No More Dead Dogs by Gordon Korman

This is a great, fast read. It is about a boy who will not lie. And when his English teacher asks for an essay on the book they just read, he tells the truth about how much he hates it. Because he refuses to change how he feels about it he gets detention and ends up helping with the play based on the book. It's not only a fun read, but it can lead to an interesting discussion on friends and truth.

Reading Level: grade 3 & up

Ranger's Apprentice by John Flanagan

We have really been enjoying this series lately. The first book starts with several orphans being chosen to train in different areas of the kingdom. It mostly follows Will, who becomes apprentice to the mysterious rangers (obviously). He quickly becomes involved in more than just training though.

One of my favorite things about it is that even though the books are part of a series, each book is able to stand on its own. They are not over-the-top funny, or high-action. Just a really good read. There are good characters and interesting story lines. And they have the perfect length for their reading level. I just really like these books. I heard they might be making a movie out of this, so now is a good time to read it (before the movie ruins it).

Reading Level: Grade 4 & up

Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo

My family has enjoyed reading this series of books. Charlie Bone is a boy who is invited to a special school because of his hidden talent. There he makes friends and enemies and discovers new things about his family.

At first glance these books are a lot like the harry potter series: boy with unruly dark hair finds out he possesses some magic; uses it to fight against evil, etc. But these are much lighter reading; they don't seem to delve into the darker stuff as much. Also the typeset is pretty large and spaced which makes for easier reading as well. They are fun and exciting without too much drama.

Reading Level: grade 4 & up

The Doll People by Ann Martin and Laura Godwin

This is a cute book about a doll, Annabelle, who is from a Victorian Doll House set. She has lived in the same house since she was made 100 years ago and shipped from England to the States. She now belongs to Kate who is the great-granddaughter of the original owner. Annabelle is lonely and wishes for a friend. She also has begun to wonder about what happened to her Auntie Sarah. The adventures begin when Kate's little sister gets her own Funcraft dollhouse for her birthday.

This was a fun, easy read and I love the idea of toys coming to life. Along with adventure, good values are taught. There are a couple of follow-up stories after this first one, including "The Meanest Doll in the World". It probably will appeal more to girls, though my second grade son loved it as well. I think this is a good book for those who like tame adventure type books.

Reading Level: Grade 3 & up

Gender: girls