Book Review: My Washington DC

MY WASHINGTON DC by Kathy Jakobsen is a visually rich picture book exploring the key features of this important US city.

The story follows Becky and her friend Martin as they explore the many interesting sights of this capitol city. The detailed illustrations and informational text bring the locations alive for children.

Of particular note is the illustrator’s use of the book’s borders to embed interesting artifacts and visual information. The book concludes with a reader’s challenge that asks readers to spot details woven throughout the book.

Librarians will find the book to be an excellent addition to their social studies collection. Consider an assignment that connects the book with Google Maps to explore the buildings of Washington DC.

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

Published by Little, Brown, an imprint of Hachette on September 6, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Some Kind of Courage

SOME KIND OF COURAGE by Dan Gemeinhart is a endearing historical fiction adventure for middle grade readers.

Set in the state of Washington, the gripping story immerses readers in frontier life. After his guardian sells his beloved pony, Joseph sets off on a quest to find and buy back the last tie to his family. Along the way, he’s joined by an Chinese boy, lives through a bear attack, nearly drowns in river rapids, shoots an outlaw, and finds a new home. Throughout his journey, Joseph shows courage and stays true to himself.

Gemeinhart’s conversational writing style and fast-paced approach will be popular with a wide range of readers.

This authentic work of historical fiction will be a hit with children who enjoy Old West adventure, animal stories, and the great outdoors. Fans of Gary Paulsen and Will Hobbs will be clamoring for this book.

Librarians will find this middle grade novel to be popular among youth seeking both frontier adventure and a compelling story.

Learn more about the author at http://dangemeinhart.com/.

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

Book Review: Paper Wishes

PAPER WISHES by Lois Sepahban tells the heartbreaking story of a family sent to a Japanese-American relocation camp during World War II.

Ten-year-old Manami and her dog lead a happy life in Washington until her family is uprooted and imprisoned in a California camp called Manzanar far from home. Manami is deeply affected by her missing dog and refuses to speak. The love of her family and a compassionate teacher keep hope alive.

The author’s moving story and simple, vivid descriptions of camp life bring this tragic piece of American history alive for middle grade readers.

Librarians will find this work of historical fiction to be an excellent addition to their growing collection focusing on World War II Japanese internment camps. An author’s note provides background information about this tragic chapter of American history.

The short length of the book will make it popular among intermediate readers looking for a “skinny book” to read.

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

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan on January 5, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.