Full Title:
Identical Strangers: A memoir of twins separated and reunited

Age Group:
Adult

Genre:
Biography, Memoir, Historical, Investigative Journalism, Mental Health, Non-Fiction, Science

Summary:
This book shares the true life story of Elyse and Paula, two twins who don’t know each other exists. Both adopted and in their mid-thirties, the twins know few details about their birth mother and the circumstances surrounding their adoption. Each has settled down into their respective lives.

But one fateful letter will change everything when Elyse learns that she has a sister. From there she meets her identical twin Paula and sets in motion a course of events that will change their lives forever.

My Thoughts:
A thought provoking and well written account of a very unusual and unethical science experiment. Schein and Bernstein are compelling authors who share their feelings without apology. Each of the twins experience the reunion differently and it was interesting to learn their disparate feelings. I especially enjoyed the nature vs. nurture debate, a topic that has always fascinated me. This book will appeal to a broad audience of readers.

Borrow Identical Strangers: A memoir of twins separated and reunited by Elyse Schein and Paula Bernstein from your local Vaughan library today.

Age Group:
3-8 years

Genre:
Non-Fiction, Friendship, Animals, Picture Book

Summary:
A Friend for Einstein shares the adorable story of the world’s smallest stallion and his quest for friendship! Too small to play with the other ponies, Einstein tries befriending a myriad of farm animals. But none are quite right for inquisitive Einstein. That is until he meets Lily, an energetic friend who is sure to keep up with the wiry pony!

My Thoughts:
I could not stop smiling while reading this book! Could Einstein be any cuter?? I want one! He actually reminds me of a stuffed unicorn toy with blue eyes that I got as a child.

The pictures in this non-fiction book are really too charming for words. With full page photo spreads and just the right amount of text, this book is the perfect choice for a read-a-loud.

Experience the cuteness of real life and borrow A Friend for Einstein: the smallest stallion from your local Vaughan Library today!

WAR HORSE

Age Group:
Child

Genre:
Adventure, Animals, Classic, Fiction, Historical, International, War Story

Summary:
Joey is a just a farm horse like any other – until the day he’s sold off to join the cavalry at the oubreak of World War 1. Beloved by his young owner Albert, and now thrust into a ruthless, deadly battlefield, Joey must adapt quickly to his new life. On the way he will make fast friends with horses and men alike. But he will also come to know the cruelty of humankind. Yet Joey is strong and determined. And he’s not about to give up now!

My Thoughts:
I was inspired to read War Horse after seeing previews for the new Spielberg movie of the same name. I am also a fan of books such as Black Beauty and movies like the Black Stallion. War Horse is on par with these classics, delivering a tight plot, charismatic characters, and a kind of magic realism. At the same time, I learned a lot about WWI through subtle but memorable details. As the narrator, Joey the horse maintains a sort of innocence that is certain to charm young readers!

I am looking forward to seeing the movie version too. I hear it is getting good reviews. Has anyone had a chance to see it yet? Check out the preview on YouTube by clicking here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7lf9HgFAwQ.

Borrow War Horse from your local Vaughan Library today! For another heartwarming period piece, try Black Beauty too and the movie!