Bushnell's Submarine: The Best Kept Secret of the American Revolution

What a great way to link 5th grade history to today! The American Revolution is very much a part of the 5th Grade Social Studies curriculum. What a wonderful way to open that subject using this as a class read aloud. The book itself is made to look antique and worn and stained and with the subtitle "the best-kept secret of the American Revolution" it will attract an audience. Famous names of the times are found throughout the book along with drawings, diagrams, maps, documents and portraits. Unfortunately there are no source notes or a bibliography included--but I think it is interesting and brings to life the study of history. While I would have liked to see those notes--I am willing to overlook it if this book will make history come alive for our students.
In addition, there is enough intrigue and suspense to get mystery lovers and boys reading!
Inventors and inventions also tie in to reading centers for the 5th grade.

SLJ gives it a grades 5-9 reading level which is where I feel it belongs. Other reviews put it in the Grades 7-10 range.

M. Bonomo

A Dog for Life

John Hawkins and his older brother Tom come up with a scheme to save their dog, Mouse from being sent to a shelter after Tom was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease. Their mother was afraid that Mouse would bring in germs. However, Tom felt that he couldn’t survive without this special dog who shared the brothers’ gift of communicating with each other by reading each other’s thoughts. That’s how John and Mouse’s adventure begins. In spite of a naively created plan and a few unexpected, strange, and sometimes disturbing challenges, John and Mouse remain determined to reach their destination. Recommend this one to students who request adventure or family stories. Booklist starred review.

Grade 4-8