When you love an author, such as the middle grade author Kate DiCamillo, you read all there is and then often have no idea where to go after that. For those of you who have no idea who I am talking about, Kate DiCamillo is the author of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, The Tale of Despereaux, and her most recent, The Magician’s Elephant. Well, here are two books that I have read recently that I think would be the perfect diversion until Ms. DiCamillo gives us her next book:
The Song of the Whales by Uri Orlev – On beginning this book, I was a bit off put by the main character, Michael, who doesn’t want to play with kids his own age and often spends his time with adults who live in his building. He has just been told that his family is moving to Israel to be with his father’s father during his last time on earth. Michael is worried to begin with, but once he gets to know his grandfather, he realizes he has found an amazing new friend. Michael’s grandfather has a secret, though, a secret that will bring them even closer together: He can take people into his dreams. Michael and his grandfather begin dreaming together almost every night and though life goes on, the relationship that Michael and his grandfather nurture is the most poignant part of the novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this little novel! grades 3rd-6th.
A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole – This story was adorable. The illustrations were very cute and the 
story had substance as well as history. Celeste is just a little mouse, but she goes on big adventures. She meets Joseph, Mr. Audubon’s helper, who paints the backgrounds for Mr. Audubon’s bird paintings. She escapes from the cat, gets blown away by a storm, goes flying with an osprey, and stands up to Trixie the rat. An endearing story that will be with me for quite some time. Grade: 2nd-5th.
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