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ELEMENTARY
Ten Hungry Pigs
Author: Anderson, Derek
Illustrator: Derek Anderson
Orchard Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780545168489
$16.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Ten hungry pigs and one horrible gastronomic creation are the focus of this delightfully engaging counting book. Illustrated with hilarious pigs and an adorable duck, the story starts with a very hungry pig making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The next thing readers know, additional pigs come bringing additional foods (in rhyming verse)--none of which go well with peanut butter and jelly. The sandwich grows to a towering climax of mismatched foods until Pig Eleven shows up. Everyone knows there are only ten little pigs, so the hungry wolf's disguise causes all of the little pigs to flee--creating a hasty countdown back to the one little pig and the adorable duck who has now shed the hungry wolf disguise. Verdict: This is a story that little readers will want to hear again and again.
Curricular Use: This is a wonderful early counting book that emphasizes counting both forward and backward. This is a book that builds print motivation as well as narrative skills through rhyme.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Frazzled: Everyday Disasters and Impending Doom
Author: Booki Vivat
Illustrator: Booki Vivat
Harper, 2016
ISBN: 9780062398796
$12.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Poor Abbie Wu is stuck the middle of her family, between adorable, artsy, little sister and golden boy, athlete older brother. Now it's almost time for middle school and Abbie worries about finding her place in the school. Will Abbie make it and find her Thing? Verdict: Excellent graphic novel for 5th graders in anticipation of middle school. Funny, tender, and entertaining. Read alikes: Diary of a Wimpy Kid & Raina Telgemeier.
Curricular Use: Perfect for end of 5th grade reading, particularly for those who may be anxious about what to expect.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens Elementary
Game Changer
Author: Coy, John
Illustrator: Randy DuBurke
CarolRhoda Books, 2015
ISBN: 9781467726047
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Dr. Ben Carson made the argument that young black men should be given a history lesson about all of the incredible black men who have blazed a trail of excellence rather than those who have trod the path to incarceration. "Game Changer" is one of those books that tells the story of a little known African American man and his team, and it is one that is worth sharing with children of ALL ethnicities. The book starts with John McLendon's four questions for his players: Who are you? What are you? Why are you here on this earth? Where are you going? Those questions alone provide the opportunity for a rich discussion of Craft and Structure (RI.5). What follows is a straight-forward retelling of an illegal basketball game between Duke University Medical School and the North Carolina College of Negroes and McLendon's contributions to racial equality in sports through that one quiet act of rebellion. Of equal note are the illustrations. The initial illustrations of the game are on a blue background. The only color is the basketball. As the first game comes to an end and the players self-select integration, the illustrations are transitioned to full color. The final page contains an Author's Note that provides more information about John McLendon, a timeline, and a selected bibliography that could inspire purchases for older students. Verdict: The story and the illustrations make this a must-have informational picture book.
Curricular Use: Aside from the Informational Text connections to the Common Core, this title is an excellent opportunity to look at history and determine how the story is told. From the perspective of an art teacher, it provides opportunities to discuss the use of color, line, and lighting to convey mood.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Beauty & the Beast
Author: Craft, Mahlon F.
Illustrator: Kinuko Y. Craft
Harper, 2016
ISBN: 9780060539191
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: This version of Beauty and the Beast is presented in a lovely manner to present to young and old readers. The Beast is a minimal character and not scary. Beauty is lovely, kind, and generous. She leaves her family and home to give of her life to the beast in return for her father's life. Beauty does discover the kindness and love from the heart of the Beast. When she returns home to care for her ailing father and is tricked to not return on time to the Beast by her sisters causing the Beast to near death, she realizes she loves him. The Beast then becomes a prince and Beast is rewarded. The sisters are turned to stone and others live happily ever after.
These beautiful illustrations are detailed and appropriate. Done in oil over watercolor are soft and pleasant to view. Young children will enjoy the pictures while older readers will appreciate the story with lovely illustrations. Verdict: This version of the tale would be a wonderful addition to Fairy Tale shelf in your library.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary Library, Kelso, WA
Moo
Author: Creech, Sharon
Illustrator: NA
Joanna Cotler Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780062415240
$16.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Reena and Luke find themselves in the state of Maine after having lived their entire lives in the big city with all of its sights and sounds. They find themselves with freedom they've never known, being able to ride their bikes on the streets of their new town. They also find themselves volunteered by their parents to a neighbor who owns a cow named Zora and many other animal friends. Through the work of taking care of the animals, particularly Zora, and learning to get along with Mrs. Falala, an eccentric old lady who scared them terribly, Reena and Luke find that the become more understanding humans with bigger hearts than they knew they could have. The text in prose form contributes to the movement of the story both in its form and in the quickness of its readability. The richness of the characters make the story unforgettable. After reading this book your heart will grow three sizes or perhaps even more than the Grinch's. This is a must read! Verdict: Sharon Creech never fails to create lasting characters that the reader wants to get to know. Moo is no exception. This is a great book both for character development, life lessons learned and that warm, fuzzy feeling that a great book can bring.
Curricular Use: This book is absolutely for the love of reading. There are few books that I would call a must read for every child. This is definitely one of them!
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary Music Teacher and former librarian, Carrolls Elementary School
Pete the Cat's Got Class
Author: Dean, James
Illustrator: same
Harper, 2016
ISBN: 9780062304100
$9.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Pete the Cat loves math and when it is math time in class he loves to give the answers and he finds math easy. Pete decides to help Tom with math. He shows Tom how to do math this his toy cars. Math is fun and neat says Pete. Verdict: This book has stickers, posters and flash cards to be removed or could be a great gift for a young math learner.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary School Library, Kelso, WA
Full of Beans
Author: Holm, Jennifer L.
Illustrator: NA
Random House, 2016
ISBN: 9780553510362
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5: Set in Key West in the midst of the Great Depression, this story follows Beans Curry - a savvy, resourceful, business minded kid that is trying to do what he can to help his family put food on the table. He plays marbles with his gang, the Keepsies. He has a way with babies. And loves the movies and has aspirations to be an actor. But most of all, he is looking for any way to make a few cents. An opportunity comes along that he thinks will be easy money. But not all things are as they seem.
The text includes several aspects of the Great Depression, Key West and The New Deal that are historically accurate. Time period specific vocabulary and slang are also prevalent in the text. Verdict: A fun, historical, poignant book that older elementary readers will enjoy.
Curricular Use: This book has connections to the Great Depression, FDR and the New Deal, and the renovation of Key West. There is also time period specific vocabulary. You could also use the text to talk about the value of money and comparing it to what a dime would get you now. It would also spark good discussion around honesty and the value of telling the truth.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Lovely Old Lion
Author: Jarman, Julia
Illustrator: Susan Varley
Anderson Press USA, 2015
ISBN: 9781467793100
$17.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Occasionally there are books that are just sweet. This is one of them. Lenny the Lion's grandpa is getting forgetful. He doesn't remember seemingly simple things and he does things that he wouldn't normally do. When Lenny's grandma explains what is going on, Lenny engages the help of his grandpa's old buddies to trigger some old memories. The ending is a fairly benign ending that does not dwell on the death of the old lion, but instead focuses on Lenny's assumption of the reign and his agenda to encourage younger animals to be kind to their grandpas and grandmas who may forget little things. The author and illustrator of this little story do several things well. The illustrations are beautiful and engaging. Grandpa is treated with dignity throughout. Young readers are given a couple of good strategies for helping grandparents who are struggling with dementia to remember the good parts of their youth and share the stories of that youth with their grandchildren. Verdict: For young children who are struggling to grasp how dementia might change their family members, this book is a rare gift.
Curricular Use: This is appropriate for teaching young readers about aging and the changes to bodies and mind. It would pair nicely with nonfiction reading about dementia or Alzheimer's. This is a title that builds nicely on the Early Literacy Skills that emphasize building narrative skills and early Common Core Literature standards that focus on retelling events and picking out details.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School
How to Swallow a Pig: Step-by-step Advice from the Animal Kingdom
Author: Jenkins, Steve and Robin Page
Illustrator: Steve Jenkins
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015
ISBN: 9780544313651
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: If you were a python, how WOULD you capture a pig and eat it? Steve Jenkins and Robin Page provide a handbook of instructions for tasks that eighteen different animals perform in order to hunt, attract a mate, or create a home. The hallmark of this title is its presentation as a how to manual. Readers are taught how to complete each tasks usually in four to six easy steps. The title is not for the faint of heart or squeamish of stomach, though, because both the crocodile and python panels imply a grisly end for the prey. The colorful illustrations augment the how to sequences and are a great way to build infographic reading skills. The back matter contains additional snippets about the featured animals and their habitats as well as a bibliography. Verdict: Animals are perennially popular, and this is a title that will meet the cravings for animal lovers while providing multiple educational opportunities.
Curricular Use: This is a title that is well tailored to help students master NGSS 1-LS1.1: Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs. This standard is cross connected to the Common Core ELA W.1.7: Participate in shared research and writing projects (e.g. explore a number of "how-to" books on a given topic and use them to write a sequence of instructions). This title also supports Common Core RI.3: Describe the relationship between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts or steps in technical procedures in a text, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect. This would provide an excellent model for student how-to writing.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Who Wants a Tortoise?
Author: Keane, Dave
Illustrator: K.G. Campbell
Alfred a. Knopf, 2016
ISBN: 9780385754170
$17.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: The young girl character wanted a puppy for her birthday. She read books about raising and training puppies and thought of puppy names. But when she opens the box with holes she finds a tortoise. Very upset she complains and shouts she might be allergic to a tortoise like her dad is allergic to dogs. She does not want this tortoise. Tortoises cannot fetch, beg, get excited, give wet kisses. She played makeover with the tortoise making mom upset. At her lemonade stand she offers holding her tortoise for a price. It was popular. Sneaky tortoise crawls away and gets lost. After days she finds it in the neighbors garden and retrieves it. Realizing she missed the pet she decides to find things her tortoise, Rover can do. Verdict: Pet stories are always popular and kids will relate to this one.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary Library, Kelso, WA
Under Water, Under Earth
Author: Mizielinska, Aleksandra and Daniel
Illustrator: NA
Big Picture Press, 2015
ISBN: 9780763689223
$35.00
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This non-fiction book is double sided. One side explores what is under water: lakes, oceans, sinkholes, diving, submarines, giant underwater mammals, etc. The other side explores what is under the earth: bugs, plants, paleontology, archaeology, sewer systems, subway systems, etc. Every page or two has an overview and small fact bubbles. It is definitely not in depth information, but it has a fun overview of a lot of different topics. The pictures are fun, hand drawn illustrations. Verdict: The size, double-sided feature and breadth of interesting topics will make this a frequently checked out title.
Curricular Use: If anyone is studying or researching things below either earth or water, this book would be a great resource. It also shows great cross sections and diagrams of several different systems. Good visuals for a wide range of science topics.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Who's the Grossest of Them All?
Author: Montanari, Susan McElroy
Illustrator: Jake Parker
Schwartz & Wade Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780553511901
$17.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Goblin believes he is the nastiest, most horrible creature in all the forest! As he takes a stroll through the forest, he encounters characters from other fairy tales, eventually coming upon a troll. The troll believes HE is the nasties, most horrible creature. So, they decide to get more opinions. The ending will surprise you! The text references several other well known fairy tales. It also includes things like silly faces, boogers, and armpit farts - which students will find hilarious. Verdict: Students of all ages will find this story highly entertaining. Even older students will enjoy the references to other popular fairy tales and the "gross" factor.
Curricular Use: This would be a fun addition to any fairy tale unit. It would go nicely at the end, once you have covered several other fairy tales so that students can identify which ones are referenced in the story.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
The Secret Fire: A Secret Box Book
Author: Ringwald, Whitaker
Illustrator: NA
Katherine Tegan Books, Associated with HarperCollins Publishers, 2016
ISBN: 9780062216205
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: This adventure begins with brothers Ethan and Tyler working with the help of their cousin Jax, and their new friend Pyrra to steal the urn of love from an art museum. Their plan is interrupted by Epimetheus, who left the realm of the gods on a quest to capture the urns of love, hope, and faith and take over the mortal world. Ethan and Tyler must travel into the realm of the gods and figure out how to destroy the urns and save Jax who is being held at ransom by Epimetheus. Will the brothers be able to save their family and prevent Epimetheus from taking over the world? Verdict: I recommend this book as well as the others in this series. The characters work together to conquer evil as they cross in and out of the realm of the gods.
Curricular Use: This book has a lot of information about the history of the greek gods and can also be used for writing about good character traits.
Reviewer: Jodie Rodriguez, Elementary Librarian, C.V.G. Elementary
How to Find Gold
Author: Schwartz, Viviane
Illustrator: NA
Candlewick Press, 2016
ISBN: 9780763681043
$16.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Anna and Crocodile set out on a dangerous and difficult adventure - finding gold. They plan, draw maps, fetch a boat, and sail off. This book is full of adventure and imagination. The illustrations and whimsical and child-like. There are several pages with no words - only the illustrations to tell the story. Verdict: This is a fun, imaginative book that will be enjoyed by all ages.
Curricular Use: The drawings almost look like they were drawn by children, so it would be a great book to use to show students how THEY can be illustrators. You could also talk about how imagination and visualization can take you on any adventures!
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Hurricane Watch
Author: Stewart, Melissa
Illustrator: Taia Morley
Harper, 2015
ISBN: 9780062327765
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3: The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) start with discussions about weather forecasting in order to prepare for and respond to severe weather in grades K - 2, so this title is not only grade appropriate, its publication is timely. Though each page is visually pretty busy, the text portion is limited and is heavily supported with infographics. Hurricanes are defined, explained, and categorized in language that is a little beyond a kindergartner, but would be within the grasp of a second grader. The back matter contains a glossary, two experiments that help demonstrate the content of the book, and a briefly annotated section of websites to visit. This title is a Level 2 Science book in the "Let's Read and Find Out" series, and if this title is any indication, it is well worth the energy to research which topics are introduced at some of the primary levels and add those titles. Verdict: This is a strong supplement to science texts for younger readers.
Curricular Use: This title supports the NGSS K-ESS3-2: Ask questions to obtain information about the purpose of weather forecasting to prepare for, and respond to, severe weather.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
What a Wonderful World
Author: Thiele, Bob & George David Weiss
Illustrator: Tim Hopgood
Henry Holt and Company, 2014
ISBN: 9781627792547
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: The words from the song sung by Louis
Armstrong are illustrated by Tim Hopgood. The simple words by these authors resonate in many hearts with memories of Mr. Louis singing on stage. Simple, colorful illustrations make the words pop off the page and the reader smile.
I love this book. Verdict: This story would be a wonderful gift for a music teacher.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Debbie Johnson, Library/Media Specialist, Wallace Elementary Library, Kelso, WA
SECONDARY
How to Keep Rolling After a Fall
Author: Cozzo, Karole
Illustrator: NA
Swoon Reads, 2016
ISBN: 9781250079282
$9.99
Grades 9 - 12: For the low price of a paperback, Karole Cozzo and Swoon Reads pack a lot into this book. Nikki's life is a nightmare of her own creating. In a fit of poor judgment, she joined some of her mean girl friends in posting a naked picture of Taylor. Not only has Taylor's world come crashing down, but Nikki has been convicted of her participation in the bullying. The once easy relationship Nikki had with her parents has been replaced by distrust. Nikki's social circle, once wide, has narrowed considerably, and now all she is looking forward to is the escape of her 18th birthday and graduation when she can leave town, go to college, and forget about the whole big mess. Since romance is not a priority, it comes as a surprise to her that she begins to fall for an older guy. Pax, the survivor of an accident, is paralyzed from the waist down. He has an attitude and joie de vivre that are very attractive, and, best of all, despite Nikki's prior bad behavior, he doesn't judge her. It's a romance fraught with challenge, since Pax doesn't want pity, and his circumstances are pitiable. In a short amount of time Cozzo develops two great characters who are navigating a romance that many adults would find difficult. The end matter includes an author's note which sheds light on Cozzo's profession as a school psychologist and how that has influenced the issues she wants readers to ponder, a list of discussion questions that are centered around mental health (not surprising), and a pitch for another book by another author. Verdict: Readers looking for a redemptive romance will gravitate to this tale that looks at disability from a position of strength rather than weakness.
Curricular Use: The questions at the end lend themselves to a Health discussion of healthy relationships, perceptions of beauty, and reestablishing trust.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Girls Like Us
Author: Giles, Gale
Illustrator: NA
Candlewick, 2014
ISBN: 9780763662677
$16.99
Grades 9 - 12, Adult: Quiney and Biddy have graduated from their high school special education program. Neither can believe that they are placed to live with each other in the upstairs apartment of an elderly woman whom they are to assist. Quiney works an outside job also. She is so angry at the world, and especially at the guy who made her "special.' Biddy is afraid of everything as she learned that her trusting nature could not trust. Chapters alternate between the two girls sharing their take on their lives. Little do they realize that this placement and what they experience next will show fortitude never imagined. Verdict: Giles writes convincingly about the challenges of growing up special, and the added persecution and manipulation and abuse because of it.
Curricular Use: Excellent for anyone to consider a different point of view and for point of view studies.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian & Follett Trainer, Follett School Solutions
Bright Smoke, Cold Fire
Author: Hodge, Rosamund
Illustrator: NA
Balzer & Bray , 2016
ISBN: 9780062369413
$17.99
Grades 9 - 12: If you asked me what this story is about, I would be hard pressed to summarize it. Suffice it to say, the plot is complex, but it is my favorite Rosamund Hodge book yet. Loosely based on Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," this retelling follows four main characters: Mahyanai Runajo, Mahyanai Romeo, Paris Catresou, and Uliet Catresou--all of whom live in the dying city of Viyara. The Catresou clan are magi (and suspected necromancers). The Mahyanai are a more poetic bunch who believe in love and words and beauty. The Catresou clan is led by Lord Catresou who laid the sigils necessary to bring about the Juliet--a champion of justice and protector of her clan. The Juliet is assigned a guardian whose life is to protect and serve her. Paris Cotresou is assigned this task when Romeo successfully kills Tybalt (Juliet's original guardian) in a duel. The Juliet has other plans. She has fallen in love with the completely unacceptable Romeo, and he is completely smitten with her. The two illicitly create the magical bond that would make Romeo her guardian (and spare his life). Paris, realizing what is about to happen, goes to the sepulcher to stop the binding, and the Juliet becomes bound to both of them. Lord Cotresou has tinkered with the sigils, though, so the Juliet is killed. Runajo has pledged herself to the Sisters of the Thorn, the keepers of Viyara. She finds herself at odds with the sisters and the high priestess, but she is devoted to her city. She knows the city is dying because the human sacrifices are being made with more frequency, and still the magic of the wall that protects the city is waning. In a bold move, Runajo declares herself a novitiate, and must stand vigil at the Mouth of Death, the lake that draws souls that have departed. It is there that she sees Juliet heading toward death. In an equally unacceptable move, Runajo grabs Juliet, effectively bringing Juliet back from death and now subjecting herself to the laws against necromancy. She also becomes another of the Juliet's guardians. Together, these four set about to discover how to save Viyara and uncover the chief necromancer. Verdict: The world building in this story is spectacular, the prose is as luxurious as Hodge's prior novels, but the content is not nearly as mature. Readers of Hodge's previous novels will greedily attack this new addition.
Curricular Use: The use of Shakespeare's original characters make this a natural for comparing this plot with the original plot of "Romeo and Juliet. It is an excellent opportunity to study author's craft and plot/character choices.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
The Inquisition
Author: Matharu, Taran
Illustrator: NA
Feiwel and Friends, 2016
ISBN: 9781250076311
$17.99
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: Summoner book 2. Fletcher and his demon, Ignatius, have spent the last year locked in a horrible dungeon. A mysteriously smuggled spell book has been his only companion. His trial date arrives without warning and he is briefly reunited with old friends. During the trial, revelations about his past come to life - raised as an orphaned commoner, Fletcher is really the son of nobles who were killed during an orc attack. Furthermore, race relations are very tense as humans, elves and dwarfs are fighting but must work together against the greater enemy, the orcs. Arch enemies must work together as a group of battlemages representing all races is sent deep into orc territory to recuse a noble human and destroy an enormous cache of goblin eggs held by the orcs that threatens them all. Having not read the previous installment, it was easy to jump right into the story. This fantasy adventure has strong flavors of Tolkien and Rowling and will appeal to a wide audience. Very suitable for middle and high school students alike who will eagerly await the final installment. Verdict: Buy the entire trilogy. Your students will thank you!
Curricular Use: Pleasure reading, Fantasy
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Recommended
ELEMENTARY
Lucy & Andy Neanderthal
Author: Brown, Jeffrey
Illustrator: Brown, Jeffrey
Crown, 2016
ISBN: 9780385388351
$12.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: It's not easy being a Neanderthal. Brother and sister, Lucy and Andy, do what they can to survive wild cats, woolley mammoths, and each other. Humorous situations, characters, and clan. Verdict: Great blend of informational and literary text. If you like Jedi Academy you'll like this book as well.
Curricular Use: Teaching prehistoric time period in a very palatable way.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens
Drive
Author: Clement, Nathan
Illustrator: author
Boyds Mills Press, 2008, 2016 board book ed.
ISBN: 9781629796925
$7.99
P - K: A boy describes in brief phrases what his father's job as a semi-truck driver entails: getting up before daylight to get his truck's trailer loaded, watching out for other drivers, eating at the cafe, making his delivery, refueling, and taking another load back home (where he plays catch with his son). The full-color computer-generated illustrations show his shiny red big rig from various points of view, with the driver's face artfully in silhouette, obscured by part of the truck, or from the rear so the young audience can imagine an identity of their choice for the driver. Verdict: Buy in this board book format where needed.
Curricular Use: Ideal for preschool or early childhood learning applications.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public LIbrary
Grayling's Song
Author: Cushman, Karen
Illustrator: NA
Clarion Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780544301801
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Quiet and shy Grayling is tested when her mother and other magic makers in the kingdom are immobilized. Will she be able to pluck up the courage to find the magic needed to free her Mother? Verdict: Strong female character, coming of age tale.
Curricular Use: Story arc, heroes journey description.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens Elementary
How to Track a Truck
Author: Eaton, Jason Carter
Illustrator: John Rocco
Candlewick Press, 2016
ISBN: 9780763680657
$16.99
Grades 1 - 3: An intrepid youngster tricked out in pith helmet and work boots guides the reader on how to choose, track and entice a pet truck of their own to follow them home and live there happily. Each potential "pet" has an open and eager headlight, grill, and bumper face. And there is humor in the droll lines paired with the playful color illustrations; "If you live in a small apartment, a car transporter may not be a wise choice." That line is on a double-page spread showing a long-suffering mom on a loveseat on the top deck of the aforementioned transport which fill the room wall to wall, and is sandwiched between a tilting chandelier and a floor lamp. When a suitable truck is found, the reader is encouraged to lay down a trail of irresistible orange cones, then give it work to do and a large place to pay and explore, preferably with other trucks. A concluding spread shows a parade of different rigs racing up a hill, each with their ecstatic young (male and female) owners. A companion title to How to Track a Train, also by Eaton and Rocco. Verdict: Humor and the draw of assorted types of trucks in action will make this a popular title.
Curricular Use: For young truck enthusiasts to enjoy, and large enough pages to use as a story time read-aloud.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
Mango & Bambang: The Not-a-Pig
Author: Faber, Polly
Illustrator: Vulliamy, Clara
Candlewick Press, 2015
ISBN: 9780763682262
$14.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Mango Allsorts fills her time with lessons: music, chess, karate, leaving little time for loneliness. But when she rescues a Tapir and takes it home with her, she realizes she didn't know what she was missing. Verdict: The four chapters are episodic and easy to read. Mango is a well-mannered, good-hearted heroine and role model. Bambang is the anxious lost tapir that wins her heart.
Curricular Use: Mango has very good manners. Great resource if reviewing or teaching that to a class.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens Elementary
A Fairy Friend
Author: Fliess, Sue
Illustrator: Keane, Claire
Henry Holt, 2016
ISBN: 9781627790819
$16.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: A fairy book of whimsy written in verse. A little girl searches for fairies in vain, but she builds a fairy house to attract them instead. Will he find the fairies she's seeking? Verdict: Magical book with beautiful illustrations, perfect for any little child (or adult) who believes in fairies. High interest.
Curricular Use: The rhyme scheme in poems can help kids decode words. Written with iambic lilt.... perhaps a bit too ambitious for little kids... but adds to the charm of the book.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens Elementary
The Tree in the Courtyard
Author: Gottesfeld, Jeff
Illustrator: Peter McCarty
Alfred A. Knopf, 2016
ISBN: 9780385753975
$17.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This is story of Anne Frank told from the perspective of the chestnut tree outside of her window. The tree shares highlights from the life of Anne Frank and the afterword gives some additional facts about the tree and where its saplings are currently planted. The illustrations are beautifully done in brown and white. Verdict: A good addition to any other books about Anne Frank or the time of the Holocaust. However, it does not give much specific information so it would not be a first resource.
Curricular Use: A good extension to any other Anne Frank or Holocaust study. It would also be good to talk about perspective, as it is told from the tree's point of view.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Dream Jumper
Author: Grunberg, Greg
Illustrator: Turnbloom, Lucas
Graphix, Scholastic, 2016
ISBN: 978054582604
$12.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Ben's been having weird dreams lately. So, when a talking bunny from the dream world tells Ben he has the ability to jump from dream to dream, nothing could be more exciting... until he's stuck in one of his friends' nightmares. Verdict: Solid graphic novel, very lovely, glossy colored pages.
Curricular Use: A read-for-pleasure graphic novel.
Reviewer: Katy Olson, Librarian, St. Helens Elementary
Darkness Falls
Author: Hunter, Erin
Illustrator: NA
Harper, 2013
ISBN: 9780062102645
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: This is book three of the ongoing Survivors series. A dog named Lucky is faced with the problem of his two packs fighting each other. He is kicked out of both packs, which decide to join forces rather than fight. Lucky leaves to find Mickey, a friend who had left the pack earlier. After finding Mickey they found the city has been completely abandoned by humans. So they journey back only to find three fierce dog pups along the way. Thinking they are abandoned, Lucky and Mickey decide to take the pups back to the united pack. The fierce dog pack follows them and wants to take the pups back. The climax of the story is what will happen to the pups.
The characterizations are clear, even though there are 7-10 major characters, and the text is at a fifth grade reading level. Verdict: Buy this addictive series where the first two in the series are popular, and where Hunter's Warriors and Seeker's series are in demand.
Curricular Use: For the love of reading.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
I Will Chomp You!
Author: John, Jory
Illustrator: Bob Shea
Random House, 2015
ISBN: 9780385389860
$17.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: This book is written as if the reader is participating in the book. The monster tells the reader not to read any farther or he will chomp him! After his efforts to chomp the reader prove unsuccessful, the monster finally reveals why he is trying to stop the reader. Verdict: A fun, easy to read story that will have your students laughing.
Curricular Use: This book would lend itself well to discussing the authors purpose and writing style. It is also a wonderful title to just enjoy and have fun with.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Rosie Goes to Preschool
Author: Katz, Karen
Illustrator: Karen Katz
Schwartz & Wade, 2015
ISBN: 9780385379175
$16.99
P - K: Got anxiety about going to preschool? Join Rosie as she introduces children to some of the most common preschool routines. The picture books are populated by children and adults of all colors, placed in a pastel setting. Along with easy to follow text, most pages contain a "Rosie Tip" in a contrasting medallion that provides suggestions for how to do tasks or react to social situations. Equally important is the fact that the tips let children know how to respond to situations that they may not like--like getting assigned a chore on the chore chart that isn't as much fun. The intentional choices Katz makes about showing that both parents are caregivers when dropping off the children and teachers are not all white and female make this a subtly inclusive story. Verdict: Preschool will not seem so scary after this book.
Curricular Use: This is a great way to introduce informational text. Though the plot is fictional, the tips provide opportunities to compare a child's experience with the story. This also provides opportunity to discuss the social skills and behaviors needed for primary children.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
The Little Snowplow
Author: Koehler, Lora
Illustrator: Jake Parker
Candlewick Press, 2015
ISBN: 9780763670740
$15.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Aside from the fact that the Little Snowplow is illustrated to look more like a Bobcat, this reworking of "The Little Engine that Could" theme is pretty successful. Little snowplow is the smallest heavy equipment addition to the Mighty Mountain Road Crew, and--of course--he is snubbed for his size. Not to be deterred, he does the tasks assigned to him AND he does a little additional training on the side. All of this comes in handy when the first big snowstorm hits. At first, he believes he is incapable of doing the task since the snow just keeps coming, and coming, and coming. When the dump truck is called out to help, he gets stuck in an avalanche, only to be saved by the little snowplow. Verdict: This is a cute addition about persistence.
Curricular Use: This is a title that can help children build narrative and summarizing skills.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Charlie Piechart and the Case of the Missing Hat
Author: Sadler, Marilyn
Illustrator: Eric Comstock
Katherine Tegen Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780062370563
$17.99
P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Charlie's friend Margot is missing her cone shaped princess hat and she needs it back for her play that night! Charlie and his dog Watson follow the clues to search for her hat! A great detective story that also pulls in the use and identification of three dimensional shapes. Verdict: A fun, engaging story that also uses math standards.
Curricular Use: Great use of deductive reasoning. Students look at the pictures for clues and can predict what might come next. It would also be a great literacy addition to a math unit on three dimensional shapes.
Reviewer: Melanie Preiss, Elementary Librarian, Carrolls Elementary
Secrets of the Dragon Tomb
Author: Samphire, Patrick
Illustrator: Jeremy Holmes
Christy Ottaviano Books, 2016
ISBN: 9780805099065
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Secrets of the Dragon Tomb book 1. This steampunk adventure takes places in a British colony on Mars. Twelve-year-old Edward sees himself as the glue holding his family together. His father is an inventor who spends much of his time in the lab, while his mom and two older sisters are into the social scene. Edward's youngest sister, Putty, is a firecracker and keeps him on his toes. When cousin Freddie mysteriously appears after his dad's newest invention, a water abacus, Edward suspects something's up. Soon there is a break in and later his parents and oldest sister are kidnapped by those wanting his dad to make another abacus in hopes of unraveling an ancient language on a maps in hopes of discovering ancient weapons. This fast paced adventure will certainly appeal to fans that enjoyed The Series of Unfortunate Events. The interesting, detailed illustrations further enhanced the engaging story. Verdict: This is bound to be a hit in grades 4 - 6.
Curricular Use: Steampunk, pleasure reading
Reviewer: Debby Iverson, Library Media Specialist, Coweeman Middle School
Lemons Are Not Red
Author: Seeger, Laura Vaccaro
Illustrator: Laura Vaccaro Seeger
Roaring Brook Press, 2004
ISBN: 9781626722538
$14.99
P - K, 1: This truly is a clever concept book that uses repetition to teach colors. Alternating pages have cutout shapes, so the first page has the cutout of a lemon that is against a red background and the opening sentence of "Lemons are not RED." When readers flip the page, they shape is now the right color and an alternate "Apples are RED" illustrates the concept. This is a perfect book for developing early skills. Children will love the repetition as well as the cutouts. Verdict: This title was resurrected for a reason: it's super cool.
Curricular Use: This book builds color recognition as well as print recognition. This is a title that could be used to teach the mathematical concept of sets (this, not that) and the repetitive format helps build children's early literacy narrative skills through repetition.
Reviewer: Jodi Kruse, Teacher Librarian, R. A. Long High School Library
Slinky Innovators: The James Family
Author: Slater, Lee
Illustrator: NA
ABDO Publishing; Checkerboard Library, 2016
ISBN: 9781624039799
$18.95
3rd-6h: This book talks about the creator of the popular children’s toy, the Slinky, and his efforts to perfect his invention. Richard James stumbled upon this iconic toy and helped to develop it. However, it was his wife and family, who overcame his sudden move to Bolivia, to keep the company moving forward. His wife, Betty, did a tremendous job of leading the company in an upward projection and leaving a lasting legacy. This small book was jam-packed with lots of information on this invention and the family behind it. Verdict:
This was a very interesting read and very appropriate for upper elementary students. It covered many different aspects of this family, the business and the invention.
Curricular Use:
This was an interesting read and could be used in a study of inventors and their inventions.
Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary
Fiona's Little Lie
Author: Wells, Rosemary
Illustrator: author
Candlewick Press, 2016
ISBN: 9780763673123
$14.99
P - K, and Ist Grade: Fiona is excited to be chosen as her best friend Felix's Birthday Elf and has every intention of giving her mother the note from the teacher requesting her baking help, but the distraction of a sensational caterpillar on the drive home, puts it completely out of her mind. The next morning an empty-handed Fiona doesn't want to admit her culpability and fibs that the cupcakes were all stolen and eaten. When pressed for details, she fingers the Terrible Three, the older second grade's usual suspects. When they are brought before her to positively identify, Fiona's lie is compounded by her claim that the thieves were three alligators with the same names. Her wise teacher assures Fiona that, "Truth and a good I'm sorry always clear the air," prompting her confession and a round of apologies. Wells' characters, all with charming guinea pig faces, are exuberant when instead of making due with the teacher's bran bars, they get to enjoy the cupcakes Fiona's mom has produced after finding the lost note on the floor of the car. And faithful Felix is the first to forgive for friendship's sake. Verdict: A good example of how admitting the truth is better than trying to lie one's way out of a situation for young readers.
Curricular Use: A moral tale for pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade classroom climate.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Alligator's Smile and other Poems
Author: Yolen, Jane
Illustrator: Jason Stemple
Millbrook Press, 2016
ISBN: 9781467755757
$19.99
Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Jane Yolen describes alligators in different types of poems and adds more facts in green boxes, which include some history as well. The photographer Jason Stemple captures alligators in different poses that highlight their features, such as their teeth, and skin. The back of the book includes more gator facts, a glossary and a list of websites to learn even more about alligators. Verdict: The book is very informational. The information presented in poem form makes learning even more fun.
Curricular Use: The book could be used for an English lesson and encourage students to write their own poems.
Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Child and Family Liaison, Lower Columbia College Head Start
SECONDARY
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Author: Boyne, John
Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers
Knopf, 2006, 2016
ISBN: 978039955931
$18.99
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: The deluxe illustrated edition of Boyne's heart-wrenching story of Bruno, a naive 9-year-old German boy who is so desperate for a friend, that when his newly appointed Commandant father moves their family to the outskirts of a concentration camp, he secretly makes his way to the wire and meets a Jewish boy his own age who is imprisoned there. Bruno doesn't understand why Shmuel and the others are kept on the other side of the fence, and keeps his visits there a secret, knowing that his parents would be displeased, but not why. Eventually Bruno, not wanting to move back to Berlin, crawls under the wire to visit with his friend, who gives him striped pajamas to wear. The boys are soon caught in a crowd being herded into a large metal room. The author, writing in a slightly detached style leaves it to the reader to know that "Out-with" is Auschwitz, and that Bruno has accompanied his friend into the gas chamber. Jeffers's poignant ink, watercolor and charcoal illustrations often feature individuals rendered only with eyes or faceless, or the with the sad countenance of the suffering. Verdict: The Holocaust from a child's point of view becomes more haunting and personal than statistics in a history textbook.
Curricular Use: Use with Holocaust or racism studies.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Yown Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
The Plain Janes
Author: Castellucci, Cecil
Illustrator: Rugg, Jim
Minxbooks, DC Comics, 2007
ISBN: 9781401211158
$9.99
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: A group of odd kids bond together and find creative ways to rebel against their repressive community. This is a graphic novel so text is at a minimum, however the story line has an appropriate depth to it. The visuals do well in filling in the nonverbal aspects of the story. Verdict: Graphic novels have a strong market in tweens and teens. This story appeals to all young adults who feel misunderstood and undermined, yet shows the reader how to react and express themselves in a more positive way.
Curricular Use: "The Plain Janes" could be used for a class where kids learn to think outside the box or learn how to find more creative solutions to the problems they encounter. But basically, it is a good book to read.
Reviewer: Mars Datura, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library
Kissing in Italian
Author: Henderson, Lauren
Illustrator: NA
Delacorte, 2014
ISBN: 9780385741378
$16.99
Grades 9 - 12: A companion book to "Flirting in Italian," the overseas school experiences of Violet and her new girlfriends at the exclusive school moves to the next level. Her visceral attraction to Luca di Verperi is extinguished, reluctantly, due to the family secrets held by his parents and hers. In the meantime Kendra has fallen for their teacher and the discovery of their rendezvous
forces extreme action by the school administrator. In a climatic revelation, Violet and Luca learn their fate.
There is no eye-popping literary appeal to this teen girl beach novel, but just a foray into escape. And happy endings. Verdict: Order the paperback for both novels as they will be popular.
Curricular Use: The book will qualify for lovers of teen romance, showing teens the importance of accepting the results of their actions.
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Librarian & Follett School Solutions Trainer, former Librarian/RALHS
A Night Divided
Author: Nielsen, Jennifer A.
Illustrator: NA
Scholastic, 2015
ISBN: 9780545682428
$16.99
Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: When the Berlin Wall went up, Gerta, her mother, and her oldest brother, Fritz, were home in the East and her father and other brother, Dominic, were visiting the West. They were separated overnight. Four years later, her friend’s brother is killed by the state police trying to escape to West Berlin. Suddenly life in East Berlin is even harder for twelve-year-old Gerta, who already had difficulty conforming. When Fritz is brought into questioning by the Stasi, they discover that their house had been bugged and her friend's brother had been caught because of it. Now Gerta’s friend will no long speak to her, Fritz has lost his job, he will be conscripted as soon as he turns 18, and Gerta’s future looks just as bleak. But a series of sketchy communications from her father on the other side bring Gerta to an abandoned building along the wall where she makes a dangerous decision: she will dig to freedom.
“A Night Divided” is a solid novel that helps fill in a bit of a gap in historical fiction for young readers. Nielsen creates a fantastic tone and atmosphere in the book, beginning with Gerta’s daily routine and her feeling of being watched. It feels a little slow as a reader at first but as Gerta, Fritz, and, eventually, their mother, work on the tunnel the tension slowly ratchets up until it is almost unbearable by the end. The family relationships created here are also very strong, and it gives a great sense of what Gerta is missing and also what she risks. A true-life dystopia. Verdict: Like Nielsen’s fantasy novels, “A Night Divided” is a great middle grade/young adult crossover novel that will be enjoyed by kids from upper elementary through high school.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Becky Standal, Youth Services Specialist, Longview Public Library
Lucy and Linh
Author: Pung, Alice
Illustrator: NA
Alfred A. Knopf, 2014
ISBN: 9780399550485
$17.99
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: Lucy leaves all her friends behind when she earns a year ten “equal access” scholarship to Laurinda, a posh all-girls private school a long train ride from her neighborhood in Stanley. Lucy and her parents are Chinese refugees who came to Australia from Vietnam when she was just a baby. The expectations at Laurinda are beyond Lucy’s experience at her previous Catholic school and at home, where her mother works constantly making clothes in the garage and Lucy often takes care of her baby brother, the Lamb. The outrageous politicking of her classmates, particularly “the Cabinet,” three powerful, privileged, white mean girls who invite Lucy to hover at their periphery, fascinate and horrify her. The entire book is told in several long letters to Linh, who Lucy abandoned in order to make it at Laurinda, and the result is a reflective, character-driven novel about the difficulty of navigating two worlds and being true to yourself. Verdict: A sort-of younger sister to other books that tackle similar themes, “Lucy and Linh” is a great choice for middle as well as high school.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Becky Standal, Youth Services Specialist, Longview Public Library
X A Novel
Author: Shabazz, Ilyasah
Illustrator: NA
Candlewick Press, 2015
ISBN: 9780763690922
$8.99
Grades 9 - 12: Told by the daughter of Malcolm X, this story follows the activist through his early years. It starts in 1945 with him eluding a numbers hustler who is out for his blood for “cheating” him to win a bet. As he hides, he reflects on what brought him to this crisis and the alternating “flashbacks” start with him leaving his home in 1940, alone, on a bus from Lansing, Michigan, to go to Boston to live with his half-sister, Ella. He was a bright student whose father died (most certainly murdered by white supremacists) when he was six. His mother eventually suffers a breakdown after trying to raise Malcolm and his siblings alone during the depression, and his promising academic performance is eclipsed by stealing food and getting into trouble doing pranks. He eventually goes to visit his half-sister in Boston, decides to stay, doesn’t re-enter school and enters the world of hustlers, reefer smoking and crime. This is a hard book to read because it is a tragic story but when Malcolm eventually ends up in prison on burglary charges, he undergoes a conversion to Islam and his life as an activist fighting for Black rights begins. It is a story of family loyalty, loss of a father and the tragedy of racism. There is a lot of talk of his smoking “reefer” and time with his white girlfriend, which isn’t graphic but mentions time in bed so this is for a mature reader. But the historical aspect is significant: there are character notes from his daughter in the back, as well as a timeline, and background history that help flesh out the context of the event. There are even “questions to consider” that make this books a teaching tool to any reader with an interest in this time in American history. Verdict: Good historical "fiction" background for a prominent figure in Black history, and American history in general.
Curricular Use: Provides perspective on the Great Depression and issued Black Americans faced. Could be used for teaching flashback and first person narrator as literary tools.
Reviewer: Lisa Sudar, Teacher Librarian, Mark Morris High School
The Girl in the Torch
Author: Sharenow, Robert
Illustrator: NA
HarperCollins, 2015
ISBN: 9780062227959
$16.99
Grades 6 - 8: Hope for a better future is all that Sarah can think of. When she is denied entry into the United States, Sarah makes a rash decision to jump off the ship and swim to shore. Her hiding place is the very symbol of her freedom, the Statue of Liberty. Can she find food and manage to avoid the night watchman and any visitors? Will Sarah be able to find a home in this new, strange land? Perseverance and compassion prevail in the end. Verdict: "The Girl in the Torch" gives readers a glimpse of the struggles and desires of those who are willing to go to great lengths to begin new lives and establish new homes in the United States of America.
Curricular Use:
Reviewer: Tina Campbell, Librarian/Media Specialist, Toutle Lake JR/SR High School
A Storm Too Soon: A Remarkable True Survival Sory in 80-Foot Seas
Author: Tougias, Michael
Illustrator: NA
Henry Holt, 2016
ISBN: 9781627792813
$17.99
Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: Young Adult adaption of A Storm Too Soon: A True Story of Disaster, Survival, and an Incredible Rescue. In May of 2007, three men set out to cross the Atlantic from Florida to France in a 44-foot sailboat. Weather reports looked favorable, but two low pressure areas converged over the Gulf Stream to produce a monster hurricane. The ship was suddenly engulfed in 80-foot waves. The experienced sailors did everything they could, but the boat was no match for the extreme weather and they were not sure whether the Global Position Indicating Radio Beacon had functioned correctly to send out a distress signal. The men were able to enter a small life raft before their boat sank, but the captain had multiple broken ribs. The Coast Guard had received their distress signal, but it had been registered to another boat, and if they hadn't had a back-up beacon, there might not have been a spotting plane and rescue helicopter sent. With the extreme weather and waves, the C-130 had difficulty finding the tiny life raft--only a flare alight for a second's time enabled the raft to be sighted. Then the helicopter's crew faced an almost insurmountable task in getting the survivors and their own rescue swimmer aboard, and the helicopter back to land. The third person account is not as gripping as a first person POV, but the danger is still palpable, and intense. Verdict: An engrossing true survival story of real heroes in action.
Curricular Use: An example of an action-packed nonfiction narrative written in the third person.
Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library
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