**spoiler alert** Unlike some readers, I liked The Plot, this novel's predecessor, more than this one [3.5 for me!]. This one started too slowly for m**spoiler alert** Unlike some readers, I liked The Plot, this novel's predecessor, more than this one [3.5 for me!]. This one started too slowly for me, but it gained steam as I moved through its pages. There are plenty of twists, turns, and surprises, and as the protagonist, Anna Williams-Bonner, the widow of a deceased writer, goes to great lengths to hide her past and put to rest any ghosts who might possibly haunt her. The ghosts, of course, aren't actual supernatural beings, but excerpts of a manuscript written by her brother, the contents of which bear a striking resemblance to her husband's novel and to her past. All this is interesting on its own merits, providing glimpses into the world of publishing and book tours as Anna travels around the country in support of her own book, but what makes the story even more interesting for me is how Anna justifies her actions, almost as though she's simply clearing the road of unnecessary traffic or removing leftovers that have started to mold. Don't read this one before The Plot, but once you've read that one, definitely dive into this one with its totally amoral protagonist. (Well, maybe not completely amoral--after all, she does save the cat!)...more
Interestingly vibrant illustrations, created with watercolor and digital techniques, and strong, reflective text, showcase the possibilities art and cInterestingly vibrant illustrations, created with watercolor and digital techniques, and strong, reflective text, showcase the possibilities art and creativity have to change the world. Focusing on the efforts of Corita Kent, a Catholic nun whose work consisted of a combination of words and images and who encouraged her art students to break the rules, this picture book biography [3.5 for me!] profiles someone not often, if ever, mentioned in history books. And yet, this artist was quite influential. Since she was working during a historical period when the Catholic church and mainstream society was changing, she became a part of the revolution. Although she eventually left the church, she continued to use her own art to highlight issues, encourage change, and offer hope to others. It's impossible to read her story, examine the illustrations, and consider her impact without feeling inspired and energized to carry on her work. The book's title fits its contents perfectly since it's abundantly clear that Corita Kent put her whole heart into her work. Add this title to a collection of artists' biographies as well as one devoted to activists or individuals who have made a difference....more
Having enjoyed Miss Maple's Seeds and Home in the Woods by this same author/illustrator, I prepared myself to be enchanted by the illustrations. CreatHaving enjoyed Miss Maple's Seeds and Home in the Woods by this same author/illustrator, I prepared myself to be enchanted by the illustrations. Created with digital media, they feature five animal families, including one [the Hopps] with two dads, living in Acorn Village. Living up to the book's title, the contents show the different families cooking, sledding, finding nooks, all nestled up cozily in some spot or other. Youngsters will find the scenarios relatable as there's nothing so wonderful as staying warm indoors when it's really cold outside. If there's some sunshine, heading outdoors isn't problematic, especially when there's a warm home and food to which to return after playing. The text and scenes are sentimental, delicate, and imaginative with some of the houses hanging from trees while others have been carved into the roots of a tree. The front endpapers show the village in the daylight hours, and the back endpapers depict it as everyone settles down for the light; the scene is dark yet cozy with little points of yellow lights adorning the houses. I hope the author/illustrator will return to Acorn Village at some point for further insight into the villagers' lives. ...more
Ideal as part of a classroom writer's workshop or writing prompts, this book contains vivid, imaginative art from 21 different illustrators who interpIdeal as part of a classroom writer's workshop or writing prompts, this book contains vivid, imaginative art from 21 different illustrators who interpret the ten-word stories--and yes, they really are only 10 words in length, and there are 21 of them!--in the ways they see fit. There's something for everyone here, even though the tales are stories of love, and there are so many uses for the images and the tales. There are hugs that expand the universe, ghosts that haunt a graveyard, a mummy with red hearts drawn on its bandages, and an eager transporting a human passenger from the airport, among others. The idea behind this book is inspiring, sure to prompt creative responses in the form of more art, more stories or expansion of the tales that are here, and maybe even some musical and dramatic responses. ...more
This was an impressive sophomore effort [3.5 for me!] from a writer who really knows how to develop characters and situations that will strike home foThis was an impressive sophomore effort [3.5 for me!] from a writer who really knows how to develop characters and situations that will strike home for teen readers. After all, most of us have faced turning points at which we had to make choices, sometimes feeling as though there's no good choice available. In the case of Reed Beckett, the narrator, the bad choices are all that stand between his sister Bea and him and disaster. Although Reed, 17, gets good grades, he could care less about school or applying for colleges since much of the responsibility for his sister falls on him, especially during stressful times. In fact, when it's clear that Bea, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, is in line for surgery, their mother goes AWOL with Seth, her latest boyfriend. For some reason, she thinks Reed can handle everything, including paying for the rent, buying groceries, and any hospital costs. The only way he can do this is to engage in some illegal activities, including making false IDs and providing answers to test questions. As Reed does his best to take care of Bea, he has help from an unexpected ally with whom he has a past that relates to the book's title. But how far will he have to go to keep afloat, and how long will he able to get away with his moneymaking schemes? Readers will enjoy the ups and downs in his relationship with Helena and the delightful personality of Bea as well as the way the siblings interact with one another. The scene in which the two go grocery shopping for the first time and follow another shopper who seems to know what she's doing is amusing but also realistic. On the other hand, it's hard to imagine a mother being as careless as Reed's, though. ...more
Fans of this Canadian musical group will love this glimpse into their formative years as they navigate a move to a new neighborhood, start junior highFans of this Canadian musical group will love this glimpse into their formative years as they navigate a move to a new neighborhood, start junior high, and try to figure out various aspects of themselves, including romantic interests, friendship, and express themselves through music. Although several of the pop cultural references are current rather than being true to the years in which Tegan and Sara actually attended junior high, the story is relatable, humorous, and honest, showing the sisters at their best and their worst. I don't think it would have been hampered if the narrative had stayed true to the music the twins were listening to back in the day, but perhaps the publisher felt that it would have more appeal or seem fresher with these changes. It's great for middle graders and teens to have this example of how growing up is messy, even when you're famous. The illustrations are just as delightful as Tegan and Sara themselves. ...more
Junior Eugene Guterman loves doughnuts and the good things in life. A budding script writer, he's struggling with writing a promised play and nursing Junior Eugene Guterman loves doughnuts and the good things in life. A budding script writer, he's struggling with writing a promised play and nursing a crush on new girl, Daisy. But he's decidedly NOT in the top echelon at school, and it's doubtful she'll give him the time of day even though they seem to have things in common. All that changes when he tackles the school's star quarterback, injuring him but also leaving the coach impressed with his size and possibility as a linebacker. Although Eugene is reluctant to join the squad, given their previous and current treatment of him, including the belittling nickname of Pudge, he becomes a member of the team. Suddenly, his popularity soars, and Daisy seems interested in him. But his friends feel betrayed, and he's letting down his theatre peeps. This humorous, insightful exploration of the other side of popularity and those left behind as well as the untrustworthiness of some individuals--even those dream girls, is a quick, relatable read, especially for those of us struggling with excess weight, body dysmorphia, or a fondness for doughnuts. Eugene's imperfection is so endearing, and many teen readers will see themselves in him. This one is a 3.5 for me. ...more
This debut middle-grade novel is good, really good, and it kept me guessing all the way through. Even though it's set in modern-day India, readers allThis debut middle-grade novel is good, really good, and it kept me guessing all the way through. Even though it's set in modern-day India, readers all over the world will be able to relate to the narrator, Lena Krishnan, who is impulsive, fidgety, and sometimes envious of the attention her older brother, Karthik [Kay-Kay] gets from her parents. Kay-Kay is smart, ambitious, and rarely gets in trouble except when he's covering for his little sister. The siblings have a strong bond, and when Kay-Kay doesn't return from a wildlife camp and the police aren't moving fast enough to find him, El-Kay takes matters in her own hands. At first, she merely contacts her brother's friends and teachers, but as time passes, and she grows more desperate, she decides to retrace his journey home from the camp, going by bus and train. Along the way, she meets friendly and unhelpful individuals and learns some truths about her brother through his poetry. Since most of the chapters are quite short and the description interesting, this book holds readers' interests as they worry that there will be no resolution for exactly where Kay-Kay is. Lena is one determined young girl who takes risks for someone she loves. This one is a 3,5 for me. I look forward to more from this author....more
**spoiler alert** This was a fun mystery although I had guessed what was going on from the beginning. Still, it was entertaining to follow some of the**spoiler alert** This was a fun mystery although I had guessed what was going on from the beginning. Still, it was entertaining to follow some of the breadcrumbs to see if my guess was correct. Siblings Maddy and Grace, who are only a few months apart in age, go on a highly anticipated class trip in late April where something goes wrong, and only one sister survives. As Grace tries to sort out what happened to her sister, readers also are treated to Maddy's thoughts before and during the trip as well as some of her poetry. It becomes clearer with every line that as much as she loves her sister, she feels overshadowed by Grace and resentful of the ease with which she navigates social situations, especially since Maddy struggles with that and often feels unseen, even at home by her own parents. When Grace seems to attract the attention of a boy in whom Maddy is interested, Maddy reaches her boiling point. Could she possibly have confronted Grace? Some readers will be unsure about what happened on that trip and even afterward, and only know for sure as they read those final pages. This is a solid debut novel well worth the read even though parts are predictable. ...more
Apparently, there will be a follow-up to this engaging middle-grade time travel novel [3.5 for me!], and I couldn't be more pleased. Although it has tApparently, there will be a follow-up to this engaging middle-grade time travel novel [3.5 for me!], and I couldn't be more pleased. Although it has the usual elements of such a science fiction story, it also features a wonderfully imperfect and relatable main character in eleven-year-old Roya Alborzi, who lives in a large Brooklyn apartment building with her mother who is its superintendent. She worries about her father who has cancer and seems to be growing weaker by the day, so much so that Roya finds it difficult to spend any time with him. Roya maintains a podcast about the building's residents, but she quickly becomes interested in solving a missing persons case when Katya Petrov, one of the apartment dwellers, disappears unexpectedly while visiting Coney Island. Teaming up with Amin, whose family recently moved in, Roya takes some risks as the two youngsters unravel the mystery and travel back in time. This is an accessible addition to the science fiction genre, filled with heart, humor, poignant moments, a few mistakes, and physics that even those of us who know little about how it works can understand. It will be interesting to see where the author takes readers next....more
One of the tenets of this nation's democratic principles is intellectual freedom and the free exchange of ideas, even those that might make some of usOne of the tenets of this nation's democratic principles is intellectual freedom and the free exchange of ideas, even those that might make some of us uncomfortable. Having access to information and diverse perspectives affords readers, listeners, and thinkers a chance to broaden their perspective and decide for themselves what they believe. Those of us who love books and have taught courses in Children's or Young Adult Literature know that book banning and censorship are nothing new, but what is new is the rise in book challenges due to political movements and groups that are keen to remove books covering racism, diversity, or featuring LGBTQIA+ characters or topics from classroom and library shelves. As the result of this surge in challenges, many librarians are facing attacks on their character, accusing of "grooming" youngsters or purveyors of pornography. As the result of the stress and attention, some have even quit their jobs. This book is the account of one who chose to fight back through the legal system, suing them for defamation, after she was vilified through social media for simply speaking out at a hearing on book content. Amanda Jones is a rock star, a brave, honest spirit, who comes from a most unlikely place for an activist and standard bearer for the First Amendment--conservative Livingston Parish in Louisiana. For most of her life, she voted Republican, even casting a ballot for Donald Trump back in 2016. In this frank account of her own experiences after she spoke out laid out against the nation-wide surge in attempts to ban or remove books from public library shelves and to villainize librarians, readers will find someone who gives them hope that one person can make a difference and that things can change for the better. Jones describes her own struggles, her efforts to raise her own awareness, and the frightening influence of groups like Citizens for a Better Louisiana and the bullying of social media posts. What is noteworthy in addition to her resilience and courage is Amanda Jones's voice and humor as well as how she continues to draw strength from the support of her family and friends. Enough is enough, and yes, it IS time to educate ourselves and fight back against these attacks on the right to read and the importance of including books featuring not only characters that are straight, white, and Christian on our shelves. If nothing else, request this book from your library, read it, and spread the word to others. Plus, if you don't much about book banning and censorship, learn more, attend library board meetings, and do like I do, ask your local library to purchase books that will make its shelves more inclusive. ...more
Ah, Andrew Clements, how many wonderful stories have you given us, most notably and unforgettably, Frindle? I don't want to say too much about this seAh, Andrew Clements, how many wonderful stories have you given us, most notably and unforgettably, Frindle? I don't want to say too much about this sequel for fear of spoiling it for other readers, but suffice it to say that in its own way it's just as satisfying as its predecessor. The protagonist, Josh Willet loves all things tech and is a serious gamer. He doesn't understand why homework in this ELA class must be handwritten or why word choice is so important. When he stumbles upon a secret about Mr. N, his teacher, the game and the hunt are on. But who's hunting whom? Fans of Strunk and White's The Elements of Style will sigh over every word. Those of us who love writing will nod knowingly at the importance of language, learning to express oneself clearly and precisely, and critical thinking. With pen-and-ink drawings from the always spot-on Brian Selznick, this one is sure to be a classic and have just as much appeal as Frindle. I'd suggest reading that one first, though, to get the full emotional impact of both books. ...more
This futuristic novel might appeal to teen or middle grade readers who think they don't like science fiction. As other reviewers have said, reading itThis futuristic novel might appeal to teen or middle grade readers who think they don't like science fiction. As other reviewers have said, reading it really is downright scary since the events described in it due to climate change or global warming and the poor stewardship of humans seem increasingly likely. Don't be fooled by the book's title. The story is nothing like what most folks will have read before. Tasmania, where the story is set, is in bad shape. The narration shifts between two girls who have never met but have quite a lot in common. Both are about to be displaced, one due to impending ecological disaster and the other one due to bullying and the need to start fresh. Readers won't realize at first that the girls are separated by decades: It's 2093 in Nyx's story, and 2023 in Bea's vows, When Nyx pours out her anguish about the future on a scrap of paper that she hides in a tall pine tree near her home, her words are read by Bea, who responds through a notebook. Improbably, a friendship forms between the two girls, and Bea is determined to somehow help Nyx even though she knows that others will doubt her and make fun of her. For such a short book, this one packs quite an emotional wallop and will make many readers think how close this sort of a future may be. I liked it much more than I expected to....more
As Banned Book Week begins once again, this middle-grade novel [3.5 for me1!] set in Shipton, Massachusetts couldn't be more appropriate as a read aloAs Banned Book Week begins once again, this middle-grade novel [3.5 for me1!] set in Shipton, Massachusetts couldn't be more appropriate as a read aloud or part of that celebration of the Right to Read. Eighth grade Molly Claremont and some of her friends have found a safe space in an extracurricular book club at school that is run by Ms. Lewiston. But a complaint causes the book club to be put on hiatus and Ms. Lewiston to face possible reprisals. Molly wants to push back, but she becomes obsessed about learning who complained about the books the club has been reading. She also reaches out to the author of the gay-themed book that was questioned, but the response is disappointing. Eventually, the group starts an online Read Or Die Stupid account that garners attention, and Molly faces and ethical dilemma after stumbling on some evidence that reveals who complained about the club. I enjoyed this one a lot, even though at times Molly was a bit misguided as was Ms. Lewiston, which makes the story all the more realistic. Because it is the students themselves that take things in their own hands rather than adults solving their problems, it was refreshing to see such empowered, enlightened, and aware middle graders. ...more
Educators, including classroom teachers and college professors, who assign writing and illustrating a picture book to their classes, might want to addEducators, including classroom teachers and college professors, who assign writing and illustrating a picture book to their classes, might want to add this humorous picture book to their reading lists. The mixed media illustrations feature a worm named Bert who guides budding writers on their creative journey, starting with coming up with ideas for the story they want to tell and ending with drawing and coloring the pictures that will accompany that story. Along the way, the author provides advice on developing characters, choosing a setting, and organizing the story. All of this is instructive, but what makes the book especially helpful is how there are hands-on activities included every step of the way so that readers are able to incorporate the advice; for instance, sketching out a series of story blocks and filling them in with text and images, no matter how rough. As someone who's taught writing for many years, I know that half of the battle for most students is getting started, and this book helps them do just that. ...more
Teenage psychic Quinn O'Brien comes from a long line of folks in desert-town Gypsum, Texas, with similar abilities. With their property headed for aucTeenage psychic Quinn O'Brien comes from a long line of folks in desert-town Gypsum, Texas, with similar abilities. With their property headed for auction since they've been unable to pay the bills, Quinn seeks some ways to earn money using his gift even though his brother, Ollie, disapproves. But a trip to the abandoned Alvarado Hotel sets an almost unstoppable force in motion. Quinn keeps hearing voices, seeing visions and being plagued with sets of numbers. A large safe hauled from the hotel holds a secret that has been hidden for decades, and Quinn and his friends June and Selena are destined to play out a scenario that occurred back then. There is lovely description of the desert and a mysterious entity that eats away at the town and the constellations, but parts of this suspenseful horror novel are hard to follow and downright unbelievable. The idea of loving and caring for something more than oneself is woven into the plot and the resolution, making it clear that sometimes people stay because they have no choice. My enjoyment of this one was uneven. Parts of the plot and writing had me hanging on excitedly to see what was going to happen or where this one was going, but others such as Kit's ability to reach across time and distance to set events in motion seemed hard to buy....more
Interesting graphic images of various hues complement a little-known story about freedom of speech and expression. While many individuals think about Interesting graphic images of various hues complement a little-known story about freedom of speech and expression. While many individuals think about book, movies or art when they consider censorship or First Amendment issues, music and even the name of a band can also stir controversy. As Banned Books Week approaches and many of us contemplate what the Right to Read or the ability to honor multiple points of view means, this might be a good picture book [3.5 for me!] to share with students to prompt discussion of the topic and what it means to try to reclaim certain words that have been used in a disparaging way in the past. Aware of the way some racists used a phrase such as "slanted eyes" to demean Asians, Simon Tam forms a band, names them The Slants, but isn't allowed to register the name because the United States Patent and Trademark Office considered it be racist. Simon decides to fight the decision, leading to an eight-year battle that goes all the way to the Supreme Court, which eventually ruled in his favor. I had never heard of this case or this band, but the story was intriguing and inspiring. Lyrics from "From the Heart," the band's response to the band's fight for their name are included in the back matter and inserted throughout the main narrative. ...more
The elegant, lyrical text in this picture book biography about an influential picture book illustrator soars above present-day circumstances, somehow The elegant, lyrical text in this picture book biography about an influential picture book illustrator soars above present-day circumstances, somehow lifting readers' spirits as they consider life's possibilities and the importance of leaving the world more beautiful. In today's tumultuous, fractured times, what could be more important? How wonderful to have such a visually stunning homage to this talented storyteller and winner of two of the early Caldecott [1959, 1980] prizes! I wish the students in my previous years' Children's Literature courses could have had this tribute to hard work, respect for all living things, and being true to oneself, even in one's artistic endeavors. Interestingly, as with Frida Kahlo, it is when she is ill and bedridden that some inspiration comes. The biography also functions as a brief glimpse into the history of picture books and publishing since it was only when she was creating the images for Chanticleer and the Fox that she is allowed to use five different colors for her work. It's noteworthy just how stunning those images are, even compared with modern printing techniques and liberal use of color. The author often refers to her love for color even while describing how necessity forces her to "scratch away in black and white" (unpaged) and uses evocative phrases such as "a landscape that looks like a lullaby" (unpaged) to describe what she sees when she travels to faraway places. And oh, that sumptuous, beautiful double-page spread filled with blues, purples, and greens as water and land meet as she looks on! Preceded as it is by those powerful lines on the previous page, it takes on even more emotional power, leaving readers to contemplate their own brief times on earth: "A life is more than a timeline, dates set down in black and white. There are harsh winters and soft springs, tides that follow the moon, rivers that flow to the sea.... Books close, then open again. We do not always know the next story" (unpaged). The illustrations in this particular book, created with gouache and brimming with nature's beauty, capture her love for art, light, and color. This is an impressive and essential collection for any collection devoted to artists or storytellers. ...more
Oh, to be able to live life on one's own terms! That's exactly how Edward Gorey moved through his life and career, dressing, drawing, and navigating aOh, to be able to live life on one's own terms! That's exactly how Edward Gorey moved through his life and career, dressing, drawing, and navigating according to his own compass. This picture book's illustrations, created with acrylics, and the three-part text, pay tribute to his formative years, his time in New York City, and his later years in Cape Cod. The entire package captures the essence of this quirky, highly original artist and storyteller, who eschewed the lures of fame, preferring to spend time with his cats and "to do his own thing, in his own way, in his own time" (unpaged). Young readers can learn about how to chart their own courses through his example. Back matter includes a timeline of his life, additional information about Gorey, and a photograph of him with one of the cats he loved so much. This picture book biography [3.5 for me!] made me smile at his unique vision and his declaration that six cats were enough, and to add one more would just be too much. Maybe, but maybe not! As I read this book, though, I wondered just how familiar with his work are youngsters today. ...more
Almost thirty years after the events described in this particular book, the narrator reflects on the year [1972] she spent in Ashiya, Japan, while herAlmost thirty years after the events described in this particular book, the narrator reflects on the year [1972] she spent in Ashiya, Japan, while her mother works and studies back home in Tokyo. Twelve-year-old Tomoko, the narrator, is impressed by her new dwelling place--a mansion with many rooms--and a pygmy hippopotamus named Pochiko, the beloved pet of her cousin, Mina, once part of a local zoo with a train that transported passengers throughout the area. Mina has asthma and often becomes sick, and the girls become quite close, sharing secrets, dreaming, and weaving stories. Mina collects matchboxes with unique artwork on the cover, from which she draws inspiration for unique stories. Tomoko envies her in many respects as she is far more intellectual, philosophical, and well read than she is but also much less worldly. The author includes many details about the family's simple pleasures and their unique personalities, and over the months, Tomoko starts to wonder about her handsome uncle's frequent absences and her aunt's obsession with finding errors in text, including the coverage of the 1972 Olympics. The girls are preoccupied by volleyball, a sport neither one can play, and root for the Japanese team to take the gold medal. It's interesting to note that while much of what I've described seems rather commonplace, there's a mesmerizing quality to this author's writing and so many abundant details that readers feel immersed in this place and time, coming to care about these girls and their family, even while noting hints of unease and a looming sense that all is not as well as it might seem. Other reviewers have called this a "jewel box of a story," and I would agree since it presents various tiny treasures for readers' senses, nestled in small velvet partitions of their own, some more delectable than others. Certain objects from our past--a hair ribbon, a photo, a note--may have little significance to others, but to us, as we sift through them from the perspective of time passed--remind us of what once was and who we ourselves once were, a concept captured beautifully here. Minutes, hours, days, and years pass, and as this story demonstrates, nothing stays the same, no matter how much we may wish that to be so, and no matter how hard we try to make it so. To say much more would only spoil readers' appreciation for this book, whose pleasures deserve to be discovered on their own. ...more