Book Review: Everywhere, Wonder

EVERYWHERE, WONDER by Matthew Swanson and Robbi Behr brings the concept of “story” to life.

In this imaginative picture book, a young boy takes readers on a journey around the world sharing the amazing wonders around every turn. The illustrator’s appealing visuals bring each location to life using colorful collage elements.

Librarians will find this book to be an effective springboard into writing activities. Ask students to select some aspect of the book to explore in-depth. Or, just a page as the jumping off spot for creative writing activities.

Learn more about the author and illustrator team at http://robbiandmatthew.com/.

Published by Imprint, an imprint of Macmillan on February 7, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Salt to the Sea

SALT TO THE SEA by Ruta Sepetys tells the story of refugees on a dangerous journey at the end of World War II in Europe.

Joana, Emilia, and Florian along with thousands of others make their way along dirt roads and the back country in hopes of finding a place on a ship to freedom. Told through alternative voices, readers learn the backstory of each character and how they came together in these desperate times. In addition to the three refugees, readers also gain insights into the life of a German soldier named Alfred. Along the way, the author skillfully integrates important war topics including the loss of great artwork, rape by soldiers, and prejudice.

This well-researched young adult work of historical fiction weaves in true events including the tragic sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff carrying ten thousand wounded soldiers and refugees. The back matter includes author notes connecting the real events to the narrative along with sources, maps, and other information.

Librarians will find this book to be an excellent addition to their World War II historical fiction collections. The alternating viewpoints and variety of well-developed characters will be of particular interest to teen readers. The constant threats and ever-changing landscapes help the plot move quickly.

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

Published by Philomel, an imprint of Penguin on February 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Pax

PAX by Sara Pennypacker is a powerful animal fantasy exploring the journeys of a boy and his fox.

With his mother dead and his father going off to war, twelve-year-old Peter is forced to abandon his pet fox Pax and go live with his grandfather hundreds of miles away.

This gripping story is told in alternating chapters through the eyes of Peter and Pax as they try to survive in their new worlds and reunite with each other. Whether caring for his new companions or treasuring his toy soldier, the author is most successful when speaking through the eyes of Pax.

Librarians will find that this story of companionship, survival, and redemption is sure to capture the hearts of middle grade readers. While some youth may enjoy the fable-like, timeless quality, others may find this lack of specificity annoying.

From the flowing narrative to the simple illustrations, this heartbreaking tale has the makings of a classic.

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

To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://jonklassen.tumblr.com/.

Published by Balzer and Bray, an imprint of Harper Collins on February 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.