Richard Peck continues to write books. That is not a surprise at all. What is surprising is that he continues to try his hand at different kinds of stories. I first met Peck when reading his YA books: ARE YOU IN THE HOUSE ALONE?, FATHER FIGURE, DON'T LOOK AND IT WON'T HURT for which YALSA presented him with the Margaret Edwards Award. Then, Richard wrote poetry and edited collections; he penned short stories such as "Shotgun Cheatham's Last Night Above Ground" and "Priscilla and the Wimps." He wrote historical fiction and won a Newbery and a Newbery Honor Medal. Last year he ventured back to the paranormal (he had done it before with Blossom Culp) in THREE QUARTERS DEAD. And now we come to SECRETS AT SEA. The amazing Richard Peck has penned an animal tale that is a combinations British drawing room tale, comedy of manners, and romance with MICE. Yes, mice. The words that come to mind immediately are enchanting, spell binding, funny, cunning, droll, and engaging. The satire works wonderfully in the skilled hands of Peck. While the story is a terrific selection for reading aloud to a younger audience, there are plenty of barbs here to keep the adult reader not only entertained but enthralled. The illustrations are absolutely the icing on the cupcake (ask Helena about icing on the cupcake while you are at it. Bravo for SECRETS AT SEA! <550>
I have not read anything by Richard peck that I can recall, but did watch the video clip on his interview about the book Secrets at Sea,and am looking forward to reading it. I enjoy when an artist of any kind creates something for younger audiences, but is able to interject material to keep the adults engaged as well.
ReplyDeleteAt TLA, I had the chance to see Richard Peck and I purchased his book,Here Lies the Librarian. The book is still in my "to read" pile, but I will get to it! :)
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read this. I love all of his books that I have read, and I look forward to seeing him at the Jan Paris Bok Festival next year!
ReplyDeleteI've never read books by Richard Peck, but love the cover on this one. Seems like I will give these books a try very soon!
ReplyDeleteRichard Peck is such a great author and kids love him. I can always find a book for a reluctant reader in Richard Peck's arsenal and this one looks fantastic. My first thought when I saw the cover art was of An American Tail. My reading list just keeps getting longer and longer!
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading this it reminded me of Ralph S. Mouse by Beverly Cleary. I totally loved that series. I can't wait to read it.
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds good to not only read to children but to read yourself. I feel like it will have all the elements of a good book. I have read Richard Peck before and have enjoyed his work.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read any books by Richard Peck but this book looks so inviting and the illustrations are fantastic. I'm not to fond of mice, but I sure do like to read stories about them.
ReplyDeleteMice and romance...what a great combination. My class will enjoy this Richard Peck novel.
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