Book Review: Disappeared

DISAPPEARED by Francisco X. Stork tells the powerful story of siblings navigating a world of kidnapping and crime in Juarez, Mexico.

When her best friend is kidnapped, Sara uses her skills as a journalist to attract attention to her friend’s case despite death threats to herself and her family. At the same time, Sara’s brother Emiliano faces the question of whether to take the easy path into the world of crime or work hard to establish a legal business. Stork’s well-developed characters and authentic situations will draw young adults into this suspenseful story.

Librarians will find this to be a popular addition to the growing number of thoughtful, coming-of-age novels focusing on timely issues related to crime and politics along the American-Mexican border. Although the setting is different than Stork’s other novels, fans will quickly become immersed in this fast-paced thriller.

Published on September 26, 2017 by Arthur A. Levine, an imprint of Scholastic. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Audacity Jones to the Rescue

AUDACITY JONES TO THE RESCUE by Kirby Larson is the first book in a new historical mystery series.

Set in the early 1900s, Audacity is a witty orphan who enjoys reading and adventure. She yearns to explore life outside the Miss Maisie’s School for Wayward Girls. When Commodore Crutchfield shows up at the school looking for an orphan, she immediately volunteers. However Audie soon realizes that Crutchfield and his colleagues are up to no good and she must save the day.

Although there are many middle grade books about orphans and boarding schools, librarians will find that the combination of adventure and mystery will be appeal to a broad cross section of readers. The historical context, particularly the White House setting make the book even more fun

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

Published by Scholastic on January 26, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The League of Beastly Dreadfuls

THE LEAGUE OF BEASTLY DREADFULS by Holly Grant is the first book in a new Victorian era fantasy series featuring quirky characters, creepy settings, and a daring escape.

After being told that her parents have been in an accident, Anastasia is forced to live with two strange old ladies that claim to be her long lost great aunts. She is soon immersed in a demented world of mystery and suspense with a hint of horror. This bizarre fantasy will appeal to children who enjoy witty, dark humor.

From the bizarre characters to the weird settings, Grant’s colorful descriptions will immerse readers into her wacky world. The author has filled the pages with off-the-wall elements including invented, Victorian era book titles, signs, and artifacts.

Librarians will easily find an audience for this far out fantasy. Aimed at the middle grades, children will enjoy the peculiar story and unconventional writing style. Fans of Roald Dahl, Trenton Lee Stewart, and Lemony Snicket will be attracted to the dry, dark humor and look forward to the next book in this new series.

The series website contains book club questions, a name generator, silly Victorian horoscopes, and lots of other fun activities that can be printed out.

To learn more about the book and the author, go to the series website at http://beastlydreadfuls.com.

Published by Random House for Young Readers on April 28, 2015.