CM Magazine has reviewed two of Alison Lohans’ recent books, Dog Alert and Germy Johnson’s Piano War.
About Germy Johnson:
Germy Johnson’s Piano War, by Alison Lohans
Germy Johnson’s Piano War is a fun story about a boy dealing with a less-than-ideal situation. J.J. is a little stubborn, very creative, and ultimately, he pushes through and accepts the lessons he has because he knows he is not a quitter. This book is a fairly fast read, at only 64 pages, and the quick nature of the plot makes this book great for reluctant readers or for a read aloud.
Zoe’s story is told directly; there is no stopping to muse upon the plot points that could be weighed down with “teachable moments” or life lessons. Great for new independent readers, the direct nature of the book is one of the major strengths of Dog Alert as Lohans seems to understand the need to allow readers the opportunity to form their own opinions rather than telling them what to take away from Zoe’s story.
Tumblebooks is an interactive reading site that helps kids of all ages learn to read. Now you can read Raspberry Room, by Alison Lohans, on this fun website.
Schools and libraries can sign up for a 12-month subscription or a free trial.
“Alison Lohans is one of the HSW Literary Agency’s most prolific clients. While she always seems to have something on the go, the past year has been especially busy…”
Science fiction, fantasy capture interest of teens
“REGINA author Sharon Plumb offers a compelling read in Draco’s Child…”
“COLLAPSE of the Veil by prolific Regina author Alison Lohans…is unique in its development of a protagonist with authentic teen issues.”
This review article by Beverly Brenna was published in the Saskatoon Star Phoenix on January 15, 2011. Read the full article on the Star Phoenix website.
“Anyone who came of age during the turbulent 1960s will immediately relate to the novel Don’t Think Twice by prolific Saskatchewan author, Alison Lohans.”
So says Karen Lawson, reviewing the book for the Saskatchewan Publishers Group. She concludes the review with a word to the younger generation as well:
“This novel will … offer an eye opening, realistic view to young readers about an era that so profoundly impacted our society.”
Alyssa is having a rough time with just about every aspect of her life. Her mom is severely depressed after the stillbirth of Alyssa’s baby sister. At school, popular Brooklynne does everything she can to make Alyssa feel even more miserable, while their classroom teacher doesn’t respect Alyssa’s family’s pacifist beliefs. When an old family photo transports her to the time of her great-grandmother Deborah, Alyssa wonders if she may have found the perfect escape.
Author: Alison Lohans
Publisher: Pearson (New Zealand) 2011
Series: Nitty Gritty Novel Series 0
ISBN 978-1442-5413-6-8
Zoe is accustomed to getting around in her wheelchair and doesn’t let her disability hold her back. However, when her family moves to remote northern Saskatchewan everything becomes impossibly hard. Worse yet, she must come to grips with her fear of dogs – and there are plenty of dogs running loose….
Saskatchewan Children's Writers' Round Robin 