Book Review: Summer of Sloane

SUMMER OF SLOANE by Erin L. Schneider explores issues of betrayal, forgiveness, and romance during a summer in Hawaii.

When she learns that her best friend is pregnant with her boyfriend’s baby, Sloane uses a summer trip to Hawaii to distract her from their betrayal. However texts and voicemails are constant reminders of the mess she left behind making it difficult for her to enjoy a new romance.

Librarians will find a market for this book among readers who enjoy teen angst, romance, and complex friendships. Well-rounded characters and engaging plot twists make this a page-turner for teens who enjoy realistic fiction. Better than the standard romance fare, this work of contemporary fiction addresses issues of deception and forgiveness head-on.

To learn more about this author, go to http://www.erinlschneider.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 3, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Science Updates

SCIENCE UPDATES from ScienceNetLinks are student-friendly 60-second audio programs focusing on current science research.

Sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, each science topic contains a 60-second audio clip, transcript, and image. The page also explores ways to make sense of the scientific research. Each topic concludes with a list of questions, links to the original research, and related topics of interest. The resource also provides the grade level focus, theme, benchmarks and standards associated with the topic. An For Educators section contains links to lesson plans and activity ideas.

Librarians will find that these concise pages are an excellent way to address information literacy standards related to audio literacy and informational reading comprehension. With dozens of topics to explore, each student could investigate their own topic making this resource an excellent jumping off spot for inquiry-based learning projects.

To visit the website, go to http://sciencenetlinks.com/science-news/science-updates/.

Book Review: Ocean Animals

OCEAN ANIMALS: WHO’S WHO IN THE DEEP BLUE by Johnna Rizzo explores all aspects of marine life while also featuring key conservation ideas.

This colorful work of nonfiction begins with an overview of oceans, layers of life, and coral reefs. Next, the book features different categories of marine life. The text concludes with information about habitats and conservation topics. A glossary and index are also provided.

Rather than overwhelming readers with information, this book provides large photographs and small blocks of text making it useful for youth who are resistance to text-heavy books.

Featuring amazing color photographs and easy-to-read blocks of text, librarians will find this fact-filled informational book to be popular with children who enjoy reading about marine life. The book is organized well for students working on research projects related to specific aspects of ocean life.

Published by National Geographic Kids on May 17, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Holding Smoke

HOLDING SMOKE by Elle Cosimano is a heart-pounding, young adult fantasy thriller.

After a near death experience, Smoke finds that he’s able to leave his body as a ghost and move among people without their knowledge. Behind bars for a murder he didn’t commit, Smoke uses this special ability to gather information that can keep him alive in the youth detention facility while also seeking clues that could set him free.

Librarians will find that complex character development, compelling plot twists, and interesting use of Smoke’s abilities will drawn in lovers of suspense as well as those who simply enjoy a good story. While the detention facility is portrayed more as a maximum security prison than a youth rehabilitation center, young adult readers will enjoy this fast-paced suspense. This selection will be very popular among teen boys, but will also appeal to young women who enjoy the hint of romance.

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

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 3, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Technology Review: Election Central

ELECTION CENTRAL from PBS LearningMedia is an educational guide to the United States elections.

The website is divided into six sections.

The Election Collection section contains links to exemplary election-themed resources to enhance lesson plans and spark discussion.

Inside the Debates explores the role of debates as a forum for candidates to share their view. Resources including behind-the-scenes materials, debate guidelines, debate video, and connections with debates in history.

The Interactive Map shows the delegate count and provides information about the election process in each state.

The Election Process section provides resources to help young people learn about the electoral college, caucuses, primaries, conventions, and more.

The Virtual Field Trips provides links to government-related field trips that focus on the political process.

50 for 50 is a contest connected with the 2016 election.

Librarians will find this website to be useful across grade levels. Consider creating an election center in the library that includes a display, books related to elections, and a tablet containing this website.

To visit the website, go to http://www.pbseduelectioncentral.com/.

Book Review: Ellis Island

ELLIS ISLAND by Elizabeth Carney traces the history of Ellis Island.

Written for fluent readers, the book contains short chapters exploring the history of Ellis Island. Throughout the story, readers will find boxes containing facts, quotes, and key words. Photo captions and labels provide additional information for readers. The book also contains a quiz, glossary, and index.

Librarians will find this short book to be a valuable addition to their nonfiction collection. The many black and white, as well as color photographs will draw the interest of primary grade students. With lots of visuals and easy-to-read text, this National Geographic Readers title would be particularly useful for reluctant readers working on history reports. Use this title along with other nonfiction works in this collection as part of an informational reading, literature circle activity.

Published by National Geographic on April 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Technology Review: In the News: Refugees

IN THE NEWS: REFUGEES by Annenberg Learner provides high-quality curriculum resources for teaching about refugees.

The web-based resource is divided into student and teacher sections.

The Student Section provides links to content resources about the refugee crisis and the connection issue of immigration. Students can hear stories of ordinary people forced to flee their homes to escape violence and persecution. Links are provided to online exhibits that explore the lives of refugees from around the world, collections of stories about refugees that made their way to the United States, and art exhibits focusing on cultural connections. Finally, two resources explore maps related to displacement of people and immigration patterns.

The Teacher Section provides links to activities, lesson plans, and other professional development resources focusing on the refugee crisis and the related topic of immigration. Activities connect youth to photographs, literature, and writing projects. Lesson plans focus on the connection of migration to population and resource distribution. Articles explore the history of human migration, ancient immigration, immigration law, and public empathy for refugees.

Librarians will find that the topic of refugees and immigration can be woven across the curriculum. From map and data literacy to social issues projects, this hot-button issue works well for digital and information literacy curriculum connections.

To learn more, go to the website athttp://www.learner.org/resources/refugees/.

Book Review: Raymie Nightingale

RAYMIE NIGHTINGALE by Kate DiCamillo is a charming middle-grade story of friendship, adventure, and hope.

Raymie Clarke hasn’t heard from her father since he took off with a dental hygienist. By doing a few good deeds and learning to twirl a baton, Raymie hopes to win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition, get her photo in the paper, and receive a congratulatory call from her dad. Along the way she develops unusual friendships and learns to deal with her loss in an unexpected way.

Librarians will find a huge audience for this quiet story that combines tragedy and sadness with adventure and compassion. This is sure to be a popular read-aloud choice. Look for this title on the “best of 2016” lists.

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

Published by Candlewick Press on April 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Nameless City

NAMELESS CITY by Faith Erin Hicks is the first book in an engaging action-adventure graphic novel trilogy.

Designed for middle grades, the graphic novel adventure is set in a city whose name is constantly changing as a steady stream of invaders occupy the nation. To locals, the place is simply known as the Nameless City. Kaidu belongs to the latest occupiers. As he explores the city, he meets a local called Rat and they become friends. Together they learn about each other and work together to save their city from a new invader.

Librarians will find that graphic novel fans will be drawn to the timeless, full-color illustrations. Readers will enjoy the smart, complex characters and fast-paced storyline. This quick read will be a popular additional to the library’s graphic novel collection. Readers will be lining up for the next book in this trilogy.

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

Published on April 5, 2016 by First Second, an imprint of Macmillan. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: The ASL App

THE ASL APP by Ink & Salt helps users of all ages learn conversational ASL.

Containing over 800 signs and phrases, this easy-to-use app makes learning American Sign Language accessible and fun. Users begin by choosing a category such as know your ABCs, know your numbers, universal gestures, and the basics. Handshape exercises are also available. Each section provides a short video demonstration and the option to repeat, show the video slowly, or move to the next video.

Although the basic package is free, librarians may wish to add packages at a small fee associated with particular topics of interest within the curriculum. The basic app is an excellent way to get youth interested in ASL a quick and easy start.

Pair this app with the Spread the Sign website athttps://www.spreadthesign.com/ and other online resources to extend the experience.

To learn more about this app, go to http://theaslapp.com/

Book Review: Unidentified Suburban Object

UNIDENTIFIED SUBURBAN OBJECT by Mike Jung combines satire with a serious examination of racial stereotypes, family connections, and friendship.

Chloe Cho is frustrated by being the token minority in her all-white town. Her parents don’t seem interested in their asian ancestry. When a Korean American teacher moves to town, Chloe immediately connects with her. However when Chloe explores her family history as part of a class project, she finds unexpected results.

Librarians will find that the combination of humor and serious social themes will appeal to middle grade youth. The authentic storyline and engaging twist will keep readers engaged. While the science fiction element adds an unusual element, the book will primarily be a draw for readers of contemporary, realistic fiction.

To learn more about the author, go tohttps://captainstupendous.wordpress.com/.

Published by Scholastic on April 26, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: What Elephants Know

WHAT ELEPHANTS KNOW by Eric Dinerstein tells the compelling story of a boy living in the Nepalese Borderlands.

Abandoned as a toddler, Nandu grows up in the King’s elephant stable. When the government threatens to shut down their operation, twelve-year-old Nandu must convince his adopted father to turn the stable into an elephant breeding center. Along the way, Nandu faces issues of political corruption, cultural identity, environmental ethics, and social justice.

Dinerstein’s beautiful prose brings a fascinating array of supporting characters to life including a nurturing mentor and caring elephant. Readers will be engrossed with the heartwarming tale from beginning to end.

Written for a middle grade audience, librarians will find this book has a number of audiences including animal lovers, history fans, and those who enjoy stories set in other cultures.

This “out of the ordinary” story of human connections with the environment in a far-off land is a refreshing break from mainstream children’s literature.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 17, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: How to Become President of the U.S. Poster

The HOW TO BECOME PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. POSTER is an easy-to-understand infographic showing the election process.

Developed by Kids.gov, the web page includes the infographic along with a simple explanation of each step in the process. Links are provided to age-appropriate websites that explore the process in-depth.

A lesson plan provides objectives, standards, and activities associated with each step in the election process.

Librarians will find this to be a popular website during election season. The poster can be downloaded or ordered online. This fascinating infographic would be an excellent backdrop for a display featuring books about the presidential election and past presidents.

To visit the website, go to https://kids.usa.gov/president/

Book Review: Wolf Hollow

WOLF HOLLOW by Lauren Wolk confronts the truths of bullying and injustice in this unforgettable work of historical fiction.

Set between World Wars I and II in rural Pennsylvania, this powerful tale follows the quiet life of Annabelle whose life changes when a bully named Betty moves to town. When Betty targets a strange and solitary World War I veteran, Annabelle becomes his defender.

Designed for both middle school and high school students, librarians will find this compelling story appeals to young people who may not traditionally read historical fiction. This haunting tale will ring true for many youth who have experienced bullying.

Librarian will find that the well-developed characters and heartbreaking story will have broad appeal in classroom settings. Many reviewers have made comparisons to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird making it a good suggestion for teachers and students seeking a companion experience.

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

Published by Dutton Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin on May 3, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: Touch Van Gogh

TOUCH VAN GOGH from the Stitchting Van Gogh Museum is an app that encourages children to explore paintings in detail.

Users explore nine iconic works by artist Vincent Van Gogh. Using multi-touch functions, students can discover the secrets of the artist’s painting techniques. Youth are also able to dive below layers of paint to explore the secrets concealed in each work.

Users begin by selecting a painting to explore. They can then click for information about the painting or select from the exploration tools. They can select from options such as when/where, subject, color, hidden detail, frame, recycling, canvas, and other options depending on the painting. Each tool zooms in on the painting and provides exploration tools along with explanations.

Each of the nine paintings provide a framework for exploring a different aspect of the artist’s works. For instance while exploring the Field with Irises near Arles painting, users learn about the work of the restorer in rubbing away layers of varnish. Explore Van Gogh’s self portraits, gardens, and homes.

Based on complex materials-technical research, librarians will find this app to be an excellent way to immerse youth in the works of Van Gogh. Pair this app with books related to the artist’s life and works as well as titles focusing on painting techniques.

Available from the App Store and Google Play. To download the app, go tohttp://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/…/about…/apps/app-touch-van-gogh.

Book Review: The Art of Not Breathing

THE ART OF NOT BREATHING by Sarah Alexander is a work of realistic fiction exploring a five year old drowning incident.

It’s been years since Elsie’s twin brother Eddie drowned in the ocean near their home. Elsie is having a difficult time remembering the circumstances of his death and is determined to find out what really happened. This vividly described story explores the long-term effects of death on family and friends.

Librarians will find that fans of We Were Liars and I’ll Give You the Sun will be drawn to this authentic adventure. The novel will also appeal to teens who enjoy a touch of romance and mystery.

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

Published by HMH for Young Readers on April 26, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: Amount

AMOUNT by Marco Loretta is an easy-to-use unit converter.

Users select from 700 units across 30 categories from acceleration to volume. They can also do a key word search for terms such as gigawatt hour or nanonewton. The units can be visualize a number of different ways. For instance, the cooking section measures go from drops to bushels.

The system couldn’t be easier to use. Students simply select a unit and type in a number. The system automatically displays dozens of different conversation for that measure. Whether converting bits into terabytes, type points into inches, or Mexican pesos into American dollars, students will find a unit to fit their needs.

The layout is very effective, but it may take a few minutes to get accustomed to using swipe gestures, long presses, taps, and other tablet techniques to make it work.

Librarians will find this intuitive app to be an excellent addition to their app-based reference collection. Create customized lists of commonly used tools required across the curriculum including tools for physics, earth and space science, chemistry, mathematics, consumer science, business, industrial technology, social sciences, and many other areas.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/amount-unit-currency…/id560750783.

Book Review: Flawed

FLAWED by Cecelia Ahern is a young adult dystopian thriller exploring societal perfection.

Celestine lives in a world that expects perfection. Those who break societal norms are physically and emotionally branded. While Celestine is considered the model citizen, she begins to realize that living a moral life may require actions that don’t mesh with society’s view of perfection. When she’s branded for an act of kindness and compassion, her life changes forever.

Librarians will find this engaging work of science fiction to be a source for endless discussions about the role of society and government in dictating what’s moral and ethical. Use it in a book club or even a psychology or sociology course.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.cecelia-ahern.com/.
To learn more about the book, go to http://fiercereads.com/books/flawed/.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Generation On

GENERATION ON is a website exploring youth service projects from around the world.

While to website features it’s own projects, the ideas can be applied to any local service learning organization. The website is divided into resources for kids, teens, and adults.

The Kid’s section begins by providing stories about young people doing good in their communities. Next, students can explore a wide range of service areas including animal welfare, bullying and tolerance, literacy, education, environment, citizenship and civic engagement, emergency preparation and response, homelessness and poverty, health and wellness, hunger, senior citizens, peace and kindness, as well as military and veterans. Within each area students can view dozens of project ideas and examples. The resources section provides specific guidelines and fact sheets to help youth better understand the activities involved in service learning. Links are provided to games and interactives that contain background information about many of the topics such as emergency preparedness and environmental issues. Finally, current opportunities are featured to help jumpstart service learning projects.

The Teen’s section contains similar sections to the kid’s area, but includes more depth and age-appropriate activities and project examples. This section also promotes the idea of service clubs and sharing.

Parent, Educator, and Organizations sections provide information about ways to involve youth in service learning projects and detail upcoming activities.

Librarians will find endless ideas for service learning projects at this constantly updated website. A blog and calendar provide easy access to news and information about upcoming opportunities.

To visit the website, go to http://www.generationon.org/.

Book Review: Secret Tree Fort

SECRET TREE FORT by Brianne Farley is a charming picture book about two sisters with different ideas about how to spend an afternoon outdoors.

When siblings are told to “go outside and play,” the young girl tried to convince her sister that they should play together. When she’s ignored, the girl uses her imagination to weave an amazing story of a secret fort. Colorful illustrations bring the imaginary fort to life.

Librarians know that forts are always a popular topic. Use this sweet picture book as a read-aloud and encourage children to draw pictures of their own imaginary tree fort.

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

Published by Candlewick Press on April 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.