The Road to Home by Mary Jane Auch

Since her mother died, thirteen year old Mem has been left to care for her younger brother and baby sister. Their papa has good intentions of taking care of his family, but gets caught up in a new work adventure helping to build a canal. This leaves Mem and the children living alone in a boarding tavern all week long. So Mem decides to take her younger siblings and travel back to Connecticut. The real adventure then begins.

Crazy Lady! by Jane Leslie Conly

Vernon's mother died three years ago. His dad is a hard worker trying to keep the family of five intact. School is not a fun or easy place for Vernon. He and his friends get satisfaction from making fun of the town's "Crazy Lady", Maxine, and her mentally challenged son, Ronald.

The story takes a twist when Maxine connects Vernon with a neighbor who agrees to tutor him. Vernon learns to value people who are different.

This was a Newberry Honor book in 1994. What a great story!

Our House by Pam Conrad

Did you ever wonder who might have lived in your house many, many years ago? This book begins with the settlement of a small town, focusing in on one house, and then introducing the reader to each family who has occupied the house during specific years.

I loved the way Pam Conrad brought the story around full circle.

Theodore Boone kid lawyer by John Grisham

John Grisham is a master storyteller! He knows how to immediately engage his readers.

The main character is 13 year old Theo, who is the kid lawyer referred to in the title. Both of Theo's parents are lawyers, so Theo has grown up immersed in lawyer talk and surroundings. He knows many of the local policemen, judges, and lawyers.

As the story begins, in the small town where Theo lives, there has been a cold blooded murder committed. Theo becomes involved through some of his classmates. One of them was a witness to the crime, but is fearful to come forward with the information.

Theo becomes instrumental in justice being served. This book will keep you reading and wondering how will this story end.

Ivy + Bean Doomed to Dance by Annie Barrows

Meet Ivy and Bean, two friends who are destined for adventure. In this story, Ivy and Bean decide they want to take ballet lessons. Neither of them have a clear idea what is in store for them. Bean's mother agrees to the lessons on several conditions: no quitting, one performance, and no complaining.

It isn't long before Ivy and Bean believe they have made a terrible mistake. Is this what ballet is really all about?

This is a fun filled early chapter book. There are several other Ivy and Bean books from which you can also choose.