Book Review: Nightmare Escape

NIGHTMARE ESCAPE by Greg Grunberg and Lucas Turnbloom is the first book in the exciting new Dream Jumper graphic novel for middle grades.

Like all kids, Ben has nightmares. What makes Ben unique is that his nightmares are real and he’s able to jump into the dreams of others. When his girlfriend is caught in an endless nightmare, Ben must defeat the nightmare monster with a little help from a talking rabbit. The book’s conclusion is satisfying, but leaves many questions unanswered and ready for the next book in this engaging series.

Librarian will find this graphic novel series popular among children who enjoy fantasy and adventure. The book’s high-quality, full-color illustration will add to the appeal. Build a library display featuring GRAPHIX titles to feature this new addition to the this popular collection. Or ,create a “nightmare” display featuring books connected to dreams and nightmares.

Published by GRAPHIX, an imprint of Scholastic on June 28, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story

NINE, TEN: A SEPTEMBER 11 STORY by Nora Baskin tells the thought-provoking story of the widespread impact of the 9/11 tragedy.

Told through the eyes of four children living in different part of the United States, this fascinating middle grade novel examines the day leading up to September 11, 2001 and the aftermath. Reflecting different backgrounds, races, religions, and personal challenges, each child experiences the 9/11 tragedy in a distinct way. As the chapters alternate among characters, the author skillfully weaves the lives of these four youth into a larger story that reflect the nation’s reactions to this tragedy.

While other novels may explore characters who were directly impacted by 9/11, Baskin chose to focus on the larger impact of the event on ordinary, young citizens making the novel relevant to a children across North America.

Librarians will find this work of realistic fiction an excellent way to immerse middle grade readers in the events surrounding 9/11/2001. Pair it with the many works of nonfiction available on this historical event.

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

Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon and Schuster on June 28, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.