★★★ Even among the Amish, other Amish seem odd. Canadian Ira Wagler, is the ninth of eleven Amish children. Amish, for the unfamiliar, are a group of traditionalist Christians who are well-known for their simple, plain living style. Depending on their individual communities - some swear off all technology while others have strict rules for how and when it… Continue reading Growing Up Amish – Ira Wagler

★★★★ Every day, Carlo had to walk up the mountain. He had to take food and drink to his father and the other men who worked there. Carlo lives in a small, rustic town at the base of a mountain. He has a very important job to do but he dreads it every day. His load was heavy and it… Continue reading The Magic Leaf – Mary Feliciani

★★★ ½ Holding the book in both hands, he positioned it high enough to hide most of his face. Salvatore, a fourth grader at Roseto Elementary School, spends much of his time feeling absolutely alone. Oh how he wished he could play! But no one ever asked him. Meanwhile, Carlo, Marco and the rest of the… Continue reading The Invisible Boy – Mary Feliciani

★★★★★ "I mean, I get that the universe whirls in mysterious yada yada, but wouldn't you rather travel the world?" "No, I'd rather stay home and read." Nina Hill's life is perfect as it is, thank you very much. She has an adorable little apartment, a fabulous job at a local bookstore (Knight's), and a grumpy cat (Phil). Nina… Continue reading The Bookish Life of Nina Hill – Abbi Waxman