Fearless Female Journalists
by Joy Crysdale

Fearless Female Journalists is a fascinating account of the lives of 10 amazing women who made a great difference in our world through their fearless pursuit of the truth, no matter what the cost.

Whether it be fighting slavery, exposing injustices in foreign countries, or fighting for the equality for women, each of the 10 female journalists depicted in this book have done extraordinary things while facing overwhelming challenges – often risking their own safety in the process. As a whole, the collection tells the history of women and journalism. Individually, each tale portrays significant actions and events that have shaped our lives immeasurably.

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this one, as I sometimes have a hard time getting through non-fiction books, but Fearless Female Journalists is well-written, inspiring and at times, very emotional. Along with the captivating tales of the 10 women featured in the book, Fearless Female Journalists also includes sidebars and excerpts with even more interesting facts on women in journalism.

While this book will appeal to anyone who has an interest in the role women play in the media and our world, I believe Fearless Female Journalists could spark a generation of young women to take an interest in careers in journalism, or at the very least make them aware of the great sacrifices that have been made by women in our pasts which allow us the freedoms we often take for granted today.  I wish I had the opportunity to read this book 15 years ago… maybe I would have taken an interest in journalism myself!

*I received this book for review from the publisher.

The Nordlings (Notherland Trilogy #1)
by Kathleen McDonnell

Summary
Peggy is an ordinary teenager. Dissatisfied with her life and wishing for independence, she sets off to sell her flute at a pawnshop in an attempt to earn some money of her own. Instead events take a different turn and she falls into a fantasy world that she remembers from her childhood fantasies, but never thought was real. Things have changed in The Notherland in her absence, and it’s no longer the happy safe world she had visited as a child. Peggy doesn’t want to be trapped in this strange place, but when she discovers that her childhood friends may be in danger, she sets aside her desires and sets out to save the land she once created.

Review
Perfect for young readers who enjoy engaging fantasy stories, The Norderlings is a well thought out adventure that’s sure to entertain. A wide variety of unique and imaginative characters populate Peggy’s fantasy land, all of which will be relatable to children who like to dream up playmates. The whimsical story is filled with exciting twists and turns, while subtly sharing a few life lessons along the way.

Verdict
The Nordlings is an enjoyable fantasy tale for readers of all ages, but will be especially loved by young readers.

*I received this book for review from the publisher.

Home Free
by Sharon Jennings

In Home Free, Leeanna Mets shares the story of one memorable summer in the 60’s when: she met a kindred spirit, decided to follow her dreams, and her whole world was changed in an instant.

Even though she’s only 11, Lee knows that she wants to be a writer. Unfortunately, her mother thinks good girls should grow up to be nurses or teachers.

As an avid reader whose favourite book is Anne of Green Gables, Lee has developed a romanticized idea of what life would be like as an orphan. But when Cassandra moves in next door, Lee learns that real life isn’t like her books.

Told in Lee’s voice, Home Free focuses on that time when something as simple as putting on a play with your friends could bring you immense joy. But no matter what age you are, when tragedy strikes your world comes crashing down, and yet somehow life must go on.  This sweet story will touch young readers – especially girls who have struggled to fit in. Older readers will be reminded of childhood friends and summers filled with possibilities.

– Home Free is part of the Gusty Girl Series: books featuring smart, brave, funny and inspiring girls, for readers aged 9-12.

*I received this book for review from the publisher.

Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer
by John Grisham

Summary

13-year-old Theodore Boone considers himself an expert on the law. He comes from a family of lawyers, and loves to spend time at the courthouse. Although he’s only in grade 8, Theo knows he wants to be a lawyer (or a judge) when he grows up, and students at his school come to him for advice on their family’s legal troubles on a regular basis. Theo’s almost always able to help, but when one of his classmates reveals important information on the biggest trial the small town of Strattenburg has seen in years, Theo knows he’s in over his head.

Review

While perhaps a bit too young for the adult YA fan, Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer is absolutely perfect for it’s target audience (ages 9-12), and does a marvellous job of explaining the legal and judicial system to kids. By having Theo and his classmates attend a day of the trial as part of their Government class, Grisham is able to use clear examples to demonstrate exactly what happens as a case progresses through court.  The story is well written and manages to present an interesting trial without resorting to the use of violence or objectionable content to add intrigue. Theo is an honest and trustworthy character that readers will find themselves rooting for.  I do wish there had been some closure on the situation with Theo’s friend April, but the ending felt very much like the set-up to a sequel rather than the end of the story, so perhaps that thread of the story will continue as well.

Verdict

Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer is an enjoyable read, reminiscent of the Trixie Belden and Hardy Boys books I loved as a child. Congrats to John Grisham for creating an interesting and educational story with a positive role model for young readers!

Bonus

Check out the amazing Theodoore Boone website!

*This book was provided for review by the publisher.