MMGM: The Boy Who Built Boxen: A Review of Giant

 

Do you have a C.S. Lewis fan at your house—or are you, or an older teen, reading Surprised by Joy? If you’d like to learn more about Lewis’s early life and his time in Belfast, Giant by Judith McQuoid is a lovely introduction.

Told through the eyes of fictional Davy, a boy based on Lewis’s longest friendship, this gentle historical novel imagines the early years of “Jacks,” the young C.S. Lewis.

As I read, I kept thinking about the parts of Surprised by Joy where Lewis describes making Boxen with his brother and his especially close relationship with Warnie. Narnia was one of the first novel-length series I read as a child, so I loved learning more about the childhood seeds that may have grown into those beloved stories.

If you enjoy discovering the inspirations behind your favorite authors, I think you will enjoy this one.

 

MMGM: True Adventure for Gentle Readers: Heart of a Samurai

 

I am always looking for stories that draw in readers who love true adventure, perilous journeys, and brave young people finding their place in the world. When my boys were growing up, they thrived on stories that felt real and high-stakes. One of our favorite shared read-alouds was Carry On, Mr. Bowditch. I think the fact that it was a true story—about a boy who pulled himself out of poverty to become a great navigator—truly inspired them. 

Later, when my boys were in high school, I read Moby-Dick with my younger son and then we watched the classic movie with Gregory Peck. As someone with a strong interest in marine biology, he didn't mind the "nonfiction" chapters about whales, and like his older brother, he loved the sense of adventure on the high seas.

If you are looking for stories for your morning basket or the classroom—tales filled with real people, cross-cultural connections, and quiet bravery—Heart of a Samurai is a wonderful discovery.

MMGM: Gentle WWII Stories for Kids (For Sensitive Readers)

 

When I was homeschooling, the hardest eras to teach were ancient history and the modern age.
How do you explain to a young child—especially a tender-hearted one—those moments when humanity seems to lose its way?

It always troubled my oldest to hear about such things, just as it troubled me when I was young. I still remember having nightmares for years after watching a film in science class about the earth ending someday.

If you have a child like that (or are one yourself), I want to share two gentle stories set during World War II. They don’t avoid hardship, but they offer it in a way that young readers can carry.

For those who’d like to explore the French Resistance: Each and Every Spark

A story of art, courage, and quiet resistance in Paris

Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski is a dual-timeline novel told in alternating chapters.

In present-day Paris, Penny Marks has just moved with her family while her mother spends a year teaching art history. Penny misses her friends and her familiar life, but everything changes when she discovers a cryptic note hidden behind a painting. As she begins to unravel its meaning, she finds herself drawn into the past.

In Paris, 1943, Marie Bonnett lives with her older sister, Héloïse. Their father has been forcibly sent to Germany for labor, and their mother has died. When Marie discovers that Héloïse is secretly working with the Resistance—spying on German officers through her hotel job—she chooses to join as well, helping to smuggle paintings out of France.

Why this book stayed with me:

1. Two remarkable heroines. Both Penny and Marie are deeply rooted in family love. Penny’s relationship with her mother felt especially tender, while Marie and Héloïse’s bond carried real courage.

2. A dual timeline that truly works. I never found myself rushing through one storyline to get back to the other—both held my attention.

3. Art at the heart of the story. The author encourages readers to look up the paintings mentioned, which adds a rich layer. I could easily imagine using this as a gentle deep dive into how art was protected during the war.

3. A quiet nod to homeschooling. Penny’s online schooling is simply part of her life, and I loved how her family worked together to solve the mystery.

4. Courage worth remembering. The thread of Joan of Arc throughout the story felt especially fitting.

Reading Guide: This book works well as an independent read for roughly 3rd–7th grade or as a read-aloud. Sensitive readers should know there are references to a terrorist attack (present day), the disappearance of a Jewish classmate (before the story begins), and threats from Nazis and collaborators. These moments are not graphic and mostly occur off-page. There is a light teen romance and a few uses of the Lord’s name in vain.

If you’d like to explore children evacuated during the Blitz: A Place to Hang the Moon

 

 

A tender tale of siblings searching for home during the Blitz

A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus feels like stepping into a story written in the 1940s. The omniscient narration gives it a timeless, classic tone.

William, Edmund, and Anna have lost both their parents and, most recently, their grandmother. But they carry with them her gentle hope—that they might find someone who will think they “hung the moon.”
With the help of their grandmother’s lawyer, they evacuate to the English countryside. Along the way, they quietly search for a place to belong. Life is not easy—there are unkind foster families, hunger, and responsibilities beyond their years—but they find a steady light in the village librarian, Mrs. Müller. Yet even she is considered “unsuitable” because her missing husband is German.

Why this book stayed with me:

1. Characters who feel real. Each child is distinct—William the steady peacemaker, Edmund the quick reactor, and Anna the quiet lover of stories.

2. A gentle reminder that worth isn’t tied to circumstance. Though the children have financial means, it doesn’t shield them from hardship. And those who help them are complex and human.

3. A love of books woven throughout. Stories become their refuge and anchor in uncertain times.

4. Quiet themes of justice and belonging—and the life-changing presence of one caring adult.

“And thanks for the advice about dragons,” [Edmund] said, stifling a yawn. “I’ll try to be more mindful of them.”

“Right,” [Mrs. Müller] replied. “And I’ll try to be less.”

Reading Guide:
A lovely read-aloud for ages 8–12, or for independent readers around a 5th-grade level and up. Sensitive readers should be aware of some bullying and a brief scene involving rats being hunted.

Max’s take (out of a 5 bone scale)

Max, the Reading Dog

 

 

 

 

 

 🦴

No dogs in either book—though perhaps it was simply too dangerous for puppies. Still, I wouldn’t mind curling up with William, Edmund, and Anna, or sitting in a quiet café with Penny and Marie.

 

 

 

Notes from the Front Porch:

What World War II stories have you loved—especially ones that feel gentle enough to share?

*Please note: I will be away from social media and the blog next week, spending time with family and friends. See you back here on the 22nd.

Check out other fabulous middle grades at Always in the Middle!  

  

Tea and Tails

Let’s stay in touch.

If you enjoy our bookish chats, I’d love to have you join me for Tea and Tails, a monthly letter from my reading nook filled with bookish heart and quiet courage.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It is no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Kindred Spirits and Celtic Knots: Celebrating Irish Stories

 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! One of the best parts of holidays is tying them into what your child or family is learning about. Around St. Patrick’s day, our family often read Irish authors, learned about the real Saint Patrick, or did shamrock math. Today I’m featuring two Irish authors whose books I enjoyed lately. Whether you’re looking for a light fantasy or a historical fiction set in Ireland, I’ve got you covered. 

For historical fiction fans:

 

 The Celtic Knot

"It's like flying!" twelve-year-old Kathleen Murphy decides after her very first Irish dancing lesson. But times are tough in Dublin, and her da's hardly working, so there's no money to spare for lessons, much less a fancy dancing costume to compete in. Then, when one unexpected thing leads to another, Kathleen realizes that even when dreams change, the future holds possibilities she has never before imagined. (from the front flap)

Why This Story Stays With Me:

1.    The rich historical detail! This book takes place in 1930s Dublin in the midst of the worldwide economic depression. I really felt immersed in time and place, especially because this author just throws you into this family with very little explanation.

2.    How poverty was depicted. One of my pet peeves, especially as a former teacher, is that there is often a stereotype that if a family is poor, they are also mean or abusive. Kathleen is poor. She has to help her siblings and parents and go without in ways kids in North America do not. But her family is loving, though imperfect. And what a joy that was to see that portrayed in fiction.

3.    Irish dancing! We used to attend a local Celtic concert where a dear friend of ours would do Irish dancing. My younger son at three called her a butterfly princess. I was so excited to see that dancing was a huge part of this novel—and a way Kathleen embraced her heritage and found something that brought her joy.

4.    Family relationships! As mentioned before, I really loved this family, practical, but loving Mam, fun-loving Da, and Aunt Polly, who’s almost like a big sister to Kathleen. And all her siblings! It was really fun seeing this warm family on the page.

5.    A realistic, but hopeful ending. As mentioned before, this book didn’t skirt the difficulties with poverty or life in Ireland in 1930, but it left the reader with hope and warmth. If you’d like to celebrate St. Patrick’s with a warm hug, this book will do that.

My favorite quote: “That was another puzzle. If you wanted to know something, why couldn’t grown-ups just tell you, instead of fobbing you off and telling you to go and play?” p.5

 

For Fantasy Fans

 Lianna and the Hombit

A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?

When 13-year old Lianna, devastated by the loss of her father, is sent to the distant land of Nivram, she finds her new home and guardian every bit as horrible as she expected. When she meets a magical birdlike creature called a hombit, they strike an alliance: Lianna will help it complete its secret mission if it helps her get home.

But her plan goes awry and she accidentally awakens a creature that threatens both her and her new home. Lianna must uncover family secrets to avoid a terrible fate…

A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost. (from Amazon)

 

Why This Story Stays With Me:

1.    Lianna is a heroine to look up to. Although sometimes she was too reckless (I kept wanting her not to listen to the living rocks!), I loved her bravery and loyalty to her late parents. She didn’t make selfish choices, even when her life was at stake.

2.    The Hombit! This creature, a sort of bird with glass wings, definitely stole the show. Its inability to understand words and expressions added so much humor, and I was moved by the close friendship between the Hombit and Lianna. The Hombit is a true kindred spirit.

3.    An intriguing mystery that fits well within the fantasy/mystery genre. I was reminded of Edmund in Narnia, Fairest by Gail Carson Levine, and Moonstone by Wilkie Collins. Valinora beautifully portrayed the power of temptation--and an interesting mystery involving jewels.

4.    Illustrations and interesting fauna. Throughout the text are illustrations of the creatures Lianna references, such as the bantimouse and the deadly octospider. Kids who love fantasy and biology will enjoy those tidbits — and perhaps be inspired to make their own fantasy nature journal. I couldn't help but think of the interesting creatures from The Wingfeather series, like the toothy cow.

5.    An ending that left an opening for a continuation but still tied all the loose threads. I don't know if a sequel is planned, but I loved that we were not left with a cliffhanger, but a very touching ending with Lianna and her uncle understanding each other better.

From the Archives, A Quiet Saint Patrick's Day Library:

• Top Middle Grade Books to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day: Three gentle stories of Irish heritage and heart, perfect for a family read-aloud.

• A Slip of a Girl by Patricia Reilly Giff: A poignant novel in verse following a young girl’s courage during the Irish Land Wars.

• More from Siobhan Parkinson: If you loved 'Kathleen: The Celtic Knot,' discover two more lyrical stories set in the heart of Ireland.

Max’s Five Bone Rating

 🦴🦴

Max, the Reading Dog

 

  

 

 

 

Kathleen’s Knot: No dogs again! Ugh! But I would like to go to the Emerald Isle. I hear there is another dog who loves to read over there! 

🦴🦴🦴
Lianna and the Hombit: No dogs, but there is a really cool bird-like creature called a Hombit. I think I need a bird friend in my life. Maybe the Hombit would like to go for a walk with me?

 

Notes from the Front Porch:

What books have you enjoyed by Irish authors? How do you and your family like to celebrate St. Patrick’s day? I’m always looking to travel to the Emerald Isle through stories.

 

Check out other fabulous middle grades at Always in the Middle!  

  

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MMGM: Finding Heart and History in The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli

 

I’m a huge fan of The Vanderbeekers and my younger son devoured them, so I was so excited to read a new book by Karina Yan Glaser! Even better, half of The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli takes place in ancient China, a country and culture I really enjoy reading about. Also, it was recently announced that Glaser won the Newbery Honor Award.

It felt like a 'kindred spirit' moment when, while reading this book, my son and I attended a talk about insects and the Silk Road. I learned that the making of jacquard (a type of silk printing) led to the first computers. It reminded me how stories—and history—connect us in ways we never expect, from ancient silk worms to the smartphones in our pockets. 

Synopsis: 

In ancient Chang’An, Han Yu sells steamed buns in a bustling market full of whispers about his ability to summon tigers.

In New York’s Depression-era Chinatown, Luli gazes out from the roof of her parents’ restaurant, dreaming of dim sum and Chinese art.

Familiar rhythms rule the contained-but-contented lives of Han Yu and Luli. But when plague strikes Chang’An and financial crisis threatens Luli’s family, Han Yu and Luli must each venture out into the larger world—and into danger-filled adventure—to save what they love most. Filled with wondrous caves and conniving thieves, desert storms and magical lakes, Karina Yan Glaser’s epic and rewarding novel is a testament to the bravery required to face the unknown and the power of art to connect us through the ages. (from Amazon)

Reading Guide: The text is roughly at a 6th-grade level. I think it would shine as a family read-aloud for ages 8–12, and as an independent read for many 10–13-year-olds.

Why This Story Stays with Me:

1.    An intricate story: While 400 pages might seem long, the story moves with such a gentle rhythm that I didn't want it to end. The way the two stories—separated by centuries—eventually meet is a beautiful testament to how art and bravery connect us all. I wasn’t sure how the two stories (one in medieval China and one in 1931 New York) would connect, but they do beautifully. 

2.    Characters to look up to: Both Han and Luli were characters I cared about right away. Han has a special gift with animals. He can sense their feelings and communicate with them. Luli is fiercely protective of her Chinese culture and family. Both families were portrayed with warmth and humor. 

3.    Friendships and mentors: This story also had one of the best friendships I’ve seen in middle grade, between young Han and poet Du Fu, who is based on a real historical person. Han and Du Fu sacrifice and truly care for one another on their journey. The bond between young Han and the poet Du Fu is one of the most beautiful 'kindred spirit' friendships I’ve encountered. It’s a lovely reminder of how we all need mentors to help us on our journeys. 

4.    Art History: I also loved how Luli’s story followed the inclusion of Chinese art in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Glaser included more information about the background of this museum and the real historical characters in her author's note.

5.    A smidge of fantasy: The touch of magical realism in Han’s story felt like a soft watercolor wash, adding a sense of wonder without losing the grounded heart of the tale. And what's not to like about a boy who can understand animals like no one else?

Max’s Five Bone Rating

Max, the Reading Dog

 

 

 

 

 

 🦴🦴🦴🦴🦴

5/5 Bones for Lok! Any boy who can sense the feelings of his dog is a hero in my book. It made me extra thankful for the 'quiet understanding' I share with my own boy.

 

 

A Note for the Front Porch: 

Have you ever read a story that made a far-off time or place feel like home? Or do you have a favorite book that uses art to tell a deeper story? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Check out other fabulous middle grades at Always in the Middle!  

 

 

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*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It is no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

MMGM: Five Fabulous Books for Kids and Tweens Set in Italy

 

Are you excited for the Milan Olympics? We are quite the Italian fans at my house. My older son taught himself some Italian via Duolingo while we were homeschooling. It is a place on our list to travel to someday. My great-grandfather was from Bari, Italy, so I have a family connection as well. And the great art, the food! 

This month, I decided to take a virtual trip to Italy—through books, of course.

If you love learning about math:

 

Blockhead: The Life of Fibonacci by Joseph D'Agnese, Illustrated by John O'Brien

This is a picture book, but I think the content would work well in an upper elementary classroom or homeschool to introduce Fibonacci’s numbers in a fun way. Kids will relate to the fact that Fibonacci was called a Blockhead (not unlike Charlie Brown). I loved using books like this when we were homeschooling to make math more fun, but it’d definitely work well in the classroom too.

If you love learning about Leonardo DaVinci, Milan’s famous inventor/painter:

Leonardo’s Horse by Jean Fritz

You could read all of Jean Fritz books in chronological order for a wonderful overview of history (ask me how I know!). But this book is more centered on art and Leonardo’s obsession with creating a horse sculpture. I didn’t know the story, and I really enjoyed learning about how many setbacks he encountered. And there is a modern happy ending to this tale. 

If you Are interested in Italy during World War II:

For younger readers:

Bartali’s Bicycle: Italy’s Secret Hero by Megan Holt and illustrated by Iacopo Bruno

I am late to the game in praising this book.  I saw it recommended by other MMGM bloggers back when it came out. If you’ve missed this one, do not wait to get it. It follows a cyclist who won the Tour de France and when World War II helped get Jews in Italy to safety.  My favorite part, Bartoli was know for saying: 

“Good is something you do, not something you talk about.”

Just a Girl by Lia Levi with pictures by Jess Mason, translated by Sylvia Notini

This book! The voice is so childlike and innocent and yet Lia goes through so much as Italy changes with the rise and fall of Mussolini (unfortunately the fall doesn’t bring immediate relief). She often stopped to explain in short essays how things would turn out (so readers won’t worry). This juxtaposition of the sweet voice and the few parts of her life that were somewhat normal (putting on plays, squabbling with other children) made this so powerful. Even better, this is a translation from the Italian.

And if you'd love to vicariously travel to Venice:  

 

Rosa by Starlight by Hilary McKay

This was such a fun, whimsical read. I thought it was very Roald Dahl in tone with the orphan living with the unimaginative and cruel aunt and uncle. It’s all handled very light-heartedly, but if have a sensitive reader, you might want to preread. However, what I loved was the magical cat Balthazar, which just is the name of my teddy bear growing up. And Balthazar has a special computer where he can order food! This is magical realism, but also a heartfelt story about a girl learning to find true friends. What's not to love about magical cats in Italy?

 

Max’s take (out of a 5 bone scale)

Max, the Reading Dog

 

 

 

 

 

 🦴🦴🦴

I liked Leonardo’s House. But where are the dogs in books about  Italy? I thought they liked their dogs…ah well. But Stella! You know, I’m not a fan of cats, but I want my own computer for ordering food. My mouth is watering! Just think as much…bacon…cheese…turkey sandwiches…Chick Fil’A Sauce…. Can I get one too?
 

Will you be watching the Winter Olympics? What is your favorite winter sport? And, of course, do you have any favorite books about Italy? Or if you've been there, what is your favorite Italian city?

 

Check out other fabulous middle grades at Always in the Middle!  

 

 

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!

MMGM: Vintage Children's Books for Modern Readers: Anna Rose Johnson

Do you like vintage children’s books? You know the books you or perhaps your grandmother grew up with (or were written about your great grandmother’s time) like Betsy-Tacy, The Secret Garden, or Anne of Green Gables. These were the books I lived in as a child, where the characters became as dear to me as real friends. I was so excited to discover a new-to-me author, Anna Rose Johnson, who shares this love and has written some beautiful modern books in this vintage style.

Today I’m featuring the two I’ve read, but Faith Hough, another MMGM blogger, recently featured an interview with Anna Rose about her latest book, The Blossoming Summer. 

If you like nostalgic reads like The Penderwicks or The Vanderbeekers series, but set in the early 1900s, you will love these books!

Synopsis for A Star That Always Stays:

 
Growing up on Beaver Island, Grand-père told Norvia stories—stories about her ancestor Migizi, about Biboonke-o-nini the Wintermaker, about the Crane Clan and the Reindeer Clan. He sang her songs in the old language, and her grandmothers taught her to make story quilts and maple candy. On the island, Norvia was proud of her Ojibwe heritage. 

Things are different in the city. Here, Norvia’s mother forces her to pretend she’s not Native at all—even to Mr. Ward, Ma’s new husband, and to Vernon, Norvia’s irritating new stepbrother. In fact, there are a lot of changes in the city: ten-cent movies, gleaming soda shops, speedy automobiles, ninth grade. It’s dizzying for a girl who grew up on the forested shores of Lake Michigan.

Despite the move, the upheaval, and the looming threat of world war, Norvia and her siblings—all five of them—are determined to make 1914 their best year ever. Norvia is certain that her future depends upon it... and upon her discretion. 

But how can she have the best year ever if she has to hide who she truly is?

 

My Take:

 
The writing style and the focus on the everyday elements of life reminded me so much of Maud Lovelace’s high school Betsy books. Norvia was an interesting heroine, because she was so shy, but I loved that because that was me as a young teen as well. I also loved how her heritage was natural to the story and though she encountered prejudice, the story showed who Norvia's true friends were. Faith was woven in as a natural part of life. I really enjoyed the chapters about the two Ojibwe grandmothers and their steadfast encouragement in Norvia's life. And although I am from a small family myself, I love reading about big families, and Norvia’s drama-loving sister, Dicta, steals every scene she’s in. There were a few minor things, like how divorce was handled for that period that didn’t ring true for me, and I wished we could have seen more of her dad and hear his side of the story. But overall, a lovely read. And Mr. Bingley, the family dog, was a delight!

Synopsis for The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry:

Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a mysterious family of lighthouse-keepers—and, she hopes, to find the legendary necklace her father spent his life seeking…

Selena Lucy Landry (named for a ship, as every sailor’s child should be) has been frightened of the water ever since she lost her father at sea. But with no one else to care for her, she’s sent to foster with the Martins—a large Anishinaabe family living on a lighthouse in the middle of stormy Lake Superior. 

The Martin family is big, hard-working, and close, and Lucy—who has always been a dreamer—struggles to fit in. Can she go one day without ruining the laundry or forgetting the sweeping? Will she ever be less afraid of the lake?

My Take:

 
While A Star reminded me of Betsy-Tacy, The Luminous Life reminded me of Anne of Green Gables and The Little Princess. The set up is similar about a spirited, imaginative orphan girl who goes to live with a family, but what I loved is that Anna Rose brings her own spin on the story. Lucy is imaginative and gets into trouble because she’s daydreaming, but one of my favorite parts of the book was how she often imagines herself as a Princess or a waif depending on her mood. Unlike the Little Princess, imagining herself as a princess doesn’t make Lucy a better person, although sometimes it does. She’s proud of her heritage and her Papa who died in a shipwreck. I loved the beautiful large family dynamics. It is difficult to have a large cast and keep each character distinct. But Anna Rose does it well. I also enjoyed the mystery of the necklace and the shipwreck which added a lot of peril, especially toward the end.

This is a much shorter read than A Star and would be wonderful for advanced readers who are ready to move up to middle grade, but not ready for any dark themes. 

Max, the Reading Dog*

 

 

 

Max’s Take on a 5 bone scale: 

A Star: Mr. Bingley! I love a dog that’s named after a book character, especially if it’s from my mom’s favorite book (Pride and Prejudice).

 🦴🦴🦴🦴🦴

Lucy Landry had some gulls, but no dogs. And lots of water! I do not like boats or water. 🦴

Your turn:

Do you like vintage reads? What books did you love as a child?  

 

 

Check out other fabulous middle grades at Always in the Middle!  

 

 

MMGM: Travel to the Past on The Cargo of the Madalena

 

Don't be fooled by this cover. The book is more exciting. I promise!

When my boys were younger, we loved reading historical fiction together, especially if it was immersive with a lot of details of the time. Adam of the Road, The Birchback House, and The Door in the Wall were a few favorites that live on in family yore.

When Valinora Troy, another MMGM blogger, recommended Ring Out Bow Bells, I thought it might be a similar read. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get my hands on that title, but I discovered another by Cynthia Harnett: The Cargo of the Madalena (originally published as The Load of the Unicorn in 1959). 

If you like immersive reads with a lot of historical details and illustrations and maps galore, you will love this book!

Synopsis:

Bendy, whose family runs a scrivener's shop in fifteenth-century London, solves the mystery when the master printer, William Caxton, fails to receive the paper shipped to him aboard the cargo ship "Madalena." (from Goodreads)

Highlights of The Cargo of the Madalena:

1.    A relatable main character. I’m always excited to find middle grades, especially historical fiction, with a boy main character. I totally felt for Bendy, who’s caught between his half-brothers who are  running their father’s scrivener business and his father, who’s trying to stick up for Bendy, but being pushed out by his older sons. Not to mention that his brothers are anti-printing press and Bendy and his father and intrigued by this new invention.

2.    Authentic period detail. This is not a time (London in 1482) that I know a lot about, but I learned so much about the scrivener business, the early printing press, life at Westminster, and the English countryside. A lot of the characters, like William Caxton, the printer, are also real historical persons.

p.132, illustration by Cynthia Harnett

3.    Illustrations by the author. I have heard that illustrations in middle grade are making a comeback. Yay! I enjoyed Harnett's drawings  of buildings, important items in the story, characters, and actions. These and the map in the back of the book really helped me to understand difficult concepts and visualize all those unfamiliar parts of the story. 

 

4.    An interesting mystery surrounding Le Morte d’Arthur. While the mystery of the missing paper was intriguing—and an attempted kidnapping gripping, I especially enjoyed the part of the book that dealt with how the most famous English version of King Arthur legends came to print.  

5.    An interesting theme that relates to modern times. Throughout the novel, as I was reading how the scriveners didn’t want the printing press to take off and ruin their business, I thought of all the transitions I've seen of an invention taking over an industry. (Remember video stores?) Of course, I couldn’t help but see the parallels with current debates over AI.

Max’s Take (on a five bone 🦴scale): 

Max, the Reading Dog*

 
Other than Bendy’s horse, there are no animals in this story! If Bendy had had me with him on his journey, he never would’ve gotten kidnapped. But it was an exciting story!

🦴🦴

Your Turn:

Have you read The Cargo of the Madalena or Le Morte d'Arthur ? What are your favorite historical fiction books or Arthurian legends?

 

MMGM: Carver and the Queen: Historical Fantasy at its Finest

 

As someone who lived for a short time in a Russian-speaking region (Crimea), I am a bit picky about books set in Russia. Often the details are not quite right or don’t reflect the culture I came to know and love.

So, I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered The Carver and the Queen, a historical fantasy by Emma C. Fox, another book from Owl's Nest. Not only is this an immersive read, but the details about Russian life during 1813 (think the Regency period in England) are authentic and accurate.

A scene from The Stone Flower, the ballet this novel is based on--from https://www.mariinsky.ru/en/playbill/playbill/2024/4/12/1_1900/

If you like rich historical fantasy with a Slavic bent, you will love this book. Although it is classed as a young adult, this novel would also appeal to upper middle grade readers who are ready for more in depth stories. (There is some violence and frightening situations, but this is otherwise a clean read.)

Synopsis

In the age of Imperial Russia, deep in the Ural Mountains, two teenagers plot their escape from serfdom and dream of a destiny beyond their birth. Petr, a castoff orphan, longs to make a name for himself as a sculptor of malachite, the Ural’s most treasured gem. His best friend Lena harbors an even more impossible goal: to escape an arranged marriage to the cruel village bailiff and become an artist in her own right. 

When their bid for freedom falls to pieces, Petr seeks help from the mythical Malachite Queen, only to find himself trapped in an underworld where godlike skill comes at the cost of his humanity. It’s up to Lena to contrive a daring rescue before Petr is lost forever in a kingdom of stone. (from Amazon)

What I loved:

1. Well-drawn, smart, and sympathetic characters: The narrative switches between Lena and Petr. From the start, I felt for Petr when he is punished unjustly, and Lena, who is fighting to avoid an arranged marriage with the man who harasses Petr. It is not a surprise that they become fast friends.

2. Incredible world building and lyrical writing: Fox not only made this world accurate in terms of Russian peasant traditions (such as jumping over a fire on Ivan Kupala*),  but she used Russian folklore, such as water sprites (rusalkas) as some of the fantasy elements.

 

*from https://ukraine.ua/stories/ivan-kupala/

3. An interesting antagonist: Malachinista, The Malachite Queen, reminded me of the White Witch of Narnia in her fierceness and her ability to lure unsuspecting men. I liked how Fox shows how enticing evil can be and the importance of not thinking we are too strong to be tempted.

 

Carved Malachite box: Photo by carole smile on Unsplash

4. A strong message about being true to those you love, being brave even if you are in a position of weakness, and the power of love to overcome evil. Lena's sacrificial quest to help find Petr was very inspiring.

5. A relationship based on shared dreams and values. I loved how Lena and Petr’s friendship and later sweet romance were built on their shared dreams of stone carving and their desire for freedom from Demyan Gorlov.

Favorite quote: “Sometimes we must reach the end of ourselves to find what lies beyond us.”

*See https://ukraine.ua/stories/ivan-kupala/ for more information about Ivan Kupala day in Ukraine.

Max’s Take (on a five bone 🦴scale):

🦴🦴🦴🦴🦴

Sasha is a good boy! He comforted Lena when she was sad and fought for her when Gorlov came to the house. Then Lena rescued him and brought him to Granny Vichta when he got hurt. I would do that for my family.

Your turn:

Do you like historical fantasy? What makes a good antagonist? What books have you been enjoying lately?

If you'd like to read more middle grade reviews or join in the MMGM fun, go to Greg Pattridge's Always in the Middle blog.

MMGM: Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen

 

I was immediately drawn to Daring Darleen because of the film connection. What’s not to like about a story with a child protagonist in the silent film industry? It wasn’t till I brought the book home that I realized another reason to pick up this book—it’s written by the amazing Anne Nesbet, who wrote Cloud and Wallfish, another MG historical I loved. It also got raves from fellow MMGM blogger, Patricia Tilton.

If you like smart writing, interesting, well-drawn characters, and on the edge of your seats action, you will love Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen!

Synopsis (from Amazon):

When a publicity stunt goes terribly wrong, twelve-year-old Darleen Darling, star of the silent film era, must defeat villains both on screen and off in this edge-of-your-seat adventure.

Lights! Camera! Kidnapping?


It’s 1914, and Darleen Darling’s film adventures collide with reality when a fake kidnapping set up by her studio becomes all too real. Suddenly Darleen finds herself in the hands of dastardly criminals who have just nabbed Miss Victorine Berryman, the poor-little-rich-girl heiress of one of America’s largest fortunes. Soon real life starts to seem like a bona fide adventure serial, complete with dramatic escapes, murderous plots, and a runaway air balloon. Will Darleen and Victorine be able to engineer their own happily-ever-after, or will the villains be victorious?

What to love:

1.Darleen and her papa: Darleen and her papa's relationship was touching and heartfelt, especially considering the backstory of her mother's death. Her affection and desire to stay safe for him was really relatable.

2. A lovely friendship between the two girls: This was MG friendship at its best. Both girls drew out and encouraged each other’s strengths, even though they were vastly different. Can I just say I was happy to see a rich girl not portrayed as an evil villain? All the characters, even minor ones, were given a lot of depth.

3. High stakes: From page one, when Darleen almost falls off a cliff, to the kidnapping, to other events, I was on the edge of my seat worried for these characters. While Nesbet has a very literary way of writing, it was refreshing to read a book with strong writing AND a great plot.

4. Beautiful writing: Nesbet has a sense of building a motif  throughout the novel. With her word choices and figurative language, I always felt in the world of silent film. This is one to study if you’re working on creating a mood.

5. Historical tie-ins: I liked how Nesbet included a real historical female pioneer of film as one of the characters and gave a detailed author’s note at the end. It makes me feel like I’m in good hands knowing the author teaches film history at the university level.

This book reminded me of the fabulous The Artist, a 2012 Oscar-winning film about the silent film industry.

Have you reading Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen? What silent films have you enjoyed?

For more MMGM reads, please check out Greg Pattridge's Always in the Middle!