The setting for A Long Walk to Water is Sudan, an African country experiencing civil war, and there are two stories told.  One story is set in 1985 and the other in 2008.  We see how extremely difficult life is in this African desert nation, where the struggle for survival literally takes all the time and energy of our young characters Salva and Nya.  Imagine walking for hours each day to fetch water for your household.  Imagine fleeing violence and walking with a group of near-strangers for days without food.  There is no time for school for either of these children, no time for playing, very little food or water, and no comfortable bed at night.  Based on a true story, this novel shares how hope and hard work can bring about positive change for the future.

Check out this great video about our summer reading club!

(VPPL Summer Reading Club by mpolanek)

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

Considered by many to be mentally retarded, a brilliant, impatient fifth-grader with cerebral palsy discovers a technological device that will allow her to speak for the first time.

The winner of the 2013 Monarch Book Award has been announced. It is:

Pete The Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes written by Eric Litwin and illustrated by James Dean.

The Monarch Award is given annually to an author and/or illustrator of a book voted as their favorite by participating K-3 children in Illinois. It is one of four Children’s Choice awards coordinated each year by ISLMA, the Illinois School Library Media Association.

Smile by Raina Telgemeier

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