Blue Willow Bookshop

Something special happens when a child begins to read independently or when you read a novel aloud to your family.  Whether a classic or a new favorite, novels are a wonderful way for our children to explore the world around them, to take from the books what they need at the time.

Here, then, are the most recent best of the best, the books we couldn't put down!  We've indicated in each review the age level most appropriate for the book. 

The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling (Hardcover)

By Maryrose Wood, Jon Klassen

$15.99

ISBN-13: 9780061791055
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Balzer + Bray, 03/01/2010

As a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope Lumley heads to her new position as a governess at Ashton Place, caring for three children.  Though Penelope is eager to teach  these children proper Latin phrases, it’s a bit of a challenge, as they’ve been raised by wolves – literally.  This is a very funny beginning to a new series for grades 4 and up. – Cathy

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After Ever After (Hardcover)

By Jordan Sonnenblick

$16.99

ISBN-13: 9780439837064
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Scholastic Press, 02/01/2010

Jeffrey, the little brother with cancer in Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie, has grown up and is now a teenager, his cancer in remission, trying to lead a normal life.    His brother, Steven, who he’s always relied on, has moved to Africa to find himself, so Jeffrey’s got to learn how to figure things out on his own.  Jeffrey’s account of his senior year makes us realize the challenges that face cancer survivors – how they’re just like us and how they’re so much stronger than we can ever imagine.  For grades 6 and up. – Cathy

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