Tag Archives: Ireland

Elementary

Know That You Are Not Alone: A Review Of ‘The Secret of the Shamrock’ (Chime Travelers #1)

“I arise today, through God’s strength to pilot me, God’s might to uphold me, God’s wisdom to guide me, God’s eye to look before me, God’s ear to hear me, God’s word to speak for me, God’s hand to guard me, God’s shield to protect me, God’s host to save me.” – St. Patrick

Reading Level

Grades 2-5

Review and Comments

The Secret of the Shamrock is about a boy named Patrick and his amazing experience with time travel to the year 395.   The story begins with a humorous incident (for the reader but not so much for Patrick) at his newly adopted sister’s baptism. He secretly brings his pet frog, Francis, to the baptism where Francis jumps into the baptismal font.  Naturally, Patrick’s parents are not amused.  They decide their children need to learn more about the church so they volunteer the family’s service to the cleaning ministry at their parish. Continue reading Know That You Are Not Alone: A Review Of ‘The Secret of the Shamrock’ (Chime Travelers #1) →

Elementary

Achieving Hero Status: A Review of ‘The Irish Cinderlad’

“Since it is so likely that children will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage.” – C.S. Lewis

Reading Level:

Grades 2-3 [according to common core]

Grade   3.5  [according to Scholastic – reflects the grade level at which a student reading on grade could read the book independently]

Interest Level: K – 2

Review and Comments:

The Irish Cinderlad by Shirley Climo is a story that takes place in ages past in Ireland.  It is a familiar tale based on Doublas Hyde’s “The Bracket Bull” and on Sara Cone Bryant’s “Billy Beg and His Bull.” It also brings to mind the very familiar fairy tale, Cinderella. Continue reading Achieving Hero Status: A Review of ‘The Irish Cinderlad’ →