Kids' Picks

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

Lisa — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 16:11:10 +0000

An historical fantasy set in Paris and London just before the French Revolution, The Red Necklace is a great adventure. The two protagonists, Yann and Sido, save each others lives within hours of meeting; then they part. The story continues as the French aristocracy, especially Sido's father and his world, disintegrates. Yann, meanwhile, is in London, is mourning the loss of the only parent and life he has ever known. Of course, their lives are intertwined not only by their empathy for one another, but by a common nemesis, the dubious, devil-touched, and wealthy Count Kalliovski.

I really loved this book, up until the end: it was so abrupt, it seems like there must be a sequel. And there were some inconsistencies with the magic, but I liked the pace and characters, and the revolution was portrayed with historical interest without being overburdened by facts. It was horrible to read, but still interesting.

Appropriate for ages 11 and up.

The Dragonfly Pool by Eva Ibbotson

Lisa — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:44:36 +0000

A charming story about World War Two England, although that is really just a plot device. Tally is a student at an independent school in Devon, who wants to change the world, or at least find solutions to other people's problems. She and a few friends journey to an imaginary country threatened by Nazi invasion and laid low by the assasination of their king to perform in an international folk dance festival. The children aid in the escape of the young prince and his subsequent isolation in London.

Appropriate for ages 9-12.

Victory of Eagles by Naomi Novik

Lisa — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 03:08:00 +0000

The fifth book in the Temeraire series by Naomi Novik is just as exciting as the first four. Originally written as fan fiction for the Patrick O'Brian books about the Napoleonic Wars, this series now has its own life. Front and center is Temeraire, of course, an Imperial dragon of China, belonging to Royal Navy Capitan-turned-Aerial Corps Capitan, William Laurence. As the were separated in the last book, their reunion is difficult...made more so by the impetuous and intelligent Temeraire, who decides to create his own Aerial Corps, of which he is the Admiral.

Appropriate for ages 12 and up, reading them in order is recommended.