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Featured books by

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor tells stories, lots of stories. She has more than 120 books to her credit. Some are funny, some quite serious; some are for young readers, others for older readers, while still others are especially for adults. Naylor's work has received numerous awards including a Newbery Medal. Her books are authentic and so continue to resonate with readers of all ages. Meet Phyllis Naylor and a select few of her books.

Emily's Fortune
Emily's Fortune
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

When 8-year old Emily is orphaned she heads west to find her kindly Aunt Hilda. Emily's rip-roaring adventure involves a dastardly uncle, a huge fortune, and a good friend. Each chapter ends with a cliffhanger sure to keep even the most reluctant reader reading!

How I Became a Writer
How I Became a Writer
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader

Anecdotes, examples of her work, and photographs combine to present a sketch of a popular and prolific author and insight into her work. Naylor's memoir — like her writing — uses humor to great effect while presenting a memorable self-portrait.

I Can't Take You Anywhere!
I Can't Take You Anywhere!
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader

Amy Audrey is a clumsy kid; she trips, tumbles, drops things, and more wherever she goes. One day, however, things change and Amy learns that she's not always the klutz! Rhythmic language combines with lighthearted illustrations for a reassuring and funny look at growing up.

King of the Playground
King of the Playground
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader

Sammy, the self-declared King of the Playground, keeps Kevin from playing on the equipment. With advice and support from his father, Kevin learns that words can effectively solve problems — and may even begin a friendship. Subtly told, this is recognizable story presents a way to solve a problem.

Roxie and the Hooligans
Roxie and the Hooligans
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

Roxie must figure out how to deal with Helvitia's Hooligans, the school bullies who are tormenting her. Roxie learns that she is as capable as her explorer uncle as her adventures unfold in this fast-paced tale told with humor and verve.

Shiloh
Shiloh
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Family

Eleven year old Marty must decide whether or not to return an abused beagle to its rightful owner, an unkind man. His dilemma includes hiding the dog, Shiloh, telling his parents the truth, and more in this riveting, award-winning novel which is ideal to read aloud with slightly sophisticated listeners. It was adapted into a live action film in 2000.

Starting With Alice
Starting With Alice
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader

This book is the first of three prequels that takes readers back to Alice's elementary school days. Here, Alice is in a new school where she makes friends (and unfortunately, enemies). Alice ages through the series, and other books depict Alice in middle school and high school, making this series one that girls can grow up with.

The Agony of Alice
The Agony of Alice
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader

Alice was four when her mother died. Though her father and brother do what they can, it's tough being the only girl in the family. But as Alice begins 6th grade, she learns that there's more to a person than just good looks. Readers will appreciate Alice's sturdy but unattractive teacher, Mrs. Plotkins, and grow to respect her as did Alice. Both poignant and funny, this first in the Alice series introduces a girl who grows up literally in each successive installment. As Alice grows, so does the sophistication of the issues with which she deals.

The Grand Escape
The Grand Escape
By: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader

The feline adventures begin when Marco and Polo, always indoor cats, taste freedom (and the Burger King dump). The cat brothers meet others memorable mousers along the way in this first of a series of books about the Cat Pack.

Interested in wonderful interviews with tween and teen authors? Hop on over to our sister site, AdLit.org, and browse the library.

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