Book Review: The Seventh Wish

THE SEVENTH WISH by Kate Messner blends everyday life with a wish-giving fish.

When ice fishing, Charlie catches a fish that exchanges wishes for its freedom. Even though the results of her wish don’t go as expected, Charlie decides to try again. Over time, she comes to realize that wishes can’t solve life’s most complicated problems.

Librarians will find this middle grade novel popular among children who enjoy magical realism. Dealing with drug addiction and other tough family problems, the story deals with serious social issues. However, the author is effective in weaving in humor and magical elements that add fun and warm to the story.

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

Published by Bloomsbury on June 7, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Hour of Bees

HOUR OF BEES by Lindsay Eagar is a poignant, multi-generational, coming-of-age story set in the New Mexican desert.

While her friends are enjoying the summer, Carolina is visiting her grandfather’s ranch in the desert. In this desolate setting, Carolina gains a new perspective on her family heritage and connections with the land through her grandfather’s stories.

Aimed at middle school youth, librarians will find an audience among children who enjoy realistic fiction along with a touch of magical realism. Fans of Pam Muñoz Ryan and Laura Resau are likely to enjoy the connections to Mexican cultural heritage. Multi-generational themes have been popular this year and this title is an outstanding example.

Published by Candlewick on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez

THE MIDNIGHT WAR OF MATEO MARTINEZ by Robin Yardi tells the captivating story of a boy who encounters anthropomorphic skunks in his neighborhood.

When two talking skunks steal his old trike, Mateo, his little sister Mila, and his friend Ashwin must work together to figure out what’s happening in their neighborhood late at night.

This story about friendship and family will appeal to middle grade readers who enjoy a bit of magical realism in their stories.

Librarians will find this quick-read to be popular wth a wide range of readers. The animal and medieval themes along with the fast-paced approach will particularly appeal to boys and reluctant readers.

Although not a focal point of the story, Mateo’s concerns about language and his Mexican-American heritage make this book a useful entry into the library’s diversity collection. It’s also refreshing to find an Indian-American character.

A discussion guide, bookmark, and activity ideas are available at the author’s website.

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

Published by Carolrhoda Books, an imprint of Lerner. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Lightning Queen

THE LIGHTNING QUEEN by Laura Resau tells the captivating story of a friendship that bridges the Rom and the Mexico Indian cultures.

In this poignant story that weaves together historical and contemporary tales, an old man shares with his grandson the story of growing up in the remote mountains of Mexico and his encounters with a young gypsy girl. Inspired by true stories, this fascinating multi-cultural tale of friendship will draw readers into the world of mid-20th century Mexico.

Librarians will find that fans of both historical and contemporary fiction will enjoy the bridge between the past and the present as well as between the cultures. With a hint of romance and magic, this fast-paced novel is a good choice for readers seeking stories focusing on the topics of cultural diversity and friendship.

The book’s end notes along with the author’s website provide excellent background information and resources for teachers.

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

Published by Scholastic on October 27, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Emperor of Any Place

THE EMPEROR OF ANY PLACE by Tim Wynne-Jones tells the engrossing, multi-generational story of family relationships and survival during war.

After his father dies, Evan’s estranged grandfather comes to visit opening family secrets reaching back to World War II. At the heart of the story lies the truth behind a soldier’s diary. With elements of magical realism, readers will become immersed in conflicts both past and present.

The author’s use of dual storylines will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Librarians will find a broad readership for this story that includes those who enjoy realistic fiction with hits of fantasy, multi-generational mysteries, as well as young history buffs.

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

Published by Candlewick October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.