The Chosen by Chaim Potok

I read this for book group and really enjoyed it. (I also enjoyed understanding all of the Hebrew words in it!) The writing is so unadorned and yet enjoyable and there are so many fascinating themes here--can't wait to discuss it. (Note: I read this in junior high and did not remember a word of it. And I think the themes are wasted on a kid. I was thinking of having Simon read it next year when we do modern history, but I won't.)

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

A pre-read for Simon; I think this is the best YA historical fiction I have read. Why? An exciting story, great historical detail (including non-fiction chapter epigraphs), and a compelling exploration of the irony of colonies fighting for freedom when 20% of their population was enslaved. Highly recommended.

Woodrow Wilson : A Biography by John Milton Cooper

This was very dull; I don't think I would have finished it if it weren't a book group book.

How to Be Good by Nick Hornby

Started out really strong and then fell apart.

Parenting the Hurt Child : Helping Adoptive Families Heal and Grow by Gregory C Keck

Meh.

The Periodic Table : Elements with Style! by Adrian Dingle

I read this out loud to the boys; I thought it was middling but they loved it.

Stowaway by Karen Hesse

A preread for Simon. I thought it was excellent. I won't write down discussion questions since the book includes some. Another possible activity: since the book consists of diary entries with longitude and latitude given, it would be fun to plot the journey on a map as you read.

Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgliesh

I read this out loud to the boys. It is a very short, very simple book that would be good for 4-7 year olds.

Summer for the Gods : The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate over Science and Religion by Edward J. Larson

Disappointing.