Newbery winner, a good read

I'd like to continue with the new book thread from a few days ago. Here's another one I've just finished and really liked!

The Higher Power of Lucky, by Susan Patron and illustrated by Matt Phelan, is 2007's Newbery Medal winner. In this book Lucky Trimble, a young girl growing up in the California desert, searches for a higher power that will bring stability to her life after her mother dies. She plans for the day when her guardian, a French woman who loves parsley, will abandon her by preparing to run away. With a detailed and interesting cast of characters, Lucky's growth, humor and an unique setting, this book is definitely a winner. I would recommend this book to upper elementary students, or those in middle school. (Parents should be aware that there is a minimal amount of language in this book that not everyone will like, but that it's useful in context.)

Oh, and one of the characters in the book loves Are You My Mother? , by PD Eastman, a great read for younger students. It is a classic book that is both funny and cute. It is perfect for lower elementary students.