Book Review: Longbow Girl

LONGBOW GIRL by Linda Davies is the first book in an exciting time-travel adventure trilogy.

Merry lives in the mountains of Wales where she’s the latest in a long line of archers. When she stumbles upon an old book in the woods and discovers an underground river into the past, Merry must use her archery skills to save her ancestral land.

With lots of action, intrigue, and hint of romance, librarians will easily find an audience for this engaging mystery fantasy. Many young adults will be attracted to the Welsh setting, strong female lead, and autocratic kingdom of King Henry VIII. Of particular note is the effective way the author weaves the protagonist’s loss of sight in one eye into the storyline without making it the focus of the novel.

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

Published by The Chicken House, an imprint of Scholastic. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Not If I See You First

NOT IF I SEE YOU FIRST by Eric Lindstrom is an absorbing, coming-of-age story exploring friendship, trust, and the challenges of being a blind teen.

Parker’s a typical young adult dealing with the drama of school, friendships, and boyfriends. What makes this witty story fascinating is how the author deals with Parker’s blindness. The author’s compassionate, matter-of-fact portrayal of Parker’s disability makes this work of contemporary, realistic fiction unique and compelling.

Librarians will find this young adult drama to be a excellent way to introduce youth to a well-developed character who happens to be blind. Young adults will enjoy the realistic characters, authentic situations, and insights into the life of a blind high school student. Add this well-written novel to your growing diversity collection.

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

Published by Poppy, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on December 1, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.