THE READERS OF BROKEN WHEEL RECOMMEND by Katrina Bivald

This book about books is also a romance, but not THAT kind of romance. A whole town conspires and the result is delightful. Many twists and turns, surprises and sorrows make this an entrancing read.

Well-developed characters (one unfortunately dead), a plot that can carry the many characters, a sense of place and time, a tempo just fast enough to keep the reader reading and a clear author’s voice (surprisingly true for a first time author) all combine for a pleasing book. Kudos also must be given to the translator.

Book groups will love this book.  Discussions can concern books, personalities, laws on immigration, marriage, relationships between friends, lovers and family members, translated books and many others.

5 of 5 stars

A CHAMELEON, A BOY AND A QUEST by J A Myhre

A CHAMELEON, A BOY AND A QUEST   by J A Myhre

This middle grade reader is also a great “read to me” for ages 6 and up.  A somewhat scary quest has our intrepid Boy (Mu) and his not-quite-a-pet Chameleon (Tita), searching for answers to why his relatives treat him so badly.  Along the way they meet many Middle African animals (some friendly, some not), delight in the flowers and plants, are captured by enemy soldiers and rescued by a mountain snow storm. Oh yes, and there is a dog met along the way that is vital to the quest.

Mu learns about friendship, sacrifice, loyalty, forgiveness and family as he completes his quest.

There are some (possibly boring and/or difficult to read for kids) sections where the author includes information about her experience as a medical missionary. These are easily skipped over without affecting the continuity or plot of this charming novel.   

Inquisitive kids will want to know more about the animals and plants Mu encounters. A trip to a zoo or natural history museum may be a good follow up.

4 ½ stars out of 5