Shooting Kabul by N.H. Senzai

This book was a super good read.  It was clean, it was interesting, it was different, and you couldn't wait to find out what happened at the end.  The main character, Fadi, a 12 y/o boy from Afganistan who leaves the country with his family is smart, of good moral character, and has a deep love for his family that drives him to do everything possible to find his missing sister.  Best of all, this is a book young guys would like!  Yeah!

Goodbye Vietnam by Gloria Whelan

Another fabulous book by Gloria Whelan.  Gripping story of a Vietnamese family trying to leave Vietnam before being imprisoned by the government.  It is a short book with lots of action and drama.  Eye opening as to what these families had to go through to escape an oppressive government.  Grief and heartache for many, freedom for some.  Very good read. 

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gaunt

I know I said I would not review Newbery winners, but this one is targeted for boys and is a fabulous read.  Several times throughout the book the main character says "Cheezus Crust" as a pseudo curse which I suppose some would find offensive, but I did not.  This book has mystery, outlandish characters, and the funny adventures of a grounded 14 year old boy in the midwest during the 1960's.  He has some hysterical times with his single, elderly neighbor woman, and there is a lot of history thrown in for good measure.  A great read!