Book Review: This is Where It Ends

THIS IS WHERE IT ENDS by Marieke Nijkamp is the gripping fictional account of a school shooting.

Told in “real-time” from the perspective of friends, family, and classmates of the teen shooter, this quick read takes place in one harrowing hour. The tragic story immerses readers in the thoughts, reflections, and actions of people facing the unimaginable horror of a gunman in their high school auditorium.

The author’s use of time stamps for each chapter, flashbacks, text messages, and other literary techniques adds interest for teen readers.

Librarians will find that students are attracted to this timely topic and drawn to the universal themes of revenge, heroism, and hope.

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

Published by Sourcebook Fire on January 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Secret Mission of William Tuck

THE SECRET MISSION OF WILLIAM TUCK by Eric Pierpoint is an action-packed historical fiction novel aimed at the middle grades.

Set during the American Revolution in 1781, twelve-year-old William Tuck volunteers as a drummer boy. However, a chance encounter with a dying soldier plunges him into the world of couriers and spies. Along with a teenaged girl named Rebecca, they travel hundreds of miles to deliver a secret message that could turn the tide of the war.

Filled with familiar historical figures, battles, and locations, this engaging story focuses on the brutality of war and the courage of one young boy. Although the main characters are fictional, the author does an amazing job weaving in historical facts and immersing readers into the time period.

Librarians will be impressed by how the book deals with issues related to slavery, spies, prison ships, and the medical aspects of war in addition to the classic battle scenes. Use this book as an opportunity to share nonfiction works related to the Revolutionary War. This title would also be an excellent addition to a literature circle focusing on historical fiction of the American Revolution.

While many of the popular works about the American Revolution are aimed at the young adult reader, this book is perfect for middle grade readers who are just beginning to learn about this important period in American history. Use it as an entry to the wealth of books designed for older readers.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.ericpierpoint.net/.

Published by Sourcebook Jabberwocky on September 1, 2015.

Book Review: Hilo: The Boy Who Crashed to Earth

HILO: THE BOY WHO CRASHED TO EARTH by Judd Winick is the first book in the new Hilo graphic novel, science fiction series for middle grade readers.

Readers will be enthralled with this exciting story featuring an ordinary boy named D.J. that meets a mysterious boy who falls from the sky. D.J., along with his friend Gina, help the strange other-worldly boy save the world. While children will be drawn to the robots and non-stop action, the story also features important themes related to friendship, acceptance, loyalty, and bravery.

The bright, colorful illustrations combined with the action-packed plot will have readers cheering for our latest graphic novel heroes. Librarians will find a huge audience among middle grade children who are thirsty for age-appropriate graphic novel titles. Librarians will appreciate the diverse cast of characters.

To learn more about the author, go to his website at http://www.juddspillowfort.com/.

Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on September 1, 2015.

Book Review: Miss Hazeltine's Home for Shy and Fearful Cats

MISS HAZELTINE’S HOME FOR SHY AND FEARFUL CATS by Alicia Potter is the charming story of a scaredy-cat who learns to be brave.

When Crumb comes to live with Miss Hazeltine, he’s timid and shy. He listens carefully to lessons about bravery, but it’s not until Miss Hazeltine is in trouble that summons his inner courage.

Readers will enjoy Birgitta Sif’s whimsical illustrations and teachers will welcome Alicia Potter’s easy-to-read narrative that’s perfect for the read-aloud situations.

Librarians will appreciate Miss Hazeltine’s approach to teaching. She models important cat skills, but lets her pupils proceed at their own pace. The themes of bravery, courage, and overcoming shyness will resonate with many children.

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

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers on May 12, 2015.