Island of the Blue Dolphins 1961 Medal Winner ******

Island of the Blue Dolphins is based on the true story of an American Indian woman named Karana who was found living alone on an island off the coast of California. During an evacuation of her tribe, she jumped ship in order to be with her brother who shortly died thereafter. This book tells how Karana found shelter, clothes, food, companionship and serenity while living alone on the Island of the Blue Dolphins.

I listened to this book on a Playaway read by Tantoo Cardinal and she did an amazing job. Her voice is calm and soothing, exactly how I imagine Karana's voice to sound. This was one of those books that some how stayed under my radar during my childhood years, and all my friends are shocked I had never read it. Now I am too, how did I miss reading what in 1976 was considered in the top 10 books from the last 200 years. While I can't imagine living 18 years in solitude, this book does help me realize that it's possible. This is a definite must read for all children.

Everything on a Waffle 2002 Honor Book ******

Primrose Squarp's parents are lost at sea and everyone believes they have died, except Primrose. Her mother left behind a recipe for apricot glazed carrots and a grocery list, so Primrose decides to begin a recipe collection, and collect many amazing experiences along the way.

I absolutely loved this book. Definitely the perfect read aloud for a classroom. At first when it mentioned the death of Primrose's parents, I thought, "Oh no! not again." But the style is more like Junie B. Jones, only her spelling and grammar has improved. I can't wait to run to the bookstore to buy a copy of this book, if for just the recipes alone! It's been a very long time since I've gotten so excited about a book. You can't help but fall in love with Primrose and everyone at Coal Harbour.

Hatchet 1988 Honor Book ******

Hatchet is the story of a boy who while flying to see his father for the summer is in an awful plane crash with only his hatchet to help him survive. He learns to rely on resources available to him and manages to survive on a lake somewhere in Canada. Instead of marking time by days, he marks them by events like: Day of First Fire, Day of First Fish, Day of First Meat. He also learns that hope is necessary resource for survival.

I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't stop reading it, which lately has been a rare thing for me. I didn't want to eat, sleep or exercise until I knew this kid was going to be okay. And for some reason after finishing the book I had a strong desire for roasted chicken. I think every teenager should read this book, especially those who live in a world full of everything they could possibly want. I'm so glad I bought this book, it's a definite keeper.

The Hundred Dresses 1945 Honor Book ******

Wanda lives on the wrong side of town and wears the same dress every day. To make things worse she tells everyone that she 100 dresses at home, which makes her the brunt of popular Peggy's jokes. While Maddie doesn't tease Wanda, she doesn't stand up for her either.

I loved this book as a child. When I first read it I felt like screaming at Wanda, "Can't you see you are making things worse?" But when the mystery is solved I felt like running to Wanda and giving her a big hug. This is a wonderful book for children to see that everyone is deserving of friendship.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler 1968 Medal Winner ******

Claudia decides to run away from home and live at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, but realizes she can't do it without bringing her brother Jamie along. Soon she's entranced with a new sculpture at the museum and its mystery. Solving the mystery might reveal to her frantic parents where she and Jamie are hiding.

I read this book in one day while in Albuquerque waiting for my dad to finish his meetings. I haven't been able to look at a museum the same way since. I felt such a connection to Claudia and even began wondering myself if I could pull off running away and living in a museum. This book really helps children with their imagination.

Bridge to Terabithia 1978 Medal Winner ******

Bridge to Terabithia is about a boy named Jesse and his friendship with the new girl in town Leslie. Together they create a world where they rule as king and queen.

This is the ultimate book for me. If Newbery awarded best book of the century or millenia this book should receive it. I got this book when I was 9 years old for Christmas and I read it all day by the lights of the Christmas tree. This book was the first book to ever make me cry. I still have that original book and can't even think how many times I have read it. Every man, woman and child should read this book.