UPRISING, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

Uprising, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, follows a young Polish girl as she participates in the Warsaw city uprising during WWII.

Twelve-year-old Lidia is outside her grandfather’s house when planes fly overhead, bearing the Nazi cross on each wing. Before the bombs hit the ground, Lidia realizes her life is about to change forever. Poland has fallen under German occupation, and her father makes the brave decision to join the Polish army to fight against the Nazis. Lidia wants to follow him into war, but she’s far too young, and she’s needed by her mother and brother.

After her family returns to Warsaw, where life has changed irrevocably, Lidia continues to play the piano, finding comfort in Chopin, Bach, and Beethoven. But she also wants to aid the Jewish people held captive in the Warsaw Ghetto. With the help of a friend, Lidia begins to smuggle wheat and food into the ghetto. Still, she feels like she could be doing so much more. She wants to fight. After her brother joins the resistance, Lidia wants only to follow in his footsteps. Soon, she begins to work as a courier, smuggling weapons and messages for the resistance throughout the city.

When the Warsaw city uprising begins―one year after the more well-known Warsaw Ghetto uprising by Polish Jews―with gunfire and bombs echoing throughout the streets, Lidia joins the Polish nationalists’ fight, too, and she and her peers fight with everything they’ve got. Life will continue to surprise Lidia, as she and the resistance fighters do their best to defeat the German soldiers. No matter the consequences, they’re willing to defend their freedom and their homes from the Nazi invaders―even with their lives. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

Jennifer A. Nielsen has become a mainstay in middle-grade literature, crafting captivating historical fiction and page-turning series.

Uprising, which was inspired by the real-life story of Polish teenager Lidia Zakrzewski, is an excellent addition to her canon. The story follows Polish resistance fighters who fought against the Nazis.

The story follows Lidia over a period of five years. During which, readers get a first-person account of the horrors Polish citizens faced. Lidia is smart and determined and someone you very much want to root for.

Nielsen adeptly captures the traumas of occupation and war while providing moments of light and hope throughout. Her pacing is smooth and her prose inviting.

While Nielsen did adapt the timeline for her story, much of Uprising is taken from her journals, other writings and stories she told to friends. A few of the characters are also partially fictionalized for purposes of the narration. Also included are photographs of Lidia and her family.

Uprising is a fast-moving historical drama that will appeal to fans of Alan Gratz.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

The post Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Uprising is moving MG historical fiction appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

EARLY READER

THE SKULL: A Tyrolean Folktale, by Jon Klassen, Candlewick, July 11, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-10)

Jon Klassen’s signature wry humor takes a turn for the ghostly in this thrilling retelling of a traditional Tyrolean folktale. In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

I recently passed this book on to a friend whose son needed to read a “fairy tale” book and do a report on it. He’s not a confident reader, but The Skull had immediate appeal. Klassen’s monochromatic artwork is an immediate draw. There’s a subtlety to Klassen’s humor that really resonates with kids.

back to top

AGES 6 AND UP

A KID’S GUIDE TO BACKYARD BIRDS, by Eliza Berkowitz and Nicole LaRue, Gibbs Smith, March 7, 2023, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 6-8)

A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Birds is filled with facts about the most common birds, including where they live, what they eat, and how they sound when they sing. How did the Brown-Headed Cowbird get its name? Which bird can fly up to 40 miles per hour? Packed with over 80 full-color, illustrations, this portable field guide will have burgeoning bird lovers excited about exploring the amazing world just outside their door.

The frontmatter contains a hands-on DIY project, info on how to identify birds, and what are absolute essentials to take in your bag as a beginner birdwatcher. The backmatter contains a bird log to keep track of all the birds spotted, information on how we can protect our birds, and a glossary of important terms found bolded throughout the book. —Synopsis provided by Gibbs Smith

Each of the birds get a two-page spread, including a full-page illustration, and information about habitats, food and fun facts. Illustrations offer distinct features of each bird and are charming in an of itself.

A KID’S GUIDE TO BACKYARD BUGS, by Eliza Berkowitz and Nicole LaRue, Gibbs Smith, March 7, 2023, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 6-8)

 A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Bugs is filled with facts about the United States’ most common insects, including where they live, what they eat, and how they move. Which insect can live without food for up to a whole year? Which insect grows up to almost 2 feet in length?  The front matter contains a hands-on DIY project, info on how to identify bugs, and the essentials to take in your bag as a beginner bug-finder. The back matter contains a bug log to keep track of all the bugs spotted, information on how we can protect our bugs by protecting our planet, and a glossary of important terms bolded throughout the book. —Synopsis provided by Gibbs Smith

This nonfiction bug book has more than 80 detailed full-color illustrations. It’s a portable guide features habitats and food for each bug.

FRANKIE AND FRIENDS: BREAKING NEWS, by Christine Platt and Alea Marley, Walker Books US, Oct. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $15.99 (ages 6 and up)

Frankie’s mama is leaving to cover a breaking news story. Frankie, Papa, and Frankie’s teenage sister, Raven, are all proud of Mama, even though they miss her when she’s away. But Frankie has a great idea: she can make her own news show! After all, Mama has told her that news is happening around her all the time. With a little assistance from her friends—including her doll Farrah, Robert the toy robot, and her tabby cat, Nina Simone—Frankie prepares for her first “broadcast.” And when she hears someone crying in the house, she knows that’s the developing story she must cover. With humor, empathy, and imagination, Frankie gets the scoop—and learns that even mature older sisters can miss Mama sometimes. —Synopsis provided by Walker Books

Frankie and Friends: Breaking News is the first book in a new chapter-book series. It goes deeper than a lot of chapter-book series, focusing on compassion and communication. Full-color illustrations are featured throughout.

back to top

AGES 7 AND UP

THE GUARDIAN TEST (Legends of Lotus Island #1), by Christina Soontornvat and Kevin Hong, Scholastic Press, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 7-11)

Young Plum is shocked to discover that she’s been accepted to the Guardian Academy on Lotus Island, an elite school where kids learn how to transform into Guardians, magical creatures who are sworn to protect the natural world. The Guardian masters teach Plum and her friends how to communicate with animals and how to use meditation to strengthen their minds and bodies. All the kids also learn to fight, so they can protect the defenseless if needed.

To her dismay, Plum struggles at school. While her classmates begin to transform into amazing creatures, Plum can’t even seem to magic up a single feather! If she can’t embrace her inner animal form soon, she’ll have to leave school ― and lose the first group of real friends she’s ever known. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

At 160 pages and sprinkled with illustrations throughout, The Guardian Test is perfect for readers who are moving out of beginning chapter books but want a grander story. Soontornvat’s prose is not overly complicated, and, yet, she provides an expansive world with complex characters that readers can really sink their teeth into. The Guardian Test is a fast-moving story of growth and friendship. It’s a great first book in the Legends of Lotus Island series.

THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX DELUXE ANNIVERSARY EDITION: BEING THE STORY OF A MOUSE, A PRINCESS, SOME SOUP, AND A SPOOL OF THREAD, by Kate DiCamillo and Timothy Basil Ering, Candlewick, Sept. 19, 2023, Hardcover, $24.99 (ages 7-10)

Celebrate twenty years of Despereaux with a splendid anniversary edition—including a bonus original short story from Kate DiCamillo and a new piece of art by Timothy Basil Ering.

Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon, up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into one another’s lives. And what happens then? As Kate DiCamillo would say: Reader, it is your destiny to find out. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

THE PUPPETS OF SPELHORST, by Kate DiCamillo and Julie Morstad, Candlewick, Oct. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 7-10)

Shut up in a trunk by a taciturn old sea captain with a secret, five friends—a king, a wolf, a girl, a boy, and an owl—bicker, boast, and comfort one another in the dark. Individually, they dream of song and light, freedom and flight, purpose and glory, but they all agree they are part of a larger story, bound each to each by chance, bonded by the heart’s mysteries.  

When at last their shared fate arrives, landing them on a mantel in a blue room in the home of two little girls, the truth is more astonishing than any of them could have imagined. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

Sometimes you pick up a book and you know immediately that there’s something special about it. That’s the case with The Puppets of Spelhorst. The Puppets of Spelhorst is an original fairy tale set in three acts that oozes with magic and charm. From Kate DiCamillo’s lyrical prose to Julie Morstad’s are masterfully rendered pencil drawings. At 160 pages The Puppets of Spelhorst is the perfect size for middle readers. Most of the chapters are only a few pages, and the font is slightly larger. And illustrations appear with most turns of the page.

back to top

AGES 8 AND UP

PRINCESS OF THE WILD SEA, by Megan Frazer Blakemore, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, Jan. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Princess Harbor Rose is cursed. She’s lived her whole life hidden away on a remote island with her magical aunts, following all the rules for being a princess. Now it is only one more year until thirteenth birthday, when a hero will finally arrive to save her from her curse.

But as with any story, there are two sides . . . and the curse told of much more than a single princess’s uncertain fate. It told of a dangerous foe rooted in powerful magic. It told of a terrible war that could destroy everything if a young hero didn’t arrive in time. It told of a magic imbued with hope that could save everyone, but only if they believe.

With her beloved kingdom and island at grave risk, Harbor Rose has a choice: Should she wait for the hero, or take matters into her own hands? —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Harbor is exactly the sort of protagonist you’d want at the middle of such a tale. She’s clever and adventurous and has to work through some of her own flaws. Her surrounding cast of characters are equally as flawed in delightfully warm and understandable ways.

Even though there’s a curse at the center of Princess of the Wild Sea, author Megan Frazer Blakemore’s warm prose creates a comforting undercurrent throughout even the more dangerous, darker moments. And — without giving too much away — her use of the “real world” combined with a fantastical one is a great twist.

THE MANY FORTUNES OF MAYA, by Nicole D. Collier, Versify, Jan. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Maya J. Jenkins is bursting with questions. For answers, 12-year-old Maya turns to her Wheel of Fortunes, a cardboard circle covered with the small slips of wisdom she’s collected from fortune cookies.

But can the fortunes answer her deep-down questions? The ones she’s too scared to ask out loud? Like, where did Mama’s smile go, the real one that lit up everything around her? When will Daddy move back home? And most of all, does she have enough courage to truly listen to the voice in her heart? —Synopsis provided by Versify

The Many Fortunes of Maya explores real-life issues that face kids every day. Her parents aren’t happy. Add to that, Maya desperately wants to make her dad proud. Soccer is “their thing,” and she loves it, but she’s not sure it’s her passion.

The highlights of The Many Fortunes of Maya are the familial interactions. Maya with her parents and Maya with her uncle. It’s lovely to see them work through things alone and together. It’s authentic and beautiful and full of hope and promise.

RARE BIRDS, by Jeff Miller, Union Square Kids, Jan. 31, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Twelve-year-old Graham Dodds is no stranger to hospital waiting rooms. Sometimes, he feels like his entire life is one big waiting room. Waiting for the next doctor to tell them what’s wrong with his mom. Waiting to find out what city they’re moving to next. Waiting to see if they will finally get their miracle — a heart transplant to save his mom’s life.

When Graham gets stuck in Florida for the summer, he meets a girl named Lou at the hospital, and he finds a friend who needs a distraction as much as he does. She tells him about a contest to find the endangered Snail Kite, which resides in the local gator-filled swamps. Together they embark on an adventure, searching for the rare bird . . . and along the way, Graham might just find something else — himself. —Synopsis provided by Union Square Kids

Rare Birds is one of those gut-punchingly beautiful reads that resonates long after finishing it. Rare Birds isn’t exactly a happy book, but there’s a brightness that runs through it that offers a sense of hope even when things are going wrong.

This comes, in part, because of the quality of author Jeff Miller’s writing. There’s an underlying warmth to it that feels familiar while the story itself is fresh. Strength comes, too, in the form of Graham and Lou who are exceptionally realized. The two balance each other well and the exploration of their friendship is a delight.

THE PEARL HUNTER, by Miya T. Beck, Balzer + Bray, Feb. 7, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Kai and Kishi share the same futon, the same face, and the same talent for pearl diving. But Kishi is the obedient daughter, while Kai tries to push the rules, and sometimes they fight. Still, when Kishi is stolen and killed by the legendary Ghost Whale, nothing will stop Kai from searching for her, deep in the ocean, hoping for a way to bring her back to life.

But such a rescue is beyond the power of an ordinary mortal. Kai strikes a deal with the gods: she’ll steal a magic pearl in exchange for her sister’s soul. As she journeys across treacherous land scape, Kai must navigate encounters with scheming bandits, a power-hungry war lord, and a legion of conniving fox spirits.  And when a new friendship becomes something almost as powerful as her love for her sister, Kai must make impossible choices and risk everything just to get home again. —Synopsis provided by Batlzer + Bray

Set in a world inspired by pre-Shogun era Japan, The Pearl Hunter is a magical read. Author Miya T. Beck’s world-building skills are lovely. She transports readers to the bottom of the ocean, the top of a mountain and everywhere in between. From the first page, she sets the tone and doesn’t stray from it once.

The Pearl Hunter is an engaging adventure along the lines of Grace Lin (Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, When the Sea Turned to Silver). It captures the imagination and leaves you wanting more — especially Beck’s ending, which turns the entire book on its head.

THE GRACE OF WILD THINGS, by Heather Fawcett, Balzer + Bray, Feb. 14, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Grace has never been good at anything except magic — not that anyone believes her. While other children are adopted from the orphanage, nobody wants Grace. So, she decides to make a home for herself by running away and offering herself as an apprentice to the witch in the nearby woods.

But the witch is bad. So, Grace offers a deal: If she can learn all 100½ spells in the witch’s grimoire, the witch will make Grace her apprentice. But if Grace fails, the witch can take her magic. The witch agrees, and soon an unexpected bond develops between them.

But the spells are much harder than Grace expected, and when a monster from the witch’s past threatens the home Grace has built, she may have to sacrifice more than her magic to save it. —Synopsis provided by Balzer + Bray

The Grace of Wild Things is a lovely reimagining of Anne of Green Gables that captures the spirit of the classic and essence of “Anne” while becoming something that stands fantastically on its own.

The best things about The Grace of Wild Things are the feelings it evokes. Picking it up is like visiting with an old friend. Fawcett’s writing is warm and inviting, full of wit and emotion. The Grace of Wild Things is a fine update to a beloved classic.

FINALLY SEEN, by Kelly Yang, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Feb. 28, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

When ten-year-old Lina Gao steps off the plane in Los Angeles, it’s her first time in America and the first time seeing her parents and her little sister in five years! She’s been waiting for this moment every day while she lived with her grandmother in Beijing. Finally, her parents are ready for her to join their fabulous life in America! Except, it’s not exactly like in the postcards: 1) School’s a lot harder than she thought. 2) Her chatty little sister has no problem with English. And seems to do everything better than Lina. 3)They live in an apartment, not a house like in Mom’s letters, and they owe a lot of back rent from the pandemic.

As she reckons with her hurt, Lina tries to keep a lid on her feelings, both at home and at school. When her teacher starts facing challenges for her latest book selection, a book that deeply resonates with Lina, it will take all of Lina’s courage and resilience to get over her fear in order to choose a future where she’s finally seen. —Synopsis provided by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Author Kelly Yang (Front Desk) has become one of the best-known Asian-American voices in middle-grade literature. And for good reason. Yang’s writing stems from her own childhood and adult experiences. Her voice is clear and authentic and heartfelt.

Multiple plot lines intersect throughout Finally Seen, ranging from immigration and family to bullying and climate change. There’s a lot going on, but the elements play off each other, creating a cohesive read. Yang’s writing is warm and familiar. She captures Lina’s true essence, and captures readers’ hearts in the process.

LEEVA AT LAST, by Sara Pennypacker and Matthew Cordell, Balzer + Bray, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

What are people for? That’s the burning question on the mind of Leeva Spayce Thornblossom. Fame! says Leeva’s mom, the mayor of Nutsmore. Money! says her dad, the town treasurer.

With the help of an orphaned badger, a risk-averse boy in a hazmat suit, and the town’s librarians, Leeva sets off to discover her own answer—setting off a chain of events that will change Nutsmore forever. —Synopsis provided by Balzer + Bray

Leeva At Last has a very Roald Dahl-esque feel to it. From the quirky characters to the adventurous spirit to the suspension of norms that just fit inside the world Sara Pennypacker has created.

Leeva At Last is just plain charming. There’s a lightness to Pennpacker’s writing that just resonates. Her pacing is spot on and you want to know more about her characters. Illustrator Mathew Cordell’s drawings add humor and personality throughout. Even at 300 pages, this one is a fast read.

YOU ARE HERE: CONNECTING FLIGHTS, by Ellen Oh, Allida, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

An incident at a TSA security check point sows chaos and rumors, creating a chain of events that impacts twelve young Asian Americans in a crowded and restless airport. As their disrupted journeys crisscross and collide, they encounter fellow travelers — some helpful, some hostile — as they discover the challenges of friendship, the power of courage, the importance of the right word at the right time, and the unexpected significance of a blue Stratocaster electric guitar.  

Twelve powerhouse Asian American authors explore themes of identity and belonging in the entwined experiences of young people whose family roots may extend to East and Southeast Asia, but who are themselves distinctly American. —Synopsis provided by Allida

You Are Here is one of those books that just kind of sticks with you. It’s a compilation of twelve one-chapter short stories. The magic comes where the stories overlap. A look of solidarity in passing, a small smile, an inspiring act of bravery. Those moments bring the stories together into what is a compelling and moving look at the lives of young Asian Americans.

Each writer’s own style embodies the character they portray, giving them a strong sense of individuality in such a short space. Ellen Oh’s expert editing, makes the entire collaboration seamless. And Oh’s note at the end answers questions that those not of Asian descent may have.

SKYRIDERS, by Polly Holyoke, Viking Books for Young Readers, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

Thirteen-year-old Kiesandra’s best friend isn’t human, but that doesn’t stop her from sharing jokes and secrets with her winged horse, N’Rah. She, like every other person with a skysteed, can communicate with N’Rah through her mind. Their bond is critical when one day, monsters from long ago reemerge to ravage a nearby village. No one knows how to fight the fearsome chimerae except Kie’s uncle . . . and now Kie.

Injured in the battle, Uncle Dug makes her promise to bring his attack plan and weapons to the capital. Kie reluctantly agrees. At the palace, she and N’Rah attempt to gain the trust of the royals and train the army in Dug’s lessons. But how can a young girl and her skysteed convince anyone that only they know how to defeat the deadly monsters? —Synopsis provided by Viking Books for Young Readers

Buzzing with action, Skyriders is a heart pounding fantasy adventure that you won’t want to put down.  While Skyriders is definitely a page-turning adventure, author Polly Holyoke has also included themes of communication, empathy and equity. It’s done so naturally that readers won’t feel as though they’ve been “taught a lesson.” It seamlessly lives within the plot’s framework and Holyoke’s prose.

Skyriders does feature a fair amount of violence and gore —there are a number of battles — but it’s written in such a way that it never feels gratuitous. It’s a fun read and a great start to a new series.

SQUISHED: A GRAPHIC NOVEL, by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter, Graphix, March 7, 2023, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 8-12)

Eleven-year-old Avery Lee loves living in Hickory Valley, Maryland. She loves her neighborhood, school, and the end-of-summer fair she always goes to with her two best friends. But she’s tired of feeling squished by her six siblings! They’re noisy and chaotic and the younger kids love her a little too much.

All Avery wants is her own room. So, she’s furious when Theo, her grumpy older brother, gets his own room instead, and her wild baby brother, Max, moves into the room she already shares with her clinging sister Pearl! Avery hatches a plan to finally get her own room, all while trying to get Max to sleep at night, navigating changes in her friendships, and working on an art entry for the fair. And when Avery finds out that her family might move across the country, things get even more complicated. —Synopsis provided by Graphix

The definition of what constitutes a “large” family varies depending on your community. Where I live, having six or seven siblings isn’t unheard of. There are five kids in my own family. And if you’ve ever lived in such a family, Squished will definitely resonate.

In Squished, Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter have created a charming story of a family facing change. It’s lovely to see the disfunction that happens in even the most loving families play across the pages. The dynamics between siblings are spot on. And the expectations and judgements from a social perspective ring true. Inviting artwork and well-thought-out text really bring this story to life.

ICEBERG, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Hazel Rothbury is traveling all alone from her home in England aboard the celebrated ship Titanic. Following the untimely death of her father, Hazel’s mother is sending her to the US to work in a factory.

But Hazel harbors a secret dream: She wants to be a journalist, and she just knows that if she can write and sell a story about the Titanic’s maiden voyage, she could earn enough money to support her family and not have to go to a sweatshop. When Hazel discovers that mother didn’t send her with enough money for a ticket, she decides she must stow away onboard the storied ship.

With the help of a porter named Charlie and a sweet first-class passenger named Sylvia, Hazel explores the opulent ship in secret, but a haunting mystery quickly finds her. The danger only intensifies when calamity strikes, and readers will be caught up in the terror and suspense alongside Hazel as she fights to save her friends and herself. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

Nielsen’s writing is warm and practiced. She writes to her audience, challenging them to solve Hazel’s mystery alongside her. Nielsen’s pacing, too, is spot-on, echoing the experiences — both languid and immediate — of the passengers.

Iceberg is a fast-paced survival story that will appeal to a wide cross-section of readers. It works well as an individual read or as a read-aloud in a classroom setting. It’s thrilling and suspenseful and will have readers on the edge of their seats.

HOOPS: A GRAPHIC NOVEL, by Matt Tavares, Candlewick, March 14, 2023, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 8-12)

It is 1975 in Indiana, and the Wilkins Regional High School girls’ basketball team is in their rookie season. Despite being undefeated, they practice at night in the elementary school and play to empty bleachers. Unlike the boys’ team, the Lady Bears have no buses to deliver them to away games and no uniforms, much less a laundry service. They make their own uniforms out of T-shirts and electrical tape. And with help from a committed female coach, they push through to improbable victory after improbable victory. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

Illustrated in full color, Hoops helps readers understand women’s ongoing fight for equality in all fields. Quickly paced and full of energetic images, it’s not hard to see why kids would be drawn to it. Tavares does an excellent job balancing text and art, creating a cohesive whole.

My 9-year-old got to my review copy of Hoops before me, and I had to promise to return it once I finished writing this review. “Would you like to read this again?” I asked her. With big eyes and a huge smile, she emphatically stated, “YES!” I can’t think of a better recommendation.

A SKY FULL OF SONG, by Susan Lynn Meyer, Union Square Kids, April 11, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

North Dakota, 1905. After fleeing persecution in the Russian Empire, 11-year-old Shoshana and her family, Jewish immigrants, start a new life on the prairie. Shoshana takes fierce joy in the wild beauty of the plains and the thrill of forging a new, American identity. But it’s not as simple for her older sister, Libke, who misses their Ukrainian village and doesn’t pick up English as quickly or make new friends as easily. Desperate to fit in, Shoshana finds herself hiding her Jewish identity in the face of prejudice, just as Libke insists they preserve it.

For the first time, Shoshana is at odds with her beloved sister, and has to look deep inside herself to realize that her family’s difference is their greatest strength. By listening to the music that’s lived in her heart all along, Shoshana finds new meaning in the Jewish expression all beginnings are difficult, as well as in the resilience and traditions her people have brought all the way to the North Dakota prairie. —Synopsis provided by Union Square Kids

Shoshana is a wonderful character to grow with. As she tries to marry her new American life with her old Ukrainian one, she faces bigotry and bullying. Readers will immediately recognize parallels to issues in today’s society and realize the fight for acceptance goes back long before they were born.

A Sky Full of Song is a fast-moving historical fiction novel with a lot of heart. It’s beautifully written and a joy to read.

THE GREATEST KID IN THE WORLD, by John David Anderson, Walden Pond Press, May 9, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

Zeke Stahls is not the best kid in the world. Some days he struggles just to be good. Which is why Zeke and his entire family are shocked when they receive word that he has been selected as a contestant in an online competition to find the World’s Greatest Kid.

Zeke has no idea how he was chosen for this, and he knows that measuring up to the other nominees is hopeless. Still, with a $10,000 cash prize on the line, and Zeke decides to give it his best shot.

As Zeke concocts various plots to show the world just how “great” he is, he finds himself wondering what that word even means, and who gets to decide. And what kind of kid he wants—and needs—to be. —Synopsis provided by Walden Pond Press

The Greatest Kid in the World is one of those books that starts off innocuously but quickly turns into something much more. It’s an unassuming novel that will knock your socks off. It’s exactly the sort of contemporary middle grade that has appeal for everyone. It will make you laugh. It may even make you cry. It definitely will stick with you long after you finish it. I highly recommend it.

THE MUSEUM OF LOST AND FOUND, by Leila Sales and Jacqueline Li, Harry N. Abrams, May 16, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

Vanessa isn’t sure which happened first: finding the abandoned museum or losing her best friend Bailey. She doesn’t know what to do with herself now that Bailey has left her behind — but when she stumbles upon an empty, forgotten museum, her purpose becomes clear. Vanessa starts filling the museum with her own artifacts and memories.

As Vanessa’s museum grows, it seems like the place might have the answers to other questions, too. Like why a mysterious work of art was left behind. Or how to deal with a military dad who’s trying to parent from thousands of miles away. Or why Vanessa’s bad habit is getting harder and harder to quit. Or even, maybe, how to set the past to rest and find a way to move forward. —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

The Museum of Lost and Found is a story of friendships and self-reflection. As Vanessa curates her exhibit, she is forced to look at her own behavior. That’s when she realizes that she might be at least partially to blame for her friendship with Bailey falling apart. Vanessa’s growth is energizing and makes her interesting as a character. There’s growth among a strong cast of supporting characters, as well, which really fills things out.

What sets The Museum of Lost and Found apart is the museum itself. The exhibits the kids put together are fascinating. The thought that goes into their pieces and the descriptions of them make for a lovely piece of writing.

THE LABORS OF HERCULES BEAL, by Gary D. Schmidt, Clarion Books, May 23, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

Herc Beal knows who he’s named after — a mythical hero — but he’s no superhero. He’s the smallest kid in his class. So, when his homeroom teacher at his new middle school gives him the assignment of duplicating the mythical Hercules’s amazing feats in real life, he’s skeptical. After all, there are no Nemean Lions on Cape Cod — and not a single Hydra in sight.

Missing his parents terribly and wishing his older brother wasn’t working all the time, Herc figures out how to take his first steps along the road that the great Hercules himself once walked. Soon, new friends, human and animal, are helping him. And though his mythical role model performed his twelve labors by himself, Herc begins to see that he may not have to go it alone. —Synopsis provided by Clarion Books

The hero of this tale is Herc — a kid whose voice rings true from Page 1. Herc’s life isn’t what he expected it to be, but he’s learning there’s more to it than he thought. And he’s got friends to help him along the way.

From the start, it’s clear that Schmidt knows his audience. He writes to them, not down to them, creating a sense of respect for the reader. Schmidt’s writing is lively with short sentences sprinkled throughout for emphasis. And though his book is about healing and empathy, you never feel like you’re “learning” a lesson.

HALF MOON SUMMER, by Elaine Vickers, Peachtree, June 6, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Drew was never much of a runner. Until his dad’s unexpected diagnosis. Mia has nothing better to do. Until she realizes entering Half Moon Bay’s half-marathon could solve her family’s housing problems.

And just like that they decide to spend their entire summer training to run 13.1 miles. Drew and Mia have very different reasons for running, but these two 12-year-olds have one crucial thing in common (besides sharing a birthday): Hope. For the future. For their families. And for each other. —Synopsis provided by Peachtree

Half Moon Summer unfolds from the alternating viewpoints of Drew (prose) and Mia (verse). This mixture of styles not only sets the two voices apart, but really encompasses their personalities.

Author Elain Vickers’ writing feels comfortable and assured as she follows her protagonists through the hardest summer of their young lives. She captures their emotions with an earnestness that is rooted in authenticity. Everything about Half Moon Summer rings true. It’s a warm book about friendship and family that’s definitely worth reading.

LAND OF BROKEN PROMISES, by Jane Kuo, Quill Tree Books, June 6, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

After a rocky first year, Anna’s family have settled into life in California — their small restaurant is even turning a profit. Then her parents make a shattering discovery: their visas have expired.

Anna’s world is quickly overwhelmed by unfamiliar words like “undocumented” and “inequality.” She longs to share the towering secret that looms over every aspect of her life with a friend, but her parents strictly forbid her from telling anyone.

As Anna grapples with the complexities of being undocumented, the strain that it places on her family, and the loneliness of keeping it all to herself, she has to wonder — if America is the promised land, why does everything she’s hoped for feel like a lie? —Synopsis provided by Quill Tree Books

Written in verse, Land of Broken Promises is a beautiful mix of detail and sparsity. Kuo balances the two, providing needed structure in some places and room for imagination in others.

Though set in the 1980s, Land of Broken Promises gives young readers a broad introduction to immigration and citizenship and the very real struggles surrounding them. And at the center of everything is Anna, a girl who just wants to live like her classmates. Land of Broken Promises is a heartfelt novel loosely based on the author’s real-life experiences. I highly recommend it.

LET’S FILL THIS WORLD WITH KINDNESS: TRUE TALES OF GOODWILL IN ACTION, by Alexandra Stewart and Jake Alexander, Thames & Hudson, June 27, 2023, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 8-12)

In this uplifting collection of true stories, readers are introduced to real-life heroes and heroines who have chosen to act in kindness, even when they have faced terrible persecution, prejudice, disaster, and illness. These stories are designed to empower children to make positive choices in their own lives by embracing kindness as their superpower.

Stories include Harriet Tubman’s remarkable rescue missions to free enslaved African Americans, the French village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon’s protection of Jewish refugees under Nazi persecution during WWII, and the brave people who volunteered to clean up after the nuclear crisis in Japan. Also included are everyday examples of acts of kindness to protect nature and lift up others, even complete strangers. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

THE PROBABILITY OF EVERYTHING, by Sarah Everett, Clarion Books, June 27, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

Eleven-year-old Kemi Carter loves scientific facts, specifically probability. It’s how she understands the world and her place in it.  But everything Kemi thought she knew changes when she sees an asteroid hover in the sky. Amplus-68 has an 84.7% chance of colliding with earth in four days, and with that collision, Kemi’s life as she knows it will end.

With the days numbered, Kemi decides to put together a time capsule that will capture her family’s truth: how creative her mother is, how inquisitive her little sister can be, and how much Kemi’s whole world revolves around her father. But no time capsule can change the truth behind all of it, that Kemi must face the most inevitable and hardest part of life: saying goodbye. —Synopsis provided by Clarion Books

The Probability of Everything is an end-of-the-world book. But it’s not the end-of-the-world book you’re expecting. It’s one of those books that you should NOT read out of order. Do NOT read the ending first. Start at the beginning and enjoy the ride.

The Probability of Everything is not an easy read. And, as I’ve alluded to before, it turns out to be about something more. But, oh, how gut-wrenchingly beautiful it is. It’s sprinkled with love and hope and heartbreak. As a parent, I’d want to read it prior to my child, just because I know there would be questions and conversations. It’s a transformative read.

CLARA POOLE AND THE LONG WAY ROUND, by Taylor Tyng, Pixel+Ink, July 4, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

When an unintended flight over Michigan in her class science project—a lawn chair held aloft by balloons—brings her instant celebrity, Clara Poole is invited to be the spokesperson for a round-the-world adventure race. But when her overprotective father refuses, Clara forges his signature in a moment of defiance and runs away to Paris to take her place in the skies. 

Partnered with a veteran aeronaut who wants nothing to do with her, Clara faces down ten treacherous stages in a race around the world all while learning the ropes alongside a colorful cast of international competitors.

But there are more dangers ahead. Someone is trying to sabotage the competition. And surviving this race means Clara must come to terms with the tragedy that set her fleeing to the skies in the first place, and accepting that forgiving herself isn’t a process she has to undertake alone. —Synopsis provided by Pixel+Ink

If you’re looking for a high-flying adventure , then look no further. Clara Poole and the Long Way Round is a fantastic middle-grade novel that will sweep you away. Clara is a spunky main character that seems downright normal compared to the quirky characters that cross her path. She’s well-realized, as are some of the more important supporting characters, adding depth to this charming tale.

Clara Poole and the Long Way Round is the first book in a planned series, and I am really excited to see where Tyng takes it. That said, the first book is completely standalone and can be read that way.

LIGHT COMES TO SHADOW MOUNTAIN, by Toni Buzzeo, Holiday House, July 11, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

It’s 1937 and the government is pushing to bring electricity to the mountains of southeastern Kentucky. It’s all Cora can think of, and Cora figures she can help spread the word by starting a school newspaper and convincing her neighbors to support the Rural Electrification Act.

But resistance to change isn’t easy to overcome, especially when it starts at home. Cora’s mother is a fierce opponent of electrification. She argues that protecting the landscape is their responsibility. But Cora just can’t let go of wanting more.

Back matter includes an Author’s Note; further information on the Rural Electrification Act, the herbs and plants of Appalachia, the Pack Horse Library Project, and more; and a “Quick Questions” historical trivia section for readers. —Synopsis provided by Holiday House

Cora is bright and driven. She looks forward to change while her mother fears it. These opposing views drive Buzzeo’s story forward, forcing Cora — and readers — to consider the pros and cons of progress. Both Cora and her mother are well conceived, as are Buzzeo’s supporting characters. Light Comes to Shadow Mountain is a fascinating historical fiction read. Buzzeo has clearly done her research. It’s a compelling backdrop on which her story of family, friendship and loss are explored. Many a daughter will relate to the mother/daughter dynamic that plays out here.

BORN READING: 20 STORIES OF WOMEN READING THEIR WAY INTO HISTORY, by Kathleen Krull , Virginia Loh-Hagan, Aura Lewis (Illustrator), Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, Aug. 1, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

This collection of short-form biographies tells the story of twenty groundbreaking women and how their childhood reading habits empowered them to change the world. From Cleopatra to Sally Ride to Amanda Gorman, the women featured in this collection are from all throughout history and all kinds of backgrounds.

For some, reading was forbidden, but they taught themselves to read anyway. For some, reading was a struggle, but they practiced and grew to love it. For some, reading was an escape from difficult realities. For all, reading was empowering. —Synopsis provided by Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

I’ve seen with my own eyes how important it is for girls to see, read and learn about what women can accomplish. Born Reading allows them to see these accomplishments through a different lens. Reading is universal. It’s attainable. It makes doing hard things seem just a little bit easier.

Born Reading is divided into an introduction; 20 chapters; an epilogue; feminist fun facts; shorter writing on more girls with books; activities to keep reading; resources; references; and an index. It sounds like a lot, but the book is only 134 pages, and with fairly short chapters and illustrations, it moves very quickly. It can be read from beginning to end or a chapter at a time. The writing is smooth and conversational. And the illustrations/portraits are bright and inviting.

THE GREAT TEXAS DRAGON RACE, by Kacy Ritter, Clarion Books, Aug. 1, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

Thirteen-year-old Cassidy Drake wants nothing more than to race with her best dragon, Ranga, in the annual Great Texas Dragon Race. Her mother was a racing legacy, and growing up on her family’s dragon sanctuary ranch, Cassidy lives and breathes dragons. She knows she could win against the exploitative FireCorp team that cares more about corporate greed than caring for the dragons. 

Cassidy is so determined to race that she sneaks out of her house against her father’s wishes and enters the competition. But with five grueling tasks ahead of her, dangerous dragon challenges waiting at each one, and more enemies than allies on the course, Cassidy will need to know more than just dragons to survive. —Synopsis provided by Clarion Books

The Great Texas Dragon Race is 400 pages. But it doesn’t read like that. Author Kacy Ritter has created a world and story that are so encompassing that you feel as if you’re watching a movie as the story unfolds. This would be a fun book to read or listen to aloud as a class.

The Great Texas Dragon Race is a contemporary middle-grade fantasy that’s full of excitement adventure and heart. Though it’s a stand-alone novel, and everything is resolved, there’s definitely room in the world Ritter has created to explore more stories.

FORGET-ME-NOT BLUE, by Sharelle Byars Moranville, Holiday House, Aug. 8, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Siblings Con and Sofie’s mom promised that nothing would ever come between them — but when she disappears without any warning, she becomes the one who’s tearing them apart.

With no one else to rely on, inseparable siblings Con and Sofie must decide who they can trust, and whether or not it’s safe to share their hearts with family members who have the power to hurt them. Sofie has always turned to Con — and to books — during times of upheaval in their unstable lives. But as their mother is arrested and their guardianship becomes uncertain, Sofie will have to find hope in the most important story of all: her own. —Synopsis provided by Holiday House

Author Sharelle Byars Moranville expertly explores how addiction ripples through generations through prose that is both gentle and vulnerable. Sofie and her family are weighted in authenticity. And Moranville’s study of family bonds is beautifully rendered. Though there are some really tough moments to read in Forget-Me-Not Blue, Moranville tempers them with themes of resilience and strength.

While Forget-Me-Not Blue is written at an age-appropriate level, I suggest reading together with your middle-grader or prior to handing it to them. There’s some heaviness to it that they will most likely want to talk about. Forget-Me-Not Blue is a worthwhile read that with beautifully realized characters you won’t soon forget.

THE WILD JOURNEY OF JUNIPER BERRY, by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown, Shadow Mountain, Aug. 15, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

Eleven-year-old Juniper Berry lives with her family deep in the wild woods. Living off the grid is pretty exciting, but her happy life in the wild ends abruptly when her younger brother gets sick, and they move to the city to be closer to the hospital. Juniper and her older sister end up living with cousins they hardly know and attending public school for the first time, which is harder to navigate than the wild woods ever were. Juniper feels like a wolf cub separated from her pack.

As the hospital bills for her brother start piling up, Juniper knows they’ll need to be paid before the family can go back to the woods, so she decides to make enough money to help out. With her cousin Alayna’s support, Juniper starts posting videos filled with her wisdom from the woods, hoping to get a following. But what if it doesn’t work? What if the bills never get paid? Not going home to the wild is Juniper’s worst nightmare. While she’s stuck in the city, she might as well make the most of it, like sticking up for Alayna, who’s being bullied by her supposed friends, for starters. —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain

Juniper is a force to be reckoned with. She’s clever, resourceful, athletic and speaks her own mind. Having been raised away from society, she doesn’t understand social cues, why people wear the clothes they wear or the lack of interest in how things work. Juniper can’t figure out why there’s a pecking order for people and why people adhere to it.

This sets up situations that help readers eliminate the noise surrounding social situations. It’s pretty marvelous, and it comes across naturally without feeling like a lesson. The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry is a quick-moving read with short chapters and engaging characters. This would make a great classroom read-aloud but it’s also perfectly lovely reading it on your own.

SPLAT!: THE MOST EXCITING ARTISTS OF ALL TIME, by Mary Richards, Thames & Hudson, Aug. 15, 2023, Paperback, $14.95 (ages 8-12)

Splat! is the history of art at its most exciting and outrageous. Organized by artist and covering key events and major movements such as the Renaissance and impressionism to surrealism and contemporary art, it is a valuable resource for young art lovers.

Each artist is introduced with bulleted facts including their country of origin, most famous works, the movement they belonged to, techniques they employed, and the greatest challenges they faced in creating their art. This overview offers further insight into who these artists were and how they changed the course of art history. Illustrated in color throughout. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

Splat! is a great introduction to art through the ages. The book is ordered chronologically, helping readers to see how art has evolved through time. Author Mary Richards begins with a colorful timeline and a brief section on art in the beginning (cave paintings to painted churches), and then really gets started with Michelangelo. From there, she highlights 19 more artists and ends with a section on how artists are continuing now to push the boundaries.

My kid loves Splat! and enjoys flipping to her favorite sections. It’s a great option for kids who already love art or are new to the subject. It’s one of those books that you won’t mind having out when company is around. It’s lots of fun for all ages.

THE LOST LIBRARY, by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass, Feiwel & Friends, Aug. 29, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

When a mysterious little free library (guarded by a large orange cat) appears overnight in the small town of Martinville, 11-year-old Evan plucks two weathered books from its shelves, never suspecting that his life is about to change.

Evan and his best friend Rafe quickly discover a link between one of the old books and a long-ago event that none of the grown-ups want to talk about. The two boys start asking questions whose answers will transform not only their own futures, but the town itself. —Synopsis provided by Feiwel & Friends

Sometimes books have a charm to them that you can’t quite put your finger on but the book fairly radiates. That’s The Lost Library. The book unfolds through multi-points-of-view — from a ghost librarian named Al, an aging cat named Mortimer, and Evan. These unique voices move the story quickly forward while simultaneously making you pause to consider each new revelation.

Authors Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass have crafted a magical read with smooth and inviting prose and characters that you really care about. The book is a celebration of family, friendship, choosing your path and a love of reading.

THE A&A DETECTIVE AGENCY: THE FAIRFLEET AFFAIR, by K. H. Saxton, Union Square Kids, Sept. 19, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

The celebrated museums of the Fairfleet Institute are known for curating the mysteries of humanity. But they don’t solve mysteries. Luckily, twelve-year-old friends Alex Foster and Asha Singh of the A&A Detective Agency do. Or they will . . . once they get a real case to test their skills as sleuths.

When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the institute’s eccentric chairman, disappears on the first day of Alex and Asha’s summer vacation, they receive a letter written by the missing millionaire himself inviting them to a game involving complicated clues and puzzles. It is just the sort of case they’ve been waiting to tackle. But nothing in the Fairfleet case has a simple solution. As the kids track down clues, they uncover art forgeries, archaeological crimes, and Fairfleet family secrets. All of this tests their partnership and forces them to confront the complicated legacies of the people and places they admire most. —Synopsis provided by Union Square Kids

This delightful detective story is smart, funny and full of heart. Debut author K. H. Saxton tells the story with the confidence and cadence of a seasoned writer. Her knack for combining an intricate plot, dynamic characters and compelling information into a novel that is perfectly suited to middle readers is commendable. The backdrop of art, theater and natural history provides depth and added interest.

The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair is a fast-moving mystery that’s got wide appeal. It’s one of my top middle-grade reads of the year, and I can’t wait to read more stories from the author.

THREE TASKS FOR A DRAGON, by Eoin Colfer and P.J. Lynch, Candlewick, Oct. 3, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

Studious Prince Lir is next in line to become the Wolfhound King, but he can’t ride a horse, lift a sword, or summon the fabled wolfhounds. So, his stepmother decrees that her own son will inherit the crown instead, sending Lir away on a seemingly impossible—and assuredly fatal—quest: to rescue the maiden Cethlenn from the once-fearsome dragon Lasvarg.

Rather than wage battle, Lir insists that Lasvarg, now decidedly past his prime, honor tradition by setting him three tasks to perform—starting with tackling the mold encrusting the dragon’s cave (and his feet!). As Lir improves Lasvarg’s life, he also grows closer to Cethlenn . . . as well as the wolfhound puppy strangely devoted to her. In time, they learn more of the dark magic that may be making pawns of them all—and how Cethlenn herself could be the key to breaking a spell that clouds the entire kingdom. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

Three Tasks for a Dragon reads like a fairy tale/adventure of old. And that’s not a bad thing. It’s kind of epic. There’s a power to Eoin Colfer’s lyrical prose that draws you in and pushes the story forward. His characters are nuanced and unexpected and everything else you’d want them to be.

P.J. Lynch’s mood-filled watercolor illustrations set in tones of oranges and blues add an extra dimension to this sweeping fantasy. Three Tasks for a Dragon is a magical tale that feels fresh and familiar at the same time. It’s a beautiful tale that children and grownups alike will enjoy.

THE SONG OF THE SWAN, by Karah Sutton and Pauliina Hannuniemi, Knopf Books for Young Readers, Oct. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Olga is an orphan and a thief, relying on trickery and sleight of hand to make her way in the world. But it’s magic, not thievery, that could get her into trouble.

When Olga and her partner-in-crime Pavel learn of a valuable jewel kept in a secluded castle, Olga sees an opportunity to change their lives: a prize so big, they’d never have to steal again. But the castle is not as it seems, ruled by an enchanter who hosts grand balls every night, only for the guests to disappear each morning, replaced by swans. Guided by cryptic clues from the palace spiders, Olga soon realizes she’s in over her head—torn between a bargain with the enchanter, loyalty to Pavel, and determination to understand how the enchanted swans are linked to her own fate.

One thing is certain: there is dark magic behind the castle’s mysteries, and Olga will stop at nothing to unmask it. —Synopsis provided by Knopf Books for Young Readers

This fast-moving retelling of Swan Lake reads like a fairy tale. Author Karah Sutton’s writing is smooth and accessible and illustrator Pauliina Hannuniemi’s images are charming.

Keeper of the Lost Cities The Graphic Novel Part 1: Volume 1, by Celina Frenn, Shannon Messenger, Gabriella Chianello, Aladdin, Nov. 7, 2023, Hardcover, $27.99, Paperback, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Twelve-year-old Sophie Foster has never quite fit into her life. She’s skipped multiple grades and doesn’t really connect with the older kids at school, but she’s not comfortable with her family, either. The reason? Sophie’s a Telepath, someone who can read minds. No one knows her secret—at least, that’s what she thinks…

But the day Sophie meets Fitz, a mysterious (and adorable) boy, she learns she’s not alone. He’s a Telepath too, and it turns out the reason she has never felt at home is that, well…she isn’t. Fitz opens Sophie’s eyes to a shocking truth, and she is forced to leave behind her family for a new life in a place that is vastly different from what she has ever known. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

The first book in the bestselling Keeper of the Lost Cities series is being reimagined as a graphic novel. This is  the first half of the epic novel, and, wow, it’s impressive. This full-color adaptation gets to the heart of source material. 

ABOVE THE TRENCHES, by Nathan Hale, Amulet Books, Nov. 14, 2023, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 8-12)

When the Great War began in 1914, America had plans to stay out of it. But some young men were so eager to fight, they joined the French Foreign Legion. From deep in the mud and blood of the Western Front, these young volunteers looked to the sky and saw the future—the airplane.

The first American pilots to fight in World War One flew for the French military. France created a squadron of volunteer Americans called the Lafayette Escadrille (named after the great Marquis de Lafayette).

This book is about that volunteer squadron: How they got into the French military. How they learned to fly. How they fought—and died. And how these American pilots would go down in history with other legendary flying aces like the Red Baron and his Flying Circus. —Synopsis provided by Amulet Books

Above the Trenches is the 12^th book in Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales series, graphic novels that tell true stories of American history. My kid loves these books. They’re entertaining while being educational.

back to top

AGES 9 AND UP

PARACHUTE KIDS: A GRAPHIC NOVEL, by Betty C. Tang, Graphix, April 4, 2023, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 9-12)

Feng-Li can’t wait to discover America with her family! But after an action-packed vacation, her parents deliver shocking news: They are returning to Taiwan and leaving Feng-Li and her older siblings in California on their own.

Suddenly, the three kids must fend for themselves in a strange new world ― and get along. Starting a new school, learning a new language, and trying to make new friends while managing a household is hard enough, but Bro and Sis’s constant bickering makes everything worse. Thankfully, there are some hilarious moments to balance the stress and loneliness. But as tensions escalate ― and all three kids get tangled in a web of bad choices ― can Feng-Li keep her family together? —Synopsis provided by Graphix

Author Betty C. Tang is one such kid. She was 10-years-old in 1979 when she and her siblings arrived in the US. Though Parachute Kids is not a memoir, it does draw from her family’s experiences as well as those of other immigrants she’s met throughout her life.

And that’s why Parachute Kids works so well. Tang tells her truth through text and illustrations that are a mix of thoughtful and humorous. There’s joy and there’s pain and everything in between. Her illustrations are full of energy — expressive and detailed. The pacing is spot on, and the flow makes you want to keep turning the pages. Tang doesn’t shy away from complicated family and social dynamics, providing a narrative that’s moving and entertaining at the same time. It’s an excellent option for kids who are drawn to graphic novels and newbies alike.

RACE AGAINST DEATH: THE GREATEST POW RESCUE OF WORLD WAR II, by Deborah Hopkinson, Scholastic Focus, April 18, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 9-12)

Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, America entered World War II, and a new theater of battle opened up in the Pacific. But US troops, along with thousands of Filipino soldiers who fought alongside them, were overtaken in the Philippines by a fiercely determined Japanese navy, and many Americans and Filipino fighters were killed or captured.

These American and Filipino prisoners of war were forced to endure the most horrific conditions on the deadly trek known as the Bataan Death March. Then, the American servicemen who were held captive by the Japanese military in Cabanatuan Camp and others in the Philippines, faced beatings, starvation, and tropical diseases, and lived constantly under the threat of death.

Unable to forget their comrades’ fate and concerned that these POWs would be brutally murdered as the tides of war shifted in the Pacific, the US Army Rangers undertook one of the most daring and dangerous rescue missions of all time. Aided by the “Angels of the Underground,” the Sixth Ranger Battalion and courageous Filipino guerrilla soldiers set out on an uncertain and treacherous assignment. Often called the Great Raid, this remarkable story remains largely forgotten. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Focus

Author Deborah Hopkinson is no stranger to nonfiction, having written more than 70 books for young readers including picture books, middle grade historical fiction, Little Golden Book biographies, and long form nonfiction.

That experience shows in her meticulously written Race Against Death. Though nonfiction, Hopkinson’s writing is almost conversational — it reads like a novel — immediately making it accessible to readers ages 9 and up.

BARELY FLOATING, by Lilliam Rivera, Kokila, Aug. 29, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 9-12)

Natalia De La Cruz Rivera y Santiago was swimming neighborhood kids out of their money at the local Inglewood pool when her life changed. The LA Mermaids performed, emerging out of the water with matching sequined swimsuits, and it was then that synchronized swimming stole her heart.

The problem? Her activist mom and professor dad think it’s a sport with too much emphasis on looks — on being thin and white. Nat grew up the youngest in a house full of boys, so she knows how to fight for what she wants, often using her anger to fuel her. People often underestimate her swimming skills when they see her stomach rolls, but she knows better than to worry about what people think. Still, she feels more like a submarine than a mermaid, but she wonders if she might be both. —Synopsis provided by Kokila

Barely Floating is more than just a swimming story. It’s the exploration of body image, community, family, building community and finding your voice.

Nat is a vibrant character who grabs your attention from the start. She’s not ashamed of her size, but struggles when other people make it important. She loves sequins and sparkles and beauty magazines, even though she’s not supposed to like them. Her bold personality resonates throughout the novel, daring you not to follow her journey.

Barely Floating is one of those books that’s going to resonate with readers from all walks of life — swimmers or not.

NO BRAINER (DIARY OF A WIMPY KID BOOK 18), by Jeff Kinney, Harry N. Abrams, Oct. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 9-10)

Up until now, middle school hasn’t exactly been a joyride for Greg Heffley. So when the town threatens to close the crumbling building, he’s not too broken up about it.

But when Greg realizes this means he’s going to be sent to a different school than his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, he changes his tune. Can Greg and his classmates save their school before it’s shuttered for good? Or is this the start of a whole new chapter for Greg? —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

No Brainer is the 18^th book in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, and it’s just as fun for readers as the previous books. My kid loves this series, and has read some books in order and others out, and has had no complaints, other than she wants more. Author Jeff Kinney knows his audience and gives them exactly what they want.

back to top

AGES 10 AND UP

THE LOST YEAR: A SURVIVAL STORY OF THE UKRAINIAN FAMINE, by Katherine Marsh, Roaring Brook Press, Jan. 17, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10-14)

Thirteen-year-old Matthew is miserable. His journalist dad is stuck overseas indefinitely, and his mom has moved in his 100-year-old great-grandmother to ride out the pandemic, adding to his stress and isolation.

But when Matthew finds a tattered black-and-white photo in his great-grandmother’s belongings, he discovers a clue to a hidden chapter of her past, one that will lead to a life-shattering family secret. Set in alternating timelines that connect the present-day to the 1930s and the US to the USSR, Katherine Marsh’s latest novel sheds fresh light on the Holodomor – the horrific famine that killed millions of Ukrainians, and which the Soviet government covered up for decades. —Synopsis provided by Roaring Brook Press

Told through dual timelines, The Lost Year explores the Holodomor — a man-made famine that killed millions. In it, Author Katherine Marsh expertly explores both a historical event and the people who lived through it. And by setting one of the timelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Marsh gives readers a relatable place to start from.

The Lost Year unfolds from the alternating points of view of Matthew and cousins Helen and Mila. The three stories perfectly interweave to keep readers interested and the book moving forward. Marsh pulls from her family’s own past, adding authenticity throughout.

Everything about The Lost Year is impeccable. From Marsh’s inviting prose and compelling characters to accessible history and gripping storyline, readers won’t want to put it down. It should especially appeal to fans of Alan Gratz (Refugee, Ground Zero) and those who enjoy contemporary and historical fiction.

HANDS, by Torrey Maldonado, Nancy Paulsen Books, Jan. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 10 and up)

Trev would do anything to protect his mom and sisters, especially from his stepdad. But his stepdad’s return stresses Trev—because when he left, he threatened Trev’s mom.

Rather than live scared, Trev takes matters into his own hands, literally. He starts learning to box to handle his stepdad. But everyone isn’t a fan of his plan, because Trev’s a talented artist, and his hands could actually help him build a better future. 

Ultimately, Trev knows his future is in his hands, and his hands are his own, and he has to choose how to use them. —Synopsis provided by Nancy Paulsen Books

At less than 150 pages, Hands is a relatively short book for middle readers, but it certainly packs a punch. In fact, the book is better for its brevity with author Torrey Maldonado perfectly capturing the voice his audience wants to hear.

From the first page, it is as if Trev is talking directly to you. His tone, his body language, his emotion. They’re all there. Hands is a fast-paced read with short chapters that’s full of energy. For many, it will be a one-sitting read.

CHILDREN OF THE BLACK GLASS, by Anthony Peckham, Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10-14)

In an unkind alternate past, somewhere between the Stone Age and a Metal Age, Tell and his sister Wren live in a small mountain village that makes its living off black glass mines and runs on brutal laws. When their father is blinded in a mining accident, the law dictates he has thirty days to regain his sight and be capable of working at the same level as before or be put to death.

Faced with this dire future, Tell and Wren make the forbidden treacherous journey to the legendary city of Halfway, halfway down the mountain, to trade their father’s haul of the valuable black glass for the medicine to cure him. The city, ruled by five powerful female sorcerers, at first dazzles the siblings. But beneath Halfway’s glittery surface seethes ambition, violence, prejudice, blackmail, and impending chaos.

Without knowing it, Tell and Wren have walked straight into a sorcerers’ coup. Over the next twelve days they must scramble first to save themselves, then their new friends, as allegiances shift and prejudices crack open to show who has true power. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books

Children of the Black Glass is a darker middle-grade novel. Tell and Wren come from a harsh place, and Halfway isn’t any better, just different. The mood of the novel is echoed perfectly in its cover, which truly captures its essence. The overall tone and themes — death, violence, betrayal and revenge — are better suited to older, more mature middle readers, ages 10 and up.

Peckham gives readers a morally gray world with morally gray characters that’s compelling. There are moments of hope and happiness sprinkled here and there that feel natural and help lighten the tone. It’s a well-paced novel, and I look forward to reading it’s sequel.

WILD BIRD, by Diane Zahler, Roaring Brook Press, March 21, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 10 and up)

Her name was Rype. That wasn’t really her name. It was what the strangers called her. She didn’t remember her real name. She didn’t remember anything at all. Rype was hiding in the hollow of a tree trunk when they found her. She was hungry, small, cold, alone. She did not speak their language, or understand their mannerisms. But she knew this: To survive, she would have to go with them.

In fourteenth-century Norway, the plague has destroyed the entire village of Skeviga. To stay alive, Rype, the only one left, must embark on a sweeping adventure across Europe with the son of an English ship captain and a band of troubadours in search of a brighter future and a new home. —Synopsis provided by Roaring Brook Press

Wild Bird is one of those books that you want to reread almost as soon as you finish it. Author Diane Zahler’s ability to show scope while remaining intimate is excellent, and her prose and pacing are comfortable and well-suited to her story.

While the publisher’s suggested age range for Wild Bird is 8-12, the book reads older. LGBTQ+ issues, sexual innuendo in sea shanties and implied sexual abuse of a character push it a bit older — ages 10 and up — or at least warrant a parent-child discussion.

Wild Bird is a fast, compelling read that will appeal to older middle readers, young adults and even adults.

ARTHUR, THE ALWAYS KING, by Kevin Crossley-Holland and Chris Riddell, Candlewick Studio, April 11, 2023, Hardcover, $29.99 (ages 10 and up)

Translated, adapted, told, and retold, the stories of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table have captivated imaginations across time. Now comes an illustrated, retelling sure to enthrall a new generation of readers.

From the tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight to the quest for the Holy Grail, stories both familiar and unfamiliar are woven into a vivid tapestry of Arthurian lore that spans from the king’s conception to his final battle. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Studio

Arthur, The Always King is the type of book written for children (ages 10 and up), but grownups will buy for themselves as well. Especially those who have a hankering for Arthurian legend.

Arthur, The Always King begins with Arthur’s childhood; Merlin and the Sword in the Stone; and the Round Table. Next comes the seven trials the knights must complete. This setup creates a series of sections that feel like short stories or interludes. This provides natural breaking points for readers and feel appropriate for this narrative.

Arthur, The Always King is a good option for those who are already enticed by Arthurian mythology. It’s a beautiful book that has a lot to offer.

GLOBAL: ONE FRAGILE WORLD. AN EPIC FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL. by Eoin Colfer, Andrew Donkin, Giovanni Rigano, Sourcebooks Young Readers, April 11, 2023, Paperback, $14.99 (ages 10-14)

Time is running out for Sami and Yuki. Sami and his grandfather live in a village along the Indian Ocean. They earn their living by fishing. But the ocean is rising and each day they bring back fewer and fewer fish.

Yuki lives in the far north of Canada where warming temperature are melting the ice. Polar bears have less food to hunt and are wandering into town looking for something to eat. Yuki is determined to do something to help the bears. —Synopsis provided by Sourcebooks Young Readers

Authors Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin have expertly crafted text that not only provides first-person narration, but dialogue, too. The well-thought-out text may be sparse, but readers immediately get a sense of who both Sam and Yuki are. They are complex and wonderfully crafted.

Colfer and Donkin’s text is perfectly paired with Giovanni Rigano’s stunning illustrations. Each panel is full of detail, emotion and color. His bold work truly brings this graphic novel to life.

THE ASTRONAUT’S GUIDE TO LEAVING THE PLANET: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW, FROM TRAINING TO RE-ENTRY, by Terry Virts, Workman Publishing Company, April 11, 2023, Paperback, $14.99 (ages 10 and up)

A kid’s guide to leaving the planet from someone who’s done it! Former astronaut Terry Virts guides readers through the practical elements of becoming an astronaut, along with the wonders (and challenges) of space travel.

With insider information, readers and aspiring astronauts will be inspired to start their own journey to the stars. This practical guide is full of valuable wisdom and insight that will guide the astronaut candidates of tomorrow! —Synopsis provided by Workman Publishing Company

The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet is divided into chapters that feature subheadings, fact boxes, illustrations and photographs. Terry Virts’ writing is clear and conversational. He covers timely topics and doesn’t shy away from the “gross” stuff.

The publisher’s suggested age range for this book is 10 and up, but I would go as young as 8, especially if your young reader is more advanced. There’s nothing that’s objectionable content wise for a younger audience. The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet is an informative read that should appeal to space fanatics young and old.

OPINIONS AND OPOSSUMS, by Ann Braden, Nancy Paulsen Books, May 2, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

Agnes has been encouraged not to question authority by her mom—but that’s especially hard in religion class, where it bugs her that so much gets blamed on Eve and that God’s always pictured one way.  

Fortunately, Agnes’ anthropologist neighbor, Gracy, gets Agnes thinking after they rescue an opossum together. Playing dead didn’t serve the opossum well, so maybe it’s time for Agnes to start thinking for herself. And when Agnes learns that some cultures picture God as a female, she feels freed to think—and write—about things from new perspectives. —Synopsis provided by Nancy Paulsen Books

Ann Braden takes a big topic like God and breaks it down into thought-provoking questions and observations. Some people will see this book as an attack on religion, but in truth, it’s a celebration of faith. And Braden begins with a simple, but profound, quote from Maya Angelou, “Tell the truth. To yourself first.”

Opinions and Opossums is a book that makes you think. It’s the kind of book that would have changed the world for me as a youth. So much so that I bought a copy for my 9-year-old to read. Braden’s prose is warm and inviting and Agnes is a character that will challenge and excite you. This is an excellent read.

THE FIRE, THE WATER, AND MAUDIE MCGINN, by Sally J. Pla, Quill Tree Books, July 11, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 10 and up)

Maudie always looks forward to the summers she spends in California with her dad. But this year, she must keep a troubling secret about her home life—one that her mom warned her never to tell. Maudie wants to confide in her dad about her stepdad’s anger, but she’s scared.

When a wildfire strikes, Maudie and her dad are forced to evacuate to the beach town where he grew up. It’s another turbulent wave of change. But now, every morning, from their camper, Maudie can see surfers bobbing in the water. She desperately wants to learn, but could she ever be brave enough?

As Maudie navigates unfamiliar waters, she makes friends—and her autism no longer feels like the big deal her mom makes it out to be. But her secret is still threatening to sink her. Will Maudie find the strength to reveal the awful truth—and maybe even find some way to stay with Dad—before summer is over? —Synopsis provided by Quill Tree Books

The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn is the kind of book that sticks with you. Author Sally J. Pla’s elegant prose draws you in and makes you want to stay. She creates a sense of space that feels warm and familiar. And the parallels between the ocean and Maudie are spot on.

One of the central plot lines in The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn is the way Maudie’s stepfather treats her. It turns out that Maudie is being physically abused. Pla addresses this topic with care, and the few descriptions of Maudie being hurt are quick and not gratuitous. But it’s still a hard topic, and it will be slightly jarring for readers. I suggest parents read the book ahead of time or at least be prepared to discuss it with their children.

The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn is one of the best middle-grade novels I’ve read this year. Maudie’s growth and journey toward defining herself rather than letting her autism define her is beautiful.

MEXIKID, by Pedro Martín, Dial Books, Aug. 1, 2023, Hardcover, $24.99, Paperback, $14.99 (ages 10 and up), Graphic Novel

Pedro Martin has grown up hearing stories about his abuelito — his legendary crime-fighting, grandfather who was once a part of the Mexican Revolution! But that doesn’t mean Pedro is excited at the news that Abuelito is coming to live with their family. After all, Pedro has eight brothers and sisters and the house is crowded enough! Still, Pedro piles into the Winnebago with his family for a road trip to Mexico to bring Abuelito home, and what follows is the trip of a lifetime, one filled with laughs and heartache. Along the way, Pedro finally connects with his abuelito and learns what it means to grow up and find his grito. —Synopsis provided by Dial Books

Mexikid is a road trip like no other. From laugh-out-loud hijinks to gross-out moments and everything in between, it’s a journey that readers won’t soon forget. The story rings with authenticity. It almost feels like you’re at a family gathering listening to the story around the dinner table.

The story unfolds through a blend of cartoon, comic-style illustrations that are bold and full of exuberance. Mexikid is the story of a multi-generational, immigrant family that’s full of love, laughter and bigger-than-life lore. It’s a heartwarming read that readers will gobble up.

TIGER DAUGHTER, by Rebecca Lim, Delacorte Press, Aug. 15, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

Wen Zhou is a first-generation daughter of Chinese migrant parents. She has high expectations from her parents to succeed in school, especially her father whose strict rules leave her feeling trapped. Then she befriends a boy named Henry who is also a first-generation immigrant. He is the smartest boy at school despite struggling with his English and understands her in a way nobody has lately. Both of them dream of escaping and together they come up with a plan to take an entrance exam for a selective school far from home.

But when tragedy strikes, it will take all of Wen’s resilience and tiger strength to get herself and Henry through the storm that follows. —Synopsis provided by Delacorte Press

At 192 pages, Tiger Daughter is in the sweet spot for middle readers who want a big punch in a not-so-long book. And, boy, does Tiger Daughter make a statement.

Author Rebecca Lim’s prose is smooth and thoughtful. She deftly touches on racism, sexism and emotional domestic violence. Her care and attention to detail is evident from beginning to end, making Tiger Daughter a transformative read.

FARTHER THAN THE MOON, by Lindsay Lackey, Roaring Brook Press, Sept. 19, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 9 (ages 10 and up)

All Houston Stewart has ever wanted is to become an astronaut. His dreams feel like they’re finally coming true when he’s accepted to the  Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program – if only he could bring his little brother, Robbie, with him. Ever since their dad left, Houston and Robbie have been inseparable. But Robbie’s cerebral palsy and epilepsy mean he needs medical attention at home, so Houston has to go on his own.

At camp, Houston is quickly drawn into the orbit of new friends, cosmic adventures, and a long-lost grandfather. Houston is determined to honor Robbie’s dream, even if it seems like an impossible mission. So, like a good astronaut, he dares to make a new plan ― one that shoots for the stars. —Synopsis provided by Roaring Brook Press

Farther Than the Moon is a fabulous story of two brothers — Houston and Robbie — and the bond they share. Beyond the sibling relationship, Lackey also focuses on friendship and teamwork within the setting of the Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program. Here, it’s great to see teens in their element while still very much themselves. Houston’s team is full of wonderfully flawed characters who are continually working to better themselves academically and personally. Farther Than the Moon is a great upper-middle-grade novel that has multiple educational tie-ins as well as being just a good book to read.

KIN: Rooted in Hope, by Carole Boston Weatherford and Jeffery Boston Weatherford, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Sept. 19, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 10 and up)

Carole and Jeffery Boston Weatherford’s ancestors are among the founders of Maryland. Their family history there extends more than three hundred years, but as with the genealogical searches of many African Americans with roots in slavery, their family tree can only be traced back five generations before going dark. And so from scraps of history, Carole and Jeffery have conjured the voices of their kin, creating an often painful but ultimately empowering story of who their people were in a breathtaking book that is at once deeply personal yet all too universal.

Carole’s poems capture voices ranging from her ancestors to Frederick Douglass to Harriet Tubman to the plantation house and land itself that connects them all, and Jeffery’s illustrations help carry the story from the first mention of a forebear listed as property in a 1781 ledger to he and his mother’s homegoing trip to Africa in 2016. Shaped by loss, erasure, and ultimate reclamation, this is the story of not only Carole and Jeffery’s family, but of countless other Black families in America. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Kin: Rooted in Hope is one of those books that sticks with you long after you read it. It’s a striking work that combines both poetry and illustration. Carole’s beautiful prose is moving in its cadence. The pauses and words left unsaid serve to strengthen her narrative, which spans five centuries and is told in multiple voices. It’s a book that begs to be read aloud.

Jeffery’s scratchboard art is stunning. His ability to capture emotion through line is superb. His work is raw, bold and beautiful. He matches Carole’s tone while adding even more depth to her words.

SUSIE KING TAYLOR: NURSE, TEACHER & FREEDOM FIGHTER (Rise. Risk. Remember. Incredible Stories of Courageous Black Women), by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Candace Buford, Aladdin, Sept. 26, 2023, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 10 and up)

A groundbreaking figure in every sense of the word, Susie King Taylor (1848–1912) was one of the first Black nurses during the Civil War, tending to the wounded soldiers of the 1st South Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Afterward, she was a key figure in establishing a postbellum educational system for formerly bonded Black people, opening several dedicated schools in Georgia. Taylor was also one of the first Black women to publish her memoirs.

Even as her country was at war with itself, Taylor valiantly fought for the rights of her people and demonstrated true heroism. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

Susie King Taylor: Nurse Teacher & Freedom Fighter is as compelling a biography as any that I’ve read. The first-person narrative immediately draws you in, and makes you feel as if you’re right there with Taylor. The biography is full of harrowing moments, but it is the addition of the simplest of details that add depth.

The authors capture Taylor’s voice in prose that is both accessible for the intended audience and engaging for those who are older. It’s an excellent biography.

REMEMBER US, by Jacqueline Woodson, Nancy Paulsen Books, Oct. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 10 and up)

It seems like Sage’s whole world is on fire the summer before she starts seventh grade. As house after house burns down, her Bushwick neighborhood gets referred to as “The Matchbox” in the local newspaper. And while Sage prefers to spend her time shooting hoops with the guys, she’s also still trying to figure out her place inside the circle of girls she’s known since childhood. 

But it’s also the summer of Freddy, a new kid who truly gets Sage. Together, they reckon with the pain of missing the things that get left behind as time moves on, savor what’s good in the present, and buoy each other up in the face of destruction. And when the future comes, it is Sage’s memories of the past that show her the way forward. Remember Us speaks to the power of both letting go . . . and holding on. —Synopsis provided by Nancy Paulsen Books

Jacqueline Woodson is a masterful storyteller. Her prose has a richness to it that feels as if she’s in the room talking to you herself. Her style is tight, carefully selecting narrative and dialogue. Never giving too much or too little. At the center of Remember Us is Sage. A teen who lost her own firefighter father to a blaze. Her relationship with fire is complicated, but her dreams for the future — becoming a pro basketball player — are not. Until they are, too. Sage’s heart is on the page for all to see — her pain, triumphs, her memories.

Remember Us is a captivating, fast-moving read. With 77 chapters and less than 200 pages, it’s approachable for all middle-readers.

THE NIGHT RAVEN (The Moonwind Mysteries), by Johan Rundberg and A. A. Prime, Amazon Crossing Kids, Nov. 1, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99, Paperback, $9.99 (ages 10 and up)

It’s 1880, and in the frigid city of Stockholm, 12-year-old Mika knows that everyone in her orphanage will struggle to survive this winter. But at least the notorious serial killer the Night Raven is finally off the streets…or is he?

Mika is shocked when a newborn baby is left at the orphanage in the middle of the night, by a boy with a cryptic message. When a detective shows up, Mika senses something even more sinister is going on.

Drawn in by Mika’s unique ability to notice small details, the detective unwittingly recruits her to help him with his investigation into a gruesome murder. Mika knows she should stay far, far away, but maybe, this is Mika’s chance to be someone who matters. —Synopsis provided by Amazon Crossing Kids

The Night Raven is a smart page-turner that’s a bit dark and full of mystery. At just under 200 pages, it’s the perfect length for Rundberg’s intended audience. But the intrigue is strong enough that older audiences will appreciate it as well.

The Night Raven is a fast-moving read that’s suitable for older, more mature middle-readers. Some topics — death, dead bodies, murder, violence— might be a little scary for younger readers. These are all explored tastefully and are not graphic, but are there nonetheless. I look forward to reading more in this series.

back to top

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

The post 2023 Gift Guide: Middle Grade Books appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

ICEBERG, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

A young stowaway onboard the Titanic uncovers a dastardly plot in Iceberg, a new middle-grade novel by Jennifer A. Nielsen.

Hazel Rothbury is traveling all alone from her home in England aboard the celebrated ship Titanic. Following the untimely death of her father, Hazel’s mother is sending her to the US to work in a factory, so that she might send money back home to help her family make ends meet.

But Hazel harbors a secret dream: She wants to be a journalist, and she just knows that if she can write and sell a story about the Titanic’s maiden voyage, she could earn enough money to support her family and not have to go to a sweatshop. When Hazel discovers that mother didn’t send her with enough money for a ticket, she decides she must stow away onboard the storied ship.

With the help of a porter named Charlie and a sweet first-class passenger named Sylvia, Hazel explores the opulent ship in secret, but a haunting mystery quickly finds her. The danger only intensifies when calamity strikes, and readers will be caught up in the terror and suspense alongside Hazel as she fights to save her friends and herself. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

There’s something about the Titanic that draws people in. More than 110 years since its tragic sinking, people still clamor to hear stories about the unsinkable ship that was taken out by an iceberg.

In Iceberg, Jennifer A. Nielsen imagines what that journey could have been like for a young stowaway.

Nielsen has become a master at historical fiction for children (A Night Divided, Resistance, Lines of Courage). She makes past events come alive by artfully telling the story through mystery, action and compelling characters. The same is true of Iceberg.

At the center of the story is Hazel, a quick-thinking young woman who has an eye for details and boundless curiosity. By making Hazel a young person, Nielsen has not only made her relatable to readers, but she’s made her someone who can easily move about the ship. With a borrowed dress, Hazel can move within the different classes, giving readers a glimpse of life for everyone onboard.

Nielsen’s writing is warm and practiced. She writes to her audience, challenging them to solve Hazel’s mystery alongside her. Nielsen’s pacing, too, is spot-on, echoing the experiences — both languid and immediate — of the passengers.

Iceberg is a fast-paced survival story that will appeal to a wide cross-section of readers. It works well as an individual read or as a read-aloud in a classroom setting. It’s thrilling and suspenseful and will have readers on the edge of their seats.

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

The post Travel aboard the doomed Titanic in Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Iceberg appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

LINES OF COURAGE, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, May 17, 2022, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

The stories of five young people living through World War I are weaved together in Jennifer A. Nielsen’s fantastic Lines of Courage.

World War I stretches its cruel fingers across Europe, where five young people, each from different backgrounds and nations, face the terror of battle, the deprivations of hunger, and all the awful challenges of war.

Felix, from Austria-Hungary, longs for the bravery to resist Jewish deportations before his own family can be taken.

Kara, from Britain, dreams of someday earning her Red Cross pin and working as a nurse — or even a doctor.

Juliette, of France, hopes her family can remain knitted together, despite her father’s imprisonment, as the war’s longest battle stretches on and on.

Elsa, from Germany, hopes her homing pigeon might one day bring her a friend from out of the chaos.

And Dimitri, of Russia, wants only to survive the front, where he’s been sent with no weapon.

None of them will find exactly what they want. But the winds of fate may cross their paths to give each of them just what they need. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic

Author Jennifer A. Nielsen just keeps getting better. Whether creating new worlds (The Ascendance series, Traitor’s Game series), or exploring history through fiction (Lines of Courage, A Night Divided) Nielsen knows how to speak to her audience and bring her characters to life.

In Lines of Courage readers see WWI from five different vantage points. It’s unusual to tell a story from so many points of view, but it works. Because the five stories overlap, readers not only get to know the characters, they get a sense of continuity that would otherwise be lost. The friendships between characters are among the book’s highlights.

What stands out the most, though, are the different experiences — life onboard a Red Cross train, searching for loved ones among the abandoned trenches, learning how to survive being on the “wrong side” of the conflict, etc. These different teenage viewpoints remind readers that casualties of war can, and do, come from anywhere.

Lines of Courage is an engrossing read from cover to cover. My one small complaint is that the ending feels perhaps a little too rushed, a little to convenient. But that won’t stop me from highly recommending this excellent read.

Copyright © 2022 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

The post Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Lines of Courage takes you to front lines of WWI appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

Each year, Cracking the Cover compiles a list of books that make great gifts. The following are middle grade books published in and/or reviewed by Jessica in 2021. Synopsis are written by Jessica unless otherwise noted. Scroll down for the complete list or click or tap the following links to directly visit a section. EARLY READER • CONTEMPORARY • FANTASY • ADVENTURE/MYSTERY • GRAPHIC NOVEL • HISTORICAL FICTION • NONFICTION • INTERACTIVE 

EARLY READER

TALLY TUTTLE TURNS INTO A TURTLE (CLASS CRITTERS #1), by Kathryn Holmes and Ariel Landy, Amulet Books, Aug. 31, 2021, Hardcover, $12.99 (ages 6-9)

It’s Tally Tuttle’s first day of second grade, and she’s so nervous that she feels like she ate butterflies for breakfast! She just wishes she could retreat into a shell . . . Then, all of a sudden, the desks and her classmates around her seem enormous, and Tally is shell-shocked to discover that she’s actually turned into a turtle! She’d heard that Mrs. Norrell’s class was special, but she hadn’t expected this. —Synopsis provided by Amulet Books

I handed Tally Tuttle Turns into a Turtle to my then-soon-to-be second-grader with instructions to read it and report back. Here’s what she had to say: “It’s about a girl who gets turned into a turtle on her first day of school, and then she ends up outside and has to figure out how to turn back into a kid! It’s a funny adventure, but the best part is at the end when she gets friends. It says it’s Book 1, and I want to read more.”

Barkus: The Most Fun by Patricia MacLachlan and Marc Boutavant, Chronicle Books, Sept. 21, 2021, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 6-9)

A young girl and her dog, Barkus, never know exactly how their adventures will turn out, but they know they’ll have fun along the way. From camping and visiting the family farm to a parade of ambling claves and winter at the cabin, the two are never far apart.

Barkus: The Most Fun is actually the third book in this early chapter series, but the books can be read out of order. These full-color reads feature short chapters and simple — but entertaining — text perfect for emerging readers. And they’re fun enough that even kids who’ve advanced past them will still want to read them.

JUDY MOODY: IN A MONDAY MOOD, by Megan McDonald and Peter H. Reynolds, Candlewick, Sept. 14, 2021, Hardcover, $15.99 (ages 6-9)

Judy Moody is Monday-morning mopey. Another week in her same-old seat at her same-old desk in her same-old school. Even worse, there aren’t any days off from school for ages. But when she steps into Class 3T, Judy’s Monday frown turns upside down. Mr. Todd is making Monday special by celebrating Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day (no lie)! This gives Judy an idea that just-might-maybe turn her week around: why not make every day of the week a holiday? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

My 7-year-old began reading the Judy Moody books when she was in kindergarten, and she was immediately impressed. She really connected with this spunky girl who honestly expressed herself and wasn’t afraid to fail. Though my daughter is moving into harder books, she begged me to read it. We’ve really come to enjoy this series at our house, and when people ask for recommendations, I always suggest Judy over Junie B. Jones.

BOOK BUDDIES: IVY LOST AND FOUND, by Cynthia Lord and Stephanie Graegin, Candlewick Press, Sept. 28, 2021, Hardcover, $12.99 (ages 6-9)

Ivy was Anne the librarian’s doll when she was a young girl. But now she has moved to Anne’s library to be its newest Book Buddy — a toy that can be checked out just like a book. Fern, a child who visits the library with her stepfamily, wishes things could go back to the way they were, when Fern had her dad all to herself. When Fern takes Ivy home, an unexpected outdoor adventure helps both of them find confidence and belonging in their changing worlds. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Press

Ivy Lost and Found is the first in a chapter-book series that pairs friendly toys with child characters who need them. The book was an immediate hit with my 7-year-old, who was immediately drawn to the sweet cover. Ivy Lost and Found has a timeless feel to it. There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles, just a lot of heart. The publisher’s suggested age for it is 6-9, but I’d drop it to 5-8. Nine-year-olds are probably a little to “mature” for it, but I could definitely see 5-year-olds thumbing through with an adult or on their own.

THE SECRET OF THE MAGIC PEARL, by Elisa Sabatinelli and Iacopo Bruno, Red Comet Press, Oct. 12, 2021, Hardcover, $21.99 (ages 6-10)

Hector lives with his family at the Marina in an Italian coastal town where they organize tourist expeditions to explore the many wonders of the sea. Hector’s dream is to become a deep-sea diver, just like his father. Then, one day, an unscrupulous entrepreneur opens a much newer center next door, forcing them to close their business. This man has a single purpose, to find the legendary Pearl in order to sell it and make money. Hector decides to find a way to thwart the plan and save what matters most to him: the sea, his family, and his dream. —Synopsis provided by Red Comet Press

The Secret of the Magic Pearl is a picture/chapter book hybrid with full-color illustrations throughout. And. It. Is. Gorgeous. From the bold and magical illustrations to the eccentric characters, everything about The Secret of the Magic Pearl feels special. Short chapters are broken up by a mix of small, medium and full-page spreads that get to the heart of the story. The tale itself is charming and a bit quirky. I’ve never read/seen anything like it.

back to top

CONTEMPORARY

REAL, by Carol Cujec and Peyton Goddard, Shadow Mountain, Feb. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8 and up)

Charity may have mad math skills and a near-perfect memory, but with a mouth that can’t speak and a body that jumps, rocks, and howls unpredictably, most people incorrectly assume she cannot learn. Charity’s brain works differently from most people’s because of her autism, but she’s still funny, determined, and kind. So why do people treat her like a disease or ignore her like she’s invisible? When Charity’s parents enroll her in a public junior high school, she faces her greatest fears. —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain

Real is inspired by co-author Peyton Goddard who spent 22 years trapped inside her own body. At the age of 6, Peyton was diagnosed as severely autistic. It wasn’t until she gained a dependable mode of communication some 16 years later that she was recognized as intelligent.

Charity’s journey goes beyond finding her voice. In fact, finding her voice is just the beginning. Themes of anti-bullying, friendship, civil rights, self-acceptance, and preconceived notions are threaded throughout.

THESE UNLUCKY STARS, by Gillian McDunn, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, March 2, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Ever since her mother left a few years ago, Annie has felt like the odd one out in her family. Her dad and brother just don’t understand the way she thinks. Everywhere she turns, she feels like an outsider, even at school, so she’s been reluctant to get close to anyone. When a “Ding-Dong-Ditch” attempt goes wrong, Annie finds herself stuck making amends with Gloria, the eccentric elderly lady she disturbed. As she begins to connect with Gloria and her weird little dog, it becomes clear that Gloria won’t be able to live on her own for much longer. But it’s this brief and important friendship that gives Annie the confidence to let people in, and see how rich life can be when you decide to make your own luck and chart your own path to happiness. —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

These Unlucky Stars is a tender read that celebrates family and friendships of all shapes and sizes.

STELLA, by McCall Hoyle, Shadow Mountain, March 2, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Ever since she was a puppy, Stella was trained to use her powerful beagle nose to sniff out dangerous chemicals and help her handler keep people safe. But during a routine security inspection, Stella misses the scent of an explosive. Unable to go back to work because of her anxiety, Stella is retired as a working dog. When a young girl name Cloe wants to adopt Stella, the beagle knows this is her last chance to prove her worth. But how? When the beagle smells a strange chemical inside Cloe’s body just before the girl has a seizure, Stella’s nose makes the connection. But how can Stella convince others that she can be a new kind of service dog and hopefully save Cloe’s life? —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain

Stella is a book that you’ll talk about after finishing it. It’s one you’ll think about, too. That’s because McCall Hoyle is an excellent storyteller. The book is told from the point of view of the title character. You get a real sense of what it’s like to be a dog. The behavior and thought process are spot on. But it’s when you read her tale within the context of conversations and observations that you truly understand how difficult it must have been for Hoyle to maintain a perfect balance.

RESCUE AT LAKE WILD, by Terry Lynn Johnson, HMH Books for Young Readers, April 27, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Everyone knows that twelve-year-old Madison “Madi” Lewis is not allowed to bring home any more animals. But when Madi and her two best friends, Aaron and Jack, rescue beaver kits whose mother was killed, they find themselves at the center of a local conspiracy that’s putting the beavers and their habitats in danger. As Madi and her friends race to uncover the threat targeting the beavers, Madi must put her animal whisperer skills to the test in both raising the orphaned beaver kits and staying out of trouble long enough. —Synopsis provided by HMH Books for Young Readers

Madi, Aaron and Jack are a delightful trio who balance each other out. They’ve all got their quirks, and that, along with Jack’s dog, Lid, make for some great interactions, mishaps and discoveries. Rescue at Lake Wild celebrates friendship, ingenuity and nature. It will make an excellent addition to any reader’s growing library.

UNSETTLED, by Reem Faruqi, HarperCollins, May 11, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

When her family moves from Pakistan to Peachtree City, all Nurah wants is to blend in, yet she stands out for all the wrong reasons. Nurah’s accent, floral-print kurtas, and tea-colored skin make her feel excluded, until she meets Stahr at swimming tryouts. In the water Nurah doesn’t want to blend in. She wants to win medals like her star athlete brother, Owais — who is going through struggles of his own in the U.S. Yet when sibling rivalry gets in the way, she makes a split-second decision of betrayal that changes their fates. —Synopsis provided by HarperCollins

Written in verse, Unsettled is a fast moving, compelling read. Some chapters are a few pages, others a few sentences. Author Reem Faruqi takes advantage of the sparse language, allowing the spaces and silences to say as much as the words. The simplicity is eloquent and moving. Unsettled is a warm read that offers themes of empowerment, belonging and self-discovery.

THE LAST SUPER CHEF, by Chris Negron, HarperCollins, July 6, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

For as long as he can remember, Curtis Pith has been obsessed with becoming a chef like Lucas Taylor, host of Super Chef. And Curtis has a secret: Taylor is actually his long-absent father. So, when Taylor announces a kids-only season of Super Chef, Curtis finally sees his chance to meet his dad. But after Curtis wins a spot in the competition and arrives in New York to film the show, nothing goes as smoothly as he expected. —Synopsis provided by HarperCollins

The Last Super Chef reads like a behind-the-scenes expose of MasterChef/MasterChef Junior. Lucas Taylor is an easy stand-in for multi-Michelin starred chef Gordon Ramsay, and Curtis could be any of the contestants that have participated over the years. Obviously, there are some differences — the main one being the long-lost father storyline — but the overall passion, competition concept and cookery are not only similar, but feel true to the circumstances.

DOWN TO EARTH, by Betty Culley, Crown Books for Young Readers, August 24, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Henry has always been fascinated by rocks. As a homeschooler, he pours through the R volume of the encyclopedia (to help him identify the rocks he finds). So, when a meteorite falls in his family’s field, who better to investigate than this rock enthusiast. But soon after the meteorite’s arrival, the water in Henry’s small Maine town starts drying up. It’s not long before news spreads that the space rock and Henry’s family might be to blame. Henry is determined to defend his newest discovery, but his knowledge of geology could not have prepared him for how much this stone from the sky would change his community, his family, and even himself. —Synopsis provided by Crown Books for Young Readers

The appeal of Down to Earth comes in its simplicity. Kids aren’t glued to cell phones; families work to support each other; and there’s a true sense of community, even when there are disagreements. Quite honestly, it’s this sort of wholesome background that really elevates the magic and joy of making a discovery and learning. Author Betty Culley’s writing is smooth and inviting. She seamlessly educates — lots of space and geological science facts — while painting a compelling story of friendship and family.

STARFISH, by Lisa Fipps, Nancy Paulsen Books, March 9, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

Ever since Ellie wore a whale swimsuit and made a big splash at her fifth birthday party, she’s been bullied about her weight. To cope, she tries to live by the Fat Girl Rules — like “no making waves,” “avoid eating in public,” and “don’t move so fast that your body jiggles.”  And she’s found her safe space — her swimming pool. In the water, she can stretch herself out like a starfish and take up all the room she wants. It’s also where she can get away from her pushy mom, who thinks criticizing Ellie’s weight will motivate her to diet. Fortunately, Ellie has allies in her dad, her therapist, and her new neighbor, Catalina, who loves Ellie for who she is. With this support buoying her, Ellie might finally be able to cast aside the Fat Girl Rules and starfish in real life. —Synopsis provided by Nancy Paulsen Books

Starfish is an emotional read from beginning to end. Lisa Fipps’ prose is elegant, honest, and, at times, raw. It’s clear from the beginning that she hasn’t just written a story. Ellie’s experiences stem Fipps’ own life. There’s an authenticity there that you just can’t make up. Starfish is one of those books you pick up and don’t want to put down. Fipps’ writing packs an emotional punch that will make readers from all points of view question themselves and their actions. It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year.

back to top

FANTASY

THE ACCIDENTAL APPRENTICE, by Amanda Foody, Margaret K. McElderry Books, March 30, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

As an apprentice to the town’s mushroom farmer, Barclay need only work hard and follow the rules. But then Barclay accidentally strays into the Woods where magical Beasts lurk. To Barclay’s horror, he unwittingly bonds with a Beast and is run out of town by an angry mob. Determined to break this bond and return home, Barclay journeys to find the mysterious town of Lore Keepers, people who have also bonded with Beasts and share their powers. But after making new friends, entering a dangerous apprenticeship exam, and even facing the legendary Beast of the Woods, Barclay must make a difficult choice: return to the home and rules he’s always known, or embrace the adventure awaiting him. —Synopsis provided by Margaret K. McElderry Books

Author Amanda Foody does an excellent job setting up a world that feels both expansive and small at the same time. She mimics Barclay’s limited view to his immediate surroundings, but as he opens himself up to new possibilities, the world around him expands. This fast-moving fantasy adventure has broad appeal.

THE LAST WINDWITCH, by Jennifer Adam, HarperCollins, April 13, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Many years ago, in the kingdom of Fenwood Reach, there was a powerful Windwitch who wove the seasons, keeping the land bountiful and the people happy. But then a dark magic drove her from the realm, and the world fell into chaos. Brida is content trying to convince her fickle magic to actually do what it’s meant to in her work as a hedgewitch’s apprentice—until she accidentally catches the attention of the wicked queen. On the run from the queen’s huntsman and her all-seeing Crow spies, Brida discovers the truth about her family, her magic, and who she is destined to be. —Synopsis provided by HarperCollins

One of the best things about The Last Windwitch is that it stands alone. Yes, author Jennifer Adam could return to the world she’s created — and I hope she does — but she doesn’t have to. At 448 pages, it’s probably too long for less advanced middle readers. However, it takes courage to contain the story to one novel, and I commend both author and editor for that choice. The book and overall reading experience are better because of it.

A DISCOVERY OF DRAGONS, by Lindsay Galvin, Chicken House, July 6, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

It’s 1835. Cabin boy Simon Covington is on the voyage of a lifetime to the Galapagos Islands with the world-famous scientist, Charles Darwin. But when Simon falls overboard during a huge storm, he washes up on an unexplored island. Stranded there, he makes a discovery that could change the world. Now it’s not just his own survival at stake — the future of an undiscovered species is in his hands. But perhaps there’s one person who could help … —Synopsis provided by Chicken House

Author Lindsay Galvin does an excellent job setting the scene. You do feel as if you’re at the Galapagos. And though she adopts the more formal language of the time, it never feels stiff or stilted. A Discovery of Dragons isn’t high fantasy, but it asks you to imagine “what if?” which might be even better.

THE RAVEN HEIR, by Stephanie Burgis, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, Sept. 14, 2021, Hardcover, $6.99 (ages 8-12)

Deep within an enchanted forest lies a castle where a set of triplets and their sorceress mother have lived for years — safe from the decades-long war for the Raven Throne that rages in the kingdom. Cordelia, one of the triplets, has the power to become any animal with just a thought, and she yearns to discover more about the world outside her castle. But one day, the world comes to her, when the eldest of the triplets becomes the newest heir to the throne. Knowing that being named heir means certain death, Cordelia’s mother hid the truth about which child is the eldest when she hid them in the forest. When her family is captured, it’s up to Cordelia to use her powers to keep her siblings hidden and discover the truth about the Raven Heir — before it’s too late. —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

The Raven Heir is a fantasy novel full of magic, but at its heart, it’s about what truly makes a family whole. It’s a fast-moving adventure that’s heart-warming as well. It should appeal to a large cross-section of readers.

THE SHATTERED CASTLE, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, Oct. 19, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

King Jaron has outwitted the Prozarians and returned to his own kingdom with one secret in his pocket that not even his friends know about. He’s hoping that secret will help him finally bring stability to Carthya. But a surprise attack on his own land  reminds Jaron that nothing is easy. The Prozarian Monarch threatens to crumble Jaron’s entire kingdom. And that’s not the only thing in danger: With old enemies and new rumors circling around him, even Jaron’s relationship with Imogen is uncertain.—Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

The Shattered Castle is full of plot twists of all sizes, including a big one that explains a lot of Jaron’s behavior. It’s a great read with lots of mystery and adventure. Nielsen’s writing is comfortable and inviting, making The Shattered Castle a welcome addition to any home library.

CHILDREN OF THE FOX, by Kevin Sands, Viking Books for Young Readers, Oct. 5, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Lured by the promise of more money than they’ve ever dreamed of, five young criminals are hired to steal a heavily guarded treasure from the most powerful sorcerer in the city. There’s Callan the con artist, Meriel the expert at acrobatics (and knives!), Gareth the researcher, Lachlan who can obtain anything, and Foxtail, whose mysterious eyeless mask doesn’t hinder her ability to climb walls like a spider. Callan has been warned most of his life, it’s best to stay away from magic. It can turn on you at any moment, and make you think you’re the one running the con game, when in reality you’re the one being fooled. Faced with these unsurmountable odds, can the friends pull off this legendary heist, or has their luck finally run out? —Synopsis provided by Viking Books for Young readers

 Children of the Fox is an exciting read from beginning to end. It’s fast-paced, full of magic and adventure, and it’s the first book in a planned series (Thieves of Shadow), so readers will have plenty to look forward to.

THE HATMAKERS, by Tamzin Merchant and Paola Escobar, Norton Young Readers, Feb. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $18.95 (ages 9-12)

When Cordelia Hatmaker’s beloved father fails to return from an ingredient-hunting expedition, Cordelia is the only member of the family who knows in her heart that he can’t be gone for good. Her grief-stricken aunt and uncle forge ahead to continue the work of their guild and to fulfill a crucial order from the King for a magical Peace Hat. But the enchantments woven into the carefully crafted goods of the Hatmaker, Bootmaker, Cloakmaker, Watchmaker, and Glovemaker guilds begin causing sudden inducements of rage and chaos. As war looms and the Peace objects backfire, Cordelia must find out who is using the Makers’ creations for dark purposes and uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance. —Synopsis provided by Norton Young Readers

 The Hatmakers is a magical tale about family, friendship and believing in yourself. It is a quick-moving adventure that’s sure to appeal to a large cross-section of readers.

BLOOM, by Nicola Skinner and Flavia Sorrentino, HarperCollins Children’s Books, March 16, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 10 and up)

Sorrel Fallowfield is so good at being good that teachers come to her when they need help remembering the school rules — and there are LOTS. Luckily, Sorrel doesn’t have any trouble following them, until the day she discovers a faded packet of Surprising Seeds buried under a tree in her backyard. Now she’s hearing voices, seeing things, experiencing an almost unstoppable urge to plant the Seeds in some very unusual places… and completely failing to win her school’s competition to find The Most Obedient Child of the School. And all that’s before flowers start growing out of her head… —Synopsis provided by HarperCollins Children’s Books

Bloom has a distinctly Roald Dahl-esque feel to it. Nicola Skinner’s quirky, often tongue-in-cheek prose practically flies off the pages. And Flavia Sorrentino’s floral illustrations add an extra dimension that truly benefits the story. Bloom is one of those books you don’t know you needed to read until you’ve read it. It brings life and lightheartedness, as well as a positive message. It was fun to read to myself, and I can’t wait to read it aloud with my 7-year-old when she’s a bit older (I’d say more advanced 8- and 9-year-olds will get along just fine with this one).

back to top

ADVENTURE/MYSTERY

WINTERBORNE HOME FOR MAYHEM AND MYSTERY, by Ally Carter, HMH Books for Young Readers, March 2, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

April thought she had her happy ending. After all, she has her new house and new friends and new guardian. But she also has a very big new secret. The kids of Winterborne House are the only ones who know that Gabriel Winterborne is really a sword-wielding vigilante. What they don’t know is that he’s not the only one. When a masked figure breaks in, looking for something, it’s clear that Gabriel has met his match, and now no one is safe. April and her friends will have to solve a decades-old mystery in order to hang on to the most important thing in the world: each other. —Synopsis provided by HMH Books for Young Readers

One year ago, I called Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor “awesome MG.” And its follow-up, Winterborne Home for Mayhem and Mystery, is just as good. Both books are cinematic and feel as if everything plays out on the big screen before you. Like its predecessor, this novel is adventure from beginning to end. This fast-moving book is full of twists and turns, and a few surprises.

STOWAWAY, by John David Anderson, Walden Pond Press, Aug. 3, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

When scientists discover a mineral buried in the Earth’s crust, they have no idea that it just happens to be the most valuable substance in the entire universe. It’s not long before aliens show up, offering a promise of protection, some fabulous new technology, and entry into their intergalactic coalition — all in exchange for this precious resource. A material so precious that other alien forces are willing to start a war over it. A war that soon makes its way to Earth.

Leo knows this all too well. His mother was killed in one such attack, and soon after, his father, a Coalition scientist, decides it would be best for them to leave Earth behind. It’s on this expedition that their ship is attacked, Leo’s father is kidnapped, and Leo and his brother are stranded in the middle of space. The only chance they have is for Leo to stow away on a strange ship of mercenary space pirates bound for who knows where and beg the captain to help him find his father. Leo must decide who to trust as he tries to stay alive and save his family, even as he comes to understand that there aren’t many people — human or alien — that he can count on in this brave new universe. —Synopsis provided by Walden Pond Press

Stowaway is one of those novels that swiftly sweeps you away. Author John David Anderson’s prose is nimble and engaging, drawing readers in from the first page. And then there’s sort of a sci-fi familiarity. Stowaway feels like a mashup of the television shows Firefly and Farscape. It’s not an exact mirror of them, but they both came to mind when considering different elements. The pirates have the same banter and character development fans of Firefly will appreciate and the wild and weird aliens definitely have a Farscape vibe.

JANE AUSTEN INVESTIGATES: THE ABBEY MYSTERY, by Julia Golding, Lion Fiction; New edition, April 23, 2021, Paperback, $10.99 (ages 9 and up)

It’s 1789 and a Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. When a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming-of-age party. While there, Jane vows to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds — for she does not believe in such stories! But this is not the only strange occurrence for the adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are shivery night-time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations. — Synopsis provided by Lion Fiction

In The Abbey Mystery, readers are exposed to societal norms of the time through a sort of Nancy Drew lens. Golding’s prose meets somewhere in the middle — with sophisticated phrasing that feels reachable to more modern sensibilities. Her tone is clear and concise, providing equal attention to both Jane’s surroundings and the action at hand.

ALONE, by Megan E. Freeman, Aladdin, Jan. 12, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

When 12-year-old Maddie hatches a scheme for a secret sleepover with her two best friends, she ends up waking up to a nightmare. She’s alone — left behind in a town that has been mysteriously evacuated and abandoned. With no one to rely on, no power, and no working phone lines or internet access, Maddie slowly learns to survive on her own. As months pass, she escapes natural disasters, looters, and wild animals. But Maddie’s most formidable enemy is the crushing loneliness she faces every day. Can Maddie’s stubborn will to survive carry her through the most frightening experience of her life? —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

I’m not usually drawn to novels written in verse, but Alone quickly drew me in. Author Megan E. Freeman’s prose is natural and inviting, and it lends itself well to both the intense and quiet moments. Alone is a fast read, you won’t want to put down — I read it in one sitting. Alone rings true and will appeal to a wide variety of older (ages 10 and up) middle graders.

back to top

GRAPHIC NOVEL

ASTRONUTS MISSION THREE: THE PERFECT PLANET, by Jon Scieszka and Steven Weinberg, Chronicle Books, Sept. 21, 2021, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 8-12

Time is up for our friends the AstroNuts. In fact, time is up for you, too. If they don’t succeed on this mission, Earth is doomed! So when the team finds out they’re being sent to a place called “the perfect planet,” their mission sounds way too easy. Unfortunately, the second they land, they realize they’ll be dealing with the most dangerous species of all time . . . humans. Huh? Where in the universe is this supposedly perfect place? And how will the Nuts manage to convince the humans to risk death . . . for the sake of their lives?! —Synopsis provided by Chronicle Books

The AstroNuts series, in particular, is very visual. All of the books feature full-color illustrations throughout. Illustrator Steven Weinberg bases his collage-type art on public domain pieces from the Smithsonian Museum. And author Jon Scieszka utilizes word bubbles and text boxes that quickly move the story forward and feel accessible to readers if all levels. The AstroNuts series is a good option for fans of Dog Man, Big Nate, Wimpy Kid, and Captain Underpants, as well as visual learners, reluctant readers, and those who just want to go on an adventure.

COLD WAR CORRESPONDENT (NATHAN HALE’S HAZARDOUS TALES #11): A KOREAN WAR TALE, by Nathan Hale, Harry N. Abrams, Oct. 26, 2021, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 8-12)

In 1950, Marguerite Higgins (1920–1966) was made bureau chief of the Far East Asia desk for the New York Herald Tribune. Tensions were high on the Korean peninsula, where a border drawn after WWII split the country into North and South. When the North Korean army crossed the border with Soviet tanks, it was war. Marguerite was there when the Communists captured Seoul. She fled with the refugees heading south, but when the bridges were blown over the Han River, she was trapped in enemy territory. Her eyewitness account of the invasion was a newspaper smash hit. She risked her life in one dangerous situation after another — all for the sake of good story. Then she was told that women didn’t belong on the frontlines. The United States Army officially ordered her out of Korea. She appealed to General Douglas MacArthur, and he personally lifted the ban on female war correspondents, which allowed her the chance to report on many of the major events of the Korean War. —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

Two years ago, my then-5-year-old picked up Nathan Hale’s Major Impossible, Book 9 in the Hazardous Tales series. I couldn’t pry it away from her. Now, 7, she’s been asking for more books in the series, and when Cold War Correspondent arrived, I had to hide it. This addictive series tells true stories of American history that middle-readers love. You don’t have to read the books in order, and they’re all full of adventure and shocking events.

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID (SPECIAL DISNEY+ COVER EDITION) (DIARY OF A WIMPY KID #1), by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books; Media tie-in edition, Nov. 23, 2021, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 8-12)

In 2007, Diary of a Wimpy Kid was published, introducing readers to Greg Heffley and his family, his best friend Rowley Jefferson, and the dreaded Cheese Touch. It’s a new school year, and Greg finds himself thrust into middle school, where undersized weaklings share the hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving. The hazards of growing up before you’re ready are uniquely revealed through words and drawings as Greg records them in his diary. —Synopsis provided by Amulet Books

More than 250 million copies of Diary of a Wimpy Kid have now been sold and the 16^th book in the series, Big Shot, just came out. This new edition of the book that started it all is in honor of a new full-color, 3D animated production that premieres Dec. 3 on Disney+. If you’re new to the Wimpy Kid universe, this book is the place to start.

back to top

HISTORICAL FICTION

I Survived the Galveston Hurricane, 1900, by Lauren Tarshis, Scholastic Inc., Sept. 7, 2021, Paperback, 5.99 (ages 7-10)

I Survived: The Galveston Hurricane, 1900, by Lauren Tarshis, follows a child through America’s deadliest disaster.

Back matter provided by Lauren Tarshis not only explains why the author wrote about the Galveston hurricane, but provides facts about hurricanes and life in 1900. The historical photographs really helped my daughter visualize the time and place.

Tarshis’ writing is clear and exciting. She doesn’t overcomplicate things, and illustrations sprinkled throughout add interest. At 115 pages (plus approximately 20 pages of back matter) I Survived: The Galveston Hurricane, 1900 is a great length for readers of all abilities. This engaging read will appeal to readers ages 7-10.

RESCUE, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, March 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Meg Kenyon’s father is supposed to be in France, fighting for the Allies in World War II. Recently, she heard he was being held prisoner by the Nazis. All she has left of him are the codes he placed in a jar for her to decipher. Suddenly, an impossible chance to save her father falls into Meg’s lap. After following a trail of blood in the snow, Meggie finds an injured British spy hiding in her grandmother’s barn. Captain Stewart tells her that a family of German refugees must be guided to Spain, whereupon one of them has promised to free Meg’s father. Captain Stewart asks Meg to take them and gives her a final code from Papa to help complete the mission. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

Rescue stands out from other novels in its genre in a number of ways. The most intriguing — the use of codes. Not only are the codes used, but Meg has to decode them herself. And the way the author presents them, allows the reader to work on them as well. Meg is a smart, lively girl who makes mistakes and quickly learns from them. Her adventure is nail-biting to the final chapter.

THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY, by Kate DiCamillo and Sophie Blackall, Candlewick, Sept. 28, 2021, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)

In a time of war, a mysterious child appears at the monastery of the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing. Gentle Brother Edik finds the girl, Beatryce, curled in a stall, wracked with fever, coated in dirt and blood, and holding fast to the ear of Answelica the goat. As the monk nurses Beatryce to health, he uncovers her dangerous secret, one that imperils them all — for the king of the land seeks just such a girl, and Brother Edik, who penned the prophecy himself, knows why. And so it is that a girl with a head full of stories ventures into a dark wood in search of the castle of one who wishes her dead. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Press

The Beatryce Prophecy is one of those books you want to share with everyone you meet. Kate DiCamillo’s writing is clear and engaging, and Sophie Blackall’s detailed illustrations are lovely. The story is broken into 54 short and accessible chapters (only a few pages in length) that move the story forward and serve as natural stopping points for readers who need them.

FACELESS, by Kathryn Lasky, HarperCollins, Oct. 19, 2021, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Over the centuries, a small clan of spies called the Tabula Rasa has worked ceaselessly to fight oppression. They can pass unseen through enemy lines and “become” other people without being recognized. They are, essentially, faceless. Alice and Louise Winfield are sisters and spies in the Tabula Rasa. They’re growing up in wartime England, where the threat of Nazi occupation is ever near. But Louise wants to live an ordinary life and leaves the agency. Now, as Alice faces her most dangerous assignment yet, she fears discovery, but, most of all, she fears losing her own sister. —Synopsis provided by HarperCollins

Faceless is the sort of story I would have loved as a middle-reader and that I still enjoy today. Her mix of espionage and historical drama make for a fast-paced and engaging adventure. I would recommend this for fourth- and fifth-graders.

GROUND ZERO, by Alan Gratz, Scholastic Press, Feb. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 9-12)

September 11, 2001, New York City: Brandon is visiting his dad at work, on the 107th floor of the World Trade Center. Out of nowhere, an airplane slams into the tower, creating a fiery nightmare of terror and confusion. And Brandon is in the middle of it all. Can he survive — and escape?

September 11, 2019, Afghanistan: Reshmina has grown up in the shadow of war, but she dreams of peace and progress. When a battle erupts in her village, Reshmina stumbles upon a wounded American soldier named Taz. Should she help Taz — and put herself and her family in mortal danger?

Two kids. One devastating day. Nothing will ever be the same. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

One of the things I love about Alan Gratz’s writing, is his ability to look at events from different viewpoints over the span of time. As is often the case, things are not as clear-cut as we would like them to be. While each child’s story is heart-pounding and heart-breaking, its pairing with the other is what makes this book excellent. Gratz’s thoughtful insight is paired with questions not easily answered. He gives readers the framework, and then asks them to form their own beliefs.

back to top

NONFICTION

GONE TO THE WOODS: SURVIVING A LOST CHILDHOOD, by Gary Paulsen, Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), Jan. 12, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Gary Paulsen portrays a series of life-altering moments from his turbulent childhood as his own original survival story. If not for his summer escape from a shockingly neglectful Chicago upbringing to a North Woods homestead at age 5, there never would have been a Hatchet. Without the encouragement of the librarian who handed him his first book at age 13, he may never have become a reader. And without his desperate teenage enlistment in the Army, he would not have discovered his true calling as a storyteller. —Synopsis provided by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Paulsen’s prose is poignant and immersive, pulling you in further and further until you have to keep reading. You feel his joy, his sadness, his confusion and his pain. His experiences with his aunt and uncle are heartwarming and those with his parents, heartbreaking.

WE ARE EXPLORERS: EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN WHO DISCOVERED THE WORLD, by Kari Herbert, Thames & Hudson, March 16, 2021, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 8 and up)

Women have always explored the globe, but their stories aren’t always well-known. In We Are Explorers, fourteen intrepid women and their incredible adventures finally get their due. These fearless explorers trekked across deserts in search of the source of the Nile, crept through jungles to discover rare butterflies, journeyed into the Arctic, and so much more. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

Though the publisher’s suggested age for We Are Explorers is 8 and up, I’ve caught my 7-year-old eyeing the book, and I’ve already passed it on to her. Each short chapter (less than 10 pages) focuses on an individual woman and her accomplishments. Paintings, illustrations and photographs accompany each person. Back matter includes a world map and short, paragraph-long biographies of each explorer. This is a great option for those looking to learn about extraordinary women from all walks of life.

THE CURSE OF THE MUMMY: UNCOVERING TUTANKHAMUN’S TOMB, by Candace Fleming, Scholastic Focus, Sept. 7, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

During the reign of the New Kingdom of Egypt, the boy pharaoh Tutankhamun ruled and died tragically young. In order to send him on his way into the afterlife, his tomb was filled with every treasure he would need after death. And then, it was lost to time, buried in the sands of the Valley of the Kings. His tomb was also said to be cursed.

Centuries later, as Egypt-mania gripped Europe, two Brits — a rich earl with a habit for gambling and a disreputable, determined archeologist — worked for years to rediscover and open Tutankhamun’s tomb. But once it was uncovered, would ancient powers take their revenge for disturbing and even looting the pharaoh’s resting place? What else could explain the mysterious illnesses, accidents, and deaths that began once it was found? —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Focus

Everything about The Curse of the Mummy is great. Author Candace Fleming presents the true story of the search for, and discovery of, Tutankhamun’s tomb in a format that almost reads like a novel. Her conversational tone makes history come to life, and the “curse pages” sprinkled throughout add a sense of drama. What really helps take The Curse of the Mummy over the top is the wealth of photographs and illustrations throughout. There were far more than I was expecting, and they help break up the chapters for readers with shorter attention spans.

STOLEN SCIENCE, by Ella Schwartz and Gaby D’Alessandro, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, Aug. 31, 2021, Hardcover, $21.99 (ages 9 and up)

Over the centuries, women, people from underrepresented communities, and immigrants overcame prejudices and social obstacles to make remarkable discoveries in science — but they weren’t the ones to receive credit in history books. People with more power, money, and prestige were remembered as the inventor of the telephone, the scientists who decoded the structure of DNA, and the doctor who discovered the cause of yellow fever. This book aims to set the record straight and celebrate the nearly forgotten inventors and scientists who shaped our world today. —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Each chapter spans only a few pages but features a wealth of information. Not only is there an interesting and engaging biography for each person, but a section that further explains “What’s the science?” Beautifully intricate images by Gaby D’Alessandro go beyond simple portraits, with each hinting at the discoveries in store. Stolen Science is fascinating look at some of the movers and shakers overlooked by history. Though intended for middle-readers, it’s a book that should appeal to young adults and adults, too.

J.R.R. TOLKIEN FOR KIDS: HIS LIFE AND WRITINGS, WITH 21 ACTIVITIES, by Simonetta Carr, Chicago Review Press, Aug. 3, 2021, Paperback, $16.99 (ages 9-12)

R. R. Tolkien for Kids takes young readers through the exciting life of the man who created amazing new worlds and helps kids discover how he could see them. Explore the personal experiences and subjects that inspired Tolkien’s stories through hands-on activities, and learn how he influenced his contemporaries as well as later writers. —Synopsis provided by Chicago Review Press

We own a number of “for kids” books from Chicago Review Press, and all of them are excellent. J. R. R. Tolkien for Kids is no exception. Each chapter is divided into manageable sections, giving readers natural spots for taking breaks. The book is full of photographs, illustrations, maps and fact boxes — all of which also break up the text. The text itself is clear and accessible. Extensive backmatter includes a glossary, a list of resources, notes, a selected bibliography and index.

THREADS OF PEACE: HOW MOHANDAS GANDHI AND MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CHANGED THE WORLD, by Uma Krishnaswami, Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, Aug. 17, 2021, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 9 and up)

Born more than a half-century apart, with seemingly little in common except one shared wish, a lawyer and activist from India and a minister from Georgia would go on to be icons of peaceful resistance and human decency. Both preached love for all human beings, regardless of race or religion. Both believed that freedom and justice were won by not one, but many. Both met their ends in the most unpeaceful of ways — assassination.

But what led them down the path of peace? How did their experiences parallel… and diverge? Threads of Peace keenly examines and celebrates these extraordinary activists’ lives, the threads that connect them, and the threads of peace they laid throughout the world, for us to pick up, and weave together. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books

Threads of Peace is a dual biography that shows that ideas of freedom and equality are universal and how each step forward builds upon the past. I left the book with a greater respect for and understanding of both these men.

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS: THE POWERS, USES, AND HISTORIES OF EVERY ATOM IN THE UNIVERSE, by Lisa Congdon, Chronicle Books; Illustrated edition, July 13, 2021, Hardcover, $22.99 (ages 10 and up)

The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Elements leads young readers in an exploration of all 118 known elements. From their discoveries to their uses to their special properties, this book explores all things elements. It features: a tour of the periodic table; profiles of notable scientists; infographics, and an illustrated history of the periodic table’s origins. —Synopsis provided by Chronicle Books

While the suggested age for The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Elements is 10 and up, I think you can go younger. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Elements is a fantastic resource for young readers. With science, history, trivia, and much more, it has the making of a great gift for budding scientists and kids who just want to know more about the world around them.

BLACK BALLERINAS: MY JOURNEY TO OUR LEGACY, by Misty Copeland and Salena Barnes, Aladdin, Nov. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 10 and up)

As a young girl living in a motel with her mother and her five siblings, Misty Copeland didn’t have a lot of exposure to ballet or prominent dancers. She was sixteen when she saw a black ballerina on a magazine cover for the first time. The experience emboldened Misty and told her that she wasn’t alone — and her dream wasn’t impossible. In the years since, Misty has only learned more about the trailblazing women who made her own success possible by pushing back against repression and racism with their talent and tenacity. Misty brings these women’s stories to a new generation of readers and gives them the recognition they deserve. This book delves into the lives and careers of women of color who fundamentally changed the landscape of American ballet from the early 20th century to today. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

While Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy may look like a picture book, it’s much more. A two-page spread is dedicated to each ballerina. One page features a beautiful dance portrait and the other is full text. The print size is what you would find in a typical middle-grade novel, and the text difficulty mirrors that as well. Not only are the mini-biographies heartfelt and inspiring. But the illustrations show a true understanding of movement and technique. Budding ballerinas and ballet fans alike will be drawn to this excellent book.

back to top

INTERACTIVE

WELCOME TO STONEYBROOK: A GUIDED JOURNAL (BABY-SITTERS CLUB TV), by Jenna Ballard, Scholastic Inc., May 4, 2021, Paperback, $12.99 (ages 8-12)

Say hello to your friends from the new Baby-sitters Club show on Netflix! Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, Stacey, Dawn, and the rest of the BSC gang have taken their hometown of Stoneybrook and the world by storm. This guided journal is full of quotes, activities, and in-world content, including doodles and notes from the girls in the BSC and full-color photos from the show. Plus, lined pages leave plenty of room for notes from your own baby-sitting adventures and space to plan your own version of the BSC! —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Inc.

This guided journal is less about creating your own baby-sitters club and more about using BSC members’ experiences as prompts to write about your own. Keep in mind, this fun journal is based on the Netflix show and not the original books. If you’ve got a fan in your house, this is a no-brainer.

back to top

The post 2021 Gift Guide: Middle Grade Books appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

THE SHATTERED CASTLE, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, Oct. 19, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

Jennifer A. Nielsen returns to the kingdom of Carthya in the fifth and final book in her Ascendance series, The Shattered Castle.

King Jaron has outwitted the Prozarians and returned to his own kingdom with one secret in his pocket that not even his friends know about. He’s hoping that secret will help him finally bring stability to Carthya.

But a surprise attack on his own land — on the castle itself — reminds Jaron that nothing is easy. The Prozarian Monarch threatens to crumble Jaron’s entire kingdom. And that’s not the only thing in danger: With old enemies and new rumors circling around him, even Jaron’s relationship with Imogen is uncertain.

This former False Prince will need his best tricks and many allies at his side to hold Carthya together. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

If you’re a fan of Jennifer A. Nielsen’s work, then you can rejoice, The Shattered Castle offers a strong ending to a great series. If you haven’t read the Ascendance series, it should be on your to-read list starting with The False Prince and followed by The Runaway King, The Shadow Throne and The Captive Kingdom.

Nielsen’s series originally started out as a trilogy, but seven years after its completion, it has now expanded to five novels, and it feels like that’s the way it always should have been.

Now, if you’ve already read the first four books, I highly recommend rereading them before picking up The Shattered Castle. Not only will it refresh you on the entire storyline, but the nuances will stand out far better.

One thing that needs no refreshing, however, is Jaron’s voice. His personality — warts and all — is as clear and familiar as ever. His is as cocky and seemingly self-destructive as ever. But his humility and love for his people rings true. As in the past, he’s always got some tricks up his sleeve, and Nielsen makes sure he holds them close.

The Shattered Castle is full of plot twists of all sizes, including a big one that explains a lot of Jaron’s behavior. It’s a great read with lots of mystery and adventure. Nielsen’s writing is comfortable and inviting, making The Shattered Castle a welcome addition to any home library.

The post Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Shattered Castle is great series finale appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

RESCUE, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, March 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

If you’re looking for fantastic middle-grade adventure, look no further than Jennifer A. Nielsen. Her latest novel, Rescue, follows a girl who finds herself on the wrong side of the Nazis as she works with the French resistance.

Six hundred and fifty-seven days ago, Meg Kenyon’s father left their home in France to fight for the Allies in World War II, and that was the last time Meg saw him. Recently, she heard he was being held prisoner by the Nazis, a terrible sentence from which Meg fears he’ll never return. All she has left of him are the codes he placed in a jar for her to decipher, an affectionate game the two of them shared. But the codes are running low, and soon there’ll be nothing left of Papa for Meg to hold on to at all.

Suddenly, an impossible chance to save her father falls into Meg’s lap. After following a trail of blood in the snow, Meggie finds an injured British spy hiding in her grandmother’s barn. Captain Stewart tells her that a family of German refugees must be guided across Nazi-occupied France to neutral Spain, whereupon one of them has promised to free Meg’s father. Captain Stewart was meant to take that family on their journey, but too injured to complete the task himself, he offers it to Meg, along with a final code from Papa to help complete the mission — perhaps the most important, and most difficult, riddle she’s received yet.

As the Nazis flood Meg’s village in fierce pursuit, she accepts the duty and begins the trek across France. Leading strangers through treacherous territory, Meg faces danger and uncertainty at every turn, all the while struggling to crack her father’s code. The message, as she unravels it, reveals secrets costly enough to risk the mission and even her own life. Can Meg solve the puzzle, rescue the family, and save her father? —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

Jennifer has become a go-to author for recommendations, and Rescue is no different. This fast-moving novel is engrossing from beginning to end.

Rescue stands out from other novels in its genre in a number of ways. The most intriguing — the use of codes. Not only are the codes used, but Meg has to decode them herself. And the way Jennifer presents them, allows the reader to work on them as well.

Also of note is the suspense Jennifer creates among the main players. Meg quickly learns that trust is not easily earned, nor should it be. Everyone is hiding something, and as the plot unfolds, the danger grows.

Meg is a smart, lively girl who makes mistakes and quickly learns from them. Her adventure is nail-biting to the final chapter.

The post Jennifer A. Nielsen WWII novel Rescue is captivating read appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

AGES 5 AND UP

DISNEY BEFORE THE STORY: POCAHONTAS LEADS THE WAY, by Tessa Roehl, Disney Press, Sept. 29, 2020, Paperback, $6.99 (ages 5-8)

Before Pocahontas saved John Smith . . . she was a girl ready to explore!

Pocahontas is always looking for an adventure. When Nakoma’s younger brother falls ill and the tribe’s healer needs a special herb to treat him, Pocahontas recruits Nakoma to come with her on a harrowing journey. Will the two girls retrieve the plant in time? Or will their differences cost them the mission and their friendship?

My daughter was immediately drawn to this book — the girls canoeing on the cover was a big draw. My daughter is 6, and she has no problem reading this on her own. She loves the illustrations.

Disney Before the Story: Cinderella Takes the Stage, by Tessa Roehl, Disney Press, Sept. 29, 2020, Paperback, $6.99 (ages 5-8)

Before Cinderella dropped her glass slipper . . . she was a girl ready to create!

Ella, or Cinderella, as her parents fondly call her, is getting ready for a puppet-show contest when she meets an unexpected friend, Val. Val doesn’t have much, but she teaches Ella how to sew. In return, Ella shares her sewing materials with Val. On the big day, the girls both put on great shows. But who will win the grand prize?

AGES 6 AND UP

MINDY KIM AND THE YUMMY SEAWEED BUSINESS, by Lyla Lee and Dung Ho, Aladdin, Jan. 14, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 6-9)

Mindy and her father (her mom died a few months ago) have just moved across country, and life could not be more different. In California, Mindy lived in a small apartment in an ethnically diverse neighborhood. Her new home in Florida is huge, and no one at her new school looks like her.

Mindy is apprehensive to start school, but at least her lunch of rice, kimchi, rolled eggs and dried seaweed snacks will be the same. Lunch has always been Mindy’s favorite subject. Except her lunch makes her stand out in all the wrong ways, too.

Everything seems great until another student sabotages the Yummy Seaweed Business. But it’s not just the business that comes to an end — Mindy could be out her new friends, too.

At 96 pages, Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business is a short read. Its 15 chapters each feature a delightful illustration by Dung Ho, who really captures Mindy’s spirit. The illustrations enhance the text without taking over, and most pages are text only.

BO-BO’S CAVE OF GOLD, by Pam Berkman, Dorothy Hearst, et al., Margaret K. McElderry Books, April 28, 2020, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 6-9)

Bo-Bo’s Cave of Gold is the second book in Pam Berkman and Dorothy Hearst’s At The Heels of History series, which are inspired by historical events and told from the perspectives of dogs.

Bo-B’s Cave of Gold tells the story of Bo-Bo, a golden mutt, and her human, Sheng. The year is 1852, and the California Gold Rush is in full swing. Sage has been abandoned by her pack, and is alone with no hope. When she crosses paths with Sheng, the young gold prospector takes her in and renames her Bo-Bo, the Chinese word for treasure.  

Bo-Bo and Sheng become inseparable. Bo-Bo would do anything for her human. But when Bo-Bo frees a caged bear, she sets into motion a series of events that could ruin Sheng and his family. The bear’s owner demands $200 in gold for the lost bear, and he wants it in one day. The duo’s only chance is to find a cave rumored to be full of treasure. It will take all of their skill, and a little luck, if they hope to make it in time.

Bo-Bo’s Cave of Gold is a fun adventure for young chapter-book readers. Bo-Bo is a plucky character that asks the sort of questions readers might ask, like why most some people pay a certain tax or why do people own animals? It adds context and allows for continuous flow. Add to that punchy prose and engaging illustrations from artist Clair Powell, and you’ve got a strong package.

THE SEWER RAT STINK (GERONIMO STILTON GRAPHIC NOVEL #1), By Tom Angleberger and Elisabetta Dami, Scholastic, May 5, 2020, Hardcover, $12.99 (ages 7-10)

Geronimo is the main character in an Italian book series that was picked up by Scholastic in 2004. There are currently 77 books in the series and at least that many in various spinoffs.

The Sewer Rat Stink follows Geronimo and his best friend Hercule, the private detective, as they head into the underground sewer world of Mouse Island to investigate a stinky smell that’s been inundating New Mouse City.

When it comes to The Sewer Rat Stink, my daughter has been reading it both to herself and aloud to me and her father at bedtime. She loves the illustrations and the silly antics. She actually laughs out loud when she describes the story.

Any book that gets that kind of reaction is worth adding to your collection.

THE PRINCESS RULES, by Philippa Gregory, Harper Collins Children’s Books, May 12, 2020, Paperback, $5.99 (ages 6-12)

The Princess Rules is a collection of three stories — Princess Florizella, Princess Florizella and the Wolves and Princess Florizella and the Giant — by Philippa Gregory.

Once upon a time, there was a king and queen who very much wanted to have a son. Instead, they had a daughter — Princess Florizella.

Florizella faced no major obstacles — curses, evil stepmothers, etc. — and her parents let her do as she liked. As a result, Florizella never learned the Princess Rules. Instead, she grew into a cheerful, noisy, bossy, happy girl who spent her mornings riding her horse and afternoons working with her parents in the royal office.

Florizella was friends with some princesses who had studied the Princess Rules. They even adhered to them — they had lovely clothes and manners — but their days were dreadfully boring. So Florizella decided to forge her own path, wherever it may take her.

The Princess Rules is a delightful tale that’s perfect readers who are moving on from books like The Princess in Black and Princess Cora and the Crocodile. The same snappy text, story twists and fun illustrations are here but in a format that’s more advanced.

MAGIC TREE HOUSE DELUXE EDITION: DINOSAURS BEFORE DARK (MAGIC TREE HOUSE (R)), by Mary Pope Osborne and Antonio Javier Caparo, Random House Books for Young Readers; Illustrated edition, Oct. 6, 2020, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 6-9)

Magic. Mystery. Time-travel. Travel in the magic tree house with Jack and Annie in this oversized, illustrated deluxe edition of the adventure that started it.

Where did the tree house come from?

Before Jack and Annie can find out, the mysterious tree house whisks them to the prehistoric past. Now they have to figure out how to get home. Can they do it before dark…or will they become a dinosaur’s dinner?

We are big fans of The Magic Treehouse at our house. This new edition really embodies Mary Pope Osborne’s story. Antonio Javier Caparo’s illustrations enhance the story without giving things away. My daughter loved seeing Jack and Annie’s adventures come to life in full color!

AGES 8 AND UP

THE WISH AND THE PEACOCK, by Wendy S. Swore, Shadow Mountain, Feb. 4, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

A girl tries to save her family farm while simultaneously dealing with the loss of her father in The Wish and the Peacock, by Wendy S. Swore (A Monster Like Me).

Paige lives on the small vegetable farm that has been in her family for generations. Her family has faced tough times before, but nothing quite as devastating as the past year. After losing her father to a horrific accident, she now faces losing the farm he loved so much.

Desperate to retain her home, Paige decides to stop a sale from going through. But putting makeup on the cows so they look sickly to potential buyers, and pranking the Realtor don’t stop the inevitable. It’s not a question of if the farm will sell but to whom.

In the midst of everything, an injured peacock mysteriously arrives in their barn, and a slick-looking reporter from the city shows up to write a human-interest story about their farming community. Through it all, Paige keeps looking for a solution that will help everyone, even if it means changing the definition of home.

The Wish and the Peacock is the story of a girl who equates her father’s love with her beloved farm. To lose the second after already losing the first is devastating. It’s an emotional read that packs an immediate punch.

WILLA AND THE WHALE, by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown, Shadow Mountain, March 3, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

When Willa’s parents get a divorce, she’s forced to choose which one to live with. In the end, Willa decides to move to Tokyo with her marine biologist mom. Three years later, Willa’s mom dies, and Willa finds herself back on Tupkuk Island off the coast of Washington State where she grew up — back in the house her parents used to share. Only now there’s a stepmom, three stepsiblings and a half-sister.

In hopes of trying to cheer her up, Willa’s dad takes her whale watching. Then something amazing happens. While all the passengers on the other side of the boat, Willa spots a humpback. She feels an immediate connection. On a whim, Willa starts talking to the whale, and to her surprise, the whale talks back.

Willa knows no one will believe a whale can really talk to her, so she keeps it a secret. She names the whale Meg and slips down to the shore often to confide in her new friend. With Meg’s help, Willa begins to make sense of her life and the human friends she’s beginning to make.

Willa is a character with such heart. As are the supporting characters, especially her friend Marc. The dynamic between the two is not only special but rings true. It’s pure friendship unmarred by the boy-girl “love” dynamic that is quickly creeping into the middle-grade genre.

Willa and the Whale is a lovely read that feels fresh and familiar at the same time. Tight editing and a pure voice make this a book that should definitely be on you shelves.

THE QUEEN BEE AND ME, by Gillian McDunn , Bloomsbury Children’s Books, March 3, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Middle school dynamics take center stage in Gillian McDunn’s The Queen Bee and Me.

Meg is used to being the trusty sidekick — the easygoing girl who doesn’t make waves. Being Beatrix’s friend has required her to make a few concessions, but having a best friend is worth it.

Until they enter middle school.

Beatrix assumes they’ll both be in dance together, but Meg has been invited to participate in a special science elective instead. When Meg is paired with Hazel, a new girl with a style all her own, Beatrix makes it clear the Meg is hers. Meg is surprised, and ashamed, of Beatrix’s behavior toward Hazel. As Meg starts standing up to her best friend, she realizes she may have to change the status quo in order to find her own voice.

At the heart of The Queen Bee and Me are three girls who are trying to figure out where they stand in the world.

Meg is a protagonist you want to succeed. In the beginning, Meg is a pleaser. She wants everyone to be happy. As she realizes that’s impossible, her world opens up. Her journey is emotional and heartfelt, and it’s a joy to see her blossom.

One of my favorite elements in The Queen Bee and Me was Meg’s strained relationship with her mother. As a parent, it helped open my eyes to the ever-shifting parent/child dynamic. And I’m sure it will resonate with the intended audience as they compare it to their own parental interactions.

The Queen Bee and Me is an honest book that is on point socially and emotionally. McDunn’s writing is clear and accessible and instantly inviting. If you are or have a tween/teen girl, this book should definitely be on your shelf.

A WISH IN THE DARK, by Christina Soontornvat, Candlewick, March 24, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

All light in Chattana is created by one man — the Governor, who appeared after the Great Fire to bring peace and order to the city. For Pong, who was born in Namwon Prison, the magical lights represent freedom, and he dreams of the day he will be able to walk among them. But when Pong escapes from prison, he realizes that the world outside is no fairer than the one behind bars. The wealthy dine and dance under bright orb light, while the poor toil away in darkness. Worst of all, Pong’s prison tattoo marks him as a fugitive who can never be truly free.

Nok, the prison warden’s perfect daughter, is bent on tracking Pong down and restoring her family’s good name. But as Nok hunts Pong through the alleys and canals of Chattana, she uncovers secrets that make her question the truths she has always held dear. Set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world, Christina Soontornvat’s twist on Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is a dazzling, fast-paced adventure that explores the difference between law and justice — and asks whether one child can shine a light in the dark.

A FIELD GUIDE TO GETTING LOST, by Joy McCullough, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, April 14, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8 and up)

Sutton is having robot problems. Her mini-bot is supposed to be able to get through a maze in under a minute, but she must have gotten something wrong in the coding. Which is frustrating for a science-minded girl like Sutton—almost as frustrating as the fact that her mother probably won’t be home in time for Sutton’s 10th birthday.

Luis spends his days writing thrilling stories about brave kids, but there’s only so much inspiration you can find when you’re stuck inside all day. He’s allergic to bees, afraid of dogs, and has an overprotective mom to boot. So Luis can only dream of daring adventures in the wild.

Sutton and Luis couldn’t be more different from each other. Except now that their parents are dating, these two have to find some common ground. Will they be able to navigate their way down a path they never planned on exploring?

A Field Guide to Getting Lost is Joy McCullough’s debut middle-grade novel, but you’d never know that. Her writing is so comfortable and inviting, you’d think she’d spent years writing for this age group. There’s a natural cadence to her prose that lends to its authenticity.

Sutton and Luis are as different as can be, but they are equally likeable. What connects the Sutton and Luis is the under riding feeling of frustration each feels for their unique situations. Both are unhappy with their current situations and both know changes are coming. This universal feeling is not only real but relatable.

THE SPACE BETWEEN LOST AND FOUND, by Sandy Stark-McGinnis, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, April 28, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Cassie’s always looked up to her mom, a vibrant woman bursting with grand ideas. But then came the diagnosis, and Mom started to lose her memories. Even the ones Cassie thought she’d never forget. Even Cassie’s name.

Cassie tries her hardest to keep Mom happy . . . to focus on math lessons and come up with art ideas that used to burst off her pen. But as Mom’s memories dimmed, so did Cassie’s inspiration. She’s even pushed away Bailey, the one friend who could help make things okay.

So, Cassie decides to take action. It’s time for one last adventure… even if it means taking a big risk to get there.

The Space Between Lost and Found is one of those “Wow!” books that just sits with you. It’s an emotionally intelligent read that looks at incremental loss in an honest and accessible way.

Cassie is mature for her age. The circumstances have forced her to grow up quickly in so many ways. And yet, all she wants is her mom to hold her; to call her by her name.

While The Space Between Lost and Found is specifically about Alzheimer’s disease, Cassie’s experiences and her feelings will ring true to any reader who has had a family member experience a physical or mental illness. The unpredictability of the changes and the toll they take on everyone are particularly tangible.

INTO THE CLOUDS: THE RACE TO CLIMB THE WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS MOUNTAIN, by Tod Olson, Scholastic Focus, April 21, 2020, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

In 1953, as two men summit Mt. Everest for the first time, Charlie Houston and a team of mountaineers carve a path up the deadly K2. Four Houston, reaching the top of K2 is a lifelong dream, an obsession that began 15 years earlier on his first expedition there.

Since then, another American expedition has fallen apart on the remote, windswept mass of rock and ice.

Now, Houston’s team follows in their tracks. With the summit in their grasp, a vicious storm and a sudden illness puts their own expedition on the edge of disaster, turning their quest to conquer a mountain into one of the most daring rescue missions ever.

Into the Clouds is one of my favorite books of 2020. It’s a gripping nonfiction narrative that transports readers directly to the side of the mountain. This is a book you get lost in.

Into the Clouds works in every way. It is meticulously researched with a comprehensive list of sources and source notes included at the end. The inclusion of photos from the actual expeditions adds another dimension, allowing you to not only put faces to names but to better understand the terrain and conditions the climbers encountered.

THE LIST OF THINGS THAT WILL NOT CHANGE, by Rebecca Stead, Wendy Lamb Books, April 7, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

After her parents’ divorce, Bea’s life became different in many ways. But she can always look back at the list she keeps in her green notebook to remember the things that will stay the same. The first and most important: Mom and Dad will always love Bea, and each other.

When Dad tells Bea that he and his boyfriend, Jesse, are getting married, Bea is thrilled. Bea loves Jesse, and when he and Dad get married, she’ll finally (finally!) have what she’s always wanted—a sister. Even though she’s never met Jesse’s daughter, Sonia, Bea is sure that they’ll be “just like sisters anywhere.”

As the wedding day approaches, Bea will learn that making a new family brings questions, surprises, and joy, and readers will discover why the New York Times called Rebecca Stead a “writer of great feeling.”

The biggest strength of this book is its characters. Each one, even the minor ones, are well developed. From Bea’s parents and babysitter to her friends and new sister they all add dimension and heart. It’s Bea’s therapist, Miriam, however, who stole the show. A nonjudgmental adult who helps Bea organize her thoughts and work through her worries is someone we could all benefit from.

Bea is a joyful and optimistic protagonist that you can’t help but root for. While The List of Things That Will Not Change could have been dark, it is instead full of light and hope. It should appeal to a large cross-section of middle-readers.

THE ELEPHANT’S GIRL, by Celesta Rimington, Crown Books for Young Readers, May 19, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

An elephant never forgets, but Lexington Willow can’t remember what happened before a tornado swept her away when she was a toddler. All she knows is that it landed her near an enclosure in a Nebraska zoo; and there an elephant named Nyah protected her from the storm. With no trace of her birth family, Lex grew up at the zoo with Nyah and her elephant family; her foster father, Roger; her best friend, Fisher; and the wind whispering in her ear.

Now that she’s 12, Lex is finally old enough to help with the elephants. But during their first training session, Nyah sends her a telepathic image of the woods outside the zoo. Despite the wind’s protests, Lex decides to investigate Nyah’s message and gets wrapped up in an adventure involving ghosts, lost treasure, and a puzzle that might be the key to finding her family. As she hunts for answers, Lex must summon the courage to leave the secure borders of her zoo to discover who she really is–and why the tornado brought her here all those years ago.

Lex’s world is real and magical and fantastically interesting. What makes this book really work is not that other people don’t believe her — it’s that the most important people in her life do. Without the support of those key players, most of whom are adults, Lex would never have developed into the person she is. It takes an adept writer to take a story this direction, and I’m so glad Celesta Rimington did.

The Elephant’s Girl is a fairly quick read with just the right balance of intrigue and adventure. This one is sure to appeal to a large audience.

THE AMELIA SIX, by Kristin L. Gray , Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, June 30, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Eleven-year-old Amelia Ashford—Millie to her friends (if she had any, that is)—doesn’t realize just how much adventure awaits her when she’s given the opportunity of a lifetime: to spend the night in Amelia Earhart’s childhood home with five other girls. Make that five strangers.

Once at Amelia’s house in Atchison, Kansas, Millie stumbles upon a display of Amelia’s famous flight goggles. But her luck changes quickly when the goggles disappear, and Millie was the last to see them. Soon, fingers are pointing in all directions, and someone falls strangely ill. Suddenly, a fun night of scavenger hunts and sweets takes a nosedive and the girls aren’t sure who to trust.

With a blizzard raging outside and a house full of suspects, the girls have no choice but to band together. It’s up to the Amelia Six to find the culprit and return the goggles to their rightful place. Or the next body to collapse could be one of theirs.

The Amelia Six is a caper that feels very cinematic. I could see the whole thing play out on a small or large screen or even on stage. Gray’s writing has a warmth and familiarity to it that immediately draws you in and almost pushes you into the action.

The Amelia Six is just the sort of book I would have loved as a child, and I know it would have inspired me to learn more about Earhart. This is one I’ll definitely be saving for my own daughter to read when she’s old enough.

DAN UNMASKED, by Chris Negron, HarperCollins, July 28, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Dan Unmasked is the story of best friends Dan and Nate. The two are always together — on the baseball field or devouring their favorite comic book. They practically read each other’s minds.

That all changes when a freak baseball accident lands Nate in a coma and Dan untethered.

Then an idea sparks. It’s up to Dan and his friends to help Nate wake up again — all they have to do is rewrite his story.

And while comic books and baseball are important, it’s friendship that is at the heart of Dan Unmasked. While childhood seems so simple from the outside, it’s really not. This heartfelt book explores those complexities.

Dan Unmasked is a fast and engrossing read. I finished it in one sitting. It’s a great crossover for readers with varying interests, and I would have no problem recommending it to a plethora of middle readers.

THE SILVER ARROW, by Lev Grossman, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Sept. 1, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

Kate and her younger brother Tom lead dull, uninteresting lives. And if their dull, uninteresting parents are anything to go by, they don’t have much to look forward to. Why can’t Kate have thrilling adventures and save the world the way people do in books? Even her 11th birthday is shaping up to be mundane — that is, until her mysterious and highly irresponsible Uncle Herbert, whom she’s never even met before, surprises her with the most unexpected, exhilarating, inappropriate birthday present of all time: a colossal steam locomotive called the Silver Arrow.

Kate and Tom’s parents want to send it right back where it came from. But Kate and Tom have other ideas — and so does the Silver Arrow — and soon they’re off to distant lands along magical rail lines in the company of an assortment of exotic animals who, it turns out, can talk. With only curiosity, excitement, their own resourcefulness and the thrill of the unknown to guide them, Kate and Tom are on the adventure of a lifetime . . . and who knows? They just might end up saving the world after all.

The Silver Arrow is written in the tradition of the C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia or Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials. It’s an adventure where the children are unexpected heroes who do much more than would ever normally be expected of them.

I read The Silver Arrow in one sitting. It was fantastic. It’s feels timeless and immediate all at once. And though it’s a great standalone, there’s definitely room for more books in this world.

KENNY & THE DRAGON (Aug. 5, 2008) and KENNY & THE BOOK OF BEASTS by Tony DiTerlizzi, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; Illustrated edition, Sept. 22, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Kenny & the Dragon

What do you do when your new best buddy has been designated a scourge by the community and marked for imminent extermination? Just ask Kenny Rabbit. When the simple folks in the sleepy little village of Roundbrook catch wind that there’s a dragon running loose in the countryside, they get the wrong idea and the stage is set for a fight to the death. So it’s up to Kenny to give his neighbors front-row seats to one of the best-known battles in history — the legendary showdown between St. George and the dragon — without losing a friend in the fray.

Kenny & the Book of Beasts

What can come between two best friends?

Time has passed since Kenny Rabbit’s last adventure with his best friend, the legendary dragon Grahame, and a lot has changed in the sleepy village of Roundbrook.

For starters, Kenny has a whole litter of baby sisters. His friends are at different schools and Sir George is off adventuring.

At least Kenny still has his very best friend, Grahame. That’s before Dante arrives. Dante is a legendary manticore and an old friend of Grahame’s. Old friends spend a lot of time catching up. And that catching up does not involve Kenny.

But there’s a Witch to defeat, a pal to rescue, and a mysterious book to unlock. And those are quests for best friends, not old friends. Right?

THE VERY, VERY FAR NORTH (Sept. 3, 2019) and JUST BEYOND THE VERY, VERY FAR NORTH, by Dan Bar-el and Kelly Pousette, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Oct. 6, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8-12)

The Very, Very Far North

In the Very, Very Far North, past the Cold, Cold Ocean and just below the hill that looks like a baby whale, you’ll find Duane and his friends.

Duane is a sweet and curious young bear who makes friends with everyone he meets—whether they’re bossy, like Major Puff the puffin, or a bit vain, like Handsome the musk ox, or very, very shy, like Boo the caribou. For these arctic friends, every day is a new adventure!

Just Beyond The Very Very Far North

Past the place where icebergs shiver, you will find the Very, Very Far North, where Duane and his friends are sure to make you feel right at home. You might like to share a delicious Snow Delight with warmhearted Duane. While you’re slurping away, if C.C. suddenly asks you where you’ve come from, it’s not because she’s nosy; she is simply gathering scientific data. If Handsome, the musk ox, pays a visit, a quick hair combing is highly recommended. Should you notice a quiet caribou grazing nearby, well, that’s just Boo’s way of saying hello.

And if a less-than-friendly visitor arrives to sneak, shove, and shake things up, Duane and the others might discover that life isn’t always as peaceful as mid-late-afternoon nap. Fortunately, they know that change is as much a part of life as picnics and Tuesdays and cozy stories shared among friends.

SAUCY, by Cynthia Kadohata and Marianna Raskin, Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books; Illustrated edition, Sept. 29, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)

Being a quadruplet can make it hard to stand out from the crowd. Becca’s three brothers all have something that makes them…them. Bailey has his music and dancing, Jammer plays hockey, and K.C. thinks they’re all living in a simulation and doesn’t see the point of doing much of anything. Becca is the only one with nothing to make her special.

But when she finds a tiny, sick piglet on the side of the road, Becca knows this is it. This is her thing. She names the piglet Saucy and between her own pleading and Saucy’s sweet, pink face, Becca convinces her family to take her in. Soon, Saucy is as big a part of the family as anyone else–and getting bigger. With each pound Saucy gains, the more capable she becomes of destroying the house and landing Becca in trouble.

Some tough decisions need to be made about Becca’s pet, and her search for solutions brings to light exactly where Saucy came from. Turns out, there are a lot more scared piglets out there, and saving them may take Becca and her brothers finally doing something together.

ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME, MARGARET.: SPECIAL EDITION, by Judy Blume, Atheneum Books for Young Readers; Anniversary edition, Sept. 15, 2020, Paperback, $10.99 (ages 8-12)

Celebrate the legacy of the bestselling and iconic Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret with this special edition, featuring a deluxe faux-leather embossed cover.

Margaret Simon, almost twelve, likes long hair, tuna fish, the smell of rain, and things that are pink. She’s just moved from New York City to Farbook, New Jersey, and is anxious to fit in with her new friends—Nancy, Gretchen, and Janie. When they form a secret club to talk about private subjects like boys, bras, and getting their first periods, Margaret is happy to belong.

But none of them can believe Margaret doesn’t have religion, and that she isn’t going to the Y or the Jewish Community Center. What they don’t know is Margaret has her own very special relationship with God. She can talk to God about everything—family, friends, even Moose Freed, her secret crush.

WISHES AND WELLINGTONS, by Julie Berry, Sourcebooks Young Readers, Oct. 13, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 8 and up)

Maeve Merritt chafes at the rigid rules at her London boarding school for “Upright Young Ladies.” When punishment forces her to sort through the trash, she finds a sardine tin that houses a foul-tempered djinni with no intention of submitting to a schoolgirl as his master.

Soon an orphan boy from the charitable home next door, a mysterious tall man in ginger whiskers, a disgruntled school worker, and a take-no-prisoners business tycoon are in hot pursuit of Maeve and her magical discovery. It’ll take all of her quick thinking and sass to set matters right. Maeve Merritt is one feisty heroine you won’t soon forget. 

Wishes and Wellingtons is one of the most delightful adventures I’ve read this year. In it, Julie Berry has created a world where finding a djinni makes perfect sense. That comes down to two things — characters and settings.

Maeve is the perfect protagonist. She has spunk. She’s smart and doesn’t want to be pigeonholed into society’s expectations for girls and women. She wants more. And when given the chance to break free of those bonds, she takes it. Like Maeve, her friends are layered and add nuance to the novel.

Maeve’s boarding school is reminiscent of that in The Little Princess, with a headmistress that would give Miss Minchin a run for her money. But it’s not just the school, it’s the streets of London and other places (I won’t say where as to not spoil the story) that make this such a fulfilling read.

Wishes and Wellingtons is the first book in a planned series that is well worth your time. It’s a fast-paced read that’s full of mystery and adventure.

AGES 9 AND UP

NEVERTELL, by Katharine Orton, Walker Books US, April 14, 2020, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 9-12)

Twelve-year-old Lina has never known freedom. Born in a Stalinist labor camp, she has spent her life under guard. There, hunger and cruelty are the norm. So when given the chance to escape, Lina takes it. She knows if she can reach her grandmother in Moscow, then everything will work out.

With the help of her best friend, Bogdan, Lina make their way into the frigid land. They haven’t gone very far, though, before catching the eye of a vengeful witch. The witch is somehow drawn to Lina and won’t let her go without a fight.

With the witch on her tail, Lina will have to dig deep if she and Bogdan are to survive.

Nevertell is an engrossing read that is unlike any tale I’ve come across. While there are moments reminiscent of The Snow Queen, it diverges so much that the two are not truly comparable.

Author Katharine Orton is a skilled scene builder, transporting readers to the barren Siberian landscape. You feel the cold, you hear the howling wolves, you struggle to see through the mist.

Nevertell is a fairly fast-moving novel that has an air of a ghost story mixed with magical realism.

THE MULBERRY TREE, by Allison Rushby, Candlewick, July 14, 2020, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 9-12)

Ten-year-old Immy and her family have run away from their storm cloud of problems to a tiny village in Cambridgeshire, England, where her depressed physician father can take a sabbatical and get back on his feet.

Luckily, they find an adorable thatched cottage to begin a new life in. But their new home comes with one downside: in the backyard, there is an ancient, dark, and fierce-looking mulberry tree that has ceased bearing any fruit. There’s a legend that the towering tree steals away girls who live in the cottage on the eve of their 11^th birthday, and villagers even cross the street when they pass by the house. Of course, Immy thinks this is all ridiculous. But then she starts to hear a strange song in her head…

The Mulberry Tree is a goosebumps-inducing mystery that middle-graders will love. Author Allison Rushby does an excellent job of setting the tone, not only with the supernatural elements, but also with the very realistic ones. Her treatment of parental depression grounds the book, giving it a focus everyone can relate to.

DANNY CONSTANTINO’S FIRST (AND MAYBE LAST?) DATE, by Paul Acampora, Dial Books, July 14, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 9-12)

Paul Acampora’s Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date centers around Danny Constantino who asks his old friend to his local school dance and homecoming parade.

Sort of.

See, Natalie Flores Griffin is a Hollywood movie star, and it’s Danny’s friend’s sister who asks for Danny.

Much to everyone’s surprise — especially Danny’s — Natalie says yes.

Soon Danny’s “love life” is at the center of social media. Natalie is Cuper Cove’s hometown hero, and everyone wants a piece of her, including Danny’s mom, who wants to use Natalie as free publicity for her mayoral campaign.

Danny’s got his work cut out for him … if only he can figure out what he wants.

Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date is a breath of fresh air. It’s bright. It’s funny. It’s fast-paced. It’s just the kind of book to get you out of Pandemic Funk No. 326.

Danny and his friends practically jump off the page. Their quirky personalities combine to make a friend mashup one can only dream of.

LOLA BENKO, TREASURE HUNTER, by Beth McMullen, Aladdin, Aug. 25, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 9-13)

Having a world-traversing archaeologist dad means 12-year-old Lola Benko is used to moving around and not putting down roots anywhere. But every day and every hunt for something hidden is an adventure, and no matter what, she and her dad are an unbeatable team.

Then her father disappears. The official story is that he was caught in a flash flood, but Lola’s research shows the day in question was perfectly pleasant. And it will take more than empty reassurances from suspect strangers for Lola to give up on her dad. She has a feeling his disappearance has to do with a mythical stone he was studying—a stone so powerful, it could control the world. But in the wrong hands, it could end it, too…

With the help of some new friends at her school, it’s up to Lola to go on the most important hunt of her life.

Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter is such an enjoyable read. Beth McMullen’s characters, especially Lola, are well-developed and a joy to follow. Their capers are just the right mix of danger, adventure, mystery and humor.

What I appreciated the most, though, was McMullen’s ability to make something that should be implausible seem perfectly normal. Even as an adult, I didn’t question the plot, I just ran with it. It was a blast.

This is the first book in a planned series, and I can’t wait to read more of Lola’s adventures.

THE CLOCKWORK CROW, by Catherine Fisher, Walker Books US, Sept. 8, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 9-12)

Orphan Seren Rhys is on her way to a new life at the remote country mansion of Plas-y Fran when she is given a package by a stranger late at night in an empty train station. The package contains a crotchety, mechanical talking crow, which Seren reluctantly brings to her new home. But when she gets there, the happy Christmas she had hoped for turns out to be an illusion — the young son of the house, Tomos, has been missing for almost a year, rumored to have been taken by the fairies. With the Crow’s reluctant help and a little winter magic, Seren sets off on a perilous journey to bring Tomos home. 

The Clockwork Crow is exactly the kind of book I needed to read when I read it. There’s a magic that reminds of The Secret Garden while being original unto itself. The setting is such that you never question why certain things happen. And the setting itself is immersive. I was standing outside at the freezing train station and I could smell the mustiness of the all-but-abandoned Plas-y Fran.

Most importantly, author Catherine Fisher doesn’t spell everything out. She leaves room for imagination to fill the gaps. Allowing the reader to take charge isn’t always easy, but The Clockwork Crow is better for it.

MY LIFE IN THE FISH TANK, by Barbara Dee, Aladdin, Sept. 15, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 9 and up)

Barbara Dee’s My Life in the Fish Tank follows 12-year-old Zinnia (Zinny for short). When Zinny’s brother Gabriel gets in a car accident at college, the whole family is set on edge. Gabriel didn’t just get in an accident. Things haven’t been right in a long time, and Zinny’s beloved older brother is diagnosed with a mental illness.

In a flash, the entire Manning family’s world is turned upside down. Zinny’s parents want Zinny, her 16-year-old sister, Scarlett, and her 8-year-old brother, Aiden, to keep Gabriel’s bipolar disorder “private.”

That means Zinny is suddenly keeping secrets from her two best friends, her teachers, her classmates, everyone. Zinny can’t even talk about it in Lunch Club, a group run by the school guidance counselor, where she’s supposed to feel free to say anything.

If not for her school science class, Zinny would have nothing to look forward to. She’s got a cool teacher and cool class experiments, and she’s got a chance at spot in a marine biology camp over the summer. But how can Zinny move forward if her family is still stuck in one place?

Despite taking on a heavy topic, Barabara Dee has managed to lace My Life in a Fish Tank with light and hope. Humor is sprinkled throughout and there are strong adult and teen/tween supporting characters that flesh out the story.

My Life in a Fish Tank is a book many readers can relate to and one that will help others who have not directly been impacted by mental illness to understand what their friends might be going through.

AGES 10 AND UP

PARKED, by Danielle Svetcov , Dial Books, Feb. 4, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10-14)

Jeanne Ann spends her life in between the covers of books. When not at school, Jeanne Ann is at the library, which is more of a home than her actual home. That all changes when her chef mom packs them up and moves them across the country. Now, Jeanne Ann finds herself living inside an orange van on the streets of San Francisco.

Cal is an artist. But like many artists, he’s misunderstood. When he gets in trouble for a statement piece of artwork, his mom decides he needs some “adjustments.” When Jeanne Ann’s van parks across the street from his humongous street, Cal decides he’s just the person to save her.

As the two form an unlikely friendship, a bunch of eccentric characters simultaneously thwart and raise them up.

Parked is honest, raw and uplifting. At 400 pages, it’s a longer middle grade novel that’s more suited to older, more mature middle readers and young adults. That said, the book just flows. I did not want to put it down, and continued to think about it for days after completion.

PRAIRIE LOTUS, by Linda Sue Park , Clarion Books, March 3, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 10-12)

It’s the 1880s, and Hanna and her father have just arrived in LaForge, a railroad town in Dakota Territory. They hope to set up their own shop selling dress goods. They had a shop before, when Mama was alive. Hanna dreams of becoming a dressmaker like her mother, but it won’t be easy here, in a small town full of white settlers.

Hanna is half Asian. Papa’s white, but Mama was Chinese. Mama and Papa loved each other fiercely, but even in California a mixed marriage was looked down upon. Now, Hanna’s in America’s heartland where racial animosity toward Asians and Native Americans is almost 100 percent.

Prairie Lotus follows Hanna as she adjusts to her new surroundings and pushes the townsfolk adjust their prejudices.

Told from Hanna’s perspective, Prairie Lotus immediately sucks you in. Instead of the white perspective, you get that of a girl who sees much of herself mirrored in the eyes of the Native Americans she encounters.

Park is an excellent storyteller. Her descriptions of LaForge, schooling and dressmaking in particular are vivid and engrossing. Reading her book is almost like walking into real-life scenes. Her writing is clear and honest.

WINTERBORNE HOME FOR VENGEANCE AND VALOR, by Ally Carter, HMH Books for Young Readers, March 3, 2020, $16.99 (ages 10-12)

April had absolutely no intention of becoming the only person who knows that Gabriel Winterborne, the missing-and-presumed-dead billionaire, is actually living in the basement of Winterborne House, sharpening his swords and looking for vengeance.

Now it’s up to April to keep him alive. But there’s only so much a twelve-year-old girl can do, so April must turn to the other orphans for help. Together, they’ll have to unravel the riddle of a missing heir and a creepy legend, and find a secret key, before the only home they’ve ever known is lost to them forever.

If you’ve ever read any of Ally Carter’s books, then you already have an inkling on how Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor is going to play out. Carter’s writing is cinematic, making you feel as if you are crawling through a fire or stepping on glass with April. It’s like you’re watching things unfold directly in front of your eyes while you’re simultaneously reading them on the page.

The best part of Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor, though, is Ally’s characters. April and the other orphans are all intriguing and really offer something for all kinds of readers. The interplay between children and adults is also a highlight. Here, it’s less about telling someone what to do and more about them living up to their potential.

Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor is a fast-paced novel with plenty of twists and a doozy of a finale that will have you binge reading for sure. The end is satisfying but leaves room for more books in this world.

GOLD RUSH GIRL, by Avi, Candlewick, March 10, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10-14)

The last thing Victoria (Tory) Blaisdell wants is to become a lady. When her father decides to make his fortune mining for gold in California, Tory decides she’s going to join him no matter what. Tory stows away on the ship, revealing herself only when it’s too late to send her back.

Tory, Jacob and their father are more than a little surprised by what awaits them in San Francisco. It’s dank, muddy and full of wild and dangerous men. Despite the chaos, Tory’s father decides to leave his children behind. With him gone, Tory flourishes. She finally has the freedom she’s yearned for.

At least she thinks so. But then, Jacob is kidnapped. Tory and her friends begin a dangerous search for him in Rotten Row, a part of San Francisco Bay crowded with hundreds of abandoned ships. It’s a risky business that could be deadly for Jacob, Tory and their friends.

There’s something about Avi’s writing that draws you in. Even though there’s a formality to speech, and the story is set in the past, there’s a familiarity, an almost rhythm that takes hold.

Gold Rush Girl bridges the gap between middle grade and young adult. With the suggested age range of 10-14, it offers a nice middle ground free from tween/teen romance and fantastical literature. It’s a bold adventure that sits well in Avi’s canon.

A PLACE AT THE TABLE, by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, Clarion Books, Aug. 11, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 10-12)

Sixth graders Sara and Elizabeth could not be more different. Sara is at a new school that is completely unlike the small Islamic school she used to attend. Elizabeth has her own problems: her British mum has been struggling with depression. The girls meet in an after-school South Asian cooking class, which Elizabeth takes because her mom has stopped cooking, and which Sara, who hates to cook, is forced to attend because her mother is the teacher. The girls form a shaky alliance that gradually deepens, and they make plans to create the most amazing, mouth-watering cross-cultural dish together and win a spot on a local food show. They make good cooking partners . . . but can they learn to trust each other enough to become true friends?

A Place at the Table is written in alternating voices, giving readers an up-close look at Sara and Elizabeth’s home lives as well as their emotions. Sara is an artist. She’s clever, but keeps her head down. Elizabeth is a Dr. Who fan who’s learning life isn’t always what it seems.

While A Place at the Table is, on its face, a book about cooking, there’s a lot of other things to unpack. In other words — real life. Racism, financial woes, adult depression and changing friendships are all addressed in realistic ways. This could end up being schmaltzy, but under the authors’ adept hands, it instead feels grounded and accessible for the intended audience.

THE BARREN GROUNDS, by David A. Robertson, Puffin Canada, Sept. 8, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

Morgan and Eli, two Indigenous children forced away from their families and communities, are brought together in a foster home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They each feel disconnected, from their culture and each other, and struggle to fit in at school and at their new home — until they find a secret place, walled off in an unfinished attic bedroom. A portal opens to another reality, Askí, bringing them onto frozen, barren grounds, where they meet Ochek (Fisher). The only hunter supporting his starving community, Misewa, Ochek welcomes the human children, teaching them traditional ways to survive. But as the need for food becomes desperate, they embark on a dangerous mission. Accompanied by Arik, a sassy Squirrel they catch stealing from the trapline, they try to save Misewa before the icy grip of winter freezes everything — including them.

At first, The Barren Grounds calls to mind Narnia with children traveling from the real world into a magical land covered in snow. There are walking, talking animals who live in houses. There’s an evil villain whose actions have left the land in permanent winter.

But The Barren Grounds is more than that. The book is built on traditional Indigenous stories of the sky and constellations, and it is so much better for it. As a white reader, I was fascinated by the traditions, I empathized with white foster parents who are trying their hardest and still not “getting it,” and my heart ached for Morgan and Eli. I can’t speak to whether it embodies truths of Indigenous peoples, however, author David A. Robertson is a member of the Norway House Cree Nation, and I trust he knows his stuff.

The Barren Grounds is the first book in a planned series, and I look forward to where Robertson takes readers next.

THE CAPTIVE KINGDOM, Book 4 of 4: The Ascendance Series, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, Oct. 6, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

In a peaceful Carthya, Jaron leads as the Ascendant King with Imogen beside him — but the peace he fought so long for is not destined to last.

On a routine sea voyage, Jaron’s ship is brutally attacked, and he is taken hostage. The mysterious captors and their leader, Jane Strick, accuse Jaron of unthinkable acts. They are also in possession of some shocking items — including the crown and sword that belonged to Jaron’s older brother, Darius. The items unearth a past Jaron thought he had put behind him.

Though it seems impossible, Jaron must consider: Could Darius be alive? And what does Strick want from Jaron? Against his will, Jaron will be pulled back into a fight for the throne — and a battle to save his kingdom.

If you’re new to Nielsen’s work, you should start at the beginning of the series (The False Prince). If you’re a returning fan, a reread wouldn’t hurt, but isn’t imperative. This is a strong series that will appeal to readers across the board.

The post 2020 Gift Guide: Middle Grade Books appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

THE CAPTIVE KINGDOM, Book 4 of 4: The Ascendance Series, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Press, Oct. 6, 2020, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)

All hail Jennifer A. Nielsen. The New York Times bestselling author is back with the fourth book in her Ascendance Series, The Captive Kingdom.

In a peaceful Carthya, Jaron leads as the Ascendant King with Imogen beside him — but the peace he fought so long for is not destined to last.

On a routine sea voyage, Jaron’s ship is brutally attacked, and he is taken hostage. The mysterious captors and their leader, Jane Strick, accuse Jaron of unthinkable acts. They are also in possession of some shocking items — including the crown and sword that belonged to Jaron’s older brother, Darius. The items unearth a past Jaron thought he had put behind him.

Though it seems impossible, Jaron must consider: Could Darius be alive? And what does Strick want from Jaron? Against his will, Jaron will be pulled back into a fight for the throne — and a battle to save his kingdom. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

It’s been six and a half years since the world last heard from the kingdom of Carthya. The Shadow Throne gave readers a fine conclusion. By all rights, Nielsen could have left things at that. Thank goodness she did not.

The Captive Kingdom drops readers right back into that world. Six years after reading the third book in the series, and I was immediately swept back up. I’m sure the book would be better if read in succession, but Nielsen does a fantastic job of providing background without it feeling like a recap. I now want to go back and reread the whole series again so that I can savor the nuances.

The best part of The Captive Kingdom is Jaron. Nielsen is so in tune with his voice that you can’t help but feel this was not only a story she wanted to tell, but a story she had to. On his face, Jaron is bold and full of bluster. He’s cocky and appears reckless. Yet there’s a humility beneath the surface that makes him endearing.

Nielsen is adept at creating tension and mystery. Even though Jaron is telling the story, Nielsen has written it in such a way that he never lets anything slip, even when his plans are unfolding.

If you’re new to Nielsen’s work, you should start at the beginning of the series (The False Prince). If you’re a returning fan, a reread wouldn’t hurt, but isn’t imperative. This is a strong series that will appeal to readers across the board.

The post Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Captive Kingdom is welcome addition appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.

FAIRY TALE

A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY, by Brigid Kemmerer, Bloomsbury YA, Jan. 29, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99 (young adult)

Prince Rhen, the heir to Emberfall, is cursed by a powerful enchantress to repeat the autumn of his eighteenth year over and over. And at the end of each autumn, he turns into a vicious beast hell-bent on destruction. 

Nothing has ever been easy for Harper. She’s constantly underestimated because of her cerebral palsy. But when she tries to save someone else on the streets of Washington, DC, she’s instead somehow sucked into Rhen’s cursed world.

Harper doesn’t know where she is or what to believe. But as she spends time with Rhen in this enchanted land, she begins to understand what’s at stake. Powerful forces are standing against Emberfall . . . and it will take more than a broken curse to save Harper, Rhen, and his people from utter ruin. —Synopsis provided by Bloosmbury YA

A Curse So Dark and Lonely is the third novel I’ve read from author Brigid Kemmerer, and it’s a departure from her contemporary books. The one thing that runs throughout all, though, is Brigid’s attention to plot and smooth prose. A Curse So Dark and Lonely is one of the stronger fairytale reimaginings I’ve come across lately.

STEPSISTER, by Jennifer Donnelly , Scholastic Press, May 14, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

Stepsister follows Isabelle, one of Ella’s stepsisters, in the aftermath of the slipper debacle. A la Aschenputtel, by the Brothers Grimm, Isabelle cuts off her toes to fit into the shoe. We know what happens next — Isabelle (and her sister who cut off her heal) are found out, and Ella wins the prince.

Now crippled and an outcast, Isabelle is struggling just to get by. Had she any looks, Isabelle would have been settled long ago, but she’s a smart, plain girl with no fortune. And now that she’s maimed, Isabelle’s an easy target, too.

Isabelle is desperate to become pretty. It’s her heart’s greatest desire. And with that single broken wish, she has the chance to change the trajectory of her life.

One of the things I really dislike about Cinderella, particularly the Disney version, is the delineation of pretty = good and ugly = bad. Telling children that you are defined by looks, which are arbitrary in the first place, is not the message I want my daughter learning. As with most things, beauty is not clear-cut.

Jennifer Donnelly is a bestselling author, and it’s not hard to understand why. Stepsister takes a familiar story and flips it sideways. Jennifer’s writing is enjoyable and accessible while challenging and thought provoking. Stepsister is hands down one of my favorite YA reads of 2019.

HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS, by Erin A. Craig , Delacorte Press, Aug. 6, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99 (young adult)

There once were 12 sisters who roamed the halls of Highmoor, an isolated island estate. They once were envied by all who saw them. But the death of their mother followed by the deaths of the four eldest sisters has left people talking for the wrong reasons. Rumor is, the girls are cursed by the gods, with each death more awful than the last — the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning and a slippery plunge.

Born sixth in the family, Annaleigh never expected to become one of the eldest, but now she finds herself caring for the little ones and watching out for her ailing stepmother. Even as she steps into her new role, she starts to seeing terrifying visions of her late sisters. As the visions evolve, Annaleigh begins to suspect her sisters’ deaths were not the result of a curse or accidents.

In an effort to escape their dismal lives, the girls begin sneaking out at night. They cross through a magical portal into worlds of glittering balls, silk dresses and fairy shoes. When Annaleigh meets an enigmatic stranger with secrets of his own, she finds a friend who might just help her save her family from the darkness that has settled over her family.

Erin A. Craig’s House of Salt and Sorrows pays homage to The Twelve Dancing Princesses while standing completely on its own. In fact, the nods to source material create a sense of familiarity without telegraphing.

House of Salt and Sorrows is a gothic read that reaches out and pulls you in from the start. It’s one of the most engrossing novels I’ve read this year. It’s deliciously dark tempered with light notes throughout, and the plot twists are surprising and enjoyable. I read this in digital ARC form, and I plan on buying a physical copy to add to my personal library.

FANTASY

THE DECEIVER’S HEART, by Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic, Feb. 26, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

In 2018, Jennifer A. Nielsen introduced readers to a new heroine in The Traitor’s Game. Kestra Dallistor returned to readers’ consciousness in 2019 inThe Deceiver’s Heart.

In The Traitor’s Game, you meet Kestra Dallisor who is being used as a pawn by Lord Endrick and a band of rebels who want to see Endrick overthrown. Kestra has spent three years exiled to the Lava Fields. When Lord Endrick summons her home, Kestra has no choice but return.

The rebels kidnap Kestra as she journeys home, and they give her a choice — help them or she and her servants die. The kidnappers want her to retrieve the lost Olden Blade, the only object that can destroy Endrick. Kestra reluctantly agrees, and then works to undermine the kidnappers.

In The Deceiver’s Heart, Kestra attempts to destroy Lord Endrick with the Olden Blade. Despite her strength, Kestra fails and falls under the king’s control. Lord Endrick strips Kestra of her memory and forces her to obey him. On the other side of things, Simon is desperate to restore Kestra to the girl he fell in love with, even if that means going against everyone and everything he’s ever cared about.

The Deceiver’s Heart is definitely worth your time. I do wish that I had reread The Traitor’s Game prior to reading its sequel. As always, Jennifer’s prose and pacing are spot on. Her world building is strong and her characters are well developed. I’m genuinely looking forward to the next book in this series.

THE ANTIDOTE, by Shelley Sackier , HarperTeen, Feb. 5, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

In the world of healers, there is no room for magic. Fee knows this, just as certainly as she knows that her magic must be kept secret.

But the crown prince Xavi, Fee’s best friend and only source of comfort, is sick. So sick, that Fee can barely contain the magic lying dormant inside her. She could use it, just a little, to heal him. But magic comes at a deadly cost — and attracts those who would seek to snuff it out forever.

A wisp of a spell later, Fee finds herself caught in a whirl of secret motivations and dark pasts, where no one is who — or what — they appear to be. And saving her best friend means delving deeper into the tempting and treacherous world whose call she’s long resisted — uncovering a secret that will change everything. —Synopsis provided by HarperTeen

When I read The Antidote, I did not want to put it down. One of The Antidote’s strengths is the relationship between Fee and Xavi. The two are so close, they’re almost brother and sister. There’s no love story here, just a deep friendship that’s a breath of fresh air. There are a lot of twists and turns throughout The Antidote, making it feel like a mystery set in a new world. There are magical elements, though not as heavily as some might want.

THE EVERLASTING ROSE, by Dhonielle Clayton , Freeform, March 5, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

The Everlasting Rose is the second book in the Belles series. In it, Camellia Beaureguard once again takes center stage.

Camille, the former favorite Belle, must race against time to find the ailing Princess Charlotte, who has disappeared without a trace. The evil queen Sophia’s imperial forces will stop at nothing to keep Camille, her sister Edel, and her loyal guard, Rémy, from returning Charlotte to the palace and her rightful place as queen. With the help of an underground resistance movement called the Iron Ladies — a society that rejects beauty treatments entirely — and the backing of alternative newspaper the Spider’s Web, Camille uses her powers, her connections, and her cunning to outwit her greatest nemesis, Sophia, and attempt to restore peace to Orléans. But enemies lurk in the most unexpected places, forcing Camille to decide just how much she’s willing to sacrifice to save her people. —Synopsis provided by Freeform

When I read The Belles last year, I came away feeling confused, angry, enchanted and exhausted. The book tells the story of the Belles, young women who physically alter the people of Orleans, who are all born gray, so that they are pretty. And for some, no treatment (including reshaping bones) goes too far.

Again, it’s helpful to reread The Belles before picking up The Everlasting Rose. There’s not much by way of recap, and a lot of the nuances are lost by sheer lack of memory. You are expected to remember Orleans, and because of the nature of what’s going on, the book, world building and character development all feel a bit insular.

That’s not to say that The Everlasting Rose isn’t worth reading. It is. Just be prepared for a drastic shift. The book, too, leaves with things in Orleans a little unsettled, but also feels like less of a cliffhanger than you’d expect for the second book in a series.

SPIN THE DAWN, by Elizabeth Lim , Knopf Books for Young Readers, July 9, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99 (young adult)

Maia Tamarin is a skilled tailor, but that doesn’t matter. She can dream as much as she wants of becoming the greatest tailor in the land, but as a girl, she knows that will never happen. Marriage is all she can look forward to.

That all changes when a royal messenger arrives to take her father to court. The emperor is looking for a new imperial tailor. Now ailing, Maia’s father is in no shape to make the journey, let alone compete for the job. So Maia cuts her hair, assumes a limp, and goes in her father’s place.

It isn’t until Maia arrives at the palace that she realizes she isn’t just being handed the job. She must compete against 11 other tailors, and the challenges are not going to be easy. Not only are the tailors insanely talented, but the person they must impress the most — the emperor’s reluctant bride-to-be — want nothing more than to see all of them fail.

As you’d expect, the competition is full of backstabbing and lies. And when Maia draws the attention of the court enchanter, Edan, things get even more complicated. Through it all, Maia holds strong, but nothing can prepare her for the final task — sewing three magic gowns from the laughter of the sun, the tears of the moon, and the blood of stars.

Author Elizabeth Lim has mastered the age-old task of showing rather than telling. You feel as though you are sitting next to Maia as she creates her masterpieces, which seem to almost sing off the page. As the story progresses, so does Lim’s world-building. I tasted sand in my mouth and felt it in my eyes as Maia traveled to the desert; felt the biting wind and ice as she summits a mountain; and felt the depths of longing and despair as she faced unimaginable foes.

The only drawback to Spin the Dawn is that you’ll have to wait for the next book in the series. In the meantime, though, you can read Lim’s other book, Reflection: A Twisted Tale from Disney-Hyperion, that follows Mulan as she travels to the Underworld on a quest to save Shang.

THE CANDLE AND THE FLAME, by Nafiza Azad , Scholastic, May 14, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99 (young adult)

Fatima lives in the city of Noor, a thriving stop along the Silk Road. There the music of myriad languages fills the air, and people of all faiths weave their lives together. However, the city bears scars of its recent past, when the chaotic tribe of Shayateen djinn slaughtered its entire population — except for Fatima and two other humans. Now ruled by a new maharajah, Noor is protected from the Shayateen by the Ifrit, djinn of order and reason, and by their commander, Zulfikar.

But when one of the most potent of the Ifrit dies, Fatima is changed in ways she cannot fathom, ways that scare even those who love her. Oud in hand, Fatima is drawn into the intrigues of the maharajah and his sister, the affairs of Zulfikar and the djinn, and the dangers of a magical battlefield. — Synopsis provided by Scholastic

The Candle and the Flame is Nafiza Azad’s debut, but it reads like something more. Her prose is that of a seasoned author — smooth and immersive. Her world-building is top-notch and her characters — specifically Fatima — are well-developed.

I devoured The Candle and the Flame in one day, and I already want to go back an reread it again. It’s a great option for an end-of-summer or back-to-school read.

AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF TOLKIEN: THE HISTORY AND MYTHOLOGY THAT INSPIRED TOLKIEN’S WORLD (LEATHER-BOUND CLASSICS), by David Day, Canterbury Classics, Oct. 8, 2019, Hardcover, $24.99 (young adult)

The fantasy world of J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth contains a rich assortment of people, cities, and creatures—as well as a deep, intertwined history that spans thousands of years. In this beautifully illustrated, leather-bound volume, best-selling author and Tolkien scholar David Day presents four decades of research and writing on the lands and inhabitants Middle-earth. Sections of this A-to-Z dictionary are devoted to discussion of the battles, history, beasts, and heroes of Tolkien’s stories, and are accompanied by black-and-white illustrations. This comprehensive volume on Tolkien’s world also includes an appendix of three primary legends that served as sources for Tolkien’s creations—the Volsunga saga, the Nibelungenlied, and Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle—and more than 200 black-and-white illustrations —Synopsis provided by Canterbury Classics

Though this encyclopedia is not authorized by the Tolkien Estate or HarperCollins Publishers, it’s clear that a lot of time and effort went into it. This well-researched book is informative and beautifully illustrated. It’s a great option for Tolkien fans.

SCI-FI

LAST OF HER NAME, by Jessica Khoury , Scholastic Press, Feb. 26, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

The Last of Her Name takes place in the galaxy known as the Belt of Jewels. Sixteen years ago, a rebellion removed the Leonov royal family from power. All were murdered, including the youngest child, Princess Anya. With the Leonov’s gone, the Union government came to power.

Stacia spends her days rambling her father’s vineyard with her friends, Clio and Pol. She doesn’t think much about politics until a Union ship appears in the sky. That alone is strange, but when the leader of the Union, the Direktor Eminent himself, arrives and declares there are empire loyalists living in Stacia’s village, things get dangerous. The Direktor claims that Princess Anya Leonova is alive — and Stacia is the lost princess.

Before Stacia knows what hits her, Pol smuggles Stacia to a hidden escape ship. Leaving Clio and Stacia’s parents behind, the two head to an unknown destination. It seems everyone has a plan for Stacia, but all Stacia wants is to save her best friend, and she’ll stop at nothing to accomplish her goal.

Last of Her Name quickly became one of my favorite books this year. From the beginning, I found myself swept into Khoury’s world. The unknown has an underlying current of familiarity that brings the book to life. It’s like a sci-fi, historical fiction, fantasy mash up that unfolds almost cinematically. Khoury’s pacing is on point. She excels in balancing Stacia’s inner turmoil, her outer struggles and the world building she experiences it all within. Last of Her Name is one novel I plan on rereading more than once.

THE SIMILARS, by Rebecca Hanover, Sourcebooks Fire, Jan. 1, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

This fall, six new students are joining the junior class at the elite Darkwood Academy. But they aren’t your regular over-achieving teens. They’re clones. And the “similar” teens are joining the class alongside their originals.

The Similars are all anyone can talk about. Emmaline Chance couldn’t care less. Her best friend, Oliver, died over the summer and it’s all she can do to get through each day without him. Then she comes face-to-heartbreaking-face with Levi, Oliver’s exact DNA copy and one of the Similars.

Emma wants nothing to do with the Similars, but she keeps getting pulled deeper into their clique. She can’t escape the dark truths about the clones or her prestigious school. No one can be trusted, not even the boy she is falling for with Oliver’s face. —Synopsis provided by Sourcebooks Fire

I found The Similars surprising in a number of ways. When it opens, Emma is so lost in her grief; you, as the reader, are immediately plunged into small, closed-off world. As the book progresses and Emma’s world expands, so, too, does your view. It’s an interesting experience that wouldn’t work if Rebecca Hanover’s writing weren’t as strong as it is. Too much more of Emma’s early apathetic tendencies would be off-putting, but Hanover has found the right balance.

I love books that make me think beyond the story, and this aspect of The Similars did just that. Of course, there’s more to The Similars than just the Similars. The mystery of how they came to be and how more than one person is subtly — or not so subtly — pulling the strings in the background makes for an intense storyline that ends primed for a sequel.

HISTORICAL

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF TRUE, by Susan Kaplan Carlton, Algonquin Young Readers, April 9, 2019, Hardcover, $17.95 (young adult)

The story takes place in 1958 Atlanta. Following the sudden death of her father, Ruth Robb, her mom and younger sister move to the South from New York City. Their new home — the pool house in her grandparents’ backyard — is just one of many changes thrust upon Ruth.

Friendless in a new town, Ruth decides to follow the family tradition of becoming a deb, joining the “pastel posse” and their little pink book of manners. Ruth quickly falls for Davis and soon finds herself in a world of etiquette, ball gowns and country clubs.

Part of fitting in means fitting a mold, and Ruth doesn’t. So she decides to hide her Jewish heritage and her attendance at Sabbath services. But as much as Ruth wants to look the other way, in a segregated Atlanta, that’s just not a choice. When a hate crime hits close to home, Ruth must decide once and for all where she belongs.

In the Neighborhood of True is rooted in some deeply personal experiences in Carlton’s own life. Her family moved to Atlanta and joined a synagogue. As Carlton developed the story, the author realized Ruth’s various lies and omission about her religion rang true in other ways.

Knowing about the seeds of In the Neighborhood of True gives the story weight. Their scope adds to the already present authenticity. Ruth can, at times, appear a little shallow, but the further you read, the more complex she becomes, especially in relation to her “friends.”

THE DOWNSTAIRS GIRL, by Stacey Lee G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, Aug. 13, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

At the center of The Downstairs Girl is 17-year-old Jo Kuan. Jo works as a lady’s made for the daughter of one of the wealthiest men in Atlanta. It’s a decent job, but Jo feels trapped. In the late-1800s South, you are either black or white. Jo is neither.

As a Chinese woman, Jo lives in the grey area which affords her some rights and not others. When Jo notices the opportunity to make change in her life, she goes for it. Jo becomes Miss Sweetie, the pseudonymous author of a newspaper advice column for the genteel Southern lady.

Dear Miss Sweetie quickly becomes popular, and Jo finds herself using her new position as a way to challenge ideas of gender and race. This doesn’t sit well with people who prefer the status quo, and Jo soon finds herself facing the choice of remaining invisible or stepping out into the light.

The historical aspects are fascinating. I’ve never really heard of Chinese Americans living in the South during this time period — and I was a history minor in college. Most Asian history covered from this time period covers the building of the railroad and the West Coast.

While its historical elements drew me in, it’s the fictional story in The Downstairs Girl that draws you in. Jo is a character you want to cheer for. She’s smart and determined and everything you’d want your daughter to grow up to be. And the complex relationships she navigates highlight her strength and ingenuity. The Downstairs Girl is an engaging read you won’t want to put down.

THE FOUNTAINS OF SILENCE, by Ruta Sepetys, Philomel Books, Oct. 1, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99, (young adult)

The Fountains of Silence opens in 1957 Madrid. The country has been opened up to tourists and American businessmen. Opulence is the name of the game, but it’s really just a game of smoke and mirrors. If you change your lens, a different Spain emerges.

Eighteen-year-old Daniel Matheson wants to be a photojournalist. He’s a finalist for prestigious award and is hoping his images will not only win him top honors, but a scholarship to journalism school. The son of a Texas oil tycoon, Daniel has only known a life of privilege, but when he puts his camera to his eye, he sees beyond all that glitters.

When Daniel arrives in Madrid with his parents, his goals are simple — connect with the country of his mother’s birth through the lens of his camera.

It’s through that lens that he meets Ana, a maid in his hotel who knows just how far Franco’s rule reaches. Ana and her family were on the wrong side of the Spanish Civil War and, years later, continue to feel the effects.

As Daniel and Ana grow closer, Daniel’s questions about Spain grow larger. Daniel finds himself walking a tightrope that’s likely to break at any moment.

While The Fountains of Silence is historical fiction, it is based on truths, and those truths are haunting. Ruta Sepetys has a gift for setting a scene: The author easily transported me to the lobby of Castellana Hilton or in Ana’s humble home in Vallecas. I felt the Spanish sun on my face and the darkness of night settle in.

Daniel and Ana are equal players, here. Both strong and likeable. Daniel is an open book. Ana, not so much. It’s not the starring players that make the book, though, it’s the supporting ones that give it heart — Ana’s brother and cousin; a young man who dreams of becoming a bullfighter; a crotchety newspaperman who takes Daniel under his wing; and even a mysterious nun make The Fountains of Silence feel alive.

The Fountains of Silence is one of my favorite YA reads of 2019, and ranks in my Top 10 historical fiction overall. As a bonus, the book includes vintage media interstitials, oral history commentary, photos and more.

BUTTERFLY YELLOW, by Thanhha Lai, HarperCollins, Sept. 3, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult)

Butterfly Yellow looks at the aftermath of the Vietnam War. At the center of the story is Hằng, a young girl in Vietnam who takes her little brother, Linh, the airport in the final days of the war. Hằng is determined to find a way to get them both to America. But while Linh qualifies for the trip, Hằng is deemed too old and left behind.

It takes six years, but Hằng finally makes it to Texas as a refugee. She’s determined to find her lost brother with only a worn business card as a clue. Her luck changes when Hằng meets LeeRoy, a city boy who dreams of becoming a rodeo star.

With LeeRoy’s help, Hằng finds her brother, but Linh doesn’t remember her. Hằng won’t give up, though, and has a few tricks up her sleeve. After six years of anguish and a brutal journey from Vietnam, Hằng will stop at nothing to make Linh remember.

Butterfly Yellow packs an emotional punch, one that you might not expect from the outset. It starts out mirroring its characters with a sort of an austere almost cold feel to it. As the characters evolve, warmth takes hold, and by the end it feels as if the entire novel is embraced by it.

Hằng and LeeRoy are opposite sides of the coin that truly balance each other. Butterfly Yellow would not work without either of them. In particular, LeeRoy’s ability to translate Hằng’s Vietnamese English helps not only the reader but the other characters move forward.

The post 2019 Gift Guide: Young Adult Books appeared first on www.crackingthecover.com.