Freestyle

Freestyle
Gale Galligan
Scholastic, 2022
272 pages
Grades 3-7
Graphic Novel

Cory is a member of a mixed-gender hip-hop dance crew, made up of his best friends. They are in 8th grade in New York City public school and everyone is expected to go to a different high school, so they are making the most of their last year together and the opportunity for one more competition before everything changes. The problem is: Cory's grades have slipped and he is officially grounded until he brings them back up. Enter Sunna: a very academically serious classmate who Cory's parents have hired to be his tutor. What starts out as a cantankerous relationship takes a turn when Cory sees Sunna secretly doing yo-yo tricks. She exposes him to the yo-yo culture and starts to teach him what she knows. Before long the two have become friends, taking time away from the dance crew and making his other buddies jealous. A misunderstanding blows up both side of Cory's life. Can Cory bring both sets of friends together, all while participating in both hobbies and meeting parental expectations?

The Babysitter's Club artist, who took over from Raina Telgemeier is now striking out on her own in her first fully independent graphic novel. Readers will immediately gravitate to this book. It is contemporary with friendship themes and will appeal to both boys and girls. I love that it is set in New York City and deals with the pressure of applying to high schools. Themes include acceptance, dealing with parental expectations, putting your friends first, and not being afraid to try something new. It is interesting that Sunna happens to be Muslim. This is not the point of her character or integral to the plot, but just who she is, living her life. The full color illustrations are expertly drawn and kid-friendly. This is the first book I know of that not only exposes middle grade readers to what it means to be in a dance crew, but delves into yo-yo culture. Cory shows his friends, and the readers, that what makes our hobbies special are the people that we share them with, as well as the importance of working as a team. Some bonus comics are included at the end tracing the author's progression with the story.

Healer and Witch

Healer and Witch
Nancy Werlin
Candlewick, 2022
292 pages
Grades 5-8
Historical Fiction/Fantasy

When Sylvie's healer Grandmother dies, a huge hole is left in the house. Sylvie's mother cannot leave her chair from grief and the budding healer uses her untamed gifts to remove the sadness plaguing her mother. The gesture backfires and Mother loses many of her personal memories: including who Sylvie is and their relationship. Now the young healer must leave her small medieval French village to find an experienced healer who can serve as Sylvie's mentor and teach her how to harness her magic and use the power for good. As she travels along the road Sylvie is joined by Martin, a boy from the village, who is insistent on accompanying her. At first a nuisance, eventually Martin becomes a comfort and almost like a younger brother. Eventual the pair reach a city where a suspicious inn keeper directs them to the home of a wise woman. This woman not only is a former friend of Grandmother's, but is willing to help Sylvie. Now she and Martin must travel through the countryside with an unlikable merchant to find a famous astrologer, who can help mentor Sylvie. As the journey continues, Sylvie learns who to trust and discovers on her own the best way to wield her gifts.

Teen author, Werlin, tries her hand at middle grade, as seems to be the trend these days. This story is a straightforward medieval quest with believable magic appearing only in the form of healing/brain control. In other words: no dragons or wizards. There are twists and turns in the linear plot and surprises along the way. Once the true villain is determined, the readers will happily boo them and root for Sylvie the underdog. There is a hint of romance, as seen in a marriage proposal (Sylvie is fifteen), but remains very innocent. Themes include staying true to yourself, the evils of greed, the unfairness of making snap judgements about people, family loyalty, perseverance, the importance of honesty and living a moralistic life. I liked the relationship between Sylvie and Martin and was satisfied at the revelation from Martin concerning his reasons for joining her-besides seeking adventure. More historical fiction than fantasy, this will attract both kinds of readers. The story reads quickly and is adventurous enough to hold reader's interests. A fun story that will attract a cross-section of tween and teens that feels like something different then the usual fare.

How to Build a Human: In Seven Evolutionary Steps

How to Build a Human: In Seven Evolutionary Steps
Pamela S. Turner
Charlesbridge, 2022
166 pages
Grades 4-8
Non-Fiction

Our Human ancestry is traced from the apes through the upright hominins first seen seven million years ago to the present day. Turner explores what sets humans apart from other creatures and what characteristics make us distinct. Evolution is explained with "survival of the fittest" winning out, demonstrating how our ancient ancestors developed over time to create the people that we are today. Migration patterns are also discussed, showing readers how our ancestors eventually covered the globe. A forward from an American Smithsonian scientist originally from Kenya, where our origin story begins, grounds the book in both cultural and scientific footing. Extensive backmatter includes a glossary, timeline, a full list of the Hominin family, recommended reading and sites for further information, acknowledgements, sources, bibliography, and index.

Whew! As proven by the backmatter, science writer Pamela Turner has certainly done her research. The evidence she presents explaining our origins are thoroughly researched, documented, and credited. No one could possibly question the integrity of this material. With such a well researched project and serious topic, one would expect the book to be stale and boring. This was not the case. Though always remaining factual, How to Build a Human is written conversationally and, at times, even humorously. It is extremely readable and will be picked up by kids for pleasure reading, as well as useful for reports. I studied anthropology in college and still managed to learn from reading this book intended for young people. The information is presented clearly and succinctly, yet in an attractive package. The pages are not cluttered, giving readers the room to absorb the information, and maps, photos of relics, and original art work (contributed by scientific artist John Gurche) will further attract readers. A great choice to recommend to both readers who enjoy non-fiction and those who think they don't.

Northwind

Northwind

Gary Paulsen

FSG/Macmillan, 2022

Grades 4-8

Adventure

Leif is an orphan from a time in the long ago past. He is raised by his fishing community and sent off to sea for a life of drudgery and beatings. Left on an island to prepare salmon with other young and old men, a ship carrying a terrible disease pays them a visit. Leif's companions succumb to the illness and die, one after another. A kind older man sets Leif off in a homemade canoe with an even younger boy and a few supplies. Both boys get deathly ill and only Leif survives. Now alone, weak, and unsure he must set off to try to make his way in the world, avoiding men with their cruelty and disease. Leif follows the old man's parting advice to "go north" and as he goes he learns how to survive in this cold, dangerous and unforgiving climate, avoiding bears, fishing, making friends with the birds, dolphins, and whales, and learning the ways of the land and sea. Through the journey he comes to terms with his past and makes peace with both the landscape and those who left him behind as he gradually starts seeing a future for himself.

Award winning middle grade author, Paulsen, offers maybe his best work yet published posthumously after the author's 2021 death. Paulsen returns to the world of his best know story Hatchet as a boy, now from the past, makes his way through a summer of a northern wilderness. What makes it very different from Hatchet is the writing style. Where Hatchet is contemporary and plot driven, Northwind has ancient Viking setting and a lyrical and dream-like quality. Almost like poetry, this book is beautifully written-maybe a bit too well written for the average middle grader. I would recommend this story to kids who love wilderness survival stories. It is too quiet for the I Survived crew and requires a thoughtful reader. There are some violent bits and death, so sensitive kids may want to stay away. An author's note explains Paulsen's inspiration for the book: his grandmother's Norwegian tales and his own adventures sailing in the Pacific Northwest. Although the text hints at Leif being from Viking stock, it is never explicitly stated and may go over the heads of young readers. Northwind is a beautiful work of art and a great exit piece from a beloved author, yet requires just the right reader. Adult fans who grew up loving Hatchet will be the target audience.

Star Child: A Biographical Constellation of Octavia Estelle Butler

Star Child
Ibi Zoboi
Dutton, 2022
114 pages
Grades 7-12
Biographical Poetry

An award winning novelist for young people turns her attention to a poetic love letter to her mentor, Octavia Estelle Butler. Poems, snatches of biological information, pages from the Butler's actual childhood journals, original quotes, and photos are all part of the format meant to expose readers to this great science fiction author. We trace Butler's life from her simple beginnings in 1947 born to a shoeshine man and house cleaner in California, through her dreamy childhood, and-finally-achieving her dreams of writing professionally the stories that she saw in her head. Her journey is plagued with "no's" and "cant's", yet Butler perseveres, eventually winning the coveted Nebula Award for outstanding science fiction. Zoboi ties in her experiences meeting Butler in her early career and how that time influenced her writing path. Notes at the end legitimize the author's research and move the book from the poetry shelves to biography, even though the format is less than conventional.

This is not my usual book. I picked it up for two reasons: the stunning cover and the fact that it was starred everyone I looked. The stars are for good reason. The book is amazingly written, impeccably researched, and carefully designed. Because of the author's previous work, the book has landed in the teen section. This is an example of a beautiful, wonderful book that, unfortunately, will not be read by teens, unless used for curriculum purposes. I doubt that they know who Octavia Butler is, nor have read her books yet. The short length may attract readers if the title lands on a reading list and it does read rather quickly. I loved the original photos included and snippets from Butler's journals, early stories, and even a report card. The poems are well constructed and some have original cadences and design. Even though I have never read anything myself of Butler's, Zoboi has encouraged me to pick one of her titles up-and that is probably the point. I am sure this book will desirably win awards, I'm just not sure how much traction it will get with the target audience. 

The Marvellers

The Marvellers
Dhonielle Clayton
Holt, 2022
404 pages
Grades 4-7
Fantasy

Marvellerverse series #1

Ella leaves home to begin as a student at the prestigious Arcanum Training Institute, where young people train to harness and use their magical abilities. This should be a joyful monument for her family, but it is clouded by Ella being the first conjurer to attend the school and with her enrollment comes hate, fear, and discrimination. Ella is placed in a suite with elite girls, only to find herself relocated the next day to a double with school outcast and weirdo Brigit. Jason, a kind boy with a connected family, is the last to join their trio, but is he hiding something? Even though Ella is succeeding academically and trying as hard as she can, it seems as if the school is trying to get rid of her. Teachers find fault in everything she does and students don't seem to trust her. Ella has a friend in her God Mother, who is a new teacher at the school, and her advisor. When the advisor goes missing, it is up to Ella and her friends to find him. The main problem is, though, Ella is being accused of a crime she didn't commit by another student. How can she clear her name and set it all to rights?

Respected author for teens, Clayton reconnects with her middle grade magic in this new series opener. Kids who love fantasy and those who are convinced that they really are magical at heart will find much to love here. You can't help but compare the book to the Harry Potter series and the Arcanum Training Institute, hidden in the clouds, has a Hogwarts vibe. Clayton offers layers within her plot as Ella must solve the mystery of who is sabotaging her experience at the school and what happened to her beloved teacher. Meanwhile, twists and turns abound and the reader is taken on a ride as new secrets are revealed and danger is encountered at every corner. A subplot involving an escaped villain adds further dimension and the occasional changing to her point of view, as well as some unexpected formatting, will keep readers intrigued. The main mysteries are sewn up, but the intentions of the escape villain are still unclear, leading readers to the next series installment, yet to be published. Even though this is a work of fantasy, many themes, including the discrimination faced by conjurers, ring true in our present "Muggle" world. I felt that the book went on a bit long, but hardcore fantasy readers will applaud the length, eat up the story, and wait for Ella's second year at the institute. Not for reluctant readers, but will certainly find a readership among smart and savvy magic lovers.

Tumble

Tumble
Celia C. Perez
Penguin/Kokila, 2022
352 Pages
Grades 5-8
Realistic Fiction

Adela (Addie) has a typical life in her small New Mexico town. She helps her stepfather, the only father she has ever known, in the family diner. Paleontologist Mom is pregnant, which is exciting. When Stepdad Alex offers to formally adopt Addie, she is torn. She knows nothing about her biological father and her mom won't talk about him. Along with her best friend, Addie begins to dig for information, leading her to answers at the local historical society. She discovers that her father is a local legend. He is a professional wrestler named "Manny the Mountain" and is a member of the famous wrestling Bravo family of local legend. After much discussion with Mom and Alex, Addie finally meets Manny, as well as her whole, crazy wrestling family. Manny is now wrestling as a masked "bad guy", but has big plans for a come-back. Does Addie fit in with those plans? Meanwhile, Addie finds herself part of the cast of the yearly school performance of The Nutcracker. The seventh graders can customize the play however they see fit. Addie is inspired by her new family to suggest a bold direction. Will the other kids go for it? And if they do, will the Bravos (especially Manny) support the scheme?

I am a big fan of Celia Perez.  I love how she writes very readable and relatable middle grade fiction featuring Latino characters and making the culture an interictal part of the story without making it the only focus of the book. I grew up with two wrestling fanatic brothers and highly enjoyed seeing the honest representation in a book aimed at some of the sport's biggest fans. Readers learn about profession wrestling, all while traveling with Addie on her journey to connect with family, figure out her identity and her place within this new configuration. Addie also struggles with confidence and real friendship situations. Kids with non-traditional families will relate to this protagonist and everyone who went through seventh grade will see themselves in her struggles. The New Mexico setting is fully realized and serves as an important backdrop to the story. Most secondary characters are developed and experience growth. I would have liked to have seen more development of best friend, Cy, but that's nit-picky. Both boys and girls will enjoy this story and the wrestling angle will help encourage boys to read a story featuring a female protagonist. A great book about coming of age, families, friendship, and feminism, all with a tantalizing hook to attract the target audience.

The Door of No Return

The Door of No Return
Kwame Alexander
Little Brown 2022
418 pages
Grades 7-Up
Historical Fiction

Narrative poems tell the story of Kofi, a young Asante teenager living in a small village in Ghana in 1860. He goes to English school, taught by a strict schoolmaster, and is preparing to go through the ritual of becoming a man. Kofi's competitive bigger cousin challenges him to a swimming race and he is training to win, both to show up his cousin and to impress his crush. Everything changes when beloved older brother Kwasi has a terrible mishap that brings negative attention to the family. Kofi is kidnapped. At first he thinks it is the start of his initiation into manhood and then realizes that it is something much more sinister. The colorless kidnappers lock Kofi up with other boys for days, leading to the start of a horrific journey, bringing the end of everything Kofi holds dear crashing around him. 

Newbery award winning Alexander brings to light a terrible chapter in African American history, leading the reader to where it all begins. Narrative poems tell Kofi's story, which starts innocently enough. His main problems include lack of self-confidence, mean teachers, rivalries, friends, and crushes. The tale takes a dark turn as Kofi becomes a victim of the slave trade and is kidnapped and abused. The writing is beautiful and somehow lends itself to conveying the emotion of the subject matter. There were parts that were very hard for me to read and I sometimes had to take a break. Though the book is intended for middle grade, I would suggest it would best serve teens or adults. Though it is our truthfully painful history and an important story, there is a lot of graphic violence and women are repeatedly raped towards the end. Because of the format of the writing, the rape scenes may go over the heads of younger kids, but I still feel that it should be for older readers. Also the writing style is a bit too writerly for younger readers and I'm not sure they would have the understanding or patience to get through the text, making it best serve older teens who will appreciate it. Backmatter includes an author's note and a glossary of both terms and symbols used throughout the text. The book will most certainly and deservedly win awards and will find a home among mature readers.