Out of my mind by Sharon Draper

 Fifth-grader Melody can read, think, and feel but she cannot speak or walk or feed or take care of herself because of her cerebral palsy.  Told from Melody's point of view, the novel focuses on the challenges she faces the cruelty of others, and the determination of her parents in having her  be "included" in the classroom.  It's an easy read and yet powerful enough for almost any age group. 

The Help by Kathryn Stoddard

The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan

Illustrated by Peter Sis.                                                                                   Judith Brink-Drescher (VOYA, June 2010 (Vol. 33, No. 2))

Neftali Reyes is indeed a dreamer, a young boy easily distracted by an old discarded boot, a wayward umbrella, an oddly shaped stone, or even a pinecone. Items like these he proudly displays, while other treasures containing words he has written on small scraps of paper remain hidden away--words that even a stuttering boy finds beautiful and manageable, especially when applied to stories or poetry. Neftali’s father has no tolerance for such idle thought and considers his writing a meaningless distraction. He demands his son knuckle down and become something sensible, like a businessman, doctor, or dentist. Over time, Neftali matures from a somewhat frail boy into a thin but confident young man and begins to question and resent the limited nature of his father’s belief system. Ultimately, and in an effort to remain true to his own convictions, Neftali develops a few ideas of his own. Fictionally based on the childhood of Pablo Neruda (1904--1973), this book artfully weaves known facts into a tale that depicts the early years of this internationally renowned poet. Infused and alive with nature, drama, mysticism, and grace, this story easily captures the imagination that transports the reader in a way many books aspire to but few attain. Each notable in their own right, the award-winning dream-team collaboration of Munoz-Ryan and Sis has resulted in a marvelous montage of story telling, poetry, and illustration. The Dreamer should readily appeal to both genders, as well as young and old alike. VOYA CODES: 5Q 4P M J (Hard to imagine it being any better written; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 2010, Scholastic, 384p., $17.99. Ages 11 to 15.

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

I may have found my new favorite novel (I know, I say that about every novel I read).  This one focuses on the 60s - my era.  It's a documentary with photos and footage form 1962 - the Kennedys, the Cuban missile crisis, bomb shelters, etc.  I can relate - I remember ducking beneath my desk for practice.  But it's also the stoyr of Franny Chapman whose best friend is  looking for a new best friend, whose uncle lives with her family and relives the "old war" in his head, whose sister may have run away.  I thought the book was exceptional.  I'd be very interested to see how somebody - not from the 60s reacts to it.

Eyes of the Emperor by Graham Salisbury

 It's 1941 in Honolulu and Eddy Okubo wants to joinj the U.S. Army so badly that he lies about his age. Pearl Harbor changes the way his fellow Americans feel about him and other Japanese-Americans.  He is sent on a special assignment - training soldier dogs but he is the bait. What a powerful novel - well-researched (as is Graham Salisbury's style).  Eye-opening account of the treatment of Japanese Americans following Pearl Harbor.

Turtle in Paraidse by Jennifer L. Holm

It's 1935 and 11-year-old Turtle has been sent to Key West to live with her Aunt Minerva. Turtle's mother works as a housekeeper and her new boss does not allow children.  However, the letter announcing her arrival has not reached Key West yet.  An adventure including a search for pirate's treasure in the midst of a hurricane add to this story of life during the Depression.  Turtle gets to know her cousins, her crotchety old grandmother and a fisherman whose grey eyes match her own.  The story is filled with tender family moments, adventure and humor.  Includes an author's note describing her own Key West connections.

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick

Hate to admit I've not read anything by Rodman Philbrick before.  That will end - what a great book - funny, engaging, and yet very tragic.  12-year-old Homer and his older brother, Harold, live with their ruthless uncle.  When Uncle Squinton Leach arranges for underage Harold to join the Union Army, Homer goes off on a quest to find him.  Short chapters make it a good read aloud.  References to the Underground Railroad station, Battle of Gettysburg can lead to further research into historical events of the Civil War period.  A glossary is included.