Interworld: Neil Gaiman & Michael Reaves

Neil Gaiman (Author of Stardust) co-authored this book and this was truly the only real reason that I read it.  However, I'm glad I did.  The authors write of Joey Harker, a young boy who discovers that he can 'walk' from one alternate reality to another.  He discovers that there are many versions of himself from these parrallel realities and that they are fighting to keep the balance between the magic worlds and the technological worlds.  There are those who wish to conquer the alternate worlds and subject them to their magical rule, while others are trying to conquer them in the name of technology.  The 'alterverse' is most benefitted when the two are balanced, thus Joey joins the alternate versions of himself in the battle to maintain this balance.  My only complaint is that the book leaves the reader hanging with no promise of a sequel.  Otherwise, it was a fun read.  My wife says that I'm too easy to please; she's probably right. I like most books that I read as long as they aren't offensive. Interworld is a book that is good for all ages. It can be fun and appealing in different ways to each age group.

Would I Read It Again?: Only if they write a sequel.

Grade: B+
Content: Scary Sequences (For Younger Readers)
Jeff's Recommended Age: 10+
Sequels:
     None Yet

Call It Courage: Armstrong Sperry

This book is one of my childhood favorites.  It is a Newberry Medal Award winner and a fantastic book for younger children.  It shares the experiences of the island boy Mafatu.  He is the only boy on the island that is afraid of the sea.  His mother having drowned, Mafatu fears the sea and is relegated to the same tasks as the women of the island, mending fishing nets and such.  This shames his father who also happens to be the leader of his people.  Mafatu is ashamed and decides to prove his worth and conquer his fear.  He leaves the island in a canoe accompanied by his dog, Uri, and another friend Kivi, an albatross.  Mafatu learns and grows quickly as he battles hunger, thirst, sharks, octopi, and cannibals.  A classic story of adventure and survival, Call It Courage will leave the reader very satisfied.

Would I Read It Again?: Yes

Grade: A
Content: Scary Sequences (For Younger Readers)
Jeff's Recommended Age: 9+
Sequels:
     None