Between the Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

This novel offers a harrowing and horrifying account of the forcible relocation of countless Lithuanians in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country in 1939.

What a beautifully written book. It was extremely heartwrenching to read, but very eloquently written. It is a great historical fiction novel for 7th graders and up.

The Magician by Michael Scott

This is the second book in the 6 book series, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. It is my new FAVORITE series!! Love, love, love it.
It is everything I love in fantasy- mythology, magic, adventure, mystery, suspense, action, a great plot and great characters!

This book is not new. I don't know how it slipped past me when it was first published. There aren't a lot of copies of this series in the MCFLS system, so I know that this just did not get the buzz it deserved when it was first published in 2008.

I have started to read the third installment. What I think is very cool about this series, is that all the characters are from history- either real or legend. World Mythology is abundant in this series and it is very interesting to research the characters to learn more about them. So much so that I am going to do it at the library! So, look for a new reading challenge for 5th grade and up involving this series.

Although this book is found in our YA section, it is only because the main characters are 15 years-old. This series is definitely appropriate for 5th grade and up! So, check it out!

Horton Halfpott: Or, the Fiendish Mystery of Smugwick Manor

Tom Angleberger's first book, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda, was hilarious! It came out last year and I loved it!

This book is a little younger, with the same loopy sense of humor, but not as hilarious as Origami Yoda. It's a historical mystery farce with very short chapters. It is an easy read filled with Angleberger's droll humor and wacky asides.

Most 3rd graders will enjoy it!