The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

by Jacqueline Kelly

This Newbery Honor book is a real treasure. Eleven year old Calpurnia Virginia Tate, aka Callie Vee, is the only girl of seven children. Sandwiched among her six brothers, Callie brings readers into her hot, dusty, small town, Texas world of 1899. Her story is fun-filled with hilarious tales of life with her family. But the story is not just about growing up in Texas at the turn of the century, it's about her dreams and how she comes to realize them through the developing relationship with her grand daddy. Calpurnia and her grand daddy share a common passion for science and observing the natural world around them. Will Callie Vee be allowed to pursue her dreams in a time when young women are expected to get married and have a family?

If you are looking for a book that is fun-filled and pleasurable pick this one up. I liken it to The Penderwicks: a summer tale of four sisters, two rabbits and a very, interesting boy by Jeanne Birdsall.

Strong Female Character Anyone???

First Test by Tamora Pierce
Ten-year old Keladry is the the first girl to train for knighthood. In this medieval, magical fantasy, she suffers hard physical training and many prejudiced opinions from those who hope she flunks this first year. Determined to prove herself, Keladry perseveres and even begins to rally some classmates into ousting bullies. This is the first title in the Protector of the Small series and proves itself a worthy read.