Heat by Mike Lupica

"HEAT" is what Michael Arroyo and his brother, Carlos, will be in if anyone finds out they have been living in their Bronx apartment by themselves since their father's death a few months ago. Twelve-year-old Michael, his seventeen-year-old brother, and their father Papi came to America illegally from Cuba. But now being Cuban-American immigrants, the boys must keep the secret of their father's unexpected death or be separated by New York Child Services. Micahel's amazing talent as a litte league pitcher puts them into the spotlight, just before the quaifying game of the Litte League World Series, as questions arise about Michael's legal age. The author, Mike Lupica, does a great job depicting life in the Bronx and the hope and dreams of any young littler leaguer of going to Yankee Stadium and to the Little League World Series. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone interested in sports -- especially baseball.

Genre: Fiction / Realistic Fiction
Interest Level: 6-10th Grade

Paula Miller, Librarian

Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse

I love this book. It is about a young girl growing up on a farm in Oklahoma during the 1930s drought. As a historical fiction book it gives a real life, touching account of what life was like during this devastating time. Hesse uses a prose style of writing, which makes this book a very easy read. Don't pass it by because you think it is too easy. It is a great story.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Interest Level: Grades 6th and up

Paula Miller, Librarian