WEIRDO, by Tony Weaver Jr., Jes Wibowo and Cin Wibowo, ‎First Second, Sept. 17, 2024, Paperback, $14.99 (ages 10 and up)

An awkward teen struggles with mental health issues and self-doubt in Weirdo, a middle-grade graphic novel memoir by Tony Weaver Jr.

Eleven-year-old Tony Weaver, Jr. loves comic books, anime, and video games, and idolizes the heroic, larger-than-life characters he finds there. But his new classmates all think he’s a weirdo. Bullied by his peers, Tony struggles with the hurt of not being accepted and tries to conform to other people’s expectations. After a traumatic event shakes him to his core, he embarks on a journey of self-love that will require him to become the hero of his own story. —Synopsis provided by First Second

Tony Weaver Jr. explores the painful experience of bullying and ostracism in Weirdo. This heartfelt and heartbreaking graphic novel celebrates differences and confirms that there’s a place for all of us.

Weirdo honors all the little quirks that make us who we are, and the joy that comes when we find “our people.”

Weaver’s story is deeply personal, and some parts — attempted self-harm — are difficult to read about. That’s not to say Weaver goes into great detail. In fact, this section of his book is incredibly emotional due, in part, to all the elements he leaves out. It is not graphic, but given the suggested reading age, parents should be aware and ready to have conversations.

On its face, Weirdo sounds like an unhappy story. And part of it is. But the bigger part is one of survival and self-acceptance. It will especially appeal to readers who find themselves on the “fringes” of the social hierarchy.

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.

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THE SECOND CHANCE OF DARIUS LOGAN, by David F. Walker, Scholastic Press, July 2, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)

A young man is given the chance at redemption in The Second Chance of Darius Logan, a YA novel by David F. Walker.

Darius Logan is far from a hero. Since his parents were killed, he has spent most of his life navigating foster homes and shelters, abandoned neighborhoods and decaying buildings. All Darius knows is survival. Life was hard enough, but now he finds himself being hunted by the police after a drug deal he never should have been involved in goes bad. And when they catch him, Darius is positive he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.

But in place of a long prison sentence, Darius is handed an opportunity almost too good to be true: the chance to get away from his circumstances by joining the Second Chance program of the Super Justice Force, a league of people with special powers who strive to do good and protect the world from harm. Darius soon discovers a strength he never knew he possessed, but evil forces manifest and threaten to destroy everything he holds dear. Will Darius be able to save the world when he faces a deadly — and all too familiar — enemy? —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

I’ve got to be honest. I’m not much of a superhero person. I never was into comics or the movies and literature that was born from them. However, after reading The Second Chance of Darius Logan, I can understand why people are drawn to them.

Author David F. Walker takes themes of social justice and identity, courage and second chances and blends them into an action-packed story full of mystery, adventure and heart.

Darius is a sympathetic main character that you want to root for. His growth throughout the novel is strong. His surrounding supporting characters are strong as well, with Walker highlighting the commonalities and struggles everyone from a top-tier superhero to the guy who mops the floor shares.

I don’t know that this genre is one that I’ll ever be obsessed about, but I do know that if the books are written as well as The Second Chance of Darius Logan, I will enjoy them. I look forward to more books from David F. Walker.

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.

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ODE TO GRAPEFRUIT: HOW JAMES EARL JONES FOUND HIS VOICE, by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier, Knopf Books for Young Readers, July 30, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)

Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice tells the story of how the famous actor overcame his stuttering to become one of the best-known voices in the world.

Before there was Mufasa…Before there was Darth Vader… There was a young boy names James Earl Jones, who spoke with a stutter and dreaded having to talk in class.

Whenever James tried to voice his thoughts, his words got stuck in his throat. But James figured out a solution for his shame: if he didn’t speak, he wouldn’t stutter.

And so he was silent…until he wrote his own poem, Ode to Grapefruit, and found a love for poetry.

Lyrical text, stunning art, and compelling backmatter about stuttering pair together for a remarkable picture book about how a boy who refused to speak for eight years learned to manage his stutter through poetry—and grew up to become an EGOT-winning performer with a voice few could forget. —Synopsis provided by Knopf Books for Young Readers

James Earl Jones has a voice you never forget. Whether you first hear it in The Lion King or Star Wars or even The Sandlot, you can’t help but stop whatever you’re doing and listen.

When James was young, his stutter made him silent, but when he found the rhythm and meaning behind words, he was able to find his voice.

Author Kari Lavelle’s prose is such that you feel the weight behind it. You can almost hear James say the words. It, too, has a smooth cadence to it. Artist Bryan Collier’s watercolor and collage illustrations have a lovely texture, perfectly pairing with the text.

Excellent backmatter includes further information about James Earl Jones through author and illustrator notes and information about stuttering.

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.

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LOUDER THAN WORDS, by Ashley Woodfolk and Lexi Underwood, Scholastic Press, June 4, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)

A teen is forced to address regrettable actions from her past in Louder Than Words, a YA novel by Ashley Woodfolk and Lexi Underwood.

When Jordyn Jones transfers to Edgewood High, it’s her opportunity to forget everything that happened at her old school. To forget what she and her friends did. To forget who she used to be. That was a different person ― this is a fresh start. Now she’s someone new, someone better.

Except it’s the very first day of school, and somehow everyone already seems to know who she is. But Jordyn soon finds a group of friends, and she even starts talking to Izaiah, a soccer star who shares her love of art. Life is good. That’s until an anonymous podcast called Tomcat Tea begins revealing humiliating secrets about Edgewood students, ruining their reputations and in some cases their futures. Jordyn and her friends know they have to do something―and this is Jordyn’s chance to prove to herself that she’s changed.

Jordyn’s plan to take down the podcast throws her into the spotlight, and as the momentum builds, so do the risks―because Jordyn has a secret of her own, one that could ruin everything . . . and that a mysterious harasser online is threatening to expose.

New York Times bestselling author Ashley Woodfolk and actress Lexi Underwood balance an insightful depiction of the power of art as protest with asking some of the biggest questions facing teenagers today ― in an era where mistakes can be picked over endlessly online, who is worthy of forgiveness? Can someone ever really change? —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

Louder Than Words is one of those books that you can just sit down with and go. You don’t have to “get into” it or “connect” with the characters — that’s already in place. From the start, the prose is both familiar and comfortable, and the story is compelling, making you want to read it from beginning to end. (I read it in one day.)

You wouldn’t know Louder Than Words has two authors. Ashley Woodfolk and Lexi Underwood have expertly combined their voices into a cohesive read.

At the center of the story is Jordyn, a girl who is hoping to put the past behind her but hasn’t really dealt with it enough to move on. She’s a likeable, but flawed, protagonist whose story unfolds mostly during present day but with flashes back to the previous year.

Louder Than Words delves into the world of bullying, owning mistakes, online presence and forgiveness. Jordyn faces problems that are relatable to a wide cross-section of teens, and must decide where to draw the line between “right” and “wrong.”

There are a few places where things are maybe a little too on-the-nose and the pacing could be a bit tighter, but overall, Louder Than Words is an engaging read.

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.

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SUMMER IS HERE, by Renée Watson and Bea Jackson, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, May 7, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-6)

In Summer Is Here, author Renée Watson and illustrator Bea Jackson offer readers an ode to the perfect summer day.

“Summer is here!
No dark clouds in the sky,
it’s a perfect day for play.
What joy will summer bring me today?”

Summer is finally here, and she’s bringing the most perfect day! From sunup to sundown, there’s so much to do on this lovely summer day. With summer comes fresh fruit, sweet and tangy, jump ropes for leaping and dancing, and friends at the pool swimming and floating. Summer brings family cookouts under shady trees, gardens overflowing, and the familiar song of the ice-cream truck. This beautiful ode to all the season’s sensations follows one girl’s perfect day in an exploration of joy, family, friendship, sunshine, and wonder. —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

“Her stars shimmer like spilled glitter across the sky.
I whisper a wish and say goodbye to the day.
I wish summer would stay.”

Every kid who has just finished school will immediately relate to Summer Is Here. The season is ripe with possibilities, and author Renée Watson hits on so many of them. With each turn of the page Watson asks readers to savor the moment, savor the little things and the big. Illustrator Bea Jackson captures the joy and wonder with bright and expressive illustrations. Particularly strong are her illustrations of movement — jumping into the pool, jumping/twirling rope, throwing water balloons, etc. These moments capture action mid-step and feel almost like photographs.

Summer Is Here is a joyful picture book that makes you smile.

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.

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THE SECRET LIBRARY, by Kekla Magoon, Candlewick, May 7, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)

A girl is swept up in a time-traveling adventure that will help her discover her family’s history in The Secret Library, by Kekla Magoon.

Since Grandpa died, Dally’s days are dull and restricted. She’s eleven and a half years old, and her exacting single mother is already preparing her to take over the family business.

 Starved for adventure and release, Dally rescues a mysterious envelope from her mother’s clutches, an envelope Grandpa had earmarked for her. The map she finds inside leads straight to an ancient vault, a library of secrets where each book is a portal to a precise moment in time.

 As Dally “checks out” adventure after adventure—including an exhilarating outing with pirates—she begins to dive deep into her family’s hidden history. Soon she’s visiting every day to escape the demands of the present.

But the library has secrets of its own, intentions that would shape her life as surely as her mother’s meticulous plans. What will Dally choose? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

The Secret Library starts out like a fairly straight-forward novel/concept, but turns into so much more as the story progresses. Themes of identity, racism, and autonomy all come into play.

Dally is a delightful main character whose special relationship with her grandfather makes her strained one with her mother even worse. Dally is curious and dreams of adventure. But her mom has her so scheduled with extra tutoring; Dally barely has an hour of time to herself.

It’s the perfect setup for finding a mysterious library where the books take her on fabulous journeys back in time — all while taking practically no time in reality. Dally’s “trips” span a few minutes to weeks, and all the while, she’s learning more and more about her mom, her dad, her grandfather, and their ancestors.

To start with, I thought The Secret Library was going to be the start of a series. It really feels that way at first. But it also feels like author Kekla Magoon wanted to contain it, to make it a standalone, which it is. And, for the most part, it is a successful standalone. Dally, does however, read a little older. And it would have been nice to have her be 13 or 14, with the book marketed to upper MG, lower YA, because that’s where the audience really should be.

That said, Magoon’s writing is bright and accessible. Her settings are well-thought-out and quickly realized. And the library, well, it’s simply lovely. This is a book that fans of history novels will quickly fall into.

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.

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HOLDING HER OWN: THE EXCEPTIONAL LIFE OF JACKIE ORMES, by Traci N. Todd and Shannon Wright, Orchard Books, Jan. 3, 2023, Hardcover, $21.99 (ages 7-10)

Holding Her Own: The Exceptional Life of Jackie Ormes, by Traci N. Todd and Shannon Wright, is an excellent picture book biography.

Jackie Ormes made history. She was the first Black woman cartoonist to be nationally syndicated in the United States. She was also a journalist, fashionista, philanthropist, and activist, and she used her incredible talent and artistry to bring joy and hope to people everywhere. But in post-World War II America, Black people were still being denied their civil rights, and Jackie found herself in a dilemma: How could her art stay true to her signature “Jackie joy” while remaining honest about the inequalities Black people had been fighting? —Synopsis provided by Orchard Books

Jackie Ormes was an influential Black woman who used her talents to call attention to inequalities facing Black people in America. In Holding Her Own, author Traci N. Todd captures Jackie’s spark through strong text and solid pacing. But it’s Shannon Wright’s illustrations that are key to young readers understanding of who Jackie was. Wright’s collage work is not only full of movement, but offers little nods to Jackie. Wright’s black-and-white renditions of Jackie’s comics make you want to see the originals.

An excellent end note from the author includes photographs and more detailed information about Jackie’s life.

Holding Her Own is a fascinating look at the woman whose groundbreaking cartoons continue to influence Black illustrators and cartoonists today.

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.

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JUSTICE KETANJI: THE STORY OF US SUPREME COURT JUSTICE KETANJI BROWN JACKSON, by Denise Lewis Patrick and Kim Holt, Orchard Books, Aug. 1, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Learn more about the first black female Supreme Court Justice in Justice Ketanji: The Story of US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Ketanji Brown Jackson knew from the very beginning that “You can do anything. You can be anything.” Driven by those powerful words and her parents’ love, Ketanji refused to let naysayers stop her from rising to the top, whether it was participating in her high school debate team, applying to her dream college, or excelling at Harvard. Her perseverance and her wits led her to become the first Black female U.S. District Judge and eventually the first Black female Supreme Court Justice. Ketanji’s remarkable journey proves how she is a Justice for all. —Synopsis provided by Orchard Books

There’s something about biographies that just call to children. The second my 10-year-old saw the cover of Justice Ketanji she gasped and squealed. She may be reading much harder novels, but this picture book called to her.

From its inviting cover to its Ketanji-inspired endpapers, this book is a celebration of Ketanji’s life and accomplishments. Author Denise Lewis Patrick’s text is warm and accessible and Kim Holt’s illustrations are bright and expressive. It’s an inspiring picture book that is a fine addition to any library.

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.

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SOMETHING, SOMEDAY, by Amanda Gorman and Christian Robinson, Viking Books for Young Readers, Sept. 26, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Something, Someday, written by Amanda Gorman and illustrated by Christian Robinson, is a message of hope for the youngest of readers.

You’re told that
This won’t work,
But how will you know
If you never try?

Sometimes the world feels broken. And problems seem too big to fix. But somehow, we all have the power to make a difference. With a little faith, and maybe the help of a friend, together we can find beauty and create change.

Something, Someday reveals how even the smallest gesture can have a lasting impact. —Synopsis provided by Viking Books for Young Readers

Something, Someday is a beautiful book of encouragement that will appeal to kids no matter their background.

Presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman’s gentle text is perfectly paced and a joy to read aloud. Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Christian Robinson’s paint and collage art suits the text, simple but full of texture.

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.

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ONE, by Ruth Forman and Katura Gaines, Little Simon, Aug. 29, 2023, Board Book, $8.99 (ages 2 and up)

From the bestselling author of Curls, Glow, Bloom, and Ours comes a counting board book about ten friends who add up to something wonderful!

One
only one

but now we are two
and now we are three

—Synopsis provided by Little Simon

One is a unique counting book that focuses on friendship and community. Bright colors and unique characters make this one fun. Heavy duty construction means it should stand up to heavy use.

LIKE SO, by Ruth Forman and Raissa Figueroa, Little Simon, Jan. 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 1-4)

From bestselling author Ruth Forman and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Honoree Raissa Figueroa comes a picture book honoring the love and bond that exists between family and child even in complicated times.

Told from Nana’s point of view, this simple, affirming, and comforting read-aloud shows how every family’s love is natural and connected to the world around us. Just as the sun loves the day, the moon loves the waves, and the night sky loves the star glow…so is our love for each other: innate, wondrous, and infinite. —Synopsis provided by Little Simon

Simple text celebrates a loving relationship that comes to life through vibrant illustrations that celebrate expressions of love.

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.

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