Book Review: Breakout

BREAKOUT by Kate Messner is a fast-paced story exploring issues of social justice and perspective.

When inmates from a local prison escape, Nora Tucker’s summer vacation is disrupted as her family, friends, and the entire community deals with the impact of the breakout. Of particular note is the author’s use of comics, poems, text messages, letters, and news stories to move the story forward. The book concludes with an author’s note and wonderful book list for young readers.

Librarians will find this book popular with students who enjoy books containing documents as part of the storyline. The story’s balance of suspense and social themes will broaden the appeal. The novel’s focus on multiple perspectives will appeal to teachers wishing to use this book for class discussions.

Published by Bloomsbury on June 5, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Like Vanessa

LIKE VANESSA by Tami Charles tells the story of an African American eighth-grader pursuing her pageant dreams.

Set in 1983, Vanessa Martin is thrilled when Vanessa Williams is crowned the first black Miss America. When her music teacher encourages her audition for the school’s pageant, she’s reluctant. However, over time she develops the confidence to compete. Told through first person narratives along with beautiful poetry and journal entries, readers will be drawn into Vanessa’s quest.

Librarians will find a large audience for this story of family and friendship. The elements of poverty, racism, and family secrets add depth to the story. Of particular note is the evolving relationship between Vanessa and her music teacher.

Published on March 13, 2018 by Charlesbridge. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker

BEATRICE ZINKER, UPSIDE DOWN THINKER by Shelley Johannes is the first book in a new chapter book series exploring friendship and social issues.

Beatrice is a fun-loving child who loves to do everything upside down. However, she’s disappointed when her best friend shows up to school with a new look and a new friend. She must find a way to fix her friendship without losing herself.

Librarians will find this easy-to-read chapter book perfect for readers who enjoy stories of friendship, school, and home. Many children will empathize with a girl who likes to be “upside down” and the book’s frequent, quirky illustrations will keep children reading.

Published by Disney/Hyperion on September 19, 2017. ARC courtesy fo the publisher.

Book Review: The Exact Location of Home

THE EXACT LOCATION OF HOME by Kate Messner is a work of realistic fiction exploring contemporary issues including friendship, family, and homelessness.

Kirby, also known as Zig, is an electronics wiz who begins geocaching with his friends when he gets a GPS. While trying to hide his homelessness from friends and search for his missing father, he must also deal with the daily life of a middle grade life.

Librarians will find that this realistic story explores a plethora of timely social issues including homelessness, single parent families, environmental themes, and school friendships. Use the book as part of a reading group exploring issues of empathy and compassion. The electronics and environmental focus may increase interest among readers who enjoy STEM topics.

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

Book Review: Chasing Augustus

CHASING AUGUSTUS by Kimberly Newton Fusco follows a child on a quest to find her dog.

Rosie lives with her grandfather in a dusty small town. She’s angry that her absent mom gave away her dog and becomes obsessed with finding it. Along the way, she interacts with a variety of quirky characters.

Librarians will find this book appealing to middle grade readers who enjoy realistic stories of friends, family, and dogs. The book is broken into four parts with short chapters making it nice for small group reading assignments. Pair the book with other family and dog stories such as Because of Winn Dixie.

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Random House on September 19, 2017. 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: Claymates

CLAYMATES by Dev Petty is a picture book telling the story of two friends made of clay.

After the art studio closes for the day, the artist’s clay characters come to life. The bright colored photographs of the clay characters contributes to the appeal of the story.

Librarians will find this adorable picture book to be popular among primary aged children. It would also provide a fun introduction to an art or claymation project.

Published by Little, Brown on June 20, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Bronze and Sunflower

BRONZE AND SUNFLOWER by Cao Wenxuan is tells a timeless story of tragedy and friendship during China’s Cultural Revolution.

Beautifully translated from Chinese, this story of rural Chinese life follows two children who overcome hardship to form a deep friendship. When Sunflower becomes an orphan, she’s taken in by the poorest family in the village. Her new brother Bronze has been traumatized and doesn’t speak. Despite their shared tragedies, a deep friendship blooms reflecting the power of family. The book concludes with an historical note and author’s note.

Librarians will find this quiet, middle grade book appealing to children who enjoy historical fiction, Asian literature, and stories of friendship set in rural settings.

Published by Candlewick on March 14, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: A Tragic Kind of Wonderful

A TRAGIC KIND OF WONDERFUL by Eric Lindstrom explores the life of a teen trying to maintain friendships while dealing with mental illness.

Between the death of her brother, her parent’s divorce, and a bipolar diagnosis, Mel’s life has spiraled out of control. Trying to hide her problems only makes her relationships with friends more strained. The author’s authentic portrayal of a teen’s quest for acceptance is will appeal to many teens.

Librarians will find fans of Lindstrom’s NOT IF I SEE YOU FIRST pleased with his latest title. Many teens are drawn to contemporary young adult novels focusing on friendship and overcoming obstacles. This title does a particularly good job helping young people better understand bipolar disorder.

Published by Poppy, an imprint of Hachette on February 7, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Friendship Experiment

THE FRIENDSHIP EXPERIMENT by Erin Teagan takes a clever approach to the issues of middle school friendships.

Madeline is a young scientist who takes a “step-by-step” approach to everything including finding a new best friend. When her peers read her notebook, she realizes that maybe a scientific approach can’t solve her friendship dilemma. Intermediate level readers will empathize with Madeline’s personal and school experiences.

Librarians will find this humorous work of realistic fiction to be popular among young scientists and youth who enjoy stories about friendship.

Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children’s Book Group on November 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Samson in the Snow

SAMSON IN THE SNOW by Philip C. Stead tells quiet story of blooming friendship on a snowy day.

Samson is a wholly mammoth that longs for a friend. What he doesn’t realize is that his simple acts of kindness are building the foundations of an unexpected threesome. Full-color, wordless pages contribute to the appeal of this simple story.

Librarians will find this sweet story to be useful in jumpstarting conversations about the meaning of friendship and importance of kindness. The prehistoric setting will be a drawn for some readers.

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

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on September 27, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Little Bot and Sparrow

LITTLE BOT AND SPARROW by Jake Parker is a charming story of friendship between a robot and a bird.

This simple adventure follows a small, discarded robot who learns about life from a curious sparrow.

Librarians will find this story includes a number of possible topics for class discussions involving friendship, robots, birds, nature, and seasons.

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

Publisher by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on September 27, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Iron Cast

IRON CAST by Destiny Soria is an engaging fantasy with elements of mystery and an emphasis on friendship.

This fast-paced alternative history weaves a diverse cast of fascinating characters into an absorbing story exploring the world of an underground club. The author tells the story of friendship in a world of hemopathy and paranormal activity.

Librarians will find teens attracted to the social issues addressed in this alternative universe. Fans of The Diviners by Libba Bray will be happy to find another paranormal elements set a similar historical setting.

Published by Amulet on October 11, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Little Elliot, Big Fun

LITTLE ELLIOT, BIG FUN is the third book in this popular picture book series featuring a polka-dot elephant.

Mouse assures Little Elliot that they will have a wonderful time at the amusement park. However, Little Elliot complains that the rides are too wet, fast, dizzy, or scary. Finally, Mouse finds a ride that Little Elliot enjoys.

Young children will enjoy the predictable elements and the story’s happy ending.

Librarians will find that this adorable elephant and his friend appeals to a cross section of young children. Consider a display that includes lots of books about friends going on adventures together.

To learn more about the publisher, go to http://www.mikecurato.com/.

Published by Henry Holt, an imprint of Macmillan on August 30, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Ooko

OOKO by Esme Shapiro tells the charming story of a fox seeking a friend.

After seeing people with their dogs, Ooko decides to find a human friend. However Ooko soon discovers that an animal friend might be more fun.

The simple, humorous text and engaging illustrations make this picture book appropriate for both young children as well as beginning readers.

Librarians will find this sweet story popular with young children and useful in read-aloud activities. Teachers will find the book a valuable tool for discussing friendship and individual differences.

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

Published by Tundra, an imprint of Random House on July 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Ms. Bixby's Last Day

MS. BIXBY’S LAST DAY by John Anderson explores the relationships among three sixth-grade boys and their beloved teacher.

Told through the eyes of three friends in alternating chapters, this emotionally charged story follows Topher, Steve, and Brand who learn that their favorite teacher has cancer. As the story unfolds, each child shares their experiences with Ms. Bixby and readers learn why its so important to set off on a journey to see her one last time.

Librarians will find that this sweet story has the perfect balance of realism and humor to keep children enthralled from beginning to end. Both middle grade students and their teachers will fall in love with the characters and the authentic story. It would make a wonderful read-aloud book for teachers who can “keep it together” for the last chapter.

Look for this title on the “best of 2016” lists.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.johndavidanderson.org/.

Published by Walden Pond Press, an imprint of HarperCollins on June 21, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: When Friendship Followed Me Home

WHEN FRIENDSHIP FOLLOWED ME HOME by Paul Griffin tells the uplifting story of a foster child experiencing love and loss.

After former foster child Ben adopts a stray dog, he finds himself friends with Halley and they begin writing a book together. Through tragedy and illness, they learn about the enduring power of love and happiness. What makes the story particular compelling is the parallel story written by the two middle grade youth.

Librarians will find this realistic tear-jerker to be filled with opportunities for discussions about the joy and sorrow of friendship and family. Griffin’s honest portrayal of nontraditional families, the pain of loss, and the power of hope will have a profound impact on young readers. The service dog sub-theme will be a hit with dog lovers.

Look for this title on “best of 2016” lists.

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

Published by Dial Books, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group on June 7, 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: Be a Friend

BE A FRIEND by Salina Yoon is a heartwarming picture book exploring individuality and friendship.

Dennis expresses himself through mime. While other children talk with friends and play with toys, Dennis uses his imagination for amusement. Over time, Dennis becomes lonely and is thrilled to meet another child who shares his passion for mime.

Yoon’s use of brown paper and the color red are inventive additions to her already appealing illustrations. Children will enjoy the illustrator’s nod to Marcel Marceau woven throughout the book.

Librarians will find this quiet picture book to be an effective tool in talking to children about individual differences, courage, and self-acceptance.

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

Published by Bloomsbury on January 5, 2016. ARC Courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Drake Equation

THE DRAKE EQUATION by Bart King is a humorous science fiction adventure.

While on a quest for an elusive bird, Noah instead finds a mysterious, glittery disk. This middle-school youth suddenly acquires strange powers that lead to funny adventures.

Librarians will find that young readers empathize with the young birdwatcher and his friends. While the science fiction aspects don’t really take off until the second half of the book, most children will enjoy the school and friendship aspects of the story.

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

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 10, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.