Cody’s Cabin: Life in a Pine Forest
By Gayle M. Irwin; Illus. Katie Araujo
Casper, Wyo.: Waggin’ Tales, 2015
Join Cody the Cocker Spaniel as he explores the woods surrounding the cabin he visits every summer weekend, encountering a wide variety of creatures on the way. By interweaving “Did you Know” facts and “Learn a New Word” side-bars, author Gayle Irwin blends a cute children’s story with an informational text, resulting in a seamless and charming story. The beauty of backwoods Wyoming comes alive through Cody’s eyes. Loyal to his human family, Cody shares his weekend world by providing vivid descriptions of the plants, insects, and animals he encounters on his daily walks. Kids will enjoy sharing Cody’s journeys while learning basic facts about nature. Enhanced with both computer generated images and illustrations by Katie Araujo, this is sure to be a hit with kids and parents alike.
Lisa B. Scroggins, Executive Director
Natrona County Library
Father Fetish: Something’s Fishy (Book One)
By Mark Gaskill
Parker, Colo.: Outskirts Press, 2015
The title says it all: a Father Anthony who studies and investigates the psychological side of human fetishes. Don’t be mistaken though — this is no romance novel! It puts the reader alongside a college professor (who happens to be a Catholic priest) and his group of post-graduate assistants when they all find themselves in the middle of a scandalous Washington, D.C. murder involving politicians and mysterious figures of the night. Exhilarating and uncertain escapades ensue, and it is easy to find oneself entranced by the characters, including Father Anthony’s attorney sister. Mark Gaskill has done a great job with setting the scene and bringing the words on the pages to life with vivid and complete descriptions. The book keeps a fast pace that certainly held onto my attention and interest. On the cover it says “Book One” and the amazing character development throughout the book definitely sets the stage and keeps the door open for future books about Father Anthony and his crew.
Robyn Mofield, Interlibrary Loan Technician
Wyoming State Library