Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Loreen's parting thoughts about Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Spoiler alert:  If you haven't already finished the last of the Harry Potter books, this next post has some plot elements you might not want to know about yet.

Excellent, satisfying finish to this wonderful series! Just one small critique: I wish so many of the “loose ends” had not been tied up in the long conversation between Dumbledore and Harry in the Hallows. I think it would have been a better book (though much longer!) if Rowling had not depended on this literary technique so much.  However, I loved Dumbledore’s reply to Harry’s question on whether their meeting was real or just happening in his mind. “Of course this is happening in your mind, Harry. But why would you think that means it isn’t real?” Also the epilogue was on the trite side (maybe written with a future movie in mind?)

Review posted by Loreen S., Library Assistant

A Small White Scar by K.A. Nuzum

Enough, already!  Sure, you love your family, but sometimes you have to get away!  Did you ever feel like that?  Well, that's how it is with Will in A Small White Scar by K. A. Nuzum.  Will has always looked after his twin brother, Denny, who has Down syndrome.  But now that they are fifteen, Will has his sights set on something for himself for a change.  He wants to join the rodeo circuit and prove he is a real cowboy, a grown man, and more than just a nursemaid.  When Denny decides to follow Will on his journey through the Colorado wilderness, however, their very survival depends upon the choices that Will must make for both of them.
Review posted my Mary Ann S., Assistant Head of Youth Services

Babymouse: Rock Star by Jennifer Holm

Jennifer Holm's irrepressible cartoon mouse is back in Babymouse: Rock Star, and this time Babymouse wants to be, you guessed it, a rock star.  If not a big rock star, then maybe a flutist.  Nothing can hold her back (except possibly her lack of musical talent).  Will she be able to learn the notes in time to become the star of the concert?  Babymouse is fun, smart, and a great friend.  This is my first Babymouse book, but I am now a huge fan.  This graphic novel is a great stepping stone for readers who are ready to graduate from the Olivia books (by Ian Falconer) to chapter books.  Hope you have as much fun hanging out with Babymouse as I did!

Review submitted by Mary S., Head of Youth Services

Wings by William Loizeaux

Wings by William Loizeaux takes place back in the 1960's, probably when your parents were kids. Nick is a fatherless 10-year-old who happens upon an abandoned baby mockingbird in the middle of the road.  Although it is very tiny and weak, Nick is determined to save it. He and his best friend care for this little bird they name Marcy. As it grows up, Nick also matures as he faces some hard decisions about family and friends. The true test of friendship between Nick and his bird happens when Nick goes on vacation and must decide what to do with Marcy.

Book reviewed by Barb M., Youth Programming Assistant