Book Review: The Exact Location of Home

THE EXACT LOCATION OF HOME by Kate Messner is a work of realistic fiction exploring contemporary issues including friendship, family, and homelessness.

Kirby, also known as Zig, is an electronics wiz who begins geocaching with his friends when he gets a GPS. While trying to hide his homelessness from friends and search for his missing father, he must also deal with the daily life of a middle grade life.

Librarians will find that this realistic story explores a plethora of timely social issues including homelessness, single parent families, environmental themes, and school friendships. Use the book as part of a reading group exploring issues of empathy and compassion. The electronics and environmental focus may increase interest among readers who enjoy STEM topics.

Published by Bloomsbury on September 12, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret

BALLET CAT: THE TOTALLY SECRET SECRET by Bob Shea is the first book in a charming new series for beginning readers aged 6 through 8.

After discussing activity options like making crafts and playing checkers, Ballet Cat and Sparkles the Pony decide to dance. However when Sparkles the Pony becomes sad, the two friends share secrets that make them both feel better.

Shea cleverly weaves assistance for beginning readers into his adorable story. For instance, changes in the font size help young readers better understand the nuances of the plot. In addition, many new words are repeated throughout the story providing opportunities for practice. The use of speech bubbles makes it clear to the reader, who is saying, what. The simple use of lines and colors will be welcomed by children who are easily distracted by complex illustrations.

Librarians seeking books for beginning readers will look forward to many more Ballet Cat books in the future. Also, use the book in a display featuring empathy and friendship.

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

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 5, 2015.