Author: Sarah Voskamp
Publisher: Boutique of Quality Books
Publication Date: 2010
ISBN: 978-0-9828689-7-3
Kudzu Monsters Versus The Creeper HordePublisher: Boutique of Quality Books
Publication Date: 2010
ISBN: 978-0-9828689-8-0
The Adventures of Little Dog KokoAuthor: J.R. Hardin
Publisher: Boutique of Quality Books
Publication Date: 2011
ISBN: 978-1-937084-00-4
I received a nice little package in the mail of books written for older children. The general age group listed range is 9 to 14. The books I received would work well with the 7 to 11 age group I think but the older kids would not be as interested.
As a test I immediately showed them to two 9 years olds. All passed muster, including some tearing up over Koko being abandoned in the park. The boy child is excited over the kudzu monsters and the girl child wants to know if she can now write a book like Sarah. :) They are eager to read them once I've completed the reviews. The boy is not much of a reader so I was pleased to see him latch onto a book quickly.
The first book that I am thrilled to see – one that shows talent at such a young age – is Filly Girls. Written by 10 year old Sarah Voskamp. That’s right – 10. It’s a nice little book about 3 young girls who discover that sometimes what you wish for isn’t the best thing that could happen to you. It has friends and horses and a small life lesson on growing up. Perfect book for your 10 year old girl. The author’s age can also be used as an inspiration to other girls that it’s never too early to start working on a dream.
The second book appeals to boys and girls. It’s a nice creepy (but not TOO creepy) story of a teenage monster (good monster of course!) who must defend his home and family from the spidery creepers that infest the forest every 30 years or so. They fight in and around the kudzu that covers Georgia in an attempt to save their home from being overtaken by the creepers. It appeals to a child’s imagination of being the hero of the house and getting that extra nod of appreciation and a job well done.
The third book also appeals to both sexes, but I think girls would be the main drive here. Little Koko’s owner dies and leaves a sum of money for his care with the nephew, who promptly takes the money and dumps Koko at the park. This is a nicely spoiled and cherished dog who has no idea how to fend for itself in the “wild”. There are chases and injuries and hunger in Koko’s future. There’s also other dogs helping Koko to survive – reminiscent of Lady and the Tramp. A very cute book.
So if you have some kids and/or grandkids that need something to read this summer – give these books a try – I think they’ll be pleased!
