The Frailty of Hope Pre-Order
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The Frailty of Hope is coming July 31st
The sequel to the Force of Magic is now available for pre-order and will be released on July 31st. You can click here to order. The Force of Magic ended with our heroes narrowly escaping the armies of the Dominion and meeting a new ally in their battle. Book Two sees them set out to gather forces and spread the word of the Fringe’s rebellion and strike a blow at the heart of the Guild of the Helm’s power. If you haven’t read the first one, it’s available for only .99 cents on Kindle here. The cover reveal will be coming in the next few weeks, but here is the first draft:
In Defense of Well Written Juvenile Fiction
As a lifelong reader, I’ve read all across the spectrum of fiction. Everything from the classics to modern indie YA fiction. The quality of the written word varies greatly and I often see books recommended that fail to live up to the hype. This seems especially true for YA fiction. Even when I’m careful to read many reviews, I’ve been sucked in to reading a book occasionally that is pure drudgery to make it through.
As a parent who has now raised three kids to adulthood, I’ve also read my fair share of what would normally be called middle-grade fiction. Some of our families favorite books fall in this category and I’ve noticed that even though our kids are now 18-23, they still enjoy a well written book even though it may be written for a younger audience.
In fact, some of the best books I’ve written in recent years are targeted at a younger reader. I was thinking about this the other day and thought it would be appropriate to encourage my newsletter readers to consider reading some of the better written novels in this category.
Our family’s favorite author that fits this description is Gary D. Schmidt. Gary D. Schmidt is an acclaimed American author known for his captivating and emotionally resonant novels. Born on February 9, 1957, Schmidt grew up in Hicksville, New York. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Calvin College and went on to complete a Ph.D. in Medieval Literature from the University of Illinois. Schmidt's writing spans various genres, including children's and young adult fiction. His works often delve into themes of friendship, family, and the human condition, captivating readers of all ages. With numerous awards and accolades to his name, Gary D. Schmidt is a celebrated voice in contemporary literature.
Below you will find a long form review of my personal favorite from his collection, The Wednesday Wars, but others you should read are:
Okay for Now - My son’s favorite
The Labors of Hercules Beal - My wife’s favorite
Other authors I would recommend:
Dave Barry’s (Yes, that one) Peter and the Starcatchers
Andrew Peterson’s The Wingfeather Saga
Christopher Healy’s Kingdom Series - check out the audio version expertly narrated by Perfect Strangers’ Bronson Pinchot
Shannon Hale’s Books of Bayern Series
I recommend all of these books as a way to build a love of reading into the lives of your kids. But I would also suggest you give them a try even if you don’t have any kids or your kids are grown. Why not start out with the book listed below. :)
Book Review: The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt: A Timeless Tale of Friendship, Growth, and Understanding
First published in 2007, this captivating coming-of-age story has touched the hearts of readers worldwide with its blend of humor, warmth, and profound themes. The book offers an extraordinary journey that explores the complexities of adolescence, the power of friendship, and the universal quest for identity and acceptance.
Synopsis: "The Wednesday Wars" is set in 1967 Long Island, New York, against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the social and cultural changes of the era. The story revolves around Holling Hoodhood, a seventh-grader, who finds himself in the most unlikely circumstances. Every Wednesday afternoon, while his classmates attend religious education classes, Holling is left alone with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, the sternest teacher in the school.
Throughout the book, Holling faces a series of challenges, both personal and societal, which force him to confront his fears, navigate friendships, and unravel the complexities of the world around him. With Mrs. Baker's guidance and the help of unexpected allies, Holling embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, as he learns the value of compassion, tolerance, and the true meaning of bravery.
Here are some of the things to look forward to in this book:
Remarkable Character Development: One of the greatest strengths of "The Wednesday Wars" lies in the authentic and compelling characters created by Schmidt. Holling Hoodhood, the protagonist, is a relatable and endearing character whose growth and maturation captivate readers from the very beginning. Schmidt skillfully portrays Holling's journey, showcasing the evolution of his personality and the development of his moral compass, making him a truly memorable and inspirational character.
Multilayered Themes: Schmidt masterfully weaves multiple themes into the narrative, making "The Wednesday Wars" a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read. The novel explores themes of friendship, family, the power of literature, the impact of war, racial and religious prejudice, and the struggle to find one's identity. Each theme is handled with sensitivity, offering readers profound insights into the human condition and encouraging introspection.
Engaging Narrative Style: Schmidt's writing style is engaging, witty, and laced with humor, making "The Wednesday Wars" an enjoyable and accessible read for both young and adult audiences. The author's ability to balance lighthearted moments with poignant reflections creates a harmonious narrative flow that keeps readers engrossed from start to finish. Schmidt's use of vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue further enhances the immersive reading experience.
Historical Context and Social Commentary: Set during a turbulent period in American history, "The Wednesday Wars" skillfully incorporates the political and social climate of the 1960s. By intertwining historical events, such as the Vietnam War and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, Schmidt provides a nuanced commentary on the impact of these events on individuals and communities. This historical context adds depth and relevance to the story, encouraging readers to reflect on the parallels with contemporary society.
Exploration of Friendship and Acceptance: Central to the novel is the exploration of friendship and acceptance. Schmidt sensitively portrays the relationships between Holling and his diverse group of friends, highlighting the power of empathy and understanding in bridging divides. Through these friendships, the novel encourages readers to embrace differences, challenge prejudice, and foster a sense of compassion and inclusivity.
Conclusion: "The Wednesday Wars" by Gary D. Schmidt is a truly remarkable novel that effortlessly blends humor, heart, and profound insights into a coming-of-age story.
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