What would happen if you could read yourself INTO a book just by reading aloud? It sounds like every passionate reader's fondest dream... but not if you can't find your way back out again! Especially when you can't control which of your listeners actually joins the story, or what part of the story jumps back into your world in return.

Wow. What a simple, elegant concept. This book is beautiful. The language is beautiful, the characters are fascinating, and I was pulled along through every part of the novel. I've read other books by Cornelia Funke, and they are great, but this is by far my favorite. Students love it to, as evidenced by the fact that one of my students insisted this be the "Book of the Week" for this week! 

It breaks my heart to think that there are middle grade students out there who may not have read this book! Yes, it's a movie. But do yourself a huge favor and read the book! 

While you are at it (or once you are a huge fan of Funke's work) visit her website for more about her and the worlds she has created!

This week's Book of the Week is funny, mysterious, and sure to please students with a hankering for English humor. There is even a sequel! (It's on my "to read" list). 

"Wanted Immediately: energetic governess for three lively children."

The adventures of Penelope Lumley, an orphan seeking employment, begin with this simple ad. Penelope is a recent graduate of Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. She's smart, resourceful, and ready for anything. Or so she thinks. 

Penelope follows a strange howling noise to the barn, intent on helping the injured animals she expects to find. Instead, she meets her new young charges, huddled together and yipping at one another. Having been raised in the wild, she needs to teach them all the things they need to know to be "civilized". This includes learning how to put on trousers, not chase squirrels up a tree, read Latin, and dance the schottische. 

Mystery surrounds the children, and her new home, as she tries to uncover their origin. Why did her employer adopt the children, and why did he invite his hunting buddies to a Christmas gala event to meet them? Join Penelope in her adventures!

Literary references and a wry sense of humor made this book an enjoyable read for me and my students. 

Maybe you are like me, and you tend to read in one small "comfort zone".