Synergy: Jokes

Jokes are humorous stories with a funny conclusion known as a punchline. Riddles and one-liners are very short jokes. Jokes are not intended to be taken seriously. 

Read the recently published children’s nonfiction book, then learn more at the websites:

JUST JOKING SERIES from National Geographic Kids includes dozens of titles. JUST JOKING SCIENCE is filled with 300 STEM-focused jokes, riddles, knock-knocks, tongue twisters, and more. In addition, readers learn about ten wacky, but real scientific experiments.

JUST JOKING-LOL is a YouTube video playlist containing dozens of short videos with animal jokes and funny riddles from National Geographic Kids.

Go to https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQlnTldJs0ZSwXZodadqpS_vv0NXXB-GC

SCIENCE FUN FOR EVERYONE features science jokes submitted by children. Encourage students to write their own STEM jokes.

Go to https://www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/jokes/

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: First Names

From Malala to Amelia, many famous individuals are known by their first name. Over the past 100 years, James and Mary are the most popular names. However during the past decade, Noah and Emma have been number one. Often called a “given name”, a first name identifies an individual person while a surname generally identifies a family.

Read the recently published children's biography series, then learn more at the website:

The FIRST NAMES biography series are highly illustrated nonfiction books featuring well known people from the past and present. Middle grade readers already know many of these well-known people by their first names. These works of narrative nonfiction feature short chapters that highlight key events and ideas in the person’s life. Most books end with a glossary and timeline. Their use of mini-comics and humor are likely to engage reluctant readers. The series kicks off with Harry Houdini and Amelia Earhart, followed by Malala Yousafazai, Ada Lovelace, and Ferdinand Magellan.

GET READY FOR BABY from the Social Security Administration features the top baby names of each year along with baby names by decade, state, and territories. It also explore changes in popularity of names over time. Use this website to kickstart an exploration of famous people and their names.

To learn more, go to https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Book Review: Sanity & Tallulah

SANITY & TALLULAH by Molly Brooks is the first graphic novel in a new science fiction adventure series.

Best friends Sanity and Tallulah live on a space station and enjoy conducting science experiments. When Sanity’s top secret bioengineering project escapes, she and Tallulah try to find their three-headed kitten that’s being blamed for station-wide technical issues.

Librarians will find this humorous work well-received by both graphic novel and science fiction fans alike. Filled with STEM references, use this new series to promote an interest in science and technology. The diverse cast of characters, STEM themes, and space station setting will be a hit with readers.

Published on October 16, 2018 by Disney/Hyperion. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book: Captain Superlative

CAPTAIN SUPERLATIVE by J.S. Puller tells the story of a seventh grader who becomes a superhero’s sidekick.

Janey’s goal is to avoid conflict and fly under the radar. However when Captain Superlative arrives bearing acts of kindness, Janey decides to team up with this superhero and take action. This fast-paced and endearing middle school drama explores social themes such as bullying and childhood illness. Elements of humor and authentic characters add to the appeal of the story.

Librarians will find youth drawn to this story of courage and kindness. Feature it along with other positive school stories with a message.

Published by Disney Book Group on May 8, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Do Doodlebugs Doodle?

DO DOODLEBUGS DOODLE by Corinne Demas and Artemis Roehrig is a humorous information book exploring the names of insects.

This attractive picture book asks silly questions about bugs with funny names such as dragonflies, horseflies, and stink bugs. Although the questions are humorous, the answers are rooted in accurate and fascinating scientific fact. The book concludes with a review of the insects discussed.

Librarians will find this book to be a popular addition to the science collection. The predictable format makes the book a fun read-aloud for preschool and primary grade children. Create a game asking children to identify real and fake insect names.

Published on April 5, 2018 by Persnickety Press. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Munmun

MUNMUN by Jesse Andrews is a quirky, imaginative young adult fantasy exploring social issues ranging from wealth to inequality.

Designed for mature teens, the story is set in an alternative reality where a person’s physical size is proportional to their money known as munmun. Warner and his sister Prayer are the size of a squirrel, while the rich may be the size of large buildings. The story follows Warner’s personal growth, literally.

Librarians will find an audience among teens who enjoy dystopian fantasy with a social message. From the unusual vocabulary to the wacky world building, Andrews’ approach isn’t for everyone. However, it’s perfect for those seeking a thought-provoking, humorous, face-paced read.

Published on April 3, 2018 by Harry N. Abrams. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Dog Man Series

DOG MAN is a new series of graphic novels for children by Dav Pilkey featuring a dog-headed police officer.

Like Captain Underpants who was created by George and Harold, Dog Man is an unusual superhero made by a pair of friends. In the first book, this “crime-biting canine” is created when a police officer and his police dog are combined to save both lives. The resulting new superhero has some quirks, but he quickly gets to work capturing criminals like Petey the Cat and other evil doers. Two additional books including Unleashed and A Tale of Two Kittens explore stories featuring evil Petey the Cat. The latest addition to the series introduces Dog Man’s new sidekick Cat Kid. Together they become an effective crime fighting team.

Librarians will find a huge following for this hilarious new series. With endless jokes focusing on the relationship between dogs and cats, this new series will appeal to pet lovers along with fans of Captain Underpants.

Published by Graphix, an imprint of Scholastic. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Dewey Fairchild, Parent Problem Solver

DEWEY FAIRCHILD, PARENT PROBLEM SOLVER by Lorri Horn tells the story of a boy who gives parenting advice to his friends.

In this humorous intermediate novel, Dewey spends his time solving the parent problems of his peers. However, he soon finds that it’s not as easy to solve his own parent problems.

Librarians will find this book popular with fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Spy School, and child detective stories.

Published by Amberjack Publishing on August 8, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl Squirrel Meets World

THE UNBEATABLE SQUIRREL GIRL: SQUIRREL MEETS WORLD by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale introduces young teens to a new superhero.

Doreen Green is a typical teenager who tries to make friends after moving to a new neighborhood. When she decides to use her extraordinary powers for good, she soon becomes a hit at school. However, she also draws the attention of a villain. The author’s use of familiar language, alternative narrators, and contemporary situations including texting will appeal to teens.

Librarians will find a fan base among fans of superheroes as well as humor. Middle grade students will be attracted to this new kind of quirky superhero. Adults will appreciate the diverse cast of characters. This engaging novel provides the backstory of this fun new character. Connect the book with the collection of graphic novels about the same character.

Published by Marvel, and imprint of Disney-Hyperion on February 7, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Gertie's Leap to Greatness

GERTIE’S LEAP TO GREATNESS by Kate Beasley tells the heartwarming story of a fifth grader on a quest to have the best school year ever.

From summer speech writing to performing in the school play, Gertie Reece Foy is determined to be the best fifth grader ever. However, Gertie finds competition from the new girl in school.

Librarians will find that fans of Beverly Clearly and other small town storytellers will find this humorous family and school story appealing. Charming illustrations woven throughout the text add to the appeal.

To learn more about the book and author, go to http://www.gertiesleaptogreatness.com/.

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group on October 4, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Adventurer's Guide to Successful Escapes

THE ADVENTURER’S GUIDE TO SUCCESSFUL ESCAPES by Wade Albert White is a new fantasy series for middle grades.

Three friends go on a magical quest that involves travel to exotic places with riddles along the way. The threesome faces an array of amazing creatures in fascinating settings

Librarians will find this humorous blend of traditional fantasy with memorable steampunk elements to be popular with the middle grade audience. Filled with action and humor, the quirky characters and fast-paced approach will keep children reading.

Published by Little, Brown Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on September 13, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Also an Octopus

ALSO AN OCTOPUS by Maggie Tokuda-Hall is an engaging picture book exploring how stories are created.

This inspirational picture book tells the story of how stories are built. The author begins with a blank page, adds characters, and builds the plot using a silly situation sure to capture the imagination of young readers.

Librarians will find this book to be a useful way to introduce the elements of stories to young writers. Work with primary teachers to weave this book into the language arts curriculum.

Learn more about the author at http://www.prettyokmaggie.com/.

Published by Candlewick Press on October 4, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Where are you going, Baby Lincoln?

WHERE ARE YOU GOING, BABY LINCOLN? by Kate DiCamillo is the third book in the Tales from Deckawoo Drive series.

This adventure focuses on Mercy Watson’s neighbors, the Lincoln sisters. Baby Lincoln is tired of being bossed around by her older sister and decides that she needs to go on a “necessary journey”. Although she doesn’t have a plan, her quest gives her the opportunity to expand her horizons and discover some independence.

Librarians will find lots of interest in this latest book in this sweet, humorous chapter book series. Children will easily related to Baby’s need to spend some time away from her older sibling.

To learn about the author, go to http://www.katedicamillo.com/.
Published by Candlewick on August 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Still a Work in Progress

STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS by Jo Knowles follows a seventh grader navigating world of middle school.

Noah feels most comfortable in art class. Life outside the art room is filled with friendship complexities, a sister with an eating disorder, and family issues. A hairless cat named Curly provides a humorous subplot.

Knowles creates a believable world with realistic dialog and authentic situations.

Librarians will find that middle-grade youth enjoy the balance of realistic fiction and humor. The themes of mental health and eating disorders are popular with this age group. However, the male perspective makes this book particularly distinct.

To learn more about the publisher, go to http://www.joknowles.com. A discussion guide is available.

Published by Candlewick on August 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Pirate's Perfect Pet

PIRATE’S PERFECT PET by Beth Ferry tells the tale of a ship captain seeking the perfect pet.

According to the Perfect Pirate Captain checklist, a ship should have a pet so the captain and his crew set off on a quest for animals. The captain considers a wide range of farm and zoo animals before making a selection at the pet emporium.

Librarians will find this picture book to be useful for read-aloud activities. The colorful illustrations and diverse cast will attract the attention of young readers. The active dialog will keep listeners interested in the story. Teachers may find the book to be a fun way to kick off a unit on pets.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.bethferry.com/.
To learn more about the illustration, go to http://www.myerspaints.com/.

Published Candlewick on August 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion

LITTLE RED AND THE VERY HUNGRY LION by Alex T. Smith is an adorable and sometimes hilarious picture book retelling of a classic fairy tale.

This fractured fairytale based on Little Red Riding Hood tells that story of a young African American girl and her encounter with a lion while on the way to her Auntie’s house. Although the lion has a sinister plan, Little Red has other ideas.

Children of all ages will enjoy the whimsical illustrations and engaging text.

Librarians will find this humorous fairy tale popular with young children. However, it will also be of interest to older youth exploring fractured fairytales as part of a language arts unit. Children will enjoy comparing this adaptation with other versions they’ve read.

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

Published by Scholastic on July 26, 2016. ARC courtesy of the published.

Book Review: Too Many Moose

TOO MANY MOOSE by Lisa M. Bakos is an adorable picture book about a girl who mail-orders moose.

When Martha decides it would be fun to have a pet moose, she orders one through the mail. She soon decides that multiple moose would be even more fun.

Librarians will find children drawn to both the engaging illustrations as well as the fun alliteration. This humorous predictable book will be a hit with both teachers and children who enjoy the rhythm of repeated story elements.

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

Published by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky on July 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Ooko

OOKO by Esme Shapiro tells the charming story of a fox seeking a friend.

After seeing people with their dogs, Ooko decides to find a human friend. However Ooko soon discovers that an animal friend might be more fun.

The simple, humorous text and engaging illustrations make this picture book appropriate for both young children as well as beginning readers.

Librarians will find this sweet story popular with young children and useful in read-aloud activities. Teachers will find the book a valuable tool for discussing friendship and individual differences.

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

Published by Tundra, an imprint of Random House on July 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Gary's Garden

GARY’S GARDEN by Gary Northfield is a humorous graphic book for children featuring the fascinating creatures that live in the backyard.

From worms and caterpillars to birds and spiders, Gary’s backyard is filled with interesting animals, insects, and other critters. Each short chapter tells an engaging short story featuring new and different creatures.

The book’s sequential art and comic format will appeal to both younger as well as older children. The silly stories and goofy characters will keep even reluctant readers engaged.

Librarians will find this book to be very popular with a broad spectrum of children. The book concludes with dozens of character cards featuring the book’s characters. Use these cards to encourage children to write their own short, illustrated stories.

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

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

Book Review: Ms. Bixby's Last Day

MS. BIXBY’S LAST DAY by John Anderson explores the relationships among three sixth-grade boys and their beloved teacher.

Told through the eyes of three friends in alternating chapters, this emotionally charged story follows Topher, Steve, and Brand who learn that their favorite teacher has cancer. As the story unfolds, each child shares their experiences with Ms. Bixby and readers learn why its so important to set off on a journey to see her one last time.

Librarians will find that this sweet story has the perfect balance of realism and humor to keep children enthralled from beginning to end. Both middle grade students and their teachers will fall in love with the characters and the authentic story. It would make a wonderful read-aloud book for teachers who can “keep it together” for the last chapter.

Look for this title on the “best of 2016” lists.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.johndavidanderson.org/.

Published by Walden Pond Press, an imprint of HarperCollins on June 21, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.