I first read.....had this book read to me in 5Th grade. I remembered it years later while walking around a Barnes and Noble. I couldn't remember the name at the time and only tracked it down after a co-worker mentioned the story line I related to a Librarian friend. It's a youth reader that's great for a quick trip out of town in the car, a flight across the country or a weekend couch read. Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian is set at the beginning of WWI England. Willie Beech, a young sickly boy unloved by his Bible thumping mother, is evacuated to a small town in the country where he learns to embrace life through his experiences with his new guardian Mr. Tom. It makes me laugh, cry and think, what more could you ask from a book?
I've read The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi at least a dozen times (exaggeration but it really does seem like it). It's set in 1832 where Charlotte, an American heading home to Rhode Island from school in England, is about to take a voyage that will change her life. Unknown to her all the other passengers scheduled to sail with her have been scared away by a crew bent on treachery. During the voyage she's befriended by the ships cook and eventually learns that the captain she adores is not who she thinks he is. Love it so much!!!!!!! It definitely makes my list of great reads.
The Chairs are really what sold me on it. They're darling and really solid.
Of course I have to post pics of Ruth cause I just can't help myself.
