App Review: The Mouse and the Meadow

THE MOUSE AND THE MEADOW by Chad Wallace is an interactive storybook app following the experiences of a mouse as he explores a meadow.

The “Read to Me” option reads aloud each page while displaying basic animation. The animated, interactive elements reinforce the story, so they aren’t distracting. Readers can follow along with the audio narration. Each word is highlighted as it’s read aloud.

The “Read to Myself” option is the same as the read aloud option, just without the audio support. Unfortunately, the font size is small and sometimes difficult to read against the colorful background.

From scary confrontations with a snake and great horned owl to quiet moments with fireflies, the storyline features believable situations and encounters among the creatures. The author skillfully weaves in nature facts making this an excellent science experience as well as an engaging story. The realistic flora and fauna contribute to the impact of the story. The colors and details of each creature are exceptional.

After reading the story, users are immersed in an informational reading experience focusing on facts and trivia about the habitat and creatures encountered in the book. They also learn about how animals communicate and help each other. Readers will also enjoy learning about the author. These special informational aspects are always available through a small icon on each page.

The book would be a wonderful addition to a collection of storybook reading apps for children.

This book is also available as a paper and electronic book. A Pop-Up App can be downloaded to go with the paper book.

To learn more about this app, go to http://www.dawnpub.com/apps/mouse-and-the-meadow-app/.

Published by Dawn Publications. Review copy courtesy of Dawn Publications.

Book Review: Lost in NYC: Subway Adventure

LOST IN NYC: A SUBWAY ADVENTURE written by Nagja Spiegelman and illustrated by Sergio García Sánchez combines an exciting urban adventure with a fascinating informational reading experience for young learners.

A TOON Graphics book, the story features a school field trip that goes awry for a member of the class when he gets lost in the subway on his way to the Empire State Building in New York City.

This beautifully illustrated book features subway maps, collages with historical photos, subway symbols, and visually stunning graphic story elements.

Spiegelman’s carefully researched children’s book contains both a realistic fiction element along with carefully researched information about the history and geography of New York City and it’s unique subway system.

Available in both English and Spanish versions, this is a must-have book for elementary libraries. Both urban dwellers and those longing to visit the city will find the authentic story and background information appealing.

This outstanding graphic work is excellent for both visual and verbal literacy activities. It’s likely to be on lots of “best of 2015” lists this year.

Download an outstanding teacher’s guide to go with the book at http://goo.gl/AKedTQ.

Published by Toon Books on April 7, 2015. ARC courtesy of Edelweiss.

Web Review: Earth Day Special Event

Celebrate EARTH DAY on Wednesday April 22. Go to the Earth Day Network at http://www.earthday.org/2015 to get started planning your event.

The “Take Action” page provides a list of ways that you can get involved by signing a climate petition, supporting environmental education, reducing energy consumption, and creating art to raise awareness. Involve students in taking the Carbon Footprint Quiz. The “Actions” page provides lists of many more ways to act.

The “Newsroom” page features news, press releases, and blogs focusing on particular environmental issues. Be sure to explore their education postings on the blog for ideas.

The “Programs” section provides year-round ideas for promoting a healthy environment. It includes a Climate Education Week toolkit for planning activities. Go directly to these materials at http://www.climateeducationweek.org/.

The “Videos” channel through YouTube provides informational and educational videos at https://www.youtube.com/user/earthdaynetwork.

Go to the Compassion Games website to explore ways to serve Earth Week through games. Go to http://compassiongames.org/lovethisplace/.

In addition to Earth Day activities, remember to celebrate Arbor Day on April 24. To learn more about this celebration of trees, go to http://www.arborday.org/celebrate/.

Book Review: Seaborne: The Lost Prince

SEABORNE: THE LOST PRINCE by Matt Myklusch is the first book in a new adventure series featuring a teen boy pirate.

More of a spy than a pirate, young Dean Seaborne is forced to work for the evil pirate king One-Eyed Jack. As an orphan, Seaborne becomes caught between two worlds as he tries to decide whether to continue his pirating ways or side with a beautiful girl from a mythical island.

The fast-paced, swashbuckling action will appeal to the tween audience. The addition of a sea dragon will expand the audience to include those who enjoy fantasy elements. The bright book cover and exciting first chapter (our hero almost gets eaten by sharks) will be a draw for reluctant readers.

Myklusch knows how to write for the tween crowd. He effectively balances description with dialogue for an engaging story. The vocabulary is rich while still being age-appropriate. The action is non-stop and the characters are also on target for youth readers. This fun adventure at sea is a great starting point for readers who enjoy the imaginative world of pirates.

Pirate adventures are a popular sub-genre with endless library promotion possibilities. Plan now for next fall’s “Take Like a Pirate Day” on September 19th. Check out the website at http://www.talklikeapirate.com. They even have a pirate-to-English translator!

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

Published by Egmont USA on April 14, 2015. Reviewed through NetGalley.

App Review: Freedom Summer and the Civil Rights Act of 1964

FREEDOM SUMMER AND THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964 app from Indiana University is an interactive learning experience focusing on the Civil Rights movement.

Users begin by watching a narrated slide show describing the circumstances surrounding Freedom Summer.

The “Timeline Interactive” presents 20 historical events to users. After each event, participants must predict the reaction to the event. Then, drag the event to the Congress or Civil Rights timeline before proceeding. Users can explore additional information including a glossary for background information before making a decision. Guidance is provided for incorrect answers. When users complete the experience, a concluding, narrated slide show discusses the legacy of Freedom Summer.

The “Biography” section features information about 20 key individuals that supported and opposed Civil Rights legislation. In addition to text, images are provided.

The “Gallery” section provides dozens of primary source images for users to explore.

While the app doesn’t provide directions, the menus and cues are enough to help navigate through the learning experience.

Librarians will want to add this app to their social studies collections. Consider creating a display focusing on Freedom Summer that contains the many fiction and nonfiction books related to this event. Add a tablet with this app that youth can explore.

For additional background information, explore the PBS American Experience: Freedom Summer program materials at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/freedomsummer/.

To download this free app, go to

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/freedom-summer-civil-rights/id893679666.

Book Review: Before Tomorrowland

BEFORE TOMORROWLAND is a prequel to the upcoming Disney film, Tomorrowland.

Written by Jeff Jensen, Jonathan Case, Brad Bird, and Damon Lindelof, this fast-paced science fiction novel introduces readers to a secret society led by scientific geniuses. Set in 1939, the group is about to reveal an amazing new world. However an evil scientist and a confused robot-human hybrid have other plans. Caught in the middle are a mother and son in New York for a science fiction convention.

Although younger readers may be confused by the wide spectrum of characters and historical references, science fiction fans will easily become immersed in the fantasy. The retro-superhero comic illustrations add to the appeal. The book also includes the 20 page comic featured in the story adding an additional dimension to the experience.

With the popularity of Disney films, this book is likely to be popular. Consider a summer library program based on the Tomorrowland theme. There are lots of social media resources ready to use. Youth who enjoy this aspect of books and movies will love these connections. To get started, go to the Tomorrowland Times website at http://www.tomorrowlandtimes.com/.

For more information about the movie, go to http://movies.disney.com/tomorrowland.

Published by Disney Press and available April 7, 2015.

Website Review: The Molecularium Project

THE MOLECULARIUM PROJECT is an educational outreach effort of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Nanotechnology Center. The website is intended to promote an interest and understanding of the molecular nature of the world in users of all ages.

Created as an online theme park, the website teaches learners about atoms and molecules through games, activities and short animations.

The NANOSPACE interactive website begins with a graphic interface with a science museum theme called the HALL OF ATOMS & MOLECULES. Background music and sounds make users feel like they’re exploring a busy museum. However, the audio feature can easily be turned off. An introductory YouTube video explains the basics of nanotechnology.

The THEATRE provides an overview of the full-length film Molecules to the Max! Then, provides users with the opportunity to watch seven short science videos.

The H20 PARK section provides a short video and activities including H20 Ferris Wheel, Who Wants to Be A Quindecillionaire and H20 Parlor.

The SIZES OF THE UNIVERSE area features Dimension Zone, Cosmic Calculations, MegaPenny Project, and Microlab to learn about size scales.

The DNA LAND includes a short DNA video, the Polypeptide Puzzler, Unravel the Chromosome, and Helix of Fortune activities.

The MATERIALS BLVD includes a short video on the topic of matter along with the What’s the Matter?, Carbon is Incredible, Periodic Memory and Polymer Chain Game.

The NANOSPACE Arcade provides access to five additional science activities including On Storm, Atomatic, Electronz, Mission to Bond, and Build ‘Em.

An EDUCATORS section provides downloadable (PDF) teacher resources for grades K-4 and 5-8. It also includes a guide with direct links to all the resources at the website for quick reference. This is very useful because students can easily miss sections when visiting the theme park interface.

This website provides a great way for librarians and science teachers to collaborate on STEM activities. Consider building a nanotechnology display in the library that includes the a laptop or tablet with the website along with books and hands-on science materials.

Visit THE MOLECULARIUM PROJECT website athttp://nanospace.molecularium.com/.

For lots of hands-on experiment ideas, go to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Molecules-to-the-MAX/263266006094

Book Review: Watch the Sky

WATCH THE SKY by Kirsten Hubbard explores the unsettling story of Jory, whose stepfather is preparing for the end of the world.

Throughout the book, Hubbard keeps readers wondering about the origin of Jory’s odd new sister and the mental state of both his parents. Will the story stick with the gritty realistic fiction tone or switch to an near-apocalyptic alien theme? The suspense holds to the very end of the book.

Readers will share Jory’s frustration with the family’s secrets and distrust of outsiders. Librarians will have a hard time categorizing this unusual novel. It’s likely to be most popular among youth who enjoy school and friendship stories with family conflicts related to mental illness. Those seeking an adventure story with a survivalist theme will be disappointed.

Published by Disney/Hyperion on April 7, 2015.

Website Review: International Dark Sky Week & International Year of Light

It’s INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY WEEK (April 13-19). The weeklong event calls attention to the negative impact of light pollution on night sky viewing. Go to the IDS Week 2015 Activity page at http://goo.gl/IehK2q.

The International Dark-Sky Association website at http://www.darksky.org/ contains information on outdoor lighting, night sky conservation, and an education section featuring lots of handouts and activity ideas.

The year 2015 is the INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF LIGHT AND LIGHT-BASED TECHNOLOGIES. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) sponsored website at http://www.light2015.org explores the importance of light as well as darkness around the world.

The website contains fascinating information organized into the following sections: why light matters, learn about light, hands-on involvement, cosmic light, light for development, and science stories.

Consider a school-wide STEM project centered in the school library. Focus on the need for both light and darkness for the health and happiness of people and wildlife around the world.

Book Review: The Tapper Twins Go to War (With Each Other)

THE TAPPER TWINS GO TO WAR (WITH EACH OTHER) by Geoff Rodkey is the first in a humorous middle grades series focusing on 12-year-old twins Claudia and Reese.

This silly, fast-paced story documents an epic sibling battle that begins when Reese calls Claudia “Princess Farts-A-Lot” in the middle of the school cafeteria. The war quickly escalates as Claudia retaliates with a dead fish in Reese’s backpack. Before long the battle moves to cyberspace and the world of MetaWorld.

Told as an oral history project, the Rodkey uses transcribed oral interviews, text messages, and chat logs to tell the story. Labelled drawings, maps, screen captures, and photographs are woven throughout the narrative providing additional evidence in the ongoing conflict.

Tween readers will enjoy the sibling banter and references to MetaWorld aka Minecraft and other popular online environments. Because Rodkey invents the social media service names like ClickChat, the books should remain more timeless than some others.

Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and other satirical realistic fiction novels will enjoy this new addition to the rapidly growing tween humor collection. Keep your eye out for the second book in the series The Tapper Twins Tear Up New York coming in Fall 2015.

To learn more about the series and the characters, go to http://www.thetappertwins.com/. There’s even an Instagram photo blog featuring photos by the twins.

Published by Little, Brown: Hachette Book Group on April 7, 2015.

Tech Review: Smokey Bear Website & App

The SMOKEY BEAR website and app provide information about how you can prevent wildfires.

Sponsored by the National Association of State Foresters, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Ad Council, the website is divided into four major sections.

The WILDFIRES! area provides information about wildfire prevention, wildfire science, and fighting wildfires. These short, fact-rich pages would be effective for informational reading experiences for children. Video clips and images add to the experience. Keep track of current wildfires with the real-time wildfire map. The website also encourages users to take the “Get Your Smokey On” pledge.

The SMOKEY’S JOURNEY section provides a timeline of Smokey’s history teaching people about reducing human-caused wildfires. Users can explore posters, memorabilia, radio and television segments from the 1940s through the 2010s.

In the SMOKEY KIDS area, youth can explore Smokey’s cabin to discover facts, activities, games, and other information.

The last section features TEACHING RESOURCES for grades K-2 and 6-8. Materials include downloadable, standards aligned lessons, mini-books, and activities. Additional links are provided for more ideas and resources.

To extend the experience, explore the social media elements at Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Flickr, and Instagram.

A Smokey Bear App is available for the mobile web, Android, and iOS. The app includes a campfire safety guide and social media links.

For more information, go to the website at http://smokeybear.com/.

Book Review: We All Looked Up

WE ALL LOOKED UP by Tommy Wallach tells the story of four high school seniors dealing with the threat of a meteor that could destroy the planet.

Told through chapters with alternating viewpoints, the story focuses on the friendships and relationships among characters rather than the meteor threat itself. Readers who enjoy lots of dialogue and teen angst will be drawn to this work of realistic school fiction with a 66.6% chance of apocalypse. However those expecting a science fiction thriller and a focus on the potential disaster will be disappointed.

This book is best suited for readers who enjoy a meandering social commentary. Young philosophers will enjoy the way each character evolves as they cope with the life-changing news that the world as they know it is over. While the book isn’t for everyone, librarians will find a niche market for it among students who seek out thought-provoking prose.

To learn more about the author or to find out about the book’s companion music album with original songs, go to http://www.tommywallach.com/books.

Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers on March 21, 2015.

App Review: Amazing World Ocean

AMAZING WORLD OCEAN is an extraordinary 3D science encyclopedia app.

This impressive experience begins with users scrolling down deep into the ocean to discover its inhabitants.

Divided into six layers including schools, coral reef, dolphins, whales, sharks, and the deep ocean, the app features information about over 50 ocean species.

Users click on the species of interest and scroll through informational pages displayed as long, multi-screen infographics. Each entry begins with an image and visual scale reference. Next, a couple paragraphs of background information is presented. While the text size is small and can’t be enlarged, high-quality, optional audio narration is provided to support reading. In some cases, creature sounds are also available.

A figure containing the length, weight, and depth of the creature is shown along with a habitat map. A series of interesting facts provide depth to the content of the page. Again, the text size is small and it’s all uppercase, but readable. Amazing 3D views make users feel like they’re swimming with the sea creatures. Finally, a gallery of photos bring the creature to life.

The outstanding illustrations and rich background music throughout add to the appeal. The setting options provides the choice to turn off the music.

With no in-app purchases or advertisements, this app would be an excellent addition to a school library collection. This reference app would appeal to all grades.

Look for AMAZING WORLD OCEAN on the “best of 2015” app lists.

Watch the amazing making of matte paint for the iPad app. Go to https://youtu.be/fTLzK3mvUVo.

Learn more at http://amazingworldapps.com/.

Developed by FourPlus Studio and distributed by Dimitar Itskov February 19, 2015.

Book Review: High Tide for Horseshoe Crabs

HIGH TIDE FOR HORSESHOE CRABS by Lisa Kahn Schnell is an informational picture book exploring the migration of horseshoe crabs to the shores of Delaware Bay.

Lisa Kahn Schnell begins each two-page spread with a short, active sentence that highlights the key idea. Next, she tells the story of coastal ecology and migration using age-appropriate details. This combination is effective for a read-aloud experience.

Designed for ages 3-7, this well-written science narrative is effective in sharing accurate scientific information as well as the passion of scientists and naturalists. The book concludes with detailed science information, a map, and additional information sources including website suggestions.

Alan Marks’ illustration beautiful illustrations combine ink lines with watercolor. The front and back endpapers contain a nicely labeled diagram of a horseshoe crab. Marks tells the story of the horseshoe crabs using the spectrum of nature colors. From shorebirds to scientists, Marks realistically portrays the story’s characters and coastal setting.

Librarians will welcome this informational picture book title into their science collections. With the themes of coastal ecology, animal migration, life cycles, and scientists-in-the-field, the book provides numerous opportunities for science standards connections.

For lots of photos of horseshoe crabs, do a Google Images search atimages.google.com.

To learn more about the author, go to http://lisakschnell.com/.
To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.marksonpaper.co.uk/.

Published by Charlesbridge April 14, 2015.

Website Review: Find Your Park

FINDYOURPARK is a website focusing public awareness on the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016.

Developed by the National Park Service and National Park Foundation along with many corporate sponsors, the website helps users find, share, and support parks.

The “Find a Park Experience” area helps users learn about parks of interest and features experiences that are possible at particular parks. Users begin by taking a quiz to determine their interests. They’re asked whether they want to experience history, learn new things, go exploring, or make a difference. The next questions are based on their answer to the first question. For those not able to travel to parks, virtual experiences are provided. Users can also watch videos and read about featured parks. A map is provided for further exploration of particular areas. Use this website as part of a writing activity to get youth thinking about places they’d like to explore.

The “Share Your Story” section encourages users to share their thoughts about parks through a song, photo, painting, poem, dance, video or any other approach. The Centennial Project is a contest to find and celebrate the top 100 stories. Consider a National Park theme for your library during the 2015-2016 school year. Get teachers and students started thinking about possible projects for next year.

The “Support Your Park” area features ways that people of all ages can get involved with the National Parks by joining community activities or volunteering. The “Every Kid in a Park” initiative will provide the opportunity for every 4th grader in the United States to experience public lands for free during the 2015-2016 school year.

To learn more, go to http://www.findyourpark.com/.

Book Review: Kangaroo to the Rescue!

KANGAROO TO THE RESCUE! by Moira Rose Donahue is the latest in the AMAZING ANIMAL HEROES CHAPTERS series from National Geographic Kids.

The book features three true stories featuring animals. First, Lulu the Kangaroo saves her human friend after an accident. Next, when Maggie the dog goes blind, her dog companion Pilot becomes her guide dog. Finally, three pigs named Dasiey, Lulu and Buttercup come to the rescue.

Each story includes three, short, fast-paced chapters. Appealing photographs of the real animals from the stories add to the drama. “Did You Know” fact boxes and full-page, spotlights on key topics help readers understand the context of the story. In addition, pronunciation is provided for difficult vocabulary.

Informational reading experiences are an important element of the Common Core. The CHAPTERS series is an effective way to address nonfiction reading needs.

The animal stories will appeal to both boys and girls. Beyond animal rescues, librarians will find many other “More True Stories” topics in the CHAPTERS series to keep children interested in reading.

For more National Geographic resources for kids, go to http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/.

Book Review: P. Zonka Lays An Egg

P. ZONKA LAYS AN EGG by Julie Paschkis tells the charming story of a daydreaming chicken who lays a spectacular egg.

The other hens in the chicken yard can’t figure out why their friend spends her time observing the natural world rather than laying eggs, so they’re shocked when one day she lays a beautifully designed, multicolored egg.

Designed for ages 3 through 7, Paschkis’ colorful folk art style inspired by Ukrainian eggs designs will appeal to young readers. The simple, easy-to-understand picture book story focusing on the value of creativity and the beauty of nature will be appreciated by readers of all ages.

The book is a great addition to the library’s collection of Spring and Easter-themed books. Librarians will find the publisher “event kit” useful for promoting the book. Go to http://peachtree-online.com/pdfs/PZonkaEventKit.pdf.

To learn more about the Ukrainian egg designs, go to http://www.pysanky.info.

To enjoy the White House Easter Egg Roll, go to https://www.whitehouse.gov/EasterEggRoll/

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

Published by Peachtree Publishers on March 1, 2015.

Book Review: Reality Check in Detroit

REALITY CHECK IN DETROIT by Roy MacGregor is the latest in the Screech Owl hockey mystery-adventure series for middle grades.

The Screech Owls are a local hockey team in a small Canadian community. In their latest adventure, the team has been invited to star in a reality TV show in Detroit. After the initial excitement wears off, they realize that stardom may not be worth the sacrifices to their team and their friendships. Where do the lies end and the authentic reality begin?

For the past 20 years, MacGregor has written engaging adventures for young hockey fans. The mystery stories are told through the eyes of the team captain, Travis Lindsay. The 26 books are available individually or in collected volumes of 4 books. Readers seeking sports fiction focusing on team building and friendships will enjoy this series.

Librarians will find that the fast-paced, easy-to-follow stories are great for reluctant readers. The storylines have a nice balance of live hockey sequences with team drama and light-hearted banter. Librarians don’t need to worry about having all the books in hand. Although the team members carry over from book to book, each book stands on its own. The plots revolve around real places and events or universal themes.

To learn more about the series, go to http://www.screechowls.com/.

Published by Tundra, February 2015.

Website Review: Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)

For two decades, the PURDUE ONLINE WRITING LAB (OWL) has been providing hundreds of free resources for students.

Sponsored by the English Department at Purdue University, this online resource includes the areas of writing and teaching writing; research; grammar and mechanics; style guides; ESL; and job search and professional writing.

Tutorials of particular note include their APA and MLA style guides, ideas for avoiding plagiarism, business letter writing tool, and instructions for developing an effective resume.

The “Purdue OWL Vidcasts” connect to a YouTube channel providing dozens of short, instructional videos on topics such as writing, citation styles, rhetoric, and grammar.

Although some resources are designed specifically for Purdue students, the majority of materials are intended for all users.

A keyword search tool provides quick access to useful resources. The “Site Map” provides easy access to a master list of topics and links.

To learn more, go to the OWL website at https://owl.english.purdue.edu/.

Book Review: The Tightrope Walkers

THE TIGHTROPE WALKERS by David Almond is the coming-of-age story of a boy torn between two very different friendships in the mid-20th century. While Holly represents artist freedom, Vincent reflects the wild, violent side of life.

Based on the memories of the author growing up in northern England, this work of realistic fiction is told through very short chapters making it a quick read. The well-developed characters, use of local dialects, and authentic settings add to the appeal. Although technically a work of historical fiction, the story transcends time.

From beauty and creativity to violence and death, Almond’s exploration of both the dark and light side of everyday life make this book special. The novel’s many metaphors and other literary elements make it an excellent book for young adult discussions. However because of the mature themes this book is not designed for children.

Published by Candlewick Press in March 2015.

Web Review: Google's April Fool's Day Jokes

Each year Google introduces a unique April Fool’s Day joke. Go to Google at http://google.com to join in the fun. Can you find the joke?

Need a hint? 
Go to https://com.google/ 
Go to https://www.google.com/maps and click the PacMan icon.
Go to https://youtu.be/XTTtkisylQw

Let’s explore some Google jokes from past years. These are a great way to introduce youth to the hazards (and also fun) of fake websites.

Google Gulp - http://www.google.com/googlegulp/
Google's PigeonRank - http://www.google.com/technology/pigeonrank.html
Google Romance - http://www.google.com/romance/
Gmail Mail - https://www.gmail.com/mail/help/paper/index.html
Google Emojify the Web - https://youtu.be/G3NXNnoGr3Y
Google Chromecast - https://youtu.be/IpT1787EjbE
Gmail Custom Time - https://www.gmail.com/mail/help/customtime/
Gmail Autopilot - https://www.gmail.com/mail/help/autopilot/index.html
Google Nose - https://www.google.com/intl/en/landing/nose/
Google Motion - https://www.gmail.com/mail/help/motion.html
Google Comic Sans - http://www.google.com/landing/csfe/
Google Treasure Map Mode - https://youtu.be/_qFFHC0eIUc

Youth need to distinguish fact from fiction from fake. Unfortunately, most students aren't very concerned about accuracy, they're simply seeking an answer to a question or a funny photo to share on Instagram. Get them interested in asking themselves about accuracy. Student should ask themselves:
What questions do I have about the content?
How would I find out if it's real or fake?

For more fun, go to Wikipedia’s list of Google Hoaxes and Easter Eggs at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Google_hoaxes_and_easter_eggs

Book Review: Shadow Scale

SHADOW SCALE by Rachel Hartman is the sequel to the popular dragon vs humans fantasy SERAPHINA.

In the first book, Seraphina discovers her true identity as half-dragon, half-human. In this gripping followup, Seraphina goes on a quest to gather together other half-breeds with the hope of bringing peace to a world at war. However, she comes to realize that dark forces are against her and many would like to see both dragons and humans destroyed.

The refined characters, intricate world-building, and multi-layered backstory make this a much more sophisticated fantasy novel than many other young adult works. Although some readers will enjoy the details, others may find that the detail slows down the story.

Hartman’s amazing descriptions of Seraphina’s mental garden are a unique and compelling alternative to telepathic communication found in many other books featuring dragons.

Readers who enjoy dragon fantasy will be impressed by both the first book as well as the sequel. However, librarians should keep in mind that this is a young adult novel rather than a middle grades fantasy. The elaborate world-building and multitude of characters may not appeal to readers looking for a fast-paced fantasy and the complexity may be overwhelming for younger children.

Fans who have been waiting to return to the kingdom of Goredd will enjoy revisiting their favorite characters and meeting new half-dragons. The two books were intended to be a duet with a clear ending, so don’t expect to revisit this kingdom again unless the author explores a different facet of the world.

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

Published by Random House on March 15, 2015.

Website Review: Poets.org

April is National Poetry Month. The POETS.ORG website sponsored by the Academy of American Poets is a wonderful website to feature during this month-long celebration.

The “Dear Poet” multimedia education project for grades five through twelve is a letter writing contest specifically for National Poetry Month. Students watch video-recorded poetry readings, then respond in the form of a letter. To learn more, go to http://www.poets.org/national-poetry-month/dear-poet.

The “Browse Poems & Poets” section of the website provides access to thousand of biographies of poets and poems, essays, and books related to poetry. Users can browse by poem, poet, text, book, or audio. For youth working on projects, students can search for poems by occasion, schools & movements, or forms. Featured poems and poets can get students started. The audio section is particularly useful to young poets learning about the cadence of poetry. Readers can listen to poems like The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost read aloud. Links allow users to share their favorite poems through social media or print them out.

The “Poem-a-Day” feature providers readers with an unpublished poem throughout the week and classic poems on weekends. Consider highlighting new poetry on a bulletin board during the month of April.

The “Materials for Teachers” section provides dozens of standards-aligned lesson plans for primary and secondary levels. In addition, the area includes thoughts on teaching poetry and additional resources.

The “Stanza: Updates” area is a blog highlighting new resources and events.

To explore POETS.ORG, go to http://www.poets.org.

To extend the National Poetry Month experience, try some of the resources provided at Reading Rockets at http://www.readingrockets.org/calendar/poetry.

Book Review: Breaking Sky

BREAKING SKY by Cori McCarthy is a fast-paced, science fiction adventure focusing on an elite military program and a hotshot teen pilot testing an experimental jet.

It’s 2048 and America is on the verge of war. Chase is among a select group of daredevil pilots at the United Star Academy flying the “Streaker”, a top-secret prototype jet designed for teen pilots. The strong female protagonist and eclectic cast of characters will appeal to both male and female readers.

McCarthy’s skillful mix of heart-pounding fight sequence descriptions with authentic military comrade dialogue fit perfectly with the book’s themes. The cinematic writing style and non-stop action will appeal to the video game generation.

Librarians and young adult readers alike will immediately see connections to books like Ender’s Game and movies like Top Gun. The futuristic military theme will be popular with fans of dystopian science fiction. The hint of romance and family drama will add to the appeal.

This young adult novel has been optioned by Sony Pictures as a movie, so this title will be popular for awhile. It’s likely that Breaking Sky will kickstart renewed interest in the military, science fiction thriller sub-genre.

Learn more about the author at http://www.corimccarthy.com/.

Published by Sourcebook Fire on March 10, 2015.

Book Review: The Imaginary

THE IMAGINARY by A.F. Harrold is an entertaining middle-grades fantasy about imaginary friends.

In most novels, the imaginary friend plays the side-kick, but this isn’t the case in THE IMAGINARY. While his human playmate is in the hospital, Rudger takes center stage as an imaginary companion struggling to stay strong and avoid the evil Mr. Bunting.

Harrold’s rich language and quirky writing style will be attractive for many tween readers. Emily Gravett’s amazing, full-color artwork contribute to the appeal of this beautifully presented book.

Harrold’s work has been aptly compared to Neil Gaiman and Roald Dahl. Librarians will find the mix of eerie suspense with lighthearted humor a popular combination with tween readers.

For information about this amazing author and poet, go to http://afharrold.tumblr.com/.

For a website designed specifically for kids, go to http://www.afharroldkids.com/. The website contains videos and an image gallery related to the book.

Published by Bloomsbury Kids by March 2015.