Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: Earth, two hundred years after the catastrophe. About two years after the people of Ember came to the surface.
First Sentence: Around the middle of the twenty-first century, when it seemed that a great catastrophe was about to engulf the world, an underground city was built as a last refuge for the human race.
This novel is the fourth in the author's "Books of Ember" series.
The builders of Ember realized that after two hundred years underground the Emberites would need to have some help restarting above ground life.
So the builders decided to give the people of Ember some help. Outside of the city they built a vault. In the value the builders placed a valuable piece of technology (the diamond) along with the instructions for using it.
Unfortunately, someone not of Ember discovered the technology first.
Meanwhile, life goes on in Spark. Spark is where the people of Ember and the People of Spark learned to live together.
Life is hard and dangerous. Eventually our main characters, Lena and Doon, are reminded of all of the things they had in Ember. They decide to return to Ember to see is there are any things left that might help the people of Spark.
They find that a family of roamers have taken up residence in the underground city. The roamers are using books from the library to fuel their fires. And they are looting the city for items they could use or sell.
Eventually, the roamers are chased off. Lina and Doon learn how to use the diamond. And, the people from Spark salvage what they can from the underground city.
With the items they recover from Ember, life becomes a little bit easier.
In the end the author provides a wistful happy ending, and a tie-in to the third book of the series. It is a weak and unimportant connection.
I liked this book. It is very much like the first two. I suggest reading the books in order.
P.S. I keep thinking about all of the boats the Emberites used to escape from Ember. They could have made a killing in the boat business!
Showing posts with label Children's Literature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Children's Literature. Show all posts
Sunday, April 30, 2017
Sunday, April 16, 2017
The People of Sparks by Jeanne DuPrau
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: In a desolate village, years after a devastating war.
First Sentence: Torren was out at the edge of the cabbage field that day, the day the people came.
This novel is the second in the author's "Books of Ember" series. This series runs to four novels.
This story begins immediately after the main characters Lina and Doon learn how to leave Ember. Ember had been founded over two hundred years ago. The founders wanted to ensure that a group of people would survive the oncoming global catastrophe.
Living in a cave has kept them alive. But the Emberites have no knowledge of the surface.
Fortunately, there is a small village near the entrance of the cave. The people there are barely scraping by. Imagine how the people of the town would react when a large group of people arrive and ask for help. There are just so many things the Emberites don't understand.
How will the people of Sparks and the people of Ember get along?
I liked this book. The author had an interesting story to tell about the two groups of people.
One thing kept nagging at me while I read. Why don't they go back to the cave? Surely there are some things in the cave that would be helpful. Perhaps, the answer to my question will be found in one of the other books in the series.
Setting: In a desolate village, years after a devastating war.
First Sentence: Torren was out at the edge of the cabbage field that day, the day the people came.
This novel is the second in the author's "Books of Ember" series. This series runs to four novels.
This story begins immediately after the main characters Lina and Doon learn how to leave Ember. Ember had been founded over two hundred years ago. The founders wanted to ensure that a group of people would survive the oncoming global catastrophe.
Living in a cave has kept them alive. But the Emberites have no knowledge of the surface.
Fortunately, there is a small village near the entrance of the cave. The people there are barely scraping by. Imagine how the people of the town would react when a large group of people arrive and ask for help. There are just so many things the Emberites don't understand.
How will the people of Sparks and the people of Ember get along?
I liked this book. The author had an interesting story to tell about the two groups of people.
One thing kept nagging at me while I read. Why don't they go back to the cave? Surely there are some things in the cave that would be helpful. Perhaps, the answer to my question will be found in one of the other books in the series.
Monday, April 10, 2017
The End By Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Lierature
Setting: On an island near the continental shelf.
First Sentence: If you have ever peeled an onion, then you know that the first thin, papery layer reveals another, thin papery layer, and that layer reveals another, and another and before you know it you have hundreds of layers all over the kitchen table and thousands of tears in you eyes, sorry that you ever started peeling in the first place and wishing that you had left the onion alone to wither away on the shelf of the pantry while you went on with your life, even if that meant never again enjoying the complicated and overwhelming taste of this strange and bitter vegetable.
This novel is the thirteenth in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
This installment was difficult for me to write because I did not want to spoil The End for you, dear reader. Read On.
After escaping the fire at the Hotel Denouement, the Baudelaires find themselves at sea with Count Olaf. Due the great schism, the V.F.D. has been divided into good and evil factions. The fire was a result of the orphans escape from the hotel; the last safe place.
After surviving a horrible storm, the Baudelaires and the Count, are washed up on the coastal self, along with a fantastic array of flotsam.
An island is nearby. This island is inhabited by people who desire simple life in peace and safety, far away from the dangers and treachery of the outside world.
The island is ruled by a facilitator who uses peer pressure to ensure that no one "rocks the boat."
The orphans choose to live on the island. They especially appreciate the fact that the islanders will not allow Olaf on the island.
But the safety and security of the island comes at a price. There are secrets. When the islanders decide to mutiny, some spores of the deadly Medusoid Mycelium fungus (From the Grim Grotto) are released every one on the island must make a life or death decision.
At The End, we learn the truth about the orphans' parents. We learn about Kit Snicket. And we learn about the narrator, Lemony Snicket.
No cavalry coming over the hill. No secret discovery. No happy ending.
I strongly encourage you to read the series in order.
I just might get a commonplace book.
Setting: On an island near the continental shelf.
First Sentence: If you have ever peeled an onion, then you know that the first thin, papery layer reveals another, thin papery layer, and that layer reveals another, and another and before you know it you have hundreds of layers all over the kitchen table and thousands of tears in you eyes, sorry that you ever started peeling in the first place and wishing that you had left the onion alone to wither away on the shelf of the pantry while you went on with your life, even if that meant never again enjoying the complicated and overwhelming taste of this strange and bitter vegetable.
This novel is the thirteenth in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
This installment was difficult for me to write because I did not want to spoil The End for you, dear reader. Read On.
After escaping the fire at the Hotel Denouement, the Baudelaires find themselves at sea with Count Olaf. Due the great schism, the V.F.D. has been divided into good and evil factions. The fire was a result of the orphans escape from the hotel; the last safe place.
After surviving a horrible storm, the Baudelaires and the Count, are washed up on the coastal self, along with a fantastic array of flotsam.
An island is nearby. This island is inhabited by people who desire simple life in peace and safety, far away from the dangers and treachery of the outside world.
The island is ruled by a facilitator who uses peer pressure to ensure that no one "rocks the boat."
The orphans choose to live on the island. They especially appreciate the fact that the islanders will not allow Olaf on the island.
But the safety and security of the island comes at a price. There are secrets. When the islanders decide to mutiny, some spores of the deadly Medusoid Mycelium fungus (From the Grim Grotto) are released every one on the island must make a life or death decision.
At The End, we learn the truth about the orphans' parents. We learn about Kit Snicket. And we learn about the narrator, Lemony Snicket.
No cavalry coming over the hill. No secret discovery. No happy ending.
I strongly encourage you to read the series in order.
I just might get a commonplace book.
Monday, April 3, 2017
The Penultimate Peril by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: The Hotel Denouement a fictional hotel with oddly numbered rooms.
First Sentence: Certain people have said that the world is like a calm pond, and that any time a person does even the smallest thing, it is as if a store had dropped into the pond, spreading circles of ripples further and further out, until the entire world has been changed by one tiny action.
This novel is the twelfth in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The theme of this novel is exploring the nature of good and evil. Count Olaf and his henchpersons have used evil means to try to capture the Baudelaire's fortune. The orphans themselves had had to use evil actions in order to escape from the evil Count.
All along the way, the orphans have met relatively nobel people who have allowed evil to happen to the children. These people have hung the children out to dry, rather be involved in the children's predicament. The phrase "hand the children out to dry" means to let the children fend for themselves, and to then forget about them.
This book begins on a high note. One of the orphans' allies, a member of the secretive and good VFD treats the orphans nicely and with concern. But soon the children are thrust into the same old predicament.
The children are at the the Hotel Denouement. Soon there will be a gathering of all the VFDs, both good and evil, to either protect or destroy the hotel.
The Baudelaires are given jobs that are definitely to dangerous for three young children. Since no one will be honest with them, the children do things that probably more evil than good. Due to their actions, there is a fatality. And once again, good people who should know better, turn their backs on the children.
And you'll never believe who helps the orphans leave the hotel.
This was a very dark novel. It made me reconsider good and evil in the first twelve books of this series.
Now on to the final unfortunate event - The End.
Setting: The Hotel Denouement a fictional hotel with oddly numbered rooms.
First Sentence: Certain people have said that the world is like a calm pond, and that any time a person does even the smallest thing, it is as if a store had dropped into the pond, spreading circles of ripples further and further out, until the entire world has been changed by one tiny action.
This novel is the twelfth in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The theme of this novel is exploring the nature of good and evil. Count Olaf and his henchpersons have used evil means to try to capture the Baudelaire's fortune. The orphans themselves had had to use evil actions in order to escape from the evil Count.
All along the way, the orphans have met relatively nobel people who have allowed evil to happen to the children. These people have hung the children out to dry, rather be involved in the children's predicament. The phrase "hand the children out to dry" means to let the children fend for themselves, and to then forget about them.
This book begins on a high note. One of the orphans' allies, a member of the secretive and good VFD treats the orphans nicely and with concern. But soon the children are thrust into the same old predicament.
The children are at the the Hotel Denouement. Soon there will be a gathering of all the VFDs, both good and evil, to either protect or destroy the hotel.
The Baudelaires are given jobs that are definitely to dangerous for three young children. Since no one will be honest with them, the children do things that probably more evil than good. Due to their actions, there is a fatality. And once again, good people who should know better, turn their backs on the children.
And you'll never believe who helps the orphans leave the hotel.
This was a very dark novel. It made me reconsider good and evil in the first twelve books of this series.
Now on to the final unfortunate event - The End.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
The Grim Grotto by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: Aboard a fictional submarine.
First Sentence: After a great deal of time examining oceans, investigating rain storms, and staring very hard at several drinking fountains, the scientists of the world developed a theory regarding how water is distributed around our planet, which they have named "the water cycle."
This novel is the eleventh in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
In this novel the author uses the concept of the water cycle as a metaphor for the unfortunate events which have plagued the Baudelaire orphans.
- The orphans find themselves is a dangerous or inappropriate place not of their choosing.
- The evil Count Olaf finds them.
- The orphans find a way to escape his clutches...
- Only to find themselves in another dangerous circumstance.
When the Baudelaires return to the submarine, the Captain and crew have mysteriously disappeared.
But, who is on the submarine? Count Olaf of course. Along with Esme, Carmelita, the man with hooks, and the rest of Olaf's henchpersons.
Now, the Baudelaires must find a way to escape the Count's clutches.
While working on their escape plans, the orphans decipher a VFD code. This code gives them a plan for where to should go when they escape.
When they arrive at their destination, they discover Mr. Poe waiting for them.
Do the Baudelaires passively go along with Mr. Poe, and continue the cycle?
Or, do they make a proactive decision to break the cycle?
This book has an interesting ending. Only two more books to go.
Is there a chance for a happy conclusion?
Friday, March 24, 2017
The Slippery Slope by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: In a fictional mountain range.
First Sentence: A man of my acquaintance once wrote a poem called "The Road Less Traveled," describing a journey he took through the woods along a path most travelers never used.
This novel is the tenth of the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
When we last saw the Baudelaire orphans. at the end of "The Carnivorous Carnival," they were traveling with Count Olaf towards the Mortmain Mountains. Sunny is in the front seat of Olaf's automobile with Esme. Olaf is driving. Klaus and Violet are in a caravan being pulled by the car.
And Count Olaf knows who the orphans are.
Count Olaf knows that he only needs one of the Baudelaire orphans to claim the orphans' vast fortune. Since Sunny is with him, the evil count decides to rid himself of the two older siblings.
Rid himself here means to cause the death of the older orphans.
Fortunately, Klaus and Violet do not die.
So they continue their quest to find the V.F.D. headquarters. And to rescue Sunny from the evil count's clutches.
Along the way the two children make some interesting discoveries.
They learn that snow gnats avoid smoke.
They find the Snow Scouts.
They meet two unpleasant people from earlier episodes.
They discover an orphan triplet whose travels have paralleled those of the Baudelaires.
They climb a frozen waterfall.
And, they realize that Sunny is no longer a baby.
All three of the orphans show that they are no longer the count's helpless victims.
Now they are showing that they are intrepid and brave explorers who can up to the count's treachery.
I really liked this book. The characters of the children are developing into strong interesting characters which I like.
Now, on to the next book.
Setting: In a fictional mountain range.
First Sentence: A man of my acquaintance once wrote a poem called "The Road Less Traveled," describing a journey he took through the woods along a path most travelers never used.
This novel is the tenth of the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
When we last saw the Baudelaire orphans. at the end of "The Carnivorous Carnival," they were traveling with Count Olaf towards the Mortmain Mountains. Sunny is in the front seat of Olaf's automobile with Esme. Olaf is driving. Klaus and Violet are in a caravan being pulled by the car.
And Count Olaf knows who the orphans are.
Count Olaf knows that he only needs one of the Baudelaire orphans to claim the orphans' vast fortune. Since Sunny is with him, the evil count decides to rid himself of the two older siblings.
Rid himself here means to cause the death of the older orphans.
Fortunately, Klaus and Violet do not die.
So they continue their quest to find the V.F.D. headquarters. And to rescue Sunny from the evil count's clutches.
Along the way the two children make some interesting discoveries.
They learn that snow gnats avoid smoke.
They find the Snow Scouts.
They meet two unpleasant people from earlier episodes.
They discover an orphan triplet whose travels have paralleled those of the Baudelaires.
They climb a frozen waterfall.
And, they realize that Sunny is no longer a baby.
All three of the orphans show that they are no longer the count's helpless victims.
Now they are showing that they are intrepid and brave explorers who can up to the count's treachery.
I really liked this book. The characters of the children are developing into strong interesting characters which I like.
Now, on to the next book.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
The Carnivorous Carnival by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: A fictitious carnival in the hinterlands
First Sentence: When my workday is over, and I have closed my notebook, hidden my pen, and sawed holes in my rented canoe so that it could not be found, I often like to spend the evenings in conversation with my few surviving friends.
This novel is the ninth in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
At the end of "The Hostile Hotel" the Baudelaire orphans were hidden in the trunk of Count Olaf's car. The Evil count, with his evil assistants were headed to the hinterlands. They were escaping the count's latest failed attempt to steal the orphans' fortune.
The orphans were in the trunk because there was no other place to hide from the count. Also, the orphans think that count might lead them to information about the Baudelaires' parents.
After traveling through the hinterlands for hours the villains and the children arrive at the Calgari Carnival. The count and his henchpersons were unaware of their secret cargo.
In order to escape detection, the orphans disguise themselves as carnival freaks. Madam Lulu hires them and adds them to the carnival's freak show.
The carnival business is slow. So Count Olaf decides to increase business. He purchases a group of lions. He intends to starve the lions, and then throw a freak into the lion pit.
The news of the lion show spreads quickly. On the day of the show there is a large crowd excited to see hungry carnivores devour a freak.
When Madam Lulu discovers the orphans searching her caravan she reveals information about the orphans' parents. One of the parents may be alive in the Mortmain Mountains.
Will the lions devour a freak?
Will the lions devour and orphan?
Will the orphans disguises fool Count Olaf?
Will the orphans learn the truth about their parents?
How will the orphans get to the Mortmain Mountains?
At the end of this book, the orphans are once again in harms way.
Exciting.
Dangerous.
I need to read on.
Setting: A fictitious carnival in the hinterlands
First Sentence: When my workday is over, and I have closed my notebook, hidden my pen, and sawed holes in my rented canoe so that it could not be found, I often like to spend the evenings in conversation with my few surviving friends.
This novel is the ninth in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
At the end of "The Hostile Hotel" the Baudelaire orphans were hidden in the trunk of Count Olaf's car. The Evil count, with his evil assistants were headed to the hinterlands. They were escaping the count's latest failed attempt to steal the orphans' fortune.
The orphans were in the trunk because there was no other place to hide from the count. Also, the orphans think that count might lead them to information about the Baudelaires' parents.
After traveling through the hinterlands for hours the villains and the children arrive at the Calgari Carnival. The count and his henchpersons were unaware of their secret cargo.
In order to escape detection, the orphans disguise themselves as carnival freaks. Madam Lulu hires them and adds them to the carnival's freak show.
The carnival business is slow. So Count Olaf decides to increase business. He purchases a group of lions. He intends to starve the lions, and then throw a freak into the lion pit.
The news of the lion show spreads quickly. On the day of the show there is a large crowd excited to see hungry carnivores devour a freak.
When Madam Lulu discovers the orphans searching her caravan she reveals information about the orphans' parents. One of the parents may be alive in the Mortmain Mountains.
Will the lions devour a freak?
Will the lions devour and orphan?
Will the orphans disguises fool Count Olaf?
Will the orphans learn the truth about their parents?
How will the orphans get to the Mortmain Mountains?
At the end of this book, the orphans are once again in harms way.
Exciting.
Dangerous.
I need to read on.
Monday, March 13, 2017
The Hostile Hospital by: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: A fictional hospital.
First Sentence: There are two reasons why a writer would end a sentence with the word "stop" written entirely in capital letters STOP.
This novel is the eighth book in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The Baudelaire children are orphans with a large fortune. They will inherit the fortune when the eldest daughter, Violet, comes of age. Until that time the orphan's fortune is managed by Mr. Poe. Mr. Poe's poor judgment is usually to blame for placing the Baudelaire orphans in dangerous and inappropriate circumstances.
But this time they are on their own.
The Baudelaires came to be at the Heimlich Hospital because they were escaping from the VFD villagers. The villagers wanted to charge the orphans with murder and burn them at the stake.
The children ran out into the hot dusty landscape until they found the Last Chance General Store. There they met with a cheerful group of volunteers who were headed for the hospital.
At the hospital the orphans find shelter and employment. Their job is to help organize the Library of Records. The orphans have learned that the library may have a file which contains important information about their parents. It seems that there is a possibility that one of their parents may have survived the conflagration which destroyed their home.
Of course the evil Count Olaf arrives to harass the orphans.
In one dramatic scene, Klaus and Sunny must perform a cranioectomy on Violet. (Sounds dangerous!)
Can Violet invent a way for the children to escape?
Can Klaus remember some helpful information from a book he once read?
Can Sunny use her sharp teeth to chew their way to safety?
In the end, the orphans are in extreme danger. And I am on to the next book.
Setting: A fictional hospital.
First Sentence: There are two reasons why a writer would end a sentence with the word "stop" written entirely in capital letters STOP.
This novel is the eighth book in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The Baudelaire children are orphans with a large fortune. They will inherit the fortune when the eldest daughter, Violet, comes of age. Until that time the orphan's fortune is managed by Mr. Poe. Mr. Poe's poor judgment is usually to blame for placing the Baudelaire orphans in dangerous and inappropriate circumstances.
But this time they are on their own.
The Baudelaires came to be at the Heimlich Hospital because they were escaping from the VFD villagers. The villagers wanted to charge the orphans with murder and burn them at the stake.
The children ran out into the hot dusty landscape until they found the Last Chance General Store. There they met with a cheerful group of volunteers who were headed for the hospital.
At the hospital the orphans find shelter and employment. Their job is to help organize the Library of Records. The orphans have learned that the library may have a file which contains important information about their parents. It seems that there is a possibility that one of their parents may have survived the conflagration which destroyed their home.
Of course the evil Count Olaf arrives to harass the orphans.
In one dramatic scene, Klaus and Sunny must perform a cranioectomy on Violet. (Sounds dangerous!)
Can Violet invent a way for the children to escape?
Can Klaus remember some helpful information from a book he once read?
Can Sunny use her sharp teeth to chew their way to safety?
In the end, the orphans are in extreme danger. And I am on to the next book.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
The Vile Village by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: In a fictitious village.
First Sentence: No matter who you are, no matter where you live, and no matter how many people are chasing you, what you don't read is often as important as what you do read.
This novel is the seventh in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The only happy event in this series of unfortunate events that has happened to the Baudelaire orphans was when the orphans met the Quagmire triplets. Both sets of children were attending a boarding school when the evil Count Olaf showed up to harass the Baudelaires. When the triplets tried to help the Baudelaires, the triplets became captives of Olaf.
Since then, the orphans have felt a sense of responsibility towards the triplets.
In this episode of the series, the Baudelaires have arrived at the village of V.F.D. They chose to travel to this village, because the name of the village, V.F.D., matches a clue that was given to the orphans by the triplets.
The village believes that it takes a village to raise a child. Yet, when the orphans arrive, the villagers prove to be poor guardians for the orphans.
Soon the orphans receive clues that the Quagmires are close by. After a murder occurs, the evil count makes his appearance.
Once again he is in disguise so the adults don't recognize him. The count frames the orphans for the murder. Unfortunately, the only punishment for being a rule breaker in V.F.D. is burning at the stake.
Will the children escape with their lives?
A very exciting story - now on to the next book!
Setting: In a fictitious village.
First Sentence: No matter who you are, no matter where you live, and no matter how many people are chasing you, what you don't read is often as important as what you do read.
This novel is the seventh in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
The only happy event in this series of unfortunate events that has happened to the Baudelaire orphans was when the orphans met the Quagmire triplets. Both sets of children were attending a boarding school when the evil Count Olaf showed up to harass the Baudelaires. When the triplets tried to help the Baudelaires, the triplets became captives of Olaf.
Since then, the orphans have felt a sense of responsibility towards the triplets.
In this episode of the series, the Baudelaires have arrived at the village of V.F.D. They chose to travel to this village, because the name of the village, V.F.D., matches a clue that was given to the orphans by the triplets.
The village believes that it takes a village to raise a child. Yet, when the orphans arrive, the villagers prove to be poor guardians for the orphans.
Soon the orphans receive clues that the Quagmires are close by. After a murder occurs, the evil count makes his appearance.
Once again he is in disguise so the adults don't recognize him. The count frames the orphans for the murder. Unfortunately, the only punishment for being a rule breaker in V.F.D. is burning at the stake.
Will the children escape with their lives?
A very exciting story - now on to the next book!
Friday, March 3, 2017
The Ersatz Elevator by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: in a large apartment building. in the city the Orphans are from.
First Sentence: The book you are now holding in your two hands right now - assuming that you are, in fact, holding this book, and you have only two hands - is one of the two books in the world that will show you the difference between the word "nervous" and the word "anxious."
This book is the sixth in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
In this episode of the series, the Baudelaire orphans have been left with a wealthy couple. Jerome and Esme' Squalor live in a seventy-one room penthouse at the top of an extremely tall apartment building.
Jerome Squalor does not like arguments, and will agree to anything to avoid an argument. His wife Esme' goes along with any new fad. As this story begins, light is "out" and orphans are "in." Thus the apartment is dark. And the Squalors have three orphans.
The Baudelaires are worried:
Their friends, the Quagmire triplets, have been captured by the evil Count Olaf.
They know that Olaf will appear.
They know that he will be in disguise.
They know that the adults won't recognize him.
They know that it is up to them to unmask him.
So, the orphans set out to find Olaf's hiding place. While searching they make a surprising discovery.
And they uncover a few clues to the over all mystery of the series.
And like all of the other books in the series.
There is no happy ending.
Setting: in a large apartment building. in the city the Orphans are from.
First Sentence: The book you are now holding in your two hands right now - assuming that you are, in fact, holding this book, and you have only two hands - is one of the two books in the world that will show you the difference between the word "nervous" and the word "anxious."
This book is the sixth in the author's thirteen book series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
In this episode of the series, the Baudelaire orphans have been left with a wealthy couple. Jerome and Esme' Squalor live in a seventy-one room penthouse at the top of an extremely tall apartment building.
Jerome Squalor does not like arguments, and will agree to anything to avoid an argument. His wife Esme' goes along with any new fad. As this story begins, light is "out" and orphans are "in." Thus the apartment is dark. And the Squalors have three orphans.
The Baudelaires are worried:
Their friends, the Quagmire triplets, have been captured by the evil Count Olaf.
They know that Olaf will appear.
They know that he will be in disguise.
They know that the adults won't recognize him.
They know that it is up to them to unmask him.
So, the orphans set out to find Olaf's hiding place. While searching they make a surprising discovery.
And they uncover a few clues to the over all mystery of the series.
And like all of the other books in the series.
There is no happy ending.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
The Austere Academy by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: At a fictitious boarding school
First Sentence: If you were going to give a gold medal to the least delightful person on Earth, you would have to give that medal to a person maned Carmelita Spats, and if you didn't give it to her. Carmela Spats was the sort of person who would snatch it from you anyway.
This novel is the fifth book in the author's thirteen book series entitled " A Series of Unfortunate Events."
This episode relates the experiences that the three Baudelaire orphans have at the Prufrock Preparatory School. This boarding school is the next horrible place that Mr. Poe has chosen to leave the orphans. Mr. Poe is the banker entrusted with caring for the orphans and their fortune. It seems that he is more concerned with the fortune than the children.
Of course, any school that Mr. Poe would select would be horrible. Prufrock Prep has boring teachers, awful lessons, a vindictive Vice Principal, and a very suspicious gym teacher.
Fortunately, Prufrock Prep has two good things: the Quagmire Triplets. the Baudelaires and the Quagmires soon become fast friends. Both sets of children have something in common. They both have lost their parents due to a fire. And they both are the heirs to a fortune.
It doesn't take long for Count Olaf, in disguise, to make his appearance. When the Quagmires decide to help the Baudelaires, they place themselves in danger.
This episode gives us (you and I) some tantalizing clues to the larger mystery of the series.
Who is Count Olaf really?
Why is he so interested in the Baudelaire fortune?
The clues hinted at in this novel suggest that there is something interesting and mysterious going on.
Setting: At a fictitious boarding school
First Sentence: If you were going to give a gold medal to the least delightful person on Earth, you would have to give that medal to a person maned Carmelita Spats, and if you didn't give it to her. Carmela Spats was the sort of person who would snatch it from you anyway.
This novel is the fifth book in the author's thirteen book series entitled " A Series of Unfortunate Events."
This episode relates the experiences that the three Baudelaire orphans have at the Prufrock Preparatory School. This boarding school is the next horrible place that Mr. Poe has chosen to leave the orphans. Mr. Poe is the banker entrusted with caring for the orphans and their fortune. It seems that he is more concerned with the fortune than the children.
Of course, any school that Mr. Poe would select would be horrible. Prufrock Prep has boring teachers, awful lessons, a vindictive Vice Principal, and a very suspicious gym teacher.
Fortunately, Prufrock Prep has two good things: the Quagmire Triplets. the Baudelaires and the Quagmires soon become fast friends. Both sets of children have something in common. They both have lost their parents due to a fire. And they both are the heirs to a fortune.
It doesn't take long for Count Olaf, in disguise, to make his appearance. When the Quagmires decide to help the Baudelaires, they place themselves in danger.
This episode gives us (you and I) some tantalizing clues to the larger mystery of the series.
Who is Count Olaf really?
Why is he so interested in the Baudelaire fortune?
The clues hinted at in this novel suggest that there is something interesting and mysterious going on.
Monday, February 20, 2017
The Wide Window by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: Around the fictional Lake Lachrymose.
First sentence: If you didn't know much about the Baudelaire orphans, and you saw them sitting on the suitcases, you might think that they were bound for an exciting adventure.
This book is the third in the author's series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
Mr. Poe is responsible for maintaining the Baudelaire fortune. He is also tasked with finding a suitable guardian for the orphans. So far, in the series, he has not done very well at this.
This time Mr. Poe has selected Aunt Josephine to be the orphans' guardian. She might not be the best choice. She is phobic about almost everything in her environment. But, she is very good at grammar. Both of these facts are important to this story.
The orphans are doomed to have an unhappy visit with Aunt Josephine.
The evil Count Olaf appears. This time in the guise of Captain Sham.
And, the orphans must prove to Mr. Poe that Captain Sham is Count Olaf.
For me, this was an enjoyable yet unhappy episode.
Setting: Around the fictional Lake Lachrymose.
First sentence: If you didn't know much about the Baudelaire orphans, and you saw them sitting on the suitcases, you might think that they were bound for an exciting adventure.
This book is the third in the author's series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
Mr. Poe is responsible for maintaining the Baudelaire fortune. He is also tasked with finding a suitable guardian for the orphans. So far, in the series, he has not done very well at this.
This time Mr. Poe has selected Aunt Josephine to be the orphans' guardian. She might not be the best choice. She is phobic about almost everything in her environment. But, she is very good at grammar. Both of these facts are important to this story.
The orphans are doomed to have an unhappy visit with Aunt Josephine.
The evil Count Olaf appears. This time in the guise of Captain Sham.
And, the orphans must prove to Mr. Poe that Captain Sham is Count Olaf.
For me, this was an enjoyable yet unhappy episode.
Sunday, February 19, 2017
The Reptile Room by Lemony Snicket
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: In and around fantastic city.
First Sentence: The stretch of road that leads out of the city, past Hazy Harbor and into the town of Tedia, is perhaps the most unpleasant in the world.
This book is the second in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
Once again, the Baudelaire orphans must deal with clueless adults, and the evil Count Olaf.
Dr. Montgomery is the herpetologist who studies snakes and lizards in the Reptile Room. He is a great guy and the orphans would love to live with him and his reptiles.
Unfortunately, the Baudelaires are doomed to live an unhappy life. And Dr. Montgomery is also doomed to have an unfortunate life.
When Count Olaf appears as Dr. Montgomery's new assistant Stephano, the orphans must find away to prove Stephano's guilt to Mr. Poe.
A very interesting book. I enjoyed it. Check out the very, very interesting page 154 in chapter 11.
Setting: In and around fantastic city.
First Sentence: The stretch of road that leads out of the city, past Hazy Harbor and into the town of Tedia, is perhaps the most unpleasant in the world.
This book is the second in the author's thirteen novel series entitled "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
Once again, the Baudelaire orphans must deal with clueless adults, and the evil Count Olaf.
Dr. Montgomery is the herpetologist who studies snakes and lizards in the Reptile Room. He is a great guy and the orphans would love to live with him and his reptiles.
Unfortunately, the Baudelaires are doomed to live an unhappy life. And Dr. Montgomery is also doomed to have an unfortunate life.
When Count Olaf appears as Dr. Montgomery's new assistant Stephano, the orphans must find away to prove Stephano's guilt to Mr. Poe.
A very interesting book. I enjoyed it. Check out the very, very interesting page 154 in chapter 11.
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Holes by Louis Sachar
Genre: Children's Literature, Young Adult Literature
Setting: A boys correctional camp near a dry lake bed.
First Sentence: There is no Camp Green Lake
I am a big fan of the movie "Holes" For me it is an example of well written fiction. It's a nice tight story with no loose plot lines.
I decided to read the novel to discover the author's original story. I was surprised to see how close the novel and the film were to each other.
Reading the book was just like seeing the movie again.
There are a few minor differences, but nothing that that distracts from the original plot.
Although the target audience for the novel is children and young adults, I think adults would appreciate reading a good story, well written.
There is a sequel to Holes titled Small Steps.
Setting: A boys correctional camp near a dry lake bed.
First Sentence: There is no Camp Green Lake
I am a big fan of the movie "Holes" For me it is an example of well written fiction. It's a nice tight story with no loose plot lines.
I decided to read the novel to discover the author's original story. I was surprised to see how close the novel and the film were to each other.
Reading the book was just like seeing the movie again.
There are a few minor differences, but nothing that that distracts from the original plot.
Although the target audience for the novel is children and young adults, I think adults would appreciate reading a good story, well written.
There is a sequel to Holes titled Small Steps.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Holes by Louis Sachar
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: Camp Green Lake, a juvenile Detention Facility in Texas.
First Sentence: There is no lake at Camp Green Lake.
When Holes was published it won many awards for excellence in children's literature including the Newbery Award. A motion picture of the same name was made based on this novel.
Stanley Yelnats and his family are cursed. It's all the fault of Stanley's great-great-grandfather. So, when Stanley is at the wrong place at the wrong time, he is arrested and convicted for stealing the shoes of a famous baseball player.
Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake. There is to lake there. And very little green. But there is plenty of dirt.
Each day every camper digs a hole that is five feet wide and five feet deep. the Warden says that digging holes builds character.
Exactly why the boys are digging holes is a mystery that the author slowly reveals to us. The solution includes a dry lake, canned peaches, smelly feet, onions, a kissing bandit, and a love story.
The beauty of this novel is how the author reveals seemingly unrelated details to weave a complex plot. Eventually, each piece of the puzzle fits together. In the end, we have a complete narrative with all of the plot lines resolved, and with no loose ends.
In my opinion, it does no matter weather you read the book first or see the movie first. You will find that there are very few differences between them.
I think that this novel is one of the best I have ever read.
Setting: Camp Green Lake, a juvenile Detention Facility in Texas.
First Sentence: There is no lake at Camp Green Lake.
When Holes was published it won many awards for excellence in children's literature including the Newbery Award. A motion picture of the same name was made based on this novel.
Stanley Yelnats and his family are cursed. It's all the fault of Stanley's great-great-grandfather. So, when Stanley is at the wrong place at the wrong time, he is arrested and convicted for stealing the shoes of a famous baseball player.
Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake. There is to lake there. And very little green. But there is plenty of dirt.
Each day every camper digs a hole that is five feet wide and five feet deep. the Warden says that digging holes builds character.
Exactly why the boys are digging holes is a mystery that the author slowly reveals to us. The solution includes a dry lake, canned peaches, smelly feet, onions, a kissing bandit, and a love story.
The beauty of this novel is how the author reveals seemingly unrelated details to weave a complex plot. Eventually, each piece of the puzzle fits together. In the end, we have a complete narrative with all of the plot lines resolved, and with no loose ends.
In my opinion, it does no matter weather you read the book first or see the movie first. You will find that there are very few differences between them.
I think that this novel is one of the best I have ever read.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Five of my Favorite Children's Novels
I was an elementary school teacher for thirty years. I always made time to read novels to my classes. These are five of the novels that I really enjoyed reading to my students. Of course, adults can read them too!
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
By: Robert C. O'Brian
Mrs. Frisby is a mouse living in Mr. Fitzgibbon's garden. She is a widow with several young children. At the end of Winter, just before the the time for Spring plowing, her frailest child becomes ill and cannot be moved. Mrs. Frisby must find a way to save him from from Mr. Fitzgibbon's plow. Her search leads her to the rats where she learns the secret shared by the rats and her poor dead husband.
Running Out of Time
By: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Jessie and her family live in the small town of Clifton, Indiana in the year 1840. As she has grown up, Jessie has noticed odd things about the town. There are words they are not allowed to use, and places they are not allowed to go. Although there is a doctor in Clifton, people often ask Jessie's mother for medical help. When an epidemic threatens the lives of several young children, Jessie's mother decides to send Jessie for some modern help. That's when she reveals the truth about Clifton.
The Seventh Princess
By: Nick Sullivan
On the bus to school, Jennifer is upset. Her homework is not done. She was supposed to write about her most fantastic dream, and she couldn't think of anything to write about.
Then there is a jolt, and Jennifer is in a horse drawn carriage. The carriage delivers her to a castle where she meets Duke Rinaldo. Soon, Jennifer is adopted by the king as the Princess Miranda.
It is an open secret that Jennifer is not really the Princess Miranda. Then we learn that she is the seventh princess. There is an evil witch who demands the tribute of a princess every year. What has happened to the previous six princesses?
I love this book because it is so well written. The description of the harpy attack is an excellent example of fantastic writing.
A Door in the Wall
By: Marguerite De Angeli
Robin is the son of a knight. He hopes one day to fallow in his father's footsteps. As the story begins, Robin's father is in the North fighting with the king. His mother has left to serve as a lady in waiting for the queen. After his mother leaves, Robin is taken ill and can no longer move his legs. The man who is supposed to take Robin to his father never arrives. Eventually, the entire house staff has either succumbed to the plague, or departed in fear. Robin is left alone.
Kindly Brother Luke takes Robin to the hospice of St. Marks. There Brother Luke takes care of Robin both body and soul. Robin learns to adapt to his disability, and he learns to be a better person.
The Green Book
By: Jill Paton Walsh
Pattie's family is leaving Earth. There is something wrong with the sun. Because they are among the last to leave, their spaceship is not very powerful. So each person is allowed to bring only one personal item. Pattie brings a green book. The others make fun of Pattie when they discover that Pattie's book is just a blank journal.
The novel tells the story of Pattie and her family's trip aboard the ship, and their experiences on their new planet, Shine.
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
By: Robert C. O'Brian
Mrs. Frisby is a mouse living in Mr. Fitzgibbon's garden. She is a widow with several young children. At the end of Winter, just before the the time for Spring plowing, her frailest child becomes ill and cannot be moved. Mrs. Frisby must find a way to save him from from Mr. Fitzgibbon's plow. Her search leads her to the rats where she learns the secret shared by the rats and her poor dead husband.
Running Out of Time
By: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Jessie and her family live in the small town of Clifton, Indiana in the year 1840. As she has grown up, Jessie has noticed odd things about the town. There are words they are not allowed to use, and places they are not allowed to go. Although there is a doctor in Clifton, people often ask Jessie's mother for medical help. When an epidemic threatens the lives of several young children, Jessie's mother decides to send Jessie for some modern help. That's when she reveals the truth about Clifton.
The Seventh Princess
By: Nick Sullivan
On the bus to school, Jennifer is upset. Her homework is not done. She was supposed to write about her most fantastic dream, and she couldn't think of anything to write about.
Then there is a jolt, and Jennifer is in a horse drawn carriage. The carriage delivers her to a castle where she meets Duke Rinaldo. Soon, Jennifer is adopted by the king as the Princess Miranda.
It is an open secret that Jennifer is not really the Princess Miranda. Then we learn that she is the seventh princess. There is an evil witch who demands the tribute of a princess every year. What has happened to the previous six princesses?
I love this book because it is so well written. The description of the harpy attack is an excellent example of fantastic writing.
A Door in the Wall
By: Marguerite De Angeli
Robin is the son of a knight. He hopes one day to fallow in his father's footsteps. As the story begins, Robin's father is in the North fighting with the king. His mother has left to serve as a lady in waiting for the queen. After his mother leaves, Robin is taken ill and can no longer move his legs. The man who is supposed to take Robin to his father never arrives. Eventually, the entire house staff has either succumbed to the plague, or departed in fear. Robin is left alone.
Kindly Brother Luke takes Robin to the hospice of St. Marks. There Brother Luke takes care of Robin both body and soul. Robin learns to adapt to his disability, and he learns to be a better person.
The Green Book
By: Jill Paton Walsh
Pattie's family is leaving Earth. There is something wrong with the sun. Because they are among the last to leave, their spaceship is not very powerful. So each person is allowed to bring only one personal item. Pattie brings a green book. The others make fun of Pattie when they discover that Pattie's book is just a blank journal.
The novel tells the story of Pattie and her family's trip aboard the ship, and their experiences on their new planet, Shine.
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