The Devil in Pew Number Seven/Rebecca Nichols Alonzo with Bob DeMoss/296 pages

This is a true story of a young family's harassment by a neighbor who wants to run them out of town whether it be by "crawling or walking...dead or alive" according to one of the anonymous letters they received. Rebecca Nichol's father was the popular preacher at the local church in a small town in North Carolina. When he and his young wife first arrived in Sellerstown, he made an immediate enemy in Horry Watts, a man used to controlling the local congregation even though he wasn't a member. Over the next eight years, he threatens the family while also doing physical damage to their home and their property. Several times, they were lucky to not be injured or killed. Throughout the book, Rebecca reiterates her parents faith that God will protect them and their calm in the face of constant threats and violence.

This is a shocking story of pure hatred and evil directed at innocent people. Rebecca's story of faith and forgiveness is inspiring even if it is sometimes hard to imagine. She is certainly a better person than I.

Raggin' Jazzin' Rockin' / Susan VanHecke 136 p.

Susan VanHecke presents stories of famous American musical instrument makers and inventors. Learn about a German carpenter who came to New York City determined to build the greatest piano-- the Steinway. Go along with Robert Moog (rhymes with vogue) as he invents the Moog synthesizer. Study how Larry Hammond turned electricity into music via the Hammond organ. At a concert I found myself recognizing the Ludwig drum and wondering if the drummer used the Zildjian cymbals both discussed in this book. Adults will enjoy this read as well as children. 2012 Notable Children's Books