January/February 2018

ELEMENTARY

SECONDARY

The Parent Agency: Pick Your Perfect Parent

Author: Baddiel, David

Illustrator: Field, Jim

Harper, 2014

ISBN: 9780062405449

$16.99

Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: What if you could choose your parents? Barry is almost 10 years old and has made a list of the qualities he would like to have for parents. He lives with his dad who works at IKEA and is always tired, says no, and is boring; his twin sisters who he calls The Sisterly Entities who get all the attention and mock everything he does; and his mother who barely ever pokes her head above the kitchen counter. Barry wants a James Bond themed birthday but when his sisters continuously tease him, his father buys the farcical version of Casino Royal on DVD, and his mother brushes him off he finally blows, goes to his room, and wishes for new parents. After making his wish a bright light appears in his room and his posters begin to talk to him. They tell him to say the wish again and when Barry does, he is transported to a world where kids rule and get to choose their parents. Barry meets with the Head Boy who gives him five days and five choices of parents to choose from based on Barry's list. Each parent brings unique perspectives, humor, and challenges for Barry. But, Barry has to make a decision by midnight on the fifth day or "something" will happen. Verdict: This is an easy read with lots of humor and puns. The book takes place in England so kids who have read Harry Potter may understand some of the English culture references better.

Curricular Use: Book club or helping to get reluctant readers into larger chapter books that read at a quick pace.

Reviewer: Christopher Anderson, Library/Media Specialist, St. Helens/Columbia Height Elementary

March Forward, Girl

Author: Beals, Melba Pattillo

Illustrator: Morrison, Frank

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2018

ISBN: 9781328882127

$16.99

Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12, Adult: In "March Forward, Girl," Melba Pattillo Beals describes her experiences from age four to 18, growing up under Jim Crow laws in Arkansas during the 1940s and 1950s. At such a young age, Melba learned to fear white people, most especially the ever-present Ku Klux Klan. Church was her sanctuary and her safe place. That was all shattered one Sunday when the KKK dragged a black man, Mr. Harvey, to the front of the church and hung him in front of the congregation. Melba could not understand this hatred and the ways that white people treated black people. She always asked her grandmother "Why?" and she expected her mother and her grandmother to stand up for themselves, but they knew to do so would mean they would be seriously harmed or killed. When Melba was 11, she was nearly gang raped by members of the KKK. Fortunately, a female KKK member took pity on her and told her to run. Melba dreamed of moving away from Arkansas, to a better life. On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court ruled in Brown vs. the Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, that separate was not equal. When Central High School, in Little Rock, finally allowed integration, Melba was one of nine black students selected for integration. By her third day of school, President Eisenhower had to send soldiers in to protect the black students from being mobbed by the white students and to quell the political firestorm. When the KKK put a dead or alive bounty on the nine black students, Melba was sent to Santa Rosa, California, to live with a white family. Dr. and Mrs. George McCabe took Melba and and treated her exactly like one of the family. For the first time in her life, Melba was safe and free and no longer had to worry about KKK attacks. What a powerful memoir! What a powerful history lesson. My review really will not do Melba's words and her experiences any justice. All I can say is, "Read the book." Verdict: Recommended read. A definite eye-opener into racial tension, racial issues in Arkansas in the 1940s.

Curricular Use: Independent reading. 1940s-50s U.S. History: segregation/integration, Jim Crow Laws, Ku Klux Klan, separate but not equal.

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

The United States v. Jackie Robinson

Author: Bardhan-Quallen, Sudipta

Illustrator: Christie, R. Gregory

Balzar + Bray, 2018

ISBN: 9780062287847

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: A biographical story about Jackie Robinson and his life before he became the first African American to cross the color line in Major League Baseball. The story begins with his early life talking about struggles and achievements as a black child and later college student in California. From college we learn about how Jackie joined the army during WWII and some of the challenges he faced while serving. Jackie was arrested and put on trial for refusing to move to the back of a bus (seven years before Rosa Parks) even though at the time segregation on military based was forbidden after a new law change in 1944. He was forced to listen to others lie about the incident trying to end his military career. However, truth wins out in the end and Jackie becomes one of the first African Americans to challenge civil rights and win. Verdict: This is a fantastic book looking into the civil rights issues that Jackie Robinson had to endure even before the struggles and triumphs of entering Major League Baseball. The story help students understand civil rights issues many African Americans faced.

Curricular Use: Black History Month, Civil Rights and Social Studies about equality.

Reviewer: Christopher Anderson, Library/Media Specialist, St. Helens/Columbia Heights Elementaries

Trell

Author: Lehr, Dick

Illustrator: NA

Candlewick Press, 2017

ISBN: 9780763692759

$17.99

Grades 9 - 12, Grades 7 - 8: This is a book inspired by an actual injustice. In 1988, Tiffany Moore was shot and killed in an incident of gang violence. The man convicted of the murder was a drug dealer who protested his innocence to no avail. Dick Lehr, the author of this story, took that story and ran with it, giving new names to the characters, but writing a book that was no less compelling. Trell has never known a time when her father wasn't in prison. Her mother has taken fourteen year old Trell regularly to see her father, and the question Trell asks: "When you comin' home?" has been the hallmark of their visits. Trell is certain that her father did not commit the crime, and manages to convince a hard scrabble lawyer, Nora, and jaded newspaper reporter, Clemens, to help her get her daddy's conviction overturned. Lehr manages to bring this compelling story to life. Remarkably, he is able to portray the gritty life of a poor black girl with compassion but absent some of the gritty language. Verdict: This is a must have title with a tenacious female protagonist. Fans of books about the legal system will eat this 2018 Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers nominee up.

Curricular Use: This is an important title for discussing social justice. The author's note at the end in which Lehr describes the decision to tell the story from the daughter's perspective invites discussion about author's craft and perspective.

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

Space Travel: Out of This World

Author: DeYoe, Aaron

Illustrator: NA

Abdo Publishing, 2016

ISBN: 9781624037450

$25.65

Grades 2 - 4: Space Travel includes the history and technology of space travel. There is a table of contents and a glossary with detailed photographs of different rockets, satellites and other space technology. The book is exciting and easy to read with short factual statements and interesting historical tidbits. Verdict: This book is an excellent learning tool and serves to pique curiosity and increase scientific knowledge about space travel.

Curricular Use: Great for students who are interested in space-related science and history. Also great for personal interests.

Reviewer: Minette Smith, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library

Ready to Fall

Author: Pixley, Marcella

Illustrator: NA

Farrar Straus Giroux, 2017

ISBN: 9780374303587

$17.99

Grades 9 - 12: Sixteen-year-old Max's mom dies of brain cancer. Max imagines her brain tumor has taken up residency inside his brain. He gets headaches and he feels his left eye bulging, just as his mom's left eye bulged out from the pressure of her tumor on her eyeball. Max cannot focus in school and his grades fall. Max's father enrolls him at Baldwin School, a private school, hoping that the change will help him to get his grades back on track. In order to pay for Baldwin, Max's grandma must move out of her assisted living apartment and into the house with Max and his dad. Grandma is just such a wonderful character. I was touched by her gentleness, kindness and understanding, especially since she is grieving the loss of her daughter, Max's mom. This is a multi-generational family torn with grief, yet brought together by grief. Max makes new friends at Baldwin, gets involved in the theatrical production of "Hamlet," falls in love with Fish (aka Felicia). The imaginary tumor continues to taunt Max, until one evening, after having too much to drink, Max falls on the ice and sustains a concussion. A CT scan reveals Max has a perfectly healthy brain. No tumor. No brain cancer. With this revelation, Max is gradually able to start moving forward with grieving, and to start living his life again. The steampunk version of "Hamlet" brings the audience to their feet. Max and Fish know it is much better to be, rather than not to be. I enjoyed "Ready to Fall." The book deals with many tough issues: death, mental illness, grieving, alcoholism, anger, and absentee parents, and does so with an edgy humor. The characters, for the most part, are likeable, realistic, and endearing. I liked Max's family dynamic and his new group of friends. Everyone is hurting in their own way, and must figure out their own healing process. The pain and grief that Max and his Grandma felt was heartbreaking. The pace of the book moves along and is not bogged down by wordy dialogue or over-the-top details. Well-written and worth the read! Verdict: I liked this book and I will recommend it to my students.

Curricular Use: Independent reading.

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

My Pillow Keeps Moving

Author: Gehl, Laura

Illustrator: Christopher Weyant

Viking, 2018

ISBN: 9780425288245

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: This story is short on "official" words, but long on humor. A stray dog and cat are in search of a forever home. A gentleman who is shopping for a pillow accidentally picks up the dog who is hidden in a pillow store. When he tries to return the "pillow" as unsatisfactory, the sales person asks him questions that would indicate that the dog is a satisfactory pillow. Lather, rinse, repeat two more times for a footstool and a coat. Eventually, the customer realizes that the dog is a lousy coat but a wonderful companion. Winking at the cat, who also needs a home, the dog--newly named Jackie--goes with his man to get a "hat"--that is truly a cat. The colorful pictures are as engaging as the dog and the cat who are willing to hoodwink the innocent man who finds them completely lovable companions. Verdict: This heartwarming story is a great addition to any picture book collection.

Curricular Use: The repetition of the events is strong. While the dialogue is limited (and in the format of a graphic novel), there is a good opportunity to teach young readers words in context.

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

Fallingwater: The Building of Frank Lloyd Wright's Masterpeice

Author: Harshman, Marc

Illustrator: LeUyen Pham

Roaring Book Press, 2017

ISBN: 9781596437180

$18.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: This is a picture book but the story is a must read for anyone who is interested in the house named Fallingwater, or Frank Lloyd Wright. It tells of Wright’s style: viewing the site and “dreaming” of the elements and plans of his building without putting pencil to paper to start plans until he has thought it through. A limited color palette for the illustrations focus on the sandstone and building materials, juxtaposed against the blue of blueprints and the water to create its own focus for the book. After it was built, Wright visited the house and this book highlights his scrutiny of the fruition of his dream. There are artist’s and author’s notes, a bibliography and a website as well as an audiovisual reference to make this more than “just” a picture book. I loved this insight into Mr. Wright’s creative process, within the story of a famous American site. I will be keeping it in my high school library. Verdict: Excellent for studies in architecture or the creative process.

Curricular Use: This could be used by art teachers, drafting teachers and anyone who is involved in helping students create. A piece of American history.

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

Exploring Space: From Galileo to the Mars Rover and Beyond

Author: Jenkins, Martin

Illustrator: Stephen Biesty

Candlewick Press, 2017

ISBN: 9780763689315

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: Your “spacey” patrons are going to LOVE this book. It covers the history of space exploration in eight chapters, an index, timelines, a glossary and a list of selected sources for future reading and research. Biesty’s illustrations delight and draw the reader in throughout the book. There are insets and cut-away diagrams. One of my favorites are the two-page pictures (turn your book sideways!) to show rocket height and timeline length. There is so much detail in the illustrations even primary students will pore over this book, but the informational text makes it appealing to older space buffs as well. It tells fun details (the Titan IIIE Centaur weighed as much as a grand piano) and interesting history how ancient people observed space or the Catholic church opposed Copernicus’ theory of a solar system where planets moved in elliptical orbits around the sun. I’m keeping this book in my high school library, and ordering a copy for a 6-year-old nephew. It will appeal to everyone! Verdict: Excellent for outside reading and teacher read alouds for space study.

Curricular Use: Engaging "first source" for research and for outside reading as accessible non-fiction.

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

Marilyn's Monster

Author: Knudsen, Michelle

Illustrator: Matt Phelan

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 9780763693015

$6.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Marilyn goes through different emotions in this paper back picture book written by Michelle Knudsen. Her patience is tested as she waits for her monster to find her. Her classmates all get chosen by a monster. Marilyn tries hard to look and do good to attract her monster. Eventually, she gets very mad that her monster did not come find her. Finally, she goes on a quest to find her monster wearing good walking shoes with a thermos of juice and with two peanut butter and banana sandwiches. She conducted a thorough search and still cannot find her monster until she yells “Where are you?’ and a soft, quiet voice answers her from the forest. Her monster had gotten lost and scared and stuck in a tree. Marilyn and her monster find each other and are happy. Illustrations capture the characters’ emotions well.

Marilyn is portrayed as a strong character who does not give up and could be a role-model for children struggling with self-esteem.

Verdict: This book helps children to explore their feelings from jealousy, sadness, madness and happiness and provides the message to not give up. The illustrations complement the story well and captures the characters' emotions.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Child and Family Liaison, LCC Head Start

Mitzi Tulane Preschool Detective The Secret Ingredient

Author: McLaughlin, Lauren

Illustrator: Debbie Ridpath Ohi

Random House, 2017

ISBN: 9780449819166

$17.99

P - K: Lauren McLaughlin wrote another captivating Mitzi Tulane Preschool Detective story in her book The Secret Ingredient. Mitzi plays with her friend Max while her Dad is pre-occupied on the phone, stirring up dough for muffins and taking care of the baby. When it was time to eat the muffins, Max shared that his Mom sneaks vegetables into his snacks and stirs up a suspicion that Mitzi’s Dad may have added something to the muffins. Using her detective skills and tools, Mitzi, the preschool detective examines the muffin crumbs and comes across something suspicious. Mitzi and Max take their evidence to their scientist friends. Juanita studies the crumb under her microscope and confirmed with her bunny that indeed the muffin had a trace of carrot in it!

Verdict: The story is suspensefully written and keeps the readers interest and has them guessing what the secret muffin ingredient could be. Illustrations by Debbie Ridpath Ohi complement the story.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Child and Family Liaison, Lower Columbia College Head Start

Big Machines: The Story of Virginia Lee Burton

Author: Rinker, Sherri Duskey

Illustrator: Rocco, John

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2017

ISBN: 9780544715578

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: All the beloved characters from Virginia Burton's books are brought together in this biography of this beloved children's author. The illustrator did a magnificent job of recreating the animated style of Burton's illustrations while incorporating a more life-like style of pictures to help tell the story of Burton's life. The story is engaging and informative while also being entertaining. A more in-depth narrative, as well as some black and white photos, are included at the end of the book. Verdict: The illustrations in this book are wonderful, and the story brings the stories of Virginia Burton to life and helps the reader to understand the true motivation and inspiration for her story telling.

Curricular Use: Curricular tie-ins: Biography study, process of an author

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former teacher/librarian, Olympic Elementary School

ELEMENTARY

SECONDARY

On a magical do-nothing day

Author: Alemagna, Beatrice

Illustrator: NA

HarperCollins, 2016

ISBN: 9780062657602

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This story explores the power and challenge of getting children to let go of their "need" for technology ~ on a rainy day, the main character is "killing Martians", when Mom hides the game and suggests that the child goes outside to explore. Boring! But as the child is outside, he/she accidentally drops the game into the pond. With "nothing to do", the child starts to explore their surroundings and actually changes their view of their world. The illustrations go from being darker to lighter in nature progressing through the story. This would be a great resource for reading alone or teacher/parent resource for the discussing the power/influence of technology. Verdict: This would be a great resource to add to a library, elementary or public, as responsible technology use is an issue that is not going to go away.

Curricular Use: Tie-ins: tech use, playing outdoors

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former media specialist/teacher, Olympic Elementary

A Land of Permanent Goodbyes

Author: Abawi, Atia

Illustrator: NA

Philomel Books, 2018

ISBN: 9780399546839

$17.99

Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: Teenage Tareq is the oldest of six siblings living with their parents and grandmother in Syria when their home is bombed by Assad’s government. He and his father, who wasn’t home at the time, survive, along with his toddler sister, Susan. His mother, grandmother, oldest sister, and twin baby brothers are found dead in the rubble. Rescuers can’t even find the body of his brother Salim. Heartbroken, Tareq’s father decides he must take his surviving children out of Syria, but before they do, they must borrow money from relatives in Raqqa, which is under the control of Daesh (ISIS). Heads on sticks greet them upon entering the city. When they leave, they take Tareq’s cousin with them. The novel follows Tareq to Turkey, where they are accepted as refugees but have no opportunities for legal work and are often taken advantage of, to the shores of the Aegean Sea and a dangerous boat ride to Greece.

The story is narrated by “Destiny,” a conceit which is similar to Death in “The Book Thief,” but doesn’t work as well here. In the opening section, Destiny describes itself as “the end result of your choices,” and insists it is not, essentially, what anyone considers when they think of the word destiny. What it is in the book is an omniscient voice that checks in every once in a while, breaking up Tareq’s moving story with overwrought platitudes and obviously didactic conclusions. If the author had spent more time developing the characters (the book is very good at describing what happens to them, but less so at getting the reader to really know them) and cut the Destiny concept altogether, this would have been a stronger novel. Nevertheless, “A Land of Permanent Goodbyes” is an important book and affecting survival story that will help young readers contextualize the current refugee crisis. Because of the subject matter, the book includes tough scenes such as beheading, drowning, and kidnapping, and the mention of rape, but nothing is gratuitous. Young readers who are reading books about wars or the holocaust will likely be able to handle the horrors of this novel as well. Verdict: A moving, but oftentimes overly didactic, account of a boy’s survival as a Syrian refugee; recommended for young readers interested in politics and current events.

Curricular Use:

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

I Love You More Than the Smell of Swamp Gas

Author: Atteberry, Kevan

Illustrator: Same

Harper Collins, 2017

ISBN: 9780062408716

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: The poetry in this book is so delightful and fun. An example is "Do you love me as much as the bubbling slime, that covers our feet in thick gooey grime." This entire book is as clever as this. Children will love it! Verdict: The rhyme is amazing and fun. The Illustrations are captivating

Curricular Use: This would be great for descriptive writing and to use with a poetry lesson.

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Let's Investigate with Nate : The Water Cycle

Author: Ball, Nate

Illustrator: Hargis, Wes

HarperCollins, 2017

ISBN: 97800623567403

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: From the "Let's Investigate with Nate" series, the tale takes four young investigators and their mentor, Nate, on a Magic School Bus-like adventure to learn about the water cycle. Text features include conversation bubbles for the character conversations, larger typewriter-like font for the main ideas, bolded words that are later incorporated into the glossary, and journal entries written by one of the investigators. The style of this book is engaging and informative ~ there is also some anticipation built into the story, as there is a time limit (clock references on every few pages) for the adventure to be accomplished before the museum (the adventure origination point) opens and everything is "normal" again. There are also several experiments included at the end of the story, for other young investigators. Verdict: Accurate information is presented in a way that students will find engaging; this would also be a helpful resource for teachers in exploring the water cycle with their students.

Curricular Use: Tie-ins: water cycle, weather, content journaling

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former media specialist/teacher, Olympic Elementary

Dazzle Ships: World War I and the Art of Confusion

Author: Barton, Chris

Illustrator: Victo Ngai

Millbrook, 2017

ISBN: 9781512410143

$19.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: A dazzling, almost art deco cover hints that this is a different non-fiction picturebook. First there are not too many NF titles for early elementary age children on WW I, and Barton has narrowed his focus to naval camouflage. He explained that German submaines (U-boats) had been attacking desperately needed supply ships headed for the starving people of Great Britain. The ships couldn't be painted to make them invisible to submarine-borne torpedo attacks, so a young Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve Officer got the brilliant idea that brilliant colors and confusing shapes would made the ships' direction and speed easy to mistake. Even the King, who has spent time in the Navy, looked at a model dazzle ship through a periscope, and couldn't identify the correct heading. American ships were also painted with dazzle after the US entered the war. There wasn't any proof that the camouflage scheme definitively saved lives, but the effort, (and decrease in attacks on ships that had implemented both dazzle and other preventative measures) improved morale. The subject, graphic design, and vocabulary make this title more appropriate for third grade and up than the picture book format might indicate. Appendices include the author's and illustrator's explanatory notes, a timeline, and bibliiography. Verdict: An interesting nonfiction picture book for middle elementary students on a unique subject--WW I naval camouflage.

Curricular Use: World History and Applied Art

Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library

Edible Numbers

Author: Bass, Jennifer Vogel

Illustrator: NA

Roaring Brook Press, 2015

ISBN: 9781626720039

$12.99

P - K: Edible Numbers shatters the stereotypes of familiar vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fungi while teaching kids how to count from 1 to 12. The simplicity of the format and the clear photos would entertain a child on their own. However, the accompanying photographs include lesser known types of fresh foods and may best be read with an adult because of the difficulty in pronouncing their names. (There is no pronunciation guide.) Verdict: This is a great book to help a child learn to count and to pique their curiosity about fresh foods and/or gardening. I was pleasantly surprised to learn from this book as an adult and found it much more fascinating than counting books available to me as a child.

Curricular Use: Great for teaching numbers and would also be good to encourage an interest in fresh garden foods.

Reviewer: Minette Smith, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library

Winter Dance

Author: Bauer, Marion Dane

Illustrator: Richard Jones

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2017

ISBN: 978054431347

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: An easy-reading prose poem tells the sweet tale of a fine red fox trying to decide what to do as the winter snow begins. He hears suggestions from a woolly bear caterpillar, turtle, bat, squirrel, Canada goose, snowshoe hare, and black bear, but none of their advice is right for fox. As he ponders, he hears the hush of the winter wind, and the soft whistle of another fine red fox who leads him in a twirling dance through the snowflakes. On the final spread the two foxes are curled up to sleep at the end of a hollow log. Jones' dry-brush technique gives texture to the illustrations in blues, browns, greens, and black, while the red-orange of the fox's coat is vibrant against the luminous snowy ground. Verdict: A sweet wintertime and nap-time read-aloud for young nature enthusiasts.

Curricular Use: Useful for reading practice for young readers, and for preschool and kindergarten read-alouds. The information about what different animals do in winter is accurate for a science introduction for those grades.

Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public LIbrary

Farm Projects: Fun & Easy Animal Environment Activities

Author: Bernhardt, Carolyn

Illustrator: NA

Abdo Publishing, 2017

ISBN: 9781680784404

$18.95

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This is actually a pretty cool book! The first section gives an overview of farms and their animals. It talks about food, working hard, habitats and has a picture chart of all needed supplies for the projects. From here, specific animals or aspects of farming are the focus. For example, a section titled Barn Owl Display talks about barn owls and then furthers this topic in the Digging Deeper section. There are also step-by-step directions on how to make this project. There are 6 different projects in this book, and it wraps up with a conclusion, quiz and glossary. Verdict: The concept of this book was great and I liked how each project focused on a specific aspect. I also liked how it gave additional information about the subject. The cover of this book was not very inviting or exciting, but it covers a cool treasure within its pages.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

The Bad Guys in Mission Unpluckable

Author: Blabey, Aaron

Illustrator: Same

Scholastic, 2017

ISBN: 9780545912419

$5.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: The Bad Guys are on a mission so they can be known as the Good Guys. They want to break into the Chicken Farm and free 10,000 chickens. They need the help from computer hacker expert Tarantula, to break through all the security alarms. Even with him its going to be a very risky business. Through all the action and adventure, they are successful. Will they be finally known as the Good Guys..not Bad Guys...stay tuned to the next book in this series. Verdict: I was very entertained by this story.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

The Dark Assassin

Author: Delaney, Joseph

Illustrator: NA

GreenWillow Books, 2017

ISBN: 9780062334596

$17.99

Grades 9 - 12: This is NOT a stand alone. It is the final book to The New Darkness and we start by seeing Grimalkin meeting Thorne in the Darkness; Grimalkin is dead but not about to follow “the rules” of this new place. And so begins a narrative that flips between Tom Ward’s story, with his apprentice Jenny, and Grimalkin who is battling the Dark and seeks to return to earth to free female slaves of the Kobalos mages. There is a long glossary in the back, to help understand the Kobalos world (written by Nicholas Browne with notes added by Tom Ward and Grimalkin). I’m still not a fan of all the blood drinking, thumb bone snipping and wild magical violence, but followers of The Last Apprentice will want to read this book to its tricky end. No spoilers from me, but fans will like this last good-bye. Verdict: Final book in a series, high-demand for "Delaney followers."

Curricular Use: Engaging reading for extra-curricular enrichment.

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

Edward Hopper Paints His World

Author: Burleigh, Robert

Illustrator: Minor, Wendell

Henry Holt and Company, 2014

ISBN: 9780805087529

$17.99

Grades 3 - 4: Edward Hopper Paints His World takes the reader through an artist's life journey as he struggles to express himself. Hopper's true passion was painting, and this book covers his education, living situations, and relationships which contributed to his success. The concepts within are complex, but their presentation is smooth enough for an elementary school student to understand and enjoy. Verdict: The honest story and beautiful illustrations depict the life of an artist, and the book adds a historical element by including some of Edward Hopper's famous paintings. I would recommend it for students who are interested in art.

Curricular Use: Great for independent reading, interest in art, biography, or history.

Reviewer: Minette Smith, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library

Neighborhood Girls

Author: Foley, Jessie Ann

Illustrator: NA

Harper Teen, 2017

ISBN: 9780062571854

$17.99

Grades 9 - 12: The Academy of the Sacred Heart will be closing at the end of the school year. Wendy Boychuck is a junior, and the women in her family have been students at ASH for three generations, but she’ll have to attend public school as a senior. During her years at ASH, Wendy has armored herself with popularity; her friend Kenzie is the prettiest, most feared girl in school, and their friendship makes Wendy untouchable. And Wendy needed the armor as a freshman. In eighth grade, her father, a Chicago cop, was sentenced to seventeen years in a federal prison, after a long and financially draining trial, for torturing people in police custody. Walking home from an eighth-grade graduation party, Wendy was attacked – beaten and burned – by a group of kids led by a girl whose father was permanently brain damaged by Wendy’s father. Wendy never told anyone, and she never saw her father again. She cut her best friend Alexis out of her life and, in the first few weeks at ASH, made friends with Kenzie. Now though, almost every moment with Kenzie and their other friends is a moral dilemma, as they steal, vandalize, and belittle other girls. Wendy doesn’t know how to stand up for what’s right, or how to cut Kenzie out without being hurt herself.

“Neighborhood Girls” is very well written; all of Wendy’s dilemmas are painful and real. The book is meticulously plotted, with several key scenes foreshadowed early on. There is a lot going on in the novel, though, and at the end I wished it has spent more time with some elements, such as Wendy’s thoughts about her father’s crimes past her initial anger at him and her grief and possible feelings of guilt when a central character is killed towards the end of the book. A small romance remains mostly in the background, and the book focuses on Wendy grappling with her cowardice and the strength she finds, or doesn’t, with her Catholic faith. Verdict: A complex read about how doing the right thing can be the hardest thing. For readers who like character-driven novels, especially those who enjoyed Foley’s award-winning debut novel “The Carnival at Bray.”

Curricular Use:

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

The Real z

Author: Calonita, Jen

Illustrator: NA

Scholastic, 2017

ISBN: 9781338137057

$9.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This is the second America Girl from the Z series I've read. I have really enjoyed them both and will read the rest. American Girl books have been popular for decades. It's nice to see this series being carried on in a more modern up to date style. Z has been chosen to produce a movie about Seattle, into the Cloud Song contest. Z loves to make movies, she has her own blog and followers. This is a challenge that she is so excited for. At first she listens to everyone's advice, which makes her movie disconnected, with no focus. Though the advice of parents and friends she realizes that this movie needs to be about her and what she loves about Seattle. Z names her movie Zeattle. She comes in second place which makes her movie to be shown at the Cloud Song Festival. This book is well written from first page to the last. Verdict: American Girl books have been popular for decades. It's nice to see this series being carried on in a more modern up to date style.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Everless

Author: Holland, Sara

Illustrator: NA

HarperTeen, 2018

ISBN: 9780062653659

$17.99

Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: In the land of Sempera, time is literally money. The currency, blood-iron, is created by an alchemical process where portions of one’s lifetime are removed from their blood and turned into coins. For the last ten years, Jules has watched her papa grow weaker as he drains his time to pay their bills and taxes. Desperate to save him, Jules takes a job at Everless, the estate of the wealthy Gerling family. Everless, where Papa once worked as a blacksmith before they had to flee in fear. Where Liam Gerling lives, who Papa has always warned her against. Where the Queen is visiting, in preparation for a wedding between her heir and Roan Gerling, Jules’ childhood friend. Papa pleads with Jules to leave Everless, telling her she is in danger there, particularly from the Queen. But she doesn’t leave, first because she needs blood-iron to save him, and then, after he dies, because she needs to find out why.

“Everless” starts of seeming like the kind of YA fantasy we’ve read before, but builds its own unique story and voice as the book goes on. There are key parts of the mythology and world-building that aren’t revealed until late in the novel. A key question I had about the world as I was reading, about how much time each person begins with and if it was the same for everyone and how they knew, wasn’t answered until at least two-thirds of the way into the book. But when these explanations do come they are well-developed and often surprising. I made all kinds of predictions as I was reading, and most of them were wrong. There is a lot to be explored in future books in this series, including a romance that is nicely set up here. Verdict: “Everless” is a strong series opener for fans of YA fantasy like Victoria Aveyard’s “Red Queen.”

Curricular Use:

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

Ninja Claus

Author: Chung, Arree

Illustrator: Same

Henry Holt, 2017

ISBN: 9781627795524

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Maxwell, a Ninja decides to trap Santa since last year he fell asleep before he came. Santa was a Ninja also because he was able to get through all his traps. Maxwell is so impressed. He left Maxwell some ninja shoes like he uses. Maxwell thought this was the greatest gift ever. Verdict: This is a cute Christmas story, that would be great for a writing activity.

Curricular Use: You could use this story for an example of writing letters. Then the students could write their own letter to Santa.

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

The Sun Played Hide-and-Seek : A Personification Story

Author: Cleary, Brian P.

Illustrator: Crimmins, Carol

Lerner/Millbrook Press, 2018

ISBN: 9781467726481

$26.65

Grades 1 - 3: As a teacher reference book to use with students, this story does an effective job of conveying the concept of "personification" in writing - what it means and how usage of personification enhances and strengths writing pieces. In this tale, a young student has been given the task of presenting to her fellow classmates about personification. She has no plan for how she will present about this topic, until a random afternoon trip to a park gives her ideas and an impromptu fire drill at school gives her the opportunity to share her thoughts and ideas with her classmates ("The bench is calling out my name," "the water fountain hiccuped".) The illustrations add meaning, through faint "facial expressions" on the inanimate objects described, in the story. Verdict: In this time, when writing and understanding the innuendos of the craft, are important for students and teachers, this is a great addition to a collection. Though it may not be a story that a student would pick up for the pleasure of reading, teachers will find it useful.

Curricular Use: Tie-ins: ELA, voice and word choice in writing

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former media specialist/teacher, Olympic Elementary

Camp Out: Mouse Scouts #3

Author: Dillard, Sarah

Illustrator: Sarah Dillard

Yearling Knopf, 2016

ISBN: 9780385756082

$6.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: A delightful group of young mice go on their Mouse Scout camping trip with their leader, Miss Poppy. They experience what it’s like to hike in the woods, set up camp, rummage for food and deal with other animals such as a pesky squirrel. They also share stories around the campfire and wake up the next morning to find Miss Poppy gone. Rather than completely panic, the Mouse Scouts form and execute a plan to try and locate their leader. They do find her tangled in some vines and spider webs and set out to rescue her. In the end, the scouts earn their Camp Out badges. There is additional information seemingly shared from the Mouse Scout Handbook throughout the book. These include such topics as building a shelter, using a campfire to cook and how to make a compass. Verdict: Part of the Mouse Scout series, this fun book follows our Mouse Scout friends on yet another learning adventure.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Captain America: This is Captain America

Author: Dworkin, Brooke

Illustrator: Val Semeiks, Bob McLeod, Hi-Fi Design & the Storybook Art Group

ABDO, 2018

ISBN: 9781532140518

$17.95

Pre - 1: World of Reading Level 1. This very beginning reader uses simple text to tell how Steve Rogers became Captain America and helps protect America. Full page illustrations further add to the engaging story for young children. Verdict: This hardcover edition will hold up to many readings by young readers and their parents. It will especially appeal to young boys who are Marvel fans.

Curricular Use: Superheroes Fiction, Beginning readers

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

A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

Author: Fishman, Seth

Illustrator: Isabel Greenberg

Greenwillow, 2017

ISBN: 9780062455789

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: What great trivia using very large numbers. Students will love to read and try to imagine what it's like to be so large. I can see them using the trivia with each other. Verdict: Students will love to read and try to imagine what it's like to be so large. I can see them using the trivia with each other.

Curricular Use: This would be a fun way to introduce large numbers during a math lesson.

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Unstoppable: True Stories of Amazing Bionic Animals

Author: Furstinger, Nancy

Illustrator: NA

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2017

ISBN: 9780544879669

$16.99

Grades 3 - 6: This nonfiction books describes the stories of more than 11 animals whose lives have been changed by prosthetic limbs (even tails!) Each section provides a history of the animal, most were rescued from abuse, and then discusses the process of fitting the animal with new ways of getting around. It wraps up with short sections on the people resposible for helping that animals. The stories are interesting and the engaging photos show most of the animals with their prosthetic. (The only photo missing was one of the mini pig in its wheelchair - I really wanted to see that!) I do wish the information on the dust jacket was thinned down and put into larger print. Younger students who just look at the dust jacket may think the text will be too difficult, which it is not. Verdict: This is a powerful book that shows animals overcoming obstacles and will provide a postive boost to students overcoming their own obstacles or that are intertested in animals and engineering.

Curricular Use: Nonfiction, Animals, Artifical limbs

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

Victoria: Portrait of a Queen

Author: Reef, Catherine

Illustrator: NA

Clarion Books, 2017

ISBN: 978544716148

$18.99

Grades 6 - 8, Grades 9 - 12: A readable biography of Queen Victoria from the circumstances of her birth to her death, illustrated with period art and photos. Victoria in her influential 63-year reign saw social and political revolution, expansion of the vast British Empire , the Industrial Revolution, and the turn of the 20th Century. She faced off against supportive and combative Prime Ministers , was endangered by assassins, married for love in an age of arranged royal unions, scandalized the palace through her choices of consorts, and suffered postpartum depression, and the heartbreaking loss of her beloved husband Albert and two of their children. She was greatly loved by her subjects and mourned deeply at her demise. Reef has wisely included an explanation of Great Britain's limited monarchy, a list of the rulers of England from AD 802 to the present, Victoria's family tree (down to Prince William's children George and Charlotte), source notes, a bibliography, picture credits, and an index. Verdict: A readable illlustrated biography of the most influential and strong-willed woman ruler of Great Britain during the 19th century.

Curricular Use: Suitable for World History, and Women's Studies

Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library

American Revolution Technology

Author: Gagne, Tammy

Illustrator: NA

ABDO, 2018

ISBN: 9781532111884

$22.95

Grades 4 - 6: Part of the War Technology series. This nonfiction text looks at firearms, weapons and technologies that were available and used during the American Revolution. The interesting text will draw readers into learning more about this war and the way it was fought. The illustrations are interesting and the color reinactment photos help bring the story to life for students. Also includes a timeline, "stop and think" page, glossary, references and index. Verdict: Elementary students interested in wars and/or military weapons will enjoy this one.

Curricular Use: Nonfiction, American Revolution, Weapons

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

The 57 Bus

Author: Slater, Dashka

Illustrator: NA

Farrar Straus Giroux, 2017

ISBN: 9780374303235

$17.99

Grades 9 - 12, Adult: Sasha, a white agender high school student, has fallen asleep while riding the 57 Bus home from school. Richard, an African American teen, goaded by his friends who are all on the 57 Bus, lights Sasha's skirt on fire. Sasha's legs are severely burned, and will require numerous surgeries and skin grafts. Because there are surveillance cameras with video on the bus, Richard is charged with two hate crimes. This is a true story which happened in Oakland, California, in 2013. While Sasha is slowly recovering from third degree burns, Richard now faces life in prison if he is tried as an adult. While he called himself homophobic, his attorney argues that he doesn't really know what that word means. Was is a hate crime? Was it just a joke gone horribly wrong? Should Richard be tried as a juvenile or as an adult? I like how the author provided back-story into Sasha's life and Richard's life. They both come from totally different backgrounds and environments. I like how Slater gave us a list of gender terms and appropriate pronouns. I like the use of short chapters, and the engaging retelling of the events kept me reading. What I didn't like was the small font size and the text style. It just bothered my eyes. The font size and text style used to replicate text messages was fine, I just wish the publisher had chosen wiser for the main text format. I didn't like how the story seemed to veer off in teaching lessons of California law. At times it was appropriate and necessary to understand Richard's case, but there were times when Slater discussed things that detracted from the story rather than enhanced the story. I like the "Gender-Neutrality Milestones" and the "Numbers: US Juvenile Incarceration" at the end of the book. Overall, this is a very powerful, timely story. An eye-opener to many students about gender equality and hate crimes. Verdict: I will recommend The 57 Bus to my students.

Curricular Use: Independent reading, discussions about hate crimes, gender issues/gender equality, the justice system.

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

Through With the Zoo

Author: Grant, Jacob

Illustrator: Grant, Jacob

Feiwel and Friends, 2017

ISBN: 9781250108142

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: A story about a goat who lived in a petting zoo within a zoo who didn't want hugs and rubs from anyone and wanted space to himself. He escapes from the petting zoo and tries to live with other animals in the zoo, only to find it was not space enough. He finally finds a tree outside the zoo that meets his needs, but as he sits he realizes it is lonely by himself. So, he ends up going back, but he knows that when he needs space he has a place to go. Verdict: A cute book that young students will like. Great way to talk about how sometimes we need a little space to ourselves to recharge.

Curricular Use: Love of reading, easy reader, social skills.

Reviewer: Christopher Anderson, Library/Media Specialist, St. Helens/Columbia Heights Elementaries

Old Macdonald Had a Farm

Author: Grimly, Gris

Illustrator: Gris Grimly

Scholastic Publishers / Orchard Books, 2017

ISBN: 9781338112436

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: An old classic song gets a new twist in Gris Grimly's rendition of "Old Macdonald Had a Farm." Sure, he includes all of the barnyard animals we have come to know and love, but he ends with an unexpected visitor. The brightly stylized artwork lends a fun feeling to the traditional song. Grimly caps this fun picture book off with an Artist's Note that provides the inspiration for this version of the folk song, a little bit of historical information about the song, and the basic sheet music for the song. Verdict: This is a great twist on a favorite classic song.

Curricular Use: This would be a great title for the Washington State Dance Standard - Anchor Standard 2.b which is to organize and develop artistic ideas and work; express an idea, feeling, or image through improvised movement, moving alone or with a partner since students could create dance moves for each of the animals. This also would have possible connections to the Washington State Musical Standards in the performing or connecting domain.

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

Little i

Author: Hall, Michael

Illustrator: NA

Greenwillow Books, 2017

ISBN: 9780062383006

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3: When little i's dot falls off and rolls away, he looks like a number and the rest of the alphabet isn't sure how to make words with a number. So i goes in search of his dot. He ends up traveling by sea to an island where he finds his dot, along with some other very interesting characters (exclamation points, asterisks, commas). But his dot no longer "fits", nor will it stay in place. Upon traveling back to his alphabet friends, they find he has grown up to be an "I". This book reminds this reviewer of "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" with its focus on letters, but this story has a focus on punctuation. Verdict: This could be a really fun teaching tool, with letters creating the words in the brightly colored illustrations and the exploration of "punctuation island". Having said that, the story stands alone as a entertaining tale as well.

Curricular Use: Curricular tie-ins: Use of punctuation, spelling, and how we all grow up

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former teacher/librarian, Olympic Elementary School

The World Beneath

Author: Warman, Janice

Illustrator: NA

Candlewick Press, 2014

ISBN: 9780763678562

$16.99

Grades 9 - 12: The story is set in South Africa, 1976, when blacks were basically chattel and whites ruled supreme. Joshua is a small boy who lives with his mother who is a servant in Master and Madam’s house. He was brought there because he almost died of tuberculosis and his mother can’t bear to leave him behind with her other children, in the care of grandparents. So he flits around on the periphery of the household and sleeps with the dog, learning the ways of blacks who could be beaten or worse anytime it suits the police or their masters. The drama of an unhappy marriage in their household is juxtaposed against the struggle for freedom and rights in the country and real-life events and figures enter. The anger toward injustice and the powerlessness of those fighting against is very real. Joshua rescues an injured stranger and becomes entwined in the conflict. The message of education over militancy and decency over hatred is a strong one and we learn along with Joshua. I loved this brief story and think it can speak to our students in times of global instability and political strife. The glossary of terms and note from the author with contact information for Amnesty International help to make this story accessible and real. Verdict: Excellent story about real life events told in an accessible framework.

Curricular Use: Great extra reading for any class dealing with social inequities. Good source for read alouds for background to study about apartheid.

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

Billy Bloo Is Stuck in Goo

Author: Hamburg, Jennifer

Illustrator: Ross Burach

Scholastic Press, 2017

ISBN: 9780545880152

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Billy Bloo Is stuck in goo. A cowgirl,, acrobatic troupe, a pirate...and an octopus all try to get Billy Bloo out of the goo. Instead they all get stuck in the goo. In the end a mouse scurries by and sneezes which terrifies the octopus and she jumps out dragging all the animals with her. Verdict: I liked the action and the rhyme in this story. It should be a fun read aloud.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Cassini: Unlocking the Secrets of Saturn

Author: Hamilton, John

Illustrator: NA

ABDO, 2018

ISBN: 9781532110115

$18.95

Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: Part of the Xtreme Spacecraft series. This nonfiction book follows the journey of NASA's Cassini-Huygens probe as it explored Saturn and its rings, as well as dropping the Huygens probe on Titan, Saturn's largest moon. Rich photographs add to the interesting text. Verdict: A solid addition to any elementary or middle school science sections. Works well for older students needing a lower reading level.

Curricular Use: Nonfiction, Space, NASA

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

A Letter to My Teacher

Author: Hopkinson, Deborah

Illustrator: Nancy Carpenter

Schwartz & Wade Books, 2017

ISBN: 9780375868450

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5, Teacher Education: A former student writes her second grade teacher a heartwarming letter. The letter states how deeply and positively the teacher impacted her student and the difference she made in the student's life. The student talks about their first encounter and how the student was sure she would be in trouble after stomping in puddles and coming to school dripping wet. There were other special moments the two shared, and the student learned a lot from her teacher. The student felt loved and valued even though she knew she was exasperating at times. She took the opportunity to write her favorite teacher this letter sharing memories and expressing thanks on the eve of beginning her first job as a teacher. Verdict: This is one of those books that I truly believe teachers will appreciate and treasure far more than students. It is the epitome of what every teacher would like to hear from a former student and the payment that we know is far more valuable than any paycheck.

Curricular Use: This book should be used in a teacher education class.

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Z on Location

Author: Howard, J.J,

Illustrator: None

Scholastic, 2017

ISBN: 9781338137064

$9.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Z had a blog, and this included making a lot of videos for it. Her mom was a professional filmmaker. She asked Z if she wanted to go out in the field with her interviewing and filming people for her new project. Z was way excited. She found that she wasn't as good as she thought and made many mistakes that messed her mom up. This usually when she was either on the phone or thinking about her blog. Her mom tried to tell her that she needs to be in the moment and not somewhere else. She wanted to get her mom's trust back and so she really studied and focused on what she was doing. She learned lots, even through her mistakes. Verdict: I thought it was very interesting from 1st page to the last. I also liked the message that you need to be in the moment.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Come Home Already!

Author: John Jory

Illustrator: Benji Davies

Harper Collins, 2017

ISBN: 9780062370976

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: When Duck goes over to Bear's house he sees a sign that says gone fishing, be back in a few days. What is Duck going to do without Bear. Bear on the other hand is thinking how nice it will be to have a few days by myself. Duck couldn't stand it anymore, he would go find Bear and bring him home. Bear was lonely, scared in the forest by himself. Along comes Duck and Bear is relieved, until Duck doesn't stop talking. Verdict: I loved the illustrations!

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

What Makes a Monster

Author: Keating, Jess

Illustrator: David DeGrand

Knopf, 2017

ISBN: 9780553512304

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This non-fiction book tells about many animals and why they are so dangerous. The Aye-Aye a demon primate, hand is a dangerous weapon. The Portuguese Man-Of-War is actually a group of animals acting and working as one, The horror frog, when threatened breaks the bones inside its own hand then these sharp claws shoot out of it's skin. This is just a few of the very unique animals that this book talks about. It also shows some great photos of these creatures. Verdict: I found this book to be very interesting and I learned a lot about creatures I didn't even know about.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

The Capital Catch: Ballpark Mysteries

Author: Kelly, David A.

Illustrator: Mark Meyers

Random House, 2017

ISBN: 9780399551895

$4.99

Grades 2-5: Part of the Ballpark Mysteries series, this book focuses on MLB’s Washington Nationals. Cousins Mike and Kate help solve yet another mystery when the President’s very own brother (Chip) has equipment stolen. Chip Diaz is the catcher for the Washington team. The kids think they’ve discovered the culprit when they spot a man following them and watching Diaz. They trap the man and discover he is Agent MacKay of the Secret Service. Unbeknownst to Chip, the President asked MacKay to protect the ballplayer. Eventually the super sleuths find the real thief when they discover that Chip’s old college friend is the one stealing his things and selling them for a profit. The story includes several tourist attractions, as well as, events which really do occur at the Nationals Stadium such as the Presidents Race. Verdict: These books are great early chapter books and are of special interest to baseball buffs. A special section in the back of the book is called Dugout Notes and shares true information about the team, its history and stadium.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

The Digger and the Flower

Author: Kuefler, Joseph

Illustrator: Joseph Kuefler

HarperCollins/Balzer and Bray, 2018

ISBN: 9780062424334

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: The world can use a little kindness and gentleness, and this is a great story to promote that. While all of the other construction equipment is bulldozing and lifting materials for tall buildings, roads, and bridges, Digger has been protecting a little flower that he has discovered growing in a vacant lot. When the little flower is mowed down by Dozer in preparation for a building, Digger takes the seeds and plants them outside of the city, and continues to nurture and protect them as they grow and beautify the path to the city. Verdict: This is an excellent easy-to-read picture book that will appeal to fans of big machinery.

Curricular Use: In addition to the traditional use of picture books to reinforce summarizing the story, this is an excellent title that will help children with the building relationship standards in the Washington State Early Learning and Development Guidelines.

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

Falcon: Fear of Flying

Author: Lambert, Nancy

Illustrator: Ron Lim and Rachelle Rosenberg

ABDO, 2018

ISBN: 9781532140624

$17.95

K - 2: World of Reading Level 2. Based on Marvel's Avengers, Falcon and his bird, Redwing, are attacked by the evil Red Skull. Falcon is hit with mind control beam and is now afraid to fly. Red Skull and his army of bots attack the city and Falcon is unable to stop them until he gets some help from Iron Man and Captain America. Colorful illustrations add action to the simple story. Verdict: This will be a hit with young fans of The Avengers and this hardcover edition is just right for libraries.

Curricular Use: Beginning readers, Superheroes

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

The Infamous Ratsos Are Not Afraid

Author: LaReau, Kara

Illustrator: Matt Myers

Candlewick Press, 2017

ISBN: 9780763676377

$14.99

Grades 2 - 5: The Ratso brothers enjoy a day at the Big City Carnival and on the way home spot an empty lot filled with junk. They had never noticed this lot before because it is right next to the Haunted House. They are often distracted trying to get past the house. Inspired by the carnival’s arcade, they decide to make their own arcade with the junk. The brothers get their friends on board to help out. In the midst of all this, Ralphie Ratso learns a valuable lesson about kindness and how you should treat other people. The illustrations are great; they really make the characters relateable. Verdict: This is a great early chapter book. It has a positive message and interesting characters. The illustrations help engage the reader even more.

Curricular Use: This book will be great for independent reading as students transition into chapter books.

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Groovy Joe Dance Party Countdown

Author: Litwin Eric

Illustrator: Tom Lichtenheld

Orchard Books, 2017

ISBN: 9780545883795

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Groovy Joe likes to sing, dance, play his guitar and rock. As he sings more and more and more dogs join in. Does Joe get upset Goodness No! I can't wait to hear the song that goes with this book. All his books have a tune that you sing part of the book to. The children love it. Verdict: I can't wait to hear the song that goes with this book. All his books have a tune that you sing part of the book to. The children love it.

Curricular Use: This book has more dogs added each page but they are added by doubles. This would be a good introduction to adding doubles.

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Fort Building Time

Author: Lloyd, Megan Wagner

Illustrator: Abigail Halpin

Alfred A. Knopf, 2017

ISBN: 9780399556555

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: The book by Megan Wagner Lloyd takes the reader on a seasonal fort-building journey. The poem-like sentences make this book a page-turner. The book goes through the four seasons and gives children ideas what to do. Winter is described as a “snowball-throwing, scarf-wrapping, sled-pulling, ice-sliding time” and a dog-snuggling, cocoa-drinking, snowman-making, fort-building time!”

The illustrations provide examples of the different forts children build in the different seasons. Winter is igloo-building time while spring is tent building time. In summer, children build a fort out of drift wood and fall is illustrated with a tree house.

Verdict: This books sparks the readers’ imagination and can provide the beginning for creative brainstorming and fort building. The illustrations tell their own story.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Sonja Sample, Child and Family Liaison, Lower Columbia College Head Start

Hippos are Huge!

Author: London, Jonathan

Illustrator: Matthew Trueman

Candlewick Press, 2015

ISBN: 9780763679521

$6.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This book has wonderful illustrations and is filled to the brim with facts about Hippos. Learn how fast they can run and swim as well as what it means when two hippos stand rump to rump. Kids will laugh and learn at the same time. You can read this book in basic its basic form, or the extra content in smaller print for students who want to learn more. Verdict: Fantastic Non-Fiction book for all elementary libraries.

Curricular Use: Great for learning information about Hippos. Many facts for kids to recall as they practice writing informational papers.

Reviewer: Jodie Rodriguez, Elementary Librarian, C.V.G. Librarian

Hero Dog

Author: Lysiak Hilde

Illustrator: Joanne Lew-Vriethoff

Scholastic, 2017

ISBN: 9781338141559

$4.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Hilde's Dad is a reporter, so Hilde started a newspaper of her own. She does all the investigating in her notebook. This volume she investigates the theft of several neighbors, one neighbor had his chicken eggs stolen, one her cheery pie she just baked and one had cupcakes stolen. Through Hilde's investigative skills, and her sisters photography they were able to crack the case before her 5:00 deadline to get the story in. Verdict: This was an interesting story and would be a fun mystery for young readers.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Someone Like Me

Author: MacLachlan, Patriucia

Illustrator: Chris Sheban

a Neal Porter Book, 2017

ISBN: 9781626723344

$16.99

Grades 1 - 3: I believe this is a simple, precious story of the author Patricia MacLachlan growing up loving books, words, and songs in her life and how she then grew up to be a writer. Simple text with soft pencil drawings of this little girl. She loved listening to stories and reading stories. She loved listening to words of conversations. She paid attention to nature. She loved all this and then became a writer. Verdict: It is a sweet story of being a little different and appreciating her world.

Curricular Use:

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

I Am Albert Einstein

Author: Meltzer, Brad

Illustrator: Eliopoulos, Christopher

Penguin, 2014

ISBN: 9780803740846

$12.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: I Am Albert Einstein encourages curiosity and honors differences by outlining some of Einstein's quirks, beginning with his childhood. The book humorously challenges traditional conceptions of genius and outlines Einstein's struggle to fit into the education system. Illustrations are bold and colorful caricatures with thought/speech bubbles to complement the story line. There is a timeline of Einstein's life as well as a few B&W photos of him on the last few pages. Verdict: This is an excellent book which encourages curiosity, daydreaming, deep thinking, and differences. The book describes a person on the autism spectrum (Einstein) without using a label.

Curricular Use: Good for students who are more interested in graphic novels (has elements of such). A great biography, for reading enjoyment, and to appease students who may have difficulty in socializing.

Reviewer: Minette Smith, Guest Reviewer, Cathlamet Public Library

Julian Assange: Founder of WikiLeaks

Author: Moritz, Rachel

Illustrator: NA

ABDO, 2018

ISBN: 9781532111792

$22.95

Grades 4 - 8: Part of the Newsmakers series. This biography looks at the life of Julian Assange, who founded WikiLeaks because he believes the public has the right to secret government documents. He is a controversial figure and not everyone agrees with what he does. The text does a nice job of making what WikiLeaks is and does understandable for students in a nonjudgemental way. Includes photos, timeline, "stop and think" page, glossary, references and index. Verdict: While I'm not sure what the demand would be for this at the elementary level, it works well for middle school students who need a lower reading level.

Curricular Use: Nonfiction, Biographies

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

Fairness

Author: Murray Julie

Illustrator: Photos

Abdo, 2018

ISBN: 9781532100772

$NA

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: This non-fiction book gives different examples of what it is to be fair. Some of the examples are...waiting your turn, sharing your toys, following the rules, and making room for a friend. After each example it shows a full color photo of children doing what the example says. Verdict: This would be a great book to use to teach socializing with students.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Vietnam

Author: Murray, Julie

Illustrator: NA

Big Buddy Books, 2018

ISBN: 9781532110559

$NP

Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: A non-fiction informational text about the beautiful country of Vietnam that is printed for 4th or 5th grade readers that is eye-catching; I really like this book. Full page photos of Vietnam now with beautiful buildings, the working people, famous faces, and lovely scenery included. Large, bold font and color headings invites the young reader to read more. A map is shown with Vietnam relative to the world. Life in Vietnam current culture as well as some history is written. This is a book in the series "Explore the Countries' from ABDO Publishing.

I am interested in whole series. Verdict: Many country books are written to difficult for Elementary or much too minimal and I find this version to be just right.

Curricular Use: Countries and cultures

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

Cool Wild Game Recipes: Main Dishes for Beginning Chefs

Author: Nikko, Parker

Illustrator: NA

Checkerboard Library: ABDO Publishing, 2017

ISBN: 9781680781373

$19.95

Grades 3-6: This is a very well planned book for beginning chefs! It starts by explaining about wild game and then provides some "Cooking Basics" which will help a new cook be successful and safe on their adventure with food. Cooking terms, ingredients and tools are shown in picture and word format so the cook will have confidence as they follow the recipes. The next several pages share pictures of each recipe along with a list of necessary ingredients and tools. It also provides step-by-step directions and pictures that correlate with the steps. Verdict: This recipe book is perfect for our clientele as we are a community of hunters. It is unique as we have never had anything like this on our shelves. I think students will really enjoy it and be able to share it with their families.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

How Does It Protect Itself?

Author: Oh, Hyeon-gyeong

Illustrator: Cheol-min Choi

Lerner Publishing Group, 2017

ISBN: 9781925235166

$20.00

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: This book is filled with facts about how animals protect themselves in various ways camouflaging, strong odors, speed, and detaching body parts. Great illustrations and information that will peek curiosity to learn more. Verdict: Great non-fiction read for early elementary kids who love facts about animals.

Curricular Use: Can be used as a supplemental book to many science studies, as well as writing details and drawing diagrams.

Reviewer: Jodie Rodriguez, Elementary Librarian, C.V.G. Elementary

How Many Guinea Pigs Can Fit on a Plane?: Answers to Your Most Clever Math Questions

Author: Overdeck, Laura

Illustrator: NA

Feiwel and Friends, 2017

ISBN: 9781250072290

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: This book tackles real math questions from real students. It narratively and pictorially answers questions like: How many bees does it take to make one jar of honey? How many times do we blink during a movie? What would 85 pounds of chocolate look like on a cocoa plant? How many people would it take to hold hands and circle the earth? The questions are divided into six different chapters with titles like, "Animal Math", "Math for Your Mouth", and "Earth and Friends", with credit for each question being given to the student who submitted it. This are "Now Do It In Your Head" and "Sources" sections at the end for further challenge and exploration. It is a fun, interesting, fact-filled read that can easily be read in short spurts or all at once. The explanations are easy to follow and logical in their presentation and entertaining at the same time. Verdict: I am not a "math person", but this book was a fun read. Teachers and parents could use this to converse with students in any number of ways.

Curricular Use: Curriculum tie-ins: Math (logic, "reasonableness", how equations are set up, etc.)

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former teacher/librarian, Olympic Elementary School

How to Get Your Teacher Ready

Author: Reagan, Jean

Illustrator: Lee Wildish

Alfred A. Knopf, 2017

ISBN: 9780553538250

$17.99

Grades 1 - 3: Kids get ready for school, but maybe your teacher needs help getting ready. This "How-to" book tells you what to do if your teacher is anxious about school and has questions. So, smile and show your teacher around the room. Help her find the bathroom and tell her when it is time to go home. Help your teacher with events for the whole year such as picture day preparation, 100th day of school, and field day. Then of course, there are ideas of what to do to show you care about her and then how to say Good=bye at end of school year.

What an adorable book to read aloud and use as a writing prompt to extend story. Verdict: This story has much potential for teaching and writing.

Curricular Use:

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

The Big Bad Fox

Author: Renner, Benjamin

Illustrator: Same

First Second, 2017

ISBN: 9781626723313

$15.99

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: The Big Bad Fox is a very entertaining graphix novel. it's about a fox that no one takes seriously. He tries to be big and bad, he can never scare anyone. He really wanted some chickens to eat but the hen always chased him off. The wolf told him he should steal the hens eggs and then he could eat the chicks when they hatched. This is what he did. When the chicks hatched they thought the fox was their mother. He got quite attached to the chicks and had to protect them from the wolf.

Verdict: This was entertaining from first page to the last.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

If My Love Were a Fire Truck

Author: Reynolds, Luke

Illustrator: Mack, Jeff

Doubleday Books for Young Readers, 2017

ISBN: 9781101937402

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: This sweet book talks all about a father’s love for his child. The author began this idea when he sang part of it as a bedtime song for his young son. It utilizes things like a marching band, a knight’s shield, a lion’s roar and a building site to share just what the father’s love would be like and what it would do. For example, a line of the story reads, “If my love were a deep-sea dive, it would touch the ocean floor.” The illustrations are exciting and fun! Verdict: This is a sweet story and written by a public school teacher and father. It combines great literary elements and has fantastic pictures.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: N. Williams, CLC Teacher, Castle Rock Elementary

Ready, Set . . . Baby!

Author: Rusch, Elizabeth

Illustrator: Qin Leng

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2017

ISBN: 9780544472723

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: Narrated by the expecting older brother and sister, you learn what to expect when you find out your mom is expecting a baby. Written with humor and facts for older siblings as well as parents about how to adjust to a new baby in the house. The back is filled with great resources to help older kids feel appreciated and important. Verdict: A great resource for expecting brothers and sisters to prepare and find ways to be helpful.

Curricular Use: This book can be used to expand writing by having students list details of what kids can expect, and what they can do to be helpful at home.

Reviewer: Jodie Rodriguez, Elementary Librarian, C.V.G. Elementary

The Girl in the Tower

Author: Schroeder, Lisa

Illustrator: Nicoletta Ceccoli

Henry Holt and Compay, 2016

ISBN: 9780805095135

$16.99

Grades 4 - 5: An evil queen who really was an evil witch had locked Violet in a tower with her mother. The evil queen was ugly and desired to be beautiful. She learned of an ancient spell to find her beauty. She needed a feather from a hummingbird and a strand of dark hair plucked from an 11-year old who had lavender eyes. That was Violet. Hidden in a garden was a place hummingbirds lived unbeknownst to the queen. Violet was released to the garden yearly to see the birds and she developed a love for them. To keep Violet the queen decided to make her a princess and brought her to the palace. She lavished her with a lovely room, care, and clothing. This was to keep her until the hummingbirds could arrive her her royal garden. Violet missed her mother terribly, but did what the queen demanded. Violet meets a boy who helps her to escape as they learn of the queen's plot. With a twist at the end Violet finds her father and learns she really is a royal princess. Verdict: This easy and fast reader has many twists in the plot and adventures to keep the pages turning.

Curricular Use:

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

In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories

Author: Schwartz, Alvin

Illustrator: Rivas, Victor

HarperCollins, 1984

ISBN: 9780062643384

$16.99

Grades 1 - 3: If you have been around a while, this title should sound very familiar. Victor Rivas has put new illustrations to the same stories in the 1984 "I Can Read! Level 2" version, and the update is worth the reprint and repurchase. There are very few "scary stories" for young, independent readers, and this book fits the bill to a tee. Stories include "The Teeth", "In the Graveyard", "The Green Ribbon", "In a Dark, Dark Room", "The Night It Rained", "The Pirate", and "The Ghost of John." There is also a brief explanation at the end of where the stories come from. Verdict: This updated scary story will be a welcome new addition to your collection, or a much needed replacement.

Curricular Use: Tie-ins could include Halloween and storytelling. It would also be one for the love of reading.

Reviewer: Mary Ann Whittaker, Former media specialist/teacher, Olympic Elementary

Imagine That! How Dr. Seuss Wrote The Cat in the Hat

Author: Sierra, Judy

Illustrator: Kevin Hawkes

Random House, 2017

ISBN: 9780375974298

$unpriced

Grades 1 - 3, Grades 4 - 5: The Cat in The Hat was written with only 236 different official non-nonsense children's words. It was a struggle for Theodor Geisel as he had been writing successful stories with nonsensical words. He spend many days writing and rewriting in many different settings and with many different hats. He did not stop and continued to write another book that children could read and more and more. Then another challenge was presented to write a beginning reader book with only fifty different words. Thus, the book Green Eggs and Ham was created.

Dr. Seuss wrote over 45 beloved children's books and to this day he is still a treasure. He had some basic instructions for all writers: write, rewrite, reject, reject, and polish incessantly.

Verdict: This book is perfect for all teachers to read to their students as they introduce the art of writing.

Curricular Use: Use Dr. Seuss writing instructions for all students to remember as they write.

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

Big Cats

Author: Simon, Seymour

Illustrator: photos

Harper, 2017

ISBN: 9780062470362

$17.99

Grades 4 - 5, Grades 6 - 8: A reprint of a wonderful non-fiction book of Big Cats, Mr. Simon uses large, full page photographs of the cats in their habitat. His information is general and common knowledge perfect for the beginning informational text reader.

All cats are meat eaters with razor-sharp claws and long, sharp canine teeth. Their whiskers are used to detect objects around them. They have excellent vision and hearing. Tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, jaguars, snow leopard are included. He finishes the book with reminders that these animals have been hunted needlessly by humans. Some animals are protected. We must treasure our wildlife. Verdict: The eye-catching photographs grab the learner.

Curricular Use: All animals reports in the elementary level include some information from a Seymour Simon book.

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

Horses

Author: Simon, Seymour

Illustrator: Photos

Harper Collins, 2017

ISBN: 9780062374394

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Horses have always been an important part of our history, from the Ice Age to the present. 500 years ago the horses were brought to America by Spanish explorers. It gives a history of the various horses. Then it explains how you can tell how old a horse is. Horses rely on their senses. Horses move in four ways. They walk, trot, canter, and gallop. There are many different breeds of horses.

The information about horses is interesting without getting to be too wordy.

The photos are wonderful as the horses are described. Verdict: The information about horses is interesting without getting to be too wordy.

The photos are wonderful as the horses are described.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Rocks & Minerals

Author: Simon, Seymour

Illustrator: photos

Harper, 2017

ISBN: 9780062289186

$17.99

Grades 4 - 5: Seymour Simon describes his books perfectly as photo essays. Loaded with just enough information for the young reader and gorgeous photos to grab the newest reader this book on Rocks is beautiful. Black and white background enhance the beauty of stones and gems. Geologists study rocks and minerals and the Earth. Kids all believe they are geologists. This book has big photos of types of rocks with labels. Minerals are sometimes found in the form of crystals. Some minerals attract to a magnet and some have an odor or taste. Rare minerals such as diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby are commonly known. The next part of this book is about rocks. Then Simon goes into how to be a rock hunter in proper attire, tools, and procedure for collecting data. Plus, he helps the reader start a collection. Verdict: Filled with information about rocks and minerals and great photos, this book is a "how-to" for rock collecting.

Curricular Use: Hobbies: rock collecting

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

Red & Lulu

Author: Tavares, Matt

Illustrator: Same

Candlewick Press, 2017

ISBN: 9780763677336

$17.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: Lulu and Red were cardinals that live in a huge evergreen tree all year round. One day while Red was looking for food some men came and chopped down their tree and took it away. Red tried flying after them but the truck went too fast and too far away. Red and Lulu are now separated. Then in the Rockefeller center Red sees his tree all lit up. He goes to his favorite branch and there is Lulu. Verdict: The illustrations are beautiful, and the story is touching.

Curricular Use:

Reviewer: Tracy Robinson, Librarian, Robert Gray

Firehouse!

Author: Teague, Mark

Illustrator: author

Cartwheel Books, Scholastic, 2010

ISBN: 9781338181593

$5.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: A 2010 title has been reissued with added activities for youngsters to interact with the text. Nattily-dressed canines Edward and Lucy visit a 1940's era firehouse to investigte edward becoming a firefighter. As he tries on an oversized fire hat, a junior firemouse asks the reader to decide if the hat is too big, or too small, and explain how they can tell. When the fire alarm rings, readers are asked to tell what the other firefighters are doing. Since it is a fire drill, readers are asked to remember what they have practiced in a fire drill, then count the firefighters on the truck. (One inaccurate, but humorous scene shows Edward bowled over by water shooting out of a fire hydrant. In reality the hose would be attached to the hydrant before a firefighter uses a wrench to turn on the water.) As Edward is carried down a ladder, the reader is asked to name opposites other than UP and DOWN. Readers are asked to give opinions, make predicitons and recall details on subsequent pages. In the finale, Edward successfully rescues a kitten stuck in a tree and is rewarded with a hero's parade. Four more activities are appended at the story's conclusion. Teague's typical zany illustrations are full of bright colors, eager expressions, and comical details, with most of the firefighters portrayed as Dalmatians, and Edward bumbling through most of his earnest, but less than successful efforts. Verdict: A humorous tale showing what a firefighter needs to know is enhanced by interactive questions for young readers to answer.

Curricular Use: Can be used to introduce a preschool or early elementary Community Helpers unit.

Reviewer: Carol Blix, Town Librarian, Cathlamet Public Library

Second Grade Holdout

Author: Vernick, Audrey

Illustrator: Cordell, Matthew

Clarion Books, 2017

ISBN: 9780544876811

$16.99

P - K, Grades 1 - 3: The sequel to First Grade Dropout, this is a humorous story told in first person by a boy transitioning from first grade to second, but he begins to realize that maybe it won't be as great as first grade was. In first grade he was in the same class with his best friend Tyler, had cool jobs, and the teacher "got" him. He keeps hearing about the horror of his new teacher and second grade; things like all students have to learn Russian, learn all the presidents forwards and backwards, Mr. Glazer only gives out black licorice at Halloween, spelling words are difficult, or find a substitute for water or they will fail. Worst of all Tyler is in a different class. Come to find out that his best friend's sisters have been teasing him the entire time. Verdict: A good book to use at the beginning of the schools year to help alleviate so anxiety students have about transitioning grade levels.

Curricular Use: Social Skills, beginning of the year introductions.

Reviewer: Christopher Anderson, Library/Media Specialist, St. Helens/Columbia Heights Elem.

Save Me A Seat

Author: Weeks, Sarah and Varadarajan, Gita

Illustrator: NA

Scholastic Press, 2016

ISBN: 9780545846608

$16.99

Grades 4 - 5: This story is one that each chapter is told from a different character and how they are all intertwined. Beginning with Ravi Suryanarayanan from India has moved with his family to America. His family was very comfortable in India and now in America he lives in a smaller house with his grandparents and parents. He was very capable in school in India. In America he finds subjects different since he does not speak perfect English. The teachers believe him to be behind in learning and place him in a special class. This is where he met Joe. Joe is not the smartest kid and he is in the class accordingly. Then of course there is a bully, Dillon Samreen. Joe thinks it would be great to be friends with Dillon, yet he just bullies Joe. Making things worse for Joe, his mother gets a job as cafeteria lady and this embarrasses Joe. Ravi, as smart as he is, has trouble with English and its many word meanings. Joe becomes empathetic for Ravi and he has to avoid Dillon. So, the plot to get the bully. Of course, Joe and Ravi become friends. Verdict: With the many characters and their affect on each other, this is a great story for young readers.

Curricular Use:

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