This gripping, fast-paced novel (slim and tightly-written at only 93 pages) combines ancient dragon-lore with an ominous future setting. With a few deft strokes, the author paints a surprisingly detailed picture of life for schoolkids in the year 2080. Cady is a well-drawn protagonist whose qualities, struggles, and deepening predicament compel the reader to keep turning pages. What does one do if suddenly entrusted with the care of a tiny dragon -- in a society that forbids the keeping of even normal animals? Ms. Siburt writes with humor, creativity, and an unerring sense of plot. Dragon Charmer is delightful, suspenseful, and satisfying -- a great classroom or bedtime story. One can only hope that more such books from this author are soon to follow.-- A Reader in the Far East

Dragon Charmer by Ruth Siburt is an exciting story about a young girl, Cady Dulac, who is entrusted with the care of a tiny dragon named Arson in a futuristic time when pets are illegal! Cady befriends a not-too-popular boy, Willie Raimer and together the two protect Arson and work to solve the mystery of Cady's father's disappearance. I love to watch the expressions on the faces of my students each year as I read this book to them. They really get caught up in the tale and can't wait to hear more! This is a wonderful story full of adventure and the value of friendship!

The Trouble With Alex by Ruth Siburt is a fun filled story about a young girl named Kelly who leads a full life between her successful lawn care business and her championship roller hockey team. Kelly's life is complicated when her trouble-making cousin Alex is dumped on her for the summer. Students in my class laugh out loud when I read about Alex's antics each year. This is a delightful story! The Trouble With Alex is a fun story that everyone should read!