JGMS SUMMER READING

 ANYTHING BUT TYPICAL by Nora Raleigh Baskin
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Jason Blacke is anything but typical.  He is an autistic 12 year old who is special.  He has difficulties in school but loves writing.  He post his stories to a website and becomes intriqued with Rebecca, known as Phoenix Bird.  When he has the opportunity to meet her at a Storyboard Convention, what will she do when she discovers who is really is?

Al Capone does my Shirts By Gennifer Choldenko

A 12 year old boy Moose moves with his family to Alcatraz Island (yes, the prison!) because his father took a new electrician's job there. The dad will earn enough money working at the prison to hopefully send Moose's sister to a special school...his sister is "different"...that's what they called her in the 1930's, when this book takes place. Now, her symptoms are known as autism. Follow Moose through his own journey as he wrestles with this difficult new environment, typical middle school friend issues, his mother's denial, and his sister's behavior. You will be surprised at Moose's determination and creative solution! I think boys age 9-12 would enjoy this book. RATING: ***** LLL