World Book Night Comes to America

Tomorrow is World Book Night.  Join book lovers in the U.K., Ireland, and the U.S.!  Sponsored by the leading library and book associations in the world and supported by many major publishing houses, the second annual World Book Night is designed to spread a love of the printed page and to promote libraries and booksellers around the globe by giving away one million books.  The volunteers get books into the hands of people who wouldn't normally read - - 'simple as that.  Although the event was originally intended for adults, this year the giveaway includes YA.  Hooray!  Even if you're not involved this year, why not pick up a copy one of these outstanding novels?  Happy reading!

The Book Thief,
by Markus Zusak

Wintergirls,

by Laurie 

Halse Anderson

Ender's Game,

by Orson Scott Card

Because of Winn-Dixie,
by Kate DiCamillo

The Absolutely True Diary
of a Part-Time Indian,
by Sherman Alexie

The Hunger Games,
by Suzanne Collins

Seeking My Next Book

Glenn Robert Gray said he spent the time he wasn't reading, looking for something to read!  In case you are seeking the same, I thought I'd list my current reads in several categories.  At the bottom you'll find some links for other booklists.

The Moonstone, by Wilkie Collins

In My Father's House,
by Corrie Ten Boom

A Series of Unfortunate Events #12
The Penultimate Peril,
by Lemony Snicket

Frankie Pickle
and The Closet of Doom
by Eric Wight

The Treausre of Savage Island,
by Lenore Hart

For more reading suggestions, try these links:
Reading Tween 
The New York Times Book Reviews
You Are What You Read
Kids' Next
Great Schools book lists

Little Women

Sorry I missed Tuesday's post.  I wanted to follow up Monday's quote with a book feature by the same author.  Better late than never, and so . . .

Little Women
1898 edition

Little Women
manga 2007

 

Little Women
1915
art by  Jessie Willcox Smith

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott  is, undeniably, a classic.  The strong heroine who chooses her own destiny despite the opinions of society, was ahead of its time.  There are literally hundreds of editions of this novel, not taking into account the sequels or editions which contain multiple novels in one volume.

I have three copies and am looking for a fourth.  Oddly enough, this is not because it is my favorite story, but because so many fabulous illustrators have tried their hands at capturing the March girls: Shirley Hughes, Jessie Wilcox Smith, and Trina Schart Hyman to name a few.  I highly recommend the Viking edition by James Prunier, 1997.  This edition from The Whole Story series includes, not only Little Women and Good Wives combined, but also annotations and illustrations in the margins to make the cultural references understandable.

John Carter of Mars Premiere

Cover art by Frank Schoonover

Today Disney premieres John Carter of Mars in theaters.  I am looking forward to an action-packed adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs's A Princess of Mars.  But as usual, I suggest you read the book series for yourself.  If you've never read Burroughs, you simply must pick up a copy of Tarzan of the Apes.  It is well worth the read!

Courtesy Whatsits Galore

A note of caution: Not all cover art from the above series are suitable for all audiences.  Please use discretion when searching images.

Tuesdays, George, and Hohn

Tuesdays at the Castle combines the talents of two really charming people:  Jessica Day George, and David Hohn.  I have heard some criticism of George's middle grade fantasies, but don't agree.  Her characters are spunky and her point of view is unique.  I'm so pleased to see her latest book, released in October 2011, with fabulous cover art by David Hohn.  His illustration style is a fresh take on old favorites.  He seems willing to experiment with technique to create the right mood.  With such a winning combination, and the promise of a fun new series, this book shoots to the top of my "must buy" list.  Happy Reading!

Snow White & Rose Red
by David Hohn

Treasure Island
by David Hohn