Shelia Turnage, my new favorite author. Why I have not read this book before now, it beats me. I did read through social media about the vocabulary Turnage used in THREE TIMES LUCKY. It was real Southern, and that always attracts my interest. When I read the protagonist name, Bo LoBeau, I knew I was hooked. Turnage creates a community of family life, mystery and fun. Now, on to THE GHOSTS OF TUPELO LANDING with Bo and Dale. Don’t you just love “summer time when the reading is easy?” Quail Ridge Books & Music, near Turnage’s home, keeps signed copies of her books in stock. Check their website for more information!  www.quailridgebooks.com

John Rocco and Jay Primiano’s middle school novel is about friendship,family, and adventure. I believe John was an actual quahogger growing up. A must read for all who enjoy tales about clamming, fishing, friendship, family and competition.

Ryan’s historical fiction tells the story of Otto’s and his magic harmonica and how it’s music weaves into the lives of three different people in three different countries, many years later. And OH, the music…Brahms’ Lullaby, America the Beautiful, Auld Lang Syne, and Some Enchanted Evening. A beautiful diverse book written with compelling language. Have I said enough to hook you?

I just finished reading “HONEY” by Sarah Weeks. It was a delicious story about ten year old Melody, her good friend Nick, and a dog named Mo. Melody was hoping her father would find someone to marry, since her mother died way back when. But when she hears her father calling someone “Honey,” she was thrown for a loop. She had a hunch it might be her least favorite teacher, Mrs. Hogan. Was she ever wrong. A terrific story about family and relationships. Thank you Sarah!

The Great Good Summer is a book you do not want to miss. Liz Garton Scalon has written a truly beautiful book about family and the south of Texas. Her word choice is perfect. I should know because I am a native Mississippian. Click on the title above to read the first page of this wonderful story. I recommend heading down to the nearest book store or library and dive right in. Believe me, you will not be able to put this one down. Thank you Liz!