Book Review: Burn Baby Burn

BURN BABY BURN by Meg Medina connects the everyday life of a Cuban-American teen with well-known historical events of the seventies.

In the summer of 1977, Nora is a typical teen living in New York City. However, her life is forever changed through a series of events that besiege her city including arson, a blackout, and a serial killer known as Son of Sam on the loose. Like the city, Nora’s brother is about to explode and Nora must survive dangers around every turn.

From domestic violence to societal unrest, Medina brings the late 1977s to life for teen readers. While librarians often find a small audience for historical fiction, the authentic situations and strong, coming-of-age story will appeal to many teen readers. From movie references to disco tunes, both librarians and young adults will enjoy the many references to 70s culture.

Be sure to add this title to your diversity list and your growing collection of history stories set in the 1970s.

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

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

Book Review: Follow Me! Animal Parents and Babies

FOLLOW ME! ANIMAL PARENTS AND BABIES by Shira Evans is part of the National Geographic Kids Super Reader series.

This series includes books for pre-readers through fluent readers. This Level 1: Co-reader book is intended for parents, adults, or older children to read with younger children. An icon indicates what “you read” and what “I read”. Chapters focus on finding food, movement, habitat, and using tools. At the end of each chapter, readers are given a task to think about or a problem to solve.

Librarians know that animal babies books are always popular. What makes this book particularly useful is the collaborative reading option. Consider using this book and other Level 1 co-reader books as part of a school-wide buddy reading program where older children read with younger children.

Published by National Geographic on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Technology Review: Fuel Economy

FUEL ECONOMY is a U.S. government website and app focusing on fuel economy information.

Whether comparing the fuel efficiency of cars or learning about hybrids, this website full of useful information. Users can find and compare cars, learn how to save money and fuel, find out about the importance of fuel economy, calculate fuel economy, explore hybrids and electric vehicles, learn about EPA ratings, and more.

The Find-a-car app helps users compare fuel-efficient vehicles by providing fuel cost estimates, safety ratings, and other information.

Librarians will find many curriculum connections for this website and app. From a science perspective, the resources provides information about alternative fuel sources and how cars consume fuel. For math connections, explore the fuel savings calculator, vehicle cost calculator, and data sets. Think about interdisciplinary projects that connect STEM activities with informational reading and financial planning. Teens love cars, so this website and app is an excellent way to motivate young adult and connect them with real-world problems and solutions.

To visit the website, go to http://www.fueleconomy.gov/.
To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/find-a-car/id1045746520.

Book Review: Stranded on Planet Strip Mall

STRANDED ON PLANET STRIP MALL by Tom Angleberger is the first chapter book in the new Rocket and Groot trilogy for middle grade readers.

Rocket Raccoon and his giant plant sidekick Groot have crash landed on a planet that’s a giant strip mall. Filled with slapstick comedy, this unlikely duo face raccoon-eating toilets, bizarre robots, and other strange shopping related hazards. This wacky adventure features non-stop action for fans of silliness and the galaxy’s most dangerous super intelligent tape dispenser.

Librarians will find fans of Angleberger’s Origami Yoda books flocking for this new science fiction trilogy. The book will appeal to reluctant readers who enjoy the varied fonts and small chunks of text interwoven with simple artwork. With the popularity of the Guardians of the Galaxy comics and movies, this title with be popular with younger readers who want to feel connected to this media franchise.

Published by Disney-Marvel on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: The Roaring Twenties

THE ROARING TWENTIES is an interactive exploration of the historical soundscape of New York City through primary source documents.

This engaging multimedia project immerses users in the sounds of New York City in the 1920s through three themes: sound, space, and time.

The Introduction discusses the the time period and the primary source materials used as the basis for the website. These include the text of noise complaints, news reel footage, maps, and other historical materials.

The Sound section features sources of city noise including traffic, transportation, building operation, homes, streets, harbor/river, collection deliveries, and miscellaneous. Each category includes specific text and video examples of noises and complaints.

The Space section provides a clickable map of New York City. Users can explore primary source documents and watch video footage related to city noise.

The Time section contains a clickable timeline that can be used to explore noise complaints, videos, news, and other information.

The Info section provides access to background information about the three themes along with links to additional resources.
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Librarians will find this website to be an fascinating way for youth to immerse themselves in this time period while learning about the usefulness of primary sources in research. Partner with both English and History teachers to immerse young adults in this time period.

To visit the website, go to http://vectorsdev.usc.edu/NYCsound/777b.html.

Book Series Review: Mission Rescue

The MISSION RESCUE series from National Geographic is intended to inspire young people to learn about endangered animals and how they can be saved.

MISSION SHARK RESCUE begins by exploring the threats facing sharks. Then, each chapter explores some aspect of sharks including their role as predators, their habitat, life cycle, physical characteristics, and connection with humans. Stories, facts, photos, and rescue activities and challenges are woven through the book to keep readers engaged.

MISSION PANDA RESCUE examines the reasons why pandas are endangered. The six chapters explore the panda’s habitat, characteristics, families, and relationship with people. The many photographs and other visuals bring these animals to life. Interesting stories, interviews, facts, and activities help generate reader interest in saving these adorable creatures.

The series also includes titles focusing on lions, wolves, polar bears, elephants, tigers, and sea turtles.

Librarians will find that this series appeals to animals lovers as well as children who enjoy nature, the environment, and social change. Students who enjoy biographies will like the many one-page interviews woven through the books. The focus on photographs, infographics, and small blocks of text will be of interest to nonfiction fans.

Published by National Geographic Children’s Books on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Federal Student Aid

FEDERAL STUDENT AID from the U.S. Department of Education features sources to help students seeking grants, loans, and work-study funds for college or career school.

The website is divided into five sections.

The Prepare for College section takes teens through the process of defining goals, thinking about college costs, and planning for college.

The Types of Aid section explores funding ideas from the U.S. federal government, states, colleges, and nonprofit or provide organizations.

The Who Gets Aid section discusses issues related to eligibility for federal student aid programs.

The FAFSA: Applying for Aid section takes teens step-by-step through the process of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The How to Repay Your Loans section helps teens understand the process of choosing a repayment plan and avoiding problems.

The website is available in both English and Spanish. A search tool is provided for those wishing to search the website. A glossary in the About section defines key terminology. Use the social media links for up-to-date information including short, financial aid-related videos.

Librarians will find this to be an excellent resource for students preparing for college. Work with the school counselor to set up a display that features useful books, pamphlets, and other information along with key websites.

To visit the website, go to https://studentaid.ed.gov/

Technology Review: Ninja Kitchen

NINJA KITCHEN is a fast-paced, food safety learning game.

Published by New Mexico State’s Learning Games Lab, the interactive helps middle school youth learn about safe food handling skills. Users learn food safety practices and how to prevent food borne illness. As students play the game, they must make decisions about prepping high-risk foods, safe cooking temperatures, and cleaning their workspace.

Ninja master Sensei takes students through a series of levels as they serve customers. Early in the game users learn about the importance of washing their hands and avoiding food contamination. As they work their way through the levels, players learn increasingly complex skills and concepts related to safe food preparation. The music and sounds effects can be turned on and off by users. Players receive money that can be used to purchase items at the store. They also receive rewards that are featured in the Trophy Room.

Librarians will find that this addictive restaurant game is an excellent way to teach the principles of food safety. Work with teachers to create a display that includes food safety books and other activities.

To access the online game, go to http://ninjakitchengame.org/

Book Review: You Were Here

YOU WERE HERE by Cori McCarthy tells the riveting tale of a group of teens on a graduation night quest.

On the fifth anniversary of her brother’s death, Jaycee revisits the playground where he died and decides to recreate his daredevil stunt. Caught in the act by her friends, the group sets out on an adventure to recreate Jake’s stunts. Told in alternating chapters through the eyes of Jaycee and her friends, readers are immersed in the lives of young adults coming-of-age.

What makes this title particularly compelling is the unusual ways characters expresses their story. For instance, some characters use visuals rather than narrative. While Bishop shares graffiti, Mik speaks through works of sequential art. These nontraditional approaches add engaging layers to the story.

Librarians will find that McCarthy’s writing style will appeal to young adult readers. The fast-paced plot will keep teens engaged from beginning to end. With a hint of romance, this contemporary story will appeal to most youth who enjoy realistic fiction. The strong character development and intriguing story make it one of the best picks of the season season.

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

Published by Sourcebooks Fire on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Ideas Are All Around

IDEAS ARE ALL AROUND by Philip C. Stead tells the uplifting story of finding inspiration in everyday activities.

This charming picture book tells the story of an author who seeks writing ideas while walking his dog and talking with a neighbor. The simple story highlights the value of getting outdoors and interacting with others. While younger children will enjoy the whimsical story, older readers will appreciate the everyday places that can spark creativity.

Librarians will find something for everyone in this imaginative picture book. Connect with the physical education teacher to encourage students to use outdoor adventures as the source for writing inspiration. Work with the art teacher to arouse creativity through combining outdoor digital photography with other forms of art. Use this powerful book to jumpstart classroom writing activities.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to https://philipstead.com/.

Published by Roaring Brooke Press, an imprint of Macmillan on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: When Green Becomes Tomatoes

WHEN GREEN BECOMES TOMATOES: POEMS FOR ALL SEASONS by Julie Fogliano uses forty-eight short poems to tell the story of a year.

The combination of Fogliano’s delicate, rhythmic voice with Morstad’s cheerful illustrations create a pleasing atmosphere for children to explore poetry. Most children will relate to the author’s exploration of everyday activities during each season.

Libraries will find this attractive picture book to be an enticing addition to the growing number of poetry books focusing on the seasons. Use it as a way to jumpstart student writing projects that explore the connection between nature and the human experience. The book features specific dates during the year. Ask students to write their own poems to fill in the gaps.

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Ology

The OLOGY website has been providing engaging science activities for youth for over 15 years.

Sponsored by the American Museum of Natural History, the web-based learning environment explores fourteen different topics including anthropology, archaeology, astronomy, biodiversity, brain, climate change, earth, genetics, marine biology, microbiology, paleontology, physics, water, and zoology.

Users can complete dozens of activities including games, stories, hands-on activities, and videos. By registering at the website, students can collect Ology cards hidden throughout the project.

The Ology for Educators section provides free, research based curriculum materials connected with Earth, life, and physical science content for K-12 students.

Librarians will find this amazing website to be an excellent opportunity to immerse youth in science. Use the website in a learning center focusing on one of the ology topics. Include books and materials in the station to support the hands-on activities. Change topics every couple weeks for a year-long science experience in your library.

To visit the website, go to http://www.amnh.org/explore/ology.

Book Review: Will's Words

WILL’S WORDS: HOW WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE CHANGED THE WAY YOU TALK by Jane Sutcliffe is an informational picture book explore the impact of Shakespeare on the English language.

Designed for intermediate grade students, the book begins with a letter from the author explaining that the focus of the book is on Shakespeare’s fascinating words and phrases. This beautifully illustrated picture book immerses readers in the time period, while weaving Shakespeare’s famous words into the narrative. Phrases like “too much of a good thing” and “wild-goose chase” are a couple examples of the many words made famous by this famous playwright. The book features sidebars containing Shakespeare’s words, their meaning, and where they can be found in his work. The book concludes with a second letter from the author, a timeline, and a bibliography.

Librarians will find this book to be a fun and engaging way to introduce young readers to Shakespeare’s world and his love of wordplay. Place the book in a learning center along with other books about Shakespeare, online resources, and a hands-on activity involving his famous phrases.

Learn more about the author at http://www.janesutcliffe.com/.
Learn more about the illustrator at http://www.jshelley.com/.

Published by Charlesbridge on March 22, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Technology Review: Poetry

The POETRY app and website provides easy access to hundreds of well-known classic and contemporary poets and their poems.

Developed by The Poetry Foundation, the resource provides the poem along with information about the poet, links, and other materials. Users can search or browse poems and poets by categories including subjects, occasions, holidays, poetic terms, school/period, poet’s region, and poet’s birthdate. Features including articles, audios, and video.

A Learning Lab area of the website contains resources for teachers including poems, articles, lesson ideas, essays, and a glossary. A Children’s Poetry area features children’s poetry, articles, children’s video, and information about youth poetry projects. Of particular interest is the Young People’s Poet Laureate Jacqueline Woodson’s page.

The app provides easy access to poems and a way to save favorites.

Librarians will find this to be an easy-to-use website and app for youth. Teachers can easily connect the themes to classroom activities. The app’s mood feature will get students thinking about how poetry connects with emotions like optimism, boredom, disappointment, and joy.

To visit the website, go to http://www.poetryfoundation.org/
To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/poetry-from-the-poet…/id370143863.

Book Review: The Steep and Thorny Way

THE STEEP AND THORNY WAY by Cat Winter is a thought-provoking historical mystery set in the 1920s.

Hanalee is a biracial teen struggling to identify the truth behind her father’s death in an era of prejudice and racial violence.

Librarians will immediately see parallels to Hamlet making this title popular with English teachers. Look for an audience among youth who enjoy historical fiction, but also those who like connections with Shakespearean themes. The plot’s many twists and turns will make this young adult novel popular with youth who enjoy mysteries and ghost stories.

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

Publisher by Abrams Kids on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Technology Review: Radio Lab

RADIO LAB is a website and app containing engaging podcasts on topics related to science, philosophy, and the human experience.

Although these audio programs can be heard on the radio, users are increasingly accessing the content through the program website. The resource is divided into three sections: listen, read, and watch.

The Listen section provides access to the latest podcasts along with a link to the Episode Archive. For each hour-long episode, users can view an image and read an overview of the program. Users can also explore recommended links to extend the experience. The podcast page provides options to listen online, add the episode to a playlist, download the program, embed the program, or make comments. Related podcasts are also suggested.

The Read section provides a blog focusing on recent episodes. These short articles often include images, video clips, and web links to extend the experience.

The Watch section features interesting and sometimes amazing videos along with articles that discuss the topic.

The app allows users to listen to the podcasts, read the show blogs, and access the same content as the website.

Although the programs are aimed at a general audience, they contain information of interest to older children and young adults. A wide range of topics are available from sports and politics to environmental and social issues.

Librarians will find this website an excellent tool for promoting auditory literacy and supporting informational reading activities. The short programs would be an effective way to kick off a research project. Ask students to listen or read a program, write research questions, and conduct their own inquiry using the program as a starting point.

Use the podcasts with student researchers who have reading challenges. Audio can also be an excellent format for other youth with special needs.

To visit the website, go to http://www.radiolab.org/
To download the app, go to http://www.radiolab.org/mobile/.

Book Review: On The Edge of Gone

ON THE EDGE OF GONE by Corinne Duyvis is a young adult, suspenseful science fiction novel told through the eyes of an autistic teen.

With a comet headed to Earth, rich (or useful) people have found permanent shelter underground or reserved space on a space going off-planet. However, a vast majority of the world’s population is stuck in temporary shelter and must find a way to survive. Will Denise and her family survive on Earth or will they find a way onto one of the generation ships?

As an autistic woman, the author is able to draw on her personal experiences to create a complex, realistic lead character.

Librarians will find that this apocalyptic novel is a step above the norm. With fully developed characters and a non-stop survival theme, readers will be thinking about the novel long after its conclusion. The diverse cast and powerful, thought-provoking story appeal to a wide range of young adult readers. However, some readers may shy away from its length.

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

Published by Abrams Kids on March 8, 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.

Website Review: Ancient History Encyclopedia

ANCIENT HISTORY ENCYCLOPEDIA is an online encyclopedia with an educational mission.

Focusing on all aspects of the Ancient World, the nonprofit website provides short, interactive articles similar to Wikipedia. Articles contain a bibliography, legal notice, and additional resources to explore. There are many ways to access information. Users can use their search tool or index to locate people, places, and objects. The timeline allows users to search by date or keyword in particular categories such as “Arts & Culture” or “Rulers & Politics”. Interactive maps of the Ancient World, Roman Empire and others help youth explore areas of interest by time period. The Explore option lets students to explore regions of the world. Users can also search the video and image indexes.

Beyond the encyclopedia, the website also provides engaging articles related to travel and culture. Interviews provide interesting insights into people and places. Articles about exhibitions and education are also available.

Librarians will find the website to be an exciting way to engage youth in topics related to Ancient History. Although the website contains ads, they can be removed with a membership that supports the non-profit.

The website’s collaboration feature is a great way to get teachers and students involved with making contributions. Users can submit definitions, illustrations, articles, book reviews, timeline entries, videos, and web links.

Consider the interdisciplinary possibilities of the website. For instance, a Latin dictionary would be useful for language students. The Measurement Conversions page allows users to convert modern measures to Egyptian, Roman, or Greek measures. Think about ways to connect history with mathematics.

To visit the website, go to http://www.ancient.eu/.

Book Review: The Greatest Zombie Movie Ever

THE GREATEST ZOMBIE MOVIE EVER by Jeff Strand is a quirky young adult novel celebrating horror film-making.

Although Justin’s previous horror films haven’t done the greatest on YouTube, he’s hoping that his latest zombie adventure will be a hit. Unfortunately, everything doesn’t go as planned and his movie is a disaster. However with a little creativity and he’s able to turn his zombie movie into something unique.

Strand’s engaging brand of humor and many movie references will attract teens who enjoy the idea of making a movie.

Librarians will find this title appeals to a niche audience who enjoy Strand and his approach. Keep in mind that this title isn’t a zombie horror, instead it’s a friendship story about a teen’s quest to make a movie. Look for an audience among youth who like quirk humor and movies.

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

Published by Sourcebooks Fire on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.