Book Description

MARTY WILL DO ANYTHING TO SAVE SHILOH

When Marty Preston comes across a young beagle in the hills behind his home, it's love at first sight -- and also big trouble. It turns out the dog, which Marty names Shiloh, belongs to Judd Travers, who drinks too much and has a gun -- and abuses his dogs. So when Shiloh runs away from Judd to Marty, Marty just has to hide him and protect him from Judd. But Marty's secret becomes too big for him to keep to himself, and it exposes his entire family to Judd's anger. How far will Marty have to go to make Shiloh his? ... Read more

Reviews (176)

Shiloh
Shiloh, what a magnificent book. It has many thrills, mystery, tragedy, and fun parts too. I have to say I would give it fout gigantic stars. The book is about a boy who loves animals. He has a mom, dad, and two sisters. One sunny day, the boy, Marty, was shooting his rifle around the forest. He finds a dog on a bridge. Read the book to find out what he names it. The dog follow him home. They find out the beagle belonged to a mean awful man named Judd Travers. He uses his dogs for hunting. The dog would run away from him. Read the book to find out why. The dog comes back, and Marty keeps him for awhile. Do his parents find out he's hiding Shiloh. Does Marty get to keep Shiloh? Please read the book to find out.

by Matt M.

The bond between a boy and a dog
"Shiloh," the novel by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, received the 1992 Newbery Medal "for the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children." While the book is certainly ideal for younger readers, don't be misled by either the award or the publisher's marketing approach: this moving, well-written book is good for adults, too.

"Shiloh" takes place in rural West Virginia. It tells the story of Marty, an 11-year old boy who seeks to shelter an abused beagle from his hard-hearted owner. Reynolds lets Marty tell his story in the first person, and her excellent prose captures the rhythms of rural West Virginia speech (and I say this because I spend a lot of time there with my extended family). Reynolds had me hooked with her opening sentence: "The day Shiloh come, we're having us a big Sunday dinner." Reynold's skill at rendering American vernacular speech evokes, in my mind, favorable comparisons to such authors as Zora Neale Hurston and Alice Walker.

"Shiloh" is rich with the details of life in that region: the food, the hunting, and social customs. Reynolds creates a wonderful portrait of a poor but loving family. But the heart of the book is the way she captures the special bond between a boy and his dog.

"Shiloh" is an "issue" book in the sense that it deals with animal cruelty, but Reynolds wisely tells a realistic story without overtly preaching at the reader. But the book still raises very relevant issues. Marty's moral dilemma is not presented as an easy "black-and-white" situation. Shiloh's owner, Judd, is not a cardboard villain. Marty's ethical and theological inner struggle is comparable to that of the title character in Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Like Huck, Marty is a compelling hero: courageous, loyal, and thoughtful.

In short, "Shiloh" is a contemporary classic, a book with true moral and psychological resonance. Naylor's portrayal of the enduring ties between a child and a beloved animal is comparable to such enduring works as John Steinbeck's "The Red Pony." This moving book deserves a wide audience.

shiloh
Shiloh was a great book. It was about a dog who lived with this evil man. There wa a kid who saw the dog and he wanted It. One day what thekid does is thinking about the dog. The next day the dog followed him so he took the dog home. The owner of the dog found out that is dog was missing so he went looking for his dog. Then he finds his dog. The kid tells the owner if he could have the dog. The owner made a deal with the kid that if he works for him for a month he will give him the dog. Af ter work he gets the dog. In the middle of the book there is this one part where the dog gets attacked by another dog that is probably best part in the book. If I was to rate this book out of ten I would give a ten
By
JJ

A boy who went crazy about a dog
Shiloh is a very interesting book. It is the first book in the Shiloh series. The book is based on a kid called Marty who finds a beagle and names it Shiloh. After one of his neighbors, Judd, comes looking for the dog because it's his. Marty will do anything to to keep the dog, but sometimes he goes too far. In my opinion this book is full of suspense and love. I would recommend this book to anyone that can read because it's good for all ages. I would give this book a four star rating.

Shiloh review for Miss O.
I thought this was a very good book. Most people would enjoy the story. It was entertaining and heartbreaking. The best part of the book was the end. It kept you in suspense. If you want to read a good book this summer, read Shiloh. You won't be sorry. ... Read more

Book Description

THE SHILOH TRILOGY

This contemporary classic trilogy explores the sometimes-unclear line between right and wrong, and the redeeming power of love and kindness. But first and foremost it is an irresistible and heartwarming story of family, friendship, and the strong bond between a boy and his dog. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Book Review on Shiloh
Shiloh is a great and exciting story. A little boy named Marty found a dog and wanted to keep him, it is Judd's dog and he is keeping him. Marty did a lot of work for Judd, but still didn't get Shiloh.
When I think about this book it makes me feel sad and happy. What makes me sad is when a German Shepard attacks Shiloh.
Readers will find this book to be very exciting and want to read on to find out what happens next in the story.

Judd's Actions
Shiloh Season is a great book for kids and adults. Phyllis Reynolds Naylor does a great job explaining the story and keeping you on track throughout the book. Shiloh is about a boy named Marty Preston who sees something he should not have seen. Judd Travers is a mean guy who abuses his dogs. Judd went hunting, when it was not hunting season, and he saw a deer so he killed it. Marty promised that he would not tell anyone that Judd killed a deer if Judd would give up his dog named Shiloh to Marty. Judd agreed. Now Judd is depressed and he drinks and drives. Marty's dad found a beer can on their property, which had the same brand of beer that Judd drinks. Judd continues to drink and hunt more and more often. Shiloh is a very interesting book because I never wanted to stop reading it and it kept coming with surprises. Shiloh is better than other books because it keeps you interested in finding out what happens next throughout the book. Other books are boring and make you want to go to sleep because they are not interesting.

I love this book
I love this book. I also love the sequils! I read the first one in fourth grade and I read the other two in the summer time. I thought all the books were sad espectially this one. judd is a rude selfish and absolutely unkind resident. I just feel so bad about what people in the book had to go through. he steels and lies and never bothers to help anyone! if you like the first book you'll like all of them!

The most exciting book
I loved this book i couldnt put it down especially when shiloh gets attacked by a wild dog and when marty saves shiloh from his owner judd travers i recommed this book to everyone

The Shiloh Trilogy a review by Jacob
Did you ever save an animal from a person who didn't treat it right? In the Shiloh Trilogy, by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, a boy named Marty Preston of Friendly, West Virginia, is the protagonist of this story. Marty dislikes Judd Travers because Judd is treating a dog named Shiloh like a staircase by kicking and abusing him. Judd also shoots his gun just to startle Shiloh and scare him. Shiloh keeps running away from Judd because Judd is cruel to Shiloh. Who wouldn't! Shiloh keeps on running away from Judd's trailer to Marty's house. Should Marty give Shiloh back to the evil clutches of Judd or lie to Judd for the better?
One of the most exciting events of the story is when Judd started drinking. When Judd starts drinking, he becomes dangerous wherever he goes. It is like putting a gun to your head when he is around. Judd was so drunk that one day he drove his own truck into the ditch at midnight. If it wasn't for Shiloh, Judd would have been there until the next morning and that would have been too late. Once Marty and Shiloh were walking around the woods, when Judd tried to shoot at Shiloh or Marty. Will Judd ever stop drinking and stop this chaos?
Another exciting event that happened in the book was when the Prestons invited Judd over for Thanksgiving. We all know how that turned out! Judd just talked about how Marty owes the use of Shiloh for hunting. When Judd was sitting at the Preston's table, Marty's little sister, Becky used the incorrect words that made Judd's blood boil. Becky has the biggest mouth! Judd stomped out the door without a "thank you" or a "goodbye". Do you want to know what the words Becky used that made Judd so mad? Too bad. You have to read the story yourself!
After all this, will Judd come to his senses and accept the fact that Shiloh rightfully belongs to Marty? Will Judd stop drinking? Will Becky ever learn to watch what she says? Find out by reading the Shiloh Trilogy by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This is an outstanding book for children to read.
This book will definitely appeal to many children, especially those who may be dealing with a bully. Everyday Kevin walks to the neighborhood playground in hope of having great fun. But each day, without failure, a boy named Sammy is there. Whenever Kevin approaches a piece of equipment, Sammy will say he can not go on it because he is the "King of the Playground" then threatens to hurt Kevin if he does not listen. Together, Kevin and his father discuss what Sammy is doing to Kevin, and they work through the difficult situation. Soon Kevin gains enough confidence to stand up for himself, and does with remarkable results! I enjoyed seeing how Kevin could open up to his father and how they, together worked out the problem. The understandable text and colorful illustrations flow together smoothly, and add a great deal of feeling to the plot.

great problem solving and coping skills exhibited
As a Kindergarten teacher I make a point to read this book every year to my students, to show them that a scary or seemingly hopeless situation can result in a good friendship with a little perservernce and creativity. I like the fact that the Dad was a good source of support for the child, and that the Dad is shown working outside and inside the house in some non-traditional roles. Buoyed by his father's support, Kevin returns to the playground, always trying new ways to secure a spot on the playground. Children need more tools like this for resolving conflict in a non-violent manner. ... Read more

Book Description

... Read more

Reviews (27)

The book The Boys Start the War:The Girls Get Even was good!
In this fast-moving, funny book which is two in one, the Hatford boys try to get the Malloy girls to move back where they came from. Their friends, the Bensons, moved away and the Malloys moved in to their house. In The Boys Start the War, the boys and girls start pulling pranks on each other, each one more hilarious than the next! In The Girls Get Even, the two families try to outdo each other in Halloween costumes, until a surprising turn of events happen! This book is great!

The Boys Start The War, The Girls Get Even
The Boys Start The War was a good book because they play pranks on the new girls that just moved across the street. A prank they played on the girls was the boys put dead fish in the Buckman river. The Girls Get Even was a good book because Caroline, one of the sister's, ruins the boys halloween costume for the parade. These were the best books I have ever read because they are very humorous.

Boys start the war
This is really cool.It can be for 3-??yrs old.Pluse it takes places in my hometown Buckhannon,WV.The school they go to has beem turn into a building for 5-18 year olds,called Stockert Youth Center.The Mallory girls are really cool!!The Boys are trying to get the girls out of their old best friends house by playing tricks and being mean,and the girls try to show the boys the can't tear them away from Buckman wich really is Buckhannon.Read it!!Its cool!!

How many stars can I put?
This is one of the best books I ever read. Allow me to indroduce the characters.
The Hatfords:
Jake and Josh are 11-year-old twins. Josh is kinda nice, the quieter of the two, who loves to draw. Jake seems pretty heartless at first (at least if you're a girl), but when I read further into the book, he got better. Wally is 9. He's the one who narrates every other chapter. He's okay, I guess. 7-year-old Peter is the cutest of all the boys.
The Malloys:
Eddie is 11 and loves baseball. Beth is 10 and loves to read. 8-year-old Caroline is a budding actress, and trades narration with Wally.
I think this a good book, even though I wish the girls would have won at the end.

The Boys Start The War The Girls Get Even
The name of this book is The Boys Start the War/ The Girls Get Even by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. This book is a really good book. The Hatford boys are playing tricks on their new neighbors the Malloy girls. Now the Malloys girls are really mad and have to get back at them. The Malloy girls are Eddie (whose real name is Edith Ann but hates it) 11 years old, Beth who is ten and Caroline who is eight, but is in third grade. The Hatford boy's names and ages are Josh and Jake who are 11 (they are twins.), Wally is nine and Peter who is seven. The Hatford boys and the Malloy girls are playing tons of tricks on each other. To find out what happens read The Boys Start the War/ The Girls Get Even. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I'm 13
I read this book a cople of years ago. I think this book is good for any who wants laugh. This book is soo funny it will have you rolling you should read ever one of theses books. there are the can of boks that will have you rolling with laugter. Theres an other book befor this one and that is a relly funny book too. And it is about these brothes and sisters that live next door to each togher fighting and get even back with each togher. I think these books are the best books that Phyllis Reynolds Naylor have worte and I think ever one will love these books!

Good Reading for Pranksters
This story is about the three Malloy sisters, Caroline, Eddie and Beth and the four Hartford brothers, Jake, Josh and Wally. They live across the river from each other. The girls are trying to get even with the boys for the tricks they've played on them since they moved in. The girls first plan to steal the boys clothes while they were sleeping in a tent. But the girls get caught and run back home. Most of the story talks about what the Malloy's and the Hartford's are going to be for Halloween and how they are trying to ruin each others costumes. My favorite character is Caroline because she is the oldest and is bossy. I relate to Beth Malloy because she is the youngest, she's smart and she comes up with a lot of the ideas. I have been in parades like the kids.
At first the book seemes boring but it got more interesting as I continued reading. My favorite part is where they made the youngest, Peter eat the pie Mrs. Malloy sent to Mrs. Hartford. They thought the girls had done something to it. The boys replaced the pie with one from the bakery. I think it would make it interesting if the girls and boys were in the same family. Then they would play tricks on each other all the time.
I would recommend this book. It is funny and fun to read. You probably won't like the beginning because it doesn't really tell you much about what's going on.I would recommend this book to pranksters. But I would also recommend this book to people who dislike their neighbors. That's why I recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

He wasn't the worst man in the world, but he wasn't the nicest, either. That's what this man's wife understands as they head off to market to sell a basket of fish. And when he is grumpy with the various people they encounter along the way -- a young girl herding geese, the boy guarding the village gate, even the man with whom they trade their fish -- she is hardly surprised. After all, when husband and wife have been married a good long time, they get used to each other's ways. But when she catches sight of a table of plump red strawberries and her husband is too stingy to buy any, it's simply the last straw! Now, what will it take for this stingy, grumpy, impatient man to cheer her up again?

Newbery Medal winner Phyllis Reynolds Naylor spins a droll tale of foibles and forgiveness, warmly captured in Rosalind Charney Kaye's charming illustrations. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Tale of treating people well...the difference it can make.
Beautifully textured illustrations with expression and humor enhance this tale of the benefits of treating people with kindness and consideration. ... Read more

Book Description

SUMMER IS AROUND the corner, and the rivalry between the Malloys and the Hatfords is heating up! The kids have two weeks to earn money for a fundraising contest sponsored by the local hospital. Those who collect $20 or more for the new children’s wing can choose to be in the annual Strawberry Festival Parade or get all the strawberry treats they can eat.

There’s only one place Caroline Malloy—wants to be: smack dab in the middle of the glamourous Strawberry Queen’s float. But how will she earn the money in such a short time? Do the Hatford brothers have moneymaking secrets that they’re not telling the girls? ... Read more

Book Description

There are strange goings-on once again in Middleburg. Someone has put up posters warning townspeople that the dreaded Indiana Aztec bat has been sighted in the area. What's more, the town is in an uproar over the bells recently placed in the church belfry that chime every hour -- twenty-four hours a day! It seems the whole town is going batty with the constant pealing!

Bernie Magruder is determined to get to the bottom of things. Who put up all those posters about a species of bat no one has ever heard of? What can the townspeople do to return some peace to their lives? And are the bats that Bernie and his family see swooping about the belfry the dreaded Indiana Aztecs? Looks like Bernie, and his two friends Georgene and Weasel, have their work cut out for them again! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This book is sure to entertain any reader.
Bernie Magruder's life should be ordinary and normal, yet it isn't. For one thing, strange and dangerous bats from South America are said to be flying towards his town and everyone is scared stiff at the very idea of bats moving in. Then there is the problem of the bells, the church bells. Every hour they clang out, "Abide with me," and the racket is beginning to have a very negative effect on the people of Middleburg. Some people want to turn off the bells, but some insist that they must continue their hourly cacophony.

It is with horror that Bernie's family finds out that a bat has flown in through one of the hotel windows. The last place Bernie and his family want to see a bat is anywhere near their home, the Bessledorf Hotel. Bernie's father is the manager of the hotel, so if anything goes wrong, he will be blamed for it. As always, keen to get into the thick of things, Bernie takes it upon himself to try to find the errant bat with the help of his two best friends.

As Halloween approaches, a large number of bats are seen flying around the church belfry, home of those same bells that are driving almost everyone in town mad with their noise. Now no one is willing to turn the bells off because they are afraid of the bats. Will all the people of Middleburg be driven mad by the musical bells, or will they die after being bitten by the Indiana Aztec Bat? Bernie Magruder is determined to find out what is going on in his town before it is too late.

This book is sure to entertain any reader with its gripping and off-the-wall story, as well as its delightfully eccentric characters. This is one of several amusing books about Bernie Magruder.

(...) ... Read more

Book Description

Valentine’s Day is coming up and love is in the air between Beth Malloy and Josh Hatford. When they are spotted holding hands, Josh tells his teasing brothers that he’s simply spying on the girls to see what they’re plotting next. When Caroline Malloy decides she must know what it’s like to fall in love, too, poor Wally Hatford is in for it!

Meanwhile, big sister Eddie couldn’t care less about that mushy stuff. All she cares about is her sixth-grade science fair project. But when she comes up with a great plan, Josh and Jake Hatford horn in on her project. On the day the plan goes into action, little do the boys know that Eddie has a trick up her sleeve. And with daredevil Caroline’s amazing attention-getting stunt, trouble is sure to follow. Get ready, the Malloys and Hatfords are at it again!
... Read more

Reviews (6)

a great read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
this book is great!!! its easy to read and is fun too!! i love all the books in this series for they are funny and well written and this book is just as good!!!

READ IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

great book
i just love this series its a great book after reading the previous books its funny how josh and beth fall in love and what the rest of the gang has in store. I recommend this book

It's a laugh
I loved this book. It is always a laugh to check up on the Malloys and the Hatfords. If you need to laugh then I recommend this hole sires. I won't give away the book but there is a little twist in this book!

A step backwards
Having read the previous books in the series aloud to my kids, I was happy to see the next one available. After reading it, however, I have to admit I was a little disappointed. It seemed pretty formulaic. I also was not pleased with the "suicide," though Mom's reaction and subsequent talk with Caroline salvaged the scene somewhat. I have to confess to a little irritation at the kids-know-best-parents-don't-understand angle at the end as well. May her next book be fresher and more family oriented.

A Spy Among the Girls
A Spy Among the Girls is fun on its own, but is even more so with the added background of the five earlier books. Naylor's newest book in this series is again centered around the three Malloy girls and their neighbors, the four Hatford boys. Readers will enjoy the fast paced events. They will identify with the children, who in some ways have lives like their own. They will see that problems can be resolved. They will laugh as they discover the answers to questions: Is Josh a spy among the girls, or is he falling for Beth? What is an abaguchie? Will Eddie have a good science fair project with Josh and Jake's assistance? Can Wally escape from Caroline? Does he want to? Is Caroline already an actress? Can the Malloys and Hatfords live peacefully as neighbors? Check out this book and enjoy! ... Read more

Book Description

It's December and Christmas is coming, but Caroline Malloy and Wally Hatford aren't singing carols around the tree. Instead these sworn enemies must interview each other for the dreaded December class project. Caroline, as usual, has a trick up her sleeve that's sure to shock Wally in front of the entire class. That's just the first step in her gross-out Wally plan.

In the meantime, Wally and his brothers find a way to spy on the Malloy girls at home. The girls vow to get revenge on those sneaky Hatfords with a trap the boys won't soon forget. To make matters worse, Caroline and Wally are really in for it when the gross-out gifts meant for each other end up in the most unexpected places. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The BEST book
The Girl's Revenge is one of many books about the Hatfords and the Malloys.I love the sieries and think that this author is a very good writer!

Excellent reading
The Girls' Revenge is a really good book. I like the way Phyllis Reynolds Naylor can continue this series to the fourth book without having the excitement or comedy drag. I especially liked the fact that Peter keeps going over to the enemy camp, much to his brothers' anger and embarassment. I would recommend this book to any Phyllis Reynolds Naylor fan.

Exiting
I really liked this book it's really funny. It takes place in December. I would explain, but that would give it away.

Perfect!!
I dont know what to say it was great. I just finshed reading it so its still fresh in my mind. The one thing I can say is Naylor better make another!! If you raed the frist three books you must read this one. The whole book is great but what i reall want to read is one where the Benson's move back but the Mollys find a house in that same place that would be great. Like I said this is a must read!!

Fast pased, exciting, very, very enjoyable!
Having read the other three books in this series I was delighted to find this installment. Naylor's plot twists are unpredictable, yet belivable. Her hints about an upcomming relationship between Beth and Josh will draw mixed reactions from readers, but all will eagerly read on to find out what will develop. Funny, fun, fabulous reading! ... Read more

Book Description

It’s spring break and the only assignment Wally Hatford and Caroline Malloy have is to do something that they have never done before. Wally’s sure that will be a cinch once he hears the great news about the mighty Benson brothers coming to stay for vacation. It will be nonstop action all the way. For starters, the nine Benson and Hatford boys plan on scaring the three Malloy sisters silly by convincing them that their house is haunted. Of course, the boys don’t know that the girls are hard at work plotting their own special surprise welcome. The Bensons don’t know what they’re up against with the Malloy girls. But they soon will.

Meanwhile, everyone in town knows there’s a hungry cougar on the prowl. When the kids decide to take a break from their tricks and join forces in catching the cougar, guess who gets stuck with the scariest job? This will surely be something no one has ever done before.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Please write more
I HAVE TO SAY THAT THESE ARE SOME OF THE FUNNIEST BOOKS I'VE READ. I READ THE FIRST ONE WHEN I WAS EIGHT AND STILL ENJOY THEM EVEN THOUGH I'M TURNING THIRTEEN IN SEPTEMBER. MRS. NAYLOR IN THE AUTHOR DESCRPTION IN MY COPY IT SAYS THAT YOU WERE CONSIDERING FIVE MORE BOOKS-ONE FOR EACH MONTH- ABOUT THE REST OF THE MALLOY'S STAY. IS THAT TRUE? PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS. THE END OF THE BOYS RETURN JUST LEAVES US HANGING. DID EDDIE MAKE THE SOFTBALL TEAM? WHAT ABOUT JOSH AND JAKE? DID THEY MAKE THE TEAM TOO? DID THE MALLOY'S STAY IN BUCKMAN OR DID THE BENSONS COME BACK? PLEASE WRITE MORE? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE....ETC.....ETC.....?

Fun leisure reading
It's spring break and not only are the friendly/feuding Hatford and Malloy children up to their usual tricks, but they're joined by the Benson boys, visiting their old hometown. Trouble starts when the boys decide to concoct a ghost story to share the girls - and the savvy girls respond with one better. Perhaps not as hilarious as some of the others in the series; but still fun leisure reading.

great series
Books 1-3 are the best. My daughter, 7 years old, just *loved* these books. ... Read more

Book Description

All Alice wants is a friend.

Well, a pet and pierced ears and really long hair would be nice, too -- and most of all, Alice wishes she still had a mother. But starting third grade in a new school in a new town can be lonely, especially if the closest thing you have to a friend is weird Donald Sheavers from next door.

But even making new friends can't solve all of Alice's problems. Somehow she manages to get into trouble for a stupid lie, and to get on the wrong side of a bullying crossing guard and three snooty girls whom Alice calls "the Terrible Triplets." Will Alice ever feel at home in Takoma Park? ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Meet Alice-you're sure to love her
This book is a good introduction if you've never read an Alice book, and a cute look at Alice before we knew her if you're already a fan. The Alice prequels have an innocent charm similar to that of Beverly Cleary's "Ramona Quimby" books. In this novel, Alice has just moved to Maryland and is starting the third grade. The book begins with Alice listing her likes and dislikes, and we can see the start of the Alice we know and love in this little girl. The book covers a year of her life, showing her early embarrassments and triumphs, some of which are mentioned later on in other books, some brand new. Remember the poem for the milkman ..?.. This is a cute novel that I would recommend to any young girl, whether she's heard of Alice or not.

I COULDN'T PUT THE BOOK DOWN!
I've always been interested in reading the "Alice" series, but I just never got around to it. But when I saw this book, that is before the first book but made after the first book, I decided to give it a chance. IT WAS TERRIFIC! I don't know how it affects later books, but it was great. Alice is 8 and in 3rd grade. Her mother died long ago and she lives with her father and older brother. They have just moved to Takoma Park, Maryland. Alice is having trouble making friends. But she soon sees that there are some great parts about her new life. This book was fantastic and I would recommend it and the rest of the series for people who like to read series. Even if you don't like to read series, if you read this book, you will want to keep reading and will soon see that "Starting With Alice" and the rest of the series is terrific.

a perfect start for us younger readers!!
I loved this book....I couldn't put it down. Parts of it I read with my mom and she helped explain some things I didn't understand. It made me really appreciate that I have a mom and also I thought it was sad and funny. I can't wait for the next 2 books for younger readers like me!!

Absolutely Great
Starting With Alice was one of the best books I've ever read. I liked the way I felt like I was Alice doing the things she did and feeling the way she felt.
Starting With Alice is a book about an eight-year old girl named Alice McKinley. Alice's mother died when Alice was in kindergarten. Her ears pierced and to have long hair are things Alice realy wants, but most of all she wants a mother.
In third grade Alice moves to Maryland, and can't make any frinds excapt Donald Sheavers a boy who lives next door. Once Alice makes a friend they have to worry about these three girls Alice nicknamed "The Terrible Triplets." Alice also does't want Donalds mother as her mom, who seems to have an eye on Alice's dad.
I think that the middle of the book felt long and it dragged, because the same kinds of things kept happening. This made it kind of predictable.
One of the messages it taght me was not to judge people by the way they look.
I hope this books intrests you now. If it doesn't there are other books in the Alice series that are really good too.

Alice is Awesome!
I loved this book from the first page, when Alice makes out her list of loves "Felt tipped pens, sixty four colors" and hates "Anything with gravy". From that first page, Naylor creates in Alice the little girl that I remember being, the difficulties of moving from the territory of childhood to pre-adolescence, wanting to be accepted but not wanting to change in order to do so.
This is the first of three prequels to Naylor's Alice series that is incredibly popular with YA girls, yet it works well as a stand alone. I have read a few of the other Alice books and they are great, but this is geared for a younger audience. I believe any young girl could empathize with Alice's trials & tribulations, being called into the principal's office for disregarding the cross-walk guard because she has it "in" for you, as well as rejoice with her triumphs, inviting your peer tormentors to a party and having them show up with gifts!
I think this is an excellent book for kids and their parents, who often forget just how difficult it is to be a kid! ... Read more

Book Description

Alice and Patrick are getting married! They have to plan a wedding and honeymoon and set up a home, all for five thousand dollars -- as an assignment for a Critical Choices unit in health class. And some of their classmates are facing even tougher make-believe situations.

But sometimes Alice feels as if her real life is just as complicated. Critical Choices is supposed to teach Alice and her friends how to make decisions -- but how can you plan for anything when life seems like an obstacle course? ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Alice in Lace book review
Alice in Lace Athenium books, 1996, 139 pages, $15.00 by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor ISBN # : 0-698-80358-3

' "I am getting married," she said.' Alice McKinley is faced with a hypothetical situation. It is an assignment Mr. Everrett assigned to help them learn to make good decisions. Alice and her fellow classmates were faced with marriage, shoplifting, teenage pregnancy, totaling a car, and organizing a funeral. Alice and her friend Patrick have to plan a honeymoon, wedding, and furniture with a low budget to spend. It seems to be easy but it is harder than it looks. Then, Alice spots the vice principal in Sylvia Summers classroom begging for another chance. It wouldn't be so bad, but Sylvia is dating Alice's father. What should she do? There is also a new addition to the family of Elizabeth, Alice's best friend.
This is a great book for young teens. It tells about the some teen problems and how they solve them. There is a lot of humor and will make you want to keep reading. I love this series and always makes me laugh one time or another. Other books in the Alice series are "The Agony of Alice", "Alice in April", and "All but Alice".

Alice never knew life was this complicated...
"Alice in Lace" was another great novel on Alice McKinley, an ordinary 13 year-old girl.

In this novel, Alice and Patrick are getting married, Pamela is pregnant, and Elizabeth is buying a car. Not to mention Karen shoplifting and Jill burying her grandmother! What? Well, it's all part of the Critical Choices unit in Alice's 8th grade class: everyone receives a hypothetical situation and solves it.

This book was filled with humor, especially when Alice and her friends try to solve their situations! Teenages can really relate to this book. :) Be sure to read all of the other "Alice" books!

PAUL ROSA'S RIVIEW
I'm a boy and I still love the Alice Books, my reading teacher got e into them. I liked this book the most because I've always wanted to do a critical thinking in health class but I've never had the chance. This is a great book I recomend it

Alice in Lace
Alice in Lace Athenium books, 1996, 139pages, $15.00 by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor ISBN # : 0-698-80358-3-

' 'I am getting married,' she said.' Alice McKinley is faced with a hypothetical situation. It is an assignment Mr. Everrett assigned to help them learn to make good decisions. Alice and her fellow classmates were faced with marriage, shoplifting, teenage pregnancy, totaling a car, and organizing a funeral. Alice and her friend Patrick have to plan a honeymoon, wedding, and furniture with a low budget to spend. It seems to be easy but it is harder than it looks. Then, Alice spots the vice principal in Sylvia Summers classroom begging for another chance. It wouldn't be so bad, but Sylvia is dating Alice's father. What should she do? There is also a new addition to the family of Elizabeth, Alice's best friend.
This is a great book for young teens. It tells about the some teen problems and how they solve them. There is a lot of humor and will make you want to keep reading. I love this series and always makes me laugh one time or another. Other books in the Alice series are 'The Agony of Alice', 'Alice in April', and 'All but Alice'.

This book rocks!!
Go Naylor!!! Okay, first of all, I would like to reccomend all the Alice series, not just this one. I love this book and loved also all the other 7 Alice books that I read. My friend reccomended it to me back in 7th grade, and once you read few pages you can't stop, you would want to finish it!!!

As I said earlier.... Go Phyllis!! Your books rocks!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Finally, Alice is thirteen. But being a teenager isn't always as fantastic as Alice dreamed it would be. A sophisticated night on the town with her brother, Lester, and an overnight train trip to Chicago with Elizabeth and Pamela are exciting, but they also give her a first-hand look at some of the perils of grown-up life.

The problem is, Alice doesn't really feel like a grown-up. But she doesn't feel like a kid anymore, either. She feels in-between -- and that's a pretty confusing place to be! ... Read more

Reviews (16)

So realistic!
Alice in Between is my favorite book in the Alice series, of 12 books. It tells about Alice McKinley, who has just turned 13 at the end of seventh grade, and expects it to be wonderful. However, being a teenager and at an "in between" age is harder than she thinks, though she and her friends still have some great, often hilarious times together. A fancy date, taking the "pencil test", and going on a train trip to Chicago are a few of the things that happen. This is a book that all girls 11 and up can relate to, I'm sure! I've never read a book that is so true to life - Phyllis Naylor is amazing! If you liked this book, be sure to read the others in the series.

HDGAWVBVNGHFGHFGXXX-NARF-DAF NBBSSGFDSC!!!!
Sorry, that was me freaking out at how good this book was! I found it even more realistic and even more popping! I now feel I am one of the characters in this book. I also think that the part of the story where Pamela dressed up to be nineteen, got a date with a guy, flirted with him all night, kissed him, went into her compartment, the guy followed her in and if it hadn't been for Alice and Elizabeth throwing themselves at the door and screaming, she would've been raped very cautionary! Take this story to heart, no grain of salt needed and you may be surprised at how feel when this story is over.

Blessed be!!

It is about growing up....
this book is really great. it's about alice turning 13 and she, Pamela, and Elizabeth going to Chicago over the summer for a week. To visit Aunt Sally because that was her b-day present to Alice.
At the end of the year, a teacher retires and Miss Summers gives everyone an assignment about poetry that is true. I like this book because the author indicates about friendships, going through changes when you're 13, and learning about sad things that had happened back in the past.
Like the fact Alice had accidentally memorized her wrong poem in class. The poem she had said was about her mother. It was sentimental and really sad.
So on the train to Chicago, Pamela meets a guy who is disrepectful. So read it for yourself. It explains about REAL teenage life and friendships. And Pamela gets gum in her hair and getting it cut really short.
Elizabeth tells Alice and Pamela about God. Like refusing to forgive someone is an unforgiveable sin and what God looks like in her opinion.
Alice's dad and Miss Summers go at a music conference together in Michigan when Alice gets back. So for the second time, read this if you're curious with REAL teenage life as 13.

A Fun Mistake
I must say this is the best mistake I ever read....I mean that as a compliment because this story rox! This is a very funny and fun crazy unique story that will make you laugh when you turn to the first page..IM TELLING YOU, READ THIS, WHETHER YOU BUY IT, BORROW IT FROM THE LIBRARY, STEAL IT, i dont care, this is the best book ever and its about three friends on a 'road trip' on a train. P.S. Something very shocking happens to pamela on the train!

This is a great book
I picked this book because it is a great book for kids to read when they are getting older. It talks about three friends who couldnt wait to be 13. But when they were finally 13 Alice thought she was in between. She didnt think she was like her friends not acting too old like Pamela or not acting like a little kid like Elizabeth. I would recommend this book to kids. It is a great book because this book talks about getting older and getting more mature. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Delightful reading
Marco and Polo were the housecats of Mr. and Mrs. Neal. However, the Neals did not know the two cats could talk. After all, it did not sound like English to the humans. Marco could also read! The cats had been trained not to go outside but Marco escaped once for an hour. Due to that, and Marco reading about something called a "ranch", the two cats carefully planned their escape into the world. Neither knew all the hardships they would face, nor the wonderful adventures they would have.

*** A delightful tale that is perfect for a child's first chapter book. Great for ages 8 - 14. Here is one that will be read and reread many times, and never to be forgotten! ***

The Grand Escape
I am an elementary school library media specialist and read this book aloud to children of all ages. We all love it! It is humorous and curious and the mystery always keeps the students' attention. You can't go wrong here. Anyone who has cats will be especially entertained. A real winner!
M Powell
Roswell, Ga.

A great funny book!
The Grand Escape is a great book and very funny. I am 9 years old and I live in Ohio. I got this book from Amazon. The day I got it, I started reading it. It was hilarious!

For Younger Readers
I had to read this book for school and thought it was going to be pointless and cheezy . . . I was somewhat right! The book is about two house cats, Marco and Polo, who have a dream of going to a ranch. They run away from home and want to join the Club of Mysteries. To be able to join they have to figure out three great mysteries, like 'when it rains where does the rain go?' I think was one.

The Grand Escape is probably geared to younger readers like the 6-10 crowd. It was a cute story idea, kind of like the things you see in Disney movies, but I think that's what it should of been: a Disney movie. Probably an okay thing to read to your six year old sister but other than that, not something you would want to read on your own time.

I gave it two stars because of the fact that it was supposedly supposed to be for preteen readers -- I disagree -- and the fact that it seemed a little too happy and fluffy, again so much like a Disney movie.

Recomendations: Shiloh, it's by the same author and might be able to fit into the preteen catagory . . . then again maybe not. I didn't really like it but if you liked the Grand Escape you probably would like it.

One of the best books I have read.
The Grand Escape is about two cats named Marco and Polo and how they get into the Club of Mysteries, a group of cats that solve mysteries, such as what controls masters and what makes the sun rise and set. The plot sucks you in and keeps you reading. It's funny and adventurous, and if you're a cat lover, you'll like it even more. There are other books in the series, too, The Healing of Texas Jake is the second one, and there's another one called Carlotta's Kittens. I hope there are more! I think cat lovers of all ages would enjoy this book. I'm an 8 year old girl (Mom's typing this for me!), but I think boys would enjoy it as much as girls. ... Read more

Book Description

Abaguchie mania! Caroline Malloy shivers happily when her on-again, off-again enemy Wally Hatford tells her that a strange animal known as the abaguchie has been spotted in their neighborhood. According to Wally, an abaguchie skeleton was found years ago in the cellar of Oldaker's bookstore.

Wally swears Caroline to secrecy and warns her not to go down and search for herself. But Caroline will do anything to solve the mystery of the bones. Wally, who's sure that boys are smarter than girls, tries to foil her plan. Caroline knows girls are smarter than boys and means to prove it with the help of her sisters. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Um, all these reviews are for the wrong book!
Have you noticed something strange here? All the previous reviews on this page are for another book and another author, just the same title. This review is for Sweet Valley Twins #17, "Boys Against Girls". I hope that clears up some confusion. I Really liked this book when I was in the age group; it played out a lot of frustrations I had with my brothers! The twin's class has a new teacher who always taught boys before. He makes some unwelcome changes and the girls go on the warpath to prove they are just as good as the boys.
By the way, is there a place where I can review the reviews?

Boys Against Girls the book you should read!!!
I read Boys Against Girls for a book report. It is the best book I have read. Wally and his brothers think they are smarer than the girls when they built an Abaguchie( the monster in the town in the book) trap. But that night they herd the bell that they connected to the trap. Did they catch the Abaguchie. You should read to find out. I really enjoyed this book. There are alot of things adults wold laugh at. If you want a funny book, this one will keep you laughing for hours. Please read this book. If you think it dosen't look good from the cover. you should use the saying " Never Judge a book by a cover." I really enjoyed it and you will too. Read Boys Against Girls.

Boys Against Girls
I think this is a pretty good book overall. I doubt adults would like it, but kids my age would. This is a book for both, boys and girls. I liked how the book was written because there were three boys in a family and three girls in a family that lived by each other. I liked how the author put in both sexes so it's just not a boy book or just a girl book.
In a small town, there lived two certain families, the Hatford and the Malloy family. The Hatford family consists of three boys, the Malloy family consists of three girls.
The two families were neighbors and they loved to these each other, so the Hatford boys thought they had a great idea by going to tell the girls that the animal, the Abaguchie, exsisted and was spotted close where they live. The Malloy girls believed the guys, as the Hatford boys just keep on playing along with them like the animal really exsisted and it was close to their house.
(...)
Overall, I would say this book was pretty well written for a kid my age.

My sister told me to shut up I was laughing so hard
Abaguachie is round and Coroline in scared. Wally says that the abaguachie has been seen in the neighborhood for several years. Wally says there is bones in the celler of Oldkers bookstore. wally thinks boys are smarter than girls. But caroline with the help of her sisters will show the boys whose smarter. Hind out and read Boys anganist Girls. You'll luv it!

Excelent book
I read Boys Against Girls by Phyllis Reynold Neylor, this is a Realistic Fiction book. This story takes place in West Virginia in the modern life. The author shows all the characters in the first chapter. This story is about the four Hatford brothers and the three Malloy sisters, they made tricks to each other every day. Wally Hatford told Caroline Malloy that a strange creature known as the Abaguchie has been spotted in the area. From that moment they start to scare each other. The author mixes suspense with funny things. This book is for people that likes weird things. I liked this book a lot because at the end it gets a little strange, I recommend it and I give five stars. ... Read more

Book Description

Alice McKinley is about to become a teenager, but she doesn't know how. Her mother has been dead for years, and what do her father and her nineteen-year-old brother, Lester, know about being a teenage girl?

If only she had a role model, like the beautiful sixth-grade teacher Miss Cole. But instead Alice gets assigned to plain, pear-shaped Mrs. Plotkin's class. Is Alice doomed to a life of one embarrassment after another? ... Read more

Reviews (40)

Great Series!!
This is my favorite Alice book so far! I am so hooked on this series that I can't put the book down, I can relate to it so much,especially this book because I(unlike Alice) was homeschooled and am going to school for the very first time this year, what is like Alice is that I am going into the 6th grade and share the same problems with her. I can REALLY relate to this book, even the librarian at the elementary school(who is probably about late 30's early 40's,maybe even 50's!!)likes this series. I think that even though she talks about sex in the other books it is still OK for preteens. I mean come on, i already know what sex is!(and hope other 6th graders do by NOW!!!). I can relate to it so much I am starting to think that Phyllis Reynolds Naylor wrote the book about me!! I recommend this book to girls 10 to 13 because she is only in 6th grade and this book is better if you're around the same age as her.

This Book is Wonderful
For any girl who would like to jump into a good series, start with the Agony of Alice. It is so funny and I laughed through the whole book. Alice is trying to learn how to be a teenager, but since she doesn't have a mother, she's doing it all wrong-she pulls somebody's hair onstage, kicks a teacher's arm in the Halloween parade, and still can't buy a bra, to name a few embarrassing incidents.

Also, I have been reading the other reviews of the Alice books and notice that quite a bit of them have been complaining about the sexual content. So, if you're wondering what age is appropriate and which isn't, I have a guideline: most girls that have done the Family Life course at school are mature enough for the Alice books, because the books don't really cover any more than what you learn in Family Life (in fact, sometimes Family Life is a lot worse).

I loved this book and would recommend it to any preteen or teen girl.

Not the best, but it was still great!
As the first Alice book in the series, I'm not sure how it continued, but I'm glad. It defenitly was not the best Alice book, but it was still great. I wasn't found of it, but I still read it in2 days. The Grooming of Alice was the first Alice book I read, (I hadn't discovered the whole series), and this was the fourth. Some of the funny parts in the book was when she wanted to get Miss Cole and went to the principal's office just so he'd swicth her! I'll say that toward the end I really enjoyed it, so if it seems a little dull in the beginning, I'll tell you it gets a WHOLE lot better. I still really liked this one!
-Scooby

The 1st Book
Alice's mother died when she was young, leaving her alone with her 19 year old brother Lester, and her Dad. This book, and the whole series, is how she struggles through growing up without a female role model.

When Alice first starts 6th grade, she is certain she will be in the class with the most beautiful teacher, who will be her perfect role model. Instead, she is chosen for plain, old Mrs. Plotkin. She tries to get kicked out of her class, but with hilarious results. Alice learns that you need to pay more attention to the inside, than the outside.

I enjoyed this book. I think a lot of kids can relate to this book. Who here hasn't wanted the most beautiful teacher? I recommend you also read the rest of the series too.

A good read for adolescent girls
I love the Alice series, I am one of Phylis Reynold Naylor's great big stampeding fans, but--to be truthful to you, buddy boy--I didn't find this one nearly as riveting as the others. It is interesting and a good start for the other books, just a little slow. I really did love the whole Alice/Patrick saga and Alice's emotions are just like any girl's. If you want to feel all sorts of things--happy, sad, EMBARRASSED, angry, angst, disapointed, hysterically tickled, numb, and just plain content--follow along with Alice in her first adventure. Read the other books in order, as well, as Alice grows physically and mentally.

A GREAT READ!

If you want some more emotions read the rest of the Alice series, The Princess Diaries Series by Meg Cabot, the Georgia Nicholson Series by LOuise Rennison and the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling.

BLESSED BE!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's books are true to life, funny, and, most of all, well written -- you'd think that she doesn't have to work at writing at all. She makes it seem easy,

But it isn't. Writing was not her first choice of a career, and even though creating stories might have been simple, getting them published was not. It took a long time -- and many rejection slips -- before she had a story accepted. But even that taught her more about her craft. How I Came to be a Writer is Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's story about her stories, from her first work in kindergarten to her most recent books. Illustrated with photographs, and including samples of her earlier writing, this book will show you the inner workings of the writing process, from the spark of an idea to a book's actual publication. Among Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's more than 80 books for children and adults are Eddie, Incorporated and The Solomon System (both available as Aladdin paperbacks). ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A very real picture.
HOW I CAME TO BE A WRITER, is a biography with some writing instruction, and one writer's personal publication story woven in. Naylor, the Newbery-winning author of SHILOH and many other popular books, here writes about her early efforts, rejections, and successes.

Naylor explains that her mother came from Iowa and her father's parents moved from Mississippi to live in Maryland. Having roots in both the Midwest and the Deep South made her family a little different, and she discusses this contrast in cultures. Her family and their backgrounds also helped to shape Naylor's thinking and inspire the settings of her stories. Naylor was born in Anderson, Indiana, in 1933. Times were hard everywhere in the US as this was the Great Depression, but Naylor's parents always made certain that books were a part of their lives. Her parents read to her and her siblings every night, and books were the toys and props the children used when they played.

As a child, Naylor never imagined that she would grow up to be a writer, mostly because she enjoyed writing too much! She imagined that occupations were serious things, not something that one loved to do. She wrote stories and stapled together homemade books throughout her childhood with no thought that she would ever write for a living. At age 16, Naylor published her first story. She then assumed writing would be a breeze, but she discovered through rejection and failure that a writer's life was far from easy. Learning to write well and get paid for it would be every bit as hard as learning any other occupation.

In this book, Reynolds Naylor includes pictures of herself and her family, plus pictures of her book covers. She tells how the ideas for her books come to her, including how she organizes the vast amount of materials she uses in researching her books. For example, she got the idea for SHILOH from a very real little dog. I think you'll enjoy reading about her experiences in choosing her life's occupation and developing her skills. Reynolds Naylor has written a wide range of books and stories, and you can sample them in this book. HOW I CAME TO BE A WRITER will give you a very real picture of how a person --- maybe you! --- can become a writer and create the books we all love to read.

--- Reviewed by Tamara Penny

It is about the life of Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, an author.
This book is very interesting if you like biographies, and is perfect for all ages.She talks about her childhood of writing and making up stories.She says that at first she didn't understand how to read and she thoughtall of the kids were just making up a story that went with a picture.Shealso talks about eating her sister's chocolate bunny and having to wearawful boy's clothes!She later on discussed the steps she took to becomethe marvelous writer she is.When I read this book, I found out that shewrote a series of humorous books on "Alice".The"Alice" books are now among my favorite.I would suggest thisbook to anyone who loves to read and write. ... Read more

Book Description

The Most Exciting Summer of Their Lives

That's what Pamela says about the summer before ninth grade, and she, Alice, and Elizabeth are determined to make the most of it. All three girls are getting into shape for the new school year by jogging three miles a day and cutting down on junk food, and Alice is enjoying her volunteer job at the local hospital.

But things keep happening that Alice hadn't counted on. Her satisfaction with her job is marred by an unexpected sorrow. Her attempt to be a loyal friend to Pamela gets her in trouble with her father and brother, big time. And both she and Pamela are afraid that Elizabeth may be taking her efforts to lose weight too seriously. Could the most exciting summer of their lives be a little too exciting? ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Possibly the best Alice book ever!
I have read every Alice book and this has to be one of the most important and well written ones. Changes are everywhere for Alice and her family and friends- some bad, some good, and one incredible surprise! Once again it is filled with humor and touching moments. I couldn't put it down until I reached the end. I can't wait for the next installment. Things are really getting exciting in this series and I don't want to miss a beat!

The Grooming of Alice
I am a big fan of the Alice series and have read each book a number of times each. Before this book the books seemed kinda unrealistic. Like some of the stuff they did I never would do. But in this one it talks about the disese anorexia. I think it is good to educate kids about that cause I know someone that has that and it has TOTALLY ruined their life. So I really recomend this book to everybody.

Kathryn