And Lastly . . .

So, yes, I read a lot. A LOT, a lot. Determined to end 2014 on a good literary note (and to make my 100-books-per-year goal), I've been bringing library books home by the dozen. Happily, Once Upon an Alphabet by Oliver Jeffers was among the most recent stack. I've blogged before about my admiration and adoration for Oliver Jeffers; the ability to write and illustrate is rare, and he does it exceptionally well. This new book is an ABC book of sorts, with a short story for each letter--some that connect, and some that stand alone. While most ABC books are for the littles, these stories are more of the dark, dry, sarcastic humor-vignettes that older kids (and adults) will find quirky and entertaining. Think Shel Silverstein (but less rhyme) and Edward Gorey (with less gore and more cute).

I'm also immersed in Kathryn Lasky's Ashes (for teens). I'm fascinated by this book for a few reasons. There are many stories about WWII, the atrocities of the Holocaust, and most of us could give a fairly educated account of this time. However, Ashes takes place in 1932--and shows us Berlin just beginning to descend into turmoil--a time period that has been neglected in teen literature. Lasky does an excellent job of combining events and historical figures with Gabriella's story, and really puts the reader into this chaotic and increasingly-frightening world. I love a book that leaves me feeling both entertained and better-informed; this is one I won't forget.

I hope your 2014 was a literary success--and may your 2015 begin brilliantly.