Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Book Review- The Boy Who Howled

By Timothy Power
Published by Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
Released on October 26th, 2010
Ages 8 & up
Source- Bloomsbury
4 Stars- I Really Liked This Book, Go Pick It Up

As far back as Callum can really remember, he's been living in the Wild as the furless mascot of a wolf pack. But when his pack sends him back to live with his own kind—humans—fitting in is quite a challenge. He doesn't remember English very well, so he accidentally says his name is "Clam." He's spent most of his life eating fresh-killed elk, so dining with vegetarians is tricky. And when he tries to impress the Alpha student in the school cafeteria by stealing food, people seem offended!

A mix of wildness and humor, Timothy Power's inventive writing makes him a debut author to watch. And Callum's quest to find his place in a strange world will have readers rooting for him—when they're not howling with laughter (quoted from Goodreads).

The Boy Who Howled is a fabulous middle grade debut book by Timothy Power. It's one that will encourage younger readers to read, especially boys, as the main character's voice is one boys will easily relate to. Callum has been living with a pack of wolves in the woods for a few years now. When he was younger he ventured off from his family and became lost, only to be taking in by the wolf family. One of the humorous things about the book is Callum's interaction with the wolves and his ability to understand what they're saying.

Callum has grown a lot and to keep the Alpha from killing him, as he seems him as a threat now, Callum is returned to live in the human world. This too turns out to be a humorous adventure for Callum, as he's wild, but trying to be more civilized. Callum is a fabulous character. I couldn't help but laugh out loud at some of his predicaments he finds himself in. Don't worry, this story has a happy ending.

Timothy's writing is enjoyable, as The Boy Who Howled is witty and fun, making it an engaging read for middle grade/tween readers. I highly recommend picking this book up. It's one I'm looking forward to having my son read when he's a little older.

We Have A Winner!


Congratulations to Aimee B, as she's our Bob Books Reading Magic iPhone application winner!! We have already contacted Aimee and sent her, her code.

These applications are brilliant and ones I highly recommend. Be sure to go here http://itunes.apple.com/app/bob-books-1-reading-magic/id403753501?mt=8 to purchase these inexpensive applications or to find out more about them. The wonder thing about them is they work on both the iPhone and iPad.

For more information about Bob Books, visit http://bobbooks.com
For more information about Learning Touch, visit
http://www.learningtouch.com

Thank you to Bob Books for allowing us to host this wonderful giveaway!
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~