Issues Books


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Issues Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Issues
Am I Blue?: Coming Out from the Silence
Published in Library Binding by Harpercollins (1994-06)
Author:
List price: $14.89
New price: $152.16
Used price: $0.72

Average review score:

Am I Blue?
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-13
This book is dedicated, "for all young people in their search for themselves." These are short stories about teenagers who are trying to find their identity, Teenagers face who they are and find support from their parents and friends. In some stories, they do find support from school, parents and friends. In additional some even find the right person to be with. There are three scenarios: teenagers not being accepted from others, not getting support from others and themselves being confused with their identity.



My favorite story from the book was Parents' Night. This story was about a teenager who had her girlfriend but her parents didn't know, they thought they were just friends. At the beginning of the story she says that her father didn't give her a rose in her birthday. This was because they were at dinner when Karen gave them the news; she told them that she was involved in a club at school. This club was the Gay Straight-Bisexual Alliance, which every one in that club they were going to represent in on Parents' Night. Karen tells her parents that she was going to be there with her girlfriend Roxy. Her father wasn't happy with the news, so he didn't agree and he was really mad. In Karen's birthday her father was really quiet and he didn't give her a yellow rose like he used to every year. My favorite part of the story was when her parents go to Parents' Night and her father gives Karen a rose. He tells her that it was a little late and that he is happy that she got a really nice girlfriend. This part really got me, Karen was crying and my eyes were watery. She knew that her parents were now accepting her the way she was.



All stories have a main idea. The writer sends messages that after reading each story you might think differently. The idea is to understand and support those who are in situations like that. I think that people don't have to experience first in order for them to write stories. All these authors give really good stories, which really touch the readers heart and at the end of the book you put it down and have a different view of those who are confused with their identity.



The book has sixteen stories. The story Am I Blue talks about a gay teenager who has a fairy godfather who helps him out throughout his time of not knowing what he wants. The stories were different but they had the same idea in all of them. In Michael's Little Sister, his sister shows him that it's okay to be that way; she gives him support and understands him. Slipping Away is a story where a gay teenager tells his friend Maria who likes him, that he is gay but like any other girl she got mad at him instead of supporting him. Running from the book is really interesting; it's about a girl that starts seeing her sister's friend differently. Sheila was Heather's friend who brought her because she was having problems at home, and that's how Heather's sister meets Sheila. All these stories are really interesting and they throw good messages in each story written.



I like this book mostly because in each story the writer gives an idea why he wrote that story and why he/she wants us to read it. Also when the reader reads the story, the writer clearly states how the person feels. It is really important for those who read this book to understand what and how it feels when a person who is in a position like that might feel when he/she doesn't have any support or is not accepted from others.

very helpful book
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2003-02-17
I recieved this book and I found it very helpful to see this wide variety of people in it, talking about love and life and living and dicovering ones own self. It's a must read for so many people. It's just beautiful.

Overall a great book!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-02-01
There are some stories in this book that are absolutely phenomenal. "Am I Blue" is one of them, and it is a great first story of the book. This books helps people to understand what it is like to be GLBT from many different viewpoints. "The Honorary Shepherd" is probably the story that impacted me the most, as it deals with interracial relationships as well. Having bought this book on accident, I am glad I did. I've probably read the book 15 times through and I don't know if I'll ever tire of it.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-18
Written over ten years ago, AM I BLUE? is still as important today as it was then. A short-story collection dealing with GLBT (gay/lesbian/ bisexual/transgender) issues by some of 1995's top authors, this book is a true gem for teens searching for their identity--or just looking for a good read. With stories ranging from contemporary paranormal, to ones set in the 1950's, to one based during the Vietnam War, and even one in another world of Amazon warriors, there's something here for everyone.

Stories include:

AM I BLUE? by Bruce Coville
WE MIGHT AS WELL ALL BE STRANGERS by M. E. Kerr
WINNIE AND TOMMY by Francesca Lia Block
SLIPPING AWAY by Jacqueline Woodson
THE HONORARY SHEPHERDS by Gregory Maguire
RUNNING by Ellen Howard
THREE MONDAYS IN JULY by James Cross Giblin
PARENTS' NIGHT by Nancy Garden
MICHAEL'S LITTLE SISTER by C. S. Adler
SUPPER by Leslea Newman
HOLDING by Lois Lowry
BLOOD SISTER by Jane Yolen
HANDS by Jonathan London
50% CHANCE OF LIGHTNING by Cristina Salat
IN THE TUNNELS by William Sleator
DANCING BACKWARDS by Marion Dane Bauer

It's hard to pick a favorite from this collection, as each story has something different to offer. From allowing everyone in the world to see who is gay, to wondering what it would have been like to have two gay shepherds at the birth of Christ, to manning a booth about gays and lesbians at a school parents' night, each short story has an engaging story to tell.

The only thing that would make this book better is to have a part two--another AM I BLUE? published in 2006 with some of today's best GLBT authors like Julie Anne Peters, Brent Hartinger, David Levithan, and more.

Should be Required Reading in All Classrooms!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-19
_Am I Blue?_ is a brilliant YA anthology that should be required reading in every classroom! Dealing with homosexuality in teenagers and their parents and friends, these stories will move any reader--gay, straight, questioning, or bisexual. This anthology helps gay kids understand that they are not alone, while shining a light on what it feels like to be homosexual for straight readers. The stories have similar themes, but range in genre, giving every reader something to thoroughly enjoy. I can't recommend it strongly enough!

My only complaint is that there were no stories that really focused on a bisexual character.

Issues
The Borribles
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Tor Teen (2005-06-28)
Author: Michael de Larrabeiti
List price: $6.99
New price: $0.53
Used price: $0.53
Collectible price: $15.00

Average review score:

Finally available again!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-02-07
From reading the other reviews here, I can see I'm not the only person who looks at this trilogy as a "cult favorite." It seems that the Borribles definitely have a devout following!

Good news, friends! A publisher in the UK has recently re-printed all three books, in a single volume. These stories are available again at last! Click on "United Kingdom" at the bottom of your screen, and have "The Borribles Trilogy" shipped to you from Amazon.com in Great Britain.

a classic.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-14
Wow. What a great, original book. I read if for the first time in the late 70s...when I was 12 years old. It was a stunning work then, and remains such. I didn't care for the sequels that I discovered and read several years later, though. I think the story works best as a stand-alone book.

Regardless, this is an awesome book. Do yourself a favor and read it!

Don't get caught!

Blast from the past
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-01
This book brings back a lot of memories. I read it in my teen years, and it reminds me of one of my English teachers who took the trouble to track down and buy me one of the sequels. That was an act of kindness I never forgot, and why I think teachers are such marvellous people to this day (I had excellent ones.)

The basic premise is of children who run away from home to an underworld/sub-world (yes, it's a kind of urban fantasy). The new arrivals have no name until they can prove they deserve one, and they can earn several. I don't remember the plot, but I know that the tribal/merit-based culture and the way they interacted was really interesting to me, and I'm getting ready to track down a copy for my niece who will soon be of an age to enjoy this one.

Don't miss this book.
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-04
Like many here I read this book as a young man. Borribles are children that have chosen to run away from home and live on the street. As they live on the street their ears become pointed, which is why they wear hats to hide the fact from those that hunt borribles. Once you become a Borrible you will remain a kid forever...unless... Many of the cops that work the beat that Borribles can be found are on the look out for them. If a Borrible is captured, then the cops will clip his ears and he will turn back into a normal kid. People that were once Borribles become insanely jealous of those that still are Borribles and also hunt them. Couple this with extra large, intellegent sewer rats that are the sworn enemy of Borribles, and you can see that a Borribles existance is a bit dicey. As a Borrible you can't get a job, so they live by their wits, stealing their supper and defending themselves with thier trusty slingshots. They live in small tribes / street gangs throughout London scratching a rough existance from the sewers and back alleys. Forming alliances and rivalries with each other as well.
The first book of Borribles, a Borrible finds a scout Rumble (really big sewer rat) and his tribe elects to seek out the rumbles and disrupt any plans of attack they may have. Think about a tiny Delta Force unit with sling shots and a candy fixation. Gritty and Tough as the Outsiders with a little Peter Pan thrown in, a great read. I highly recommend this book.

Those 'Orrible Borribles
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-12-08
If it weren't for their pointed ears (which you should know are always well-disguised under a woollen hat whenever they're out in public), it would be very difficult to distinguish a Borrible from a normal human child. They're generally "very skinny", "pretty tough looking", and "always scruffy". Sums up this generation perfectly, don't you think? ;-)

Anyhow, the story itself begins when an enemy Rumble is spotted on Borrible territory by two lookouts, Knocker and Lightfoot. The Borrible instantly smell trouble and in no time at all have assembled a crack team of adventurers to assassinate the Rumble High Command. Naturally of course, not all goes according to plan...

From page one, Michael de Larrabeiti's 'The Borribles' is brimming with action and adventure of epic proportions. It isn't perfect, but whether you're young or simply young at heart, there's something here to be enjoyed.

Highly recommended!

Issues
Faith in the Valley: Lessons for Women on the Journey Toward Peace (Walker Large Print Books)
Published in Paperback by Walker Large Print (2004-06)
Author: Iyanla Vanzant
List price: $16.95
New price: $59.48
Used price: $1.69

Average review score:

IN my PURSE...ALL the TIME!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-20
In. My. Purse.

All. The. Time.

Seriously ---- This book is amazing. It has a permanent home in my purse... (it's not too small, not too big - just right) And I use it almost daily....or at least a few times per week. Sometimes I'm in a bad place and need a quick inspirational message, and sometimes I just feel like feeling better about something....Whatever the reason, you will LOVE THIS BOOK. I ordered 5 more after I got it to give to friends and family...that's how much I love it. I know when some open it they will think "ummm....ok..?" at first....but they end up thanking me later.

GET THIS BOOK you wont be sorry!

helps you get through what you're going through
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-08
this book has been so helpful at valuable to me so many tough times like i'm going through now. the messages are short but powerful. this book will certainly help you restore your peace. like another poster said mine is getting worn out.

Touches a Point
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-07-30
Each time my spirt is down, or I'm going through a situation, I turn to this book. I hold the book in my right hand by its spine, fan the pages with my left hand to stop at randum. The passages I've read, I have felt its deep spirtual feeling and I understand its meaning. Then I reflect on my situation and the passage fits. It helps me to understanding whats going on. It uplifts my spirit to deal with my situation. It give me insight to view my problem from a different angle. It also assures me that what I am currently going through will end. I will get through it. In my view, its a powerfull book. I have read several other books by Iyanla, even watched her talk show (sorry that went off the air), but like the bible, I keep Faith In The Valley near by.

GET THIS and GIVE THIS to your favorite women:)
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2004-07-06
This is my FAVORITE book by Iyanla Vanzant because of: It's size(small enough for your tiny purse), its lack of preach-i-ness and how the index is organized by subject. I feel its a synopsis of all the subjects covered in her other books. I also feel the book is applicable to women of ALL cultures. You can use it as a daily guide or you can use the index to find a subject for which you could use guidance.

A great book for daily reflection
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2002-10-22
I can not express how insightful and helpful this book is! It really makes you look deep into the reason(s) why you thought you needed a book of affirmations in the first place. This book is perfect for those "why me" and "I really can't take any more" moments when you feel like life, and everything in it, needs to give you a break. If you're a woman experiencing a lot of change in your life and it seems like you just can't handle another crisis (or is it a crisis afterall?), this is the book for you. I carry it in my purse!

Issues
The Granny-Man
Published in Hardcover by Dutton Juvenile (1999-09-01)
Author: Judy Schachner
List price: $15.99
New price: $9.03
Used price: $0.74
Collectible price: $29.99

Average review score:

Kindergarten fave!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-05
A student of mine brought this to class to share. After reading it aloud to my K/1 class, I ordered one for the classroom and one for my aide, who fell in love with the story. A winner, for sure!

Really sweet book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-04
This is a great children's book that, I think, helps children develop empathy for other animals. Very sweet book.

Grannyman is a winner!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-29
Judy Schachner in her pre-Skippyjon Jones days, created a memorable, touching, loving picture of an old, old cat that gains new purpose when he's introduced to a spunky new Siamese kitten. I fell in love with the book when I borrowed it from my local library and had to get a copy of my own. When I read this to the kids at the school where I work, they fell in love with Simon as well. Schachner has deep insight into cats and kittens and it comes through beautifully in this must read book.

AW, TOO SWEET.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-26
Who'd a thunk the author of Skippy John Jones (psycho kitty) would also be a softy. I truly love this story since we have an ancient cat and a rambunctious kitten ourselves.

GREAT BOOK ON SEVEAL LEVELS - AN ABSOLUTE DELIGHT
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 13 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-19
The Grannyman, by Judith Byron Schachner is one of the better children's cat books out there. I was absolutely delighted and I must admit a bit surprised when I read this one. Schachner is the author of the Skippyjon Jones books, which are on my favorites list and I am not sure how she was able to transition from cat stories about a little kitten who is a complete mess, to one about a lovely old cat like Grannyman. First, I must admit to being able to relate to both the characters of Skippyjon and to Grannyman. When I was a kid, I could well have been a prototype for Skippyjon and now that I am old, I fit the profile of Grannyman pretty well.

Anyway, this is the story of a very old Siamese cat by the name of Simon. He is blind, deaf and his bones ache and creak. Simon has lived a long life with a very loving family and now spends most of his time in his calico chair looking out into space and dreaming of his life since he was a kitten. The book reviews this old cat's life from the time he was a kitten to the resent. Delightful pictures and wonderful text tell his story. Then, feeling absolutely useless in his dotage, one Tuesday night, Simon sticks his bony old legs in the air and breaths his last....or so he thinks!

Suddenly, plunk, his loving human family drop a new kitten right on Simon's belly. Simon suddenly has a new life. This new little member of the family becomes Simon's charge and Simon his teacher. This is absolutely wonderful.

While this is the story of an old cat, living in a loving home, it is actually the story of all of us, or how all of us should be anyway, as we grow older. What an excellent way to teach children of the aging process in a very gentle and happy way. It is also an excellent way to teach those of us well in to our dotage that life is not over until it is over.

Splendid and lively art work is found in this work and while not as wild as that found in Skippyjon books, it is quite appropriate for this particular story. The text is very well done. I, like another reviewer was hesitant at first about reading this one as I felt it was going to have a sad ending and I avoid books like that at all cost. I was very well pleased and I need not have feared. This work is a must for cat lovers of all ages in particular, animal lovers in general, and all good hearted people. Most importantly though, the kids all seem to love it. I should also not that this author wrote I know n Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie which is a wonderful work also.

Issues
His Princess: Love Letters from Your King (His Princess)
Published in Hardcover by Multnomah Books (2004-01-23)
Author: Sheri Rose Shepherd
List price: $13.99
New price: $8.10
Used price: $6.24

Average review score:

It made our Retreat a Hit!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-31
We chose this book as a foundation for our Women's Retreat. Not only was the theme a springboard for our speakers and breakout sessions, it added inspiration for the treats and decorations. We were pampered as Princesses and we found out how much our Daddy, The King adores us! Low self-esteem is a huge problem for many women, and it was an important issue to tackle. I'm so glad we went back to the basics with this book and delved into the love of God for His children!
His Princess: Love Letters from Your King (His Princess)

When you need a lift....
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-19
I carry this book in my purse all the time. A quick devotional or inspirational encouragement for a variety of circumstances. Beautiful pictures, and a great reminder of your personal value.

You've got to get this book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-17
This book was given to me as a gift from one of my sisters. I love it so much that it is my all-time favorite inspirational gift to give to my special friends. Letters to My King is also excellent! I keep one on my nightstand and one on my desk at work. I highly recommend it!

10 stars
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-01
This book was given to me as a gift and I have bought at least 5 to give as gifts. It is such a wonderful book. Filled with heart felt letters. I can not say enough about this book.

Make you feel like Royalty
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-31
This is a real blessing for a woman. It really lets you see that you are a princecess, the kid of the KING. Each of these uplifting devotionals show you your rightful place in His Kingdom. And that you are truly deserving.
I bought these for my daughters and in-laws,now i give them away to friends and those I know that are depressed. Great Gifts.

Issues
I Love My Hair
Published in School & Library Binding by Topeka Bindery (2001-03)
Author: Natasha Tarpley
List price: $15.80
New price: $12.32

Average review score:

Thankyou Ms. Tarpley and Mr. Lewis
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-01
I recommend this book for all little girls of color. This includes biracial and adopted girls who can also become quite conflicted about their amazing locks.

Even though they may be surrounded by friends and immediate family with similar hair, sometimes they stop seeing the rich beauty of their own hair. They start comparing themselves with their family members with different hair.

This book was perfect for us. A godsend.

I think this book should be given to every family that adopts across racial barriers and recommended to every African American and biracial family (where one parent is of African descent).

Even better it should be read in every elementary school in America. The beauties of long, straight (especially blond) hair is extolled throughout children's literature. So should people of all cultures hear the beauty of African hair extolled.

I loved Ms. Tarpley's comments about her own hair journey. I am so grateful that she wrote this book. I wish it had been around 60 years ago so that many generations of girls could have seen the beauty of their hair affirmed in print.

I have loved every book written by Ms. Tarpley. I find them educational and uplifting. This book is no exception.

Just what you expect
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-09
My older niece loves this book, all about a black girl who, as you expect, loves her hair.

She describes it in various poetic and imaginative terms - her hair can be like a globe, or be spun into a braid; it's curly like a vine winding into space; she likes to wear her hair in "ponytails like wings".

There are some unnecessarily didactic elements - kids at school teased her, so her teacher talked to them about having Pride in Your Heritage (a good concept, the whole book is about that, but that page wasn't so well-handled, I think), and her mother starts talking to her directly about how she's "lucky to have this head of hair" when she complains that haircombing *hurts* sometimes.

Also, some of the illustrations have odd perspective - I'm thinking specifically of one where she's going down the street with beads in her hair.

However, overall this is a really great book. And my nieces (aged five and 2.5) agree. They love reading this book.

Loved This Book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-09
My daughter loved this book as it has vivid illustrations and really helps to promote a love for African American hair!

MUCH BETTER THAN NAPPY HAIR
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-18
IF YOU WERE THINKING OF BUYING THE BOOK "NAPPY HAIR", GET THIS ONE INSTEAD. ITS BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN.

Positive images
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-13
This is an excellent book for building confidence in African-American girls about the natural beauty of their hair. The pictures are wonderfully done and contribute to the feeling of pride you get when reading this book. My daughter especially related to the part where the little girl makes music with the beads in her hair, and I try to remember to be as compassionate as the mom in the book when I comb her hair.

Issues
Last Wish (Sweet Valley High)
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Sweet Valley (1998-08-10)
Author: Francine Pascal
List price: $4.99
New price: $35.00
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

Sweet Valley on Shaky Ground
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2001-08-04
The twins 17th birthday party goes very wrong when a major earthquake strikes!This is nothing--and I mean NOTHING-like the earthquake in Sweetvalleytwins..Jessica and the Earthquake. And in the midst of it all,they may lose a sweet SweetValley resident!!

Twins are turning 17
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-01-05
The Twins are having a birthday,and they are turning 17.The party was to be held at The Beach Disco[Thank goodness they changed their minds] They have their party at home.Their present is a New White Jeep! Their old Jeep Fell into The Water.An Earthquake hits while the party is going on.Some of the party-goers might not survive the party.

Fantafabulous!!!!!!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2001-10-09
Last wish is the best book I've ever read!!!!
I'ts Jessica and Liz's seventeenth Birthday,they both are in for a shock when they feel the earthquake shaking Sweet Valley....
But what else can go wrong on Friday the thirteenth.....

An amazing thriller!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-04
Oh my god! i totally hate it when someone leaves u in suspence. This boook ws really good. I was so suprised that Enid, maia , and Olivia ditched Liz even if it was for a good cause. This book makes u want to laugh and cry just like the Charachters.iI never Knew that Jessica could plan a party for Liz.I feel bad that Liz is torn in2 between devon and Todd.The ending is really hapy and sad . I was soo happy when Olivia and Ken make up. I was also happy when liz an Todd get to be friends. I was sad when the earthquake strikes SV and when olivia , ken maria, Lila , todd,Prince albert were in the house when the earthquake struck. I wonder who will live ? better goget EARTHQUAKE and AFTERSHOK. This is the best thriller Pascl wrote Yet!

One of the best SWEET VALLEY HIGH books!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-04-08
I loved LAST WISH. It was such an incredible book that I couldn't put it down until I finished it (I had borrowed it from my town's library). In LAST WISH, Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield are turning 17 years old. Elizabeth wants to throw Jessica a birthday party that Jessica will never forget...and Jessica wants to do the same for Elizabeth, unknowingly that they both want to give each other birthday parties! Through all their secret birthday party planning, it all seems to go smoothly and perfectly until an earthquake shakes Sweet Valley and ruins it all! To find out what happens, you must read this book. An excellent addition to your SWEET VALLEY HIGH collection. Also, check out parts 2 EARTHQUAKE and 3 AFTERSHOCK, to find out the conclusion of this awesome SWEET VALLEY HIGH Super Special Saga.

Issues
Little Town on the Prairie (Little House)
Published in Paperback by HarperTrophy (2007-01-01)
Author: Laura Ingalls Wilder
List price: $6.99
New price: $1.36
Used price: $3.21
Collectible price: $15.00

Average review score:

A good book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-19
For this book review I read Little Town on the Prarie by:Laura Ingles Wilder. This book is good reading for preteen girls. The story is historical and is about living in the pioneer days.

In this book Laura and her family work hard to send her older sister to Collage and keep her there untill she finishes. Laura and her little sister Grace have to go to school when they move to town for the winter. Laura is very exited about going to school because she wants to get her teachers certifacit when she is sixteen. To find out what else happens you will have to read the book.

This book was fun to read and kept my intrest. It was a little confusing at timeskeeping up with who was talking. It was very interesting also to learn about how they lived back then. Over all it was a good book and I would consider reading it again.

CDs add a great touch
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-21
It's wonderful to see how my children love listening to these books over and over, now that we've been collecting the CDs. The little details really stick in their heads, and have been surprisingly useful tidbits of information on several occasions, as they hear or read other things that relate!

When I first bought the CDs, I was unsure about Cherry Jones' accent, but it just brings a nice, down-home aspect to the reading. Of course, the readings are unabridged - the only way to go, I think!

My favorite part of the CDs, though, is hearing the songs, often accompanied by a fiddle. As a child, I remember skipping over the songs as I encountered them in the text, especially those I didn't know, and it has really added to the experience of the books to hear an actual tune for them. Often, the songs reflect the mood of the moment exceptionally well. Cherry Jones sings them out (usually as Pa!) in her low alto voice, and you do really have to hear a few of them to get used to it, but we love them.

This series just gets better and better!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-06
Laura Ingalls thought that being thirteen was difficult, but now she is on the cusp of her fifteenth year, and things around her are changing like crazy. After a difficult winter full of one blizzard after another, Laura is happy to be back on the claim shanty with her family, away from the hustle and bustle of town. But she knows that her family will most certainly head back to De Smet to live in the shop before winter comes again, to protect them from the harsh weather that may lie ahead. Weather aside, however, Laura can't believe how many new things are arising. Especially the most important one of all - changes for Mary.

Laura couldn't be happier to be back in school again. After so many months of studying on her own, she is thrilled to be back in the classroom with her old friends Mary and Minnie, and Ida. But there's someone new in the classroom. A person from Laura's past who makes Laura shake with anger - Nellie Oleson. Laura, however, is determined to ignore the nasty Nellie and study as hard as she possibly can in order to gain her teaching certificate, and help to send Mary to college. But even without her being a part of the workforce, Mary is able to go off to college, and Laura couldn't be happier - or more devastated. But seeing how much Mary loves college, Laura resolves to study even harder, and begin earning the money to assist in keeping her there. Of course, Laura never imagined that things could possibly stand in her way. Such as the selfish new schoolteacher who thrives on taunting and humiliating both Laura and Carrie in front of the other students; and working as a seamstress in town. But the most shocking of all, is Almanzo Wilder's sudden interest in young Laura. Almanzo is a handsome fellow, whose Morgan horses are the talk of the town, and now Almanzo seems to have taken a fancy to Laura - something that leaves her confused and excited at the same time. But no matter what, she must remember to continue her studies, or else Mary may have to return home before her education is complete.

It seems strange to bear witness as someone ages, but that is exactly what readers have had the opportunity to do as Laura Ingalls grows in age, height, and maturity. The love she holds for her family is so refreshing and charming, and truly keeps the reader's interest peaked; while the constant maturity Laura displays in each and every one of her decisions is just unbelievable. Laura has completely grown up before our eyes, and each year she just becomes more and more lovable. The inclusion of facts regarding the changes taking place during this era are interesting, and present a fun learning experience for readers; while the sudden budding romances springing up around the young people of De Smet indicates just how much older these characters have become. Almanzo Wilder has grown on me over the past few books, and I love reading the scenes where he is present; and Nellie Oleson, as nasty as she is, will always remain a fun character whom you absolutely love to hate, but hate to love. This series just gets better and better!

Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer

Little House on the Prairie - fun family reading time
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-17
I read this book to my two sons, 7, 9 and my husband, during long drives. We all loved it. Even though the main character is a girl, my boys were interested the entire time and identified with Laura. The descriptions are great and the characters are well-drawn. We're now reading These Happy Golden Years and my family is loving that, too. I recommend this book for a family to read together.

Parents beware! (sort of)
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-21
This is a charming, entertaining, and educational story about what life was like among homesteaders in the Dakota territories in the 1880s. I mostly agree with the other positive reviews here. But there is a teaching moment in this book that should not be overlooked. The parents in this book are paragons of virtue, and their behavior matches the highest standards - standards of 1880, not 2006. There is a short scene during one of the "literaries" where several men perform in blackface. Although it occurs with innocent intent, modern readers might find it in questionable taste if they don't allow for the historical context.

If they're smart, parents and teachers will embrace this as an opportunity to open a discussion with children about changing standards, and the work it took to improve those standards.

Issues
Whoever You Are
Published in Board book by Red Wagon Books (2007-08-01)
Author: Mem Fox
List price: $6.95
New price: $5.99
Used price: $5.17

Average review score:

A great look at introducing youngsters to cultural diversity
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-24
Dirty Sally
Whoever you are is great look at introducing youngsters to cultural diversity. "Culture" basically refers to commonalities that run through a group of people with a shared heritage. Sometimes children probably believe that her culture - way of doing things - is the "right" one and that others are a bit "funny." As you read Whoever You Are, you can begin to look at other cultures with your child, aim for an appreciation of differences. Eventually, this will lead to an increased appreciation of the incredible variety of human attributes, flexible thinking, and less prejudice and stereotyping. This type of conversation has to take place. That is why I wrote a children's' book entitled, Dirty Sally..The untold stories of mixed race kids who find a new identity, love, faith and forgiveness through GOD.
There is an interesting story behind the title. I was often taunted or teased about being biracial. Some of my family members and friends called me Dirty Sally. Dirty Sally is an old slavery term used to identify the descendants or offspring of Sally Hemings, a former slave and the late President Thomas Jefferson. Sally Hemings was biracial her mother was ½ white and ½ black and her father white. This book focuses on the misconceptions surrounding racial identity and the importance of choosing one's racial identity. Dirty Sally is a must read not only for inter-racial families, but for all parents hoping to instill in their children a sense of understanding and compassion. I believe that change requires resistance and within that process we can help heal some of the wounds that continue to inflict on racially mixed children. Purchase available on Amazon.com the ISBN# is 9781432707743
For more information or to contact the author, Myrtice J. Edwards visit [...]


One of our favorites
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-02
I bought this for my daughter who we adopted from Guatemala. It is one of her favorite books to read at bedtime and I love it too! Perfect for any adopted child!

Wonderful, Colorful, Great Message
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-09
I love this book. It has beautifully colored illustrations to go along with a wonderful message that no matter how different we all are, we are all the same in many ways...we all smile, laugh, hurt, cry, and experience joy, love, and pain the same way.

A Good Book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-28
I actually like this. It's a good and colorful read for kids of all races and great for young readers.

Super for Preschoolers
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-30
I use this book with our preschool classes when introducing multiculturalism and diversity. I highly recommend this book-- it's a great way to introduce a difficult theme, and it's beautifully written and illustrated.

Issues
All About Love (Sweet Valley High Senior Year No. 13)
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Sweet Valley (2000-01-11)
Author: Francine Pascal
List price: $4.50
New price: $40.71
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

best for conner n liz fans
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-10
i really love this boook, since Liz is my fave character, i love how she and conner ended up together.4 all liz coner fans, u must have it

at first it was about Liz n Conner heading back from the party, n they kissed again, Conner showed a lot of concerns n care bout her. Unfortunately, Mr Wkefield caught them on the door, Liz n her parents argued, and Liz stormed to her room.

Jess told Will bout the situation on the phone, and he felt grateful to have sum1 laike Will.
the next morning, before class, Conner walked over to Liz,asking, again with concern how was she doing, and kissed her on the hallway.

when Liz worried that Conner would just back up again from her, it wqas told bye megan that las night, Conner came back from party all happy, goofy face.

Conner thought that he was about becoming Liz's bf, at 1st he was not happy, but "and for the fisrt time in his life, that seemes not bad at all"
at lunch, jess asked liz n conner 2 do double date, n the gang teased conner n liz bout being couple.

conner didn't want to go on double date, but Liz succeed to sweet tal;k him, and it seems like Conner takes Liz seriously.

in the other hand, Jess started to feel irritated that Will always tells her whta to do, n she had to do that
oh ,d wakefields forgave liz n gave liz second chance.

The doulble date was horrible, but we could see that conner put much efforts there, showing how sweet he can be after he falls for liz.

Will Jess had a fight, Will left Jess in the mexican restaurant.
the next day,conner was invited to big mesa party, at 1st he thought it would be a great escape from liz.
but he ended up asked liz to come.

while he pick up liz,who brought jess, mr n mrs W wanted him to stop by 1st and said hi.
it was awkward n hard 4 conner, but again, he did nice job, just 4 liz.

at d party evrybody was talkin bout conner going on an item now, and has "taken" sign all over his attitude. he also held liz hand to show his buddy that liz was his.
at the end, liz n conner make out at empty room, and jess danced w/ jeremy.

It was great!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2002-11-25
If you love Liz and Conner together, you've got to read this one! It's by far the best one in the series so far.

Book 13 in SVH Senior Year Series
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-21
"All About Love" picks up where the wild party in the previous book left off--with a prim-and-proper Elizabeth Wakefield getting drunk and unexpectedly being rescued by a chivalrous Conner McDermott. After that knight-in-shining-armor scene, it appears that Conner is half-man enough to get involved with Liz once again, where before he was too commitment-phobic to even speak to her, for fear of being tied down to one person.

Will Simmons and Jessica Wakefield are obviously having some problems in this book. For starters, Will repeatedly compares Jessica to his long-term ex-girlfriend, Melissa Fox; and Jessica thinks Will is being too possessive and pushy for her taste--plus she's not entirely over her ex either. Things get worse, though, when they decide to double date with Conner and Elizabeth, and one of them walks out during the meal.

Personally, I've never cared for Will. He's obviously not over Melissa, and I still can't excuse his previous spineless behavior concerning the rumors about Jessica.

Meanwhile, Andy Marsden, the joke-cracking slacker (one of my favorite characters in this book), is trying to get "serious" (if you can ever call him that) about raising his GPA and SAT scores for college--but fails miserably. It's amusing how easily he's distracted, like when he finds his old Game Boy hiding on the floor of his closet.

Overall, "All About Love" is another great addition to the SVH Senior Year series, though the title is a little misleading if you're expecting an in-depth explanation on love or expect everyone to be happy with who they're currently with--and that just won't happen, because where would the fun be in that? The unknown ghostwriter (Francine Pascal is just the creator of this series, not the actual writer) continues to generate enjoyably fast-paced stories that are barely printed fast enough for her(?) hungry fans, who can usually devour one or more of them a day. The chat room conversations, short stories, and journal entries certainly make this series more hip and popular than other teen romance series out there.

lovin the whole Liz/Conner thing!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-27
wow, i really loved this book. id have to say that this might be the best one in the series. I have been waiting forever for conner to finally admit that he does care about Liz and then freaking not dump her after a week. Thank god that didnt happen, like maria and all his other "conquests". although, i did feel bad for maria for a splitsecond about them getting together...since she was so crushed before. oh wait, shes dating Ken. nevermind, i guess this is a good book because my favorite couple finally admited that they were in l-o-v-e and are happy about it. :) doesnt it make you wish there were a conner for everyone?
makes me wish that...;)

Thirteen is definitely lucky in this case...
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-05-11
The thirteenth book in the SVHSY series is no disappointment. Big things are happening between Will and Jessica and Elizabeth is recovering from her stint as a bad girl.
Jessica and Will are fighting more often because Will is acting like a total pig. Melissa has noticed this and has come up with a plan to get Will back. Instead of trying to break them up Melissa is ignoring Will in the attempt to make Will see what he is missing. After yet another fight Jessica spends the night with Jeremy at a party and Will goes back to Melissa!
Andy is in a frazzle as he realises he has no career plan or college mapped out after seeing the guidance counsellor. He gets even more panicked when he sees the average SAT and GPA scores that will get you accepted into the college(he sees this in The Complete Guide to Colleges!) He really wants to work harder but he keeps getting distracted.
Elizabeth, meanwhile, is in a whole lot of trouble after sneaking out while she was grounded. She also went to Cherie's party and consumed a bit too much alcohol. Her parents aren't too happy but Elizabeth and Conner look to have a stronger relationship even if Conner still hates the word 'couple.'

This is a good book like all SVHSY books. You will like it if you like teen books. This even has stories, e-mails, diary thoughts, lists and more from each character. THe books are short and they make a fun, interesting read.
Happy Reading:)


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