Book Review: The Cresswell Plot

THE CRESSWELL PLOT by Eliza Wass tells the haunting story of a teen and her siblings suppressed by their strict, religious father.

To outsiders, the Cresswell family members are viewed as religious freaks. Castley Cresswell is tired of the plain clothing and strict home life, so she begins to explore the outside world. She soon learns truths that shatter her understanding of the world and set into motion events that will change her life forever.

Librarians will find this coming-of-age YA novel to be a hit with teens who enjoy delving into dark, chilling stories. The well-developed family relationships combined with the engrossing storyline will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

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

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

Book Review: Raymie Nightingale

RAYMIE NIGHTINGALE by Kate DiCamillo is a charming middle-grade story of friendship, adventure, and hope.

Raymie Clarke hasn’t heard from her father since he took off with a dental hygienist. By doing a few good deeds and learning to twirl a baton, Raymie hopes to win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition, get her photo in the paper, and receive a congratulatory call from her dad. Along the way she develops unusual friendships and learns to deal with her loss in an unexpected way.

Librarians will find a huge audience for this quiet story that combines tragedy and sadness with adventure and compassion. This is sure to be a popular read-aloud choice. Look for this title on the “best of 2016” lists.

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

Published by Candlewick Press on April 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Most Important Thing

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: STORIES ABOUT SONS, FATHERS, AND GRANDFATHERS by Avi shares seven short stories exploring the complicated emotions experienced by boys and their dads.

From a boy meeting his grandfather for the first time to a child interviewing potential stepfathers, each story explores a different aspect of interpersonal relationships. While some stories focus on bullying, abandonment, abuse, and neglect, others explore acceptance, compassion, and discovery.

Librarians will find that these stories provide a nice introduction to Avi’s writing for young readers. Work with teachers to build short stories into a literature circle activities focusing on family relationships.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.avi-writer.com/.

Published April 26, 2016 by Candlewick. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Momotaro Xander and the Lost Island of Monsters

MOMOTARO XANDER AND THE LOST ISLAND OF MONSTERS by Margaret Dilloway is a fantasy about a boy who discovers his legacy and sets off on a journey to find his place in the world.

This first book in a new middle-grade series tells the story of a mixed race eighth-grader with a talent for drawing. Xander’s ordinary life is thrown into chaos when his father disappears. Xander soon finds out that he comes from a long line of Japanese warriors called Momotaro and must discover his talents to save his friends and family.

Librarians will find this book to be popular with middle grade fantasy fans, particularly those who enjoy the works of Rick Riordan. It’s also a good introduction literature focusing on Asian characters and Japanese legends. Choong Yoon’s illustrations will appeal to readers who enjoy manga. Consider a literature circle that also includes the Percy Jackson books and Sea of Troll trilogy.

To learn more about the author, go to https://margaretdilloway.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Mystery of Hollow Places

THE MYSTERY OF HOLLOW PLACES by Rebecca Podos is a sophisticated and engaging mystery exploring issues of family and identity.

Imogene learned about sleuthing from her father who writes medical mysteries. With her father suddenly missing, Imogene searches to find the mother who abandoned her as a baby in the hopes of finding answers. Along the way, she learns family secrets that help piece together her family’s past.

The author’s realistic approach to the teen’s investigation and interesting twists and turns along the way will drawn readers into the story. It’s rare to find a high-quality psychological mystery that deals with authentic issues such as mental illness and depression.

Librarians will find this young adult mystery appeals to youth who enjoy realistic, contemporary fiction and intriguing investigations.

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

Published by Balzer & Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins on January 26, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Dream On, Amber

DREAM ON, AMBER by Emma Shevah is an authentic, humorous story for middle grade readers.

Entering middle school is tough enough for most children, but Amber is a half-Japanese and half-Italian with an absent father making life even more difficult. When her younger sister begins writing letters to their father asking for him to attend her birthday party, Amber decides to answer the letters. Subplots related to art, puppy love, and earning money bring the story to life.

Filled with cute doodles and other illustrations, librarians will find this poignant novel to be popular with young readers. The combination of humor and typical middle school problems will appeal to many readers. Themes related to an absent father and multicultural identity with resonate with many readers.

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

Published by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky on October 6, 2015.