BOOKS
And the Flesh Became Word: Reflections Theological and Aesthetic
ISBN-13-978-0824523022
Here are PDFs for 3 of the 24 essays in this collection.
Walking Mary
ISBN-10-0060284722
VanOosting effectively captures the magic and intensity of childhood, keeping it buoyant amid serious themes of prejudice, molestation, religious hypocrisy, and self-destruction in mid-20thcentury America.
- Kirkus Reviews
The Last Payback
ISBN-10-0064407225
Named ‘Best Book of 1997’ by The Bulletin for the Study of Children’s Literature
VanOosting takes a refreshingly unsentimental tack in this tale of a 12-year old who sets out to get the whole story of her twin brother’s death. VanOosting takes a real risk here, but carries it off, thanks to an irrepressible protagonist, a sturdy supporting cast, and a strong, affirmative finish.
- Kirkus Reviews
VanOosting is unerring in his depiction of community and familial responses to death.
- The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
Both hilarious and heartbreaking.
- Booklist
With all Dimple’s rough edges and antagonistic outlook, she is believable and consistently drawn.
- The Hornbook Magazine
Electing J.J.
ISBN-10-0374319995
Named ‘Best Book' of 1990 by Parents Magazine
Optioned to Disney Television and Film
Laugh-aloud humor punctuates this comic/serious page-turner.
- School Library Journal
Readers will find this spirited spoof cleverly written and highly entertaining.
- Publishers Weekly
VanOosting is a skilled storyteller, capable of amusing his young readers while giving them something to ponder. Electing J. J. combines broad appeal with superior writing—a distinct pleasure.
- Arielle North - St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Maxie's Ghost
ISBN-10-0374348731
An endearing, eerie story.
- Publishers Weekly
A wonderful, life-affirming book that gives dignity to a child’s grief.
- Kirkus Reviews
The author skillfully combines the elements of adventure, suspense, and family bonds.
- Children’s Book Review Service
This author has an unusually fine ear for smooth-flowing, concise and rhythmic prose.
- St. Louis Post-Dispatch