Shakespeare's Scribe by Gary Blackwood

Summary: In plague-ridden 1602 England, a fifteen-year-old orphan boy, who has become an apprentice actor, goes on the road with Shakespeare's troupe, and finds out more about his parents along the way.

Even if you are not a Shakespeare fan you may enjoy this book! I recommend this book to historical fiction fans and theater lovers. At time the book is predictable and other times surprising, but all in all is a terrific read.

Interest level: 4-12
Reading Level: grade 6

Librarianjk recommends The Taming of Lola

The Taming of Lola: A Shrew Story

by Ellen Weiss

Summary: Lola, a shrew, is famous all over West Meadow for her temper tantrums, but when her cousin Lester comes for a visit and gets special treatment just because he demands it, Lola begins to rethink her behavior.

This is a fabulous, detailed picture book loosely base on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Though it is lengthy, it is humorous and it appropriate for discussing misbehaving.

Interest Level: grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 4

Librarianjk recommends Ballet for Martha

Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring

by Jan Greenberg

Summary: Tells the story behind the creation of "Appalachian Spring," describing Aaron Copland's composition, Martha Graham's intense choreography and Isamu Noguchi's set design

I recommend this book to older readers who are dancers or enjoy ballet. It is lengthy about the entire process of the creation of a ballet.

Interest Level: grades 3-6, grades 7-8
Reading Level: grade 5