Day 3: Young Adult Favorites

Emery and I frequent our local library. Puzzles and games are set up for kids her age right next to the young adult books. They are so tempting that I can't help myself. I say it'll be nice to have a list of books ready for Emery when she's old enough but really it's just because I can't resist. Here are some of my favorites from this year:

• Clementine by Sara Pennypacker. (oh my. If you love Junie B. you'll adore Clementine)
• The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall (reminiscent of Little Women. Love these girls & the sequel)
• The Birthday Room by Kevin Henkes (it was a big year for Henkes in our home! look for Olive's Ocean and Words of Stone too!)
• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart (LOVED! and it's a series!!)
• The Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt (excellent book!)
• Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff (also enjoyed her The Thing About Georgie)
• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly (I just liked it)
• Under the Lilacs by Louisa May Alcott (it was also a big year for Alcott around here. Loved her Eight Cousins and it's sequel Rose in Bloom)
• Neil Flambe and the Marco Polo Murders by Kevin Sylvester (fun mystery)
• The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry (i love the use of big, silly words and the power of siblings)
• Masterpiece by Elise Broach (great story of friendship and fun little mystery)
• Cornelia and the Audacious Escapedes of the Somerset Sisters by Lesley M.M. Blume (the title's a bit ridiculous but the story is great fun!)
• The Mysterious Howling by MaryRose Wood (honestly, the jury is still out on this one. I feel it needs another read-through. I want to like it though!)
• Up a Road Slowly by Irene Hunt (simple but great story; it reminded me of an Alcott novel)

I hope you're enjoying these lists as much as I am! haha! If not, don't worry, only 2 more days!