Review Dates 2024 - 2025
R. A. Long Library Learning Commons
3:15 p.m.
November 20 ●
Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever
Author: Beth Ferry
Illustrator: Tom Lichtenheld
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, ©2021
ISBN: 9780358473022
$17.99
Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
Stick was to find his family tree to find out where he came from. He and stone look everywhere but couldn't tell what type of tree he came from. Stone tells stick that they are family and he doesn't need to look any further.
Verdict: I like how this book illustrates true friendship.
Curricular Use: This would be great to use as a SEL lesson
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray Elementary
The Goldilocks Zone: Real Facts About Outer Space
Author: Drew Sheneman
Illustrator: Drew Sheneman
Harper Collins, ©2021
ISBN: 9780062972361
$18.99
Unpaged
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
This non-fiction book tells about our solar system. The earth is called the Goldilocks Zone because it is the only planet that is not too hot or too cold. A scientist takes Goldilocks and bear to the solar system and tells simple facts about each planet.
Verdict: This is such a fun way for students to learn about our solar system.
Curricular Use: This book would be good to go along with a study of the solar system.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray Elementary
The Smart Cookie
Author: Jory John
Illustrator: Pete Oswald
Harper Collins, ©2021
ISBN: 9780063045408
$18.99
Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
Smart Cookie didn't feel confident. She felt like she was not good at anything. One day her teacher gave the class an assignment to come up with an original project. Smart Cookie really stressed over what she could do. She finally wrote a poem. When she shared her poem the class loved it, and her teacher told her she should continue writing, that she was very talented. Smart Cookie gained her confidence. Verdict: I love that Jory John has written another book. Students love them. The illustrations are so fun.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray Elementary
Ella's Night Lights
Author: Lucy Fleming
Illustrator: Lucy Fleming
Candlewick Press, ©2020
ISBN: 97815362212693
$16.99
Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
Ella was not able to go out into the sunlight because of her delicate wings. She loved going out into the night and collecting the star light. She would gather the light and share it with those she found needed it. All her friends she helped wanted to do something special for her so they stitched, gathered, and glued a special covering for Ella so that she could sit under it and watch the sun come up but still be protected. Verdict: The illustrations are beautiful and captivating. The story is sweet about friendship.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray Elementary
Ducks Overboard! A True Story of Plastic in Our Oceans
Author: Motum, Markus
Illustrator: author
Candlewick Press, ©2021
ISBN: 9781536217728
$17.99
pg. unp. [32]
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
In this nonfiction picturebook, the author uses a rubber ducky from a ship container swept overboard (based on a real event), to show how ocean currents carry plastics to beaches around the world, how plastics and other flotsam have collected in massive floating garbage dumps in the middle of several oceans, and the impact of plastics on ocean life. Colorful mixed media illustrations follow the duck until it is collected from a beach and given a new home. Appended is more explanation on what happened to the container lost in 1992 and its cargo of plastic toys, ocean currents, plastic facts, and how readers can help. Verdict: A good presentation of ocean pollution for early grade readers with the kid-pleasing interest of a lost toy, and without overwhelming them with too many higher level facts.
Curricular Use: intro to Pollution, Ocean studies
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Franklin Endicott and the Third Key
Author: DiCamillo, Kate Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen Candlewick, 2021
ISBN: 9781536201819
$15.99
pg. 103
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
New illustrations for the story by Margaret Wise Brown. The sharp illustrations are done in bright, bold primary colors and look like they were stamped on the page, although they are prints. Beautiful book. Verdict: Beautiful illustrations to go along with a wonderful story that takes two trains across the U.S.A.
Curricular Use: Geography of the United States
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Ghosted
Author: Fry, Michael Illustrator: Michael Fry Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021
ISBN: 9780358269618
$13.99
pg. 265
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 Larry and Grimm were best friends. Then Grimm passes away, and then shows up around Larry as a Ghost. At first Larry thinks this is great but then they both realize that Grimm needs to move on. The problem is he doesn't know how to move on. They first try finishing their bucket list they had made when Grimm was alive. This did not work. Then Larry thinks that the reason Grimm is not moving on is because he had made up rumors about a kid at school, Boogie. They kids were really mean to him because of this. Larry tries to be nice to him, and both Grimm and Larry realize that they need to undo the rumors and the way the kids treat Boogie. They were able to do this and finally Grimm is able to move on. Boogie becomes Larry's new best friend. Verdict: I loved this story, it was funny but had a good message also. It is written in a format like Diary of a Wimpy kid, which I think the kids will love. I can't wait to introduce this book to the students.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Author: Gottesfeld, Jeff Illustrator: Matt Tavares Candlewick Press, 2021 ISBN: 9781536201482
$17.99
pg. Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
Evocative language and gorgeous illustrations tell the story of why the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was created, the elite Army soldiers who guard it, and the wars represented by unknown soldiers. From the first page in which an unknown soldier introduces himself, to the last there are details that lend gravitas to the prose. Perhaps the most lovely aspect of the book is the incorporation of all races, genders, and religions from the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to the soldiers who guard them.
An afterword provides additional information. The only way this title could have been improved would have been to incorporate additional end matter and to provide information on how young readers can be part of honoring our soldiers by placing wreaths at the monument. Verdict: This is a first purchase for all libraries.
Curricular Use: This is an especially good resource for sharing prior to Veteran's Day.
This title also provides a gateway into researching different wars as well as the contributions of soldiers like the Triple Nickles, Company 442, and indigenous soldiers.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
Secrets of the Sea: The Story of Jeanne Power, Revolutionary Marine Scientist
Author: Griffith, Evan Illustrator: Joanie Stone Clarion Books, 2021
ISBN: 9780358244325
$17.99
pg. Unpaged
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 7 Beautiful illustrations support this biographical picture book chronicling the life of Jeanne Villepreux-Power. Born in France, Jeanne married and moved to Sicily where she became one of the first women to study--and fight for--the credit for her research (most notably her research on the paper nautilus). Readers are taken through her experience building an aquarium for scientific observation and her subsequent challenges in publishing her research in a male-dominated academy.
End notes provide a more full account of Jeanne's life, details about the paper nautilus, a sidebar on marine biology and conservation, as well as an author's note related to historical research and the debate over whether the ship carrying Jeanne's meticulously gathered research sank in 1838 or 1842. The end matter is completed with a bibliography that is split between primary and secondary sources. Verdict: This is a recommended first purchase for all libraries serving elementary students.
Curricular Use: Contributions of women in science
Scientific processes and inventions
The use of primary and secondary sources
Writing history
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
My Wish for You
Author: Hahn, Kathryn Illustrator: Brigette Barrager Orchard Books, imprint of Scholastic Inc., 2018
ISBN: 9781338150407
$17.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Author Kathryn Hahn loved watching her daughter grow. This book is written to be read to one girl or many at the same time. As you read you will feel as though a loving parent is expressing sentiments and positivity. The more you read you begin to feel empowered. She reminds you to sing, nap, draw, dress up, pretend, eat yummy foods, be yourself, and sparkle! Every page is a little pep talk and an affirmation that you are the right person and you are where you need to be! This is a lovely book that you will help you feel excited and loved all the way through to the end. The text is positive and the illustrations are colorful and fun. A large variety of girls are drawn into the pages, to allow anyone who reads it to picture themselves in the book. Verdict: My Wish for you is to buy this book! It has so much positivity and girl power to lift you up!
Curricular Use: Themes in this book: Acceptance, love, adventure, honesty, strength, and forgiveness. This book can be used to build self esteem in any little girl or boy.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
On Sleepy Hill
Author: Hegarty, Patricia Illustrator: Le, Xuan Caterpillar Books, 2019
ISBN: 9780593181768
$17.99
pg. 24
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 This is a wonderful book. The story is cute and engaging. The illustrations are gorgeous because of the colors, details they contain, and the fact that they are cut out, as is the front cover. It tells the story of the animals as they get ready for bed using couplets, which flow easily from one to another as the story is told. Verdict: This is a marvelous book because both the story and the pictures are wonderful. It will capture the attention of readers of all ages because of the unique, detailed, cut out illustrations. A must have book.
Curricular Use: Primary teachers will love using this story to teach rhyming words because the illustrations will grab, and keep, the attention of the children while the story keeps them engaged.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Pitter Pattern
Author: Hesselberth, Joyce
Illustrator: Joyce Hesselberth
Greenwillow Books, 2020
ISBN: 9780062741233
$17.99
pg. 40
P - K
The picture book teaches children patterns in a unique and fun way. The text the author chose is a pattern in itself. Illustrations highlight patterns in the environment. The author/illustrator created her characters using collage art, water color and some print media. The main character Lu explores patterns with her friends and family members daily.
Days of the week are a pattern. A soccer ball has patterns. A keyboard on the piano has patterns. There are patterns in music and dance. Quilts have patterns with specific names.
At the end of the book, the author includes a definition of what a pattern is and where patterns can be found.
Teachers can use the book for their read-alouds and talk about patterns during the different routines of the day. Verdict: The picture book teaches children patterns in a unique and fun way. Illustrations and the text capture patterns.
Curricular Use: Math-Patterns-Teachers can use the book for their read-alouds and talk about patterns during the different routines of the day.
Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Disability Specialist, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Bartali's Bicycle: The True Story of Gino Bartali, Italy's Secret Hero
Author: Hoyt, Megan Illustrator: Bruno, Iacopo HarperCollins, 2021
ISBN: 97800629081117 $17.99
pg. 40
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book covers the life and achievements of Gino Bartali, a famous Italian athlete who used his fame and talent to battle fascists and save the lives of hundreds of Jewish people. The language is excellent, despite being such a hard topic to write about. The letter at the end of the book by Gino's granddaughter made me tear up as a call to inspire other "quiet" heroes. Verdict: I highly recommend this book for its heart-warming message, accurate historical timeline, and the beautiful illustration style.
Curricular Use: Historical Figures - WW2
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Ruby in the Ruins
Author: Hughes, Shirley Illustrator: Shirley Hughes Candlewick Press, 2018 ISBN: 9780763692377
$15.99
pg. 32
Grades 1 - 3
Ruby in the Ruins is a historical fiction picture-book that is set in London at the end of and right after WWII.
The author describes how Ruby and her Mom find comfort in each other as they listen to warning sirens and explosions.
When the victory is announced and the war is officially over, neighbors come together and have a block party bringing all of their rations together to offer some treats.
Fathers who served in the war come home. Children like Ruby and her friends Jimmy and Len talk about their Dads and the changes and they make a bomb site their playground.
Ruby experiences changes with the bomb threats and explosions and with her Dad away and back at home.
At first, Ruby hardly recognizes the man who is her father and is very shy around him.
She gets injured after playing in the rubble on a site with destroyed buildings and her Dad takes care of her afterwards and it brings them close together again.
Illustrations are a unique combination of oil pastels and water color and capture the home life and street scenes after the World War II “Blitz” in London.
Children’s colorful clothes stand out against the browns and grays of the rubble. Verdict: Author and illustrator Shirley Hughes captures a piece of history, WWII Blitz in London and its aftereffects in this picture book.
Curricular Use: History
Reviewer: Sonja, Disability Specialist, LCC Head Start/ECEAP
Sprouting Wings: The True Story of James Herman Banning, the First African American Pilot to Fly Across the United States
Author: Jaggar, Louisa and Becker, Shari
Illustrator: Cooper, Floyd Crown Books for Young Readers, 2021
ISBN: 9781984847621
$17.99
pg. 48
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Excellent true story of James Herman Banning, his dream to fly, and how he and his unlikely friend achieved his goal of being the first black man to pilot a plane from LA to NYC. Incredible illustrations throughout, all supporting the text beautifully. It has a great message about overcoming obstacles and believing in yourself always. Verdict: The story of Banning's life can be used to teach so many lessons, making this book a great choice for teachers to use on STEM topics.
Curricular Use: Geography; History; Black History Month
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Tiny Monsters The Strange Creatures That Live On Us, In Us, and Around Us
Author: Jenkins, Steve Illustrator: Page, Robin Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9780358307112
$17.99
pg. 30
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 This book is about the small, sometimes unseen by the naked eye, animals that live around, on, and in us. Each tiny monster is shown blown up, with the magnification level identified, and also show in their actual size, which is helpful and very interesting. Pertinent facts about each monster are shared. Verdict: Children, and adults, will be fascinated to learn about the tiny monsters that are in our world. The right amount of information is shared about each monster and the pictures add needed perspective to understand just how tiny the creatures are. A great book.
Curricular Use: Science. High school biology teachers might enjoy sharing this book with classes that have turn in a collection of bugs.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
What Do You Do if You Work At The Zoo?
Author: Jenkins, Steve Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, December 2020
ISBN: 9780544387591
$17.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Love of animals increases with the reading of this book! As you travel through this book, it feels a little like you are walking through a zoo. You see each of the 20 animals in their habitat and find out what the zookeeper does to take care of each animal. The illustrations are imaginative and fun! When it comes time to find the Python it stretches across 3 pages. Not only is this book entertaining, it is very informational. The last few pages are filled with more things zookeepers do, a list of the world's top zoos, a zoo timeline, and then a two page thumbnail spread of all the animals featured with additional information about them. Verdict: Fantastic! This book is entertaining and very informative.
Curricular Use: This is a great book to be used in the classroom, library, or at home. Themes featured are careers in zookeeping, animal care, record keeping, animal companionship, and zoo facts.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt. Solo Middle School
Potato Pants!
Author: Keller, Laurie Christy Ottaviano Books, Henry Holt and Company, 2018
ISBN: 9781250107237
$17.99
pg. 34
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
For one day only, Lance Vance's Fancy Pants Store is selling Potato Pants! Hearing the news Potato runs straight to the store and through the window he sees Eggplant. Potato becomes furious because yesterday Eggplant rushed by him and knocked him over. Now Potato is stuck outside the pant store too scared to go in and face Eggplant. He is worried that all the other potatoes will buy all the pants before he can get in there. When he finally bursts in the store the door hits Eggplant, splitting his new pants. Potato is so scared that Eggplant will hurt him. Through the entire story, Potato is really worried and scared of what Eggplant will do to him if they meet up again. At the end of the story, Eggplant apologizes for knocking him over the previous day. He explained that he was trying to get to the Eggplant pant sale. They both realize that it was all a big misunderstanding. This book illustrated with humorous potatoes wearing pants. Verdict: This book is full of amazing quirky potatoes wearing little pants. It would be a great addition to a library or classroom because it is so entertaining and the characters make up at the end.
Curricular Use: Great for Social emotion training. Teaches communication and forgiveness.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Library, Mt Solo Middle
Snail & Worm
Author: Kugler, Tina Illustrator: Kugler, Tina Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019
ISBN: 9780358063643 $16.99
pg. 30
Grades 1 - 3
A pair of quirky fun-loving friends return in book three of the Snail & Worm Series. This story includes three short stories in one book. In the "Best Day Ever," Snail manages to stay positive despite many small set backs during his day. Work can't understand how it could be the best day when so many unexpected things have happened to Snail. Snail decided that his day is not ruined because he can't find his shoes. He remembers that he doesn't even wear shoes! In "The Spooky Cave," Snail thinks that a turtle in his shell is actually a dragon. He becomes frightened and runs away. We learn in the second story that things are not always as they appear. In the third and final story, "A Bedtime Story," Snail cannot fall asleep. His friend tries to tell him a story. Instead they make up a cute story about best friends. This story is dialogue-based, and the text is color-coded by speaker making it easy to follow. Verdict: This extremely cute illustrated book captures the readers attention quickly and is fun to read. The content is relatable to any age and promotes positivity and friendship.
Curricular Use: This text can be used during social emotional group time as a read aloud.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle
Snail & Worm All Day: Three Stories About Two Friends Author: Kugler, Tina Illustrator: Kugler, Tina Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019
ISBN: 9780358063643 $16.99
pg. 30
Grades 1 - 3
A pair of quirky fun-loving friends return in book three of the Snail & Worm Series. This story includes three short stories in one book. In the "Best Day Ever," Snail manages to stay positive despite many small set backs during his day. Work can't understand how it could be the best day when so many unexpected things have happened to Snail. Snail decided that his day is not ruined because he can't find his shoes. He remembers that he doesn't even wear shoes! In "The Spooky Cave," Snail thinks that a turtle in his shell is actually a dragon. He becomes frightened and runs away. We learn in the second story that things are not always as they appear. In the third and final story, "A Bedtime Story," Snail cannot fall asleep. His friend tries to tell him a story. Instead they make up a cute story about best friends. This story is dialogue-based, and the text is color-coded by speaker making it easy to follow. Verdict: This extremely cute illustrated book captures the readers attention quickly and is fun to read. The content is relatable to any age and promotes positivity and friendship.
Curricular Use: This text can be used during social emotional group time as a read aloud.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle
Digging for Words Jose Alberto Gutierrez and the Library He Built
Author: Kunkel, Angela Burke
Illustrator: Escobar, Paola Schwartz and Wade Books, 2020
ISBN: 9781984892638
$17.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
An inspiring story about a garbage man in Columbia who finds books in the trash, collects them, and has made a library in his home for the people who live in his neighborhood. The subdued colors in the illustrations are perfect for the story as he works at night. The story is engaging and well written. It is told from the point of view of the grown up Jose and a young Jose. The illustrations capture the excitement the children have for visiting Jose and his library, as well as the joy they have reading them. Verdict: Excellent book. Well written in a unique way. Pictures compliment the story and the subdued colors are perfect.
Curricular Use: Librarians would love to read this book to their classes!
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Fiftieth Anniversary Frog and Toad are Friends
Author: Lobel, Arnold Illustrator: Lobel, Arnold Harper, 1970
ISBN: 9780062983435 $18.99
pg. 71
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 A classic is made new! This timeless book has been republished in a larger picture book format. In honor of the anniversary, end notes on Arnold Lobel, and the book, have been included, which is a lovely, informative, charming, and fun addition. Children are more likely to choose this book of Frog and Toad because of the size, which they tend to like better than the smaller books. I hope all of his Frog and Toad books are republished in this size. Verdict: Buy it. It is a classic reborn into a larger picture book, which children will love.
Curricular Use: As the Kessler Writing Specialist, I have the 5th graders write and illustrate their own book, which is then bound just like a real book. I will use the end notes on Arnold's writing and illustrating process with the 5th graders to show them an example of a real life author at work.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Eleanor Wyatt Princess and Pirate
Author: MacFarlane, Rachael Illustrator: Spencer Laudiero Macmillian Publishing Group, 2018
ISBN: 9781250138576
$17.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Eleanor Wyatt can be a princess sometimes and a pirate other times. This gives a great variety of things a person can pretend to be. I love how it is written in rhyme, and has large print with short phrases on each page. This makes it easier for our beginning readers. The illustrations are bright and really captures interest. This will be a great addition to our library. Verdict: R+ The illustrations and rhyme make it very desirable.
Curricular Use: Compare and contrast between a princess and a pirate
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
The Highest Tribute: Thurgood Marshall's Life, Leadership, and Legacy Author: Magoon, Kekla Illustrator: Freeman, Laura HarperCollins, 2021
ISBN: 9780062912510
$17.99
pg. 40
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Concise and powerful summarization of Thurgood Marshall's life and legacy, with decisive language and crisp illustrations. This book is an excellent example of an educational picture book, detailing his childhood, career, and impact on American culture. The timeline and list of court cases are an excellent resource. Verdict: I would highly recommend this book to kids interested in US History and law, but would be a great read for anyone.
Curricular Use: Civics, US History
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Does Earth Feel?: 14 Questions for Humans Author: Majewski, Marc Illustrator: Marc Majewski Katherine Tegen Books, February 16, 2021
ISBN: 9780063021532
$18.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This book contains 14 thought provoking questions that move readers to think about how Earth might feel. Each question helps the reader reflect and feel as if the Earth is a person with real feelings. The last question allows for readers to decide how they want the Earth to feel. The fully colored pages are brilliantly illustrated in predominantly green tones as if you are on the ground a part of the Earth.
The Author's Note at the end, is a great guide for parent or teacher reading with the child to continue the conversation about "How do we know Earth feels?". It discusses empathy and gives a simple definition of what it means. It follows up by giving examples of situations on Earth that spark emotion in humans. It says, "We cannot fully understand what we do not feel." It finishes by talking about "we not only can empathize with other humans, but we can remember that we are apart of a larger family", including animals who we co-depend upon to survive. Lack of love and knowledge can be built upon to honor Earth's natural past, and open our eyes to the present, and protect our future. The author ends by simply inviting, "Will you join me?". Verdict: This is a first pick for little libraries. This author/illustrator uses plain and simple, but thought provoking elegant prose. The illustrations are bold and beautiful.
Curricular Use: This book can be used in connection to Earth Day. This book can be used to explore feelings, empathy, seeing a bigger picture, and becoming proactive to protect our Earth. This helps us understand that we are bigger than ourselves.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt. Solo Middle
The Sandcastle That Lola Built
Author: Maynor, Megan Illustrator: Berube, Kate Alfred A. Knof, 2018
ISBN: 9781524716158
$17.99
pg. 30
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
Lola is busy building a sandcastle at the beach when several other kids, begin interacting with her castle. To avoid total castle destruction, she puts each kid to work building a different portion of the castle. All is well until a huge wave crashes and washes the castle away. Instead of getting angry the children ask Lola to build a new castle again. The cartoon illustrations are done in mixed media and collage. This delightful story is cute and heart warming. It's nice to see how kids can work together to build something great! Verdict: This text showcases the collaboration of what children can build when they work together. It is fun, creative and rewarding to see how the children face challenges and overcome them by working together.
Curricular Use: This is a great book to use in the library or classroom at the beginning of beach season to promote collaboration and friendship.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle
The Little Library
Author: McNamara Margaret Illustrator: G. Brian Karas Penguin Random House, 2021
ISBN: 9780525578338
$17.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Jake was a reluctant reader, when he went to library the librarian noticed that he was really checking out how the bookshelves were constructed. The librarian brought a book titled Woodworking for Young Hands, and had Jake look at it. He was very interested. He took it home and took notes and was very excited about it. The next week when he was suppose to return it the librarian she said he could renew the book. When it was the end of school the librarian said that the library would be closed during the summer. This especially made Jake sad. Then he had an idea. He went home and through the help of this book and his grandpa he constructed a little library, that could be used even during the summer. People can take a book and return it and could donate other books. The librarian was very pleased. During the summer a package arrived for Jake. It Was the Woodworking for Young Hand book that had been withdrawn with a note: "Dear Jake, You loved this book more than anyone had loved it in a long time. "Withdrawn" means this book does not belong to the library anymore. It belongs to You. See you next Year! And keep reading! Verdict: I loved how the librarian in this book tried to capture each students interest. This is one of the most important things librarians can do to create an interest in reading.
Curricular Use: You could make a graph of students interest to help them find a great book in the library.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Evelyn Del Ray is Moving Away
Author: Medina, Meg Illustrator: Sanchez, Sonia Candlewick Press, 2020 ISBN: 9780536207040
$17.99
pg. 29
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 A realistic, touching story of two best friends and their last day together before one of them moves away. The pictures are engaging, with beautiful and bright colors. The story is well written and the ending is hopeful for any one who has a best friend move away because the last page shows a grown up Daniela rereading all of the letters her friend has written to her over the years. Great ending. Verdict: This is a great book on the enduring love and friendship between two people. Children, especially those who have had a best friend move away, will love it.
Curricular Use: I would recommend this book to our teachers. We have a very mobile population with children moving in and out all of the time. This book gives hope that all will be well because it shows that friends can stay in touch even when they are no longer together in the same school or neighborhood.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Turtle Walk
Author: Phelan, Matt Illustrator: Phelan, Matt Greenwillow Books, 2020 ISBN: 9780062934130
$17.99 pg. 28
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Turtles walk slow through spring, summer, and fall. In winter, they slide down a snowy hill to get home! Simple, repetitive language with a phrase any parent or child will recognize - "Are we there yet?" means that the story is told through the pictures, which are delightful. Verdict: Children and parents will enjoy reading this story together. Children learning to read will love reading it because of the repeated language. A delightful book.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
So You Want to Be an Owl Author: Porter, Jane Illustrator: Frost, Maddie Candlewick Press, 2020 ISBN: 9781536215212
$16.99
pg. 26
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 The narrator, an owl, thinks the reader wants to become an owl so allows the reader to join owl school. There are nine lessons that need to be learned in order to become an owl. Each lesson asks the prospective "owl" a question and answers the question by sharing information about that characteristic as it pertains to owls. The author chose topics well because they are ones that children will find interesting. Verdict: An excellent book, told in a unique and fun way. It will easily engage children. They will learn about owls in a way that will entertain them at the same time.
Curricular Use: Science
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Maryam's Magic: The Story of Mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani
Author: Reid, Megan Illustrator: Jaleel, Aaliya HarperCollins, 2021
ISBN: 9780062915962
$18.99
pg. 40
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book tells the story of Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani, a professor at Stanford, who revolutionized the academic world with her discoveries and new perspective on problem solving called "the magic wand theorem". Stunning illustrations, captivating text, strong message for young people about the possibilities in life if dedication and passion exist in your heart. Verdict: Highly recommend for students interested in interdisciplinary studies, math, science, etc...
Curricular Use: Women's History Month; Math award winners
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Mary Seacole: Bound for the Battlefield A
uthor: Rubin, Susan Goldman Illustrator: Pope, Richie
Candlewick Press, 2020 ISBN: 9780763679941
$17.99
pg. 48
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This picture book follows the life and legacy of famous nurse and healer, Mary Seacole. Very inspiring and insightful about what it was like to be a Creole woman in a world/time that didn't appreciate her fully. She overcomes great hardship and prejudice to fulfill her dreams and have a lasting impact on medicine to this day. Lots more text than pictures in this picture book; would take a long time as a read aloud. Verdict: I would highly recommend this book to 7th grade ELA/Social Studies teachers who are doing a unit on yellow fever, and medical advancements of that time.
Curricular Use: 7th Grade ELA /Social Studies
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Zee Grows a Tree
Author: Rusch, Elizabeth Illustrator: Will Hillenbrand Candlewick Press, 2021 ISBN: 9780763697549
$17.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 The day Zee is born, a Douglas Fir seedling sprouts up at the family's Christmas tree farm. This is the story of how Zee grows and experiences milestones along side the growth of her little tree. It very cleverly compares her growth with the tree's growth. As Zee's story of growth continues, the detailed story of how a douglas fir really grows is shared as well. The text gives a fact about trees on nearly every page of the story. This is an informative picture book that successfully integrates fact with narrative. It is a sweet story, with a sweet ending. The "In Appreciation" in the back of the book the text is cleverly arranged in the shape of a tree. It is a thoughtful thank you note to all who contributed to this book. The illustrations are thoughtfully created and are sweet just like the story they appear in. Verdict: This is a first pick for any classroom or library looking to make science connections. Themes of family, stewardship, growing up, and christmas trees are sure to connect with any child. This book will support Earth day learning as well.
Curricular Use: This book's strong informational ties to tree facts will support any classroom. Further reading gives readers the opportunity to learn more about trees. The index will make for easy fact finding and vocabulary meanings in the text.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
To the Moon and Back for You
Author: Serhant, Emilia Bechrakis
Illustrator: EG Keller Random House, 2020
ISBN: 9780593173886
$17.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 The illustrations are incredible. There is so much texture and depth to each page. The story is a sweet one about all the things this mom went through to have her new born child. The entire book is done in metaphors. Verdict: I will give this book R+, because of the amazing illustrations, and the way the author used metaphors to explain every thought in this story. This would be a wonderful book to add to our library collection.
Curricular Use: This would be an excellent book to illustrate metaphors.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Can We Be Friends? Unexpected Animal Friendships from Around the World
Author: Sirotich, Erica Illustrator: Erica Sirotich Harper, 2021
ISBN: 9780062941589
$17.99 pg.
Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 In an increasingly diverse population with increasingly diverse opinions, the question of whether we can be friends with another who is vastly different from ourselves is answered beautifully. Whimsical cartoon animals make this colorful nonfiction picture book about five real life animal friendships (including Koko the gorilla) an absolute delight. Each animal friendship is introduced with a rhyme followed by a paragraph about the pair. The final question asks the reader "Whose friend will YOU be?" End matter includes a glossary, sources, and suggested reading via websites. Verdict: This is an excellent purchase for nonfiction collections at the elementary level.
Curricular Use: Use this to introduce a child-friendly research project about any one of the five animal pairings.
This title creates an excellent opportunity to discuss differences in a nonthreatening way to enhance Social Emotional Learning.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
Imogene's Antlers
Author: Small, David Illustrator: author
Knopf, 1985
ISBN: 9780375810480
$17.99
pg. unp.
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 The 35th anniversary reissue of how ultra-polite Imogene handled her day after waking up with a fine set of elk antlers on her head, followed by a peacock tail the next day. Verdict: A must have picture book, for any Elementary or public library that doesn't have it!
Curricular Use: love of reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Midnight Fair
Author: Sterer, Gideon Illustrator: DiGiorgio, Mariachiara
Candlewick Press, 2020 ISBN: 9781536211153
$16.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This is a wordless picture book about what happened at a fair during the night when it was closed. The animals in the forest waited until it shut down and then snuck in to enjoy all of the rides, games, and food. Of course they paid - with nuts and flowers. The pictures are rich with detail and adults will enjoy the irony in some of them. The ending is unexpected and well done. Verdict: A perfect story told in pictures. Children and adults will enjoy this wonderful book.
Curricular Use: I hear children who can't read yet say they can't check out a library book because they don't read yet. I tell them to read the pictures. This is a great way to illustrate that pictures are an important part of every story and that you don't have to read the words to understand the book.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Mel Fell
Author: Tabor, Corey R. Illustrator: Tabor, Corey R. Balzer + Bray, 2021
ISBN: 9780062788014
$17.99
pg. 38
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 What a neat book. The book is read sideways and half way through the book, you turn it the other way. Mel is a young bird who decides to fly. He jumps from the tree and all of the animals he passes on the way down try to catch him because they don't think he is ready. Then he splashes into the pond, which is unexpected. He catches a fish and flies back up to his nest. Charming story. The simple illustrations are lovely. I enjoyed the format and so will children. Verdict: The format alone is fun, but would not be a good reason to buy the book if the story was not good. The story isn't good, it's GREAT! Buy the book.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Bugs Everywhere
Author: Teckentrup, Britta
Illustrator: Britta Teckentrup
Big Picture Press, 2019
ISBN: 978-1-5362-1042-2
$16.99
pg. 24
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
This beautiful book contains an overview of the bug kingdom touching on general topics such as what a bug is and where they live. The information is not overwhelming and is presented in a visually pleasing way. The back end pages contain a "Find Waldo" bug challenge that children will love. Verdict: A great overview of the bug kingdom that is perfect for the elementary library but could be used by teachers K-12 to introduce the topic of bugs.
Curricular Use: This book could be used by teachers K-12th grade to introduce bugs to their classes because it is a great overview of the topic.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
More Than Fluff
Author: Valentine, Madeline Illustrator: Madeline Valentine
Alfred A. Knopf, 2021
ISBN: 9780593179055
$17.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Daisy was a cute fluffy chick, everyone wanted to hug and squeeze her because she was sooo cute, but Daisy didn't like to be hugged and squeezed all the time. She tried to disguise herself but it was messy and sticky, she tried pecking them but realized that was not nice. Her mom told her to try telling them nicely that she didn't like it. Daisy got to be really good at letting the different animals know she didn't like it but she could do an elbow bump or high five etc. Verdict: I think this is an excellent book to show how to communicate with others without hurting feelings. The illustrations are so sweet.
Curricular Use: This would be a great book to use to illustrate the right and wrong way to communicate and solve problems with others.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Night Walk to the Sea A Story About Rachel Carson, Earth's Protector
Author: Wiles, Deborah Illustrator: Miyares, Daniel Schwartz & Wade, 2020 ISBN: 9781524704175
$17.99
pg. 38
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 This story is based on real events in Rachel's life. After a storm, she and Roger go exploring along the trail in a forest that leads to the ocean. They witness the wonder of bioluminescence in the waves. The author created great sentences by using wonderful descriptive words. Well done. Verdict: "It was a 10 out of 10 book and the pictures were great." " It was very detailed pictures." "The story stands out from books like this one because it is based on a real story. It uses great pictures, juicy words, and I think it is a 10 out of 10 for all, in everything of the story." This is the review of a class of 4th graders. I read them the book and this is what they thought about it. They recommend that you buy this book for your library and I agree. It is a wonderful story and they enjoyed it very much. So did I.
Curricular Use: Science
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
No Buddy Like a Book Author: Wolf, Allan Illustrator: Farley, Brianne Candlewick Press, 2021 ISBN: 9781536203073
$16.99
pg. 28
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 Told in rhyme, the story tells the wonder of reading books and using your imagination. The illustrations on the pages have lots of diverse children, even a blind child. Having disabled children in books is rare and very refreshing. The words and pictures capture the reader's imagination and compliment each other. Great book. Verdict: Wow! This book is amazing. The story and illustrations are beautiful and work well together to capture the spirit of the book. The story beautifully explains why people love books and reading: you can go anywhere in time and space, with your imagination and a book. I love this book so much that I will read it every year to all the classes when they come to library, probably within the first month of school.
Curricular Use: Librarians will love reading this book to children. It will become on of the books I read to children every year during the first month of school.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
I am Not a Penguin
Author: Wong, Liz
Illustrator: Liz Wong
Alfred A. Knoph, 2021
ISBN: 978-0-593-12740-7
$17.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
This is a book about the endangered Pangolin. It presents information about the Pangolin, in a funny way, by comparing and contrasting it to other animals that have some of the same characteristics, which means that children are not just learning about the Pangolin. Verdict: I think children will enjoy the humorous way in which information about the Pangolin is presented. The last two pages are factual information about the Pangolin as well as the fact that it is endangered and the reasons for this. Overall, a fun book.
Curricular Use: This is a great book for teaching compare and contrast using the Pangolin and all of the other animals presented in the book. It is also great for teaching what endangered means and how we can help prevent this animal, and others, from becoming extinct.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
A Sporting Chance: How Ludwig Guttmann Created the Paralympic Games Author: Alexander, Lori Illustrator: Allan Drummond Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9781328580795
$17.99
pg. 128
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 I had know idea the real meaning behind the Paralympic Games until I read this book! My eyes were opened and my heart was touched, when I read this inspiring biography of Dr. Ludwig Guttman. The events in the story tell the journey that Dr. Guttman takes through his training, escape from the Nazi's, and the research that ultimately set disabled people on the a path of survival instead of certain death. Though Dr. Guttman experienced many set backs in his career, he persevered and used his knowledge and empathy to make a better life for the physically disabled. He developed a specific treatment plan for injured patients that changed their survival rate from 80% dying, to 80% living! Once left alone in a bed to die in 6 weeks, the "incurables" were now becoming whole and leading full lives! The work that Dr. Guttman did, changed the perception of the world toward the Physically disabled. Once he began seeing incredible results with healthy patients, he went a step further and developed a set of sporting events that allowed them to feel whole again, the Paralympics.
The hand drawn illustration is interwoven with the use of photography to create a good mix between artistry and information. At the end of the book several real life success stories of current Paralympians are shared. They are inspiring and thought provoking. The author ends by including a timeline of events and a thorough index to be used for topic study.
Dr. Ludwig Guttman is remembered as a pioneer in the field of spinal cord injuries as well as the founding father of the Paralympic games. Verdict: Excellent addition to a library. Very informative, inspiring and important history to know.
Curricular Use: Excellent resource to foster acceptance of the disabled. This biography offers a different Holocaust story. Even thought he was stripped of his medical license by the Nazi's, he continued in his field of study, becoming a trailblazer in spinal cord injuries. Equal rights and disability justice are major themes to be discussed in the book as well. Great resource for Classroom and libraries.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
The Book of Dares: 100 Ways for Boys to be Kind, Bold, and Brave
Author: Bunch, Ted
Random House, 2021
ISBN: 9780593302989 $14.99
pg. 224
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Incredible book for young boys, a standout from cover to cover. the authors remind the reader that toxic masculinity serves no personal purpose. Men have emotions and desires like everybody else! The gift of self expression, the blessing of vulnerability, the joy of kindness are all wonderful parts about being human. Dare to care, dare to share, dare to be aware! Verdict: Highly recommend to boys of ALL ages, especially kids with a knack for adventure and learning.
Curricular Use: Discussion Group; Leadership classes; Counselors
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Nazi Prisoner Camp Escape Author: Burgan, Michael Harper, 2020
ISBN: 9780062860361
$16.99
pg. 105
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Great Escapes book 1. This nonfiction book introduces readers to WWII prisoner of war, Bill Ash, a British fighter pilot whose plane was shot down by Germans. Better known as Ash, he organized and attempted many escape attempts from various prisoner of war camps. None were successful until Ash and other were rescued from a German prisoner of war hospital when the Allied troop invaded France. A good narrative story with additional textboxes included which provide more background information for the reader. Verdict: I appreciate that the covers of these books look middle school appropriate as they will be wonderful hi-lo books for struggling readers, especially struggling boys. I plan to purchase the set.
Curricular Use: Nonfiction, WWII, Prisoners of War
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor
Author: Carter, Ally
Illustrator:
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9780358003199
$16.99
pg. 322
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8
Book 1. Twelve-year-old April has been bumped from foster home to foster home since she was little and the only thing she has of her mother, whom she can't remember, is a key which hangs around her neck. One day April's school tours a museum and she is drawn to a new exhibit about the Winterbornes. April notices the crest on her key matches the Winterborne family crest and she sneeks into the museum to see if her key opens a box. Instead, she accidentally starts a fire and end up being brought to the Winterborne home. There she meets other orphaned kids and she begins to make friends, all the while wondering what her key opens. When she accidentally meets long lost Gabriel Winterborne, all of their plans change as they try to protect Gabriel from his evil Uncle Evert. Verdict: This is a fun, fast-paced middle grade adventure that leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. A must have for your library!
Curricular Use: Adventure
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Dreams From Many Rivers: A Hispanic History of the United States Told in Poems Author: Engle, Margarita Henry Holt, 2019
ISBN: 9781627795319
$18.99
pg. 208
Grades 6 - 8 Beautiful poetry collection that creates a historical timeline as well as an insight into Hispanic culture in the United States. Each poem stands alone as its own story, but combined, they tell the story of a resilient community that remains with tradition unbroken. The illustration sty helps bring the setting of each stanza to life. Verdict: Highly recommend to Hispanic and Latino/a students looking to connect with their heritage in a well articulated way.
Curricular Use: History; Hispanic/Latino culture
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Women in the Military: from Drill Sergeants to Fighter Pilots
Author: Goldsmith, Connie Illustrator: Various Photographers
Twenty-First Century Books, 2019
ISBN: 9781541528123
$27.99
pg. 111
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12 An excellently researched coverage of women in military history, Women in the Military deals with this aspect of United States history from the Revolutionary War to the present. Vignettes of specific women as well as the military's policies regarding women in service highlight the specific issues that arise in this field of work. Also addressed are current challenges such as harassment and prejudice. It is well written and includes many informational resources at the back of the book which illuminate this highly controversial aspect of the United States Armed Services. Verdict: This valuable resource and historical documentary makes a great addition to the library in spite of its high price tag.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe
Author: Hackl, Jo Watson Random House, 2018
ISBN: 9780399557385
$16.99
pg. 226
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 When Cricket's creative, colorful, yet fragile mother leaves her - again - she sets forth alone into an abandoned, torn down company town where she once lived. There she hopes to solve the mystery of a special place her mother constantly obsesses about. If she can find it, maybe her mother will stay. This story of an abandoned child grappling with her mother's mental illness is creative and sensitive. There is enough reality to support the fantasy elements in the book. Verdict: This fascinating middle school story speaks to the heart of anyone who has lost a loved one.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
The Talk: Conversations About Race, Love, and Truth Author: Hudson, Wade and Hudson, Cheryl Willis Random House, 2020
ISBN: 9780593121610
$16.99
pg. 148
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book is a collection of short easy-reading anecdotes that are written from the viewpoints of individuals from many ethnicities, heritages, and cultures. Encouraging and uplifting, each individual story honestly examines the realities of racism and encourages anyone who feels different or who faces discrimination to stand tall and fearlessly celebrate their own diversity and uniqueness. Verdict: The book does not have any suggestive or inappropriate language. I would recommend the book for anyone who wants to learn how to appropriately handle facing discrimination and racism while remaining confident and comfortable celebrating their own diversity and uniqueness.
Curricular Use: Conversation starter; read-a-loud short stories
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
The Joke Machine: Create Your Own Jokes and Become Instantly Funny!
Author: Julian, Theresa Illustrator: Pat Lewis
Odd Dot, An imprint of Macmillan Publishing Group, 2019
ISBN: 9781250318640
$8.99
pg. 224
Grades 4 - 5 The Joke Machine is really funny and a pleasure to read. This book contains over 500 family-friendly jokes and 16 ways to create jokes and add humor to writing. Imaginations will run wild as kids begin learning how to really add humor to their writing and make up jokes of their own. This book not only has really funny jokes, but it teaches you what the "Formula for Funny" is. Author Theresa Julian, has created an excellent book for beginning young comedians and joke tellers. Creative illustrations by Pat N. Lewis add a fun and funny backdrop for this text to be told. This book is 4 x 8 inches and could fit in your back pocket for the next time you need a joke to tell. Verdict: A first pick for any Elementary or Middle School library. This book is great for all ages, and a simple resource for anyone who wants to write or tell a funnier joke.
Curricular Use: This book could be used in English class to discuss literary elements such as figure of speech, simile, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and metaphor. This book would be a great Library book as well.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
Monster Mâché Art: Easy-To-Make Amazing Monsters Author: Kington, Emily Hungry Tomato a Division of Lerner Publishing, 2019 ISBN: 9781541501270
$27.99
pg. 32
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 The front cover of the book caught my attention immediately. Everyone loves Monsters, Paper Mâché, and art! It starts out by giving tips to start and a simple materials list. Next, a homemade Mâché glue recipe is given and how to apply it is demonstrated. Clear simple photographs show each process and the supplies to be gathered. This book shows step-by-step how to make 6 types of Monsters, a moon light, 2 insects, a frog, and a mummy in the cupboard. The projects are fun and colorful and best of all just right for the age group. Very little needs to be purchased to be successful. Verdict: This Paper Mâché art book is a first pick in the library, classroom and home. The layout of the book makes it easy to read and understand what will be collected and then assembled.
Curricular Use: This book would make a great reference for a beginning art student, parent, or a rusty art teacher that needs a refresher on paper mâché.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian/ Art Teacher, Mt. Solo Middle School
Triple Threat
Author: Lupica, Mike Philomel Books, 2020
ISBN: 9780525514916
$17.99
pg. 242
Grades 6 - 8 Twelve-year-old Alex is getting ready to start seventh grade and makes a change in plans. She stops playing soccer and switches to football. As the first girl to tryout for the Orville Owls, she faces a steep climb for acceptance. Alex thinks things will settle down after she makes the football team, but the shuns and snide comments from girls and teammates alike continues. It foreces Alex to decide if being a trailblazer to play her favorite sport is worth all of the backlash it creates. Alex has very supportive parents and a good friend that help her get over the hurdles and become a football player to contend with. Another great sports story by Mike Lupica! Verdict: Great read for both boys and girls who love sports and football. A perfect middle school story!
Curricular Use: Sports Fiction, Female athletes
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
I am Benjamin Franklin Author: Meltzer, Brad Illustrator: Eliopoulos, Christopher
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2020
ISBN: 9780525555919
$15.99
pg. 38
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This is a great book about the life of Benjamin Franklin. Who he was as a person is highlighted by some of the historical details shared about him, which are not ones that are normally featured in a biography of his life. Interesting and well done. Verdict: Not only do I love this book about Benjamin Franklin, I am in love with the series. Having the same author and illustrator for each book means the format, writing style, and illustrations are consistent between books. This is a great jumping off series for children who are not yet ready for a chapter book biography. I plan on adding them to my library as money allows.
Curricular Use: History
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
It Rained Warm Bread: Moishe Moskowitz's Story or Hope
Author: Moskowitz-Sweet, Gloria
Illustrator: Lea Lyon
Henry Holt and Company, 2019
ISBN: 9781250165725
$16.99
pg. 148
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 The is a story of survival, suffering, and death. Holocaust survivor, Moishe Moskowitz was a 13 year old Jewish boy living in Poland in 1936. When the Nazi's invaded his town, his life forever changed. This is the story of how he survived the Jewish prison camps after he was separated from his family. This is a story of hope when there was no hope to be found. After starving for over a week and crammed into box car with many other prisoners, a few Czechoslovakian women threw fresh warm loaves of bread into the boxcar. Moishe felt as though this small act of kindness redeemed his faith that goodness could survive the trials of war. That was the day, "It rained warm bread".
The Author's note connects the reader by telling Moishe Moskowitz's survival story after he was rescued from the prison. Many years later as an old man, he recounted his experiences of survival to his daughter, Gloria Moskowitz-Sweet. Gloria tells her father's story through the words of award-winning poet Hope Anita Smith. This story is beautifully written in verse and thoughtfully illustrated. The ink wash illustrations are monochromatic and set the tone for the hopelessness of the Holocaust. They have a look and feel as though they could have been created in a journal during the Holocaust.
The author's use of metaphor and imagery is incredibly simple and clever. It allows for present day young readers to connect to this historically old and important story. The author says,
("We are stars, but we do not shine." p.43)
("In school, I did not like math, and now, I must admit, I like it even less. In the ghetto, even though we are all in the same boat, we are divided." p.70)
("The sun is a Ferris wheel bringing yesterday around for another spin...but this is today. And suddenly I see how the trick works-- Tomorrow never comes." p.91)
This story is an up-close view of the physical and emotional price paid for being Jewish in the midst of the unprecedented Nazi genocide. Every child and adult should read this story.
Verdict: This should be a first pick when adding to any Holocaust library collection because it is easy to read in free verse, informative and connects well to readers of all ages in a meaningful way.
Curricular Use: This novel in verse is an excellent text for students to easily read for deeper meaning. This text could be used to discuss metaphors and imagery and how to connect to young readers using a historical text. This text introduces the atrocities of the holocaust to children ages 10-13 in a "PG" way without sacrificing the heart wrenching experiences that come with reading about Holocaust survivors.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
A Tale Magnolious: the Adventures of an Orphan, Her Elephant, and Some Rather Unusual Seeds Author: Nelson, Suzanne Illustrator: Emelia Dziubak Knopf, 2019
ISBN: 9781984831743
$16.99
pg. 359
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 6 Nitty escapes from an unpleasant existance in the Grimsgate Orphanage, and soon absconds with a bag of seeds, the same vibant green as her eyes. Next, she is just in time to rescue Mag, a circus elephant unjustly accused of murder, from a sentence of hanging. They escape in the middle of a dust storm to dwindling town Fortune's Bluff, and take shelter in a barn owned by grumpy and brokenhearted Windle Homes. He takes in the girl (and her elephant) who also befriends Twitch, an asthmatic boy detective. They decide to work together to find out why dust storms are disappearing everywhere else, but getting worse in their poor town. Insatiable Mayor/Inventor Neezer Snollygost and his mysterious thumping Whirlybog machine seems to be the prime suspect. Curious events, quaint characters, magic froozle fruits, and the power of restored hope lead to a satisfying happy ending. Verdict: This lyrical Dust Bowl Historical/Magical Fantasy mash-up would appeal to fans of Kate DiCamillo and Roald Dahl, for the plucky protagonist, great-hearted and intutive pachyderm, intrepid boy detective, and other quaint characters.
Curricular Use: love of reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Great Realization
Author: Roberts, Tomos
Illustrator: Nomoco
Harper, 2020
ISBN: 978-0-063066636-6
$18.99
pg. 24
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
This is the story of life before and after Covid-19 told in a poem. Before Covid-19 there was less connection between families and people, with nature and not a very good life/work balance. Covid-19 caused us all to slow down and connect, remembering how things used to be before technology came along and life became so busy. Verdict: Well done. A great way to show what is really important in life and that we do not want to lose the connections we have rekindled once Covid-19 is over.
Curricular Use: This is a great book for SEL issues related to Covid-19. In the future, it would also be an effective way to look back on this time through the eyes of history.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Twilight Hauntings
Author: Sage, Angie
Illustrator: Justin Hernandez
Katherine Tegen Books, 2020
ISBN: 9780062875143
$16.99
pg. 347
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8
Enchanter's Child book 1. Alex has been raised by another family since she was a toddler when her parents thrust her into the arms of a stranger on a train to save her when their village was being destroyed. Alex has magical powers that she must keep secret or face severe consequences in a land where magic has been banned. When her foster sister turns her into the authorities, Alex must make a run for it. Alex grabs her young foster brother when the authories come and the pair have a harrowed adventure as they search for safety and Alex's past. This story leaves on a cliff-hanger and the reader will eagerly await the next installment in the series. Verdict: Another great fantasy series by Angie Sage! Easy to read and engaging, this book will keep readers turning the pages.
Curricular Use: Fantasy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Fairy Science Solid, Liquid, Gassy
Author: Spires, Ashley
Illustrator: Ashley Spires
Crown Books for Young Readers, 2020
ISBN: 978-0-525-58144-4
$17.99
pg. 30
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
This is about a fairy who does not believe in magic but believes in science instead. It introduces both the scientific method and the water cycle in the story. Since the information is shared through an engaging story, the children will find learning about the scientific method and the water cycle fun. Verdict: Great book. Children will love it.
Curricular Use: This is the perfect way to introduce both the scientific method and/or the water cycle to elementary students.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Bad Bella
Author: Standish, Ali HarperCollins Publishers, 2019
ISBN: 9780062893253
$16.99
pg. 163
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 3 Bella thinks she is a good dog, but is always being told "Bad Dog" by the family she lives with. She is taken to the pound and left. Some of the other dogs at the pound tell her that families with children don't want dogs, so try to get adopted by single couples. She gets her wish and goes off to live with Andy and Alice. She loves her new home, and feeling wanted again, until she realizes that they are expecting a baby. Fearing they will return her to the pound, she runs away. Life on the run proves very difficult, and she finds herself back outside her home. The family is ecstatic, and had been searching for her. Bella's story was based on a real dog the author adopted, and includes photos. The author also gave suggestions for helping animals who are still waiting in shelters. Verdict: It is a heart touching story told from the perspective of the animals. This lets children know that animals have feelings too.
Curricular Use: Love of reading.
Reviewer: Carol Blix , Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Welcome to your Period! Author: Stynes, Yumi and Kang, Dr. Melissa
Illustrator: Latham, Jenny Walker Books, 2019
ISBN: 9781536214772
$9.99
pg. 163
Grades 6 - 8 Excellent beginners guide for people starting their period, no shame necessary. Not only is this book inclusive to people in different situations, but also of all ethnicities, body types, gender, etc...It includes stories and quotes from real people who have gone through similar matters, as well. The illustration style is cute, but can still be taken seriously, with visual examples of female anatomy for educational purposes. Verdict: Highly recommend to anybody with period questions.
Curricular Use: Health; Informational
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Cardslinger
Author: Velasco, M.G.
Carolrhoda Books, 2019
ISBN: 9781541554641
$17.99
pg. 348
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8
Shuffle's dad has been gone for 5 years and legally declared dead. Determined to find him and discover who is publishing the card game they created and played together, the boy sets out with his original set of cards and several clues to help him solve these mysteries. I'm not a fan of westerns or TVGs/CCGs, yet this action packed adventure is a thrilling concoction of both with plenty of interesting characters encountered along the way. Verdict: Fortunately the cover might entice some of the readers to pick up the book because the quality of the writing will keep them reading once they begin.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Walk Toward the Rising Sun: From Child Soldier to Ambassador of Peace Author: Duany, Ger with Thomas, Garen
Random House, 2020
ISBN: 9781524719401
$18.99
pg. 320
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12 Wow, this is a well done memoir that really lets you "walk a mile" in this man's shoes. The author grew up in South Sudan among a large extended family. His father was part of the liberation movement and at an early age, Ger was fighting as a soldier. At age 16, he was given the opportunity to emigrate to the US, and although it was hard leaving his family, he asked himself, "What's the worst thing that could happen if I go? I already know what will happen if I stay." Death. Verdict: If you're looking for a book that is powerful, compelling, informative and enlightening on world issues, and most importantly keeps your interest from beginning to end, leaving you feeling inspired, get this book.
Curricular Use: World History - 1990's Africa; Immigrations
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Things That Grow Author: Goldstein, Meredith Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021
ISBN: 9781328770103
$17.99
pg. 329
Grades 9 - 12, Grade 8 The death of a grandmother is always a blow, but for Lori the unexpected loss is especially difficult. Grandma Sheryl was Lori's stability. Lori's mother is a little bit of a "woo woo" flaky life coach who flits from man to man, and Lori's uncle is fun and fancy free author, but doesn't want to take up residence in the small town where he grew up. It's the end of her junior year, so--more than anything--Lori wants to graduate with her classmates and wants to honor her grandmother's final wish: to be buried next to "things that grow." More specifically, there are four places she wants her cremains to rest, and not all of those are easily accessible. What follows is a variant on the road trip trope that is both unique and utterly charming. Overlaying this story is burgeoning romance between Lori and her best friend/creative partner in the production of the "N-Files," a quarterly compilation of fantasy and science fiction short stories. Lori does the writing, Chris does the illustrating. Neither of them wants to ruin the good thing they have.
Every part of this story is done well. Lori and Chris's attempt to transition their friendship into "something more" is relatable. Chris is African American, so the challenges he faces as a person of color are also gently handled. Subtle events (like the two of them caught in a parking lot after dark) illustrate the different vulnerabilities they have: her, as a female, him as a black male in a suburban location. Uncle Seth is gay and trying to navigate his own relationship issues. Lori's relationship with her mother is also beautifully rendered. Verdict: This beautiful exploration of grief and relationships is billed as a romance, but will find a place in the hearts of readers. This is a strong purchase for all YA collections.
Curricular Use: This is a good book for exploring the nature of healthy and unhealthy relationships both in familial and romantic relationships. This includes setting and enforcing boundaries.
Washington State Health Standards emphasize recognizing potential resources and networks of people who can be a support. This is a good title for illustrating how to evaluate those resources.
Recognizing stress and finding ways to cope with stress is addressed.
The Dorothy Parker fandom of Grandma Sheryl introduces an American Poet to students who would otherwise miss out on her enormous wit.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
The Initial Insult
Author: McGinnis, Mindy Katherine Tegen Books, 2021
ISBN: 9780062982421
$17.99
pg. 370
Grades 9 - 12 Mindy McGinnis is back with a violent tale of friendship and betrayal. Tress Montor lost everything when her parents took Felicity Turnado home following an aborted slumber party. Relegated to living with her grandfather in the "White Trash Zoo" of Amontillado, Tress has devised a plan to make Felicity relive that fateful night and tell Tress everything she knows about the disappearance of Tress's parents.
Felicity is unclear about the details of that fateful night because she has seizures--a condition she has worked very hard to keep secret. In fact, it is more important to her to look like she hooks up with the most popular football player than to have her peers think she loses control of her bladder in the throes of a seizure. Town social class dynamics have put a wedge between the formerly inseparable friends, and Felicity finds herself being bricked into a prison in the basement of the old Usher place during an annual party--one of the last before the house is torn down.
If the names sound familiar, this duology is an intentional homage to Edgar Allan Poe, and character motivations and past hurts do his legacy justice. McGinnis extends the research she did about opioid addiction for "Heroine" to this title as well. The fact that it is already on YALSA's 2022 Best Fiction for Young Adults List is a testament to the quality of the writing and the expected appeal. The casual nature of sexual encounters, language, and drug/alcohol use render this more appropriate for a mature audience. Verdict: This is a strong first purchase for fans of McGinnis's "Female of the Species" book and readers who like a little gore with their plot.
Curricular Use: This is a title that lends itself well to reading with a Marxist/Social Power lens since much of the angst is related to economics and social power.
This would also be an excellent candidate for studying writer's craft as readers compare the title with the original "Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allan Poe.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
Earth Day and the Environmental Movement Author: Peterson, Christy
Twenty First Century Books, 2020
ISBN: 9781541552814
$37.99
pg. 120
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12 There have always been environmental disasters. This time it was different. This book begins by retelling a 50 year old story from 1969, about a massive oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara that spewed an estimated 3 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, creating an oil slick 35 miles long along California's coast and killing thousands of birds, fish and sea mammals.
In 1969 there was no EPA, no Clean Air Act, no Clean Water Act. There were no legal or regulatory mechanisms to protect our environment. In spring 1970, Senator Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day as a way to force this issue onto the national agenda. Twenty million Americans demonstrated in different U.S. cities, and it worked! In December 1970, Congress authorized the creation of a new federal agency to tackle environmental issues, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
This book gives a comprehensive review of environmental concerns prior to the first Earth Day. It is laid out very nicely with graphics, photos and easy to read text. This book also has smaller vignettes of other environmental disasters that help support the need for an environmental movement and nationwide Earth Day. It also contains many photos to document the history of events leading to Earth Day and the progress that has taken place after. This book not only details the past, and clearly outlines the present, but it takes stock in the future. It specifically mentions what youth activists are doing to address climate change. Updates are given on how wildlife have healed after the devastating oil spill 50 years ago. The last section of the book highlights and gives specific ideas on how youth activists can get involved to help the fight for Earth. Verdict: This book is a wealth of information and should be a first pick for Middle and High School libraries. It is easy to read and visually laid out nicely. It is informative and Explains why we have Earth Day and an ongoing environmental movement.
Curricular Use: This book is an excellent source for any youth who wants to learn about the Environmental movement and learn how to fight to keep Earth clean. The comprehensive glossary, source notes, selected biography list, further information and About the Author will give any aspiring you activisit a clear direction to head.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt. Solo Middle School
Dear Justyce
Author: Stone, Nic
Crown, 2020
ISBN: 9781984829665
$18.99
pg. 266
Grades 9 - 12
For Laquan Banks being young and black has never been easy, especially living with his Mom and her boyfriend, Dwight, who takes his problems out on Quan’s mom. Even when he tries to do well in school, teacher suspect he has cheated. So, when an offer to be a part of a crew in his neighborhood presents itself, he takes it. When he’s arrested for murdering a police officer, he reaches out to Justyce McAllister via letters and the two try to find a way to free him, while also staying loyal to his crew. Verdict: A couple of reasons to love this book: it’s short, powerful, and provides insight into systemic racism.
Curricular Use: This book is a great springboard for discussions about race and the judicial process in America. It would be great to compare Dear Martin to Dear Justyce.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, Mark Morris High School
How the Leopard Got His Claws
Author: Achebe, Chinua Illustrator: Mary Grandpre Candlewick Press, 2011
ISBN: 9781526209495
$7.99
pg. unp.
Grades 1 - 3 The story tells how in the beginning all of the animals of the forest lived together peacefully. The leopard was king and most liked him. Even the leopard had no sharp teeth or claws; only the dog had sharp teeth. The animals built a village hall where they could rest after farming or when the rainy season came. One day a heavy rainstorm came and when the other animals came to the shelter, they found the dog who attacked anyone that ventured in. Even when King Leopard tried to enter, he was attacked by the dog. The other animals claimed the dog was the new king. The leopard went away and got sharp claws and teeth from the blacksmith, as well as the roar from the house of Thunder. Coming back, he roared and brought terror to the forest.
The sentences are short to medium length, giving the story a continuous flow. This would be a great story for continuing the "Why" stories of different cultures. The colorful illustrations are done in acrylic on gessoed illustration board. Verdict: The story is a great read-aloud picture story or a story for young readers.
Curricular Use: The book would be useful for students interested in the "Why" stories of different cultures, with this set in Africa.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Flying Paintings: The Zhou Brothers: A Story of Revolution and Art
Author: Alznauer, Amy Illustrator: Zhou, ShanZuo and Zhou, DaHuang Candlewick Press, 2020 ISBN: 9781536204285
$17.99
pg. 48
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book follows the ongoing story of the Zhou brothers, two artistic revolutionaries from China. Easy to follow text gives insight into some recent Chinese history and has illustrations done by the Zhou's which really shows you what life looked and felt like for them. Verdict: I would recommend this book to students with an interest in art and history.
Curricular Use: Might be useful to Art students/teachers and our Chinese Language students/teachers
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Libarian, Monticello/Cascade
Norman One Amazing Goldfish
Author: Bennett, Kelly Illustrator: Jones, Noah Z.
Candlewick Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781536206715
$16.99
pg. 23
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
Norman the goldfish is an amazing pet. He performs many amazing tricks. His owner has an entire program planned to showcase Norman's talents. The text includes creative text to mimic musical instrument sounds, and text to showcase the owner's singing. While the owner is getting ready to showcase Norman's talents at the Pet-O-Rama, he becomes nervous while he compares him to the acts that came previously. Ready to prove how amazing he is, Norman gets stage fright and can perform. Students can relate to the body ques that Norman is giving off, Fin drooping, panic-stricken face. When his owner reminds him its just like being at home, Norman begins to perform! Verdict: This is a fun read to share with a class. Plenty of opportunity to make noises and use facial expressions to illustrate the mood. Great sequel to "Not Norman: A Goldfish Story"
Curricular Use: Great book to use during Social emotional time. This book tells of stage fright, insecurity, support and friendship.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle
I am Perfectly Designed Author: Brown, Karamo Illustrator: Syed, Annosha Henry Holt and Company, 2019
ISBN: 9781250232212
$18.99
pg. 31
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
A father and son take a walk through the city. They talk about some of the best times they have experienced together. This story creates an excellent opportunity to view life as a whole containing experiences, shared lives, and family love. The illustrator includes in the front and back covers detailed drawings that depict a wide variety of families, LGBT, Muslim, and multicultural families. This picture book promotes family, individuality, acceptance, and family support. This cute story is heartwarming and easy. Verdict: This story portrays a realistic father and son. Great advice is given about growing up and loving yourself. Excellent pick for a library/classroom.
Curricular Use: Great addition to a classroom library. Social emotional connections are an excellent teaching tool.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
Cow Says Meow
Author: Call, Kirsti Illustrator: Brandon James Scott
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021
ISBN: 9780358423348
$12.99
pg. Unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Barnyard (and wild) animals speak amok in this book that is filled with puns and fun wordplay. It all starts with the cow saying "meow" and runs through nine animals and a kid all saying things you would never expect, with another child making pithy or punny observations that "that's not what a ________ would say."
Fun cutouts for the eyes, in front and back, already suggest a whimsical story and the Photoshopped illustrations suggest a texture that's usually found in mixed media. Both children are persons of color, which will draw students of all ethnicities into the fun. Even the inside covers (front and back) are fun - the front cover presenting the animals with speech bubbles making the wrong sounds, and the back cover presenting the animals with speech bubbles making the correct sounds--just in case little ones need to check their answers at the back of the book. Verdict: This is a title that provides an excellent read aloud with child participation opportunities.
Curricular Use: Text features - looking at the speech bubbles and comparing them to graphic novel formats
Rhetorical devices - turns of phrase and puns
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
Once Upon a Star: A poetic journey through space Author: Carter, James Illustrator: Hernandez, Mar Doubleday Books for Young Readers, 2018
ISBN: 9780525579335
$17.99
pg. 24
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 The story of our universe, and galaxy, in a poem. Very well done. Clear and easy to understand. Interesting technique used for the illustrations which makes them nice and crisp. The ending is unexpected and perfect. Verdict: This is a great marriage of science and poetry. Makes learning about our universe fun.
Curricular Use: English teachers and science teachers could use this to collaborate on a space unit. Kids love learning about space and I think it would be fun to have them write "space" poems about what they are learning.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
All Aboard the Moonlight Train
Author: Crow, Kristyn Illustrator: Annie Won Doubleday, 2020
ISBN: 9780525645436
$17.99
pg. unp.
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This is a story of a boy who is not sleepy at bedtime. He hops on board the Moonlight Train and sees a wide variety of friendly jungle animals, including an elephant engineer and a giraffe to climb his neck to see the stars. As the boy starts to get sleepy, the train brings him back home.
The story is written in rhyme and is an easy read for students or for a parent reading a bedtime story. This is similar to other bedtime train books, but still worthwhile. Verdict: The picture book has great illustrations that encourage children to find the jungle animals that are mentioned in the story. The rhyming makes it a very easy read for young readers.
Curricular Use: The story would be appropriate for a poetry lesson or a jungle themed unit.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Sydney & Taylor Explore the Whole Wide World
Author: Davies, Jacqueline Illustrator: Deborah Hocking
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021
ISBN: 9780358106319
$14.99
pg. 80
Grades 1 - 3 This is a story of two friends, Taylor the hedgehog and Sydney the skunk, who live in a burrow under Miss Nancy's potting shed. One day Taylor gets a Big Idea to go on an expedition to Places Unknown. Taking the map of the Whole Wide World, they set out over walls and up hills, not realizing how much bigger the real world is. After surviving several dangers, they are able to make it back home. Maybe they will become authors to write about their adventure. Having twelve short chapters with colorful pictures, a few complicated words, and lots of white space, it would be an independent reader for a third grader or a read-aloud for younger children. Verdict: This story was an enjoyable read with the friendship dynamics between the two characters and how they were able to work out how to solve the problems they encountered during their exploration.
Curricular Use: Independent reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Sunny-Side Up
Author: Davis, Jacky Illustrator: Fiona Woodcock
Greenwillow Books, 2021
ISBN: 9780062573070
$17.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 A little girl wakes up to a wonderful breakfast and a great mood. After she eats, she opens the curtains to realize that the sky is gray with rain. What follows is the little girl throwing a temper tantrum because she can't play outside. Her daddy comforts her and and tells her that playing inside will be alright. From then on the little girls makes the most of her day playing lots of run games. All the while she hears the rain drip. Even though it is hard she continues to make the most of it. Just after lunch she breaks down and cries again. Her Dad comforts her again. By the end of the day, her mother talks to her about about how hard it was to stay inside, but how much fun it can after the rain has stopped.
The illustrator did a great job using muted gray tones to give the feeling of rain and disappointment. As the emotions of the little girls changes throughout the book the illustrator matches it using bright colors. The use of watercolor to express this little girl and her emotions is a great choice on a rainy day that turns out ok.
Verdict: This is a delightful book that shows emotion and teaches how to recover from disappointment. This would be a great addition to a library and classroom.
Curricular Use: The major theme in this book is turning a bad day around to making it a good day--no matter what. It is a great story to show children how they might act when upset and how they can act when everything is going to be ok.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
Pete The Cat: Crayons Rock!
Author: Dean, Kimberly & James
Illustrator: Dean, James
Harper Collins Publishers, 2020
ISBN: 9780062868558
$18.99
pg. unp
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Pete likes to color. He colors pictures of his friends, and gives to them. They find something wrong with each picture and he becomes discouraged. They tell him that he's unique, so he tries again. His friends love what he produces, and he gets his confidence back. The illustrations are very colorful. Most of the primary and secondary colors are named in the text except for yellow and orange, which are named in the endpapers. The typeface is in a hand-printed font. Verdict: Pete The Cat books remain popular, and the message of the story encourages you to keep trying, even is you feel like giving up.
Curricular Use: Love of reading. Color recognition.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Pete the Cat: Super Pete Author: Dean, Kimberly
Illustrator: James Dean
Harper, 2020
ISBN: 99780062868534
$16.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
A level 1 "I Can Read" title that combines Pete the Cat with Batmanesque tropes. Pete the Cat gets an alert on his watch and races for his secret lair. There he dons a suit, mask and cape to become Super Pete. He flys in his jet to check out trouble at the wearhouse; uses night vision goggles to spot the bad guys, and scares them off with his slingshot. His suit alters to flippers and a swim mask while he swims after their getaway boat and lassoes it, and his jet comes to take Super Pete and the tied up bad guys to the mayor. The color illustrations show Super Pete and all his nifty gear (including his iconic sneakers) to accompany the short sentences and easy vocabulary for beginning readers. Verdict: Pete the Cat as a super hero (without violence) in a beginning reader is a winner for eager youngsters.
Curricular Use: Beginning reading practice
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Flora & Uylsses
Author: DiCamillo Kate Illustrator: K.G. Campbell Candlewick Press, 2013
ISBN: 9781536217360
$7.99
pg. 231
Grades 4 - 5 This book seems to be glued well, and is an appropriate size. I like being able to staple the paperback books it they do start to come apart at the spine. The hardback books seem to come apart at the spine, which makes it a lot harder to repair. I usually prefer paperback chapter books to the hardback books because of this reason. Verdict: It would be nice if books were glued better on the spines. Bound to stay bound and permabound books are nice and they have a lifetime warranty.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Octicorn Party
Author: Diller, Kevin Illustrator: Tian Mulholland
Balzer + Bray, imprint of Harper Collins Publishers, 2020
ISBN: 9780062387943
$17.99
pg. 48
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This book is a delightful and funny story about an Octicorn who is half Octopus and half Unicorn. He knows he is different. He wants to have a party. He wonders if anyone will come? He decides to very thoughtfully invite each friend who is a little different. He is not sure they will come because each friend has a specific set of needs that sometimes clashes with the other friends. Ultimately he learns that he can’t please everyone....but he can encourage everyone to just be themselves. The illustrations is simple black and white contour lines except for the little bit of color added in just the right place to accent the meaning of the text. Verdict: Super cute book that everyone can relate to when planning a party guest list. A great purchase for a library, classroom, or home.
Curricular Use: Contains Social Emotional themes: embarrassment, worry, pleasing others, diversity, and acceptance. This book would be a great conversation piece about being yourself no mater what other say about you.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
Two Dogs in a Trench Coat
Author: Falatko, Julie
Illustrator: Colin Jack
Scholastic Press, 2018
ISBN: 9781338189513
$9.99
pg. 186
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 3
Okay, admittedly, I did not have great expectations for the silly escapades of this chapter book. But Ms. Falatko delighted me with the antics of two devoted dogs who sneak into a classroom (as a fellow student) to save their boy from the evil overlord. Maybe school isn't so bad after all. The simple creativity of the writing somehow drew me into the zany fantasy. There are plenty of hilarious conversations throughout to keep the story up close and personal. Verdict: Though a traditionally silly chapter book for the 8 to 11 year olds, Two Dogs in a Trench Coat was considerably better than most.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Sonic the Hedgehog: The Fate of Dr. Eggman Part 2 Author: Flynn, Ian
ABDO, 2018
ISBN: 9781532144387
pg. unpaged
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 Dr. Eggman, a villian has lost his memory. Sonic believes with his memory gone that he is no longer evil. Mr. Eggman is building a carnival for the children called Eggman land. Sonic thinks that maybe Eggman is beginning to get his memory back and perhaps there is something sinister about the carnival. You must read the next volume to find out is Eggman has turned back into his evil ways or if he is just a good guy. Verdict: I think the student will enjoy this book, and I love the way ABDO binds their books to make them last.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Horace & Bunwinkle
Author: Gardner, P. J. Illustrator: David Mottram
Balzer + Bray, 2020
ISBN: 9780062946546
$16.99
pg. 198
Grades 4 - 5 Enthusiastic and irreverent, Bunwinkle the pig becomes the adopted sister of the fussily cautious Horace, the Boston Terrier. They cooperate and compete to solve the mystery of the animals who keep disappearing from the neighborhood. But when Bunwinkle is gone, Horace braves up and methodically uses his sniffer to find his bothersome sister. The hilarious characterizations of the animals makes this quirky mystery a fun book to read. Verdict: A good chapter book for the middle elementary reader, Horace and Bunwinkle would also delight as a read out loud story.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Snowy Owl
Author: Hansen, Grace
Abdo Kids, 2020
ISBN: 9781532188909
$29.93
pg. 24
Grades 1 - 3 Stunning photographs and simple information make this an interesting book for children who like to read about animals. Perfect for younger readers. Verdict: Well done book with great information. A bit pricey.
Curricular Use: Science
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Summer Song
Author: Henkes, Kevin Illustrator: Laura Dronzek
Greenwillow, 2020
ISBN: 9780062866134
$18.99
pg. unp.
P - K, Grade 1 - 2
Henkes finishes his picturebook season quartet with this paean to Summer. Rich colorful acrylic paintings of smiling children (and a white kitten) exporing nature accompany Henkes' poetic metaphor of Summer as a green song; of leaves, trees, weeds and grass, and the music of air conditioners, fans, sprinklers, and lawn mowers, summer storms, insects, and more. Then Summer finally gets bored and turns into Fall. Short phrases and sentences invite young readers to read and reflect on the pleasures of the season. Verdict: A good companion to Henkes' other season books, with colorful illustrations and evocative language describing Summer as a green song children can enjoy.
Curricular Use: An introduction to the season for early elementary students.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Best Place in the World
Author: Horacek, Petr
Illustrator: Horacek, Petr Candlewick , 2020
ISBN: 9781536212853
$16.99
pg. unp
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Hare asked his friends the bee, the bear, duck, little birds and the owl why they thought the meadow was so special. Each friend answered the question based on what they liked to do.
Hare leaves his beloved meadow to see if any other place was better. After seeing many nice places Hare decides that where his friends are is best. This book is bright and colorful. The illustrations are eye catching and fun to look at. The sentences are of medium length. The text is delightful but too challenging for beginning readers. Verdict: The story line coupled with the colorful multimedia illustrations are relatable in context to a young child's imagination.
Curricular Use: The size of the book makes it a good read aloud.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian , Cathlamet Public Library
The Shark Book
Author: Jenkins, Steve Illustrator: author
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021
ISBN: 9781328569493
$17.99
pg. 33
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5
Jenkins and wife Robin Page serve up a nonfiction picturebook shark sampler, featuring their usual torn and cut paper collage illustrations. The text is set in a hand-lettered look sans serif font, with a smaller point number, making it a little harder reading for some. Most of the double-spread pages show different kinds of sharks drawn to scale (with a human swimmer for comparison). One page maps out the special features of a shark's body, others have silhouettes of the largest and smallest sharks, expain shark births, what they eat, hunting and feeding techniques, range and features of great whites, whale sharks, and hammerheads, list of rare varieties, some sharks with special abilities, three ancient shark relatives, shark record holders, and info on shark attacks. A concluding table lists sharks mentioned in the book, page numbers, their sizes, ranges, whether they are dangerous to humas, and their endangered status. There is also a short bibliography. Verdict: A solid source of shark information presented accessibly for visual learners in Grades 1-4, done in Jenkins' carefully designed colorful collage compositions.
Curricular Use: biology, nonfiction reading practice
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Homes in the Wild
Author: Judge, Lita
Illustrator: Lita Judge
Roaring Brook Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781626727243
$18.99
pg. 44
Grades 1 - 3, Grade 4
Choosing an eclectic collection of mammals around the world, Ms. Judge discusses the sleep dwellings of the critters and their young. Her large illustrations are very endearing. At the back she includes more in depth information on the animals themselves. She peppers the narrative with occasional quirky bits preventing it from being too plain. Verdict: Homes in the Wild is a very good, nonfiction picture book for the more advanced lower elementary reader.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Sunny
Author: Krampien, Celia Roaring Brook Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781250316608
$17.99
pg. 31
P - K, Grades 1 - 3
The title, "Sunny" does not tell the story of a sunny day. Instead it is the name of a little girl with a positive outlook and a sense of adventure. When Sunny is swept up by the wind during a storm, she looks at it in a positive way . For example, "Most people don't like rainy days," but Sunny points our that "That is what most people would say." When it rains, Sunny becomes excited to try out her new umbrella. Sunny's day continues on a path that would begin to worry most anyone, but not Sunny. Blown out to sea and all alone, Sunny almost begins to cry, but she is quickly rescued by a flock of birds. The birds return her late to her school. Sunny still doesn't worry because she knows her teacher will understand. This cute story helps the reader look at life's problems in a positive way. It teaches support through friends. The illustration is a simple repetition of teals and oranges. Just enough detail has been included to help the reader travel along with Sunny. Verdict: This is a great introduction to a discussion about attitude and understanding.
Curricular Use: Great book to include in the library for social emotional read-a-louds.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle
The Infamous Ratsos Camp Out
Author: LaReau, Kara Illustrator: Matt Myers
Candlewick, 2020
ISBN: 9781536200065
$14.99
pg. 74
Grades 1 - 3 In book 4 of the Ratso Brothers series, Louis and Ralphie go on a camping trip with the rest of the Big City Scouts. A special guide for the trip is Grampa Ratso, who recites in their oath "No matter the problem, we'll solve it ourselves; we know we can fix it without any help." This causes the leaders and older scouts to ignore the sound advice of youngsters: well-read Velma and Ralphie's common sense suggestions. The group ends up lost, hungry, wet and itchy from poison ivy, before Velma makes a well-timed phone call for an additional special guide, Grandma Ratso. She brings food, calamine lotion, and matches, and the correct lines for their oath, "...and if we can't fix it we'll reach out for help." Big Lou, their Scout leader, awards some special badges to the youngest campers, for their wisdom. Short sentences, a humorous plot, and expressive cartoony illustrations make this early chapter book a good choice. Verdict: This humorous early chapter book will appeal to beginning independent readers.
Curricular Use: Beginning independent reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
She Caught the Light: Williamina Stevens Fleming: Astronomer
Author: Lasky, Kathryn Illustrator: Swaney, Julianna
Harper, 2021
ISBN: 9780062849304
$18.99
pg. 40
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This picture book follows the life of Williamina Stevens Fleming, a groundbreaking woman astronomer whose discoveries changed how space was seen, forever. The book also has a timeline and glossary for further learning opportunities. The illustrations are attractive and add to the enjoyment of the story. Verdict: I would recommend this book to all the young lady scientists, historians, and feminists as a source of immense inspiration.
Curricular Use: Women's History Month; Famous Astronomers
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Zonia's Rain Forest
Author: Martinez-Neal, Juana
Illustrator: Juana Martinez-Neal
Candlewick Press, 2021
ISBN: 9781536208450
$17.99
pg. 40
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This book has strong ties to the Amazon Rainforest. A little girl name Zonia calls the rainforest her home. Everyday it calls to her and everyday she explores it. Along the way she visits all her super cute animal friends. This is the story of the day the forest called to her in trouble. At the end of this book we are reminded that the forest calls all of us to environmental action. The cute illustrations are made of faint mixed media illustrations that are perfect to set the wispy tone of a little girl in the forest having fun.
Following the end of the story there is a translation of the book into the Peruvian language of Ashaninka. A brief history of the Ashaninka people is included as well as a few facts about the Amazon. I really appreciated the inclusion of the "Threats to the Amazon". It brings awareness of why the Amazon Rainforest need our help.
Lastly, there is a cute page that consists of little illustrations of each of Zonia's wildlife friends with their scientific names.
Something impressive to notice is that this book has a FSC Mix label which means the product is sourced from responsibly managed forests. The label provides assurance that all the wood or paper in this book has been verified as genuinely recycled and reclaimed. The use of these special materials to make this book, give this story a greater sense of authenticity and environmental responsibility. Verdict: Zonia's Rainforest is a thoughtful story with loveable characters and a strong environmental influence. This would be a good addition to any library and classroom.
Curricular Use: A strong theme of environmental responsibility can be used to teach young children about saving rainforests. The insert in the back about the Ashaninka people will tie in nicely to culture awareness. Text supports Earth Day learning.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt. Solo Middle
Marvel Super Hero Adventures: Inferno
Author: McCann Jim Illustrator: Brizuela, Dario; Sotomayor, Chris
ABDO, 2020
ISBN: 9781532144493
pg. unpaged
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 Spiderman tries to defeat Hobogoblin in this story. He is having a hard time so Inferno joins to help. Inferno's super power is he creates fire. The two super powers together are able to take care of Hobogoblin. Verdict: Students love super hero's and this story is very interesting. I like the hard back binding on this book. Hopefully it will last longer.
Curricular Use: Compare and contrast spiderman's powers to Inferno's powers.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Grandpa's Top Threes
Author: Meddour, Wendy
Illustrator: Daniel Egneus
Candlewick Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781536211252
$16.99
pg. 32
P - K
The author writes about grief in a sensitive and appropriate manner for young children in this picture book.
The boy helps his Grandpa overcome grief after his Grandma died. He succeeds in helping his Grandpa talk again by playing the game “What are your top threes?” top three sandwiches, top three animals etc
The boy is caring and makes his Grandpa his favorite/his top three sandwiches. He shares his top three choices first and then Grandpa opens up and names his.
Grandchild finds a way to connect with his grieving Grandpa while talking about top three, playing and talking about Grandma.
The illustrations look like a mix of water color, pencil and collage.
The text is simple, but also includes some higher-level vocabulary. It encourages children to play their own top three game.
Verdict: The author writes about grief in a sensitive and appropriate manner for young children in this picture book.
Curricular Use: Social-Emotional - Grief
Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Disability Specialist, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
I am Anne Frank
Author: Meltzer, Brad Illustrator: Eliopoulos, Christopher
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2020
ISBN: 9780525555940
$15.99
pg. 38
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This is the story of Anne Frank without the gory details of the Holocaust. It does not leave out how the Nazis treated the Jews but it does not use the words "Concentration Camp" or talk about the specifics of how the Jews died in them. It does say that they were made to work all day and night and that there was not much food to go around, so it does share some of the awful aspects of the camps. At the end of the book, they mention the number of Jews killed during the war but then the story sums things up by focusing on the hope that was in Anne's situation. People helping people even though they were not supposed to because it was the right thing to do. It encourages the same behavior and attitude today. They addressed a difficult topic well. Verdict: I was nervous about this book because of the topic and was pleasantly pleased at how it was addressed. While talking about the situation the Jews faced, they chose to share things in an age appropriate way, conveying the essence of the situation facing the Jews while leaving out the more horrific details. This is a great book for upper elementary and middle school because it is not too wordy and the pictures are fun and engaging. It does not give too much information for children. The information given is just right. The only drawback is that it is a bit pricey for the size of the book.
Curricular Use: This is a great resource for both biographies and WWII. History and English teachers will both love the book. Study WWII in history. Read and write about the important people during the war and write about them in English.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Fresh Princess: Style Rules!
Author: Millner, Denene
Illustrator: Gladys Jose
Harper Collins Publishers, 2020
ISBN: 9780062884589
$18.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Destiny is going to start a new school and she is very excited. The only thing she doesn't like is the uniform she has to wear with the pea green jacket. When she is playing on the playground and the bell rings she puts on her jacket, without realizing it her jacket was inside out, but it was a swirly purple and Destiny really liked it so she left it that way. By the next school day many of the students were following Destiny in wearing their jackets inside out.. Her teacher commented how smart they look, and decided to make each Wednesday the day to wear their jackets inside out. Verdict: This is a fun story that helps show how important it is to be yourself.
Curricular Use: This would be a good story to tell the main idea with supporting details.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
The Favorite Book
Author: Murguia, Bethanie Deeney
Illustrator: Bethanie Deeney Murguia
Candlewick Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781536204469
$16.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 The title, " The Favorite Book" is immediately intriguing when viewing the cover. Many amazing choices are displayed on the cover, causing excitement before the book is even opened. This author/ illustrator does an amazing job presenting many colorful favorites to choose from throughout the book. The story presents a group of favorite items on each page and then weighs the choices. It discusses how to go about choosing a favorite. One of the most important questions the book asks is, "Do you follow along and go with your friends?" A choice is discussed as a way to change your path in life and change who you are. There is not a bad choice in this story, just many good options and how to choose what's best for you. Verdict: This is a great book to add to any collection. The themes presented will spark reflection and a great conversation.
Curricular Use: The themes in this book include: the process of decision making, self awareness, and choosing a path in life. This book will work well in a classroom, library or home purchase.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Librarian, Mt Solo Middle School
Beneath the Waves
Author: Murray, Lily Illustrator: Ahpornsiri, Helen
Big Picture Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781536210408
$22.00
pg. 64
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Creatures from the waters of the coast, tropics, open ocean, and polar waters are brought to life by illustrations made from seaweed and coastal plants. Plants were carefully collected and pressed to create the images. Descriptions of fish, turtles, polar bears, and other sea creatures accompany the text. Verdict: This book has wonderful illustrations and a short detailed description of each animal. Better for grades 2 and up.
Curricular Use: You could use this book in class to teach how to create art from plants as well as to supplement a study on sea creatures.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, Mark Morris High School
Mary Poppins Returns: Everything is Possible Author: Parent Nancy
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2018
ISBN: 9781328566318
$12.99
pg. 32
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 This is a level 2 book. It is a very simplified version of Mary Poppins Returns. I like this because young students can read this story. The photos in this story are from the movie Mary Poppins Returns, so students can relate more to the story. Verdict: I like that this story is an early reader with large photos on each page.
Curricular Use: Compare and contrast this story with the movie.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Game On: Mario
Author: Polinsky, Paige
ABDO, 2020
ISBN: 9781532191671
pg. 32
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 This non-fiction book gives the timeline of Mario. It tells what Mario was like when it first came out and how it evolved into the Mario game we have today. Verdict: Any one that loves Mario, will love to read about the history of Mario.
Curricular Use: This would be a good book to introduce timelines.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake Elementary
YouTubers: JoJo Siwa
Author: Rusick, Jessica
Illustrator: photos only
ABDO, 2020
ISBN: 9781532191831
pg. 32
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 My students have always loves Jo Jo Siwa. I have bought a few of her books which are checked out all the time. I myself really didn't know that much about her so I enjoyed reading this book which gives her timeline and how she got to be so big. The thing I like about her is her values and how she promotes anti bullying, both in person and online. Verdict: I think students will love reading about Jo Jo and learning more about her life.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
The Chickens Are Coming! Author: Samuels, Barbara Illustrator: Author
Farrar Straus Giroux, 2019
ISBN: 9780374300975
$17.99
pg. unp
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Winston and Sophie live in the city. They and their mother see a sign about some chickens needing a home. Daddy says "Chickens make good pets!" They decide to bring them home. They build a chicken coop in the backyard, and wait for the eggs to come. It takes a long time before the chickens start producing eggs, but the day the children find eggs, the chickens have disappeared! They later find them in the house watching TV! This a a really cute story, with lots of beautifully colored illustrations. An Author note mentions that backyard chickens are popular in many American cities now. The back endpapers include a chart with the breeds and other information on Sophie's four chickens. Verdict: This is a heart-warming story how the children bond with the chickens, learning to be patient, and welcoming the new members to their family.
Curricular Use: Love of reading.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Quiet Wyatt - Super shy or superhero?
Author: Sauer, Tammi
Illustrator: Arthur Howard
Clarion Books, 2018
ISBN: 9780544113305
$17.99
pg. 32
P - K
Wyatt is shy and very quiet. He follows all of the rules, in school, and on fieldtrips. On one fieldtrip, Wyatt gets paired with Noreen, a very out-going, and very talkative peer.
Wyatt participates and does not object to Noreen’s ideas. He finds his voice and yells when Noreen’s singing triggers a rock slide and he saves Noreen from the sliding rocks with one of his ninja moves. The two, despite or because of their differences, become friends.
Water color/pencil drawings take the reader on an adventure with the main characters Wyatt and Noreen.
The very different personalities find appreciation for each other.
The text includes 1st person speech.
Verdict: This picture book celebrates the uniqueness of an introvert and an extrovert. The illustrations get the readers' attention.
Curricular Use: Social-Emotional: Character/Personality traits, Friendship
Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Disability Specialist, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Climate Action: What Happened and What We Can Do
Author: Simon, Seymour
HarperCollins, 2021
ISBN: 9780062943316
$18.99
pg. 48
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book summarizes the causes and effects of climate change on a large scale, with excellent real-life examples of how the youngest generation have gotten involved in the fight for climate justice. The glossary and further reading section, and "What Kids Can Do' are all valuable tools as well. Verdict: This would be a great resource for educating and involving students in the discussion of conservation.
Curricular Use: Climate Change discussion starter
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
How to Hide a Lion at Christmas
Author: Stephens, Helen
Illustrator: Helen Stephens
Henry Holt and Company, 2018
ISBN: 9781250230799
$17.99
pg. unpaged
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 Iris has a pet lion which she wanted to take to her Aunt Sarah's house. Her parents said he would scare everyone, that he needed to stay home. Iris was so sad to leave Lion home. Lion did not want Iris to be sad so he sneaked onto the train, and fell asleep in the overhead section of the train. When the lion awoke the train was empty. He followed the train tracks to see if he could find Iris. After a lot of walking in the deep snow he saw a village up ahead. Then in one of the windows he saw Iris's stuffed lion. He saw Santa on the roof going down the chimney and thought he would do the same thing. The lion ended up sliding off the roof into the deep snow. The next morning Iris saw a huge snowman, but looking closer she realized the snowman was actually her lion. She got to spend Christmas after all with her lion. Verdict: I liked how there was a great story in this book. It really kept my interest.
Curricular Use: This would be a good book to either write the plot or to give the main idea with supporting ideas.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Elementary Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Little Chef
Author: Stine, Matt and Weinberg, Elisabeth
Illustrator: Paige Keiser
Feiwel and Friends, 2018
ISBN: 9781250091697
$17.99
pg. 32
P - K
Lizzie loves to cook. Her Grandma is her inspiration.
Illustrator Paige Keiser takes the reader through the process of a young girl preparing a dish with her water color and pencil drawings.
Lizzie is planning dinner. She shops at the farmer’s market with her parents for the best and freshest ingredients and gets tremendous help with the prep work from her Mom and Dad for making a sweet potato dish from Grandma’s recipe.
The secret ingredient is not listed in the written recipe. So, the girl comes up with her own, which she does not share with the reader since it is secret!
The text is written in the first person and has a good flow.
Independence of young children is encouraged with this picture book.
Family members give the young girl praise and help her build her confidence.
Verdict: I love the girl’s enthusiasm, which is portrayed through the words and illustrations as she creates a special meal for her Grandma, who she admires and who is coming to dinner. The book shows how to build a young girl's confidence through encouragement, support and praise.
Curricular Use: This book can be incorporated into a nutrition or health curriculum.
Reviewer: Sonja, Disability Specialist, LCC Head Start/ECEAP
The Farm That Mac Built
Author: Tammi Sauer
Illustrator: Jackie Urbanovic
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9780544113022
$17.99
pg. unp.
P - K The farm animals are going to put on a show based on the Old MacDonald song. Things start out well in this barnyard tale until some monkeys make an entrance and are chased away. The animals continue on until some kangaroos put in an appearance and are shooed off. Some elephants and penguins also arrive causing much chaos. Young children will enjoy the sound effects and the interruptions by incorrect animals. The bright watercolor and color pencil illustrations continue the comic mayhem as chickens ride motorcycles and elephants sing arias. Verdict: This picture book will appeal more to the youngest children who can enjoy making the animal sounds. Older children will notice the thin plot.
Curricular Use: This book will be more for the love of reading.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Explore the United States: Washington
Author: Tieck Sarah
ABDO, 2020
ISBN: 9781532191510
pg. 32
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5 This non-fiction book tells about the history of Washington, the main attractions, and how people earn a living. It gives a timeline of Washington, and tells some great places to tour. Verdict: I like how this is not too easy yet it is still elementary level, without a lot of text.
Curricular Use: This would be a great resource to use in writing a report about Washington.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
Box: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom
Author: Weatherford, Carole Boston
Illustrator: Wood, Michele
Candlewick Press, 2020
ISBN: 9780762691561
$17.99
pg. 56
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12 This book follows Henry Box Brown's eventful life as a man born into slavery, who outsmarts the system to achieve freedom. Told through powerful poetic narration, the author mimics his language to create as realistic a narrative as possible. Pain and suffering, joy and hope; emotions are captured beautifully in the text and illustrations. Best enjoyed by older students (5-12). Verdict: This would be a difficult read aloud as the text is pretty involved; six-line poems, echoing the six sides of a box, contain the horrors of the era. Not your typical "story" picture book.
Curricular Use: Slavery; History; Perseverance
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear
Author: Wood, Don and Audrey
Illustrator: Wood, Don
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9780358438823
$7.99
pg. 31
P - K A timeless classic in a board book. Written in both English and Spanish. Love the story and love the illustrations. Verdict: I would use this book with Kindergartners because older children would probably not be interested in the board book format. I would certainly buy for preschool or younger as it is a perfect present for a little reader.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
C is for Country
Author: X, Lil Nas
Illustrator: Taylor III, Theodore
Random House, 2021
ISBN: 9780593300787
$18.99
pg. 38
P - K, Grades 1 - 3 An ABC book that is a little bit country and a little bit hip-hop. Written by Lil Nas X, who sang "Old Town Road", it is inspired by his childhood in Georgia and his love of crossing hip-hop and country. The bright vibrant colors and the illustration capture the mix of the two music genres as do the ABC words that were chosen. A fun twist on a traditional cowboy, farm, and ABC book. Verdict: Fun book. Read the back story to the children first which will help the ABCs and illustrations make sense. The book is harder to understand without the back story because it is not a traditional cowboy, farm, or ABC book.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
The Perfect Star
Author: Buyea, Rob
Illustrator: Leslie Mechanic
Delacorte Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781524764630
$16.99
pg. 374
Grades 6 - 8 The Perfect Score book 3. Gavin, Natalie, Trevor, Randi and Scott are finally 8th graders at Lake View Middle School and are determined to make their last year great! Told in alternating chapters from the various characters; football, a week-long school trip to the nature camp, friendships and loss are the driving forces behind the storylines. Each character must overcome unique challenges by the end of the school year before the group is ready to tackle high school next year. The author certainly captures "middle school drama" in a way that will engage middle school readers, boys and girls alike. It's a great blend of humor and the realities of growing up. Verdict: A perfect book for middle school! Students will enjoy this as a stand alone, but will most likely want to read the other two in the trilogy before this one.
Curricular Use: Middle School Fiction, Friendship Fiction
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
A Box of Bones
Author: Cohen, Marina
Illustrator: Yana Bogatch
Roaring Brook Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781250172211
$16.99
pg. 284
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Twelve-year-old Kallie has been raised by her father and grandfather after her mother drowned when she was very young. Her father is no nonsense and so is Kallie. So when Kallie is given an unusual box at the local carnival, she thinks it's a waste of time until her grandfather tells her it's a mechanical box. This sparks her interest as she works and works to try to open it. After many hours of persistence, she's successful. However she's unprepared for the strange events that start to occur after the box opens that eventually threaten her grandfather's life. Verdict: While this is billed as a horror story, it's really more of a good fantasy mystery. Readers will see beyond Kallie's tough exterior and begin to hope things turn out okay for her and her grandpa. A good pick for upper elementary students.
Curricular Use: Mystery, Fantasy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Finally, Something Mysterious
Author: Cornett, Doug
Alfred A. Knopf, 2020
ISBN: 9781984830036
$16.99
pg. 244
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 6 Bellwood is a small town where nothing exciting every happens. Fifth-graders Paul, Shanks and Peephole love solving mysteries, but rarely get the chance. That all changes when a mass of rubber ducks and a dead fish end up in one of the neighborhood yards. The friends are hot on the trail of the clues and are determined to use the town's annual Bratwurst festival to flush out the criminal. Verdict: This is a fun mystery adventure that upper elementary students will enjoy!
Curricular Use: Mystery, Adventure
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Inside the World of ROBLOX
Author: Cox, Alenander; Philpots, Andrea
Illustrator: Marsh, Ryan; Stuckey, John; Bolder, Joe
Harper Collins, 2018
ISBN: 9780062862600
$10.99
pg. 68
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This book gives the history of ROBLOX, it has a timeline, tells about the different ROBLOX family members, and different games. It tells of the top 10 most-played games, and has a short summary of each game. It gives lesson to help with the building in the different games. For ROBLOX lovers this is a must have book. Verdict: I think students that love ROBLOX will go crazy with this book. It tells all they need to know about the game.
Curricular Use: It would be fun to create a poster and report to tell about ROBLOX.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake
One Time
Author: Creech, Sharon
Harper Collins, 2020
ISBN: 9780062570741
$16.99
pg. 248
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 The book, One Time, is written from the unique perspective of eleven year old Gina Filomena as she creatively explains events that happen in her life at home and at school. The story is fun, light hearted, and imaginative. Interesting subjects in the book include a boy who always smiles (with whom Gina shares a special connection), a mischievous angel, and lots and lots of pasta. Verdict: I liked the book and am happy to recommend it because it was fun, interesting, and easy to read.
Curricular Use: Writing first person narratives
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Two Dogs in a Trench Coat Start a Club by Accident
Author: Falatko, Julie
Illustrator: Colin Jack Scholastic, 2019
ISBN: 9781338189537
$9.99
pg. 199
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 2-3
Waldo and Sassy who followed their owner Stewart to school, and donned a trench coat as the top and bottom halves of "new student, Salty", continue to provide a dog's view of how much fun school can be. Now that Stewart has been pressured by his parents to join the after-school Junior Office Supplies Enthusiast's Club, the two canines follow the smell of food to the cafeteria where they end up starting a new club the "Rover Scouts" without meaning to. The club focus is to find snacks, run around in circles, and nap. That works well for the dogs and a few humans who have joined them, until all the clubs have to produce a float for the Founder's Day parade. Most of the humor is in the goofy dog's constant misunderstanding of human vocabulary, and endless appetites; they are sure the Future Dog Trainer's club wants to send dogs into the future, and they regularly substitute "meat" for any similar word. Part of the fun is that somehow the people think "Salty" is a real person and can understand what he says. In the grand finale, Stewart has joined the Rover Scouts Club, and is a participant in the utter chaos that the parade becomes. Lots of dialogue with BOLD meat words, plenty of cartoony illustrations on most pages and lots of white space, make this a good choice for reluctant readers needing to tackle medium length chapter books. Verdict: Funny chapter book adventures of two dogs masquerading as a student in their owner's class, who help him through after-school club issues in their own over-the-top MEAT-loving way.
Curricular Use: good for reluctant readers
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Cryptid Keeper
Author: Fisher, Lija
Farrar Straus Giroux, 2019
ISBN: 9780374305567
$16.99
pg. 311
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 Cryptid book 2. Clivo and the Myth Blasters continue their search for the immortal cryptid, but become alarmed when they discover that all of the previous cryptids they've located have since disappeared. Clivo learns that Mr. Chancery, the man financing his location efforts, has secretly been collecting the cryptids to use as secret weapons. Clivo and his friends are determined to free the cryptids before Mr. Chancery can use them for his evil purposes. This is a great sequel to this previous book. Verdict: A fun fantasy adventure for upper elementary and middle school students!
Curricular Use: Fantasy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
The Artifact Hunters
Author: Fox, Janet
Illustrator: Jennifer Bricking
Viking, 2020
ISBN: 9780451478696
$17.99
pg. 371
Grades 6 - 8 Rookskill Castle book 2. Isaac believes his parents are sending him to safety during a Nazi invasion during WWII. What he doesn't realize is that his father has passed down an important legacy and that Isaac must quickly learn who he truly is and what he's capable of. After a series of time-traveling puzzles sends him to Rookskill Castle, he meets other children with various skills/gifts who help him learn more about his legacy. The children work together to stop the evil Moloch who wants to capture the Guardian's powers for himself. I was pleased that while not having read the previous installment, I was easily able to jump right into the storyline. Verdict: Fantasy and adventure fans will surely enjoy this!
Curricular Use: Fantasy, Adventure
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT , Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Max Meow, Donuts and Danger
Author: Gallagher, John Illustrator: author
Random House, 2021
ISBN: 9780593121085
$12.99
pg. 228
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 3
This is the second graphic comic adventure in the Max Meow series. The prologue explained Max, once an average cat, ate a bite of a giant meatball from outer space, and became the Cat Crusader with super powers. Science-wise Mindy, his sidekick, was still developing her powers. Suddenly a giant penguin robot sent by the cute Big Boss (Sunny) squirrel, attacked a fireworks factory, and the resulting explosion opened portal to an alternate dimension. An evil version of Max (Xam), and his sidekick not-Mindy (Mandy), and a couple of size-o-tron ray guns, combined with Sunny's assorted minions convolute the squirrel's plan to ruin Farmer Dave's Donut farm for putting her bakery out of business. The action is nonstop, characters, action lines, and fonts used in speech ballons and narrative boxes, are all imaginative, boldly drawn, colorful and burst out of their panels. Verdict: Sure-fire kid appeal in this humorous cat superhero adventure full of non-stop action, silly stuations, goofy minions and even a cat-Elvis dream sequence!
Curricular Use: love of reading and for reluctant readers
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Take Back the Block
Author: Giles, Chrystal D.
Random House, 2021
ISBN: 9780593175170
$16.99
pg. 229
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 What do you do when your parents tell you that some big corporation wants to tear down your neighborhood, a place you have lived all your life? Follow the story of 6th grader and African American, Wes Henderson, in the book “Take Back The Block” as he tries to find a solution to save his neighborhood before time runs out. I liked this book because it explored the subject of diversity and the struggles that often accompany having a darker skin color. Verdict: I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about culture and the things that are worth valuing in life.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
The Vanderbeekers: Lost and Found
Author: Glazer, Karina Yan
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
ISBN: 9780358256199
$16.99
pg. 347
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This episode of the Vanderbeeker family and fellow residents of their Harlem brownstone brings forth uncertainties and loss as they struggle to find solutions and move through the challenges of their lives. The gentle approach to the real life situations of this diverse age group are eminently relatable in dealing with friendships, grief, dignity and respect. Issues of death and homelessness are dealt with in the story. Verdict: Though a thoughtful story, this contemporary book approaches ideal concepts of family and community and would even make an excellent read-out-loud story for the younger ones. It fills an everyday life niche that is becoming rarer in literature.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
A Kitten Called Holly
Author: Helen Peters
Illustrator: Ellie Snowdon
Walker Books, 2017
ISBN: 9781536215724
$6.99
pg. 132
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 3 Jasmine and her best friend Tom have found a clubhouse perfect for their animal rescue group they want to start. They discover 3 wild kittens in the building, and when the mother cat moves only two of them out, Jasmines mother agrees to let them foster the abandoned kitten. Both children want to keep Holly, but both Mothers say no. Finally, the mothers both say it's alright to keep Holly, and Tom becomes the happy owner to help with a family loss. Fairly short sentences. Illustrated with small black pencil drawings. Verdict: It's a sweet story and good early chapter book for independent readers, especially cat lovers.
Curricular Use: Independent reading projects.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
One True Way
Author: Hitchcock, Shannon
Scholastic, 2018
ISBN: 9781338181722
$16.99
pg. 212
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This story is set in the 70's so a few musical and tech references (think IBM Selectric) that aren't otherwise explained in the text might not make sense to kids. This is told first person, from Allie's perspective as a newcomer to a middle school in the south, moving from New Jersey. Her parents are separated after the death of their older son, and Allie is making friends by joining the school newspaper. She interviews other students, one of which is a friendly girl named Sam. She and Sam grow closer, Allie supporting Sam with her school work, and Sam helping Allie feel connected in her new environment. As those close feelings turn into "more", Allie and Sam struggle with their relationships and families, however they are helped by concerned adults in their lives so that they can navigate through the social mores prevalent during this time period. Verdict: The thing that I liked best about the book was that it introduced sensitive issues without putting too many value judgements on them. There is a religious connection that is handled appropriately, as well.
Curricular Use: Developing LGBTQ perspective
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Sauerkraut
Author: Jones, Kelly
Illustrator: Paul Davey
Alfred A. Knopf, 2019
ISBN: 9781524765958
$16.99
pg. 278
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 6 In order for HP to help his ghostly great, great grandmother cross over he has to enter her sauerkraut (which he has to make) in the local fair. In the process he learns patience and how to set boundaries; to have fun of working with others; and how to scientifically answer the question of why his ancestor is still a ghost. The tale is fun, interesting and educational. Verdict: A playful story with fantasy elements, Sauerkraut also (sneakily) incorporates tools for problem solving for the challenged age group of 9 to 12 years old. It would especially appeal to boys and many kids dealing with an Aspergers kind of mind.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
The Bone Garden
Author: Kassner, Heather
Henry Holt, 2019
ISBN: 97812502596894
$16.99
pg. 272
Grades 6 - 8 This book made me think of the scary yet endearing reads my kids and I enjoyed from authors such as Roald Dahl and Lemony Snicket. This story follows Irréelle, a girl made from dust, bone, and imagination, as she works for Miss Vesper, her creator, by gathering bone dust. When Miss Vesper, is not satisfied, she tells her she will imagine her away for good! So Irréelle runs away, finding adventures along the way. Verdict: A fun and creepy middle grade book, perfect for those students who "...want something scary", but not TOO scary.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Great Invention Fails
Author: Krasner, Barbara
Lerner, 2020
ISBN: 9781541577336
pg. 32
Grades 4 - 5 This book gave several examples of how inventions that failed, actually worked doing something totally different from what was intended. Two examples of this are bubble wrap. It was originally designed for a textured wallpaper, but no one liked it, it then was used to line the walls of a greenhouse, again no interest. It finally was used for bubble wrap to use for packing in boxes to be shipped, success at last. Did you know that the glue invented for sticky notes, was originally used for glue to build strong airplanes. It was not strong enough but later used for the glue for sticky notes. Verdict: I think students will really enjoy reading this book. It helps with the concept if at first you don't succeed, try try again.
Curricular Use: Students can try making an invention, keep trying until they succeed.
Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray/Northlake Elementary
Counting to Perfect
Author: LaFleur, Suzanne
Random House, 2018
ISBN: 9781524771799
$16.99
pg. 194
Grades 6 - 8 Anyone who has ever felt like they took second place to other siblings, family members, or even friends, will totally identify with Cassie, the main character in the book “Counting to Perfect”. In the book, Cassie runs away with her sister and niece to escape their feelings of inferiority. On the journey, Cassie discovers what really matters most in her life. Verdict: I am happy to recommend this heartwarming book because it is well written, interesting, and uplifting.
Curricular Use: Discussion Starter on Family issues; teen pregnancy
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Tangles in Time: The Burning Queen
Author: Lasky, Kathryn
Harper, 2019
ISBN: 9780062693280
$16.99
pg. 318
Grades 6 - 8 In this sequel to The Portal, Rose continues to travel back to the time when Mary, a vengeful princess, ascends to the throne of England. Super busy, Rose struggles to see her father, sew elegant gowns for the queen and stay alive in the 16th century as well as maintain her teenage life and keep an immigrant girl safe in the present. The reader is given a sense of how dangerous life was under the rule of Bloody Mary and how dangerous it can be as an immigrant in the United States today. Fear is fear and freedom can be tenuous. I enjoyed this second volume more than the first as the author's vision of her story is clearer and more specific. The story will continue. Verdict: If your library has room for a series that dips into English history, Tangled in Time has plenty going on to hold the reader's attention.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
The Haunted Lake
Author: Lynch, P.J.
Candelwick Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781536200133
$17.99
pg. unpaged
Grades 4 - 5
An old town sunken underwater with a mysterious bell tower that rings, but is missing a bell. An old fisherman, who's wife is buried in the sunken town. The fisherman's son Jacob is in love with Ellen who works by his side. One night Jacob decides to explore the dark lake until he finds himself walking down the clock tower steps following a blue light where the water should be. He is greeted by those who live under water, those who once lived in the town. A woman who wants to keep Jacob with her forever. Many years pass and Jacob has not come back to Ellen. As she mourns the loss of Jacob, she sees a face under the frozen lake. She sets off on an adventure of love, loss, and ghosts.
This story is beautifully illustrated using a watercolor and gouache. The story comes to life in these eerie, mood filled depictions of a lost town. Verdict: This story would be a great addition to the library. It is an excellent mystery which leaves you routing for Jacob and his love.
Curricular Use: Great Genre Connection to Mystery & Romance.
Reviewer: Molly Harvey, Library, Mt Solo Middle School
Love Sugar Magic: A Mixture of Mischief
Author: Meriano, Anna
Waldon Pond Press, 2020
ISBN: 9780062915900
$16.99
pg. 276
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8
This is the 3rd book in the Love Sugar Magic Series. The plot centers around Leo, who's family runs a bakery. They’re brujas—witches of Mexican ancestry - who put a little bit of magic in everything they bake. Leo doesn't know what her magic is, yet, and when her "ghost" like Abuelo (grandfather) starts appearing, she finds herself asking is he there to help her develop her powers or lead her down a darker path? Verdict: This is an engaging series for upper elementary and younger middle school; a 6th grader who read the first two books in this series BEGGED me to get the third book and luckily it was available through LCR. There are recipes for items that are made in the story - she said she especially liked that feature.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Cascade/Monticello
A Garfield Guide to Online Etiquette: Be kind online
Author: Nickel, Scott
Illustrator: Lynette Nuding & Glenn Zimmerman
Lerner, 2020
ISBN: 9781541572805
pg. 32
Grades 3 - 6 Part of Garfield's Guide to Digital Citizenship series. This colorful graphic novel style book shows what happens when someone posts something they think is a joke and someone else takes more seriously. Nermal's post comments soon spiral out of control as others add to the post and share it with others. Nermal must make things right with his friend, Otto, and learns a lot about online kindness along the way. Also included are several short activities that ask students to decide what is appropriate in each scenario, a safety toolbox and glossary. Verdict: A good fit for elementary students learning about digital citizenship.
Curricular Use: Digit Citizenship, Cyberbullying
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Ikenga
Author: Okorafor, Nnedi
Viking, 2020
ISBN: 9780593113523
$16.99
pg. 227
Grades 6 - 8 Twelve-year-old Nnamdi's father has just been murdered. As the chief of police in the crime-riddled town of Kaleria, Nigeria, there are many possible suspects. When the town's crime lord attends the funeral and then gives his mom an envelope of money, Nnamdi silently vows to revenge his father's death. He's given the tool to do that, the Ikenga, by the spirit of his father. The Ikenga gives Nnamdi superpowers and turns him into something like the Incredible Hulk. Nnamdi must learn to control his secret powers as he tries to rid the town of criminals while hunting his father's killer. Verdict: This is a fun fantasy adventure that also introduces readers to the Nigerian culture. Students will be rooting for "The Man."
Curricular Use: Fantasy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Astrid the Unstoppable
Author: Parr, Maria
Candlewick Press, 2018 (U.S.)
ISBN: 9781536200171
$16.99
pg. 303
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 6
Astrid, a wild, little, redheaded girl living in a tiny village in the mountains has many adventures when skiing or sledding or inventing with her best friend, an old curmudgeon named Gunnvald. When he breaks his leg, she learns he has a lifelong secret and she does her best to fix it for him. I found this tale of kids being kids and people being people with an edge of reality to be an enjoyable one. There are a couple of incidents regarding animals that may be upsetting to the younger reader. Verdict: Though she may not appeal to the technology addicted kids, this Pippi-like heroine with her free and simple life would be a dream for others.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Code Like a Girl: Rad tech projects + practical tips
Author: Peskowitz, Miriam
Alfred A. Knopf, 2019
ISBN: 9781524713898
$21.99
pg. 200
Grades 6 - 8, Grade 5 This colorful book welcomes girls into the world of coding with Scratch, Raspberry Pi and Python. It offers practical information and step-by-step instructions for a variety of projects. What I especially liked was each project had suggestions on what to do if it didn't work, which also included a website URL to find current information. I do wish the layout of the glossary was a bit different as many of the definitions carryover from one page to another. Verdict: Girls with any interest in coding will be drawn to this book by it's title, inviting cover and fun projects!
Curricular Use: Computer coding
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Sheroes Cleopatra
Author: Platt, Christine
Illustrator: Rivera, Addy
Magic Wagon, 2020
ISBN: 9781532136412
$19.95
pg. 32
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 A chapter picture book biography about Cleopatra. Interesting information. Good overview of her personality and intelligence, as well as the historical details of her growing up and ruling. The more "interesting'" facts about her life are addressed tastefully. For example, it brings up the fact the she had to marry her brother and explains it was to have the family remain in power. Nicely done. Verdict: This is a well done biography. The important details about Cleopatra, her life, and her rule are shared, with some of the more "interesting" details touched on in an age appropriate way. The illustrations work well with text. A bit pricey.
Curricular Use: A perfect opportunity for learning about the history of Egypt and learning about the important players in that history. Great book for report writing as it shares enough information about her life for a report.
Reviewer: Brenda Winters, Librarian, Kessler Elementary School
Yara's Spring
Author: Saeed, Jamal and McKay, Sharon
Illustrator: Kazemi, Nahid
Annick Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781773214399
$9.95
pg. 264
Grades 6 - 8 The author, Jamal Saeed, writes with authority about a teenage girl's journey out of Syria. Saeed grew up in Syria and experienced the horrors of civil war in that country as well as imprisonment for his activism against the government. The main character, Yara, lives with her parents and grandmother in Aleppo where they own a bakery. Sadly, both her parents end up dying, when their house and bakery is destroyed by bombs; luckily, her baby brother and grandmother survive. This begins her journey for a better life, away from Syria. Verdict: This is a realistic account from the author's perspective of what life is like in Syria, written by someone who is against the regime of Bashar al-Assad. There is some violence and tragedy that would be most appropriate for readers 12 and up.
Curricular Use: A coming of age story set in a different culture from our own Western culture; discussion starter World History
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Beyond Words: What Elephants and Whales Think and Feel
Author: Safina, Carl
Roaring Brook Press, 2019
ISBN: 9781250144638
$17.99
pg. 144
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 The two essays, one on African elephants and the other on Orca whales, discuss the social interactions of these closely knit, matriarchal families. Thoughtful, sweet and painful, it illustrates the value of these large animals in their natural world. Safina mentions other animal groups to compare and enhance his points simply and eloquently. The subjects of poaching and captivity are written regarding each group. Verdict: If you have room for another book on animal behavior, this is an excellent one.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Escape at 10,000 Feet
Author: Sullivan, Tom
Balzer + Bray, 2021
ISBN: 9780062991522
$21.99
pg. 104
Grades 6 - 8 This book takes a look inside the crimes of the infamous D. B. Cooper; it catalogues the evidence and each step of the hijacking as it happened. The only unsolved skyjacking case in US history, Cooper's case remains legendary, specifically in the Pacific Northwest. Lots of cartoon-like illustrations and diagrams of "evidence"; type is a bit small for my eyes, but it would probably be fine for older elementary or middle school readers. Verdict: A great read for young historians, sleuths, and true crime fans to learn more about the process of uncovering a mystery, even if it remains unsolved.
Curricular Use: Research, Historical Events, Famous People
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello
Elephant Secret
Author: Walters, Eric
Clarion, 2018
ISBN: 9781328796172
$16.99
pg. 345
Grades 4 - 5, Grade 6
Samantha and her dad run an elephant sanctuary, taking in elephants that were abused or whose owners can no longer manage their care. They have lived with the huge animals so long that they are considered part of the herd. Sam, at 13, is feeling awkward around Joyce, her dad's lawyer girlfriend, never having known her own mother. Then one of the elephants goes into early labor, part of a project their mysterious silent partner had initiated to artificially inseminate several of the females in their herd. Their vet thinks he can save the baby, but not the elephant mother. Just then two more vets show up with a fancy medical semi trailer to help with the operation. The new baby is unusually hairy, so Sam names her Woolly, not realizing she is actually a woolly mammoth cloned by their billionaire partner who now comes forward to protect his investment. Woolly requires constant bottle feeding consuming Sam's every waking hour. Paparazzi, a storm, a rogue bull elephant, the overzealous billionaire, and friend issues all add to Sam's trials. Walters did his research on elephants, frozen woolly mammoth diecoveries, and cloning. He also included a bibliography. Verdict: Interesting girl coming-of-age with elephants tale that has enough additional elements, including a cloned baby woolly mammoth, to keep readers involved from beginning to end.
Curricular Use: Love of reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Angel and Bavar
Author: Wilson, Amy
Katherine Tegen Books, 2018
ISBN: 9780062671516
$19.00
pg. 305
Grades 6 - 8 Angel has recently lost her parents to a "burgulary gone bad," and placed into foster care. Angel was there when her parents were killed and it was a winged monster that killed them, not a burgler. Angel sees a very unusual boy, Bavar, at her new school and instantly wants to know about this very different person. Little does she know that Bavar's parents were keepers of a rift that kept the monsters away from humanity, but failed on that faithful night. Angle and Bavar form a bond and are determined to close the rift forever. Verdict: A great horror/thriller for middle school students!
Curricular Use: Horror, Fantasy, Thriller
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Pleased to Meet Me
Author: Wilson, S. G.
Illustrator: Aleksei Bitskoff
Random House, 2020
ISBN: 9781984895752
$16.99
pg. 262
Grades 6 - 8 Me vs. the Multiverse book 1. Thirteen-year-old Meade lives a pretty normal, boring life. At least he did until someone starts leaving him origami notes that only he knows how to fold. The notes invite him to come to Me Con, where he can meet the many other versions of him from across the universe. Meade thinks it's a joke, until he follows the directions on a note, which leads to an elevator in an abandoned building. He discovers many different versions of "Me" and that one Me in particular, Meticulous, is trying to control all of the Mes and take control of all of the other Earth's in the parallel universes. This humorous story will engage readers from the start. However, there a a lot of different Mes and some students may have trouble keeping up with them all. The core group of characters follows Meade all the way to the end. Verdict: A fun read for middle school students!
Curricular Use: Humorous stories
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Great Escapes: Journey to Freedom, 1838
Author: Winston, Sherri
Harper, 2020
ISBN: 9780062860392
$16.99
pg. 128
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8 This second book in the Great Escapes series follows Eliza Harris on her journey to gain freedom from slavery by bravely escaping her past and crossing the Mason-Dixon line into her future. A loosely based retelling of "uncle Tom's Cabin", a book written by a white woman in the 1850's, that laid groundwork for the Civil War. Sherri Winston wrote this story with the intention of adding her own insights as a black woman, as well as to pay homage to the long-forgotten woman who inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe to write her iconic novel. Verdict: The book is a "friendly" size and difficulty level for upper elementary and and easy read option for middle school.
Curricular Use: History; Comparing known literature with rewrites
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello
The Wide World of Coding
Author: Connor-Smith, Jennifer
Twenty-First Century Press, 2020
ISBN: 9781541552821
$28
pg. 144
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
This book broadly covers the topic of coding from careers to processes involved in creation and from coding languages to ethics involved in data collection. Language used in the book is more appropriate for high school student. the organization of the books is accessible and the chapters are organized to help someone find what they’re interested in learning about. There is also a glossary, time line and website suggestions for those that want to get started coding on their own. Verdict: I would recommend this book for a high school collection because it provides information on career pathways and the text level is more sophisticated.
Curricular Use: Great place to get more information on a career pathway in software developing. It includes a list comparing the benefits of using different types of coding language.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, Mark Morris High School
We Hunt the Flame
Author: Faizal, Hafsah
Farrar Straus Giroux, 2019
ISBN: 9780374311544
$18.99
pg. 469
Grades 9 - 12 In this Arab-themed fantasy, Zafira in the guise of a Hunter, enters the dread forest Arz to provide meat for her starving village and returns without becoming insane. Meanwhile the assassin Prince Nasir of the neighboring caliphate is tortured by his father ordering him to murder one target after another. The Arz is growing to swallow all of the known kingdoms because the magic of the land is dead. Only the Silver Witch can stll wield magic, and she sends Zafira on a quest to find the Jarawat, a lost book that can restore magic to the lands. Nasir is sent to kill her and retreive the book. They meet as rivals, lose and gain beloved companions, and are forged into a group that together, might survive multitudes of enemies long enough to complete their task. No one is exactly who they seem as revelations spin the plot first one way, and then another, and sacrifices must be made. The world-building is complex, as are the effects of Zafira and Nasir's mutual attraction, constantly obstructed by their differences. Many Arabic terms are used without any other definition than context. At the conclusion of this book, one of their group has been captured by their nemesis, and the rest of the group presses on to begin the restoration of magic, leaving the resolution to a second book in the series: We Free the Stars. It is quite a female-empowering effort for a first novel, with the Texas author shown on the back jacket flap in a hijab. Verdict: A strong female character anchors this first book of an Arabian-themed fantasy duo as the mysterious Huntress plays Beauty to the monsterous assassin Prince's Beast. Plenty of swordplay and subtle magic challenge the protagonsts, while the reader is reeling from the swift plot twists.
Curricular Use: Love of reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
You Know I'm No Good
Author: Foley, Jessie Ann
Quill Tree Books, 2020
ISBN: 9780062957085
$17.99
pg. 297
Grades 9 - 12 Mia is out of control. She parties hard and hooks up indiscriminately with guys, and her stepmother--in particular--doesn't know what to do with her and doesn't want her influencing her younger twin half-siblings. That's why Mia finds herself bundled away at 3 a.m. and taken to Red Oak Academy, a boarding school designed to house teens who have made themselves unwelcome in their homes. Resistant to therapy, Mia finds herself reluctant to make herself vulnerable to the school therapist. Slowly, VIvian earns Mia's fragile trust until a crisis with one of the other residents causes Mia to strike out with another girl to escape the grounds.
Like her book "Sorry for Your Loss," Foley writes about weighty issues with an ear for the heartache that is involved. The escape and Mia's living off the grid and independently is a little unrealistic, but processing the sexual assault she endured and the behavioral aftermath makes for a compelling story. The gritty experiences and salty language renders this a book more appropriate for mature readers. Verdict: This realistic fiction story of broken characters will be a popular choice for readers of Ellen Hopkins or Sharon Glasgow.
Curricular Use: This is a title that is good for discussing how trauma is processed.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
The Other Side of the Sky
Author: Kaufman, Amie and Spooner, Meagan
Illustrator:
HarperTEEN, 2020
ISBN: 9780062893338
$19.99
pg. 471
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
This book is a science fiction/fantasy mash up. Set on a planet where part of the population lives on the surface with magical mist and a "living goddess" as their leader, and the other half live on floating islands in the sky, powered by technology. When the prince of the cloudlands crashes his glider on the surface of the planet, he's found by Nimh, the divine goddess. Together they discover secrets about her world and his, and fall in love in less than a week! Told by the two main characters in alternating chapters, this book has mystery, romance (straight and LGBTQ), a bit of violence, and one cuss word. It leaves off on a cliffhanger, setting up a sequel. Verdict: It took a bit to get into this lengthy story, but there was enough intrigue for me to want to keep reading to find out the answers. Best suited to older middle school students and definitely high school would enjoy.
Curricular Use: Fictional look at how society develops in relation to environmental challenges; perhaps a social studies connection.
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Nameless Queen
Author: McLaughlin, Rebecca
Crown, 2020
ISBN: 9781524700263
$17.99
pg. 352
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12 In this world there are Royals (some with magic), Legals who are the worker-bees, and Nameless who, like the label, have no name and therefore, no consequence in the world. When the King dies and his magical tattoo ends up on a Nameless girl's arm, she becomes heir to the throne. But how could this happen? She must have a name as that is the only way the magical tattoo can be passed. Will she take on this power and use it for good (to help the Nameless)? Or will the Royals against her, take her power by force? This story has mystery, action, friendship issues, magic, and strong female characters. Verdict: It was a bit slow to start, but built into a satisfying ending. Would appeal to older middle school and high school fans of Tricia Levenseller and Melissa de la Cruz.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Laura Ofstun, Librarian, Monticello/Cascade
Redemption Prep
Author: Miller, Samuel Katherine Tegen Books, 2020
ISBN: 9780062662033
$17.99
pg. 416
Grades 9 - 12 Told in alternating chapters from various students at an elite/secret boarding school deep in the Utah wilderness, when Emma goes missing after mass, everyone notices. What ensues in a mystery about what happened to her and why the school exisits in the first place. I just kept waiting for the storyline to pick up and for the various pieces to fall into place. Emma's eventually found by her friends hiding inside the school's chapel, but isn't truly the friend they though she was. Instead, all of the secrets get told to us in a rush as to why the school is there (sort of) and the story wraps up without really wrapping up. Add to it frequent, gratuitious use of the f-word, undeveloped characters and plot and the result is a disappointing read. Verdict: Pass. Better selection of boarding school mysteries are out there!
Curricular Use: n/a
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
October Mourning
Author: Newman, Leslea
Candlewick Press, initially 2012, paperback printed in 2020
ISBN: 9781536215779
$9.99
pg. 111
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
October Mourning is a poetic work looking at the murder of Matthew Shepherd, a 21-year old gay man who was beaten and left for dead because he was gay. The books is told from multiple perspectives: his Mom, the perpetrators, those in town, the prosecuting attorney, and many others. The author includes discussion questions, poetic form explanation, sources notes, and a forward by Judy Shepard, Matthew's mother. Verdict: This book is beautifully crafted, provides teaching opportunities, and empathy.
Curricular Use: Great book for teaching poetic forms, source notes, and social justice.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, Mark Morris High School
Fake It Till You Break It
Author: Nguyen, Jenn R.
Swoon Reeds, Feiwell and Friends, 2019
ISBN: 9781250308016
$17.99
pg. 292
Grades 9 - 12 An anti-romance with neighbors Mia and Jake, reluctantly thrown together for years by their doting moms, who change from volleying one snarky remark after another at each other, into an awkward balancing act when they decide to pretend to be dating then stage a huge breakup, to get their moms off their backs. Pretending soon turns to genuine fascination, then outright obsession. The planned breakup looks to be cancelled, until Mia tries to broker a peace between Jake and his estranged brother, that he sees as a betrayal. Bits of Mia's Korean-American heritage meld nicely into the story, which finally displays the requisite happy ending. Verdict: A good clean romance with plenty of sizzle as neighbors take their relationship as frenemies into new territory with a pretend romance that doesn't go quite the way they expected.
Curricular Use: love of reading
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Tow Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Bid My Soul Farewelll Author: Revis, Beth
Razorbill, 2019
ISBN: 9781595147196
$18.99
pg. 313
Grades 9 - 12 Give the Dark My Love book 2. Told in alternating perspectives from Grey and Nedra, the story picks up with Necromancer Nedra leaving the castle with her revenants after killing Governor Adelaide. Nedra's goal is to reunite her twin sister's soul with her body and she will stop at nothing to learn how. Grey's parents have fled the city to avoid the wrath of the Emperor who is flushing out the traitors and Grey has found himself in the Emperor's service. Nedra and Grey unite when she accompanies him to the mainland; Grey on a trade mission and Nedra to find Necromancer information. Their love rekindles on the long boat ride. I appreciated the author's point in ensuring consent and contraception prior to their one intimate scene. However, I do wish more of the details were off page so I could put this in my middle school library. Nedra learns her best gift to her sister is to free her soul and let her go. Verdict: This is a great fantasy romance! Having not read the first book, it was easy to jump in and fall into the story.
Curricular Use: Fantasy, Necromancy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, NBCT, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Amber & Clay
Author: Schlitz, Laura Amy
Illustrator: Julia Iredale
Candlewick Press, 2021
ISBN: 9781536201222
$22.99
pg. 532
Grades 9 - 12, Grade 8
This carefully crafted parallel tales of two young people in ancient Thessaly and Athens; Rhaskos an artistically inclined slave boy "indestructable as clay" and Melisto, an aristocrat's daughter "as electric as amber", told poetically in their own voices as well as the voices of several Greek gods. Interspersed with their story are bits of pottery and other artifacts unearthed in modern archaeological digs along with historians' opinions of their importance. The lives of the two young people don't directly intersect until after Rhaskos has been sold to a potter, and profoundly influenced by a friendship with the philosopher Sokrates (Greek spelling), and rebellious Melisto has been silenced by the gods and bound in death by Rhaskos's mother to find a way to free her son. Though marketed for middle school readers, the complexity and intracacy of the plot and its historical background is a better match for high school or above. Schlitz makes deliberate use of contrasts; even making her characters by turns unlikable and sympathetic. A five page bibliography shows the author's exhaustive research, however she does err in stating that a female horse comes into heat once a year (actually every 22 days during all but winter months) as compared to a woman's monthly menstrual cycle. Verdict: Carefully crafted poetry and prose compares and contrasts events in the lives of a Thracian slave boy and spoiled Athenian girl presented as ancient drama, complete with narration by several Greek gods. Its background and complexity are best appreciated by high school or older readers.
Curricular Use: ties in with Greek history, drama, mythology
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
All Your Twisted Secrets
Author: Urban, Diana
Harper Teen, 2020
ISBN: 9780062908216
$17.99
pg. 390
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
Under the guise of a scholarship dinner, 6 high schoolers show up to an event only to be locked into the room. On a platter in the middle of the room is an envelope, a syringe, and a bomb. Before the evening is over, they must select one to inject with poison or they all get blown up. Relationships and secrets are revealed. Verdict: Great read alike for Karen McManus books. This is a page turner.
Curricular Use: Topics of interest: teenage suicide and warning signs to look for as well as hotlines for those struggling with mental illness.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, Mark Morris High school
The Camelot Betrayal
Author: White, Kiersten
Delacorte Press, 2020
ISBN: 9780525581710
$18.99
pg. 368
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12
Queen Guinevere continues her role in Camelot attending weddings, ruling Camelot when Arthur is gone, and savings damsels from evil kings. And she manages to do this while keeping her true identity a secret. But who is Guinevere really? When Guinevere’s sister shows up and she continues having dreams from the lady of the lake, Guinevere needs to find out. Verdict: Great purchase for libraries that circulate the Guinevere Deception (book 1). Excellent 2nd installment of the series. I liked it better than the first.
Curricular Use: Book could be used for read for pleasure and as an example of alternate retellings of legends.
Reviewer: Katy Olson,
Librarian, Mark Morris High School