Young Adult

This is one of the best books I’ve ever read to students (or adults).  No matter what happens in life, there is nothing quite like friendship.  This is one of the most touching stories ever written, in my opinion.

Before having a square named after him in Oakland, Jack London wrote a few good books.  This remains one of my favorites, and I noticed that Dover Publications is offering copies for a buck on Amazon.

If you are too lazy to read this captivating tale of the man who goes from slow learner to genius, sneak a peek at Cliff Robertson’s Oscar-winning performance in the movie version Charly.

The delightful tale that inspired the movie Willy Wonka, this is a favorite of all ages.  Appropriate reading while you gorge yourself over the Thanksgiving holiday.  I also like to point out to students that Charlie wins the chocolate because the other four kids are brats.  Moral:  nice guys don’t always finish last.

Since I am sending you this month’s list a little early, you might be able to read this just in time for Halloween.  Ichabod Crane is such a poor, innocent fellow.  I thought of this book because Ichabod’s love interest, Katrina Van Tassel, reminded me to add my friend Kathy Van Tassell to our reading list.

I consider this a “must” read.  My friend Carla Salley loaned me her copy, and I admit that I read it twice in two days.  This funny tale of summers spent with grandma rivals Mark Twain and Tom Bodett.  Sweet simplicity.  You can read this book in under three hours, so grab a coffee and spend a delightful afternoon at Border’s.  This book is a treasure!

Can you believe that it was only a hundred years ago this month since the airplane was invented?  Too bad nobody asked the Wright Brothers to invent good airline food.  This is a very compelling and informative biography.

I try not to push authors too much, but Peck’s follow up to A Long Way from Chicago is every bit as good as the first (if not better).  Again, I consider this a “must” read, as Peck is today’s Twain.

A classic about a man who receives a penguin in the mail as a gift from his hero, Admiral Drake.  Mr. Popper had dreamed of exploring the arctic regions; now, he has to provide one for his hungry house guests.

Since this book is about a 6^th grade quiz bowl team’s funny tales, I’d recommend this to those of you with 6^th graders.

Poems and stories about one girl’s ability to rise from her dire environment.  I especially enjoy a poem called “Four Skinny Trees.”  It amazes me that it has taken me so long to recommend this book.

This book will remind you to teach your students nicely.  It is also great for jumpstarting students’ crime and mystery tastes so that they can someday graduate to Patricia Cornwell & Sue Grafton.

This is the classic that began the Super Fudge phenomenon.  Enjoy tales of Peter Hatcher’s trials with his little brother Fudgie, among other delightful storylines.

Hinton wrote this book when she was 16 years old.  Kind of makes you wonder what the heck you are doing with your life, doesn’t it?

A classic.  The reluctant sixth grade reader is sure to read this illustrated, funny tale because all of us can relate to Charlie Brown's trials and tribulations.