Book Reviews from Families Online Magazine

In my day job, I am a freelance writer and a book reviewer. I have a monthly column in www.FamiliesOnlineMagazine.com, which is a terrific web site for parents and kids. From time to time, I will share portions of my column with my blogging friends. This month I wrote about books that will appeal to 'tween and teen boys. If you enjoy the reviews, check out the web site.

BOYS READ, TOO!

Some parents find it challenging find books for adolescent boys. Here are some book ideas that will keep your boys reading!

DEAR MR. HENSHAW by Beverly Cleary is written as a series of letters over several years, from young Leigh to Mr. Henshaw, his favorite author. The letters reveal Leigh's struggles and heartaches, from his stolen lunch to the pain of an absent father.

HOLES by Louis Sachar is a perfect blening of mystery, adventure, and fantasy. HOLES is an testiment to the strength of the human spirit. Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake detention center for boys when he is falsely accused of stealing. Being accepted by the other boys is tough going, but the greatest challenge is facing the evil warden.

THE OUTSIDERS by S.E. Hinton is a classic teen novel with lasting appeal. A member of the "greasers," Ponyboy experiences teenaged angst. The significance of the social struggles of teens, and society in general, is revealed when tragedy hits Ponyboy's group.

THE GIVER by Lois Lowry will thrill lovers of science fiction fans, but is compelling enough to engage fantasy skeptics. Jonas, a 12-year-old boy, lives in a "perfect" world, devoid of sickness, sadness, and other undesirable human emotion. Jonas is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, the truth is revealed and Jonas must face the limits of his life and the possibilities beyond his world.

Keep Reading!