Synergy: Tham Luang Cave Rescue

In the summer of 2018, twelve members of a boy’s soccer team and their assistant coach were trapped in a cave by flooding waters. Although the team survived, two divers died during the rescue.

Read the recently published nonfiction books for youth, then learn more at the websites:

ALL THIRTEEN: THE INCREDIBLE CAVE RESCUE OF THE THAI BOYS’ SOCCER TEAM by Christina Soontornvat is an award winning work of nonfiction that shares the rescue story through an engrossing narrative and fascinating photos. Each short chapter immerses readers in a different aspect of the event from the coach and his players to the cave divers.

RISING WATER: THE STORY OF THE THAI CAVE RESCUE by Marc Aronson tells the amazing story of survival through a well-researched narrative and compelling photographs.

THAM LUANG CAVE RESCUE is a documentary video tracing how the 17 day rescue unfolded. It includes compelling video from the rescue along with interviews with those involved.

To watch the view, go to https://youtu.be/x_kiX0uUDNI.

STEP INSIDE THE THAI CAVE IN AUGMENTED REALITY from The New York Times allows readers to experience what rescuers faced when trying to save the boys and their coach. Combining short texts, maps, and diagrams, readers are taken step-by-step through the cave rescue.

To explore the interactive, go to https://nyti.ms/39qAjn3.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick and Atheneum.

Synergy: Outdoor Adventures

Children are increasingly disconnected from nature. Immersing children in nature is essential in nurturing physical and mental well-being as well as encouraging environmental stewardship.

Read the recently published children's book, then learn more through the websites:

THE NOT-SO GREAT OUTDOORS by Madeline Kloepper tells the story of a city dweller who reluctantly learns the joys of adventures in nature. Featuring a diverse family, this colorful and visually rich story will feel familiar to many city and rural dwellers alike.

KIDS IN THE PARK from the National Park Service introduces young people to the national parks. Help a child become a Junior Ranger. Go to https://www.nps.gov/kids.

PARKS CANADA XPLORERS has a program that encourages young adventures visiting Parks Canada locations. Go to https://bit.ly/36ETw0w.

ARC courtesy of Tundra an imprint of Penguin/Random House.

Book Review: Sanity & Tallulah

SANITY & TALLULAH by Molly Brooks is the first graphic novel in a new science fiction adventure series.

Best friends Sanity and Tallulah live on a space station and enjoy conducting science experiments. When Sanity’s top secret bioengineering project escapes, she and Tallulah try to find their three-headed kitten that’s being blamed for station-wide technical issues.

Librarians will find this humorous work well-received by both graphic novel and science fiction fans alike. Filled with STEM references, use this new series to promote an interest in science and technology. The diverse cast of characters, STEM themes, and space station setting will be a hit with readers.

Published on October 16, 2018 by Disney/Hyperion. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Constellations

The CONSTELLATIONS by Claudia Gray is a thought-provoking science fiction adventure series exploring the relationship between a soldier and a robot.

In the first book DEFY THE STARS (2017), readers are introduced to teen soldier Noemi who stumbles upon a sophisticated robot named Abel. Although enemies, they work together to save Noemi’s planet of Genesis.

In the second book DEFY THE WORLDS (2018), a deadly plague threatens Genesis. Noemi and Abel once again must work together to save the universe. A cliffhanger at the end of this book establishes intriguing questions for the next book in this series.

Librarians will find an audience for this series among young adults who enjoy the combination of science fiction and adventure with a hint of romance. Exploring topics such as immortality and tolerance, the series is deeper than the standard YA options.

Published by Hachette. ARCs courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Black Panther The Young Prince

BLACK PANTHER THE YOUNG PRINCE by Ronald L. Smith tells the origin story of this popular superhero.

Twelve-year old T’Challa is a young prince living in the hidden African nation of Wakanda. When he and his friend M’Baku are sent to a private academy in Chicago, T’Challa soon learns that his experiences have not prepared him for life in America. To protect his friends, he must face evil and become a hero.

Of particular interest is how the author deals with T’Challa’s conflicting emotions related to America’s history of racial inequality and African heritage.

Librarians will find this book to be a popular extension of the Black Panther universe. Feature this engaging fantasy adventure along with other recently released Marvel superhero origin stories.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on January 2, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Falcon Wild

FALCON WILD by Terry Johnson is an adventure story about two teens and a raptor lost in the wilderness.

After a car accident, Karma and Cooper along with a falcon called Stark become lost in the Montana wilderness. While seeking help, the three learn to trust one another in order to survive the harsh, rugged conditions.

Librarians will find this novel popular with middle grade youth who enjoy friendship stories and outdoor adventures. In addition to the engaging story, readers will enjoy the abundance of information about falconry.

Published by Charlesbridge on September 12, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Press Start!

PRESS START! by Thomas Flintham is a new adventure series from Scholastic’s Branches chapter book collection.

Each story features a child playing a video game. Like the child in the story, readers are immersed in the game world.

GAME OVER, SUPER RABBIT BOY! kicks off this series featuring Super Rabbit Boy, the star of a video game. 

SUPER RABBIT BOY POWERS UP! features nasty King Viking who seeks special powers to defeat Super Rabbit Boy. Our hero must overcome a series of obstacles in the Secret Land to beat King Viking to claim the Super Power Up first.

SUPER RABBIT RACERS! Immerses readers in an exciting racing video game featuring Super Rabbit Boy, King Viking, and other characters trying to win the Super Cup Power Up challenge.

Librarians will find this series a hit among newly independent readers who enjoy video games. At least two additional books will be available in 2018.

Published by Scholastic in 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: In the Shadow of the Sun

IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN by Anne Sibley O’Brien tells the heart-pounding story of two siblings trying to escape North Korea.

When her father is arrested, Mia and her brother Simon must find their to the border without being captured by North Korean soldiers. Carrying a smart phone with forbidden photographs, the siblings must find food and avoid detection as they make their way across North Korea to the Chinese border. This story of survival will keep even reluctant readers interested.

Librarians will find this compelling adventure story to be timely. Share it with students who enjoy travel, adventure, and mystery stories. Consider using it in a literature circle focusing on current events.

To learn more, go to the website at http://www.intheshadowofthesunbook.com.

Published by Scholastic on June 27, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Gary

GARY by Leila Rudge is a picture book that shares the adventure of a pigeon who can’t fly.

As a racing pigeon who can’t fly, Gary spends his days working on his scrapbook. When he’s accidentally left in the city on his own, he must be resourceful and find his way home using his scrapbook as a guide.

Librarians will find this sweet story appeals to young readers. From overcoming disabilities to mapmaking and scrapbooking, teachers will find many classroom connections for this heartwarming story. Involve students in creating their own scrapbooks and adventures for Gary.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to http://www.leilarudge.com/.

Published by Candlewick on November 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Hocus Focus

HOCUS FOCUS by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold is the fourth comic adventure of Knight and her horse Edward.

When Knight sells the wizard’s magic wand, she accidentally turns Edward into a giant worm. The bright colored comic pages and goofy story will keep young readers on the edge of their seats.

Part of the Adventures in Cartooning series, the book includes step-by-step instructions for drawing key characters.

Librarians will find this latest addition to the series to be popular with children who like drawing and cartoons.

Published by First Second, an imprint of Macmillan on January 24, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Wolf Keepers

WOLF KEEPERS by Elise Broach is an absorbing mystery adventure.

Written for middle grade readers, young Lizzie spend her time with the animals at a zoo. Her life changes when she encounters a runaway living at the zoo. Together she and her new friend investigate a mystery involving wolves that takes them on an adventure to Yosemite National Park.

Librarians will find this book appeals to a broad audience including those who enjoy mystery, adventures, and animals. The historical connections with John Muir provide the opportunity to connect to the origins of national parks. Animal lovers are sure to be attracted to both the setting and the engaging story.

Published by Henry Holt and Company on October 11, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Cloud and Wallfish

CLOUD AND WALLFISH by Anne Nesbet is a middle school work of historical fiction filled with secrets and adventure.

Set in 1989, Noah suddenly learns a family secret and sets off on a family adventure behind the Iron Curtain to East Berlin. Along the way, this story of family and friendship deepens as more mysteries are revealed. Secret files woven into the narratives will draw students into key history concepts.

Librarians will find this historical thriller to be an appealing way to explore history. The addition of two characters with disabilities adds to the appeal.

To learn more about the author, go to http://annenesbet.com/.

Published by Candlewick on October 4, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Secret Keepers

THE SECRET KEEPERS by Trenton Lee Stewart is a fast-paced mystery adventure.

When Reuben finds a magical, antique watch with the power of invisibility, he’s propelled into a life-changing adventure filled with quirky characters, dangerous secrets, and a time-sensitive mystery.

Librarians will find a ready-made audience in fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society. Although the book’s length may be a barrier for some students, others will enjoy the depth of the plot. Children who like puzzles, surprises, and mysteries will enjoy the complexity of the story.

Published by Little, Brown Book on Hachette Books on September 27, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Adventurer's Guide to Successful Escapes

THE ADVENTURER’S GUIDE TO SUCCESSFUL ESCAPES by Wade Albert White is a new fantasy series for middle grades.

Three friends go on a magical quest that involves travel to exotic places with riddles along the way. The threesome faces an array of amazing creatures in fascinating settings

Librarians will find this humorous blend of traditional fantasy with memorable steampunk elements to be popular with the middle grade audience. Filled with action and humor, the quirky characters and fast-paced approach will keep children reading.

Published by Little, Brown Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on September 13, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: A Moon of my Own

A MOON OF MY OWN by Jennifer Rustgi tells the charming story of a young girl exploring the world with the moon as a companion.

This imaginative adventure follows a child as she visits the seven continents and experiences the phases of the moon. The book includes information about each area of the world featured in the story along with facts about the phases of the moon. The text concludes with activities for further learning.

Through shades of blue along with black silhouettes, the simple illustrations bring the moon and night sky to life.

Librarians will find this book to be a wonderful way to connect the science of the moon with an engaging narrative.

To learn more about the author, go to http://amoonofmyown.com/.

Published by Dawn Publications on September 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Worst Breakfast

THE WORST BREAKFAST by China Miéville and Zak Smith is an unconventional picture book designed for ages 3-7.

The engaging story features two siblings discussing their memories of bad breakfast experiences. The book’s colorful illustrations explode onto the page as a simple discussion turns into a fantasy food adventure.

Librarians will find this book a unique addition to their collection. The lyrical text is filled with descriptive words that will easily slide off the tongue of enthusiastic readers. The use of dialog boxes featuring a different text color for each character makes this adorable book perfect for peer reading experiences.

Although designed for young children, older youth will enjoy the story and illustrations too. The familiar situation is perfect for jumpstarting class discussions and writing activities.

Published by Akashic Books on October 4, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Nightmare Escape

NIGHTMARE ESCAPE by Greg Grunberg and Lucas Turnbloom is the first book in the exciting new Dream Jumper graphic novel for middle grades.

Like all kids, Ben has nightmares. What makes Ben unique is that his nightmares are real and he’s able to jump into the dreams of others. When his girlfriend is caught in an endless nightmare, Ben must defeat the nightmare monster with a little help from a talking rabbit. The book’s conclusion is satisfying, but leaves many questions unanswered and ready for the next book in this engaging series.

Librarian will find this graphic novel series popular among children who enjoy fantasy and adventure. The book’s high-quality, full-color illustration will add to the appeal. Build a library display featuring GRAPHIX titles to feature this new addition to the this popular collection. Or ,create a “nightmare” display featuring books connected to dreams and nightmares.

Published by GRAPHIX, an imprint of Scholastic on June 28, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: I Wanna Be a Great Big Dinosaur

I WANNA BE A GREAT BIG DINOSAUR by Heath McKenzie is an adorable picture book featuring a boy and an imaginary T Rex.

A young boy enjoys pretending he’s a dinosaur. When a T Rex shows up, the boy learns all about being a dinosaur. In turn, the boy shares his life as a human. Together they decide they can be whatever they want to be.

Librarians will find a huge audience for this picture book among young dinosaur lovers. Teachers will connect with the “be yourself” themes. The humorous, fast-paced story is perfect for story time and discussions. There are endless opportunities for imaginative play and art activities associated with the story.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.heathmck.com/.

Published by Sourcebook Jabberwocky on May 17, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Nobody Likes a Goblin

NOBODY LIKES A GOBLIN is a humorous picture book about a goblin who goes on an adventure to save his friend.

When Goblin’s dungeon is invaded by outsiders who steal his treasures and Skeleton friend, he must leave the security of his home and venture out into the world. However, we soon finds out that not everyone likes goblins.

Graphic novelist Ben Hatke’s whimsical illustrations will appeal to readers of all ages and the engaging narrative will draw children into the story.

Librarians will find children attracted to both the illustrations and the story of courage and friendship. Add this to the growing number of friendly monster books now available for youth.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.benhatke.com/.

Published by First Second, an imprint of Macmillan on June 7, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Wolf's Boy

THE WOLF’S BOY by Susan Williams Buckhorn tells the compelling story of a boy and his wolf set during the Ice Age.

Born with a clubfoot, baby Kai is left for the wolves. Miraculously he survives and forms a special bond with the wolf pack. Although shunned by his people, the boy develops a relationship with a homeless wolf cub and the pair journey into dangerous, unknown territory.

From fascinating rock art to amazing Paleolithic creatures, this carefully researched novel will bring the prehistoric time period to life for young readers.

Librarians will find a large audience among middle grade youth who enjoy action-adventure stories. The Paleolithic time period will be a particular draw as well as the animal story.

To learn more about the author, go to http://suebeckhorn.com/

Published by Disney-Hyperion on June 7, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.