Telling stories – Adam Gidwitz

Last week, author Adam Gidwitz visited my school and spent the day doing presentations and hanging out with kids, and it was incredible. I haven’t read everything he’s written, but last year’s The Inquisitor’s Tale was one of my favorite recent reads. It’s a book that is difficult to sort into a definitive genre, but … Continue reading Telling stories – Adam Gidwitz

50 essential 4-letter words

When I run, I think. Last night I was thinking about the turmoil in our world - the terrorist attacks in our country and abroad, the  conflict between our elected representatives and the folks they're supposed to represent, the wave of anger that sometimes feels like it's going to drown our country...it was pretty dark. … Continue reading 50 essential 4-letter words

Ms. Bixby’s Last Day – John David Anderson

Reading is the least expensive vacation I’ve ever had.  Sometimes I go to the future and other times to the past, but the destination isn’t the important part to me usually. It’s just getting away from now.  At a time when I sometimes feel physically assaulted by the daily news, a low budget escape is … Continue reading Ms. Bixby’s Last Day – John David Anderson

Echo – Pam Munoz Ryan

One of the benefits of my job is the opportunity to purchase new materials for students and faculty. Even after nearly two decades, the thrill of unpacking and handling a box of new books remains a highlight of my professional day. A recent shipment included Pam Munoz Ryan’s latest novel, Echo. My first impression was … Continue reading Echo – Pam Munoz Ryan

Bridgeford Hardware

I will always remember the hardware store in my hometown, Greenwood Lake, N.Y. Despite the time of day, it always seemed like dusk inside and I can remember being fascinated by the uncountable bins filled with washers, nails, screws and other unnamed shiny metal things. On the hottest of summer days, the store emanated a … Continue reading Bridgeford Hardware