Historical Fiction Pick: Fair Weather by Richard Peck

Us City Folk never stop moving, do we?

Case in point, I've got to leave for a dentist appointment in 18 minutes and if I don't get this post up by then -- what with everything else I've got going on today -- it will become a post for tomorrow.

City folk are crazy. Just ask Rosie Beckett, main character of Richard Peck's Fair Weather. This engaging historical fiction novel initially attracted me because of the years that I spent living in Chicago. That city's rich history has always intrigued me -- and this book centers around the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition -- where an entire "white city" was erected for the sake of this fair.

Rosie lives downstate on a farm -- she thinks going into her own small town is an experience! When the family receives train tickets from their Chicago aunt to visit and attend the fair, Rosie and her sister are sure their strict, hardworking mother will never let them go....

Never underestimate the actions of a mother when she wants to separate one of her daughters (Rosie's sister Lottie) from a no-good boyfriend.

The rest of the book is a non-stop adventure as Rosie, Lottie, little brother Buster and their cantankerous Grandad head north to the fair. Peck expertly weaves the history of the Exposition into the story -- where the family ride the frightening (newly invented) Ferris Wheel , attend Buffalo Bill's Wild West show and learn a few surprises about themselves and their Grandfather.

This book is funny and heartfelt and I loved every minute of it -- any girl with a hankering for history will do the same. If your girl is searching for historical fiction as a reading assignment, she'll enjoy this book and learn about an important event in history. The Columbian Exposition introduced new inventions (the hamburger, carbonated beverages), showcased amazing feats of science (widespread use of electric lights) and for the millions who attended, including the wonderful, independent-minded Rosie Beckett - the world was never the same.

Maybe that world is fast paced and crazy -- but as long as we slow down now and again to spend time together and enjoy a good book, like Fair Weather-- that's OK with me.

I'm off to the dentist ... just got this in under the wire! Have a great day!

Young Adult Pick: Follow the Rules of the Road

If you are a young adult (or know one) in search of an author who is consistently producing great books -- you can't go wrong with Joan Bauer. Her skilled writing, entertaining plots, and funny, human characters will pull you in and leave you wanting more.

This inspiring writer (read her story) has eight young adult novels under her belt. I haven't read them all, but one that I adored was Rules of the Road. This book introduces the nearly 6 foot, 16 year old Jenna Boller and follows her on a road trip with her boss, the indomitable Mrs. Gladstone, from Chicago to Dallas.

I think any teenager can relate to Jenna, who feels most comfortable when she's working in her sales job at a shoe store. According to Jenna,

"I succeeded here. I made money here. I didn't feel big, awkward, and lost. I felt successful. I helped people. They looked to me instead of away."

The introduction of Jenna's family members (including her alcoholic father), and her quirky co-workers make this story sing with realism. The humor is perfect, the emotions are true -- the writing flows on the page in a fast-paced rhythm. You'll find yourself routing for Jenna every step of the way.

As a writer, I am a great admirer of Ms. Bauer's skill -- and as a mother of girls I appreciate that her books present teenagers in a positive light. There's a wonderful message in this book of hope in spite of adversity -- and Jenna emerges as a strong, compassionate human being. When considering the kinds of books I want my girls reading when they hit the teenage years, I will absolutely encourage them to read Joan Bauer.

I think you'll love these books -- give them a try -- and let me know what you think when you're done....

Enjoy!