The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

A lovely historical fiction novel about an "almost 12-year-old girl" who develops a fascination for nature and science. In Austin, Texas in the year 1899, Calpurnia can't control her hunger for reading, scientific observation, and experiments with Grandaddy despite her mother's wishes that she learn to cook and knit in preparation for her debutante. The only girl in a family of 6 boys, Calpurnia is caught between what others expect her to be and what who she really is at the core.

Skeleton Creek

If you think Chasing Vermeer or 39 Clues mixes books with entertainment culture, wait until you read Skeleton Creek by Patick Carman (January 2009). This mystery is told through Ryan's notebook writings and Sarah's videos. Yes, to experience this story one must read AND view videos on the web. Will the kids go for it? I think so. All those Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark fans now have something to really scare them silly.

My Reading Journey

I'm considering using this blog to keep track of all the books I read this year. There's going to be a lot of them...