Katie's Book Basket - Prairie Evers

This is my book basket. It sits in the corner of my entryway, corralling my borrowed library books. Even though my books are always returned late (because, really, who can read 20+ books in 2 weeks?) at least the book basket helps me keep track of all the books instead of paying for lost books (because, really, who can keep track of 20+ borrowed books without a dedicated basket for them?). 

I know, stop checking out so many books at once. But, when I walk into the library and see all those glorious books, something comes over me. Anyway, that's for a different day. 

Here's the point. In my book basket is currently a gem of a book. A middle grade novel that I wish I wrote.

Prairie Evers by Ellen Airgood

 I love, love, love this novel. I picked it up and didn't put it down until I was done (so much for dinner that night). And then I felt sad because I read it so fast and it was all over way too quickly. It's one of those books. 

Prairie Evers, the main character, she's a girl with spunk, optimism, and drive. She's the kind of girl you wanted to have as a best friend growing up. Her witty narrative throughout the novel makes each scene come to life and feel so real. I loved the relationship that the author created between Prairie and Ivy, but especially between Prairie and her grammy. Oh, this novel is a dream, and if you've got room in your book basket (or on your bookshelf, or on your nightstand, or wherever) I strongly recommend picking up a copy of Prairie Evers. 

Now, if you know me pretty well and you're looking at the three hens on the front cover of Prairie Evers and thinking, "That's why she loves this book," well, yes, it helps, but it is not the only reason I love this book. It is a well-written delight of a novel, that's why I love this book. 

And if you don't know me that well and you aren't sure why I would be super-excited to see three hens on the front cover of a middle grade novel, you should visit my other blog at http://www.fowlinaround.blogspot.com.

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie M.

Welcome, 2013!

Well, writing friends, we've made it through another year. And as the title of this post suggests, 2013 is a welcome sight, particularly after trudging through the year-end sludge and yuckiness of 2012.

I don't write about 'controversial' topics here. Not because I don't have an opinion (just ask any of my family members, they'll tell you quite the contrary) but because I assume you aren't stopping by to read about my gripes and dislikes. However, I'm going to write about something controversial now as it ties in with my wish for the new year.

The culture and direction our country is headed in scares me more than ever. It worries me for my daughter and generations beyond hers.

The horrendous violence, the unspeakable crimes, and the senseless acts that take precious lives, young and old.

The portrayal of sex in the media. The inability to watch a family-friendly television show in the evening because of the inexcusable t.v. commercials that aren't explainable to an 8 year old.

The mentality of deception and lies as a way to succeed. Look at the recent game show, Take It All. The premise - tell the best lie at the end of the show to get all the money. Greed. Power. Yuck.

I'm not sure when, as a society, this all became 'okay', but what I know is this; it's not okay with me or my family. Here's hoping that 2013 brings with it some decency, common sense, values, morals, compassion and love for each other.

Thanks for stopping by,
Katie M.