Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Starting middle school is a challenge for any child. But for 10 year old August Pullman, "Auggie", it seems like an almost insurmountable feat. Born with severe craniofacial abnormalities, Auggie has been homeschooled his entire life and undergone countless surgeries. When his parents decide to send him to private school, he is not sure how his new classmates will react to his strange appearance. While initially, he does make a few friends, most of the children stay far away from him and he also attracts the attention of an outright bully.

Through it all, Auggie's voice as a typical 10 year old, rings true, even as he faces obstacles that are anything but ordinary. Adding even more richness to the story is the fact that there are also chapters told in the voices of Auggie's sister Olivia, his supposed "best friend" Jack and Olivia's boyfriend and best friend. As each one of them details how their lives are changed through their interactions with Auggie, it becomes clear that while Auggie's difficulties are extreme, no one is exempt from the challenges that life often throws our way.

A turning point is reached when Auggie is the target of bullies on a school trip. When he receives help from an unlikely source, he realizes that sometimes the worst of circumstances turn out to be the moments when our true character and the characters of others shines through.

This is a completely satisfying read that honestly portrays the perils of middle school as well as the individual suffering that those that are different must often face in our society. 2011

Highly recommended.

P.Sassoon

The Hunger Games--Our Own "Read-Alike" Suggestions

Are you a Hunger Games fan pining for something new and exciting to read? Here is our list of read-alikes!

The Watch that Ends the Night: Voices from the Titanic by Allan Wolf

2012 marks the 100 anniversary of this famous disaster, and many books, both fiction and nonfiction, are being published this year. This novel is a stand-out - pulling the reader effortlessly into the experience of being on board this fateful ship. It's written in free-form verse from the perspective of various participants – including first and third class passengers, crew members, the rats and even the iceberg . This unique offering packs a powerful emotional punch, none more chilling than the undertaker’s comments “Bodies scattered for miles, in every direction./Bodies as far as my indifferent eyes can see.”

The author has done extensive and meticulous research and it shows on every page. Morse code messages, Titanic miscellany and an impressive bibliography including Internet sources and societies are a welcome resource for readers interested in learning more. Highly recommended. 2012

A. Basso

Snowmobile: Bombardier's Dream Machine, by Jules Older. Illustrated by Michael Lauritano

This is a well-written, slightly fictionalized story of the French Canadian inventor of the snowmobile, Joseph-Armand Bombardier (1907-1964). While the story itself is true to the facts, the author has added interest by imagining conversations that could have taken place, and also by placing the invention of the snowmobile in context. Being snowbound, and unable to transport his young son to a hospital, Bombardier knew the value of being able to "drive" over deep snow.
Very readable, and with appealing pen-and-ink illustrations as well as photographs, this book is highly recommended for middle-grade elementary students. 2012.
K. Muhm

Last Airlift: A Vietnamese Orphan's Rescue from War, by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch

This short narrative reads like a well-written novel, but it's the true story of Tuyet Son Thi Anh, a young girl who endured polio and war, and who was flown out of Saigon in 1975 by Americans, at the end of the Vietnam War.
Tuyet spent most of her early years in a Vietnamese orphange, caring for children younger than she was, and with only vague memories of her mother. After the fall of Saigon, Tuyet and hundreds of other Vietnamese children were airlifted to western countries--and Tuyet found herself in Canada.
Her memories, as told to the author, are fascinating and poignant. Having never seen a bed, a bathtub, or a fork, Tuyet had many adjustments to make. But luckily she was cherished in her new Canadian family, and has been able to survive and thrive.
An author's note at the end of the book tells of now-adult Tuyet's life today.
Highly recommended! 2011.
K. Muhm

Stuck, written and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers

When Floyd's red kite gets stuck in a tree, he tries to get it unstuck--by throwing all kinds of things up into the tree: his shoes, his cat Mitch, the family car, the front door of his house, a rhino, a whale--you get the picture. Nothing works. Finally, something does work, and it's not what you would expect! This is one of the zaniest, most hilarious picture books that I have read in a very long time, one that will surely appeal to adults and children alike. Its large format would make it a great choice to read aloud to a class. 2011.

M. Cooney

Theodore Boone, The Abduction by John Grisham

In this second book in the Theodore Boone series, Theo's best friend, April, has disappeared in the middle of the night. It turns out that Theo was the last person to speak to her, at 9:30 on the night of her disappearance, and the police wish to speak to him the next morning.

Theo, the only child of two lawyers, is very familiar with the law profession and spends a great deal of time at his parents' office, in their law library. He also spends a lot of time at the local courthouse, where he observes as many trials as he can.

April's disappearance, naturally, throws their small town of Strattenburg into a panic, as everyone hopes for April's safe return and worries that the other children in town may be in danger. April's family situation, of which Theo was aware but sworn to secrecy, comes to light. Her father, an aging and not very successful rocker, is on the road with his band. Her mother, who raises goats and peddles cheese from a old hearse that is painted yellow, stays out until all hours of the morning, partying. That is why she doesn't discover that April is missing until 3:30 AM. When both parents are home, they fight constantly and pay little attention to April.

The police discover correspondence between April and a convict, who has recently escaped, named Jack Leeper. Sightings of him in the area, prior to April's disappearance, are reported and the police pursue the lead, finally picking Leeper up. He proves to be quite a slippery character. Next, a body is recovered from the river, lending more suspense to the tale.

Theo and his friend, Chase, pursue leads on their own, when they think the police are going in the wrong direction. They turn to Theo's uncle, Ike, when they need adult help to finish the case.

The first book in this series and this one was got mixed reviews, but this is a good mystery. It is a page turner, but without the gruesome violence that some mysteries have. Unlike some of the snarky protagonists that populate many of the books for this age group, Theo has a healthy respect for adults and turns to them for help when he needs it. 2011

R. Rauch

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

Inspired by Grimm's fairy tale "The Snow Queen" the author has crafted a chapter book about two friends, Hazel and Jack, fifth graders who live next door to each other, go to school together, play together--until this year. Hazel is hurt and bewildered by Jack's sudden decision to spend his time with his male classmates, often excluding her in rude, gruff ways. She feels very much alone. She is trying to make sense of her mother and father getting a divorce, causing her to leave a much-loved private school where she excelled. The public school is not challenging her academically, she has not made any new friends, and she is struggling with the fact that she is adopted, and she and her parents do not "match"--Hazel is an Asian Indian and her parents are white. The one bright spot in her life was her best friend Jack.
During recess one day, Jack is struck in the eye by a sharp object and is taken for medical attention and then home. Hazel decides to stop at his house to check on him, and his parents tell her that Jack has gone to a relative's house to recuperate. Hazel finds this odd, and decides to go to a shed in the woods where she and Jack used to talk out their problems as well as plan fun stuff. As she approaches the spot, she sees Jack climb into a white sleigh with a woman who closely resembles the Snow Queen of fairy tale fame. She decides that Jack must have been tricked into doing this, and she must rescue him.
Hazel's mission takes her deep into a forest filled with literary references that she and Jack have shared over the years. She is frightened but determined to help her friend. With each scary incident she realizes that she is stronger than she thought she was, and makes up her mind to be more focused on the positive aspects of her life, and less dependent on Jack as her only friend, if they ever emerge from this dark and threatening forest. They do! 2011.

M. Cooney

Pie by Sarah Weeks

Being in Aunt Polly's pie shop, helping her bake pies, is the place where Alice Portman feels most at home. Aunt Polly, the "Pie Queen of Ipswitch", is the only one in her family who shares Alice's quirky ways and imaginative personality. When Aunt Polly suddenly passes away, Alice finds herself in possession of her disagreeable cat, Lardo, who allegedly is the only one who knows the recipe for Aunt Polly's secret pie crust.

Dealing with her grief over Aunt Polly's death, is hard enough for Alice, but suddenly all kinds of disreputable characters are after Lardo and the townspeople are all hot to match the secret pie crust recipe and become the new prize winning pie maker of Ipswitch, Pennsylvania.

This is an intriguing mystery as well as a heart-warming small-town story set in the 1950's. Readers will be truly surprised to learn how a cat could be in possession of a secret, prize-winning recipe. As an added bonus, each chapter begins with a mouth-watering pie recipe! 2011.

P. Sassoon

My Rotten Life by David Lubar

Nathan Abercrombie, 10, was having a really bad day. He was not invited to Shawna's Halloween party and she made a point of telling him in front of the whole fifth grade at lunch. He was picked last for a team in gym. The coach singled him out for his lack of athletic ability and told him he had seen babies crawl faster than he could run. To top it off, he completely bombed on a video game, earning him the nickname "vidiot."

When Abigail, a very nerdy, quiet girl from his class, offers Nathan a way out of his pain, he jumps at the opportunity. She tells him that her scientist uncle has developed an experimental formula that makes anyone who takes it impervious to pain, physical or emotional.

After Nathan takes the formula, he feels better and even notices that his asthma seems to be improving. But then his ability to withstand pain becomes frightening, as he is stabbed with a fork in the face during a food fight and doesn't even feel it. He has no appetite and his asthma is improving because he doesn't seem to need to eat or breathe. The formula has turned him into a zombie.

Abigail's uncle has disappeared and the government is pursuit of him. Can Nathan, Abigail and Nathan's best friend, Mookie, find the missing uncle or come up with an antidote on their own, in time to prevent Nathan from becoming a zombie permanently?

In the process of their search, Nathan comes to some realizations about people, popularity and the social order in middle school that will ring true with many middle schoolers. It may even open the eyes of others.

This is fun, quick read that will appeal particularly to boys of this age, but can be enjoyable for either gender. It is the first in a series, Nathan Abercrombie, Accidental Zombie, and the title pretty much answers the question as to whether or not Nathan remains a zombie permanently. It does turn out to be a matter of choice,however, rather than a failure to find a cure in time.

Jefferson's Sons by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Jefferson’s Sons is an interesting, sometimes disturbing, novel told from the point of view of three slave children on Thomas Jefferson’s estate, two of whom are Jefferson’s sons. The author did extensive research, and in this story she imagines how life may have been for the children of the slave Sally Hemings. Well written and engaging, the story covers twenty years as it describes growing up on the Monticello estate as the secret children of Thomas Jefferson.

Told in the first-person voice of each of the three narrators, Jefferson’s Sons manages to convey the complexity of emotions the children feel as they grow up and realize their complicated situation. Drawn to Jefferson as a father and yet repelled by his status as a slave-owner, Beverly and Madison face difficult decisions as to what to think and what to do as they get older. Their friend Peter also grows up as a slave at Monticello, and faces his own difficult future.

This book does not shy away from dealing with the topic of Sally Heming’s relationship with Jefferson – she goes up to his house each night – making it appropriate for children who would understand that concept. However, for children ready for life’s nuances, this book gives a fascinating look at the lives of the slaves, and of Jefferson’s family at the great house. Historical notes at the end of the book tell what is thought to have happened to the people in the book after it ends. The author’s meticulous research and excellent writing style combine to make this book a story you will remember long after you finish reading it. 2011

M. Adams

The Scar, by Charlotte Moundlic. Illustrated by Olivier Tallec.

This is a picture book about a young child whose mother has recently gotten sick and died. The boy is terrified that he will forget his mother's smell, or even that he will forget her, entirely.
The adults in the story want to support him, but must also cope with their own sadness and devastation.
It's a comforting story that acknowledges the child's pain, and also offers the hope of being able to go on--but without sugar-coating anyone's grief.
The red and sometimes gray charcoal and watercolor illustrations work with the text in prioritizing the child and his feelings; the adults in the story are present but mostly out of sight, except for the immensely satisfying central double-page spread, in which the grandmother reassures her grandson, with her hand on his heart, that his mother (her daughter) is "in your heart, and she's not going anywhere."
I recommend The Scar as a deep and beautiful book for preschoolers who may need it.
K. Muhm
2011

Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

15-year-old Waverly was conceived in space and has lived on a spaceship, the Empyrean, for her entire life. Her ship is on a voyage to a new home planet, since Earth has been destroyed due to circumstances that are never fully explained. The excitement begins when the inhabitants of another ship board the Empyrean and kidnap all the young females. Waverly soon learns that they are to be used to provide children for the families living on the ship since their women have become infertile.

Waverly is determined to avoid this destiny at all costs, and quickly wages a revolt to save herself and all the other young women and girls being held with her. Back on the Empyrean, the males left behind are desperately trying to figure out the whereabouts of the kidnappers while trying to save their own ship from destruction.

This is a truly exciting story that combines elements of science fiction, mystery and even romance. Intended to be the first in the Sky Chasers series, this book is a great read for teens, especially those who enjoy science fiction that's not overly technical. 2012

P.Sassoon

J.J. Tully is a retired search and rescue dog, trying to relax and enjoy his new life on a farm. His peace and quiet is disturbed when a hen, Millicent, and her two chicks, Dirt and Sugar, try to enlist his services to rescue her other chicks, who have been kidnapped.

The alternating narrator is Vince, the farm dog,who lives in the farm house and resents another dog invading his territory. The kidnapping is really ruse to set J.J. up to receive the medical procedure for which Vince is scheduled. He also plans to bump off Millicent and all her chicks, laying the blame on J.J.

Can J.J. figure out who is responsible for the kidnapping and lay waste to Vince's plans? Will Millicent, whom J.J. call Moosh for no apparent reason, and her chicks be a help or a hindrance?

This book is a quick read with plenty of the humor that we have seen in Doreen Cronin's picture books. While any mystery reader can enjoy it, it is a good choice for those patrons who approach mysteries with trepidation or are assigned a mystery book report and don't like them because they are scary. 2011.

R.Rauch

Birds of a Feather: Poems by Jane Yolen. Photographs by Jason Stemple. Foreward by Donald Droodsma, Ph.D.

Exquisite color close-up photos set off Yolen's conversational, loving, witty bird poems. A double-page spread includes a short description, including the scientific name, of each featured bird. 2011.
K. Muhm

Missing on Superstition Mountain by Elise Broach

Missing on Superstition Mountain is a good old-fashioned adventure story, with enough suspense and intimations of creepiness and danger to spice it up, but not enough to truly frighten the readers. When three brothers, Simon, Henry, and Jack, move to a new town in Arizona, they are bored and lonely, and in search of something to do. The one thing they are told not to do is to go near Superstition Mountain, which looms invitingly behind their back yard.

Of course they soon find themselves climbing the very mountain they were warned away from, but they have a good excuse -- they are looking for their lost cat, who was seen heading that way. They don't find the cat on the mountain, but they do see something more intriguing: three skulls lined up on a ledge. When they return to town, they decide to do more research about the mountain, and find out why the townspeople are so tight-lipped about it. They team up reluctantly with the girl who found their cat, and with the help of the local library and a few local residents, they discover even more creepy facts about the mountain, including a history of mysterious deaths and disappearances.

The climax of the book finds them back up on the mountain, facing perils as the night falls. They eventually are rescued, but the book leaves enough open questions to set up the next book in the planned trilogy, which readers are sure to await eagerly. For now, however, this book stands alone as a rollicking adventure set on a real-life spooky mountain. 2011
M. Adams

America Is Under Attack, by Don Brown

Elementary school children are too young to remember September 11, 2001. Don Brown has written and illustrated a short, beautiful book which straightforwardly and sensitively tells them what happened in New York and Washington that day.

The text gives the chain of events from the points of view of named individuals who survived. The pen and watercolor paintings convey the emotions, always keeping in mind the book's young readers--compassionately, and accurately, but not too overwhelmingly.

Don Brown keeps his focus on the individuals portrayed, while minimizing mention of larger questions about the perpetrators of the attack.

I recommend America Is Under Attack as a well-written and age-appropritate introduction to the topic.

The Mostly True Story of Jack by Kelly Barnhill

Jack has always felt as though there were something different about him. No one seems to pay much attention to him, even his own family. It's almost as if he were invisible. Things really start to get strange when, following his parents divorce, he is sent to live with his eccentric aunt and uncle. He swears he has never met them before, but they have photographs of him in their home and the townspeople all seem to know who he is. Unaccustomed to all the attention, Jack struggles to make sense of his new life as he makes strange new friends, including Wendi and her twin brother Frankie, who has recently resurfaced after having mysteriously disappeared for several years. Frankie seemingly cannot speak and appears to hold the key as to why the whole town, including some nefarious characters, are so interested in Jack. As magic and mystery continue to unfold, Jack discovers his destiny and his true place in the world, which is nothing like his ordinary life back home.

This novel definitely draws the reader in with its magical elements and feeling of suspense. However, in the end, the premise doesn't completely make sense, even if you suspend disbelief and give yourself over to the "fantasy" of it all. Still, it is a unique story and one that children certainly wouldn't have encountered before. For that reason it is recommended, especially for fantasy lovers. 2011.

P.Sassoon

Wiener Wolf, by Jeff Crosby

This is a beautiful, funny book for anyone who, in loving a dog, recognizes their pet's inner wolf.

The deadpan but hilarious text and engaging illustrations combine perfectly to tell a story of longing and of love. The satisfying ending balances the dog's need for adventure and security, and provides both--with a heavy dash of comfort.

Highly recommended. 2011.

A Storm Called Katrina, by Myron Uhlberg. Illustrated by Colin Bootman

Bootman's watercolor illustrations and Uhlberg's first-person fictional account is of a ten year-old boy and his parents who are displaced by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.

The child describes what he sees, and goes through; his observations of the things his parents, and other adults say and do affects how he feels.

This picture book is a moving and well-crafted story, intended for elementary school-aged children.

2011.

A Ball For Daisy by Chris Raschka

This wordless book features Daisy, a sweetly illustrated dog who obviously loves her red ball – to the point that she sleeps with it. Then one day on an outing to the park, another dog accidently bites it too hard and deflates it. Her joy now gone, Daisy is also deflated as she sadly makes her way back home.

But it all turns out well in the end. On her next outing to the park, Daisy gets a wonderful surprise from the puppy that accidentally broke her beloved toy – the gift of a new ball (this time blue). Both dog’s exuberance is contagious as they rush off playing together.

Packed with heartfelt emotion in every brush stroke, this is the perfect book to spark the imaginations of both young and old. 2011

A. Basso

Where Do You Stay? by Andrea Cheng

Jerome is eleven years old, and is trying to come to terms with his mother's recent death from cancer. An only child, he and his mother were very close; he misses her terribly. He moves in with his aunt and uncle and their two sons. Both boys are a bit resentful because Jerome seems to be without any faults--at least that's what their mother is always saying, suggesting that they try and be more like him. Jerome, mature beyond his years, senses that he and his cousins need some time to adjust to one another. While he's waiting for this to happen, he bonds with an elderly man who works for his aunt and other folks in the neighborhood, in exchange for food. Jerome and Mr. Willie share a love of music, gardening, and stone walls.

Mr. Willie lives in a dilapidated carriage house on the property of a nearby empty mansion. He has very few possessions and that's the way he likes it; he believes in minding his own business and thinks that other people should do the same. His homespun wisdom appeals to Jerome.

A "For Sale" sign appears one day on the mansion, and Jerome fears that both the mansion and the carriage house will be demolished. The new owners arrive and begin restoring the large house, but decide to tear down the carriage house. Mr. Willie disappears when he hears the bulldozers approach. Jerome and his cousins are hired to help clean out the mansion which will be turned into a school. He was told by Mr. Willie that there was a lovely piano in the house, and he starts searching for it. It cannot be found, and Jerome is very disappointed. The piano is missing, Mr. Willie is missing, and Jerome feels that his new life is unraveling before it has hardly begun. He thinks of his mother's advice to "listen and come back in" whenever he would miss a musical note, and he decides that he's going to do that in his new life, too. You cannot help but wish that only good things happen for Jerome from now on in this new life. 2011.

M.Cooney

Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan & Emily MacLachlan Charest

An expectant mother describes how she spent her days before her child is born: paddling a red canoe, tending her garden, listening to her husband strum his guitar, playing with her pets. The prose is so simple yet so beautiful. After her child is born, she promises her baby that she will share all those special things with her/him. She used to think that she had everything, and now she does. The illustrations are gorgeous--lots of brilliant pink, green, purple and turquoise with touches of gold and orange--no cutesy pale pink or pale blue.

David Diaz, the illustrator, won a Caldecott Medal in 1995 for Smoky Night by Eve Bunting. One of the authors, Patricia MacLachlan, won the Newbery Medal for Sarah, Plain and Tall. It is a superb collaboration of story and artwork, stikingly spare (story) and opulent (art). If only all new parents could feel this way! 2011

M. Cooney

The Fox and the Hen by Eric Battut

This is one of the most delightful of the crafty fox and silly hen stories. A sweet but naive hen gives her newly laid egg to a red fox in exchange for a worm. When she returns to the barnyard and announces the trade, her animal friends are appalled and implore her to go back to the fox and retrieve her egg. Fox, of course, refuses. Hen returns and reports the sad news. And so begins the animals' plan to help hen--each animal takes a turn accompanying Hen to Fox, offering all kinds of wonderful gifts: wool, cheese, feathers, seeds, milk. Fox rejects everything, saying each time how he might cook the egg: fried, scrambled, or hard boiled. Hen and her friends , undaunted, find an enormous oval stone, paint it white, and tempt Fox for one last time. It works! His eyes are bigger than his stomach. Hen is reunited with her egg, which hatches shortly after they return to the barnyard. Happiness prevails. Meanwhile, Fox is wondering why the giant egg is taking so darn long to cook. The illustrations are done in vivid shades of red and orange with the animals outlined in black. 2011.

M.Cooney

Liberty's Voice: The Story of Emma Lazarus

Liberty's Voice: The Story of Emma Lazarus by Erica Silverman. Illustrated by Stacey Schuett

Unless they have visited the Statue of Liberty, many young children may not have heard of the poet Emma Lazarus. This picture book biography tells the fascinating story of the woman whose poem, "The New Colossus" is engraved on a plaque in the Statue of Liberty. From the time she was a young girl, Emma loved learning and writing. She kept a notebook which she filled with her poetry. It is a little-known fact that at Emma's request, Ralph Waldo Emerson served as her writing coach. As she became increasingly more aware of the difficulties and injustices immigrants coming to the United States experienced, Emma wrote newspaper articles, plays and poems to raise awareness and change attitudes.

Although in picture book format, LIBERTY'S VOICE tells a story that will interest readers of all ages. The bright watercolor illustrations wonderfully capture the feeling of the nineteenth century. This book may even inspire a family trip to Liberty Park and Ellis Island.

2011

C. Buchanan

Switching on the Moon

Switching on the Moon: A Very First Book of Bedtime Poems Collected by Jane Yolen and Andrew Fusek Peters. Illustrated by G. Brian Karas.

Here's an opportunity to introduce your youngster to the pleasures of poetry by reading several selections at bedtime from this charming, as well as accessible, collection. Divided into three sections, Going to Bed, Sweet Dreams and In the Night, the poems vary in length from four lines to three or four stanzas. Written by well-known poets, such as Langston Hughes, Vachel Lindsay and Alfred Lord Tennyson, and lesser known writers too, most of the poems rhyme and many are wonderfully humorous. What makes this anthology especially appealing is the charming illustrations. Each poem is accompanied by a full page illustration which sets the mood, adds to the humor or enriches the reader's understanding.

Three or four year old children will enjoy being lulled to sleep listening to these bedtime selections. The poems and sweet illustrations will hold the interest of young school age children too. With an index of first lines and of poets' names in the back of the book, readers can select their old favorites or try something brand new. Hopefully these sixty delights will open young readers' minds to the joys of poetry.

2010

C. Buchanan

The Wikkeling by Steven Arntson

This futuristic fantasy novel takes place in a world where schools teach by computerized rote learning, children are watched by cameras and reading books is frowned upon. Henrietta and her friends Gary and Rose are attracted to things from the past and seem to pay for it with mysterious headaches and visits from a menacing creature, known as a Wikkeling.

When Henrietta discovers an injured cat hiding in her attic, a chain of events unfolds which leads the children toward discovering the origins of the Wikkeling and the secret to breaking it's power over them. It is a journey in which understanding the past takes a pivotal role and in which problems in the present cannot be solved without an appreciation for history.

This novel is engrossing in it's originality and storytelling, with beautiful block print illustrations scatterered throughout. Lovers of fantasy and mystery will find much to engage them here. It does, however, wrap up a little too quickly, leaving too many loose ends and unanswered questions. Possibly this is to leave room for a sequel. Still, this is a highly recommended read. 2011

P. Sassoon

Chime by Franny Billingsley

A National Book Award Finalist, Chime, is a highly original tale that blends elements of dark folk lore, supernatural creatures and gripping suspense, with a tender, endearing love story. Seventeen-year-old Briony is a self-proclaimed witch who possess the gift of second-sight and can see the “Old Ones.” Believing herself responsible for her sister’s mental infirmary and the arsenic poisoning of her beloved stepmother, Briony’s crushing guilt has slowly turned to self-loathing. But when a beautiful young man, Eldric, comes to live at the family parsonage, he awakens Briony's true spirit and allows her to hope that she might not be as wicked and horrible as she first thought.

As the drama and mystery build within the tightly woven plot, Billingsley’s poetic, stylistic prose and fast-paced dialogue pull the reader totally into this supernatural world. A memorable book that many readers should enjoy and fantasy fans will treasure. 2011

A. Basso

Say Hello to Zorro! by Carter Goodrich

Say Hello to Zorro! is a charming book about a dog, Mister Bud, who has the perfect life. He has his own house, his own bed, and his own schedule, and he likes it that way! All that is changed, however, when an interloper named Zorro shows up one day, right at Greet and Make a Fuss time. Mister Bud is not at all happy at having to make room for another dog in the house. Luckily, over time Mister Bud and Zorro disover that in fact, they have the same schedule, and that life is better when you have someone to share in the fun.

What really makes this book stand out is its delightful illustrations. Carter Goodrich must own a dog, because he has captured their expressions and their habits so perfectly, from the noses on the bed in the morning to the tussling on the couch in the evenings. And while you're enjoying the simple yet lovely story and the perfect illustrations, you're also getting a deeper lesson in the rewards of sharing and accommodating. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves dogs or friends! 2011

M. Adams

Dial M for Mongoose by Bruce Hale

Chet Gecko and his detective partner, mockingbird Natalie Attired, are back for their fifteenth case. Serious shenanigans--a stink bomb, a fire and several thefts--are wreaking havoc at Emerson Hickey Elemetary and Chet's pal and supporter, Maureen DeBree, the head custodian, is taking all the heat. Principal Zero really has it in for her.

When Maureen gets fired and then the problems continue and escalate with a classroom collapse and the mysterious disappearance of several students, Chet and Natalie are determined to find out who is responsible and clear Maureen's name.

This is a fun read and a very light mystery. It is a good choice for anyone who wants a mystery but doesn't want to be too scared. Chet's 1940's style private-eye wisecracks are probably lost on kids, but can be amusing for any adults reading the book with or to children. 2009

Renee Rauch

Liar, Liar by Gary Paulsen

Kevin is a gifted liar. He doesn't lie to hurt people, he just lies to make life go more smoothly or to spare people's feelings. His intentions really aren't bad and he always has a justification. He lies to his social studies partner so that she has to do all the work, but he reasons that she likes being in control and likes doing all the work anyway.

When Kevin's attention is drawn to his classmate, Tina, he spins a web of lies designed to allow him to spend time where Tina will be and to become friends with her friends, so that he can get to know her better and so that she will notice him. He lies to his friends, her friends, his teachers and even his family.

Gradually, Kevin's lies spin out of control and Tina still hasn't even noticed him. Kevin is very surprised that people are not instantly willing to forgive him when he admits his mistakes and offers his sincerest apologies. Maybe honesty is the best policy?

Gary Paulsen has created a very funny and likeable character, who creates a situation that becomes more outlandish as each lie builds on the last. This book will appeal to reluctant readers because of the short chapters, but is great for anyone looking for a laugh, especially Gary Paulsen fans. 2011

Renee Rauch

Seeds of Change: Planting a Path to Peace by Jen Cullerton Johnson. Illustrated by Sonia Lynn Sadler

Did you know that one person can change the world? Wangari, a young girl growing up in Kenya, did! She learned from her mother that the mugumo tree was home to many creatures and supplied food to many people and animals. When she returned to Kenya after studying biology in college in the United States, she saw that foreign companies were cutting down trees so they could develop coffee plantations. With fewer and fewer trees to hold the soil in place, the land was being destroyed. Wangari began a campaign to encourage women to plant trees. Eventually thirty million trees were planted! Learn how Wangari's persistence taught people all over the world to protect the environment. She showed the power women can have when they work together. This true story is brightly illustrated with stylized drawings that make you want to visit Kenya. An inspiring biography for readers of all ages.

2010

C. Buchanan

Press Here by Herve Tullet

This enchanting picture book is sure to be a hit with young children and the people who read to them. Very simply drawn dots in bright colors are accompanied by a series of instructions for the young readers -- "rub the dot on the left" or "five taps on the blue," for instance. Each time they follow the instructions, something has changed on the next page. When they blow on the dots, they have blown them to the top of page, and must hold the book up straight to make them fall back down. The kids will have great fun following the instructions and seeing what happens, and I'm certain it will elicit giggles. Because the book must be manipulated, it is probably best as a one-on-one book, instead of being read to a group. For a parent and a young child to share some time together, this book will be perfect. 2011.

Then by Morris Gleitzman

"Then", tells the story of Felix, a 10 year old Jewish boy in Nazi occupied Poland. Felix escapes from a train headed to a Nazi death camp and befriends Zelda, a little girl whose Nazi parents have been killed by the Polish resistance. Together they struggle for survival, sleeping in the woods and witnessing all manner of horrors that they barely manage to escape themselves. They are taken in by a reluctant good samaritan named Genia, who hides them on her farm, until she too meets a gruesome fate at the hands of the Nazis.

Although there is much written about this horrific period of history, this book tells Felix's story in such a straightforward, unsentimental way, that it gives readers a unique perspective on this much told story. There are however, graphic descriptions of violence, which would make this book most appropriate for 6th grade and older.

This book is the sequel to Gleitzman's other book about Felix, titled, "Once" and another in the series titled, "Now", is due to be published. 2010.

P.Sassoon,

The Ghost of Crutchfield Hall by Mary Downing Hahn

When Florence finds out that she is to leave Miss Medleycoate's Home for Orphan Girls to live on her great-uncle's estate in the English countryside, she is both excited and apprehensive. She is sorry to leave her friends at the orphanage but happy to get away from the meager existence and cruel grownups. She is sorry to learn that a cousin, Sophia, who was close to her age, died in an accident the year before. Sophia's younger brother still lives at Crutchfield Manor, so at least Florence won't be the only child living there.

Florence arrives at Crutchfield Hall and discovers that her uncle's sister, Great-Aunt Eugenie, loved Sophia almost obsessively and isn't happy that her brother has invited Florence to live with them. Furthermore,Florence's cousin, James, is a sickly boy and she is not allowed to visit or play with him, so she is very lonely in the big house that sits so far out in the countryside.

It doesn't take long for Florence to discover that Sophia's ghost roams the estate and that she blames her brother, James, for her death. She has plans to return to the world of the living and send one of those living at Crutchfield to their death in return. Can Sophia involve Florence as a pawn in her scheme?

Mary Downing Hahn's ghost stories never fail to create eerie suspense and this one doesn't disappoint. 2010

Renee Rauch

Dad, Jackie, and Me, by Myron Uhlberg. Illustrated by Colin Bootman.

Set in 1947 in Brooklyn, when the great Dodger Jackie Robinson was still being discriminated against, a young boy and his deaf father strengthen their relationship when they get caught up in the excitement of Dodger baseball. The discrimination the father experiences does not hinder his zest for life. The story culminates with a personal touch from the great first baseman. The watercolor illustrations and the endpapers showing actual newspaper articles and photos from the sports pages help the reader imagine life in the 1940's.

Junonia by Kevin Henkes

Alice, nine years old but soon to be ten, arrives in Florida with her parents for their annual vacation. Every year this week is one of the best weeks for Alice: she gets to visit with special friends (elderly folks who spoil her) , she looks for shells to add to her collection, and she celebrates her birthday. Upon arriving, though, Alice discovers that all the usual visitors will not be present.

Feeling slightly disappointed, she decides to go look for shells, and makes up her mind to find a junonia , a rare shell that she desperately wants for her collection.

Alice's mother has a best friend ("Aunt Kate" to Alice) who arrives this year with a boyfriend and his six-year-old daughter Mallory. The plot thickens. Alice dutifully tries to befriend Mallory, but her unhappiness and tantrums make it difficult. Alice's tenth birthday party is almost ruined by one of Mallory's meltdowns.

Alice is thoughtful and mature; her week did not turn out exactly as she had planned it, but she goes home thinking how extraordinarily lucky she is to have the parents that she has, and the friends who tried so hard to make her happy.

I have really mixed feelings about this book: it is beautifully written and illustrated, and the story has some wonderful moments, but the tone is cold. I felt as if I were watching this story unfold behind a glass wall. When I read about Lily, Owen or Chrysanthemum , it is so obvious that Henkes really likes them , and I do, too. He makes me care about what happens to them . I don't particularly care about Alice; she returns to her perfect little world. I do wonder what is going to happen to Mallory, and I fear that her road is going to be a bumpy one. 2011.

M. Cooney

Sick Boy by Sean Waller

Kudos to Westfield author Sean Waller for writing a sensitive, informative and very real story about an 8th grade boy diagnosed with cancer. Tim is a likable, typical middle school student – focused on his friends, girls and his quest to make the freshman high school baseball team. Yet all that changes the instant he gets the devastating news that he is sick – seriously sick – with cancer.

His courageous fight against this dreadful disease is filled with poignant moments of hope and humor and reveals an underlying strength of character. The “middle school” dialog rings true in this fresh, well-paced story that never resorts to melodrama. An uplifting story on a serious, emotional subject. Highly recommended. 2011

A. Basso

Eat Your Math Homework: Recipes for Hungry Minds, by Ann McCallum. Illustrated by Leeza Hernandez.

Don't be fooled by the picture-book format of this fun--and beautifully illustrated--cookbook. It's definitely for older elementary-aged children. The recipes are all about various math (NOT arithmetic) concepts, such as Fibonacci Snack Sticks, Tessellating Two-Color Brownies, and Probability Trail Mix.

The layout is superb, especially considering all that is carefully included. Recipes are clearly given and humorously illustrated, and the math ideas are well defined and explained. A few small sidebars present concept explanations with stumper-type questions (solutions are at the end of the book). Math terms are in bold font, which is effective. And, there is a glossary and an index at the end. 2011.

Yummy!

K. Muhm

Abracadabra! Magic with Mouse and Mole, by Wong Herbert Yee

Mole is at first in rhapsodies over a magic performer he sees, but then becomes disillusioned and depressed when he realizes it's all "show biz." His friend, Mouse, takes him out into nature, and shows him one miracle after another, and they are all real!

This would be a great first chapter book for the child who is outgrowing beginning readers. 2007

K. Muhm

Saving Audie: A Pit Bull Puppy Gets a Second Chance, by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent. Photos by William Muñoz

In 2007, over fifty terribly abused and neglected dogs were discovered in a kennel where NFL quarterback Michael Vick and his partners kept them for dogfighting. This is the story of the rescue and rehabilitation of most of them, and specifically of one young dog, Audie, a pit bull.

Audie's story of suffering, and of love and hope, is told through straightforward, sensitive language, and superb photos. He finds a smart, loving family who earns his trust. Saving Audie is a beautiful story of redemption and joy. 2011.

K. Muhm

The Parade: A Stampede of Stories about Ananse, the Trickster Spider, by KP Kojo. Illustrated by Karen Lilje.

The Parade, by KP Kojo, is a gem for folklore lovers of any age. The stories, all based on traditional African Anansi trickster tales, have been retold for elementary-aged readers, at about a fourth-grade (or even younger) reading level.

Each story stands on its own. The tales are so well-written that the reader can almost hear them being told aloud. Lots of action, humor and humanity make this collection very accessible, and, in fact, a joy to read. 2011.

K. Muhm

Black Radishes, by Susan Lynn Meyer

Living in Paris in 1941 is not easy, and is downright dangerous if you are Jewish. Gustave and his parents flee the city and drive south to Saint-Georges, a small town where they plan to stay until they can leave Europe and sail to America. Their hopes of being safe in this town are dashed when they are forced to register as Jews, and realize that there is much anti-Semitism among the French as well as the Germans. Food is very scarce, and Gustave's father is forced to barter for almost everything that they need. Crossing the border to do this is fraught with danger. Gustave himself is involved in a suspenseful bicycle trip to help a member of the French Resistance.

The tension is palpable throughout this novel. The heartbreak and terror that so many families lived with on a daily basis are brought to life in small and large ways. Their courage was extraordinary. 2010.

M. Cooney

Silk & Venom: Searching for a Dangerous Spider, by Kathryn Lasky. Photos by Christopher G. Knight.

Gorgeous photos by Christopher G. Knight invite readers to look--really look, up close--at the poisonous spider, the Loxosceles, also known as the Recluse. Scientist Greta Binford is curious, devoted, imaginative and brave in her quest to understand all about this intriguing, and very dangerous, spider. The book follows Greta's life and career, and her worldwide travels and adventures, offering a solid female non-traditional role model. 2011.

K. Muhm

Gooney Bird Greene, by Lois Lowry

When Gooney Bird Greene opens the door of Mrs. Pidgeon's second grade classroom, wearing pajamas and cowboy boots, and announces that she is a new student, things are never quite the same for the Watertower Elementary School second graders. Gooney Bird's outlandish outfits, unusual lunches, wild red hair and her extraordinary stories (which by the way are all "absolutely true") combine to make Gooney Bird a remarkable character. Over the course of the next seven chapters, Gooney Bird shares her unbelieveable stories, which include "How Gooney Bird Came from China on a Flying Carpet," "Why Gooney Bird Was Late for School Because She Was Directing a Symphony Orchestra" and "Beloved Catman Is Consumed by a Cow," and it turns out they all have plausible explanations.

As Gooney Bird relates her stories, she also slips in lessons on the elements that make up a good story: a clear beginning, middle and ending, a strong main character, suspense and plot twists. She also convinces her teacher and her classmates, from the shyest to the most outspoken, that they all have stories to tell from the events of their own lives.

Gooney Bird is a fun read and a good book for readers who enjoyed Junie B. Jones and Clementine. Sequels include: Gooney Bird and the Room Mother and Gooney Bird Is So Absurd. 2002

R. Rauch

Ruth and the Green Book, by Calvin Alexander Ramsey. Illustrated by Floyd Cooper.

Did you ever hear of the The Negro Motorist Green Book by Victor Green? Well, neither did I, until I read this book. Did you know that as late as the 1960's, African-Americans travelling in the southern states would not be served in most restaurants, were not allowed to stay in hotels, and could not use restrooms in many gas stations? This fiction story tells of a family traveling from Chicago to Alabama to visit Grandma. On their way, the family is confronted with the Jim Crow laws in the South which forbade blacks and whites from mixing. Luckily for Ruth and her family, an actual person named Victor H. Green wrote The Negro Motorist Green Book, which listed places where African-Americans were welcome to stay overnight, eat, shop, get a haircut, or use the rest rooms. This story is an excellent history lesson, while at the same time showing how people helped each other out during these trying times. Floyd Cooper's soft illustrations accurately portray the towns and cars of the time.

The last page of this softly illustrated book gives a factual history of the Negro Motorist Green Book and explains that the Civil Rights Bill of 1964 outlawed these practices .

2010

C. Buchanan