The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate [Little Shop of Stories?]

Katherine Applegate is a ridiculously prolific author.

She does not shy away from the dark and the sad. The first part of this book, while mingled with hope and levity, is mostly really sad. It documents various animals living in a mall zoo.

I understand this is based on the real story of a gorilla named Ivan who resided at the Atlanta Zoo.

In short, it tugs at the heartstrings, but is well-written and engaging. This was a book I read to my daughter in the evenings, and she loved it. Even when it was sad.

Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers

Mary Poppins in the book… is kind of a jerk.

It seems the affection of the children is almost entirely based upon the fantastical magic she employs and then completely denies.

Still, very interesting to read when all you know is the movie. I decidedly believe the movie is a great improvement in plot. Plus, music!

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros [Little Shop of Stories, $11.00]

My son’s 8th grade reading list may prove a fruitful ground for good books. This is a riveting short collection of vignettes about the coming of age of a young hispanic girl. File it under less is more, the author manages to pack a lot of meaning in a page and a half. Both whimsical and touching, this book makes for a nice evening’s read.

And now I can talk intelligently with my son about his homework.

Week 34
Book 33
Having squandered by big lead from the beginning of the year, we have now fallen below the 1:1 parity of books:weeks. No more Bleak House sized books for me!