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The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library
Eddie, a passionate reader and a shiny green bug, saves the school library in this funny, heartwarming tale that fans of Flora & Ulysses and Charlotte's Web will love.
Eddie is a tiny green bug who loves to read and who lives behind the chalkboard in Mr. Wang's fourth-grade classroom with his parents, his 53 brothers and sisters, and his Aunt Min. But when Aunt Min goes to the school library and never returns, Eddie leaves the comfort of his home for the first time and begins the dangerous trek through the elementary school. After dodging running sneakers, falling books, and terrifying spiders, Eddie reaches the library, where he finds Aunt Min stuck on a desk with two broken legs! To top it all off, there's a substitute librarian who has terrible plans to close the library and turn it into a local testing center. No more books at all! Encouraged by the brave deeds done by small creatures like Stuart Little and Charlotte from Charlotte's Web , Eddie comes up with a plan to save the library--a plan that requires all the courage one little bug can muster. Perfect for fans of Chris Grabenstein's Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library and Lynne Rae Perkins' Nuts to You . Featuring extensive black and white art from Newbery Honor Medalist and New York Times bestseller Victoria Jamieson as well as references to classic children's literature sprinkled throughout.
Eddie is a tiny green bug who loves to read and who lives behind the chalkboard in Mr. Wang's fourth-grade classroom with his parents, his 53 brothers and sisters, and his Aunt Min. But when Aunt Min goes to the school library and never returns, Eddie leaves the comfort of his home for the first time and begins the dangerous trek through the elementary school. After dodging running sneakers, falling books, and terrifying spiders, Eddie reaches the library, where he finds Aunt Min stuck on a desk with two broken legs! To top it all off, there's a substitute librarian who has terrible plans to close the library and turn it into a local testing center. No more books at all! Encouraged by the brave deeds done by small creatures like Stuart Little and Charlotte from Charlotte's Web , Eddie comes up with a plan to save the library--a plan that requires all the courage one little bug can muster. Perfect for fans of Chris Grabenstein's Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library and Lynne Rae Perkins' Nuts to You . Featuring extensive black and white art from Newbery Honor Medalist and New York Times bestseller Victoria Jamieson as well as references to classic children's literature sprinkled throughout.
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2017
25 people are currently reading
833 people want to read
About the author
Linda Bailey
121 books124 followers I was born and grew up in Winnipeg —a daydreamer with her nose in a book. In my twenties, I traveled around the world, mostly by ship. Later, I moved to Vancouver, where I earned a B.A. and M.Ed. at the University of British Columbia. Among my jobs were travel agent, college teacher, instructional designer and editor.
For years, I dabbled with writing. But I didn't begin to write in earnest until I had two young daughters. My first book was published in 1992, and I have since written more than thirty others, including novels, picture books and non-fiction.
I live in Vancouver, a short walk from the sea. I write full-time and still love to travel, read and daydream.
- Source
Series:
* Stanley
* Stevie Diamond Mystery
* Good Times Travel Agency
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Juvenile (1997): How Can a Frozen Detective Stay Hot on the Trail?
◊ Best Juvenile (2000): How Can a Brilliant Detective Shine in the Dark?
For years, I dabbled with writing. But I didn't begin to write in earnest until I had two young daughters. My first book was published in 1992, and I have since written more than thirty others, including novels, picture books and non-fiction.
I live in Vancouver, a short walk from the sea. I write full-time and still love to travel, read and daydream.
- Source
Series:
* Stanley
* Stevie Diamond Mystery
* Good Times Travel Agency
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Juvenile (1997): How Can a Frozen Detective Stay Hot on the Trail?
◊ Best Juvenile (2000): How Can a Brilliant Detective Shine in the Dark?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 13, 2017
I used to love middle grade books when I was a kid. Unfortunately, as an adult, I find them hard to get into. They don't hold the same magic and wonder that they previously held for me. I find myself getting bored after a few chapters. However, every now and then there will be an exception to that rule. The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library was definitely one of those exceptions.
I loved everything about this story. It captivated me from beginning to end. I felt the magic and wonder in this book, which a middle grade book hadn't made me feel in a long time. I kept wondering how Eddie was going to survive his various adventures, from going to the library, to his showdown with the mouse, and everything in between.
For me, the best part of the book, besides all of Eddie's crazy adventures, was all of the different literary references. It made me feel like I was being transported back to my childhood. I loved when Eddie started reading the librarian's copy of Stuart Little. It was my favorite book when I was a child, and brought back a lot of memories. Not only did it make me nostalgic, but it filled me with a lot of happiness.
I loved The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library. The book proves that no matter what size you are, you can do astounding things if you set your mind to it. I recommend this book to children and adults both. I will gladly pick up the next middle grade book that this author writes.
I loved everything about this story. It captivated me from beginning to end. I felt the magic and wonder in this book, which a middle grade book hadn't made me feel in a long time. I kept wondering how Eddie was going to survive his various adventures, from going to the library, to his showdown with the mouse, and everything in between.
For me, the best part of the book, besides all of Eddie's crazy adventures, was all of the different literary references. It made me feel like I was being transported back to my childhood. I loved when Eddie started reading the librarian's copy of Stuart Little. It was my favorite book when I was a child, and brought back a lot of memories. Not only did it make me nostalgic, but it filled me with a lot of happiness.
I loved The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library. The book proves that no matter what size you are, you can do astounding things if you set your mind to it. I recommend this book to children and adults both. I will gladly pick up the next middle grade book that this author writes.
August 7, 2022
A big book for little kids. That is to say, the classroom in which the story begins is 4th-grade, and we know that most avid readers read up, and yes this is a book that any child, K-5, can enjoy & be enriched by, whether it's read to them or by them.
Exciting, heartwarming, funny. And the books referenced are listed in a bibliography - too often children are expected to puzzle out the references in books like this, or to ask their irl librarian who doesn't always know.
As an adult reading it, I was really glad to see that Eddie tried to find the villain's "soft spot" and found it satisfying that we didn't have the cliche of his success.
My inner child just had a blast reading about critters even smaller than Ralph S. Mouse.
Exciting, heartwarming, funny. And the books referenced are listed in a bibliography - too often children are expected to puzzle out the references in books like this, or to ask their irl librarian who doesn't always know.
As an adult reading it, I was really glad to see that Eddie tried to find the villain's "soft spot" and found it satisfying that we didn't have the cliche of his success.
My inner child just had a blast reading about critters even smaller than Ralph S. Mouse.
August 28, 2017
Well done Linda Bailey.
Eddie is a shiny green bug who loves books and lives with his mother, father and 38 brothers and sisters, in Room 19 at Ferny Creek Elementary School, behind the chalkboard. His aunt Min has gone missing in the library, Eddie is the only one who can save her. When he gets to the library he finds his Aunt Min, but also discovers he needs to save the library, from the evil Mrs. Grisch, who wants to destroy it. Just like Charlotte, in Charlottes Web, Eddie doesn't let his size stop him from performing amazing achievements as he faces many close encounters with danger. The author referenced quite a few popular works of children's literature in the book, too, and the illustrations, done by Victoria Jamieson, are lovely. There is also a cute little bugology in the back of the book. I will definitely be using this book as a read aloud in my library. @greenwillow @lindabailey
Eddie is a shiny green bug who loves books and lives with his mother, father and 38 brothers and sisters, in Room 19 at Ferny Creek Elementary School, behind the chalkboard. His aunt Min has gone missing in the library, Eddie is the only one who can save her. When he gets to the library he finds his Aunt Min, but also discovers he needs to save the library, from the evil Mrs. Grisch, who wants to destroy it. Just like Charlotte, in Charlottes Web, Eddie doesn't let his size stop him from performing amazing achievements as he faces many close encounters with danger. The author referenced quite a few popular works of children's literature in the book, too, and the illustrations, done by Victoria Jamieson, are lovely. There is also a cute little bugology in the back of the book. I will definitely be using this book as a read aloud in my library. @greenwillow @lindabailey
May 24, 2024
"The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library" - written by Linda Bailey and published in 2017 by HarperCollins. "Mr. Patullo's fourth-grade class had not the faintest idea that a small green bug lived behind the old chalkboard on their wall." That would be Eddie, who embarks on an adventurous trip down the hall to the Ferny Creek Library to rescue his Aunt Min. The story is filled with elementary-age humor, lots of appropriate-age book talk, and would make a great readaloud. And points for a brief discussion of the word discombobulate which slips out now and then around here! Very fun story!
January 5, 2017
Very sweet story that combines elements of E. B. White with George Selden's The Cricket in Times Square. Basically, a young bug who loves to read tries to save a school library that is facing budget cuts and does so in a creative way. This upcoming title is basically a metaphor for getting young readers to embrace books and there is plenty of themes for them to ponder. Definitely, a must for any classroom and library.
June 26, 2018
Eddie, a bright green bug, lives with his family in a crack behind the chalkboard in a fourth-grade classroom. When his Aunt Min disappears, Eddie ventures away from the safety of his home through the vast halls of the school and into the library he has heard about from his aunt. Finding her injured on top of the librarian’s desk, Eddie helps her hide and begins to nurse her back to health. As they await the time when Aunt Min can safely return to their home, Eddie discovers that the library which holds all the wonderful stories Aunt Min has told him during his life, is about to be turned into a testing center and all the books will be taken away. Eddie is frantic to stop the destruction of this magical place… but he’s only a very small, very visible bug. He can’t do anything to convince the humans to change their minds… or can he? In the tradition of Charlotte’s Web comes this enchanting little tale of one little bug who is brave enough to fight to save the library he loves. An adorable read-aloud for elementary librarians everywhere.
August 10, 2017
Loved, loved loved it. A modern Charlottes web, but with a fresh twist. So cute and I just loved it.
August 10, 2018
4.5 stars
Gazing into the room, he felt a jolt of recognition, even though he'd never been there before. Maybe it was the gentle hush of the air. Or the glorious, fusty smell of hundreds of books in one place. The paper. The ink. The stories. Oh, the stories! He stood there, breathing it in...
Award-winning Canadian author Linda Bailey (Stanley's Little Sister, Carson Crosses Canada) and award-winning artist Victoria Jamieson ( Roller Girl ) come together to present the story of a determined, story-loving, bright green bug named Eddie in The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library.
Eddie and his family live in a "crack behind a chalkboard" of Room 19 of Ferny Creek Elementary School; since the day his ancestors "had the bad luck to get scooped up one evening and dropped into a glass tank", they have called Room 19 home. Eddie, however, unlike his many, many grub siblings and his Ma and Pa, has serious ambitions involving books and readings- ambitions inspired by his Aunt Min, a lover of storytelling, books, and the library. One day, Eddie overhears a conversation between his Ma and Pa regarding Aunt Min-who has gone missing somewhere in the school's library. Eddie's personal decision to take on the challenge of finding his aunt forever changes the course of his life, as well as the fate of Ferny Creek Library. Eddie faces a number of tremendous challenges (and adversaries) throughout his odyssey, including numerous Squishers, a spider, and a deadly mop and bucket belonging to the school cleaner. But the biggest threat to Eddie, Aunt Min, and their beloved library turns out to be a woman named Estelle Grisch, sister of the new school superintendent, and serious enemy to all things bookish and wonderful. As Eddie contemplates this new, seemingly unstoppable threat to all things dear to his heart, he and Aunt Min turn time and time again to the words and worlds of children's literature for comfort, reassurance, and guidance. The way in which Eddie attempts to take on Ms. Grisch and in turn inspires the Squishers of Ferny Creek and beyond are wonderfully written; inspired and full of heart. Bailey's storytelling is strong, clear and passionate; Jamieson's clean, unfussy black-and-white illustrations are evenly distributed throughout the novel, rendering characters and scenes to great affect. Almost reading as a love letter to the magic of storytelling, libraries (and librarians!), The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library is a sparkling and truly fortifying kind of read.
Any reader who has ever fallen in love with Charlotte and Wilbur, or other similar fictional favourites might adore the story and characters in The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library. Eddie is a curious, fervent and genuinely brave protagonist to root for, with Ms. Grisch as the perfect villain and antidote to Eddie's innate kindness. Those who enjoy the work of authors such as Kate DiCamillo, George Sheldon, Elise Broach, Kathi Appelt, E.B. White or Laurel Snyder (and really, any library lover or ardent read out there!), might especially appreciate Linda Bailey's stirring and beautifully optimistic read.
I received a copy of this title courtesy of Penguin Random House Canada/Tundra Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.
Gazing into the room, he felt a jolt of recognition, even though he'd never been there before. Maybe it was the gentle hush of the air. Or the glorious, fusty smell of hundreds of books in one place. The paper. The ink. The stories. Oh, the stories! He stood there, breathing it in...
Award-winning Canadian author Linda Bailey (Stanley's Little Sister, Carson Crosses Canada) and award-winning artist Victoria Jamieson ( Roller Girl ) come together to present the story of a determined, story-loving, bright green bug named Eddie in The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library.
Eddie and his family live in a "crack behind a chalkboard" of Room 19 of Ferny Creek Elementary School; since the day his ancestors "had the bad luck to get scooped up one evening and dropped into a glass tank", they have called Room 19 home. Eddie, however, unlike his many, many grub siblings and his Ma and Pa, has serious ambitions involving books and readings- ambitions inspired by his Aunt Min, a lover of storytelling, books, and the library. One day, Eddie overhears a conversation between his Ma and Pa regarding Aunt Min-who has gone missing somewhere in the school's library. Eddie's personal decision to take on the challenge of finding his aunt forever changes the course of his life, as well as the fate of Ferny Creek Library. Eddie faces a number of tremendous challenges (and adversaries) throughout his odyssey, including numerous Squishers, a spider, and a deadly mop and bucket belonging to the school cleaner. But the biggest threat to Eddie, Aunt Min, and their beloved library turns out to be a woman named Estelle Grisch, sister of the new school superintendent, and serious enemy to all things bookish and wonderful. As Eddie contemplates this new, seemingly unstoppable threat to all things dear to his heart, he and Aunt Min turn time and time again to the words and worlds of children's literature for comfort, reassurance, and guidance. The way in which Eddie attempts to take on Ms. Grisch and in turn inspires the Squishers of Ferny Creek and beyond are wonderfully written; inspired and full of heart. Bailey's storytelling is strong, clear and passionate; Jamieson's clean, unfussy black-and-white illustrations are evenly distributed throughout the novel, rendering characters and scenes to great affect. Almost reading as a love letter to the magic of storytelling, libraries (and librarians!), The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library is a sparkling and truly fortifying kind of read.
Any reader who has ever fallen in love with Charlotte and Wilbur, or other similar fictional favourites might adore the story and characters in The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library. Eddie is a curious, fervent and genuinely brave protagonist to root for, with Ms. Grisch as the perfect villain and antidote to Eddie's innate kindness. Those who enjoy the work of authors such as Kate DiCamillo, George Sheldon, Elise Broach, Kathi Appelt, E.B. White or Laurel Snyder (and really, any library lover or ardent read out there!), might especially appreciate Linda Bailey's stirring and beautifully optimistic read.
I received a copy of this title courtesy of Penguin Random House Canada/Tundra Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.
January 9, 2019
In a love story dedicated to school libraries and children's literature, a little green bug named Eddie, saves the school library.
Eddie lives behind the chalkboard in the fourth-grade classroom with his parents, dozens of siblings, and his Aunt Min, an avid reader and the one who taught Eddie to read. Aunt Min sojourns down the hall to the school library to read a book and doesn't returns. Eddie's parents are very worried about what might have happened to her, but no-one in the family of about has the wherewithal to launch a search. Eddie is considered a dreamer and nincompoop but he musters up the courage to leave his home for the first time and make the dangerous trek down the long hall of Ferny Creek Elementary School to find her. Although he has some close calls, he makes it, but finds Aunt Min injured and stuck.
To top it off, when the librarian goes on maternity leave the superintendent infiltrates the library with his sister as the substitute, planning on discarding the books to make way for a testing center.
From the HarperCollins summary: "Encouraged by the brave deeds done by small creatures such as Stuart Little and Charlotte from Charlotte’s Web, Eddie comes up with a plan to save the library—a plan that requires all the courage one little bug can muster."
Particularly fun is the number of picture books and chapter books referred to, classics of children's literature that children will recognize - or certainly SHOULD recognize! - whether or not the title is mentioned.
Eddie lives behind the chalkboard in the fourth-grade classroom with his parents, dozens of siblings, and his Aunt Min, an avid reader and the one who taught Eddie to read. Aunt Min sojourns down the hall to the school library to read a book and doesn't returns. Eddie's parents are very worried about what might have happened to her, but no-one in the family of about has the wherewithal to launch a search. Eddie is considered a dreamer and nincompoop but he musters up the courage to leave his home for the first time and make the dangerous trek down the long hall of Ferny Creek Elementary School to find her. Although he has some close calls, he makes it, but finds Aunt Min injured and stuck.
To top it off, when the librarian goes on maternity leave the superintendent infiltrates the library with his sister as the substitute, planning on discarding the books to make way for a testing center.
From the HarperCollins summary: "Encouraged by the brave deeds done by small creatures such as Stuart Little and Charlotte from Charlotte’s Web, Eddie comes up with a plan to save the library—a plan that requires all the courage one little bug can muster."
Particularly fun is the number of picture books and chapter books referred to, classics of children's literature that children will recognize - or certainly SHOULD recognize! - whether or not the title is mentioned.
August 14, 2017
Eddie just might be the tiniest, shiniest, greenest hero you’ve ever met and he’s on a mission to save the Ferny Creek Elementary School library from disaster. Eddie, his parents, his 53 brothers and sisters, and dear old Aunt Min all live in a crack in the wall behind the grade 4 classroom chalkboard in Room 19. It’s the perfect home for a bug family like theirs.
Aunt Min’s love of books and sense of adventure took her to the library over a week ago and she hasn’t been heard from or seen since. Ma and Pa Bug are convinced that something terrible has happened to her. Did the Squishers squash her? Did the Cleaner clean her? Did the spider snack on her? Someone has to find out and that someone has to be Eddie; he’s the only one that can go.
Eddie makes the hazardous trek through the treacherous hallways to the library only to find Aunt Min with two broken legs, starved, and half dead. While planning their return to Room 19, the two overhear the substitute librarian making reprehensible plans to get rid of all the books and turn the library into a testing centre. She dislikes children, bugs, and most of all, books!
Follow Eddie and Aunt Min as they hatch a brilliant plan to save the library and return safely home to their anxiously-waiting family. Aunt Min inspires Eddie with tales of bravery and courage as she recounts the brave deeds of the tiny heroes from classic children’s stories like Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little, Horton Hears a Who, and many more.
The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek is a delightful tale told from a unique perspective and reminds us that bravery and big hearts come in all shapes and sizes and that anyone can make a difference, if only we try. Victoria Jamieson’s black and white illustrations are the perfect touch to this heartwarming adventure. For reference and further reading, the “bugliography” at the back of the book is a brilliant addition to this book!
An entertaining and humorous addition for libraries big and small!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Aunt Min’s love of books and sense of adventure took her to the library over a week ago and she hasn’t been heard from or seen since. Ma and Pa Bug are convinced that something terrible has happened to her. Did the Squishers squash her? Did the Cleaner clean her? Did the spider snack on her? Someone has to find out and that someone has to be Eddie; he’s the only one that can go.
Eddie makes the hazardous trek through the treacherous hallways to the library only to find Aunt Min with two broken legs, starved, and half dead. While planning their return to Room 19, the two overhear the substitute librarian making reprehensible plans to get rid of all the books and turn the library into a testing centre. She dislikes children, bugs, and most of all, books!
Follow Eddie and Aunt Min as they hatch a brilliant plan to save the library and return safely home to their anxiously-waiting family. Aunt Min inspires Eddie with tales of bravery and courage as she recounts the brave deeds of the tiny heroes from classic children’s stories like Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little, Horton Hears a Who, and many more.
The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek is a delightful tale told from a unique perspective and reminds us that bravery and big hearts come in all shapes and sizes and that anyone can make a difference, if only we try. Victoria Jamieson’s black and white illustrations are the perfect touch to this heartwarming adventure. For reference and further reading, the “bugliography” at the back of the book is a brilliant addition to this book!
An entertaining and humorous addition for libraries big and small!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 1, 2017
Eddie and his family including, his mom & dad, 53 brothers & sisters, & his Aunt Min, live behind the chalkboard in a 4th grade classroom at Ferny Creek Elementary School. Eddie & his Aunt Min are passionate readers & Aunt Min makes frequent trips to the school's library. Eddie looks forward to day that he will be old enough to join her. But before that can happen, Aunt Min makes a trip to the library and doesn't return. Someone has to try to help Aunt Min but his mother has his youngest siblings, who are still grubs to care for. His father would go but he would never make it to the library with his bad legs. Eddie decides that he is the only one who can save Aunt Min so he sneaks out of the classroom while his parents are asleep. But the school is bigger than Eddie could have imagined and there is danger everywhere he turns. Eddie has just begun his journey when the bell rings and suddenly the hall is filled with Squishers rushing to their classrooms. Giant feet are everywhere! And there are more dangers along the way, like the huge hairy spider who probably would like Eddie to be his next meal! But making it to the library isn't the biggest challenge Eddie will face. There are more dangers waiting for him there and suddenly Eddie's quest to save Aunt Min becomes a quest to save Ferny Creek's School Library too. It's a good thing Eddie is such an avid reader because he will need inspiration from some of his favorite book characters if he is going to be successful.
Eddie is a tiny character with a huge heart. A hero's heart! Anyone who loves books will find the reference's to other children's books charming. This book reminded me of the magic I felt when I first learned to read & spent hours lost in the magic of children's books. This would be a great family read-aloud or a book to enjoy on your own. Fans of classic animal adventures like Charlotte's Web & Stuart Little, or newer books like Nuts to You or Appleblossom the Possum will love The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library!
Eddie is a tiny character with a huge heart. A hero's heart! Anyone who loves books will find the reference's to other children's books charming. This book reminded me of the magic I felt when I first learned to read & spent hours lost in the magic of children's books. This would be a great family read-aloud or a book to enjoy on your own. Fans of classic animal adventures like Charlotte's Web & Stuart Little, or newer books like Nuts to You or Appleblossom the Possum will love The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library!
June 4, 2017
Book lovers of the world, unite! Eddie is a bug on a mission. He leaves the safety of his family's crack in the classroom wall and heads down the long, echoing hallway of Ferny Creek to reach the library. Why? Because his beloved Aunt Min went to the library and hasn't returned. But when he reaches her, he finds out there is an even bigger problem - the library is in danger. So what can one tiny bug do to prevent the library from being converted into a computerized testing center? Using everything he's learned from books he has read or that Aunt Min has told him about, Eddie comes up with a plan. He will leave a message for the "squishers" (humans). Min has an idea of what to say, "Those children are hungry for stories - I've seen that day after day! - and what are you thinking, robbing them of stories and giving them tests instead." Eddie agrees with the sentiment, but thinks of a more concise way to state it. If he can only get the squishers to pay attention, the library just might have a chance.
This book has everything a reader and library lover could want. There are wonderful references to other books and Eddie often finds inspiration from his favorite characters. The tradition of reading within his family is a wonderful example for youngsters; they can see how the habit was passed from his grandfather, to Aunt Min, to Eddie, and then on to his younger brother Alfie. Having a "tiny hero" that can live within the school and come out when the students go home allows readers to see the school setting from a completely different perspective. And they can also see that size doesn't matter because "A writer's a writer, no matter how small," as Aunt Min says.
Highly recommended for middle grades and up. Perfect for a read-aloud. The "Bugliography" in the back is great for readers whose interest is piqued by all the references to other stories.
I read an advance copy supplied by the publisher for review purposes.
This book has everything a reader and library lover could want. There are wonderful references to other books and Eddie often finds inspiration from his favorite characters. The tradition of reading within his family is a wonderful example for youngsters; they can see how the habit was passed from his grandfather, to Aunt Min, to Eddie, and then on to his younger brother Alfie. Having a "tiny hero" that can live within the school and come out when the students go home allows readers to see the school setting from a completely different perspective. And they can also see that size doesn't matter because "A writer's a writer, no matter how small," as Aunt Min says.
Highly recommended for middle grades and up. Perfect for a read-aloud. The "Bugliography" in the back is great for readers whose interest is piqued by all the references to other stories.
I read an advance copy supplied by the publisher for review purposes.
February 3, 2018
Battling giants, saving family members from starvation, ghosts, and almost getting squished! These are the adventures that Eddie, an insect that lives in Ferny Creek Elementary School, endures during this 317 page chapter book. Eddie must go on a quest to save his Aunt Min, who got stuck in the elementary school’s library. Danger lurks around every corner when you are only one inch tall! From him leaving his family in the middle of the night, to the larger insects that roam the hallways, to the Squishers who are out to find every last bug, and even an evil librarian who wants to get rid of all the books in the library, Eddie’s trek is filled with suspense. The novel is well-written, with beautiful imagery (“when the first pale light stole through the classroom windows…”) and strong vocabulary such as torpor and mandibles. The author, Linda Bailey, does an incredible job of weaving in facts about insects as well as information about famous novels. Throughout Eddie’s adventure, books like Charlotte’s Web, Horton Hears a Who, and Anne of Green Gables are referenced to compare his own troubles to the one’s in stories and to show how those characters prevailed so Eddie will too. At the end, there is a “Bugliography” listing all of the books mentioned in this novel. The messages throughout the story- that reading is magic, anyone can accomplish anything in which they put their energy into, and to persevere through every obstacle- are profound and felt on every page when read.
October 22, 2018
I don't like bugs! No! Not at all! The only good bug is the Itsy Bitsy Spider!
That saying... I would like to know Eddie and Aunt Min in real life! Those are bugs, I definitely would like, to know!
Using his intelligence, bravery, (and with the help of his Aunt Min), he saves the Ferny Creek Library! Yes, he does! I am not giving anything away, as it is in the title!
But how he does it, is ingenious!
I also like how Eddie listens to his Aunt Em; I mean really listens! And she is one smart bug! Here are some examples!
"Money, my dear, is a foolish thing the Squishers have invented to make their lives more difficult. Do not try to understand it; it's impossible. All you need to know is this-- libraries need money to exist. And this new superintendent, who's in charge of the money, does not like to give it to libraries."
"Well," said Aunt Min, "the first thing I'd say is --- leave this Library alone! I'd say that I need books to read, and so does Eddie, and do reading bugs everywhere. And so do the children, by the way, Those children are hungry for stories -- I've seen that day after day! -- and what are you thinking, robbing them of stories and giving them tests instead? I'd tell her that books are exactly what children and bugs need. They're good for reading,yes; but they're also good for touching and smelling and turning and the pages, and cuddling up on, and sharing!"
Now that is one smart bug!
That saying... I would like to know Eddie and Aunt Min in real life! Those are bugs, I definitely would like, to know!
Using his intelligence, bravery, (and with the help of his Aunt Min), he saves the Ferny Creek Library! Yes, he does! I am not giving anything away, as it is in the title!
But how he does it, is ingenious!
I also like how Eddie listens to his Aunt Em; I mean really listens! And she is one smart bug! Here are some examples!
"Money, my dear, is a foolish thing the Squishers have invented to make their lives more difficult. Do not try to understand it; it's impossible. All you need to know is this-- libraries need money to exist. And this new superintendent, who's in charge of the money, does not like to give it to libraries."
"Well," said Aunt Min, "the first thing I'd say is --- leave this Library alone! I'd say that I need books to read, and so does Eddie, and do reading bugs everywhere. And so do the children, by the way, Those children are hungry for stories -- I've seen that day after day! -- and what are you thinking, robbing them of stories and giving them tests instead? I'd tell her that books are exactly what children and bugs need. They're good for reading,yes; but they're also good for touching and smelling and turning and the pages, and cuddling up on, and sharing!"
Now that is one smart bug!
July 27, 2017
This is a delightful book written in the vein of Stewart Little about a brave bug who risks his life to save an elementary school library from being turned into a more "productive" test-taking center. Little Eddie travels from his comfortable home behind the chalkboard of a 4th grade classroom to the school library, where his Aunt has taken up residence. When the school librarian goes on maternity leave, her replacement comes in with an agenda to remove the books (starting with the graphic novels!) and convert the space into a testing center. From there, he embarks on a campaign to save the library by writing messages on sticky notes, turning things he finds, like a discarded blueberry or piece of black licorice, into ink. Because it's set in a school library, there are lots of references to the great works of children's literature (i.e.: The Very Hungry Caterpillar) and beloved characters like Stewart Little that readers will enjoy picking up on. This book's fast-paced adventure plot and sense of humor was a great read-aloud for my elementary-aged children. With illustrations by Victoria Jamieson (Roller Girl), The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library affirms the idea that even the smallest of creatures can make big impacts and shows the importance of literature and writing making a difference in the world.
August 17, 2018
I enjoyed reading 'The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library' by Linda Bailey, it reminded me of when I was a kid! The hero of the story is a shiny, green bug named Eddie who is special both because of his colouring and because he is one of the rare bugs who can read! Despite the danger and uncertainty, Eddie leaves his safe home behind the blackboard to find his Aunt Min in the school library. Like all good books, Eddie encounters his share of challenges and dangers, but he perseveres and grows up a bit in the process. 'The Tiny Hero' is fun. The plot rolls along quickly and Victoria Jamieson's pictures complement the story. Eddie helps to show the reader that even if they are small they can accomplish a lot, they just need to TRY! This is a wonderful message for anyone. I loved how Bailey referenced a ton of children and young adult books to pique the interest of readers. She even listed a complete list of Eddie's and Min's 'Bugliography' at the end of the book so readers can easily find the book in their own library. The book is ideal for young readers on their own, ages 8-12) and would work well for younger children as a bedtime chapter story. Ultimately 'The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library' is well worth the read.
July 3, 2018
Eddie is a shiny, bright green bug that lives behind the chalkboard in Room 19 of Ferny Creek School. When his Aunt Min does not return from the library he decides to prove to his family that he is not a "nincompoop" and goes to rescue his aunt. This is a story of bravery and courages instilling the importance of just trying when things seem impossible.
Full of literary references, that any well read child will pick up on, this book is so much more than a story of a brave little bug. It is a story that shows how important libraries are to schools and communities. So often libraries are at risk and this story shows children how important libraries and books are. It is an important message that many adults could use the reminder of as well.
Overall, this is a book that will speak to the hearts of librarians and book-lovers. There are black and white illustrations interspersed throughout the book that are cute. I think this would make a perfect classroom read-aloud. Overall, an excellent read.
I received a copy of "The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library" in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Tundra Books and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for my review copy.
Full of literary references, that any well read child will pick up on, this book is so much more than a story of a brave little bug. It is a story that shows how important libraries are to schools and communities. So often libraries are at risk and this story shows children how important libraries and books are. It is an important message that many adults could use the reminder of as well.
Overall, this is a book that will speak to the hearts of librarians and book-lovers. There are black and white illustrations interspersed throughout the book that are cute. I think this would make a perfect classroom read-aloud. Overall, an excellent read.
I received a copy of "The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library" in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Tundra Books and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for my review copy.
August 3, 2019
Juvenile Fantasy. If you enjoyed Charlotte’s Web, include this one on your reading list. Eddie and his buggy family live in Ferny Creek Elementary School behind a chalk board of a fourth grade classroom. Eddie loves books and learned to read from his Aunt Min, who has been missing for several days. He decides to search for her in the library, which is her favorite place. It is an adventurous trek through the school for a little green bug. He finds Aunt Min has injured a couple of her six legs. While helping her to recuperate, the nice, cheerful librarian leaves to have a baby and a grumpy replacement is determined to decrease the library, as it is too costly. Eddie and Aunt Min are horrified by this news. Clever Eddie figures out a way to communicate to the students to help save the library. Will he be successful? Fun and creative book to read. Great vocabulary for kids. Would make a good read aloud. Recommend for 3-5 grade.
July 8, 2021
Every once in a while I like to read a childrens' or young people's book. This book was a delight!
Auntie Min is missing so Eddie decides that he'll go looking for her. He figures that she'll head for the library as she's such a book lover. Sounds easy right? Wrong! Auntie Min and Eddie are little bugs and the library is in a school. Eddie will have to make his was from the family home, through the halls - a very long way for a very small bug. As if that isn't daunting enough, he'll have to avoid the Squishers that roam the hallways. Once he finds the library, can he get Aunti Min and himself home safely? And what about the new person in charge? She's not friendly at all and a very bad choice to run the library and foster a love of reading in the children. There's a lot to do. Is Eddie the bug for the job?
Please read this wonderful book and find out. I will definitely be checking my local library for more books by Linda Bailey.
Auntie Min is missing so Eddie decides that he'll go looking for her. He figures that she'll head for the library as she's such a book lover. Sounds easy right? Wrong! Auntie Min and Eddie are little bugs and the library is in a school. Eddie will have to make his was from the family home, through the halls - a very long way for a very small bug. As if that isn't daunting enough, he'll have to avoid the Squishers that roam the hallways. Once he finds the library, can he get Aunti Min and himself home safely? And what about the new person in charge? She's not friendly at all and a very bad choice to run the library and foster a love of reading in the children. There's a lot to do. Is Eddie the bug for the job?
Please read this wonderful book and find out. I will definitely be checking my local library for more books by Linda Bailey.
September 23, 2021
Eddie, a tiny green bug, lives with his family (including fifty-three siblings) behind the chalkboard in a fourth-grade classroom. When Aunt Min leaves and doesn’t return, Eddie sneaks out and locates her in the library. Overhearing the substitute librarian on the phone as she plans to turn the library into a technology lab, Eddie writes “please,” “save,” and “the library” on sticky notes that he presses onto various books. The students decide that these notes are from the ghost of the founding librarian, Miss Cavendish, who wants them to save the library. After Eddie’s aunt is accidentally locked in a desk drawer, Eddie writes one last note, “Open,” and leaves it on the desktop. Can Eddie’s bright ideas save both the Fern Creek library and Aunt Min? It will be a tough job for a little bug. Jamieson’s black-and-white illustrations complement Bailey’s clever adventure story. Eddie & Min’s Bugliography (a list of children’s books referenced in the story) is a nice addition.—NB
August 13, 2017
How can you NOT love a book reading and writing little bug out to save the school library? Exactly. Eddie is a bug living the life, or rather trying to rescue Aunt Min, stop his bitty buggy brother from being squished, and experience the wonders of the library before its too late. The new librarian, if one could even call her that, is nothing short of an enemy of the written word. Good thing there's a ghost of a chance of putting her in her place before it's too late. I mean, who else would the mysterious stickies have been left/written by? Certainly not anyone so small and easy to overlook as a bright green little bug with a penchant for the classics....certainly not indeed.
A great reminder that "a person's a person, no matter how small"...well said, Stuart Little...and very applicable here as we see the might and power of one teeny tiny voice against the forces that be.
A great reminder that "a person's a person, no matter how small"...well said, Stuart Little...and very applicable here as we see the might and power of one teeny tiny voice against the forces that be.
October 6, 2017
Eddie is a bug that lives in a crack in the wall of a classroom with his large family. He makes the scary trek down the hall to the library to find out why his aunt has never returned. She is hurt, and he stays with her to help her. The new librarian is trying to get rid of the library, and Eddie decides to leave messages a la Charlotte's web. His younger brother sneaks out to the library as well, and Eddie needs to get all three of them back home.
There are many, many references to children's book in this title. I loved it, but it seems not to be a book that kids will read on their own. This seems like a great book to read aloud, and can then discuss the referenced books, or read them next.
There are many, many references to children's book in this title. I loved it, but it seems not to be a book that kids will read on their own. This seems like a great book to read aloud, and can then discuss the referenced books, or read them next.
July 3, 2017
Eddie is a shiny green bug who loves books and lives with his family in Room 19 at Ferny Creek Elementary School. His aunt has gone missing in the library so Eddie goes on an adventure to save her. When he gets to the library he finds his Aunt Min, but also discovers he needs to save the library, as well. Eddie provides an amusing perspective on the library and reading and readers will root for him as he faces many close encounters with danger. The author referenced quite a few popular works of children's literature in the book, too, and the illustrations, done by Victoria Jamieson, are lovely.
July 18, 2017
A book with heart, a book to hug. This book is like a modern day Charlotte's Web with extra humor and plenty of homages to kidlit favorites. Book-loving aunt and nephew bugs try to save a school library from being turned into a testing center by leaving behind messages on post-it notes. There's some speculation that a library ghost is writing the messages, and the bugs use that belief to their advantage. Soon, students and parents join in on the quest to save the library. Fun and heart-warming. A tribute to libraries, books, stories, readers, writers, and dreamers. (And with cute illustrations by the creator of Roller Girl!)
June 30, 2018
This book gets 5 stars because my 6-year-old absolutely loved it. He's a bookworm for sure, but as he usually requests "epic adventures of peril and doom" (his words), I was pleasantly surprised that this sweet, tame story of a bug who saves an elementary school library became his new favorite.
I got a little bored with the slow-moving pace and somewhat tedious chunks of dialogue, but once again, the book captivated my kindergartener, which is what it was meant to do, after all.
It has sweet messages of bravery and perseverance, and plenty of peril without too much scariness (for sensitive readers).
I got a little bored with the slow-moving pace and somewhat tedious chunks of dialogue, but once again, the book captivated my kindergartener, which is what it was meant to do, after all.
It has sweet messages of bravery and perseverance, and plenty of peril without too much scariness (for sensitive readers).
August 18, 2024
Two tiny bugs.
One great mission.
Eddie and Aunt Min are part of a bug family that live behind the chalkboard at Ferny Creek Elementary School. Aunt Min goes missing one day and Eddie leaves the comforts of home to find her. He discovers Aunt Min in the school library, where she spends her days reading books in the company of the friendly school librarian and dozens of children. When they hear a conversation about possibly closing the library and turning it into a district testing center, they know they have to try to help save the library. Revisits themes from Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little among other classics.
One great mission.
Eddie and Aunt Min are part of a bug family that live behind the chalkboard at Ferny Creek Elementary School. Aunt Min goes missing one day and Eddie leaves the comforts of home to find her. He discovers Aunt Min in the school library, where she spends her days reading books in the company of the friendly school librarian and dozens of children. When they hear a conversation about possibly closing the library and turning it into a district testing center, they know they have to try to help save the library. Revisits themes from Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little among other classics.
July 29, 2017
Start with a very small green bug named Eddie. See if you can help him find his mIssing Aunt Min. Beware of Squishers and mean librarians. Discover the joys of reading, smart kids, and sticky notes that talk. The black and white illustrations are perfect. The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library is a wonderful celebration of books, libraries and those who defend them to the end. Although marketed as a book for children, this story is for readers (and library lovers) of all ages. School librarians, add this one to your to-buy list.
August 24, 2017
Sometimes when you read juvenile lit you feel like you've read all the stories before. I was prone to that with this book. The tropes are all from other books. Intentional as it may be -- it's clearly meant to be referential -- it wore a little thin for me.
Harper, on the other hand, came to it with fresh eyes and ears. It was all new to her. I was surprised by how much she remembered, and even more surprised by how into this book she got. Apparently, it was more successful than this jaded reader could comprehend.
Harper, on the other hand, came to it with fresh eyes and ears. It was all new to her. I was surprised by how much she remembered, and even more surprised by how into this book she got. Apparently, it was more successful than this jaded reader could comprehend.
December 12, 2017
This one had some great elements but if I'm being honest, it wasn't my favourite read. I wanted the mouse to come in and help at some point. I wanted the antagonist to somehow have more depth. I wanted some action with the spider. There were a number of things that might have drawn me in more. my daughter, however fell in love with this book. it was charming how classic literature and contemporary stories were mentioned in the text for sure and the buggish descriptions of the characters locomotion and other physical attributes were a nice touch.
August 14, 2018
2018 Popsugar challenge - A book that involves a bookstore or library
Another ARC picked up at ALA.
4.5 stars. This is an adorable children's chapter book about a tiny little bug who goes to rescue his aunt and ends up saving a school library. The characters are wonderful, the descriptions are marvelous, and the story is both exciting and touching. I was a bit bothered by the fact that most of the school jumps in to save the library even though they don't really know that it is at risk, but it's an easy enough issue to just overlook.
Another ARC picked up at ALA.
4.5 stars. This is an adorable children's chapter book about a tiny little bug who goes to rescue his aunt and ends up saving a school library. The characters are wonderful, the descriptions are marvelous, and the story is both exciting and touching. I was a bit bothered by the fact that most of the school jumps in to save the library even though they don't really know that it is at risk, but it's an easy enough issue to just overlook.
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