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Books for Children
Books for Educators
The Reviews:
Serving Boys Through Readers Advisory
Sullivan's book focuses on an important and sometimes overlooked area of youth readers'-advisory
services, and his knowledge of boy readers comes through clearly in all sections of the book. This
short but information-packed guide includes chapters on why boys are different, a definition of boys'
lit, the readers'-advisory interview with boys, special circumstances, booktalking for boys of all ages,
and indirect readers' advisory. Each of these chapters contains unique materials targeted to male
readers, and the information will be useful to all youth- and teen-services librarians. The second half
of the book is devoted to fully annotated book lists in a variety of fiction and nonfiction subject areas,
with each chapter further subdivided into elementary-school, middle-school, and high-school readers.
Essential reading for all librarians interested in providing readers'-advisory services.
- Jessica Moyer, Booklist
If you think you didn't need advice on how to do a readers' advisory interview for a boy, think again.
Sullivan challenges us to throw out our preconceived notions about how to conduct such an interview.
Methods of performing indirect readers' advisory with parents and teachers are included. The
excellent booktalks for elementary, middle school, and high school boys alone make this a
worthwhile purchase. The author also includes titles to suggest in place of a book a boy did not like or
would not read, and a list that will be helpful for those caught in a rut.
- Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY, School Library Journal
In the latest book on a persistent challenge, Michael Sullivan offers readers’ advisory as a strategy to
bring boys to the library and get them to read. Serving Boys Through Readers’ Advisory explains
“boys’ lit” and outlines how to use readers’ advisory effectively. Librarians will appreciate the many
boy-friendly booktalks and book lists.
- Mary Ellen Quinn, American Libraries, April 19, 2010
Connecting Boys With Books 2: Closing the Reading Gap
I recommend Connecting Boys with Books 2 for any librarian or school teacher interested in the topic
of literacy for boys and who hopes to increase their knowledge of current research. This book
contains many practical ideas that could be applied on a personal level for parents who are
concerned with their boys reading levels, and equally the methods could be integrated into the library
or educational environment.
- Kay Neville, Collection Building, 2010.
... insightful and thought-provoking book. A must-read for librarians, teachers, parents, and anyone
working with educating young boys.
- Booklist, May 15, 2009
Sullivan makes a clear case for his belief that what boys like to read and what we think of as "good
literature" are not the same thing. His premise is that if we are to close the reading gap between boys
and girls, the female-dominated professions of teaching and librarianship need to embrace boy's
literature, boy-friendly formats, and programming. This second volume builds upon the work Sullivan
has done since the first volume was published in 2003. He states that while a lot has changed in five
years—"people are not only willing to talk about boys and reading, they are eager to do so"—
ultimately all this recognition must translate into action. He describes a successful "Literary Lunch"
program he implemented. Other programs are included, along with ideas on how to expose boys to
story, promote reading to them, and create a culture of literacy in order for them to succeed. The
author gives a clear definition throughout the book of the differences between boys and girls and how
to apply this knowledge to closing the reading gap. A must-read for all librarians and media
specialists.
—Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY. School Library Journal, June 1, 2009
Sullivan has many good suggestions for promoting reading to boys. His ideas for boy-friendly book
groups and how to operate them make a lot of sense... The author's suggestions for books boys will
like are spot-on... I strongly recommend this title. Sullivan has an easy style, and his many sharp
anecdotes point up the various arguments he presents.
- John MacRitchie, The Australian Library Journal, November 2009
Whether one agrees or disagrees with Michael Sullivan’s theories, he provides an alternate
perspective to viewing male behavior, male development and learning. He suggests new ideas for
programs and approaches that create more inclusive spaces for males in schools and libraries.
- Sheila Kirven, Education Libraries, Winter 2009
The Sapphire Knight
The Sapphire Knight: The Bard Series is a 123-page fantasy novel written especially for young men - a
book meant to kindle the joy of reading in boys. A rousing saga of good versus evil, quests, magic,
fierce battles and a mysterious beautiful girl, The Sapphire Knight is an adventure sure to excite and
enthrall to the very last page. Highly recommended, especially for public library children's
collections.
- Children's Bookwatch, February 2009
The story starts off with a young man traveling through the night, who stumbles upon an old man
huddled by a campfire. The older man offers to tell a story and share the campfire in exchange for
food. Grudgingly, the traveler gives up an egg and a chunk of bread to hear the incredible tale that is
THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT.
I enjoyed THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT. While we never learn too much about the knight himself, the reader
follows along on the journey to save the music that’s being stolen from the knight’s hold. Along the
way, he comes to realize that its not only there that the music’s been stolen away from, its being
zapped from everywhere and its up to him to set it free. Mr. Sullivan creates an interesting and vivid
world to set the story. From the Lady in White to the supposedly evil Queen of May, the characters are
intriguing, especially the Lady in White’s castle and her defense systems. I especially liked the part
where the knight first meets the Queen of May.
I was glad to see that this is the first book in a series. Hopefully we’ll learn more about the mysterious
knight in future books. An enjoyable historical, THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT will appeal to readers who
enjoy a hint of sorcery and magic mixed with heroic knights.
- Enchanting Reviews, February, 2009
Escapade Johnson and The Witches of Belknap County
I bought this book for my seven-year-old who is just beginning to actually like reading. I thought this
looked like a lot of fun for him and ended up reading it myself - just to be sure. Of course, I can't resist
reading books on witches! I really enjoyed the book, thought it did a good job teaching kids about not
jumping to the wrong conclusions or to quick judgments, but in a fun way, not a lecturing way. I plan to
buy the other books in the series.
- Kay Ellis on Amazon.com, May 17, 2009
This is the third book on the Escapade Johnson series and I loved it as much as the other two books.
Sullivan knows exactly what will capture a young reader's imagination with Escapade and his friends.
There is enough suspense and action to keep young readers turning the pages and a delightful story
that also teaches a very important message about judging people before getting to know them. I
highly recommend this book and the whole series for your kids.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Escapade Johnson and The Coffee Shop of the Living Dead
"Like the writing of Roald Dahl, Sullivan's prose begs to be read aloud because it's laugh out loud
funny. Young readers will appreciate how poor Escapade, meaning no harm really, gets into trouble
again and again... Full of action and antics — a homework strike gone horribly wrong, a non-life-
threatening but dramatic car crash, and a good old-fashioned egging — "The Coffee Shop of the Living
Dead" has clear (but not preachy) messages like sometimes it's unwise just to go with the flow (or,
it's good to have backbone), and even really, really old people can be cool (or, don't judge a book by its
cover.) Although if you judged this book by its cover and think, This is a really, really funny book for
kids, you'd be right."
- Rebecca Rule, The Portsmouth Herald
When eleven year old Escapade Johnson gets detention for being one of the three students
participating in their fifth grade class homework strike, he inadvertently gets stuck walking home
with trouble makers Davy and Jimmy. Of course trouble ensues when they cross paths with two girls
and begin teasing them. Next thing you know the trio causes a car to crash and Jimmy breaks the
window of Joe’s Cup of Joe. As punishment the three boys are forced to pay off the cost of the
damage by working at “The Coffee Shop of the Living Dead”
Over the next 10 weeks Davy and Jimmy do nothing more than try to get Mr. & Mrs. Peterson to fire
them to no avail but along the way Escapade learns some good lessons.
This book was a real treat. It reminded me of the books I would read as an elementary school student
that would lead to my fascination and love of books. It has the right amount of humor and adventure
while ending on a lesson taught. I highly recommend this book for all elementary and middle school
readers.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Escapade Johnson and Mayhem at Mount Moosilauke
Fifth grader, Escapade Johnson, is in for an adventure. His class will be going on a five hour hike up
Mount Moosilauke. From the moment the class steps onto the bus to the top of the mountain
Escapade and his pals Jimmy, Benny and Davy face one mishap after another some of which include
“bear poop, a poisonous belt, teddy bear underwear and a peanut butter sandwich that saves the
day”. I loved this Escapade Johnson adventure just as much as I loved The Coffee Shop of the Living
Dead. It's a cute story that would appeal to both girls and boys that read on a 4th-7th grade level. This
was actually book one in the Escapade Johnson series but it there isn’t any disconnect from reading
them out of order.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Connecting Boys With Books
"We've all read articles and studies lamenting the loss of boys in the library, and this book is a
practical look at ways to try and change that."
- Saleena L. Davidson, School Library Journal
"In this brief, highly readable treatise, author Sullivan outlines both the tenets of successful
programming for boys in the tweens--ages 8 to 12--and methods that can be used to put theory into
practice. Covering genres that appeal to boys, the power of reading-related games, sports-themed
library programming, and a well-run chess program, this compendium of ideas and recommendations
will help both school and public librarians reach their young male constituents. The combination of
practical programming recommendations and philosophical and statistical background makes for
potent advocacy."
- RBB, Booklist
"This is an important book that forces us to examine how we inadvertently discriminate against boys
through our failure to understand their needs and natures. And if our professional ethics aren't
enough to compel us to serve them better, consider this: boys will turn into men who pay taxes
voluntarily only to support institutions they get value from."
- Marylaine Block, Ex Libris: an E-Zine for Librarians and Other Information Junkies.
"From playing chess to swathing the walls in butcher paper to give boys a physical space to respond
to books, Sullivan's practical ideas and developmentally astute insights show librarian and teacher
colleagues how to make vitally needed connections with this underserved population."
- Adolescence
Sullivan... has written an important book for children's and young adult librarians to help them reach
the often underserved population of boys... His recommendations... can only strengthen public library
programs and services by helping librarians to draw in kids of both genders whose interests and
temperaments may fall outside a library's usual scope of service.
- Rachel Quenk, Library Journal
As a librarian at an all-boys school, I read this with great interest. Sullivan has thought long and hard
about how libraries can reach boys, and his ideas are well worth listening to and implementing.
- Paula Rohrlick, KLIATT
The Fundamentals of Children's Services
"If you work in a public library in any capacity, you need to understand how vital effective children's
services are building your present and future clientele. Read this book. And remember, the author is
Michael Sullivan. Which means you'll even enjoy doing so."
- Marylaine Block, Ex Libris: an E-Zine for Librarians and Other Information Junkies.
I would recommend this book to anyone just entering children's services and to anyone looking for an
articulate argument for expanding or enriching a children's department. Sullivan makes a strong case
for developing and funding a stellar children's services department. As he writes, "The quality of a
community--and that community's pride--are usually tied up in the quality of life for its children".
- Ellen Moore, Public Libraries, November/December 2006
Sections on homework, interlibrary loan, and reference services are especially well done, and lists of
good story hour books for infants and toddlers as well as for older children are valuable. Appendixes
contain several ALA documents, including "Competencies for Librarians Serving Children in Public
Libraries." This book deserves to be used in library school courses as well as by librarians, library
administrators, and teachers.
- Sharon E. Cohen, Booklist
Serving Boys Through Readers Advisory
Sullivan's book focuses on an important and sometimes overlooked area of youth readers'-advisory
services, and his knowledge of boy readers comes through clearly in all sections of the book. This
short but information-packed guide includes chapters on why boys are different, a definition of boys'
lit, the readers'-advisory interview with boys, special circumstances, booktalking for boys of all ages,
and indirect readers' advisory. Each of these chapters contains unique materials targeted to male
readers, and the information will be useful to all youth- and teen-services librarians. The second half
of the book is devoted to fully annotated book lists in a variety of fiction and nonfiction subject areas,
with each chapter further subdivided into elementary-school, middle-school, and high-school readers.
Essential reading for all librarians interested in providing readers'-advisory services.
- Jessica Moyer, Booklist
If you think you didn't need advice on how to do a readers' advisory interview for a boy, think again.
Sullivan challenges us to throw out our preconceived notions about how to conduct such an interview.
Methods of performing indirect readers' advisory with parents and teachers are included. The
excellent booktalks for elementary, middle school, and high school boys alone make this a
worthwhile purchase. The author also includes titles to suggest in place of a book a boy did not like or
would not read, and a list that will be helpful for those caught in a rut.
- Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY, School Library Journal
In the latest book on a persistent challenge, Michael Sullivan offers readers’ advisory as a strategy to
bring boys to the library and get them to read. Serving Boys Through Readers’ Advisory explains
“boys’ lit” and outlines how to use readers’ advisory effectively. Librarians will appreciate the many
boy-friendly booktalks and book lists.
- Mary Ellen Quinn, American Libraries, April 19, 2010
Connecting Boys With Books 2: Closing the Reading Gap
I recommend Connecting Boys with Books 2 for any librarian or school teacher interested in the topic
of literacy for boys and who hopes to increase their knowledge of current research. This book
contains many practical ideas that could be applied on a personal level for parents who are
concerned with their boys reading levels, and equally the methods could be integrated into the library
or educational environment.
- Kay Neville, Collection Building, 2010.
... insightful and thought-provoking book. A must-read for librarians, teachers, parents, and anyone
working with educating young boys.
- Booklist, May 15, 2009
Sullivan makes a clear case for his belief that what boys like to read and what we think of as "good
literature" are not the same thing. His premise is that if we are to close the reading gap between boys
and girls, the female-dominated professions of teaching and librarianship need to embrace boy's
literature, boy-friendly formats, and programming. This second volume builds upon the work Sullivan
has done since the first volume was published in 2003. He states that while a lot has changed in five
years—"people are not only willing to talk about boys and reading, they are eager to do so"—
ultimately all this recognition must translate into action. He describes a successful "Literary Lunch"
program he implemented. Other programs are included, along with ideas on how to expose boys to
story, promote reading to them, and create a culture of literacy in order for them to succeed. The
author gives a clear definition throughout the book of the differences between boys and girls and how
to apply this knowledge to closing the reading gap. A must-read for all librarians and media
specialists.
—Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY. School Library Journal, June 1, 2009
Sullivan has many good suggestions for promoting reading to boys. His ideas for boy-friendly book
groups and how to operate them make a lot of sense... The author's suggestions for books boys will
like are spot-on... I strongly recommend this title. Sullivan has an easy style, and his many sharp
anecdotes point up the various arguments he presents.
- John MacRitchie, The Australian Library Journal, November 2009
Whether one agrees or disagrees with Michael Sullivan’s theories, he provides an alternate
perspective to viewing male behavior, male development and learning. He suggests new ideas for
programs and approaches that create more inclusive spaces for males in schools and libraries.
- Sheila Kirven, Education Libraries, Winter 2009
The Sapphire Knight
The Sapphire Knight: The Bard Series is a 123-page fantasy novel written especially for young men - a
book meant to kindle the joy of reading in boys. A rousing saga of good versus evil, quests, magic,
fierce battles and a mysterious beautiful girl, The Sapphire Knight is an adventure sure to excite and
enthrall to the very last page. Highly recommended, especially for public library children's
collections.
- Children's Bookwatch, February 2009
The story starts off with a young man traveling through the night, who stumbles upon an old man
huddled by a campfire. The older man offers to tell a story and share the campfire in exchange for
food. Grudgingly, the traveler gives up an egg and a chunk of bread to hear the incredible tale that is
THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT.
I enjoyed THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT. While we never learn too much about the knight himself, the reader
follows along on the journey to save the music that’s being stolen from the knight’s hold. Along the
way, he comes to realize that its not only there that the music’s been stolen away from, its being
zapped from everywhere and its up to him to set it free. Mr. Sullivan creates an interesting and vivid
world to set the story. From the Lady in White to the supposedly evil Queen of May, the characters are
intriguing, especially the Lady in White’s castle and her defense systems. I especially liked the part
where the knight first meets the Queen of May.
I was glad to see that this is the first book in a series. Hopefully we’ll learn more about the mysterious
knight in future books. An enjoyable historical, THE SAPPHIRE KNIGHT will appeal to readers who
enjoy a hint of sorcery and magic mixed with heroic knights.
- Enchanting Reviews, February, 2009
Escapade Johnson and The Witches of Belknap County
I bought this book for my seven-year-old who is just beginning to actually like reading. I thought this
looked like a lot of fun for him and ended up reading it myself - just to be sure. Of course, I can't resist
reading books on witches! I really enjoyed the book, thought it did a good job teaching kids about not
jumping to the wrong conclusions or to quick judgments, but in a fun way, not a lecturing way. I plan to
buy the other books in the series.
- Kay Ellis on Amazon.com, May 17, 2009
This is the third book on the Escapade Johnson series and I loved it as much as the other two books.
Sullivan knows exactly what will capture a young reader's imagination with Escapade and his friends.
There is enough suspense and action to keep young readers turning the pages and a delightful story
that also teaches a very important message about judging people before getting to know them. I
highly recommend this book and the whole series for your kids.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Escapade Johnson and The Coffee Shop of the Living Dead
"Like the writing of Roald Dahl, Sullivan's prose begs to be read aloud because it's laugh out loud
funny. Young readers will appreciate how poor Escapade, meaning no harm really, gets into trouble
again and again... Full of action and antics — a homework strike gone horribly wrong, a non-life-
threatening but dramatic car crash, and a good old-fashioned egging — "The Coffee Shop of the Living
Dead" has clear (but not preachy) messages like sometimes it's unwise just to go with the flow (or,
it's good to have backbone), and even really, really old people can be cool (or, don't judge a book by its
cover.) Although if you judged this book by its cover and think, This is a really, really funny book for
kids, you'd be right."
- Rebecca Rule, The Portsmouth Herald
When eleven year old Escapade Johnson gets detention for being one of the three students
participating in their fifth grade class homework strike, he inadvertently gets stuck walking home
with trouble makers Davy and Jimmy. Of course trouble ensues when they cross paths with two girls
and begin teasing them. Next thing you know the trio causes a car to crash and Jimmy breaks the
window of Joe’s Cup of Joe. As punishment the three boys are forced to pay off the cost of the
damage by working at “The Coffee Shop of the Living Dead”
Over the next 10 weeks Davy and Jimmy do nothing more than try to get Mr. & Mrs. Peterson to fire
them to no avail but along the way Escapade learns some good lessons.
This book was a real treat. It reminded me of the books I would read as an elementary school student
that would lead to my fascination and love of books. It has the right amount of humor and adventure
while ending on a lesson taught. I highly recommend this book for all elementary and middle school
readers.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Escapade Johnson and Mayhem at Mount Moosilauke
Fifth grader, Escapade Johnson, is in for an adventure. His class will be going on a five hour hike up
Mount Moosilauke. From the moment the class steps onto the bus to the top of the mountain
Escapade and his pals Jimmy, Benny and Davy face one mishap after another some of which include
“bear poop, a poisonous belt, teddy bear underwear and a peanut butter sandwich that saves the
day”. I loved this Escapade Johnson adventure just as much as I loved The Coffee Shop of the Living
Dead. It's a cute story that would appeal to both girls and boys that read on a 4th-7th grade level. This
was actually book one in the Escapade Johnson series but it there isn’t any disconnect from reading
them out of order.
- Reading With Monie, www.readingwithmonie.com
Connecting Boys With Books
"We've all read articles and studies lamenting the loss of boys in the library, and this book is a
practical look at ways to try and change that."
- Saleena L. Davidson, School Library Journal
"In this brief, highly readable treatise, author Sullivan outlines both the tenets of successful
programming for boys in the tweens--ages 8 to 12--and methods that can be used to put theory into
practice. Covering genres that appeal to boys, the power of reading-related games, sports-themed
library programming, and a well-run chess program, this compendium of ideas and recommendations
will help both school and public librarians reach their young male constituents. The combination of
practical programming recommendations and philosophical and statistical background makes for
potent advocacy."
- RBB, Booklist
"This is an important book that forces us to examine how we inadvertently discriminate against boys
through our failure to understand their needs and natures. And if our professional ethics aren't
enough to compel us to serve them better, consider this: boys will turn into men who pay taxes
voluntarily only to support institutions they get value from."
- Marylaine Block, Ex Libris: an E-Zine for Librarians and Other Information Junkies.
"From playing chess to swathing the walls in butcher paper to give boys a physical space to respond
to books, Sullivan's practical ideas and developmentally astute insights show librarian and teacher
colleagues how to make vitally needed connections with this underserved population."
- Adolescence
Sullivan... has written an important book for children's and young adult librarians to help them reach
the often underserved population of boys... His recommendations... can only strengthen public library
programs and services by helping librarians to draw in kids of both genders whose interests and
temperaments may fall outside a library's usual scope of service.
- Rachel Quenk, Library Journal
As a librarian at an all-boys school, I read this with great interest. Sullivan has thought long and hard
about how libraries can reach boys, and his ideas are well worth listening to and implementing.
- Paula Rohrlick, KLIATT
The Fundamentals of Children's Services
"If you work in a public library in any capacity, you need to understand how vital effective children's
services are building your present and future clientele. Read this book. And remember, the author is
Michael Sullivan. Which means you'll even enjoy doing so."
- Marylaine Block, Ex Libris: an E-Zine for Librarians and Other Information Junkies.
I would recommend this book to anyone just entering children's services and to anyone looking for an
articulate argument for expanding or enriching a children's department. Sullivan makes a strong case
for developing and funding a stellar children's services department. As he writes, "The quality of a
community--and that community's pride--are usually tied up in the quality of life for its children".
- Ellen Moore, Public Libraries, November/December 2006
Sections on homework, interlibrary loan, and reference services are especially well done, and lists of
good story hour books for infants and toddlers as well as for older children are valuable. Appendixes
contain several ALA documents, including "Competencies for Librarians Serving Children in Public
Libraries." This book deserves to be used in library school courses as well as by librarians, library
administrators, and teachers.
- Sharon E. Cohen, Booklist
