Koncocoo

Best Children's Difficult Discussions Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . Homeschooled all his life, August heads to public school for fifth grade and he is not the only one changed by the experience--something we learn about first-hand through the narratives of those who orbit his world. What is essential is invisible to the eye.” From The Little Prince and R.J. Palacio’s remarkable novel, Wonder .-- Seira Wilson August, nicknamed Auggie, is a 10-year-old with a facial deformity that causes others to avoid and even shun him.
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would recommend all young children to read this book and I would certainly recommend adults to read it because it will certainly change that "judgement of others" into "an acceptance of others.""
"Friends said to read the book before seeing the movie."
"Those "targets" are the brave ones, like August, who get on with their lives, but may be forever bothered by it. I believe this movie should be seen by every student in school, and every adult in every walk of life. Make the choice early in your life to choose kindness."
"She loved seeing the movie after she had finished reading the book and she’s already the next book in the series, ”Auggie and Me.”."
"This book is amazing."
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Out of My Mind
Over 1.5 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller Out of My Mind and discovered the brilliant mind of Melody Brooks. Out of My Mind spent two years on the New York Times bestseller list! “If there’s one book teens and parents (and everyone else) should read this year, Out of My Mind should be it.” — Denver Post “A gutsy, candid, and compelling story. Most people--her teachers and doctors included--don't think she's capable of learning, and up until recently her school days consisted of listening to the same preschool-level alphabet lessons again and again and again. Being stuck inside her head is making Melody go out of her mind--that is, until she discovers something that will allow her to speak for the first time ever. From multiple Coretta Scott King Award winner Sharon M. Draper comes a story full of heartache and hope. But from buildings that are not wheelchair--accessible to classmates who make fun of her she finds a strength within herself she never knew existed. Melody is a tribute to all the parents of disabled kids who struggle, to all those children who are misunderstood, to all those caregivers who help every step of the way. Pitted against her is the "normal" world: schools with limited resources, cliquish girls, superficial assumptions, and her own disability. She is mainly placed in the special-ed classroom where education means being babysat in a room with replayed cartoons and nursery tunes. She learns the strength of thumbs as she taps on a special keyboard that finally lets her "talk." When she is transitioned into the regular classroom, Melody's undeniable contribution enables her class to make it to the national quiz team finals. It speaks volumes and reveals the quiet strength and fortitude it takes to overcome disabilities and the misconceptions that go with them.— Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Reviews
"She indicates that she feels that the book is realistic, both in terms of the character of Melody (except for the perfect memory; although perfect memory does exist, it's very, very rare, and Laurel forgets things like the rest of us) and the way people treat Melody."
"A few weeks ago, Kelly wasn't feeling well so I took off work to fill in for her at the kids' Valentine's Day parties at school. Chloe is non-verbal and has some physical limitations and development delays due to an unidentified genetic disorder. I loved seeing Chloe, who is content to play alone in her room for hours on end, in this setting, with such great support from her peers. Though confined to a wheelchair and unable to speak, her mind is active, brilliant, and and capable of remembering anything she reads, sees, or hears. Much of her school years have been spent in boring, humiliating special ed classes. And when Chloe watches the other kids run and talk and laugh and play, does she long, like Melody, to be a part? Does Chloe get embarrassed by her difficulty in feeding herself, that she wears diapers at age 9, that she rides the handicapped bus? Melody's dad plays a smaller role, like me; he's not as clued in to his daughter as the mom, but does all he can do to help. And her appreciation for the special ed assistants should be noted; I agree with Draper--those folks do wonderful work for way too little money. I for one am so thankful for the faithful ladies who have fed Chloe, changed her diapers, and invested in her learning and development during her school years. As Draper says on amazon.com, Out of My Mind is "written for people who look away, who pretend they don't see, or who don't know what to say when they encounter someone who faces life with obvious differences. -------. Update, October 2013. On a recent rainy morning, my wife pulled up to drop off Chloe at school."
"I have just finished and will rave about the book, author and Melody. Not only does Melody think but she is very smart."
"I wish everyone would take time to read this book."
"How many times do we see children strapped into wheelchairs, limbs jerking, maybe drooling ~ at the grocery store, at the zoo, at Disney? It is a hard thing ~ especially for the parent of a healthy child ~ not to feel sorrow, maybe even a little guilt, for "There but for the grace of God go I." Many times I want to reach out to these children, to look into their eyes and smile, to speak to them... then I think, no."
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Auggie & Me: Three Wonder Stories
Auggie & Me gives readers a special look at Auggie’s world through three new points of view. More than that, Wonder touches the heart in the most life-affirming, unexpected ways, delivering in August Pullman a character whom readers will remember forever. Entertainment Weekly: "In a wonder of a debut, Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." The New York Times : "Rich and memorable...It's Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of 'Wonder,' and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill." The Wall Street Journal : "What makes R.J. Palacio's debut novel so remarkable, and so lovely, is the uncommon generosity with which she tells Auggie's story…The result is a beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation.”. - Patricia Reilly Giff , two-time Newbery honor-winning author of Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Starred Review, Publishers Weekly : “Few first novels pack more of a punch: it's a rare story with the power to open eyes--and hearts--to what it's like to be singled out for a difference you can't control, when all you want is to be just another face in the crowd.” Starred Review, Booklist : “Palacio makes it feel not only effortless but downright graceful, and by the stand-up-and-cheer conclusion, readers will be doing just that, and feeling as if they are part of this troubled but ultimately warm-hearted community.”. Starred Review, School Library Journal : "Palacio has an exceptional knack for writing realistic conversation and describing the thoughts and emotions of the characters...A well-written, thought-provoking book. ". But one day several years ago, a chance encounter with an extraordinary child in front of an ice cream store made R.J. realize that the perfect time to write that book had finally come.
Reviews
"In Auggie & Me, Palacio delves into three secondary characters from Wonder: Julian, Christopher and Charlotte. We get to understand Julian, how his nightmares affected the way he reacted to Auggie, how his mother kept making excuses for him as opposed to helping him take responsibility for his actions. Charlotte's story, in Shingaling, shone the most brightly for me, perhaps because her insecurities resonated with me, or perhaps because her friendship struggles were separate from Auggie's and so more fully developed as a standalone story."
"this book tells the perspective of Julian, Chris, and Charlotte of their lives and crisess."
"A really good companion book to "Wonder.""
"This book is a thought provoking look at how understanding things from someone else's perspective can make all the difference in the world."
"I feel these stories are beneficial to children and will hopefully open their eyes to how they treat others and understand what true kindness is."
"Definitely a must read."
"Amaing books!"
"Bought for grandkids and they really liked it."
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Best Children's Abuse books

The War that Saved My Life
#1 New York Times Bestseller. Newbery Honor Book. Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award (Middle School) Wall Street Journal Best Children's Books of 2015. New York Public Library's 100 Books for Reading and Sharing. An exceptionally moving story of triumph against all odds set during World War II, from the acclaimed author of Jefferson’s Sons and for fans of Number the Stars . Ada watches the world through the narrow confines of the apartment window, waves to neighbors in the street, and carefully gauges the danger of being beaten during each encounter with her hateful mother. When her mother prepares to ship Jamie out to the countryside with other children being evacuated from London, Ada sneaks out with him. Though Susan is reluctant and insists that she knows nothing about caring for children, she does so diligently and is baffled by the girl's fearful flinching anytime Ada makes a mistake. There is much to like here-Ada's engaging voice, the vivid setting, the humor, the heartbreak, but most of all the tenacious will to survive exhibited by Ada and the villagers who grow to love and accept her.—Brenda Kahn, Tenakill Middle School, Closter, NJ A Newbery Honor Book. Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award (Middle School). Winner of the Josette Frank Award Wall Street Journal Best Children's Books of 2015. New York Public Library's 100 Books for Reading and Sharing. Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books 2015 Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2015 Kirkus Best Books of 2015 Horn Book Fanfare Book 2015. "Achingly lovely . Nuanced and emotionally acute, this vivid tale from the wartime home front will have readers ages 10-14 wincing at Ada's stumbles and rejoicing to the point of tears in her victories. * “Ada's voice is brisk and honest; her dawning realizations are made all the more poignant for their simplicity. Set against a backdrop of war and sacrifice, Ada's personal fight for freedom and ultimate triumph are cause for celebration.”— Kirkus , starred review. * "Proving that her courage and compassion carry far more power than her disability, Ada earns self-respect, emerges a hero, and learns the meaning of home. "— The Horn Book , starred review. "The home-front realities of WWII, as well as Ada’s realistic anger and fear, come to life in Bradley’s affecting and austerely told story, and readers will cheer for steadfast Ada as she triumphs over despair. "I love Ada's bold heart, keen wit, and amazingly fresh point of view. "—Sheila Turnage, author of Newbery Honor book Three Times Lucky. "In Ada's small war lies our large hope that love cannot, will not, be overcome.
Reviews
"Selective in that I studiously avoided any and all works of fiction that might conceivably be considered "depressing". So when I read "The War That Saved My Life" I had to explain to her, at length, that in spite of the premise, cover (again with the kids staring out into nothingness), and time period this isn't the bleak stretch of depressingness it might appear to be. Enormously satisfying and fun to read, Bradley takes a work of historical fiction and gives the whole premise of WWII evacuees a kick in the pants. Born with a twisted foot her mother considers her an abomination and her own personal shame. Escaping to the English countryside, the two are foisted upon a woman named Susan who declares herself to be "not nice" from the start. I may have mentioned it before, but the word that kept coming to mind as I read this book was "satisfying". She has this enormous task of making Ava strong in every possible way after a lifetime of systematic, often horrific, abuse. Honestly it made me want to reread the book several times over, if only to figure out how she managed to display Ada's anger and shock in the face of kindness with such aplomb. Kids who have so little experience with the wider world that they don't know a church from a bank or vice versa. Or, perhaps worse, their inability to comprehend simple everyday objects and ideas will strike readers as funny or something to be mocked. By the same token, child readers can also pity Ada for not understanding stuff that they already do (banks, church, etc.). American born (Indiana, to be specific) she has set her novel in historical England (Kent) where any number of accents might be on display. She could have peppered the book with words that tried to replicate the sounds of Ada's London accent or Susan's Oxford educated one. Because this is a children's book and hope, in whatever form it ultimately takes, is the name of the game. Ms. Bradley understands that and in "The War That Saved My Life" she manages to concoct a real delight out of a story that in less capable hands would have been a painful read."
"Having had foster grandchildren, this book is perfect to help understand some of the behaviors that the children have had and how they couldn't communicate their feelings."
"i love this book, it's amazing !"
"Dealing with many sensitive topics it informed and explained the issues and the emotions without being condescending or melodramatic."
"My son, age 9, raves about this book."
"My son told me to read this so I promised I’d start it, but after the first two pages, I literally could not put it down!"
"“The War that Saved My Life” is a beautiful allegory of how love (and education) transforms wounded individuals."
"This is an incredibly beautiful book with wonderful prose and an inspiring message."
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Best Children's Death & Dying Books

Bridge to Terabithia
The 40th anniversary edition of the classic Newbery Medal-winning title by beloved author Katherine Paterson, with brand-new bonus materials including an author's note by Katherine herself and a foreword by New York Times bestselling author Kate DiCamillo. Here they reign as king and queen, fighting off imaginary giants and the walking dead, sharing stories and dreams, and plotting against the schoolmates who tease them. Together, they create an imaginary, secret kingdom in the woods called Terabithia that can be reached only by swinging across a creek bed on a rope. But one morning a tragic accident befalls Leslie as she ventures alone to Terabithia, and Jess's life is changed forever. Contemporary instrumental interludes featuring guitar, piano and drums signal the beginning and end of each tape side.
Reviews
"I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say that it's an amazing look inside one boy's life in times of great joy and sadness."
"As time passed, mingling thoughts kept returning to that story, that memory that felt so real to me. Bridge to Terabithia relates a compelling tale of childhood curiosity and woe. the author weaves the story with and ease that catches the reader off guard."
"One of the best Children's book I have read."
"Brilliant piece of writing that meshes vivid imagination with real feelings - feelings of friendship and goodness."
"excellent product, good attention!"
"bought book for our club to go with the movie."
"Cute book for young ones."
"Excellent!"
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Best Children's Drug Use Books

That Was Then, This Is Now
Another classic from the author of the internationally bestselling The Outsiders Continue celebrating 50 years of The Outsiders by reading this companion novel. In That Was Then, This Is Now , one of her most admired novels, S. E. Hinton paints a richly textured portrait of two boys at a crossroads in their friendship. With careful, intimate strokes, Hinton reveals a boy struggling over whether to protect his best friend or whether to follow his own beliefs about right and wrong. "— The New York Times "This unforgettable classic still packs a powerful message even after nearly thirty years in print.
Reviews
"Great book!"
"Really Good!"
"Good for young people struggling and a good way I would think in getting them interested in reading in general."
"As always, the author has parentless boys virtually raising themselves, in this case Bryon and his friend Mark, who had taken in the orphaned Mark after his supposed father shot his mother - as it turns out because he realized that Mark was not his son. He already shows signs at the beginning of the book of a lack of conscience, no doubt the result of seeing and hearing the argument regarding his parentage as a child followed by his 'father' shooting his mother."
"Hinton's and the first one I read that started me on my journey to read all of her books."
"best book ever, arrived quickly."
"I am removing my original review as it pertained to the *condition* of the book sold by an Amazon market vendor, not realizing the review was posted as one for the *content* of the book."
"Emotes many feelings in middle schoolers--great novel!"
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Best Children's Dysfunctional Relationships Books

The War that Saved My Life
#1 New York Times Bestseller. Newbery Honor Book. Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award (Middle School) Wall Street Journal Best Children's Books of 2015. New York Public Library's 100 Books for Reading and Sharing. An exceptionally moving story of triumph against all odds set during World War II, from the acclaimed author of Jefferson’s Sons and for fans of Number the Stars . Ada watches the world through the narrow confines of the apartment window, waves to neighbors in the street, and carefully gauges the danger of being beaten during each encounter with her hateful mother. When her mother prepares to ship Jamie out to the countryside with other children being evacuated from London, Ada sneaks out with him. Though Susan is reluctant and insists that she knows nothing about caring for children, she does so diligently and is baffled by the girl's fearful flinching anytime Ada makes a mistake. There is much to like here-Ada's engaging voice, the vivid setting, the humor, the heartbreak, but most of all the tenacious will to survive exhibited by Ada and the villagers who grow to love and accept her.—Brenda Kahn, Tenakill Middle School, Closter, NJ A Newbery Honor Book. Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award (Middle School). Winner of the Josette Frank Award Wall Street Journal Best Children's Books of 2015. New York Public Library's 100 Books for Reading and Sharing. Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books 2015 Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2015 Kirkus Best Books of 2015 Horn Book Fanfare Book 2015. "Achingly lovely . Nuanced and emotionally acute, this vivid tale from the wartime home front will have readers ages 10-14 wincing at Ada's stumbles and rejoicing to the point of tears in her victories. * “Ada's voice is brisk and honest; her dawning realizations are made all the more poignant for their simplicity. Set against a backdrop of war and sacrifice, Ada's personal fight for freedom and ultimate triumph are cause for celebration.”— Kirkus , starred review. * "Proving that her courage and compassion carry far more power than her disability, Ada earns self-respect, emerges a hero, and learns the meaning of home. "— The Horn Book , starred review. "The home-front realities of WWII, as well as Ada’s realistic anger and fear, come to life in Bradley’s affecting and austerely told story, and readers will cheer for steadfast Ada as she triumphs over despair. "I love Ada's bold heart, keen wit, and amazingly fresh point of view. "—Sheila Turnage, author of Newbery Honor book Three Times Lucky. "In Ada's small war lies our large hope that love cannot, will not, be overcome.
Reviews
"Selective in that I studiously avoided any and all works of fiction that might conceivably be considered "depressing". So when I read "The War That Saved My Life" I had to explain to her, at length, that in spite of the premise, cover (again with the kids staring out into nothingness), and time period this isn't the bleak stretch of depressingness it might appear to be. Enormously satisfying and fun to read, Bradley takes a work of historical fiction and gives the whole premise of WWII evacuees a kick in the pants. Born with a twisted foot her mother considers her an abomination and her own personal shame. Escaping to the English countryside, the two are foisted upon a woman named Susan who declares herself to be "not nice" from the start. I may have mentioned it before, but the word that kept coming to mind as I read this book was "satisfying". She has this enormous task of making Ava strong in every possible way after a lifetime of systematic, often horrific, abuse. Honestly it made me want to reread the book several times over, if only to figure out how she managed to display Ada's anger and shock in the face of kindness with such aplomb. Kids who have so little experience with the wider world that they don't know a church from a bank or vice versa. Or, perhaps worse, their inability to comprehend simple everyday objects and ideas will strike readers as funny or something to be mocked. By the same token, child readers can also pity Ada for not understanding stuff that they already do (banks, church, etc.). American born (Indiana, to be specific) she has set her novel in historical England (Kent) where any number of accents might be on display. She could have peppered the book with words that tried to replicate the sounds of Ada's London accent or Susan's Oxford educated one. Because this is a children's book and hope, in whatever form it ultimately takes, is the name of the game. Ms. Bradley understands that and in "The War That Saved My Life" she manages to concoct a real delight out of a story that in less capable hands would have been a painful read."
"Ada learns to trust and love despite her attachment issues caused by her mean biological mother."
"i love this book, it's amazing !"
"Dealing with many sensitive topics it informed and explained the issues and the emotions without being condescending or melodramatic."
"My son, age 9, raves about this book."
"This is a MUST READ book."
"It was beautifully written ... fell in love with the main characters ..."
"My nephew read this in 5th grade and he thought it was a great book."
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Best Children's Homelessness & Poverty Books

Esperanza Rising
When their new life is threatened, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances--Mama's life, and her own, depend on it. Told in a lyrical, fairy tale - like style, Ryan's (riding Freedom) robust novel set in 1930 captures a Mexican girl's fall from riches, her immigration to California and her growing awareness of class and ethnic tensions. Readers will be swept up by vivid descriptions of California dust storms or by the police crackdown on a labor strike ("The picket signs lay on the ground, discarded, and like a mass of marbles that had already been hit, the strikers scattered?"). (Oct.). Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. Grade 6-9-Ryan uses the experiences of her own Mexican grandmother as the basis for this compelling story of immigration and assimilation, not only to a new country but also into a different social class. Set against the multiethnic, labor-organizing era of the Depression, the story of Esperanza remaking herself is satisfyingly complete, including dire illness and a difficult romance.
Reviews
"It is great fictionalized story telling based on actual facts. This starts of telling the story of a happy a wealthy kind family who own a vineyard in Mexico."
"This book has an engrossing plot that makes it hard to put down because one wants to find out how things will turn out in the end."
"There are many books and movies out there about young people and their families as they struggle to survive in Mexico and then in California when they decide to cast their lot with the American Dream...Esperanza has everything she could ever want or need on her father's El Rancho de las Rosas near Aguascalientes, Mexico, when he is killed by bandits in 1924."
"Arrived in a timely manner and was as described in product description."
"The author brings to life the story and the human spirit of the characters in such a way that reading the book was almost like watching a movie, or even like being right there in the book, reliving an important part of our nation's history."
"My daughter loved this book I didn’t read it but she told me all about it she says it has its pros and cons and you have to realize how things were before compared to now to understand the book."
"I am doing a project on the Hispanic culture in my Cultural Diversity class, and part of this was reading a book about the culture written by someone within that culture and write a paper about the insights we gained from it."
"My nine year old granddaughter was reading this from her recommended reading list at school."
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Best Children's Prejudice & Racism books

Between Shades of Gray
“Few books are beautifully written, fewer still are important; this novel is both.”. -- The Washington Post Lina is just like any other fifteen-year-old Lithuanian girl in 1941. A New York Times Bestseller. An International Bestseller. A New York Times Notable Book of 2011. A Wall Street Journal Best Children’s Book of 2011. A Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2011. The iTunes 2011 Rewind Best Teen Novel. The #1 Book on the Spring 2011 IndieNext List. A School Library Journal Best Book of 2011. A Booklist Best Book of 2011. A Kirkus Best Book of 2011. 2012 IRA Children’s and Young Adults Book Award for Young Adult Fiction. 2012 Indies Choice Young Adult Book of the Year. A Carnegie Medal Finalist. A William C. Morris Finalist. *Starred Review* Sepetys' first novel offers a harrowing and horrifying account of the forcible relocation of countless Lithuanians in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country in 1939. Lina's great hope is that somehow her father, who has already been arrested by the Soviet secret police, might find and rescue them. Whether or not this will be possible, it is her art that will be her salvation, helping her to retain her identity, her dignity, and her increasingly tenuous hold on hope for the future. Sepetys, the daughter of a Lithuanian refugee, estimates that the Baltic States lost more than one-third of their populations during the Russian genocide. Though many continue to deny this happened, Sepetys' beautifully written and deeply felt novel proves the reality is otherwise.
Reviews
"A lot of us know about the Nazi Holocaust but little about Stalin's holocaust. The Nazi Holocaust deserves every bit of noise it can make!"
"Deeply evocative writing that captures a piece of history of which many outside these nations are unaware."
"An event I didn't even know that had even happened."
"This was an eye opening book for me as I read about the horrors the people of the small Baltic countries endured during the take over of Stalin and Hitler."
"And the really sad thing about the book is that no one ever talks about what happened to these people. People usually talk about the Holocaust which was another tragic sad event that was happening at about the same time."
"The Russians tied people to the front of their tanks and then moved into take villages."
"In her Author's Note Ruta Sepetys explains that in 1939 the Soviet Union occupied the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Not long after, the Kremlin drew up lists of people considered anti-Soviet who Sepetys accurately states "would be murdered, sent to prison, or deported into slavery in Siberia. Doctors, lawyers, teachers, military servicemen, writers, business owners, musicians, artists, and even librarians were all considered anti-Soviet and were added to the growing list slated for wholesale genocide. Fortunately for the author's father (and my own parents) they (and their families) were able to escape to refugee camps set up in the American occupied zone of Germany. Packed into railroad cars, starved for food, fresh air, even bathroom facilities these people, like the Jews in many parts of Europe, were stripped of their homes, their possessions, their very lives. Again the author reminds me that "Upon returning in the mid-1950's, the Lithuanians found that Soviets had occupied their homes, were enjoying all of their belongings, and had even assumed their names."
"Excellent book!"
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Best Children's Runaway Books

Legend (A Legend Novel, Book 1)
Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. "VOYA", starred review "?cinematic adventure featuring endearing, compelling heroes." "Publisher's Weekly", starred review Marie Lu works as an art director for a Los Angeles video game company - the book is built around the world she created for a popular Facebook game, also called Legend.
Reviews
"Confusing at times."
"I'm going to start off with kind words by saying that this was a easy, simple book to read. On that note, I would like to say that although the story line was intriguing-there was a point in the middle of the book where I just COULD NOT put it down-the characters were too perfect, flawless. I mean come on 15-year-olds who have superhuman observation, tracking, hunting and survival skills of assassins is unrealistic. Perhaps, if Day and June had the potential of being the best of the best, but were just as they should be-just teenagers for the moment, learning their craft."
"June Iparis' brother Metias dies, apparently killed by a young criminal named Day. June is a prodigy who scores a perfect 1500 in a trial that all young people have to take in order to be chosen for education and privilege."
"Skimming through my library and ran across this series."
"Cliff hangers are great, leaving mysterious little sub plots is interesting, not giving total explanations can be intriguing but most authors screw it up. Most authors, especially dystopian authors, leave too many little holes and if you step back for a second and look at all of the unknowns, even good books look like Swiss cheese sometimes."
"The plot is similar to other books -- the country split into factions (or in this case, the Republic and the Colonies) who are warring; a dictator-type leader; a selection system that creates an upper class elite who enter the military or politics and keeps the rest of the population down in fear and poverty; and, of course, the hero and heroine -- Day and June, 15 year-olds who fight back. Two very different teens from two very different 'worlds' -- he's the poor kid from the wrong side of the tracks; she's an elite prodigy who goes off to college at age 12 and is destined for a successful military career -- but they're great together!"
"This one though, was very highschool essay sort of thingy."
"It was a quick read and didn't require a lot of thought."
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Best Children's Violence Books

The Story of Ferdinand (Picture Puffins)
In WWII times, Adolf Hitler ordered the book burned in Nazi Germany, while Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, granted it privileged status as the only non-communist children's book allowed in Poland. Ferdinand is a little bull who much prefers sitting quietly under a cork tree-- just smelling the flowers--to jumping around, snorting, and butting heads with other bulls. In a show of bovine irony, the one day Ferdinand is most definitely not sitting quietly under the cork tree (due to a frightful sting), is the selfsame day that five men come to choose the "biggest, fastest, roughest bull" for the bullfights in Madrid.
Reviews
"I found "The Story of Ferdinand" among Amazon's list of "100 Children's Books to Read in a Lifetime", and am ashamed to say I had never heard of this book that's been around for 80 years now and was the #1 book in America - topping Gone with the Wind! This is certainly not a book most children these days will be used to, with its completely black and white illustrations, but - for the right age - a child who's ready to focus more on a story line versus needing lots of bright colors to hold his/her attention, the illustrations do a beautiful job of reflecting the gentleness of Ferdinand, who much prefers to "sit just quietly and smell the flowers" while the other bulls run and jump around, butting heads, and his wise mother who - though occasionally worried about him and what he may face by not conforming to the norm - understood that he was happy."
"A beautiful book and a sweet story!"
"Reading good literature with an easy to comprehend story line is a great place to start your young readers."
"Loved this book as a kid, I bought it for my neighbor's little girl who is 8."
"I remember well the Disney adaptation with Don Wilson as the narrator."
"Present for granddaughter!"
"Loved this read."
"The original, high-quality Viking editions placed text and illustrations in a layout that let the story breathe -- the amount of text on each page and the space within the drawings set the pace of the story."
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Best Children's Difficult Discussions Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . More than that, Wonder touches the heart in the most life-affirming, unexpected ways, delivering in August Pullman a character whom readers will remember forever. Entertainment Weekly: "In a wonder of a debut, Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." The New York Times: "Rich and memorable...It's Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of 'Wonder,' and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill." The Wall Street Journal : "What makes R.J. Palacio's debut novel so remarkable, and so lovely, is the uncommon generosity with which she tells Auggie's story…The result is a beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation.”. - Patricia Reilly Giff , two-time Newbery honor-winning author of Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Starred Review, Publishers Weekly : “Few first novels pack more of a punch: it's a rare story with the power to open eyes--and hearts--to what it's like to be singled out for a difference you can't control, when all you want is to be just another face in the crowd.” Starred Review, Booklist : “Palacio makes it feel not only effortless but downright graceful, and by the stand-up-and-cheer conclusion, readers will be doing just that, and feeling as if they are part of this troubled but ultimately warm-hearted community.”. Starred Review, School Library Journal : "Palacio has an exceptional knack for writing realistic conversation and describing the thoughts and emotions of the characters...A well-written, thought-provoking book. ".
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I am 9 and i liked the book."
"Wonder Is an Amazing book my children love it Thanks Amazon for making my daughters birthday so cool!!"
"There are so many things we forget that are important and R.J.Palacio gently reminds us as we learn from Angie, his hard-won friends, and his spectacular family."
"Oh well, I have to say that this book will be the best choice for ESL student and people who are hopeless."
"The truth of the matter, though, is that there are a ton of books for young readers out there now that weren’t out when I was a kid- or I never knew about them. We live in a world of anger, bullying, hurt and hatred; and we need a bit of softness… a little kindness. I want to be more like Summer, who fist came up to Auggie out of kindness but was able to see him- the nice and funny kid that’s just awesome. I liked that she didn’t allow what other’s thought to sway her as to whom to hang out with- this is a big thing in middle school when peer pressure abounds and everyone wants to be accepted."
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Best Children's Disease Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . Homeschooled all his life, August heads to public school for fifth grade and he is not the only one changed by the experience--something we learn about first-hand through the narratives of those who orbit his world. What is essential is invisible to the eye.” From The Little Prince and R.J. Palacio’s remarkable novel, Wonder .-- Seira Wilson August, nicknamed Auggie, is a 10-year-old with a facial deformity that causes others to avoid and even shun him.
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would also highly recommending reading (or listening to the audiobook) of the "Julian Chapters" as his perspective was the only thing I wish it included, and this additional reading material made an amazing story even better."
"I believe people who are beautiful on the inside, people will eventually see only the beauty; people who are ugly on the inside, that is what people will ultimately see."
"I had not planned to purchase this, as I was reading the book aloud to my 4th graders."
"I have never met or seen anyone with this issue."
"This was such a great, well written book full of well defined and diverse characters."
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Best Children's Disease Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . More than that, Wonder touches the heart in the most life-affirming, unexpected ways, delivering in August Pullman a character whom readers will remember forever. Entertainment Weekly: "In a wonder of a debut, Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." The New York Times: "Rich and memorable...It's Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of 'Wonder,' and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill." The Wall Street Journal : "What makes R.J. Palacio's debut novel so remarkable, and so lovely, is the uncommon generosity with which she tells Auggie's story…The result is a beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation.”. - Patricia Reilly Giff , two-time Newbery honor-winning author of Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Starred Review, Publishers Weekly : “Few first novels pack more of a punch: it's a rare story with the power to open eyes--and hearts--to what it's like to be singled out for a difference you can't control, when all you want is to be just another face in the crowd.” Starred Review, Booklist : “Palacio makes it feel not only effortless but downright graceful, and by the stand-up-and-cheer conclusion, readers will be doing just that, and feeling as if they are part of this troubled but ultimately warm-hearted community.”. Starred Review, School Library Journal : "Palacio has an exceptional knack for writing realistic conversation and describing the thoughts and emotions of the characters...A well-written, thought-provoking book. ".
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would recommend all young children to read this book and I would certainly recommend adults to read it because it will certainly change that "judgement of others" into "an acceptance of others.""
"I'm a Special Needs teacher and I love how this book teaches "typical kids" to accept someone who looks different in their school; it makes the child who's different feel special as well."
"On a recommendation from my daughter (35), I read it after I saw the movie."
"Friends said to read the book before seeing the movie."
"Those "targets" are the brave ones, like August, who get on with their lives, but may be forever bothered by it. I believe this movie should be seen by every student in school, and every adult in every walk of life. Make the choice early in your life to choose kindness."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Children's Health Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . More than that, Wonder touches the heart in the most life-affirming, unexpected ways, delivering in August Pullman a character whom readers will remember forever. Entertainment Weekly: "In a wonder of a debut, Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." The New York Times: "Rich and memorable...It's Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of 'Wonder,' and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill." The Wall Street Journal : "What makes R.J. Palacio's debut novel so remarkable, and so lovely, is the uncommon generosity with which she tells Auggie's story…The result is a beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation.”. - Patricia Reilly Giff , two-time Newbery honor-winning author of Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Starred Review, Publishers Weekly : “Few first novels pack more of a punch: it's a rare story with the power to open eyes--and hearts--to what it's like to be singled out for a difference you can't control, when all you want is to be just another face in the crowd.” Starred Review, Booklist : “Palacio makes it feel not only effortless but downright graceful, and by the stand-up-and-cheer conclusion, readers will be doing just that, and feeling as if they are part of this troubled but ultimately warm-hearted community.”. Starred Review, School Library Journal : "Palacio has an exceptional knack for writing realistic conversation and describing the thoughts and emotions of the characters...A well-written, thought-provoking book. ".
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would recommend all young children to read this book and I would certainly recommend adults to read it because it will certainly change that "judgement of others" into "an acceptance of others.""
"The author did a really good job of putting the reader inside the heads of the characters in the book, helping us to really get to know them and to see different perspectives of the same situation."
"I'm a Special Needs teacher and I love how this book teaches "typical kids" to accept someone who looks different in their school; it makes the child who's different feel special as well."
"On a recommendation from my daughter (35), I read it after I saw the movie."
"Friends said to read the book before seeing the movie."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Children's Personal Hygiene Books

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . More than that, Wonder touches the heart in the most life-affirming, unexpected ways, delivering in August Pullman a character whom readers will remember forever. Entertainment Weekly: "In a wonder of a debut, Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." The New York Times: "Rich and memorable...It's Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of 'Wonder,' and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill." The Wall Street Journal : "What makes R.J. Palacio's debut novel so remarkable, and so lovely, is the uncommon generosity with which she tells Auggie's story…The result is a beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation.”. - Patricia Reilly Giff , two-time Newbery honor-winning author of Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Starred Review, Publishers Weekly : “Few first novels pack more of a punch: it's a rare story with the power to open eyes--and hearts--to what it's like to be singled out for a difference you can't control, when all you want is to be just another face in the crowd.” Starred Review, Booklist : “Palacio makes it feel not only effortless but downright graceful, and by the stand-up-and-cheer conclusion, readers will be doing just that, and feeling as if they are part of this troubled but ultimately warm-hearted community.”. Starred Review, School Library Journal : "Palacio has an exceptional knack for writing realistic conversation and describing the thoughts and emotions of the characters...A well-written, thought-provoking book. ".
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would recommend all young children to read this book and I would certainly recommend adults to read it because it will certainly change that "judgement of others" into "an acceptance of others.""
"I'm a Special Needs teacher and I love how this book teaches "typical kids" to accept someone who looks different in their school; it makes the child who's different feel special as well."
"On a recommendation from my daughter (35), I read it after I saw the movie."
"Friends said to read the book before seeing the movie."
"Those "targets" are the brave ones, like August, who get on with their lives, but may be forever bothered by it. I believe this movie should be seen by every student in school, and every adult in every walk of life. Make the choice early in your life to choose kindness."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Children's Books on Bullies

Wonder
Soon to be a major film starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay. WONDER is a funny, frank, astonishingly moving debut to read in one sitting, pass on to others, and remember long after the final page. Homeschooled all his life, August heads to public school for fifth grade and he is not the only one changed by the experience--something we learn about first-hand through the narratives of those who orbit his world. What is essential is invisible to the eye.” From The Little Prince and R.J. Palacio’s remarkable novel, Wonder .-- Seira Wilson August, nicknamed Auggie, is a 10-year-old with a facial deformity that causes others to avoid and even shun him.
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would recommend all young children to read this book and I would certainly recommend adults to read it because it will certainly change that "judgement of others" into "an acceptance of others.""
"The author did a really good job of putting the reader inside the heads of the characters in the book, helping us to really get to know them and to see different perspectives of the same situation."
"I'm a Special Needs teacher and I love how this book teaches "typical kids" to accept someone who looks different in their school; it makes the child who's different feel special as well."
"On a recommendation from my daughter (35), I read it after I saw the movie."
"Friends said to read the book before seeing the movie."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Education & Reference

Wonder
Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller WONDER and have fallen in love with Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy . Homeschooled all his life, August heads to public school for fifth grade and he is not the only one changed by the experience--something we learn about first-hand through the narratives of those who orbit his world. What is essential is invisible to the eye.” From The Little Prince and R.J. Palacio’s remarkable novel, Wonder .-- Seira Wilson August, nicknamed Auggie, is a 10-year-old with a facial deformity that causes others to avoid and even shun him.
Reviews
"I'm a 54 year old grandfather who served in the Marine Corps (just for a little context). Palacio...I can't believe how she so accurately and consistently pegs human nature."
"The most emotional moment for me came toward the end of the book when Auggie's father tells him that he loves the way Auggie looks, because that it exactly how my husband and I feel about our son."
"Author R.J. Palacio writes the book in multiple voices -- Auggie's, some of his friends', his sister's -- and the different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters."
"I would also highly recommending reading (or listening to the audiobook) of the "Julian Chapters" as his perspective was the only thing I wish it included, and this additional reading material made an amazing story even better."
"I believe people who are beautiful on the inside, people will eventually see only the beauty; people who are ugly on the inside, that is what people will ultimately see."
"I had not planned to purchase this, as I was reading the book aloud to my 4th graders."
"I have never met or seen anyone with this issue."
"This was such a great, well written book full of well defined and diverse characters."
Find Best Price at Amazon