Scandal's Shonda Rhimes Teases Season 3, Alternate Ending, Tiny Time Jump
Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Copyright 2013 Seattle Post-Intelligencer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Published 8:46 am, Friday, May 17, 2013

The same week another network had a mother of a reveal, ABC's Scandal shocked viewers with a patriarchal reveal no one saw coming. Fine, some fan sites may have suspected, but the final line of the Season 2 finale was such a surprising twist, not even members of the cast knew about it in advance - except one. During Thursday's "An Evening with Scandal" event at The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, the cast shared that no one knew the truth about Rowan's identity until the actual table read for the finale except for Morton, who was clued in from the beginning - something that became hilarious to Washington after the fact. Having him be the leader of a CIA Black Ops division that tortures and kills people was an entirely different direction Rhimes didn't consider until later. When Scandal was picked up for an additional nine episodes this season, Rhimes thought it was the perfect window of opportunity to finally meet Olivia's father, whose connection to B613 and what that means for how Huck (Guillermo Diaz) was able to defect without retaliation is likely on the table for discussion next year. Viewers won't have to wait long to find out what dear old dad is really like since the writers are discussing not doing a time jump in the Season 3 premiere. Defending her decision to break up Olitz once again, Rhimes reveals that they actually shot an additional scene that was cut from the episode in which Olivia and Fitz ended up in bed together again, showing that they were going to carry on their secret relationship. View original Scandal's Shonda Rhimes Teases Season 3, Alternate Ending, Tiny Time Jump at TVGuide.com Reported by SeattlePI.com 4 days ago.

Patch East Providence, RI --

 

Honor rolls for the third quarter at East Providence’s two middle schools were announced recently by their principals, Frank DeVall at Martin and Stephen Prew at Riverside. 

**Martin Middle School**

*Summa Cum Laude *

6th Grade: 
Aronhalt, Jillian; Babbit, Vilette; Campbell, Connor J; Carlson, Lily M; Costa, Sabrina;  Cruz, Clara A; Defontes, Mikayla; Duff, Joss; Heck, Taylor M; Kondon, Helen R; Medeiros, Mikayla; Moniz, Melissa; Mottur, Nathaniel; Paquette, Mason; Pedini, Connor; Petion, Cedric A; Rinaldi, Logan Elise; Santos, Alexander; Solomito, Haley Nicole; Zakrzewski, Nikolai J.

7th Grade: Abrams, Grace N; Badji, Hasna-Kaari; Costa, Alexander J; Doval, Zoe T; Esposito-Russell, Kaleigh M; Flowers, Alexander J; Hazard, Shaniah S; Lawrence, Rose M.; Lethbridge, Andrew J; McBride, Mary M; Medeiros, Zachary J; Mendillo, Kate F; Messier, Ashlyn O; Monteiro, Sophia N; O’Rourke, Logan; Placido, Hailey V; Shankar, Ashley A; Smith, Jeremy T; St. Hilaire, Erin N; Strother, Daniel D; Tashdjian, Dylan John; Tillman, Taliq K; Trowbridge, Blake; Villarica, Lynn Antonette Lozano

8th Grade: 
Andrade, Julia M; Antonio, Juliet A; DeBarros, Tyler Jeremy; Delande, Desiree Inez; Douglas, Rachel L; Freitas, Tyler A; Hurley, Julia B; Hurley, Patricia C; Kassed, Trey M; Lemos, Amanda Avelar; Pacheco, Emily M; Pruett, Justin C; Restrepo, Samuel; Ricci, Bailey Elisabeth; Rogers, Andrew T; Rogers, Devantae L; Shamayev, Kayla C; Vecchiarelli, 
Rebekah M.

*Magna Cum Laude *

6th Grade: 
Barber, Jayden; Bartlett, Zachary N; Brennan, Danielle; Brosco, Kaylee R; Callejas, Noah Maximus; Campbell, Madison R; Cardoso Sequeira, Danira Diamantina; Castano, Sofia; Cooley, Deonna M.; Cortez-Trujillo, Jesus Damian; Dacier, Amaya Mercedes; DoCouto, Aveon Heather; Dorsey, Aaliyah M; DosSantos, Tianna D.; Fernandes, Christina L.; Fernandes, Ryan; Foster, Maya R; Freitas, Jake R.; Gamboa, Jelviana; Garcia, Jarod A; Goncalo, Alexia; Hampton, Madison L; Harris, Kayla L; Hatch, Taysia L.; Head, Mamatahemotu L; Heck, Trevor M; Jorgenson, Hannah Marie; Kollett, Noah Michael; Macnie, Jennifer G; Maratova, Anel; Martins, Tyler C; Medeiros, Carolina Soares; Mulamba, Esther A; Osei, Jacqueline; Paiva, Colby M; Pereira, Elisiah; Quaresma, Talia E; Roslonek, Kaitlin E; Sam, Lynette S; Santos, Isac N; Silverstein, Samuel C; Soares, Olivia M; Teodoro, Haley E; Vieira, Alyssa T.; Villarica, Maia Angela L; Viveiros, Brianna; Voll, John C

7th Grade: Andrews, Devon Joshua; Avedisian, Adam J; Camara, Lexi L; Carvalheira, Briana A; Clifton, Jaysha Elaine; Cochran, Matthew M; Coelho, Tyler J; Coffey, Cole; Concepcion, Christopher; Corrente, Noah J; Costa, Jessica L; Costa, Richard; DaPonte, Marco P; DoCouto, Sage Capri; Flor, Shawn N; Fortes, Shiyenne M; Gilmore, Sarinna J; Goncalo, Justin A; Grossi, Alysha A;Hendricks, Hannah V; Kiessling, Michael A; LaBadie, Nicholas; Lemos, Mya R; Lima, Jared M; Lopes, Edla D; Martins, Angelica V; Martins, Anthony M; McBride, Molly C; Nolette, Sara E; Nunez, Quinn R; Oliveira, Kianna L; Ortolaza, Sharrean Michell; Peixoto, Meredith A; Pinheiro, Helena C; Ramsey, Emily A; Rivet, Devin D; Rungadoo, Lakshinee; Silva, Adamary E; Silva, Lexacy M; Vieira, Melissa C; Wood, Justin Michael

8th Grade: Almeida, Samantha Valoroso; Arruda-Trudell, Christopher Stevens; Baez, Jacenya Jade; Carranza, Elena Marta; Carreiro, Dylan A; DaSilva, Jasmine M; DeCastro, Courtney M; Finelli, Connor D; Johnson, Carl; Landry, Michael B; Lemos, Brianna Avelar; Mackevich, Nicholas J; Macnie, Kathryn R; Mai, Tan M; Medeiros, Luis Fernando; Ogunronbi, David O; Pacheco, Christian James; Pangborn, Zachary C; Quintanilha, Ashley S; Salisbury, Megan E; Santiago, Cassandra R; Seagrave, Arriana Jayne; Tavares, Anaida D; Texeira, Taylor J; Thompson, Ja-Khi Javen; Vermette, Jesse A; Villanova, Angelirys Natashka; Weltin, Hana A; Wright, Nikolas E

*Cum Laude *

6th Grade: Alba, Alyssa J; Cherry, Julianna Jazlyn; Downes, Sarah E.; Drainville, Emily; Felix, Katherinne; Hanley, Joshua M; Hazard, Jasmine L; Kardel, Ashlee R.; Landry, Jared; Machado, Chanel; Martins, Sabrina M; Matteson, Mariana E.; Medeiros, Jason B; Perry, Andrew Keith; Romero, Cameron L.; Santiago, Emmanuel A.; Soares, Sabrina; Teixeira, Rose M; Witherell, Kelsey E; Xavier-Rahed, Nelson J; Yang, Amy

7th Grade: Andrade, Cassandra; Andrade, Kyle E; Barr, Kristopher J; Boyles, Jasmine L; Braga, Nathan N; Braxton, Jade E; Braz-Gomes, Licinia; Chanthavong, Leann T; Costello, Jessica A; Cruz, Keiana N; DaLuz, Nathen T; DeJesus, Yimely A; Del Savio, Lucas C; DePina, Whisper Rene, Dilliner, Jessica; DiPietro, Rachel Frances; Enes, Megan S; Estrela, Roberta M; Feliciano, Joseph I; Gomes, Stephanie R; Hanrahan, Richard Allen; Lin, Jiaying; Lopes, Ethan K; O’Rourke, Logan; Pimentel, Nathan A; Pinto, Michelle S; Seculles, Kristine M; Smart, Rebecca Lynn; Vazquez, Chelsea

8th Grade: Anthony, Jenna M; Bernard, Adriana M; Carreiro, Dylan A; Cipriano, Grace K; Cote, Mackenzie E; Cronin, Riley P; Garcia, Zachary P; Gomez, Clarissa Ivette; Griffin, Bryce Joseph; LaValley, Rachael A; Rodrigues, Breanna L; Silva, Sergio M; Vandal, Chase H

**Riverside Middle School**

*FIRST HONORS (All A’s)*

Grade 6: Taylor Babcock, Kylie Bahry, Alison Batty, Emese Benziger, Evan Berger, Donovan DaSilva, Michaela Doro, Olivia DoSoito, Emma Dunn, Cameron Ellinwood, Dylan Enos, Zachary Fanara, Amanda Faustino, Pauline Gregory, Abbygayle Litteral, Katrina Martin, Matthew Matarese, Gabrielle Patrone, Kayla Phach, Ellen Phillips, Katherine Rejto, Haily Silveira, Isabelle Wetmore, Dorian Woods.

Grade 7: Devon Aparicio, Michaela Botelho, Jessica Carter, Paige Chakouian, William Duggan, Amyra Durkin, Caroline Feeley, Matthew Flanagan, Daniel Forsythe, Alyssa Guarino, Andrew Holstein, Erin Lamarre, Robert Perry, Joanna Proulx, Matthew Shaw, Homa Sultan, Nathan Thimas, Zachary Viera

Grade 8: Tess Amore, Victoria Castle, Maegan Charette, Elliot Charron, Marissa DaSilva, Jessica Doucette, Emma Drolet, Haley Fanara, Jordan Farnsworth, Gregory Fasano, Julia Ferreira, Allison Forand, Nicolas Friend, Candace Leonard, Alexandra Sargo, Sydney Vilardi

*SECOND HONORS (All A’s and B’s)*

Grade 6: Djyoni Almeida, Samantha Amoroso, Jarin Bento, Nicholas Bochichio, Victoria Borges, Mya Bostic, Faith Brown, Constantino Capobianco, Paris Couto, Alyssa Craveiro, Jacob Cunha, Amber D’Angelo, Emma DaSilva, Phoenix Ducharme, Shadae Enos, William Ferreira, Marcus George, Alexis Giguere, Cameron Green, Zion Hall, Hailey Hannon, Ariana Henderson, James Kennedy, Andrew Komiega, Sean Komiega, Calvin Li, Nicholas Li, Alexis Masse, Dillon Moniz, Annabelle Morel, Amy O’Brien, Matthew Olson, Dylan Pacheco, Donovan Paiva, Jaden Pena, Kasey Playe, Andrew Powers, Caleb Prescott, Colin Rebelo, Deidra Rivera, Juliana Santiago, Madison Silva, Adrionna Silva, Julian Simoes, Devyn Souza, Benjamin Stone, Mikayla Taylor, Isaiah Vargas

Grade 7: Stephen Adegun, Alisha Bowler, Max Brandle, Nicole Brown, Dennis Cardoso, Lesyer Carrasquillo, Abigail Conley, Lillian Conti, Clayton Cook, Kelly Corbeil, Daniel Costa, Patrick Coughlin, Xavier Craig, Nicholas DaSilva, Alexander Dauphinee, Karina DeJesus, Tatiana DeJesus, Casey Derouen, Hayley Desorcy, Dylan DeSousa, Bryce Doescher, Emma Dombrowski, Michael Evora, Andrew Faria, Colin Feeney, Danielle Flores, Briana Giron, De’Marco Gomes, Evan Goncalves, Andre Gordon, Victoria Gouveia, Dane Hanson, Makayla Holahan, Anthony Jones, Jenna Kaiser, Bailey Kanosh, John Kauffman, Chloe Koehne, Jonathan Labrecque, Alila Lemos, Matthew Maini, Nathan Maldonado, Kristen Marasco, Giavonah Martinous, Danielle Martins, Edward Mason, Elizabeth Matarese, Daniel McDonald, Samantha McEnaney, Shelby Mello, James Munro, Bret Nascimento, Alexander Newton, Kevin Nunez, Joellyn Pari, Audrey Patterson, Sadie Patterson, Samantha Poland, Olivia Ptaszek, Kylie Rebollo, Jasmine Reis, Devon Rivera, Benjamin Sears, Mackenzie Shields, Kristy Sittinger, Joshua Sousa, Victoria Stanley, Kristina Stilkey, Kathryn Sullivan, Hunter Travassos, April Valley, Sean Villavicencio, Raevyn Watson, Victoria Whitfield

Grade 8: Jaina Alves, Brittney Alves, Ava Atwell, Stefan Augustyn, Alex Berger, Victoria Bernardo, James Brice, Matthew Cardoza, Lexie Charette, Madison Chartier, Destiny Creighton, Edward Crevier, Gabriella Decologero, Erin Donnelly, LoydMilla dosReis, Sean Feeney, Victoria Galvao, Manny Grilo, Alaina Hail, Liam Hegarty, Brendan Kuiper, Dennis Marasco, Faith Marchetti, Cameron Maxwell, Julia McAdams, Rachel Oliveira, Kaitlin Patterson, Olivia Peixinho, Carly Pereira, Jamie Perry, Jason Ponte, Jaredd Resende, Herbert Richardson, Benjamin Seamans, David Sheldon, Matthew Silva, Lily Silveira, Nathan Silveira, McKenzie Thibeault, Allana Turcotte, Katlin Vanner, Edward Vieira, Chante Weeden, Meredith Whitaker, Tabitha Willis

*THIRD HONORS (All A’s, B’s and 1 C)*

Grade 6: Gianna Abatecola, Joanna-Maria Baez, David Bailey, Exondus Barnes, James Conti, Arianna Curvelo, Philip Diaz, Andrew Duckworth, Bryanna Elliott, Nasier Ferreira, Catherina Figueiredo, Giana Fowler, Zachary Garcia, Tayla Grant, Reyniel Lopez, Shelby McAllian, Lance Nelson, Christian Ortiz, Aaron Parsons, Cassidy Printer, Yanlee Rodriguez, Olivia Schroder, Kyle Soares, Keira Soccio, Carlos Tillet, Cintia Valerio, Robert Williams

Grade 7: William Almeida, Kachine Babers, Victoria Braxton, Isaac Dinerman, Jakari Enos, Tyler Fowler, Zachary Gauthier, Aaron Grilo, Shannon Joseph, Brooke Martins, Mason Pereira, Edmund Poirier, Rosalind Rodrigues, Thalia Santiago, Jeremy Spivey, Jordan Spivey, Samantha Willis

Grade 8: Alexander Cintron, Jaime Claudino, Monica DeAngelis, Molly Dellefemine, Jade Federowicz, Ashley Ferreira, Charles Gomes, Ashly Hassell, Kirsten Kinder, Anthony Lolio, Jenna Lopes, Michael Moura, Gabrielle Perry, Justin Simmons, Austin Stawicki, Cameron Torres, Joseph Usenia, Haley Vincent, Korbin Zeigler Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

Patch Melrose, MA --

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From James Patterson's ReadKiddoRead Foundation:

**Great Advanced Reads**

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*(For tweens and teens, ages 12 and up)*

*The Diviners*

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By Libba Bray

For ages 12 and up  

A series of occult-based murders in 1920s New York City put Evie O’Neill and her uncle, curator of what’s known as “The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies,” center stage in investigating the crimes. The tightly woven plot and palpable setting combine with supernatural elements, rich themes, and terrific storytelling to make for a compelling read.

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*On the Day I Died*

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By Candace Fleming

For ages 11 and up

Scary is always in season, and summer is an especially good time to welcome a shivery chill. On appropriately dark and moonless nights, kids will find themselves scaring friends with the stories in this collection, whether examinations of pure evil, ancient curses, alien encounters, or psychological dramas.

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*The Fault in Our Stars*

By John Green

For ages 13 and up

Hazel Lancaster, a teen with cancer, dropped out of school at 13 to concentrate on getting well. Now 16, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who’s lost a leg to cancer. Their connection is instantaneous. Green skillfully uses their lives to ask the big questions: Why me? Why now? Why risk love? What does being alive mean?

* *

*Scarlet: Lunar Chronicles, Book Two*

By Marissa Meyer

For ages 12 up

Another fresh view of a classic fairytale—with another stop-you-in-your-tracks cover. Scarlet (Little Red Riding Hood) and her street fighter boyfriend, Wolf, are in search of Scarlet’s grandmother. Their quest runs right into Cinder’s story as the three race to keep ahead of the evil Lunar Queen Levana. 

Or start with the first book in the series: Cinder: Lunar Chronicles, Book One

*The False Prince                                *

By Jennifer A. Nielson

For ages 13 and up

Carthya is on the brink of civil war. Conner, one of the noblemen, has a treacherous plan to install an imposter on the throne. But first he must find just the right young man to play the part: Could Sage win the role? As in any high stakes game, all is not as it seems. Amid layers of deception and manipulation, readers are in for surprises as Sage draws closer to the goal.

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*Shadow on the Mountain                                                                                   *

By Margi Preus              

For ages 12 up

* *

Espen, a 14-year-old Norwegian boy whose country is occupied by the Nazis, joins the Norwegian resistance with his friends. Margi Preus reveals his story in an engrossing text that combines spy thriller with a teen coming-of-age story, enhanced by photographs, maps and brochures from the time.

* *

*Eleanor & Park*

By Rainbow Rowell

For ages 14 and up

* *

In 1980s Omaha, Eleanor, quirky and new to town, and Park, half-Korean, are outsiders in their high school. It’s worse for Eleanor, who has an abusive stepfather and bullying classmates—so bad that she accepts Park’s father’s invitation for her to stay with their family. In small steps, Eleanor and Park’s friendship grows into love. But Park realizes that the solution to Eleanor’s troubles means that she will have to move away. 

* *

*After Eli*

By Rebecca Rupp

For ages 12 up

Since his older brother was killed in Iraq, Danny Anderson has been keeping a “Book of the Dead” where he chronicles how people from the past have died. It’s his way of understanding loss. But it is not until three years later that Danny begins to pull away from grief: He falls for a girl, finds a new friendship, and works on a farm. A crisis at the end of that summer pushes Danny and his parents toward healing in this moving and emotionally rich novel.

* *

*Out of the Easy*

By Ruta Sepetys

For ages 14 and up

* *

“The Big Easy” has been anything but easy on Josie. She’s tried distancing herself from her mother—an addict, prostitute and thief. Josie dreams of escaping Easy altogether, but doesn’t believe she can make that happen—until she meets a tourist who offers her the encouragement she needs. Ruta Sepetys vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as the shady underbelly of New Orleans in 1950, and breathes life into her cast of characters. Teens will be pulling for Josie as she moves ahead, learning that some decisions are anything but easy.

*The Raven Boys*

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By Maggie Stiefvater

For ages 12 and up

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For as long as Blue Sargent can remember, she’s been told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. And in her family—one filled with bona fide psychics—predictions are never taken lightly. Now 16, Blue befriends three Raven boys from the posh private school nearby and gets caught up in their quest and adventures. Blue fears that one of them just might be her true love. A compelling story from the outset, Stiefvater’s first installment in a planned four-part cycle will have readers on the edge of their seats.

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**The Cay  **

By Theodore Taylor

For ages 12 and up

When World War II threatens the Dutch island of Curacao where 11-year-old Philip lives, he and his mother decide to return to the U.S. But on the journey, their boat is torpedoed, and Philip is stranded on a life raft with a cat and Timothy, a black man. Later, when Philip becomes blind, he has no choice but to overcome his prejudices and trust Timothy. Their friendship develops beautifully in this exciting survival story.

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*5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)*

National Geographic Kids

For ages 11 and up

From 15 peanut butter facts that stick and 50 furry facts about bears, to 100 facts about oceans that will make your head swim, this big, colorful, packed-to-the-brim compendium is sure to fascinate, entertain, and be a source of great conversations for everyone who takes a look. Photographs illustrate the great variety of information, a playful design makes every page inviting, and a ticker at the bottom of each spread counts the facts kids learn as they go through the book. You’ll find your teen dipping in and out of this book all summer long.  

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*EXTRA CREDIT:*

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Life of Pi by Yann Martel 

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

 

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*GREAT PAGETURNERS                                                                                    *

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** **

**(For ages 9-12)**

* *

*The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee: An Origami Yoda Book*

By Tom Angleberger

For ages 8 and up 

In the third of the Origami Yoda books, Sara brings a paper fortune teller in the form of Star War’s Chewbacca (a Fortune Wookiee) to school to fill in while Dwight and Origami Yoda are suspended.

Or start with the first book in the series: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

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*Never Say Die*

By Will Hobbs

For ages 8 up

Nick Thrasher, a 15-year-old Inuit hunter, and his older half-brother Ryan, a wildlife photographer, are off in search of caribou. Soon into their travels they are thrown into the frozen Firth River. Back on land, their struggle to survive continues as they are pursued by animals, including a half-grizzly, half-polar bear. An exciting wilderness survival tale set in Canada’s arctic is the perfect read to cool down a hot summer day.

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*Dog Days (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 4)                                                         *

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By Jeff Kinney                                                                                                                                                    For ages 8 and up

This is not the newest in the series, but it might be the right book to begin with since it’s all about summer vacation. The weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. But not Greg Heffley! He’s in his house playing video games and enjoying himself, thank you very much.  But Greg’s mom has other ideas about outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?* *

*On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s   *

By Barbara O’Connor  

For ages 8 and up

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When we remember summers, there’s often a single event that stands out. For the folks in Meadville, South Carolina, this summer will be recalled as the one when a one-legged pigeon named Sherman flew into town. Where did Sherman come from? Only Mr. Mineo seems to know. For many young readers, this summer may be remembered as the one they met Stella and Amos and Sherman in the pages of this wonderful novel.

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*Hades: Lord of the Dead: The Olympians, Book 4*

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By George O’Connor

For ages 9 and up

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Welcome to the Underworld. A mix of action, comedy, superheroes and Greek mythology, this graphic novel introduces Hades and Persephone.  

Or start with the first book in the series: Zues: King of the Gods

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*Wonder*

By R.J. Palacio

For ages 9-12

August Pullman, 10, was born with a deformed face. Even though he’s been protected and homeschooled, he’s felt the stares and heard the whispers when the boldest jerks called him Freak or Freddy Krueger. Now his parents have decided that it’s time to enroll Auggie in school. The world he finds doesn’t only test his courage; it also takes the measure of everyone he meets.  A rare book that just might open a closed heart.

 

*Middle School: My Brother is a Big Fat Liar*

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and *Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill*

By James Patterson and Lisa Papademetriou, Illustrated by Neil Swaab

For ages 9-13

Two great new stories in the wildly popular Middle School series. When Georgia Khatchadorian heads off to her first day at Hills Village Middle School, everyone she meets immediately brands Georgia a problem child just like Rafe! When Rafe sneakily signs the band up to play at Georgia's first middle school dance, she's terrified she'll embarrass herself. Will she be able to overcome her fears?

Meanwhile, in How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill, Rafe is excited about summer camp—but he’s in for a letdown when he realizes it’s summer school camp. Luckily, Rafe quickly makes friends with members of his “Loserville” cabin. And they need all the help they can get as they battle off against the “Cool” cabin all summer long.

Or start with the first book in the series: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

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** **

**Where the Red Fern Grows**

By Wilson Rawls

For ages 8 and up

In an informal survey, I asked a bunch of grown-ups which childhood summer read they remembered most. Where the Red Fern Grows was the most frequent answer. Set in the Ozarks, the adventure tale of a boy, Billy, and his two hunting dogs, Little Ann and Old Dan, is recalled not only for the trio’s triumphs, but also for the story’s tenderness. Give your kiddos this classic book this summer. 

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*The Egypt Game*

By Zilpha Keatley Snyder  

For ages 8 and up 

Before role-playing computer games became so popular, Zilpha Keatley Snyder took young readers to an antiques store in California where Melanie and April, and later four other friends, create and play “The Egypt Game.” With costumes, secret codes and elaborate stories, the kids become more and more involved—until strange things start happening. It just might be time to stop playing. Readers, too, will find themselves caught up in the game and in this characterful novel.

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*Hokey Pokey*

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By Jerry Spinelli

For ages 9 and up

This is an allegorical tale where childhood is not just a stage, it is a place called Hokey Pokey. The readers meet Jack, who, like many of them, is starting to “age out” of Hokey Pokey. Spinelli’s novel is sure to help them celebrate and cope with all that is the past and all that is to come.

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*Navigating Early*

By Clare Vanderpool

For Ages 9 and up

Jack is adrift after his mother dies, so his dad, just back from WWII, enrolls him in a boarding school in Maine. There he befriends Early Auden, a loner who rarely attends classes and whose brother, a soldier serving in France, is presumed dead. Early believes otherwise and so begins the two boys’ quest along the Appalachian Trail.

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*Angry Birds Playground: Animals: An Around-the-World Habitat Adventure*

By Jill Esbaum; Illustrated with photographs

For ages 8-11

Those popular Angry Birds are tour guides on this photo-filled exploration of habitats including rainforests, deserts, oceans, grasslands and polar regions. The birds, who are on a worldwide search for their stolen eggs, introduce readers to five major habitats and the animals that thrive in each. With animal vital statistics in sidebars, descriptions in text, and funny asides from the birds on every page, this is the kind of book that gives nonfiction a good name!

 

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*GREAT BEGINNER READS*

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*(For ages 6-9)*  **

*Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery #31*

 

By David A. Adler; Illustrated by Joy Allen

For ages 7-10

Cam Jansen, elementary school detective, is up to her 31st mystery. She’s got to be doing something right! Children making the transition from picture books to chapter books have found Cam Jansen books a great help and motivator. In her latest case, Cam must use her skills and her photographic memory to catch the thief who stole Eric’s father’s graduation present.

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*The One and Only Ivan*

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By Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao Costa

For ages 8-10

“The Ape at Exit 8” is Ivan, a mighty silverback gorilla who lives in a circus-themed shopping mall. Based on a true story, this novel tells how Ivan uses his talent for drawing to rescue the other animals. Winner, 2013 Newbery Medal.

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*Ivy and Bean Make the Rules*

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By Annie Barrows; Illustrated by Sophie Blackall

For ages 7-9

Nancy, Bean’s older sister, is going to camp, but Bean can’t go: You have to be eleven to go to camp.  Never one to accept defeat, Bean and her best friend Ivy create a camp of their own.  A triumph of friendship, ingenuity, and fun!

Or start with the first book in the series: Ivy and Bean 

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*Hello Nebulon!*

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By Ray O’Ryan; Illustrated by Colin Jack

For ages 5-8*  *

It’s 2120, and Zack Nelson and his family are leaving Earth to move to the planet Nebulon. Their space-aged house has all kinds of awesome gadgets that Zack will be using every day, but still Zack worries that he and his twin sister won’t have any friends. But then he meets a fellow student and slowly starts to realize that things on Nebulon might just be alright after all. Young readers will zoom through the story to find out what happens to Zack, entertained and delighted along the way! 

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*Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers*

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By Dav Pilkey

For ages 7 and up 

* *

For once, the critics agree with what children have been saying for years: USA Today tells us: “Call Pilkey…the savior of the ‘reluctant reader.’” Newsweek says Captain Underpants is “a triumph of irreverence." And young readers say: “They are funny and crazy!”  Now, in the newest book in the series, everything is threatened. Could it be the end for Captain Underpants?

Or start with the first book in the series: The Adventures of Captain Underpants

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*Green Eggs and Ham*

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*Horton Hatches the Egg*

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*Oh, the Places You’ll Go*

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By Dr. Seuss

For ages 3-7, 4-8, 4-9

When it comes to new readers, we’ve got two words for you: Dr. Seuss.  His beginner books (like Green Eggs and Ham) are not only comical adventures, but also great confidence-builders as brand new readers master them and can read them on their own.  And what proud reader wouldn’t want to know Sam-I-Am (who definitely, absolutely, never wants green eggs and ham)?

As kids improve their reading skills, they’ll find reward in Seuss’s classic picture books. Yes, the language is often complicated, but it is always silly and fun. Horton Hatches the Egg is a great place to start because there are loving lessons in the values of persistence and kindness in this story of the elephant who is faithful, 100 percent.

If you want to give a child a pat on the back—along with a gentle push to move on—try Oh, the Places You’ll Go! It is wise, optimistic, filled with encouragement, and great fun to read.

* *

*Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse*

 

By Tamera Will Wissinger; Illustrated by Matthew Cordell

For ages 6-9

Nine-year-old Sam and his dad are going to the lake: “For fishing tomorrow/it’s just us two. Not Mom, not Grandpa/not Lucy…” In a series of engaging poems that narrate the day, they prepare their gear; plans change (Lucy does tag along); fish get caught; siblings get along; and all ends deliciously at dinner. We’re guessing that this delightful excursion will lead lots of kids to try their luck at fishing—and to try their hand at poetry!

* *

*Nic Bishop Snakes*

* *

 

By Nic Bishop; illustrated with photographs

For ages 5 and up

Super-sharp photographs show a great variety of snakes, sometimes at rest but often in action, while equally clear text presents basic facts about each.  The handsome design welcomes curious (and maybe even some fearful) children to get up close and learn more.

 

* *

*Great Illustrated Books                                                                                   *

** **

**(For ages 2-6)**

* *

*Llama Llama Time to Share *

* *

 

 

By Anna Dewedney

For ages 2-5

While Mama Llama and Nelly Gnu have tea, their two toddlers are left with a boxful of toys to share.  All goes well, until that Gnu girl decides to play with Llama’s treasured Fuzzy Llama doll.  Llama’s not ready for that much sharing.

Or start with the first book in this series: Llama Llama Red Pajama

* *

*Olivia and the Fairy Princesses  *

 

By Ian Falconer

For ages 3-6

Olivia is one best-selling pig—and with good reason.  Strong-willed, high-spirited and, in this book, in search of her true identity—Olivia’s been keeping young children smiling (and recognizing themselves) for a dozen books now. She’s sure to please.

Or start with the first book in this series: Olivia

* *

*This Moose Belongs to Me*

By Oliver Jeffers 

For ages 4-7

 

For the “Can I keep him?” would-be pet owner, this story of Wilfred and Marcel the Moose is a great fit. Wilfred and Marcel make a happy pair, but it isn’t long before Wilfred notice little things about the very big moose.  It seems he has some secrets, like the neighbor who greets Marcel as “Rodrigo,” and the fact that he prefers apples to, well…Wilfred. Still their friendship is real, their story is charming, and every page of this picture book is a visual treat. 

* *

** **

**Yes, Let's**

By Galen Goodwin Longstreth; Illustrated by Maris Wicks    

For ages 3-5

* *Preschoolers will happily follow one family’s day in the country, from the dedication page with its maze-like roads leading three cars through the woods to a stream-side destination, right to the evening return trip with the happily exhausted parents and children barely making it up the stairs to their bedrooms.  The short rhythmic text is simple, fast, and fun to read aloud, while the detail-filled cartoon-like illustrations invite long looks at every spread.

* *

*Creepy Carrots!*

* *

By Aaron Reynolds; Illustrated by Peter Brown

For ages 4 and up

Jasper Rabbit loves to eat carrots—especially the ones that grow at Crackenhopper Field…until the day the carrots start following him. This slightly spooky book will please youngest fans of scary tales while it delivers a subtle message about being greedy. 

* *

*Pete’s a Pizza Board Book*

* *

 

By William Steig

For ages 4-8

* *

Pete’s dad turns a rainy day into lots of fun when he makes Pete into a pizza:  Pete’s kneaded and tossed; covered with tomatoes (checkers) and cheese (bits of paper), put into the oven (the couch) and soon is ready to slice and be nibbled. But the sun comes out and the pizza runs out to play with his friends.  Absolutely silly and great fun!

The ReadKiddoRead program features bestselling author James Patterson’s picks for the summer. Find reviews of these books on ReadKiddoRead.com. Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

Patch Cranston, RI --

*Seniors*

*HIGHEST HONORS*
Tatiana Filipa Abrantes Daniel Accetta, Dominic Asprinio, Asia Baez, Alena Bessette, Francesca Branca, Lisa Castore, Michaela Hackett, Joseph Heng, Jessica Huetteman, Laura Isacco, Margo Mangasarian, Alyssa Marques, Brittany Mezzancella, Sarah Nacci, Brandon Salk, Summerly Santos, Rebecca Scialabba, Rachel Souza, Jessica Tenerella, Adam Thies, David Vespia, Maria Zapasnik

*HIGH HONORS
*William Accetta, Mkrtich Arslanyan, Sarah Barber, Anna Bednarz, Brandon Bichajian, Samantha Boehm, Madeline Boffi, Joshua Bomzer, Marissa Botelho, Victoria Capezza, John Castore, Ryan Collins, Rachel Davis, Marissa DiBiase, Jeankarla Duran, Rachel Gabrilowitz, Lindsay Goodman, Elizabeth Grammas, Taylor Grenga, Jenna Grossi, Alexandria Hackett, Ailis Hanley, Alexandra Kerfoot, Natalya Krishchuk, Tiffany Lam, Lauren Loberti, Bianca Lonardo, Nichole Lopez, Alyssa Males, Allison Maloney, Anthony Manzi, Destiny Marcello, Aaron Matarese, Meika Matook, Kelly McDonough, Charles McLaughlin, Kelsey Murphy, Samuel Ng, Kathryn Nottage, Steven O’Brien, Taylor Pilderian, Andrew Pisaturo, Michael Pisaturo, Alicia Provencal, Lindsay Ratcliffe, Alexandra Reall, Courtney Salisbury, Joseph Santos, Bryan Smith, Rachel Sylvia, Jennifer Taveras, Juliana Tennett, Alexandra Tidswell, Ilana Tirocchi, Carlotta Trapassi, Jaclyn Tsang, Rachel Vierra, Bridgett Wall, Isabella Wang

*HONORS
*Michael Aceto, Ashley Addessi, Cesar Arruda, Charee Baez, Alison Barnett, Kerri Bilodeau, Katherine Brinkman, Christopher Burrows, Anthony Caetano, Gianna Cairo, James Campagnone, Talia Cannata, Katharine Carlini, Chandler Caron, Nicholas Castagliuolo, Jennifer Catauro, Alexis Ciacciarelli, Derek Colantuono, Serena Colizza, Natalie Conley, Cheyenne Copple, Christopher Corcoran, Stephanie Cuozzo, Angelica D’Arezzo, Nicole Damiani, Bethanie Davis, Robert Davis, Jonathon Day, Nicole DeCosta, Ronald DeCosta, Nicole DeMarco, Brandy Desrochers, Katherine Diefenderfer, Ted Diehl, Ian Dodd, Daniel Donohue, Lisa Early, Chelsea Eccleston, Jacob Emerick, Jackeline Escobar, Robert Estman, Vanessa Fallens, Tyler Fann, Brian Franco, Ronald Garafano, Miles Garceau, Michael Giudici, Tevin Goins, Jeffrey Grover, Emily Gulley, Tony Habchi, Rachel Hamilton, Samuel Hemmendinger, Jessica Hernandez, William Howarth, Michael Igoe, Alexa Jillson, Marissa Johnson, Katherine Kelley, Sarah Kemble, Sean Langley, Christopher Lawton, Sydney Macaruso, Sydney Magner, Artemis Mantsos, Arianna Manzi, Elio Manzi, Stefano Marziale, Nicole Matarese, Rebecca Micheletti, Frank Montanaro, Erin Morrissey, Jeremy Nardella, Peter Nasouluck, Alex Nyzio, Talia O’Kane, Steven Osenkowski, Hannah Palumbo, Harlly Paradiso, Karissa Patrizio, Frank Pettinato, David Pirri, Alexandra Pizzuti, Kimberly Priestley, Gianna Procaccini, Sydney Prom, Sarah-Marie Rathbun, Anthony Rodi, Megan Ruggieri, Jordan Russell, Nicole Sajkowski, Katie Salisbury, Tyler Salk, Joshua Santos, Antonio Santurri, Kyle Sedgley, Nicholas Sivo, Kia Smith, Anthony St LaurentEmily Stein, Edward Stenovitch, Tatiana Suarez, Jonas Sullivan, Jennifer Swanson, Aida Tapia, Kenneth Teng, Miranda Tomasetti, Cory Tow, Craig Watkinson, Joseph Zanfagna

*Juniors
HIGHEST HONORS
*Patrick Igoe, Jessica Karpeichik, Vittoria Marini, Shilah McGuinness, Taylor Miller, David Rainone, Austin Raposa, Julia Rossi, Alyssa Ruggieri, Alexandra Smith, Kathryn Toyota, Nathan Zarcaro

*HIGH HONORS
*Rachel Almonte, Nicole Baker, Brianna Brown, Kailen Carvalho, Sydney Chalmers, Alexander Cherry, James Cocozza, Gwendolyn Colando, Alexandrea Colangelo, Michele Colangelo, Sarah Collins, Christian D’Ovidio, Michael Daou, Annette Deion, Weston DeLomba, Katerina DeNardo, Vanessa DiIorio, Angelica Flanders, Stephanie Forlini, Lauren Giorgio, Alina Joharjian, Victoria Johnston, Kayla Khanjari, Alison Knasin, Rena Levin, Steven Lombardi, Benjamin Marcotte, Caleb McDevitt, Stephanie Menard, Nareg Mkrtschjan, Alexia Mosca, Alison Murphy, Allison Neves, Elizabeth Paolella, Devin Patel, Meghan Perrino, Janine Petracca, Annie Phelps, Victor Phou, Aria Procaccini, Lauren Salisbury, Leah Smith, Lauren Souza, Steven Tamburro, Ryan Teng, James Tsang, Elizabeth Varkonyi, Armand Vaziri, Vladimir Vezikov, Alexandra Villari, Olivia Whelan, Savanna Wilson, Seamus Winters

*HONORS
*Morgan Abbenante, Jacob Abrams, Justin Amoros, Damien Andrus, Adriana Anthony, Kyle Assante, Anna Bagdasaryan, Michele Barricelli, Taylor Blinkhorn, Sarah Bolton, Rudolph Branca, Sean Brothers, Christopher Broxson, Ariana Calise, Mackenzie Canning, Vanessa Cardenas, Tayla Cardi, Stephen Carlomastro, Amanda Carmody, Byron Carrascoza, Patrick Carroll, Jessica Catlow, Marshall Chakuroff, Matthew Chilvers, Elizabeth Cicerone, Abigail Cimini, Angelica Clark, Brittany Colasanto, Hunter Colford, Brianna Conetta, Robert Conway, Brianna Corcoran, John Cotoia, Danielle Damiani, Anthony Delmastro, Evan Deluty, Talia DeVincenzis, Domenic DiSandro, Heather Dunford, Erin Durigan, Ana Faiola, Ryan Fernandes, Morgan Ferro, Bridget Flaherty, Kathryn Flannery, Michael Foley, Mollie Foster, Rebecca Fruggiero, Nicholas George, Eli Ghali, Cammie Giarrusso, Jacqueline Giuttari, Ashley Guerra, Sydney Hahn, Victoria Hall, Benjamin Harpel, Gianna Hathaway, Tyler Houle, Stephen Ide, Kemi-Alexander Idowu, Nicholas James, Zarah Jozefowicz, Yahya Kattan, Jillian Kelshaw, Alec Kolenda, Derrike Kopko, Margarita Kreshchuk, Ethan Ladouceur, Jennifer Lagos, Courtney Lambrese, Samantha Lapierre, Courtney Levesque, Myles Levy, Leilani Lithavong, Punya Litthisack, Michael Lonardo, Alexander Lucier, Joshua Macera, Macey Malo, Cassandra Manni, Matthew Marchetti, Justin Marrapese, Lauren McDonnell, Matthew McDonough, Miranda McGraw, Caitlyn Mendonca, Luciano Mesiti, Nicolas Morello, Jake Moretti, Chantelle Mullaney, Ian O’Malley, Craig Page, Meagan Page, Samantha Palmieri, Nicholas Paolo, Allison Parkes, Kassandra Patatanes, Michael Pescione, Eric Pjojian, Alexis Plumley, Nicholas Porreca, Nicole Proia, Eleni Psikakos, Erin Rabbitt, Jeffrey Ragosta, Brooke Ralph, Joseph Richard, Jenna Roche, Kristin Rodi, Gregory Rosario, Christopher Santilli, Kassandra Santilli, Sharlene Santos, Jayda Sanzaro, Anthony Simeone, Jenna Spirito, Shannon Sugrue, Christopher Swanson, James Sweeney, Ellis Tammelleo, Harout Tashian, Jason Taylor, Zachary Taylor, Nicholas Tella, Elizabeth Thompson, Austin Torigian, Alec Totten, Benjamin Travelyn, Adam Turenne, Jared Venticinque, Emilio Verdone, Michael Vespia, Jeremy Wilner, Cameron Wright, Pahoua Yang, Emily Youngs, Dennis Zhitkovich

*Sophomores
**HIGHEST HONORS
*Bianca Cipolla, Alexandra Connell, Andrew Dillon, Bobbie DiScuillo, Scott DuPont, Olivia Frangos, Rebecca Glick, Nicholas Manzi, Alyssa McLeod, Rachael Minassian, Kobe Pereira, Taylor Pernini, Nicholas Perry, Kaitlyn Petitpas, Gersham Rainone, Olivia Rossi, Kylah Simeone, Christina Smith

*HIGH HONORS
*Praneeth Appikatla, Andrea Barragan, Nicole Bucci, Autumn Cardente, Jesse Chan, Karuna Chiemruom, Alicia Cotoia, Guiseppe Creta, Erika Danella, Yvette Goudiaby, Eleni Grammas, Nicole Grammas, Josephine Heng, Kristen Huetteman, Anthony Mansolillo, Nicole Meunier, Haley Nardolillo, Cailyn O’Neil, Jillian O’Neil, Melissa Perry, Cassandra Pires, SornRham Saengchanthavong, Jillian Salisbury, Lauren Salisbury, Gabrielle Sayaf, Kara Sczerbinski, Matthew Shapiro, Brooke Silvestri, Colin Sullivan, Hagop Taraksian, Kianna Taylor, Kelly Thies, Krishna Sampada Velury Julia White

*HONORS
*Sandra Abdelmessih, Stephanie Aceto, Toyosi Akanji, Giovany Aktchian, Ronald Antonucci, Victoria Bertrand, Christy Bessette, Paul Biello, Brianna Caputo, Danae Carbone, Christian Cardinal, Esabel Chubka, Lianna Colarusso, Travis Collins, Daymian Colon, Sydney Conley, Megan Conway, Olivia Deion, Gianna DellaSelva, Carmen Dery, Isabella Diaz, BillieJo DiStefano, Cassandra Dodd, Diosmely Dominguez-Paulino, George Donoyan, Ashley Estrella, Aria Feole, Maximilian Ferrara, Gabrielle Findley, Loghan Fontaine, Tomara Francese, Stephen Giarrusso, Christian Girouard, Ethan Gooding, Taylor Greene, Matthew Hall, Fiona Hanley, Alexandra Haskins, Ziad Kassab, Taylor Koretsky, Alyssa Lamond, Anthony Lancellotti, Devin LaPlume, Elena Maggiacomo, Austin Manders, Mandee Marette, Caitlin Marino, Kassandra Marulanda, Raymond Maslen-Lallier, Alexandria Matarese, Brianna McLeod, Joseph Mee, Cameron Meola, Gabrielle Moretti, Victoria Mosca, Jessica Nelson, Larissa Nencka, Katherine O’Brien, Ian O’Hara, Tarah Okolowitcz, Dylan Ouellette, Andrew Oung, Terrell Paci, Caroline Paliotte, Christopher Parnagian, Stephen Parrillo, Bianca Pena, Evan Petrarca, John Petrocelli, Christopher Phanthavong, Olivia Pisaturo, Madeline Pizzuti, Vincent Popolla, Michaela Potter, Ashleigh Rao, Ihab Rashid, Brianna Raymond, Katrina Rossi, Jaclyn Rousseau, Alexandria Ruggieri, Hunter Sampson, Samantha Sanzaro, Bryana-Lee Savattere, Daniel Sloat, Mazen Taman, Jared Tirocchi, Giavani Valiente, James Vartanian, Jordan Vazquez, Ariana Viccione, Marc Vierra, Christian Vincent, Casey Warren, Alexandra Waters, Jaime Worster, Ashley Zannini

*Freshmen*

*HIGHEST HONORS
*Melissa Chery, Danielle Dottor, Taryn Micheletti, Kimberly Plumley, Sokret Pond, Gretchen Thompson

*HIGH HONORS
*Cameron Ahlquist, Nicholas Almonte, Samantha Asprinio, Erin Blake, Mitchell Blustein, Allison Bonniol, Madlen Burunsuzyan, Kaitlin Capuano, Marina Carro, Callista Carroccio, Audrianna Casey, Paul Cesana, Tyler Coutu, Marina DeAngelis, Jefferey Ferranti, Christina Forlini, Kylee Harris, Stefanie Hersey, Erin Igoe, Kimberly Kluglein, Zachary Lachance, Olivia Longo, Corey Mallozzi, Aurora Mazza, Gianna Morena, Ryan Murphy, Jenna Palmer, Emma Paolella, Alexandra Pazienza, Mollie Phelps, Nicholas Ragosta, Taylor Ruggieri, Adriana Saccoccio, Daniel Saillant, Elysha Sameth, Shannon Scolardi, Bridget Sova, Ariana Tortolani, Ella Trainer, Sophia Trapassi, Hannah Travelyn, Elise Zarcaro

*HONORS
*Joseph Accetta, Austin Agronick, Andrew Albro, Kaitlyn Anderson, Alexia Andujar, Derek Annese, Eden Anthony, Alexandra Awad, David Ayriyan, Hailey Balletto, Jessica Barricelli, Valeria Barrientos, Kylie Bell, Paige Blinkhorn, Benjamin Boffi, Michael Branca, Sofia Cadden, Matthew Carothers, Leandra Castillo, Andre Chedda, Cameron Cody, Brandi Colpitts, David Cushman, Jordan D’Orazio, Mary Daiaa, Michael Davis, Allyssa DelVecchio, Ariana DiBoni, Gregory DiIorio, Jenna DiLorenzo, Theresa DiMaio, Darren DiPiro, Samuel Dulieu, Katherine Dumas, Valerie Elliott, Madison Evans, Talia Fargnoli, Zachary Flanders, Zachary French, Francisco Frias, Sarah Gallo, Angela Gemma, Patrick Gendreau, Nicholas Gosselin, Gianna Grafton, Victoria Haley, Sarah Harrison, Giuliana Hathaway, Paul Hazian, Jacob Horovitz, Jennifer Iozzi, Joslyn Izzi, Olesya Krishchuk, Tyler Krusz, Sarah Lemay, Ryan Lewis, Carley Loiselle, Dimitri Lonardo, Matthew Lonardo, Jocelyn Malave, Olivia Maloney, Alexia Marchetti, Kellie Martin, Katherine McDonnell, Mari Megrdichian, William Melvin, Abdiel Mendez, Abby Milson, Derek Motta, Matthew O’Rourke, Alexander Olivelli, Kendra Palumbo, Arianna Pereschino, Andrew Phillips, Jack Phipps, Matthew Pisaturo, Darren Pollock, Sovanny Pond-Tor, Zachary Quinn, Madison Renaud, Erika Rendon-Berton, Antonia Rossi, Kaidey Rotondo, Jessica Ruggieri, John Russo, Lauren Russo, William Saccoccio, Grace Santilli, Emily Scianna, Eric Scungio, Marissa Silvia, Daniel Smith, Madeline Souza, Katharine Stein, Lauren Tamburro, Alexis Tella, Zachary Torres, Christopher Vartanian, Andrew Vose, Lexee Walker, Daniel Wang, Nadia White Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

Patch Annandale, VA --

The Northern Virginia Community College women’s volleyball team has some new, familiar faces on their team with the addition of two Annandale High School volleyball players.

Olivia Franjie, a three-year varsity starter for the Atoms and captain of her junior and senior campaigns, and Jessica Gallogly, also a three-year varsity starter, signed National Letters of Intent Friday with NOVA, according to a news release.

“Both Olivia and Jessie are well rounded players and can play multiple positions,” said NOVA Women's Volleyball Coach Marcus Robinson in the release. “Olivia is a very talented setter and will bring strong leadership to that position. Jessica is a versatile player with good court awareness.” Reported by Patch 21 hours ago.

'Broadchurch' star Jodie Whittaker has revealed, because she was so worried that her character Beth Latimer would turn out to be the murderer as well as the grieving mum, writer Chris Chibnall let her into some show secrets long before he shared them with anyone else.


*"I begged the writer to tell me," explains Jodie Whittaker, who played bereaved mum Beth Latimer in 'Broadchurch'*

"I was a bit stressed about that. I was playing a bereaved mother, so that was the research I'd done, and that was the role I was playing, particularly in those shots when I'm by myself... And I thought, if I turned out to be the murderer too, then I should have looked into some specific syndrome as well.

"Eventually, I took Chris (Chibnall, writer) to one side and begged him to tell me. And eventually, he said, 'It's not you, it's not David (Tennant), it's not Olivia (Colman), because that would have been too big for the audience. So he let me off the hook."

Whittaker explains that, because nobody from the cast knew the identity of the murderer, they spent their evenings on location trying to guess.

"There was a fantastic energy between us, we'd all laugh. There'd been a line about the murderer having big hands, so we all started comparing our hands. Even the culprit didn't know. He kept us all guessing."


*Even the cast of 'Broadchurch' were left guessing until the very end*

Whittaker and co were all exhausted by the end of a day's filming the memorable crime drama, that kept audiences of up to nine million glued for eight long weeks.

"We were all away from home, and it was a lovely thing to be around people who understood what kind of day we'd had," remembers Whittaker.

"David and Olivia were in every scene, so they were exhausted. For Andy (Buchan, who played Beth's husband Mark) and me, it was emotional and upsetting, too. But everyone understood.

"I definitely noticed by the end of filming in December, just how tired we all were.

"But it's not real, and there were things in the news, so you'd realise how lucky you are. It's so terrifying to see how often this kind of thing happens. Research made me feel incredibly grateful we were just acting."

*Broadchurch is out today - 20 May - on DVD. *

*MORE 'BROADCHURCH'*

· REVIEW: Series Finale - Danny Latimer's Killer Is Revealed
· WATCH: Watch An Unbroadcast Scene - Danny's Wake
· CONFIRMED: Broadchurch Gets A Second Series
· SERIES FINALE: Did The Final Episode Answer All Of Your Questions?

· FINALE VERDICT: What The Critics Said

· 9 FACTS IN 90 SECONDS: Everything You Need To Know About Olivia Colman (DS Miller)

Reported by Huffington Post 19 hours ago.

Week sixteen of the Obama second-term presidency found the administration playing 'whack-a-mole' and the term 'scandal' being thrown around even when it came to the president asking Marines to hold umbrellas for himself and a visiting head-of-state during a rainy-day press conference.

Critics of the administration, many of them in Congress, are chomping at the bit to cast aspersion on the man they couldn't beat at the polls. (And then there are those southern ultra-conservative school board members who are probably looking for any reason to keep President Obama's name out of future textbooks.)

*Where's Olivia Pope When You Need Her?*

Olivia Pope (played by actress Kerry Washington) is the lead character in ABC's juicily-delicious drama Scandal. She runs a crisis management firm that specializes in restoring reputations... or hiding the facts that could destroy them. She calls herself a fixer.

Week sixteen of the Obama Administration's second term needed a fixer.

I hate to add to the media outcry by calling all of the revelations that were brought into the public eye recently 'scandals.' When that kind of feeding frenzy starts everything is questioned. Hence an article in The Washington Post: "Even Obama's umbrellas are a scandal now".

These 'scandals' will be on-going political battles that won't go away because... *What else does the Republican-led Congress have to do? Certainly not govern!*

Instead of scandals, let's call these, "Items that need fixing."

*Item #1* -- The revelation that the IRS targeted conservative groups for added scrutiny when they applied for tax-exempt status. Apparently, these included 'Tea Party' activist groups.

During the Bush Administration, it was liberal groups like the NAACP that received scrutiny from the IRS. Alex Seitz-Wald reminds us of this in a couple of articles in Salon this past week. The first takes MSNBC host Joe Scarborough to task for his hypocrisy with this matter, and the second piece examines "When the IRS Targeted Liberals."

The IRS itself, should be non-partisan and non-political. So... heads are rolling, including the acting Director of the IRS, and investigations are starting.

The president's response? (I think Olivia Pope would approve)... expressing righteous indignation right along with those who will try to mire him in the muck with this.

Not only that...the President suggested that the law for determining if these 'activist' organizations should be tax-exempt is vague and should be looked at.

The Los Angeles Times summed up the problem the Federal Election Commission is having in monitoring the activities of such groups in an article entitled, IRS problem started with vague tax exemption rules, which says:

"At the heart of the issue is the murky role occupied by nonprofit 'social welfare' organizations, set up under Section 501(c)4 of the tax code, which are allowed under IRS regulations to engage in a certain amount of campaign activity, as long as politics is not their 'primary' purpose. The groups pay no tax on the money they bring in. They can accept unlimited donations and, unlike political committees, can keep their contributors secret.


That status became especially valuable three years ago with the Supreme Court's decision in the Citizens United case, which lifted the ban on direct campaign spending by corporations, including many nonprofit groups. The ruling triggered the boost of applicants to the IRS."



*The potential fallout from this?*

1. Republicans will try to link it to the president's 2012 election campaign and see how high they can take the 'Who knew what, when' link.

3. Smearing the IRS will help them to try and repeal Obamacare... which they voted to derail for the 37th time last week!! The IRS is tasked with overseeing portions of health care reform, including implementing the mandate that everyone purchase coverage or pay an income-based fee.

5. 2014. Republicans will most likely hold on to the House and will make a major grab for the Senate by suggesting theadministration is corrupt and the country would be in better hands with the GOP.

7. Overreach... some think the GOP will go too far... even conservative Newt Gingrich is warning Republicans not to make the same mistakes they made during the Clinton impeachment process. However, chances are they will because they are tone deaf to what Americans -- everyday Americans -- are concerned with: their families, their jobs, and thriving, safe communities.

Still, the IRS is not popular with Americans and the president is right to jump on the side of those expressing 'outrage.'

*Item #2 * -- The seizing of phone records from Associated Press (AP) journalists. The Attorney General, Eric Holder, in a testy exchange at a House Committee meeting, implied the action was a matter of National Security, determining the source of a leaked CIA operation.

More 'righteous indignation' from all sides, but Holder's tact was to stand his ground at a congressional hearing which covered the AP action, the IRS, and even the nomination of the Justice Department's Thomas Perez as Secretary of Labor.

According to The Huffington Post:

"In one of the sharpest exchanges, Holder defended Thomas Perez's tenure as head of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division and said he would make a great secretary of the Labor Department.


Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., was critical of Perez and repeatedly pressed Holder, who at one point refused to stop talking and accused Issa of repeatedly mischaracterizing the work of the Justice Department.

"That is inappropriate and is too consistent with the way in which you conduct yourself as a member of Congress. It's unacceptable and it's shameful," Holder told Issa."



He wasn't done:

"Toward the end of the hearing, in another fierce exchange with a Republican lawmaker, Holder said that despite any personal animosity toward him, the office of attorney general deserved some respect.

He bemoaned the 'toxic partisan atmosphere' and said 'a level of civility doesn't exist.'"



The fallout from this? The AP story appears to be losing interest already -- remember the media seems to only push one major story at a time these days and the IRS controversy is getting the majority of the press.

*Item #3* -- The Benghazi tragedy, and again-- 'Who knew what, when?' The major point seems to be, when was it called a 'terrorist' activity? This 'controversy' may be more directed at Hillary Clinton's presidential ambitions. I doubt anyone believes the Administration knowingly put diplomats in harm's way or didn't try to protect them.

So these are the items that had Washington abuzz this past week.

The DC pundits led the chorus on using the word 'scandal' (I wonder if the TV show is causing the frequent use of the word these days.)

Some say this was the worst week of the Obama Presidency, however Chris Cillizza of "The Fix" says "no... there were others" in a piece, called, "The Worst Week of Obama's Presidency? Close, But No."

The question is -- where will all of this go? 'Derailed agenda' is a phrase some are using to describe the president's second term --*as if there is anything getting done is Washington anyway!*

Keep in mind, while some perch upon their pedestal of manure and start throwing stones, there are real issues that need fixing, including:

1. *The sequester *: Budget cuts are still happening. Workers are still being furloughed and Congress is nowhere near a solution on this debacle.

3. *Health care* for all is coming soon, which is a good thing but people need to know what's coming and what to sign up for.

5. *The economy *is improving but many are still out of work.

*And what about immigration reform!*

Thinking about it -- this might be a good time to play some offense for the administration and Democrats. Harry Reid's got the right idea by saying he just might go the 'nuclear option' to change filibuster rules. He will use a simple majority to bring about reform and therefore make it easier to get some of the president's judicial nominees approved.

HuffPost reports Reid is looking at July to implement his plan:

"Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has told top advisers that he is prepared to take action if Senate Republicans block three upcoming nominations, the Washington Post reported on Friday.


Reid is reportedly focusing on the month of July to approach filibuster reform and possibly execute the 'nuclear option,' which would change the Senate rules and no longer require 60 votes to overcome a filibuster.

'This would take away the right to filibuster on nominations,' a senior Senate Democratic aide told the Washington Post. 'All executive branch and judicial nominations would be subject to majority votes. He would not do it on legislative items.'"



Go Harry!!

Should be a 'fun' hot summer in DC, while the TV show Scandal is on hiatus.


Washington Watch is a weekly look at President Obama's second term. For prior weeks of Washington Watch visit: Our-Gov.com Reported by Huffington Post 15 hours ago.

Patch Temple Terrace, FL --

* *

From James Patterson's ReadKiddoRead Foundation:

**Great Advanced Reads
***(For tweens and teens, ages 12 and up)*

*The Diviners
*By Libba Bray
For ages 12 and up
A series of occult-based murders in 1920s New York City put Evie O’Neill and her uncle, curator of what’s known as “The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies,” center stage in investigating the crimes. The tightly woven plot and palpable setting combine with supernatural elements, rich themes, and terrific storytelling to make for a compelling read.

* *

*On the Day I Died
*By Candace Fleming
For ages 11 and up
Scary is always in season, and summer is an especially good time to welcome a shivery chill. On appropriately dark and moonless nights, kids will find themselves scaring friends with the stories in this collection, whether examinations of pure evil, ancient curses, alien encounters, or psychological dramas.

* *

*The Fault in Our Stars
*By John Green
For ages 13 and up
Hazel Lancaster, a teen with cancer, dropped out of school at 13 to concentrate on getting well. Now 16, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who’s lost a leg to cancer. Their connection is instantaneous. Green skillfully uses their lives to ask the big questions: Why me? Why now? Why risk love? What does being alive mean?

* *

*Scarlet: Lunar Chronicles, Book Two
*By Marissa Meyer
For ages 12 up
Another fresh view of a classic fairytale—with another stop-you-in-your-tracks cover. Scarlet (Little Red Riding Hood) and her street fighter boyfriend, Wolf, are in search of Scarlet’s grandmother. Their quest runs right into Cinder’s story as the three race to keep ahead of the evil Lunar Queen Levana. 

Or start with the first book in the series: Cinder: Lunar Chronicles, Book One

*The False Prince
*By Jennifer A. Nielson
For ages 13 and up
Carthya is on the brink of civil war. Conner, one of the noblemen, has a treacherous plan to install an imposter on the throne. But first he must find just the right young man to play the part: Could Sage win the role? As in any high stakes game, all is not as it seems. Amid layers of deception and manipulation, readers are in for surprises as Sage draws closer to the goal.

* *

*Shadow on the Mountain
*By Margi Preus
For ages 12 up
Espen, a 14-year-old Norwegian boy whose country is occupied by the Nazis, joins the Norwegian resistance with his friends. Margi Preus reveals his story in an engrossing text that combines spy thriller with a teen coming-of-age story, enhanced by photographs, maps and brochures from the time.

* *

*Eleanor & Park
*By Rainbow Rowell
For ages 14 and up
In 1980s Omaha, Eleanor, quirky and new to town, and Park, half-Korean, are outsiders in their high school. It’s worse for Eleanor, who has an abusive stepfather and bullying classmates—so bad that she accepts Park’s father’s invitation for her to stay with their family. In small steps, Eleanor and Park’s friendship grows into love. But Park realizes that the solution to Eleanor’s troubles means that she will have to move away. 

* *

*After Eli
*By Rebecca Rupp
For ages 12 up
Since his older brother was killed in Iraq, Danny Anderson has been keeping a “Book of the Dead” where he chronicles how people from the past have died. It’s his way of understanding loss. But it is not until three years later that Danny begins to pull away from grief: He falls for a girl, finds a new friendship, and works on a farm. A crisis at the end of that summer pushes Danny and his parents toward healing in this moving and emotionally rich novel.

* *

*Out of the Easy
*By Ruta Sepetys
For ages 14 and up
“The Big Easy” has been anything but easy on Josie. She’s tried distancing herself from her mother—an addict, prostitute and thief. Josie dreams of escaping Easy altogether, but doesn’t believe she can make that happen—until she meets a tourist who offers her the encouragement she needs. Ruta Sepetys vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as the shady underbelly of New Orleans in 1950, and breathes life into her cast of characters. Teens will be pulling for Josie as she moves ahead, learning that some decisions are anything but easy.

*The Raven Boys
*By Maggie Stiefvater
For ages 12 and up
For as long as Blue Sargent can remember, she’s been told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. And in her family—one filled with bona fide psychics—predictions are never taken lightly. Now 16, Blue befriends three Raven boys from the posh private school nearby and gets caught up in their quest and adventures. Blue fears that one of them just might be her true love. A compelling story from the outset, Stiefvater’s first installment in a planned four-part cycle will have readers on the edge of their seats.

* *

**The Cay
**By Theodore Taylor
For ages 12 and up
When World War II threatens the Dutch island of Curacao where 11-year-old Philip lives, he and his mother decide to return to the U.S. But on the journey, their boat is torpedoed, and Philip is stranded on a life raft with a cat and Timothy, a black man. Later, when Philip becomes blind, he has no choice but to overcome his prejudices and trust Timothy. Their friendship develops beautifully in this exciting survival story.

* *

*5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
*National Geographic Kids
For ages 11 and up
From 15 peanut butter facts that stick and 50 furry facts about bears, to 100 facts about oceans that will make your head swim, this big, colorful, packed-to-the-brim compendium is sure to fascinate, entertain, and be a source of great conversations for everyone who takes a look. Photographs illustrate the great variety of information, a playful design makes every page inviting, and a ticker at the bottom of each spread counts the facts kids learn as they go through the book. You’ll find your teen dipping in and out of this book all summer long.  

* *

*EXTRA CREDIT:
*Life of Pi by Yann Martel 
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

* *

*GREAT PAGETURNERS
***(For ages 9-12)**

* *

*The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee: An Origami Yoda Book
*By Tom Angleberger
For ages 8 and up
In the third of the Origami Yoda books, Sara brings a paper fortune teller in the form of Star War’s Chewbacca (a Fortune Wookiee) to school to fill in while Dwight and Origami Yoda are suspended.

Or start with the first book in the series: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

* *

*Never Say Die
*By Will Hobbs
For ages 8 up
Nick Thrasher, a 15-year-old Inuit hunter, and his older half-brother Ryan, a wildlife photographer, are off in search of caribou. Soon into their travels they are thrown into the frozen Firth River. Back on land, their struggle to survive continues as they are pursued by animals, including a half-grizzly, half-polar bear. An exciting wilderness survival tale set in Canada’s arctic is the perfect read to cool down a hot summer day.

* *

*Dog Days (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 4)
*By Jeff Kinney
For ages 8 and up
This is not the newest in the series, but it might be the right book to begin with since it’s all about summer vacation. The weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. But not Greg Heffley! He’s in his house playing video games and enjoying himself, thank you very much.  But Greg’s mom has other ideas about outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?

*On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s
*By Barbara O’Connor  

For ages 8 and up

* *

When we remember summers, there’s often a single event that stands out. For the folks in Meadville, South Carolina, this summer will be recalled as the one when a one-legged pigeon named Sherman flew into town. Where did Sherman come from? Only Mr. Mineo seems to know. For many young readers, this summer may be remembered as the one they met Stella and Amos and Sherman in the pages of this wonderful novel.

* *

*Hades: Lord of the Dead: The Olympians, Book 4
*By George O’Connor
For ages 9 and up
Welcome to the Underworld. A mix of action, comedy, superheroes and Greek mythology, this graphic novel introduces Hades and Persephone.  

Or start with the first book in the series: Zues: King of the Gods

* *

*Wonder
*By R.J. Palacio
For ages 9-12
August Pullman, 10, was born with a deformed face. Even though he’s been protected and homeschooled, he’s felt the stares and heard the whispers when the boldest jerks called him Freak or Freddy Krueger. Now his parents have decided that it’s time to enroll Auggie in school. The world he finds doesn’t only test his courage; it also takes the measure of everyone he meets.  A rare book that just might open a closed heart.

*Middle School: My Brother is a Big Fat Liar *and *Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill
*By James Patterson and Lisa Papademetriou, Illustrated by Neil Swaab
For ages 9-13
Two great new stories in the wildly popular Middle School series. When Georgia Khatchadorian heads off to her first day at Hills Village Middle School, everyone she meets immediately brands Georgia a problem child just like Rafe! When Rafe sneakily signs the band up to play at Georgia's first middle school dance, she's terrified she'll embarrass herself. Will she be able to overcome her fears?

Meanwhile, in How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill, Rafe is excited about summer camp—but he’s in for a letdown when he realizes it’s summer school camp. Luckily, Rafe quickly makes friends with members of his “Loserville” cabin. And they need all the help they can get as they battle off against the “Cool” cabin all summer long.

Or start with the first book in the series: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

**Where the Red Fern Grows
**By Wilson Rawls
For ages 8 and up
In an informal survey, I asked a bunch of grown-ups which childhood summer read they remembered most. Where the Red Fern Grows was the most frequent answer. Set in the Ozarks, the adventure tale of a boy, Billy, and his two hunting dogs, Little Ann and Old Dan, is recalled not only for the trio’s triumphs, but also for the story’s tenderness. Give your kiddos this classic book this summer. 

* *

*The Egypt Game
*By Zilpha Keatley Snyder
For ages 8 and up
Before role-playing computer games became so popular, Zilpha Keatley Snyder took young readers to an antiques store in California where Melanie and April, and later four other friends, create and play “The Egypt Game.” With costumes, secret codes and elaborate stories, the kids become more and more involved—until strange things start happening. It just might be time to stop playing. Readers, too, will find themselves caught up in the game and in this characterful novel.

*Hokey Pokey
*By Jerry Spinelli
For ages 9 and up
This is an allegorical tale where childhood is not just a stage, it is a place called Hokey Pokey. The readers meet Jack, who, like many of them, is starting to “age out” of Hokey Pokey. Spinelli’s novel is sure to help them celebrate and cope with all that is the past and all that is to come.

* *

*Navigating Early
*By Clare Vanderpool
For Ages 9 and up
Jack is adrift after his mother dies, so his dad, just back from WWII, enrolls him in a boarding school in Maine. There he befriends Early Auden, a loner who rarely attends classes and whose brother, a soldier serving in France, is presumed dead. Early believes otherwise and so begins the two boys’ quest along the Appalachian Trail.

* *

*Angry Birds Playground: Animals: An Around-the-World Habitat Adventure
*By Jill Esbaum; Illustrated with photographs
For ages 8-11
Those popular Angry Birds are tour guides on this photo-filled exploration of habitats including rainforests, deserts, oceans, grasslands and polar regions. The birds, who are on a worldwide search for their stolen eggs, introduce readers to five major habitats and the animals that thrive in each. With animal vital statistics in sidebars, descriptions in text, and funny asides from the birds on every page, this is the kind of book that gives nonfiction a good name!

* *

*GREAT BEGINNER READS
**(For ages 6-9)*  **

*Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery #31
*By David A. Adler; Illustrated by Joy Allen
For ages 7-10
Cam Jansen, elementary school detective, is up to her 31st mystery. She’s got to be doing something right! Children making the transition from picture books to chapter books have found Cam Jansen books a great help and motivator. In her latest case, Cam must use her skills and her photographic memory to catch the thief who stole Eric’s father’s graduation present.

* *

*The One and Only Ivan
*By Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao Costa
For ages 8-10
“The Ape at Exit 8” is Ivan, a mighty silverback gorilla who lives in a circus-themed shopping mall. Based on a true story, this novel tells how Ivan uses his talent for drawing to rescue the other animals. Winner, 2013 Newbery Medal.

* *

*Ivy and Bean Make the Rules
*By Annie Barrows; Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
For ages 7-9
Nancy, Bean’s older sister, is going to camp, but Bean can’t go: You have to be eleven to go to camp.  Never one to accept defeat, Bean and her best friend Ivy create a camp of their own.  A triumph of friendship, ingenuity, and fun!

Or start with the first book in the series: Ivy and Bean 

* *

*Hello Nebulon!
*By Ray O’Ryan; Illustrated by Colin Jack
For ages 5-8
It’s 2120, and Zack Nelson and his family are leaving Earth to move to the planet Nebulon. Their space-aged house has all kinds of awesome gadgets that Zack will be using every day, but still Zack worries that he and his twin sister won’t have any friends. But then he meets a fellow student and slowly starts to realize that things on Nebulon might just be alright after all. Young readers will zoom through the story to find out what happens to Zack, entertained and delighted along the way! 

* *

*Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers
*By Dav Pilkey
For ages 7 and up
For once, the critics agree with what children have been saying for years: USA Today tells us: “Call Pilkey…the savior of the ‘reluctant reader.’” Newsweek says Captain Underpants is “a triumph of irreverence." And young readers say: “They are funny and crazy!”  Now, in the newest book in the series, everything is threatened. Could it be the end for Captain Underpants?

Or start with the first book in the series: The Adventures of Captain Underpants

*Green Eggs and Ham
**Horton Hatches the Egg
**Oh, the Places You’ll Go
*By Dr. Seuss
For ages 3-7, 4-8, 4-9
When it comes to new readers, we’ve got two words for you: Dr. Seuss.  His beginner books (like Green Eggs and Ham) are not only comical adventures, but also great confidence-builders as brand new readers master them and can read them on their own.  And what proud reader wouldn’t want to know Sam-I-Am (who definitely, absolutely, never wants green eggs and ham)?

As kids improve their reading skills, they’ll find reward in Seuss’s classic picture books. Yes, the language is often complicated, but it is always silly and fun. Horton Hatches the Egg is a great place to start because there are loving lessons in the values of persistence and kindness in this story of the elephant who is faithful, 100 percent.

If you want to give a child a pat on the back—along with a gentle push to move on—try Oh, the Places You’ll Go! It is wise, optimistic, filled with encouragement, and great fun to read.

* *

*Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse
*By Tamera Will Wissinger; Illustrated by Matthew Cordell
For ages 6-9
Nine-year-old Sam and his dad are going to the lake: “For fishing tomorrow/it’s just us two. Not Mom, not Grandpa/not Lucy…” In a series of engaging poems that narrate the day, they prepare their gear; plans change (Lucy does tag along); fish get caught; siblings get along; and all ends deliciously at dinner. We’re guessing that this delightful excursion will lead lots of kids to try their luck at fishing—and to try their hand at poetry!

* *

*Nic Bishop Snakes
*By Nic Bishop; illustrated with photographs
For ages 5 and up
Super-sharp photographs show a great variety of snakes, sometimes at rest but often in action, while equally clear text presents basic facts about each.  The handsome design welcomes curious (and maybe even some fearful) children to get up close and learn more.

* *

*Great Illustrated Books
***(For ages 2-6)**

* *

*Llama Llama Time to Share
*By Anna Dewedney
For ages 2-5
While Mama Llama and Nelly Gnu have tea, their two toddlers are left with a boxful of toys to share.  All goes well, until that Gnu girl decides to play with Llama’s treasured Fuzzy Llama doll.  Llama’s not ready for that much sharing.

Or start with the first book in this series: Llama Llama Red Pajama

*Olivia and the Fairy Princesses
*By Ian Falconer
For ages 3-6
Olivia is one best-selling pig—and with good reason.  Strong-willed, high-spirited and, in this book, in search of her true identity—Olivia’s been keeping young children smiling (and recognizing themselves) for a dozen books now. She’s sure to please.

Or start with the first book in this series: Olivia

* *

*This Moose Belongs to Me
*By Oliver Jeffers
For ages 4-7
For the “Can I keep him?” would-be pet owner, this story of Wilfred and Marcel the Moose is a great fit. Wilfred and Marcel make a happy pair, but it isn’t long before Wilfred notice little things about the very big moose.  It seems he has some secrets, like the neighbor who greets Marcel as “Rodrigo,” and the fact that he prefers apples to, well…Wilfred. Still their friendship is real, their story is charming, and every page of this picture book is a visual treat. 

**Yes, Let's
**By Galen Goodwin Longstreth; Illustrated by Maris Wicks
For ages 3-5
Preschoolers will happily follow one family’s day in the country, from the dedication page with its maze-like roads leading three cars through the woods to a stream-side destination, right to the evening return trip with the happily exhausted parents and children barely making it up the stairs to their bedrooms.  The short rhythmic text is simple, fast, and fun to read aloud, while the detail-filled cartoon-like illustrations invite long looks at every spread.

* *

*Creepy Carrots!
*By Aaron Reynolds; Illustrated by Peter Brown
For ages 4 and up
Jasper Rabbit loves to eat carrots—especially the ones that grow at Crackenhopper Field…until the day the carrots start following him. This slightly spooky book will please youngest fans of scary tales while it delivers a subtle message about being greedy. 

* *

*Pete’s a Pizza Board Book
*By William Steig
For ages 4-8
Pete’s dad turns a rainy day into lots of fun when he makes Pete into a pizza: Pete’s kneaded and tossed; covered with tomatoes (checkers) and cheese (bits of paper), put into the oven (the couch) and soon is ready to slice and be nibbled. But the sun comes out and the pizza runs out to play with his friends. Absolutely silly and great fun!

The ReadKiddoRead program features bestselling author James Patterson’s picks for the summer. Find reviews of these books on ReadKiddoRead.com. Reported by Patch 13 hours ago.

Patch New Tampa, FL --

* *

From James Patterson's ReadKiddoRead Foundation:

**Great Advanced Reads
***(For tweens and teens, ages 12 and up)*

*The Diviners
*By Libba Bray
For ages 12 and up
A series of occult-based murders in 1920s New York City put Evie O’Neill and her uncle, curator of what’s known as “The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies,” center stage in investigating the crimes. The tightly woven plot and palpable setting combine with supernatural elements, rich themes, and terrific storytelling to make for a compelling read.

* *

*On the Day I Died
*By Candace Fleming
For ages 11 and up
Scary is always in season, and summer is an especially good time to welcome a shivery chill. On appropriately dark and moonless nights, kids will find themselves scaring friends with the stories in this collection, whether examinations of pure evil, ancient curses, alien encounters, or psychological dramas.

* *

*The Fault in Our Stars
*By John Green
For ages 13 and up
Hazel Lancaster, a teen with cancer, dropped out of school at 13 to concentrate on getting well. Now 16, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who’s lost a leg to cancer. Their connection is instantaneous. Green skillfully uses their lives to ask the big questions: Why me? Why now? Why risk love? What does being alive mean?

* *

*Scarlet: Lunar Chronicles, Book Two
*By Marissa Meyer
For ages 12 up
Another fresh view of a classic fairytale—with another stop-you-in-your-tracks cover. Scarlet (Little Red Riding Hood) and her street fighter boyfriend, Wolf, are in search of Scarlet’s grandmother. Their quest runs right into Cinder’s story as the three race to keep ahead of the evil Lunar Queen Levana. 

Or start with the first book in the series: Cinder: Lunar Chronicles, Book One

*The False Prince
*By Jennifer A. Nielson
For ages 13 and up
Carthya is on the brink of civil war. Conner, one of the noblemen, has a treacherous plan to install an imposter on the throne. But first he must find just the right young man to play the part: Could Sage win the role? As in any high stakes game, all is not as it seems. Amid layers of deception and manipulation, readers are in for surprises as Sage draws closer to the goal.

* *

*Shadow on the Mountain
*By Margi Preus
For ages 12 up
Espen, a 14-year-old Norwegian boy whose country is occupied by the Nazis, joins the Norwegian resistance with his friends. Margi Preus reveals his story in an engrossing text that combines spy thriller with a teen coming-of-age story, enhanced by photographs, maps and brochures from the time.

* *

*Eleanor & Park
*By Rainbow Rowell
For ages 14 and up
In 1980s Omaha, Eleanor, quirky and new to town, and Park, half-Korean, are outsiders in their high school. It’s worse for Eleanor, who has an abusive stepfather and bullying classmates—so bad that she accepts Park’s father’s invitation for her to stay with their family. In small steps, Eleanor and Park’s friendship grows into love. But Park realizes that the solution to Eleanor’s troubles means that she will have to move away. 

* *

*After Eli
*By Rebecca Rupp
For ages 12 up
Since his older brother was killed in Iraq, Danny Anderson has been keeping a “Book of the Dead” where he chronicles how people from the past have died. It’s his way of understanding loss. But it is not until three years later that Danny begins to pull away from grief: He falls for a girl, finds a new friendship, and works on a farm. A crisis at the end of that summer pushes Danny and his parents toward healing in this moving and emotionally rich novel.

* *

*Out of the Easy
*By Ruta Sepetys
For ages 14 and up
“The Big Easy” has been anything but easy on Josie. She’s tried distancing herself from her mother—an addict, prostitute and thief. Josie dreams of escaping Easy altogether, but doesn’t believe she can make that happen—until she meets a tourist who offers her the encouragement she needs. Ruta Sepetys vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as the shady underbelly of New Orleans in 1950, and breathes life into her cast of characters. Teens will be pulling for Josie as she moves ahead, learning that some decisions are anything but easy.

*The Raven Boys
*By Maggie Stiefvater
For ages 12 and up
For as long as Blue Sargent can remember, she’s been told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. And in her family—one filled with bona fide psychics—predictions are never taken lightly. Now 16, Blue befriends three Raven boys from the posh private school nearby and gets caught up in their quest and adventures. Blue fears that one of them just might be her true love. A compelling story from the outset, Stiefvater’s first installment in a planned four-part cycle will have readers on the edge of their seats.

* *

**The Cay
**By Theodore Taylor
For ages 12 and up
When World War II threatens the Dutch island of Curacao where 11-year-old Philip lives, he and his mother decide to return to the U.S. But on the journey, their boat is torpedoed, and Philip is stranded on a life raft with a cat and Timothy, a black man. Later, when Philip becomes blind, he has no choice but to overcome his prejudices and trust Timothy. Their friendship develops beautifully in this exciting survival story.

* *

*5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
*National Geographic Kids
For ages 11 and up
From 15 peanut butter facts that stick and 50 furry facts about bears, to 100 facts about oceans that will make your head swim, this big, colorful, packed-to-the-brim compendium is sure to fascinate, entertain, and be a source of great conversations for everyone who takes a look. Photographs illustrate the great variety of information, a playful design makes every page inviting, and a ticker at the bottom of each spread counts the facts kids learn as they go through the book. You’ll find your teen dipping in and out of this book all summer long.  

* *

*EXTRA CREDIT:
*Life of Pi by Yann Martel 
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

* *

*GREAT PAGETURNERS
***(For ages 9-12)**

* *

*The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee: An Origami Yoda Book
*By Tom Angleberger
For ages 8 and up
In the third of the Origami Yoda books, Sara brings a paper fortune teller in the form of Star War’s Chewbacca (a Fortune Wookiee) to school to fill in while Dwight and Origami Yoda are suspended.

Or start with the first book in the series: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

* *

*Never Say Die
*By Will Hobbs
For ages 8 up
Nick Thrasher, a 15-year-old Inuit hunter, and his older half-brother Ryan, a wildlife photographer, are off in search of caribou. Soon into their travels they are thrown into the frozen Firth River. Back on land, their struggle to survive continues as they are pursued by animals, including a half-grizzly, half-polar bear. An exciting wilderness survival tale set in Canada’s arctic is the perfect read to cool down a hot summer day.

* *

*Dog Days (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 4)
*By Jeff Kinney
For ages 8 and up
This is not the newest in the series, but it might be the right book to begin with since it’s all about summer vacation. The weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. But not Greg Heffley! He’s in his house playing video games and enjoying himself, thank you very much.  But Greg’s mom has other ideas about outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?

*On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s
*By Barbara O’Connor  

For ages 8 and up

* *

When we remember summers, there’s often a single event that stands out. For the folks in Meadville, South Carolina, this summer will be recalled as the one when a one-legged pigeon named Sherman flew into town. Where did Sherman come from? Only Mr. Mineo seems to know. For many young readers, this summer may be remembered as the one they met Stella and Amos and Sherman in the pages of this wonderful novel.

* *

*Hades: Lord of the Dead: The Olympians, Book 4
*By George O’Connor
For ages 9 and up
Welcome to the Underworld. A mix of action, comedy, superheroes and Greek mythology, this graphic novel introduces Hades and Persephone.  

Or start with the first book in the series: Zues: King of the Gods

* *

*Wonder
*By R.J. Palacio
For ages 9-12
August Pullman, 10, was born with a deformed face. Even though he’s been protected and homeschooled, he’s felt the stares and heard the whispers when the boldest jerks called him Freak or Freddy Krueger. Now his parents have decided that it’s time to enroll Auggie in school. The world he finds doesn’t only test his courage; it also takes the measure of everyone he meets.  A rare book that just might open a closed heart.

*Middle School: My Brother is a Big Fat Liar *and *Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill
*By James Patterson and Lisa Papademetriou, Illustrated by Neil Swaab
For ages 9-13
Two great new stories in the wildly popular Middle School series. When Georgia Khatchadorian heads off to her first day at Hills Village Middle School, everyone she meets immediately brands Georgia a problem child just like Rafe! When Rafe sneakily signs the band up to play at Georgia's first middle school dance, she's terrified she'll embarrass herself. Will she be able to overcome her fears?

Meanwhile, in How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill, Rafe is excited about summer camp—but he’s in for a letdown when he realizes it’s summer school camp. Luckily, Rafe quickly makes friends with members of his “Loserville” cabin. And they need all the help they can get as they battle off against the “Cool” cabin all summer long.

Or start with the first book in the series: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

**Where the Red Fern Grows
**By Wilson Rawls
For ages 8 and up
In an informal survey, I asked a bunch of grown-ups which childhood summer read they remembered most. Where the Red Fern Grows was the most frequent answer. Set in the Ozarks, the adventure tale of a boy, Billy, and his two hunting dogs, Little Ann and Old Dan, is recalled not only for the trio’s triumphs, but also for the story’s tenderness. Give your kiddos this classic book this summer. 

* *

*The Egypt Game
*By Zilpha Keatley Snyder
For ages 8 and up
Before role-playing computer games became so popular, Zilpha Keatley Snyder took young readers to an antiques store in California where Melanie and April, and later four other friends, create and play “The Egypt Game.” With costumes, secret codes and elaborate stories, the kids become more and more involved—until strange things start happening. It just might be time to stop playing. Readers, too, will find themselves caught up in the game and in this characterful novel.

*Hokey Pokey
*By Jerry Spinelli
For ages 9 and up
This is an allegorical tale where childhood is not just a stage, it is a place called Hokey Pokey. The readers meet Jack, who, like many of them, is starting to “age out” of Hokey Pokey. Spinelli’s novel is sure to help them celebrate and cope with all that is the past and all that is to come.

* *

*Navigating Early
*By Clare Vanderpool
For Ages 9 and up
Jack is adrift after his mother dies, so his dad, just back from WWII, enrolls him in a boarding school in Maine. There he befriends Early Auden, a loner who rarely attends classes and whose brother, a soldier serving in France, is presumed dead. Early believes otherwise and so begins the two boys’ quest along the Appalachian Trail.

* *

*Angry Birds Playground: Animals: An Around-the-World Habitat Adventure
*By Jill Esbaum; Illustrated with photographs
For ages 8-11
Those popular Angry Birds are tour guides on this photo-filled exploration of habitats including rainforests, deserts, oceans, grasslands and polar regions. The birds, who are on a worldwide search for their stolen eggs, introduce readers to five major habitats and the animals that thrive in each. With animal vital statistics in sidebars, descriptions in text, and funny asides from the birds on every page, this is the kind of book that gives nonfiction a good name!

* *

*GREAT BEGINNER READS
**(For ages 6-9)*  **

*Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery #31
*By David A. Adler; Illustrated by Joy Allen
For ages 7-10
Cam Jansen, elementary school detective, is up to her 31st mystery. She’s got to be doing something right! Children making the transition from picture books to chapter books have found Cam Jansen books a great help and motivator. In her latest case, Cam must use her skills and her photographic memory to catch the thief who stole Eric’s father’s graduation present.

* *

*The One and Only Ivan
*By Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao Costa
For ages 8-10
“The Ape at Exit 8” is Ivan, a mighty silverback gorilla who lives in a circus-themed shopping mall. Based on a true story, this novel tells how Ivan uses his talent for drawing to rescue the other animals. Winner, 2013 Newbery Medal.

* *

*Ivy and Bean Make the Rules
*By Annie Barrows; Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
For ages 7-9
Nancy, Bean’s older sister, is going to camp, but Bean can’t go: You have to be eleven to go to camp.  Never one to accept defeat, Bean and her best friend Ivy create a camp of their own.  A triumph of friendship, ingenuity, and fun!

Or start with the first book in the series: Ivy and Bean 

* *

*Hello Nebulon!
*By Ray O’Ryan; Illustrated by Colin Jack
For ages 5-8
It’s 2120, and Zack Nelson and his family are leaving Earth to move to the planet Nebulon. Their space-aged house has all kinds of awesome gadgets that Zack will be using every day, but still Zack worries that he and his twin sister won’t have any friends. But then he meets a fellow student and slowly starts to realize that things on Nebulon might just be alright after all. Young readers will zoom through the story to find out what happens to Zack, entertained and delighted along the way! 

* *

*Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers
*By Dav Pilkey
For ages 7 and up
For once, the critics agree with what children have been saying for years: USA Today tells us: “Call Pilkey…the savior of the ‘reluctant reader.’” Newsweek says Captain Underpants is “a triumph of irreverence." And young readers say: “They are funny and crazy!”  Now, in the newest book in the series, everything is threatened. Could it be the end for Captain Underpants?

Or start with the first book in the series: The Adventures of Captain Underpants

*Green Eggs and Ham
**Horton Hatches the Egg
**Oh, the Places You’ll Go
*By Dr. Seuss
For ages 3-7, 4-8, 4-9
When it comes to new readers, we’ve got two words for you: Dr. Seuss.  His beginner books (like Green Eggs and Ham) are not only comical adventures, but also great confidence-builders as brand new readers master them and can read them on their own.  And what proud reader wouldn’t want to know Sam-I-Am (who definitely, absolutely, never wants green eggs and ham)?

As kids improve their reading skills, they’ll find reward in Seuss’s classic picture books. Yes, the language is often complicated, but it is always silly and fun. Horton Hatches the Egg is a great place to start because there are loving lessons in the values of persistence and kindness in this story of the elephant who is faithful, 100 percent.

If you want to give a child a pat on the back—along with a gentle push to move on—try Oh, the Places You’ll Go! It is wise, optimistic, filled with encouragement, and great fun to read.

* *

*Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse
*By Tamera Will Wissinger; Illustrated by Matthew Cordell
For ages 6-9
Nine-year-old Sam and his dad are going to the lake: “For fishing tomorrow/it’s just us two. Not Mom, not Grandpa/not Lucy…” In a series of engaging poems that narrate the day, they prepare their gear; plans change (Lucy does tag along); fish get caught; siblings get along; and all ends deliciously at dinner. We’re guessing that this delightful excursion will lead lots of kids to try their luck at fishing—and to try their hand at poetry!

* *

*Nic Bishop Snakes
*By Nic Bishop; illustrated with photographs
For ages 5 and up
Super-sharp photographs show a great variety of snakes, sometimes at rest but often in action, while equally clear text presents basic facts about each.  The handsome design welcomes curious (and maybe even some fearful) children to get up close and learn more.

* *

*Great Illustrated Books
***(For ages 2-6)**

* *

*Llama Llama Time to Share
*By Anna Dewedney
For ages 2-5
While Mama Llama and Nelly Gnu have tea, their two toddlers are left with a boxful of toys to share.  All goes well, until that Gnu girl decides to play with Llama’s treasured Fuzzy Llama doll.  Llama’s not ready for that much sharing.

Or start with the first book in this series: Llama Llama Red Pajama

*Olivia and the Fairy Princesses
*By Ian Falconer
For ages 3-6
Olivia is one best-selling pig—and with good reason.  Strong-willed, high-spirited and, in this book, in search of her true identity—Olivia’s been keeping young children smiling (and recognizing themselves) for a dozen books now. She’s sure to please.

Or start with the first book in this series: Olivia

* *

*This Moose Belongs to Me
*By Oliver Jeffers
For ages 4-7
For the “Can I keep him?” would-be pet owner, this story of Wilfred and Marcel the Moose is a great fit. Wilfred and Marcel make a happy pair, but it isn’t long before Wilfred notice little things about the very big moose.  It seems he has some secrets, like the neighbor who greets Marcel as “Rodrigo,” and the fact that he prefers apples to, well…Wilfred. Still their friendship is real, their story is charming, and every page of this picture book is a visual treat. 

**Yes, Let's
**By Galen Goodwin Longstreth; Illustrated by Maris Wicks
For ages 3-5
Preschoolers will happily follow one family’s day in the country, from the dedication page with its maze-like roads leading three cars through the woods to a stream-side destination, right to the evening return trip with the happily exhausted parents and children barely making it up the stairs to their bedrooms.  The short rhythmic text is simple, fast, and fun to read aloud, while the detail-filled cartoon-like illustrations invite long looks at every spread.

* *

*Creepy Carrots!
*By Aaron Reynolds; Illustrated by Peter Brown
For ages 4 and up
Jasper Rabbit loves to eat carrots—especially the ones that grow at Crackenhopper Field…until the day the carrots start following him. This slightly spooky book will please youngest fans of scary tales while it delivers a subtle message about being greedy. 

* *

*Pete’s a Pizza Board Book
*By William Steig
For ages 4-8
Pete’s dad turns a rainy day into lots of fun when he makes Pete into a pizza: Pete’s kneaded and tossed; covered with tomatoes (checkers) and cheese (bits of paper), put into the oven (the couch) and soon is ready to slice and be nibbled. But the sun comes out and the pizza runs out to play with his friends. Absolutely silly and great fun!

The ReadKiddoRead program features bestselling author James Patterson’s picks for the summer. Find reviews of these books on ReadKiddoRead.com. Reported by Patch 14 hours ago.

Actress Olivia Munn and rocker Nathan Followill are praying their families, friends and fans in Oklahoma stay safe after tornadoes ripped through the... Reported by ContactMusic 6 hours ago.

Actress Olivia Munn and rocker Nathan Followill are praying their families, friends and fans in Oklahoma stay safe after tornadoes ripped through the state on Monday (20May13). The Newsroom star t... Reported by Starpulse.com 6 hours ago.

The Newsroom star Olivia Munn shows her sexy curves in the June/July issue of Esquire magazine and opened up about going topless opposite Channing Tatum in Magic Mike -- or, at least, forgetting sh... Reported by Starpulse.com 6 hours ago.

Filed under: Humor, Entertainment, Video, Masterclash


The time has come to say goodbye. There were robots and nerdy burlesques and everything Star Wars. We gave you A Woman's Perspective and had Drinks With Writers. Olivia Munn pranked our intern. We banned Megan Fox and encouraged women to have Sex ... Read more

 

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Reported by Asylum 4 hours ago.

Patch Sussex, WI --

Drew Patterson and Toney Lock  of Hamilton High School won individual track and field championships on Monday in the tough Watertown Regional, the start of the WIAA tournament series.

*See complete regional results*

Patterson, a junior, captured the 400 meters in 49.86 seconds, just .12 off the stadium record set in 1999. Lock, also a junior, posted a time of 13.1 seconds in the 100 meters.

The top four places in each event qualified for Thursday’s sectional, hosted by Hamilton. Also going through for the Chargers were:

*GIRLS*

· Olivia Wick, freshman, third in the discus (88 feet, 1 inch)
· Ashlyn Paulson, freshman, second in the 800 meters (2:24.91)
· 4 x 100 relay, third (50.22 seconds)
· 4 x 200 relay, third (1:52.97)
· 4 x 400 relay, fourth (4:13.04)

*BOYS*

· Tony Koepnick, senior, fourth in the shot put (51 feet, 3½ inches)
· Tony Koepnick, senior, third in the discus (140 feet, 1 inch)
· Joel Fotsch, junior, third in the 110 hurdles, (15.53 seconds)
· Chais Blackburn, junior, second in the 300 hurdles (40.16 seconds)
· 4 x 400 relay, second (3:26.19)

Hamilton was sixth in both the boys and girls regionals. Arrowhead easily won the girls side and Oconomowoc edged Germantown on the boys side. Reported by Patch 2 hours ago.

Patch Largo, FL --

* *

From James Patterson's ReadKiddoRead Foundation:

**Great Advanced Reads**

* *

*(For tweens and teens, ages 12 and up)*

*The Diviners*

* *

By Libba Bray

For ages 12 and up

A series of occult-based murders in 1920s New York City put Evie O’Neill and her uncle, curator of what’s known as “The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies,” center stage in investigating the crimes. The tightly woven plot and palpable setting combine with supernatural elements, rich themes, and terrific storytelling to make for a compelling read.

* *

*On the Day I Died*

* *

By Candace Fleming

For ages 11 and up

Scary is always in season, and summer is an especially good time to welcome a shivery chill. On appropriately dark and moonless nights, kids will find themselves scaring friends with the stories in this collection, whether examinations of pure evil, ancient curses, alien encounters, or psychological dramas.

* *

*The Fault in Our Stars*

By John Green

For ages 13 and up

Hazel Lancaster, a teen with cancer, dropped out of school at 13 to concentrate on getting well. Now 16, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who’s lost a leg to cancer. Their connection is instantaneous. Green skillfully uses their lives to ask the big questions: Why me? Why now? Why risk love? What does being alive mean?

* *

*Scarlet: Lunar Chronicles, Book Two*

By Marissa Meyer

For ages 12 up

Another fresh view of a classic fairytale—with another stop-you-in-your-tracks cover. Scarlet (Little Red Riding Hood) and her street fighter boyfriend, Wolf, are in search of Scarlet’s grandmother. Their quest runs right into Cinder’s story as the three race to keep ahead of the evil Lunar Queen Levana. 

Or start with the first book in the series: Cinder: Lunar Chronicles, Book One

*The False Prince                                *

By Jennifer A. Nielson

For ages 13 and up 

Carthya is on the brink of civil war. Conner, one of the noblemen, has a treacherous plan to install an imposter on the throne. But first he must find just the right young man to play the part: Could Sage win the role? As in any high stakes game, all is not as it seems. Amid layers of deception and manipulation, readers are in for surprises as Sage draws closer to the goal.

* *

*Shadow on the Mountain                                                                                   *

By Margi Preus              

For ages 12 up

* *

Espen, a 14-year-old Norwegian boy whose country is occupied by the Nazis, joins the Norwegian resistance with his friends. Margi Preus reveals his story in an engrossing text that combines spy thriller with a teen coming-of-age story, enhanced by photographs, maps and brochures from the time.

* *

*Eleanor & Park*

By Rainbow Rowell

For ages 14 and up

* *

In 1980s Omaha, Eleanor, quirky and new to town, and Park, half-Korean, are outsiders in their high school. It’s worse for Eleanor, who has an abusive stepfather and bullying classmates—so bad that she accepts Park’s father’s invitation for her to stay with their family. In small steps, Eleanor and Park’s friendship grows into love. But Park realizes that the solution to Eleanor’s troubles means that she will have to move away. 

* *

*After Eli*

By Rebecca Rupp

For ages 12 up

Since his older brother was killed in Iraq, Danny Anderson has been keeping a “Book of the Dead” where he chronicles how people from the past have died. It’s his way of understanding loss. But it is not until three years later that Danny begins to pull away from grief: He falls for a girl, finds a new friendship, and works on a farm. A crisis at the end of that summer pushes Danny and his parents toward healing in this moving and emotionally rich novel.

* *

*Out of the Easy*

By Ruta Sepetys

For ages 14 and up

* *

“The Big Easy” has been anything but easy on Josie. She’s tried distancing herself from her mother—an addict, prostitute and thief. Josie dreams of escaping Easy altogether, but doesn’t believe she can make that happen—until she meets a tourist who offers her the encouragement she needs. Ruta Sepetys vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as the shady underbelly of New Orleans in 1950, and breathes life into her cast of characters. Teens will be pulling for Josie as she moves ahead, learning that some decisions are anything but easy.

*The Raven Boys*

* *

By Maggie Stiefvater

For ages 12 and up

* *

For as long as Blue Sargent can remember, she’s been told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. And in her family—one filled with bona fide psychics—predictions are never taken lightly. Now 16, Blue befriends three Raven boys from the posh private school nearby and gets caught up in their quest and adventures. Blue fears that one of them just might be her true love. A compelling story from the outset, Stiefvater’s first installment in a planned four-part cycle will have readers on the edge of their seats.

* *

**The Cay  **

By Theodore Taylor

For ages 12 and up

When World War II threatens the Dutch island of Curacao where 11-year-old Philip lives, he and his mother decide to return to the U.S. But on the journey, their boat is torpedoed, and Philip is stranded on a life raft with a cat and Timothy, a black man. Later, when Philip becomes blind, he has no choice but to overcome his prejudices and trust Timothy. Their friendship develops beautifully in this exciting survival story.

* *

*5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)*

National Geographic Kids

For ages 11 and up

From 15 peanut butter facts that stick and 50 furry facts about bears, to 100 facts about oceans that will make your head swim, this big, colorful, packed-to-the-brim compendium is sure to fascinate, entertain, and be a source of great conversations for everyone who takes a look. Photographs illustrate the great variety of information, a playful design makes every page inviting, and a ticker at the bottom of each spread counts the facts kids learn as they go through the book. You’ll find your teen dipping in and out of this book all summer long.  

* *

*EXTRA CREDIT:*

* *

Life of Pi by Yann Martel 

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

* *

*GREAT PAGETURNERS                                                                               *

* *

** **

**(For ages 9-12)**

* *

*The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee: An Origami Yoda Book*

By Tom Angleberger

For ages 8 and up 

In the third of the Origami Yoda books, Sara brings a paper fortune teller in the form of Star War’s Chewbacca (a Fortune Wookiee) to school to fill in while Dwight and Origami Yoda are suspended.

Or start with the first book in the series: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

* *

*Never Say Die*

By Will Hobbs

For ages 8 up

Nick Thrasher, a 15-year-old Inuit hunter, and his older half-brother Ryan, a wildlife photographer, are off in search of caribou. Soon into their travels they are thrown into the frozen Firth River. Back on land, their struggle to survive continues as they are pursued by animals, including a half-grizzly, half-polar bear. An exciting wilderness survival tale set in Canada’s arctic is the perfect read to cool down a hot summer day.

* *

*Dog Days (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 4)                                                *

* *

By Jeff Kinney                                                                                                                                                    For ages 8 and up

This is not the newest in the series, but it might be the right book to begin with since it’s all about summer vacation. The weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. But not Greg Heffley! He’s in his house playing video games and enjoying himself, thank you very much.  But Greg’s mom has other ideas about outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?* *

*On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s   *

By Barbara O’Connor  

For ages 8 and up

* *

When we remember summers, there’s often a single event that stands out. For the folks in Meadville, South Carolina, this summer will be recalled as the one when a one-legged pigeon named Sherman flew into town. Where did Sherman come from? Only Mr. Mineo seems to know. For many young readers, this summer may be remembered as the one they met Stella and Amos and Sherman in the pages of this wonderful novel.

* *

*Hades: Lord of the Dead: The Olympians, Book 4*

* *

By George O’Connor

For ages 9 and up

* *

Welcome to the Underworld. A mix of action, comedy, superheroes and Greek mythology, this graphic novel introduces Hades and Persephone.  

Or start with the first book in the series: Zues: King of the Gods

* *

*Wonder*

By R.J. Palacio

For ages 9-12

August Pullman, 10, was born with a deformed face. Even though he’s been protected and homeschooled, he’s felt the stares and heard the whispers when the boldest jerks called him Freak or Freddy Krueger. Now his parents have decided that it’s time to enroll Auggie in school. The world he finds doesn’t only test his courage; it also takes the measure of everyone he meets.  A rare book that just might open a closed heart.

*Middle School: My Brother is a Big Fat Liar*

* *

and *Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill*

By James Patterson and Lisa Papademetriou, Illustrated by Neil Swaab

For ages 9-13

Two great new stories in the wildly popular Middle School series. When Georgia Khatchadorian heads off to her first day at Hills Village Middle School, everyone she meets immediately brands Georgia a problem child just like Rafe! When Rafe sneakily signs the band up to play at Georgia's first middle school dance, she's terrified she'll embarrass herself. Will she be able to overcome her fears?

Meanwhile, in How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill, Rafe is excited about summer camp—but he’s in for a letdown when he realizes it’s summer school camp. Luckily, Rafe quickly makes friends with members of his “Loserville” cabin. And they need all the help they can get as they battle off against the “Cool” cabin all summer long.

Or start with the first book in the series: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life** **

**Where the Red Fern Grows**

By Wilson Rawls

For ages 8 and up

In an informal survey, I asked a bunch of grown-ups which childhood summer read they remembered most. Where the Red Fern Grows was the most frequent answer. Set in the Ozarks, the adventure tale of a boy, Billy, and his two hunting dogs, Little Ann and Old Dan, is recalled not only for the trio’s triumphs, but also for the story’s tenderness. Give your kiddos this classic book this summer. 

* *

*The Egypt Game*

By Zilpha Keatley Snyder  

For ages 8 and up 

Before role-playing computer games became so popular, Zilpha Keatley Snyder took young readers to an antiques store in California where Melanie and April, and later four other friends, create and play “The Egypt Game.” With costumes, secret codes and elaborate stories, the kids become more and more involved—until strange things start happening. It just might be time to stop playing. Readers, too, will find themselves caught up in the game and in this characterful novel.* *

*Hokey Pokey*

* *

By Jerry Spinelli

For ages 9 and up

This is an allegorical tale where childhood is not just a stage, it is a place called Hokey Pokey. The readers meet Jack, who, like many of them, is starting to “age out” of Hokey Pokey. Spinelli’s novel is sure to help them celebrate and cope with all that is the past and all that is to come.

* *

*Navigating Early*

By Clare Vanderpool

For Ages 9 and up

Jack is adrift after his mother dies, so his dad, just back from WWII, enrolls him in a boarding school in Maine. There he befriends Early Auden, a loner who rarely attends classes and whose brother, a soldier serving in France, is presumed dead. Early believes otherwise and so begins the two boys’ quest along the Appalachian Trail.

* *

*Angry Birds Playground: Animals: An Around-the-World Habitat Adventure*

By Jill Esbaum; Illustrated with photographs

For ages 8-11

Those popular Angry Birds are tour guides on this photo-filled exploration of habitats including rainforests, deserts, oceans, grasslands and polar regions. The birds, who are on a worldwide search for their stolen eggs, introduce readers to five major habitats and the animals that thrive in each. With animal vital statistics in sidebars, descriptions in text, and funny asides from the birds on every page, this is the kind of book that gives nonfiction a good name!

* *

*GREAT BEGINNER READS*

* *

*(For ages 6-9)*  **

*Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery #31*

By David A. Adler; Illustrated by Joy Allen

For ages 7-10

Cam Jansen, elementary school detective, is up to her 31st mystery. She’s got to be doing something right! Children making the transition from picture books to chapter books have found Cam Jansen books a great help and motivator. In her latest case, Cam must use her skills and her photographic memory to catch the thief who stole Eric’s father’s graduation present.

* *

*The One and Only Ivan*

* *

By Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao Costa

For ages 8-10

“The Ape at Exit 8” is Ivan, a mighty silverback gorilla who lives in a circus-themed shopping mall. Based on a true story, this novel tells how Ivan uses his talent for drawing to rescue the other animals. Winner, 2013 Newbery Medal.

* *

*Ivy and Bean Make the Rules*

By Annie Barrows; Illustrated by Sophie Blackall

For ages 7-9

Nancy, Bean’s older sister, is going to camp, but Bean can’t go: You have to be eleven to go to camp.  Never one to accept defeat, Bean and her best friend Ivy create a camp of their own.  A triumph of friendship, ingenuity, and fun!

Or start with the first book in the series: Ivy and Bean 

* *

*Hello Nebulon!*

By Ray O’Ryan; Illustrated by Colin Jack

For ages 5-8*  *

It’s 2120, and Zack Nelson and his family are leaving Earth to move to the planet Nebulon. Their space-aged house has all kinds of awesome gadgets that Zack will be using every day, but still Zack worries that he and his twin sister won’t have any friends. But then he meets a fellow student and slowly starts to realize that things on Nebulon might just be alright after all. Young readers will zoom through the story to find out what happens to Zack, entertained and delighted along the way! 

* *

*Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers*

By Dav Pilkey

For ages 7 and up 

* *

For once, the critics agree with what children have been saying for years: USA Today tells us: “Call Pilkey…the savior of the ‘reluctant reader.’” Newsweek says Captain Underpants is “a triumph of irreverence." And young readers say: “They are funny and crazy!”  Now, in the newest book in the series, everything is threatened. Could it be the end for Captain Underpants?

Or start with the first book in the series: The Adventures of Captain Underpants

*Green Eggs and Ham*

* *

*Horton Hatches the Egg*

* *

*Oh, the Places You’ll Go*

By Dr. Seuss

For ages 3-7, 4-8, 4-9

When it comes to new readers, we’ve got two words for you: Dr. Seuss.  His beginner books (like Green Eggs and Ham) are not only comical adventures, but also great confidence-builders as brand new readers master them and can read them on their own.  And what proud reader wouldn’t want to know Sam-I-Am (who definitely, absolutely, never wants green eggs and ham)?

As kids improve their reading skills, they’ll find reward in Seuss’s classic picture books. Yes, the language is often complicated, but it is always silly and fun. Horton Hatches the Egg is a great place to start because there are loving lessons in the values of persistence and kindness in this story of the elephant who is faithful, 100 percent.

If you want to give a child a pat on the back—along with a gentle push to move on—try Oh, the Places You’ll Go! It is wise, optimistic, filled with encouragement, and great fun to read.

* *

*Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse*

By Tamera Will Wissinger; Illustrated by Matthew Cordell

For ages 6-9

Nine-year-old Sam and his dad are going to the lake: “For fishing tomorrow/it’s just us two. Not Mom, not Grandpa/not Lucy…” In a series of engaging poems that narrate the day, they prepare their gear; plans change (Lucy does tag along); fish get caught; siblings get along; and all ends deliciously at dinner. We’re guessing that this delightful excursion will lead lots of kids to try their luck at fishing—and to try their hand at poetry!

* *

*Nic Bishop Snakes*

By Nic Bishop; illustrated with photographs

For ages 5 and up

Super-sharp photographs show a great variety of snakes, sometimes at rest but often in action, while equally clear text presents basic facts about each.  The handsome design welcomes curious (and maybe even some fearful) children to get up close and learn more.

* *

*Great Illustrated Books                                                                            *** **

**(For ages 2-6)**

* *

*Llama Llama Time to Share*

By Anna Dewedney

For ages 2-5

While Mama Llama and Nelly Gnu have tea, their two toddlers are left with a boxful of toys to share.  All goes well, until that Gnu girl decides to play with Llama’s treasured Fuzzy Llama doll.  Llama’s not ready for that much sharing.

Or start with the first book in this series: Llama Llama Red Pajama* *

*Olivia and the Fairy Princesses  *

By Ian Falconer

For ages 3-6

Olivia is one best-selling pig—and with good reason.  Strong-willed, high-spirited and, in this book, in search of her true identity—Olivia’s been keeping young children smiling (and recognizing themselves) for a dozen books now. She’s sure to please.

Or start with the first book in this series: Olivia

* *

*This Moose Belongs to Me*

By Oliver Jeffers 

For ages 4-7

For the “Can I keep him?” would-be pet owner, this story of Wilfred and Marcel the Moose is a great fit. Wilfred and Marcel make a happy pair, but it isn’t long before Wilfred notice little things about the very big moose.  It seems he has some secrets, like the neighbor who greets Marcel as “Rodrigo,” and the fact that he prefers apples to, well…Wilfred. Still their friendship is real, their story is charming, and every page of this picture book is a visual treat. 

**Yes, Let's**

By Galen Goodwin Longstreth; Illustrated by Maris Wicks    

For ages 3-5

Preschoolers will happily follow one family’s day in the country, from the dedication page with its maze-like roads leading three cars through the woods to a stream-side destination, right to the evening return trip with the happily exhausted parents and children barely making it up the stairs to their bedrooms.  The short rhythmic text is simple, fast, and fun to read aloud, while the detail-filled cartoon-like illustrations invite long looks at every spread.

* *

*Creepy Carrots!*

* *

By Aaron Reynolds; Illustrated by Peter Brown

For ages 4 and up

Jasper Rabbit loves to eat carrots—especially the ones that grow at Crackenhopper Field…until the day the carrots start following him. This slightly spooky book will please youngest fans of scary tales while it delivers a subtle message about being greedy. 

* *

*Pete’s a Pizza Board Book*

By William Steig

For ages 4-8

* *

Pete’s dad turns a rainy day into lots of fun when he makes Pete into a pizza: Pete’s kneaded and tossed; covered with tomatoes (checkers) and cheese (bits of paper), put into the oven (the couch) and soon is ready to slice and be nibbled. But the sun comes out and the pizza runs out to play with his friends. Absolutely silly and great fun!

*Visit the Largo Public Library for these and other great summertime reads!*

The ReadKiddoRead program features bestselling author James Patterson’s picks for the summer. Find reviews of these books on ReadKiddoRead.com.

--------------------

*Sign up for the Largo Patch email newsletter to get our top headlines delivered straight to your inbox so you won't miss a thing!*

-------------------- Reported by Patch 1 day ago.

Olivia Munn developed a sense of humour to fit in at school. Reported by Belfast Telegraph 1 day ago.

Patch Barnstable-Hyannis, MA --

* *

 

[Editor's note: Author James Patterson's ReadKiddoRead Foundation provided this list of great summer books for kids.]

***Great Advanced Reads***

* *

*(For tweens and teens, ages 12 and up)*

*The Diviners*

* *

By Libba Bray

For ages 12 and up

A series of occult-based murders in 1920s New York City put Evie O’Neill and her uncle, curator of what’s known as “The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies,” center stage in investigating the crimes. The tightly woven plot and palpable setting combine with supernatural elements, rich themes, and terrific storytelling to make a compelling read.

 

* *

*On the Day I Died*

* *

By Candace Fleming

For ages 11 and up

Scary is always in season, and summer is an especially good time to welcome a shivery chill. On appropriately dark and moonless nights, kids will find themselves scaring friends with the stories in this collection, whether examinations of pure evil, ancient curses, alien encounters, or psychological dramas.

 

* *

*The Fault in Our Stars*

By John Green

For ages 13 and up

Hazel Lancaster, a teen with cancer, dropped out of school at 13 to concentrate on getting well. Now 16, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who’s lost a leg to cancer. Their connection is instantaneous. Green skillfully uses their lives to ask the big questions: Why me? Why now? Why risk love? What does being alive mean?

 

* *

*Scarlet: Lunar Chronicles, Book Two*

By Marissa Meyer

For ages 12 up

Another fresh view of a classic fairytale—with another stop-you-in-your-tracks cover. Scarlet (Little Red Riding Hood) and her street fighter boyfriend, Wolf, are in search of Scarlet’s grandmother. Their quest runs right into Cinder’s story as the three race to keep ahead of the evil Lunar Queen Levana. 

Or start with the first book in the series: Cinder: Lunar Chronicles, Book One




*The False Prince                                *

By Jennifer A. Nielson

For ages 13 and up

Carthya is on the brink of civil war. Conner, one of the noblemen, has a treacherous plan to install an imposter on the throne. But first he must find just the right young man to play the part: Could Sage win the role? As in any high stakes game, all is not as it seems. Amid layers of deception and manipulation, readers are in for surprises as Sage draws closer to the goal.

 

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*Shadow on the Mountain                                                                              
*

By Margi Preus              

For ages 12 up

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Espen, a 14-year-old Norwegian boy whose country is occupied by the Nazis, joins the Norwegian resistance with his friends. Margi Preus reveals his story in an engrossing text that combines spy thriller with a teen coming-of-age story, enhanced by photographs, maps and brochures from the time.

 

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*Eleanor & Park*

By Rainbow Rowell

For ages 14 and up

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In 1980s Omaha, Eleanor, quirky and new to town, and Park, half-Korean, are outsiders in their high school. It’s worse for Eleanor, who has an abusive stepfather and bullying classmates—so bad that she accepts Park’s father’s invitation for her to stay with their family. In small steps, Eleanor and Park’s friendship grows into love. But Park realizes that the solution to Eleanor’s troubles means that she will have to move away.

 

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*After Eli*

By Rebecca Rupp

For ages 12 up

Since his older brother was killed in Iraq, Danny Anderson has been keeping a “Book of the Dead” where he chronicles how people from the past have died. It’s his way of understanding loss. But it is not until three years later that Danny begins to pull away from grief: He falls for a girl, finds a new friendship, and works on a farm. A crisis at the end of that summer pushes Danny and his parents toward healing in this moving and emotionally rich novel.

 

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*Out of the Easy*

By Ruta Sepetys

For ages 14 and up

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“The Big Easy” has been anything but easy on Josie. She’s tried distancing herself from her mother—an addict, prostitute and thief. Josie dreams of escaping Easy altogether, but doesn’t believe she can make that happen—until she meets a tourist who offers her the encouragement she needs. Ruta Sepetys vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as the shady underbelly of New Orleans in 1950, and breathes life into her cast of characters. Teens will be pulling for Josie as she moves ahead, learning that some decisions are anything but easy.

 

*The Raven Boys*

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By Maggie Stiefvater

For ages 12 and up

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For as long as Blue Sargent can remember, she’s been told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. And in her family—one filled with bona fide psychics—predictions are never taken lightly. Now 16, Blue befriends three Raven boys from the posh private school nearby and gets caught up in their quest and adventures. Blue fears that one of them just might be her true love. A compelling story from the outset, Stiefvater’s first installment in a planned four-part cycle will have readers on the edge of their seats.

 

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**The Cay  **

By Theodore Taylor

For ages 12 and up

When World War II threatens the Dutch island of Curacao where 11-year-old Philip lives, he and his mother decide to return to the U.S. But on the journey, their boat is torpedoed, and Philip is stranded on a life raft with a cat and Timothy, a black man. Later, when Philip becomes blind, he has no choice but to overcome his prejudices and trust Timothy. Their friendship develops beautifully in this exciting survival story.

 

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*5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)*

National Geographic Kids

For ages 11 and up

From 15 peanut butter facts that stick and 50 furry facts about bears, to 100 facts about oceans that will make your head swim, this big, colorful, packed-to-the-brim compendium is sure to fascinate, entertain, and be a source of great conversations for everyone who takes a look. Photographs illustrate the great variety of information, a playful design makes every page inviting, and a ticker at the bottom of each spread counts the facts kids learn as they go through the book. You’ll find your teen dipping in and out of this book all summer long.

 

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*EXTRA CREDIT:*

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Life of Pi by Yann Martel 

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

 

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**Great Pageturners     **

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** **

**(For ages 9-12)**

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*The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee: An Origami Yoda Book*

By Tom Angleberger

For ages 8 and up 

In the third of the Origami Yoda books, Sara brings a paper fortune teller in the form of Star War’s Chewbacca (a Fortune Wookiee) to school to fill in while Dwight and Origami Yoda are suspended.

Or start with the first book in the series: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda




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*Never Say Die*

By Will Hobbs

For ages 8 up

Nick Thrasher, a 15-year-old Inuit hunter, and his older half-brother Ryan, a wildlife photographer, are off in search of caribou. Soon into their travels they are thrown into the frozen Firth River. Back on land, their struggle to survive continues as they are pursued by animals, including a half-grizzly, half-polar bear. An exciting wilderness survival tale set in Canada’s arctic is the perfect read to cool down a hot summer day.

 

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*Dog Days (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 4)    
*

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By Jeff Kinney                                                                                                                                                    For ages 8 and up

This is not the newest in the series, but it might be the right book to begin with since it’s all about summer vacation. The weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. But not Greg Heffley! He’s in his house playing video games and enjoying himself, thank you very much.  But Greg’s mom has other ideas about outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?

 

*On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s   *

By Barbara O’Connor  

For ages 8 and up

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When we remember summers, there’s often a single event that stands out. For the folks in Meadville, South Carolina, this summer will be recalled as the one when a one-legged pigeon named Sherman flew into town. Where did Sherman come from? Only Mr. Mineo seems to know. For many young readers, this summer may be remembered as the one they met Stella and Amos and Sherman in the pages of this wonderful novel.

 

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*Hades: Lord of the Dead: The Olympians, Book 4*

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By George O’Connor

For ages 9 and up

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Welcome to the Underworld. A mix of action, comedy, superheroes and Greek mythology, this graphic novel introduces Hades and Persephone.  

Or start with the first book in the series: Zues: King of the Gods




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*Wonder*

By R.J. Palacio

For ages 9-12

August Pullman, 10, was born with a deformed face. Even though he’s been protected and homeschooled, he’s felt the stares and heard the whispers when the boldest jerks called him Freak or Freddy Krueger. Now his parents have decided that it’s time to enroll Auggie in school. The world he finds doesn’t only test his courage; it also takes the measure of everyone he meets.  A rare book that just might open a closed heart.

 

*Middle School: My Brother is a Big Fat Liar*

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and *Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill*

By James Patterson and Lisa Papademetriou, Illustrated by Neil Swaab

For ages 9-13

Two great new stories in the wildly popular Middle School series. When Georgia Khatchadorian heads off to her first day at Hills Village Middle School, everyone she meets immediately brands Georgia a problem child just like Rafe! When Rafe sneakily signs the band up to play at Georgia's first middle school dance, she's terrified she'll embarrass herself. Will she be able to overcome her fears?

Meanwhile, in How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill, Rafe is excited about summer camp—but he’s in for a letdown when he realizes it’s summer school camp. Luckily, Rafe quickly makes friends with members of his “Loserville” cabin. And they need all the help they can get as they battle off against the “Cool” cabin all summer long.

Or start with the first book in the series: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

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** **

**Where the Red Fern Grows**

By Wilson Rawls

For ages 8 and up

In an informal survey, I asked a bunch of grown-ups which childhood summer read they remembered most. Where the Red Fern Grows was the most frequent answer. Set in the Ozarks, the adventure tale of a boy, Billy, and his two hunting dogs, Little Ann and Old Dan, is recalled not only for the trio’s triumphs, but also for the story’s tenderness. Give your kiddos this classic book this summer.

 

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*The Egypt Game*

By Zilpha Keatley Snyder  

For ages 8 and up 

Before role-playing computer games became so popular, Zilpha Keatley Snyder took young readers to an antiques store in California where Melanie and April, and later four other friends, create and play “The Egypt Game.” With costumes, secret codes and elaborate stories, the kids become more and more involved—until strange things start happening. It just might be time to stop playing. Readers, too, will find themselves caught up in the game and in this characterful novel.

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*Hokey Pokey*

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By Jerry Spinelli

For ages 9 and up

This is an allegorical tale where childhood is not just a stage, it is a place called Hokey Pokey. The readers meet Jack, who, like many of them, is starting to “age out” of Hokey Pokey. Spinelli’s novel is sure to help them celebrate and cope with all that is the past and all that is to come.

 

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*Navigating Early*

By Clare Vanderpool

For Ages 9 and up

Jack is adrift after his mother dies, so his dad, just back from WWII, enrolls him in a boarding school in Maine. There he befriends Early Auden, a loner who rarely attends classes and whose brother, a soldier serving in France, is presumed dead. Early believes otherwise and so begins the two boys’ quest along the Appalachian Trail.

 

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*Angry Birds Playground: Animals: An Around-the-World Habitat Adventure*

By Jill Esbaum; Illustrated with photographs

For ages 8-11

Those popular Angry Birds are tour guides on this photo-filled exploration of habitats including rainforests, deserts, oceans, grasslands and polar regions. The birds, who are on a worldwide search for their stolen eggs, introduce readers to five major habitats and the animals that thrive in each. With animal vital statistics in sidebars, descriptions in text, and funny asides from the birds on every page, this is the kind of book that gives nonfiction a good name!

 

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**Great Beginner Reads**

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*(For ages 6-9)*  **

*Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery #31*

By David A. Adler; Illustrated by Joy Allen

For ages 7-10

Cam Jansen, elementary school detective, is up to her 31st mystery. She’s got to be doing something right! Children making the transition from picture books to chapter books have found Cam Jansen books a great help and motivator. In her latest case, Cam must use her skills and her photographic memory to catch the thief who stole Eric’s father’s graduation present.

 

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*The One and Only Ivan*

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By Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao Costa

For ages 8-10

“The Ape at Exit 8” is Ivan, a mighty silverback gorilla who lives in a circus-themed shopping mall. Based on a true story, this novel tells how Ivan uses his talent for drawing to rescue the other animals. Winner, 2013 Newbery Medal.

 

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*Ivy and Bean Make the Rules*

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By Annie Barrows; Illustrated by Sophie Blackall

For ages 7-9

Nancy, Bean’s older sister, is going to camp, but Bean can’t go: You have to be eleven to go to camp.  Never one to accept defeat, Bean and her best friend Ivy create a camp of their own.  A triumph of friendship, ingenuity, and fun!

Or start with the first book in the series: Ivy and Bean




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*Hello Nebulon!*

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By Ray O’Ryan; Illustrated by Colin Jack

For ages 5-8*  *

It’s 2120, and Zack Nelson and his family are leaving Earth to move to the planet Nebulon. Their space-aged house has all kinds of awesome gadgets that Zack will be using every day, but still Zack worries that he and his twin sister won’t have any friends. But then he meets a fellow student and slowly starts to realize that things on Nebulon might just be alright after all. Young readers will zoom through the story to find out what happens to Zack, entertained and delighted along the way!

 

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*Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers*

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By Dav Pilkey

For ages 7 and up 

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For once, the critics agree with what children have been saying for years: USA Today tells us: “Call Pilkey…the savior of the ‘reluctant reader.’” Newsweek says Captain Underpants is “a triumph of irreverence." And young readers say: “They are funny and crazy!”  Now, in the newest book in the series, everything is threatened. Could it be the end for Captain Underpants?

Or start with the first book in the series: The Adventures of Captain Underpants




*Green Eggs and Ham*

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*Horton Hatches the Egg*

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*Oh, the Places You’ll Go*

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By Dr. Seuss

For ages 3-7, 4-8, 4-9

When it comes to new readers, we’ve got two words for you: Dr. Seuss.  His beginner books (like Green Eggs and Ham) are not only comical adventures, but also great confidence-builders as brand new readers master them and can read them on their own.  And what proud reader wouldn’t want to know Sam-I-Am (who definitely, absolutely, never wants green eggs and ham)?

As kids improve their reading skills, they’ll find reward in Seuss’s classic picture books. Yes, the language is often complicated, but it is always silly and fun. Horton Hatches the Egg is a great place to start because there are loving lessons in the values of persistence and kindness in this story of the elephant who is faithful, 100 percent.

If you want to give a child a pat on the back—along with a gentle push to move on—try Oh, the Places You’ll Go! It is wise, optimistic, filled with encouragement, and great fun to read.

 

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*Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse*

By Tamera Will Wissinger; Illustrated by Matthew Cordell

For ages 6-9

Nine-year-old Sam and his dad are going to the lake: “For fishing tomorrow/it’s just us two. Not Mom, not Grandpa/not Lucy…” In a series of engaging poems that narrate the day, they prepare their gear; plans change (Lucy does tag along); fish get caught; siblings get along; and all ends deliciously at dinner. We’re guessing that this delightful excursion will lead lots of kids to try their luck at fishing—and to try their hand at poetry!

 

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*Nic Bishop Snakes*

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By Nic Bishop; illustrated with photographs

For ages 5 and up

Super-sharp photographs show a great variety of snakes, sometimes at rest but often in action, while equally clear text presents basic facts about each.  The handsome design welcomes curious (and maybe even some fearful) children to get up close and learn more.

 

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**Great Illustrated Books*
***

**(For ages 2-6)**

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*Llama Llama Time to Share *

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By Anna Dewedney

For ages 2-5

While Mama Llama and Nelly Gnu have tea, their two toddlers are left with a boxful of toys to share.  All goes well, until that Gnu girl decides to play with Llama’s treasured Fuzzy Llama doll.  Llama’s not ready for that much sharing.

Or start with the first book in this series: Llama Llama Red Pajama

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*Olivia and the Fairy Princesses  *

By Ian Falconer

For ages 3-6

Olivia is one best-selling pig—and with good reason.  Strong-willed, high-spirited and, in this book, in search of her true identity—Olivia’s been keeping young children smiling (and recognizing themselves) for a dozen books now. She’s sure to please.

Or start with the first book in this series: Olivia




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*This Moose Belongs to Me*

By Oliver Jeffers 

For ages 4-7

For the “Can I keep him?” would-be pet owner, this story of Wilfred and Marcel the Moose is a great fit. Wilfred and Marcel make a happy pair, but it isn’t long before Wilfred notice little things about the very big moose.  It seems he has some secrets, like the neighbor who greets Marcel as “Rodrigo,” and the fact that he prefers apples to, well…Wilfred. Still their friendship is real, their story is charming, and every page of this picture book is a visual treat. 

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** **

**Yes, Let's**

By Galen Goodwin Longstreth; Illustrated by Maris Wicks    

For ages 3-5

Preschoolers will happily follow one family’s day in the country, from the dedication page with its maze-like roads leading three cars through the woods to a stream-side destination, right to the evening return trip with the happily exhausted parents and children barely making it up the stairs to their bedrooms.  The short rhythmic text is simple, fast, and fun to read aloud, while the detail-filled cartoon-like illustrations invite long looks at every spread.

 

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*Creepy Carrots!*

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By Aaron Reynolds; Illustrated by Peter Brown

For ages 4 and up

Jasper Rabbit loves to eat carrots—especially the ones that grow at Crackenhopper Field…until the day the carrots start following him. This slightly spooky book will please youngest fans of scary tales while it delivers a subtle message about being greedy. 

 

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*Pete’s a Pizza Board Book*

* *

By William Steig

For ages 4-8

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Pete’s dad turns a rainy day into lots of fun when he makes Pete into a pizza: Pete’s kneaded and tossed; covered with tomatoes (checkers) and cheese (bits of paper), put into the oven (the couch) and soon is ready to slice and be nibbled. But the sun comes out and the pizza runs out to play with his friends. Absolutely silly and great fun! Reported by Patch 1 day ago.

This should go like (grease) lightening. Australian singer Olivia Newton-John has listed her $6.2 million nature inspired waterfront estate situated on the turquoise blue waters of the Intracoastal Waterway in… READ ON Reported by Radar Online 1 day ago.

Olivia Newton-John has put her hurricane-proof mansion on the market for $6.2 million. The 64-year-old actress - who purchased the house with her... Reported by ContactMusic 1 day ago.

After tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma on Monday, "The Newsroom" star Olivia Munn and drummer Nathan Followill reached out to their families, friends and fans, praying for their safety.   The actr... Reported by Starpulse.com 23 hours ago.