Elementary Titles
If you don't like to read, you haven't found the right book.
- J.K. Rowling
Up the Mountain Path
by Marianne Dubuc
Ps - 2, Picture Book
Princeton Architectural Press, 2018
Tage: Animals; Everybody; Friendship
Translation of Le chemin de la montagne.
Old Mrs. Badger climbs to the top of Sugarloaf Peak each Sunday. While on her walk, she meets her forest friends, gives gifts and offers help to those who need it. One day she meets Lulu, a cat and invites Lulu to walk to the peak with her. Lulu asks a lot of questions and Mrs. Badger teaches her to quietly listen and observe. Lulu begins to join Mrs. Badger each week for these climbs. Eventually, Lulu continues without Mrs. Badger, who is too old to keep climbing to the peak each Sunday.
A beautifully illustrated mindfulness book encouraging quiet contemplation and awareness of the world around you.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
Added 4/16
The Magical Unicorn Society Official Handbook
By Selwyn E. Phipps
4-6, Fantasy
Fewel & Friends, 2018
Lexile: 1000L
Tags: Fantastical creatures
The Magical Unicorn Society’s official handbook is the guide to everything unicorn related after centuries of research. The illustrations are vibrant and beautiful. Readers will learn unicorn lore including the facts, the fiction, and more. A book for any true believer and sure to spark any reader’s imagination.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
Added 4/16
They Call Me Guero: A Border Kid’s Poems
by David Bowles
5-8, Realistic
Cinco Puntos Press, 2018
Lexile: 850L
Tags: Novel in verse; Poetry; Mexican-American immigration
“Guero” is a nickname for guys with pale skin. It is given to David Bowles, who has red hair and freckles. He is a 12-year-old Mexican American kid who lives on the border and identifies as pure Mexicano and a nerd. Life is tough for this border kid so he writes poetry to cope.
Beautifully written poetry that tells his stories. Suitable for older elementary and Middle School readers.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
Added 4/16
Paws + Edward
by Espen Dekko and Mari Kanstad Johnsen
K-6, Picture Book
Kids Can Press, 2019
Tags: Grief & Loss, Pets
Paws loves Edward and Edward loves Paws; they are best friends and do everything together. But Paws is tired. He prefers to spend his days dreaming of rabbits rather than chasing them through the park. Then one day, Paws doesn’t wake up and Edward is left to spend his days dreaming, dreaming of the days when Paws used to chase rabbits.
A sweet, touching picture book about the loss of a pet told in a gentle, caring manner.
Reviewed by
Lori Micho
Library Services
Added 3/25
I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness
By Kerascoet
Ps - 3, Picture Book
Schwartz and Wade, 2018
Tags: School; Friendship; Bullying;
It's every new student's nightmare: being alone and bullied in a new school. Making new friends? Forget about it. Unless...
In this charming, wordless picture book, Vanessa's bully taunts her after school and she runs away in tears. But another girl has witnessed this event, and Vanessa's sadness and the injustice gnaw at her for the rest of the day. Early the next morning, she shows up at Vanessa's house, inviting her to simply walk to school together. Soon, they are joined by more children until the walk to school is filled with the exuberant joy of friendship.
Looking for that perfect start-of-year story about stepping out to welcome and accept each other? Look no further; this simple book packs a powerful, richly diverse message in its soothing art.
Reviewed by Terri Faulkner
Library Services
Added 3/25
Ghost Boys
By Jewell Parker Rhodes
4-8; Supernatural/Paranormal
Little Brown Books, 2018
Lexile: HL360
Tags: Ghosts; Racism;
This book tackles the painful subjects of police shootings, racial bias and grief creatively, creating authentic space to probe the issues. The story centers on Jerome, a black boy living in a rough neighborhood in Chicago where daily walks to and from school can be dangerous. To give him the powerful gift of courage, Jerome's friend gives him a toy gun to carry. Tragedy ensues and Jerome is killed. Now, the only person who can see his ghost is Sarah, the daughter of the white police officer who shot Jerome. And Jerome is suddenly, tragically, part of a larger group of ghosts that include Emmett Till and Trayvon Martin, all while watching his family cope with his death.
Books like Dear Martin and The Hate You Give frame this topic for older students; this book makes it accessible to a younger audience through Rhodes' powerful writing and the connections created between the characters. It is an essential read.
Reviewed by Terri Faulkner
Library Services
Added 3/25
100 Bugs! : A Counting Book
By Kate Narita
K-3, Picture Book
Farrar Straus Giroux, 2018
Lexile: AD440L
Tags: Everybody; Poetry; STEAM; Diverse
In 100 Bugs! A Counting Book, two explorers wake up one morning with a whole day of bug-counting awaiting them. Told in rhyme, the book introduces readers to a variety of insects, animals, plants, and farm-related terminology, while simultaneously detailing all of the ways two numbers can be added together to equal 10. The bright, magnificent illustrations perfectly accompany the text and offer a look-and-find opportunity for young readers. The book concludes by showing readers how all of the combination of 10 that they read about equals 100. Likewise, the final pages include facts about the insects and plants mentioned throughout the story.
100 Bugs! A Counting Book is "all kinds of fun" and will delight children, explorers, math enthusiasts, nature-lovers, and artists alike.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/15/19
Crafty Llama
By Mike Kerr
K-3, Picture Book
Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2018
Tags: Everybody; Friendship; Fun Read Aloud; Animals
In Crafty Llama, Llama loves knitting. It doesn't matter what or why she creates, she just loves to make things. Her animal friends join her and work on their own special crafts: beading, cross stitch, quilting, painting, and the like. Beaver also likes to make things. But he isn't interested in making something unless it's useful. Beaver is confused on why Llama makes things with no purpose, so after thinking of her "why," she begins gifting her knitted creations to friends. She realizes that "if you have fun making something, others are bound to enjoy it too." The soft, delicate illustrations perfectly complement the text.
This sweet story captures how friends spending time together in a special, crafty way can be useful to make creations and also useful to build and strengthen friendships.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/15/19
A Bunch of Punctuation
Poems selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins ; illustrated by Serge Bloch.
3-6, Poetry
Wordsong, an imprint of Highlights, 2018
Lexile: 790L
Tags: Poetry, Curriculum Aligned
Selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins and illustrated by Serge Bloch, A Bunch of Punctuation is a delightful book of fourteen short poems. Each poem introduces and personifies the punctuation marks, explaining to readers how the marks will bring language to life. Within the poems, the punctuation marks have a mind of their own, often comparing themselves to each other. Bloch's simple, inventive illustrations compliment the poems and help bring each punctuation mark to life for readers.
Any book that helps writers learn how to correctly use punctuation marks-especially a semi-colon-in a creative, unique way is hard to come by. A Bunch of Punctuation is an excellent addition for language arts teachers, writers, and language lovers of all ages.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/15/19
Snared: Escape to the Above
By Adam Jay Epstein
5-8, Fantasy
Imprint MPG, 2018
Lexile: 820L
Tags: Family; Quests; Steampunk
Wily Snare lives in Carrion Tomb. He is a trapsmith, which means that Wily cleans, maintains, and creates new traps to prevent knights, wizards, and elves from invading and stealing the tomb's treasures. Wily is very good at his job. So good, in fact, that one group of invaders considers Wily to be the treasure and steals him away from the only home he has ever known. Once on the outside, Wily discovers that many of the things he was told about the Above are not true; it is a place of many wonders. One truth he learns is that an evil king terrorizes the land. Wily may be the only one with the skills to defeat the Infernal King.
Escape to the Above is a rollicking adventure with unique, likable, disparate characters that morph into a family. This entertaining read is filled with humor, magic, wonder, and a steampunk vibe. Epstein's refreshing series starter promises more action to come in subsequent volumes of this lighthearted, satisfying fantasy.
Reviewed by
Michelle Jensen
George Washington High School
Added 3/6/19
Cece Loves Science
By Kimberly Derting
K-3, Picture Book
Greenwillow Books, 2018
Lexile: 540L
Tags: Everybody; Diverse; STEAM; Fun Read Aloud
Cece is a budding scientist. She's curious and goes about the world observing and asking "how," "why," "when," and "what if." When her teacher assigns a science project, Cece and her best friend, Isaac, investigate a zoology question: do dogs eat vegetables? Cece and Isaac set up an at-home experiment using her dog, Einstein. What will Cece and Isaac discover? This charming story is a nice introduction to the scientific method, with an emphasis on girls in science and a biracial protagonist. It supports asking questions, finding different solutions, & thinking outside the box. Yet young readers will need some guidance so they don't try the experiments at home with their own pets.
The illustrations are beautiful, bright, and cheerful. The end of the book contains a glossary of science terms and information about related scientists. Hopefully, there will be more stories about Cece in the future.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/6/19
The Rock Book
By Pamela Chanko
PS - 1, Nonfiction
Children's Press, 2019
Lexile: 550L
Tags: High-Interest Nonfiction; STEAM; Curriculum Aligned
The Rock Book will answer all of your questions about rocks and more. It is organized into three chapters about types of rocks, rock characteristics, and rock usage. The book features simple, repetitive text for beginning readers to read alongside a fluent reader. Bold, updated photographs and diagrams offer a perfect reading aide.
This colorful, highly visual book serves as a perfect beginning rock reference book for young readers.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/6/19
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Otherwood
By Pete Hautman
5-7, Fantasy
Candlewick Press, 2018
Lexile: 630L
Tags: Adventure; Friendship
Elly and Stuey live on different sides of the woods. They share a birthday, which quickly leads them to become best friends. But suddenly, their realities split and they must come to terms with the path they've been set on. "Infused with the magic of the unknown, the eerie wilderness entices them, and readers, inside. An intensely atmospheric ghost story and elegy for a vanished world." (Kirkus Reviews)
This is a great book for readers who like a little magical realism/virtual reality twist in their books.
Reviewed by
Shae Patnoe
McAuliffe International School
Added 3/6/19
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Resistance
By Jennifer Nielsen
5-8, Historic Fiction
Scholastic Press, 2018
Lexile: 820L
Tags: Holocaust; Poland; World War II
16-year-old Chaya, a Jewish girl growing up in Poland, joins up with the Polish resistance group Akiva to fight for her people against the evils of the Holocaust. She starts as a courier, using her fair coloring to pass for Polish and sneak into ghettos to smuggle in supplies and information.
The adventurous feel of the book overshadows the impact of atrocities committed during the Holocaust.
Reviewed by
Shae Patnoe
McAuliffe International School
Added 3/6/19
The Book in the Book in the Book
By Julien Baer
K-3, Picture Book
Holiday House, 2019
Tags: Everybody; Fun Read Aloud
Originally written in French, The Book in the Book in the Book is a distinctive story of Thomas on a beach vacation with his parents. While they nap, he amuses himself by going for a walk. On the beach, he finds a small, worn book in the sand, which takes him on an adventure. Throughout this charming story, Thomas goes on the beach, to the Alps, and to outer space. This unique book includes delightful illustrations, repetition, and three different stories in three different books that come together for a satisfying ending.
While short, this book is novel because there are two actual, smaller books within the one book. It would be a fun read aloud for children of all ages.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
Added 3/6/19
Pilu of the Woods
By Mai K. Nguyen
5-8, Graphic Novels
Oni Press, 2019
Tags: Fairy Tales/Folk Tales; Grief
Willow is struggling after her mother’s death. Her sister acts like a parent and the kids tease her at school. Seeking peace, Willow flees to the woods and encounters Pilu, a tree spirit, who has run away from her mother. Together, Willow and Pilu explore the forest and help each other navigate anger and grief.
The earthy tone panels add an emotional dimension through their journey as they find their place in the world.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
Added 2/20/19
The Science of Breakable Things
by Tae Keller
4-6, Realistic Fiction
Random House, 2018
Lexile: 840
Tags: Depression; Family Fiction; Friendship
Jump into the Middle School angst of Natalie Napoli, a seventh-grade girl of Korean heritage. Her mother is sinking into deep, debilitating depression, and Natalie is anxious to both prove she isn't the cause of it and be the one to bring her mother back to life. She is inspired by her goofy science teacher to enter the classic egg-drop science project, because she could use the $500 prize to speed her mother toward a recovery option Natalie is convinced will work.
This story connects themes of science, family, sorrow, forgiveness and friendship - both new and old - into a richly empathetic view of life.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
Added 2/20/19
A Big Mooncake for Little Star
By Grace Lin
Ps-3, Picture Book
Little, Brown Books, 2018
Lexile: 430L
Tags: Moon Phases; Stars; Mother and Child
Award winning author and illustrator Grace Lin offers a wholly original, visually exquisite fable in homage to the mid-Autumn Moon Festival and the holiday’s quiet, joyful spirit. Little Star and her Mama bake a huge, delicious yellow mooncake. Laying it in the sky to cool, Mama reminds Little Star not to eat the cake. As Little Star wakes night after night for a tiny, irresistible nibble, this sweet round mooncake begins to dwindle to a crescent. As it wanes, readers realize they have been cleverly spun into a stunning new myth of the moon’s phases.
Gorgeously illustrated in gouache on watercolor paper, Little Star and her loving Mama drift against a softly ethereal backdrop of night sky, the yellow stars on their pajamas glowing and their faces radiating comfort and serenity. This book is a warm, calming and captivating read.
Reviewed by Denver Public Library
Best and Brightest, 2018
Added 2/20/19
Greetings from Witness Protection!
By Jake Burt
5-8, Adventure
Feiwel and Friends, 2018
Lexile: 750L
Tags: Realistic Fiction; Foster Care; Family Dynamics; Bullying.
Nikki has been in the foster system since her grammy died. She wants nothing more than a place to call home, but she has made some mistakes. She steals. She doesn't intend to (usually), but when stressed, her hands pilfer watches, wallets, rings, bracelets, or any other object easily liberated from its rightful owner. So when two no-nonsense U.S. Marshals come to speak to Nikki, she is sure her life is about to be turned upside down. She is right. They want her to join a family being placed in the Witness Protection Program to help camouflage and protect them. To gain a new life, Nikki will have to give up everything she has ever known, including her own identity.
This is an easy, lighthearted read that touches on some difficult topics. Readers will identify with the spot-on voice of each character. Action and suspense balance the humor and angst of family life.
Reviewed by
Michelle Jensen
George Washington High School
Added 2/19/19
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Unplugged
By Steve Antony
Pre -2, Picture Book
Scholastic Press, 2018
Lexile: 730L
Tags: Humor Fiction; Computers
Blip the robot loves playing on her computer, until one day a blackout sends her tumbling outdoors. To tell this story of the joys of unplugging, Antony makes masterful use of color, illustrating the “plugged-in” sequences with crisp shades of gray and the outdoor scenes in soft greens, blues, oranges and yellows. Outdoors, Blip connects with three perky woodland critters. Their activities—and the story’s language—echo her online adventures, this time in a creative, open-ended play setting.
A playful and deftly-executed message of balancing screen time with analog fun, this book stands out for its spare writing, sly humor and charming illustrations.
Reviewed by
Denver Public Library
Best and Brightest, 2018
Added 2/19/19
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Sanity & Tallulah
By Molly Brooks
4-7, Graphic Novels
Disney/Hyperion, 2018
Lexile: GN530
Tags: Science Fiction; Friendship
Sanity and Tallulah are best friends who live on Wilnick, an out-of-the-way space station. Sanity, an exceptional scientist, creates a three-headed kitten she names Princess Sparkle, Destroyer of Worlds. The space station begins to break down, possibly as a result of the escaped three-headed kitten. Sanity and Tallulah must find the kitten before the space station is destroyed.
Diverse characters throughout this fast-paced, sci-fi graphic novel are appealing. This is an intelligent take on creative problem-solving .
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
Added 2/19/19
Kitten Construction Company : Meet the House Kittens
by John Patrick Green
1-3, Graphic Novel
First Second, 2018
Lexile: 550L
Tags: Animals; Cartoons
When Kitty Marmalade, a trained architect, perfects her plans for the human mayor’s new mansion, the humans tell her she is too adorable to be taken seriously. She joins with other adorable kittens to form an all kitten-construction company. When the human team makes a mess of the plans, Kitty Marmalade’s team prove they are more than just adorable.
This humorous graphic novel is sure to appeal to both new and older readers.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
The 91-Story Treehouse
By Andy Griffiths
K-3, Humor
Feiwel & Friends, 2018
Lexile: 500L
Tags: Fantasy; Fun read-aloud
Andy and Terry now live in a 91-story treehouse because they keep getting ideas for new stories. This illustrated chapter book follows Andy and Terry as they babysit Mr. Big Nose’s three grandchildren and avoid pushing the big red button.
The seventh installment in this series does not disappoint, as the slapstick humor continues.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
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The Storm Runner
By Jennifer Cervantes
4-8, Fantasy
Disney-Hyperion, 2018
Lexile: 600L
Tags: Mayan Mythology; Latino
Zane Obispo spends his time exploring the volcano in his backyard in New Mexico. He was born with one leg shorter than the other; school was a painful experience full of bullies, and he was homeschooled for a while. Now he is going back to school - reluctantly. As Zane is exploring one night, a plane crashes into the volcano and a monstrous apparition appears, trying to kill him. He is saved by a mysterious (and beautiful) girl who tells him he is part of a prophecy and he is going to unleash the Mayan god of the underworld, Au-Puch. Weird things happen, and Zane is swept up in the attempt to return the god to his prison before he wreaks havoc.
This novel is a great adventure filled with creepy monsters, page turning action and great, memorable characters. Rick Riordan is reaching out to authors from underrepresented cultures and encouraging them to tell the stories inspired by the myths and folklore of their heritage. This book will be great for Rick Riordan fans of any age.
Reviewed by Chris Coble
CEC Early College
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The Rabbit Listened
By Cori Doerrfeld
PS - 2, Picture Book
Dial, 2018
Lexile: 450L
Tags: Grief and Loss; Animal Fiction
Taylor (Boy? Girl? Doesn't matter) experiences an all-too-common event: the block tower painstakingly built to beautiful and lofty perfection comes crashing down. Taylor is devastated. One by one, animals enter the picture, noticing and addressing Taylor's sorrow. The chicken suggests talking about it, the bear want to get angry for Taylor, the snake wants revenge. Taylor turns them all away. But then the quiet rabbit hops in, and says nothing at all. The best cure is realized.
This sweet story, combined with simple art and lots of white space to enhance the feeling of quiet sadness, is full of potential talking points and cuddle moments. Use this book to develop empathy and name emotions with young children.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
Drawn Together
By Minh Le
Illustrations by Dan Santat
Ps-2, Picture Book
Disney Hyperion, 2018
Tags: Communication; Families; Multicultural
People from differing languages and cultures struggle in even basic communication. Imagine if the language gap lies between grandfather and grandson. With so much at stake, how can even the simplest of messages be conveyed? Why, through the magic of a shared love of art, of course! Drawn Together - a delightful double-meaning title - is filled with Dan Santat's amazing art and a sweet story of discovery, imagination and family love. The story is told in just one hundred words and multiple wordless, detail-filled pages, making it accessible for emerging readers.
Filled with dragons and warriors, color and magic, this book encourages lingering. Like The Rabbit Listened, empathy is a key element in this elegant book.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
Alma and How She Got Her Name
By Juana Martinez-Neal
PS - 2, Picture Book
Candlewick Press, 2018
Tags: Latinx; Families; Ancestors
Alma is flat-out exasperated: her name (Alma Sofia Esperanze Jose Pura Candela) is ridiculously too long and simply will not fit onto any page. Her patient father lovingly explains from which ancestor the various elements of her name come - and the strength and courage bestowed to Alma as a result. In learning about her relatives, Alma learns about their compassion, hope, sense of adventure and love of family. But who was Alma? "You are the first and only Alma. You will make your own story," says her father.
This book celebrates cultural diversity, family traditions and individuality. The calm sepia art with splashes of blue and pink add a joyful quality to the story. It would make a great introduction to a 'Who are you?' conversation.
This book was released simultaneously in both English and Spanish.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
2019 Asian/Pacific American Award - Picture Book
2019 Caldecott Honor Book
Finding Langston
By Lesa Cline-Ransome
3-6, Historic Fiction
Holiday House, 2018
Lexile: 760L
Tags: African American; Human Migration
Finding Langston is a sweet book written from the perspective of an eleven-year-old boy who has moved north to Chicago from racially divided Alabama with his father after the death of his mother. The year is 1946, and opportunities are more readily available for black Americans in the north rather than in the south. Langston struggles with the loss of his mother and being bullied by the city kids, until he discovers the neighborhood library. Learning about his namesake, Langston Hughes, brings him a clearer understanding of his mother.
This is a good book for anyone interested in family and race relations.
Reviewed by
Shae Patnoe
McAuliffe International School
The Divided Earth
(The Nameless City, #3)
By Faith Erin Hicks
4-7, Graphic Novel
First Second, 2018
Lexile: GN 360
Tags: Fantasy; Action & Adventure; Survival
This is the third and final installment in the highly reviewed graphic novel series The Nameless City.
The Nameless City is now under siege and Dao General is determined to end the war. Rat and Kai continue in their battle to save the city, this time by stealing back the ancient and deadly formula of mass destruction before it can be used. Like The Nameless City and The Stone Heart before it, the warm palette used for the art is engaging and dramatic. Their friendship, the battle scenes, and the well done illustrations bring together a great and satisfying conclusion.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
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The Girl Who Drew Butterflies : How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science
By Joyce Sidman
5-8, Biography
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2018
Lexile: 1110L
Tags: Insects: Nature: Art
The Girl Who Drew Butterflies is an interesting nonfiction read for both the science-minded and artistic students. This book reveals the life of Maria Merian and how she, as an untrained scientist, made important discoveries of the natural world. Her keen observation and meticulous drawings and documentation laid the groundwork for the future study of ecology.
This book is visually stunning, with beautiful reproductions of Maria's artwork, sharp photographs of the stages of butterflies, and other notable art from the seventeenth century.
Reviewed by
Shae Patnoe,
McAuliffe International School
2019 - The Robert F. Siebert Informational Book Medal
2019 Coretta Scott King Honor Book
The Book of Gold
By Bob Staake
K-3, Picture Book
Schwartz & Wade Books, 2017
Lexile: AD770L
Tags: Everybody; Folklore
Isaac Gutenberg was hard to satisfy. He didn't like toys, he didn't like comics and he didn't like pets. He scoffed at every book his parents tried to read to him and rolled his eyes when his parents dragged him to the New York Public Library. Even fascinating facts did not excite him. Nothing piqued his interest until an antique shopkeeper asked him if he had ever heard of "The Book of Gold." This unique book "holds all the answers to every question ever asked, and when it is opened it turns to solid gold." Isaac is only interested in the fact that the book would turn to gold and the fortune he'd have if he was the one to find it. Isaac searches every place imaginable, traveling near and far to find this book.
Readers of all ages will enjoy reading about the adventures of Isaac as he continues his quest for the magical book. Readers will discover for themselves whether or not such a book truly exists. This makes for a fine read aloud and can be used to introduce research projects.
Reviewed by
Jacquie Hemphill
Grant Ranch K-8
The Lotterys Plus One
By Emma Donoghue
3-6, Realistic Fiction
Publisher: Scholastic Inc., 2018
Lexile: 840L
Tags: LGBTQ+; Family
The Lotterys Plus One is a romping book about a family with four adults, seven kids, and lots of pets who live in a mansion they call Camelottery. The parents are two same sex couples who have won the lottery and decide to co-parent adopted and biological kids, and each child is celebrated for his/her uniqueness. The Lotterys' family life is disrupted when one of their grandfathers, who is suffering from dementia, comes to stay with them. "Grumps," as he is (not affectionately) known, challenges the status quo and pushes the family to their limits.
This is a fun and challenging read in that the Lotterys have their own language, there are lots of cultural references, and many characters to keep track of. A great read for parents and kids to read together as there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Reviewed by
Julie Malek
McAuliffe Manual Middle School
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Dreamers
By Yuyi Morales
K-3, Picture Book
Neal Porter Books, 2018
Lexile: 480L
Tags: Latinx; Immigrants; Family Dynamics
"All of us have stories."
In Dreamers, readers learn that for immigrants, that story means dreaming of a brighter future. It means having the courage to leave all that is familiar in hopes of a new tomorrow. It means making mistakes, facing the unknown, struggling. Immigrants have a profound appreciation for all the things many take for granted: peace and quiet in our neighborhoods, understanding social norms and libraries. When the dreamers in this story found the library, they found their safe place and discovered the power of books. They learned to read, to speak, and to dream.
Both the illustrations and true story of a mother who crossed the border with her 2-month-old son will warm any heart. Look for familiar book titles and covers sprinkled throughout the story.
This book was released simultaneously in both English and Spanish.
Reviewed by
Jacquie Hemphill
Grant Ranch K-8
2019 Pura Belpre
Award Winner
Worth a Thousand Words
By Brigit Young
3-6, Mystery
Roaring Brook Press, 2018
Lexile: 700L
Tags: Different Abilities; Photography
Tillie was in an accident that left her injured and in constant pain. Because she could no longer keep up with her classmates, she resorted to watching them, and her family, through the lenses of her cameras. She paid attention to the small details that others never noticed. One day, while she was looking through her photos, she saw where Diana left her ring, about which she was making a public spectacle. From then on she became known as "Lost and Found." One day, Jake asked her to find his dad. Reluctantly, Tillie agrees to help. She finds herself lying to her parents and keeping secrets. Is this really the person she wants to be?
This poignant story touches on so many topics of interest to readers seeking their independence from family while still desiring to hold them close.
Reviewed By
Chris Coble
CEC Early College
HYDRA
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Best Frints at Skrool
By Antoinette Portis
K-3, Picture Book
Roaring Brook Press, 2018
Lexile: 510L
Tags: Everybody Fiction; Science Fiction; Fun Read Aloud
A follow-up to Best Frints in the Whole Universe, best alien friends Yelfred and Omek are headed back to school on planet Boborp. Omek has a harder time making friends than Yelfred, and he finds himself left out as Yelfred has fun with a new friend. Following a food fight, after "skrool" the three meet for a friendly game and some food. And just like us earthlings, Yelfred and Omek work out their issues and realize that three doesn't have to mean a crowd. Readers will be drawn to the bright colors of the illustrations. Even though the setting is in outer space, young readers will connect to the ins and outs of a typical school day on Boborp, as alien students must also follow rules, read, and learn to count.
While some readers will appreciate and understand the inventive alien language, striving readers may be confused by the spellings and need assistance to comprehend the plot. To make sure all readers understand the story, it's a title best shared aloud.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
SANTORINI
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The Princess in Black and the Science Fair Scare
By Shannon Hale
K-3, Early chapter book
Candlewick Press, 2018
Lexile: 500L
Tags: Fairytale; Action & Adventure; Science
Check out this latest Princess in Black installment! Princess Magnolia and her princess friends must find a way to get an unforeseen monster to a place where he fits. They are adventurous and courageous, working together to remove the monster and save the science fair. In this novel, there is an addition of a new superhero character. And the ending suggests we may see even more princesses in disguise in the future.
Colorful pictures are on each page, but the short chapter format makes this a perfect early chapter book for readers. Fans of the previous Princess in Black books will welcome this new addition to the Princess in Black collection.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
MYKONOS
Cottons. Book 1: The Secret of the Wind
By Jim Pascoe
5-8, Graphic Novel
First Second, 2018
Lexile: 350L
Tags: Fantasy & magic; Dystopian; Animals
This is the first graphic novel in the Cottons trilogy. The story follows rabbits and foxes who compete to control cha, a magical crystal extracted from carrots. The foxes are bringing a war to the rabbit, who are distracted by the production demands of cha.
The setting and images are detailed, dark and captivating. The book includes an appendix covering the history, religion and characters in this appealing fantasy.
Reviewed By
Amanda Samland
Library Services
HYDRA
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The Dam Keeper. Book Two, World Without Darkness
By Robert Kondo
3-6, Graphic Novel
First Second, 2018
Lexile: 530L
Tags: Action & adventure; Fantasy & magic; Dystopian; Animals
Based on the Oscar-nominated short film The Dam Keeper, this watercolor-style graphic novel follows a pig who tries to keep the deadly dark fog from taking over his small town. In this second book in the series, Pig and his friends seek answers beyond their town about the fog. There are a few scary moments to add to the excitement factor, but overall, this is a beautifully designed and written story. Look for the story to continue in a third installment (and it helps to know the story from the first book).
Reviewed By
Amanda Samland
Library Services
SANTORINI
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The Parker Inheritance
By Varian Johnson
4-6, Realistic Fiction
Arthur A Levine Books, 2018
Lexile: 610L
Tags: Mystery/Suspense; African Americans; Friendship
Candice (not Candy. Ever.) is having a rough summer. Her parents are divorcing, she moves to a small southern town filled with dark secrets of an unpleasant past, and she is lonely. Enter a new friend (Brandon), add an enticing mystery involving her grandmother and the tantalizing hint of untold wealth, and sprinkle in scenes from the past. The result? A great 'where is it?' mystery filled with subtle clues and a fresh perspective on race relations in the old South. In the process of following the clues, Candice learns not only about her new home and its past, but about her grandmother, her parents and her own surprising strength.
This book fills a hole in middle grade fiction: complex and diverse main characters taking on stereotypes in a fast-paced, clever read.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
MYKONOS
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Merci Suarez Changes Gears
By Meg Medina
3-5, Realistic Fiction
Candlewick Press, 2018
Lexile: 700L
Tags: Hispanic American; Family
Merci Suarez is an honest, witty, and insightful eleven-year-old girl from a tight-knit Cuban-American family living side-by-side in their South Florida neighborhood. Lolo, her grandfather, is her best friend, the only person with whom she can be open. The family dynamics are amusing and familiar to anyone who comes from a lively Latinx family. Sixth grade at her private school is a struggle for Merci: she isn't sure where she fits in, and she often compares herself to her wealthy, cliquish classmates. Edna Santos, a popular student who seems to have it all, becomes Merci's emotional bully, triggering regular bouts of stress and self-doubt. Merci is also confused over changes in Lolo and is angry and frustrated with her family; she feels they are keeping information about her beloved grandfather from her.
Ultimately, Merci shows inner-strength in dealing with bullying and finds some surprising friends along the way. After her family finally opens up about Lolo, Merci uses her special gifts to demonstrate love and caring to support her family for the difficult road ahead. Teens and tweens will easily recognize their own experiences in her friendship struggles.
Reviewed by
Deb Romero
Library Services
HYDRA
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The Exact Location of Home
By Kate Messner
3-5, Realistic Fiction
Bloomsbury, 2017
Lexile: 620L
Tags: Homelessness; Poverty; Family Dynamics
“Zig” Zigonski loves electronics. The circuits and wires make so much more sense than human interactions. Zig’s dad hasn’t been home in over a year and his mom works long shifts and goes to school at night in hopes of making a better life ahead. One day Zig and his friend Gianna find a GPS unit at a yard sale in a box of electronic gear. Zig is thrilled and excited to see where the GPS will take him. He starts to feel as if his dad is leaving him clues. Zig goes overboard trying to find his dad. In the end, Zig and his mom find themselves in a homeless shelter and the GPS takes Zig to a friend who understands him.
This poignant story is a page turner. It doesn't matter if the reader has never been homeless, or searching for a missing father, they will relate to the emotion of the story and feel compassion for Zig and his friends and family. Readers may encounter some familiar friends from other books by the author.
Reviewed by
Chris Coble
CEC Early College
SANTORINI
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The Pants Project
By Cat Clarke
3-6, Realistic Fiction
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2017
Lexile: 710L
Tags: Middle Grade Novel; LGBTQ+
Liv is on his way to middle school. Liv was born a girl but he knows he is really a boy. The problem with the new school is the dress code where girls wear skirts and boys wear slacks. Until now, Liv has never worn a skirt. He is uncomfortable and angry that this outdated policy leaves no room for debate. Slowly but surely, with the help of an unexpected friend and some other allies, Liv sets out to change the policy.
This book brings issues surrounding transgender to middle school. This timely book examines not just transgender issues but other issues that define middle school: mean girls, embarrassing parents, archaic rules and more. Overall, it is great book for looking at social change, friendship, and defining yourself in different ways.
Reviewed by
Chris Coble
CEC Early College
MYKONOS
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Do you Believe in Unicorns?
By Bethanie Deeney Murguia
PS-2, Picture Book
Candlewick Press, 2018
Lexile: 460L
Tags: Unicorns; Humor
Readers are asked to decide… is that a unicorn in disguise or a horse in a hat? Even when the hat comes off, carefully illustrated mountains, minarets and blades of grass continue to make the reader guess. It's all a matter of perspective in this clever story about seeing magic in the everyday.
A great addition to all elementary collections, but especially those where unicorn stories are popular.
Reviewed by
Lori Micho
Library Services
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The Day You Begin
By Jacqueline Woodson
Illustrated by Rafael Lopez
K-3, Picture Book
Nancy Paulsen Books, 2018
Lexile: AD 980
Tags: Multicultural; Individuality
There will be times...in this richly illustrated book when you find yourself mesmerized by the art of Lopez and the words of Woodson as you sink into the pages. Children in a classroom may be asked simple questions, but that doesn't mean they can answer them freely. Until, that is, they stop measuring themselves against others and start telling their own stories. To hit this message of measuring home, Lopez included a number of rulers cleverly hidden in the pages.
This is a must-read for all classrooms. Its timely themes of the courage to speak one's truth and accept others when differences are reflected will resonate with children and adults alike.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
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Skelly's Halloween
By David Martin
K-3, Picture Book
Henry Holt and Co., 2018
Lexile: 530L
Tags: Halloween; Humorous fiction
This is a fun read-about a skeleton whose favorite day of the year is Halloween. Like many kids, he gets to dress up in a costume and go trick-or-treating. Things go badly for Skelly, and he finds himself in 206 pieces on the ground. Luckily, several friends come by and try to help put Skelly back together, with hilarious results. The ending is a little bit disjointed, but this book is good overall, and would make for a great read-aloud.
Reviewed by
Len Bryan
Library Services
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The Frightful Ride of Michael McMichael
By Bonny Becker
K-3, Picture Book
Candlewick Press, 2018
Lexile:
Tags: Everybody; Scary
In this modern twist on Little Red Riding Hood, Michael McMichael is trying to get to Grandmother's house with a special delivery in a wooden picnic basket. Instead of facing a scary wolf in the middle of a forest, McMichael encounters a frightful bus filled with ghoul-like passengers and a driver with a warty nose and distorted face. The boy wonders if he should find another ride, but it's late and stormy so he braves the bus. As the passengers depart the bus, he finds himself alone with the spooky driver and a bus that seemingly wants to eat him. Yet Michael thinks quickly and uses Grandma's special surprise to get rid of the driver and make it safely to Grandma's house.
While this makes for a good Halloween read aloud, the pictures are vivid and could be quite scary for some readers. However, the rhyme and rhythm tames it down and by the end readers will breathe a sigh of relief.
Reviewed by
Jacquie Hemphill
Grant Ranch
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The youngest marcher : the story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a young civil rights activist
By Cynthia Levinson
K-3, Biography
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2017
Lexile: 720L
Tags: African American; Social Justice
Audrey Faye Hendricks grew up in Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement. Her family often hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other ministers for dinners and discussions about how to fight segregation. Hendricks listened to Dr. King and wanted to fight for equal rights. Dr. King had a plan: disobey the unjust laws, picket white stores, march in protest and ultimately go to jail. The adults were scared, so the children stepped up. Hendricks was one of the first to raise her hand and volunteer to go to jail. Her bravery changed the course of history.
Levinson makes a complicated subject easy to understand. She simply explains the true events of Hendricks' life through her words and pictures. Students will feel inspired by what Hendricks and the young people of Birmingham did to bring change to a city and country.
Reviewed by
Jacquie Hemphill
Grant Ranch
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Lucky Little Things
By Janice Erlbaum
5-8, Realistic Fiction
Farrar Straus Giroux, 2018
Lexile: 710
Tags: Middle Grade; Grief; Friendships
Emma MacIntyre feels incredibly unlucky--her Aunt Jenny has just died, her best friend seems to have abandoned her, and the boy she likes doesn't pay any attention to her. Things start to change when she receives a mysterious letter telling her to write down ten "lucky little things" she would like to have happen in the next month. Emma's luck starts to change.
This is an enjoyable read, as Emma is a pretty entertaining narrator about her life. Her depiction of middle school drama feels on point, as does her description of feeling sad after experiencing a big loss. On a deeper level, the book asks questions like, "Can we really be `lucky' or do we make our own `luck?" How much do we control our destiny? Fun and quick read!
Reviewed by
Julie Malek
Manual
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Making Friends
By Kristen Gudsnuk
K-5, 6-8, Graphic Novel
Graphix, an imprint of Scholastic, 2018
Lexile: GN 340
Tags: Fantasy & magic; Strong female
Dani loved 6th grade and her best friends. In her new middle school, her friends are in different classes and she is being bullied. She inherits a magic sketchbook from her great-aunt and discovers what she draws comes to life. Dani then draws the most amazing best friend ever but soon learns that how you treat your BFF matters.
The manga-inspired illustrations and contemporary story line make this a great read.
Reviewed by
Amanda Samland
Library Services
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Vivid : Poems & Notes About Color
By Julie Paschkis
K-3, Poetry
Godwin Books, Henry Holt and Co., 2018
Lexile NA
Tags: Colors; High-Interest nonfiction
What does "vivid" mean? This picture book seeks to explain "vivid" through poems and facts about color. Each spread focuses on a single color. The left sides includes information about the origin of pigment, facts about sight and perception, and other details about color. Those facts are paired with short, playful poems on the right about the featured color. Every page is bursting with vibrant paintings that will cause readers to consider colors in new ways.
The combination of color, science, and poetry is a unique read that will be sure to engage scientists, artists, and poets of all ages.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
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Geraldine
By Elizabeth Lilly
K-3, Picture Book
Roaring Brook Press, 2018
Lexile: 520L
Tags: Everybody; Fun read-loud; Animals
Geraldine is an endearing story that explores the challenges of moving, making friends, and fitting in. When living around giraffes, Geraldine did not stand out, but things change when her family moves. Once she is around people, she is noticed as the only giraffe. No surprise, Geraldine does not like to be different. One day she meets Cassie who also feels alone and unlike anyone else. Together, they grow to understand that everyone is different and that our difference makes us unique.
This picture book is a great addition to beginning of the school year read-alouds to create classroom community between all students--those who are returning to the same school and students who are new to the school.
Reviewed by
Angie Costello
Isabella Bird
2019 Stonewall Book
Award Winner
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Julian is a Mermaid
By Jessica Love
Pre-3, Picture Book
Candlewick Press, 2018
Tags: Hispanic-Americans, gender non-conformity
Picture books, by their very nature, use art to add dimension to the story. In Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, the art is exuberant and joy-filled and lifts the story from simple and sweet to a higher level. The book tells the story of young Julian, who is so mesmerized by mermaids that he crafts a 'dress-up' version of a mermaid's costume using his abuela's curtains and other household pieces. His abuela discovers him in his costume and gives him a severe glare, but then hands him a necklace, the perfect addition to complete the makeover. The art in this book is spectacular. The colors glow and seem to fly off the pages, and readers will linger over the textures and flowing images, almost convinced they can hear the music of the ocean.
Use this book to open discussions about individuality, acceptance and gender non-conformity. Or simply savor it as a gentle story about a boy and his grandmother. Either way, Julian is a Mermaid is a winner.
Reviewed by
Terri Faulkner
Library Services
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The Girl Who Thought in Pictures
By Julia Finley Mosca
3-5, Nonfiction
Scholastic, 2017
Lexile: 670L
Tags: Illness; Death; Families
Told in rhyming verse, this picture book biography introduces children to the struggles and achievements of Dr. Temple Grandin, an autistic professor of animal science at Colorado State University, an advocate for the humane treatment of livestock, and an autism spokesperson. Included in the back matter are fun facts taken from an interview with Grandin, a visual timeline, a two-page biography (written at a higher reading level), and an informative bibliography.
This is an inspirational biography that teaches children that “different is not less”. It demonstrates that determination and perseverance can lead to great accomplishments. In a brief letter to the reader, Grandin encourages children to find something they are good at and work on developing it. With its rhyming verse and simple cartoon illustrations, this would be a great read-aloud for younger audiences.
Reviewed by
Lori Micho
Library Services
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Skeleton Tree
By Kim Ventrella
3-5, Fantasy
Scholastic, 2017
Lexile: 670L
Tags: Illness; Death; Families
Stanley is determined to win the Young Discoverer's Competition, hoping that it will attract his absent father's attention, and when he finds a strange bone growing in the garden it looks like he might get his wish. As he documents the bone's growth into a skeleton only certain people can see, his sister Miren, who is suffering from an undiagnosed illness, is growing more attached to the creature, even naming it Princy. As Miren gets sicker, Stanley is afraid the skeleton is taking her life, but then he realizes Princy has come to comfort and prepare her for her final journey.
This is a somewhat unsettling book, part mystery, part horror, and part realistic fiction. The stress that illness puts on a family is a familiar theme, but there is actually a positive twist since Miren does not fear death as she is accompanied by her friend.
Reviewed by
Peggy Obert
Alumni