Book Review: Breakthrough!

BREAKTHROUGH! by Jim Murphy tells the fascinating true story of the three researchers responsible for developing a procedure to treat “blue baby syndrome”.

Aimed at the middle grades and young adults, the engaging nonfiction narrative explores how three people came together to create a groundbreaking medical procedure to repair a severe type of heart defeat. What makes the book particularly compelling is that each contributor faced professional challenges. As an African-American, Thomas faced prejudice and as a woman, Blalock dealt with gender-bias.

Murphy is known for his effective use of primary source documents. While the book contains photos of the people involved and some images of medical procedures, it lacks the wealth of photographs, diagrams, and other illustrations that bring Murphy’s other works to life.

The book contains source notes, a bibliography, and an index that are useful in research. However, the narrative style will make it difficult for students to use for research projects unless they read the entire work.

Librarians will find that this book will appeal to students who enjoy narrative nonfiction related to science and medicine. However unlike some of his other books, it’s not likely to appeal to reluctant readers.

This title would be an excellent addition to the library’s growing collection of books that connect STEM with issues of diversity.

To learn more about the book, go to http://jimmurphybooks.com/.

Published by Clarion on December 8, 2015. ARC from the publisher.

Book Review: Calvin

CALVIN by Martine Leavitt is an imaginative, coming-of-age novel exploring a teen’s discovery that he has schizophrenia.

Told as a letter written to Calvin & Hobbes’ comic book author Bill Watterson, the story traces a schizophrenic teen’s experiences with love and survival as he deals with his mental illness for the first time.

Leavitt’s conversational style and sense of humor combine for an appealing alternative to the many young adult novels focusing on mental illness.

Librarians will want to add this YA novel to the growing selections available on teen schizophrenia.

Published by Farrar, Straus & Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan on November 17, 2015.

Book Review: The Tale of Rescue

THE TALE OF RESCUE by Michael J. Rosen tells the fictional adventure of a dog that comes to the aid of a family during a blizzard.

When a young boy and his parents are lost in a snow storm, a cattle dog comes to their rescue. Unable to convince his master of the emergency, the cattle dog manages to create an ingenious way to save the frightened family.

Rosen’s rich storytelling skills make the tale come to life. Middle grade readers will feel like they’re reading a true story. What makes the novel particularly compelling is the use of the epilogue to extend the experience.

The beautiful watercolor illustrations add to the appeal of the story.

Authentic, well-written animal stories are always in demand, so librarians will find a large audience among animal lovers. The short length combined with the engaging epilogue will be popular among reluctant readers.

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

Published by Candlewick Press on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.

Website Review: Global Volcanism Program

THE GLOBAL VOLCANISM PROGRAM from the Smithsonian Institution contains valuable resources about volcano science from around the world.

The website is divided into sections titled Reports, Databases, Learn, Research, and Information.

The Reports section provides weekly reports of recent volcano activity from around the world. These activity reports can be viewed through an interactive map. The Bulletin of the Global Volcanism Network contains reports since 1968.

The Database section allows users to search for specific volcanoes or eruptions. Information is also available in list or spreadsheet forms.

The Learn section provides lots of resources for educators including links to YouTube videos, a gallery of terms and photos, and links to maps and other information.

The Research section details the petrology and volcanology projects currently connected with the Smithsonian including online exhibits and collections.

Librarians will find this to be an easy-to-use website for information about specific volcanoes and eruptions. It’s also an effective way to show students the real-world work of scientists.

To learn more, go to http://volcano.si.edu/.

Book Review: An Inheritance of Ashes

AN INHERITANCE OF ASHES by Leah Bobet is a gripping young adult fantasy exploring issues of war, family, and community.

Sisters Hallie and Marthe are alone on their family farm in the aftermath of a war. A mysterious veteran, the arrival of “twisted things,” and strange stone messages mark the beginning of a fight for survival.

This work of dystopia fiction has the feel of historical fiction, monster fantasy, and even the horror genre. However, at it’s core is a story of family, friendship, and forgiveness that transcends genres.

Librarians will find that this unusual fantasy appeals to a broad spectrum of readers.

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

Published by Clarion on October 6, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Tech Review: Progenitor X

PROGENITOR X is a web-based, narrative science game from the Games Learning Society.

In this immersive learning experience, users become part of an elite squad of scientists who must identify and treat humans who have been infected during a Zombie pandemic. Student scientists must apply problem-solving skills to save the world.

Designed for middle school through college, students learn key biology concepts including the relationships among cells, tissues, and organs.

Based on real-world research, game players learn how human skin cells work. In addition to the demo game, the website also links to current research related to regenerative biology.

Librarians will enjoy the connection between fact and fiction connecting the Zombie stories teens love with real-world science. Use the game to jumpstart interest in biology.

To learn more, go to http://gameslearningsociety.org/px_microsite/.

Book Review: Dear Yeti

DEAR YETI by James Kwan is an adorable picture book featuring a pair of young hikers on a quest to find a mythical creature.

A small, blue bird delivers letters from the hikers to the yeti trying to convince the creature to show itself. Along the way, the yeti helps the children by leaving them berries, building a snow shelter, and saving them from a bear. In the end, they form a friendship.

The large, informal font and epistolary form will be attractive to young readers. The illustrator’s use of a red dotted line to follow the bird’s flight will appeal to young adventurers.

Librarians will find this story of a friendly, helpful monster to be popular with primary-aged children. The story would also be a fun way to introduce letter writing.

Learn more about the author/illustrator at http://www.james-kwan.com/.

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan on November 3, 2015.

Website Review: Annenberg Learner

The ANNENBERG LEARNER website contains hundreds of high-quality interactives for teachers and students of all ages.

Educators looking for interactives can narrow their search by grade level, discipline, audience, or software. Disciplines include arts, education, foreign language, language arts, literature, mathematics, science, and social studies/history.

Librarians can align the interactives with specific curriculum needs. The interactives can be integrated into the classroom or used in learning centers in the library.

To explore the interactives, go to https://www.learner.org/interactives/.

Book Review: The Rest of Us Just Live Here

THE REST OF US JUST LIVE HERE by Patrick Ness is an unusual and fascinating blend of fantasy and realistic fiction sure to engage young adults.

Unlike the “indie kids” who always seem to be involved with a vampire attack, alien invasion, or some other supernatural adventure, Mike is just a normal teen leading an ordinary life. Although one of his friends happens to be one quarter cat god, most of the time Mike and his friends deal with typical teen issues from crushes to car accidents.

Each chapter begins with a humorous fantasy element featuring indie kids facing a paranormal crisis. The rest of the chapter is told through the eyes of a teen just trying to deal with life as a high school senior.

Ness is at his best when his fantasy elements collide with every-day life. The author uses witty narrative and often hilarious situations to tell a unusual story of normal life in a chaotic world.

Librarians will find a large audience for this book among those who enjoy both realistic fiction and fantasy. Fans of Ness will be delighted with his latest work for young adults.

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

Published by HarperTeen on October 6, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Batterypop

BATTERYPOP is an excellent video website for kids.

It can be difficult to locate quality educational videos on the major video sites like YouTube. Instead, try this child-focused website. Although many of the videos are focused on entertainment topics, there are also lots of educational videos available.

The Shows section features web video series. Seek out series focused on educational topics such as ROCKALINGUA, a musical Spanish language series and ANTS, a nature series.

The Channels section provides videos from related organizations such as such as UMIGO, a math adventure series. This area also links to the National Film Board of Canada’s videos for children.

The Gamezone section contains resources for gaming fans. Youth who enjoy Minecraft will find lots of videos of interest.

Videos are also organized by topic. Be sure to check out the Science and Math area for lots of STEM connected videos. The Crafts area contains ideas that could be adapted for library makerspaces.

Librarians will find this to be a valuable starting point for connecting youth with age-appropriate videos.

To visit the website, go to http://www.batterypop.com/about-batterypop.

Book Review: One Today

ONE TODAY is a picture book adaptation of Richard Blanco’s amazing poem written for President Barack Obama’s second presidential inauguration.

Blanco’s poem tells the story of a day in America from early morning through night.

Best known for his comic series such as Captain Underpants, Dav Pilkey brings the poem alive through his vibrantly painted illustrations.

Librarians will find this picture book to be an excellent read-aloud book.

To learn more about the poet, go to http://richard-blanco.com/.

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette on November 3, 2015. Review copy courtesy of publisher.

Book Review: Frederick's Journey

FREDERICK’S JOURNEY by Doreen Rappaport tells the inspirational true story of a slave boy who ultimately achieves freedom and spreads his abolitionist beliefs to promote change.

The author skillfully weaves together a nonfiction narrative that combines Douglass’ life story with excerpts from his writings and speeches. Amazing illustrations by London Ladd add to the power of this important story.

In addition to the narrative itself, the book also includes an Author’s Note, Illustrator’s Note, timeline, and sources.

The Big Words series is an excellent way to introduce youth to key historical figures. Librarians will find Frederick’s Journey to be an excellent addition. Consider creating a display that features this entire series. Incorporate a timeline that shows how the books are connected chronologically and thematically.

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

To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.londonladd.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on November 3, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: What the Dinosaurs Did Last Night: A Very Messy Adventure

WHAT THE DINOSAURS DID LAST NIGHT: A VERY MESSY ADVENTURE by Refe Ruma and Susan Tuma describes the chaos that ensues when toy dinosaurs come to life.

Told through cleverly staged photographs, the narrator speaks directly at readers describing what happens in one home when the plastic dinosaurs come out at night. From raiding the refrigerator to painting the walls, the dinosaurs wreak havoc. When everything returns to normal, readers are told not to be fooled.

A note at the end of the book explains the origin of the idea and how it became an international sensation known as Dinovember, the month when plastic dinosaurs come to life.

Librarians will have a blast working with youth to create their own dinosaur adventures in the library. Get out the digital cameras and have some fun!

To enjoy many more plastic dinosaur photos, go to http://dinovember.tumblr.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/dinovember/.

Published by Little Brown, an imprint of Hachette on October 20, 2015. Review copy courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: Shout Science!

SHOUT SCIENCE! by Scott Dubois is an amazing comic storybook app exploring scientists and scientific discovery.

Designed for ages 7 through 11, the app contains three narrative biographies featuring Anton Van Leeuwenhoek, Maria Sibylla Merian, and James Hutton. Set during the Scientific Revolution in Europe, readers learn about both science and history connected with the scientist. Students scroll down a timeline or explore a map, then make a selection. For each person, the student can read the story or access additional information about the person including background information, an image and timeline.

Rather than reading across pages, users scroll down a series of screens to read the story. To enhance engagement and reading comprehension, the app incorporates animation, diagrams, sound, and interactive elements.

Use this engaging comic storybook app to jumpstart a biography project. Connect the app with the graphic biographies in your library collection.

Go to Shout Science to learn more about the author and the app at http://www.shoutscience.com/.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/shout-science!/id672884678….

Website Review: Teacher's Guides for Using Primary Sources

TEACHER’S GUIDES FOR USING PRIMARY SOURCES from the Library of Congress are an engaging way to help learners analyze historical documents and other materials.

Ten guides are currently available for analyzing primary sources including motion pictures, political cartoons, books and other printed text, newspapers, sheet music and song sheets, manuscripts, oral histories, sound recordings, maps, and photographs and prints. A general guide to primary sources is also available.

Each one-page guide encourages students to observe, reflect, and question. In addition, ideas are provided for further investigation.

A Primary Source Analysis Tool is also available. This online tool allows students to enter notes that can be downloaded, printed, and/or emailed.

Librarians will find these one-page handouts and easy-to-use tools to be useful when addressing standards related to the analysis of primary source documents and informational reading.

While many teachers are familiar with these tools, the Analyzing Newspapers guide is new. Use this guide with the Chronicling America collection available at http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/

To explore these Teacher’s Guides, go tohttp://loc.gov/teachers/usingprimarysources/guides.html.

Book Review: Animal Planet Animals: A Visual Encyclopedia

ANIMAL PLANET ANIMALS: A VISUAL ENCYCLOPEDIA provides a visually stunning look at animals from around the world.

After an introduction and table of contents, the book describes how to use the book. This page should be helpful for young readers who might easily be overwhelmed by the size and scope of the text.

The reference book is organized by animal kingdom. After an overview that explores general information about animals, chapters examine mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, arthropods, and other invertebrates. Within each category, a few pages introduce the animal type followed by an examination of small groups of animals and close-ups featuring specific examples. For instance, a two-page spread on bears is followed by a close-up examination of the Giant Panda. The book concludes with a glossary, a couple pages about traits humans share with other creatures, and an index.

While the book is logically organized and would be particularly useful to children working on projects related to specific animal kingdoms, it might be overwhelming for youth accustomed to an encyclopedia organized in alphabetical order. The book’s consistent presentation of feature elements such as animal facts and feeding habit make the book easy to digest.

The visual layout of the book includes color coded chapters with endless high-quality photos that will appeal to readers who enjoy browsing animal books. However, the hundreds of information-rich pages may be overwhelming for student researchers seeking specific facts for class projects.

With more than 2500 animals and over 1000 photographs, librarians will find this amazing reference book to be popular across grade levels.

Published by Liberty Street/ Time Inc. Books on September 22, 2015. Review copy courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: JFK Challenge

The JFK CHALLENGE app from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation immerses users in American history and the impact of Kennedy’s presidency.

Designed for ages 9 through 11, students become NASA and Peace Corps trainees as they accept President Kennedy’s challenge to make a difference in the world. Users begin by creating a quick profile so their work can be saved. Then, they choose a mission: The Peace Corps or The Space Race. A multimedia tutorial provides an overview of the history of their mission and Kennedy’s connection. Students then work their way through a series of skills-building training activities and missions. The game elements are directly related to the content of the app making the experience both fun and educational.

Librarians will find this app to be a motivating way to bring history alive for youth. Use this app in a library station related to Kennedy or as part of a series of activities connected to life in the 1960s.

To learn more, go to http://www.jfkchallenge.org/.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/jfk-challenge/id957358011…

Book Review: Finding Winnie

FINDING WINNIE: THE TRUE STORY OF THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS BEAR by Lindsay Mattick traces the remarkable life of the bear who inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories.

Told as a bedtime story by a mother to her young son Cole, the picture book follows a World War I soldier and his bear cub from Winnipeg Canada to a zoo in London, England. Christopher Robin Milne, son of the famous author, befriends Winnie at the zoo and names his stuffed bear Winnie-the-Pooh. In a wonderful conclusion, we learn that young Cole is the great-great-grandchild of the soldier that befriended the bear cub. The book concludes with an album of incredible primary source documents and photographs tracing the story.

The beautiful watercolor illustrations contribute to the appeal of this charming picture book.

Librarians will find this book to be a wonderful way to introduce a new generation to Winnie-the-Pooh. Consider a display that includes this picture book, the Winnie-the-Pooh chapter books, and related stuff animals. Also, use the book to introduce the idea of primary source documents and how they can help researchers better understand history.

Published by Little Brown, an imprint of Hachettte on October 20, 2015. Review copy courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Thank You and Good Night

THANK YOU AND GOOD NIGHT by Patrick McDonnell is an adorable bedtime story featuring an elephant, a bear, and a bunny.

Three friends come together for a pajama party filled with play, food, and fun. After a bedtime story, they share thanks and a goodnight kiss.

This sweet story of friendship and gratitude combines beautiful illustrations with simple text likely to appeal to young children.

Perfect for a read-aloud experience, this charming picture book is likely to become a classic. Librarians will find young children checking this book out over and over again.

Look for it on “Best of 2015” lists.

Published by Little-Brown, an imprint of Hachette on October 6, 2015. Review copy courtesy of publisher.

Tech Review: Reef Defender

REEF DEFENDER is an app from the Department of Land and Natural Resources of Hawaii.

Before jumping into the game, app users are encouraged to explore the Hawaii Sharks website to learn more about sharks, Hawaiian mythology, shark safety, and shark incidents. An shark quiz is also available. Students will also enjoy following sharks with the Tiger Shark tracker.

After learning about the importance of the reefs to sharks, app players use their pet shark to boot bad items that can harm the reef out of the ocean. Bad items include bottles, cans, cigarettes, invasive species, motor oil, herbicides, and fertilizer.

Librarians will find this game to be a nice way to motivate youth to explore the informational website about sharks. Add this app to a learning center that includes books about reefs and reef creatures.

The app is available for both Apple and Android.

To download the Apple app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/reef-defender/id657761952….

To explore the website, go to http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/sharks/.

Book Review: My First Book of Football

MY FIRST BOOK OF FOOTBALL by Beth Bugler and Mark Bechtel is a fun way to introduce buddying sports fans to the world of NFL football.

Published by Time Inc. Books and Sports Illustrated Kids, this colorful picture book will attract even the most reluctant reader. Following the four quarters of a game, the book features photographs of NFL players, coaches, and officials. Readers follow a young cartoon football player who follows the action and learns about the game.

From explaining basic vocabulary such as scrimmage to identifying the parts of the playing field, this well-designed book introduces and reinforces key concepts to young readers.

From the large font and speech bubbles to the bright colored background and action photos of players, children will be drawn into the informational narrative. A bit of humor enhances the appeal.

Librarians will find a large audience for this first book in the new A Rookie Book series. Although no female characters are represented, young sports fans aren’t likely to complain. However, librarians creating a sports display might want to seek out a companion book with a female character.

Published by Time Inc. Books and Sports Illustrated Kids in Fall 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.

Technology Review: Plum Landing

The PLUM LANDING website and apps are a companion to the popular PBS Kids program focusing on environmental science.

Designed for ages six through nine, the website contains a wide range of motivating science activities.

The Games section includes over a dozen games that encourage children to play, explore, create, and share what they learn about our amazing planet. Children learn concepts related to soil, seeds, invasive species, ecosystems, and other fascinating topics.

The Videos section plays short, animated videos focusing on ecosystems such as the desert, jungle, and mountain regions.

The Ship section highlights the television program’s featured characters.

The Pictures section features images submitted by users of the Nature Sketchpad website and Plum’s Photo Hunt app.

The Parents section contains fun family adventure ideas and tips for getting families outdoors.

The Educators area provides curriculum resources including activities and media resources organized thematically and aligned to science standards.

Two apps allow children to extend the experience. The Plum’s Creaturizer app provides tools to build crazy creatures and Plum’s Photo Hunt encourages children to photograph wonders in their own backyard.

Build the Plum character into a primary grades library center focusing on environment science topics. Incorporate a tablet or laptop along with science books and objects related to nature themes.

To visit the website, go to http://pbskids.org/plumlanding/.

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.

Book Review: Omaha Beach on D-Day

OMAHA BEACH ON D-DAY by Jean-David Morvan, Séverine Tréfouël, Robert, Capa, and others is an immersive visual history of a photojournalist’s experiences in World War II.

Taking a unique visual approach, readers experience World War II through the eyes of a reporter using drawings and then photographs to tell the story. The first half of this amazing book is presented as a graphic biography using a graphic-novel style approach to share the story surrounding the D-Day experience from the perspective of a reporter. The second half of the book presents the ten captioned photographs taken by Robert Capa on D-Day. The book concludes with an exploration of the career of Robert Capa who is known as one of the “fathers of photojournalism”.

While some students enjoy studying history, others hate it. This visually-rich history is an engaging way to personalize the war for readers. While some youth will be drawn to the military or photojournalism aspects, others will be attracted to the compelling story of one man’s experiences.

Librarians will find that this graphic biography appeals to tween and teen audiences who enjoy military themes, history, and photojournalism. It would be particularly useful for reluctant readers and students looking for non-traditional ways to explore world history.

This is the first book in a new series focusing on key moments in World War II history. This collection will be popular in both middle and high school libraries.

For those interested in the photography of Robert Capa, go to http://goo.gl/4tKnTo.

Published by First Second, an imprint of Macmillan on October 20, 2015. ARC provided by publisher.

Book Review: A Thousand Nights

A THOUSAND NIGHTS by E.K. Johnston is a fascinating adaptation of the famous Arabian Nights story.

Set in the ancient Middle East, a desert girl is forced to marry a king who has been possessed by a mythic demon. Although the king has killed hundreds of wives before her, he is intrigued by his latest conquest and decides to let her live one day at a time. Slowly, the desert girl is transformed through the power of mind, magic, and a will to survive.

Blending elements of fantasy with traditional storytelling, Johnston skillfully weaves a story of power, belief, and family love. Readers will be captivated by the setting and entranced by the beautifully written prose.

Librarians will find a broad audience for this unusual young adult novel. Those who enjoy both fantasy and historical novels will enjoy the intersection of traditional storytelling, ancient mythology, and fantasy.

To learn more about this award-winning author, go to http://ekjohnston.ca/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on October 6, 2015. ARC from the publisher.

Website Review: Challenge: Robots

CHALLENGE: ROBOTS from National Geographic is an educational game involving youth in solving real-world problems.

Designed for grades three through ten, the online activities explore key concepts related to engineering. Students act as engineers to solve a series of problems at RoboWorks. Students begin with an orientation that reviews the six steps of the engineering process. After completing the Orientation, students work their way through a series of online activities including Build a Robot, Robotic Bees, Ocean Cleanup, and Tunnel Explorer.

Librarians will find this resource to be a motivating way to promote the engineering aspect of STEAM. An educator guide provides lots of extension activities for both the library and classroom settings.

To visit the website, go to http://education.nationalgeographic.org/g…/challenge-robots/.

Book Review: Dream On, Amber

DREAM ON, AMBER by Emma Shevah is an authentic, humorous story for middle grade readers.

Entering middle school is tough enough for most children, but Amber is a half-Japanese and half-Italian with an absent father making life even more difficult. When her younger sister begins writing letters to their father asking for him to attend her birthday party, Amber decides to answer the letters. Subplots related to art, puppy love, and earning money bring the story to life.

Filled with cute doodles and other illustrations, librarians will find this poignant novel to be popular with young readers. The combination of humor and typical middle school problems will appeal to many readers. Themes related to an absent father and multicultural identity with resonate with many readers.

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

Published by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky on October 6, 2015.

Website Review: KidLit TV

KIDLIT TV is a website exploring the world of children’s literature.

Designed for parents and educators, the online resource contains audio, video, and links to resources related to reading and children’s books.

The Storymakers series uses a talk show format to feature authors and illustrators.
The Field Trip section explores topics in children’s literature such as pop up books.
The Inside Scoop area features upcoming titles and kid lit news.
The Read Out Loud section contains videos of author’s reading their books aloud.

In addition, the website contains a community area featuring members of the children’s literature community from teachers and librarians to authors.

In addition to the website, the videos are available at YouTube. The YouTube Channel also links to book trailers and children’s videos from publishers and other sources.

KidLit TV is a fun way to keep up with what’s happening in children’s literature. Librarians will find the resource useful for locating new books and project ideas.

To visit the website, go to http://kidlit.tv/.

To visit the YouTube channel, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRmmQ9RQUy0ha9EZkIfwa5g.

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.

App Review: Health IQ

HEALTH IQ from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is an engaging health trivia game.

A scientist emcee introduces a series of quizzes that contain ten questions each. The mini-games incorporate trivia questions and word scrambles. Users choose from three levels of difficulty or a random selection of questions. After answering each timed question, the scientist emcee provides readers with information about the topic and a link to additional information. Topics range from teen driver safety to the importance of sun screen. Photographs are woven into the quizzes to add interest.

Achievement badges are recorded for players who create a free account. Settings allow users to turn off the music, sound effects, and vibrations.

Librarians will find this game to be a fun way to generate interest in health topics. Consider playing the app on a tablet in a display featuring books about health and fitness. The app would also be a fun way to provide background information for youth choosing a research topic. Use the website connections for informational reading activities.

Available as both an Apple and Android App.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cdc-health-iq/id885605342….

Book Review: Most Dangerous

MOST DANGEROUS: DANIEL ELLSBERG AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF THE VIETNAM WAR by Steve Sheinkin is a powerful, nonfiction narrative exploring issues of war, espionage, and government trust.

Written for young adults, Sheinkin skillfully tells the story of Daniel Ellsberg, an analyst who exposes decades of government deceit. Tracing Ellsberg’s life from his boyhood through to the end of the Vietnam War, the author weaves together an unbiased look at the man who exposed what became known as the Pentagon Papers.

Librarians will find a large audience for this book among the growing YA fans of narrative nonfiction. In addition, the combination of war and government secrets will be attractive to readers who enjoy military and spy stories.

Youth will be drawn to connections with recent whistleblowers like Edward Snowden described in the book’s epilogue.

For many librarians who remember this time period or have read books like “All the President’s Men”, this provocative biography will help put the time period in context and revisit the key issues and events in an easy to digest chronology.

Look for this title on the “best of 2015” lists.

Learn more about the author at http://stevesheinkin.com/.

Published by Roaring Brook Press an imprint of Macmillan on September 22, 2015. ARC from publisher.

Book Review: Lenny & Lucy

LENNY & LUCY by Philip C. Stead is an absorbing picture book sharing the melancholy of moving and the joy of budding friendships.

Peter isn’t happy about moving to an old house across a wooden bridge from the dark woods. He builds two pillow people to stand guard at the bridge and keep him company. When a new neighbor invites him to play, Harold begins to feel more comfortable in this strange, new setting.

Stead’s imaginative illustrations draw readers into the setting and bring Harold’s world to life. A slash of color highlights the characters and key elements of the story.

Designed for the primary grades, librarians will find this story of moving and friendship to be a popular addition to the library’s picture book collection.

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

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on October 6, 2015. ARC from publisher.