Spring Break is here!

Hopefully the last of the winter weather will pass us by, and we'll all be able to recharge in some warmth and sunshine, but whether you spend your upcoming week indoors or out, at home or on vacation, you could also spend it with a good book (or two). Reading for fun is...well, fun! Here are some of my favorites, for a variety of reading levels:

Penguin Problems by Jory John


This one makes me...er, my kids...laugh every time! And since this is about a rather disgruntled penguin who is tired of cold and snow - who must be reminded to be thankful in the midst of it - it's a particularly relevant book this week.


Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo


If the phrase "toast with a great deal of butter on it" doesn't mean anything to you, head to your library and check out a Mercy Watson book right now. This clever pig, her collection of neighbors, and the adventures and mishaps that ensue, make for a hilarious story (and series) that you will want to come back to over and over.


The Wild Robot by Peter Brown


This is an engaging story about a shipwrecked robot, and one of my favorite parts of this books is that, with its short chapters and quickly moving storyline, it's appealing even to the most reluctant readers.


Longbow Girl by Linda Davies

I've been raving about this book to teachers and students alike this week! It has time travel, a homeschooled heroine, a setting in Wales, archery, horses...in short, it's unlike most other young adult books you might have read. It's beautifully written, with fast-paced adventure, intriguing mystery, and compelling characters in Merry and her best friend James (whose ambition is to be a professional soccer player). This book isn't just for girls!

The Last Thing I Remember by Andrew Klavan

Sometimes it can be difficult finding books that snag - and keep - the interest of teenage boys (even with recommendations for books like the one above). But Andrew Klavan's Homelanders series does just that. It has well-written mystery and action, without objectionable language or situations, so it's great even for younger teenage guys. The 13 year-old in my own house highly recommends it! (And of course, it's not just for boys!)

So...head to your local library, visit a bookstore, check out Amazon, or do whatever you like to do to get books, and grab some for the break! Whether it's one of the above, or some of your own favorites, fun reading is a great way to rest and relax, while still feeding your brain. What will your family members be reading? Comment below!

*Please remember: The views expressed in the above books, as well as any reviews and commentary, are solely those of the authors and reviewers. Families are strongly encouraged to use their own judgments and guidelines when selecting reading material, as CHESS Christian School will not be held responsible for adhering to each family's particular standards. We will, however, be happy to be held responsible for cultivating a lifelong love of reading and an appreciation for great books!

-Mrs. Meester