Avi
Reading Rockets recommends the following books by Avi.
"Who Was That Masked Man, Anyway?"
Frankie lives in Brooklyn, New York, during World War II. He has an active imagination that is enhanced by popular radio shows: The Green Hornet, The Lone Ranger, and others. The story, setting, and characters unfold through the dialogue of the characters and the radio shows to which they listen.
Blue Heron
While visiting her father and stepmother in a lakeside cabin, Maggie notices a beautiful blue heron in the sky. Seeing this bird each morning helps Maggie through the tough visit, and she summons the strength to help the heron when it seems to be in danger.
Crispin: The Cross of Lead
In this Newbery Medal-winning novel, Crispin is falsely accused of murder and must flee his medieval town to save his life. But, just as he's leaving, he learns from the village priest that his parents' origins – and fates – might be more mysterious than he ever imagined…
Never Mind!: A Twin Novel
Twelve-year-old twins, Edward and Meg, have little in common beyond their birthday – that is, until they attend separate schools. Told by the distinctly different voices of Edward (Avi) and Meg (Rachael Vail), this tale of sibling life is sure to make readers laugh out loud.
Nothing But The Truth: A Documentary Novel
Phillip Malloy likes to hum as the national anthem is played over the school's intercom system each morning, despite his teacher's pleas to stop. Through a series of journal entries, notes, and memos, Avi documents Phillip's rise to fame, and the consequences he endures along the way.
Perloo the Bold
Perloo is a peaceful scholar who has been chosen to succeed Jolaine as leader of the furry underground people called the Montmers. He finds himself in danger, though, when Jolaine dies and her evil son seizes control of the burrow.
Poppy
A small mouse named Poppy overcomes a stronger adversary – an owl named Ocax – through determination and inner strength in this first installment of the popular Tales from Dimwood Forest series.
S.O.R. Losers
The motto of South Orange River (S.O.R.) Middle School's sports program is "everybody plays, everybody wins." But all that changes when a group of eleven unenthusiastic seventh graders are forced to form a soccer team. Learn the secret of the S.O.R. Losers' success in this original sports story.
The End of the Beginning: Being the Adventures of a Small Snail (And An Even Smaller Ant)
Avon the snail's voracious reading convinces him that having an adventure is the key to a happy life. So, he sets out on a journey with his new friend, Edward the ant. In a series of very short chapters, the two travel – at a snail's pace – the length of a branch, meeting assorted characters along the way.
The Good Dog
McKinley is a dog who takes his responsibilities seriously. Not only does the malamute take special care of his human pup, Jack, he also helps save a greyhound from an abusive master in this action-packed novel for younger readers.
The Secret School
More than anything, 14-year-old Ida Bidson wants to become a teacher. But her dream falters when the one-room school in her remote Colorado town shuts down. Her only hope is to keep the school open without anyone finding out. Yet even a secret school needs a teacher. Is Ida ready to take charge?
The Traitors' Gate
When his father is suspected of espionage, John Huffam tries to support his family any way he can. 14-year-old John leaves school to earn money, and tries to find time to unravel the mystery surrounding his father.
The True Adventures of Charlotte Doyle
Not every thirteen-year-old girl is accused of murder, brought to trial, and found guilty. But Charlotte was just such a girl, and her story is worth relating even if it did happen years ago.
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
Told in the form of a recollection, these "confessions" cover 13-year-old Charlotte's eventful 1832 transatlantic crossing. She begins her trip as a prim schoolgirl returning from England to her home and family in America, but by the end she is in command of the Seahawk.
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