I am writing this week from the Outer Banks where I am on vacation with my family. The weather has been spectacular, which is lovely after a gray and drab New York winter. I have been getting a lot of reading done poolside, which is a treat. I usually end up "reading ahead" with books that are coming out in the next few months. One that you are going to be excited about is A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS by Khaled Hosseini who many of you know as the author of THE KITE RUNNER. It's just brilliant, and readers will not be disappointed in this sophomore effort. Again the setting is Afghanistan. It's a deeply moving story of two women that takes place over thirty years. It will be in stores on May 22nd. There's also a debut author who I want to have on your radar --- Anita Amirrezvani, whose book, THE BLOOD OF FLOWERS, is set in 17th century Persia. The protagonist is a young woman who is a carpet designer and weaver. I am not a fan of historical fiction, but this story definitely wove its way into my heart. It's on sale June 5th.

I am headed to the Outer Banks tomorrow. I am hoping it will be sunny and 10 degrees warmer than New York, which it usually is this time of year. I was spoiled in Charlottesville last weekend where all the flowers were in full bloom. The hyacinths smelled particularly lovely.

Here at Kidsreads.com, March may have come in like a lion, but it’s DEFINITELY not going out like a lamb. Our latest update is one big King-of-the-Jungle Roar of contests, new series, series updates, reviews, books into movies and more.

Here at Kidsreads.com, March may have come in like a lion, but it’s DEFINITELY not going out like a lamb. Our latest update is one big King-of-the-Jungle Roar of contests, new series, series updates, reviews, books into movies and more cool stuff we know your kids will love.