Monday, November 2, 2015

Bibliophile's Corner

Crenshaw
by Katherine Applegate

Flap Copy Description:
In her first novel since winning the Newbery Medal, Katherine Applegate delivers an unforgettable and magical story about family, friendship, and resilience.

Jackson and his family have fallen on hard times. There's no more money for rent. And not much for food, either. His parents, his little sister, and their dog may have to live in their minivan. Again.

Crenshaw is a cat. He's large, he's outspoken, and he's imaginary. He has come back into Jackson's life to help him. But is an imaginary friend enough to save this family from losing everything?

Beloved author Katherine Applegate proves in unexpected ways that friends matter, whether real or imaginary.


My Thoughts:
The recently released middle grade novel by Katherine Applegate - Crenshaw - took me completely by surprise! While the book does include an anthropomorphic cat - as well as magical elements - it is a dramatic and poignant story that is sure to inspire a variety of readers. This entertaining and heartwarming tale will remind you not only of the importance of being resilient, but of being grateful. Ms. Applegate shines a light on the very real problem of hunger in our society - in fact, her new novel has spawned the Crenshaw Food Drive. I highly recommend Crenshaw to readers from the ages of eight to twelve!

Click here to learn more about the author, Katherine Applegate.