Back in the Saddle

To return to blogging, or not to return. That is the question!

Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dee ~ #MeToo

Introducing a new title for middle
graders that I thought might be of interest to most of my readers 

Maybe He Just Likes You by
Barbara Dee

Barbara Dee explores the subject of #MeToo for the middle grade
audience in this heart-wrenching—and ultimately uplifting—novel about
experiencing harassment and unwanted attention from classmates.

For seventh-grader Mila, it starts with some boys giving her an
unwanted hug on the school blacktop. A few days later, at recess, one of the
boys (and fellow trumpet player) Callum tells Mila it’s his birthday, and asks
her for a “birthday hug.” He’s just being friendly, isn’t he? And how can she
say no? But Callum’s hug lasts a few seconds too long, and feels…weird.
According to her friend, Zara, Mila is being immature and overreacting. Doesn’t
she know what flirting looks like?

But the boys don’t leave Mila alone. On the bus. In the halls.
During band practice—the one place Mila could always escape.

It doesn’t feel like flirting—so what is it? Thanks to a chance
meeting, Mila begins to find

solace in a new place: karate class. Slowly, with
the help of a fellow classmate, Mila learns how to stand her ground and how to
respect others—and herself.

From the author of Everything I Know About You, Halfway Normal,
and Star-Crossed comes this timely story of a middle school girl
standing up and finding her voice.”

About the Author: Barbara
Dee is the author of several middle grade novels including Maybe He Just
Likes You, Everything I Know About You, Halfway Normal, and Star-Crossed.
Her books have received several starred reviews and been included on many
best-of lists, including the ALA Rainbow List Top Ten, the Chicago Public
Library Best of the Best, and the NCSS-CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Books
for Young People. Star-Crossed was also a Goodreads Choice Awards
finalist. Barbara is one of the founders of the Chappaqua Children’s Book
Festival. She lives with her family, including a naughty cat named Luna and a
sweet rescue hound dog named Ripley, in Westchester County, New York.

Rosie Reviews:

I was able to read this book in less than two hours.  I found that I could not stop reading.  I wasn't sure that I wanted to read it but my mom told me she wanted me to read it and help with a review so I agreed.

I would recommend this book to any kids (boys should read it too) ages 9 and up, especially those in 6th grade like me and in Jr High and High School.  My big sister read it too and she said the same thing about it that I did.... this book is SO GOOD. 

This is the type of story that makes you emotional and kind of uncomfortable at times, but is so important to read because it really does happen in real life.  My sister and I both have had boys say things and do things that made us uncomfortable and we just didn't know what we should do about it.  I like how Mila tries to tell her friends how uncomfortable she is and how two of her friends did try to stick up for her.  I didn't like that Zara wasn't a good friend and wouldn't listen.  If one of my friends tells me she is having problems with someone I try to listen and go with her to tell an adult.  It is important to stick up for yourself.

This is a really good story and one that I am going to recommend to my friends to read!





Susan's Review:

Mila's story is one that is all too common and often overlooked in our culture.  As several times it stated in the book, other students and even adults tell Mila that she is "over reacting" to the situation.  She thankfully is determined and continues to try to fight back and speak out in her own way, but it becomes difficult to know who to trust.  Nobody should have the right to harass or touch another person in any way that makes that person uncomfortable. This well-written story affirms Mila’s anger,
confusion, and fear during each confrontation, but also highlights the importance of speaking up
and speaking out against harassment.

I was thrilled with the depth given to each of the characters in the story and how well the author creates a realistic world with characters that act in age appropriate manners.  The adults in the story are all-too realistic in how they each handle the situation presented by Mila.  The way in which Mila finally conquers her fear and "speaks out" is humorous and serious at the same time, though I do not condone how it was accomplished, I do applaud her for her bravery and determination to finally make herself heard.

This book should be in all school libraries, in every teacher's list of required reading.  For those who have been on the receiving end of unwanted touch or uncomfortable words will be relieved to find there are many others who have been through it too.  Boys of all ages will be able to get insight into what it feels like to be on the receiving end of the "harmless" jokes and innuendoes and maybe refrain from participating in this inappropriate harassment.  And to finally have a book that shows how common sexual harassment is for young girls and boys and that it is not your fault, you are not overreacting, you are not alone and you do have a voice...speak out!  And if they don't listen...keep speaking until they hear you!


Maybe He Just Likes You by
Barbara Dee 

Aladdin

Available October 1, 2019

Hardcover $17.99  Ebook $10.99

Ages 9-13

304 pages

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review from Media Masters Publicity. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Survival Tips for Family Travel ~ Join the Chaos

So, you are planning a Wonderful family trip.  You just know that each and every sweet, lovable member of your family is going to enjoy every single moment of togetherness and bonding.  There is a whole vacation full of special moments you have meticulously planned and of course, each family member is going to be just as excited and enthusiastic, well-behaved and thankful for all your hard work planning this special adventure.... then, reality sets in before the car is even packed. . . fighting over suitcases, who gets to sit in the window seat, which movie to watch in the minivan. . . potty stops five minutes after leaving home . . . what can you do to get this adventure back on track?



Here are some tips

I found online and in personal experiences of traveling not just with the kiddos but the spouse as well!

Travel Tips & Tricks

Things We Do:



*
Make sure to have a packing list ~ it helps to make sure all the
necessities are there with you when you arrive at your destination - one
of the worst things a parent can experience is a little one who's
favorite toy or bedtime sleepy friend was left home by mistake!





*
Make a bag/backpack for each kid with their favorite books, coloring
books/baggie of crayons, color wonder books/markers, plain paper &
colored pencils, and a few small toys.



 * Have a few small snacks available as well as small bottles of water for each kid.



*
As my kids are getting older, they like to bring electronic games to
play.  I prefer they not play them in the car, so instead - we play "I
Spy" together, or the "license plate game" or something similar that one
of us makes up.  After playing that for a while, they are allowed to
play their games for a few minutes as reward.



*
An iPod for each child works pretty well for my kids.  When they start
to harass each other, having separate iPods with earphones helps them
focus on music and less on each other.



* A portable DVD player - one movie they all have to agree on, or Mom picks the movie



*
Bring magnetic board games for older kids to play - or chalk
board/white boards to play hangman, drawing games and just for crazy
doodling fun. 



* Pack a small bag of surprises - I take new books, a new game or movie, small dollar store toys and use them as rewards for behaving in the car.  Each time we stop for gas or potty breaks, they get to pick something new to play with.





* Bring the things they can't live without:
The days of pacifiers
and favorite blankets may be past, but that doesn't mean your kids
haven't latched on to something else. If he's been reading a certain
book every night up lately, pack it. If she's been working on a
crossword puzzle for weeks, pack it. That doesn't mean everything goes!
Set limits (for example, one toy car, not the whole set)
you can live with ahead of time and communicate them early. Kids should
carry their most important possessions in a backpack or wheel-tote they
can carry themselves.



* Tune them in: Talk to them. And remember to listen too. Turn off
the radio in the car and engage the kids in games that require them to
use their attention and imagination while keeping them focused on their
surroundings. On the plane, watch the movie your son picked together or
read the book your daughter is reading with her and you'll have
something to talk about later.

Submitted by friends:

Made
them travel bags filled w little games..each hr or two they could pick
something out of their bag eyes closed just feeling...pick
stuff they like..don't have to spend a lot of money..go to dollar
store.... (submitted by Gail G - fb friend)



Once
in the hotel, read a chapter book so they canlook forward to it each
night. Remember to always book a hotel with an indoor pool in case
weather gets lousy - mom and dad can take turns with the kids in the
pool to give each other some quiet time.

(submitted by Gail G - fb friend)





When
we travel across multiple states, I have a "goodie" bag of small toys
and treats that each child gets to open.  It helps them focus on the
trip and how much fun it can be.  The most recent trip we went through 4
states each way.  So for my 2 kids, they each received 8 little goodie
bags!  (Submitted by Rose)

Favorite Places & Spaces

*
I love taking my kids to the local ZOO or Museum for a day trip.  I
usually have grandma and grandpa come along to help keep track of all
three kiddos and makes for a fun day - we also take a picnic lunch
along.

*
For weekend vacations, we try to go somewhere no further than a 3 hour
drive.  It is fun to see what local attractions our family can enjoy not
too far from home.

 

Have some great tips to add?  Comment below and tell us how you survive family travel adventures!

School's Out For Summer! Let's Make a Summer Reading List Together.

You know you just sang that line in your head.  At least those of us over the age of 30something should be familiar with that famous line from Alice Cooper's song.



Nonetheless, whether you are familiar or not, school is out or nearly out for most of the US.  And with a whole summer ahead, what better to post about than Summer Reading for kids of all ages.  I have an entire list of some of my family's favorite books and choices for reading this summer.



What I don't know is, what is on YOUR list?



Mom Loves 2 Read is making a Summer Reading List that will be posted and updated as followers and visitors comment below with suggestions of favorites, classics and new TBR books that are recommended for kids of all ages.

So, please start commenting below with the  Title and Author of the book, and what age range you feel it is best for.  I will add them to the list (see button on right side of blog)

0-5 (Infant - Preschool)

5-10  (Elementary)

10-15 (Middle Grade)

15-21 (Young Adult)

18+  (Adult - clean only please) 

(feel free to add the genre: mystery, romance, sci-fi)

Hailee by Penny Zeller ~ another amazing review

Hailee by Penny Zeller

Montanna Skies Series #3 

At twenty years of age, Nathaniel Maxwell Adams Jr., better known as Nate, fulfills a prophecy he made eleven years prior by moving to Pine Haven. What he hadn't planned in his youth, though, was to become a pastor, especially since his parents adamantly oppose the idea. So, as he shepherds a flock in the growing Montana town, he feels called to another smaller yet no less significant mission field: his mother and father.



For years, orphan Hailee Annigan was just a ragamuffin, roaming the Cincinnati streets trying to keep food in the mouths of her two younger brothers and herself. This often meant thieving, which landed her in the Sanctuary of Hope, a home for delinquent youngsters. There, her life changed, thanks to her patient, loving teachers. Now, at eighteen, she pursues a dream to become a teacher herself and bravely accepts a position in Montana. She still has faith that she'll find her brothers again someday, but for now, she's ready to put the past behind her.



When their paths converge in Pine Haven, their lives begin to overlap in ways they can't ignore. And they must discover if God intends for their destinies to converge, as well.



(spoilers ahead. . . . )







I was  drawn to the main character Hailee from the beginning of the book.  Her story of love and sacrifice for her younger brothers endeared her to me right away.  I was captivated

by the circumstances that led her ultimately to Pine Haven as the new teacher, and her reluctance to build the relationship between her and Nate due to her fear of others learning of the sins in her past.

Nate has his own issues to deal with as he tries to follow God's plans for his life in spite of what his parents plans for him.  I liked how the author showed that although he was determined to be obedient to God's call on his life, he was never disrespectful when speaking with his parents.  Although I could see how it would be tempting when they refused to acknowledge his chosen profession, or the fact that as a grown man he should be able to determine his own way in life and choose not to follow in his father's footsteps.  I admired his honesty and willingness to seek help from his Uncle when uncertain, and his faith in God even during difficult situations.

Both Hailee and Nate are believable characters, both have a faith in God and make for an interesting story well worth reading.  Once again, author Penny Zeller has written a wonderful piece of Christian Fiction with a sweet, heartwarming romance thrown in.  I definitely recommend this book, and this series to any CF lover!







About the Author:

Penny Zeller is the author of several books and numerous magazine articles. She is also the author of the blog "A Day in the Life of a Wife, Mom, and Author" www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com where she also provides weekly doses of inspiration and humor, along with movie reviews from a Christian worldview, and interviews with some of her favorite author friends.

Among other books, Penny is the author of "McKenzie," "Kaydie," and "Hailee" in her Montana Skies Historical Romance Series (Whitaker House) and "77 Ways Your Family Can Make a Difference: Ideas and Activities for Serving Others" (Beacon Hill).

Penny is an active volunteer in her community, devoting her time to assisting and nurturing women and children into a closer relationship with Christ. When she's not writing, Penny enjoys spending time with her family and camping, hiking, canoeing, and playing volleyball. While she is generally a health nut, Penny does have one small weakness: hot tamales (yes, the little red candy kind!)



Penny loves to hear from her readers at her website, www.pennyzeller.com

and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

20 Recipes Kids Should Know by Esme Washburn

Kids of all ages love to help Mom and Dad in the kitchen.  From stirring the cake batter to trying to crack eggs without dropping shell pieces in the mix, kids love to learn how to create fun foods.  To promote this love of cooking, having kid-friendly cookbooks with easy recipes is a great way to provide independence and creativity in the kitchen.  Here is one of my new favorite recipe books just for kids ~ ~ ~ written by kids!

20 Recipes Kids Should Know by Esme Washburn

The perfect book for children, this fun and engaging cookbook is
written and photographed by a pair of young sisters for budding chefs.



Whether
they're helping stir cake batter or producing their own YouTube cooking
channel, kids of all ages are getting increasingly busy in the kitchen.
This cookbook features twenty classic recipes that are fun, healthy,
adaptable, and easy to prepare. From banana bread and the perfect
grilled cheese to breaded chicken and apple pie, each recipe is written
in a clear, accessible style that young cooks of every level will be
able to follow. The author is a young chef whose love of

cooking
developed from her own family's food traditions like baking popovers
with her grandmother and Sunday-night pizza making. By teaching kids
basic recipes that can be adapted in endless ways, this book is the
perfect launching pad to finding their way around the kitchen--or
launching their own cooking careers.



With fun and easy recipes like this one my 11 year old loves for strawberry shortcake (was delicious for my Mother's Day brunch in bed this year)

And don't forget the Banana bread and chocolate chip cookies she and her sister made me for my birthday!  So yummy!

 

Whether your kiddos are beginners in the kitchen, or seasoned chefs, this book is a great addition to any youngster's CookBook collection! 

Check it out on Amazon (affiliate) for $11.70

Or in most bookstores for $16.95

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

National Geographic is Poetic ~ Review: The Poetry of US

The Poetry of US (ages 8-12, $24.99) contains
more than 200 poems, all showcasing the diverse people and places of of
the United States. Curated by former U.S. Children’s Poet Laureate J
Patrick Lewis, familiar verses and brand new voices accompany striking
photographs as the reader embarks on a literary
trip through all 50 states and the many cultures, traditions, histories
and passions that define us.   



Poems are arranged by region, from coast to coast, and among them are works by Langston Hughes, Dorothy Parker, Robert
Frost, Naomi Shihab Nye, Walt Whitman, and more. Reflecting the United States’ melting pot of people, the distinctive
voices of immigrant and minority writers as well as poems in Spanish,
Arabic, and Korean with accompanying translations
into English are also featured.  



From the
familiar to the surprising, subjects include people, places, landmarks,
monuments, nature, and celebrations. Inspiring, thought-provoking and particularly timely,
this collection of poetry and photography eloquently reveals the spirit that unites US.     

Early praise for The Poetry of US:

“...an expansive gathering, with dazzling visuals” - Kirkus

Review:

Celebrate the gift of language and the vibrant culture of the United
States with this collection of classic and never-before-published
poetry. Poems are arranged by region, from coast to coast,and are designed for family sharing, but geared to
younger readers, this beautifully illustrated treasury is a must-have
for the family bookshelf.



With three children ages 10 to 17, plus several nieces ranging from age 2 through 7; there is a lot of opportunity for reading and family enjoyment of books in my house.  Poetry is one of those subjects that I personally love but have trouble getting many of the kiddos to read or listen to.  The Poetry of US is a wonderful book that has easy to read and understand poetry that caters to kids (and adults) of all ages.  Even the 17 year old boy got involved reading to the younger girls.  I loved the cultural poems in the variety of languages that were translated into English.  


A book I recommend for any household!





Affiliate link for purchase:  AMAZON

 

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.