Book Review: Hocus Focus

HOCUS FOCUS by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold is the fourth comic adventure of Knight and her horse Edward.

When Knight sells the wizard’s magic wand, she accidentally turns Edward into a giant worm. The bright colored comic pages and goofy story will keep young readers on the edge of their seats.

Part of the Adventures in Cartooning series, the book includes step-by-step instructions for drawing key characters.

Librarians will find this latest addition to the series to be popular with children who like drawing and cartoons.

Published by First Second, an imprint of Macmillan on January 24, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Listen to the Moon

LISTEN TO THE MOON by Michael Morpurgo is a poignant story of prejudice, loss, and rediscovery set during World War I.

While fishing off the Scilly Isles near Great Britain, Alfie and his father discover an abandoned girl on a deserted island. While some community members embrace this young waif, others shun her as a German invader. The story of how this young girl came to be marooned on the island is slowly revealed through Alfie and the recollections of various community players.

Morpurgo’s beautifully written story incorporates diary excerpts and interviews from different perspectives that keep the plot moving.

Librarians will find that the mixture of a fascinating mystery with an awe-inspiring setting will draw middle grade readers into this compelling historical story. Both boys and girls alike will enjoy the writing style, historical context, and amazing setting.

Learn more about this award-winning author athttp://www.michaelmorpurgo.com/.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on October 27, 2015.