Creek Critiques

Matilda experiences culture shock as she moves from Lord Randall’s manor and becomes a simple peasant, apprentice to Red Peg, the bonesetter.  Here she finds herself alone in believing that prayer and study are the only worthy pursuits.  After being around Peg, a woman who at first seems unacceptable because she is uneducated and seemingly unholy, Matilda sees the good in Peg. She realizes that even people with little education, that do not know Latin, can still be intelligent people.  By living a lower-class life than Matilda was raised allowed Matilda to become more understanding and accepting of others.  The most interesting parts of the book were learning about the techniques of medieval medicine.  They used cobwebs for bandages! 

Mrs. Venable’s Rating: ***

Twelve-year-old Catherine struggles between wanting a “normal” life with a “normal” family and wanting to protect her autistic brother, David. Catherine is anxious to meet the new girl next door and doesn’t want her to find out about David. Through the events of this page turner, Catherine makes an unlikely friend and discovers that true friends love you for who you are. You will laugh, cry, be happy, sad and angry during this 200 page read! This is a GREAT book and everyone should read it.

Mrs. Steele’s Rating: **** 

Firegirl by Tori Abbot (145 pages)

This book is about a girl who was severely burned and has to be the new kid in class so she can be close to the hospital. The kids make fun of her except one where he struggles with staying friends with the rest of the group or doing what is right and offering friendship. (friends, school, contemporary fiction)

Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko (225 pages)

Newbery Honor Book, ALA Best Book;  This book tells the story of a family whose father is one of the prison guards where Al Capone is imprisoned. They also live in the quarters with their disabled daughter set in the time when they did not have a name for what she was going through (autism). (family, historical fiction)

One of the best books I have ever read. The book is historical fiction due to the fact the story takes place in a time when people were not accepted due to the color of their skin. In this story the turmoil a girl goes through deciding who is good and what is right from wrong. Moral judgment is the theme for this book. 

Recommended by Mrs. Kringlen

Fun story. This book is about a family who loves being with each other. This book touched my heart because it was about three sisters and I have two older sisters. The story reminds you of all the people in the world that say they care and love you, but you  know the true people who always have unconditional love for you  are your family members.

Recommended by Mrs. Kringlen

I love this book! Anyone boy or girl will get caught up in a story of girl that has no idea what family really is- but as you read you go on this journey filled with interesting places and people and watch the main character develop her definition of family. What a great story!

Recommended by Mrs. Kringlen