Written in prose-poem form, Jacqueline Woodson’s newest book should not be missed. The book tells the story of Sage, growing up in the Bushwick neighborhood in Brooklyn, also known as “The Matchbox”. The summer the story starts shows a neighborhood that seems to be constantly on fire and the sounds of fire sirens sounding on the night air. It’s also the summer Sage gets to know the new kid, Freddy. Sage spends most summer days playing basketball in the park with the boys with aspirations of going pro someday on an NBA team. That is until someone questions her identity and she does a really stupid thing that gets her grounded. It’s a year of change, of finding out who she really is, and remembering what she loves about this Brooklyn neighborhood. A beautiful book with poetic language that just flows. A little bit of basketball for the sports-lovers, but not so much that it will turn off those non-sporty readers. And while I love a long book, especially if it’s good (& this is!), I think it’s the perfect length for the readers who will be interested in the topic – not too long, not too short. A must get for any middle & high school library.
Andy Zhou is pretty used to being someone he truly isn’t in order to please others – whether it’s for his parents, his friend Cindy, or even being an invisible person in order to avoid trouble and attention. He’s used to coming out of his shell for his best friend Cindy, and recently, she’s gotten interested in a dance group called the movement. Add on the fact that there’s a new student named Jameel who wasn’t exactly the nicest, and Andy’s life is feeling troublesome. Things soon get more complicated as he tries to keep old friendships with Cindy and make new friendships, like with Jameel. He’s also struggling to figure out who he really is – switching between mask, after mask, constantly in order to please people. Jack Cheng has portrayed the relatable struggles of some people to create something we can laugh at, or feel comforted, knowing that there’s someone else out there struggling with the same thing. We aren’t alone. This book is one that people who don’t have a strong sense of identity or face stereotypes and expectations might find comfort in reading and connecting to the main character. Jack Cheng has done a stunning job at weaving in the troubles of how a person might struggle to fit into a different person to please others, and how sometimes, our ethnic and cultural background can set high expectations or stereotypes that aren’t always true. He does a great job at showing a young Chinese boy’s struggles and journey to identity and acceptance for himself.
I think that he did a great job describing and portraying the Lion dance that happens with all the drums and the movement of the lions themselves. I’ve seen a lot of Lion dances since it’s deeply ingrained into the Lunar New Year celebration in all different parts of the world that celebrate it. He did a spectacular job describing the actual events and the way the Lion moves around. It’s very accurate.He also did a great job portraying the struggles that sometimes happen for teenagers when we don’t know who we are, trying to please everyone else. We hide behind a different person- a mask of a person. Not to mention the stereotypes that could sometimes be unintentionally or intentionally put as a label on us because of others.
This is a pretty normal thing to say, but I love how the author puts in relatable things in this book. Sometimes, I struggle with figuring who I am, and sometimes I can’t shake the feeling that I’m invisible and forgettable. I could relate to Andy. I felt comforted and happy at the end, especially at the little author’s note at the end where he talked about how he related to the feelings and things put in this book. Not to mention the fact that I was raised differently than my parents, so sometimes I struggle to keep up with their expectations.I know what it’s like to have grandparents that don’t speak English at all (Although, I can’t exactly speak their language myself, I decently understand it.) The Lion dance that happened in this book hit a spot in my heart. I still get the happy, joyful, or even comforting feeling everytime I see the Dragon moving around, at the familiarity of the drums, the Lions jumping and wiggling around. It’s one of the things deeply ingrained into my culture and others who celebrate Chinese New Year. I really liked this book and highly recommend it.
By Victoria L., 7th grader at Komachin Middle School
written by Rie Neal and Illustrated by Talitha Shipman
Astrid is excited to work with her best friend, Hallie, when the Petite Picassos and the Shooting Stars get together to combine art and science. She’s not as thrilled to have Pearl on the team. Pearl is competing against Astrid for a scholarship to space camp and she always says that Astrid doesn’t share or work with others. She called her a ‘plant hog’, for goodness sake! The trio work together (kind of…no, not really) and Astrid is worried that Pearl is trying to ruin the project. So, she and Hallie spy on her and realize that Pearl is just sneaking into the lab to feed a hurt bunny. She isn’t there to ruin the project. They pull together as a team to care for the bunny and tell Mrs. Ruiz, the teacher, who adopts the bunny as a class pet. Even though they didn’t win, they learned the value of teamwork and trust.
The kids appear ethnically diverse and Astrid uses hearing aids. While not a huge part of the story, it is incorporated seamlessly into the book. This is wonderful, because there are very few books with differently-abled characters, who are just part of the group, getting into mischief like their peers. The focus on girls in science is very positive and much needed. There are black and white illustrations throughout and the language is very accessible. This is a very nice addition for those that need some easier chapter books. Presently, there are four books in the series.
Bilqis started playing basketball at the age of three. By high school she is the star player of the varsity team until one day they say she can’t play because she is wearing a hijab. Her teammates stand with her and she is allowed to play where she becomes the all-time lead scorer in the state of Massachusetts. She goes on to play in college and even plays with President Barack Obama.
This story follows Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir from the time she was three to an adult where she is forced to choose between her hijab and playing professional basketball. She decides to fight for the rights of Muslim girls and women in sports.
The text is simple and lyrical and the first person narration will be impactful for young readers, encouraging others to stand up for what they believe in. A short biography with photographs is included at the end of the books as well as discussion questions and resources to learn more. This book is a part of the Citizen Kid series.
Maid for It is a sweet and wonderful book that weaves in relatable life problems and a happy ending. This was one of the sweetest books I’ve read, and I couldn’t stop smiling while reading it. Many readers will enjoy reading about the hardships and the making of new friends. Franny is worried about her mother. She recently turned sober, and even more recently, got into a car crash. Franny does not want her mother to get addicted to the pills that were supposed to help her, but unfortunately, it’s happened before. Franny will not, can not, let it happen again! The devotion Franny has to her mother is just so sweet. I love how, even though there are those conflicts and darker problems in the book, the author has weaved in really sweet or good things, like how Sloan and Franny’s relationship went from enemies to friends. (And I really love that!) Her relationship with Noah is also amazing! I really did like how Noah kept on giving her origami things, and later we learned why. It was awesome seeing Noah find another way through something other than talking. Franny’s determination to help her mom makes this book hard to put down. The author has fit many real life issues and problems, like addictions, worrying, and other things into a story that is still very sweet. I love how Franny helps people, even if she didn’t really know she was doing it. I feel like that when the reader relates to something in a book whether it’s a character, issue, or problem going around- it lets them enjoy it more, or is sort of a comfort when you connect with things. I can relate to Franny’s constant worrying for math and how she reacted to not getting things wrong. I could also relate to how she sometimes tries to become invisible. What I DISLIKED about the book? Nothing! Five stars!
Reviewed by Addison K. and Victoria L., 7th graders
This is the Spanish Language version of Patchwork. It is one of those picture books I think has a place in the libraries serving adolescents as well, as it will be read differently by people at different places in their lives. It’s a poem celebrating the way we all grow, and reminding us all that the talents and interests we exhibit as children may evolve into all sorts of different possibilities as we grow. As the poem tells us, we each have a symphony within us — we are not a single note played again and again. It’s a rather philosophical book that I think would speak well to the youth who struggle to define themselves and decide on futures to pursue.
This is one of those picture books I think has a place in the libraries serving adolescents as well, as it will be read differently by people at different places in their lives. It’s a poem celebrating the way we all grow, and reminding us all that the talents and interests we exhibit as children may evolve into all sorts of different possibilities as we grow. As the poem tells us, we each have a symphony within us — we are not a single note played again and again. It’s a rather philosophical book that I think would speak well to the youth who struggle to define themselves and decide on futures to pursue.
This is a refresh of his 1987 book and it is filled with 32 songs with music and lyrics. Accompanying illustrations are the wonderful artworks that we expect from this great author/illustrator. This book will be a treasure to anyone that chooses to add it to their Christmas collection. Highly recommended, of course!
This is a beautiful and touching book. The text is simple, and yet poetical, with only a single sentence or phrase per page, and the illustrations are bright and rich and full of details that make them relatable as they bring the text to life. It shows a family grieving the loss of a beloved pet dog, building an ofrenda for De de los Muertos as a means of holding onto and honoring their memories. One of the details in the illustrations that I especially like is that all the framed photos of beloved pets show their subjects reaching out beyond the frames, reminding us all that in remembering we keep them with us.
It is both beautiful and informative. It can be read on two levels: large font provides only a single sentence, or a few, per page, written in almost a poetical tone; a smaller font provides more details for curious readers. The focus of the book is on how the pack works together, with different roles for each member, and it’s written in a cyclical manner, beginning with a mated pair getting ready for pups, and continuing through until grown wolves are ready to set out on their own to begin a pack of their own. It does a good job of describing the dangers the wolves face along the way, without getting overly gruesome. The soft illustrations pay tribute to these beautiful animals. It touches the heart even while informing the brain.
written by Salima Alikhan; illustrated by Noor Sofi
Multicultural Day is coming and the teacher has assigned a project. Students will make something that tells the story of who they are. Kids begin cutting, pasting, drawing and planning. But, there is one student that is struggling. Does she highlight her mom’s German culture or her dad’s Indian heritage? What about her American roots? All are integral to who she is as a person. After much thought, the child displays items from all three cultures. She doesn’t have to be one or two cultures. She is all three, “telling the story of who she is”. And, guess what? Other students come forward to share their multicultural stories, too!
This important book will lead to some wonderful conversations about who we are – a marvelous combination of those that come before us! Proudly embracing our cultural heritage is told in simple language with beautifully rendered illustrations. In a day and age when we are even more a mix of so many vibrant cultures, this book is a winner. Share it with everyone!
written by Emma Otheguy; illustrated by Sara Palacios
Martina is not happy that her three tias are coming to her home. They are loud and vibrant and they give her a headache. She slips into the kitchen to smell the pot of bubbling guava fruit and is transported to a wonderful island paradise, where she meets a variety of animals. Each animal wants to play. But, their voices are too loud for Martina. She meets a mouse, who sits quietly as he plays and it’s perfect! Eventually, he tires and leaves. This is when Martina becomes lonely and it seems almost too quiet. She is then transported back to her loving, lively family and tells her story. She realizes her family is special and her place is there with them.
This story is a nod to the Caribbean folktale “La Cucaracha Martina” and reminds us all that individuals come in all shapes, sizes (and volume) yet can fit together like puzzle pieces to make a nurturing close-knit family. The author’s note discusses this and the connection to “La Cucaracha Martina”. Digital collages illustrate the story beautifully in bright, vivid colors, which are especially appropriate in the illustrations of the tias. This is a fun, warm story that will definitely resonate with the quieter kids in the family.
Izzy and Zoe are so excited to go to summer camp until they realize two things: it’s awful (partly because Izzy drew big black eyebrows on her face with permanent marker) and you don’t even camp out overnight! So, Izzy and Zoe plan their own week of summer camp in Izzy’s backyard under the watchful eye of Izzy’s nanny, Rosa. They have so much fun and are so loud (partly because of Rollo, Izzy’s excited dog) that the neighbor, Mr. Entwistle, is even grumpier than usual on his side of the fence.
Camp gets less fun when Zoe gets sick and can’t come over. Then, Izzy’s mom tells Izzy about Mr. Entwistle’s late wife, Maevis. Izzy realizes that Mr. Entwistle might just be lonely and she invites him to her backyard summer camp. He comes over for lunch and they get along so well that she goes to his house while Rosa is getting her hair done. Well, excitement ensues when Rollo knocks the bathroom door shut and it locks Izzy and Rollo inside. Mr. Entwistle calls 911 and the friendly firemen (who all know Izzy) get her out of the bathroom, which makes for the most excitement that Mr. Entwistle has had in a very long time. All this excitement (and more) leads to a wonderful friendship between Mr. Entwistle (Isodor) and Izzy (Why, they are almost twins with those names!).
This lovely, accessible chapter book is brimming with fun and energy. While there is a moment of reflection when Izzy learns why Mr. Entwistle is so grumpy and sad (done in a very respectful and gently way), the overall tone is humorous and light. The black and white illustrations on nearly every two page spread add to the accessibility of the story. Give this book to your early readers. They will love it!
It is about time a new children’s book with up-to-date information on recycling has been published! Jennie Romer explains what happens to the items we place in our recycling bins and promptly think we’ve done our part. Most paper, glass, metals, and #1 & #2 plastics are easily recycled because there are buyers for these materials. Other items may or may not be recyclable depending on the local area where a person lives and depending upon whether there is a buyer for the sorted out items.
Romer describes how the recycling is sorted with the help of Christie Young’s illustrations.
She goes onto to mention “wishcycling” – ” placing non-recyclable items into recycling bin because you hope they’ll windup getting recycled anyway. (Unfortunately, this doesn’t work!)” ( 37) I’m guilty of this.
And Romer finishes with everybody “can’t do all these things ( reducing, recycling and reusing) all the time. Try your best, and do what you can!”
Mr. and Mrs. Gargleson-Bittle are happy in their beautiful home but feel that something is missing in their lives. Making waffles was satisfying for a short time but when they felt they needed more the menagerie started growing. First is was a snail named Gordon followed by Louise the elephant and Sam the aardvark and many more. Their home was no longer too quiet but something was still missing. Will they find their missing piece?
This is a well written and well illustrated book that will make readers smile and feel warm inside. It is highly recommended for PreK – 2nd grade.
Rover and Speck are at it again in their second book “Splash Down”. These two are space explorers who travel the universe exploring uncharted planets. When they arrive on the water covered Planet K2-18b they find themselves in the mouth of a big blubbery beast. Will they be able to help their new friends find their brother who was swallowed by the beast? or will they end up drowning on the watery planet?
This graphic novel is part adventure story, part informational text. Within the story are wonderful and fun science facts that will have students interested in learning more. There are also fun activities at the end of the book for readers to enjoy. This book, as well as book one, “This Planet Rocks” are highly recommended!
In a huge house full of horrors, Iris has never felt at home. Halloway, the man who saved her, protects them all from the outside world and the paranormal investigators who want to capture them by locking them into the mansion, never allowing them out. But what happens when someone finds the mansion and unlocks the door? What happens when one of the horrors finds their way to the town of Dead End Springs?
This is a wonderful graphic novel about friendship and resilience. The characters are rich and diverse. I highly recommend this book for all readers who enjoy graphic novels.
By Kate Jenks Landry, Illustrated by Vivian Mineker
More than anything, Beatrice wants a pet to cuddle, snuggle and take care of. After a long negotiation with her mom, they agree upon a plant. While Barb is not the most affectionate pet a girl can have, Beatrice does everything she can to take care of her plant. She begins to notice that Barb is not doing well and is beginning to look sick. What can Beatrice do to save her beloved pet?
I would highly recommend this well illustrated book that shows determination, dedication and love.
This is the biography of billy barr (he chooses not to capitalize his name), a man who chose to live in the Rocky Mountains alone in the early 1970’s and continues to live there to this day. The author’s note at the end explains that billy become bored and thus started measuring and noting information about the first snowfall, snowpack and when certain animals and flowers returned to the mountains or came out of hibernation. His notebooks are still used when researching climate change and global warming.
I would highly recommend this book for elementary school. It is a wonderfully written and illustrated book that can be used extensively when recognizing climate change as well as a great example of the scientific method in action.
Miss Hildy and Miss Hattie, two friendly witches, leave Styx (a purple cat) and Scones (a ginger colored dog) alone in their cottage when they go off to gather some fenfruit. They instruct their pets to leave various magical items alone, including a crystal ball, potions and herbs and the flying brooms. They don’t say anything about the stick on the mantel. So, Scones figures it’s ok to play with, right? Well, mayhem ensues as the two animals scuffle over the magical stick, turning Styx into a variety of purple animals and adding a ship, pirates and many other magical things to the mix. Upon the return of the witches, they learn that the stick is just that, not a magic wand. Yet, they turn Miss Hattie into a jar of peanut butter. So, what is that about?
This hilarious beginning graphic novel is perfect for new readers, who are introduced to the format by Styx and Scones on the first few pages. Cartoon-like illustrations are bright and the text is very accessible. This book will not be on the library shelves for long! Highly recommended.
A young boy wakes up to a snowy landscape and decides to build “THE BEST SNOWMAN EVER!” He mulls over the steps to the perfect snowman and about daydreams about the result, so perfect that it will be a dream come true! Well, sometimes the outcome isn’t as perfect as planned. But, this little boy is undaunted. He creates his “BEST SNOWMAN YET!” And, it is.
Bright, bold colors in simple illustrations help tell a story that is full of fun, exuberance and heart. Text is spare, yet moves the story along and readers will enjoy the onomatopoeia along the way. Add this to your collection. It will become a classic!
All Lia wants is make it into the International Magic School with her friend, Joon. Her overprotective parents, who work mundane desk jobs for the magical organization, won’t let her do anything and she can’t figure out why. In an act of rebellion, Lia attends the party of the popular girl from school and ends up revealing her family’s location (by breaking an ancient protection spell) to the evil diviner spirit, Gaya, who kidnaps her parents and demands a ransom. Lia’s parents manage to get a message to her during the kidnapping and she and Joon are magically transported to Korea. There, they discover Lia’s true lineage as they and Lia’s grandmother desperately fight to save her parents and destroy Gaya before she returns Korea to a vastly different time hundreds of years before.
This book brings together Korean mythology, magic, modern day technology and typical tween feelings in a wonderfully rich, exciting story. Lia is a twelve year old that is feeling a little (ok, a lot) hemmed in by her parents and sets off a chain of events that will change her life (and possibly the world) when she sneaks out to a swim party at the popular girl’s house. This act of rebellion leads to a fast-paced fantasy adventure that will cause you some sleepless nights, because you just can’t put it down. Hand this book to those students that love Rick Riordan’s books. They will thank you!
Lippincott is known for writing sweet, sometimes heartbreaking stories involving challenges like illness and loss, such as Five Feet Apart. Her characters’ experiences are relatable and are always refreshingly reflective, which is a perk for adult readers, as seen in The Lucky List. Her first venture into sweet, queer ya romance with She Gets the Girl was one of my favorite and most recommended reads of 2022.
In Pride, Prejudice, and Pittsburgh, she adds some time travel and destiny into the mix. Both modern day Pittsburgh and the 1812 settings are characters themselves and the miscommunications about how life works in these different eras between the two main characters, Audrey and Lucy, are amusing. In the beginning, Lucy is betrothed to marry a man and Audrey was recently dumped by her first love, so both are experiencing romantic woes before the sparks fly between them. As with most time travel stories, Audrey learns to appreciate her life and I especially liked her relationship with her dad and their convenience store that felt very Pittsburgh .
My one complaint is that the title is misleading! This is not a retelling of Pride and Prejudice, at least not that I (someone who is admittedly not a P&P stan) caught.
Liz Sonneborn presents excellent information about the past and present Hopi people – the “people who live the correct way”. The Hopi live in present day northern Arizona which is a very dry arid land. The Hopi have devised unique ways to successfully live in this climate, in balance with nature, but present-day draught/climate change is making it more difficult.
The book informs about traditional and present use of the Hopi’s resources, the Hopi’s introduction to European contact, their government, and their use of both English and the Hopi languages.
The book includes: a timeline, glossary, index, and a safe internet web site- FACTSURFER.COM- for further information.
Follow a young boy through his community as he walks the reader through his thoughts and feelings about the American flag. The flag invokes feelings pride and hope.The flag symbolizes freedom. The flag is part of the boy’s community every day. Reflecting on the flag reminds the boy of the struggles of Americans in the past and the ways we can work individually and as a group today and tomorrow to make America a better place for all people.
My Red, White, and Blue does a good job showing that the flag represents different things to different people Through images and words, the book reinforces the idea that an individual’s experience and as well as perceptions of the past influence what the flag represents to each individual.
