I just finished reading Revolution by Deborah Wiles. It's the story of Sunny, a young girl living in Mississippi (finally being able to spell that comes in handy!) in 1964 when the "Invaders" come to her small town to help register black voters during "Freedom Summer". The book is written spot on from Sunny's point of view as a smart, tough girl who is so confused about what's going on. The grown ups around her discuss the events but don't talk with her directly about it, leaving her to come to her own conclusions and make up her mind about what's right and wrong. Sunny's growth through the book is timed wonderfully, just when I was getting annoyed with her for being a kid she starts to open her eyes and see things that change her. The non fiction elements in the book-pictures, articles and back story really add power to the plot. I enjoyed Revolution and I hope it gets some recognition. I loved Countdown, the first in the 60's trilogy that Deborah Wiles is writing, and was sad to see it not at least get an honor sticker.
I read Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy aloud to my 4th grade son and we both loved it. The voice of Ophelia and the story of the Marvelous Boy is pure magic. The scene is set with beautiful description, Ophelia alone on her quest to save the boy in the grand and mysterious museum run by the icy Miss. Kaminski. The book was funny without being silly and had suspense without being too scary. I loved reading it out loud, the words were perfectly chosen and the story was paced well, marching right along to get us to the end. If you enjoy mystery and magical characters, this book will be a treat!
I'm not sure if it meets the Newbery criteria but it was much enjoyed in our house.
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