stories of theorigin of people / C.J. Taylor. LCCN94061786. Plattsburgh, N.Y. : TundraBooks, 1994.HBB, 0887763278, list cost: $17.95.398.2. Creation—Folklore; Indians of NorthAmerica—Folklore—Juvenile literature; Indianmythology—United States; Folklore—United States;Indians of North America—Folklore. 32 p. : col. ill. ;29 cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 5.C. J. Taylor, a Mohawk artist, retold NativeAmerican origin stories in Bones in the Basket.Tribes included are: Zuni, Mandan, Cree,Chuckchee, Osage, Mohawk, and Modoc. Thestories in this book would be good ones tocompare to the biblical creation story as there aremany similarities to it. The brightly coloredillustrations have a definite Native American feelto them. The book ends with brief informationon each of the represented tribes.Buffalo dreams / Kim Doner. LCCN99022577. Portland : WestWinds Press,1999.PAP, 155868476X, list cost: $9.95.Fic. Indians of North America—Juvenile fiction;Indians of North America—Fiction; Bison—Fiction. 1v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 22 x 28 cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 4.Author-illustrator Kim Doner was inspired towrite this story by the 1994 birth of a whitebuffalo calf and the pilgrimages of many NativeAmericans to the site. Sarah and her family makea visit to the white buffalo calf. Sarah has beenworking on embellishing the dreamcatcher shereceived at birth to keep the evil spirits fromgiving her bad dreams. After a nighttimeencounter with the white buffalo calf and itsmother, she decides to leave her dreamcatcher asher gift to the calf. The book ends with a retellingof the story “The Legend of White Buffalo CalfWoman” and directions for making adreamcatcher. Realistic paintings illustrate thebook.Coyote & : native American folk tales /retold by Joe Hayes ; illustrations by LucyJelinek-Thompson. LCCN 83190710.Santa Fe, N.M. : Mariposa Pub., 1983.PAP, 933553013, list cost: $11.95.398.2/452974442. Indians of North America—Folklore; Coyote (Legendary character)—Legends. 77p., [1] leaf of plates : ill. ; 15 x 21 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 4.Joe Hayes is a storyteller in the Southwest. Hehas written these Coyote tales so that they can beread aloud, much like the oral tradition they werecreated in. Coyote, often referred to as a trickster,tricks others in some of these tales and in othershe is himself tricked. The drawings of LucyJelinek are done in brown ink. The illustrateportions of the text, but much of the text is leftfor the listener to imagine as he listens.The eye of the needle / retold andillustrated by Teri Sloat. LCCN 89049476.New York : Dutton Children's Books, 1990.PAP, 0525446230, list cost: $8.95.398.2/089971. Yupik Eskimos—Folklore; Eskimos—Alaska—Folklore; Folklore—Alaska. 1 v. (unpaged) :col. ill. ; 23 x 28 cm.Grades PS-3. Rating : 4.Teri Sloat has retold this Yupik tale she heardfrom Yupik elder Betty Huffmon. It tells thestory of a boy who goes out for some food whenthe fish arrive after a long winter. The boy is sohungry he eats everything he catches forgettingto take some back to his grandmother. When hereturns home he’s it too large to fit through thedoor. Grandmother uses her magic needle to getthe food out of him and feed the village with it.The colored illustrations complement the textwell.The flute player : an Apache folktale /retold and illustrated by Michael Lacapa.LCCN 89063749. Flagstaff, Ariz. :Northland, 1990.PAP, 0873585003, list cost: $7.95.398.2/089972. Apache Indians—Folklore. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 23 x 28 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.Mr. Lacapa does a wonderful job of retelling theApache folktale of the Flute Player. Two youngpeople from different communities meet at adance. He is a flute player. When they return totheir communities, he plays his flute and shesends a leaf down the river to let him know sheliked the song. When he goes on a hunt, the girlmisses his flute playing and thinks he no longerlikes her. She becomes sick and dies. When hefinds out she is dead he goes to her grave andplays his flute for her. If you listen on a windyday, you can hear him playing still. The vibrantcolor illustrations have a Native American feel tothem—they are similar to those of GeraldMcDermott.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 1 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

The girl who swam with the fish : anAthabascan legend / retold by MichelleRenner ; illustrated by Christine Cox.LCCN 94013763. Anchorage : AlaskaNorthwest Books, 1995.PAP, 0882405233, list cost: $8.95.398.2/089972. Athapascan Indians—Folklore;Legends—North America. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ;27 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 4.Author Michelle Renner retold this Athabascanstory given to her by an Alaskan elder. A younggirl waiting for the salmon to return to hervillage falls into the river and swims with thesalmon. She gradually becomes a salmon andlearns how the fish want to be treated by thosewho catch them. When she is big enough toreturn to the river she jumps out of the river andreturns to her people again. She teaches themhow the fish want to be treated. The wood cutillustrations of Christine Cox are beautiful.Grandmother Spider brings the sun : aCherokee story / by Geri Keams ;illustrated by James Bernardin. LCCN95002978. Flagstaff, Ariz. : Northland,1995.PAP, 0873586948, list cost: $7.95.398.2/089975. Cherokee Indians—Folklore; Tales—Southern States; Indians of North America—Folklore;Sun—Folklore. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 5.Navajo Geri Keams has retold the Cherokeestory Grandmother Spider Brings the Sun. Thepourquoi story tells how the people in the darkside of the world got the sun. In the story thereader learns why the possum has black ringsaround his eyes and a skinny tale, why buzzardis bald, and why the Cherokee people fire theirpottery. The acrylic and water color illustrationsof James Bernardin bring the text to life, makingthis an excellent read-a-loud.On the trail made of dawn : NativeAmerican creation stories / retold by M.L.Webster. LCCN 2001029841. NorthHaven, Conn. : Linnet Books, 2001.HBB, 0208024972, list cost: $19.50.398.2/089/97. Indian mythology—North America—Juvenile literature; Creation—Folklore; Indians ofNorth America—Folklore; Folklore—North America.xv, 69 p. ; 23 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 5.Ms. Webster has collected Native Americanfolklore throughout her life. In On the TrailMade of Dawn she shares some of thatcollection. Creation myths from Eskimo,Makah, Cree, Tlingit, Maidu, Navajo, Aztec,Hopi, Seneca, Cherokee, Osage, Shoshone, andSioux are shared. Each myth is followed byinformation on the tribe. A list of sources isprovided at the end for further research.The people with five fingers : a nativeCalifornian creation tale / retold by JohnBierhorst ; illustrated by Robert AndrewParker. LCCN 99028795. New York :Marshall Cavendish, 2000.HBB, 0761450580, list cost: $15.95.398.2/08997. Indians of North America—California—Folklore; Creation—Mythology; Tales—California; Creation—Folklore; Folklore—California.1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades K-2. Rating : 4.Author John Bierhorst, who has worked onmany Native American stories, has retold a taleshared by several Californian tribes. The storyexplains how Coyote and the other animalscreated the world and the people who live in it.The watercolor illustrations of Robert Parker attimes have a bit of an abstract feel to them. Theyillustrate the text well.Pueblo Indian wisdom : Native Americanlegends and mythology / by Teresa Pijoan.LCCN 59516. Santa Fe, N.M. : SunstonePress, 2000.PAP, 0865343195, list cost: $12.95.398.2/089/974. Pueblo Indians—Folklore; Legends—Southwest, New; Indians of North America—Southwest, New—Folklore; Folklore—Southwest,New. 117 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 912. Rating : 4.Ms. Pijoan, while she is not a Native American,grew up on the San Juan Pueblo and NambeReservation. She collected these stories duringher growing up years. She expertly weaves thelegends together with a story about visits withGrandfather and the widow who tell the stories.Some are supernatural in nature; others arerealistic. In her storytelling, Ms. Pijoan showsan understanding of the Pueblo way of life. Thestories are an enjoyable read.Raven : a trickster tale from the PacificNorthwest / told and illustrated by GeraldMcDermott. LCCN 91014563. San Diego: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1993.HBB, 0152656618, list cost: $16.00.398.2/089970795. Indians of North America—Northwest, Pacific—Folklore. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill.; 24 x 29 cm.Grades PS-3. Rating : 5.Raven was a Caldecott honor book. Its vibrantpictures are done in gouache, colored pencils,and pastel. The story is a retelling of a popularmyth among the Native American tribes of thePacific Northwest. It tells how Raven wanted tohelp the people in his world who were withoutlight. Raven wants to help them so he searchesuntil he finds the light. He turns into a pineneedle that is drunk by the daughter of the SkyChief and becomes a boy. In this way he is ableto get the light and take it to his people.Thirteen moons on turtle's back : a NativeAmerican year of moons / by JosephBruchac and Jonathan London ;illustrated by Thomas Locker. LCCN91003961. New York : Philomel Books,1992.HBB, 0399221417, list cost: $16.99.811/.54. Indians of North America—Folklore;Children's poetry, American; Seasons—Juvenilepoetry; Indians of North America—Poetry; Americanpoetry—Collections; Seasons—Poetry. 1 v. (unpaged): col. ill. ; 29 cm.Grades PS-2. Rating : 4.The turtle has thirteen scales on his back in thesame way there are thirteen moons each year.Joseph Bruchac (an Abenaki) and JonathanLondon have chosen stories from thirteendifferent Native American tribes about each ofthe moons. Each story takes about twentypercent of a two-page spread with the rest of thespread being taken up with illustration. ThomasLocker’s colored illustrations are beautiful.The way to make perfect mountains :Native American legends of sacredmountains / as told by Byrd Baylor ;illustrations Leonard F. Chana. LCCN96040531. El Paso, Tex. : Cinco PuntosPress, 1997.PAP, 0938317261, list cost: $9.95.398.2/08997. Indians of North America—Folklore;Indians of North America—Southwest, New—Folklore. 62 p. : ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 7-9. Rating : 3.Ms. Baylor has retold some of the mountainmyths of the Southwest Indians in poetic, freeverseform. The myths are divided into fivechapters: Beginnings; Changes; Protection;Power, Magic, Mystery and Dreams; and TheBeings in the Mountains. Dot pictures ofTohono O’odham artist Leonard Chanaillustrated the text.Weather legends : Native American loreand the science of weather / CaroleGarbuny Vogel. LCCN 51973.Brookfield, Conn. : Millbrook Press, 2001.LIB, 076131900X, list cost: $29.90.398.2/089/97. Indians of North America—Folklore;Weather—Folklore; Weather—Juvenile literature;Folklore—North America; Weather. 80 p. : ill. (somecol.) ; 21 x 26 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 3.Ms. Vogel was fascinated by the weather as achild. With the help of other book she collectedthese Native American weather legends from theChippewa, Papago, Pima, Micmac,Slavey, Acoma, Penobscot, Pueblo, and LakotaSioux. Each myth is followed by scientificinformation on the topic of the myth. The mython the formation of the earth is followed byinformation on the evolution of the earth over 25million years. The book is illustrated withphotographs of different aspects of weather. Thebook ends with an index.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CLASSROOMCONNECTIONS—Compare myths from different tribes to seewhat similarities and differences there are—Do further research on the tribe representedby the myth—Have students act out the myth—Compare the creation and flood myths to thestory found in the Bible—Play the game of Telephone with your class(Whisper a short story to the first child, have thatchild whisper it to the next, until all childrenhave heard the story. Have the final child tell theversion of the story s/he heard. You then tellyour story and compare the two versions.) Fromthis launch into a discussion how the originalcreation or flood story could have been changedover repeated tellings. Discuss how many of thecreation myths could have had one beginning.Weather Legends—Use the legends in this book to supplement ascience unit on the weather.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 1 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONBible story book will take the reader on ajourney through the time of Peter’s calling to thetime of Jesus’ resurrection and Peter’s reactionto it. With the use of thick black lines and brightcolors, Follow Me depicts the story throughpictures that greatly complement the wellwrittenstory of God’s love and grace for allmankind. This book would be a terrific additionto any library, whether personal or public, and isan affordable price for such a quality book.Sherri Myers. Freelance Writer, Upper Strasburg, Pennsylvania.Safe in the fold / written by Mary RiceHopkins ; illustrated by Dennas Davis.(Parable praise party.) LCCN2003014775. Colorado Springs, Colo. :Faith Kidz, 2004.HBB, 0781439892, list cost: $15.99.226.8/09505. Lost sheep (Parable)—Juvenileliterature; Bible stories, English—N.T. Gospels; Lostsheep (Parable); Parables; Bible stories—N.T.. 36 p. :col. ill. ; 21 cm. + 1 sound disc (digital ; 4 3/4 in.).Grades PS-2. Rating : 4.Told in rhyme, Safe in the Fold follows a farmerwho keeps on calling for a sheep that is missing.Even though he has 99, he keeps looking untilthe lost one is found. This quietly told story isrelated at the end to Jesus’ words in Matthew18:12-14 about sheep and not one of the littleones being lost. The story is reinforced throughuse of “Farmer and the Sheep,” an original songon the accompanying CD. The closing pagesoffer a faith parenting guide in terms of readingthe story, how to relate, and use of the songs, asChristian recording artist Hopkins has includedfive other songs.The colorful illustrations give a modern feel tothe story. Parents will find the faith parentingguide easy to use as full directions andsuggestions are given to make this a sight,sound, and touch experience for children.Parents will find the book makes it easy to retellthis parable. Public libraries can include to givefamilies an opportunity to respond to thereligious needs of their family.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Special families / Stephen Elkins, author ;Tim O’Connor, illustrations. (Word &song audio book ; The greatest Biblestories ever told.) LCCN 2004296169.Nashville : Broadman & Holman, 2001.HBB, 0805424679, list cost: $9.99.229.95. Bible stories; Sacred songs; Songs. 30 p. :col. ill. ; 24 cm. + 1 compact disc.Grades PS-2. Rating : 4.Special Families tells ten Bible stories aboutfamilies: Adam and Eve; Abraham, Sarah andtheir baby; King Solomon’s love song to hisbride; Jesus and John’s families; and theChristian family. Each story starts with apertinent Bible verse, simply and interestinglygives the account, and ends with an affirmation,eg. what a wonderful God we serve! The CDnarrates all the stories and has ten easy songssuitable to the stories.The popular series The Greatest Bible StoriesEver Told provides a variety of the best storiesfrom the original Word and Song Bible. SpecialFamilies is the tenth in this series. StephenElkin fills the stories with child-aimed wordsand basic Bible teachings. Tim O’Connor’sbright, happy acrylic illustrations enlarge oneach subject. Steve Green, Twila Paris, JoniEareckson Tada, Steve & Annie Chapman, andLloyd Ogilvie provide the voice talents on theCD.Useful as a read-to book, for beginning readers,in child care situations, and, with the CD, as agame, Special Families is recommended for alllibraries, pre and elementary schools, families,and church situations.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Twas the night : the nativity story /Melody Carlson ; illustrations by SusanReagan. LCCN 2004304157. Nashville :Broadman & Holman, 2004.HBB, 0805426833, list cost: $12.99.232.92. Jesus Christ—Nativity—Juvenile literature;Christmas—Juvenile literature; Stories in rhyme. 28p. : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades PS-4. Rating : 5.The popular poem “The Night BeforeChristmas” stresses Santa Claus. MelodyCarlson borrows this well-known story to tellabout the birth of Jesus Christ. ‘Twas theNight—the Nativity Story begins:‘Twas the night before Christmas when allthrough the stable,Not a creature was stirring, though plentywere able.The ox and the cow and the goat and thesheepAll comfy and cozy, had drifted to sleep.Susan Reagan’s colorful illustrations includesleeping animals, surprised animals, andanimals fascinated by the baby in their manger.The chorus of child-like angels, a multi-ethnicmix, sing:Peace on the whole earth and goodwill tous allFor God’s only Son has been born in astall.Shepherds and three learned men appear. Theshepherds “wept and they worshiped and fell ontheir knees, praying and praising as long as theypleased.” The learned men brought “great giftsof incredible worth.”Twas the Night includes a presentation page.Luke 2:7, from the NIV, completes the story.Consider this book as an excellent read-aloudselection for small children, or beginning andmiddle readers. Are you wondering about agift? Buy ‘Twas the Night. Don’t wait forChristmas. The birth of Jesus is good news inany month. Find a child, and a rocking chair.You’ll be set for a wonderful time!Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Angels & all children : a nativity story inwords, music, and art / Walter Wangerin,Jr. ; illustrated by Tim Ladwig ; music byRandy Courts. LCCN 2002020053.Minneapolis : Augsburg Fortress, 2002.HBB, 0806637129, list cost: $18.99.232.92. Jesus Christ—Nativity; Christmas. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm. 1 sound disc (digital ; 43/4 in.).Grades PS up. Rating : 4.A picture book and a play script, Angels and AllChildren retells the story of Christ’s Nativityfrom the viewpoint of the children affected by it.It is night. Both soul and sunlight are darkened.All the children sleep and cannot be woken.God looks down, sees that it is time, and sendsGabriel to a woman named Mary. And so, littleby little the darkness begins to lift and thechildren to awaken.Noted author and speaker Walter Wangerin Jr.,writing in his own inimitable, poetic, mysticalmanner, presents an intriguing, embroideredretelling of the birth of Christ. His charactersare warm, living personalities. Mary is oncereferred to as ‘heaven’s queen.’ Tim Ladwig’sacrylic, luminous illustrations are an integralpart of this story. The CD accompanying thisbook presents the story in play form, providingmusic for all the poems. Theater composerRandy Courts’ music blends with the narrativeand illustrations. The closing pages of Angelsand All Children give suggestions for producingthis book as a play, reading to an audience, andlistening intelligently to the CD. Wangerinpresents this book as suitable for everyone,grandparents to college students to children; anduseful to ‘Sunday Schools, congregations,schools, college drama, and music programs.’Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.What’s inside a police station? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003005160. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415661, list cost: $21.36.363.2. Police—Juvenile literature; Police stations—Juvenile literature; Police—Equipment and supplies—Juvenile literature; Police; Police stations. 31 p. ; col.ill. ; 19 cm.What’s inside a hospital? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003006191. New York :Benchmark, 2004.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 1 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONHBB, 0761415645, list cost: $21.36.362.1/1. Hospitals—Juvenile literature; Hospitals. 31p. ; col. ill. ; 19 cm.What’s inside a police car? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003006188. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415653, list cost: $21.36.363.2/32. Police vehicles—Juvenile literature; Policevehicles; Police. 31 p. ; col. ill. ; 19 cm.What’s inside an ambulance? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003005158. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415610, list cost: $21.36.616.02/5. Ambulance service—Juvenile literature;Ambulances—Juvenile literature; Ambulance service;Ambulances. 31 p. ; col. ill. ; 19 cm.What’s inside a firehouse? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003006190. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415629, list cost: $21.36.628.9/25. Fire stations—Juvenile literature; Firedepartments. 31 p. ; col. ill. ; 19 cm.What’s inside a fire truck? / SharonGordon. (Bookworms : what’s inside?.)LCCN 2003005338. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415637, list cost: $21.36.628.9/259. Fire engines—Juvenile literature; Fireextinction—Juvenile literature; Fire engines; Fireextinction. 31 p. : col. ill. ; 19 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 5.What’s Inside Series is a reading programdesigned to reinforce the skills of fluent youngreaders. Each title has two pages devoted to theessentials of the service place or vehicle underdiscussion—this is well-done and makes it easyto understand the scope of the book as well asintroduction to new words. There are many fullpage color photographs and partial pagephotographs that relate well to the text, and offeran interesting and informative reading.The books 7x7 inch format makes it easy tohold. Each title gives an introduction to life at afire department, police station, or hospital, alongwith descriptions of the equipment, the staff, andwhat happens there. Vehicle titles describe howthe equipment on the vehicle is used.Public and school libraries can add for providingan informative title on the subject as well as oneproviding a visual tour of this place or vehicle.The focus on reinforcing reading skills makesthis a priority title for addition.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.The people could fly : the picture book /Virginia Hamilton ; illustrated by Leo andDiane Dillon. LCCN 2003025579. NewYork : Alfred A. Knopf, 2004.HBB, 0375824057, list cost: $16.95.398.2/089/96073. Slavery—Folklore; AfricanAmericans—Folklore; Folklore—United States. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 32 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 3.Husband and wife team Leo and Diane Dillonreceived a 2005 Coretta Scott King IllustratorHonor Award for the picture book version of thetitle story in Virginia Hamilton’s 1985 anthologyof the same name. According to editor JanetSchulman, “People Could Fly” is “one of themythical old tales in the tradition of ‘things thatnever were,’ as opposed to characters and eventsthat were once actual.” In this edited version,the magical flying powers of the people inAfrica have been lost. The oppression andcruelty of American slave masters have resultedin starvation and sadness. An old black mannamed Toby calls upon the African magic,which allows the slaves to fly away. The Dillonsuse muted color illustrations featuring Africanpatterns and designs to retell the story. The endpages feature embossed shimmery feathers onblack. There is also an appended author note.Leo and Diane Dillon have created a feast forthe eyes reminiscent of their artwork inCaldecott winner, Ashanti to Zulu. The elegantillustrations are framed with a gradient coloredframe. Pictures portraying shackled slaves andthe fierce overseer are frightening, but the flightpictures say “Free-dom” again and again. This isa story which can be read on many levels: aliteral reading of cruel mythology, or anallegorical reading of slaves being lead tofreedom by a freed slave such as HarrietTubman. Either way, much discussion orinstruction will need to be done for even olderchildren to understand and appreciate the story.From a Christian perspective, the whole conceptof human bondage may need to be discussed.Also from a Christian perspective, some of theelements of magic, if read from a literalperspective, may be objectionable. This is adisquieting story which should be read withadult guidance.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The hunterman and the crocodile : a WestAfrican folktale / retold and illustrated byBaba Wagué Diakité. LCCN 95025975.New York : Scholastic, 1997.HBB, 0590898280, list cost: $15.95.398.2/0966/02 or E. Folklore—Africa, West. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 26 cm.Grades K-3. Rating : 3.A 1998 Coretta Scott King Illustrator HonorAward was presented to Baba Wague Diakite forhis first book, The Hunterman and theCrocodile. Diakite, who was born in Mali, WestAfrica, retells a West African trickster tale.When Bamba the crocodile and his family makea pilgrimage to Mecca, they run out of food andwater. They seek help from Donso, thehunterman, who finally agrees to carry the fourcrocodiles bound-up on his head to their water.Of course, once water is reached ,crocodile hasa trick up his sleeve, a fine meal, for Bamba hashad little to eat. An argument ensues, and Donsoasks for help from a cow, a horse, a hen, and atree, but none of them will help because man hasharmed each of them in some way. Finally,rabbit, a trickster himself, questions whetherDonso can carry the crocodiles. Once the crocsare retied, rabbit laughs and hops off, and Donsogoes home only to find his wife is ill and themedicine man says crocodile tears will save her.The crocodiles cry tears, the wife is saved, andDonso promises to always live in harmony withnature, not above nature.This is a familiar tale found in many variantsaround the world, even in Aesop’s fables andUncle Remus stories. In an author’s noteDiakite explains the value of storytelling forentertainment, encouragement, good morals,and education in African villages. He points outthe relationship between the environment andman and nature, which is basic to Africaneducation. The author uses sound words torepresent movement of the animals, which is acommon practice in African tales. Diakite usesceramic tiles for the base of his paintings. Headds sunset brilliant colors for the background,then black primitivistic silhouettes outlined anddetailed in white for the characters. The effect issimilar to East Indian shadow puppets.Surrounding each picture is a patterned border.The pilgrimage to Mecca and the passage,“placing Man among—not above—all livingthings,” espouses non-Christian theology.Choose this title if a wide range of African talesis needed for an African heritage study.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.My teacher likes to say / by DeniseBrennan-Nelson ; illustrated by JaneMonroe Donovan. LCCN 2003025872.Chelsea, Mich. : Sleeping Bear Press,2004.HBB, 1585362123, list cost: $15.95.428.1. English language—Idioms—Juvenileliterature; Figures of speech—Juvenile literature;English language—Idioms; Figures of speech. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill.; 27 cm.Grades PS-5. Rating : 4.Just what do those odd sayings like “PleaseButton Your Lip” and “The Early Bird Gets theWorm” really mean? Author Denise Brennan-Nelson has compiled a delightful array of oldmaxims, adages, idioms, and proverbs forprimary and middle grade readers, and providesa sidenote explanation for each of the selectedsayings next to the chipper little verse she hasdevised for each featured expression. JaneMonroe Donovan contributes to the frocklisomenature of the book with realistic renderings of aclassroom of students experiencing the possibleliteral meaning of each cliché and maximmentioned. The result is playful look at some ofC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONthe oddities of the English language, one bothteachers and students can share.The author and illustrator have put together alearning tool with more than a healthy pinch offun, creating an amusing, as well as educationalway to take a quick look at some of the oddphrases of the English language. Although thistitle is in picture book form, it is one of thosecrossover books that older students will want toread as well, providing a readership audience ofkindergarten through at least fifth grade. Basingthe models on actual children lends a nicerealistic touch, along with the running motif ofincluding animals throughout the book to keepreaders smiling as they learn what it means toput on their thinking caps and getting their earlybird worms.Pam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.A Greek alphabetarion : a primer forteaching how read, write, & pronounceancient & biblical Greek / by HarveyBluedorn. 5th ed.Muscatine, Ia. : TriviumPursuit, 2004.PAP, 0974361690, list cost: $25.00.487/.4. Greek language, biblical. 158 p. ; 23 cm.CR-ROM included.Grades 3-Adult. Rating : 4.Do you wonder if learning Greek is worthwhile?Harvey Bluedorn answers, “Yes, Greek isworthwhile.” Greek sharpens the mind, thelanguage is useful for serving the Lord, andstudying Greek is a preparation for revival. Thenext question: Can you learn Greek? Bluedornanswers once again, “Yes!” He describes AGreek Alphabetarion as “an easy start withGreek.” Students of all ages will study eachGreek letter, in both the book and theaccompanying CD. Then, they will transliteratewords, and read selected biblical passages.Part three, the Greek Phonetic system foradvanced students (who are at least ten yearsold), includes mutes, semi-vowels, and a chartof Greek phonetics. An appendix, “The Historyof Languages,” includes Japhetic languages,Hellenistic Greek, and biblical Greek.Bluedorn believes typical Greek grammars“devote very little time or space to teachingGreek literacy. Instead, they expect students tomaster Greek literacy while they are studyingGreek grammar.” This is possibly true, in someinstances. I did not note that problem, however,as I enjoyed Greek in seminary. A GreekAlphabetarion could smooth the way. Irecommend this book as the first step to seriousstudy…especially for anyone overwhelmed bylanguages.A Greek Alphabetarion can be followed byHomeschool Greek—a Thorough Self-TeachingGrammar of biblical Greek (Trivium Pursuit,1998). Homeschooling is a major focus of theBluedorns. You’ll enjoy meeting the family—and pets—at www.triviumpursuit.com.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.ABC science riddles / by Barbara Saffer ;illustrated by Jennifer Johnson Haywood.LCCN 00068107. Columbus, N.C. : PeelProductions, 2001.HBB, 0939217554, list cost: $13.95.500. Science—Miscellanea—Juvenile literature;Riddles, Juvenile; Science—Miscellanea; Riddles;Alphabet. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 22 x 26 cm.ABC math riddles / by Jannelle Martin ;illustrated by Freddie Levin. LCCN2003001750. Columbus, N.C. : PeelProductions, 2003.HBB, 0939217570, list cost: $13.95.510/.1/4. Mathematics—Terminology—Juvenileliterature; Riddles—Juvenile literature; Riddles. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 21 cm.Grades 1-5. Rating : 4.Just looking at the brightly colored dust jacketsof ABC Science Riddles and ABC Math Riddlessuggests exciting times. Quality paper, goodbinding, neat riddles, and fascinatingillustrations make a quality product.Barbara Saffer wrote ABC Science Riddles.Each page includes wonderful drawings byJennifer Johnson Haywood. Riddles, in rhymeform, are superimposed on the illustrations.Each letter of the alphabet merits one page. D isrepresented by diamond, a “tough hardsubstance that can cut through steel and bone.”Y is represented by yeast that “can turn corn intobeer and change grapes into wine.” The answerto the letter “M” riddle is meteorite. The riddlebeings:The letter M begins my name.From outer space I hail.I cross the sky with streams of light,As down to earth I sail….Jannelle Martin wrote ABC Math Riddles.Freddie Levin illustrated the book with cutedrawings. Advertising for ABC Math Riddlescorrectly suggested the riddles will “challengeyou to match letters and sounds, think logically,and expand your knowledge of math…andthey’re fun!” Two squirrels on the B page areclearly sharing acorns. The top of the page readsb__ __ __ __ w. The rhyme begins, “B is mybeginning and W is my end. Useful insubtracting, I’m the opposite of lend.”These selections are recommended for gradeschool math and science students. Even afterthe answers are well memorized, the books willprovide a good time. Both selections offer greatopportunities for adult and child interactions.Other titles in the ABC series include ABCAnimal Riddles, ABC Nature Riddles, ABCSchool Riddles, ABC All-American Riddles, andAlphabet Riddles.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Scholastic atlas of oceans. LCCN2004056636. New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439561280, list cost: $18.95.551.46. Ocean—Juvenile literature; Oceanography—Juvenile literature. 96 p. : col. ill., col. maps ; 28 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.With bold colors and full page 9”x11”illustrations, young readers are invited toexplore the ocean. Pages offer a look at the fivegeographical separations of the world’s oceans:Pacific, Arctic, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, alongwith what is to be found at the bottom of theocean and how the ocean is changing. Close to30 pages are devote to the inhabitants of thesewaters. A closing section covers greatnavigators, underwater discoveries, technology,pollution, and endangered species. An indexand glossary serve to deepen awareness ofoceanic facts and terms.Fact boxes offer cool trivia to encouragechildren to keep reading. This title deserves aplace in all public and school libraries and issure to be enjoyed and used. Those having TheAtlas of the Oceans (Cooper Beech, 2001) canupdate with confidence.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.What do you do with a tail like this? /Steve Jenkins & Robin Page. LCCN2002011673. Boston : Houghton Mifflin,2003.HBB, 0618256288, list cost: $15.00.573.8/7. Sense organs—Juvenile literature;Animals—Physiology; Animals—Miscellanea;Questions and answers. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 26cm.Grades K-2. Rating : 4.In What Do You Do with a Tail Like This, SteveJenkins & Robin Page repeat the title questionabout not only tails, but also noses, ears, eyes,feet, and mouths of animals. The introductorypage for each question contains close up viewsof the animals featured body part. On eachpage, following the question, the answer isgiven for five animals from insects to mammalsthat live around the world. This time theanimal’s complete body is portrayed. Thirtyanimals are included. Additional informationabout each animal such as habitat, size, and foodis appended. Cut and torn paper collage createthe illustrations.Jenkins was presented a Caldecott Honor Awardin 2004 for this title. Jenkins uses a wide varietyof papers: tissue, fuzzy, construction,marbleized for parts and pieces of the animalsand their appendages. The details and layerscreate realistic animals. Amazing. AlthoughM A R C H 2 0 0 5 2 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONbeautifully illustrated, the useful place of thebook in a library or classroom or homecollection is questioned, especially for a smallcollection. There is too much appendedinformation for the young, and too littleinformation for research. Even the informationafter each question is too lengthy for the youngand too skimpy for older children. A teacher orstoryteller could use this title as part of athematic presentation. Check other titlesillustrated by Jenkins: Actual Size and Next Stop,Neptune (both Houghton Mifflin, 2004, forexample. Jenkins has developed a distinct styleworth watching. The paper layering collage issimilar to David Wisnewski’s, but with lessdetail and more interesting papers.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The case of the monkeys that fell from thetrees and other mysteries in tropicalnature / by Susan E. Quinlan. LCCN2002108914. Honesdale, Pa. : Boyds Mills,2003.HBB, 1563979020, list cost: $15.95.577.34. Forest ecology—Tropics—Juvenile literature;Rain forest ecology; Ecology; Tropics. 171 p. : ill.,map ; 25 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.In The Case of the Monkeys That Fell from theTree, author illustrator Susan Quinlan haswritten a multi-faceted book: one about tropicalrainforests of the Americas, one about how fieldscientists work and think, and one about ecologyand conservation. The first two and last twochapters generally reference the tropical forest,while the remaining chapters describe scientificmysteries and how they were solved. Scientistspose questions, make observations, study clues,set up experiments, and find new and surprisinganswers to such questions as why did monkeysfall from trees, how do ants protect plants, andwhere do poison-dart frogs get their poison. Achapter-by-chapter bibliography is appended, asis an extensive index. Ms. Quinlan also did thedrawings, which are reproduced in grays andblacks.Ms. Quinlan has written a very readablenonfiction book. The writing is clear andprecise yet filled with interesting data. Thisbook would make an excellent read aloud tointroduce students to the tropical forest or togive students a snippet of how scientists workand think. A student considering a career infield biology should find each mystery andcareful solution another reason to become ascientist—it’s exciting work in Ms. Quinlan’seyes. Readers may also want to try MsQuinlan’s earlier scientific mystery title, TheCase of the Mummified Pig and Other Mysteriesin Nature (Boyds Mills, 1995). The Case of theMonkeys… is a unique natural history read, butnot a book for easy student research.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Tooth and claw : animal adventures in theworld / Ted Lewin. LCCN 2002004588.New York : HarperCollins, 2003.HBB, 0688141056, list cost: $15.99.590. Lewin, Ted—Travel—Juvenile literature; Lewin,Ted; Wildlife watching—Juvenile literature;Dangerous animals—Juvenile literature; Wildlifewatching; Dangerous animals; Animals—Habits andbehavior; Voyages and travels. xi, 97 p. : ill., maps ;24 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 4.In Tooth and Claw, Ted Lewin selects fourteenencounters he, his wife, and friends have hadwith wild animals on their many travels aroundthe world. Each animal segment includes a maplocating where the encounter occurred, apersonal narrative about the encounter, plus anauthor’s note in which factual details about theanimal are enunciated. Animals included are:sea lions, grizzlies, red howler monkeys, blackbears, tigers, chimps, polar bears, bison, timberrattlesnakes, raccoons, dung beetles, bull sharks,African elephants, and puff adders. Mr. Lewinencountered these animals while traveling inSouth America, several U.S. states, Canada,Africa, and India. The book is illustrated withgray tone reproductions of his drawings andwatercolors and photos. A map of his travelsand a glossary are included.Fascinating, lively first-person writing thatwould be fun to read aloud when students arestudying a particular animal or country. Mr.Lewin’s writing draws the reader into a “you arethere” situation. Just enough facts are shared ineach author’s note to pique the reader’s interestin finding out more about the unusual animals.In spite of all of its favorable traits, the title isanother one of those difficult to sell anthologies.Few students pick up anthologies: they’re toothick, yet don’t give sufficient information forresearch. Or, students want to use one chapterfor a book report, and teachers refuse a reportfrom one chapter. Perhaps most successfullyused as a read aloud. Not an essential purchase.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Arctic lights, Arctic nights / Debbie S.Miller ; illustrations by Jon Van Zyle.LCCN 2002191047. New York : Walker &Co., 2003.HBB, 0802788564, list cost: $16.95.591.4/0911/3. Zoology—Arctic regions—Juvenileliterature; Zoology—Arctic regions; Arctic regions—Climate—Juvenile literature; Arctic regions. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill., col. map ; 27 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 5.Debbie Miller and Jon Van Zyle, Alaskaresidents, collaborate again. The twenty-first ofeach month is represented in twelve doublepagespreads of word and picture. An animalnative and its habitat represent each month.Miller describes what the animals would bedoing during that month and how the extent oflight and dark would affect that wildlife. Acrossthe top of each page in a three-quarter inch strip,Mr. Van Zyle graphically portrays the amount oflight and dark through the year. Also, across thetop of each page are the date, hours of daylight,times of sunrise and sunset, and the average highand low temperatures. Jon Van Zyle created histwo-page pictures using acrylic-on-Masonite. Aglossary with thorough definitions is appended.Ms Miller explains how she was inspired towrite the book in the introduction that alsoincludes a map of Alaska.Miller and Van Zyle have created an informativeand visually stimulating text. Ms Miller writesabout seasons, daylight and darkness, the Arctic,and Arctic wildlife in well-organized,informative, and lyrical prose. Van Zyle is theofficial artist of the Iditarod. His illustrations,especially the skies, are so detailed and vividlycolored that they almost glow. The scenes forNovember, December, and January areespecially effective. The result is a book inwhich the text and illustration are in perfectsynchrony. Another book, which this team haswritten and is equally well, done, is The GreatSerum Race (Walker, 2002). Teachers will wantto include the title in units about the arctic,Iditarod, and seasons. Librarians will want toread this nonfiction book aloud which thereviewer did with a group of third graders. Theywere spellbound and watched the lines ofdaylight and details about sunrise and sunset andtemperatures with fascination. A must have.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Spinning spiders / by Melvin Berger ;illustrated by S.D. Schindler. (Let’s-readand-find-outscience. Stage 2.) LCCN2001039507. New York : HarperCollins,2003.HBB, 0060286962, list cost: $15.99.595.4/4. Spiders—Juvenile literature; Spiders. 32 p. :col. ill. ; 21 x 27 cm.Grades K-2. Rating : 5.Melvin Berger succinctly and clearly explainsthe differences between spiders and insects withwhich spiders are often confused. He continuesby pointing out that spiders are the onlyarachnids that spin webs, and then describes indetail how the spinnerets work, how the webshelp catch insects for spiders’ food, and otheruses for webs. Finally he discusses the types ofwebs spiders create: funnel, platform, orb, andthe unique webs of the ogre-faced and bolaspiders. He concludes the book by mentioningspiders, which don’t spin webs like the tarantulaand the importance of spiders in the world. Thebook is part of the Let’s-Read-and-Find-OutScience, Level 2 series. Recommendations forfurther study via websites and directions forcreating your own web craft are appended. S. D.Schindler has drawn full-color detailedillustrations.Berger and Schindler have combined to create athorough yet easy-to-read book about a highC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONinterest topic for primary students. The text islucid and very well organized. Schindler’sclose-up, often double page spreads includedetails of specific spiders. The quality ofartwork in this book surpasses most in thisseries. The best easy-to-read spider book I haverecently read.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The world of insect life / Gerald Legg. (Aninside look.) LCCN 2002019064.Milwaukee, Wis. : Gareth Stevens, 2002.HBB, 08368231799, list cost: $23.93.595.7. Insects—Juvenile literature; Insects. 48 p. :col. ill. ; 31 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.The World of Insect Life, by Gerald Legg,includes colorful cutaway illustrations. Specialgroupings help budding entomologists compareinsect mouthparts, wing types, and methods ofdefense. Four drawings nicely illustrate embryodevelopment. Bees and ants rate specialsections. In addition, certain niche habitats arehighlighted: rain forest life, insects in water,woodland life, and desert insects.Many helpful features make this book a goodchoice for home schoolers, libraries, andfamilies. Easy-to-read print, meshed with brightpictures, would attract people with visionproblems. A glossary defines exoskeleton,rhabdom, and other relevant words. Readerswill be encouraged to find other resources in thebook list, video list, and suggested web sites.This introductory book is a fine springboard tojump into the fascinating world of buzzing andcrawling creatures.A vivid drawing shows the mating of two brightgreen and yellow longhorn beetles. The textmentions sperm, ovary, and uterus.The author simply writes about everything fromgrasshoppers to bombardier beetles. The Worldof Insects is from the series, An Inside Look.Other titles include Discovering Prehistory, TheWorld of Flight, and Inside the Human Body.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Everything bug : what kids really want toknow about insects and spiders / by CherieWinner. (Kids’ FAQs series.) LCCN2003048761. Chanhassen, Minn. :NorthWord, 2004.HBB, 1559718900, list cost: $10.95.595.7. Insects—Miscellanea—Juvenile literature;Spiders—Miscellanea—Juvenile literature; Insects—Miscellanea; Spiders—Miscellanea; Questions andanswers. 63 p. : col. ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 4.In an excellent installment of the new Kids’FAQs series, Cherie Winner relates informationabout insects and spiders in a question-andanswerstyle. Winner answers 28 questions,includes print and electronic resources for moreinformation, and even relates “tall tales aboutbugs.” The text and presentation will engagereaders of many levels and for a variety ofreasons. Students using the book for reports orspecific information will use the explicit table ofcontents to access information, while othersmay just read straight through.The photographs are engrossing and shouldfascinate even early readers. Althoughcontributed by many photographers, the flow oftext and photo is excellent. This title will appealto many users and be read often!Recommended.Carol M. Jones, MLIS. Children’s Librarian, Mt. Vernon, Georgia.Fabulous fluttering tropical butterflies /Dorothy Hinshaw Patent ; illustrations byKendahl Jan Jubb. LCCN 2002024982.New York : Walker & Co., 2003.HBB, 0802788386, list cost: $16.95.595.78/9/0913. Butterflies—Tropics—Juvenileliterature; Rain forest animals—Juvenile literature;Butterflies; Rain forest animals. 1 v. (unpaged) ; col.ill. ; 24 x 26 cm.Grades 1-3. Rating : 3.This colorfully illustrated butterfly book may bedivided into three segments: general butterflycharacteristics including the lifecycle and wingpigmentation or lack of, five categories oftropical butterflies, and butterfly houses. Thereader will find general information aboutmorphos, longwings, swallowtails, birdwings,and owl butterflies. Endpapers include a worldmap superimposed with selected tropicalbutterflies. Appended is an index of butterfliesillustrated in the book plus their scientificnames. Fellow Montanan Kendahl Jan Jubbuses bright watercolor paintings to represent thelisted butterflies.Ms. Patent and Ms. Jubb attempted much in thisslim book. The title hints that the major topic istropical butterflies, yet one third of the book isjust generalities about butterflies: lifecycle,pigmentation, and food. Since little abouttropical butterflies is available for this agegroup, and the children are fascinated with theunusual coloration and markings of the tropicalbutterflies, more information in this area isdesired. The information about butterfly housesseems to be an add-on, but provides informationnot readily found for the target age. Theillustrations are gloriously vibrant, but thebutterfly depiction only representational, notrealistic. Just as they would be in the tropicalrainforest, some butterflies are almostcamouflaged in the background. More wasexpected from this author. Added purchasewhere needed.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Wild horses / Julia Vogel ; illustrations byMike Rowe. (Our wild world.) LCCN2003059973. Chanhassen, Minn. :NorthWord Press, 2004.HBB, 1559718811, list cost: $10.95.599.665/5. Wild horses—Juvenile literature; Wildhorses; Horses. 47 p. : col. ill. ; 23 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 5.As part of the series, Our Wild World, WildHorses addresses a much-loved subject forprimary readers. As one of only a few texts onnon-domestic horses, this text fills a void that isoften not addressed for younger readers. Thiswell-written title will prove useful withphotographs of horses in action, diagrams of theskull and hoof, FunFacts, internet sites, and adetailed index.Rowe’s photographs communicate motion,varied terrain, expressions, various ages, coattextures, and other activities of wild horses.Excellent in scope and description, the text andphotographs will engage readers of many agesand for recreational and instructional purposes.Recommended.Carol M. Jones, MLIS. Children’s Librarian, Mt. Vernon, Georgia.Eyes and ears / Seymour Simon. LCCN2002019060. New York : HarperCollins,2003.HBB, 0688153038, list cost: $15.99.612.8/4. Eye—Juvenile literature.; Ear—Juvenileliterature.; Eye; Ear; Vision; Hearing; Senses andsensation. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 3-5. Rating : 5.Two of our sensory organs, eyes and ears, aredescribed in this visual nonfiction title. Bothanatomy and physiology are included. Roughlytwo-thirds of the book is devoted to the eye, andthe remainder to the ear. Mr. Seymour beginswith an overview of how our brain receives lightand sound signals, then continues with thespecific anatomy of each organ, adds detailsabout how each organ works, and summarizeswith a paragraph about how the brain puts all theinformation received from eyes and earstogether in order to see and hear. Full colorphotographs and digitized computer imagesgive the reader an inside and outside view ofeach organ. Labeled diagrams enhance thediscussion of the anatomy. Several interactiveexperiments are included in the eye segment.Seymour Simon has developed a signature stylefor his nonfiction books for intermediateelementary grades: one full-page photo matchedwith text on the opposite page. Even the squareshape indicates a Simon book. He has a knackfor using correct scientific terms and definingthose terms within the sentence. Readers will befascinated with the activities explaining theblind spot, how the eye sees color, and opticalillusions. Lack of an index and or glossary is aminor criticism of this text as it is with his othertitles. Credits are given for the photos anddiagrams on the verso of the title page, but creditM A R C H 2 0 0 5 2 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONon the page where the illustration is locatedwould be useful. Another clear, interestingscience book from prolific Mr. Simon.Definitely the best book on this topic for this agelevel.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Flying over the USA : airplanes inAmerican life / Martin W. Sandler.(American transportation.) LCCN2003017876. New York : Oxford, 2004.LIB, 0195132319, list cost: $19.95.629.13/0973. Aeronautics—United States—History—Juvenile literature; Airplanes—History—Juvenileliterature; Air travel—United States—History—Juvenile literature; Aeronautics; Airplanes—History;Air travel. 61 p. : ill. (some col.), map ; 21 x 27 cm.Grades 3-7. Rating : 5.The Transportation in America series revealshow the horse, trolley, ship, railroad,automobile, and airplane transformed the UnitedStates. Each volume is illustrated with full coloror black and white photographs, paintings,drawings, posters, timetables, sheet musiccovers, and original works. Manuscripts includefascinating sidebars on the initiatives of each ofthese travel technology transport fields. This isa library-bound six volume series that coverstopics of water, air, and land travel across thisnation.Flying was once sport for thrill seekers andadventurers, but today it is an essential part ofeveryday life. Beginning with the late 1890’sand the first American “would-be aviators,” tothe fighter planes of today, Martin Sandlertraces a nation’s history in conquering theillusive sport of flight. The author is anaccomplished author and teacher of junior highand high school American studies.Over thirty beautiful full-color or black andwhite illustrations give readers an extensivelook at pioneers, genius inventors, early aviationdisappointments, daring pilots, and an evolutionof an industry that was to change modern lifeforever. The text outlines heroes of aviation andhow air travel impacted the visions of ourcountry and our world. The “Airplane at Work”is a section that reveals how aviation has exertedan effort to improve the quality of our lives witheverything from parcel delivery to stormwatching. Looking towards future challenges,this book is filled with sidebars and illustrationcaptions that add points of interest to the text.There is a timeline, recommendations for“Places to Visit,” and a bibliography for“Further Reading.” Recommend this book forAmerican studies teachers and elementary socialstudy students interested in learning thefundamentals of aviation history.Rebecca Cress-Ingebo, MSN, MLS. Academic Librarian,Beavercreek, Ohio.Top secret: a handbook of codes, ciphers,and secret writing / Paul B. Janeczko ;illustrated by Jenna LaReau. LCCN2002034758. Cambridge, Ma. :Candlewick Press, 2004.HBB, 0763609714, list cost: $16.99.652/.8. Cryptography—Juvenile literature; Ciphers—Juvenile literature; Cryptography; Ciphers. 136 p. :ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 4.Should you accept this mission... For your eyesonly... Classified Information... These andother espionage images immediately get readersin the ready for the world of spies and secretagents. Paul Janeczko, a longtime recognizedpoet and editor of anthologies for young people,turns his attention and talents to the ongoinginterest young readers have for the language ofsecret agents: codes. Readers will not only learnhow to crack a code, they will learn how tocreate their own codes, and will discover thelong and fascinating history of many famouscodes throughout time. Jenna LaReau’s sketchypenciled illustrations add humor to the text,helping to convey both a sense of fun andseriousness to the subject at hand.Janeczko, respected writer and teacher, providesa well-written handbook about codes.Combining history lessons, along with a varietyof code puzzles to try, readers will gain not onlymore knowledge about writing encoded secrets,but will have fun in the process. There are manyinteresting code history tidbits in the bookranging from how our founding fathers keptvital knowledge out of enemy hands to howliterary greats Edgar Allan Poe and Sir ArthurConan Doyle used them in their stories.Pam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.*Silent night, holy night / written by MyrnaStrasser ; illustrated by Guy Porfirio.(Traditions of faith.) LCCN 2004000318.Grand Rapids : Zonderkidz, 2004.HBB, 0310706726, list cost: $15.99.782.28/1723. Gruber, Franz Xaver, 1787-1863. StilleNacht, heilige Nacht—Juvenile literature; Carols—History and criticism—Juvenile literature. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.Grades K-2. Rating : *5.Providing Grandpa Strasser with hot cocoa anda rocking chair by the warm fire, the Strasserchildren perform a play for him, ending in hisfavorite song, “Silent Night.” Grandpa ispleased and begins to relate the history of thissong and how another set of Strasser children,relatives from long ago, made it famous. A poorpastor from a small Austrian village is given apoem, later put to music, on the way home fromblessing one of his paritioners’ newborn babies.The poem becomes the song “Silent Night,” ismemorized by the Strasser children, and sungfar and wide, even before the King of Prussia.Silent Night, Holy Night, from Traditions ofFaith series, written by Myrna Strasser andillustrated by Guy Porfirio, is a cozy Christmastale with a European flavor that adds to thetraditional feel of the holiday. Each full-pageillustration is infused with light, color, andfamily appeal. Myrna Strasser, a descendant ofthe original singing Strassers, adds the passionof a very personal tale to the professionalism ofher background as a teacher and broadcastannouncer at WDLM, through the Moody BibleInstitute. Guy Porfirio is known for his colorful,full-page, greeting-card-style oil painting,illustrations that add pleasing visual aides tobeloved tales like Happy Birthday, America! byMarsha Wilson Chall (HarperCollins, 2000) andThe Littlest Angel, an updated version of CharlesTazewell’s 1946 account of a small angel with abig heart (Ideals Publications, 2004). Alsoadded are caroling activity ideas and a graphicof the original music piece. Highlyrecommended for all Christmas picture bookcollections. Reading this title aloud could be anice addition to family traditions.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The great serum race : blazing theIditarod Trail / Debbie S. Miller ;illustrations by Jon Van Zyle. LCCN2001056777. New York : Walker & Co.,2002.HBB, 0802788114, list cost: $17.95.798.8/3/09798. Iditarod (Race)—Juvenile literature;Iditarod (Race); Sled dogs—Alaska—Juvenileliterature; Mushers—Alaska—Juvenile literature;Diphtheria—Alaska—Nome—Juvenile literature;Diphtheria antitoxin—Juvenile literature; Togo (Dog);Balto (Dog); Sled dogs; Siberian husky; Dogs;Iditarod National Historic Trail (Alaska)—History—Juvenile literature; Alaska—History—1867-1959. 1 v.(unpaged) : ill. (chiefly col.), col. maps ; 23 x 29 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 4.In the winter of 1925 Nome, Alaska, was struckby an outbreak of diphtheria. The doctorrecommended the entire town be quarantined tohelp stop the spread of the infectious disease.However, the only way to completely stop thespread was the use of an antitoxin serum; theonly available supply was 1,000 treacheroussnowy, icy miles away. A relay of dogsleds andtrain was arranged to deliver the necessaryserum.In The Great Serum Race Jon Van Zyle createstwo-page acrylic-on-Masonite spreads. Theendpapers feature a map of the route taken bythe dogsleds. Appendices include a list of theserum run mushers, their segment and distance;stories about featured dogs; Iditarod racebackground; and a bibliography.Debbie Miller and Jon Van Zyle have combinedto create an informative and visually stimulatingtext. Both author and illustrator live in Alaskaand have immediate experience with theAlaskan culture. In fact, Van Zyle is the officialartist of the Iditarod. His illustrations are soC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONdetailed, so vividly colored using cold blues andwhites, that one shivers when reading the text.Ms. Miller has written a lengthy completepicture book for older children. Thepresentation of the story is exciting andcompelling. However, the chronology of eachdog and each sled becomes methodical. Booksabout individual dogs, Balto and Togo, areavailable, but The Great Serum Race provides amore comprehensive picture. Many studentsstudy the Iditarod in conjunction with readingGardiner’s Stone Fox (Crowell, 1980). Forthem, this title will be a valuable resource.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Hello sunshine, good night moonlight /illustrated by John Wallace. LCCN2003014243. New York : Harry N.Abrams, 2004.HBB, 0810948346, list cost: $14.95.811.008/09282. Children’s poetry, American;Children’s poetry, English; Children’s poetry—Translations into English; American poetry—Collections; English poetry—Collections. 32 p. : ill. ;28 cm.Grades PS-2. Rating : 4.This delightful collection of rousing rhymes tosoothing lullabies celebrates a child’s day. Itspositive adventure highlights the possibilitieseach day presents featuring a variety of poemsby Margaret Wise Brown, Robert LouisStevenson, Eleanor Farjeon, and at least 18other poets. Each of the 8 by 10.5 inch formatpages is illustrated with figures and images thatrelate to the poem and day’s activity.The 31 poems creatively follow a day fromwaking up to sleep. The poems enhance thetime a child and parent spend together as thepoems chosen make a masterful journey inpoetic sound (and are all the better for beingread aloud) and logical celebration of whattranspires in a day. Humorous topics arefollowed by more reflective ones. Makes awonderful companion title to The Sky Is Full ofSong by Lee Bennett Hopkins (Harper Collins,1983).Recommended for public and school librarychildren collections. Homeschooling familiesand parents seeking a title to enjoy with youngones will find this enriching and enjoyable.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Harlem : a poem / by Walter Dean Myers; pictures by Christopher Myers. LCCN96008108. New York : Scholastic, 1997.HBB, 0590543407, list cost: $16.95.811.54. African Americans—Juvenile poetry;Children’s poetry, American; African Americans—Poetry; American poetry; Harlem (New York, N.Y.)—Juvenile poetry; Harlem (New York, N.Y.)—Poetry. 1v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 32 cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 5.From the shores of Africa, to the plantations ofthe South, via the Underground Railroad, norththey came seeking liberty. Harlem promises abetter life to those with broken dreams andhearts sore from holding onto hope. In thisplace, crowded with bold sights, scents, andsounds, no apology is needed for the color of aman’s skin. Gospel combines with street music,children play in water spraying from a firehydrant, a young couple rides the “A” train.Life spills forth from pages filled with peoplereaching for freedom behind chain fences, onasphalt streets, among high-rise buildings.Harlem : A Poem, written by Walter DeanMyers and illustrated by Christopher Myers, is a1998 Caldecott Honor Book. The oversizedbook with bold text and images emphasizes thecomplexity of a culture with unlimited potentialand creativity, soaked in social limitations.Walter Dean Myers expresses the depth andbreadth of African-American history in brief,poetic rhythm. Christopher Myers’ illustrations,disjointed like the journey they represent, are acombination of ink, gouache, and collage.Although some of the key personalities andplaces mentioned will escape the youngest ofreaders’ focus, the dimensions of poem mergewith the layers of graphics to create a pleasingread for a variety of ages. Recommended for alllibraries.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.We are the many : a picture book ofAmerican Indians / by Doreen Rappaport; illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright andYing-Hwa Hu. LCCN 2001039820. NewYork : HarperCollins, 2002.HBB, 0688165591, list cost: $15.99.970.004/97/00922. Indians of North America—Biography—Juvenile literature; Indians of NorthAmerica—History—Juvenile literature; Indians ofNorth America—Biography; Indians of NorthAmerica—History. 28 p. : col. ill. ; 27 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 3.Doreen Rappaport selects sixteen NativeAmericans to feature in this collected biography.Native Americans represented are arrangedchronologically from Tisquantum (Squanto) toSherman Alexie, a current writer. Rappaport haschosen people from a variety of groups andoccupations such as: Omaha and Dr. Susan LaFlesche Picotte, Wyandot and the Conley sistersone of whom was a lawyer, Shoshone and guideSacajawea. Several, like Jim Thorpe andSacajawea, are well known, but most are littleknown. Each biography is one page long and recreatesone moment in that person’s life. Abibliography of “Research Sources” and “Booksfor Young Readers” plus websites is appended,as is a pronunciation guide. An introduction andafterward provide valuable insight into Ms.Rappaport’s and Mr. Van Wright’s and Ms. Hu’sthinking about the people and their times. VanWright and Hu, a husband and wife team,painted one full-color watercolor perbiographee, making this an illustrated book.This title, like many other collected biographiesand anthologies, is schizophrenic. Experiencehas told me this is a title that will be missedduring library browsing and not suitable forresearch. It may, however, provide inspirationfor further study or a quick read aloud whenstudying an individual Native American orgroup. In fact, Rappaport suggests that we“think of this book as the start of your journey tolearning about American Indians.” Theillustrations are beautiful, well researchedwatercolors similar to Jerry Pinkney’s. Considerindividual biographies, or have your studentsuse a paper or online encyclopedia for anyresearch.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Pennsylvania / by Joyce Hart. (It’s mystate!) LCCN 2003020341. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416919, list cost: $27.97.974.8. Pennsylvania—Juvenile literature;Pennsylvania. 80 p. : ill., maps ; 26 cm.South Carolina / by Debra Hess. (It’s mystate!) LCCN 2003020350. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416900, list cost: $27.97.975.7. South Carolina—Juvenile literature; SouthCarolina. 80 p. : ill., maps ; 26 cm.Kansas / by David C. King. (It’s my state!)LCCN 2003020342. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416889, list cost: $27.97.978.1. Kansas—Juvenile literature; Kansas. 80 p. :ill., maps ; 26 cm.North Dakota / by Doug Sanders. (It’s mystate!) LCCN 2003020343. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416870, list cost: $27.97.978.4. North Dakota—Juvenile literature; NorthDakota. 80 p. : ill., maps ; 26 cm.Arizona / by Kathleen Derzipilski. (It’smy state!) LCCN 2003020349. New York: Benchmark, 2003.HBB, 0761416862, list cost: $27.97.979.1. Arizona—Juvenile literature; Arizona. 80 p. :ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.Titles in the It’s My State! series survey thehistory, geography, government, economy, anddiverse ways of life among the people of a state.Each title opens with a quick glance at the statewith photo of the state’s tree, bird, flower, andother features unique to that state. Chapters dealwith the state plants and animals, importantdates, its people, how government works, andunique aspects of the state. Libraries having theCelebrate the States Series (MarshallCavendish, 2001) will find this series havingmore detail and written with some languagemore inviting to 11 and 12 year olds.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 2 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONThe historic photos used, and the colorillustrations and inserts lend easy pacing for thereading. An index and bibliography areincluded. Children are included in many of thephotos and these photos add to the text ratherthan just accompany it.School libraries may find English and socialstudies teachers benefiting from its addition tothe collection. Public libraries can add for itsattractive layout, providing an interestingapproach, and wealth of material covered in 80pages. The variety of author contributing lendsspice to the series overall.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Projects about the plains Indians / MarianBroida. (Hands-on history.) LCCN2002155873. New York : Benchmark,2004.HBB, 0761416013, list cost: $27.07.978.004/9752. Handicraft; Indians of NorthAmerica—Great Plains—Juvenile literature; Indiancraft—Juvenile literature; Indians of North America—Great Plains; Indian craft; Indian craft. 48 p. : col. ill.,col. maps ; 24 cm.Projects about Indians of the southwest /Marian Broida. (Hands-on history.)LCCN 2002155874. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416021, list cost: $27.07.979.004/97. Handicraft; Indians of North America—Southwest, New—Juvenile literature; Indian craft—Juvenile literature; Indians of North America—Southwest, New; Indian craft. 48 p. : col. ill., col.maps ; 24 cm.Projects about westward expansion /Marian Broida. (Hands-on history.)LCCN 2003001934. New York :Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761416048, list cost: $27.07.979.5/03. Handicraft; Frontier and pioneer life—United States—Study and teaching—Activityprograms—Juvenile literature; Frontier and pioneerlife—West (U.S.)—Study and teaching—Activityprograms—Juvenile literature; Activity programs—Juvenile literature; Frontier and pioneer life; UnitedStates—Territorial expansion—Study and teaching—Activity programs—Juvenile literature; West (U.S.)—History—Study and teaching—Activity programs—Juvenile literature; United States—Territorialexpansion; West (U.S.)—History. 48 p. : col. ill., col.maps ; 24 cm.Projects about colonial life / MarianBroida. (Hands-on history.) LCCN2003001939. New York : Benchmark,2004.HBB, 076141603X, list cost: $27.07.973.2. Handicraft; United States—Social life andcustoms—To 1775—Study and teaching—Activityprograms—Juvenile literature; United States—History—Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775—Study andteaching—Activity programs—Juvenile literature;United States—Social life and customs—To 1775;United States—History—Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775. 48 p. : col. ill., col. maps ; 24 cm.Projects about plantation life / MarianBroida. (Hands-on history.) LCCN2003003822. New York : Benchmark,2004.HBB, 0761416056, list cost: $27.07.975/.03. Handicraft; Plantation life—SouthernStates—History—18th century—Study and teaching—Activity programs—Juvenile literature; Plantationlife—Southern States—History—19th century—Studyand teaching—Activity programs—Juvenile literature;Slaves—Southern States—Social life and customs—Study and teaching—Activity programs—Juvenileliterature; Plantation owners—Southern States—Sociallife and customs—Study and teaching—Activityprograms—Juvenile literature; Plantation life—Southern States; Southern States—Social life andcustoms—1775-1865—Study and teaching—Activityprograms—Juvenile literature; Southern States—Social life and customs—1775-1865. 48 p. : col. ill.,col. maps ; 24 cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 4.Part of the Hands-on History series, these booksprovide activities to supplement the schoolcurriculum in each of the title areas. The booksall use a “you-are-there” approach, treating thereader as if he is visiting the time period beingdiscussed. After a short introduction in thisfashion, Marian Broida gives numerousactivities which attempt to replicate somethingfrom the time period. The books are illustratedwith historical paintings, drawings, maps, andfigures to go with the activities. Each book endswith a glossary of terms which may beunfamiliar; a metric conversion chart; web sites,fiction and nonfiction books to consult for moreinformation; and an index.In Projects About The Plains Indians, the readerwill have a chance to discover more about theCheyenne, the Lakota, and the Hidatsa. Some ofthe activities include a matching game on theuses of buffalo parts, constructing a model tipi,cooking pemmican, and growing a sunflower.There are ten activities in all. One problem withthis book is that text explaining a map and themap do not match in their color designations.Marian Broida introduces the reader to AncientPueblo People, the Navajo, and the Hopi and theZuni in Projects About American Indians of theSouthwest. This book has nine activitiesincluding: Navajo weaving, rock painting, Hopipottery, and a Zuni garden. Living in this part ofthe country, I found several minor errors in thebook which suggest research was not asthorough as it should have been.Projects About Westward Expansion has nineactivities which help bring the period to life forthe reader. Activities include: Johnnycake, acovered wagon, and growing beans.Readers will be introduced to colonial life inProjects About Colonial Life. Marian Broidadivided the book into Northern Colonies,Middle Colonies, and Southern Colonies withthree or four activities for each section ofcolonies. Activities here include: candlemaking, cooking hasty pudding, and money.In Projects About Plantation Life students willlearn more of the life of slaves who lived onplantations in the late 1700’s and the 1800’suntil the Civil War. Readers are introduced to a1770 Virginia plantation, a 1850 South Carolinaplantations, and a 1860 Mississippi plantationwith three activities for each. Activities includea recipe, a cold remedy, a game boys played, anda game girls played. The author includes subtlecriticism of our nation’s founders for their slaveholdings.The series would be a helpful one for teachers tohave for providing hands-on activities for theirstudents when studying each of these areas.Because of the incorrect information I found inone book, I do wonder how carefully the entireseries was researched. However, I would nothesitate to purchase this series if it fit acurricular need in my library.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.Lass / by Roland Gebauer ; illustrated byCheri Bladholm. LCCN 97009997.Grand Rapids : Kregel Kidzone, 1997,2004.HBB, 0825426944, list cost: $12.99.B or 248/.092. Keller, W. Phillip (Weldon Phillip),1920-; Border collie—British Columbia—VancouverIsland—Biography—Juvenile literature; Sheepranchers—British Columbia—Vancouver—Biography—Juvenile literature; Christian life—Juvenile literature; Dogs; Christian life. 1 v.(unpaged) : ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 5.From Philip Keller’s Lessons From a Sheep Dog(W Pub Group, 2002), Roland Gebauer hasextracted the essence to write Lass, a picturebook about a real border collie and his master.Keller adopted Lass as a puppy, and found hewas wild and extremely untrusting. Wisely, heallowed Lass to develop trust gradually, thentrained him as a sheepdog for his VancouverIsland Fairwinds sheep ranch.As a children’s storybook, Lass is a charmingtale of trust and loyalty. Gebauer skillfullycrafts the story so that older children and adultscan see the spiritual parallels. The six shortchapters allow for short reading sessionsaccompanied by guided discussion questionsand life applications included on the last twopages. Artist Cheri Bladholm’s colored pencilillustrations realistically and charmingly depictGebauer’s storyline. Children from age sixthrough elementary age will enjoy this book; itsanalogical aspect will appeal to animal lovers ofany age.Karen Schmidt, BA. Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville,Washington.*Augustine : the farmer’s boy of Tagaste /P. de Zeeuw. LCCN 98037869.Neerlandia, Alb. : InheritancePublications, 1998.PAP, 0921100051, list cost: $6.90.B or 270.2’092. Augustine, Saint, Bishop of Hippo—Juvenile literature; Christian saints—Algeria—Hippo(Extinct city)—Biography. 93 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 4-9. Rating : *5.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONAn interesting, historically embedded biographyoriginally written in Dutch for older children,Augustine : The Farmer’s Boy of Tagaste beginsas the self-absorbed, rebellious, intelligentyoung teenager Augustine (A.D. 354-430)moves explosively from prank to petty crime.His early life cycles around selfish desire,punishment, and his great intellect. Forworrisome years Augustine’s mother, Monica,prays for him, through his boyhood escapadesinto adult heresy, until one day Augustine learnshe is nothing and God is all—and the reallyexciting part of the story begins.Augustine, written by noted and prolificprotestant Dutch author, P de Zeeuw, will appealto all readers, juvenile through adult. Amplyresearched, clearly presented with humor andempathy, this book presents a very humanprotagonist. In the introduction, de Zeeuw asksthe reader not to think of Augustine as a RomanCatholic (he lived before any divisions) but asone of the great teachers of the ChristianChurch. The reader will easily identify withfallible, self-absorbed, winsome Augustine, hisredemption, and useful Christian life.Of particular interest to Christian schools andlibraries, Augustine will be a welcome additionto secular institutions as well. Families, studygroups, and history inquirers will welcome thisvolume.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.George Mueller : a father to the fatherless/ Rebecca Davis. LCCN 2004010119.Greenville, S.C. : JourneyForth, 2004.PAP, 1591662559, list cost: $7.49.B or 284.1/092. Mueller, George, 1806?-1898 —Juvenile literature; Evangelists—Great Britain—Biography—Juvenile literature; Faith—Fiction. 135p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 5.George Mueller : A Father to the Fatherless, byRebecca Davis, offers good value for the price.Twenty-five short chapters include “Kneeling inPrayer,” “Cholera,” “A Thousand Orphans,” and“Sixty Years of Service.” Mueller, born inPrussia, started early adulthood by gamblingand stealing. Then he became a dedicatedservant of the Lord. With evangelistic fervor, hetold everyone about “complete forgiveness ofsins through Jesus’ blood.”In England, Mueller, his wife, and daughtercared for Bristol’s orphans. The Muellers gaveaway most of their possessions—telling only theLord of the family’s and orphanage needs. Attimes, the orphanage had resources for only afew days ahead. In 1838, however, he confessedthe “little children ate their meals one prayer ata time.” During the last years of Mueller’s life,he and his second wife traveled to 42 countriesto publicize the orphanage and to encourageother faithful servants of the Lord.This inexpensive paperback offers few frills, butthat also provides a certain appeal. The book isaffordable, and the story reads well. Gooddialogue encourages young readers to eagerlyturn pages and learn about Mueller’s orphans,his donations for Spanish Bible tracts, and hisfriendship with Hudson Taylor. The printing isclear, with plenty of white space. Kyle Henry’sgray tone illustrations highlight importantevents in Mueller’s life. This artwork helpsanyone grasp a sense of being in the story. Theexcitement of Mueller’s life is condensed in thisuseful book.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.*Martin Luther : a man who changed theworld / written by Paul L. Maier ;illustrated by Greg Copeland. LCCN2004303754. St. Louis, Mo. : Concordia,2004.HBB, 0758606265, list cost: $12.99.B or 284.1/092. Luther, Martin, 1483-1546 —Juvenile literature; Luther, Martin, 1483-1546.;Reformation—Germany—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Lutheran Church—Germany—Clergy—Biography—Juvenile literature; Reformers. [26] p. :col. ill. ; 27 x 29 cm.Grades 1-4. Rating : *5.Volumes of information have been written aboutMartin Luther, the 16th century German whofigured prominently in the ProtestantReformation. Yet Paul Maier’s Martin Luther :A Man Who Changed the World adds wonderfulinsights for children. The beautiful book covershows Luther nailing his 95 theses to the CastleChurch door in Wittenberg. Gold lettering onthe dust jacket and quality paper correctlysuggest this is an important book, on animportant topic.Historical people such as Cardinal Cajetan,Philip Melanchthon, and Johann von Staupitzare not usually foremost in the minds of youngreaders. In this book, boys and girls arepresented a skeletal outline of the Reformation.They’ll gain knowledge of real names andplaces. Children will see the famous reformer asa monk, feeling far away from God, and thrill asLuther is “kidnapped” by friends.The brief theological summary includes: “TheBible showed him that God had already done itall for him by sending Christ, whose sufferingand death paid the penalty for sin and whoseresurrection would be shared by all who hadfaith in Him.”Martin Luther : A Man Who Changed the Worldis highly recommended for churches, familylibraries, Christian schools, as a gift book, andfor homeschoolers. I’m a storyteller withseveral groups of children. The large, colorfulpictures by Greg Copeland are ideal for turningpages, and allowing each child to see theillustrations. I can hardly wait to share this bookwith my young friends!Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.The flower hunter : William Bartram,America’s first naturalist / DeborahKogan Ray. LCCN 2002023186. NewYork : Farrar Straus Giroux, 2004.HBB, 0374345899, list cost: $17.00.B or 580/.92. Bartram, William, 1739-1823 —Juvenile literature; Bartram, John, 1699-1777 —Juvenile literature; Bartram, William, 1739-1823;Bartram, John, 1699-1777; Botanists—UnitedStates—Biography—Juvenile literature; Naturalists—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature;Botanists; Naturalists; Scientists. 1 v. (unpaged) : col.ill. ; 27 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 4.Author-illustrator Deborah Kogan Rayintroduces readers to an early Americanscientific family and also to life in colonialAmerica. William Bartram and his father Johnwere botanists and farmers in the colony ofPennsylvania. John was fascinated with hisfather’s studies and notes, loved nature, and waseager to go on botanical expeditions with hisfather. Eventually, young John follows hisfather to New Jersey, New York’s Catskills,North and South Carolina, and Florida. Williamcontinued his travels alone in the Carolinas,Georgia, and Florida, and west 2,400 miles tothe Mississippi. The Bartrams documentednumerous American plant species, somepreviously unknown and some now extinct.Additional biographical information isappended, as is a brief listing of documentedplants, a photo of Bartram’s rendering of theFranklinia alatamah, and a bibliography. MsRay used watercolor, gouache, and coloredpencil for the illustrations. Period maps havebeen incorporated into the end pages.Fictional journal entries bring life to theBartrams explorations. Events and people of theera, the French and Indian War, the Revolution,and Benjamin Franklin are briefly mentioned.The pages are designed to look like fragile 18thcentury logbooks with sketches of locales andplants intermixed with the entries. On oppositepages or panels, Ms Ray illustrates a highlightfrom that journal entry.This title is really a family biography, for Johnwas America’s first official botanist, whileWilliam understood and promoted the balanceof nature as America’s first naturalist. William’sfather certainly was the impetus for William.Even though this is a thin biography, it fills aniche: little has been written about Bartram forchildren, and Ray explains what a scientist doeson a daily basis. New science standards in manystates include concepts about “the nature ofscience” i.e. how a scientist works, which thisbiography provides. Middle grade teachersshould consider reading this title aloud whenbeginning a study of plants. The NationalScience Teachers Association named TheM A R C H 2 0 0 5 2 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONFlower Hunter an “Outstanding Science TradeBook for Students K-12” published in 2004.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The boy who drew birds : a story of JohnJames Audubon / by Jacqueline Davies ;illustrated by Melissa Sweet. LCCN2004000971. Boston : Houghton Mifflin,2004.HBB, 0618243437, list cost: $15.00.B or 598/.092. Audubon, John James, 1785-1851 —Juvenile literature; Ornithologists—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature; Animal painters—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill., col. map ; 26 cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 4.Jacqueline Davies selects a thin one-year sliceof John James Audubon’s life for this picturebook biography. John James is eighteen and hisfather sends him from France to America “tolive in a farmhouse…to learn English, to learncommerce, to learn how to make money…butmostly…to not have to fight in Napoleon’swar.” John James, however, is passionate onlyabout nature, especially birds. He observes,listens, draws, and keeps a museum in his atticroom. While he watches a pair of “pewees” hewonders about an age-old question, anddevelops a hypothesis that some birds return tothe same place in spring. To test the theory, hedevises a banding scheme, which is new toAmerican bird study. In the spring, he has hisanswer, “Yes.” Some birds have a homingbehavior. Melissa Sweet uses a mixture ofmedia, watercolors and gouache, pen and ink,pencil, and collage, to create her drawings.Appended are author’s and illustrator’s sourcenotes, an adult bibliography, brief additionalbiographical information, and a reproduction ofone of his later paintings of the PeweeFlycatcher, now called Eastern Phoebe.Davies has managed in this slim book to saymore about how scientists work to solve nature’smysteries than tell about Audubon. She alsotempts the reader to want more. Sweet’sdrawings complement the text and style ofcollection, and have just enough French countrylook to remind the reader of Audubon’s heritage.Middle grade teachers should consider readingthis title aloud when discussing how scientistswork or when preparing for a science fair.Students will be interested in discovering thepassion of a scientist, want to read more aboutAudubon, and find out about his bird paintings.The National Science Teachers Associationnamed The Boy Who Drew Birds an“Outstanding Science Trade Books for StudentsK-12” published in 2004.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Robert Fulton : the steamboat man /Carin T. Ford. (Famous inventors.)LCCN 2003010141. Berkeley Heights,N.J. : Enslow Publishers, 2004.LIB, 076602248X, list cost: $22.60.B or 623.8/24/092. Fulton, Robert, 1765-1815 —Juvenile literature; Fulton, Robert, 1765-1815; Marineengineers—United States—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Inventors—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature; Steamboats—United states—History—19th century—Juvenile literature; Inventors;Steamboats—History. 32 p. : ill. (chiefly col.), map ;24 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 5.Carin T. Ford wrote Robert Fulton : TheSteamboat Man as part of the Famous Inventorsseries. Fulton, born in 1765, worked as ajeweler’s apprentice and designed anunsuccessful underwater bomb. Then curioustownspeople watched Fulton build a steamboat.They called it “Fulton’s Folly.”As the steamboat traveled from New York toAlbany, a frightened farmer “ran into his houseand locked the doors and windows.” Yet thesteamboat arrived at Albany a day and half later.Men and women remained skeptical. Only twobrave men rode along on the next trip.Suddenly, Fulton’s boat, the North River SteamBoat (later renamed the Clermont), becamepopular. One hundred forty people enjoyed atrip, complete with watermelon and chicken!The sturdy cover and binding of Robert Fulton :The Steamboat Man will withstand popularity ina children’s library, or sharing among a homeschool group. Illustrations are from theCarnegie Library of Pittsburg, Collection of theNew-York Historical Society, National PortraitGallery, and many others sources. These diversecolored graphics present an interesting mixtureof images. Readers will enjoy the Timeline,Words to Know, and Learn More sectionsThe Famous Inventors series, from EnslowPublishers, offers selections about AlexanderGraham Bell, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford,Charles Drew, and others. For moreinformation, see the webpage www.enslow.com.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.The voice that challenged a nation :Marian Anderson and the struggle forequal rights / by Russell Freedman.LCCN 2003019558. New York : ClarionBooks, 2004.HBB, 0618159762, list cost: $18.00.B or 782.1/092. Anderson, Marian, 1897-1993 —Juvenile literature; Anderson, Marian, 1897-1993;Contraltos—United States—Biography—Juvenileliterature; African American singers—Biography—Juvenile literature; African Americans—Civil rights—Juvenile literature; Singers; African Americans—Biography; Women—Biography. 114 p. : ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 2-6. Rating : 5.Marian Anderson was born to sing and hersinging was most important in her life. Her richcontralto voice thrilled audiences the world overand made her famous. She was never by naturea crusader or even a spokesperson for a cause,but when she was denied the right, because ofher race, to sing in Carnegie Hall, her responsecatapulted her into the center of the racecontroversy of her day. She came to representAmericans of color, with aid from notedpersonages of the times such as EleanorRoosevelt, helped to end some of the racialbarriers for black artists.Award winning author Russell Freedman hasfilled this book with photographs that, alongwith the text, give the reader a wonderful senseof the life of this amazing and inspiring singer.She left her mark on the world of song and onthe social climate of this country. MissAnderson is an important figure in severalarenas of American life and her biographyshould be an inspiration for young readers.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.The man who walked between the towers /Mordicai Gerstein. LCCN 2003009040.Brookfield, Conn. : Roaring Brook Press,2003.HBB, 0761317910, list cost: $17.95.B or 791.3/4/092. Petit, Philippe, 1949- —Juvenileliterature; Petit, Philippe, 1949-; World Trade Center(New York, N.Y.); Tightrope walking—Juvenileliterature; Aerialists—France—Juvenile literature;Aerialists; Tightrope walking; Caldecott Medal. 1 v.(unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.Grades 2-6. Rating : 4.On August 7, 1974, when the World TradeCenter Twin Towers were being constructed inNew York City, aerialist Philippe Petit strung awire between the towers, and walked the wire.Mordicai Gerstein uses detailed pen and inkcross-hatched sketches washed with a widerange of color to detail the events of Petit’sadventure: his wishes, his thoughts, his plans,and the execution of walking between New YorkCity’s tallest buildings. Two foldout pages givethe perspective from the top of the wire andfrom ground level. Illustrations vary in sizefrom the foldouts to one-third of a page. Thesetting portrayed includes both day and nightvisuals. The story begins with “once therewere…” and ends with “in memory…the towersare still there.”If this reviewer had been on the 2004 Caldecottcommittee, she probably would not haveselected this title as the winner, for severalreasons. First, the work seems to take advantageof the celebrity of the September 11th towerdisaster. Secondly, there are questionableactivities within the book such as sneaking intothe towers at night and breaking trespassinglaws. Yes, he was arrested and punished, but…Thirdly, the artistic style is similar to Geisert’scross-hatch pen and ink, and has been confusedwith his. The multiple perspectives of theartwork: high/low, large/small, day/night are astrong and unique feature, however. Fourthly,the reviewer had doubts about the interest toC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONchildren. On the last point, the reviewer waswrong, for children are fascinated with thesuspenseful story and the foldout artwork. Atthe reviewer’s Christian school, there weremany questions about whether Petit was right tobreak the law. This opened the discussion doorto talk about the commandments and Christianbehavior.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Walt Whitman : words for America / byBarbara Kerley ; illustrated by BrianSelznick. LCCN 2003020085. New York :Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439357918, list cost: $16.95.B or 811/.3. Whitman, Walt, 1819-1892 —Juvenileliterature; Whitman, Walt, 1819-1892; Poets,American—19th century—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Nurses—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature; Poets, American; Nurses; UnitedStates—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Medicalcare—Juvenile literature; United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865. 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 31cm.Grades 3-6. Rating : 5.A 2005 Robert F. Sibert Informational BookHonor Award was presented to Kerley andSelznick for this picture biography of WaltWhitman. Kerley leaves no doubt thatWhitman, from a young age, was fascinatedwith words and putting words together, whetheras a typesetter, poet, newspaper journalist, orletter writer for the troops. His devotion to hisbrother George leads him to the Civil Warbattlefields, and it is there that Walt Whitmanfinds another calling, assisting the woundedsoldiers in any way he can. Interspersed withevents from Whitman’s life are phrases andverses from his poetry. Selznick has createddetailed realistic full-color drawings based onhistorical research and actual Civil Wardaguerreotypes of the soldiers. Appended arenumerous author and illustrator notes and minibiographies of Whitman and Lincoln. Also,appended are longer excerpts of the poemsfound within the body of the book.From the cover, which features a cutoutrevealing a young Walt Whitman, to theappendices, this is a thoughtfully and beautifullydesigned and written book. Selznick and DavidSaylor designed the book, even using the sametext type as was used in Leaves of Grass (Selfpublished,1855). Text is arranged in greatvariety on the pages: large size title font, wordsin frames across the bottom, centered squarelyin the middle, or in a column along one side.The artwork is placed with as much care andvariety. For the first time, in this reviewer’sexperience, Walt Whitman has become a living,breathing, compassionate human being. At justthe right places, Kerley has added Whitman’sown words and poems, thus further enliveninghis personage. This is the second picturebiography on which the two have collaborated,the first The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins(Scholastic, 2001), winning a Caldecott Honor.Any elementary or middle school in whichAmerican history or literature is taught shouldadd this to the collection. Any fan of WaltWhitman’s poetry will enjoy this title in hispersonal collection.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Beverly Cleary / Susan Ring. (My favoritewriter.) LCCN 2002005588. Mankato,Minn. : Weigl Publishers, 2003.HBB, 1590360303, list cost: $26.00.B or 813/.54. Cleary, Beverly—Juvenile literature;Cleary, Beverly; Authors, American—20th century—Biography—Juvenile literature; Children’s stories—Authorship—Juvenile literature; Authors, American;Women—Biography; Authorship. 32 p. : ill. (chieflycol.), col. map ; 27 cm.E. B. White / Rennay Cratts. (My favoritewriter.) LCCN 2002005585. Mankato,Minn. : Weigl Publishers, 2003.HBB, 1590360265, list cost: $26.00.B or 818/.5209. White, E. B. (Elwyn Brooks), 1899-—Juvenile literature; White, E. B. (Elwyn Brooks),1899-; Authors, American—20th century—Biography—Juvenile literature; Children’s stories—Authorship—Juvenile literature; Authors, American;Authorship. 32 p. : ill. (chiefly col.), col. map ; 27cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 3.The Beverly Cleary and E.B. White titlesrepresent two of the six authors in WieglPublisher’s My Favorite Writer series. Eachtitle covers the same topics: early childhood,growing up, learning the craft, gettingpublished, the writer today, and popular books.Additional information, not always exclusive toa particular writer, is appended. Extra topicsinclude creative writing tips, writing abiography review, fan information, and a quiz.Synopses of representatives of the Ramonabooks, Henry Huggins books, Mouse and theMotorcycle books and Dear Mr. Henshaw areincluded in the “Popular Books” section forMrs. Cleary. E. B. White’s three children’sbooks are included in that segment of hisbiography.The authors featured in the series: Judy Blume,Beverly Cleary, Roald Dahl, Dr. Seuss, E. B.White, and Laura Ingalls Wilder are truly MyFavorite Writer for many young readers. Theseries, however, does not share the fun, humor,adventure, or excitement of the writers. Thebooks could be a helpful introductory researchteaching tool, for each is formatted in exactlythe same way. However, the writing lacksexcitement.Special research features include milestones,sidebars, and maps, plus favorite authors of theauthors. One segment is exactly alike in eachbook: writing a biography review. Web sites,movie reviews, and the quiz attempt to get thereader actively involved. The front cover has areverse or negative photo of the authors, whichis not attractive. As a librarian, I would guidestudents to Cleary’s autobiography A Girl fromYamhill (Morrow, 1988) and other biographiesabout E. B. White.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Christopher Columbus : adventurer offaith and courage / Bennie Rhodes ;illustrated by A. G. Smith Jr. ; edited byNorman Cournow Camp. (The Sowers.)LCCN 76005788. Milford, Mich. : MottMedia, 1976.PAP, 0915134268, list cost: $7.99.B or 970/.01/50924. Columbus, Christopher—Juvenile literature; Columbus, Christopher; Explorers;America—Discovery and exploration. 146 p. : ill.(some col.) ; 22 cm.Grades 5-7. Rating : 4.An historical novel based on Columbus’s ownjournal and other biographies, ChristopherColumbus narrates his life from the age of tenthrough all of his voyages. Columbus’s hope forthe natives he met in the New World is summedup in his closing thought, “The Gospel is for allthose people…and there will have to be manyChrist-Bearers to tell them the message ofChrist.”First published in 1976, Christopher Columbuswas written by evangelist, pastor, author, andhistory student Bennie Rhodes. He states hisaim that “…young readers will be inspired bythe great man Columbus to become Christ-Bearers themselves.” Full of adventure, writtenin an attention catching style, this interestinginterpretation of history includes two maps, auseful index, and an interest catchingbibliography.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Vasco Nunez de Balboa : explorer to thePacific Ocean / Arlene BourgeoisMolzahn. (Explorers!) LCCN2002155205. Berkeley Heights, N.J. :Enslow, 2004.HBB, 0766021424, list cost: $18.95.B or 972.8/02/092. Balboa, Vasco Núñez de, 1475-1519 —Juvenile literature; Balboa, Vasco Núñez de,1475-1519.; Explorers—America—Biography—Juvenile literature; Explorers—Spain—Biography—Juvenile literature; Explorers; America—Discoveryand exploration—Spanish—Juvenile literature; PacificOcean—Discovery and exploration—Spanish—Juvenile literature; America—Discovery andexploration—Spanish. 48 p. : col. ill., col. maps ; 24cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 4.Children will be fascinated as they read VascoNunez de Balboa : Explorer to the PacificOcean, written by Arlene Bourgeois Molzahn.Colored and one-tone illustrations show theexcitement of Balboa’s life. The explorer hid ina barrel to escape Hispaniola, polished armor fora rich nobleman, and met San Sebastian Indianswith their poison arrows. He suffered hunger,and was eventually killed by a man who wasjealous of the land and riches Balboa haddiscovered.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 2 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONBalboa is especially known for discovering whatwe now call the Pacific Ocean. He climbed amountain peak on the Isthmus of Panama. Theexplorer “quickly fell to his knees. He wasthankful God had let him be the first Europeanman to see this ocean. His men built an altarwith rocks and placed a cross in the middle ofit.”I suspect young readers will use this book as astaring place to study more about Balboa. Theformat contains sidebars, maps, a timeline, and alist of useful words. Boys and girls can easilyuse the short list of books and websites foradditional information. Reinforced librarybinding and the sturdy cover appear capable ofwithstanding many years of use.The Explorers! series includes books aboutChristopher Columbus, Ponce de Leon, HenryHudson, and Ferdinand Magellan. For moreinformation, check the publishers website,www.enslow.com.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Paul Revere’s midnight ride / by StephenKrensky ; illustrations by Greg Harlin.LCCN 66220. New York : HarperCollins,2002.HBB, 0688164099, list cost: $15.99.B or 973.3/311/092. Revere, Paul, 1735-1818 —Juvenile literature; Revere, Paul, 1735-1818;Lexington, Battle of, Lexington, Mass., 1775—Juvenile literature; Concord, Battle of, Concord,Mass., 1775—Juvenile literature; Massachusetts—History—Revolution, 1775-1783—Juvenile literature;Massachusetts—History—Revolution, 1775-1783;United States—History—Revolution, 1775-1783. (32)p. : col. ill., col. map ; 23 cm.Grades 2-5. Rating : 4.It is that famous night in April, 1775, when PaulRevere heads out on his gallop through theBoston suburbs to warn the colonists that theBritish troops are coming to capture some of themilitary supplies the colonists have beencollecting. Krensky puts Longfellow’s poeminto prose, and Harlin supplies half-page, fullpage,and double-page watercolor illustrations.The pages alternate presentation from theBritish activity to Revere’s activities. Harlin hasincluded a map of the route taken by Revere.Appended is a brief bit of backgroundinformation that puts the ride into the context ofcolonial history.Krensky and Harlin have created a visuallybeautiful slice of American Revolutionaryhistory. In simple prose, both the British andAmerican activities are presented. Some ofMrs. Revere’s doubts are explored. In crisp textthe reader learns about the dapperness of theredcoats: “…spattering their scarlet coats andwhite breeches with mud.” Krensky mentionsthat other riders were involved, but does notname them, instead focusing on the title’snamesake.Krensky twisted the title of Longfellow’s poemjust enough to avoid confusion with that classic.Even though there are illustrated picture bookversions of the classic poem, this title is moreaccessible and understandable by the youngerreader. Greg Harlin’s illustrations capturecolonial times with his attention to detail:buttons on uniforms, Revere style tankards.Much of the action occurs at night. Harlin’shorses racing through the dimly lit woods arealmost silhouettes. Read this aloud to youngchildren; compare the poem and text with olderchildren.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Thomas Jefferson / written & illustratedby Cheryl Harness. LCCN 2003005853.Washington, D.C. : National Geographic,2004.HB, 0792264967, list cost: $17.95.B or 973.4/6/092. Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826 —Juvenile literature; Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826.;Presidents—United States—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Presidents. 43 p. : col. ill., col. maps ; 29cm.Grades 3-7. Rating : 5.Harness combines lively narrative and colorful,detailed illustrations to bring this extraordinaryFounding Father to life. The reader hikes withJefferson to the top of “Tom’s Mountain,”follows him as he plays fiddle with PatrickHenry, listens to arguments against the King inVirginia’s House of Burgesses, and gainsinsights as he writes the Declaration ofIndependence. In addition to his active life, thereader shares Jefferson’s final year atMonticello.The 38 full-color illustrations enable students tosee events in their own timeframe. Each pageprovides another aspect of Jefferson or anactivity in which he played an influential role.By balancing anecdotes with key events inJefferson’s life, the reader is treated to acredible, personal glimpse into the person andlife of this “Sage of Monticello.”Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Abraham Lincoln / Jane A. Schott.(History maker bios.) LCCN 2001003273.Minneapolis : Lerner Publications, 2002.LIB, 0822501961, list cost: $25.26.B or 973.7/092. Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865 —Juvenile literature; Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865;Presidents—United States—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Presidents. 48 p. : ill. (some col.), col. map; 23 cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 3.In Jane Schott’s biography Abraham Lincoln,Lincoln’s life is reviewed in five brief chapters:Growing Up, Honest Abe, Arguing overSlavery, The Country at War, and The End of theWar. Appended are a timeline, informationabout the Lincoln Memorial, further reading,websites, and a sources bibliography.Photographs and lithographs from the period arescattered liberally throughout the text. Some arelabeled with “speech bubbles” to add graphicinterest. Also included are several colored linedrawings and a map. Each chapter contains oneboxed special interest item such as “Skinny butStrong,” and “In love with a Blockhead.”This is a run of the mill biography, part ofLerner’s History Maker Bios series. Theinformation can easily be found online or inprint encyclopedias; the text is dry. Only theboxed special interest features make Mr.Lincoln human. The readability level is apositive for the book, making the content readilydecodable for average third graders. Moreinteresting information, however, can be foundin the “further reading” segment andrecommended websites.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

BOOK REVIEWSYOUNG ADULT FICTIONChasing Vermeer / by Blue Balliett ;illustrated by Brett Helquist. LCCN2002152106. New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439372941, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Vermeer, Johannes, 1632-1675 —Fiction; Art—Fiction; Mystery and detective stories. 254 p. : ill.,map ; 22 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 3.On a warm October night, three letters aredelivered to three people. Each asks for help insolving a centuries-old crime. Each also warnsthat any attempts to contact the police will placethe recipient’s life in danger.So opens Chasing Vermeer, a middle-grademystery by Blue Balliett. It’s an intriguingbeginning to a slick, multi-plotted tale, but onethat’s a bit misleading. The book will fascinatereaders who stick with it, but it’s best for theoldest end of its eight-to-twelve age group, orfor highly literate youngsters, for severalreasons.Readers, for instance, must solve two codes tofully appreciate the mystery’s resolution. One isa word code, one involves Brett Helquist’sillustrations, but both require a certain level ofability to solve. Also, early chapters are moreconcerned with establishing protagonists’Calder and Petra’s daily school routine andbudding friendship than in following up on theletter subplot; the actual mystery (who stole afamous Vermeer painting? Are Calder andPetra’s friends involved?) doesn’t begin untilhalfway through the book. Other quibbles: theadults play as important a role as the kids; andthe villain, when revealed, is a minor characterwho never really appears in the book.Although Calder and Petra are clever, usingtheir wits to solve things, coincidence plays ahuge part in their adventure; they often dream or“sense” where to find clues. This is sometimestaken to nearly supernatural levels, as when it’simplied the pentominoes Calder is fascinatedwith can predict what will happen.On the positive side: the book is well written,thought provoking and intelligent, it makesclassic art seem fascinating, and the charactersact with honesty, integrity, and compassion. Onthe other hand, they lie to their parents and breakinto a school building when trying to find clues.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.*The Crow-girl : the children of Crow Cove/ Bodil Bredsdorff ; translated from theDanish by Faith Ingwersen. LCCN2003049310. New York : Farrar StrausGiroux, 2004.HBB, 0374312478, list cost: $16.00.Fic. Conduct of life—Fiction; Family life—Fiction;Grandmothers—Fiction; Orphans—Fiction. 155 p. :map ; 21 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : *5.Crow-girl lives with her grandmother in a tinyshanty, on a cove in Denmark. She collectsmussels for soup and driftwood to keep the firegoing. When Crow-girl’s grandmother dies, shewalks along the cove, listening to the crows fordirection. She arrives at a village, briefly findsfood and shelter with a mean-spirited woman,who seeks to take all of Crow-girl’s worldlypossessions, and continues on her adventures.Still listening to the crows, she is soon joined bya hungry toddler and a young girl and herstepmother fleeing an abusive father/husband.They spend the winter with a grandfatherlyshepherd; then, head for Crow-girl’s home in thecove. As an unconventional family begins toform, the Crow-girl takes on the independent,outdoor roles of shepherd, hunter, andfisherperson, rather than the more traditionalfemale roles involving cooking, spinning wool,and cleaning.The Crow-Girl : The Children of Crow Cove, a2005 Mildred L. Batchelder Honor Book, byBodil Bredsdorff, translated from Danish byFaith Ingerwersen, is a fireside tale about ayoung girl who endures in the face of hardships,yet is still willing and able to help others in need.The poetic folktale technique used is problemto-solution,rather than plot-driven, with arhythm that emulates waves splashing on theshore. Background is watermark-style to lend asubtle flavor of enchantment. Characters aresketched to bring out protagonist’s persona.Dialogue is strong and well-spun. The reader ispresented with a rare treat in literary quality andcontent. Highly recommended for all public,school, and home school libraries.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.*Regina Silsby’s secret war / by Thomas J.Brodeur. LCCN 2004001319. Greenville,S.C. : JourneyForth, 2004.PAP, 1591662354, list cost: $7.49.Fic. Ghosts—Fiction; Superstition—Fiction; BostonTea Party, 1773—Fiction; Boston (Mass.)—History—Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775—Juvenile fiction;Boston (Mass.)—History—Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775—Fiction. 248 p. ; 21 cm.Grades 6-9. Rating : *5.Rachel Winslow didn’t start out to be a patriot.Caught out during the Boston Tea Party, sheflees the redcoats who are chasing anyone theysee. Taking refuge in a cemetery, Rachel losesher cloak and hits her head on a stone. Justmanaging to hide in time, she watches thesoldiers as they discover the cloak and blood,and jump to the conclusion that they’ve beenchasing a ghost. Seeing their superstitiousreaction to the circumstances, a plan is born inRachel’s mind to stop just sympathizing with thecause of liberty, but to do something about it. AsBoston suffers the ever-tightening grip of theKing’s soldiers, Rachel’s father is forced toquarter British troops, and one of her friends istaken by the press gangs. These occurrencesprompt Rachel to don her alter-ego and go out toright the wrongs.Regina Silsby’s Secret War is an excellentChrist-centered novel for young fans ofhistorical fiction. Rachel is an admirableheroine, full of daring but remembering who isher Protector. With a strong family surroundingher, loyalty of good friends, and a sweet lovinggrandfather, Rachel grows from a girl whosimply lives in Boston in exciting times tosomeone who is willing to risk her own safetyfor the good of others. Author Thomas J.Brodeur brilliantly uses the exciting times todevelop his character’s strong sense of justiceinto a passion to do the right thing. Because thereader knows that Rachel is masquerading asRegina there is a sense of an inside joke. Yet,there are other mysteries. Who is the dark figurewho enhances Rachel’s work? Who was ReginaSilsby and why is her “ghost” feared? This is somuch better than the Dear America series. Ihope this is the first of many for the author.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.The tale of Despereaux : being the story ofa mouse, a princess, some soup, and aspool of thread / Kate DiCamillo ;illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering. LCCN2002034760. Cambridge, Mass. :Candlewick Press, 2003.HBB, 0763617229, list cost: $17.99.Fic. Fairy tales; Mice—Fiction; Newbery Medal. 267p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 4-8. Rating : 5.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 0 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONKate DiCamillo received the 2004 NewberyMedal for The Tale of Despereaux, a fantasywritten in four books: one about the small, bigeared mouse named Despereaux the hero;another about a rat named Chiaroscuro whoneeded to see light; the third about anabandoned peasant maid named Miggery Sowwho wanted to be a princess; and the fourthwhich ties all the pieces together. Additionallythere is Princess Pea whom Despereauxdesperately loves.A friend’s son gave DiCamillo the idea to writea story about an unlikely large eared hero. Withthe help of a grant from the McKnightFoundation, Despereaux is the unlikely hero.Timothy Basil Ering drew the gray tonedillustrations and book borders throughout thetitle. Near the end of the book (p.237),Despereaux tells himself a story while rollingthe red thread spool down the dungeon stairs:“Once upon a time, there was a mouse who wasvery, very small. Exceptionally small. Andthere was a beautiful princess whose name wasPea. And it so happened that this mouse was theone who was selected by fate to serve theprincess, to honor her, and to save her from thedarkness of a terrible dungeon…whispering tohimself the tale of a devious rat and a fat servinggirl and a beautiful princess and a brave mouseand some soup and a spool of red thread. It wasa story, in fact, very similar to the one you arereading right now, and the telling of it gaveDespereaux strength.” Despereaux’s talesummarizes the gist of the fantasy, but there is somuch more entwined together.DiCamillo has written a storyteller’s story, forthe text flows as from a storyteller’s lips. Shefrequently pulls the reader into the story withasides directed at the reader, includingsuggestions to look up words like “perfidy” inthe dictionary, making the book interactive.DiCamillo has written a fairy tale in the traditionof fairy tales with princesses, castles, dungeons,and motifs (youngest and smallest conqueringall, obstacles in the path, quests, and poorscullery maids). DiCamillo has written anallegory of light and dark, good and evil.DiCamillo has written a tale to be read atmultiple levels: the intertwined plot only; theconcepts of love, hope, repentance, andforgiveness; the book as story. DiCamillo haswritten a literary tour de force where ultimatelystories are light. Even though no date is given,one assumes medieval times, but “cigarettes”then become an oddity.This title is a wonderful read aloud anddiscussion starter for fourth grade through earlymiddle school. Creative writing classes couldwell use the book as a model in high school andcollege. Despereaux is unique and creative aswell, becoming a bibliophile’s standard.Huzzah!!Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The shadow of the bear : Snow White andRose Red retold / by Regina Doman.LCCN 2002107700. Bathgate, N.D. :Bethelhem Books, 2002.PAP, 1883937760, list cost: $11.95.Fic. Sisters—Fiction; Interpersonal relations—Fiction; Catholics—Fiction; Christian life—Fiction;High schools—Fiction; Schools—Fiction; Mysteryand detective stories; New York (N.Y.)—Fiction. 265p. ; 21 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Black as night : a fairy tale retold / byRegina Doman. LCCN 2004104011.Bathgate, N.D. : Bethlehem Books, 2004.PAP, 1883937884, list cost: $11.95.Fic. Fantasy. 429 p. ; 21 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Blanche and Rose have recently lost their dad tothe ravages of cancer. Their mother, who worksin an emergency room at a hospital, goes out oneevening for groceries and returns with adangerous looking, frostbitten vagrant from offthe streets of New York City. While Mom andRose insist upon helping him, Blanche tries towarn them of the disreputable character sheknows the young man, who calls himself Bear,to be. Unfortunately, they are not listening, andin order to help Bear, the three women are drawninto the self-same sinister streets from whichthey have tried to previously protect themselves.The Shadow of the Bear by Regina Doman is themodern day retelling of the fairy tale “SnowWhite and Rose Red.” Doman adds her uniquetwist to these classics by combining theimagination of the Brothers Grimm with the ageold wisdom of G.K. Chesterton, presenting thetale in present day language, characters, andsituations.In the sequel, Black as Night, retold by ReginaDoman, Blanche begins a summer job, meets anelderly declining gentleman who reminds her ofher deceased father, agrees to regular visits withhim. When his family falsely accuses her ofbeing a criminal, Blanche knows she must hideuntil she finds a way to clear her name. Whilefriends and family search concernedly forBlanche, she finds safety within an order ofFranciscan Friars.Predominately rendered in Catholic overtones,this pleasant series about the beauty of the heartreminds the reader that neither evil, nor good arealways blatantly apparent, that there are oftensubtle undertones that can cause us to questioneven our most deep-set beliefs. Although someof the dialogue is a bit stiff, the overall affect iscozy. Recommended for ages high schoolthrough adult and as a possible resource for ahome school reading list.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Under the sun / Arthur Dorros. LCCN2004011183. New York : Amulet, 2004.HBB, 0810949334, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Prejudices—Fiction; Yugoslav War, 1991-1995—Fiction; Bosnis and Hercegovina—History—1992—Fiction. 224 p. : map ; 22 cm.Grades 6-9. Rating : 4.Ehmet’s formerly civilized country has blownapart into ethnic divisions largely meaninglessto him. His parents are from different ethnic andreligious backgrounds, as are most of hisfriends. But Sarajevo has become toodangerous, so his father sends Ehmet and hismother to the countryside for safety. Failing tofind safety for long, they begin a trek acrossBosnia to his grandparents’ home in Croatiawhile trying to avoid various groups of thugsrunning around with weapons. Because hismother is ill, it is up to Ehmet to take care ofboth of them. All of his ingenuity andremembered skills come to the forefront as hefrantically tries to care for her and move themforward. Along the way his encounters with aMuslim family and later an older mixed-religioncouple who lived through WWII in Bosnia teachEhmet that what is in the heart overrides anylabels people place on themselves or others.Arthur Dorros has written a thought-provokingstory that could be only too real. A disturbingdepiction of what happened in Bosnia, Underthe Sun is an excellent book to personalize theconflict for similarly aged readers. Rather thanpointing fingers of blame, it chronicles the utterchaos that ensues when the institutions that holda society together are removed. Not for thefainthearted, this book implies that Ehmet’smother is brutally raped although the authormakes it clear that Ehmet does not understandthe extent of what happened. Further in thejourney, his mother dies and eventually Ehmet islocked up in a refugee camp. There is a happyending, but this is a book for mature readers.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.Bull Run / Paul Fleischman ; woodcuts byDavid Frampton. LCCN 92014745. NewYork : HarperCollins, 1993.HBB, 0060214473, list cost: $16.73.Fic. Bull Run, 1st Battle of, Va., 1861—Juvenilefiction; Bull Run, 1st Battle of, Va., 1861—Fiction;United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Campaigns—Fiction. 104 p. : maps ; 24 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 5.Bull Run gives the account of the Civil War’sfirst great battle. It is told in sixteen differentvoices, from a war-fevered boy to a black mandetermined to shoulder a gun. Each entry takesup only a page or two as the hopes, fears, andhorror of the war are related by those who livedit. This is historical fiction but gives a truepicture of this time in history through the eyes ofactual participants.Award winning author Paul Fleischman writesthese first person stories in a rather matter of factway, which makes them all the morecompelling. This is a story rich in fact andC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONemotion and will make history come alive tomiddle school readers. Bull Run could also beused very effectively in reader’s theater.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.I walk in dread : the diary of DeliveranceTrembley, witness to the Salem witch trials/ by Lisa Rowe Fraustino. (DearAmerica.) LCCN 2004005606. New York: Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439249732, list cost: $10.95.Fic. Trials (Witchcraft)—Massachusetts—Salem—Juvenile fiction; Trials (Witchcraft)—Fiction;Witchcraft—Fiction; Puritans—Fiction; Prejudices—Fiction; Sisters—Fiction; Diaries—Fiction; Salem(Mass.)—History—Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775—Fiction. 203 p. : ill., map ; 20 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 4.Although a fictionalized account of a witness tothe Salem witch trials, this author also weaveshistorical fact within the journal. Author LisaRowe Fraustino takes you into the life of ayoung girl who is torn between distinguishingtruth from lie. She fights within herself tounderstand what God wants. Are the accusedreally witches or are the girls faking their visionsand “fits?”She watches as more and more people arecharged as witches. Trial after trial the townmust endure. Trials are not to separate theinnocent from the guilty, only to pronounceguilt. Soon she discovers, “There are those whowould rather lie and live than tell the truth anddie.”At home she questions the truthfulness of thosepointing fingers, and soon fears her sister will bepointing a finger at her. A good book and one Iwould recommend.The Dear America series offers readers morethan just a story. Following the epilogue eachwriter includes a “Historical Note” and picturesof the times depicted. Readers can see forthemselves that a fire detailed in a “journal”actually happened in history, that some of thecharacters written about actually existed, ordetails about an event are correctly portrayed.S. Katherine Lopez, Freelance Writer, Beavercreek, Ohio.Rambunctious rattler / Walter G. Fremont[and] Susan W. Young. LCCN 99023179.Greenville, S.C. : Journey Books, 1999.PAP, 1579242626, list cost: $6.49.Fic. Horses—Fiction; Christian fiction. 138 p. ; 22cm.Grades 2-4. Rating : 3.Twelve year old Gil’s dream is coming true: heis buying a horse. However, Rattler comes witha price. Since his grandfather advanced him partof the money, Gil has to work to pay that loanback. He also has to pay for the upkeep of thehorse and has to take care of the horse himself.When Rattler gets loose and causes trouble intown, Gil has to work to pay for those damagesas well. Through the next several months Gil’sadventures with Rattler are varied as Gil helpshis best friend Billy come to know Christ,catches some horse thieves, and even helps hisgrandfather teach the value of hard work tosome local trouble makers.Rambunctious Rattler is a sweet story of a boyblessed with the kind of family we would alllove our children to have. He has kindlygrandparents firmly committed to the Lord,wonderful supportive trusting parents who leadby example, and lives in a country setting wherea boy and his horse can grow up together.Further, he has a gift for evangelism and a bestfriend who needs to find Christ! Evoking timespast, Fremont and Young have written a nicestory that will appeal to parents and teachersalthough it may be too saccharine for somestudents. Gil’s personality is way too good to betrue. He always makes the right decision, he isalways respectful to adults, and the one time hegets angry it is righteous anger that he keeps incheck. There is no real angst or edginess to thisbook which may keep it from being a pageturner.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.Hard times for Jake Smith / AileenKilgore Henderson. LCCN 2003020508.Minneapolis : Milkweed Editions, 2004.HBB, 1571316485, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Family—Fiction; Identity—Fiction; Abandonedchildren—Fiction; Depressions—History—Fiction;Disguise—Fiction; Alabama—History—20thcentury—Fiction. 192, [13] p. ; 21 cm.Grades 5-9. Rating : 4.The Great Depression brought hard times toAlabama. Aileen Kilgore Henderson helps usidentify with the spunky girl in Hard Times forJake Smith. Twelve-year-old MaryJakeWildsmith is abandoned by her family. Theygive her mysterious instructions to follow a roadto a castle. Instead, the forlorn girl disguisesherself as a boy. The new Jake Smith meets andlives with a kind widow.Jake tries to hide her identity. Eventually, shemeets an unknown older brother, and rescuestwo younger brothers from poverty. Addbootleggers, medical emergencies, cleaning agraveyard, and a traveling preacher named MissCelestine. A horse named Dink, and a boynamed Poe who “can’t see diddle in daylight”round out the list of characters. I especiallyenjoyed Henderson’s Afterword, the descriptionof her life in the 1930’s. I hope the author writesan autobiography!Dialogue is appropriate for the times, and thefast-paced plot will keep youngsters turningpages. Children who are abandoned by theirparents will rejoice at the conclusion. MaryJake“…was unafraid, content to be where she was,smelling the freshness of the rain…”Milkweed Editions is a nonprofit press with thegoal to make “a humane impact on society…toconvey the essential experiences of the humanheart and spirit.” Their website iswww.milkweed.org. Other titles by Hendersonare The Monkey Thief, The Summer of theBonepile Monster, and Treasure of PantherPeak.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Summer secrets / by Patricia Hermes.LCCN 2003017669. Tarrytown, N.Y. :Marshall Cavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761450742, list cost: $15.95.Fic. Mental illness—Fiction; Friendship—Fiction;Family problems—Fiction; Race relations—Fiction;World War, 1939-1945—United States—Fiction;Mississippi—History—20th century—Fiction. 141 p.; 22 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 2.Missy is twelve years old living in Mississippi atthe end of WWII. Her two best friends areAlmay and Vanessa. Almay is the daughter ofMissy’s family’s black housekeeper, Geneva.Vanessa, like Missy is white. Missy’s mother isshowing increasing signs of mental illnesswhich Missy writes about in her secretnotebook. She is trying to figure out what’swrong with her mother, as well as with herfriends. Vanessa and Almay have discoveredboys. Shut out of this by lack of interest, Missyis drawn more into her mother’s problems. Atthe same time, she is trying to figure out whywhite neighbors include Vanessa but not Almayin their social structure.Are there any coming of age novels set in thesouth that don’t feature someone with mentalillness, a really hot summer and a conflict ofrace? Isn’t there anything else to write about inthe South other than these things? SummerSecrets is not a bad story, or poorly written. It isjust difficult to find anything new to say about astory that has been told in many ways by manyauthors. Patricia Hermes is a prolific popularauthor so students may gravitate to this book.However, if your students in grades 5-8 reallywant to grapple with these issues, they’re muchbetter off reading To Kill a Mockingbird.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.Hound heaven / Linda Oatman High.LCCN 2003112910. Honesdale, Pa. :Boyds Mills, 2004, 1995.PAP, 1590782445, list cost: $9.95.Fic. Grandfathers—Fiction; Mountain life—WestVirginia—Fiction; Dogs—Fiction; Moneymakingprojects—Fiction; West Virginia—Fiction. 174 p. ; 22cm.Grades 5-9. Rating : 5.Silver Nickles, living with her Pawpaw in a tarpapershack in West Virginia, dreams of owninga dog, so she gets a job in a kennel to earn themoney to buy one. Unfortunately, the onlyM A R C H 2 0 0 5 3 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONperson who believes she can succeed is Silverherself.Linda Oatman High’s Hound Heaven is abeautifully written story with a plucky, poignantheroine. Silver is an orphan—her parents andsister died in a car crash—but the poverty of hersurroundings and the loneliness she feels neverbreaks her spirit.She’s exquisitely-drawn, and achingly real.Silver has little in common with her shallowbest friend Rose, yet she truly loves Rose, andRose loves her. Similarly, nerdy Dudley Baxter,although an annoyance to Silver, ultimatelybecomes as close a friend as Rose… and apossible future love interest. As for Pawpaw, heand Silver share a deep, close bond that’swonderfully portrayed.While Silver’s extremely strong faith influencesall her decisions, Hound Heaven isn’t so much aChristian novel as a novel about a Christian.Silver regularly goes to church, respects PastorPete, and is distressed that Pawpaw and Rosearen’t religious, but the book also has severalscenes that, while innocent, can be problematic.There’s reference to Pawpaw slipping out a“cuss word every now and then” when he’ssleeping. Rose believes her dreamcatcherearrings filter out bad dreams; Silver scoffs…but later receives, and wears, a dreamcatchernecklace. There are running jokes aboutSilver’s flat chest and Pawpaw’s “booger green”sofa, and a joke about passing gas. Silver oncethinks the moon “winks” at her, convincing hersomething “heaven-like” will happen.Hound Heaven is a story of a brave, resilient girllovingly fighting the odds to get what she wants.Middle school girls should love it. Highlyrecommended.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.Hear my sorrow : the diary of AngelaDenoto, a shirtwaist worker / by DeborahHopkinson. (Dear America.) LCCN2003021454. New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439221617, list cost: $10.95.Fic. Factories—Fiction; Labor disputes—Fiction;Immigrants—Fiction; Italian Americans—Fiction;Diaries—Fiction; New York (N.Y.)—History—1898-1951—Fiction. 188 p. ; 20 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 5.Hear My Sorrow is a fictional account of AngelaDenoto, a shirtwaist worker, in 1909. Althoughthe character of Angela is fictionalized, theauthor weaves within the story many historicalfacts. The story is set in New York whenworkers had no rights and unions were firstmaking their stand. The story in this book is sostrong that the reader will be amazed that whenthey read the final word and shut the book thatthey have learned so much.In this story, journal writer, Angela, although abright student, leaves school at the age offourteen to help support her family. She entersthe workforce in a shirtwaist factory where sheis expected to work six days a week, many timesfor ten hours or more a day. She is paid very lowwages and is even charged for the sewingneedles that break. The conditions of theseworkshops, as well as being appalling, placeworkers in danger.Finally, the women take a stand and 20,000 girlsfrom various shirtwaist factories go on strike.Angela is forced to take a stand which couldleave her family hungry as well as having toendure the mistreatment by others. Rights ofworkers versus family duty becomes a strongissue as well as the struggle to understand onestrue potential.A great book and one I certainly recommend.S. Katherine Lopez, Freelance Writer, Beavercreek, Ohio.The trouble with Skye / Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 1.) LCCN2003018869. Grand Rapids : Zonderkidz,2004.PAP, 031070572X, list cost: $2.99.Fic. Horses—Fiction; Foster home care—Fiction;Christian life—Fiction. 130 p. ill. ; 18 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 3.A true test for Skye / Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 2.) LCCN2003018718. Grand Rapids : Zonderkidz,2004.PAP, 0310705738, list cost: $4.99.Fic. Horses—Fiction; Death—Fiction; Friendship—Fiction; Christian life—Fiction; Foster home care—Fiction. 132 p. : ill. ; 18 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 3.The Trouble with Skye begins with a troubledand angry foster child, Skye, appearing before ajudge ready to sentence her to juveniledetention. At thirteen Skye has a record of drugand alcohol abuse, vandalism, and shoplifting injust one year as well as having been in fivefoster homes. Just as the judge is ready to makea ruling, another foster care couple stepsforward pledging to take Skye into their home.A reluctant and distrustful Skye doesn’tunderstand the Chambers dedication to God.Through the grace of God and the care of theChambers and their horses, Skye finally decidesnot to give up on herself and to accept God intoher life.Although this is a good book, throughout I kepthoping for much more from the writer than shedelivered. It left me wishing she had fleshed outthe emotions in the characters much more.ATrue Test for Skye continues the story of Skyeas her rebellious former “partner in crime”moves into the Chambers’ home with Skye andanother foster girl. Skye sees in her friend theperson she used to be and urges her friend,Sooze, to look at life in another way and not todiscount God.Sooze (Susan) is angry, feels betrayed andunloved by her mother, and is not so easilyswayed that God can make a difference in herlife. She is further untrusting of the Chambers.The only thing that attracts her to stay are Skyeand the horses. Maybe through drugs she canescape? Sooze discovers why her mother is theway she is and embraces Skye, the Chambers,and God.Again, I thought this book was good, but kepthoping for much more from the writer than shedelivered. It seemed more like a story with abeginning and ending without much in themiddle to sustain it. Yet, it does show howcalmness surrounds one if they have faith.S. Katherine Lopez, Freelance Writer, Beavercreek, Ohio.William of Orange : the silent prince / byW.G. Van de Hulst. LCCN 92020246.Pella, Ia. : Inheritance Publications, 1992.PAP, 0921100159, list cost: $7.90.Fic. William I, Prince of Orange, 1533-1584—Juvenile literature; Netherlands—Kings and rulers—Biography—Juvenile literature. 142 p. : ill. ; 21 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 2.William of Nassau was also known as the SilentPrince. Inheriting his principality of Orange atan early age, William grew up in the service ofthe King of Spain as a loyal Roman Catholic.Observing the excesses of the Inquisition,William became disaffected first withCatholicism and finally with Spain’s rule of theNetherlands. Like Martin Luther, William firsttried to change the system from within, but wasquickly seen as a threat to the established order.Hounded from his position and lands, Williambecame a hero of the Reformation as well as theNetherlands.This story of William of Orange as written byW.G. Van de Hulst is unsurprisingly biased.One would expect a Dutch writer to paint hiscountry’s George Washington as sympthetic, butthis rendition portrays a faultless man. That isnot the only problem with this book.Stylistically, this book is written as if the story isbeing narrated around a campfire. As a result,the tone is pedantic and condescending as wellas choppy. It is unlikely that students will beable to stay the course to finish the book and ifthey do, they will learn only one dimension ofthis important historical character.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.Smoky the cowhorse / by Will James ;illustrated by the author. LCCN99058659. Missoula, Mont. : MountainPress, 1926, 1999.PAP,0878424148, list cost: $16.00.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONFic. Horses—Juvenile fiction; Horses—Fiction; West(U.S.)—Fiction; Newbery Medal. xi, 245 p. : ill. ; 23cm.Grades 6-8. Rating : 5.A colt is born one spring up in the mountainscarrying within his genes his mama’s wildnessand his papa’s strength. Adding his own greatheart and uncanny knack for understanding hissurroundings, the pony is a prize if someone cantame him. Clint, a broncobuster for the RockingR, recognizes the potential in the young colt andtakes great pains with the pony’s training. Bythe time he is finished, Clint and Smoky are onthe same wavelength, the perfect partnership ofman and horse. After years of working for theranch, Smoky is stolen and savagely abused.Escaping his abuser, Smoky ends up as abucking bronco on the rodeo circuit. Nownamed Cougar, the horse spends several yearsworking out a hatred for men. Mellowed, he isof no use as a bronco and becomes a rentalhorse. His excellence at that leads to a breakdown in his health and what seems like the endfor the mouse-colored pony.Anyone who has spent time around horses willenjoy this reprint of the 1927 Newbery winner,Smoky the Cowhorse. Written in Will James’loquacious Western style, the grammar andattitudes are of the period and are not politicallycorrect. The cowboy-flavored writing makesthis a challenging book to read aloud but it issuch a great story that with some judiciousediting, it is worth the attempt. This book ismost appropriate for older readers, secure intheir knowledge of proper grammar anduninfluenced by stereotypes and remarks madein the context of the time. Reproductions ofJames’ original pencil drawings scatteredthroughout the story punctuate it nicely.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.A corner of the universe / Ann M. Martin.LCCN 2001057611. New York : ScholasticPress, 2002.HBB, 0439388805, list cost: $15.95.Fic. Family life—Fiction; Uncles—Fiction; Peoplewith mental disabilities—Fiction; Friendship—Fiction.189 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 5.Hattie Owen leads a pretty simple life and isperfectly content with that life. Mom and Dadown a large boarding house where Hattie is verycomfortable and feels like the boarders are herextended family. She has a best friend, Betsy,loves to read, and really loves her town,Millerton. But one day Hattie learns startlingnews. She has a secret uncle, one she has neverbeen told about and he is coming home for thesummer. Adam is 21 and has gone to a specialschool most of his life, but that school is closingand he will be spending the summer with Nanaand Papa, his parents, (Hattie’s grandparents, ofcourse) until another school can be located forhim. Adam is mentally ill!Hattie experiences a summer like one she hasnever known. Getting to know Adam, findingout how much alike they are in many ways,making a new friend out of her comfort zoneand then a disastrous end to many, many things.A Corner of the Universe is an interesting bookin that the reader is lulled into thinking this issweet and fluffy when the beginning of the storyis told. But this is a serious story about a seriousissue. Not just the issue of mental illness butalso keeping that illness from children in thefamily as a way of protecting them.Written for middle school age readers, A Cornerof the Universe has a message for older readers,as well. It is written in the easily readable styleof well known author, Ann M. Martin, whowrites out of her own experience. She, too, hadan uncle she did not know existed, an uncle witha mental illness, and that lends credibility to herwriting. Although nothing in this book isinappropriate for children, the subject of mentalillness and suicide makes its target audiencemiddle school and above.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Look to the hills : the diary of LozetteMoreau, a French slave girl / by PatriciaC. McKissack. (Dear America.) LCCN2003050435. New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439210380, list cost: $10.95.Fic. Slavery—Fiction; Identity—Fiction; AfricanAmericans—Fiction; Diaries—Fiction; UnitedStates—History—French and Indian War, 1755-1763—Fiction. 188 p. : ill., maps ; 20 cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 5.Look to the Hills, although a fictionalizedaccount, offers readers insight into life as aslave. As in all the Dear America books, thisjournal is craftily interwoven with historicalfacts.Young Lozette shows readers what it feels liketo be a companion slave to someone she hasgrown to love. The author through words trulycaptures what one can imagine is in the mind ofsomeone who yearns simply to be “free.” In thediary she writes of her owner, “I didn’t want tobe free of (her)… I wanted to be free from her.”She also states, “I am a slave. And saying it islike vomiting up rotten meat.”Throughout the book the author leads you to seethe viewpoints of many. But the issue alwaysreturns to the fight for one young girl to simplybe able to go wherever she wishes withoutpermission from another, to rest her head in aplace that she chooses, and to be a friend whowants to do something for another versus beingforced to do so.The author writes toward the end of the book,“What is given from the heart reaches the heart,”and that is what this book does—reaches theheart. I strongly recommend this book.S. Katherine Lopez, Freelance Writer, Beavercreek, Ohio.The red house mystery / A.A. Milne.LCCN 2001004430. Greenville, S.C. :JourneyForth, 2001.PAP, 1579247024, list cost: $6.49.Fic. Mystery and detective stories; England—Fiction.202 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 9-Adult. Rating : 4.The name A.A.Milne might conjure up imagesof Winnie the Pooh and the gang, but authorMilne wrote for adults as well. In The RedHouse Mystery, jack-of-all-trades TonyGillingham happens upon a murder at a countryestate. Venturing to the house with the intent ofvisiting a friend who is staying there,Gillingham arrives in time to help discover abody. The estate house, filled with guests, soonbecomes the hub of a mystery. Who killed thedead man and where is the dead man’s brother,the main suspect in the murder? Gillingham,fashioning himself after Sherlock Holmes,enlists the aid of his friend Bill Beverley. Withthe astuteness of Miss Marple, Gillinghamdiscovers clues, secret passageways, andeventually the murderer, as well as the true fateof the estate owner Mark Ablett.Milne writes an engaging mystery, rich inEnglish tradition. For Anglophiles, this book isa must read. The tone, setting, and pace arecharacteristically English, with a tinge of Britishhumor added as well. The red herrings andtwists given offer pages of deception. This is acharming English “who-dun-it” that will bringenjoyment to the reader.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.Private Peaceful / by Michael Morpurgo.LCCN 2003065347. New York :Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439636485, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Single-parent families—Fiction; Poverty—Fiction; Soldiers—Fiction; People with mentaldisabilities—Fiction; World War, 1914-1918—England—Fiction; Great Britain—History—George V,1910-1936—Fiction. 202 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 7-10. Rating : 5.Private Thomas Peaceful faces the longest nightof his life. He stands watch, knowing that, in themorning, everything he lives for will changeforever. He recalls when he and his brotherCharlie were in school, and how Charlie tookcare of and looked out for him. He remembershis first love, Molly, whose adventurous andcaring nature gained her immediate acceptanceinto the family. He feels responsible for hisfather’s death and the heartache his motherfaced to keep the family together. He recalls“Grandma Wolfwoman,” the great aunt whomade life miserable when Mom had to go off towork, and Big Joe, his mentally slow olderbrother, who rescued animals. He remembershow, to the Peacefuls, World War I is just ahorrible event taking place far away from homeand loved ones; until Charlie decides to join thefighting. Then, for sixteen-year-old ThomasM A R C H 2 0 0 5 3 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONPeaceful, who follows his brother off to war, therelative safety of the English countryside isexchanged for the constant upheaval of the warin France.Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo is anovel about the tragedies and losses of war.Written in the first person, Morpurgo skillfullyshows the ravages of battle through the eyes ofthe young protagonist. Story is well-organizedand easy to follow. Although there is mild useof obscene language, dialogue is believable andadds depth. Background contributes to therealistic picture painted by the author. Plot iswell-devised; foreshadows but gives nothingaway of the end twist. Recommended for publiclibraries.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The journal of Brian Doyle : a greenhornon an Alaskan whaling ship / by JimMurphy. (My name is America.) LCCN2002044578. New York : Scholastic, 2004.HBB, 0439078148, list cost: $10.95.Fic. Whaling—Fiction; Ocean travel—Fiction;Survival—Fiction; Diaries—Fiction. 188 p. : ill. ; 20cm.Grades 4-7. Rating : 5.This wonderfully written story begins withyoung Brian aboard a whaling ship, having lefthis abusive home at the age of fourteen. Hisenjoyment of freedom away from home is shortlived as he discovers life on board is not anyeasier. The Captain is incompetent, some crewmembers are quick to anger, and young Brianfinds killing whales not to his liking. When theboat becomes encased in ice, he must make thedecision to stay with the Captain and the boat orforge ahead on foot on the ice to seek rescue.This is a fabulous story of a compassionateyoung man who during his struggle to survivealso struggles with his inner turmoil. Theauthor, Jim Murphy, carefully leads readersalong with Brian as he strives to understand hisfather, fellow crew members, and what isimportant in life.Brian’s journal is set in the late 1800s whenwhaling was legal, popular, and profitable.Although Brian Doyle and his diary arefictionalized by the author, Jim Murphy, hemasterfully weaves within his story historicalfacts. I would strongly recommend this book toany reader.S. Katherine Lopez, Freelance Writer, Beavercreek, Ohio.Eragon / Christopher Paolini. LCCN2003047481. New York : Alfred A. Knopf,2003.HBB, 0375826688, list cost: $18.95.Fic. Fantasy; Dragons—Fiction; Youths’ writings.509 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 3.Eragon, a young teenage boy living in thePalancar Valley in the far north of the land ofAlagaësia, has an uncertain past. No one hastold him—or seems to know—the identity of hisfather, and he never knew his mother. His futurebecomes uncertain, too, when he finds a magicalgem that hatches into a real dragon! Dragonsgrow quickly, and Eragon finds he cannot hideher (“Saphira,” he names her, is a femaledragon)—especially when evil seems to bespreading throughout his land. When emissariesfrom that evil come through Eragon’s farm andkill his uncle, the only father he’s known, hedecides to chase after those murderers. ButBrom, the old storyteller of his village insists onaccompanying him. Brom seems to know muchabout dragons.The two wicked beings which Brom and Eragonbegin chasing always seem a step ahead of theboy and the old man, so Brom takes advantageof their time on the trail to teach Eragon aboutdragons and magic, and about the past ofEragon’s own special class: the Dragon Riders.As Eragon’s power with magic and sword growunder Brom’s tutelage, he discovers that hisnewfound identity gives him some choices.Will he fight the long-living and evil kingGalbatorix or capitulate and give up hisintegrity? If he fights, which of Galbatorix’senemies will he ally with? Or will he stay alooffrom those politics?Christopher Paolini’s small dig at organizedreligion and his views of evil and of fate tendtoward the simplistic, and his heroes are notabove an occasional lie. But Eragon is afantastic effort considering that its author wasabout Eragon’s age! Paolini seems to drawheavily from Tolkien, but his work breathessome imaginative authenticity.Mark L. Ward, Jr. PhD candidate. Research Assistant/NationalNewsletter Editor, Bob Jones University’sThe teacher’s funeral : a comedy in threeparts / Richard Peck. LCCN 2004004361.New York : Dial, 2004.HBB, 0803727364, list cost: $16.99.Fic. Education—Fiction; Teachers—Fiction; Countrylife—Indiana—Fiction; Humorous stories; Indiana—History—20th century—Fiction. 190 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 5.Award winning author, Richard Peck, has doneit again with The Teacher’s Funeral. He’sproduced a wonderful, warm story of the pastfilled with humor and always a few lessons to belearned, too.When Miss Myrt dies just prior to schoolstarting, Russell Culver is sure it is much too lateto get another teacher and that school will becancelled. Who needs it anyway? In the year of1904, Russell has dreams of the Dakotas withhis best friend, Charlie, and is merely waitingfor the right time to run off and join a team ofharvesters there.No such luck. Not only do the townspeopledredge up a teacher but it is none other thanRussell’s sister, Tansy—his big sister in moreways than simply age. He can’t imagine a worsereplacement for Miss Myrt and what does hissister know anyway! But in the weeks andmonths to come, Russell finds out just whatTansy is made of.Each of Richard Peck’s books for young peopleis set in a historical period and filled withinteresting and unusual characters. They aregenerally humorous and always appropriate forall ages. Peck admits to preferring young adultworks for his own reading because of the clearcut stories and lack of profanity. He himselfadheres to these guideline producing in hisstories, and of course including this one,memorable tales and characters that will leaveyou smiling and hoping for more.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster boy /by Gary D. Schmidt. LCCN 2003020967.New York : Clarion Books, 2004.HBB, 0618439293, list cost: $15.00.Fic. Progress—Fiction; Race relations—Fiction;Moving, Household—Fiction; Clergy—Fiction;Maine—History—20th century—Fiction; NewberyHonor Book. 219 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 4.Gary D. Schmidt received a 2005 NewberyHonor Award for this slice of historical fictionstory set in coastal Maine at the turn of the 20thcentury. Reverend Buckminster, with his wifeand son Turner, has just arrived from Boston tobecome the minister for the localCongregational church. The church fathers haveplans for the minister to support them in aproject to develop an island tourist resort. Theproblem is a colony of former slaves who havetaken up residence on Malaga Island, whom thelocals claim are squatters and have no rights tothe land. This is the historical slice. Anotherproblem is Turner, who doesn’t fit into the smalltown youth culture. In fact, he hates Phippsburgand wants to “light out for the Territories.” Yetanother problem is Turner’s friendship with oneof the island youngsters, Lizzie Bright. Lizzieteaches Turner the ways of rural coastal Maine(Maine baseball, clamming, rowing a boat,appreciating whales), and the two attempt tosave the residents on the island, which leads tonumerous adventures and disasters. Lizzie getsinjured, Turner needs to paddle to the island in astorm, and the minister is hurt and dies. Andmixed in with live-action are the underlyingpolitics within the Buckminster family, withinthe church, and within the town.It is tough to be a minister’s child at any time,but even tougher in a closed provincial societysuch as 1911 Maine. It is even tougher when thechurch fathers have plans for the family; “Thecongregation, Minister, will tell you what itthinks, and what it wants you to think.” SchmidtC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONhas created a clutch of strong unique maincharacters: Reverend Buckminster, Turner,Lizzie Bright, plus equally eccentric secondarycharacters: Deacon Hurd, old grandmotherHurd, and Mrs. Cobb for whom Turner plays thepump organ regularly for punishment. Initially,Reverend Buckminster is a negative, notnurturing positive pastor, and one whoseChristian values are questionable.Consequently, this reviewer wondered about thesuitability of the title in a Christian setting. Henever becomes my kind of pastor, too stiff andintellectual, but true to the times anddenomination, and eventually stands forprinciples.Schmidt has wound, unwound and rewound acomplicated story to be read and discussed onmany levels and around many themes. Eventhough adventure abounds, it is Schmidt’s poeticdescriptive language that makes the bookbeautiful. Nature is personified and comes aliveas the weather, changing seasons, and theenvironment pass before the reader’s eyes. Thetitle would make a wonderful class study in aChristian school. The reviewer wonders,however, if it will be widely read or appreciatedby the intended audience without that guidance.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.The Welkening : a three dimensional tale /Gregory Spencer. LCCN 2004052362.West Monroe, La. : Howard, 2004.PAP, 1582293554, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Friendship—Fiction; Marginality, Social—Fiction; Christian fiction; Fantasy fiction. 398 p. ; 22cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Teens Lizbeth, a stocky jock; her brother, Bennuof the long, hooked nose; Len, geeky master ofviolent video games; and his sister, Angie, withlooks, brains and a ditzy demeanor form “TheCommiseration of Misfits.” The group sets outone afternoon to explore an old hermit’sdwelling, and are caught and beaten by the townbullies, the McKenzie Butte Boys. When allseems lost, there is a sudden dimensionalchange, the McKenzies disappear, and some oddlooking, cloaked characters rescue the Misfits.A deadly beast called Morphane, able to devourboth body and soul, seems ever-present. Whilesimultaneously attempting to find their ownroute home, the Misfits decide to join thestrange, brave little band in their battle to freetheir homeland of Welken from the carnagetaking place.The Welkening by Gregory Spencer is aChristian fantasy adventure. Characters arebelievable. Pace slows down in spots, but isworth continuing to read. Dialogue is wellseasoned with humor, as well as drama. Plot isclear. Some graphic violence expressed.Writing style touches on many of the classics:C.S. Lewis’The Chronicles of Narnia and J.R.R.Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings series’, as well asshades of Alice in Wonderland, The Wizard ofOz, and Philip Pullman’s The Golden Compass(Knopf Books for Young Readers, 1996). Dr.Gregory Spencer, a professor at SouthernCalifornia’s Westmont College, specializes in,among other subjects, rhetorical theory andmedia ethics. Recommended for fans of fantasywith Christian, rather than occult overtones, andlarger sci-fi fantasy collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Really, truly, everything’s fine / LindaLeopold Strauss. LCCN 2003017217.New York : Marshall Cavendish, 2004.HBB, 0761451633, list cost: $15.95.Fic. Family problems—Fiction; Criminals—Fiction;Fathers—Fiction; Schools—Fiction. 149 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 7-10. Rating : 4.Leopald draws an incisive portrait of a brightand complex teen in the challenges of family lifeas fourteen-year-old Jill deals with her disruptedfamily life. Her father is accused of a crimewhere he could face up to ten years in prison,and her mother who kicks Dad out of the housedoesn’t want others to know what has happened.The family crisis precipitates a search for thetruth. The interesting twists in the story end upforcing her family out of denial. Many roads arecrossed: Jill has to figure out the truth about herfather, whom she has always adored; the truthabout her mother, who buries herself in work;the truth about her little brother, Markie; and thetruth about the kids at school who treat herdifferently when they read about her father inthe newspaper.School and public library juvenile collectionscan add this title with confidence. The writingstyle is fluid and vibrant, the pace moving, andoffers a storyline that touches upon feelingsyouth can relate to. The language is realistic foryouth and reflective of what Christian youth areencouraged to develop, and conveys a range ofheartrendingly real emotions.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.The passage / Sarah Sumpolec.(Becoming Beka ; 3.) LCCN 2004018140.Chicago : Moody Publishers, 2005.PAP, 080246453X, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Dating (Social customs)—Fiction; Highschools—Fiction; Schools—Fiction; Fathers anddaughters—Fiction; Christian life—Fiction. 250 p. ;21 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 5.The Passage, third in the Becoming Beka seriesby Sarah Anne Sumpolec, finds Beka nearingthe end of her tumultuous junior year. One ofher biggest frustrations is not having aboyfriend. Fellow junior Mark comes closest tofilling that role, but Beka’s dad is strict aboutdating. Beka follows her heart and disobeys herdad’s rules on more than one occasion. Theresult is familiar to many teens—a loss of trustbetween her and her father. However, Beka isalso interested in a homeschooled guy as well.The two go to a dance together and end up goingto Beka’s school prom as well. Fighting throughher relationship with her dad only adds toBeka’s anxiety. Mix in her concerns aboutpotential retaliation by her former friend andonce again, Beka seems to have her hands, head,and heart full of confusion and indecision.Once again Sarah Anne Sumpolec captures thevoice of today’s teens. She creates not onlybelievable characters but flawed ones as well.Yes, Beka is a Christian, but she makes manyconscious choices to sin and go against herfather’s wishes. Modern teens will relate to androot for Beka who seems mired in difficulty.Although she has a relationship with God, it’snot always alive and real. The Passage portraysin honest terms teens struggles to find a balancein their relationship with God.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.Sun slower sun faster / Meriol Trevor ;illustrated by Edward Ardizzone. (Livinghistory library.) LCCN 2004101830.Bathgate, N.D. : Bethlehem Books, 2004,1955.PAP, 1883937418, list cost: $12.95.Fic. England—History—Fiction; Church history—Fiction. 290 p. ; 22 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : 4.Rickie and Cecilia (who goes by Cecil) aresecond cousins who have met for the first timeby both being marooned at the ancestral home inthe care of an aged uncle. Cecil’s parents havegone to West Africa and her boarding school isclosed due to polio. Rickie is an orphan who hasfailed his entrance exams for school but hisguardians are traveling so he’s been sent toWelston to study. Set outside Bath, England,Welston is full of surprises including a priesthole, disused chapel, secret room, and Romanwell. Rickie has discovered a family historywritten in 1850 which intrigues both of thechildren. Cecil finds an old seal with an AgnusDei. Both of those have some magical powerthat transports the children, and occasionally thetutor, Dominic, to different periods in history.The British have been blessed with many oldhouses, much interesting history and severalwriters who combine those two in order to makehistory interesting to present and futuregenerations. The children begin the storywithout any sort of religious affiliation, butthrough their time travel come to understand thepart the house and their ancestors in Bath playedin history. Reflecting Meriol Trevor’s devoutbeliefs, the children learn their ancestorssympathized with the Roman Catholic side ofBritish history. In the end, Rickie discovers hewas baptized Catholic and gains a new family.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 3 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULTFICTIONCecil has learned to use a Rosary, and bothexpress an interest in learning more about thesenew ideas. The great uncle is rude and causticto both Dominic and Rickie although he repentsat the end and Rickie’s guardians areparticularly odious. Theologically, Sun SlowerSun Faster will be most at home in a Catholicschool library.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.Sister to the wolf / by Maxine Trottier.LCCN 2004463392. Toronto : KidsCan,2004.HBB, 155337519X, list cost: $16.95.Fic. Indians of North America—Fiction; ShawneeIndians—Fiction. 348 p. ; 20 cm.Grades 7-8. Rating : 4.Cécile, a young lady growing up in late 17thcentury Canada, is independent and headstrong.Her father is a fur trader, and her mother is dead.Rather than placing her in a convent, Robert hasraised her to know her own mind. In the marketone day, Cécile cannot stand the cruelty ofslavery any longer and purchases a young Indianman out of bondage. Although she immediatelyfrees him, Lesharo is grafted to her throughgratitude and stays with Cécile and her father asthey make their way from Quebec to the newFort Detroit. When a large wolf shadows themLesharo is comforted by its presence because heis Pawnee and they are “People of the Wolf.”Mystified by Cécile’s fear of the wolf he tries toexplain his culture through the stories of hisyouth. In the final confrontation between theworld of the French and the world of theIndians, Cécile understands the connectionbetween Lesharo and the wolf, and realizes shehas become more one of the Indians than theFrench.Drawing on scant historical resources of thefounding of Detroit, Maxine Trottier has craftedan interesting story interweaving the worlds ofthe “civilized” French, the fur traders, and theIndians. Cécile is a strong heroine,compassionate, and unprejudiced. She is alsoheadstrong and naïve so the growing hostilitybetween Lesharo and French officers whowould like to court her completely escapes her.The romance is resolved in a “G” rated fashionwith the father blessing the girl’s choice of theunconventional path. Violence, prejudice, andromance make this story more appropriate forolder students. The contrasts between Cécile’sRoman Catholic faith and Lesharo’s religionprovide interesting discussion points.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

BOOK REVIEWSYOUNG ADULT NONFICTIONHow to help your hurting friend : clearguidance for messy problems / by SusieShellenberger. Grand Rapids : YouthSpecialities, 2004.PAP, 031025308X, list cost: $9.99.248.8/3. Youth—Religious life; Problem youth—Religious life; Friendship—Religious aspects—Christianity; Christian life; Conduct of life. 166 p. ;21 cm.Grades 8-12. Rating : 5.Susie Shellenberger, editor of Brio magazine,has written 25 books for teens. In her latest,How to Help Your Hurting Friend, authorShellenberger gives systematic advice for teengirls on making friends, being a friend, andspecific issues in friendship where a friend mayneed help. She covers these issues in SectionTwo, addressing eating disorders, depression,the Internet, coping with an illness, selfdestruction,and sexual abuse. Each of thesechapters is filled with personal incidents, adefinition of the problem itself, and ways inwhich one friend can help another. The authortalks straight to the reader, never suggests anavenue that is not appropriate for teens andalways gives a Christian perspective. The firstsection covers friendship and the third section isLetters to Susie, 55 pages of correspondencesent to Susie followed by her answers to thoseletters.Although of course not all inclusive, How toHelp Your Hurting Friend is an excellentresource for Christian teens. It deals with manyof the problems facing young people todaywhether the readers are searching for answersfor friends—or for themselves.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.A young man after God’s own heart / JimGeorge. LCCN 2004021733. Eugene,Ore. : Harvest House, 2005.PAP, 0736914781, list cost: $8.99.248.8/32. Young men—Religious life; Christian life;Spiritual exercises. 207 p. ; 21 cm.Grades 7-12. Rating : 3.Using the example of David, who sinned greatlybut was still a man after God’s own heart(because of his desire to do God’s will), JimGeorge has written a book to help teen andyoung adult males live for God in every aspectof their lives. Geared mostly to young men whoalready have a Christian faith and need just a bitof encouragement to embrace it more fully, AYoung Man After God’s Own Heart encouragesits readers to commit to a genuine relationshipwith God while getting a firm grounding in HisWord.Included are anecdotes and stories fromGeorge’s life (George is an author and speakerwho’s been active in Christian ministry fortwenty-five years); practical tips on how tostudy the Bible, and a one-year Bible readingplan. Each chapter ends with questions based ona Bible reading. Each chapter also has a “Yes,but how?” section with examples onimplementing that chapter’s lessons.While Young Man will be valuable for readerslooking to grow in their faith and is written in asimple, easy to understand language suitable forearly junior high students, most likely only highschool or college-aged readers would have thematurity to commit to George’s program. Thisisn’t a book that can be quickly skimmed, thenput on a shelf; actually putting its principles intouse will take work, a fact George does not glossover.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.A young woman’s call to prayer /Elizabeth George. LCCN 2004020516.Eugene, Ore. : Harvest House, 2005.PAP, 0736914633, list cost: $9.99.248.8/33. Teenage girls—Religious life—Juvenileliterature; Girls—Religious life—Juvenile literature;Prayer—Juvenile literature. 197 p. ; 21 cm.Grades 7-12. Rating : 3.Elizabeth George has written AYoung Woman’sCall to Prayer to help girls become dynamicwomen of prayer. George also hopes to helpgirls revolutionize their world. “As prayerbecomes more a part of your life,” she writes,“God will become your closest friend.”Using examples from Bible characters and herown experiences (George is an author, teacher,and speaker at Christian women’s events, with anational radio ministry), George offers readerstwelve practical ways to become women ofprayer, including what to do (and not to do), andwhy prayer can be difficult. There’s also aPrayer Calendar (where readers can check offwhich days they’ve prayed), a “Things to Do”section at the end of each chapter (with, amongother things, Bible verses to look up), and a“Would You Like to Know More?” sectionpresenting additional scriptures and questions.The book can be used alone, with a friend ormentor, or with a prayer group. As with JimGeorge’s AYoung Man After God’s Own Heart,it’s readable enough for junior high kids, butwould be best for older teens (high school andcollege) since it’s written for Christians trulycommitted to improving their prayer life—acommitment that will take work. George herselfstresses this, admitting she’s yet to completelyunderstand the mysteries of prayer.There’s a nice chapter on praying for help indesperate situations, but it comes with theimplication that God will resoundingly answeryes to every prayer. Similarly, a chapter onpraying for God’s will implies a persistentperson will easily discern it.George’s book is helpful, and fills an importantneed, but it will be best for girls seriouslylooking to improve their prayer lives rather thangirls that concerned adults hope can beinfluenced to improve their prayer lives.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.Soul sister / Beth Redman. LCCN2003021965. Ventura, Calif. : RegalBooks, 2004.PAP, 0830732128, list cost: $9.99.248.8/33. Teenage girls—Religious life; Teenagegirls—Conduct of life. 108 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Grades 6-9. Rating : 4.Distraction is a word that comes to mind whenthinking of young teen girls trying to grow up intoday’s world. Distractions such as loud voicesclamoring for their attention: how to dress, howto talk, who to listen to, who to hang out with.It’s even more difficult when trying to live forthe Lord. What voices to listen to? Is it possibleto be a “normal” girl and live for the Lord?These are some of the issues Beth Redmanaddresses in Soul Sister. Her book is not reallya devotional; it’s not even an instructional—it’smore like a heart-to-heart conversation with abig sister, or a mentor. Short and to the point ontopics girls of today have questions about, andmaybe no answers for, is what Redman’s bookoffers to her audience. Topics such truth,identity, relationships are frankly addressed.Deeper, spiritual issues such as evangelism,quiet time, and destiny are also discussed.Redman writes with humor, honesty, wisdom,and a “I’ve-been-there” attitude that young girlsneeding a role model will appreciate and learnfrom.Redman admittedly comes from a less thanperfect background, yet she emphasizes how herlife took a turn for the far better when she beganto focus on the Lord instead on the world. HerM A R C H 2 0 0 5 3 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULTNONFICTIONsuccess and her devotion to serving the Lordwill certainly be an inspiration for young teenreaders. One note is that she writes from a UKpoint of view so some of the language, terms,and situations will be different for Americanreaders, yet not so much that it will be aproblem.Pam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.Cameron Townsend : good news in everylanguage / Janet & Geoff Benge.(Christian heroes : then & now.) LCCN98030891. Seattle : YWAM Publishing,1999.PAP, 1576581365, list cost: $8.99.266/.0092 or B. Townsend, William Cameron, 1896-;Wycliffe Bible Translators—Biography; SummerInstitute of Linguistics—Biography. 221 p. ; 21 cm.Grades 4-6. Rating : 4.Cameron Townsend began his career with theLord selling Bibles in Guatemala. As hetraveled around Central America he discoveredthat a Spanish Bible was of little use to peoplewho were illiterate in any language, even theirown. Slowly a plan began to form in his mind.If he could translate the Bible into the Indianlanguages, he could teach them to read with it,and from it. From that moment, CameronTownsend was set upon the course God haddesigned for him, to translate the Word into asmany languages as possible. Founding WycliffeBible Translators in 1942, Cameron Townsendlabored tirelessly his entire life to bring God’sword to people in their own language. Becauseof his vision, today the Bible is available in over500 languages with more still being translated.This is an important biography about a man whotoday is fading from memory but whose work iseternal. Janet and Geoff Benge’s writing style isto pack as many facts as possible into theirbooks so it takes perseverance to stick withthem. Still, information about heroes of the faithis worth pursuing. The text could havebenefited from illustrations and the lack of themmay deter some readers. A short bibliographyconcludes the book.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.*Sir Gawain and the green knight / as toldby Michael Morpurgo ; illustrated byMichael Foreman. LCCN 2003065527.Cambridge, Mass. : Candlewick Press,2004.HBB, 0763625191, list cost: $18.99.398.2. Arthur, King—Legends; Gawain (Legendarycharacter)—Legends; Arthurian romances—Adaptations; Gawain (Legendary character)—Legends; Folklore—England; Knights andknighthood—Folklore. 114 p. : col. ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 5-8. Rating : *5.A classic morality tale first written down duringthe 14th century, Morpugo’s retelling of SirGawain and The Green Knight catches theessence of this story. A horrendous, giganticgreen knight rides into King Arthur’s Christmasdining room and challenges anyone in theassemblage to chop his head off, with theproviso that a year hence The Green Knight willhave the return privilege. In proper knightlyfashion, Sir Gawain accepts the challenge. TheGreen Knight survives. A year later Gawainrides off into fear, temptation, and adventure tofulfill his part of the bargain.Multiple prize winning author, and England’sthird Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpugobrings poetry and sympathetic humor to SirGawain and The Green Knight. The words sing,making this book a delight to read aloud. Majoraward winning, noted illustrator MichaelForeman’s watercolor and pastel illustrationsbring eye-riveting attention to the narrative. Hiswork is reminiscent of the Wyeths, except thatForeman portrays believable, everyday, falliblepeople. Morpugo has kept the originalreferences to Christ, salvation, and Mary. Hehas also kept the moral teachings of this book,such as: both Chivalry and Christian honor mustundergo attack; law must be taken as deadlyserious. Gawain successfully navigates theblatant, sexual advances of his host’s wife onlyto fall to the temptation of lying; he recognizeshis sinful weaknesses, such as pride.A beautifully produced book, Sir Gawain andThe Green Knight beckons all eyes, child, youth,and adult. Recommended for all libraries,family reading, and as an introduction to thedelight of Middle English literature.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Clocks / James Lincoln Collier. (Greatinventions.) LCCN 2002156288. NewYork : Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415386, list cost: $37.07.681.1/13. Clocks and watches—History—Juvenileliterature; Clocks and watches; Time measurements.127 p. : ill. (some col.) ; 25 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Cotton gin, The / by Milton Meltzer.(Great inventions.) LCCN 2002015308.New York : Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415378, list cost: $37.07.677/.2121. Cotton gins and ginning. 123 p. : ill.(chiefly col.) ; 25 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Printing press, The / by Milton Meltzer.(Great inventions.) LCCN 2002015307.New York : Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 076141536X, list cost: $37.07.686.2. Printing—History—Juvenile literature;Printing—History—Origin and antecedents—Juvenileliterature; Printing presses—Juvenile literature;Printing—History; Printing presses. 125 p. : ill.(chiefly col.) ; 25 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.Vaccines / James Lincoln Collier. (Greatinventions.) LCCN 2002156287. NewYork : Benchmark, 2004.HBB, 0761415394, list cost: $37.07.615/.372. Vaccines—Juvenile literature.; Vaccines.127 p. : ill. (some col.) ; 25 cm.Grades 9-12. Rating : 4.With clarity and interest, The Great InventionsSeries introduces the student to important,history-shaping inventions of previouscenturies. Each book follows a similar menu:history leading up to the invention; thedevelopment which encouraged the inventionand its refinement into today’s world;concomitant social changes; web sites,bibliography, and index. Illustrations includephotos, historical artwork, diagrams, andrelevant memorabilia.Clocks covers a wide field, from prehistorictimes through ancient and recent calendarchanges, to the development of navigation andon into the atomic world. Succinct, fascinatingcameos of historical eras and their affiliationwith time enhance interest.Involved with American slavery as much as withcotton, The Cotton Gin provides an intriguinglook into a difficult American era. An importantinvention, it did not earn its inventor immediatefame or money.Starting with prehistoric imaging, taking intoconsideration China’s printing, The PrintingPress knits the strands of history togetherintroducing Guttenberg and moving on throughthe modern inventions such as the photocopier.From Bubonic Plague to Smallpox to Polio andbeyond, Vaccines presents a fascinating (at timeshorrifying) history of rampant disease and thevictory gained by vaccination.Also available is the fifth book in this series,Gunpowder and Weaponry.Newbery Award-winner James Collier andLaura Ingalls Wilder Award-winner MiltonMeltzer collaborate on this beautifullyillustrated and fascinating series. All middle andhigh school libraries and classes will value thisseries.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Great adventurers of the twentiethcentury / Ron Tagliapietra. LCCN98012291. Greenville, S.C. : Bob JonesUniversity Press, 1998.PAP, 1579240739, list cost: $10.95.910.4. Adventure and adventurers—History—20thcentury. xii, 243 p. : ill., maps ; 22 cm.Grades 10-Adult. Rating : 3.For those who appreciate the conquests of managainst the elements, then Great Adventurers ofthe Twentieth Century by Ron Tagliapietra is abook to put on the reading list. Tagliapietra, anadventurer in his own right, takes a look at moreC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTNONFICTIONthan twenty explorers. The criterion for hisselection of great adventurers was to havesuccessfully achieved a notable goal in thechosen area and be the first to do so.Tagliapietra emphasizes the purpose for thisbook is to present human achievement madewithout engines. This is why we read ofexplorers making their achievements withgliders and balloons versus planes, and usedogsleds and hoses instead of cars andmotorcycles. The emphasis is truly man againstthe elements, and conquering them, or at leasttrying to do so to the limits of human endurance.The ensuing choices are as various inachievements as they are in inspiration, rangingfrom safaris to the Appalachian Trial to theocean floors and up to the world’s highest peaks.Though sparse in the telling, Great Adventurersrelates the essential details of each missionattempted and achieved. For those desiring amore in-depth, emotional account, this wouldmost likely not be the choice; however, forreaders in search of bare bones tales of man’sattempts to conquer and achieve personal goalsof endurance, strength and conquest againstseemingly impossible odds, then this is a bookof considerable interest.While light in length the book is actually broadin the diversity of feats included, and there iscertainly an exploit for anyone’s choiceavailable. The author writes a thoughtfulpreface and end chapter on how he hopesChristians reading the book will be stirred tosimilar feats as missionaries and service forJesus.Pam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.Desert storm—the first Persian Gulf Warin American history / Debra McArthur.(In American history.) LCCN2003013460. : Enslow, 2004.HBB, 0766021491, list cost: $26.60.956.7044/2. Persian Gulf War, 1991—Juvenileliterature; Persian Gulf War, 1991. 128 p. : ill., maps ;24 cm.Grades 5 and up. Rating : 4.Invention of the telegraph and telephonein American history / Anita LouiseMcCormick. (In American history.)LCCN 2003003707. Berkeley Heights,N.J. : Enslow Publishers, 2004.HBB, 0766018415, list cost: $26.60.384.1/0973. Telegraph—United States—History—Juvenile literature; Telephone—United States—History—Juvenile literature; Telegraph; Telephone;Communication—History. 128 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 5 and up. Rating : 4.The Revolutionary War and GeorgeWashington’s army in American history /Tom McGowen. (In American history.)LCCN 2003007221. Berkeley Heights,N.J. : Enslow Publishers, 2004.LIB, 0766021432, list cost: $26.60.973.3/092. Washington, George, 1732-1799; UnitedStates. Continental Army—History—Juvenileliterature; United States. Continental Army; UnitedStates—History—Revolution, 1775-1783—Campaigns—Juvenile literature; United States—History—Revolution, 1775-1783. 128 p. : ill., maps ;24 cm.Grades 5 and up. Rating : 4.In American History is a series of books aboutevents that have occurred, as the title suggests,in American history. The books include sectionsof source documents which support theinformation in the text. They also contain endnotes (called chapter notes) for informationtaken from other sources. These notes, atimeline, a further reading list, and the indexmake the books useful for research projects.Desert Storm : The First Persian Gulf War startswith the start of the Persian Gulf War on January17, 1991. It then goes back and covers some ofthe history of wars in the area and discusses theevents leading up to Desert Storm. The air warand the ground war are covered. DebraMcArthur ends the book by asking the question“Incomplete Victory?”The Invention of the Telegraph and Telephoneopens with the attempt to invention a harmonictelegraph and some biographical information onAlexander Graham Bell. The book continueswith a discussion of electricity. Samuel Morse’sinvention of the telegraph and how the telegraphchanged America are discussed, as is theinvention of the telephone. Anita McCormickcloses the book with a discussion of how thetelephone affects our lives today.The Revolutionary War and GeorgeWashington’s Army opens with the shot heard‘round the world. Tom Mc Gowen covers manyof the important battles of the RevolutionaryWar and closes the book with the surrender ofthe British. This book also includes a glossary.The books seem to be well-researched and theauthors provide source documents and chapternotes to back up their text. As much as possiblethe authors seem to present the facts withoutincluding biased information, especially true inthe book Desert Storm. Most of the informationin this series is presented in an engaging andinteresting way. However, at times some of theinformation is presented in such a way that onlythose truly interested in the topic will continuereading. At times descriptions seemed a bitgraphic, but descriptions of war scenes mayneed to be that way. The books are illustratedwith black and white photographs and drawingsfrom the period discussed. This series would bea good addition to your library if your studentsneed to do research in or have expressed aninterest in these areas.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.Iraq War / Rodney P. Carlisle ; John S.Bowman, general editor. (America atwar.) LCCN 2004005470. New York :Facts on File, 2004.HBB, 0816056277, list cost: $35.00.956.7044/3. Iraq War, 2003.; Iraq. xv, 176 p. : ill.,maps ; 24 cm.Grades 9 and up. Rating : 4.Iraq War is part of the America at War series.The war is covered in detail and muchinformation is given. While not all events in theIraq War could be covered in just 174 pages,some things are noticeably absent such as thedeath of the first Native American women everkilled in combat and the work of the chaplains.The book starts with the “Shock and Awe”campaign at the start of the war. Author RodneyCarlisle then backs up to give backgroundinformation on the situation in the Middle East,Saddam Hussein, The Persian Gulf War and theevents that lead up to the Iraq War of 2003. Thebook ends with the aftermath situation in mid- tolate-2004.The book is well-written and well-researched.The author mentions in his preface that bookswritten after his may have more accurateinformation as new information will probablylater be made public. Mr. Carlisle has done agood job of presenting the facts without bias.He does give both sides of the story in mostcases—the viewpoints of both liberals andconservatives, both those who supported the warand those who opposed it. The book isillustrated with black and white photos andmaps. Most, but not all, of the illustrations areplaced at an appropriate place in the text. Thecaptions of the photos are helpful in placing theinformation with the text. The maps werehelpful in determining location of the eventsdiscussed. Side bars of additional informationsupplement the text throughout the book. Aglossary, bibliography, and index increase thebook’s usefulness as a reference book. Iraq Warshould prove to be a useful resource for thoseresearching the Iraq War.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.Fight On! : Mary Curch Terrell’s battlefor integration / Dennis Brindell Fradin &Judith Bloom Fradin. LCCN 2002151356.New York : Clarion Books, 2003.HBB, 0618133496, list cost: $17.00.B or 323/.092. Terrell, Mary Church, 1863-1954;African American women civil rights workers—Biography; Civil rights workers—United States—Biography; African Americans—Biography; AfricanAmericans—Civil rights—History; AfricanAmericans—Segregation—Washington (D.C.)—History; Washington (D.C.)—Race relations;Washington (D.C.)—Biography. ix, 181 p. : ill. ; 26cm.Grades 6-8. Rating : 5.The biography of an important American, FightOn! introduces Mary Church Terrell. Born intoslavery, Terrell eventually became the firstM A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULTNONFICTIONAfrican American woman on the WashingtonD.C. Board of Education, first president of theNational Association of Colored Women, cofounderof the NAACP, fighter against lynchingand for the vote for women, and a noted writer,teacher, public speaker, wife, and mother. In herlate eighties, Terrell successfully led thecampaign to end segregation in our nation’scapital.Prestigious award winning authors, the Fradinsbring much research and deep interest inAmerican history to Fight On! Written with asense of drama and an eye to interesting detail,including many references to other importantblack Americans of this era, and liberallyillustrated with black and white photos, FightOn! provides engrossing reading.A liberal final section, Notes, Bibliography,Index, plus more, makes this a useful studyvolume.All schools and libraries looking to enlarge theirAmerican History and Black History sectionswill be interested in Fight On!Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.*George Washington, spymaster : howAmerica outspied the British and won theRevolutionary War / Thomas B. Allen ;featuring illustrations by Cheryl Harness.LCCN 2003006019. Washington, D.C. :National Geographic, 2004.HBB, 0792251261, list cost: $16.95.B or 973.3/85/092. Washington, George, 1732-1799—Career in espionage—Juvenile literature;Washington, George, 1732-1799; Spies—UnitedStates—Biography—Juvenile literature; Generals—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature;Presidents—United States—Biography—Juvenileliterature; Spies; Presidents; United States—History—Revolution, 1775-1783—Secret service—Juvenileliterature; United States—History—Revolution, 1775-1783—Secret service. 184 p. : ill., maps ; 19 cm.Grades 7-12 (Adult). Rating : *5.Designated as a history book, GeorgeWashington, Spymaster contains a plenitude ofinformation: a code primer with involvedciphers and their appurtenances (includinglaundry lines and little silver balls); a dashinghistory of George Washington and an excitingside of the Revolutionary War; the birth of theAmerican spy system including engrossingespionage subjects like moles, double agents,sleepers, male and female spies, andlabyrinthine networks. Coded messages for thereader to solve run throughout from dust coverto last page. An integral part, the appendicescomprise a full quarter of this book. Text Noteshold as much interest as the main pages. SpyTalk (a dictionary), and The Code will launchreaders on a new career. The Index encouragesrepeat reading.An award winning author of over thirty books,Thomas Allen fills George Washington,Spymaster with detailed information drawnfrom painstaking research. Allen embellisheslearning with a lot of fun. His web-site (addressprovided in book) adds further interest. Also anAmerican history author, Cheryl Harnessillustrates this volume with eye-catching, eracorrect pen and ink drawings. The dust coverbears a delightfully sly looking GeorgeWashington. Take off the dust cover and youfind an antiqued cover with the pleasing feel ofan old book. Within are ecru pages, old styletypeface, and uneven page edges.Of interest to any history buff who can read,George Washington, Spymaster, will also appealto younger ones who enjoy listening to books.Recommended for all libraries, schools, andfamilies.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.The President is shot! : the assassinationof Abraham Lincoln / by Harold Holzer.LCCN 2003112909. Honesdale, Pa. :Boyds Mills, 2004.HBB, 1563979853, list cost: $17.95.B or 973.7/092. Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865—Assassination. 181 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 7-9. Rating : 4.Harold Holzer writes a parallel history, and inthat history the reader learns about the lives ofAbraham Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth.Lincoln is initially introduced amidst thebackground of the Civil War, and then twochapters later the reader meets Booth. Themovements of Lincoln and Booth are shared inthe next two chapters about the day before theassassination and the day of. The final chaptersdescribe the nation’s sorrow and grieving andthe hunt for Booth’s gang. A postscript tellswhat happened to each of the principalsinvolved in the events of the assassination.Black and white archival photographs andengravings are liberally interspersed among thetext. A bibliography and list of places to visit areappended.The book reads like a murder mystery, and is apage-turner. It is very evident that Mr. Holzer iscompletely immersed as a Lincoln expert, forthe writing smoothly rolls from the pen, noawkward phrases, but completely integratedconversations (quotations) and description.Both Lincoln and Booth become human, for Mr.Holzer shares their strengths, weaknesses,convictions, idiosyncrasies, and fears. Hecaptures the emotions of Lincoln’s supportersand haters. From the introductory chapter, Mr.Holzer meticulously lays out the reasons for“the horrifying murder that ended the life ofAmerica’s greatest president.”The publisher recommends this book for grades3 and higher. This is not a book for anelementary school, but for junior high andabove, including adults. Some of the details ofthe assassination are gory, some of Lincoln’spremonitions scary. The cover features one ofthe many drawings newspapers and magazinesprepared of the assassination, and shows Boothholding a gun to Lincoln’s head. At my smallChristian school this drawing would beoffensive sensationalism to sell the book. Mr.Holzer has written readable authentic nonfictionwhich Civil War and Lincoln buffs will findessential.Marion M. Mueller, MS. Library Media Specialist, New HopeChristian School, Neenah, Wisconsin.Theodore Roosevelt : champion of theAmerican spirit / by Betsy Harvey Kraft.LCCN 2002152825. New York : ClarionBooks, 2003.HBB, 0618142649, list cost: $19.00.B or 973.91/1/092. Roosevelt, Theodore, 1858-1919—Juvenile literature; Roosevelt, Theodore, 1858-1919; Presidents—United States—Biography—Juvenile literature; Presidents. xi, 180 p. : ill. ; 26 cm.Grades 4-8 and up. Rating : 5.Kraft introduces the reader to Roosevelt’s life asa frail young lad enthralled in the magic of hischildhood. She brings us through his life andplays up his last journey, the expedition of an oldman, his son, and a team of naturalists from theMuseum of Natural History, on a journey intothe uncharted River of Doubt in Brazil.The author covers both of Roosevelt’s terms asPresident of the United States in addition to histwo failed attempts to capture the presidency.Theodore Roosevelt : Champion of theAmerican Spirit is a panoramic view ofAmerica’s twenty-sixth president as a son, ahusband, a father, and a politician. It is a fair,comprehensive overview of his life and givesthe reader a picture of a well-rounded man: anintellect, a man people loved to follow, and anexplorer.Kraft restates the better known facts ofRoosevelt’s life and expands on them withcertified historical data to bring this biographyover the top. Her life story of the People’sCowboy President is aimed at the juvenilemarket although adults as well as high schooland junior high school history buffs willappreciate her clear and spirited writing.Scads of pictures and sketches by the Rooseveltfamily are placed within the chapters andprovide the reader with a closer, more intimatelook at their lives. The quality paper andprinting make this a great gift book. SourceNotes, Bibliography, Websites, Videos, Places toVisit and the Chronology of Events in the Life ofTheodore Roosevelt make it a useful tool foreven younger grades. This book isrecommended for all ages.Maxine Cambra:,Sunday School Teacher; Freelance Writer,Anderson, California.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

YOUNG ADULTNONFICTIONSacagawea’s son : the life of Jean BaptisteCharbonneau / Marion Tinling. LCCN2001032609. Missoula, Mont. : MountainPress, 2001.PAP, 0878424326, list cost: $10.00.B or 978/.02/092. Charbonneau, Jean-Baptiste, 1805-1866; Sacagawea—Family; Lewis and ClarkExpedition (1804-1806) —Biography; Pioneers—West(U.S.)—Biography; Shoshoni Indians—Biography;Trappers—West (U.S.)—Biography; Frontier andpioneer life—West (U.S.). vii, 125 p. : ill., 1 map ; 23cm.Grades 6-8. Rating : 4.Starting with his birth at the beginning of theLewis and Clark Expedition, Sacagawea’s Sontells the story of the life of Jean BaptisteCharbonneau. After the expedition, Sacagaweaand Toussaint Charbonneau returned to theIndian village to live. When Jean Baptiste wasfour and a half, his parents took him back to St.Louis to be raised by William Clark. Forreasons which are undocumented, Baptiste wassent to boarding school and not raised in theClark home. He later had opportunity to travelto Europe. Upon his return to America, Baptistecontinued in his father’s way of life—in thewilderness. His many occupations are includedin the story. Much in the book is not directinformation about Jean Baptiste; rather it ishistorical information about the era. At times itseems as though the information is included justto increase the length of the book. In reality,there is not much actually documented aboutJean Baptiste’s life. It appears Marion Tinlingtook what little was known and added historicalinformation to flesh out the book. Tinling doesinclude an extensive bibliography. However shemakes no mention of the incidents about whichthere is differing opinions—when Sacagaweadied and how Baptiste was treated in Europe.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWSADULT FICTIONElixir / Davis Bunn. LCCN 2003026211.Nashville : WestBow, 2004.PAP,0849944716, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Family-owned business enterprises—Fiction;Inheritance and succession—Fiction; Pharmaceuticalindustry—Fiction; Missing persons—Fiction;Christian fiction; Suspense fiction. 299 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.In Elixir, a suspense novel by Davis Bunn, KirraRevell, the daughter of a major pharmaceuticalcompany’s founder, disappears and Kirra’s sisterturns to Taylor Knox, employee of a companyjust taken over by Revell Pharmaceuticals, tofind her. To make matters more complicated,Taylor and Kirra were once romanticallyinvolved.The plot is the non-stop action characteristic ofBunn’s work. The pace is so rapid that somesides of characters seem to be left behind. Noneof the characters are particularly likable in thefirst few chapters of the book, but farther intothe story they seem to gain dimension andpositive traits. The setting is varied, exotic, andperfectly suited to the plot and serves to set theatmosphere. Throughout the book, the dialogueis flawless, showing the characters’development and journey to faith. The author’suse of very little humor emphasizes the tense,urgent tone of the book.Kathryn Stillman. Christian Writers’ Guild Apprentice, Horn Lake,Mississippi.*The Lazarus trap / Davis Bunn. LCCN2004021238. Nashville : WestBow, 2005.PAP, 0849944856, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Attempted murder—Fiction; Embezzlement—Fiction; Amnesia—Fiction; Mystery fiction; Christianfiction. 300 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : *5.Val Haines wakes up in a jail cell with a nastyhangover, a bloody knot on his head, and nomemory of who he is or why and how he gothere. Across town, top executives of Insignia, amulti-billion dollar corporation, Terranced’Arcy and Don Winslow, congratulatethemselves for getting away with blackmail,embezzlement, pyrotechnics, and even murder.Their perfect plan lays the blame at the feet ofthe victims, a banker, a secretary, and ValHaines. Like shards of a glass puzzle, Val startsto regain his memory. Simultaneously, hisenemies begin to suspect that their schemeshave gotten out of control, and that Val is stillalive. Val must reveal their guilt and prove hisinnocence before Terrance and Don finish himoff…permanently.The Lazarus Trap by Davis Bunn is a suspensenovel full of twists and turns that not only keepsthe reader turning the page, but on the edge ofhis/her chair. Skillfully, Bunn places justenough morsels of details before hungry eyes toentrance a diverse audience. Writing style issimilar in intensity and pace to Life Support byRobert Whitlow (WestBow, 2003). The plot andtheme are believable and action-packed.Dialogue smoothly carries the story along.Bunn, known for his three Christy Awards forquality renderings in both historical andsuspense fiction does not disappoint us here.Recommended for the-hard-to-interest reader, aswell as public and private suspense collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Without a trace / Colleen Coble. (RockHarbor series ; 1.) LCCN 2003010150.Nashville : WestBow, 2003.PAP, 0849944295, list cost: $13.99.Fic. Missing children—Fiction; Upper Peninsula(Mich.)—Fiction; Christian fiction. x, 289 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.Beyond a doubt / Colleen Coble. (RockHarbor series ; 2.) LCCN 2003026100.Nashville : WestBow, 2004.PAP, 0849944309, list cost: $13.99.Fic. Upper Peninsula (Mich.)—Fiction; Lighthousekeepers—Fiction; Widows—Fiction; Search andrescue operations—Fiction; Christian fiction; Mysteryfiction. 293 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.Into the deep / Colleen Coble. (RockHarbor series ; 3.) LCCN 2004006639.Nashville : WestBow, 2004.PAP, 0849944317, list cost: $13.99.Fic. Upper Peninsula (Mich.)—Fiction; Lighthousekeepers—Fiction; Widows—Fiction; Search andrescue operations—Fiction; Christian fiction; Mysteryfiction. 293 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.The Rock Harbor Series by Colleen Coble is setin the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and featuresBree Nichols and her search-and-rescue dog,Samson. Each book is filled with mystery,intrigue, and fascinating character interaction.In Without a Trace, Bree has never given up thesearch for her missing husband and son whodisappeared in a plane crash the year before.Although Bree has accepted the two are dead,she is determined to locate their bodies andbring them home. Is there someone who doesn’twant them found? The reader is introduced toseveral residents of the small town and learnsabout their pain and complicated relationships.Beyond a Doubt begins when Bree literallydiscovers a skeleton in her basement. When sheinvestigates the potential identity, someone isout to stop her by any means necessary. CanBree keep her family safe and discover thetruth?In Into the Deep, a local scientist is found deadin Lake Superior. When it is determined to bemurder, Bree joins forces with the rangers andthe local police to find out what is happening intheir small town. The nightmare hits home onceagain when Samson disappears. What could bethe purpose for taking Bree’s search dog?Ms. Coble has created a likable cast ofcharacters who all must learn to trust and rely onGod to help them through difficult times.Unfortunately, the mystery often overshadowsthe faith message. Plots are kept moving at arapid pace; readers will want to quickly turnpages to find out what will happen next.Intertwined throughout all three books is theredefinition of family relationships in light ofthe loss of Bree’s husband. This provides adeeper layer. The fact that so many bad thingshappen in such a small town is quiteunbelievable, but Coble seems to find a moreeven and realistic rhythm by the third book.Although murders and missing people causesome tense situations, there is no gratuitousviolence. Anyone who enjoys good mystery andsuspense would do well to choose these booksfor their collection. There is a reference to anextramarital affair in Without a Trace, but it is avery small part of the story and mature highschoolstudents should be able to handle it well.Melissa Parcel, BS. Book reviewer, Kelso, Washington.Obsessed / Ted Dekker. LCCN2004015647. Nashville : WestBow, 2005.HBB, 0849943736, list cost: $21.99.Fic. Suspense fiction; Christian fiction. 400 p. ; 25cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 5.Ted Dekker’s suspense novel Obsessed links thehorrors of the Holocaust; a legendary treasure;and a real estate agent with big plans, StephenFriedman, into a profound story of redemptionand destiny.From the first page to the last, the non-stop plotcaptivates readers. While some plot points seema bit of a stretch, the author blends themsmoothly with the rest. The characters are fleshand-bloodpeople with struggles, fears, andhopes with which the reader may be able toidentify. Flashbacks interject Poland duringC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTFICTIONWorld War II into the book’s main setting, LosAngeles, 1973, both of which are fullydeveloped. Both also contain the dreadassociated with the book’s nemeses, first- andsecond-generation Nazis. The dialogue iseffective and believable. Throughout the book,the author shows a deep understanding of bothhumanity and its smiles and tears, and God andhis redeeming love, and successfully conveysthis in his writing.Kathryn Stillman. Christian Writers’ Guild Apprentice, Horn Lake,Mississippi.Bye bye, Bertie / by Rick Dewhurst. (AJoe LaFlam mystery.) Nashville :Broadman & Holman, 2005.PAP, 0805431829, list cost: $10.99.Fic. Mystery fiction; Christian fiction. 176 p. ; 22cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 3.Bye Bye, Bertie, by Rick Dewhurst, is a tonguein-cheekwhimsical detective story, light ondetecting. Christian detective Joe LaFlam isconfused about many things: his church, to fastor not to fast, why he isn’t married, and hiscontinued belief he is living in Seattle. Aprospective client contacts Joe to handle a dropin a kidnapping case. Joe eyes the potentialwife, er client, and decides to take the case.Ineptitude is the rule with this gumshoe, whofashions himself after the 1940s Bogey-styledetective. While trying to maneuver the detailsof the second money drop in the secondkidnapping in the same family, Joe begins tosuspect nothing. Soon three people in the samefamily are “kidnapped” and Joe has managed tobotch each case. A subplot evolves involvingconspiracy theorists threatening to take over theworld and end Joe’s life. A swirl of confusionsurrounds Joe despite his best efforts to fast andseek God’s will for his life.However, as the book unfolds, Joe isn’t the onlyone confused. So is the reader. Reading aboutJoe’s adventures is like watching endlessepisodes of I Love Lucy. The antics grow wornand the reader grows frustrated, not alwaysunderstanding the direction the story is taking.There are sarcastic references to various beliefswithin Christianity, as well as barbs aimed at the“legalistic” Christians. Some parts of the bookwere humorous, but the frustration of trying tomuddle through, along with Joe, to the end ofthis book may not be worth it to most readers.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.*Calm before the storm / Janice L. Dick.(Crossings of promise ; 1.) LCCN2001098021. Scottdale, Pa. : Herald Press,2002.PAP, 083619201X, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Mennonites—Fiction; Russia—History—Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 365 p. : maps ; 21cm.*Eye of the storm / Janice L. Dick.(Crossings of promise ; 2.) LCCN2003106489. Scottdale, Pa. : Herald Press,2003.PAP, 0836192532, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Mennonites—Fiction; Russia—History—Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 437 p. : map ; 21cm.*Out of the storm / Janice L. Dick.(Crossings of promise ; 3.) LCCN2004112141. Scottdale, Pa. : Herald Press,2004.PAP, 0836192710, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Mennonites—Fiction; Russia—History—Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 437 p. : map ; 21cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : *5.In Calm Before the Storm by Janice L. Dick,Johann Sudermann and his friends Susannahand Paul have each been brought up in theRussian Mennonite community of the smallvillage of Lichtfelde. They feel they will alwaysbe together, but life draws them in differentdirections. Johann becomes a teacher to thechildren of wealthy widower and estate owner,Heinrich Hildebrandt, in the country. Susannahgoes into nursing and finds work at the BethanyPsychiatric Institute, in a nearby village. AndPaul becomes a newspaperman in Moscow.Johann is drawn to Heinrich’s oldest daughter,Katarina, and soon becomes a part of theHildebrandt family. When the tsar declares thatall property belonging to Mennonites,Lutherans, and Catholics is to be seized anddivided among the “true” Russians, the family isdivided up, with one brother sent to BethanyInstitute, and Katarina and her younger brotherand sisters sent to stay with their Oma andfriends in the village. Johann and Heinrich takea long and dangerous journey north to speak topolitical representatives, in hopes of saving theirestate.In Eye of the Storm, Heinrich remarries a widowof one of Johann’s war friends. Succoth, theHildebrandt estate, is reclaimed. Johann returnsbriefly from medical duty in the war, securesKatarina’s promise of marriage, then is back towork at a nearby war camp. Despite his nonviolentupbringing, Paul becomes heady withpolitical power and soon finds himself active inthe Red Army. And, due to the constant attacksof rebels, vagrants, and deserters, Susannah andher co-workers are forced to close the BethanyPsychiatric Institute, sending all of the patientshome to their families.In Out of the Storm, Johann and Katarina, nowmarried, face the recent loss of her father,Heinrich, as well as the destruction of theiradored Succoth. Paul, now active in theunderground resistance, helps them escapecapture by the soldiers. Unfortunately, theRussian Revolution increasingly claims ground,swallowing more and more of their belovedRussia. Through losses of loved ones, theclosing of churches, imprisonment of publicworshippers, only God can help them keep theirfaith and lead them out of Russia into Canada, aplace they hope they will be able to call “thePromised Land.”Janice L. Dick shows she has a true gift forstorytelling at its best. The Storm series, herfirst, second, and third novels, bear the stamp ofthorough research and excellent writing skills.Dialogue is rich and flowing throughout. Fromplot to scene changes, one novel movessmoothly into the next. Main characters areeasy to get to know and want to befriend.Strong in Christian morals and story foundation.Highly recommended for all Christian historicalfiction collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The duet / Robert Elmer. LCCN2003019785. Colorado Springs, Colo. :WaterBrook, 2004.PAP, 1578567408, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Grandparent and child—Fiction; Women musicteachers—Fiction; Dairy farmers—Fiction;Grandfathers—Fiction; Widowers—Fiction; Lovestories. 290 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Gerrit Appeldoorn and Joan Horton seem tohave nothing in common, other than the fact thatthey are both widowed. Joan has moved to thesmall Dutch-dominated town of Van Dalen,Washington, for a yearlong sabbatical from herteaching job at a prestigious music school inNew York. Gerrit is a third generation dairyfarmer who has lived his entire life in the smalltown. Joan attends a Nazarene fellowship,Gerrit a Dutch Reformed church. The twobecome acquainted when Gerrit brings hisgranddaughter Mallory to Joan for pianolessons.Joan and Gerrit eventually become friends,reaching out from their comfort zones to learnmore about the other’s beliefs and lifestyle. Itbecomes apparent that, although Mallory isstruggling with her piano lessons, Gerrit is theone with the natural talent. He discovers thatchange isn’t necessarily bad, and that even latein life he can learn to love new hobbies and newpeople.The Duet is a unique romance novel. Gerrit is astodgy farmer who has always done things thesame way. When he discovers the piano, awhole new world of possiblities is opened up tohim. Both Gerrit and Joan have been widowedfor a long time, yet neither has risked lovingagain. Joan carries a great deal of guilt about herhusband’s depression and her adult son’sinability to hold down a job.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTFICTIONMr. Elmer gets to the heart of each character’smotivations and brings them to life in anintimate way. By the end of The Duet, thereader will care about each one and will be filledwith hope for their outcomes. The author dealswith the characters’ differences in theologygracefully and never makes judgments aboutwhich form of belief is “correct.” The positiveelements are embraced in a loving way. Highlyrecommended for adult readers who enjoycharming, character driven stories. Suitable forolder high school students, yet may not beappealing due to the age of the characters.Melissa Parcel, BS. Book reviewer, Kelso, Washington.Seasons of Bliss / Ruth Glover. (TheSaskatchewan saga ; 4.) LCCN2002000484. Grand Rapids : Fleming H.Revell, 2002.PAP, 0800757920, out of print; buy used.Fic. Frontier and pioneer life—Fiction; Womenimmigrants—Fiction; Scots—Canada—Fiction;Saskatchewan—Fiction; Historical fiction; Christianfiction. 224 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 3.Bittersweet Bliss / Ruth Glover. (TheSaskatchewan saga ; 5.) LCCN2002012834. Grand Rapids : Fleming H.Revell, 2003.PAP, 0800758285, list cost: $11.99.Fic. Frontier and pioneer life—Fiction; Scots—Canada—Fiction; Saskatchewan—Fiction; Historicalfiction; Christian fiction. 271 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 3.Back roads to Bliss / Ruth Glover. (TheSaskatchewan saga ; 6.) LCCN2003009422. Grand Rapids : FlemingH.Revell, 2003.PAP, 0800758293, list cost: $11.99.Fic. Young women—Fiction; Women immigrants—Fiction; Saskatchewan—Fiction; Historical fiction;Christian fiction. 267 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 3.Seasons of Bliss continues the stories of twoyoung women begun in the earlier books of theseries. Upon her arrival in the tiny bush hamletof Bliss, Tierney finds herself unexpectedlyreunited with the man she never thought shewould see again—Robbie Dunbar. Their joyevaporates when Robbie shares his arrangementwith a dying widow, which includes marriageand doubling his land. Meanwhile, MollyMorrison struggles with Parker Jones’ delay inproposing, while he doubts his call into theministry and fends off the wiles of a visitingsocialite.Two different women hide secrets that threatentheir future happiness in Bittersweet Bliss. EllieBonney lives alone with her father as guilt morethan a decade old keeps her refusing theproposals of her long-time suitor, Tom. BirdieWharton’s lonely, rigid life as a schoolmarmbegins to soften when she receives letters from asecret admirer.In Back Roads to Bliss, independentgentlewoman Allison Middleton refuses to be apawn in her merchant father’s ambitions. Aftera failed elopement, he banishes her to Canadabefore she can further soil the family name, andAllison’s long journey begins. Parker Jones andMolly Morrison face another crisis whenParker’s father dies.The moderately paced and interesting plot suitsthese pioneer love stories, but the author oftendeviates from the stories to add historicaldetails. These include page-long poeticramblings on the beauties and horrors of pioneerlife and dozens of word-for-word catalogdescriptions for various everyday items. Whilethese tidbits are quaint at first, they soon beginto grate on the reader. Many of the secondarycharacters are distinct, helping the reader keepthem straight, but most of the main charactersfall a little flat. Thanks to all of the details, thesetting is keenly perceived, though the authorcondescends slightly in several of herdescriptions. The dialog suits the tone of thebooks, and, aside from a few puns, humor isnoticeably absent. Recommended for womenenthralled with pioneer life.Katie Hart. Writer, Librarian, Immanuel Baptist Church, NewBrighton, Pennsylvania.*Night song : a story of sacrifice : a novel /Tricia Goyer. LCCN 2004010480.Chicago : Moody Publishers, 2004.PAP, 0802415555, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Mauthausen (Concentration camp)—Fiction;World War, 1939-1945—Underground movements—Fiction; Concentration camp inmates—Fiction;Americans—Austria—Fiction; Orchestral musicians—Fiction; Musicians—Fiction; Austria—Fiction;Christian fiction; War stories. 515 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : *5.Evie, daughter of an Austrian ambassador, andNick, a budding surgeon, must cut their romanceshort when Evie’s family is sent back to Austria.Hitler’s conquests in Europe force the closing ofthe Austrian Embassy and the deportation of itsofficials and their families.When his father is taken away by Nazi stormtroupers, Jakub’s family is shattered. Theirmusic store is torn apart, in search of a rareviolin; then, they are taken from their home,stripped of all earthly possessions and sent,crammed like cattle with other Jews, in a traincar to a work camp.Otto, a German SS Officer, is enticed by theunderlying spiritual powers of the inner circle ofthe Reich. Embittered by the human greed hewitnesses in his superiors, he is determined totap into the “real” power of darkness thatrepresents the true meaning of Hitler’s regime.Night Song : A Story of Sacrifice by TriciaGoyer is a powerful insight into some of the keyfacets of World War II events. Goyer hassensitively fleshed out believable characters thatdraw the reader more deeply into the story witheach turn of the page. Although the time periodis replete with violence, Goyer is neither graphicnor devoid of the intensity of the crisis. Focusswitches from three main character bases but isclearly presented to form a logical delineation ofthe story. Dialogue is used perceptively toenhance authenticity. Highly recommended, asa first purchase, for all World War II historicalfiction collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Boo who / Rene Gutteridge. (Sequel toBoo.) LCCN 2004008997. ColoradoSprings : WaterBrook, 2004.PAP, 1578569850, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Horror tales—Authorship—Fiction; City andtown life—Fiction; Indiana—Fiction; Humorousfiction. 344 p. ; 21 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 5.Scary, Indiana, is on the brink of bankruptcy.The pastor and others are searching for meaningin their lives. The mayor has checked out ofreality while his assistant digs to find the historyof Scary in an attempt to save the town and giveit purpose. These ingredients, along withhealthy doses of humor, add up to mayhem andmischief in Boo Who, a second novel by authorRene Gutteridge. After becoming a Christian,horror writer Wolfe “Boo” Boone knows hecan’t write the same genre anymore. Trying tofind his place, Boo attempts to sell cars. Whenthat doesn’t work out, he works in a book storechoosing romance novels of the month. Filledwith a gloom surrounding his future, Boo looksto his fiancé Ainsley Parker to brighten his life.However, Ainsely is distracted, attempting tobecome the next Martha Stewart. Egged on inthis pursuit by Boo’s former editor, Ainsley getscaught up in the excitement and glitz of seeingher dream job come true. While planning thereception of the century for her friend Melb,Ainsley becomes sidetracked from her ownwedding plans and her own values. Yet despitethe turmoil, Scary residents finally find thepurpose they were searching for—their own andfor their town.Using quick wit and quirky, likeable characters,Gutteridge once again invites readers into thelives of the residents of Scary, Indiana. Solidcharacter development and deft pacing creates amust-read novel. Without being preachy,Gutteridge delivers a thoughtful message aboutbeing satisfied with who you are as a person andcontent with the purpose you have in Christ.Gutteridge delivers humor and insights in BooWho.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTFICTIONA shred of evidence / Kathy Herman. (ASeaport suspense novel ; 1.) LCCN2004022960. Sisters, Ore. : Multnomah,2005.PAP, 1590523482, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Christian fiction; Suspense fiction. 400 p. ; 21cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.Former news editor Ellen Jones has retired fromjournalism and is working on her first novel.While lunching at a popular eatery, sheoverhears a conversation about a woman, Julie,whom she has recently befriended. Acting onjournalistic instinct, Jones researches newspaperstories about Julie and her husband Ross. Whatshe finds alarms her and sets Ellen off on a questto protect the couple’s young child. Soon,though, the child appears abducted and thenumber one suspect is Ross. Julie, distraught,turns to her only friend for comfort and support.However, Ellen is unsure of Ross’s innocence.Listening to comments about others and readingbetween the lines of circumstantial evidence,cause Ellen to doubt everything Ross has eversaid. Rumors give way to lies, growing theproblem to gargantuan proportions. Ellen,however, is sidetracked in the whole debacle byaccusations levied against her. While fighting toclear her own name, Ellen comes face to facewith the reality of rumors and innuendo. Afterthis epiphany, she joins forces with Julie andRoss to find their missing daughter.Author Kathy Herman adds an interesting twistto a traditional mystery. Focusing on the powerof rumors, Herman shows the power words havein destroying the reputation and credibility ofpeople. The main character, Ellen, seems to falltoo easily into believing reports without seeingevidence about Ross’s guilt in pastcircumstances. However, the other characterslend a vibrancy and believability to the book thathelps the reader to disregard initial feelings thatEllen doesn’t appear to be the journalist sheclaims to be. Most readers will enjoy thedynamics between the characters, subplots, andplot twists to this book.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.Cadence / by B.J. Hoff. (The Americananthem ; 2.) LCCN 2003012403.Nashville : W Publishing, 2003.PAP, 0849943906, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Italian Americans—Fiction; Immigrants—Fiction; Singers—Fiction; Opera—Fiction; Blind—Fiction; New York (N.Y.)—Fiction; Historical fiction;Christian fiction. 264 p. ; 20 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 3.Immigrants making their way in early 20thcentury America didn’t strike the right chordsevery day. In Cadence, widower MichaelEmmanuel, conductor of a world-renownedorchestra realizes he’s falling for SusannaFallon. And while he realizes his worth in God’seyes, he struggles to think he could be worthanything to Susanna. Ghosts of insecurity alsohaunt Susanna’s music and feelings for Michael.Their roughly composed life melodiesharmonize with many people, touching themwith God’s grace. Throughout Cadence, God’slove re-orchestrates the dissonance of humanemotions to compose a lovely symphony thatglorifies Him.The well-paced plot of Cadence draws thereader through the book. Interesting, welldevelopedcharacters balance the somewhatpredictable plot. The turn-of-the-century NewYork City setting contrasts the glitz of the richwith slum tenements. Using this backdrop, Hoffintroduces facts from the period that may not bewell known. The pertinent dialogue givesglimpses into the minds and hearts of thecharacters. Also, the humorous situations in thismostly serious book occur in dialogue betweenMichael and his cousin, Paul. The ups anddowns of the characters mirror those of allhumanity. The characters learn that life is a gift,given by the Giver of all good gifts, and is to beused for His glory.Kristina A. Wolcott, BS. Piano Teacher, Freelance Writer, Oroville,California.A form of godliness : a novel / ShaneJohnson. LCCN 2004007078. ColoradoSprings : WaterBrook, 2004.PAP, 1578565499, list cost: $13.99.Fic. Christian ethics—Fiction; Secret services—Fiction; Presidents—Fiction; Science fiction; Christianfiction. 402 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Nearly a decade after the 9/11 disaster, SecretService agent Bryson Lawe still struggles todrive past the Twin Towers, where his fatherdied that day. Public Relations expert, KarenFoley, becomes the mouthpiece for a Christiangroup out to protect children’s rights to life andrealizes she may have to sacrifice everything todo so. President Matthew Bridger and a selectfew come to the realization that a number oflaws that were set into motion to protect childrenand families are the very ones that are disposingof them all together.Meanwhile, Russia’s oil reserves have beenjeopardized. War has broken out in the MiddleEast. And Israel is being forced into takingdrastic and irreversible measures to protect itspeople.A Form of Godliness by Shane Johnson is afuturistic suspense story. Like using a telescopiczoom lens on a satellite from outer space,Johnson peers into countries, cultures, peoplegroups, and even personal lives to portray theselfish degradation the human race has dancedwith so long and is now being swallowed by.Although Johnson runs the reader a merry racein his plethora of characters, dialogue isbelievable and successfully contributes tomoving the story along. Background of bigcities with predominate focus on overcrowding,poverty, and lack of education concerningpolitical issues is crucial. Many of hischaracters, though bounced between, still have afleshed out feel. Johnson is also a graphic artistand spaceflight historian. He is known for histwo Christy Award finalists Ice (WaterbrookPress, 2002) and The Last Guardian(Waterbrook Press, 2001). Recommended foradult Christian fiction collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.A Christmas promise / Thomas Kincade &Katherine Spencer. (A Cape Light novel;.) LCCN 2004046878. New York :Berkley Books, 2004.HBB, 0425198251, list cost: $19.95.Fic. Cape Light (Imaginary place)—Fiction; City andtown life—Fiction; New England—Fiction; Christmasstories. 298 p. ; 24 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 5.Like a Christmas gift ready to be opened andenjoyed, A Christmas Promise is a gift awaitingthe reader. Residents of Cape Light arepreparing for the holiday season and a specialguest is among them. James Cameron, amissionary now stateside due to illness, isworking with Reverend Ben and attempting toregain his strength. During the season’s firstsnowstorm, James’ car collides with that ofLeigh Baxter, a stranger to Cape Light. As shewaits for her car to be repaired, she, too, is takenin by the welcoming arms of the townspeople.As days turn into weeks, it is obvious Leigh andJames are falling in love but will he still care forher when he discovers her dark secret?Jessica and Sam Morgan are experiencingdifficulties of their own. All they really want forChristmas is an addition to their family but eachof them is handling their disappointment in adifferent way. Only God can guide this youngcouple and keep their love intact. But God is anexpert at relationships and brings about amiracle in their lives.New reading visitors to Cape Light will delightin its characters while long-time fans of thisseries will love this Christmas addition. Asalways, their personalities and lives are real withjoys and problems both and they turn to the Lordfor answers to their needs.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.The sacrifice / Beverly Lewis. (Abram’sdaughters ; 3.) LCCN 2003028149.Minneapolis : Bethany House, 2004.PAP, 0764228722, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Amish women—Fiction; Young women—Fiction; Sisters—Fiction; Amish—Fiction; LancasterCounty (Pa.)—Fiction; Christian fiction. 347 p. ; 21cm.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTFICTIONThe prodigal / Beverly Lewis. (Abram’sdaughters ; 4.) LCCN 2004012014.Minneapolis : Bethany House, 2004.PAP, 0764228730, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Amish women—Fiction; Sisters—Fiction;Amish—Fiction; Lancaster County (Pa.)—Fiction;Christian fiction. 343 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.The Sacrifice and The Prodigal continue thestory of Abram’s Daughters as told by BeverlyLewis in her family saga set in Pennsylvania,post World War II. The four Amish Ebersolesisters are the main characters of these novels;their families, their loves, their lives, and theirrelationship with the Lord. The Sacrifice targetsLeah, loyal and caring, always putting othersbefore herself and truly only wanting a life inGobbler’s Knob, a loving husband, and a family.But when tragedy strikes, Leah must choosebetween her own happiness and that of herpeople.The Prodigal brings to light a devastating secretin the Ebersole family, and a never-expectedprodigal returns home. But how can he beaccepted back into the Amish fold? And therepercussions of secrets kept for years arecausing pain and hardship to Leah’s youngestsister, Lydiann, a child she has raised as her ownsince her mother’s death. Deceit, disgrace, andforgiveness are all woven into the tapestry ofLewis’ series. God’s forgiveness is a criticalaspect of the story. Forgiveness for sin thatleads to salvation and forgiveness for therebellion that even Christians cannot seem toavoid.Is it essential to read the entire series tounderstand the events in The Sacrifice and TheProdigal? While not totally necessary, it wouldcertainly make an already convoluted plot andthe multi-layers of the story more easilyunderstood by the reader.All of Lewis’ books are easily read, smoothlywritten with a compassion for the people thatshe is fictionalizing. She writes of traditionalAmish beliefs as well as the truth of having apersonal relationship with Christ. Her storiesbless the reader and, of course, leave you hopingfor more.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Shaded light / N.J. Lindquist. (A Manziukand Ryan mystery.) LCCN 99045744.Markham, Ont. : That’s Life, 2004.PAP, 096854956X, list cost: $12.95.Fic. Mystery stories; Christian fiction. 384 p. ; 21cm.Adult. Rating : 5.George, senior partner of his law firm, and hiswife Ellen are throwing a weekend house party.The original guest list includes their son,Kendall, his nefarious roommate, Nick; Peter, apartner in the firm, and his young, flirtatiouswife, Jillian; Douglass, the final partner in thefirm, and his depressed wife, Anne; and amillion dollar client. The party really begins toheat up when three uninvited guests are thrownin with the group: Jillian’s shy sister; George’sblack-sheep nephew; and a neighbor, secretlypacking a revolver and damaging informationabout one of the guests. When Jillian is founddead by the fountain, Detective-Inspector PaulManziuk, disgruntled about being called in fromhis vacation, and newly promoted Detective-Constable Jacqueline Ryan reluctantly team upto solve the case.Shaded Light by N.J. Lindquist is a Christianmurder mystery in true Agatha Christie style.Complete with a mansion chock-full of a widevariety of personalities, motives, and redherrings, this tale will test even the mosthardened armchair sleuth. Dialogue helpssketch out character personalities, as well assmoothly moving plot along. Background isthat of the English cozy, in which the storyline isrevealed in morsels, rather than shockwaves.Lindquist’s impressive resume includes writingteacher, playwright, publisher, award-winningauthor, Executive Director of the Word Guild,and member of several mystery and crimeassociations. Recommended for both public andpersonal, quality mystery collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The mill house / Paul McCusker. LCCN2004010288. Grand Rapids : Zondervan,2004.PAP, 0310253543, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Grandparent and child—Fiction; EnglishAmericans—Fiction; Women immigrants—Fiction;Grandmothers—Fiction; Older women—Fiction;Secrecy—Fiction; Christian fiction. 320 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 5.Fifty years ago, a misunderstanding crushedblooming love and charted a new course forAdam Powell and Elaine Holmes. While bothlived full lives, they didn’t share their past withtheir families. When Elaine’s mind retreats intoa silent depression, her granddaughter, Lainey,determines to find out what happened to herirrepressible grandmother. Concurrently,Adam’s grandson, Nicholas, preparing for hisgrandfather’s surprise birthday party, happensupon a box with some letters from Elaine toAdam. He does some research and contactsLainey. Together they try to rescue Elaine fromher depression and Adam from his bitterness. Inthe process, they discover God rescuing muchmore.The Mill House blends historical andcontemporary fiction. McCusker brilliantlybrings the characters to life and shows how theirchoices affect their futures. The dialogue, bothwitty and serious, breathes life into thecharacters. An air of mystery pervades the storyas the characters seek to discover what triggeredElaine’s depression and Adam’s bitter spirit. Asthe story of new and old relationships unfolds,McCusker sensitively allows the truth ofpassions to be told. He presents one briefallusion to a couple that had sex, and gives nodetails. In another brief passage, he alludes toone couple caught up in passionate kissing, fewdetails, who, when the choice is presented,choose not to have sex. At that point, thecharacter gives two very clear, biblical reasonswhy he will not. All literary devices point to thetheme. “I believe that God never wastesanything. Good experiences or bad, He is atwork somehow.” This work of fictionbeautifully presents the theme of God’sredemption, a very non-fiction gift.Kristina A. Wolcott, BS. Piano Teacher, Freelance Writer, Oroville,California.God’s handmaiden / Gilbert Morris.LCCN 2003022152. Grand Rapids :Zondervan, 2004.PAP, 0310246997, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Nightingale, Florence, 1820-1910 —Fiction;Working class women—Fiction; Crimean War, 1853-1856—Fiction; Nurses—Fiction; England—Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 337 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Gervase is orphaned at fifteen. Her aunt anduncle agree to have her come live with them.They are in service to the Wingates, Englishnobility. The elder son, Davis takes an interestin Gervase, but only as an older brother.Gervase finds herself falling in love with him.Because she is a servant and he is nobility sherealizes that nothing can ever come of it. Whenhe marries, Gervase feels she must leave andfind other work. She goes to be a maid for theNightingale’s, particularly their daughterFlorence. Florence soon leaves to do work as anurse, leading her eventually to nursing servicein the Crimean War. Gervase follows her to thewar and becomes a good nurse. Her nursingskills are used on two different occassions tosave Davis’ life. Gervase truly behaves in a wayGod’s handmaiden would.As is usual for Gilbert Morris, God’sHandmaiden is well-written and wellresearched.He expertly weaves fact and faithwith fiction and draws the reader into the story.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.*Soul tracker / by Bill Myers. (Soul trackerseries ; 1.) LCCN 2004007352. GrandRapids : Zondervan, 2004.PAP, 0310227569, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Loss (Psychology)—Fiction; Children—Death—Fiction; Single fathers—Fiction; Teenage girls—Fiction.; Future life—Fiction; Psychological fiction;Christian fiction. 325 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : *5.After months of extreme depression andmultiple suicide attempts, David Kauffman’sC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTFICTIONdaughter, Emily, has committed suicide.Sensing something is just not right, he isoverwhelmed with a sense of guilt anddetermination to find out what really happenedto her. David’s son, Luke, deals with theemptiness and loss of mother, sister, and Dad’sconstant preoccupation with Emily’s horribledeath.Dr. Gita Patekar loses her parents at an earlyage. Growing up on the streets of Nepal, Gitadoes whatever it takes to keep her and herphysically impaired brother alive. She is hiredby the Orbolitz Corporation, a widespread,philanthropic organization, and uses Bible truthsto expose imposters, posing as psychics. Gitameets and is immediately drawn to Davidthrough his love for Emily. David persuadesGita to help him unearth the truth about Emily’sfate. The deeper they dig into the circumstancessurrounding Emily’s death, the uglier it gets,even implicating the Orbolitz Corporation.Soul Tracker by Bill Myers is a suspensethriller,spiced with fantasy, about afterlifeexperiences. Bits of poetry and Bible truthsgenerously sprinkled throughout add genuinespiritual appeal to this page-turner.Homelessness; drug abuse; dealing with deathand those left behind; and how we personallyrelate to Jesus are subjects expertly woven intothe fabric of this tale. Through dialogue andrealistically interaction with their surroundings,Myers sensitively creates his characters. Myers,bestselling author of Eli (Zondervan, 2000), atale about life with Jesus, born in today’ssociety, is also known for The BloodstoneChronicles (Zondervan, 2003), and other greats,as well as for being an award-winningscreenwriter and director. Outstanding read!Highly recommended for all collections.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The assignment / Mark Andrew Olsen.LCCN 2004002025. Minneapolis :Bethany House, 2004.PAP, 076422817X, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Good and evil—Fiction; Immortalism—Fiction;Fantasy fiction; Christian fiction. 462 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 4.Two thousand years after God gave him the taskof working together with the Holy Spirit torestrain the powers of lawlessness, “AndreLasalle” still struggles to complete hisassignment. For the last 50 years, Andre hasbeen locked in a concrete prison nearAuschwitz. During that time, an obscure orderof Catholic monks relentlessly searches for him.After his release, Andre travels to America tochallenge his demonic enemy. In the processAndre rescues a young grad student, NoraMcPheran. Andre’s activities alarm both thephysical and spiritual realms. Both realmscollide, impacting the whole world.Mark Andrew Olson employs good dialogue,quick scene changes, and a well-paced plot tomake this an enjoyable read. Flashbacksprovided by Andre’s memoirs of his 2,000-yearlife lend an air of historical credibility to his trueand unbelievable identity. Over the years of hislife, Andre has grown disillusioned with church,both Catholic and Protestant, and how far it hasmoved from what Christ meant it to be. As aresult, he typically attends no church. Andre’strue identity takes Hebrews 9:27 and asks “whatif.” The premise of the story looks at II Thes.2:7 and asks “what if.” The protagonists growthroughout the novel. Nora discovers her needto begin her spiritual journey. Andre, who hasconsidered himself an utter failure for 2,000years, learns that if he’s going to complete hisassignment, he must rely on God’s strength.Kristina A. Wolcott, BS. Piano Teacher, Freelance Writer, Oroville,California.Together is all we need / Michael Phillips.(Shenandoah sisters ; 4.) LCCN2004001023. Minneapolis : BethanyHouse, 2004.PAP, 0764227033, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Female friendship—Fiction; Plantation life—Fiction; Race relations—Fiction; Reconstruction (U.S.history, 1865-1877)—Fiction; Teenage girls—Fiction;Orphans—Fiction; North Carolina—Fiction; Historicalfiction; Christian fiction. 317 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 4.Together Is All We Need, by Michael Phillips, isa great read for teenage girls with message of anuncommon tale of tragedy, heroism, andredemption. Phillips, author of many Christiannovels, has set this book in 1860s Shenandoah,North Carolina, at the Rosewood CottonPlantation. Katie and Mayme, have foundthemselves alone and left to run Katie’s familyplantation. Both of their families had beenkilled by raiders after the Civil War. As “sistersof the heart” these teenagers are forced, for thesake of their own survival, to take on theresponsibility and hard work of adults. With thehelp of some friends, they work to maintain aproductive cotton farm. Fooling everyone fromtown into thinking that their families are stillalive, they manage to forge a friendship thattranscends racial lines and defies the socialmores of the time. Soon their simulation is overwhen Katie’s greedy uncle, BurchardClairborne, comes to town to find out forhimself what is going on. His insensitiveinvestigation eventually leads him to the truth.But God is faithful and provides for theseunlikely cousins and their needs with anunexpected turn of events. This book certainlyhas its’ share of twists and turns—who is anuncle? who is a papa?...and who really can betrusted whether they are blood kin or not? Thecharacters struggle to reconcile any previousprejudices providing a subtle spiritual messagewith a well developed plot of human kindness,hatred and racism.Rebecca Cress-Ingebo, MSN, MLS. Academic Librarian,Beavercreek, Ohio.A nest of sparrows / Deborah Raney.LCCN 2003027714. Colorado Springs :WaterBrook, 2004.PAP, 1578565782, list cost: $12.99.Fic. Women social workers—Fiction; Motherlessfamilies—Fiction; Custody of children—Fiction; Lovestories; Domestic fiction; Christian fiction. 336 p. ; 21cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 4.When Starr Parnell escapes from an abusivemarriage in Minnesota to a small town inKansas, her only dream is to raise her threechildren in a home filled with love. Starr neverdreams she will find romance, but she doeswhen she meets Wade Sullivan. Wade becomesthe father her children have never known, andtheir relationship is strengthened by a mutuallove of the Lord and each other. As the weddingday draws closer, everyone’s excitement growswith hope for a beautiful future.Tragedy strikes when Starr dies. Wade is left tostumble through parenting her hurting childrenin the midst of his own grief. Just when thingsseem they can’t get any more difficult, thechildren’s biological father shows up demandingcustody of them. Wade finds himself in themiddle of a huge battle. Through it all, hemanages to see God’s hand and hope in the faceof seemingly insurmountable circumstances.A Nest of Sparrows highlights Deborah Raney’sability to get to the heart and soul of difficultissues facing Christians of the world today. Thedetailed characterization of Wade, the children,and other supporting characters brings the storyto life in a completely realistic way. Readers’hearts will ache for Wade as he faces one legalobstacle after another. The pacing is exactlyright; the natural progression of eventscontinues to build tension until the excitingresolution.A hopeful tone permeates A Nest of Sparrows,but often the way child protective serviceoperates drags a depressing mood over the tale.Not knowing the outcome: whether the childrenwill end up with Wade or with their derelictbiological father, creates a feeling of anxietywhich can draw the reader away from themeaningful story. The power of God is shownand will cause thoughtful contemplation abouttrust and letting go of our own control.Melissa Parcel, BS. Book reviewer, Kelso, Washington.Streams of mercy / Teresa D. Slack. (TheJenna’s Creek novels ; 1.) LCCN2004010715. Reedley, Calif. : TsabaHouse, 2004.PAP, 0972548653, list cost: $15.99.Fic. City and town life—Fiction; Ohio—Fiction;Mystery fiction; Christian fiction. 301 p. ; 23 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 5.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 4 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTFICTIONStreams of Mercy chronicles the summer ofseventeen-year-old Jamie Steele, beginning withthe funeral of her physically abusive andalcoholic father. The morning of the funeral,Jamie learns her father was the prime suspect ina twenty-year old murder. He was released onlyfor lack of evidence. Determined to find thetruth and dispel lingering doubts about hisinnocence, Jamie begins a quest to solve themystery. She enlists the help of the formerprosecutor at the time, searching for clues in thecase files. Jamie also begins her first jobworking at the local drugstore stocking shelves.Little does Jamie realize that the drugstoreowner, Noel, has secrets of his own.Author Teresa Slack creates a compelling plot inher debut novel. Jamie has a strong, consistent,and realistic voice throughout the novel as dothe other characters. Rather than preachiness,Slack allows flawed characters to suffer theconsequence of their sins and come to their owndetermination of a need for God and a renewalof their relationship with Him. The pacing ofthe book enhances the read. Instead of draggedout descriptive passages that show rather thantell, Slack creates descriptive movement. Thebook has red herrings keeping readers guessinguntil the end. This book would be a goodaddition to any mystery lover’s library.Eileen Zygarlicke, BS. English Teacher, Community High School,Grand Forks, North Dakota.Room of marvels / James Bryan Smith.LCCN 2004298279. Nashville : Broadman& Holman, 2004.PAP, 0805427848, list cost: $9.99.Fic. Heaven—Fiction; Bereavement—Fiction; Futurelife—Fiction; Christian fiction. 154 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Room of Marvels is a moving book. In theacknowledgments, Mr. Smith mentions his starsin heaven, Rich Mullins, his daughter, and hismother. While reading the book I recognizedRich Mullins and can only assume the daughterand mother in the book are similar to theauthor’s daughter and mother. Those who aregrieving the death of one or more loved one maybe helped by reading this book, as may thosewho are grieving other losses.The main character, a writer, is in grief afterlosing three loved ones in three years time. Hegoes to a monastery offering a silent retreat in aneffort to work through the grief. While there heexperiences a dream in which he visits heaven.He sees those who influenced his life and thosewhose life he influenced. He learns to take offhis mask, it isn’t necessary to be truly loved. Helearns to give up control, he was never really incontrol to begin with. After giving up his maskand his control he is allowed to visit his room ofmarvel, the mansion created for him in heaven.Seeing those who have died, helps him throughthe grieving process and gives him something toshare with his wife to help her through hergrieving process.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.Life support / by Robert Whitlow. LCCN2003006222. Nashville : W Publishing,2003.PAP, 0849943744, list cost: $14.99.Fic. South Carolina—Fiction; Legal fiction. 392 p. ;23 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 5.Alexia Lindale is a lawyer whose expertise isrepresenting women in divorce cases. Hergrowing success is put on hold when she is firedfrom her law firm for ruffling the feathers ofsome very important clients. Alexia decides tostrike out on her own business venture and takesher impressive client list with her. She meetsand is emotionally drawn to a music ministerwho plays heavenly classical music andintroduces her to a loving God.Rena Richardson secretly tries to murder herrich husband in a tragic “accident,” but onlymanages to put him into a coma. When Rena isthwarted in her attempts to get her husbandtaken off life support machines, she hires Alexiato defend her position.Life Support by Robert Whitlow is book one inThe Santee Series of legal suspense thrillers thattakes place in Santee, South Carolina.Although, at times slow moving, the dual plotsconverge to make a worthwhile and intriguingread. Dialogue and character representation areso realistic that the reader is immersed in theoutcome as if it were real. Besides learning a bitof legalese, the reader is reminded that the onlyperson one can ever wholly trust is the Lord.Christy-award-winning Whitlow has authoredsuch legal thrillers as The List (WestBow Press,2000), The Trial (WestBow Press, 2001), andThe Sacrifice (WestBow Press, 2002). His stylehas been compared to both Frank Peretti andJohn Grisham (CBA Frontline). Highlyrecommended for all collections of similargenre.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The bride of stone / Thomas Williams.LCCN 2004011021. Grand Rapids :Fleming H. Revell, 2004.PAP, 0800758617, list cost: $14.99.Fic. Blind sculptors—Fiction; Princesses—Fiction;Scars—Fiction; Christian fiction; Fantasy fiction;Love stories. 494 p. : map ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 11-12). Rating : 3.Thomas William’s The Bride of Stone is third inhis series about the Seven Kingdoms. Percivale,an honorable man, succeeds in wresting theCrown of Eden from the hand of the evil witchMorgultha. The lords and knights of Meridian,impressed with such a feat, proclaim Percivaleking–a role he accepts with reluctance. Underhis reign, however, the Seven Kingdoms uniteand achieve a level of greatness, growth, andprosperity like never before.The Crown of Eden, however, tantalizesPercivale, who for seven years fought his desireto wear it, fearing what he would become,knowing its power to amplify any hidden benttoward evil that is present even in a good man’sheart. When he is pressed to wear the crown asan honor for a special ceremony and then turnsto wearing it daily, he begins his downward slideinto selfishness, greed, and pride, bringingdisaster upon himself, his family, and theprosperity of the Seven Kingdoms.If readers can get past the first few chapters,which is a rather a slow, detached summaryleading up to the real crux of the story, they willappreciate the medieval fantasy Williamscreates. Although this book lacks the substanceof plot and character development seen inWilliams’ first two books in the series, Bride ofStone is rich with biblical allusions asPercivale’s character appears to be drawn fromtraits found in the Old Testament kings Saul,David, and Solomon.Christian educators and artists of all kinds willparticularly appreciate chapter 20, which detailsa Christian world view of the role of art as it wasintended by the Creator, contrasted with art thatreflects man’s fallen and sinful nature. Williamsis himself an artist, which lends credence to hisarguments.Sherri Beeler, M.A. Teacher, Cascade Christian High School,Medford, Oregon.The messenger / Tim Woodroof. LCCN2002004813. Colorado Springs, Colo. :NavPress, 2002.PAP, 1576833569, list cost: $14.00.Fic. Paul, the Apostle, Saint—Fiction; Bible. N.T.Philippians—History of biblical events—Fiction;Church history—Primitive and early church, ca. 30-600—Fiction; Philippi (Extinct city)—Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 302 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.“If you can keep the mind of Christ when youare hurting, if you can stand together and loveeach other in the hard times, nothing Satan willthrow against you can destroy what God isdoing in this church;” Paul chose to leave thisexhortation with the Philippian church beforeleaving Philippi. However, when a newcomerinsisted that grace plus observation of Jewishlaw obtains a right position with God, a riftformed among believers. Church leaderscouldn’t find a worthy solution, so Epaphroditusdecided to take the perilous journey to Rome toseek Paul’s guidance.In The Messenger, Tim Woodroof’s descriptionsare as effective as time travel. Fromdescriptions of oil cloth covered windows thatlet heat out and trap smoke in, to chamber potsC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTFICTIONbeing emptied in the streets while pots clang andpeople argue, reading The Messenger transportsthe senses of the reader to Bible times. The plotis well constructed and based upon questioningwhat happened to the Philippian church to earnthis letter from Paul. Paul’s personality in thebook is developed out of his writings. Otherpeople mentioned in Philippians are alsodeveloped into characters consistent with theiractions in the Bible. The steady pacing of thebook balances dialogue and description. Muchof the dialogue once Epaphroditus gets to Romecontains quotes from the book of Philippians.Finally, the theme can be summed up with thefollowing quote, “Especially when troublecomes, you’ve got to hang on to the Lord and toeach other.”Kristina A. Wolcott, BS. Piano Teacher, Freelance Writer, Oroville,California.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 5 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

Some widely recognized book selectiontools designed for the general marketsuggest many additional recommended titlesfor consideration by Christian librarians,teachers, and parents. Individual selectioncriteria vary, so prudent buyers may want topersonally preview titles recommended inthese sources—and other sources as well.Annotations may not reveal potentiallytroublesome content. Since many of theseselection tools are available for use in localpublic libraries, a choice to buy them maydepend on local access and individualbudgets.Children's catalog / edited by Anne Priceand Juliette Yaakov. 18th ed. (Standardcatalog series.) LCCN 2001046599. NewYork : H.W. Wilson, 2001.HBB, 0824210093, List cost: $175.00.011.62. Children's literature—Bibliography;Children's libraries—United States—Book lists;School libraries—United States—Book lists;Children—Books and reading—United States. xiv,1265 p. ; 26 cm. + 2002 supplement (176 p. ; 26 cm.)—More BookLists,Part 1by Donna W. Bowling+ 2003 supplement (171 p. ; 26 cm.) + 2004supplement ( p. ; 26 cm.).Adult. Rating : 5.Middle and junior high school librarycatalog / edited by Anne Price and JulietteYaakov. 8th ed. (Standard catalogseries.) LCCN 00063316. New York :H.W. Wilson, 2000.HBB, 0824209966, List cost: $250.00.011.62/5. Young adult literature—Bibliography;Junior high school libraries—United States—Book lists. xiv, 1021 p. ; 26 cm. + 2001supplement (164 p. ; 26 cm.) ; 2002 supplement(146 p. ; 26 cm.) ; 2003 supplement (169 p. ; 26cm.) ; 2004 supplement (167 p. ; 26 cm.).Adult. Rating : 4.—Senior high school library catalog /edited by Juliette Yaakov. 16th ed.(Standard catalog series.) LCCN2002033133. New York : H.W.Wilson, 2002.HBB, 0824210085, List cost: $210.00.011.62. Young adult literature—Bibliography;High school libraries—United States—Booklists. xiv, 1243 p. ; 27 cm. + 2003 supplement(157 p. ; 26 cm.) + 2004 supplement ( p. ; 26cm.).Adult. Rating : 5.Among the book selection tools forschool libraries, the most popular andmost useful are the Standard catalogseries published by H. W. WilsonCompany. For each title, new editionsare published every five years, withannual supplements for the interveningyears. Each catalog has two mainsections. The first is a classified catalog,with entries arranged in order based on theAbridged Dewey Decimal Classificationsystem for non-fiction titles, followed by fictionand story collection titles. Each class number isfollowed by a short phrase that identifies thesubject. Each entry includes author (arrangedalphabetically under subject), title, illustrator,publisher, date, pagination, price, grade level,Sears subject headings, ISBN, LCCN, andaward. The paragraph-length annotations withdescription and evaluation are frequentlyquoted from standard review sources. If part ofa series, other titles in the series are listed.Following the classified catalog is a combined“author, title, subject, and analytical index”with entries interfiled in alphabetical order. Foreach author, titles are arranged in alphabeticalorder, with grade levels and classificationnumbers indicated. Related titles refer to maintitle listing. For collected works, a contentslisting of stories included is appended here.Title entries (including analytical titles withincollected works) indicate author andclassification. For subject entries, author, title,grade level, and classification are given. Othersmaller sections include a directory ofpublishers and distributors and a list ofrecommended web resources (both free and bysubscription). Annual supplements includenewer titles, again arranged in classified catalogformat with a combined author, title, subject,and analytical index. The double columnformat, with appropriate white space is easy touse.Each standard catalog is designed to represent acore collection of basic, highly recommendedtitles for its level. Almost all of the titles werein print at the time of publication, although afew especially significant out-of-print titleshave been included if more recent suitable titleswere not available. However, the authors donot recommend weeding good titlesdiscontinued from earlier editions unless othermore suitable recent titles become available.Although only English language titles areincluded, some titles that are also available inSpanish are so noted in their annotations, andare listed under the “Spanish language editions”subject heading in the index.These standard catalogs are selective ratherthan inclusive. To give a sense of their scope:the latest edition of the Children’s Catalog [CC]includes 6,738 titles and 6,421 analyticalentries; the Middle and Junior High SchoolLibrary Catalog [MJHSLC] includes 4,520titles and 4,492 analytical entries; the SeniorHigh School Library Catalog [SHSLC]includes 5,321 titles and 9,123 analyticalentries. The annual paperback supplementsvary from fewer than six hundred to more thanseven hundred titles, along with from fewerthan three hundred to more than five hundredanalytical entries. Around 29% of the titleslisted in MJHSLC also appear in CC, andaround 19% of the titles in MJHSLC alsoappear in SHSLC. In spite of this overlap ofalmost half of the titles in MJHSLC, theoverlapping titles are included in this catalog toinsure that it represents a core collection for thislevel. A feature of CC not needed by the othercatalogs is its section classified as “Easy”books. The earlier MJHSLC includes a selectlist of recommended CD-ROMs which hasbeen superseded in the more recent catalogs bythe list of recommended web resources. Theanalytical access to collected works is avaluable feature. These standard catalogs havemultiple uses: as aids to selection for purchase,cataloging, curriculum suggestions for teachers,etc. Other standard catalogs published by H.W.Wilson for public libraries are the FictionCatalog and the reference and non-fictionPublic Library Catalog. Any, or all, of the titlesin the Standard Catalog series are also availableonline by subscription on WilsonWeb, updatedquarterly, with additional searching features.The cost for WilsonWeb varies with the numberof professional teachers and librarians served.——Best books for children : preschoolthrough grade 6 / John T. Gillespie. 7thed. LCCN 2001037971. Westport, Conn.: Libraries Unlimited, 2002.HBB, 0313320683, List cost: $65.00.—011.62. Best books; Children's literature—Bibliography; Children—Books and reading—UnitedStates. xxi, 1617 p. ; 26 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

Best books for children : preschoolthrough grade 6 / John T. Gillespie andCatherine Barr. Suppl. to 7th ed. LCCN2003065949. Westport, Conn. : LibrariesUnlimited, 2003.HBB, 159158082X, List cost: $35.00.011.62. Best books; Children's literature—Bibliography; Children—Books and reading—UnitedStates. xvvi, 507 p. ; 26 cm.Adult. Rating : 3.—Best books for middle school and juniorhigh readers : grades 6-9 / John T.Gillespie and Catherine Barr. LCCN2004041798. Westport, Conn. : LibrariesUnlimited, 2004.HBB, 1591580838, List cost: $75.00.028.5/35. Middle school students—Books andreading—United States; Junior high school students—Books and reading—United States; Preteens—Booksand reading—United States; Teenagers—Books andreading—United States; Children's literature—Bibliography; Young adult literature—Bibliography;Middle school libraries—United States—Book lists;Junior high school libraries—United States—Booklists. xviii, 1172 p. ; 26 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.—Best books for high school readers, grades9-12 / John T. Gillespie and CatherineBarr. LCCN 2004303598. Westport,Conn. : Libraries Unlimited, 2004.HBB, 1591580846, List cost: $75.00.011.62. Young adult literature—Bibliography; Highschool libraries—United States—Book lists;Teenagers—Books and reading—United States. xix,1182 p. ; 26 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.The books in the Best Books series by JohnGillespie, and more recently with CatherineBarr, are the most comprehensive of theselective children’s book selection tools. Titlesselected for inclusion were in print at the time ofpublication. These titles have receivedfavorable reviews from one or more (usually atleast two) widely accepted review sources.Their double-column formats are similar. Mainentries are arranged alphabetically by authorwithin subjects (sometimes divided into smallersubdivisions). Entries include: entry number,author, title, grade levels, illustrations andillustrator, series if non-fiction, date, publisher,ISBN (hardbound and paper), price, sentencelengthannotation, review citations, and DeweyDecimal number. Some annotations containadditional recommended titles by the author.Indexes include: an author/illustrator index thatprovides main entry titles with entry numbers, atitle index that lists both main entry titles andadditional titles with entry numbers, and asubject/grade level index that provides moredetailed and specific subject access citing entrynumbers only, without titles or authors.Best Books for Children (2002) includes 23,429titles within 22,319 numbered entries. Itshardbound supplement (2003) provides anadditional 6,112 titles within 5,682 entries. BestBooks for Middle School and Junior HighReaders (2004) includes 14,196 titles within13,523 entries. Best Books for High SchoolReaders (2004) includes 14,198 titles within13,457 entries. Although the books with thegreater number of titles have correspondinglyless white space on the pages, that does notdetract from their usefulness. Since the detailedsubject information does not appear with themain entries, these books are less useful ascataloging aids. However with the grade levelsapplied to that detailed subject information, thisfeature may be helpful for selection purposes.The brevity of the individual annotationsprovides less useful information for selection,but the trade-off is the greater number of titlesincluded.—A to zoo : subject access to children'spicture books / Carolyn W. Lima, John A.Lima. 6th ed. LCCN 2001037398.Westport, Conn. : Libraries Unlimited,2001.HBB, 0313320691, List cost: $75.00.011.62. Children's literature, English—Indexes;Picture books for children—Indexes. xxvi, 1771 p. ;26 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.A to Zoo, by Carolyn and John Lima, is acomprehensive guide to nearly 23,000children’s picture books, cataloged under morethan 1200 subjects. Following a briefintroductory history of the picture book, is thekey to the use of this guide—an alphabeticallisting of main subject headings, subheadings,and the vital cross-references. The next majorsection is the subject guide that lists inalphabetical order: first, main subjects with theirsubheadings; then, specific authors; and then,relevant titles by those authors. Thebibliographic guide is arranged alphabeticallyby author (or by title if the author is unknown).Bibliographic entries include author, title,illustrator, publisher, date, ISBN (for morerecent books), and subjects. Cross-referencesrefer from joint author (with title) to mainauthor. Titles in the title index are arrangedalphabetically, followed by author withinparentheses, and page number of thebibliographic entry. Illustrators in the illustratorindex are arranged alphabetically, followed bytitle, then author within parentheses, and pagenumber of the bibliographic entry.Although most picture books are writtenprimarily for children preschool through gradetwo, an increasing number are designed with abroader audience in mind. A to Zoo includesmany useful out-of-print titles “because schooland public library collections consist mostly ofout-of-print materials.” In spite of the absenceof annotations, its greater number of picturebooktitles, including a substantial number ofnon-fiction titles, provides access to potentialresources not available through other tools.Although white space is necessarily limited withits double-column format, the guide terms in theheaders of each page make navigating throughthis large book a simple task. If tight budgetshinder purchase of this useful tool, schoollibrarians, teachers, and homeschooling parentsmight be able to consult copies in local publiclibraries.—Beyond picture books : a guide to firstreaders / Barbara Barstow, Judith Riggle.2nd ed. LCCN 94049731. ColoradoSprings. : Libraries Unlimited, 1995.HBB, 083523519X, List cost: $52.50.011.62. Children—Books and reading—UnitedStates; Children's literature—Bibliography; Children'slibraries—United States—Book lists. xvii, 501 p. ; 27cm.Adult. Rating : 3.The first edition of Beyond Picture Books: AGuide to First Readers, published in 1989,included 1,610 fiction and non-fiction titles. Inthis second edition, Barbara Barstow and JudithRiggle, increase that number to 2,495, in spite ofa number of deleted titles. They begin with alisting of 200 “Outstanding First Readers” inprint at the time of publication, 1995. Theannotated bibliography is arrangedalphabetically by author. Each entry includes anentry number, title, illustrator, publisher, date,ISBN (if in print), subjects, and reading level,followed by a paragraph-length annotation.Finding some familiar reading level scales lessuseful, the authors have devised their own A, B,or C scale based on the simplicity and size oftext and the relative proportions of text andillustrations per page.The subject index, arranged alphabetically bymajor subject with frequent subheadings,includes cross-references. To distinguish fictionfrom non-fiction titles dealing with specifictopics, the subject index uses a “fiction”subheading under the main subject. Entriesunder each subject heading include author (inalphabetical order), title, and the bibliographyentry number. The alphabetical title index listseach title, followed by author in parentheses,and entry number. The illustrator index listsillustrator, title, and entry number. The“readability” index is divided into three levels—A, B, and C, and within each level, alphabeticalentries include author, title, and bibliographyentry number. An alphabetical series index listsunder each series title authors, titles, and entrynumbers.The format is double-column and uncluttered,with a pleasing amount of white space. Therelatively short annotations include bothdescriptive and evaluative elements. The titlesM A R C H 2 0 0 5 5 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

that were out of print at the time of publicationhave certainly been joined by many others tenyears later. Many other worthy titles and serieswould merit inclusion in a needed updatededition. This tool provides some usefulinformation not easily found elsewhere, butlibrarians with tight budgets may choose to waitfor an updated edition.—From biography to history : best booksfor children's entertainment andeducation / edited by Catherine Barr ;foreword by James Cross Giblin ;contributors, Rebecca L. Thomas, DeannaMcDaniel. LCCN 98023147. ColoradoSprings. : Libraries Unlimited, 1998.HBB, 0835240126, List cost: $63.00.016.92. Biography—Juvenile literature—Bibliography; History—Juvenile literature—Bibliography. xv, 508 p : ill. ; 27 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.From Biography to History, edited by CatherineBarr, is a selective bibliography featuring nearly300 biographees who provide a glimpse intohistorical periods as early as the fourteenthcentury B. C. and as recent as the present.Featured biography subjects are presented inalphabetical order. A brief paragraph about eachfeatured subject is followed by one or morebibliographical entries under the headings, asavailable, of “Biographies for YoungerReaders,” “Biographies for Older Readers,”“Related Books for Younger Readers,” and“Related Books for Older Readers.” Withineach of these headings, entries are arrangedalphabetically by author, followed by title,publisher, date, ISBN, pagination, and adescriptive paragraph-length annotation. Mostof the over 1,500 titles included are recent andwere in print at the time of publication, althougha few well-regarded titles are designated as o. p.Criteria for selection included currency,audience, quality of writing, accessibility,special features, and interest. Assigningaudience levels is only approximate at best, but“younger readers” are generally children ingrades 3 to 5, and “older readers,” in grades 6 to9. “Related books” may lead children “frombiography to” broader “history” issues. Some ofthese additional titles “relate” to more than oneof the featured biography subjects.Single column format with wide exteriormargins allows room for occasional black-andwhiteside bar pictures of biography subjects orillustrative quotations from works cited.Listings in the alphabetical author index indicateauthor, title, and page or pages where thatbibliographic entry is located. Listings in thetitle index provide title, (author in parentheses ifmore than one book by that title is included),and page number(s). The subject index groupsbiographees by “broad category, offeringconnections between individuals of differentbackgrounds and different eras.” A“Chronology” lists biographical subjects inchronological order by date of birth (with deathdates supplied as well, e.g. “Tutankhamen 1343B.C.-1325 B.C.”). The subject indexdemonstrates considerable diversity innationality, ethnicity, gender, and sphere ofinfluence, but no effort to provide “balance” inthese issues is evident. This useful tool providesa unique approach for librarians, teachers,parents, and students if budgets are sufficient.—Guide to reference and informationsources in the zoological sciences / DianeSchmidt. . (Reference sources in scienceand technology series.) LCCN2003054568. Westport, Conn. : LibrariesUnlimited, 2003.HBB, 1563089777, List cost: $75.00.016.59. Zoology—Bibliography; Zoology—Reference books—Bibliography; Zoology—Information services—Directories; Zoology—Databases—Directories. ix, 352 p. ; 25 cm.Adult. Rating : 3 (not for purchase in Christianschool).Guide to Reference and Information Sources inthe Zoological Sciences, by Diane Schmidt, is a“complete revision of George H. Bell and DianeB. Rhode’s A Guide to the ZoologicalLiterature: The Animal Kingdom (1994).”Other titles in Libraries Unlimited’s series in“Reference Sources in Science and Technology”deal with botanical and physical sciences andengineering. This bibliography of nearly twothousand resources lists both print andelectronic sources, including indexes, abstracts,and bibliographies; journals; guides to theliterature; biographies and histories; checklistsand classification schemes; dictionaries andencyclopedias; handbooks; identification tools;textbooks; and associations. Entries in the firstchapter include resources of all of these typesthat deal with the animal kingdom in generaland broader or related sciences. Each of thefollowing chapters deals with a specific animalclass or group of classes and is arranged by thetype of resource. Within some types ofresource, general titles precede “systematicsections” dealing with specific animal classsubgroups. Entries within each type of resourceare arranged alphabetically by author (if given)or title and provide standard bibliographicalinformation: for monographs—edition, place,publisher, date, pagination, series, price, andISBN if available; and for periodicals—frequency and ISSN. Descriptive paragraphlengthannotations for each entry indicate scopeof content, intended audience, and specific use.If available, e-mail addresses and/or webaddresses are added. Listings for associationsinclude abbreviations, mailing addresses, phonenumbers, and electronic contact points.Although no author or title indexes are included,the subject index provides access for animalgroups, geographical areas, types of resources,names of organizations, and web sites.This guide is designed for the use of graduatestudents, professional scientists, and thelibrarians that serve them, although othersinterested in animal biology may find someresources useful to them. Author Diane Schmidtis Biology Librarian and Associate Professor atUniversity of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign. Anassociated web page at http://www.library.uiuc.edu/bix/zoology/ has been set up tomonitor all sites and keep URLs up to date. Thishighly detailed comprehensive guide isappropriate and reasonably priced for itsintended audience, but it is too specialized to berecommended for purchase by Christian schoolor church libraries. Interested individuals mayfind it in a nearby academic library. Librarians,teachers, parents, and students may also accesssome useful information through the web page.—Neal-Schuman guide to recommendedchildren's books and media for use withevery elementary subject / Kathryn I.Matthew, Joy L. Lowe. LCCN2001044490. New York : Neal-Schuman,2002.PAP, 155570431X, List cost: $65.00.011.62. Children's literature—Bibliography;Children—Books and reading—United States—Bibliography; Best books—United States; Children'sliterature—Study and teaching (Elementary)—UnitedStates; Content area reading—United States; Videorecordings for children—United States—Catalogs;Children's software—United States—Catalogs. xxvi,407 p. ; 28 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Curriculum specialist Kathryn Matthew andlibrary science professor Joy Lowe havecollaborated to present the Neal-Schuman Guideto Recommended Children’s Books and Mediafor Use with Every Elementary Subject. This“guide explores more than 1,200 books, videos,software, CDs, cassettes, and Internet sites.”Each of the eight chapters deals with a majorelementary school subject area: mathematics;science; English language arts; social studies;health (including safety and families); sports,recreation, and dance; art; and music. Eachchapter begins with key areas of concern andnational standard topics for that subject andsuggests how books and media can be used tofoster meaningful learning. Within subtopics ofeach area, suggested titles are arranged by gradelevel. Entries include author, title, date, place,publisher, pagination, and grade level, followedby a paragraph-length descriptive annotationwith teacher applications. (Video entriesindicate running time; software specifiesWindows and/or Macintosh platform, etc.) An“Explorations” section at the end of eachsubtopic suggests several possible classroomactivities using some of the listed resources.Each chapter concludes with related teacherC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

esources, including books, professionalorganizations, internet sites, and references.Suggested books of related poetry introducemost chapters and are interspersed throughoutthe guide.The appendix lists additional teacher resources:journals with mailing addresses, phonenumbers, and web sites; professionalorganizations with contact information andrelated journals they publish; internet sites forteachers and students; and media sources forvideo tapes, audio books and software. Asubject index is followed by a combined authorillustrator-titleindex. (Internet sites andprofessional organizations do not appear ineither index.) The uncluttered single-columnformat with ample white space and font size isinviting. The few typos are not a seriousdetraction.The Neal-Schuman Guide’s inclusion ofappropriate media along with its books isparticularly helpful. (Until it ceased with the2000 edition, Brodart’s Elementary SchoolLibrary Collection had included a variety ofmedia among its nearly 10,000 titles.) Theauthors have provided a unique resource thatencourages the practical use of varied books andmedia to promote learning. Teachers will findthe curriculum-oriented arrangement andsuggested classroom projects valuable features,even if the titles suggested are not immediatelyavailable. Recommended for Christian schoolprofessional libraries. Interested teachers andhomeschooling parents should be alerted to itsusefulness.——Purchase of any of these useful titles forChristian schools or teachers depends uponlocal public access and individual budgets.The Wilson catalogs are quite valuablewhere funds are available. Those with morelimited budgets might combine the Neal-Schuman Guide for non-fiction with morerecreational and fiction titles from some ofthe Christian selection tools discussed inearlier articles [e. g. CLJ 7 (2/3):10-12(2002); CLJ 9 (3):8-10 (2004)]. Each of thebibliographies from the GreenwoodPublishing Group (including Bowker andLibraries Unlimited) has value and meritsconsulting by teachers and librarians in locallibraries if limited funds hinder purchase. Inall cases, discernment is necessary whenselecting for Christian young people fromamong titles recommended by professionalswith varying worldviews.Reference:Elementary school library collection, 22nded. / Linda L. Homa. Brodart, 2000.Donna W. Bowling, Library/EducationalConsultant, Dallas, TexasM A R C H 2 0 0 5 5 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWSADULT NONFICTIONReaching out to religious youth / L. KayCarman, editor ; Carol S. Reich, assistanteditor. (Libraries Unlimited professionalguides for young adult librarians.) LCCN2003069495. Westport, Conn. : LibrariesUnlimited, 2004.PAP, 0313320411, list cost: $38.00.027.62/6. Libraries—United States—Specialcollections—Religious literature; Young adults’libraries—Activity programs—United States; Publiclibraries—Services to teenagers—United States;Religious literature—Bibliography; Young adultliterature—Bibliography. xv, 222 p. ; 24 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Reaching Out to Religious Youth provides anoverview of potential library service to teens ofthe major religious groups found in the UnitedStates. The chapters fall into two broadcategories, Christian and non-Christian faiths,and are then ordered based upon the number ofU.S. adherents for each religion: Protestant,Evangelical, Catholic, Latter-day Saint,Orthodox Christianity, Seventh-day Adventist,Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu.The essays provide background information onthe history and doctrine of the various faiths anddiscuss the formative experiences faced byteens, as well as common misconceptions andstereotypes. They address what teens might belooking for in their local library with regard totheir own religion. They provide guidanceregarding selection criteria, the types ofmaterials available, and their publishers.Public librarians can gain much from this guide,and it is recommended for all public libraryprofessional collections. The lists of pertinentpublishers and helpful booklists make this aninvaluable guide.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Christian writers’ market guide / SallyStuart. LCCN 95642005. Wheaton, Ill. :Shaw Books, 2005.PAP, 0877882002, list cost: $24.99.070.5/2. Christian literature—Publishing—UnitedStates—Directories; Theology—Periodicals—Directories. 624 p. ; 23 cm.Adult (Grades 8-12). Rating : 5.Most everything a writer needs to successfullymarket one’s writing is found in Sally Stuart’sChristian Writers’ Market Guide. This 20thanniversary edition contains a plethora ofpublishers of books, print and web publications,and card and gift markets. Abundant resourcessuch as writers’ groups listed by state orprovince, writing-related websites, books andorganizations, reference tools and multiples listsprovide in depth data for the unpublishedthrough the veteran professional communicator.Market analyses of book and periodicalpublishers are freshly updated, as are contests,conferences and a glossary of writing terms.After 20 years, Stuart has perfected this standardof the Christian writing market guides. Listingsof markets are full of details, and tips based onpublishers’ own input, all aimed at providing themost up-to-date information youth and adultswriters. Besides the compendium of details,Stuart offers a valuable introduction on “how touse this book” and her knowledgeable analysisof the material and its implications forcommunicators. As a reference tool for wannabeand accomplished writers and for thoseotherwise involved in publishing andcommunicating, this is a bulky, yet essentialvolume.Karen Schmidt, BA. Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville,Washington.Good ideas from questionable Christiansand outright pagans : an introduction tokey thinkers and philosophies / SteveWilkens. LCCN 2003020590. DownersGrove, Ill. : InterVarsity Press, 2004.PAP, 0830827390, list cost: $18.00.102/.427. Philosophy and religion; Christianity—Philosophy. 256 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 3.This books looks at four Christian philosophers(Augustine, Aquinas, Descartes, andKierkegaard), and six other philosophers(Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Nietzsche, Sartre, andMarx) who the author believes have somecontribution to make for increased wisdom andinsight for day-to-day living. The authorachieves this by examining a variety ofquestions through the lens of a particularphilosopher. For instance, he poses the question“Is God responsible for evil?” and then exploresthe question through the philosophical wisdomof Augustine, but leaves it up to the reader tocome up with his or her answer.The author presents an engaging analysis ofquestions that Christians and others grapple within daily life through a cogent presentation of thethoughts and principles of a particularphilosopher. The author relies on thephilosophers’ quotations to reinforce keythoughts and arguments, but also makes usefulanalogies and illustrations to make themrelevant to today.Even though the book is written for those whohave no background in philosophy, somereaders may find parts of the book to be difficultreading and some concepts too abstract.Overall, the book provides a good introductionto philosophy, while at the same time givingopportunities for Christians and others to opentheir minds “to the examined life.”Shirley Copeland, Ed.D., Education Consultant, Freelance BookReviewer, Charlottesville, Virginia.Augustine to Freud : what theologians &psychologists tell us about human nature(and why it matters) / Kenneth Boa.LCCN 2005295221. Nashville : Broadman& Holman, 2004.PAP, 0805431462, list cost: $14.99.150/.1. Human beings; Christianity—Psychology. vi,282 p. : 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.“People are inherently on a quest to satisfy whatthey perceive to be their fundamental needs,”writes Kenneth Boa in Augustine to Freud. Theauthor poses two questions: (1) What are theseneeds? (2) Where do we seek to fulfill them?Boa quotes from both ancient and modernsources. Augustine, of the 4th and 5th century,is joined by C. G. Jung, who died in 1961.Theological models include Augustine,Aquinas, Jonathan Edwards, Kierkegaard,Tillich, and Rahner. The chapter about thefulfillment model of human needs mentionsAbraham Maslow, Carl R. Rogers, Alfred Adler,and Erich Fromm.A 12 page bibliography and over 50 pages ofendnotes encourage serious readers to judgeBoa’s conclusions. An appendix summarizeshuman needs in the New Testament. Iappreciated the reminder that we first needforgiveness and grace. Then, everyone requireslove and community. Third, people needpurpose and hope. Learning about humannature helps us understand ourselves, minister toothers, and defend the faith with intelligence.Augustine to Freud is nicely bound, but widermargins would be welcome. Pictures are limitedto black and white headshots of modernscholars. Highlighted sentences focus on mainthoughts. Read this book slowly. Considerquestions that come to your mind. Take notes.Welcome the depth that Augustine to Freud willadd to your spiritual life.Kenneth Boa is president of ReflectionsMinistries (http://reflections.gospelcom.net),based in Atlanta, Georgia. He holds a D. Philfrom the University of Oxford in England.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTNONFICTIONWhere in the world is integrity? : thechallenge of doing what is right / Bruce B.Roberts, Craig D. Rice, and Joe E. Smith.LCCN 2004018987. Minneapolis :Augsburg Books, 2004.PAP, 0806651547, list cost: $13.99.179/.9. Integrity—Religious aspects—Christianity.189 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Professor Roberts and his colleagues, Rice andSmith, through the compelling force of humanstories, help the reader understand what integrityis. In addition they probe how integrity isshaped and nurtured in the life of an individualby using the model See-Respect-Act. This lattermeans, the more you talk about integrity, themore you see integrity. The more you seeintegrity, the more you respect the differentways people act with integrity. The more yousee and respect the integrity around you, themore likely you are to act with integrityyourself. The more you act with integrityyourself, the more likely others are to see, talkabout, and act with integrity. Acting withintegrity then becomes a habit.Each story in this book comes from ordinarypeople, and each is partnered with questions forreflection and discussion. The questions can beused by the readers for thinking, journaling,family or group discussion. The book concludeswith an epilogue that reflects on the meaning ofintegrity and how collecting and reflecting onthese stories changed the authors’ understandingof integrity.Public libraries and congregational readingresource centers, by adding this title, canprovide inspiration and encouragement to us tocontinue meeting the challenge of doing what isright.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Old Testament today : a journey fromoriginal meaning to contemporarysignificance / John H. Walton, Andrew E.Hill. LCCN 2003017823. Grand Rapids :Zondervan, 2004.HBB, 0310238269, list cost: $49.99.221.6/1. Bible. O.T.—Textbooks. xx, 412 p. : col.ill., maps ; 25 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.Both Walton and Hill hold doctorates, teach OldTestament studies, and have authored orcoauthored several books. They seek toacquaint readers (and of course their students)with the purpose and themes of the books of theOld Testament, to equip readers withmethodological approaches to the genres ofrevelation found in these books, and tofamiliarize one with how the Old Testamentplotline merges with that of the New Testament.Their discussion with most Scripture quotationsfrom the New International Version (with somefrom the King James Version, and others fromthe New Revised Standard Version) followsthree interconnected perspectives: the originalmeaning, bridging contexts, and contemporarysignificance. Many readers will find the Bibletext meaning and significance heightened bytracing it from the original author and audienceto our contemporary setting. Each of the fiveunits contains an array of charts, sidebars,illustrations, photo, and supplemental materialsto complement the body of the text as well asadd to easier comprehension of the literature,theology, and history of the Old Testament.Finding a natural home in Christian high schooland college libraries, Old Testament Today canserve public library collections offering qualityreflection on the Christian Scriptures. Theimage-rich full-color design lends itself to highschool student use, as well as encourages adultsto stay with the discussion longer. Librarieshaving the authors earlier Survey of the OldTestament (Zondervan, 2000) need not updatebut if funds permit this edition is even more userfriendly.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Word pictures in the New Testament / A.T.Robertson ; edited by James A. Swanson.LCCN 00025658. Nashville : Broadman& Holman, 2000.HBB, 0805490558, list cost: $19.99.225.7. Bible. N.T.—Commentaries. vi, 696 p. ; 24cm.Adult. Rating : 4.A.T. Robertson taught at The Southern BaptistTheological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.Before he died in 1934, he wrote a six-volumeset, Word Pictures in the New Testament.Recently, James A. Swanson edited a conciseedition, Word Pictures in the New Testament.Now, one book offers Robertson’s Greekexpertise in a very readable form for laypeople.Consider John 3:15 (that whosoever believethmay in him have eternal life): “Greek tensetranslates ‘that he may keep on having eternallife.’ It is more than endless, for it is sharing inthe life of God in Christ… The interview withNicodemus apparently closes with verse 15…”The notes on I Corinthians 13:1 showRobertson’s consistent practical side. Cymbal isidentified as a “hollow basin of brass, hereringing for any cause.”The new, concise edition includes anintroduction to each New Testament book andexplanatory notes. Bible verses and phrases arein bold face, with comments in regular print.Any references to Greek words omit the Greekletters. You’ll find only English letters.Word Pictures in the New Testament (conciseedition) shows how anyone can easily benefitfrom scholarly research, and add spiritual depthto personal Bible studies. Church librariesshould buy this book to promote among churchstaff and Sunday School teachers. The author’sscholarship is useful for today! Just plan waysto introduce Christians to such a wonderfulresource.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Who made God? : and other things wewonder about / Ravi Zacharias, NormanGeisler, general editors. LCCN2003008436. Grand Rapids : Zondervan,2003.HBB, 0310247101, list cost: $12.99.231. Christianity--Miscellanea; Apologetics. 239 p. ;21 cm..Adult. Rating : 5.Ravi Zacharias and Norman Geisler are generaleditors of Who Made God? : And Answers toOver 100 Other Tough Questions of Faith. PartI answers questions about the Christian faith.Diverse topics include the origin of evil, humansas authors of the Bible, and information aboutthe Jesus Seminar. Lee Strobel contributed achapter, “Tough Questions About Christ.”Strobel explains his journey from “adamantatheist” to receiving Christ as his “forgiver andleader.” William Lane Craig tackles toughquestions from science. He considers the “BigBang,” “primordial soup,” and microevolution.Part II informs the reader about non-Christianfaiths. Many questions are answered: WhyCan’t the Holy Books of Other Religions AlsoBe From God? Is the Whole Bible Complete?What Makes Religion “Black”? What isTranscendental Meditation? L. T. Jeyachandranwrites about yoga, reincarnation, Hinduism, andBuddhism.Read Who Made God? with a paper and pencilin your hand. Jot down questions. You maywant to study other sources, in addition to thisuseful book. That is good. Select books in the“Resources for Digging Deeper” section and runreferences in the scripture index. You’ll soon bebetter equipped to defend your faith. Do youwonder if you really need to be prepared toexplain your Christian beliefs? Read Colossians4:6 and I Peter 3:15. Buy a copy of this book foryourself, your church library, and friends whoare either agnostic or atheist.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Unlocking the mysteries of creation : theexplorer’s guide to the awesome works ofGod / Dennis R. Petersen. LCCN2005276161. El Dorado, Calif. : CreationResource Publications, 2005.HBB, 0967271304, list cost: $34.99.231.7. Creation—biblical teaching. 239 p. ; 29 cm. +1 CD-ROM (4 3/4 in.).M A R C H 2 0 0 5 5 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONAdult (Grades 6-12). Rating : 5.Dennis Peterson tackles a weighty subject inUnlocking the Mysteries of Creation. In bitesized,two-page segments, he covers dozens ofsingle-issue topics related to creation, evolution,original man, and ancient civilizations. Petersonuses scientific data from respected researchstudies and authors to prove biblical truths andchallenge non-biblical hypotheses. From fossilsand cavemen to radiometric dating and thestructure of a gecko’s feet, he logicallydemonstrates many fallacies in currentlyaccepted thinking while laying out the veracityof scripture. Many topics are presented asquestions, challenging readers to think andanalyze the information.Peterson, a former museum curator, Bibleapologetics professor, and pastor, heaps crediblesources and facts into Unlocking the Mysteriesof Creation. He provides plenteous information,some highly scientific but usually in layman’slanguage. Full color art and many sidebars addimpact. Footnotes provide an extensivereference appendix along with an index,Recommended Resources, and Websites onCreation and Related Topics. This book is aninvaluable addition to home, church and schoollibraries. Students and teachers will find itinvaluable for research and reference; familieswill appreciate the content for home study andinformational reading.Karen Schmidt, BA. Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville,Washington.Miracles : do they still happen? why westill believe in them / Henry M. Morris.LCCN 2003116025. Green Forest, Ark. :Master Books, 2003.PAP, 0890514135, list cost: $9.99.231.7/3. Miracles. 141 p. : ill. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.What is a miracle? How do we recognize thedifference between techno-magic and the realthing? Miracles : Do They Still Happen? byHenry M. Morris addresses these questions fromthe scientific viewpoint. Using the Laws ofThermodynamics as his foundation,“conservation of quantity” and “decay ofquality,” begin to unfurl the mystery of theuniversal truths that have always persisted, andare being constantly discovered and exposed byscientists throughout each successivegeneration. Morris points out that, though muchof the scientific world seems to have been on amission to disprove the very existence of God,what they have done, instead, is to prove beyonddoubt that, in order for any of the variouscreation theories to work, a single Creator isessential to each.Henry M. Morris, a scientific creationist, ispresident of the Institute for Creation Research.He has hosted numerous radio shows anddebates, and written a plethora of books andarticles for both children and adults on thesubject. Although Miracles is short, there is nowasted space in this meaty, scripture ladenreminder that everything begins and ends withGod. Bibliography for further reading, index ofsubjects, and index of scriptures included.Recommended for study groups and readerssearching for a scientific approach to finding outthe truth about their Creator.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Is the big bang biblical? / with JohnMorris. LCCN 2002116472. GreenForest, Ark. : Master Books, 2003.PAP, 0890513910, list cost: $12.99.231.7/652. biblical cosmology; Big bang theory;Creation—biblical teaching. 215 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (Grades 7-12). Rating : 4.Is the Big Bang biblical? is a collection of Dr.Morris’ columns previously published in theInstitute for Creation Research newsletter Acts& Facts. Dr. Morris answers such questions as“Did Jonah really get swallowed by a whale?”and “Does science conflict with the Bible?” AsPresident of the Institute for Creation Research,you can be sure that his answers come from aconservative Christian and biblical point ofview. The book is informative and containsmany discussion points in the short two-pagearticles. This book could be used as a referencebook or book for personal reading, but it couldalso be used as discussion starters with middleschool or above Sunday School classes or studygroups.Jane Mouttet, BA. Missionary School Librarian, Mesilla Park, NewMexico.The unfinished soul : happening uponJesus in the happenstance of life / CalvinMiller. LCCN 2004304260. Nashville :Broadman & Holman, 2004.HBB, 0805431837, list cost: $14.99.232. Jesus Christ—Meditations; Christian life. 181 p.; 23cm.Adult. Rating : 4.Popular author Calvin Miller offers TheUnfinished Soul : Happening Upon Jesus in theHappenstance of Life. He declares his “besteducation came informally wrapped in bandaids.”Further, regarding helpful truths, “…Inever sat to learn…I always collided withthem.” With wit and compassion, Miller sharesdefining moments.A wide range of topics include Christian loyalty,hypocrisy, faith, sexual sanity, parables forPostmoderns, and focusing on Jesus. Writingforms include poetry, parables, letters, andstories. Each vignette ends with pertinentquotes, especially from the Bible. Other sourcesinclude Publilius Syrus, the Book of CommonPrayer, William Shakespeare, and RobertBrowning.Consider this book for anyone facing trials inlife. (Of course, all of God’s childrenpermanently reside in that category!) Millerthinks about his life, and consoles the reader,“…every apparent tumble is a tutor whoselessons are free but never cheap.” The authorprods everyone to observe the “shaping offaithfulness in an unfinished soul.”The contents, plus the attractive cover, makeThe Unfinished Soul a good gift book. Further,the mood and atmosphere of The UnfinishedSoul offer hope for fellow pilgrims who arestruggling through life. The struggle is lessenedby Calvin Miller’s good dialogue, interestingreflections, and willingness to tackle sensitivetopics. He is “powerless before a pan ofbrownies.” And, he wishes mothers could be“more understanding” with the awakeningsexuality of their sons.Miller is professor of preaching at BeesonDivinity School, Samford University, inBirmingham, Alabama.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Rising above / Wayne Cordeiro. LCCN2004015913. Ventura, Calif. : RegalBooks, 2004.HBB,0 830736328, list cost: $18.99.248.4. Christian life—Meditations. 152 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.There are various hard times each of us, ashumans and Christians, face throughout ourlives. Some of these are brief, and some seem tolast forever. Rising Above by Wayne Cordeiro isa self-help book, written to remind the readerthat God uses these struggles to strengthen anddraw us into a closer relationship with Him.Although God cares deeply for His children, Hedoes not spare them the trials and tests thatprepare them for the real challenges in life. Godis more interested in how we come through thechallenges, whether “bitter or better,” than inhow many or how difficult they are. God usesthe hard times to mold us into the vessels Hedesires us to become, to prove our characters,and to remind us of our never-ending need forHim.Cordeiro encourages the reader to stay true inrelationship with God, rather thancompromising to the world’s standards ofsuccess. Don’t allow Satan steal your joy.Don’t give up the good fight. And rememberthat you are never alone, because God is alwayswith you. This is an uplifting and encouragingreminder for more mature Christians, as well asa good pep-talk for new Christians, hearteningthem to stay the course. Wayne Cordeiro is thesenior pastor at New Hope ChristianFellowship, Hawaii, and president of New HopeInternational. Recommended as self-helpmotivator for both individuals and study groups.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTNONFICTIONKim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.Toxic relationships and how to changethem : health and holiness in everyday life/ Clinton W. McLemore. LCCN2003008454. San Francisco : Jossey-Bass,2003.HBB, 0787968773, list cost: $19.95.248.4. Interpersonal relations—Religious aspects—Christianity. xvi, 286 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Mental health is a part of everyday life withsometimes hidden rules for healthy associations.Dr. Clinton McLemore, as a full timepsychology and seminary faculty, has compiledan excellent guide, Toxic Relationships and Howto Change Them, to navigate what God hasplanned for us in terms of conventionalrelations. Negative behaviors are divided intoeight basic toxic categories: controlling,drifting, intruding, freeloading, humiliating,scurrying, victimizing, and avoiding.Complicated concepts like that of aggressionand dominance are explained in anunderstandable overview with informationabout the injurious tactics. Toxic sectionsunravel the mysteries of each behavior withbiblical examples, psychological profiles,benefits of each personality type, payoffs,avoidances, moves, countermoves, etc. The textcovers the magical moments of healthyintimacy, spirituality, moral choices, selfassessment,antidotes, and loving strategies formore productive dealings with each other.As a leading expert in interpersonalrelationships, McLemore applies soundtheology to increase interpersonal flexibility in aChristian’s stance toward God. This is apreventative mental medicine book which willhelp Christians steer clear of the detrimentaldefault modes in stressful situations. Itconcludes with chapters on the myths ofbehavior change and with nine solid strategiesfor “Getting Out of Your Own Way.”Recommended reading list and index provided.Recommend for any pastor or Christiancounselor and any lay person dealing with toxicrelationships in his/her own life.Rebecca Cress-Ingebo, MSN, MLS. Academic Librarian,Beavercreek, Ohio.Grace points : growth and guidance intimes of change / Jane Rubietta. LCCN2003020591. Downers Grove, Ill. :InterVarsity Press, 2004.PAP, 0830819525, list cost: $12.00.248.4. Christian women—Prayer-books anddevotions—English; Change—Prayer-books anddevotions—English. 199 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.A frequent speaker at events around the countyand author of Quiet Places (Bethany House),and How to Keep the Pastor You Love (IVP),Rubietta encourages the reader to be still, reflectand grow from times of uncertainty. Herweaving of personal stories with biblical truthencourages the reader in a life of change,transition, or crisis. Rather than trying to fleefrom the changes, Grace Points is designed tobe a tool to anchor us to God and to our soul.Readers will be struck by Rubietta’s cogentobservations about the transitions of life.Incorporated into each chapter is an openingprinciple thought of stillness in the desert, andthroughout each chapter are memory points totake note of what our heart is saying and whatGod’s Spirit is whispering. Each chapter offersa wilderness response including a Scriptureselection (usually a Psalm), a desert reading(usually from the Old Testament), and atraditional hymn. The sections lend themselvesfor use in personal reflection and meditation aswell as in small groups.Added to the religion collection in publiclibraries, the title serves both as a meditative andself-help resource. Pastors might considermaking this readily available on congregationand parish resource shelves.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Sacred parenting : how raising childrenshapes our souls / Gary L. Thomas.LCCN 2003020213. Grand Rapids :Zondervan, 2004.HBB, 0310247349, list cost: $19.99.248.8/45. Parenting—Religious aspects—Christianity;Parents—Religious life. 231 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.This is not your usual book on parenting. It isnot a “how to” book showing how to disciplineor how to raise perfect kids, etc. SacredParenting shows us how God uses parenting tochange parents. Thomas states in chapter onethat “the process of parenting is one of the mostspiritually formative journeys a man and awoman can ever undertake.” According to thisperspective, the chapters have subtitles like thisone for chapter two: “how raising childrenteaches us to deal with guilt.” Chapter fourdiscusses “how raising children teaches us tolisten to God.” Chapter six is subtitled, “howparenting confronts cowardice and buildscourage.” Other chapters deal with patience,sacrifice, control, fear, and more. Throughoutthe book Thomas examines these variousaspects of parenting and uses personal storiesand historical anecdotes to demonstrate theconcept of “sacred parenting.”I found the author’s perspective on parenting tobe helpful and insightful. The writing style isreadable, the personal stories and historicalanecdotes interesting. Gary Thomas has writtenother books with premises similar to this one.For example, his book Sacred Marriage asks thequestion, “What if God designed marriage tomake us holy more than to make us happy?”Thomas’ book entitled Authentic Faith won theGold Medallion Award. Thomas is the founderand director of the Center for EvangelicalSpirituality in Washington State.David Rainey, Senior Bibliographer, State Library of Louisiana,Baton Rouge.Fierce goodbye : living in the shadow ofsuicide / by G. Lloyd Carr ; with poetry byGwendolyn C. Carr. LCCN 2003023012.Scottdale, Pa. : Herald Press, 2004.PAP, 0836192672, list cost: $10.99.248.8/66. Suicide victims—Family relationships—Case studies; Suicide—Case studies; Suicide—Religious aspects—Christianity. 167 p. : col. ill. ; 21cm.Adult. Rating : 5.What does the Bible say about suicide? A topicnot often embraced because “Christians don’tcommit suicide,” Fierce Goodbye takes thereader on a personal and scriptural journeythrough the Christian issues of suicide. It is anassemblage of Lloyd Carr’s scholarly religioussurvey and of Gwen Carr’s private grief poetry.This collaboration of theologian and poetprovides a valuable tool for families trying tounravel the mysteries of these suicidecircumstances. As survivors left with theemotional aftermath of the violent death of theirdaughter-in-law, the Carrs share how theyreconnected with the world and turned their paininto a ministry for others.From Old Testament heroes like Samson andSaul to historical holiness thought like that of St.Thomas Aquinas, this Christian deliberation ofsuicide is thorough. Poems reminiscent ofsuicidal depression: “To die this once, will bringrelease, from smaller deaths, that never cease,nor ever bring deliverance,” reveal a heartfeltdilemma for the Christian. They communicatetheir anger, guilt, and grief while providing solidguidance for those who worry about the eternalfate of a lost loved one. Their combined effortprovides a steadfast and understandablesummary of the Christian perspective on acomplicated life crisis.A video documentary with the same title wasalso produced and there are color photographsand references to this project in the book. Thereare chapter notes, a thirty page appendix withscholarly references, and a “Further Reading”bibliography at the end of the book. There is anindex to the text and an index to all biblicalreferences. This book is penetrating, poignant,and useful for pastors, counselors, teachers andany Christian who has come through, withGod’s gracious love, as a suicide survivor.Comprehensive and concise, it is highlyrecommended.Rebecca Cress-Ingebo, MSN, MLS. Academic Librarian,Beavercreek, Ohio.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 5 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONThe ten commandments of working in ahostile environment / T.D. Jakes. LCCN2004059551. New York : Berkley Books,2005.HBB, 0425200167, list cost: $14.95.248.8/8. Employees—Religious life; Work—Religious aspects—Christianity. 216 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Readers who are dealing with an abusive boss,gossiping coworkers, demanding deadlines,office politics, frayed nerves, the boredom ofunfulfilling work, or our values clashing withthose around us will find invaluable, timelessadvice here. Jakes offers observations andinsights built around ten principles drawn fromGod’s Word concerning how we as God’schildren should think about, learn from, and liveour His presence in our places of employment.These ten principles are called tencommandments because they are similar in theirpurpose. Jakes hopes, and succeeds in manyhelpful ways, to show readers realistic ways anda mindset of how to be less afraid and morecontent, less concerned with job satisfaction andmore centered on joyful expectancy regardingwhat God wants us to do on the job. These tenprinciples become manna for the reader’sjourney, nourishment and refreshment.Recommended for all public libraries in adultcollections for self-help, job growth, and careerand life improvement. This titles complimentsJakes earlier work, Maximize The Moment(Berkley, 2001) perfectly. Church libraries andspecial libraries offering titles for motivation,inspiration, and restoration would do well tohave this title—it transcends cultural anddenominational barriers.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.*Finding our way home : addictions anddivine love / K. Killian Noe. LCCN2003019792. Scottdale, Pa. : Herald Press,2003.PAP, 0836192621, list cost: $10.99.259/.429. Samaritan Inns; Church work withalcoholics—Washington (D.C.); Church work withnarcotic addicts—Washington (D.C.); Church workwith the homeless—Washington (D.C.). 88 p. ; 22cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : *5.Finding Our Way Home: Addictions and DivineLove by K. Killian Noe emerges from a deepspiritual love for the not-so-beautiful-people inour culture. Ms. Noe, along with DavidErickson, co-founder and president of SamaritanInns, Inc., and a host of godly benefactors,formed a three phase program designed tonurture the homeless and addicts back toeverlasting health and hope. Their deepcommitment, based on the biblical tale of “TheGood Samaritan” (Luke 10: 33-37), has led tothe development of Samaritan Inns inWashington, D.C., New Creation Community,and “Recovery Café” to aide in the recovery andcontinued care of the homeless, addicts, andtheir families. In this short, yet comprehensivebook, Noe gently reminds the reader of the needwe all harbor for community, safety, security,and acceptance of our “real” selves. Noe showsa heart for the homeless and addicted that israrely seen in today’s society, and without beingdidactic, conveys the need for each of us to getand stay involved in sharing our unique, Godgivengifts with others. True vignettes aboutmembers of the community add authenticity.Noe presents key ways to identify needs, thepower of prayer, and the healing of communitiesworking together toward life in Jesus.K. Killian Noe has been named one of YaleDivinity School’s Distinguished Alumni. Sheand David Erickson founded Samaritan Inns in1985, and have worked together toward meetingthe growing and changing needs of thecommunity, as the Lord directs. Highlyrecommended for those with a heart for thehurting, as well as those who have addicts intheir families.Kim Harris. Children’s Librarian, Lyell Branch of the RochesterPublic Library, Rochester, New York.The religions next door : what we need toknow about Judaism, Hinduism,Buddhism, and Islam—and whatreporters are missing / Marvin Olasky.LCCN 2004295442. Nashville : Broadman& Holman, 2004.PAP, 0805431438, list cost: $14.99.261.2. Christianity and other religions; Judaism;Hinduism; Buddhism; Islam. 245 p. ; 22cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 4.A comparative religion text, The Religions NextDoor carries through with the explanation givenon the front cover: what we need to know aboutJudaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam—and what reporters are missing. The plan of thisbook is simple. The introduction explains thestance of the journalist author. Next, eachreligion is discussed in two chapters; one toemphasize belief and practices; and a second tolook at crucial points, such as history,social/theological components, personal living,and politics. The last two chapters discuss goodand bad examples of U.S. press coverage ofcontemporary actions within these religions.Professor of journalism, prolific author andsyndicated columnist, raised in Judaism,accepting Christ in his twenties, Marvin Olaskyuses his background, personal interviews, andextensive research to enrich The Religions NextDoor. Primarily a discussion of these religions,Olasky continually brings in relevant scriptureand Christian truth. Each section contains atime-line and glossary of terms germane to thereligion. Combining echoes of newspaperjournalism and a teacher’s innate sense of thestudents need, this book holds the readersinterest throughout.Useful for Christians honestly seeking to helptheir non-Christian neighbor, as well as avaluable reference, The Religions Next Door isrecommended for both lay persons and clerics.Written for adults, high schoolers will also findthis book valuable.Donna J. Eggett. Freelance Writer, Radford, Virginia.Understand my Muslim people : by aformer Muslim / Abraham Sarker.Newberg, Ore. : Barclay Press, 2004.PAP, 1594980020, list cost: $18.00.261.2. Islam; Christianity and other religions—Islam;Islam—Relations—Christianity. 286 p. : ill. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.Dr. Sarker was born and raised a Muslim inBangladesh, and the disciple of his village’sspiritual leader. He came to America to spreadthe message of Islam and in the journey becamea Christian. He serves as an adjunct professorand with his wife, Annie, founded a ministry tobring the Gospel to Muslims. He shares hisstory, then provides a clear description of thehistory, beliefs, and practices of Islam. Sarkeroffers the reader a better understanding of theMuslim mind-set and offers practical strategiesChristians can use to engage in productivedialogue with Muslims.This is important reading for anyone trying tounderstand and reach Muslim friends. Thebook’s organization and development follow alogical pattern and make for ease of reading.Three sections dealing with Islamic beliefs andfour with Islamic practices are especially helpfuland enlightening. This titles complements TheCrisis of Islam by Bernard Lewis (ModernLibrary, 2003).Recommended for public library world religionand contemporary events collections. Historyteachers might consider offering this as readingmaterial for their high school honor students,and college teachers to address questions,concerns, and misunderstandings surroundingIslam.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Muslims next door / Shirin Taber. LCCN2004008351. Grand Rapids : Zondervan,2004.PAP, 0310255643, list cost: $9.99.261.2. Islam; Missions to Muslims—United States.137 p. : 21 cm.Adult (Grades 9-12). Rating : 5.Muslims Next Door is a small group guide witha large ambition. Taking a positive approach,Shirin Taber avoids delving into 100s of years ofMuslim animosity towards the West and insteadtakes the distinct perspective of guidingChristians through points of commonality.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 9 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTNONFICTIONTaber comes from a multicultural backgroundand has lived in Iran, France, and Turkey, andnow in the United States. She shares stories ofher experiences as well as from interviews withother Muslims. Being raised in a Catholic-Muslim home, Taber is uniquely positioned toprovide an insider’s point of view on statisticaldistributions of Muslims with their economicimplications for Americans, Islamic religiousquestions, and cultural traditions involved inestablishing friendships that could point towardsChrist. After 9-11, public fear and hate crimesagainst Arab-Americans increased in the UnitedStates by 1,700 percent according to Newsweek.Her sincerity is evident when she says, “I wantto encourage my readers to identify with theirMuslim neighbors in a way that reveals the loveand compassion of Christ.”This text is non-threatening and uses parallelsbetween United States and other parts of theworld as we all look at the need to treat “good”Muslims with respect. Just as there areChristian fanatics that take Christ’s teaching fortheir own gain, Taber encourages readers to seethe difference between radicals of Islam andtheir valuable American Muslim neighbor livingnext door. Each chapter contains questions forreflection to use in group discussions. The bookalso contains a glossary of Islamic terms.Recommended for any American whounderstands that the love of Christ is not just fora chosen few, but for his diverse creation;teachers, lay and religious leaders of alldenominations.Rebecca Cress-Ingebo, MSN, MLS. Academic Librarian,Beavercreek, Ohio.*1001 ways to introduce your child to theBible / Kathie Reimer. LCCN2002284625. Nashville : Broadman &Holman, 2002.PAP, 080543836X, list cost: $14.99.268/.432. Bible—Study and teaching; Bible—Problems, exercises, etc.. 316 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : *5.When Kathie Reimer speaks of introducingchildren to the Bible, she helps boys and girlslearn all of God’s word. In 1001 Ways toIntroduce Your Child to the Bible, Reimer offerssuggestions from Genesis to Revelation. Eachsection describes the book, the people, theplaces, and lessons to be learned.Devotional thoughts for parents and teachershighlight practical applications for today. Infact, the devotions are well worth the cost of thebook. Consider all the other wonderful materialmerely as a bonus!Interesting names for activities suggest learningthe Bible will be fun. Whee! Wheels! is aspinning experiment from Ezekiel. Childrenwill enjoy Get Down from That Tower, abuilding project from Obadiah. The authordescribes Be Friends as “a sticky situation” fromI Corinthians. Run the Race is a family relayfrom Hebrews.I liked the format of each activity. A shortintroduction answers these questions: What do Ineed? How long will it take? What age child?Will it work in a group? Can it be played in acar? Will it work in a school classroom? Tipsfrom the author prod would-be teachers in theright direction. Reimer writes, “Regardless ofthe specifics of how you teach, you will be onyour way to training a little Bible scholar andhelping to indelibly shape his life for time andeternity!” She’s right. Introduce the children inyour life to the greatest book of all—the Bible.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.*The encyclopedia of Bible games forchildren’s ministry / . LCCN 2004010539.Loveland, Colo. : Group Publishing, 2005.PAP, 0764426966, list cost: $24.99.268/.432. Games in Christian education; Church workwith children; Bible games and puzzles. 270 p. ; 23cm.Adult. Rating : *5.Vicki L. O. Witte and Mikal Keefer believegames reinforce Bible truths, buildrelationships, and encourage children to enjoychurch. The Encyclopedia of Bible Games forChildren’s Ministry contains noncompetitivegames “…for any occasion…any energylevel…and nearly any Bible story.”The editors and contributing authors offericebreaker games, holiday games, group-buildergames, and travel games. Teachers will love “10Total Silence Games to play when kids want toplay—and you need a break.” On a boisterousnote, the Wild ‘n’ Wacky section includesMummy Wrestling, Indoor Olympics, Buildingthe House, and Greased Pig.I admired the Energy-Level Index. Leaders canquickly select a game with low-energy, mediumenergy,or high-energy. A helpful Scriptureindex lists nearly 200 games from Genesisthrough I Peter. Psalms is represented with 14games. Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and Amoseach offer one appealing activity. John has 19games. Count two games for Galatians, andseven for Philippians.Don’t worry about complicated supplies. Listshelp you find the right items. Actually, severalgames mention, “none needed” in the supplylist. Other activities require only a Bible. Thegames often use common items such as maskingtape, paper, a flashlight, or a bucket.If you work anyplace with children, considerthis fantastic collection of activities. Take TheEncyclopedia of Bible Games to Sunday School,mission groups, day camps, and family trips.The book is sure to be used often.Roberta Lou Jones, MDiv. Volunteer, Church Children’s Library,Dexter, Kentucky.Vision moments : creating lasting truths inthe lives of your students / Bo Boshers andKeith Cote. (TruthQuest.) LCCN2004300091. Nashville : Broadman &Holman, 2004.PAP, 0805427252, list cost: $9.99.268/.433. Students—Religious life; Christianeducation of young people. xii, 147 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 3.Vision Moments includes lessons designed toteach God’s truth in creative, interactive, and funways. Boshers, with over twenty years of youthministry experience, and Cote, trainer andconsultant in leadership and organizationdevelopment, bring their experience together tocreate small-group experiences. Throughhands-on, experience-based learning, junior andsenior high students discover how they canapply biblical truths to their everyday lives. Theactivities are best suited for groups of five tothirty students.The seventeen vision moments are divided intofive parts. Each part focuses on a key value of aprevailing student ministry: spiritual growth,community, commitment, evangelism, service.Each part opens with an overview and anassessment.Some youth ministers will find the outlineapproach helpful and stimulating for tellingstories that paint a practical picture for listeners.A particular strength is Scripture being thereference point for the experiences. Ministersare also challenged to have an authenticrelationship with Christ.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Nature trails and Gospel tales : stories ofgrace from the wilds of Mississippi /Ernest Herndon. LCCN 2003026437.Downers Grove, Ill. : InterVarsity Press,2004.HBB, 083083236X, list cost: $12.277.62/082. Nature—Religious aspects—Christianity—Meditations; Outdoor life—Mississippi.94 p. ; 19 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Nature Trails and Gospel Tales is a slim volumefilled with the homespun wisdom of ErnestHerndon, outdoors and religion editor for aMississippi newspaper. Herndon explains thatthe Bible is filled with nature writing, poetry,and adventure. So he combines his love of theoutdoors with his love for God and His Word inthirteen short nature adventures, ones that willespecially please the hunter and fisherman inour midst. These are stories of grace from thewilds of Mississippi and even readers that areM A R C H 2 0 0 5 6 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONonly armchair adventurers will delight in eachchapter. These engaging stories with manyBible references will both entertain and uplift.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Why the rest hates the West :understanding the roots of global rage /Meic Pearse. LCCN 2004000439.Downers Grove, Ill. : InterVarsity Press,2004.PAP, 0830832025, list cost: $13.00.303.48/21821. Christianity and culture; East andWest. 188 p. ; 21 cm.Adult. Rating : 3.Author Meic Pearse, in Why the Rest Hates theWest, attempts to show the vast division betweenWestern culture and the rest of the world.According to Pearse, many of the assumptionsof the civilization of the West are in directopposition to and contradict the values, culturaland religious, of most other significant groups ofpeople. That having been said, this is a verydifficult book for the average layman to wadethrough. It is of a serious nature, written in anacademic style and will most likely appeal to aselect group of readers who will pick it up andcontinue through the entire book. Readers thatdo persevere will be rewarded by the last twochapters, Observations in Passing? andConclusions which are “user friendly” and moreeasily digested than the previous parts of thebook. This is a current and important topic, onethat is valuable and of interest to manyChristians, but Why the Rest Hates the West isnot as accessible as one might hope whenreading the title.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Your money : how to achieve financialfreedom and reach your goals / RalphMoore and Alan Tang. LCCN2003019116. Ventura, Calif. : RegalBooks, 2003.PAP, 0830732691, list cost: $9.99.332.024. Finance, Personal—Religious aspects—Christianity. 143, [1] p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.Moore, pastor of a chapel in Hawaii and founderof a chapel in California, and Tang, a marketingconsultant and certified financial counselor,team up to offer the reader ways to adjust one’sperspective toward money and gain control overone’s income and expenses.Their practical suggestions enable the reader tobe freed from external pressures that canmanipulate spending habits. Their approach isgrounded in the biblical view that we are calledto live under God’s blessing and as God’sblessing in the lives of others. Their solutionorienteddiscussion offering ways to alter one’sviewpoint (e.g. What is money anyway?Working for a new boss, Adjusting your workmentality, and God’s prosperity plan), and thentransform habits regarding money.Public library collections offering ideas to helppeople get out of their current debts—or evenprevent debt before it begins—can add this withconfidence. The biblical tools utilized in thediscussion complements a biblical approach andstrengthens tools for believers needing freedomfrom the worry of money. One advantage of thiswork is it combines what is covered in workssuch as How to Manage Your Money Workbookand The Family Financial Workbook (both byMoody Press, 2002).Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.Character under attack : & what you cando about it / by Carl Sommer. LCCN2005008539. Houston : Advance Pub.,,2005.HBB, 1575373505, list cost: $12.95.370.11/4. Moral education—United States. 95 p. ; 20cm.Adult (Grades 8-12). Rating : 3.Using his own publishing experiences as aspringboard to discuss the lack of value-richchildren’s books in modern publishing, CarlSommer, businessman, educator, and author ofthe Another Sommer-Time Story series ofchildren’s books, has written Character UnderAttack and What You Can Do About It as anexpose of the crisis of character facing Americatoday.What Sommer says will be familiar to readersalready interested in the subject. His book iscompact (a sturdily-bound, small-sized 5 x 7),succinct, and puts its message together well.Sommer, for instance, effectively shows howbooks that build character or teach traditionalvalues are dismissed or discouraged by themajor book review journals, while books thatjust as enthusiastically teach non-traditionalvalues are encourage and lauded. Sources suchas Why Johnny Can’t Tell Right From Wrong,The Humanist Manifesto, U.S. News and WorldReport, and several columns by John Leo areused.Character Under Attack is a bit heavy onSommer’s own (unfavorable) experiencesgetting reviews for his company’s books, and hedoesn’t always provide attribution for thestatements he makes. Also, he once claims thesame quote for both Teddy and Franklin DelanoRoosevelt. But for the most part the book is aslickly-written volume that is clearly articulated.Sommer closes by offering four ways the UnitedStates, and its schools in particular, cancounteract a decline in values: return to aculture of discipline (with zero tolerance formisbehavior), impose educational standards foreach grade (eliminating social promotion),create race-neutral learning environments whereall children can reach their potential, and rejecttoday’s culture of moral relativism. While thesesolutions may be more hopeful than realistic,and Sommer himself admits implementing suchprograms will be difficult, he does giveexamples of schools who’ve successfullyimplemented them.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.Children’s book corner : a read-aloudresource with tips, techniques, and plansfor teachers, librarians, and parents,grades 1 and 2 / Judy Bradbury ;photographs by Gene Bradbury. LCCN2005273085. Westport, Conn. : LibrariesUnlimited, 2004.PAP, 1591580471, list cost: $32.00.372.45/2. Oral reading; Reading (Early childhood);dren—Books and reading; Book selection. 245 p. : ill.; 28 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.Bradbury, author of a children’s math seriesChristopher Counts (McGraw Hill/LearningTriangle Press) and with twenty plus years ofexperience teaching public school, focuses onher love of promoting reading. This resourcebook contains over fifty read-aloud plans foroutstanding books to read with children in firstand second grades. Related titles arehighlighted relating to each of these plans.Youth librarians will find this of particular helpas it offers Tips and Techniques and an extensiveBook Notes section that lists hundreds of titlesby subject with a brief summary of each. Asubject index, title index, author index, andillustrator index provide additional helpful waysto locate needed books for particular events orplans.School librarians can make this title availablefor teachers of grades 1 and 2. Public librariescan use it in their children’s programming aswell provide access for parents to get ideas forreading aloud to children. Those having Read-Alouds with Young Children by Robin Campbell(International Reading Association, 2001) orGuided Reading by Irene Fountas (Heinemann,1991) will find this title a marvelous updatedcomplimentary resource.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.The Pony Express : a photographichistory / Bill and Jan Moeller. LCCN2002154001. Missoula, Mont. : MountainPress, 2002.PAP, 0878424709, list cost: $22.00.383/.143/0973. Pony express—History—Pictorialworks; Postal service—United States—History—Pictorial works; Stagecoach stations—West (U.S.)—History—Pictorial works. xi, 170 p : col. ill., maps ;23 cm.Grades 6-9. Rating : 4.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 1 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

ADULTNONFICTIONBill and Jan Moeller have combined lavish colorphotos with carefully-researched text to produceThe Pony Express: a Photographic History.The book opens with a ten page introduction tothe Pony Express, then breaks down, on a stateby-statebasis, the stories of each station, itsagent, the riders, and any significant adventuresthey had. Landmarks along the route (ChimneyRock; Scott’s Bluff; Church Buttes) areincluded, with their significance explained.Information is also given on why the PonyExpress ceased its service, including data onhow much money a successful run could havemade, contrasted with how much money thebest run actually did make.Photos make up the bulk of The Pony Express,giving it a coffee-table-book look, but the text ishighly informative, and detailed enough to beused for a school report. Although few primarysources about the Pony Express are available,the Moellers have carefully sifted through whatdoes exist to provide the most accurateinformation possible. (An appendix furtherrecounts conflicting versions of several stories).Most of the photos, naturally enough, show thestation sites as they look today, but the Moellersinclude sites where ruins exist, or wherereconstructions have been made.Other nice features of the book: a map of thePony Express route, a listing of sites the readercan visit or write to to find more information,and a list of all probable stations.A lively writing style interspersed withinteresting facts make The Pony Expresssuitable for older grammar school children aswell as adults. Facts are presented delicately,also making the text suitable for child readers.Note, however, that a story is told of a stationemployee who, seriously wounded in an Indianattack, committed suicide by shooting himself inthe head.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.Ancient scrolls / Michael Avi-Yonah.LCCN 75305572. St. Louis, Mo. : Palphot,reprint of 1973 ed. by Cassell, London.PAP, 9652801194, list cost: $9.99.417/.7. Manuscripts—History; Writing—History;Archaeology. 80 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Grades 7-12. Rating : 4.If you’ve ever been asked “How do we know theBible is true?” Ancient Scrolls is a book to haveon hand. Showing how earliest writtencommunication has survived via stone, wood,wax tablets, ostraca and papyrus, Michael Avi-Yonah outlines the methods of writtencommunication in ancient times. Interweavinghis scholarly approach are illustrations of howextra-biblical accounts of events and factsreinforce its truth. Written in an engaging,interesting manner, the book combines biblicalhistory with archeological artifacts. Not contentwith just describing archeological finds, Avi-Yonah details why some types of writingsurvived and what their meaning is in thebroader context of history. Giving due credit tolater cultures as well, he describes the survivalmethods of Greek, Byzantine, and Latincommunication, as well as the Dead Sea Scrolls.An excellent index accompanies an adequatebibliography, pointing the serious student tofurther resources. Beautifully clear wellcaptionedphotographs whet the appetite ofthose with an interest in the history of man’swritten communication.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.The Facts on File dictionary of spacetechnology / Joseph A. Angelo, Jr. LCCN2003049148. New York : Facts on File,2004.HBB, 0816052220, list cost: $49.50.629.4/03. Astronautics—Dictionaries. 474 p. : ill. ;24 cm.Grades 9-Adult. Rating : 4.This revised edition of the earlier 1999 workpresents the basic concepts of space technology,its underlying scientific principles, and thetechnical characteristics that have (or will) beinvolved in humankind’s space missions. The1,500 cross-referenced entries provide concisedefinitions and make available nearly everyword, concept, and event relating to this branchof science, e.g. abort modes, ballistic missiledefense, milstar, robotics.In addition to 75 line drawings and photographs,the dictionary includes appendixes ofInternational System Units and theirequivalents, and a listing of Web sites devoted toselected space organization home pages andspace missions.High school, public, and academic libraries canoffer for a comprehensive quick reference toolfor those interested in space exploration.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.The book of fire / William H. Cottrell, Jr.LCCN 2003020773. Missoula, Mont. :Mountain Press, 2004.PAP, 0878424911, list cost: $14.00.634.9/618. Forest fires; Fire. vi, 73 p. : col. ill. ; 23cm.Grades 6-9. Rating : 3.The Book of Fire by William H. Cottrell, Jr.introduces nonscientists to the science of fire.This liberally-illustrated volume covers suchtopics as how twigs catch fire, how forests burn,and how fire is used to control landscapes.Helpful features include a four page fireglossary, a list of recommended books andinternet sites, and a picture diagram of how acampfire burns.The foreword labels The Book of Fire a picturebook rather than a word book, and that’sbasically true. Short paragraphs accompanymany colorful diagrams, which clearly show theparts of a fire, how fires spread, how windseffect fires, etc. However, although the bookcan be a good tool to explain fire basics to olderelementary school children, it’s not as easy tounderstand as its picture book look might imply.The text contains many scientific terms and theexplanations sometimes seem more geared tothe scientist than the layperson. A reader willget a grasp of the chemistry of fire, why firelooks the way it does, and how it works, but theknowledge only comes with a careful reading ofthe text, and younger readers or reluctant readersmight be frustrated.On the other hand, the illustrations are a definiteplus, especially where the text is complex. Thebook is especially clear in describing theaftermath of a fire, providing fascinating detailsof how scientists determine a fire’s ferocity,whether the trees which burned were alreadydead, etc.School libraries will probably get good use outof The Book of Fire since it tackles a subject thatinterests most children. Many of the text-andillustrationsequences will spur science projectideas, and the book as a whole will give readersat least some insight into the workings of fireand the destruction it can cause.Rosemarie DiCristo. Children’s Author, Bronx, New York.A chicken’s guide to talking turkey withyour kids about sex / Kevin Leman, KathyFlores Bell. LCCN 2003023109. GrandRapids : Zondervan, 2004.HB, 031025096X, list cost: $16.99.649/.65. Sex instruction; Puberty; Sexual ethics;Parenting. 214 p. ; 22 cm.Adult. Rating : 5.Many parents feel uncomfortable talking aboutsex with their children. Christian parentsparticularly struggle with how to place aChristian perspective on sex in a culture thatcelebrates individuality over values. Parentswho made poor choices in their own teen yearswonder just how much to tell their children, andwhen. Fortunately, A Chicken’s Guide toTalking Turkey With Your Kids About Sex offerspositive steps for all parents, not just Christians,to talk to their children in a way that ismeaningful for the children and parents alike.Eschewing broad generalizations, this new bookby master communicator Kevin Leman andsexuality expert Kathy Flores Bell givespractical advice about the language to use, whento start, how to address awkward topics and howto encourage children to embrace God’s designfor sex. They get right down to the basics suchas understanding and confronting the roots ofpeer pressure and kitchen table sex-ed. Dividingthe body into zones, they show parents how toM A R C H 2 0 0 5 6 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONteach a child how and why to take care of his orher body. Culminating in a discussion aboutpreparing your child to choose abstinence untilmarriage, this book is invaluable for the parentof a prepubescent child in today’s culture. Twoappendices give specific advice as to how towork with Sex-Ed teachers at school, and whatto do if your child is already sexually active.Pages of notes, recommended resources and anindex make this an excellent resource forparents.Kelley Westenhoff, JD. Parent-Librarian, Dominion ChristianSchool, Oakton, Virginia.The gospel code : novel claims aboutJesus, Mary Magdalene and DaVinci / BenWitherington III. LCCN 2004006655.Downers Grove, Ill. : InterVarsity Press,2004.PAP, 083083267X, list cost: $15.00.813/.54. Brown, Dan, 1964- Da Vinci code; MaryMagdalene, Saint—In literature; Jesus Christ—Inliterature; Christian saints in literature; Christianity inliterature. 208 p. : 21 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 4.Dan Brown’s novel, The Da Vinci Code, hasbeen on international best seller lists for weeks.This story has raised many questions for readers,particularly because the author seems to haveblurred the lines between fact and fiction. Someof the questions are: Was Jesus really married toMary Magdalene and did they have a child? Dothe Gnostic Gospels represent the true Christianfaith and did the early church try to suppressthem? Did Constantine invent the doctrine ofdivinity of Christ? Even those that haven’t readThe Da Vinci Code are curious and askingquestions such as these because the book hasreceived so much press and media time.Ben Witherington III is a biblical scholar whocomes with the credentials to answer thesequestions and confront the claims that Brownmakes. He is a professor of New Testament atAsbury Theological Seminary and the author ofmany books, including Women and the Genesisof Christianity and The Brother of Jesus.The cover of The Gospel Code states that theauthor answers with the surefootedness of ascholar “yet in the plain language that anyinterested reader can follow.” After reading thiswork (and having read The Da Vinci Codeitself), this reviewer would have to agree thelanguage of the author is plain yet the subjectmatter itself and the covering of it does not lendto a quick, easy read. This is a deep subject andthe reading of The Gospel Code is a challenge,not for the casual reader. Yet, it does answermost of the questions that have been raised in aconvincing manner, using historical andScriptural references as well as historical andcultural analyses. The Gospel Code is a timelybook with a subject that is up to the minute.Other authors have arrived on the literary sceneearlier than Witherington with books refutingThe Da Vinci Code. Yet, this book is consideredby some (Publishers Weekly, May 31, 2004)with its extensive, reasoned approach, to havestaying power that others may lack.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.A field guide to Narnia / Colin Duriez.LCCN 2004004355. Downers Grove, Ill. :InterVarsity Press, 2004.PAP, 0830832076, list cost: $13.00.823/.912. Lewis, C. S. (Clive Staples), 1898-1963.Chronicles of Narnia; Children’s stories, English—History and criticism; Christian fiction, English—History and criticism; Fantasy fiction, English—History and criticism; Narnia (Imaginary place). 240p. ; 21 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : 5.Narnia enthusiasts, this book is like a tour ofAslan’s country! It begins with an overview ofthe life and work of C.S. Lewis by featuring thecreation of Narnia. The author then moves on topart two: All about the Chronicles of Narnia.Part three is an A-to-Z coverage of Narnianpeople, places, things and events ending with anappendix, a brief chronology of the life of C.S.Lewis.Colin Duriez provides a passionate insight intothe life of Lewis and his famed series, TheChronicles of Narnia. For those of us who haveread and loved Lewis’ creation, A Field Guideto Narnia gives greater understanding of theauthor and the books and, of course, makes youwant to read them again! For the uninitiated,this book will certainly whet your appetite forThe Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, as well asthe other six books in the series, no matter theage of the reader.A Field Guide to Narnia is a must read whetheryou are on your first visit to Narnia or a returntrip. Adults and young adults will both enjoyand profit from this guide to the landscape andinhabitants of Narnia.Ceil Carey, LTA. Young Adult Public Librarian, Plano, Illinois.Beyond surrender : one family`s quest tobring light to a dark and desperate land /Barbara J. Singerman. LCCN2003107111. Garland, Tex. : HannibalBooks, 2003.PAP, 0929292693, list cost: $12.95.B or 266. Singerman, Barbara J.; Singerman, Jeff;Missionarien—Benin (Africa). 189 p. ; 23 cm.Adult. Rating : 4.What does it mean to align one’s life with Hispassion and purpose? Readers follow this storyas told by Barbara highlighting the journey ofher and husband Jeff and their three children,first in their ministry in Memphis, Tennessee,and then as missionaries among the Ayizopeople of Benin in West Africa. They areBaptist missionaries serving with theInternational Mission Board.Her story illustrates biblical and Christianprinciples as experiences and efforts are sharedin their missionary endeavors. The readercomes to appreciate aspects of these Africanpeople not discussed in the media, andperspectives one can achieve only with passionand purpose. The story is frank: daily activities,good or bad, along with the trials andtribulations and joys that a missionary familyfaces as an overseas missionary. Those whohave read Mountains Beyond Mountains byTracy Kidder (Random House, 2003), or JunglePilot by Russel Hitt (Discovery House, 1997), orA Chance to Die by Elisabeth Elliot (Revell,1987) will enjoy this current and detailedjourney.Church libraries can add this title for insights ofmissionary endeavor. Public libraries with anextensive collection on African peoples mightinclude this title for additional views into thelives of some people of Africa. Religioncollections in public libraries coveringmissionary outreach can add this title if any ofthe above mentioned titles are lacking.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.*Joel / Joel Sonnenberg ; with Gregg Lewis.LCCN 2004003206. Grand Rapids :Zondervan, 2004.HBB, 0310246938, list cost: $19.99.B or 362.197/11/092. People with disabilities—Biography; Burns and scalds—Patients—Biography;Lewis, Gregg, 1951-. 214 p. ; 24 cm.Adult (Grades 10-12). Rating : *5.At the tender age of two Joel was a victim of ahorrendous car accident. Rescued from thefamily’s burning car, he resembled more a lumpof coal strapped to an infant car seat than he didthe vibrant baby just minutes prior to theaccident. This is his story of how Joel has thedistinction of suffering, and surviving the mostburns ever experienced by a human. In hiswords Joel tells of his battle of undergoing overforty corrective surgeries, and what it was like toundergo the adjustment of coming back to livedisfigured in a world where people often harshlyjudge the outer person before getting to knowthe inner one. Those who have met JoelSonnenberg are changed. His words alone willleave the reader changed. His story isincredible, and his faith is inspiring.It is amazing enough to read of a person’saccounting of surviving a horrific experience.That story becomes inspirational when theperson relates how he or she overcame thecircumstances and changed the lives of thosearound him or her. Anne Frank comes to mind.Joel Sonnenberg also is such a person. Joel’sstory is difficult to put down, not only because itis so gripping, but mainly because Joel is able totell his story in such a conversational manner itC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 3 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

INDEXwould be like leaving midway through aconversation with a good friend.Joel has the ability to cross over from just beingan autobiography to an introduction to a personyou have just met and want to know even better.Joel has undergone tremendous pain to bevictorious in the battle of physical trial.Spiritually he is warrior and a leader, both as anencourager and a role model of rising abovecircumstances and making the best, andbettering the situation. Joel has not given up, orgiven in. His story is one of survival andvictory. He has earned numerous awards, livedlife fully, gone on to college, and is now soughtafter speaker. His attitude is summed up in hisclosing line, “My story is different. It alwayshas been. That’s not gonna change. But it’sokay. Because I’ll still be me. Just Joel.”Pam Webb, BA. Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, Idaho.Bryson City seasons : more tales of adoctor’s practice in the Smoky Mountains/ Walt Larimore. LCCN 2004012811.Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 2004.HBB, 0310252873, list cost: $18.99.B or 610/.92. Larimore, Walter L.; Physicians—NorthCarolina—Bryson City—Biography; Medicine,Rural—North Carolina—Bryson City. 314 p. : ill. ;21 cm.Adult. Rating : 3.Larimore, a medical journalist since 1995,practiced family medicine for over twenty years.While he has written or cowritten a dozenbooks, including Alternative Medicine, and 10Essentials of Highly Healthy People, his earlierBryson City Tales followed his experiences as ayoung doctor settling into rural medical practice.This sequel to that work offers more captivatingstories that give meaning and challenge to smalltown events, customs, perspectives, and faith.The unexpected risks and rewards of Larimore’sjourney enables the reader to appreciate thecolorful characters found in a North Carolinamountain hamlet as well as feel stimulated withthe heart-warming people, attitudes, andhappenings that give vibrancy to small town life.Larimore’s writing style makes one cover 30pages and not find it’s been an effort to do so.One will delight in the warm moments, e.g. afteran interesting medical interaction, he concludes“That day I fell in love with my kids as neverbefore.” The reader not only believes it butleaves the pages inspired.Public library collections offering story-tellingaccounts, glimpses into the people of ruralAmerica, or entertaining reading about peoplecan add this without reservation.Leroy Hommerding, MSL/PhD. Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L.District, Fort Myers, Florida.M A R C H 2 0 0 5 6 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

INDEX1001 ways to introduce your child tothe Bible 59A to zoo : subject access tochildren's picture books 52ABC math riddles 20ABC science riddles 20Abraham Lincoln 29Abram's daughters 46, 47Adair, Ron 13Advance 61Adventures of young Buffalo Bill 10Alaska Northwest Books 15Albert Whitman 3, 11Alfred A. Knopf 3, 19, 35Alicia's best friends 5Allen, Thomas B. 41Ambrosio, Michael 9America at war 40American anthem 46American transportation 23Amistad 5Amulet 31Anasazi legends : songs of the winddancer 14Ancient scrolls 61Anderson, Marcella Fisher 9Angelo, Joseph A. 62Angels & all children : a nativitystory in words, music, and art 18Arctic lights, Arctic nights 21Ardizzone, Edward 36Arizona 24Assignment 48Augsburg Books 56Augsburg Fortress 18Augustine : the farmer's boy ofTagaste 25Augustine to Freud : what theologians& psychologists tell us about humannature (and why it matters) 55Avi-Yonah, Michael 61Back roads to Bliss 45Balliett, Blue 30Barclay Press 59Barr, Catherine 52, 53Barrie, J. M. 9Barstow, Barbara 52Bay Light 6Baylor, Byrd 15Baynes, Pauline 17Becoming Beka 36Becoming Naomi León 12Bell, Kathy Flores 62Benchmark 18, 19, 24, 25, 39Benge, Geoff 39Benge, Janet 39Berger, Melvin 21Berkley Books 46Berkley Books 58Bernardin, James 15Bertrand, Diane Gonzales 2Best books for children 52Best books for children 51Best books for high school readers52Best books for middle school/juniorhigh readers 52Bethany House 46, 47, 48Bethelhem Books 31, 36Beverly Cleary 28Beyond a doubt 43Beyond picture books 52Beyond surrender : one family`s questto bring light to a dark anddesperate land 63Bierhorst, John 15Big snow 4Bittersweet Bliss 45BJUP/JourneyForth 26, 30, 32, 34, 40Black as night : a fairy tale retold31Bladholm, Cheri 25Blegvad, Erik 10Bluedorn, Harvey 20Bluedorn, Johannah 3Boa, Kenneth 55Bones in the basket : native storiesof the origin of people 14Boo who 45Book of fire 62Bookworms : what's inside? 18, 19Boshers, Bo 60Bowman, John S. 40Boy who drew birds 27Boyds Mills 9, 21, 32, 41Bradbury, Gene 61Bradbury, Judy 61Bredsdorff, Bodil 30Brennan-Nelson, Denise 19Bride of stone 49Broadman & Holman 3, 18, 44, 49. 55,56, 57, 59, 60Brodart 54Brodeur, Thomas J. 30Broida, Marian 25Bruchac, Joseph 15Bryson City seasons : more tales ofa doctor's practice in the SmokyMountains 63Buffalo dreams 14Bull Run 31Bunn, T. Davis 43Bye bye, Bertie 44Cadence 46Cadnum, Michael 9Calm before the storm 44Cameron Townsend 39Candlewick Press 6, 23, 30, 39Cape Light novel 46Carlisle, Rodney P. 40Carlson, Melody 3, 18Carman, L. Kay 55Carr, G. Lloyd 58Carr, Gwendolyn C. 58Case of the monkeys that fell fromthe trees and other mysteries intropicalnature21Cats in Krasinski Square 10Chana, Leonard F. 15Chapman, Lee 7Character under attack 61Chasing Vermeer 30Chicken's guide to talking turkeywith your kids about sex 62Children's book corner : a read-aloudresource with tips, techniques, andplans for teachers, librarians, andparents, grades 1 and 2 61Children's catalog 51Chodos-Irvine, Margaret 3Christian heroes : then & now 39Christian writers' market guide 55Christmas promise 46Christopher Columbus : adventurer offaith and courage 28Cinco Puntos Press 15Claremont, Heather 6Clarion Books 27, 35, 41Clocks 39Coble, Colleen 43Cocca-Leffler, Maryann 3Collier, James Lincoln 39Coming on home soon 8Concordia 17, 26, 61Cook/Faith Kidz 13, 18Copeland, Greg 26Cordeiro, Wayne 57Corgiville Christmas 7Corner of the universe 34Cote, Keith 60Cotton gin 39Cottrell, William H. 62Courts, Randy 18Cox, Christine 15Coy, John 3Coyote & : native American folk tales14Craats, Rennay 28Creation Resource Publications 56Crossings of promise 44Crow-girl 30Cuevas, Lou 14Cuyler, Margery 4Davies, Jacqueline 27Davis, Dennas 18Davis, Rebecca 26Dear America 32, 33, 34Dekker, Ted 43Delacorte 12Derzipilski, Kathleen 24Desert storm--the first Persian GulfWar in American history 40Destiny, valor, and a lizard namedLouie 9Dewhurst, Rick 44Diakité, Baba Wagué 19Dial 35DiCamillo, Kate 30Dick, Janice 44Dillon, Diane 19Dillon, Leo 19Doman, Regina 31Doner, Kim 14Donkey and the golden light 12Donovan, Jane Monroe 19Don't let the pigeon drive the bus 8Dorros, Arthur 31Doubleday 9, 10, 12Duet 44Duriez, Colin 63Dutton 10, 14E. B. White 28Easterville miracle 3Eerdmans Books for Young Readers 17Elementary school library collection5 4Elixir 43Elkins, Stephen 18Ella Sarah gets dressed 3Elmer, Robert 44Encyclopedia of Bible games forchildren's ministry 60Enslow 27, 28, 40Eragon 35Ering, Timothy B. 30Everything bug : what kids reallywant to know about insects andspiders 22Explorers! 28Eye of the needle 14Eye of the storm 44Eyes and ears 22Fables 11Fabulous fluttering tropicalbutterflies 22Facts on File 40, 62Facts on File dictionary of spacetechnology 62Faithgirlz 11Famous inventors 27Farrar Straus Giroux 6, 26, 30Field guide to Narnia 63Fierce goodbye : living in the shadowof suicide 58Fight on! : Mary Curch Terrell'sbattle for integration 41Finding our way home : addictions anddivine love 58Finger, Charles Joseph 9Fisher, Carolyn 3Fleischman, Paul 31Fleming H. Revell 45, 49Flower hunter 26Flute player 14Flying over the USA: airplanes inAmerican life 23Follow me : Peter lays down his net1 7Ford, Carin T. 27Foreman, Michael 39Form of godliness 46Fradin, Dennis B. 41Fradin, Judith Bloom 41Frampton, David 31Fraustino, Lisa Rowe 32Freedman, Russell 27Fremont, Walter 32From biography to history 53Front Street 7Fruitlands : Louisa May Alcott madeperfect 13Gammage Cup 10Gareth Stevens 22Gauthier, Corbert 38Gebauer, Roland 25George Mueller : a father to thefatherless 26George Washington, spymaster 41George, Elizabeth 38George, Jim 38Gerstein, Mordicai 27Gideon blows the trumpet 17Gillespie, John Thomas 51, 52Girl who swam with the fish 15Glover, Ruth 45God bless the child 5God's handmaiden 47Good ideas from questionableChristians and outright pagans 55Gordon, Sharon 18, 19Gordon, Sharon 18Gospel code 62Goyer, Tricia 45Grace points : growth and guidance intimes of change 58Grandmother Spider brings the sun : aCherokee story 15C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 5 M A R C H 2 0 0 5

INDEXGreat adventurers of the twentiethcentury 40Great inventions 39Great serum race 23Greatest Bible stories ever told 18Greek alphabetarion 20Greenwillow 4Group Publishing 60Guide to reference…zoologicalsciences 53Gutteridge, Rene 45H.W. Wilson 51Hader, Berta 4Hader, Elmer 4Hamilton, Virginia 19Handforth, Thomas 10Hands-on history 25Hannibal Books 63Harcourt 3, 10, 15Hard times for Jake Smith 32Hardy, Leanne 4Harlem : a poem 24Harlin, Greg 29Harness, Cheryl 29, 41HarperCollins4, 5, 10, 11, 13, 21, 22,24, 29, 31Harry N. Abrams 12, 24, 31Hart, Joyce 24Harvest House 38Hayes, Joe 14Haywood, Jennifer Johnson 20Hear my sorrow : the diary of AngelaDenoto, a shirtwaist worker 33Hello sunshine, good night moonlight2 4Helquist, Brett 30Henderson, Aileen Kilgore 32Henkes, Kevin 4Herald Press 44, 58Herman, Kathy 46Hermes, Patricia 32Herndon, Ernest 60Herzog, Arthur, Jr. 5Hess, Debra 24Hesse, Karen 10High, Linda Oatman 32High-school catalog 51Hill, Andrew E. 56Hillenbrand, Will 4History maker bios 29Hoff, B.J. 46Holiday, Billie 5Holzer, Harold 41Homa, Linda L. 54Honoré, Paul 9Hopkins, Mary Rice 18Hopkinson, Deborah. 33Houghton Mifflin 5, 6, 20, 27Hound heaven 32How to help your hurting friend :clear guidance for messy problems 38Howard 36Hu, Ying-Hwa 24Hubler, Marsha 33Hulst, W. G. van de 33Hunterman and the crocodile 19Hyperion 8I walk in dread : the diary ofDeliverance Trembley, witness to theSalem witch trials 32In American history 40Ingpen, Robert 9Ingwerson, Faith 30Inheritance Publications 17, 25, 33Inside look 22InterVarsity Press55, 58, 60, 62, 63Into the deep 43Invention of the telegraph andtelephone 40Iraq War 40Is the big bang biblical? 57It's my state! 24Jahn-Clough, Lisa 5Jakes, T. D. 58James, Will 33Janeczko, Paul B. 23Jazzy Miz Mozetta 6Jelinek, Lucy 14Jenkins, Steve 20Jenna's Creek novels 48Jeram, Anita 6Joe LaFlam mystery 44Joel 63Johnson, Shane 46Jossey-Bass 57Journal of Brian Doyle 35Jubb, Kendahl Jan 22Kansas 24Keams, Geri 15Kehret, Peg 10Kendall, Carol 10Kerley, Barbara 28Keystone Stables 33Kids’ FAQs series 22KidsCan 37Kimmel, Elizabeth Cody 10King, David C. 24Kinkade, Thomas 46Kitten's first full moon 4Knuffle Bunny 8Kops, Deborah 17Koralek, Jenny 17Kraft, Betsy Harvey 41Kregel Kidzone 4, 25Krensky, Stephen 29Kroll, Steven 5Lacapa, Michael 14Ladwig, Tim 18Langan, Bob 9LaReau, Jenna 23Larimore, Walter L. 63Lass 25Lazarus trap 43Le Barre, Matt 11Legg, Gerald 22Lehman, Barbara 5Leman, Kevin 62Lerner Publications 29Let's-read-and-find-out science.Stage 2 21Levin, Freddie 20Lewin, Ted 21Lewis, Beverly 46, 47Lewis, E. B. 8Lewis, Gregg 63Libby, Larry 38Libraries Unlimited 51, 52, 53, 61Libraries Unlimited professionalguides for young adult librarians.55Life support 49Lima, Carolyn W. 52Lima, John A. 52Lindquist, N. J. 47Linnet Books 15LionX Publishing 9Living history library 36Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster boy35Lobel, Arnold 11Locker, Thomas 15London, Jonathan 15Look to the hills : the diary ofLozette Moreau, a French slave girl3 4Lowe, Joy L. 53Lundy, Charlotte 6Maier, Paul L. 26Man who walked between the towers 27Manziuk and Ryan mystery 47Mariposa Pub. 14Marshall Cavendish 5, 6, 7, 12, 15,32, 36Martin Luther : a man who changed theworld 26Martin, Ann M. 34Martin, Jannelle 20Matthew, Kathryn I. 53McArthur, Debra 40McBratney, Sam 6McCormick, Anita Louise 40McCusker, Paul 47McDaniel, Deanna. 53McDermott, Gerald 15McGowen, Tom 40McKissack, Pat 34McLemore, Clinton W. 57Mei Li 10Meltzer, Milton 39Messenger 49Middle-school catalog 51Milkweed Editions 32Mill house 47Millbrook Press 15, 27Miller, Calvin 57Miller, Debbie S. 21, 23Milne, A.A. 34Miracles : do they still happen? whywe still believe in them 56Moeller, Bill 61Moeller, Jan 61Molzahn, Arlene Bourgeois 28Moody Publishers 36, 45Moore, Ralph 60Morpurgo, Michael 34, 39Morris, Gilbert 47Morris, Henry M. 56Morris, John D. 57Morrison, Frank 6Morse, Jennifer 17Moses basket 17Mott Media 28Mountain Press 62Mountain Press 33, 42, 61Mr. Tanen's tie trouble 3Multnomah 46Murphy, Jim 35Muslims next door 59My favorite writer 28My name is America 35My pal, Victor 2My teacher likes to say 19Myers, Bill 47Myers, Christopher 24Myers, Walter Dean 24National Geographic 29, 41Nature trails and gospel tales 60Naturegraph Publishers 14NavPress 49Neal-Schuman 53Neal-Schuman Guide to RecommendedChildren's Books and Media for usewith Every Elementary Subject 53Nest of sparrows 48New Leaf/Master Books 56, 57Night song : a story of sacrifice : anovel 45Nine animals and the well 6Noe, K. Killian 58North Dakota 24Northland 14, 15NorthWord 22Obsessed 43O'Connor, Tim 18Olasky, Marvin 59Old Testament today : a journey fromoriginal meaning to contemporarysignificance 56Olsen, Mark Andrew 48On the trail made of dawn : NativeAmerican creation stories 15One sky above us 10Orchard Books 9Our wild world 22Out of the storm 44Oxford 23Page, Robin 20Palphot 61Paolini, Christopher 35Parable praise party 18Parker, Robert Andrew 15Pascoe, Elaine 17Passage 36Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw 22Paul Revere's midnight ride 29Pearse, Meic 60Peck, Richard 35Peel Productions 20Pelton, Mindy L. 11Penguin Children's Books 8, 10, 14,15, 35Penguin/Berkley Books 46Pennsylvania 24People could fly 19Peter Pan and Wendy 9Petersen, Dennis R. 56Phillips, Michael R. 48Philomel Books 15Pierce, Chonda 11Pierce, David 11Pijoan, Teresa 15Pinkney, Jerry 5Pinkwater, Daniel 6Pinkwater, Jill 6Please say please! : Penguin's guideto manners 4Pony Express 61Porfirio, Guy 23President is shot! 41Price, Anne 51M A R C H 2 0 0 5 6 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

INDEXPrinting press 39Private Peaceful 34Prodigal 47Projects about colonial life 25Projects about Indians of thesouthwest 25Projects about plantation life 25Projects about the plains Indians 25Projects about westward expansion 25Pueblo Indian wisdom : NativeAmerican legends and mythology 15Putnam 8Quinlan, Susan E. 21Rambunctious rattler 32Raney, Deborah 48Rappaport, Doreen 24Raven : a trickster tale from thePacific Northwest 15Raven Tree Press 2Ray, Deborah Kogan 26Razzamadaddy 7Reaching out to religious youth 55Reagan, Susan 3, 18Really, truly, everything's fine 36Red book 5Red house mystery 34Redman, Beth 39Reed, Mike 5Reference sources in science andtechnology series 53Regal Books 39, 57, 60Regina Silsby's secret war 30Reich, Carol S. 55Reimer, Kathie 59Religions next door 59Renner, Michelle 15Rescue in the Mayan jungle 13Revolutionary War and GeorgeWashington's army 40Rhodes, Bennie 28Rice, Craig D. 56Riggle, Judith 52Rijswijk, Cor van 17Ring, Susan 28Rising above 57Roaring Brook Press 27Robert Fulton : the steamboat man 27Roberts, Brenda C. 6Roberts, Bruce B. 56Robertson, A. T. 56Rock Harbor series 43Room of marvels 49Rosetta, Rosetta, sit by me! 12Rottmann, Erik 17Rowe, Mike 22Rubietta, Jane 58Rue, Nancy 11Rumford, James 6Ryan, Pam Muñoz 12Sacagawea's son : the life of JeanBaptiste Charbonneau 42Sacred parenting 58Sacrifice 46Safe in the fold 18Saffer, Barbara 20Sanders, Doug 24Sandler, Martin W. 23Sarker, Abraham 59Saskatchewan saga 45Schindler, S. D. 21Schmidt, Diane 53Schmidt, Gary D. 35Scholastic 4, 9, 10, 12, 17, 19, 20,24, 28, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35Scholastic atlas of oceans 20Scholastic children's encyclopedia 17Scholastic kid's almanac : facts,figures, and stats 17Scholastic Press 34Scholastic Reference 17Schott, Jane A. 29Seaport suspense novel 46Seasons of Bliss 45Seeds! Seeds! Seeds! 7Selznick, Brian 28Shaded light 47Shadow of the bear 31Shadows of Ghadames 12Shaw Books 55Shellenberger, Susie 38Shenandoah sisters 48Shred of evidence 46Silent night, holy night : the storybehind our favorite Christmas carol2 3Simon & Schuster 4Simon, Seymour 22Singerman, Barbara J. 63Sir Gawain and the green knight 39Sister to the wolf 37Slack, Teresa D. 48Sleeping Bear Press 19Sloat, Teri 14Smith, James Bryan 49Smith, Joe E. 56Smoky the cowhorse 33Snow, Scott 10So that's what God is like! 4Sommer, Carl 61Sonnenberg, Joel 63Sophie's Secret 11Sophie's World 11Soul sister 39Soul tracker 47Soul tracker series 47South Carolina 24Sowers 28Special families 18Speirs, Gill 12Speirs, John 12Spencer, Gregory H. 36Spencer, Katherine 46Spinning spiders 21Standard catalog series 51Starfall : Phaeton and the chariot ofthe sun 9Steele, Robert Gantt 11Stevens, Carla 7Stolz, Joelle 12Story of Mr. Pippin 3Stranger next door 10Strasser, Myrna 23Strauss, Linda Leopold 36Streams of mercy 48Stuart, Sally E. 55Summer secrets 32Sumpolec, Sarah Anne 36Sun slower sun faster 36Sunstone Press 15Sweet, Melissa 27Sweetland, Robert 2Taber, Shirin 59Tagliapietra, Ron 40Tale of Despereaux 30Tale of two dogs 5Tales from Silver Lands 9Tales from the manger 11Tang, Alan 60Taylor, C. J. 14Teacher's favorite 35Ten commandments of working in ahostile environment 58Thank you, Jesus 6That's Life 47The people with five fingers : anative Californian creation tale 15Theodore Roosevelt : champion of theAmerican spirit 41Thirteen moons on turtle's back : aNative American year of moons 15Thomas Jefferson 29Thomas, Gary L. 58Thomas, Rebecca L. 53Time stone travelers 13Tinling, Marion 42Together is all we need 48Tooth and claw : animal adventures inthe world 21Top secret : a handbook of codes,ciphers, and secret writing 23Toxic relationships and how to changethem : health and holiness ineveryday life 57Traditions of faith 23Trevor, Meriol 36Trivium Pursuit 3, 20Trottier, Maxine 37Trouble with Skye 33True test for Skye 33TruthQuest 60Tsaba House 48Tudor, Tasha 7Tundra Books 14Twas the night : the nativity story1 8Two old potatoes and me 3Under the sun 31Understand my Muslim people : by aformer Muslim 59Unfinished soul 57Unlocking the mysteries of creation5 6Vaccines 39Van Wright, Cornelius 24Van Zyle, Jon 21, 23Vasco Nunez de Balboa : explorer tothe Pacific Ocean 28Vega, Eida de la 2Velasquez, Eric 12Vision moments : creating lastingtruths in the lives of your students60Visser, Rino 17Vogel, Carole Garbuny 15Vogel, Julia 22Voice that challenged a nation 27Vollstadt, Elizabeth Weiss 9W Publishing 46, 49Walker & Co. 21, 22, 23Wallace, John 24Wallace, Nancy Elizabeth 7Walt Whitman : words for America 28Walton, John H. 56Walvoord, Linda 7, 12Wang, Suling 13Wangerin, Walter 18Warkentin, Karla 13WaterBrook 44, 45, 46, 48Watson, Wendy 10Way to make perfect mountains 15We are the many : a picture book ofAmerican Indians 24Weather legends : Native Americanlore and the science of weather 15Webster, M. L. 15Weigl Publishers 28Welkening 36Westbow 43WestWinds Press 14What do you do with a tail like this?20What's inside a fire truck? 19What's inside a firehouse? 19What's inside a hospital? 18What's inside a police car? 19What's inside a police station? 18What's inside an ambulance? 19Whelan, Gloria 13When dad's at sea 11When the circus came to town 13Where in the world is integrity? :the challenge of doing what is right56Whitlow, Robert 49Who made God? 38Who's knocking at the door? 7Why the rest hates the West :understanding the roots of globalrage 60Wild horses 22Wilkens, Steve 55Willems, Mo 8William of Orange : the silent prince33Williams, Thomas 49Wilson, Janet 4Winner, Cherie 22Witherington, Ben 62Without a trace 43Wm. B. Eerdmans 17Woodroof, Tim 49Woodson, Jacqueline 8Word & song audio book 18Word of the King 17Word pictures in the New Testament56World of insect life 22Yaakov, Juliette 51Yep, Laurence 13Yoshikawa, Sachiko 7Young Larry 6Young man after God's own heart 38Young patriots : inspiring stories ofthe American Revolution 9Young woman's call to prayer 38Young, Susan W. 32Your money 60You're all my favorites 6Youth Specialities 38YWAM Publishing 39Zeeuw, P. de 25Zonderkidz 11, 23, 33, 38Zondervan 38, 47, 56, 58, 59, 62, 63C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 7 M A R C H 2 0 0 5