“Crenshaw” by Katherine Applegate is the story of Jackson, a nine-year-old boy and his imaginary large feline friend, Crenshaw. Jackson’s family struggles to make ends meet, and Crenshaw appears each time Jackson is going through a hard time navigating things. Though his family tries to shield him and his younger sister from the realities of their situation, Jackson knows a lot more than they think. He is very loving and understanding but wants to change his family’s situation and wishes his parents would open up to him about their realities. Crenshaw appears to him at five, showing up in a bathtub. He’s outspoken, distinguished, and silly. Jackson questions why he keeps showing up; he won’t go away this time. Meanwhile, Jackson’s family have sold practically everything they own, and living in their car is quickly becoming their reality again. Jackson doesn’t want this to happen… again. 

What I loved about this book was that it didn’t shame parents raising children in poverty. Instead, it dealt with the social issue with bravery and pride. Jackson is trying to be there for his family and has a lot more responsibility than a nine-year-old kid should have. The entire story is from Jackson’s perspective, and it is refreshing to see a child who knows a lot more than he may be letting on. Jackson is a child that other children can relate to. The story deals with important social issues like homelessness, poverty and hunger. The book’s ending doesn’t tie up everything in a nice bow. Instead, it shows what kind of stress this kind of family situation can have on a child and what coping strategies they must find for themselves, like a large imaginary cat friend.

I recommend this book to teachers primarily because of the topics of poverty, hunger, and, most importantly, the strength of family love, no matter the socio-economic situation.

The Five People You Meet in Heaven is a tear jerking and emotional book that provides a gentle reminder that all lives are interconnected and that we all have a purpose. The book follows a man named Eddie and his journey through Heaven. Eddie meets five individuals who played a significant role in his life. However, these prominent figures are not the standard parent, friend or teacher, rather they are strangers, folks you glanced at for a second or anyone unsuspecting that you may have not even given a second thought towards. With each individual met, a moral, a story and a connection to Eddie’s life is encompassed by each person, to further explain the concept of Heaven and help guide Eddie throughout his journey.

The book provides an excellent commentary on how our traditional perceptions of Heaven can be challenged and vary between person to person. Questions proposed such as, How do you envision Heaven, What lessons or moments in life do you want more explanation on or How have I significantly impacted someone else’s life, can only be answered truthfully and deeply within one’s own self-consciousness and ideologies.

Giving an explanation truly is not giving the book justice. I highly encourage winding down with this book at night and preparing yourself for a deep thought about one’s values, impact on others and existentialism for how and why we are here and got to this exact moment.

So, today I want you to ponder on this question:

Who are the five people you meet in heaven?

Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower is an evocative coming-of-age novel that captures the turbulence of adolescence with remarkable sensitivity. Written as a series of heartfelt letters, the story invites readers into the intimate thoughts of Charlie, a high school freshman grappling with trauma, identity, and the longing for connection. This unique format creates a deep bond between Charlie and the reader, making you feel like the “Dear Friend” to whom Charlie confides. Its raw, emotional exploration of friendship, mental health, and self-discovery resonated with me profoundly.

The melancholic tone of the novel is deeply affecting, especially as Charlie navigates his struggles with loss, identity, and belonging. A particularly striking element is how Charlie’s love for music and literature enhances the emotional depth of the story, with references to songs like “Asleep” by The Smiths adding an illuminating backdrop to his journey.

As someone who loves coming-of-age novels, reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower at 13 offered immense comfort during a tumultuous time. Inspired by the book, I began journaling my thoughts, beginning each entry with “Dear Friend” and signing off with “Love always.” This practice became so meaningful that I now have a tattoo to honour it, a permanent reminder of how this story shaped me.

For those seeking similarly introspective narratives, I recommend The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. While longer and more complex, it shares themes of loss, identity, and the transformative power of art, making it a perfect next read for fans of Chbosky’s work.

(P.S. I liked the movie just as much)

Hello everyone! I’m going to discuss my thoughts on J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets today. With a blend of magic, mystery, and suspense that had me reading pages, this second novel in the series really picks up the pace.

The narrative centers on Harry’s second year at Hogwarts, when events quickly turn disastrous. It is up to Harry, Ron, and Hermione to discover the cause of the students’ unexplained stone-turning. There’s always something interesting going on, from Dobby, a strange house-elf, to flying automobiles and odd new professors. As they delve farther into the riddle, more details about Voldemort’s and Hogwarts’ past are revealed, concluding in a dramatic clash in the creepy Chamber of Secrets.

The way this novel strikes the ideal balance between humor and suspense is what I enjoyed most about it. The darker turns, particularly when the journal revealed Voldemort’s past, made me uneasy, but the humorous parts, such as Ron’s spell attempts, lightened the mood. I thought the world-building was deepened without being overpowering, and the pacing was excellent.

This book was a perfect blend of adventure and mystery, and it made me even more invested in the series. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it!

No Fixed Address follows the life of twelve-and-three-quarters-year-old Felix Knutsson. Felix is like most kids his age: he loves spending time with his friends and he hates homework. Except Felix’s mom, Astrid, cannot seem to keep a job. A loving yet absentminded mother, she is unable to access stable housing for herself and her son. At the beginning of the summer, they moved into the van. This was fun for a little while, but things have become more complicated as Felix starts school and the weather turns cold. On top of all this, Felix is a trivia wiz. When he gets accepted onto the kids special of his favourite trivia game show, Who, What, Where, When, he believes that his world will change forever.

This delightful story is narrated by Felix, an intelligent and resourceful kid. This book is suitable for students in grades 7 and above, and it is a great resource to introduce the topic of homelessness.

Syd (Cohort 171)

This novel titled, The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is an action/adventured fantasy that brings Greek Mythology into the modern everyday world. The story starts with 12-year-old, Percy Jackson, who discovers he’s not just a regular kid. He’s a demigod, the son of one of the Olympian Gods. After being accused of stealing Zeus’s master lightning bolt, and his mother being captured by one of the Gods, Percy must go on a dangerous quest to clear his name, recover the bolt, rescue his mother, and prevent a war among the gods. Percy must team up with his best friend Grover (a satyr) and Annabeth another demigod, making for an epic adventure full of humour, danger, and self-discovery.

If you enjoy stories of adventure, action, or heroes discovering their true potential, you’ll love Artemis Fowl, The Kane Chronicles, or Harry Potter. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves action-packed adventures with clever twists!

Farah Ghauss (171)

The book portrays an idealized elementary school in Japan during World War II, showcasing an unconventional teaching environment where freedom of expression is deeply encouraged and valued. Reading this book gives not only children but also adults, especially those working in the educational fields, an eye-opening view on how a school setting can differ drastically from the traditional public school system, while still providing children with a rich and meaningful learning experience.

For Instance, the school used abandoned railroad carts as classrooms, where the kids there were so well-protected, not knowing the heart-breaking war that was going on in the world. The teachers were also teaching lessons in the most creative way, using whatever materials that come in handy. Despite the hardships of the time, the school fostered a spirit of hope, spreading messages of peace and love among the students and staff.

I highly recommend this book for future educators to read to children, as it emphasizes key qualities essential for their growth and development, such as resilience, empathy, and creativity. All the content is age-appropriate, ensuring that children can connect with the story without being overwhelmed. It also serves as a valuable tool for teaching cultural differences, as the story is set in Japan, providing an opportunity to broaden children’s understanding of the world around them.

— Lin Yuan / PJ171

Imagine for a moment that you could escape the monotony of daily life and explore a world beyond our own, filled with fauns, satyrs, talking animals, and other mythical creatures surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Well, this is exactly what happened to the Pevensie siblings who were forced to leave behind their family and normal life due to the bombing of London during the Second World War, to live in with a serious Professor in the English countryside. An ordinary Wardrobe in the professor’s house turns out to be a portal to another world, the land of Narnia! However, the children quickly find out that something is rotten in the state of Narnia, as the land is under the iron fist of the evil White Witch who has plunged the once peaceful nation into perpetual winter without Christmas! Can the children help restore order? And who is the mysterious Alsam that the creatures of Narnia keep talking about?

In my opinion, the most captivating aspect of the book is Edumunds overarching character arc. I will not go into detail to avoid spoilers, but he goes through a journey of self-reflection in which the hardship he faces forces him to grow as a person and change how he views his siblings and the world around him. If you like fantasy series such as Harry Potter or Percy Jackson you would love this book and the Narnia series as a whole!

-Gianmarco Tagliola J/I 132

“

Amina’s Voice” by Hena Khan is a beautifully written middle-grade novel that shines a light on the experiences of a Pakistani-American Muslim girl. Amina struggles with common middle school challenges,like navigating friendships and finding her voice, while balancing her cultural identity and family traditions. The story authentically portrays the beauty of her heritage, including glimpses into Islamic practices and Pakistani culture.

What sets Amina’s Voice apart from many popular books is its genuine representation of a diverse background. For readers like me, it’s refreshing to see a character who prays, speaks another language at home, and embraces her rich cultural traditions, making the story feel personal and relatable. It provides a perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream literature, giving readers the opportunity to feel seen or to learn about a culture different from their own.

Without giving away the ending, the book explores themes of friendship, identity, and the power of community in a way that is both heartfelt and inspiring. It is a story of resilience and belonging that resonates deeply with readers, particularly those who are searching for representation and understanding. Amina’s Voice is a must-read for anyone who values diverse stories.

A Fabumouse Vacation for Geronimo is a book in the Geronimo Stilton series that recounts one of Geronimo’s adventures. Tomorrow is the start of Geronimo’s long-awaited vacation to get away from the office and his annoying assistant editor, Pinky Pick for a few days. But when emergencies keep arising causing him to miss his flights, the only vacation spot left is a half-a-cheese rated hotel called the Ratty Tatty Hotel in Catstinko. But as he gets on the bus to Catstinko, he realizes that Pinky is going to the same place for her vacation, and the worst part is that they’re sharing a hotel room. Now Geronimo not only missed all the great vacation spots but has spend his vacation with the one person he was trying to get away from.

My favourite parts of the book were all the funny situations that caused Geronimo to miss his flights, from a flood at his office just before his flight to eating bad cooking from his cousin the night before. I also liked the format of the book, which has fun fonts throughout to keep me captivated.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes other Geronimo Stilton books and funny stories about making the best of your situation.

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell is a beautifully written coming of-age novel that explores the complexities of first love, identity, and the struggle to fit in. The book is raw and emotional, capturing the intensity of adolescence with honesty and grace.

Set in 1986, the story follows Eleanor, a red-haired, awkward girl who doesn’t quite fit in at her new high school, and Park, a half-korean boy who stands out for all the wrong reasons. Their unlikely connection blossoms over shared experiences with music, comics, and a quiet understanding of each other’s pain. Eleanor’s home life is

fraught with abuse and neglect, while Park’s seemingly perfect family hides its own struggle. Their relationship offers a much needed escape from their tumultuous lives, but also serves as a remainder that love is never simple.

One of my favourite parts of the book happens towards the end, when Eleanor, after a long and painful period of doubt and distance from Park, finally realizes the depth of her feelings for him. It’s a quiet moment, but carries so much weight. I love this moment because it feels so true to life – how love can sneak up on you when you least expect it, and how it can change the way you see the world.

If you like Eleanor & Park and are looking for something similar, I highly recommend Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell. The novel also explores themes of family dynamics, mental health, and the pressure of expectations, all set agsint the backdrop of a quirky, emotionally complex college environment

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is an inspiring and heartwarming picture book about discovering creativity and building confidence. This story captures how a small spark of encouragement can ignite big changes.

The story begins with Vashti sitting in art class, staring at a blank piece of paper. Frustrated, she insists that she can’t draw. Her teacher gently encourages her to “just make a mark,” leading Vashti to make a single, small dot. From that simple act, a journey of discovery and confidence unfolds as Vashti learns that even the smallest actions can spark creativity and growth.

My favorite part of The Dot is when Vashti’s teacher frames her first dot, treating it like a masterpiece. This moment reminds me of when I was in elementary school and felt nervous about sharing my own art. A teacher’s kind words about my simple drawing gave me the courage to keep creating, just like Vashti. This book beautifully captures how one supportive person can make a lasting difference in someone’s life.

I recommend The Dot to anyone who loves stories about self-discovery and encouragement, especially young readers and educators. It’s a wonderful reminder of how our words as future teachers can make a big impact and inspire students in ways we may never expect.

Mia Tang runs the front desk at the Calivista Hotel near Disneyland. That is, when she isn’t attending Grade 5 at Dale Elementary School. Ten-year-old Mia and her parents live and work at the small hotel. As Chinese immigrants in the 1980s, the Tangs relentlessly pursue their American dream, despite constant obstacles in the form of anti-Asian racism and never-ending worries about money.

Mia’s luxuries are things that others have in abundance: a pair of jeans left behind at the hotel (she wears $3 bargain shop pants); a slice of pizza (won as a prize); a sparkly pencil (her most cherished possession). However, her dream in life is not to own fancy things or go to Disneyland, it is to be a writer, something her Mom thinks is entirely out of reach.

Mia’s plucky and youthful sincerity remind me of my nine-year-old self and will surely inspire young readers to face problems with an open mind and a clever plan. Despite hardships, Mia greets the daily challenges of immigrant life with the same sunny attitude and tenacious spirit that she presents to each new hotel guest. Mia shows how kindness can be contagious and how hope is the key to every (hotel room) door.

Andrea Schneider PJ131

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall tells a charming story about the Penderwick sisters – Rosalind, Skye, Jane and Batty – during their summer vacation at Arundel Cottage in Massachusetts.

While exploring the property, the sisters encounter many characters, but most important is Jeffrey, the son of the estate’s owner, Tiffany. Jeffrey becomes the sisters’ close friend and accomplice in their adventures and mischief. However, Tiffany disapproves of the sisters’ free-spirited ways and threatens to send Jeffrey to military school. As they navigate various challenges and judgments, the sisters learn about friendship, family, courage and loyalty.

As the youngest of three sisters, I relate to the book’s theme of sisterhood and the importance of coming together despite our differences. Similar to the Penderwick sisters, my sisters and I have distinct personalities, but we never let that get between us.

If you enjoy light-hearted books filled with adventure and lovable characters, then The Penderwicks is for you! Although this book is recommended for readers in grades 3-5, older readers who like Little Women may also appreciate it. Younger readers who enjoy Anne of Green Gables or The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street will also adore this heartwarming story.

I am currently reading “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”. Definitely a book I don’t want to put down. I previously read the other books in the series and found this to be very well-written with an amazing storyline! The author tells a story about 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow. Now, if you haven’t read the previous books in the series, Snow was considered an evil dictator of the Capital. In The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, he’s simply a student who wants to make a good impression and receive good grades. Coriolanus’s goal is to succeed as a mentor to a woman named Lucy Gray who is from District 12, which was considered to be one of the poorest districts. The only way for him to be successful is to keep Lucy Gray alive in the Hunger Games where there is only one tribute standing. Although that is one of his goals, other feelings get to him and may change his path…

A part that really spoke to me was when our tough-hearted Lucy Gray begins to break a day before the Hunger Games begin and how Coriolanus was there to support her. I must’ve reread that part a couple of times because of how kind it was. I’m still currently reading this book but the story, although fiction, shares real-life ideas of capitalism and people living in poverty. It allows me to receive a glance at the roles that play in the story (for example, capitalist, and the different districts) and make connections to real life (politicians, upper and lower classes).

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt shares the heartfelt and empowering story about Ally Nickerson, a sixth grade student who has always felt like an outsider because of her struggle to read due to having dyslexia. Ally’s journey of self-discovery and growth is guided by her teacher Mr. Daniels, and her friends Keisha and Albert who all show Ally unconditional support and compassion. The narratives throughout the book demonstrate to the reader that our differences should be celebrated and underscores the importance of empathy, belonging and kindness.

A moment that stood out for me is when Mr. Daniels helps Ally to understand that her struggles with dyslexia does not make her less intelligent. This conversation is a turning point for Ally as she begins to realize that her creativity and artistic talent are not flaws, but are rather assets which make her feel unique and confident. 

I highly recommend Fish in a Tree, if you want a feel-good story about self-discovery, friendship and if you’ve ever felt like you did not fit in. For educators, reading this book to your students will share a good lesson that everyone learns in their own unique way. If you enjoy the book Wonder, you will love this book!

The Secret Garden is a classic story that tells the tale of Mary Lennox- a spoiled, lonely little girl, who is sent to live with her reclusive uncle in Yorkshire after her parents’ sudden death. At first, her new life is very cold and sad (the mansion is gloomy/bleak, Mary is neglected), however everything changes for her when she discovers a locked up, secret garden somewhere on the property. With the help of her sickly cousin Colin and a local boy with a passion for nature named Dickon, the trio work hard to restore the garden and its magic – however, it seems that, in the end, it is the garden itself that works its magic, healing and transforming the children in ways they never expected.

I think what I love most about this story is that it is all about growth—both for the garden and the people in it. It’s a beautiful story about kindness, change, and the healing power of nature and friendship. For kids, it’s a great reminder that even the hardest times can lead to something positive, and that helping others (and yourself) can make a real difference. It’s one of those books that’s not only a fun adventure but also teaches lessons such as empathy and resilience that stick with you long after you finish reading.

Taylor Nicole Grech – PJ141

Geronimo Stilton, : The Kingdom Of Fantasy #3; The Amazing Voyage, is a critically acclaimed novel which looks at the narrated story of Geronimo Stilton’s third visit to the kingdom of fantasy.  Queen Blossom, queen of the fairies is in trouble, and Mr. Stilton must travel across the 7 kingdoms to help the queen of the fairies, and restore balance within the Kingdom of Fantasy. Along the way, he faces many challenges and obstacles that help him develop the skills and gain allies that will help him with his final task.

I enjoy this book because it proves that not all heroes wear capes. and to save the world, its the heart of mouse, not its size that counts. It puts in the reader’s mind what a hero is, and what a hero might look like. It makes you reevaluate what ordinary and extraordinary means.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White is a novel that tells the story of a pig saved from slaughter by an eight-year-old girl named Fern. Fern takes full responsibility for the little piglet, names him Wilbur, and carefully tends to him. However, as Wilbur grows, he is moved to her uncle’s farm since he outgrows his space at Fern’s home. On the farm, Wilbur adjusts to life among other animals but soon learns he is destined to be eaten for Christmas, which causes him great distress. Charlotte, a wise spider, notices his despair and weaves a message into her web. This message attracts attention, and the farm owners ultimately decide to spare Wilbur’s life. Sadly, Wilbur learns that Charlotte is ill, and after laying her eggs, she can no longer return to the farm. Wilbur decides to take her eggs back with him, where he later enjoys the company of Charlotte’s children on the farm.

E.B. White tells the heartwarming story of two unlikely companions. The protagonist, Wilbur the pig, was the runt of his litter, making him destined to be slaughtered. When he meets a soft-spoken, gentle spider named Charlotte, his destiny is quickly changed. Charlotte and Wilbur quickly develop an unbreakable bond, and Charlotte’s ability to spin beautifully intricate webs proves to be vital in her quest to save Wilbur. Charlotte sees Wilbur for more than a runt, and hopes to convey that message to the humans who hold power over his life.

The novel tells a powerful story of determination, friendship, and rebirth. Although a children’s novel, Charlotte’s Web proves to also demonstrate mature themes such as mortality, loneliness, and self worth. I remember reading this novel many times as a young reader, and upon reflection, I appreciate the balance of lightheartedness with reality. I believe that children can benefit from content that eases in more mature themes to make them aware of these realities, while still maintaining a level of fantasy, awe, and optimism. Charlotte’s Web proves to intertwine all these themes to create a very special story between the charmingly personified animal characters.

-Michelle Tompkins

Summary:
Wonder by R.J. Palacio tells the powerful story of August “Auggie” Pullman, a ten-year-old boy with a craniofacial condition that makes him look different from others his age. Auggie has been homeschooled his whole life, but in fifth grade, he started attending Beecher Prep, a private school. As he navigates his new school environment, Auggie encounters challenges and prejudice, but he also finds friendship, acceptance, and inner strength. The book unfolds through multiple perspectives, including Auggie’s classmates, his sister, and others close to him, offering a well-rounded view of how Auggie’s journey impacts everyone around him.

Favourite Part:
One of the most touching parts of Wonder is when Auggie receives the Beecher Prep medal for showing extraordinary courage and kindness at the year-end awards ceremony. It’s a heartwarming moment that celebrates his resilience and kindness, finally giving him the recognition he deserves after facing so many obstacles. This moment shows how far Auggie has come and is a turning point for both him and the other students who have come to know him.

Thoughts on the Book:
What stands out most about Wonder is how it brings in multiple perspectives. We don’t just see Auggie’s challenges, we also see the story through the eyes of his friends, his sister, and others, providing a layered understanding of how someone’s difference affects everyone. It helps readers understand the importance of empathy and shows that every person is going through something, even if it’s not visible on the outside. This unique storytelling approach makes the book especially powerful, as it fosters empathy by putting readers in the shoes of various characters, all of whom have their own struggles.

Recommendation:
Wonder is a perfect fit for students in Grades 4-6, as it’s accessible yet mature enough to address themes of kindness, acceptance, and courage. It’s a wonderful book for helping young readers understand the value of empathy and acceptance and can inspire classroom discussions about treating others with respect, regardless of differences. Whether you’re looking for an inspiring read or a novel to encourage meaningful conversations, Wonder is a heartfelt and memorable choice.

Parvana’s Journey by Deborah Ellis is the epic sequel to a title that may be more familiar, The Breadwinner. This story tells the heartbreaking story of Parvana, a 13-year-old girl living under the Taliban rule in a war-torn Afghanistan.

In the follow up to The Breadwinner, Parvana’s father has died, and she takes off on a dangerous journey in search of her mother and siblings. Along her way, she meets other children who have been scarred by the violence of war, and together they make a family, relying on each other to survive. They face so many obstacles; physical, mental, and emotional, but show strength in the face of these hardships. 

I first read Parvana’s Journey when I was about 10 years old, and it left a lasting impact on me. Parvana’s life was so vastly different from mine—she couldn’t attend school and had to provide for herself and the other children in her care. The story opened my eyes to the realities of life for many around the world, sparking my curiosity about how others live during war. Re-reading the book as an adult, I’m even more struck by Parvana’s resilience in the face of this unimaginable adversity. Her strength is inspiring, but the novel also serves as a reminder of the effects of war on civilians, especially the most vulnerable: children.

Parvana’s Journey is a really powerful read that offers a glimpse into the lives of those affected by conflict. It serves as a reminder to me, of the importance of empathy, courage, and perseverance.