Stranded, by Matthew P. Mayo, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Author Matthew P. Mayo's Stranded is inspired by the true story of Janette Riker.  Through a series of unfortunate events, fourteen-year-old Janette was left alone at the foot of the Rocky Mountains to brave the harsh conditions of winter in 1849. Written in journal format, this novel is altogether riveting. Harrowing scenes are told so vividly, and with such powerful prose, it's easy for readers to become entirely immersed in Janette's story. The young frontier girl's heart-rending account, as represented by Mayo, is one that will not soon be forgotten.  Equal parts fascinating, inspiring, and endearing, the story of this determined young lady who endured unbearable conditions in the unforgiving wilderness is suitable for readers of all ages who will surely be entranced by this historically accurate work of fiction.

Stranded is recommended for home and school libraries and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval. 


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Kingdoms Fall, by Edward Parr, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

In Edward Parr's Kingdoms Fall, we are reminded that politics is a complex mixture of good and nefarious activities, and that war exists for many unique reasons.  Parr's story begins with the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand and continues through to 1918 with the armistice.   If classroom history could be this good History would be the most popular subject.  Romance, murder, intrigue, fear, and uncertainty are woven into this compelling novel which is a fascinating read for history buffs as well as those who may find the subject of history to be a bit tiresome. 

This novel incorporates the well known Lawrence of Arabia, as well as fictionalized characters such as OO6 of the British Secret Service. Specific battle plans are dissected and revealed so non-historians can grasp the intricacies involved in even the simplest military endeavors. War in all its horror and gore is described in such detail one can nearly smell the cordite and mustard gas. 


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Grog Wars, by Anne Sweazy-Kulju, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

The wild west was wild but offered challenges to those brave enough for the adventure. Burke Kaufman, a young German who has been sent by his father to America to expand the family business, is one such man.  Burke’s father and another man, who has fallen on hard times financially, arrange for their son and daughter to marry.  After crossing the Atlantic by ship, they traverse the Oregon trail and finally reach Portland to open a brewery.  Grog Wars covers the trials and tribulations of this tenacious young man as he endures the rigors of travel in the 1800s, settles in a strange new town, and struggles to make his arranged marriage work.

Author, Anne Sweazy Kulju’s novel, Grog Wars, is a real treat for historical fiction buffs. One minute the author has the reader laughing, the next minute anxious and fearful for the characters, when suddenly a touching event stirs the heart.  Her characters come-to-life with detailed descriptions and genuine personalities. With danger always around the corner and lots of twists and turns, this book is a highly engaging read. We hated to see the story end.  The author has a marvelous handle on subtle humor. Her characters are unique, believable and full of depth. Whimsy abounds within the pages as she introduces historic events and fictionalized accounts in a manner which keeps the interest level high.

Historical fiction buffs are sure to love this book which is highly recommended for a young adult / mature audience.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Alchemy's Daughter, by Mary Osborne, Earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

In a world where too much learning is considered to be a pursuit of vanity, 17 year old Santina possesses an insatiable appetite for knowledge.  Santina is doubtful that her father will approve of a husband for her with whom she could possibly share a common bond.  So when she becomes infatuated with a young scholar who encourages her ambitions to improve her mind, she is hopeful that her father will see him as a suitable match for her.

As Santina searches for direction and meaning in her life, things take an unexpected turn when she develops an unlikely friendship with Trotula, the town's midwife, who many believe to be a witch.

Author Mary Osborne's adept portrayal of a spirited and intelligent young girl growing up in Italy during the middle ages is an alluring tale that provides an intriguing blend of history, romance, and adventure.  Alchemy's Daughter  is a story with timeless appeal which speaks to young readers on many levels pertaining to the choices one must make when embarking upon the threshold of adulthood.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org