Book Description

There are only two races that matter: the Living and the Undead....and with every year that passes, the numbers of the Undead grow. It is inevitable.

So says Lucy Szabo. She has a theory: Hundreds of years ago, before the discovery of insulin, slowly dying diabetics were the original "vampires." Lucy, a diabetic herself, counts herself among the modern Undead.

As Sweetblood, she frequents the Transylvania room, an Internet chat room where so-called vampires gather to discuss all things goth. But Draco, one of the other visitors to Transylvania, claims to be a real vampire -- and Lucy's not entirely sure he's kidding.

As Lucy becomes more involved with the goth/vampire subculture, everything in her life begins to unravel. Her grades plummet, her relationship with her parents deteriorates, and her ability to regulate her blood sugar worsens dramatically.

Then she meets Draco face-to-face, and he invites her into his strange world. Lucy realizes that she needs to make some difficult choices -- if it isn't already too late.

Pete Hautman's new take on vampires is a disturbing and fascinating story about an intelligent, cynical teen reinventing herself in the face of a chronic illness. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Sweetbook
Lucy Szabo can barely remember a time when she wasn't dependent on her insulin shots. Diagnosed with diabetes at the age of six, Lucy has grown up feeling like outsider. She seperates herself from her peers (deeming herself a freak) and she even visualizes herself as a vampire of sorts.

First, let me admit that I did not find Lucy to be a likeable character. She is very self-centered and acts as if she is the only person with medical problems. In fact, there is even another girl with diabetes in the book and all Lucy does is make fun of her and scoff at her chipper attitude. Lucy is negative, she contradicts herself, she believes herself to be better than everybody else.
And yet, while she isn't a likeable character, I find Lucy to be a very believable one. Hautman does an excellent job allowing the reader to see the inner workings of Lucy's mind and allowing for the reader to witness Lucy as she struggles to come to terms with her disease.

"Sweetblood" is a great insight to diabetes, with a modern twist including Goth subculture. Granted, readers expecting your cookie cutter vampire novel might be a little bit disappointed. However I find "Sweetblood" to be a Funny, eye-opening, and inspiring read that should not be missed.

excellent book about a girl in the goth/vampire subculture
Goths. Vampires. Diabetics. You will find all of that and more in Pete Hautman's book Sweetblood. The book calls itself a "vampire novel," but really what it's about is a diabetic girl, Lucy, who's theory that slowly dying diabetics in the Middle Ages were the original vampires leads her to take an interest in people who call themselves vampires and the vampire/goth subculture. The book is well written, and although some teenagers may not be able to appreciate it, I certainly did.
Lucy is sixteen, and has been diabetic since she was six years old. Her theory is that before the discovery of insulin, diabetics must have been seen as demons or as possessed in some way. She takes an interest in vampires and goes to vampire websites and the Transylvania chat under the alias Sweetblood, where she talks with others who share her interest and who consider themselves vampires. However, when the story begins, around the start of the school year, her grades have been deteriorating. When she writes a paper (that was supposed to be about what she wanted to do as an adult) on her theory of diabetics being vampires and goes into great detail comparing vampire legends and the symptoms of untreated diabetes, her concerned teacher calls a meeting with the school councilor (who she has already been to see multiple times) and Lucy's parents. The result: Lucy's computer is taken away from her. Apparently her parents think it dangerous for her to be on vampire websites all the time. Bored and angry, Lucy must find other things to do.
The cute, goth new guy in school has taken an interest in Lucy. One night, when she is supposed to be grounded, Lucy meets him for coffee. While at the coffeehouse, Lucy is introduced to an older member of the goth scene who knows the guy she's with. As she hangs out at the coffeehouse more, she gains an invitation to the party of one Wayne, who she has never met before. When Wayne turns out to be Draco, a member of the Transylvania chat who has been tracking Lucy, things start to get strange.
One of the best things about this book is that it gets the facts straight. A lot of times, people go on what they assume the goth subculture is. Pete Hautman has gotten his facts straight, making references to goth bands like The Sisters of Mercy and Concrete Blonde, as well as describing the various styles of goth found at Wayne's party.
Sweetblood is well written and very hard to put down. The end of every chapter leaves you wanting more, and there is never a dull moment; even the moments dull for the main character are made up for with good descriptions. As one who was once very in to vampire chats and the goth subculture, I could fully appreciate Pete Hautman's Sweetblood.

Sweetblood Review
The book I read is a vampire novel named SweetBlood by author Pete Hautman. I liked this book a lot. The book had a very good plot. At the end of each chapter, the author would always leave you hanging. The book is about a girl who has an interest in vampires. She is a teen trying to fit in. All the real trouble starts when she loses something. Although I can't say what it is, it is something we could all do without. She loses it because of bad grades in school. This leads to some things you wouldn't expect. Because she has diabetes she ends up having many insulin reactions. All of this builds up to a superb finale. I recommend this book to anybody except people who do not like vampires. So if you like vampire novels, this is the book for you. Four out of five stars because of some dull parts in the book such as a lot of boring detail of her going to a café or when she is walking to the mall. The book has strong of word choice, but sometimes the description is just TOO MUCH!

Don't waste your time reading this book.....
This is a book about a girl that is diabetic and how she lives her life. She does think she is a vampire and she talks to people that think they are vampires. In the begging of the book she is a girl that is totally into a gothic way. Then in the end she changes into a totally different girl that you would not think of her doing. The thing I like about this book is how she talks about her diabetes and how she is living in school with the diabetes. I also like how she changes into a whole different person and how her personality changes. I really hated a lot of things in this book. The most things I hated were when she was talking on a chat room on the web, and she was talking to people that thought they were vampires and she called them stupid. I also hate when she acts like a vampire.
This book is not like any books that I have read before.

So Glad I Happened to Pick This Up...
I could not put this book down--and I'm 30 years old!:D This is such an amazingly accurate portrayal of the everyday life of a teenaged girl. It captures Lucy's voice and mind so beautifully, I feel she is someone I've known. And each of the other characters is someone you could imagine from your own high school, not the usual sitcom caricatures. The concept is very original and utterly believable. And all of the subtle references and subplots are skillfully woven together by the end to give the whole thing a wonderful cohesion and sense of "relevance". The subtle, wry humor throughout is delightful. A beautiful portrait of a lovely young girl struggling to come to terms with her lot in life and find out what she truly values. Go. Read.:) ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (6)

Not "Little House" that's for sure!
This is the second book in the trilogy I've read and I must say it's a bit bleak. It was assigned to my 10 year old's class (mainly because we live in "Genesee Country") and I'm glad I read it first. Although rich in historical accuracy, Mem's mother's depression is a real turn off for some younger children. I found both this book and "The Journey To Nowhere" quite morose with little joy to redeem them. I did enjoy it as an adult, but they are written with kids in mind and their harshness can be quite unsettling.

Please help mama (she is haveing spills)
The book Frozen Summer is sad, eventful, and exciting . It's about a girl named Rememberance Nye. Her family had moved to New York the year before, and her mother had just given birth to a baby girl named Lily in the middle of an unusual blizard in the middle of June. A summer frost killed all of their crops, and all that remained were sweet peas. Rememberance's (Mem's) mother started having unusual spills. She wasn't in the proper condition to take care of a new baby. Mem had to give up going to school so she could take care of her mother, brother, and little sister.
My favorite part was when Mem's teacher came to live with mem's family and helped take care of baby Lily. I hope you will read this book by Mary Jane Auch, I believe you will enjoy it as I have.

Frozen Summer
Have you every thought about how life was like back in the 1800's? Well, if you would like to experience that, then you should read Frozen Summer. The story is about a family that face hardships after hardships. The family's first hardship is when they leave from their family. Then a baby girl is born and the mother gets sick. She can't tend for the baby and the little boy so the main character has to take care of her sister and brother and also the house work. This is truly a good story if you are up to reading a story that will make you like your life 100% more.

A brave pioneer girl battles to protect her family
The second book of the Remembrance Nye trilogy is set in the Wilds of the New York frontier in the early 1800s. The weather is crazy during the family's tough first year on the frontier. Mysterious snow in June and hard frosts in July ruin the crops the pioneers have painstakingly planted. This brave girl holds the family together as her hapless father tries his best to beat the weather to feed the family, and Momma struggles with loneliness that pushes her to the edge. But Mem's positive can-do attitude is an inspiration to those around her, and a salvation for little Lilly. Extremely realistic, it gave us a vivid picture of how truely hard the early settlers had to work -- and the dangers they faced. Very well researched and compelling -- we can't wait for the third in the series!

The sequal to Journey to Nowhere.
In this sequal to Journey to Nowhere, Rememberance Nye, called Mem by her family, is twelve years old in 1816, and it's been a year since her family left Connecticut to begin a new life on the frontier. But Papa's crops failed because of strange summer frosts, and since Mama gave birth to baby Lily, she's been having terrible spells. This is an excellant story of a pioneer family fighting to survive in the wilderness. I can't wait to read the third book which will complete this trilogy. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Stunning!
This book is one of my favorites of McDaniel's. She has a knack for helping you identify with her characters as if they were real. That talent shines in this novel. Kara has CF,and her health is declining. Then she falls in love with Eric and receives an enormous amount of money from the mysterious JWC. How will she use it? The way she does is very touching,and in the spirit of JWC. But you'll have to read it to find out what happens. Be prepared for a poignant journey through a sick girl's life,and to learn a lot about CF. By the time you're done with it,you'll want to find a cure for this terrible disease. It's very sad,but you'll definitely love it! What are you waiting for? Buy it now from amazon.com!

A Great Book!
I really enjoyed Lurlene McDaniel's novel, A time to die. It was not a tremendously long book, but it still captured the emotiond of all the characters. All of Lurlene McDaniel's books are very sad and sometimes difficult to read because of this. But, at the same time, she incorporates happy, heart-warming bits of information that sort of turn the mood around. This novel is about a 16-year-old girl named Kara who has been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. The story shows her struggle to stay alive and it tells about her relationships with her 4 best friends; Eric, Christy, Elyse, and Vince, who is also a C.F. patient. I recommend this book to middle-schoolers and up because some of the emotions and concepts may be a bit difficult for younger children to understand. This book really touched my heart and I suggest that you buy it if you're in need of a good laugh, cry, or both.

My Review
I really liked this book.I couldn't stop reading it.I realized how much I take life for granted.It is really sad to think about how much we take everything for granted.This book helped me.I really think it can help others be more appreciative.

It Brought a Tear to my Eye
A Time to Die has to be my favourite book in the OWL series. Kara and Vince's struggle to live is very inspiring and I admire them both for their courage and determination. Because I, along with my brother, am a victim of CF, I was glad to see someone trying to make the world more aware of this disease. I could really relate to Kara and Vince and found their thoughts and feeling about their disease to be similar to my own. This book is very well written with interesting characters and plot twists. This book brought a definite tear to my eye.

Great
Out of all the Lurlene McDaniel books I have read, this book is tied for my fav book by her. Its about a 16-yr-old girl named Kara Fischer who is a victim of CF. Her best friend Vince has the same problem. But when Kristys little bro, Eric, moves into town, she is instantly attracted to him. Eric seems to like Kara but when he finds out about her problem, he gets scared, and tries to aviod her. But this is hard for him because hes already fallen for Kara. What Eric does make Vince mad, because hes obviously in love with her. But when Kara takes a turn for the worse, she wants nothing more than for Eric, and Vince to become friends. You have to read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

With breathtaking lyricism, Angela Johnson shares the thoughts and dreams of an extraordinary girl named Lila. Born with an unusual and dangerous allergy to the sun, nine-year-old Lila can only be outside at night. She plays by the light of the moon, and her playmates are two mysterious girls who wear tutus and costume wings, and often show up when Lila is alone. Lila longs to feel the warmth of the sun on her skin, and with the help of her friends she is making a plan to do so.

Uniquely touching, A Cool Moonlight is that rare novel that wraps tightly around you and leaves you forever changed. A novel about courage and hope and the healing power of love. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I highly recommend A COOL MOONLIGHT.
Because of a rare condition called xeroderma pigmentosum, sunshine and some artificial light have always been eight-year-old Lila's enemy. Sunlight burns her skin and can even cause her to go blind, so Lila lives in darkened rooms and is involved in many nighttime adventures. She sleeps during the day and attends school in her own dim kitchen. She waits each evening for sunset and darkness, when she can go outside to play and explore her neighborhood. Even at night, she must slather herself with sunscreen, wear sunglasses and cover up.

Lila doesn't lack for companions. Monk, Lila's older sister, calls the family "shadow people and proud of it." Monk is Lila's co-adventurer, bundling her sister up at night to take her to coffee houses and on rides. After dark, Lila's dad accompanies her to the grocery store where they race shopping carts in the parking lot. David, a neighbor boy, brings Lila comic books and comradeship. Reading the comic books makes her want to be a super hero called the sun goddess/moon girl.

Lila's friends, Elizabeth and Alyssa, visit her only at night; somehow no one else has met them or even seen them. Her mysterious nocturnal visitors secretly plot with Lila to find a way for her to enjoy sunlight. In fact, they promise to help fill her sun bag. When it's filled, Lila will no longer have to live only in darkness. She can't wait until she's able to go outside during the day and dance in sunshine as a true sun goddess/moon girl.

As time goes by and her ninth birthday approaches, Lila begins to wonder why no one has seen Alyssa and Elizabeth --- even when she points them out. She also puzzles over the sun bag --- how can filling it with sun pieces "fix" her?

This is an intriguing, unusual story told in a graceful, childlike voice. Although I was too aware of the lack of capitals for the first few pages, I soon realized it contributed to the smooth stream-of-consciousness narrative flow. I highly recommend A COOL MOONLIGHT for its gorgeous writing, complex mysteries and triumphant conclusion.

--- Reviewed by Terry Miller Shannon (terryms2001@yahoo.com)

Poetic Page-Turner
Nearly-nine-year-old Lila lives in the dark, forced out of the sunlight by a skin condition. She has a plan for getting into the light, though, with the help of two mysterious friends. Who are Alyssa and Elizabeth, and why do they disappear whenever anyone else is around?

Lila's distinctive voice sounds almost like poetry, creating intense images for the reader to share. The characters are intriguing, and Lila's secretive plans will keep older children and adults alike turning the pages.

Great Book!
I absolutely adore this book! This is easily one of my favorite books I have ever read. I loved the way the book was written from Lila's point of view and the details were great as well. I also think this book is great read no matter how old you are ^__^ ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Every library needs this one!
Brian is so excited when his parents buy him a pet bird. Everyone is amazed when he teaches it how to talk. When his pesky big brother leaves the door open though, the bird flies out. While Brian's visual impairment plays a big part in the action of the story, it certainly isn't the focus of this charming book. This book acts as a great way to introduce children to diversity.

A must have for ANY child
I purchased this book for my six year old nephew who is blind and a bird lover. This book is incredible! The illustrations are wonderful and the story focuses on family togetherness, not just blindness. It is a wonderful book for siblings with differences, any child really.

Brian's Bird: Beautiful Story & Images
Brian's Bird is a wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated picture book. Author Patricia Davis tells a simple direct story while creating many opportunities for visual images. Layne Johnson's striking and colorful photo-like pictures jump to life off the page.

This story of a blind boy who delights in his new pet parakeet is ideal for young readers. The book treats Brian's blindness in a positive manner. The scene in which he uses his sense of touch to solve the mystery of his birthday present gives young readers the opportunity to gain understanding of the special skills of a blind person. The description of how the bird's feet feel on Brian's finger is delightful.

Brian exhibits patience and persistence in teaching his bird. There is humor in the story, as when Brian hears someone calling his name, only to realize it is the bird. Once again, the author highlights the use of an alternate sense.

Brian's brother presents challenges for Brian from the opening pages of the book. Indeed, his brother's actions lead to the bird's flight from the house. The boys work together to solve the problem and sibling teamwork wins the day.

The book presents many opportunities for an adult reading this story to a young child to discuss a variety of issues. The book is also appropriate for young readers up to age 8 or 9 to read on their own. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Be Good to Eddie Lee ~ Virginia Fleming
This is a great book on teaching kids about differences. Everyone is different in their own ways, some people just show their differences more. Eddie Lee is treated wrongfully in this book becuase of his appearance. We hav eot learn to except people for who they are, not what they look like. Eddie Lee just wants to be the same as everyone else and fit in. Sometimes people get fed up with him though, and do not want to hang out with him. These are the tiems we have to be there for these people.

My favorite character in this book is Eddie. He just wants to be like everyone else and fit in. It is hard for him to make friends because sometimes people jsut don't want to hang out with him. It is hard for people to understand him, and he just wants to make friends. Thsi is one of my favorite childrens books. IT teaches a lot about children and how they think.

Be Good To Eddie Lee ~ Virginia Fleming
Be Good to Eddie Lee is a great book for children. I appreciate this book because most people treat Eddie Lee the way JimBob treats him. Eddie is special in his own ways. No one realizes that he is a good person at heart because they get the wrong impression. People these days just need to respect everyone. We are all different in our own ways, and we all have our unique qualities.

This a book that shows how certian people are treated. Eddie Lee is a great person at heart yet no one notices it. No matter what, everyone in life si different. We just need to realiize that. This story shows how great some people really are. We just have to look a little deeper to realize the simularities. People have difficult lives yet, we can all be friends in some way or another.

Poor Eddie Lee!
Although many seem to think that this is a delightful book, it is full of stereotyped information about people with Down syndrome that is outdated and offensive. Portraying Eddie as not caring that the children make fun of him, gives readers the idea that people with Down syndrome aren't bright enough to know when they are being made fun of. Always happy, always laughing--certainly not the real picture of people who have feelings, hopes and dreams just like you and I do. The illustrations, although lovely, exaggerate the physical characteristics some people with Down syndrome have in common. Instead of pointing out that people are more alike than different, this book points out differences. If you are looking for a book to educate readers about disability issues or Down syndrome, there are many better choices.

Sensitive read-aloud book
We used this book as spring board for our 2nd grade class Quaker meeting focusing on kindness and times when we've found that what matters is what's in the heart, not on the outside. All of us-- kids and teachers-- were moved to tears and the kids' responses were incredible. Well done book. Lots of applications. Luminous illustrations.

A gentle, atmospheric story with beautiful illustrations.
My children and I very much enjoyed this book. The descriptive writing beautifully depicts a summer day in the South. The story gently makes a point about a Downs Syndrome child and how other children view him and treat him, without cruelty or hitting the reader with a hammer. A lovely book to read and discuss with your child, with beautiful illustrations. ... Read more

Book Description

As the Pride of the Panthers, football star Austin Reid is a likable guy, good with the ladies. Lately though, he doesn't like his life -- or anything else -- so much. And the worst part is that he can't seem to figure out why.

Reviews (26)

damge a review by Jonathan Cass
Damage A Review By Jonathan Cass

Damage is a book about a teenager named Austin Reid. He is about 17 years old and is the pride of the high school football team, the Panthers. Every thing is perfect for him. He is a likeable guy and he is good with the ladies. But lately he feels like he just can't go on with his life. He no longer has any urge to play football or do anything else. Suicide is no longer a fantasia for Austin. Austin is a victim of depression.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Never before have I read a book where the author describes a victim of depression in such detail. I enjoyed the parts of the book where Austin is with his girlfriend Heather. I think it is a very seductive relationship and the author A.M Jenkins does a splendid job of describing their encounters. Another reason I loved this book is because of the writing style. It is unique because the author switches from the past tense to the present tense a lot. This makes the book really come alive.
Along with this positive aspects of this book come the negative. This is definitely not a book for younger kids. It has many sentences and paragraphs that seem distorted and disgusting. I know it is a book about a teenager but those sentences could easily have been left out of the book for the younger kids sakes. Another aspect that hurts this book is the fact that it is a little bit sad. If you are an emotional person I would recommend that you read a different book.
Overall the positive aspects outweigh the negative making this an amazing book. If you are between the ages of 12 and 14 this is the book for you. I really felt what it feels like to experience depression. That is the first book I have read where a character has depression and it was sad but great overall!

AMAZING!
In this novel, Austin Reid is the "Pride of the Panthers" on his football team. Ever since his father died of cancer when he was three, he has been secretly suicidal and depressed. He has always been good with the ladies, but now he's finally got the attention of the prettiest girl in town, Heather. Every day after football practice he takes Heather home. But when he starts to wonder about his relationship with his father, things get a little crazy. The cruel drills of his militant football coach don't help either; successfully demonstrating just how intolerant a male can be of weakness. I enjoyed that the book was written in the second person, as it was more interesting that way. I also enjoyed Austin's best friend Curtis, because he knew all along about Heather --- he was good with people. I enjoyed that once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down.
I didn't like that the book didn't really have a main event and it just went on and on about Austin's life. I also didn't like that the book mostly took place in his house or at football practice. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It grasps your mind and you feel like all events are actually taking place in your life. This is a must-read novel.

Excellent!!
When I picked up this book at the library I didn't know how much I would like it. At first I didn't think I was going to read it, becuase I read the first page and it was in 2nd person, and that bothered me. But after I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. It's an awesome book, that is told excellently. The second person helps you understand it better, and it also allows you to see it from a different view, such as his own. It really touched me and I hope that others read it also. I like the way the book ended, it took me for a loop hole, becuase I thought it was going to end completely different!

Wow! This was a very good book. It had a good structure
It was about a 18-year old boy named Austin Reid that was the star of the football team. He loves this girl named Heather who is supposedly the best looking girl in Texas to the boys at her school and her and Austin hook up. At the beginning they had a very good relationship. Then something happened to the relationship that will change their own future.
The part I liked was the way he was a good football player, had friends, and kind of related to real life. I also like how sometimes him and Heather really liked each other and in other times they hated each other. I liked that it wasn't a love story like it sounded. The thing I didn't like about it was how they went from not even knowing eachother to making out. I think it would have been a better book if they would have built up to their relationship.That was about the only thing I didn't like. Other than that it was a great book and I didn't want to put it down.

HOT GRILS and football
I recomend this book to anyone who doesn't like to read because I don't either, but I really liked this book.The auther A.M. Jenkins did a really good job of showing what highschool life is really like. The main characters are Austin and Curtis. Curtis warns Austin about his new girlfriend. She has always gone out with older guys but is now going out with him. Austin has his father's razer.It is the only thing of his dad's left.His father died of cancer.
Austin often thinks about suicide because of the things that are going on in his life. Austin and his friends are on their high school football team. Austin is known as "pride of the Panthers". I don't like to read, but this book was so good, I was reading it as much as possible. ... Read more

Book Description

Everyone in Jacob's colony is born blind. It has always been this way. They embrace the philosophy of Truesight: Blindness brings unity, purity, and freedom. It is an exceptional community. Everyone is happy.

As Jacob nears his thirteenth birthday, he anxiously anticipates his new role as an adult and all the changes that will bring. But as the day approaches, a far greater change threatens Jacob's future. It all starts with a searing pain in his eyes ...

This is the first book of David Stahler Jr.'s gripping Truesight trilogy.

Reviews (4)

Another 'Giver'
I would agree with some of the other reviewers; when I was reading this, less than halfway through I noticed the strong echoes of Lowry's "The Giver". I also was critical of the speed which he adjusted to his sight; surely his depth of sight would not have been developed and understood instantly. Between "The Giver" and "Truesight", "The Giver" is easily the superior book; however, this is a well-written story for children and they will surely understand the themes and intentions of the story. It explores ideas of free choice, the nature of love, hypocrisy, truth, the flow (or restriction) of information and education, and the meanings (good and bad) community.

An excellent debut. Waiting for the next book.
Slowly realizing you're different. Learning to accept it. Sharing the secret. Suffering the consequences. Wanting to fit in and yet not wanting to give up your "self."

Coming to see the weaknesses, lies, injustice, and hypocrisy of adults' and society.

Growing up.

Totalitarianism.

This book is about many things.

I understand there are two more to follow. I look forward to reading them.

Some compelling ideas, but underwhelming
I like the idea of this book, but the ideasat its core were poorly developed, and logical details (like the lead's quite adjustment to the sighted world... even reading subtle facial expressions he'd never known about before!) distract. Plus, it's basically the exact same book as the vastly superior "The Giver." Still, worth the 90 minutes it takes to read.

Truesight is a brilliant coming-of-age story
David Stahler Jr. has written a brilliant coming of age story in a place more fanciful than Hogwarts. Jacob's character is revealed and developed masterfully. Reading Truesight was an eye-opening experience into an imaginative world. I can't wait for David Stahler Jr.'s next book! ... Read more

Book Description

The story of Laura Bridgman, the first deaf and blind child to be taught to communicate with the outside world, some fifty years before Helen Keller. ... Read more

Book Description

Oliver Octopus only has five arms, but it doesn't bother him! Young children with any kind of "disability" or "differences" will enjoy reading about Oliver's adventures above the sea, and how, through his determination and positive attitude, he corrects the misconceptions other people have about physical challenges. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A book that belongs in the library of every child.
Oliver is an octopus with beautiful green eyes and a constant smile. Although he doesn't believe himself to be physically challenged, Oliver only has five arms, rather than eight arms like all the other octopuses. Oliver's High Five, a children's picture book, is the story of how he ventured out into the world and how he overcame the rejections he initially faced. Beverly Swerdlow Brown has written several children's books and numerous short stories and articles. Margot J. Ott has two previous picture books to her credit. Oliver tries to find a job, but no one wants him because he is missing three arms. Then a pet shop has a big problem with a leaking fish aquarium. Oliver uses his five arms to plug the leaks, catch the birds, and pet the dogs--all at one time! He shows everyone that being different isn't a measure of his abilities. Ronald M. Andiman, M.D. the Clinical Chief of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center wrote the foreword to the book. He says "This is a children's book that deals gently with a difficult topic. The simplicity of plot and language belie the complexity of issues relating to the physically challenged that are dealt with and hinted at in the small colorful volume. It is a book that will open up discussion, lead to further reflection and build greater understanding. It is a book for adults and children to share. Books like this help to repair the world." A copy of Oliver's High Five belongs in the library of every child, whether physically challenged or not. It's a book that teaches them how to "focus on their abilities, not their disabilities."

Sandra I. Smith Reviewer

An uplifting story with an important, contemporary message.
The plight of Oliver the Octopus and his struggle to become an accepted member of the workforce in the "world above the sea" is conveyed with warmth in this beautifully written, creatively illustrated book. Oliver's perserverance, despite the rejections he receives based upon his appearance rather than his abilities, is a potent testimony to the strength of his own self-image. The ignorance of discrimination is portrayed with honesty in a contemporary setting, which makes the book mandatory reading for all grade school educators and child therapists.

Great Illustrations, Wonderful Colors, Hopeful Story
This story teaches us all to never give up! Even though we face rejection and disappointments, if we continue towards our goals, we might succeed, like Oliver-the Five Armed Octopus! A wonderfully illustrated and entertaining book for the world and society we live in! ... Read more

Book Description

In school, Moses, and the rest of his class are given the assignment of choosing a friend to write about.As he wonders which person to choose, he thinks of his circle of friends and what they share together.Some friends are kids like Jimmy, who says funny things, and Manuel, who races with Moses on the playground.Other friends are grown-ups like Mom and Dad, and his teachers.Neighbors too, can be friends, like Kate, his teen-aged babysitter.Kate owns two really cute iguanas.One of the iguanas, Zaki, is missing toes.

That's it!Moses will write about Zaki.After all, they really have something in common.Moses and Zaki both have special needs.Zaki, with her missing toes, must figure out new ways to move around and get to where she wants to go, which is exactly what Moses must do in his wheelchair!

More than just a story about friendship, ALL KINDS OF FRIENDS, EVEN GREEN! looks at difference---such as being in a wheelchair or missing toes---in a unique way.With this beautifully photographed and engaging story, children discover that living with disability and facing its challenges can be seen as interesting, even positive.With an Afterword about disabilities, Moses, and iguanas, the story provides material for discussing inclusion at school and home. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A memorable friendship
"All Kinds of Friends, Even Green!" is written and photographed by Ellen B. Senisi. The text and photos tell a story about Moses, a disabled boy who gets around in his wheelchair. At school, his class is given an assignment to write about friends. Moses is inspired to write about a very special friend: Zaki, an iguana. Zaki is also disabled, having lost her back toes after a mite infection; Moses has a special affection with her.

This is a wonderful portrait of a multiethnic school environment that includes disabled youngsters. The acknowledgement section of the book thanks the participants at Zoller School in Schenectady, New York. After the main text there are three interesting supplemental articles: about disabilities, about young Moses, and about iguanas. The colorful, lively photos are enjoyable to look at. This book effectively reminds us that disability is an issue that affects both human and non-human beings. Moses and Zaki are likeable and admirable "characters," and the book movingly celebrates the special love a child has for a cherished pet.

Great Book!
I really liked this book, and so did my 6 year old son. I have a boy with special needs who is 5, and this author captured the curiousity and excitement of a small child so well, and then revealed the disability of the boy in the book in a very positive manner. My son had fun reading it, and I know that the ideas that were in the background are what I want my son to "get". I would definetely recommend this book.

Unique, distinctive, and highly recommended
Written and photographed by Ellen B. Senisi, All Kinds of Friends, Even Green! is an adventurous picture book for beginning readers about a real-life pet iguana. Expertly taken color photographs of a boy and his beloved reptile companion, along with whimsical text, make All Kinds Of Friends, Even Green! unique, distinctive, and highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Friendly and informative, this guide looks at the breeding, raising, training, and assessment of young guide dogs, as well as what happens when they are matched with their handlers to become working guide dogs. It explains how guide dogs are trained to make life easier for people who are blind or who can't see well enough to get about safely. Also described is the history of dogs that were trained to guide blind people from as far back as the early 1800s. Children also will meet several guide dogs in action and learn the stories of special dog and owner relationships. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Choice!
The making of guide dogs in Australia, from the breeding of puppies, through puppy raising, harness training, matching with a blind partner, and their eventual careers. It's unusual to find such a complete overview of the life of a guide dog! The information about breeding stock, and harness training is especially hard to find in other sources. The book also describes several successful guide dog teams. Beautiful photos do a great job of showing concepts discussed in the text. Although some training terms and tiny details differ, this information transfers well to guide dog programs in the U.S. The book is aimed at students, but would also make a quick and thurough primer for adults. Deserves a place in any library with a section about assistance dogs. ... Read more

Book Description

Zipper, is a bright, well-intentioned fifth-grader whose impulsive behavior gets him into trouble at home and at school.He speaks before he thinks, making it hard to keep friends; he forgets to do his homework; and although he's a talented pitcher, he misses a key baseball game.Follow Zipper as he discovers a newfound talent and learns to manage his Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A good, realistic story
This story is very fast paced, just like the narrator's life. In the beginning, Zipper doesn't have a clue he has ADHD, and so gets in trouble for behavior such as forgetting to show up at a baseball game and impulsively saying mean things to his best friend at school. Later on, he starts to channel his energies more constructively, such as by helping out at a nursing home and learning to play the drums. Once he gets treated, you see him progress from being kind of a jerk to being a more likeable kid. Everybody who knows a kid with ADHD should read this, especially teachers!

Taylor Davidson review
"Zipper the kid with ADHD is a great book"! I can relate to it alot,I am not telling why.I would like for everyone to read this book, "cause it is the best"!

Not bad....
This was not a wonderful story, but it was good enough that a kid who already knows he/she has AD/HD would probably enjoy it. It's about a boy who has problems with impulsivity, forgetfulness, and distracability, but manages to make progress and become a better friend. ... Read more

Book Description

After a catastrophic automobile accident, twelve-year-old Kelley wakes up to find her face and body severely burned. To recover, she must suffer through skin-graft operations, painfuldressings, and hand exercises that seem akin to torture. Worst of all, she must wear a plastic mask so that her facial skin won't grow back puffy and hard. How will she ever face the world again? ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A real heartwarmer!
This book is about a young girl named Kelley. After a terrible accident Kelley has to go through painful treatments. She also has to wear a mask to help her face. She worries what everyone will think of her but realizes they like Kelley for the person on the inside. This book was good and sort of sad at first. But towards the end when Kelley truly discovers herself, it makes you feel really good.

~AMAZING!~
I thought this book was absolutely wonderful. It's very, very well written and it makes you feel as if you are a part of the story. It explains the hard times Kelley goes through and how she handles them. Bravo!

Afraid to Remember -- a review by Lisel, age 10
It happens one day in early spring. Kelley is on the way back from school. In less than a moment, a speeding truck crashes into her mother's small car, and Kelley is pulled out, just a moment before the whole thing bursts into flames. She is rushed to the hospital and there she is taken care of for a long time. But one day, the worst is announced to her. She'll have to wear a plastic face mask for almost a year! How will she stand being out in public? All those staring people, even her friends will probably avoid her. But soon another worry seeps into her mind. It's much, much worse than the mask. Kelley is afraid to remember, but begins to know, that it is true. It was the truck driver's fault and he was the only one to blame. Wasn't he?

I enjoyed this book because the author made it realistic. It was about things that could really happen to anybody. The author was great about making the book seem interesting, even though a lot of the book was about Kelley just sitting in her bed and thinking. This is a great story of a girl who suffers the pain of knowing that this is reality and that she will never wake up and find that it's only a terrible nightmare or a story in the newspaper about someone else.

A good summer book to read
About the book A Face First by Priscilla Cummings.
This book is about a twelve-year-old girl named Kelly. She was in a car accident with her mother. She was burned especially her face, and broke her leg. She went to the hospital and she was in surgery, while she was in surgery she was trying to remember what happened to her. She could remember some parts but the rest was unclear. When she woke up after three days she was very weak. She had to do exercises to get her body moving again. She has to wear a mask because her face is burnt. Who understands her?
This book is good because it makes it realize how Kelly felt and had to face many challenges that normal people wouldn?t.

Its Awesome!
I'm reading this book in class, it is really good. It's very well written, and discriptive. Our teachers loved this book actually so much that Priscilla Cummings is coming to our school! It's also a real story. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Sad but good (from an 8-year-old)
I like this book because it's a true story that happened 100 years ago. It's a sad story because Helen Keller was blind and deaf. It's a good story because after a while she understood what she was doing and she learned how to write on a typewriter.

Nice way to first hear the Helen Keller story
This is an easy to read book (grades 1 & 2) and a wonderful tool for introducing children to Helen Keller. It tells about her struggles after becoming deaf and blind, and of her eventual triumph of learning words with the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan. It also gives a very brief summary of her accomplishments as an adult.

I think it's great for kids to learn about Helen Keller, and this book provides a nice way to first hear the story.

The last page of the book has a sign language alphabet chart which some children might enjoy trying to learn...

Helen Keller!
Helen Keller is just like Laura Bridgman.They both had Scarlet Fever.But Laura Bridgman had it before Helen Keller.This book tells you about a real girl name Helen Keller.Helen Keller had Scarlet Fever when she was two years old.She was blind,mute and deaf after this sickness.Helen was crazy.She was jumping around braking things and she even hurted her little baby brother! Then Helen's parents called for help.This lady came.She was blind also.But she helped Helen to learn sign language and knowing what are the things she touched.It was really hard teaching Helen all the manners and everything.But at the end Helen was like another ordinary girl. ... Read more

Book Description

When 12-year-old Andy meets Laurie and Jeff at an adoption party, he has already been in eight foster homes. Andy's alcoholic mother has given him up to the state as too hard to handle, and his father is in jail. Andy longs for a loving home and parents he can trust, but his attention deficit disorder, combined with the legacy of his dysfunctional parents, causes him to constantly challenge authority. He steals, destroys property, gets in trouble at school, tries to make a gunpowder bomb, and accuses Jeff, his soon-to-be father, of touching him inappropriately. To make matters worse, Andy's real father shows up asking for money. But Andy's new parents refuse to give up on him, and Andy must fight to save his soon-to-be-father's reputation and his own chance at having a real family. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

It is very good to read! Really it is.
I loved this book and I keep reading this over and over I can never get enough of it. I really dont like to read but I picked this book up at a store and just read it over and over til it was time to close, which was about ten. So at the end I bought it because I just wanted to keep reading it. I have read the book at least 32 times. I love it because I wish I had a family like that. I might not have been in foster homes but I dont like where I am so to me this is a book that I wish I was in. I hope whoever reads the book realizes it is a very good book. 5 stars all the way. I am only 15 and I have not read too many books but this book got me into reading so it has to be good. I think I am repeating myself so I am gonna go. Later.

Poignantly written
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Parents Wanted." It has a capturing essence to it that makes you want to read further.
"Parents Wanted" is told in the first person, through the eyes of Andy Fleck, an orphan. In this novel, readers will delectably get a taste of what Andy's life is like, his motives, his feelings of frustrations, and his touching compassionate side.
Andy Fleck seems like a bad kid at first, but once the reader gets to know Andy, they will receive a better understanding of why Andy acts the way he does. Andy is a boy who has experienced lots of bad things in his life - lack of nurture and often neglected by his parents.
Poignantly written, this book will let readers experience the angst-ridden emotions that Andy encounters.
You will glide by this book. The language is fluent, and not at all difficult to understand, and the illustrations are quite amusing to look at.
Written honestly, "Parents Wanted" is an extremely touching novel that will grab readers' attentions. It explores self-acceptance and the power of a loving family and home.
I fully enjoyed reading "Parents Wanted." Read it, and you'll be amazed at how you'll feel during and after you read it.
It is definitely worth your time!

Excellent on many levels
Want to see life through the eyes of a struggling foster teen? Parents Wanted is probably the closest you can get short of experiencing it yourself. Written in first person perspective, the reader slides somewhat uncomfortably into 12-year-old foster child Andy Flecks shoes and shares the tribulations of a good-hearted kid who has been unfortunately dealt a less-than-fair hand in life. Given up by his ill-equipped birth parents, Andy has been bounced around from foster home to foster home (sometimes only lasting 20 seconds), his obnoxious and angst ridden behavior make him difficult to deal with- 'No adult has ever apologized to me for the way Ive been treated- why should I have to apologize to them for the way I act?' Finally, he has found a family he likes who are willing to give him a chance and not give up on him, but with his past track record, it is only natural for him to test their limits for proof that they truly want him as their son.

Although written for young kids, Parents Wanted can be enjoyed on many levels. Young kids will identify with Andy and his views on adults and possibly learn a bit from his experiences and behavior. Adults will get good insight into the mind of an overactive teen (a refresher incase they forgot what they themselves used to be like) and be able to empathize with every other good parent working to show patience. A great book, especially to be enjoyed by those who have been touched by the experience of adoption.

A Compelling Read
Written from a 12-year-old's point of view, this is an absorbing story of a young boy's yearning for a place to call home and parents who'll love and accept him, warts and all. Rejected by his birth family (his mother doesn't want him and his father is in jail), Andy Fleck has bounced from foster home to foster home. Admitting, and sometimes seeming proud of being obnoxious, unreliable, and uncooperative, Andy knows he's a handful. Yet underneath that brash and tough exterior is someone who desperately wants a family. (...) A compelling read for both kids and adults.

A Kid's View of Adoption
"Parents Wanted" is written from a kid's point of view.
It show what it's like for a kid to go from living in multiple
different foster homes and then to move in with a permanent
adoptive family. The book also shows the incredible patience
and understanding and love of his parents. It is a MUST reading
for any kid in this situation or any parent or teacher trying to understand how kids think. It's also a well-written and fascinating story for a reader of any age or background. I found it moving. ---A reader in Cambridge ... Read more

Book Description

Taylor and Tyler are twin brothers and best friends.But the twins are different in one significant way: Taylor has cerebral palsy, while Tyler does not.Through Taylor's eyes we see how much effort he must expend to strengthen his legs, which are weak.He explains how valuable his new wheelchair is because it helps him maneuver more easily and do the things he want to do, like go to school and play basketball with his brother Tyler.

This full-color picture book series from the nation's leading rehabilitation center will explain to readers ages 6 and up the needs of children with disabilities.The Learning Books offer valuable insight and inspiration for children with disabilities as well as for their family members and schoolmates.Each book is written from the viewpoint of a real child with a physical disability.The goal of each book is to see into the child's world, understand the physical challenge the child faces, and learn how an assistive device can empower the child to overcome the limitations posed by his or her disability. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Rolling Along
This delightful child's book takes the mystery out of a child with a disability. It explains the need for a wheelchair and how beneficial using a wheelchair can be. Building accessibilty, social interaction and play are also well-represented. This book would be great to share with young elementary children although the illustrations are clear enough for younger children. A much needed text for families facing childhood disablement, classrooms who serve children with special needs,and pediatric therapy waiting rooms! ... Read more