Marvelous Middle Grade Monday - Dragonbreath

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday  

Dragonbreath

by Ursula Vernon
 

Goodreads Blurb:

It's not easy for Danny Dragonbreath to be the sole mythical creature in a school for reptiles and amphibians - especially because he can't breathe fire like other dragons (as the school bully loves to remind him). But having a unique family comes in handy sometimes, like when his sea-serpent cousin takes Danny and his best iguana friend on a mindboggling underwater tour, complete with vomiting sea cucumbers and giant squid. It sure beats reading the encyclopedia to research his ocean report . . .

Using a hybrid of comic-book panels and text, Ursula Vernon introduces an irresistible set of characters with a penchant for getting themselves into sticky situations. It's perfect for both the classroom and the Wimpy Kid set.

This adorable series is on the younger side of MG, and is sure to be a hit with kids who love the Big Nate and Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. The stories are a cross between chapters of text and graphic novel illustrations, which my kids LOVE. On a trip to California, three Dragonbreath books made the trip with us, bouncing back and forth between my daughter and son!  I highly recommend these!

Happy Monday!

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday - Monkey Island

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

  Monkey Island

by Paula Fox

Goodreads Blurb:

Eleven-year-old Clay Garrity is on his own. His father lost his job and left the family. Now Clay's mother is gone from their welfare hotel.

Clay is homeless and out on the streets of New York. In the park he meets two homeless men. Buddy and Calvin become Clay's new family during those harsh winter weeks. But the streets are filled with danger and despair.

If Clay leaves the streets he may never find his parents again. But if he stays on the streets he may not survive at all.

I have always loved this story. It's a quick, easy read, but it packs a powerful punch to the heart. My students LOVE it. It's sad, but it says so much about the human spirit and hope and second chances. It also opens our eyes to an issue that is too often overlooked. This is VERY worth the read.

 Happy Monday!