Rules of the Road by Joan Bauer

This book was required reading for a young adult literature class. My plan was to read the first chapter and then skim until the last few chapters. Somewhere along the road, this book grabbed me and I didn't skim, I read each and every word. I didn't expect this book to speak to me, I didn't expect to feel a connection with the characters, I don't have any experience with selling shoes or alcoholic family members. This book spoke to me on the level of acceptance, control, forgiveness. It made me realize that my perception is valid, but everyone has their own perception that informs their beliefs about me, themselves and the world at large. I did not expect to be changed after reading 201 pages, but something in me is different. I took a trip along with Jenna and Mrs. Gladstone, my trip was not down the highway, but through the streets of my own heart.

Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

I was so excited to bring home Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo. I love to knit as much as I love to read, so audio books are my best friends. I listened as I knit and was captivated by the story. Such a quirky story with incredible vocabulary, this is a great read aloud for the classroom or bedtime. Kate DiCamillo is a master story teller using humor, and peculiar characters. This combination may not work in a less skillful author, but in the hands of this multiple Newbery Winner the story is touching, funny and poignant. I have a healthy new respect for squirrels and my vacuum cleaner and make sure the twain never meet.

 The Shadow Throne by Jennifer A. Nielsen, the conclusion to the Ascendant Trilogy delivers action, intrigue and romance. Wait, what...yes, romance. I didn't see that coming,  Jaron  kissing and discussing his warm fuzzys was unexpected. I think I've been reading too much dystopian fiction or am growing too cynical. I was frustrated by the (SPOILER ALERT) happy ending. After so much hardship and death I was waiting for Jaron to be tragic hero. Overall, I really liked this series, sometimes  I don't complete a series simply because I lose interest or the story doesn't maintain the connection between the reader and the characters. I like Jaron and his pluck, I cared about his story and wanted to see how he fared after so much heartache. Yes, he deserves the happy ending, I don't begrudge him that.