Book Review: Begone the Raggedy Witches

BEGONE THE RAGGEDY WITCHES by Celine Kiernan is the first book in the Wild Magic fantasy trilogy.

After her father is taken hostage by witches, Mup and her family must avoid the raggedy witches to save him from the queen who also happens to be Mup’s grandmother. Along the way, she meets magical creatures and people in her quest to find her father.

Librarians will find this intermediate grade fantasy popular with children who enjoy folk fantasy, forbidden magic, and Irish mythology. This quick read can be enjoyed as both a standalone and book one of a trilogy.

Published on September 11, 2018 by Candlewick. 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: Ghost Boys

GHOST BOYS by Jewell Parker Rhodes tells the powerful and timely story of a black boy killed by a white police officer.

The story begins with the death of twelve-year-old African American boy. Jerome shares his experiences with bullying and poverty leading up to his death while playing in a park with a toy gun. In alternating chapters, Jerome’s ghost meets the daughter of the police officer who shot him. He also learns about the history of other ghost boys who met a fate similar to his.

Librarians will find this compelling story is effective in tackling tough issues including gun violence, racial bias, and class differences. The easy-to-read, fast paced story would work well in reading groups or as part of class discussions connected with current events.

Look for this title on the “best of intermediate level books” for 2018.

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on April 17, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Wolf Keepers

WOLF KEEPERS by Elise Broach is an absorbing mystery adventure.

Written for middle grade readers, young Lizzie spend her time with the animals at a zoo. Her life changes when she encounters a runaway living at the zoo. Together she and her new friend investigate a mystery involving wolves that takes them on an adventure to Yosemite National Park.

Librarians will find this book appeals to a broad audience including those who enjoy mystery, adventures, and animals. The historical connections with John Muir provide the opportunity to connect to the origins of national parks. Animal lovers are sure to be attracted to both the setting and the engaging story.

Published by Henry Holt and Company on October 11, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Go Green!

GO GREEN! by Paul A. Reynolds is the second book in the Sydney & Simon series exploring topics related to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics).

Mouse twins Sydney and Simon are creative problem-solvers with a mission. While on a field trip, the pair learn that trash ends up in the ocean hurting animals like green sea turtles. They create a plan to convince the whole town to start recycling, reusing, and reducing.

Written for the early and intermediate grades, the beginning chapter book includes many bright colored illustrations to engage readers with the interesting characters and storyline. In addition to the main storyline, the book includes a glossary and author’s note focusing on topics related to STEAM.

Librarians will enjoy the STEAM theme that includes lots of art and music in addition to science information. The beginning chapter book approach makes this a great book for language arts activities connected with STEAM. Consider a makerspace station called the “steam studio” focusing on making instruments from recycled materials. Include other books related to the recycle, reuse, and reduce theme.

Visit FableVision studios to learn more about the author/illustrator team at http://www.fablevisionstudios.com/.

Published by Charlesbridge Publishing on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.