Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!

Who was: The Puffin Keeper

by Michael Morpurgo

Pub Date 15 Feb 2022

Michael Morpurgo became known to so many through the book and play editions of War Horse. But, Mr. Murpurgo is not a one trick pony. He has written many other books for children, of which this is the latest.

The illustrations and story work so well together here. The tale is simply and beautifully told while the pictures are most gorgeous and engaging.

Early in the book, readers meet Benjamin Postelwhaite, lighthouse keeper of Puffin Island (near the Scilly Isles). One night, his light isn’t enough to help a ship. Benjamin ventures out in his small boat when he sees the situation and saves thirty (!) people, including the story’s narrator, Allen Williams. After the rescue, Benjamin was kind to Allen and gave him one of his artworks. Allen always treasured and kept this painting with him.

Readers learn about where Allen and his mother were going that night and how they subsequently fared. There were clearly challenges for Allen and his mother. Still, he always remembered Benjamin. Will they meet again? Adults and children both will enjoy finding out the answer to this question.

I so highly recommend this chapter book. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for it. All opinions are my own.

PS The author thought about Penguin and Puffin books when writing this story.

Grammar matters: Have You Eaten Grandma?

Or, the Life-Saving Importance of Correct Punctuation, Grammar, and Good English

by Gyles Brandreth

Anyone who finds grammar either tedious or irrelevant needs to take a look at this humorous and helpful book. They will see grammar differently for sure. Also, those who are capable grammarians will enjoy the witty examples that are included here.

A few examples:

On a school computer:

We’re going to learn to cut and paste kids.

Hmm, I think that a comma is needed here.

Another that shows it matters how a sentence is punctuated:

The men, who were handsome, found partners. Compare that to The men who were handsome found partners.

You get the idea.

While there is much wit to be found here, this book also offers serious grammar guidance. Writing correctly matters; here is a chance to learn how to do just that.

This book reminds me of Eats Shoots and Leaves but, even those who have read that, can enjoy this title. I am going to and hope to finally master my bete noir, the comma.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.