Summer Reading

Many folks think librarians (and teachers) have the summer off. When school ends in mid-June, we are free from all duties and do nothing but fun things until the end of August. Not so for me. I read every day, usually multiple books each day. Sure, people tell me, but you love to read. I certainly do, but I also know I need to read so that there are many new titles to share with teachers and kids in the fall. Truly, it is one of the best things about my career choice. I am lucky I love my work and love doing it on summer days.

I began reading Barbara Else's new book The Traveling Restaurant the other morning, and I wished so much I had no other activities on my schedule for the rest of the morning. Immediately immersed in the City of Spires and the oddities of the Provisional Monarch appropriately called Lady Gall, I sensed something was amiss in the kingdom and knew the feisty Jasper Ludlow was going to play a role in setting things right. Though he is certain he is twelve years old, his parents deny that to Lady Gall. They do not answer his questions directly. The entire kingdom avoids saying the m-word (I'll leave that one for you to read). When Uncle Trump appears at the family's door, certain events come to light, forcing the family to flee and setting in motion a series of events that will put the rightful ruler on the throne.

I love this book! I especially love the idea of a traveling restaurant (though I cannot imagine hauling all the necessary ingredients aboard and the frustration of forgetting one item). The description of that unique eatery and the two who sail her make me wish it sailed around the nearest lake.