February 15th 2010
Who would like this book? If you want to be inspired about how to make a difference in the world, read this book.
Why?I heard Greg Mortenson speak when he visited Eugene in 2009, so I was already familiar with his story and the work of his foundation, the Central Asia Institute. Reading this adaptation (by Sarah Thomsen) made me admire this man and his work even more. Motivated to climb K2 in 1993 to honor the memory of his sister, he did not make it and got lost on his descent. The viilagers of Korphe, Pakistan cared for him for seven weeks, during which time he observed them holding school outside without any supplies. He made a vow to return and build a school. The story of how Mortenson made good on this vow is captivating and highly instructive. This book is an excellent way to learn about the people and the politics of Pakistan. The style is understated, so don’t expect a page-turning thriller. Mortenson’s challenges, dangers, and successes make for good reading, and this book is a guiding light for peace and understanding. The interview at the end of the book with Mortenson’s daughter gives additional insight into the work, especially Pennies for Peace.
The details: 2009, 209 p. Review by Samrarian
October 13th 2009
Review by Chris H.
Who would like this book? People who like adventure and action books and are ages 10 to 100.
Why? This book has lots of short stories and exciting moments. The stories consist of people and their experiences with bears. There are some moments in this book that are pretty gruesome, so some people may not like that aspect of the book. There are also lots of funny stories about encounters with bears. For example there is a story about a bear that went to a church and fell asleep then woke up at the end and walked away. This book was very interesting and one of the best books I have read.
The details: 318 p. 1983 Submitted by Chris H.
May 12th 2009
Review by Moranda
Who would like this book? Anyone who needs some encouragement and advice about bullyin.
Why? Letters written to a girl who had faced a lot of bullying, but are a great help to anyone–you are not alone!!
The details: 195 p. 2008
April 14th 2009
Review by Peter
Who would like this book? Athletes who want to excel.
Why? John Wooden’s teams won 88 straight games and 10 national championships at UCLA, which is still a record. He wrote a book that tells about how to be successful in basketball and in life called Coach Wooden’s Pyramid of Success: Building Blocks for a Better Life. My favorite part of the book is that all the building blocks and the mortar qualities are built on each other and help you grow as a person. Some of the things that Coach Wooden talks about are Poise, Skill, Industriousness, Confidence and Initiative.
Coach Wooden’s book inspired me and can inspire others because it makes difficult ideas very simple to understand and easy to follow. Each of the building blocks and mortar qualities are separate and yet connected and can help you become a better athlete and better person.
The details: 163 p. 2005 Submitted by Peter
March 5th 2009
Review by Jordan
Who would like this book? The people who would like this book are people who have good morals and values.
Why? Because it teaches people good morals and it has good words for people to be like in life. It teaches you things so you can be successful in life.
The details: 168 p. 2005 Review by Jordan
Cal Young Library does not currently have this book.
October 2nd 2008
Who would like this book? This book is for those people interested in archeological mysteries. ( about 200 pages) It is also on the verge of a Biography, but is, still completely interesting.
Why? Digging For The Truth offers great insight on the dangers behind the scenes of the History Channels High scoring series, also called Digging For The Truth. It follows Josh through his life and how he became the host of Digging For The Truth, and what that itself entitles. It is truly a great real life adventure story, that made me dive back into mystery.
The details: 208 p. 2006 Submitted by Chance
August 27th 2008
Who would like this book? Teens (and younger readers) who like otters and want to know about the process of saving them from the tragic effects of an oil spill.
Why? Roland Smith originally published Sea Otter Rescue in 1990, soon after the tragic Exxon Valdez oil spill. The spill was devastating to the wildlife in Prince William Sound, Alaska, and approximately 1,000 otters were lost. More otters would have died if not for the Sea Otter Rescue Center. As part of this effort, Smith offers first-hand experience about otters, the devastating effects of the oil spill on them, and the specific procedures developed to clean them and return them to the wild. Though his prose is sometimes overly simple and targeted toward a younger audience, the subject matter is so fascinating that reading to the end is never in question. Photographs accompany every page of the text, complementing Smith’s descriptions. Seeing the otters covered with oil is sad and disturbing, but following the steps in their cleaning is inspiring. These otter-cleaners were heroes. I hope that they won’t have to be called into service again, but if an otter rescue is ever necessary again, be prepared to want to go help after reading this book. It’s a Battle of the Book 08-09 selection, most likely because Roland Smith is an Oregon author.
The details: 64 p. 1999 (10th anniversary of the oil spill)