Tag Archives: coming of age

The Evolution of Calpurna Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

Posted on June 1, 2011 by talkingwords

This is an upper middle grade novel that transports the reader to 1899 Texas where our eleven-year-old narrator “Callie Vee” experiences life as the lone daughter among six brothers on a cotton farm with fields of pecan trees. The book … Continue reading →

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Jellicoe Road: an Australian journey

Posted on April 12, 2011 by talkingwords

I had to check out On the Jellicoe Road by Malina Marchetta because of the rave reviews I was catching on the internet. It also didn’t hurt that it won the most prestigious award for young adult literature – the Michael … Continue reading →

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Pink ponies, Life-sized Ken dolls, and other birthday disasters

Posted on March 23, 2011 by talkingwords

You Wish is a delightful book by a totally awesome author. Mandy Hubbard, writer of Prada and Prejudice, also is a literary agent. Her blog is a uniquely wise and insightful resource for writers that offers excellent advice and encouragement. … Continue reading →

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Before I Fall

Posted on August 16, 2010 by talkingwords

I decided to read Before I Fall, by Lauren Oliver, because it seemed to be getting some buzz. It’s a first novel and it’s obvious that this is an author to watch. I found her writing consistently sharp and witty … Continue reading →

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A road trip, a missing person, and the FBI

Posted on June 18, 2010 by talkingwords

Two seventeen year olds, a cross country bicycling trip, and a missing person. These elements form part of a premise that promises a fascinating journey for the reader.  Shift by Jennifer Bradbury is a suspense-filled novel that reads at a … Continue reading →

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