The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne

The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne
Jonathan Stroud
Knopf, 2021
432 Pages
Grades 5-8
Fantasy/Adventure

In a dystopian England, teenaged Scarlett is alone and living by her wits. After robbing a bank and with the law on her heels, she escapes into the wilderness, carefully avoiding the "Tainted" (zombie-like creatures) and human-eating wild beasts. While exploring a bus, who suffered an unfortunate run-in with beasts, she encounters a fellow teenager locked in the bathroom. Albert Browne is much less savvy than Scarlett and must rely on her to get out of the wilds alive. The two youths begin to work as a team, narrowing escaping beasts, Tainted, and hitmen. But are the hitmen after Scarlett for the bank heist-or does Albert carry secrets of his own? Albert is not as he appears and he needs Scarlett's help if he is to survive. Scarlett, herself, is running out of options. She might as well hitch her cart to Albert's horse and escape with him to the free British Islands-if only they can find a boat and make it there alive.

I am a long-time fan of Jonathan Stroud and love his previous two series. This is a solid start of what appears to be a new series in a brand new fully realized world perfect for fans of Rick Riordan and James Dashner. Stroud's depiction of future England is bleak. Warring factions and weather disasters have made a post-apocalyptic nightmare, where citizens struggle for safety and the barest existence. Within this framework Scarlett is a fierce character who will dazzle readers with her courage and fighting prowess. Albert harbors interesting secrets that provide a twist and equals the playing field with his bold companion. The action moves quickly and violence is displayed at every turn, making this title more appropriate for older children and younger teens. The plot is great and the added magical elements are cool. I could see this story being made into a movie. Meanwhile, though the main arc of the book is concluded, readers can tell that there is more in store for our heroes and threads of both of their backstories are left dangling. Readers will eagerly wait for the next series installment to find out what is next-and what came before- for both Scarlett and Albert.

Stuntboy, In the Meantime

Stuntboy: In the Meantime

Jason Reynolds

Raul the Third, Illustrator

Atheneum/Simon & Schuster, 2021

263 pages

Grades 3-6

Graphic Hybrid/Humor

Stuntboy series #1

Meet Portico. He lives with his parents and grandmother in a "castle" (tall apartment building) along with his bestest friend Zola and worstest enemy Herbert Singletary the Worst. Sometimes when life gets stressful Portico suffers from something called "the Frets", but the good news is that he has super powers to combat the situation. Portico has a secret identity, Stuntboy, who can solve any problem or worry by doing super-heroic stunts. The Frets come on hard as Portico's parents enter "the meantime" and fight all the time over the apartment's possessions. They will soon be living in two separate apartments in the castle and Portico will have a room in each. It doesn't sound like too bad of an arrangement, only--why do they fight all of the time? And why does he feel pulled in two different directions? Get to know the gang who lives in the castle as you spend time in Portico's world as he discovers that everything is not as it seems.

This series opener features two big names in current children's literature in a format sure to be gobbled up by the target audience. Told in both text and illustrations, the design has the feel of a classic superhero comic. There is plenty of text, yet generous illustrations, mostly black and white with some tinting help to convey the action. The actual cartoon that Zola and Portico bond over is included at various parts in the story with a slightly different look and font, as well as moving to full-color illustrations. Portico is a modern Junie B., not quite understanding his world and making mistakes that will empower the audience, who will get it. Also like Junie B, he uses some incorrect grammar for laughs, which is my least favorite device in books for emerging readers. At it's core this is a friendship story, as Portico is supported (in one scene both literally and figuratively) by his old and new best friends. As a series opener there will be more installments to come and we will get to see how Portico navigates his parent's separation now that he understands the truth. Hand to fans of Wimpy Kid and Dog Man for a sure-fire hit.

The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy

The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy
Anne Ursu
Walden Pond/HarperCollins, 2021
423 pages
Grades 5-Up
Fantasy

Marya is an often overlooked girl from a small town. Luka, her brother, is the golden boy: destined to become a sorcerer, one of the upper tiers of this society trained to battle the Dread. At Luka's testing Marya accidentally interferes. Luka is not chosen, but Marya receives a mysterious letter ordering her to attend Dragomir Academy for Troubled Girls deep in the mountains. At the academy life is harsh. The teachers are very strict and the rules are plenty. The silver lining is that for the first time in her life Marya begins to make friends with some of her fellow students. Yet all is not as it seems at the academy. What were the circumstances behind the founding family and what happened to their missing daughter? Why are the girls forced to attend--are they really "bad"? These questions and more are answered as the Dread approaches the school and the girls must figure out on their own how to save both their lives and the school, tapping into powers that they didn't know they processed.

Fantasy author for young people, Ursu, presents a new title with plenty of magic, mystery, adventure and friendship. Feminist in nature, the students at the academy discover that they have been kept down by the kingdom's menfolk, who do not wish to share their power, and must figure out on their own how to make their magical way in the world. Even though the book is set in a mythical kingdom and in a boarding school for troubled young girls, there is much to which today's youth will relate. Marya is a likable character and readers will root for her as she discovers her true nature and gains confidence, all while discovering the secrets hidden by older, powerful men. The secondary characters are also sympathetic. Many characters grow and change throughout the pages making the story as rich in characterization as it is in plot. The story fully ends, yet Ursu leaves the door open for a sequel. A book that ticks a lot of boxes, it is fun to read and keeps readers guessing, all while having something to say, yet doesn't sink under the weight of it's message.

Last Night at the Telegraph Club

Last Night at the Telegraph Club
Malinda Lo
Dutton, 2021
409 pages
Grades 10-Up

Lily is a dutiful Chinese girl living in mid-1950's San Francisco, only she has a secret side to her personality. Unlike her best friend, who is only concerned with boys and getting married, Lily wants to be involved with the space program as a "computer" and isn't attracted to the young men in her circle. In fact, she starts to develop feelings for the only other girl in her advanced math classes, Kath. The two form a tentative friendship, gradually confessing growing romantic feeling for each other and for women in general. Eventually, Kath takes Lily to The Telegraph Club, a nightclub with a lesbian cliental featuring male impersonators. It is here that Lily sees another way of life, one that she never knew existed. The problem is: her family and community will never except this lifestyle. Meanwhile, McCarthyism is rearing its ugly head and both the Gay and Chinese communities are being targeted as communists. Is Lily willing to sacrifice all that she loves, including her family's American citizenship, to be true to who she really is?

Winner of the 2021 National Book Award for Young People's Literature this timely novel speaks to young Americans on many levels. Discrimination against Asian Americans, as well as homosexual and transsexual people, is currently a hot topic, yet is not new as it was in full-force in the 1950's, when the straight, white lifestyle, was king. Feminism is also featured, as Lily longs for a career that is not an excepted path for women and even studying math in not encouraged. Moreover, the "Red Scare" and accusing minorities and immigrants of being anti-American in order to deport them is also back on our radar. Yes, the dark side of the glorious 1950's are explored in this novel and the reader discovers that we are still battling some of these issues. At it's heart, the book is a very sweet queer romance. The setting is not one that I can recall in historical fiction for young people, making this title fresh and new, while also reflecting current culture. For many reasons I understand why this book won the National Book Award. I am not sure that it will appeal to a wide range of teen readers, but it is very well written and of historical and cultural importance, making it worthy of notice.

Loteria

Loteria
Karla Arenas Valenti
Knofp, 2021
305 pages

Grades 4-6

Fantasy/Magical Realism

Eleven-year-old Clara unknowingly gets selected as a pawn in the yearly Dia de los Muertos loteria game played by the dapper fellow, Life, and his beautiful companion, Death. Clara's fate will depend on the outcome of their game and alternating chapters relate Clara's experience and their own. Strange events start to happen as Clara's drawings mysteriously come to life. After a family tragedy, Clara's beloved cousin, Esteban disappears, and Clara must follow him to the mythical kingdom of Las Pozas. El Diablo has tricked Esteban into following him to be traded to the king for as yet unknown purposes. Clara reaches the enchanted land, but cannot enter the castle. She must barter with and outsmart talking animals and creatures from legend in order to make her way in. Meanwhile, the loteria game continues, and with it, Clara's fate. Who will win and what will that mean for Clara? For what purpose does the king collect children? And, most of all, will Clara save Esteban in time? These questions and others will be answered as life and death battle it out in this all-important round of loteria.

Debut middle-grade author, Valenti, weaves a tale infused with Mexican culture and world philosophy. She explores the concept of fate verse free choice and, as Life and Death play the game to determine Clara's future, she is battling to control her own destiny. They are both right, as Clara's fate is decided by the game, but she provides a solution to twist the out come in a way in which she controls. The results both surprised and saddened me. The ending is not happy, which in itself is a twist for a middle grade book, yet all of the ends are sewn up neatly. The story goes pretty dark, from a king who collects children for nefarious purposes to El Diablo luring away Esteban, and contains several deaths, making this selection not for the faint of heart. The philosophy gets a bit heavy handed at times and bogs down the plot a bit. All of that said, it beautifully weaves Mexican cultural into a magical adventure. I have always been fascinated by the game Loteria, having played it as a child, and love how this bingo-esque game mirrors the plot. Extensive back matter provides info about some of the elements, places, and inspirations of the book, as well as including a discussion guide. This is a very different book that will appeal to kids who like fiction that makes them think, with a little bit of magic and a lot of creepiness thrown in for good measure.

In the Wild Light

In the Wild Light

Jeff Zentner

Crown, 2021

421 pages

Grades 9-Up

Realistic Fiction

Cash has lived his entire life in the same small Appalachian Tennessee town. His mother has died from an overdose and he currently lives with his beloved grandparents, though Papaw suffers from emphysema and is in pretty bad shape. Cash helps his best friend Delaney discover a mold in a cave that has healing properties. Delanie is offered a scholarship to a prestigious northeastern boarding school and will only go if Cash can come too. The teenagers step out of their comfort zone and into a whole new world of learning, different ways of living, and extreme privilege. They make some friends and Cash discovers  a love of poetry and a new mentor in his dedicated teacher. By joining the crew team he finds a place within the school. Meanwhile, he also finds first love, first heartbreak, and eventually comes to terms with the feelings he has harbored for Delaney for a very long time. The year passes by, as Papaw's condition worsens and Cash's privileged and nasty roommate crosses the line in a way that forces him to find his voice.

Zentner pens a character driven story that demonstrates Cash's growth from insecure small town boy, content with running a landscaping business, to a confident poet, able to stand up for what is right. Themes of toxic masculinity are explored, as Cash's entitled jerk of a roommate clearly crosses a line and Cash must risk his scholarship to do the right thing. Appalachia is shown as more than a region of hillbillies and it is unusual to see this area of America so fully explored. The region is part of Cash and Delaney, yet doesn't define them. The power of words and writing comes through, as we trace Cash's journey to becoming a poet and the healing that he feels from this expression. The book is mostly appropriate for younger teens; the romance is innocent and there is no language, yet there is violence and the scene where Cash must confront his roommate involves date-rape and is disturbing. A beautifully written coming of age story that will sweep up readers, make them cry, and then, ultimately, leave them with a sense of hope.

The School for Whatnots

The School for Whatnots
Margaret Peterson Haddix
Katherine Tegen/HarperCollins, March, 2022
304 pages
Grades 5-8
Science Fiction/Adventure

An unknown narrator relates the story of Max, a rich only-child growing up in the not-so-distant future. In order to protect him and allow him to grow up in a kind and gentle atmosphere, Max's parents have chosen to school him with child-like robots-AKA whatnots-as his classmates. One little girl, Josie, stands out in kindergarten, as she invites him to play in the mud and the two become best friends. As elementary school winds down and Max will enter middle school with real children, who were also previously school with whatnots, Josie hands him a note that reads, "No matter what anyone tells you, I'm real." What follows is a series of discoveries, as Max is finally told the truth about his classmates. Meanwhile, we learn Josie's story as she must live secretly all through elementary school as the only human child surrounded by robots. Upon fifth grade graduation, Josie moves back in with her struggling father to prepare for her next step. What she doesn't expect is that maybe there are more real children than herself posing as robots and maybe Max will find her and they get to the bottom of the mysterious situation together.

Margaret Peterson Haddix, of Among the Hidden Fame, is the "Concept Queen" of middle grade fiction. She has the best ideas and her books are a super-easy sell. As much as I get roped into reading most of her books because they are such fresh ideas, sometimes the execution is not as great as the concept. Kids don't care. They love her books and reach for the next if it is part of a series. Robots are cool and trendy and the thought of all of the kids in your class being robots is an intriguing concept. The book is fast placed and adventurous with a hint of mystery. It starts out believable-and then goes a bit off the rails. All ends well, but it almost has to in books written for this age group. Josie is a likable and lively character that readers will want as their own friend. Max as the poor-rich boy is sympathetic. The mysterious narrator is revealed as the book continues and other surprises are in store for the reader as they turn the pages. Themes such as loneliness, privilege, and the dark side of technology are explored. This story appears to be a stand-alone and is set for a March 2022 release.

Night Frights: The Haunted Mustache

The Haunted Mustache

Joe McGee

Teo Skaffa, Illustrator

Aladdin, 2021

147 pages

Grades 2-5

Horror

Night Fright series #1

Every year on October 19th the good citizens of Wolver Hollow wear fake mustaches and stay in their houses. The reason dates back over one-hundred years to Bockius Beauregard, who was vaporized in an unfortunate gunpowder explosion, leaving behind his magnificent mustache. That same mustache gave a poor farmer a heart attack and killed the cemetery caretaker on the anniversary of Bockius's death. Since then, the town does not risk giving the mustache a place to land. Lucas and Parker, as sole members of the Midnight Owl Detective Agency, decide to track down the source of the town's fear and destroy it. Their first stop involves the library, where the creepy librarian lets them research the old original sources. Finally the dreaded night arrives and the boys sneak out, determined to break the hold the evil mustache has on the town. Much to their surprise, class tricky girl, Samantha von Oppelstein has joined forces with the team and is determined to help them out. Can the trio find and capture the evil 'stache before it's too late?

Horror is trending at all age levels right now and McGee is here to answer the call for more titles with this early chapter book offering. The storyline is simple and linear. Humorous situations (including the titled mustache) lighten the intensity. The characters are not particularly developed and I never really had a handle on which boy was which, yet they worked as a unit, so it really didn't matter. Samantha von Oppelstein was a bit more fleshed out and is a mystery in her own right. From her old-fashioned dress to her key that seems to fit all of the locks, it seems that this character has more to her story. Perhaps there will be a surprise concerning this character in a future installment in the series? It made me laugh that she is always referred to by her first and last name. I think we all knew some kids like that growing up. The library was super deserted, dusty and creepy with a similar librarian character. I found that to be a disservice to librarians and libraries everywhere, but maybe I'm just being sensitive. Besides the floating mustache the kids encounter rats, cockroaches. bats, and spiders, which will properly creep-out the intended audience. The black and white illustrations are plentiful and fun and complement the narrative. Although the text is large, I found the chapters to be a bit too long and some of the vocabulary too advanced for transitional chapter books readers. That said, kids will enjoy this slightly spooky and silly tale and will want to continue on in the series, which, I suppose, is the point: to keep kids reading.

George Washington's Socks

George Washington's Socks

Elvira Woodruff

Scholastic, 1991

166 pages

Grades 3-6

Historical Fiction/Fantasy

Matthew is the leader of his neighborhood Adventure Club and the gang is sleeping out in a tent at Tony's house. The problem is, Matt's younger sister, Katie is tagging along and is proving to be a pain. After Tony's parent's fall asleep the members of the club take a walk down to the lake, just as the scouts in George Washington's army did. A small rowboat on the shore beckons them all aboard and before they know it they are inside and being transported to the Delaware River with Washington and his troupes. The great general is surprised to see children in the company, yet generously lends Katie his cloak and assigns a young soldier to accompany the kids back to the safety of a near-by inn. While returning the cloak, Matthew finds himself swept up and into the ranks of the patriots, where he befriends a young soldier. Meanwhile, the rest of the gang has there own troubles as their guide falls ill and they must make there way on their own, dodging Indians and Hessians. Will the friends ever be reunited and make it back home?

Before there was Magic Tree House there was George Washington's Socks. At a slightly higher reading level, Woodruff uses a different conveyance (a boat) to transport a group of kids to the Revolutionary War. I have not read this book since it came out in my early days as a librarian and it has always proven to be an easy sell for the dreaded historical fiction assignments. A re-read thirty years later certainly shows the book's age. There is no apparent diversity within the group of boys and Indians, though treated as sympathetic characters, are still rather stereotypically portrayed. Soldiers are dying left and right, which would never happen in today's children's literature, and the language is a bit dated. That said, the adventure is great and the plot moves along quite swiftly. The kids are interested in history and read out loud historic events from a book with no technology in sight. The realities of war are demonstrated and the author shows the humanity of soldiers on both sides of the conflict. The American Revolution is grittier than idealized in history and the Adventure Club learns firsthand the suffering of those involved in securing our independence. Even though the book is a bit dated, it is still an exciting and worthwhile read and kids will learn a bit about the past as they experience their own imaginary adventures.

 

Show Me a Sign
Ann Clare LeZotte
Scholastic, 2020
288 pages
Grades 5-8
Historical Fiction

Mary has lived her entire life in early 1800's Martha's Vineyard. Although deaf, Mary has never felt out of place. In fact, in her part of the island a vast amount of residents are deaf and everyone, even those who can hear, speak in a sign language specific to their community. Mary and her family are deep in mourning over the loss of her beloved brother when a stranger arrives on the island. He is a scientist eager to study the community to try to discover environmental, cultural, or biological reasons for the significant cases of deafness. The community warily cooperates, though Mary soon discovers that the scientist has nefarious intentions and treats deaf folks as less than human. Unfortunately, the scientist also exhibits an obvious dislike of Mary and the book takes an expected turn as he will do anything to get what he wants, including her cooperation. Meanwhile, Mary is also struggling against the prejudice display by some of the community residents, including her best friends and even her mother, towards the local Wampanoag and black folks within their midst. How can Mary keep the peace, all while getting rid of the evil researcher and surviving his cruel plans?

Books featuring deaf characters are few and far between. This well-researched piece of historical fiction by an own voices author explores how the world perceived deafness in the not-so-distant past, as well as the treatment of native people and those of color. Mary's community on Martha's Vineyard actually did exist and they invented their own sign language. Deaf folks were considered "normal", as opposed to the view of the rest of the world, as Mary's experiences first hand. The book starts off predictable and slow. It felt a bit like reading Little House on the Prairie, but then takes off in a crazy turn and I couldn't put the book down. There are periods of violence that may disturb younger or sensitive readers, making the story more for older elementary or middle school. Great for a discussion on how race and physical differences were viewed in the past, readers will see that in many ways the "good old days" were not all they are cracked up to be. Mary proves to be a brave and resilient hero and will serve as an inspiration to all readers, hearing and non-hearing alike.

Willodeen

Willodeen

Katherine Applegate

Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan, 2021

272 pages

Grades 3-6

Fantasy

Willodeen has never been the same since the fire that killed her small family and ruined her life. Now she lives with two kind former thespian ladies, who, though aging, share shelter, comfort, and love. Willodeen walks to the beat of her own drummer and would rather be in nature with her pet hummingbear Duuzuu. She rarely journeys into town, does not attend school, and shies away from humans. Always fascinated by the screechers, a nasty animal that omits a terrible gassy smell, she becomes concerned when noticing that they are being hunted to extinction. A first and unexpectedly like-minded friend, Connor, encourages her to attend the town meeting to attempt to cease the hunting. The town is more concerned with the disappearance of the hummingbears, of which there livelihood relies. No one seems to care about the screechers. When a baby screecher, appears seemingly by magic, Willodeen takes matters in her own hands and through trial and error and careful observation learns how to care for these elusive creatures--saving the town in the process.

Newbery winner of The One and Only Ivan fame pours her talents into an original folktale, that feels like the past, yet with modern sensibilities. Applegate spins her yarn, featuring an unexpected, yet sympathetic, antihero who must fight the establishment to save the day. Within the tale exists a fairly obvious agenda of animal rights, environmentalism, and the effects of "progress". Young readers will cheer for Willodeen and care about her plight. There is a mystery element as the town attempts to figure out what is happening to the hummingbears. Readers may get there before Willodeen, which will make them feel competent and gain ownership of the story. This is also a tale of friendship as Willodeen makes her first human friend and learns to trust her caretakers and allows herself to love the lot of them. Sweet black and white illustrations, contributed by Charles Santoso, enhance the text and help readers with a visual of the mythical creatures. The book reads quickly with large print and wide margins and would make an excellent read-aloud for both home and classrooms.

Ace of Spades

Ace of Spades
Faridah Abike-Iyimide
Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan, 2021
415 pages
Grades 9-Up
Mystery

Alternating points of view tell the story of the only two black students at prestigious Niveus Private Academy. Both are made senior prefects. Chiamaka is not surprised. This is her fourth year as prefect and as the school queen bee it is simply another planned step on her path to Yale. Devon, who flies under the radar, is very surprised. He only has one friend and is often buried in the music that he hopes will carry him to Julliard. At the start of senior year unexpected events begin to happen. Anonymous texts, signed only by "Aces", are sent to the entire student body divulging Devon and Chiamaka's secrets one by one. Both have things to hide and find themselves dropping in status as their private loves and poor choices become public. As the teens try to save their reputations, they find themselves unjustly in trouble at school with consequences that could send their futures down the drain. Who is Aces and why are Chimaka and Devon being targeted? The two team up to find answers and make it stop before they have no future. As their lives spin out of control the shocking truth is slowly revealed and is worse than they could ever imagine.

Abike-Iyimide makes her writing debut with a powerhouse of a book. As much of a suspense/thriller as a mystery, it proves to be a book impossible to put down. The rollercoaster ride starts out typically enough with two unrelated kids getting cyber-bullied and then the twists and turns head off the rails as more layers are added to the story. I don't want to reveal any spoilers, because there are a few cool surprises, but this is definitely more than a mystery. There are powerful messages of feminism, entitlism, gay rights, and Black Lives Matter contained within the pages. Readers will witness systemic racism at its worst and feel for the young people as they have nowhere to turn for help and no one to trust. The mystery of the identity of Aces is revealed in a surprising turn and other little mysteries are cleared up along the way. Nothing is left dangling and a satisfying epilogue and ending will offer proper closure to teen readers. A fun and fast escape for the videogame generation with a lot of meat and social awareness between the crazy plot developments. An author's note discusses the personal journey and inspiration for writing the novel, lending a voice of authenticity and relatability.

How to Find What You're Not Looking For

How to Find What You're Not Looking For
Veera Hiranandani
Kokila/Penguin 2021
372 pages
Grades 5-8
Historical Fiction

Its the summer of 1967 and Loving v. Virginia has finally passed, allowing for interracial marriages across the nation. What does that mean for twelve-year-old Ariel? Her devoted older sister Leah is secretly dating Raj, a recent immigrant from India. Ariel's assimilated Jewish parents are fearful of Leah facing a life of discrimination and forbid the relationship. Leah runs away with Raj to New York City, breaking ties with her family and leaving Ariel to pick up the pieces of her shattered home. Meanwhile, Mom & Dad are facing financial troubles and may lose the family business. Ariel finds solace in school as she is at last "seen" by a new teacher. Although writing has always been a source of struggle, the teacher diagnoses her learning troubles as dysgraphia and allows Ariel to use a typewriter, encouraging her to become a poet.  All is not rosy as Ariel endures constant insults from a classmate for being Jewish and must learn to find her voice. Finally, Ariel takes the Leah situation in her own hands and decided to go to New York to find her sister. Can she navigate the big city and find Leah? And what can she do about the class bully?

Writing in the second person, which is rare in children's literature, Hiranandani presents an intimate glimpse into what life may have been like for her parents, who shared a similar experience as Leah and Raj. Very different from Newbery honor winning The Night Diary by the same author, Hiranandani proves that she can write in different styles and explores another component of her culture. Readers will be shocked to learn that interracial marriage was against the law in many US states until 1967. The lingering effects of Jim Crow did not just disappear with the legislation and folks who fell in love outside their culture found (and in some cases still find) it hard going. Ariel grows and matures throughout this novel thanks in part to a caring teacher. She learns that sometimes parents aren't always right and they may need help with the way forward. As Ariel becomes a poet, her poems are captured within the pages of the book, perhaps encouraging readers to try their hand at the same. The author leaves us with the message that love conquers all and can break any barrier. The book ends hopefully, though not perfectly and full closure is offered. An author's note includes more historical information, as well as the author's own family history in which the novel is based. One quibble: I wish the author included the recipe for the black and white cookies Ariel bakes. The author does lead readers to the website where she found the recipe and I have printed it to try out:)

Red, White, and Whole

Red, White, and Whole
Rajani LaRocca
Quill Tree/HarperCollins, 2021
209 pages
Grades 5-8
Fictional Memoir/Narrative Poetry

Thirteen-year-old Reha narrates her life growing up in a mid-western town in 1983 through narrative poetry. She is straddling two cultures: an American girl during the week, as she attends her private school and has fun with her school friends, and a devoted Indian daughter on the weekends, when her family gets together with the extended Indian community to share culture and support one another. It is not easy fitting in at her school, because of looking different from the other kids and living within her parents strict bounds. One day Reha's devoted, yet sometimes smothering, mother is feeling peaky. As the illness persists, she is eventually diagnosed with Leukemia. Reha must now battle her fears and guilt as she supports her mother, eventually learning to lean on her father. Both sides of Reha's life rally to her aid and through the devastating loss she learns how to merge both parts of her identity.

For folks looking for a book similar to the author's popular Midsummer's Mayhem, a blend of humor and light magical realism (of which I am a huge fan :), this book is much different. Quite serious in theme and mood, LaRocca delves into her past and delivers a carefully written account of her own fictionalized childhood. Conveyed fully in verse, the writing is beautiful and every word counts. By using this format the author is able to truly explore emotions that may not be adequately communicated through traditional narrative. Readers are sure to feel emotional by book's end, which is terribly sad, yet somehow hopeful. We know that not only will Reha be okay, but she has grown and matured significantly and has learned to appreciate and fuse the two sides of her identity. I work in a community that serves many bicultural kids and this book seems to really capture the experience and emotions. Although Red, White, and Whole is one of the best books I have read this year and is sure to win awards, it may struggle with connecting to its audience. I don't think the cover helps it. Educators and parents may need to do some hand-selling of this title, but once read by the right person, especially fans of Young Girl Dreaming, it could be a game-changer and is certainly a book that I will keep with me for a long time.

Wingbearer

Wingbearer
Marjorie Liu

Teny Issakhanian, Illustrator
Quill Tree, March, 2022
208 pages
Grades 3-8
Graphic Fantasy

Zuli is a young girl who resides in a mystical tree where bird's souls come to roost in between lives. When new birds stop arriving, the elder bird spirits send her to find out what is wrong. Accompanied by her nervous guardian owl, Frowly, Zuli sets off on her adventure. She meets Orien, a young goblin, who joins her in the quest and they pick up more supernatural folks along the way. The Witch Queen is out to stop the adventurers and they must fight her minions at various points in the story. As the journey continues Zuli learns more about who she is and the history of her people. She posses abilities and an identity previously unknown to her and now she must learn to tap into her powers to save the souls of the birds, as well as other creatures. The truth behind the missing souls of the unborn creatures becomes clear by book's end, though the details have yet to be revealed, leading readers to the next installment in the series yet to be released.

As seen with other teen/adult authors, Liu has switched to to the exploding market of middle grade with exciting results. This is a very readable and action-packed series opener that will appeal to a variety of readers. A bit more "cartoony" than Amulet it will catch the eye of both fantasy lovers and general graphic novel readers alike. The story is easy to follow and compelling. I enjoyed the characters and found them to be a likable lot. Frowly the owl steals the show, reminding me of Zazu from The Lion King and provided balance between the intensity of Zuli and some comic relief. The illustrations are in full-color and are perfect for the intended audience and the mood of the story. This is an original concept that will be an easy sell-both in the attractive packaging and well-crafted and interesting story. The plot ends on a bit of a cliff-hanger after a big reveal, encouraging readers to reach for the sequel. A fresh series opener that is sure to be a hit with young readers.

The River Has Teeth

The River Has Teeth
Erica Waters
HarperCollins, 2021
393 pages
Grades 9-Up
Mystery/Fantasy

Alternating first person narratives relate the disappearance of a girl in a rural southern wildlife preserve. It is Natasha's sister Rochelle who disappears. The girls grew up surrounded by poverty and addiction and, though they were eventually adopted and now have financial and emotional security, their sister-bond is strong. Natasha is determined to find Rochelle, even if it means taking on her abusive boyfriend or seeking help from the local witch. Bella is the said local witch with secrets of her own. She and her family are considered "trash" by the town, yet it's residents come to purchase brews when hopeless situations arise. Bella suspects that her mother may be the source of the Rochelle's-and then other girl's-disappearances. Mom's magic went wrong and now she is stuck turning into a river siren at night, no longer able to control her own instincts. The new partners end up working together to unravel the whereabouts of the missing girls. Slowly they learn to trust each other, revealing secrets and parts of their pasts, and romantic feelings begin to develop. The news about Rochelle goes from bad to worse and it becomes unclear the source behind what actually happened. Can Bella and Natasha work together to get to the truth?

October was the perfect month to read this dark and atmospheric paranormal mystery. I was drawn to the story after hearing it was about witches, but it turned out to be much more. At its core The River Has Teeth is a girl-power, feminist adventure. The women use the strength they have, tapping into nature's powers to supplement, to fight the male agenda and power structure. There is a tentative romance between the two main characters and most of the secondary characters are gender/sexually fluid. There are some truly violent bits, making this not a great choice for the squeamish. The mystery was well-drawn out. Red herrings and surprises were planted along the way. I was able to figure out the culprit before the two teens did, but it took me a minute. There is much anger and intensity within the pages of this novel, but it results in a nail-biting page-turner that I read through quickly. I love that the source of the magic came from nature and enjoyed watching the characters harness it. Waters completely nails the setting and mood, creating a southern gothic adventure that will be sure to creep-out even the bravest reader.

Dust & Grim

Dust & Grim
Chuck Wendig
Little Brown, 2021
368 pages
Grades 5-8
Fantasy/Horror

After Molly's father dies his brother, Uncle Gordo, deposits her in the home of estranged older brother, Dustin. Dustin was raised by their deceased mother and is now under the care of her unfriendly best friend. All is not as it seems in the creepy manor house, which serves as a mortuary, yet no bodies are ever delivered. Uncle Gordo is putting the screws to Molly to snoop around and find hidden secrets. A walk into the woods delivers just that as Molly discovers a door with a mysterious multi-holed lock and wolves who can communicate with her and are less than welcoming. Further investigation reveals that the family business is not as it was presented and although they are caretakers to the dead, it becomes apparent the customers are not quite human. Molly meets otherworldly beings, who become her allies and friends, and develops a tentative partnership with Dustin in order to protect the realm of the fantastical dead and their family lineage. Does Molly have what it takes to travel into the unknown and battle supernatural forces?

Adult author, Wendig, tries his hand at middle grade and delivers a deliciously creepy tale of monsters and the supernatural afterlife. What can be more scary than an old graveyard? A burial ground for a variety of deceased monsters! The gothic vibe of the book immediately clues readers into the fact that something sinister is going on and that this house is hiding secrets. The reader discovers the secrets right along with Molly and the story then dives into the realm of the monsters of legend. No one is as they seem and twists and turns reveal who the "bad guy" actually is. Meanwhile, Molly slowly makes close connections for the first time and discovers "family" and what that means. Horror is trending right now, so this story is sure to find an audience. The underlying humor and humanness of the monsters undermine some of the fright aspects, rendering the book not too scary. Molly never loses her composure, also helping the reader to be brave enough to keep reading. Though the main arc of the plot ends, I would not be surprised to see more adventures in store for Molly, Dustin, and the gang.

The Beatryce Prophecy

The Beatryce Prophecy
Kate DiCamillo
Candlewick, 2021
247 pages
Grades 3-6
Historical Adventure

Beatryce lands in the goat stall of the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing grasping onto the ear of the dreaded goat Answelica with no memory of her past. It is kind Brother Edik, bearer of a funky eye that won't stay in place, who discovers her. Even more bewildering than her discovery is the fact that Beatryce can read, which is against the law for females in this medieval-esque kingdom. To save the young girl's life, Brother Edik shaves her head and disguises her as a boy. When the king's men track down Beatryce as the girl prophesied to unseat the king, she begins a quest, gathering more companions on her way, including the dashing young orphan Jack Dory, and the hermit Cannoc, who harbors secrets of his own. A story within a story develops as Beatryce writes a tale about a mermaid requested by Brother Edik. Eventually the crew of friends land at the castle. Will the prophecy come to pass or will the adventurers be killed by the king in order for him to keep his throne?

Kate Dicamillo has won more Newbery Medals than anyone else. For this reason I want to believe she is overrated and entered this book critically. In my humble opinion, DiCamillo has hit it out of the ballpark again, proving her range, this time offering a medieval yarn. The Beatryce Prophecy is most similar to Deperaux, yet is more of a medieval epic and less of a fairytale. The writing is as tight as always, with every word counting and perfect. The length is not too long for young readers and the fabulous illustrations by Caldecott winner Sophie Blackall are a perfect fit. Beatryce is a brave, smart and creative sole, surrounded by a diverse cast of misfits, simular to the crew from the Wizard of Oz, yet it is the cranky goat who steals the show. Beatryce, and later Jack, can hear the goat's thoughts, putting this book almost in the realm of fantasy, but there really is no other magic seen in this quest. The story-within-a-story adds another dimension and layer of richness, reflecting the arc of the plot. DiCamillo leaves her readers with much to think about including the power of stories and reading, that love and friendship are the most important things in the world and appearances are deceiving. The ending offers a bit of a satisfying twist and all of the characters find the places in which they were meant to be. I finished the book with a contented sigh, knowing that everyone found their best ending.

Ahmed Aziz's Epic Year

Ahmed Aziz's Epic Year
Nina Hamza

HarperCollins, 2021

320 pages

Grades 3-6

Realistic Fiction

The start of middle school is not promising as Ahmed moves from Hawaii to Minnesota, where his father grew up. He doesn't know anyone and there doesn't appear to be any brown kids, making him stick out even more. The family relocated to be closer to the medical treatments his Dad requires for a life-threatening liver illness. The only boy on the block, Jack, is not only unfriendly, but begins to bully Ahmed. Luckily, he meets a couple of kids in his classes, joins the media club, and slowly finds his people. More of a tech-geek than a reader, Ahmed is placed in advanced language arts and the teacher turns out to be a childhood friend of his dad and deceased uncle. Through this teacher Ahmed is forced to read three middle grade classics, discovering himself to be a reader after all, and learning more about his family's history. A blatant and life-altering incident bring the bullying problems to a head. Ahmed comes up with a well-crafted plan of revenge, only, is it the best course of action to take? It is a year of changes, growing up, and self-discovery, all while Dad is fighting for his life. Will the school year end tragically or triumphantly?

Debut author, Hamza, crafts an own-voices account of a Muslim-Indian boy transplanted in the Midwest. The conflict involves the constant bullying (motivation is provided, giving the character depth beyond villainy), Dad's illness, and feeling like an outsider. All plotlines are resolved satisfactorily and redemption is achieved with the bully without soiled hands or further conflict. Ahmed is a sympathetic character and readers will emotionally grow spending time in his shoes. He learns many lessons, including that everyone is going through stuff and aren't just watching you, friends can be family, and that the journey is more important than the destination. Kids from other cultures will relate with the frustration of no one being able to correctly pronounce Ahmed's name and the embarrassment of eating unfamiliar foods at lunch. The climax arrives as the police respond to a potential threat at the school by interrogating and harassing Ahmed, which made me squirm. Teachers will find this a useful book to start the school year either as a read-aloud or as part of the classroom library. My favorite part of the book was watching Ahmed grow as a reader, proving that everyone can learn to love books-they just need to be pointed in the right direction.

Happily Ever After Rescue Team

Happily Ever After Rescue Team
Sam Hay
Genevieve Koto, Illustrator
Feiwel & Friends, February, 2022
240 pages
Grades 2-5

Fantasy
Agents of H.E.A.R.T series #1

Evie desperately wants to help out at her parent's new seaside cafe, but it seems as if everything she does is wrong. She has great dessert ideas and is friendly with customers, though a bit clumsy. Her stepmom is super patient, but trying to keep Evie out of the way, especially today when the judge for the best cafe in town is arriving. A mysterious book is left behind by a young customer. As Evie examines the book three princes/agents from H.E.A.R.T. (Happily Ever After Rescue Team) appear to save the day. The problem is, the princesses don't really listen to Evie and apply their own stories to the situation. Suddenly, Evie is the proud owner of a dog (okay, that solution isn't so bad) and her hair has grown to monstrous proportions. Before things can get too out of control, the owner of the book shows up and distracts the princesses. Iris left the book on purpose because the princesses are menaces and, though eager,  cause more trouble than they help. Iris and Evie are now set dashing around, trying to dodge the princesses, all while keeping the dog and saving the day at the cafe. Another former owner of the book shows up to lend a hand and the three young people work together to untangle Evie from this royal mess.

This new series start will certainly find an audience among kids who have graduated from Fairy Magic, but may not be ready for Whatever After. The plot is face-paced and fun and readers will relate to and cheer for Evie as she figures out how to be heard and contribute. Not just a fantasy/princess story, this is also a book of friendship, as Evie navigates moving to a new town and trying to make a friend. My favorite aspect of this book is that the author has included recipes and projects that fit in with the story, which readers can try at home. The fabulous dessert that Evie invents to save the day is included, as are plenty of other projects and ideas to keep kids busy. Heavily illustrated with black and white comic-style pictures, reluctant readers will be drawn to this volume and kids that prefer to "do" rather than "read" will rejoice. Madcap humor and outrageous situations will keep the target audience chuckling and a planned sequel will give them somewhere else to go once they finish. The question of whether or not Evie will permanently keep the dog is still unresolved, so readers will need to read the next installment to find out. A fun new series that serves its purpose well.

JoJo Makoons: The Used-to-Be-Best Friend

JoJo Makoons: The Used-to-Be-Best Friend
Dawn Quigley
Heartdrum/HarperCollins, 2021 62 pages
Grades 2-4
Realistic Fiction
JoJo Makoons series #1

First grader Jojo Makoons often finds life confusing. Part of the problem is code-switching between languages and cultures. She is a member of the Ojibwe Nation and speaks Obibwe, Michif (the local dialect on her reservation), and English. School can run tricky. Jojo often confuses sayings and idioms and doesn't always understand why her answers make people laugh. Even more confusing is the world of friendship. Jojo's #1 best friend is her cat Mimi, but that friendship can be less than satisfying-and certainly doesn't help during school hours. Her #2 best friend, who is also her best school friend, has been sometimes eating lunch with other people. Is Fern moving on and away from Jojo? After eavesdropping on Mom and Kokum (Grandmother) Jojo discovers that poor Mimi must go to the vet for shots. What is a best friend to do? Smuggle her buddy to school of course!

This new chapter book series is helping to launch a new imprint from HarperCollins featuring Native American children, who are formally underrepresented in children's literature. As far as I know, this is the first early chapter book series featuring a native girl, which will be a welcome sight for children who see themselves within the pages and non-native children to broaden their exposure to other cultures. Jojo is a very likable character who will appeal to the target audience, who will immediately feel better about their own skills knowing what Jojo doesn't. In fact she reminds me of a Ojibwe Junie B. Jones, only with better grammar. There are some truly funny bits as Jojo learns about life, friendships, and what is appropriate behavior. Black and white illustrations, contributed by Tara Audibert, are plentiful and sometimes full-page, encouraging the emerging reader to turn pages. The chapters are short, the margins are wide, and the print is large, inviting new and struggling readers to hop right in. The end of the volume offers a glossary of some of the terms used by Jojo that readers may be unfamiliar with, as well as an author's note offering some Ojibwe context. A welcome series featuring a charming protagonist that is sure to find a wide audience.

The Bridge Home

The Bridge Home

Padma Venkatraman

Nancy Paulsen/Penguin, 2019

191 pages

Grades 5-8

Realistic Fiction

In a letter to her special needs sister Viji recounts their adventures running away from an abusive father to the city. Life in the city is tough, but the kindness of strangers keeps them going until they meet two boys who are in the same predicament. Muthi and Arul live under an abandoned bridge and the girls join them both in their home, scraping together a living. The group becomes a makeshift family and they pool together their resources and talents to survive on the streets. Money comes from sifting through piles of garbage and selling what they can to a crooked junkman. Sister Ruku cannot sift through garbage, but she can bead necklaces made from beads given by a kind merchant. The necklaces bring in some much needed funds, providing food and other essentials. Life is tolerable, that is until their little home is ransacked and the rainy season descends. How will this band of children survive in a harsh world that has no place for them?

Even though this book had such great reviews, I put off reading it. It felt long and oppressive, along the lines of The Night Diary or Amal Unbound and I just couldn't face it. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed this book and did not feel bogged down by it. Instead, I was swept up in the drama of the characters and looked forward to picking it up again. Because it is written in a letter or diary format, the reader is instantly pulled into the action. Although the subject material is harsh, the book is not long and reads quickly. Terrible things happen to these characters, but ultimately this is a book of hope and finding something to be grateful for even when life is bleak. There is a tremendously sad bit that will hit readers hard, but I love that the author kept the story realistic and not a fairytale. Kids will experience the conditions of the poor of India and how difficult it is for children on their own, perhaps creating better citizens of the world. I love that Venkatraman delved into religion, an often taboo topic in children's literature, and offers multiple views on the topic. A well written and at times brutally realistic view of homeless children in contemporary India.

The Unteachables

The Unteachables
Gordon Korman
HarperCollins, 2019
279 pages
Grades 4-8
Humor/School Story

Multiple points of view tell the tale of the worst class at Greenwich Middle School. They are called the "Unteachables" because this merry band of misfits has disrupted and underperformed their entire middle school careers, finally landing them in a self-contained classroom for eighth grade. Fifty-five-year-old Mr. Kermit is assigned to be their teacher in an effort by the superintendent to push him out. A teaching scandal in 1992 has followed Mr. Kermit since the '90's, costing him his zest for life, passion for teaching and his fiancé. The year starts out predictably quiet. Mr. Kermit passes out worksheets and hits the crosswords, until a new teacher, the daughter of his former love, shakes things up for his class. And then his nemesis, the boy who caused the cheating scandal who is now a successful car dealer, takes the class under his wing to make amends. Something slowly wakes up inside Mr. Kermit and he rediscovers his love of both his students and the profession. The class starts excelling and the Unteachables begin to learn and care about their teacher. The problem is: the superintendent is determined to get rid of Mr. Kermit before he becomes eligible for early retirement at the end of the school year. Can this re-energized teacher's job be saved?

Gordon Korman is super reliable. All of his books will appeal to readers of all stripes, including the reluctant variety. Not sure how I missed The Unteachables upon it's release two years ago, but glad I discovered it now. A great book choice to read aloud to a class or give to a reader for the beginning of the school year, it is a school story filled with heart and humor that demonstrates that all students have potential. The alternating points of view allow the students and the principal to give their side of the story and, thanks to the identification at the chapter heads and clear writing, readers will not be confused who is speaking. The students range from a boy with anger management to a large girl who everyone believes is violent. Their antics include roasting marshmallows over the trash can, stealing one-thousand whistles for spirit week, and setting the car on fire that is meant to win the science fair. The book gets a little unrealistic in parts, including having the former student from the car dealership serve as a unsanctioned substitute, but readers won't care-and, frankly, I didn't either. I fell into the story, rooting for all of the characters, and even cried a little at the end. Let's hope that Korman keeps churning them out for another fifty years.

Another Kind

Another Kind
Trevor Bream, Author

Cait May, Author/Illustrator

HarperAlley, Oct. 2021

288 pages

Grades 4-Up

Graphic Novel/Fantasy

Meet the Irregularities. They are a gang of kids with "other-worldly" DNA who live in a government facility called "The Playroom", where agents monitor their abilities and keep them hidden from the general public. They include various cryptids such as a yeti, selkie, will-o-the-wisp, sea creature, shape shifting bear, and a lizard/alien. An agent-turned-bad takes the irregularities and plans to turn them over to an eccentric rich collector. The gang realizes what is happening and escapes. What follows is a harrowing cross-country journey as the team seeks to find sanctuary. On the way they meet all kinds of interesting folks, some friendly, and some not to be trusted. The group grows closer and becomes more of a family than a friendship group and work together to fight the bad guys and obtain their freedom.

This is a different kind of graphic novel that will quickly find an audience in today's market. Horror books are trending and although this is not strictly horror, it features what society traditionally thinks of as monsters. That said, the young "monsters'" are lovable and misunderstood. Readers will easily identify with them and root for their safety. The book is extremely adventurous and will keep readers turning pages. Plot twists abound as loyalties shift and secrets are revealed. The story ends with a big climatic battle--and then a cliff hanger as the reader realizes that the Irregularities are safe from the present danger, but still on a quest for a home-base. Sequels are sure to follow, which will please new fans. The panels are easy to scan and the comic illustrations are well done. My only quibble was that there are weird circles on the character's noses (both human and cyprid), which I found distracting. Overall, an original and thrilling series that will please a variety of readers looking for comics that are a bit less silly than Dogman, yet not as intense as the biographical memoirs coming out in droves.

Fable

Fable
Adrienne Young
Wednesday/St. Martins, 2020
353 pages
Grades 9-Up
Adventure/Fantasy

Fable has been stranded for four years on the most dangerous island of her world, filled with thieves and murderers. Her only defenses are the survival skills and life rules that she learned from her despicable ship-captain father and the ability to decipher gems and work as a dredger, skills she learned from her deceased mother. Now at age 17, Fable has stored away enough coin to escape this treacherous place and locate the father who abandoned her. She pays a young captain, West to take her to a nearby island and to-hopefully-her destiny. West's ragtag crew are less than thrilled to have her on board and consider Fable to be a bad luck charm. She must prove herself to the crew and establish her place among them. Finally Fable locates her father, only he is even more successful and harsh than she remembers him. Worst of all, he wants nothing to do with her. How will she survive in this dangerous world and navigate her way through it? Meanwhile, the crew of the Marigold has secrets of their own and they must find a way to trust Fable for them all to survive the dangerous seas--and its ruthless inhabitants.

I was drawn to Fable by its beautiful cover. The intriguing young, yet fierce, woman on the cover holds up among the pages of this thrilling read. Teens drawn to pirate stories and adventurous, light fantasy in alternative worlds will find much to enjoy in this exciting duology. Fable, the novel's main character, is both ruthless and vulnerable. Readers will empathize with her immediately and root for her as she seeks security and fortune. It is hard to know at first which secondary characters to trust, yet it all shakes out and Fable's new found family, the crew of the Marigold, will become endearing to the reader as well. The book reads exceedingly fast, party due to its breakneck speed, and proves hard to put down. There are moments of excessive violence, horrible living situations, and sexual moments, making this a book for older teens with a strong stomach. The story ends on a crazy cliffhanger, practically begging readers to pick up the second volume, Namesake, thankfully, already released.

Ophie's Ghosts

Ophie's Ghosts
Justine Ireland
HarperCollins, 2021
325 Pages
Grades 4-7
Historical Fiction/Fantasy/Mystery

Ophie is awakened in the middle of the night by her father, who is now a ghost. He instructs her to grab his secret stash of cash and her mother and flee to Pittsburg to live with elderly Aunt Rose. Ophie does as suggested and finds herself part of the great migration, trying to survive as a young black girl in 1920's, who can now see ghosts--everywhere. Aunt Rose reveals that it is a family trait to see haints and instructs Ophie in how to deal with them, before she suddenly dies. Ophie and mom must move into Daffodil Manor, where they both work as maids. Ophie is seeing ghosts all over the manor as she serves as a companion to elderly racist Mrs. Carruthers. Boredom leads to a friendship with a ghost who was formerly also a servant with a more personal connection to the family. Aunt Rose says that ghosts can't ever be trusted. Should Ophie allow herself this one friendship even though Clara has her own agenda? And how did Clara die in the first place? No one in the Carruthers family seems to know. Ophie gets to the bottom of the mystery, all while learning to survive in her new life and deal with her cranky old employer.

YA author, Ireland, makes her middle grade debut with this winner of a paranormal mystery set firmly in the past. This is a book that ticks a lot of boxes, but does so without feeling too busy or disjointed. The setting places the story in a dark place for African Americans and racism runs deep throughout the context of the book. After Dad's racially motivated murder and their house is burnt to the ground, Ophie must work as they cannot afford for her to go to school and she and her mother have very few prospects for employment, even in the more liberal north. The mysteries behind Clara, who she was and her murder, are all satisfactorily solved. The culprit is getable, yet not too obvious, and I enjoyed speculating on who it could be. The ghosts who run through the story are unsettling, yet not too creepy. Kids who love a little paranormal shiver will enjoy this element, yet it is not the stuff of nightmares. Ireland easily makes the transition to middle grade and doesn't talk down to her readers or write over their heads. This book is spot-on for the target audience and will find a readership. Ophie's Ghost is one of my favorite books of the year so far and it is sure to win lots of accolades for combining substance with great entertainment.