April 2016

Starred

ELEMENTARY

The Great Pet Escape

Author: Jamieson, Victoria

Illustrator: Victoria Jamieson

Henry Holt and Company, 2016

ISBN: 9781627791069

Grades 2 - 4: This paperback, full color graphic novel tells the story of three classroom pets: GW, Barry and Biter. Hamster GW has had enough of being locked up and sets out to find his friends and escape. What he finds is that Barry, a bunny, and Biter, a guinea pig, have gone soft and are enjoying their new lives as pets. After a lot of convincing the friends agree to go, but are nearly thwarted by another class pet, Harriet the mouse. A giant food fight in the school's cafeteria ensues. The pets barely escape the janitor and decide to stay on as class pets. The illustrations are engaging and really help bring the humorous text to life. Verdict: This hilarious story will readily appeal to a broad range of readers. Libraries will want a hardcover edition for the heavy usage this one is sure to have.

Curricular Use: This is great to use with younger readers learning how to read graphic novel formats, as well as with older readers to see things from another's perspective.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School

The Villain Keeper

Author: McKay, Laurie

Illustrator: NA

Harper, 2015

ISBN: 978-0062308436

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: The Last Dragon Charmer book 1. Prince Caden is the is the youngest of eight brothers. He desperately wants to make his father, the king, proud and earn the title of Elite Paladin. Caden knows something's not right when the king awakens him and sends him out on a quest in the middle of the night, without the proper fanfare. Caden believes he's out to slay a dragon, but when he finds it, Caden and his horse, along with a long time nemesis, Brynne, are magically pulled into a small town in modern North Carolina. The trio discovers that a local girl went missing the same day that they arrived and learn that this small town is where all of the banished villains from their homeland have been sent. Caden and Brynne, and their new friend, Tito, work together to find the missing girl, Jane. Now they must work on a way to get home. Verdict: This is a fantastic fantasy adventure that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher-Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

Cakes in Space

Author: Reeve, Philip

Illustrator: Sarah McIntyre

Random House, 2014

ISBN: 978-0385387927

Grades 3 - 6: Part of the Not-So-Impossible Tales series. Astra's family is going to colonize planet Nova Mundi, which takes 199 years to reach. The family, along with the entire entourage, will be put into a sleep state and awakened when they reach their destination. Before going down for the long nap, she finds a robot to make her a snack and gets a cookie. She also asks for an ultimate cake, but before she gets it another bot ushers her back to her sleeping pod. Astra wakes up mid-journey and is surprised to find an army of cakes and cupcakes on the ship! Apparently the robot has been making and trying to improve cakes since her original request. To make matters worse, a group of alien pirates has breached the ship. Astra teams up with another robot, Pilbeam, to stop the cake making robot and the alien pirates. Verdict: This is a must have science fiction adventure for elementary libraries!

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher-Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

The Polar Express

Author: Van Allsburg, Chris

Illustrator: same

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1985

ISBN: 9780544580145

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: The Polar Express was published in 1985, but this version is a special reprint with a Christmas ornament included in the back and access to a bonus downloadable recording of the story read by Liam Neeson using a special code. The Polar Express is a enchanted train that takes a little boy on a ride to the North Pole and receives the first gift of Christmas a magical bell from a reindeer's harness. Unfortunately, the bell is dropped out of his robe pocket. But, alas, opening gifts Christmas morning there is a small package with a bell inside and personal note from the man in red. Verdict: No one ever tires of the special story of the Polar Express, especially if you have forgotten to believe. For all who still believe you can share this copy of the book with someone who do not.

Curricular Use: Always read this story every Christmas just as you might, The Night Before Christmas.

Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School

Hillary

Author: Winter, Jonah

Illustrator: Colon, Raul

Schwartz & Wade Books, 2016

ISBN: 9780553533880

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: In this simple biography of Hillary Clinton, the best message from the story is that Hillary contributed to the world and will continue to do great things for the people. Many biographies give you a life history of the person and it is very predictable. This version has an overview of her early life and family yet jumps into law school, marriage, family, and career quickly giving the reader the message that her life as an adult is important and still current. Hillary is a lady of firsts. First woman to give a speech at her college, first First lady to have an office in the White House, first First lady to run for political office, and first First lady to run for President of the United States. Hillary Clinton is not done being first and with the beautiful illustrations done by Colon this book is a joy to read and even better to read to children. Verdict: We are always in need of good biographies for kids. Yet, this question should always be answered as we read about famous people; "What did they are contribute to the world?" This biography does a wonderful job of answering that for the reader.

Curricular Use: Hillary is a perfect biography to read during introductions to the genre of biographies and even better during the month of celebrating Women in History.

Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA

SECONDARY

Joyride

Author: Banks, Anna

Illustrator: NA

Feiwel and Friends, 2015

ISBN: 978-1-25003961-3

Grades 9 - 12: Readers of Bank's "Of Poseidon" trilogy will recognize her hallmark style of telling a story in alternate perspectives and point of view. While other authors do it less effectively, Banks manages to tell the story of Carly Vega (first person) and Arden Moss (third person omniscient) with such a deftness that the transition is seamless, and it's a story that had me laughing out loud multiple times. Carly is the daughter of illegal immigrants who have been deported. She and her older brother, Julio, are scrimping and saving to bring their familia back to Texas. Arden is the son of the local sheriff who is bent on making his father's life miserable, and his father makes the perfect villain for this tale. The two meet when Arden is ostensibly mugging an old man (Arden's uncle) in the convenience store in which Carly works. When she unexpectedly comes to the old man's rescue using a shotgun, a relationship is born. Throughout, readers are taken on a tour of the seamy side of human smuggling and the sad side of mental illness as Carly and Arden find themselves falling in love. Banks handles the romance without the mawkishness so frequently associated with romance. There were multiple times that I found myself laughing out loud at Arden's antics and the transformation of Carly from a young woman who does everything she can to stay "under the radar" to a strong young woman who courageously faces down the sheriff who is selling safe passages to the immigrants he publicly decries. My only beef with the story is that use of the sheriff as the antagonist--especially given so many of the sentiments against law enforcement. That unflattering picture is at least juxtaposed against a deputy who operates with integrity. Verdict: This is a must-have love story that explores complex social issues using more than just surface platitudes.

Curricular Use: This title provides some excellent opportunities for analysis of the current immigration issue.

Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School

Golden Boys

Author: Rock, Debbie

Illustrator: NA

Candlewick Press, 2016

ISBN: 978-0-7636-7949-1

Grades 9 - 12: Golden Boys is one of the best books I've read this year. A truly engaging story from beginning to ending. What seems to be ordinary and simple is actually quite complex and dark. The Jensens have moved into a working-class neighborhood in Melbourne, Australia. Rex Jensen, a wealthy dentist, lavishes expensive toys on his two sons, Colt and Bastian. We get a sense, early on, through the eyes of Colt, that something is not quite right in the Jensen household, as they have moved before, and Rex has a pattern of gifting his sons with things the rest of the neighborhood kids can only covet and dream about owning. “Colt sees it all, suddenly, for what it is. His father spends money not merely on making his sons envied, but on making them. . .enticing. His father buys bait.” Rex is not the upstanding citizen/cool dad he portrays himself to be. Colt knows this, and within a month, the rest of the neighborhood knows this, as well. Colt will have to bear the results of his knowledge. The Kileys, a poor family with six children, have lived in the neighborhood for thirteen years. Freya Kiley, the eldest at 12, has lost faith in God and her parents. She feels guilty about being born when she realizes she is the only reason her parents got married. She and her ten-year-old brother Declan bear the brunt of responsibility for the other children, as Joe Kiley, their father, is an alcoholic prone to violent, abusive rages. Joe takes his anger out on everyone and everything, especially his wife, whose only roles are to do laundry, iron, be his punching bag, and have more children. Golden Boys is a psychological roller coaster ride that twists and turns and rolls through every emotion: anger, shame, sadness, pain,, trust, hatred, rage, regret, love, guilt, indifference, tension, acceptance, and peace. Sonya Hartnett’s descriptive writing style allows us to really see the characters (“His black hair is thin and floppy, groomed into greasy strings. His dep-set eyes are skidmarks left by the tyres of a crashing car. His hands are remindful of the vice bolted to a bench in the Kiley garage.”). Hartnett’s rich language allows us to feel the dread and the tension as they build (“Everything will be different after. She won’t be able to retreat into the rooms of the castle which have kept her protected so far. It is daunting, and she is daunted, but she will not waver. Life is long, and this must end.”). This is a powerful story of family dynamics, neglectful and abusive parents, friendships made and friendships tested, bullying, protecting those who should not be protected, only because the protectors cannot save themselves. While the book’s ending is neither sugar-coated nor happily-ever-after, I wish there had been a little more closure. The ending made me want to know, “And then what happened?” Verdict: An absorbing, powerful read for teens.

Reviewer: Debbie Rock, Library Media Specialist, Kelso High School

Dragons Beware!

Author: Aguirre, Jorge

Illustrator: Rafael Rosado

First Second, 2015

ISBN: 9781596438781

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: Claudette is the spunky, spontaneous main character in this wild ride of a story, but her diplomatic best friend, Marie, and her indecisive little brother, Gaston, are always by her side and ready to save her hide! When their village comes under attack by gargoyles, Claudette's father sets out to retrieve his sword from the belly of the dragon that ate it (along with his legs and a hand!) so that he can fight the threat. Not one to be left out of the action, Claudette sneaks out at night to catch up to him so she can fight alongside him. When a gargoyle snatches her in the forest, she's lucky that Marie and Gaston have also snuck away and come to her rescue! With pretty much non-stop action, this graphic novel makes for non-stop reading fun! The fantastic characters, including an evil sorcerer, lots of dragons and gargoyles, and a goofy group of princes vying for Marie's affections, keep the reader laughing, gasping and thoroughly enjoying the adventure! This is the second book in the series, but stands alone just fine if the reader hasn't read 'Giants Beware!'. Verdict: A fun, energetic read in graphic novel format that will entice reluctant readers to dive in!

Curricular Use: This would make a great addition to any library's graphic novel section.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Meet a baby lemur

Author: Bell, Samantha S.

Illustrator: NA

Lerner Publications, 2016

ISBN: 9781467779722

Grades 1 - 3: Lemurs are a small mammal with a cute face and a ring-tail. They live in groups and are pregnant for four months. Baby lemurs weigh about 2.5 ounces and are about 4 inches long compared to their mother that is 17 inches long. They live in troops with a female leader. At 5 months babies become independent finding their own food. Eating two times a day and napping and grooming is their day activities. Living in Madagascar their is a lot of fruit to eat.

As a good non-fiction text there are great photos with captions, charts, Fun facts, a glossary, and further reading. Big bold print is inviting to the new reader. Verdict: This Lerner book is rather spendy, yet the quality is high and it would last a long time in the library, and is recommended for purchase.

Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School

What Are the Branches of Government?

Author: Boothroyd, Jennifer

Illustrator: NA

Lerner Publications, 2016

ISBN: 9781467785730

Grades P - 1: This is a brief, but informative early reader introduction to the branches of United States government. It has large font text and full color accompanying photographs, as well as informational side bars on most pages. A Glossary and Index are included at the back. One title in the 'Exploring Government' series, part of Lerner's First Step Nonfiction books. Verdict: A great book to help students understand key concepts about the roles of the president, Congress, and the Supreme court.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Stickiest, Fluffiest, Crunchiest: Super Superlatives

Author: Brocket, Jane

Illustrator: NA

Millbrook Press, 2016

ISBN: 9781467792417

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: Brocket wisely begins this book by defining superlatives, then goes on to tell the reader, 'They help us describe foods and to say which are the stickiest, crunchiest, and fluffiest.' Then the fun really begins! With amazing, colorful and so life-like you-want-to-take-a-bite photographs, she takes the reader on a visual roller-coaster of a ride through scrumptious descriptions of the photos. Every few pages she asks the reader to pause and come up with their own answers to questions like, 'What's the stickiest food you have eaten?' or 'Is the pineapple the prickliest? Or is something else even pricklier?' This is part of the 'Jane Brocket's Clever Concepts' series. Verdict: This would be great as a read-aloud in a class setting to introduce the concept of superlatives, or as an example of the various situations in which such descriptions might be used.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Warriors! Silent Soldiers

Author: Chambers, Catherine

Illustrator: Jason Juta

Hungry Tomato, 2015

ISBN: 978-1467793568

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: This high interest book could be used for research; it’s full of facts like when the warrior group was active, how they trained their new (and often young) warriors, what weapons they used and how they used stealth to their advantage. These warriors often prevailed over superior forces. Even if a student isn’t doing formal research, they’re going to seek out this book to add to their arsenal of warrior facts. Bright, detailed pictures and a succinct two-page layout for each type of warrior make this an engaging book, all research aside. An inset on each entry shows a favored weapon, with bulleted lists of facts and bold headings. There is a short glossary in the back, an index and two more entries for a few more facts and specific battles add to overall book. I liked that this book addressed warriors that I had never heard of before, at least not in the detail offered. I also appreciated the description of how a weapon “worked” without gory or showy information. My reluctant readers will love this book. Verdict: Factual and engaging. Appropriate for different levels of readers.

Curricular Use: Good for teaching elements of text

Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Teacher Librarian, Mark Morris High School

A Homemade Together Christmas

Author: Cocca-Leffler, Maryann

Illustrator: Cocca-Leffler, Maryann

Albert Whitman & Company, 2015

ISBN: 978-0807533666

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: Luca and his family decide to make homemade Christmas presents this year. Luca asks each member of the family for an idea, but none seem to fit him just right. Then he stumbles upon the perfect gift for his family……a jar with “365 days of Together To-Dos.” The illustrations are sweet and cheerful. Verdict: This is a cute story that will win the hearts of elementary students.

Curricular Use: Students will enjoy reading this book, but it will also be a good impetus for being creative and coming up with their own thoughtful gifts or random acts of kindness.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

George

Author: Gino, Alex

Illustrator: NA

Scholastic, 2015

ISBN: 9780545812542

Grades 4 - 6: George is a fourth grade girl on the inside, but is a boy on the outside. She accepts who she is but has no idea how to approach her mom or brother, let alone her best friend, Kelly (a girl.) George is bullied at school for being "girlish" but is hopeful when their grade puts on the play Charlotte's Web. George practices and wants to try out for the part of Charlotte, but when her turn to audition comes up, her teacher only allows her to tryout for boy roles. When Kelly lands the role of Charlotte, the duo hatch a plan for George to play Charlotte during the play's evening performance. George is a hit. This leads to some explaining to her mom and her secret is out. The family works hard to come to terms with George's identity. Overall it is a good story. Some parts were slow and it took a bit to get rolling. Some readers will take a while to understand that George is transgender. Verdict: This is an important, authentic story about transgender people. Some will feel the targeted age group is too young to "deal with" this kind of character. However, this book helps start the conversation about acceptance and diversity.

Curricular Use: This will certainly start conversations about defining transgender for elementary students and will provide support for students in George's shoes.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

The League of the Beastly Dreadfuls

Author: Grant, Holly

Illustrator: Portillo, Josie

Random House, 2015

ISBN: 9780385370073

Grades 4 - 6: Eleven-year-old Anastasia is told her parents have been in a horrible accident and that her two aunts, whom she's never heard of or met, will be taking care of her. Anastasia is taken to a very dreary deserted asylum that the aunts hope to fix up. Anastasia is given a long list of chores and locked in her room every night. She begins to investigate the noises in the creepy place and discovers that the gardner boy, Quentin, is really a shadowboy and his brother, Ollie, is also being kept in the asylum. The trio hatch an escape plan, and are further aided by an exterminator who shows up at the right moment. This is a great adventure, but it leaves more questions about Anastasia than it answers, thus leading into the next installment. Verdict: This adventure will delight mystery seekers who like stories a bit on the drearier side.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

Frog on a Log?

Author: Gray, Kes

Illustrator: Jim Field

Scholastic Press, 2014

ISBN: 9780545687911

Grades P - 2: 'Hey, frog! Sit on a log!' said the cat. 'But I don't want to sit on a log.' said the frog. So begins the back-and-forth conversation between the characters of the cat and the frog in this story. Frog doesn't want to sit on a log because they're hard, uncomfortable and can give you splinters. He'd much rather sit on a mat, but is told with a glare from the cat that 'Only cats sit on mats.' The laugh-out-loud illustrations are a perfect match to the silly pairings, with each pairing getting more and more outrageous as the book progresses. 'Lions sit on irons, and parrots sit on carrots.' 'That doesn't sound very comfortable' states the frog, but the cat is not to be deterred. 'It's not about being comfortable, it's about doing the right thing.' replies the cat. Young listeners will get the giggles listening to the ever growing list of goofy pairings. It is fun to get suggestions from listeners before revealing the cat's answer. 'What do dogs sit on?' is the frog's last question. 'I was hoping you weren't going to ask that,' said the cat.... A raucous good read-aloud! Verdict: This would be a great read-aloud for younger children, very engaging and encourages participation in the storytelling.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Princess in Black and the Perfect Princess Party, The

Author: Hale, Shannon

Illustrator: LeUyen Pham

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 9780763665111

Grades 1 - 3: It's Princess Magnolia's birthday and she wants everything to be perfect. R-r-r-r-ing! When her glitter-stone ring sounds the monster alarm just as her guests are arriving, she reluctantly jumps in the broom closet to change into...the Princess in Black! Of course, Princess Magnolia/Princess in Black is always ready to fight the evil goat eating monsters that invade her kingdom, but when it happens again and again during the party she wants to be perfect, the princess begins getting a little grumpy about the intrusions (don't worry, the monsters are fluffy and not scary to young readers/listeners). Fans of Hale's first Princess in Black installment will surely enjoy this second in the series, and the surprise monster-subduing ending! Verdict: This is a fun new series with just the right amount of perfect princess loveliness, secret identity intrigue and monster-bashing all rolled into one great read! With lots of vibrant illustrations and large text, it is a wonderful early chapter book for young beginning readers.

Curricular Use: This would be a wonderful addition to the early chapter book section in elementary schools.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

What's So Yummy? All About Eating Well and Feeling Good

Author: Harris, Robie H.

Illustrator: Nadine Bernard Westcott

Candlewick Press, 2014

ISBN: 9780763636326

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: Harris does a wonderful job of answering in kid-speak the why and how questions young children ask when approaching the subject of eating, drinking and being active. With family-filled, colorful and active illustrations, a brother and sister hold a running conversation throughout the book that focuses on the subject the text is highlighting on each two-page spread. Nellie and Gus's family start their day at home with breakfast, then walk/ride their bikes to the community garden, a farmer's market and a grocery store to gather their food to pack for a picnic at the park at the end of their day. Young listeners will enjoy following the family's activities during their day and will get most, if not all, of their questions answered by the informative, but easy-to-understand text. Verdict: This is a great book to use with inquisitive young children who have lots of questions about why they should eat/drink specific foods/liquids and why being active is so good for our bodies.

Curricular Use: A go-to book to use at the PreK-K level to teach good eating/drinking and being physically active habits.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Keeping Healthy

Author: Hewitt, Sally

Illustrator: NA

Quarto Publishing Group, 2015

ISBN: 9781939581822

Grades P - 1: With chapter titles like 'Your Body', 'Eat Well' and 'Stay Clean', this easy-reader book focuses on the basics of what kids need to do to stay healthy. Large text and bright, active photos will engage young readers/listeners. Words in bold type are in the glossary at the back. Part of the 'Looking After Me' series. Verdict: This would be a great read-aloud at K or 1st level to promote discussion on healthy living.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Egg: nature's perfect package

Author: Jenkins, Steve and Page, Robin

Illustrator: same

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015

ISBN: 9780547959092

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Another great Steve Jenkins book to share with kids is always a treat. This book about Egg is so informative that it will be read over and over and something new will be learned each time. Beginning with the egg layers and the size of their eggs on two pages with illustrations and short paragraphs with information. Next, egg sizes are compared from smallest to largest. Continuing with great, colorful illustrations the text has information about where eggs are laid and how many produced. Unusual animals are displayed with unusual places eggs are carried. Lastly, how the animals get out of the egg are described. Verdict: This book is so informative and interesting that it is hard to stop turning the pages. Short paragraphs are easy to read and the illustrations are so well done.

Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School

Ragweed's Farm Dog Handbook

Author: Kennedy, Anne Vittur

Illustrator: Kennedy, Anne Vittur

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 978-0763674175

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: I loved this storyline, but I loved the illustrations even more. Kennedy captures Ragweed’s intensity with bulging eyes and skillful expressions. Ragweed is letting the reader know about all the animals on the farm and about each job. He stresses that each animals’ job is not your (or his) job. The only time to do some of the things the other animals would do is when it would earn you a biscuit or when the farmer isn’t around. Really the farm dog’s job is pretty good……you sit on the porch with the farmer and let him pet your head and tell you what a good farm dog you are…simple as that….and you’ll probably get a biscuit too! Verdict: This is such a cute story with incredibly entertaining and fun pictures.

Curricular Use: This book would be great for continuing with extensions with other animals and what their job would be and why a farm dog should not do it. You could also look at each situation from another animal’s perspective.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Little Red Gliding Hood

Author: Lazar, Tara

Illustrator: Cummings, Troy

Random House, 2015

ISBN: 9780385370066

Grades 1 - 3: Little Red Gliding Hood is a twist and a twizzle on the tale Little Red Riding Hood. This Red ice skates and hers are worn in and worn out and she finds a competition to win new ones. She needs a partner and asks all her friends, the dish, Hansel, Little Boy Blue, the seven dwarfs, Old MacDonald, and no one was available. Finally, after running into the Big Bad Wolf she discovers he can skate and is willing to join her and in need of new skates. Surprising the competitors the wolf proves to be a great skater and a not-so-bad wolf. Winning the skating competition, Red and the Wolf get the skates and glide off together.

Such clever alliterations entertain the reader. Many references to other nursery rhyme characters adds humor to the plot. Verdict: I recommend reading this tale aloud. The rhyme, alliteration and nursery rhyme reference is enjoyable with voice.

Curricular Use: Great story to use after an introduction to Nursery Rhymes and Folk and Fairy tales Red will be requested often.

Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School

Wild Feelings

Author: Milgrim, David

Illustrator: Same

Henry Holt and Company, 2015

ISBN: 9780805095876

P - K: 'Do you ever feel...as stubborn as a mule?' begins this story, as Dad is pushing the mule-costume-clad child and saying 'Go...to...bed!' Any reader who has fought this same battle with a child will already have a smile on their face! Each two-page spread has an animal/feeling comparison saying with an expressive, colorful illustration to match. 'Do you sometimes get really, really, rrrrrreally mad? And feel totally out of control, and you don't even know why?' shows the child dressed as a roaring lion and throwing a bit of a fit. But this is followed by, 'Of course you do. Everyone does.', showing the child quieting down at the realization that we all have feelings that are hard to control sometimes. Verdict: This would be a great book to use to get young children to identify with their feelings. Both the sayings and the related artwork are good conversation openers to promote detailed discussions about what children are feeling and why.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Elephants

Author: Morgan, Sally

Illustrator: NA

Quarto Publishing Group, 2015

ISBN: 9781939581853

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: "Elephants" is part of the Animal Lives series that promises readers the opportunity to "Become an animal expert." While the title doesn't quite live up to THAT hype, it does make some more advanced concepts accessible to younger or less capable readers. The author starts with a description of an elephant, which is an excellent way to introduce young writers to the structure of expository writing. A table of contents introduces the topics that move logically from the elephant's description to the different types of elephants, to the habitat, the social structure, and then the physiology. More sophisticated vocabulary, like "species" and "adolescent" is introduced thoughtfully, so that students are able to use context clues. Other difficult words are presented in bold--an indication that the word can be found in the glossary. Each page is a full-color photo with captions that consist of an arrow that points to some aspect of the photo that is highlighted. Each page of text also incorporates a "Fantastic Fact" callout that presents a fact that could be exploited to encourage further inquiry. The format is lovely and engaging. My only criticism would be the lack of source notes and opportunity for readers to seek out additional information. Verdict: This is a good supplemental text that is sure to engage young readers.

Curricular Use: Next Generation Science Standards introduce inheritance and variation of traits as well as interdependent relationships in ecosystems in the third grade. The author of this title explores the variation among the Asian, African, and African forest elephants as well as the domestication of the Asian elephant. Also included is a map that supports discussion of the different species traits as those traits might relate to habitat.

Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School

Ketzel, The Cat who Composed

Author: Newman, Leslea

Illustrator: Bates, Amy June

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 0763665555

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: Based on a true story, Ketzel is a cat owned by a famous composer, Moshe Cotel. When Ketzel inadvertently walks across the piano keys, Moshe writes down the notes and enters them into a one-minute composition competition. Verdict: I like that this books talks a lot about listening inside and outside ones self in order to create. Moshe heard music in the cats random notes and developed it into an award winning composition.

Curricular Use: This book would be great for discussions about the creative process as well as just listening to the world around you.

Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Librarian, Castle Rock Elementary

Water is Water

Author: Paul, Miranda

Illustrator: Chin, Jason

Roaring Book Press, 2015

ISBN: 978-1596439849

Grades 1 - 3: This is an interesting look at the water cycle. Completed with a touch of rhyming, it begins, “water is water unless…it heats up……Steam is steam unless……” and so on. It is a very simple book, but complex at the same time. The illustrations match the feel of the book…..uncomplicated, yet detailed. The colors were sharp. Verdict: This was just a very unique book to me, and I loved the illustrations. I hope children will appreciate it like I did.

Curricular Use: This would be a good book to introduce the water cycle in a science class.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

There's No Such Thing as Little

Author: Pham, LeUyen

Illustrator: LeUyen Pham

Alfred A. Knopf, 2015

ISBN: 9780385391504

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: When read to young children this book presents a different way of looking at 'little'. With a lovely feel good message that can empower self worth. The Illustrations are charming, with a keyhole surprise that leads to the following page. Verdict: This was just a very unique book to me, and I loved the illustrations. I hope children will appreciate it like I did.

Curricular Use: This would be a good book to introduce the water cycle in a science class.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Who Was J.R.R. Tolkien?

Author: Pollack, Pam and Meg Belviso

Illustrator: Jonathan Moore

Grosset & Dunlap, 2015

ISBN: 9780448483023

Grades 3 - 5: Written for younger readers, this detailed biography highlights the life of J.R.R. Tolkien. From his birth in South Africa to his rise as celebrated author in his later years, it relates in easy-to-understand language the trials and victories that made up his life. The line drawn black and white illustrations are numerous and add to the intrigue of his life story. Scattered through the book are full-page explanations of certain details that affected his life like 'World War I', which he fought in, and 'Oxford English Dictionary', which was one of his jobs. Includes a Timeline and Bibliography at the back. Verdict: This book would make a great addition to a library's biography section.

Curricular Use: This is part of the 'Who Was/Is' series of biographies, which are great resources for younger students to use when researching for reports.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic

Dragons at Crumbling Castle and Other Tales

Author: Pratchett, Terry

Illustrator: Beech, Mark

Clarion Books, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-544-46659-3

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5,A good book to read out loud to the younger kids.: "Dragons at Crumbling Castle" is a collection of haphazard adventures with fun, silly, and unlikely settings and characters.

In the title story a boy and the retinue of folks he picks up along the way must rid Crumbling Castle of an invasion of Dragons. Another adventure gives the reader an account of a speed race between the driver of an early steam car and his adversary who drives a gas fueled vehicle. Though very nonsensical in delivery, several of Pratchett's stories illustrate a unique point of view in how to react to the different challenges in life. His stories can show the young reader how to "think outside the box." Though in an onomatopoeic tradition, Terry Pratchett does take great literary license with creating new words to fit the situation. This approach can be used to educate children how the very sound of a word can be especially fitting to its object. And in the same vein, the font style and size varies to emphasize the volume or importance of certain phrases.These stories are straightforward and easy to follow which is helpful to the young reader. Verdict: The charming, seemingly irreverent adventures would appeal to any age group. This collection would make a great lead-in to Mr. Pratchett's numerous novels which could forge a lifelong love of reading.

Curricular Use: Definitely a title to use in a "Hooked on Books" type of program.

Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library

Investigating Seasons

Author: Richard, Orlin

Illustrator: NA

Lerner Publications, 2016`

ISBN: 9781467780599

Grades 3 - 6: With chapters titled 'What Is a Season?', 'What Causes the Seasons?', 'Wet and Dry Seasons' and 'What the Seasons Do', this book supplies in-depth information on the reasons we have seasons. Most of the chapters end with an investigative inquiry of the reader, challenging the reader to further their understanding of their local/personal living area. Numerous full-color photos enhance the text. Short informational boxes on most pages give the reader just a bit more detail, usually focusing on the photo on the page. A 'Glossary', 'Learn More About the Seasons' and an 'Index' are included at the back. This edition is part of Lerner's 'What Are Earth's Cycles?' series. Verdict: With great photos and lots of information, this would work well as a read-aloud to promote classroom discussion.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Hoodoo

Author: Ronald L. Smith

Illustrator: Sebastien Skrobol

Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015

ISBN: 9780544445253

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: Hoodoo Hatcher was born with a heart-shaped birthmark under his left eye, a mark his grandmother believed shows his strength in their folk magic, hoodoo. But at twelve years old, Hoodoo is still the only person in his family unable to cast a simple spell. When a fortune teller reveals that he’ll soon need to save his people from a darkness that’s in some way connected to the death of his father and an ominous man called the Stranger, he becomes desperate not just to learn how to conjure, but also to learn the history of his own family. The 1930s rural Alabama setting of the novel is vivid: the food is mouth-watering, swamps are humid and creepy, and the realities of Jim Crow matter-of-fact. And while Hoodoo succeeds in the end, the consequences of the dark magic are truly scary. Verdict: Dark and atmospheric, “Hoodoo” is the perfect choice for a young reader looking for a scare with the comfort of knowing the hero will come out on top.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Becky Standal, Youth Services Specialist, Longview Public Library

The Bus is for Us!

Author: Rosen, Michael

Illustrator: Tyler, Gillian

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 978-0763669836

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: This was a very cute story told in rhyme. There are lots of different ways to travel or even to dream of traveling, but when it comes right down to it, the bus is the best. This is all because “the bus is for us!” The illustrations are cute, as well. Verdict: This is an entertaining story told in rhyme which is always fun!

Curricular Use: This book addresses the skill of rhyming!

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Operation Orca: A to Z Mysteries

Author: Roy, Ron

Illustrator: Gurney, John Steven

Random House, 2015

ISBN: 978-0553523966

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: Another great mystery by Roy, this book is the seventh Super Edition following the 26 original books in the A to Z Mysteries series. It follows Dink, his father and his friends, Josh and Rose Ruth, to Alaska when Dink’s father goes there on a job assignment. They meet Rafe, the owner of a whale watching cruise and he introduces them to a pod of whales. The next day, they discover that the baby orca is not with the pod and its mother is distraught. The kids take on the mystery and not only help the whales, but some adults, as well. There are several black line pictures throughout the book and in each one there is a hidden letter. Putting these letters in order will give a secret message to the reader……..and can also be found at the back of the book. Verdict: This was a fun book with good sleuthing, and I liked going back and finding the letters in each of the pictures. It added another element of surprise to the book.

Curricular Use: This is a good easy reader for students who are moving into chapter books.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Secret Admirer

Author: Roy, Ron

Illustrator: NA

Random House, 2015

ISBN: 978-0-553-52399-7

Grades 1 - 3,Grades 4 - 5: Dink, Ruth Rose and Josh were best friends. In this adventure, Josh was complaining that his grade didn't get to do anything fun for Valentine's Day. They find a clue that takes them on an exciting treasure hunt. The last clue takes them to Josh's barn

where a surprise Valentines Day party is waiting for them. Verdict: The story kept my interest from first page to the last

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

The ABC Animal Orchestra

Author: Saaf, Donald

Illustrator: Saaf, Donald

Christy Ottoviano Books, 2015

ISBN: 978-0805090727

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: This was a neat concept book featuring the alphabet in a new way. It brings together the alphabet, animals and musical instruments along with other items reflecting the focused letter. In the end, the animal orchestra plays all together. Verdict: This was another great way to share the alphabet with young students, and they loved reviewing the animals and letters when the orchestra played all together.

Curricular Use: This book is great for introducing or even reviewing the alphabet and the sounds the letters make, as well.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

The Curse of the Chocolate Phoenix

Author: Saunders, Kate

Illustrator: NA

Delacorte Press, 2013

ISBN: 978-0385744720

Grades 4 - 5,Grade 6: Companion to the Whizz Pop Chocolate Shop. Eleven-year-old magical twins, Oz and Lily, along with Oz's best and also magical friend, Caydon, are drawn into a time traveling adventure when their magical cat, Demerara, eats some enchanted chocolate. The remaining chocolate phoenix is stolen by the evil Alba who wants to bring the entire world under her control. The children learn that they are distantly related to Alba and are put on a mission by the SMU (Secret Ministry of the Unexplained) to stop her. This an enjoyable adventure that will appeal to upper elementary and middle school students. Note to publisher: The summary on the verso page states that the twins are eight-years-old. Verdict: This is a fun-filled fantasy adventure that will keep readers reading until the very end with some unexpected twists along the way.

Curricular Use: This could be used as encouragement to students with Dyslexia, as Lily is believed to struggle with it.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher-Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

Bryce Harper

Author: Scheff, Matt

Illustrator: NA

ABDO, 2016

ISBN: 9781680780758

Grades 3 - 6: This sports biography describes the life and sports career of baseball player Bryce Harper. Also included is a timeline, glossary and index. The eye-catching, consistent page layout makes it easy for the reader to read and absorb the information. Verdict: Engaging information and photographs make this popular with young baseball fans.

Curricular Use: This would be helpful as a beginning biography.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School

Hauling a Pumpkin: Wheels and Axles vs. Levers

Author: Schuh, Mari

Illustrator: NA

Lerner Publications, 2016

ISBN: 9781467780261

Grades P - 1: Part of Lerner's First Step Nonfiction collection, this book focuses on Wheels, Axles and Levers. Noah has chosen a pumpkin but can't move it on his own. The content discusses which type of simple machine - wheels and axles or a lever - would work best for Noah to move the pumpkin. With great full color photos that illustrate Noah and his Mom trying each process, this is a great easy-to-read and understand introduction to these simple machines. A Glossary and Index are included at the back. Part of the 'Simple Machines to the Rescue' series. Verdict: This is a lower-level introduction series to simple machines that would be a great addition to elementary libraries nonfiction section.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Get Out of My Bath!

Author: Teckentrup, Britta

Illustrator: Teckentrup, Britta

Nosy Crow an imprint of Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 978-0763680060

P - K,Grades 1 - 3: This was a fun book with textured pages to give the feel and glisten of water in the bathtub. Ellie the elephant goes to take a bath, but many different animals feel compelled to join her. The book is interactive in nature at the beginning (I was hoping it would go all the way through until the end), by having the reader shake and tilt the book. Eventually Ellie sucks all the water into her trunk, the other animals get cold and leave and Ellie refills the tub with the water. It leads right into the fact that the child (reader) needs to now go take his/her bath. Verdict: This is a very cute story and is perfect for home……especially if you have a child that needs to be coaxed to take a bath.

Curricular Use: It is a fun book to read.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Hamster Princess: Harriet the Invincible

Author: Vernon, Ursula

Illustrator: Same

Dial Books (Penguin Group), 2015

ISBN: 9780803739833

Grades 3 - 5: When Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is born a terrible curse is placed upon her by the Wicked Fairy Godmouse, Ratshade. Ratshade places the curse because Harriet's parents neglected to invite her to infant Harriet's christening. Sound slightly familiar? The storyline may be reminiscent of Sleeping Beauty, but Harriet is not a girly princess who sleeps through trouble. She is ecstatic when, at ten years old, her parents tell her of the curse that will take effect on her twelfth birthday. She realizes that she cannot die! To work, the curse needs her alive until she is twelve - she realizes she is invincible! To celebrate, Harriet promptly climbs the tallest tower in the kingdom and jumps off. She spends the next two years slaying dragons, cliff-jumping and jousting. Throughout the story, a few similarities remind the reader of that other famous Princess and her story, but mostly Princess Harriet is a unique hamster that takes the reader on a fantastic journey that is all her own! With numerous two-tone illustrations scattered throughout, the book gives off a graphic novel vibe without being boxed into the classic panel format. Verdict: Between the wild and fast-paced storyline and the fun, expressive illustrations, this book will entice reluctant readers and voracious readers alike!

Curricular Use: This book will be put in the school library for reading enjoyment.

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Slug Needs a Hug!

Author: Willis, Jeanne

Illustrator: Tony Ross

Andersen Press, 2015

ISBN: 1467793094

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Slug is sad because his mother won't hug him. All his animal friends helpfully dress him up to make him more appealing. As the story progresses he has more and more costumes. His mother finally tells him that she loves him as he is, but she can't hug him. She has no arms. Verdict: The story is delightful. The surprise at the end (the mom is a slug and has no arms) made me laugh out loud. I enjoyed the fanciful illustrations and look forward to sharing this book with students.

Curricular Use: This book will promote the love of picture books. The illustrations are great and done with humor that compliments the story line.

Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Librarian, Castle Rock Elementary

Hilo: The Boy Who Crashed To Earth

Author: Winick, Judd

Illustrator: Same (color by Guy Major)

Random House Children's Books, 2015

ISBN: 9780385386180

Grades 2 - 5: D.J. is an average boy living in a family of overachievers. Suddenly, he is thrust into the role of leader and caregiver when he witnesses a boy fall from the sky. Hilo doesn't remember anything; his name (at first) or where he's from. But D.J. takes him in, and with the help of his best friend Gina, helps Hilo recover his memories. And as it turns out, Hilo's memories might be what will save Earth! Readers will love this graphic novel, not only for its fast-paced silliness, but also for the characters fierce friendship and loyalty. The awesome full-color illustrations pack a visual punch and provide a perfect pairing to the storyline. Verdict: Great characters, the focus on friendship and TONS of action make this a great addition to any library's graphic novel section!

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Susan Force, Librarian, Olympic Elementary School

Alex

Author: Aguilar-Zeleny, Sylvia

Illustrator: NA

Epic Press, 2016

ISBN: 9781680760088

Grades 9 - 12: Alexandra Lucas knows there is a mistake. She has never thought of herself as a girl, and she exhibits all of the traits typically associated with masculinity. The opening chapter title, "Dick or Dyke," is punctuated by three f-bombs on the first page. If that isn't enough to scare some librarians away, the series title "Coming Out" is emblazoned prominently across the book. It's a shame, really, because the story itself is excellent and the reading level is accessible for struggling readers. For readers who are out and wanting to read about teens with similar struggles, the screamingly obvious series title will be no problem. For teens who are questioning, the title is bound to invite questions they are not prepared to answer. After the tittering over the chapter title subsided, those students who reviewed the title further were hooked. Another of my students begged to take the title "Leroy" from the series home to review it--and now has four other students who are wanting to read it. This is likely a title and series that I will add--in spite of the shortening of Cincinnati to "Cincy" (alternately spelled Cicny in spots). One of the advantages to this series is that it is all written by the same author, which provides an element of uniformity in terms of series quality. Verdict: This is a title and series worthy of purchase for those librarians seeking to augment their LGBTQ collection. The accessibility of the language combined with the strength of the story overcome the flaws in editing.

Curricular Use: This story provides insight into a culture that is unfamiliar to some students. The author's choices and style built a character for whom readers of all genders and sexual orientations will empathize.

Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library

The Girl at the Center of the World

Author: Alsan, Austin

Illustrator: NA

Wendy Lamb Books, 2015

ISBN: 978-0385744041

Grades 7 - 12: Sequel to The Islands at the End of the World. It's been three months since the alien life form, the Emerald Orchid, has hovered in Earth's atmosphere and caused a world wide electrical breakdown. Humans are all living off the grid and fending for themselves. Nuclear plants are exploding and the Emerald Orchid feeds on the escaping radiation. Seventeen-year-old Leilani's epilepsy allows her to communicate with alien and its new baby. Leilani must keep the alien here until all of the nuclear devices have released the radiation or the planet will greatly suffer. She discovers another person can communicate with the Orchid and is trying to drive it away; not caring about the consequences. It is a struggle for her family to survive in the escalating gang wars on Hawaii's big island and Leilani's family is forced to make some tough choices about what's best for their family. Teens will thoroughly enjoy this science fiction survival story that is teeming with Hawaiian culture. The wide variety of characters will appeal to a broad audience. Verdict: A great combination of science fiction, survival and a bit of romance. A perfect recipe for success.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Teacher-Librarian, Coweeman Middle School

Pheasant Hunting

Author: Carpenter, Tom

Illustrator: NA

ABDO Publishing, 2016

ISBN: 978-1624038358

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: This is an in-depth look at pheasant hunting. It goes into great detail about its history, the birds’ habitat, traits and behaviors. It also talks about techniques and strategies for this type of hunting along with describing the equipment and skills needed to be successful. There is also a good discussion about safety and conservation which I think are so critical in making our youngsters responsible hunters themselves. Verdict: Our kids will love this book, and those already involved in hunting with their families will find it especially interesting.

Curricular Use: This book will be enjoyable for kids to read and learn about an activity they are interested in pursuing.

Reviewer: Nikki Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

This Raging Light

Author: Laure, Estelle

Illustrator: NA

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015

ISBN: 978-0-544-53429-2

Grades 9 - 12: Parental neglect, abuse, abandonment, friendship issues. . .while none of these are new literary themes, Estelle Laure's use of first person narration in her debut novel This Raging Light, kept me interested in the story. The story takes place over the course of many months, and through our protagonist Lucille's narration, we are able to get inside her head and understand the emotional depths of what she is going through as she tries to hold everything together for her sister, Wren, and for herself. Lucille is a strong character, but at 17, she has too many things to juggle and to figure out. Her father, an alcoholic, has a breakdown and enters a rehab clinic, and her mother just walks out, never to be heard from again. She has a major falling out with her best friend, Eden, and falls in love with Eden's twin brother, Digby (who already has a girlfriend). Lucille is so engrossed in her own issues she fails to see how so many other characters in the book help her and Wren. Realistically, some of her problems are solved way too easily, but that does not detract from the story, which is well-paced and does not get boring. The author uses chapter titles which reflect the passing of time, which made the narration easy to follow. Lucille has to figure out how she will live the rest of her life and take care of Wren, but she also learns she and Wren do have a strong support system. Verdict: I recommend this book to teen readers. While the themes are not new, they also do no reflect a neatly-tied-together-viewpoint on life. Lucille has no lofty goals or ambitions of college, typical of high school seniors. Lucille just wants to do whatever she can to keep things together for Wren and for herself.

Reviewer: Debbie Rock, Library Media Specialist, Kelso High School

The Galaxy Pirates: Hunt for the Pyxis

Author: Ferraris, Zoë

Illustrator: Sophie McNally

Crown Books for Young Readers, 2015

ISBN: 9780385392167

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: The Galaxy Pirates book 1. Emma and her best friend, Herbie, are getting ready for pizza with her parents when kidnappers arrive, shoot her dad, injure her mom and take her parents. Emma learns her parents are galactic pirates and they have been hiding a special artifact, the pyxis, which can save the galaxy from the evil Queen Virgo. Emma inadvertently activates the pyxis and now it can be used by those wanting it to track her. The duo are befriended as they search for her parents in space and learn the galaxy is much bigger than they ever imagined. Verdict: This is a fun nautical themed fantasy adventure that will make readers eager for the next installment.

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School

Dietary Supplements: Harmless, Helpful, or Hurtful?

Author: Goldsmith, Connie

Illustrator: NA

Twenty-First Century Books, 2016

ISBN: 978-1467738484

Grades 9 - 12: Colorful, filled with quotes and queries to guide the reader, this book taught me a lot. It covers the basics of nutritional needs and what “supplement” means. It introduces how to read a label, or how to your healthy diet using graphics and diagrams. Individual stories start each chapter to set the context and explanations of subsequent court cases or involvement by the USDA make this an excellent tool for research. The body of the text has blue background for pages and the end pages, front and back, are yellow. Photographs, captions, headings and insets, coupled with the source notes at the end of the book help to engage readers on many different levels. It wasn’t my favorite font or font size (it is rather small) but there is a lot to pack in here. The bolded intro to the chapter helps to hook the reader and there really is a lot of information packed into this book! Verdict: Good text for health class research or personal knowledge.

Curricular Use: Good beginning spot for research, example of reliable source. Also good examples of cause and effect and scientific method.

Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Teacher Librarian, Mark Morris High School

The Forget-Me-Not Summer

Author: Howland, Leila

Illustrator: Ji-Hyuk Kim

Harper, 2015

ISBN: 9780062318695

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: The Silver Sisters book 1. California sisters Marigold (12), Zinnia (11) and Lily (5) are being shipped off to spend three weeks of their summer in Cape Cod with aunt Sunny whom they barely remember while their parents attend to work related projects. Marigold is an aspiring actress and is furious that she is forced to miss an audition for a part she really wants, Lily really misses their nanny, Berta, and Zinnia is the first to really enjoy the adventure. The sisters begin to settle in to the laid back lifestyle and decide to bring back the town's talent show so that Marigold might have a chance to audition after all. The sisters go through a very turbulent time but come to realize that life is best when a family sticks together. Verdict: This is a great story for upper elementary or middle school girls that shows the true meaning of family and how sibling rivalry can be overcome.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School

For the Record

Author: Huang, Charlotte

Illustrator: NA

Delacorte Press, Penguin Random House LLC, 2015

ISBN: 9780553511826

Grades 9 - 12: Small-town Michigan girl Chelsea had big dreams when she appeared as a contestant on an American Idol-esque singing competition, so when a label picks her up as a replacement for the singer of popular rock band Melbourne she is thrilled. With her best friend in tow, she sets out on her first tour the summer after her junior year determined to succeed – and not return to high school. Not everything is hunky-dory on the tour bus, however. Navigating life on the road is difficult, and she is having a hard time finding her place within the established chemistry of the band. Add to that the rush of attention Chelsea receives when she starts dating movie star Lucas Rivers and her forbidden attraction to another member of Melbourne, and it starts to look unlikely that the band will survive the summer in one piece. “For the Record” is a fun and fast read. The drama of life on tour, celebrity boyfriend and all, never devolves to melodrama, and Chelsea’s relationships are well-paced and realistic. Author Charlotte Huang is a music insider; married to an agent and friends with the band Fall Out Boy, who she name-drops in her acknowledgements, her knowledge of the industry shines through her writing. Verdict: This is a perfect read alike for Emery Lord’s “Open Road Summer” and an easy recommendation for teens who like music-themed novels and summer romance.

Reviewer: Becky Standal, Youth Services Specialist, Longview Public Library

The Fall

Author: James Preller

Illustrator: NA

Feiwel and Friends, 2015

ISBN: 978-0-312-64301-0

Grades 6 - 8,Grades 9 - 12: “Hate is an amazing thing,” Sam Proctor writes in his journal. Sam writes in his journal fifteen minutes a day, as a way to come to terms with, understand, and accept his responsibility in his friend’s suicide. Morgan Mallen was a victim of bullying, cyberbullying, and peer pressure. Led by popular mean girl Athena in a game of cyberbullying tag, Sam was part of the circle of high school students who wrote horrible things on Morgan’s social media page. Yet, Sam eventually befriended Morgan, and they had good times together until they went to a daytime movie, and Sam told her, “Nobody even knows we’re friends,” I said. “It’s like we’re in a bubble. Here’s to our impossible friendship. No one ever has to know.” Morgan questions why Sam would even say that to her. Outside the movie, Sam is spotted by three of his buddies. He knows they know he is with Morgan. Sam’s betrayal crushes Morgan. They are no longer friends, and during the remainder of the school year, Sam watches Morgan slip into a darkness that she will never return from. Sam comes to understand Morgan better after her death, from her sister, Sophia. Morgan had attempted suicide a year before Sam even met her, and this time she did leave a note. But she also left so many unanswered questions that others will spend the rest of their lives trying unsuccessfully to answer. The Fall, by James Preller, offers no real answers, but it does raise questions we must ask ourselves. Sam realized, too late, that he was filled with insecurity and he was stupid. He realized, too late, that he should have stood by Morgan as her friend, instead of hiding and being afraid, and worrying about what others would think. In this respect, Sam reminded me of Tom, in the book Firegirl, by Tony Abbott. Both Sam and Tom are introspective rather than proactive. Both are better at hiding behind their insecurities than being bold and standing up for the person who is being bullied. The Fall is a compelling book about very real and very serious issues: bullying, cyberbullying, teen pressure, and teen suicide. While Sam came across as weak, rather emotionless, and not a truly authentic teenage boy, I think he came to understand his responsibility in Morgan’s death, and he atoned in his own way. Verdict: The Fall is an important addition to junior and senior high school libraries. The book touches on very real issues that have long-lasting and permanent repercussions.

Curricular Use: Appropriate for classroom discussions about bullying, cyber bullying, peer pressure, teen suicide, and consequences. Appropriate for independent reading projects.

Reviewer: Debbie Rock, Library Media Specialist, Kelso High School

The Science of Stars: Exploring Matter

Author: Kenney, Karen

Illustrator: NA

Checkerboard Library, 2016

ISBN: 9781624039652

Grades 4 - 5,Grades 6 - 8: This little book is a gem. It is filled with information about the states of matter, elements and how stars and planets were formed. The simple sentences in an equally simple font explain very complicated concepts like the periodic table or how matter changes states in easy-to-understand terms. The introduction, eight chapters and conclusion are marked with headings and colored “tabs” on the edge of the first page, to make navigating the book easy. There are graphics (to explain which tools can measure matter, for instance) and photographs with captions that are colored differently than the text. This book can be used by beginning researchers or scientists because there is a simple experiment to try at the back of the book. A glossary and index complete this amazingly complete little book. Verdict: Very text for a jumping off point for older researchers and complete enough to provide everything a younger student needs to know about stars and matter.

Curricular Use: Great for NGSS and research, or teaching elements of text and reading non-fiction text or note-taking skills.

Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Teacher Librarian, Mark Morris High School

Transgender Lives: Complex Stories, Complex Voices

Author: Kirstin Cronn-Mills

Illustrator: NA

Twenty-First Century Books, 2015

ISBN: 978-0-7613-9022-0

Grades 6 - 8,Grades 9 - 12: Transgender Lives is a well-written introductory book to trans* and genderqueer issues, history, terminology, and experiences. Transgender Lives discusses what it means to be transgender. It defines various trans* identities, provides a history of transgender living throughout the world as well as notable transgender people who have played roles in shaping legislation for fair treatment of transgender people, and it discusses health issues many transgender people face. The book features a timeline, a "Who's Who" of famous transgender people, a glossary, and selected bibliography. I found the glossary particularly helpful, as trans* terminology is fluid. Cronn-Mills provides both transgender people and non-transgender people with a background of and awareness to the often confusing and difficult-to-discuss issues trans* face every day. This book will give people struggling with identity issues a point of reference to assist with getting the support and care they need as they decide who they are in society's rigidly defined world of male and female. The book makes it clear that identity issues are complex. Those struggling with identity issues need help, support, good health care and fair treatment, yet they don't necessarily get any of these things. Transgenger Lives is less than 100 pages, and I wish it had included a wider, more diverse selection of individual accounts than those included in the book. More diversity with race, age, and location. I enjoyed reading the individual accounts of how each person discovered their trans* identities, the social aspects of living their trans* lives, and the support systems they have found through family and friends.

Verdict: This is an excellent introductory look at trans* and genderqueer issues.

Curricular Use: A good independent reading book and appropriate for classes in which body issues, gender, sexual identity, awareness and acceptance are discussed.

Reviewer: Debbie Rock, Library Media Specialist, Kelso High School

Ungifted

Author: Korman, Gordon

Illustrator: NA

HarperCollins, 2012

ISBN: 9780061742668

Grades 6 - 8: Donovan is the poster boy for impulsive class clown at his middle school. While swinging a stick at the aging statue of Atlas holding the earth, it shouldn't have surprised him when the planet detaches and rolls down hill to demolish the school gym. When his name is misplaced with a list of students to be sent to gifted and talented school, Donovan figures that it will be the perfect place to lie low. The students at ASD turn out to benefit as much from Donovan's "normal" as he does from their "genius". He humanizes their class robot , solves their lack of a human development credit (by adopting his pregnant older sister as a living project), gets his classmates to think of themselves as a team rather than competitors, and even learns some academics before he is ID'd. A humorous middle school story with heart. Verdict: Korman strikes just the right tone with his humor. He doesn't let the pranks devolve into anarchy, and there are caring adults, not just mindless foils for teen rebellion.

Curricular Use: A story with good appeal for boys, (and at RL 5.2 ), those reading under grade level.

Reviewer: Carol Blix, Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library

Reproductive Rights: Who Decides?

Author: Wittenstein, Vicki Oransky

Illustrator: NA

Twenty-first Century Books, 2016

ISBN: 9781467741873

Grades 9 - 12,Grade 7 - 8: This excellent nonfiction text starts out relatively objectively, but there subtle word choices along the way allude to a definite pro choice bias. Wittenstein does an admirable job of looking at the historical context of birth control and abortion issues and manages to pack a lot of historical background into each chapter. Using a feminist perspective, Wittenstein carefully constructs a case for the necessity of reproductive rights. The text is populated with relevant sidebars that are attractively laid out. The glossary is extensive as is the index. Her language is both engaging and the pace is good. Her discussion of the political tactics of both sides (pro-life and pro-choice) lend the appearance of objectivity. Wittenstein would have been more successfully objective if she had addressed two main issues. When she discussed Sanger's contributions to the movement, she alluded to the connection between Sanger and eugenics; however, she carefully "interpreted" what Sanger meant rather than providing some of the things Sanger actually said. This interpretation is far less critical and absolves Sanger of some of the sting associated with her motivation for abortion and birth control. The second issue was her presentation of Norma McCorvey (a.k.a. Jane Roe). McCorvey later indicated that she believed it was the woman's choice, but that she believed abortions should not be available after the first trimester. As well as the book is researched, the omission of these facts is glaring. Verdict: This is a solid purchase for librarians and educators seeking an updated resource on the issue of reproductive rights.

Curricular Use: Because of the breadth of Wittenstein's research, this title can be easily used in health classes as well as history classes. This would also be an excellent title to be used for considering word choice and argument construction.

Reviewer: JodI Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School