Book Reviews by Kids - December 2003

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey

by Susan Wojciechowski and illustrated by Patrick James Lynch

Jonathan Toomey is not a happy man. In fact, most people call him "Mr. Gloomy". He is the best woodcarver in the valley, but when a widow asks him to carve a nativity set for her, he is reluctant. "Christmas is pish-posh" he says. 

This book is one of my favorite Christmas stories. I really like how it shows how people can change and communicate the real meaning of Christmas. Anyone who hasn't read it yet should read it.

Reviewed by Princess Toenails - age 13

Dealing with Dragons

by Patricia Wrede

Cimorene was just like any other princess. That is except for one thing, she's bored. She's bored of all her lessons of etiquette and other princess things. Her father even stopped her secret fencing and magic lessons. So, she runs away. She decides to go to live with dragons and serve them. This is much more enjoyable for her. Knights come to "rescue" her, but she turns them away. It's very funny in many parts with lots of unexpected twists. Cimorene makes friends with witches, makes enemies of magic-sucking wizards, and many more unreal things.

Reviewed by Dude Man - Age 11

Grace's Letter to Lincoln

by Peter and Connie Roop

Grace writes a letter to Lincoln because she wants him to grow a beard. My favorite part is when Grace's best friend, Jenny, helps a slave named Jefferson to escape from slavery. I also like it when she sees Jenny in a parade and it makes her jealous. It's just funny when I read books with jealous people. Other parts are funny too. And if you like reading about history then you should read this book.

Reviewed by Peach - Age 8

Mouse Makes Words: A Phonics Reader

by Deborah Hembrook and Kathryn Heling and illustrated by Patrick Joseph

The mouse makes words like "hog", "log", "ran", "man", "pin," and "win". Some words rhyme.  I like it when mouse makes "pin win" because it makes me win. I also like "hog" and "log" because the hog goes "oink, oink".

Reviewed by Sports Guy - Age 6