Thinking on Thursday

On Thursdays I'm going to take time to step back and just share my thoughts on things related to reading.  Sometimes these may be my thoughts or thoughts I've gotten from my students.  It depends on the Thursday.  It depends on the topic.  It depends on the week!

This Thursday I thought I'd give my thoughts on books that make great gifts. 

For the 9-13 Year Old Boys

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod series by Heather Brewer.  I've said it before, and I'll say it again - this is an awesome series!

Anything by Mike Lupica - he writes great sports books that go beyond just sports.

For the 9-13 Year Old Girls

Dork Diaries by Rachel R. Russell.  This is the Diary of a Wimpy Kid for girls.  My 10 yr old daughter read it and loved it.  I've also had some 7th grade girls read it and enjoy it as well.

 

Savvy by Ingrid Law.  I read this one this summer and loved it.  The main character, Mib, grows up before your eyes.  Sweet, touching and at times funny.

For Teen Girls
The Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld.  An all time favorite that questions the idea of "perfect" beauty and conforming.  Every girl I've had that has read this series has loved it.

Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer.  A great book that really sticks with you.  Just make sure the girl you give this to is ok with serious books.

For Teen Boys (very tough catigory!)

Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers.  A book about a boy fighting in Vietnam.  Amazing story.  Amazing characters.  Warning - there is a lot of swearing in it, so make sure this is ok with any boy you might give it to.

The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer.  This is technically the second book in the series but they can be read in either order.  This book is better for the boys because the main character is a boy.  Again - make sure the boy you give this to is ok with a serious read.

For EVERYONE of ALL Ages

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead.  An amazing book that will make you almost gasp out loud.  Well crafted with strong characters.  See my review here.

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt.  You'll laugh.  You'll cry.  You'll be glad you read it.  Read my review here.