Black Bird, Blue Road

Black Bird, Blue Road

Sofiya Pasternack

Versify, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2022

Grades 5-8

Fantasy/Adventure/Historical

   Ziva and her beloved brother Pesah are turning thirteen in the Eastern European mountains of long ago. This is an important birthday in their Jewish community, as they are to be introduced into adulthood. Only, Pesah is not welcomed to the celebration because he suffers from advanced Leprosy. Ziva does not understand why her twin is ostracized and when she hears that he is to be sent to a leper colony, decides to take action. She is determined to find a cure and the siblings have a vague idea of where they can discover such a thing. They escape during the darkness of night and take to the road and it isn't long before they are attacked by robbers. After freeing the magical boy held prisoner by the scoundrels, Ziva and Pesah are owed a favor by this boy, who turns out to be half-demon. The three companions continue the journey, eventually discovering that no such cure exists. Hope lays in the mythical city of Luz, where all inhabitants are promised immortality. It is Ziva's plan to find Luz, cure Pesah, and leave the city to live life happily ever after. Of course, nothing is simple and immortality comes with a price. What decisions the young people make will both surprise readers and force them to consider their own mortality.

   Black Bird, Blue Road is a relatively new book by a celebrated author. It has been very favorably reviewed and is on many possible Newbery contender lists. That said, it hasn't gone out at my library since it was added several months ago and does not seem to attract young readers. The story is interesting. Characters with diseases have long been compelling to kids and leprosy is a certain draw. There is an adventurous journey that, in my opinion, will keep readers turning pages and the overall suspense of whether or not Pesah will be saved. I think that somehow the faraway setting and time period does not help it and for some reason young readers aren't picking it up. The philosophy behind the plot will get thoughtful kids thinking, but may go over the head of the average young person and at times the storyline gets a bit "talky". That said, it is a beautiful story that explores Jewish mythology by an own-voices author with a lot to say. It would be a great choice for book group, especially sparing conversations about death and immortality. I also love that there is a feminist message, as Ziva is the strongest among the young people and longs to be a judge in a society where women simply serve as wives and mothers. A beautifully written story with an unusual setting and much to say that will, unfortunately, not be picked up without some handselling.

The Dragon Warrior

The Dragon Warrior
Katie Zhao
Bloomsbury, 2019
343 pages
Grades 4-8
Mythology/Fantasy

Twelve year-old Faryn and her slightly younger brother live with their beloved grandfather in San Francisco's Chinatown.Ever since their warrior fighting father disappeared years before, the small family unit has been looked down upon by the community's top citizens. While out getting medicine for her grandfather on the first day of the lunar new year, Faryn encounters a Nian (scary demon). Grandfather trained her to be a demon warrior like her father and she puts the skills to work, defeating this enemy with the help of a mysterious stranger. A new year's party reveals unexpected news that Faryn is the "Heaven Breaker", a warrior prophesied to wield an Excalibur-like sword and lead a dragon army to save the world in a war against demons. Brother Alex is not happy. Why wasn't he the one chosen? There is no time to ponder as the young people team up with an old friendemie to lead the charge in the war against the demons. Do they have what it takes? Can Faryn make the right choices and sacrifices required for the job? Most of all, how will the team fare while encountering both deities and demons in their quest to save the world from evil?

Perfect for Rick Riordan and Rick Riordan Presents fans, The Dragon Warrior offers Chinese mythology within a contemporary format. The story has plenty of action, twists and turns with both deities and demons around every corner. The characters aren't super developed, but it's not that kind of story. They do change and surprise us along the way and sometimes it's not clear who to root for. This book ends with a grand final battle, yet also a couple of major cliff-hangers that will lead the reader to the sequel The Fallen Hero, involving the legendary Monkey King. From what I have read online, there are also loose plot threads and folks expected a third installment, but two years later there does not seem to be one in the works. The author has written some other things, including a new middle grade fantasy that came out just this fall. Young readers, who like this sort of thing, will enjoy The Dragon Warrior and it was a hit with my fifth and sixth grade book group . I, personally, had trouble keeping the deities and demons straight. There is a humorous and informative glossary in the back, but I didn't discover it until I finished the whole book. Maybe an author's note at the beginning alerting the reading about the glossary is in the back would have helped. Lovers of action/fantasy, as well as those already familiar with the legends and characters in question, will enjoy this story and find much to savor.

The Superteacher Project

The Superteacher Project

Gordon Korman

HarperCollins, January, 2023

304 pages

Grades 4-8

Science Fiction

Multiple points of view convey the story of a typical middle school with a new very atypical teacher. The students of Brightling Middle School are surprised when a new teacher enters their classroom accompanied by an older student teacher. Mr. Aidact is like no other educator the students have ever had. He is able to catch a spitball in midair, can explain things in different ways to make even the most unconventional students understand, doesn't mind taking on extra duties, and does not seem to need to eat lunch. Mr. Aidact seems to pick up information, slang, and song lyrics after only hearing it once and starts to become more and more like his students. Stuck running detention, it soon becomes a popular spot for delinquents and star students alike. When the field hockey team needs a coach, it's Mr. Aidact to the rescue. The fact he doesn't know anything about the sport does not prevent him from bring the team to the state championship. He seems a bit too good to be true, but there are some mysterious holes. Why is that strange "student teacher" always with him? When the class pranksters follow the new teacher home, they see that not only does he live with the student teacher, but he is most definitely not what he seems. Is the new star teacher even human?

Does it seem like I read every Gordon Korman book that comes down the pike? That is because I do! His books are just so readable and kid friendly. This one got me at the concept and I had to see where it was going to go. I figured out Mr. Aidact's identity pretty early on--and young readers will as well. Since the readers will be in on the plot twist, it is just a matter of sitting back and waiting for the chaos to ensue once the greater world discovers Mr. Aidact's secret. Korman adds his characteristic humor to the proceedings and the pranks and hijinks (especially the stunt involving a Big Wheel) will have kids as riveted as I was. There are a lot of characters, but everyone was written distinctly and the chapters are headed by the featured narrator at the top of every short chapter. The kids in the school, though all very different, must ban together at the end to save their favorite teacher. They turn out to be smarter and more open-minded than their parents, which young readers will applaud, and end up outsmarting the adults and saving the day. In the current climate of parents going to extremes to control what their children are exposed to, it feels like the actions in this book are rather timely. A fun book that even reluctant readers will enjoy that does not depend on comic-like pictures to keep readers turning pages.

Those Kids from Fawn Creek

Those Kids from Fawn Creek
Erin Entrada Kelly
HarperCollins, 2022
319 pages
Grades 4-Up
Realistic Fiction

Multiple points-of-view tell the story of a seventh grade class, well, actually the whole seventh grade, which is shaken up when a new girl moves to town. Fawn Creek (better known as Yawn Creek) is a little backwater town in rural Louisiana. Not much changes or happens and the twelve seventh grade students have been together forever. When Orchid enters the class, everything changes. Orchid has lived in New York City and Paris and has enjoyed exciting adventures. Best of all, she is kind and has made friends with nearly everybody, blurring the little cliques that have long formed. Remy, former mean-girl who left her queen bee status when she moved to the bigger town next door, is threatened by what she is hearing. She gets her former best friend and new class queen bee to help her with a plan to knock Orchid down to size. Class misfits, Dorothy and Greyson are instantly enchanted by Orchid's stories. They long for a world outside of Fawn Creek and eagerly befriend Orchid, hanging on their every word. As the book progresses it is discovered that the new student is not exactly who she says she is, yet regardless of her true identity, she has changed the seventh graders in ways that they had never imagined.

Kelly's dedication says it all: "To anyone with dreams bigger than their hometowns". This latest novel by a respected Newbery recipient will give small-town kids hope for the future and suburban and urban kids a window into a different life. As a former small-town kid I could relate to the feelings of entrapment and boredom experienced by most of the characters and the excitement when someone new comes to town. I saw through Orchid's tales pretty early on and readers likely will as well, but you can't help but love her and relate to her motivations. I found myself holding my breath waiting for her to be discovered and hoping that the other kids will be kind. Most characters rose to the occasion when the chips were down and banded together as a team, embracing a positive identity from being a kid from Fawn Creek. Other characters did not show their best selves, but felt yucky about it and maybe will the next time. I love how the book ends (which is unusual for me). The characters are all better and different people, yet it is not sewn up in a neat little bow. There is an important piece that has been left dangling, which is realistic to life. Sometime we just don't get full closure, even though we want it. I did struggle with keeping the many characters straight, as I suspect young readers will as well, but a handy pictorial guide at the beginning was always on hand for reference. An emotional story that young readers will relate to and be better people after reading.

Lightlark

Lightlark
Alex Aster
Amulet, 2022
416 pages
Grades 8-Up
Fantasy

As the ruler of Wildling, Isla is sent from her protected kingdom to the Centennial at Lightlark, where six rulers are set to compete and break the curses thrust upon them hundreds of years ago. Every hundred years they are brought together to attempt to break the curse, but this Centennial is even more important for it appears to be the last chance to save their civilization, as the land of Lightlark is beginning to crumble and the most powerful king is losing his power. Isla knows all about dwindling power. She is harboring a terrible secret: she possesses no power, leaving her very vulnerable to the other rulers. The good news is that Isla knows how to fight, has a great set of wits, is fearless, and has a forbidden best friend among the rulers. Initially paired up to work with the main king, they search Lightlark by night to try to discover the heart of the land in order to destroy it and break the curse. Meanwhile, twists and turns abound and Isla must figure out who to trust as she makes friends, suffers betrayals, and finds herself in the middle of a love triangle. As the hundred day competition continues loyalties shift as the rulers are allowed to physically kill each other and Isla now must not just break the curse to save her kingdom, but try to escape with her life in tact.

Having caused a controversy this year on BookTok, Aster managed to get her teen novel on the best-seller charts. I wanted to read the book to see if it was worth the hype. Lightlark has a cool concept, yet borrows strongly from the Hunger Games and Twilight, though most of the teen books ten years ago did, so I can't fault Aster. Though I did feel that the fantasy/adventure plot featuring a love triangle felt very last decade, it still has fresh elements and I enjoyed the premise of the Centennial. There are a lot of twists and turns in the plot and it is a wild ride. The book goes on a bit too long, yet it does cover one-hundred days and a lot happens. There is a huge betrayal at the end with a big manic Scooby-Doo confession, which I always enjoy--and readers will as well. The book gets sexual in places and the characters are mostly adults, so it is not for young teens. It also gets violent with a nod to the Game of Thrones Red Wedding. Though not particularly sophisticated, it provides the formula for what makes a successful teen read and I was never bored. Though the story was sewn up nicely I would not be surprised to see Aster re-enter this world with a new adventure.

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.

Maizy Chen's Last Chance

Maizy Chen's Last Chance
Lisa Yee
Random House, 2022
269 pages
Grades 3-6
Realistic (with a bit of Mystery & Historical Fiction)

Maizy and her single mother travel to Mom's hometown of Last Chance Minnesota for the summer. Opa is battling cancer and Oma is running the family's Chinese restaurant on her own. Mom and Oma have fallen out of relationship for a variety of reasons and they spend much of the summer reconnecting as they keep the Golden Palace afloat. Maizy spends time with her new friend Logan, trying to repair the relationship between Opa and his best friend, and learning how to play poker from her grandfather. She discovers a way to connect with and encourage people by writing fortunes and inserting them into cookies. A terrible racist incident shakes up both the folks at the Golden Palace and the community at large. Who is responsible? Maizy and Logan are on the case to find the culprit--which they do by book's end. Meanwhile, Opa spends time with Maizy, when he is well enough, sharing stories about his Grandfather, Lucky, who immigrated to the US amid racial prejudice and founded the Golden Palace, connecting Maizy to her heritage.

This is a great new book by accomplished middle-grade author, Yee, with a lot of layers. It is mostly a realistic fiction story of the importance of family, finding friends, and connecting with community. Interspersed within this is the back story of Opa's grandfather, Lucky, who's chapters are labeled differently with a slightly different font. And then--a mystery rears its ugly head as Maizy and her new friend search for the racist vandal. There is even a subplot involving Mom's potential romance with a high school flame that leads to a plot-twist. You would think that with all of this going on the story would be confusing. Quite the contrary. It is very readable, enjoyable, and would appeal to kids. Without getting preachy Yee educates readers about the prejudice facing Chinese Americans in the past (and present) and we learn about the Paper Sons. Back matter includes an author's note connecting the story to Yee's personal life and factual information from her research, a recipe from the Golden Palace, and resources to learn more. Maizy Chen's Last Chance is one of the best books I have read this year and I am sure to recommend it to readers.

The Last Beekeeper

The Last Beekeeper

Pablo Cartaya

HarperCollins, 2022

300 pages

Grades 5-7

Science Fiction/Dystopian/Adventure

Yolanda lives with her sister Cami in the near future. The girls are farmers and are struggling to keep their small and sad strawberry crop afloat. Yoly dreams of getting off the farm and into the technical field where she can live a posh life in the big city. She is one class away from finishing the technical school program, but the sisters are out of money and in debt to the controlling city of Silo. The mayor offers Yoly an offer she can't refuse: a scholarship to the program. Cami is skeptical and thinks their must be strings attached. Yoli impulsively goes for it and unleashes a series of troubles that cements the girls' debt and further puts them at the mercy of the mayor and the city of Silo. All is not lost as the sisters discover a lost beehive in the woods which can produce "liquid gold" and maybe solve their financial problems if they play their cards right. The mayor's sister loves honey and is determined to gain control of the hive. Can Cami and Yoli save the hive-and themselves-from certain destruction at the hands of the greedy city rulers?

Award winning middle grade novelist, Cartaya, pens a cautionary tale, warning young readers about the dangers of environmental neglect. A world without bees is a real threat to our current situation and would have a tremendous impact on food production. This future world is explored within the context of an exciting adventure tale. Dystopian adventures continue to be popular and this one feels a bit like the Hunger Games in that the central city holds all the power and removes the rights of the countryside majority. Readers will root and identify with Yoli, especially with her love of coding and tech, which puts her at an advantage against the adults. The author weaves in scientific information about beekeeping that will educate kids as they turn pages to see what will happen next. There is a bit of a mystery as readers slowly discover the power behind the throne, so to speak, and a Scooby-Doo-like ending reveals the real villain. This adventure is satisfactorily sewn-up and all's well that ends well, yet the last page delivers a cliffhanger, inviting a sequel. Cartaya offers extensive information about bees at the end of the book encouraging budding naturalists to learn more.

Wretched Waterpark

Wretched Waterpark
Kiersten White
Delacorte, 2022
232 pages
Grades 4-6
Mystery/Horror
The Sinister Summer Series #1

Fraternal twins Theo and Alexander relate the tale of their week spent at the waterpark, Fathoms of Fun. They are dropped off at Aunt Saffronia's house, of whom they have never met, with their older sister Wil and her best friend, cellphone Rodrigo. Aunt Saffonia has no idea how to care for children and has, literally, no food in the house. She drops the siblings off at the local waterpark with very little interest or instruction. The waterpark is not what they were expecting. The workers are creepy, the slides are dangerous, and the food is terrible--there are no churros! Strange encounters and events abound and, worse of all, both staff and customers seem to be disappearing. When their one friend, Edgar, disappears, the twins gets very concerned. Did he go the same route as his uncle who has been missing for a year? Edgar's aunt is horrible and seems to have sinister intentions. Theo finds a dusty old book that seems important. How is it connected and why do the villains seem to want it? When Wil goes missing, leaving her beloved Rodrigo behind, its time for desperate measures. Will the twins figure out the mystery of the disappearance of, well, pretty much everybody? And what exactly is the aunt up to?

First in a new series, White dishes up a mystery set in every kids favorite spot: a waterpark. This waterpark runs old-fashioned scary and is creepy from the first minute the kids arrive. Between the gothic feel, the intelligent humor, clever vocabulary and absurd situations the story felt influenced by Lemony Snicket. The plot reads like a ghost story with supernatural happenings afoot, but all is explained by human behavior, much like Scooby Doo. For a creepy mystery, the characters are developed. Even though the narration changes, readers will get to know Alexander and Theo, who are very different, yet compliment each other. Themes include family loyalty, cell phone addiction, finding your inner bravery, and the evil of greed. The action never stops and readers will keep turning pages to see what happens next. I figured out the mystery before the characters did and I will suspect young readers will as well, making them confident in their sleuthing skills. Although the waterpark is safe by book's end, dangling threads will lead the reader to the next series installment, Vampiric Vacation, out last month, with the third set for a January release.

The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen

 The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen
Isaac Blum
Philomel, 2022
218 pages
Grades 8-12
Realistic Fiction

Hoodie's family has recently relocated to the small community of Tregaron, New York from a different small upstate community that they can no longer afford. The previous town was well set-up and accommodating to the Orthodox community of which Hoodie's family is a part. The citizen's of Tregaron are not welcoming and feel threatened by the new residents. Racial slurs and political underhandedness is making life in their new town difficult and Abba is blocked from constructing the high-rise apartments to house more Orthodox Jews. Throughout this unpleasantness and despite the restrictions of his strict Yeshiva, Hoodie meets a local girl and the two strike up a friendship, bonding over erasing anti-semitic graffiti on Jewish graves at the local cemetery. Hoodie's family and community forbids the friendship, even going to the extent of shunning him, but he continues his friendship with Anna-Marie. Finally, an incident occurs that rocks the entire town and changes the lives of the young people, along with everyone else, forever.

I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I became emotionally connected to the characters, particularly Hoodie, and actually cried at one point, which is unusual for me. I love that it focuses on an Orthodox community, something I can relate to since I serve several various religious groups at my library, including Orthodox Jews. Blum demonstrates what Yeshiva and home life is like for many Orthodox Americans and I appreciated and learned from this glimpse. In my opinion Blum remains respectful and, although he demonstrates the harshness of Hoodies eventual shunning, shows the benefits and comfort living in such a community can bring. The book is laugh-aloud funny, which I was not expecting, and highly readable. It read quickly and I could not put it down. Though brief, the book has a lot to say and many different issues are explored that will make teens, and adults, think. Much like The Watsons Go to Birmingham, the book moves along in a light, somewhat humorous vain, until we get hit with a wallop, which changes the entire tone of the book. Super powerful and timely, this National Book Award long-list nominee is one of my favorite titles of the year.

New From Here

New From Here

Kelly Yang

Simon & Schuster, 2022

355 pages

Grades 3-6

Realistic Fiction

Knox's life is turned upside down when his mother takes him and his two siblings from their home in Hong Kong to their vacation house outside of San Francisco to escape the new and scary Coronavirus. Dad must stay behind to work with only the family dog for company. Life in America is not great. The bi-cultural kids get discriminated against by their new classmates, especially older brother, Bowen, who looks the most Chinese. Mom is struggling to find a job and money is tight. It does not help that Knox has a hard time controlling his impulses and costs the family even more money (and adding to Mom's worries) by his antics. A new friend is a bright spot in adjusting to California and his new teacher is both kind and adapts to his learning style, resulting in school success. Knox discovers that he has ADHD, which explains a lot about his behavior and gives him peace of mind to know that there is a reason for his uncontrollable actions. The three siblings miss Dad and are concerned for his safety. They set up a LinkedIn for him and begin to take interviews in order to land Dad a job in the US. Meanwhile, they are raising money anyway they can in order to pay for his place fair to join them. Naturally, all of these good intentions blow up in their faces, but in sometimes hilarious ways as the Coronavirus finally finds its way to California and the lockdown begins.

It was hard for me to read a book about the early days of the lockdown, being that it felt a little too soon. Yang brings to light a very specific experience: that of Asian Americans, who were grossly discriminated against and blamed for the Coronavirus. There are parts of the story that made me uncomfortable to read including the bits of Asian hate, the fake LinkedIn that I thought would destroy Dad's career, and the garage sale where the kids sold stuff they shouldn't. Even the kids delivering Chinese food on bikes in Dinosaur suits for protection, though funny, made me nervous. That may be just me, still twitchy from this pandemic. Kids will find a lot of the crazy situations funny and appreciate the young character's independence and willingness to solve adult problems. Themes include overcoming hate with kindness, sibling cooperation and respect, and the importance of community. Young readers will possibly appreciate that this is historical fiction, kind of, that they can relate to and remember. For kids time moves slower, so it may not be as raw to them as it was to me. The book ends on somewhat of a happy note, yet readers know that the pandemic is just heating up. What will be next for this family? I would not be surprised if Yang makes this stand alone novel a trilogy.

Swim Team

Swim Team
Johnnie Christmas
HarperCollins, 2022
247 pages
Grades 3-7
Graphic Novel

Bree moves from Brooklyn to Florida in order for her single Dad to attend school and start a new job. Florida is a bit of a culture shock. The good news is: while moving in her new digs, Bree meets Miss Etta, a kind elderly neighbor, and Clara, a friendly girl who also attends her new school. Being the new kid is not easy and, to make matters worse, Bree cannot take the electives she wants. Instead, the only opening is for Swimming, an activity that she fears. Bree masterly comes up with excuses to skip class in order to not have to get in that pool, but unfortunately the missed classes are affecting her grade. After almost drowning in the apartment complex pool, Miss Etta comes to her aid. Miss Etta was on the swim team at Bree's school many years ago and was a campion. Now the older lady coaches Bree and gets her not only through the swim class, but on the swim team. The coach recognizes Miss Etta from the past and recruits her to help coach the team. The girls on the team become tight and Bree has a group of friends as close as sisters---almost. There seems to be a missing piece to the puzzle that will solidify the team, help Miss Etta find healing and lead the team to victory at the state championship.

Adult graphic novelist, Christmas, turns his attention to middle grade in this new, not quite autobiographical memoir, but realist friendship tale, sure to please the Telgemeier crew. Many readers will relate to Bree's struggles with moving, starting a new school, trying to make friends, a busy and distracted parent, and having to face a new scary activity. I love that Bree conquers her fear and by doing so discovers a new passion that she excels at. Themes include loyalty, compromise, perseverance, trying new things, and forgiveness. There are intergenerational relationships and the power of community is demonstrated. Christmas also weaves into the tale civil rights history within the framework of pool use in the south and how that affected black athletes. We see privilege still having advantages, though through teamwork and chutzpah, the good guys win out. I appreciate that this is truly a friendship tale and does not get into romance and crushes, making it easy to recommend to younger kids who are looking for these stories. The full color illustrations are artfully done and help to convey the tale. Readers will root for Bree and her friends, all while learning about past injustices and current struggles. Sure to be a hit in both school and public library settings.

Cookies & Milk

Cookies & Milk
Shawn Amos
Little Brown, 2022
296 pages

Ellis is looking forward to summer, playing his harmonica and hanging out with his best friend. His plans take a turn as his parents divorce leaves with his entrepreneur dad, who is opening a cookie shop on LA's Sunset Strip. The store doesn't look like much, but Ellis spends the summer helping Dad sprucing it up, perfecting the recipe, and connecting to the community to establish a customer base. Despite his good intentions, Ellis has a series of mishaps that sets the new team back, including a chocolate chip explosion, a falling tower of sugar, and a go-cart demolition. Meanwhile, a mysterious neighbor and local DJ seems to know Dad from the past. Who is he? And what is this "Rat Trap" that the men keep discussing. As Ellis gets to know this new DJ friend, he graduates from his love of the blues to the new world of funk. Ellis taps into his heritage as he navigates the world of 1970's Hollywood. Finally, with the help of all of their friends, Sunset Cookies opens with great fanfare and a surprise guest comes to help celebrate.

The son of "Famous Amos" tells a biographically-based tale of helping his father open his first store in 1975. The first person account is highly readable and laugh-aloud funny. I especially love the grandmother character who was given the best lines and always steals the scene. Readers will identify with Ellis, who tries to help, but often gets it wrong. What he gets right is his big heart, which allows him to meet many interesting folks from the neighborhood, who become good friends. Themes include the importance of family and community, communication and forgiveness between family members, cultural and civic pride, loyalty, and--most of all--the power of a good cookie. Young readers will be exposed to some classic blues and funk and the playlist, thoughtfully included in the backmatter, will give them songs to download. Further backmatter includes a chocolate chip cookie recipe and an inspirational author's note. There are some comic-style drawings spread among the pages to lure in the target audience, but they do not overwhelm the text and are not necessary to the plot. Cookies & Milk is a story I truly enjoyed. It has a lot of heart, has something to say, and, best of all, made me laugh.

Graveyard Girls: 1-2-3-4 I Declare a Thumb War

Graveyard Girls: 1-2-3-4 I Declare a Thumb War
Lisi Harrison & Daniel Kraus
Union Square/Sterling, 2022
243 pages
Grades 4-7
Friendship/Horror

Multiple narrators relate the tale of a group of horror-loving friends looking for real ghosts the week that the town remembers Silas Hoke, who is also one of our narrators. Silas committed a murder many years ago and the community has a yearly celebration featuring nightly activities to keep his restless spirit away. The friends have a group called the "Grim Sleepers", where they take turns hosting sleepovers and sharing scary tales. When Silas Hoke leaves them all the same mysterious text with an invitation to visit his grave at night, they are scared, but can't resist. What will they find there? Meanwhile, the girls are dealing with family, school, and friendship troubles, glad to have the solid friendships of the group. When an unexpected newcomer asks to join, they are hesitant. Are her intentions sincere? Eventually, some new understandings are made, some mysteries are solved, and some problems are ironed out. A new group is formed out of the old and the "Graveyard Girls" are born--and ready to tackle their next spooky adventure!

Two veteran authors, traditionally writing for older readers, join forces to create a new middle grade series, jumping into the trending horror genre. At its core, this is a friendship story with a group of nice, nerdy girls battling the queen-bee clique. Within this framework of a love of scary tales, the seemingly different girls bind together as friends. A focal unrelated story is told around the middle of the book, serving as the inspiration for the title, and is framed within violet pages as to not confuse readers. The same color violet is used for page numbers, chapter headings, the few graphics included, and emails and text messages. I love the formatting of the book and feel that it is an attractive package that even reluctant readers will pick up. Chapter headings are labeled with the narrator's name as to thankfully avoid confusion. The book gives just enough creep to satisfy the target audience without keeping anyone up at night. A cliffhanging ending and sneak peek chapter for the next installment (Scream for the Camera) will entice readers to keep going in the series. After spending time with the Graveyard Girls expect young people to be inspired to start monster clubs of their own. 

Jennifer Chan is not Alone

Jennifer Chan is Not Alone

Tae Keller

Penguin Random House, 2022

274 pages

Grades 5-8

Realistic Fiction/Mystery

Different timelines relate the first person account of Mallory Moss, who is reeling from the disappearance of her former friend and neighbor, Jennifer Chan. Current chapters show the disappearance of Jennifer, the community's reaction, and Mallory's involvement in the search. Through the chapters set in the past we get the backstory of the girl's initial friendship, Jennifer's preoccupation with alien life, troubles at school, and Mallory's eventual desertion of Jennifer in order to not be ostracized socially. Mallory eventually makes the choice to abandon her school friends, who she realizes are not nice people, to reunited with a former nerdy, yet smart friend, to get to the bottom of the disappearance. The two join forces with another girl and, through reading Jennifer's journals, attempt to figure out if she really did make contact with aliens. The plot reaches a crescendo as Mallory's worlds collide in order to save Jennifer, once she figures out where she is. Can Mallory get to Jennifer in time?

This is a deceptive book. At first glance it seems like a possible alien story with a mystery, but at its core is a friendship tale. Readers will experience firsthand what bullying looks and feels like, along with the possible motivations and consequences. Both sides of the equation are explored. An author's note relates Keller's own experience from middle school, which inspired this story and will bring authenticity to the tale. There are parts that were hard for me to read, as Mallory finally takes ownership of her actions and the reader gets the full truth behind Jennifer's disappearance. What I love about the book is that although there are some permanently severed relationships, the protagonists find redemption and forgiveness of sorts. Readers will see that no matter how horrible their life is-or they are-this time is not forever and there is hope for the future. in a time of tween/teen suicide, this is an important message. Other messages include identity, the importance of community, and accepting differences. Timelines are clearly labeled and easy to follow, interspersed with excerpts from Jennifer's journal. An important and surprising contribution from a Newbery Medal winning author.

Thirst

Thirst
Varsha Bajaj
Nancy Paulsen/Penguin, 2022
179 pages
Grades 4-8
Realistic Fiction

Minni lives with her parents and brother in the slums of Mumbai. She is blessed to go to a private school; the fees being paid by her mother's employer. Life is hard. Water is scarce and women must wait hours to obtain just enough to keep their families clean-ish and hydrated. The situation seems to be getting worse as the planet gets hotter and the water begins to run from the town pumps at a trickle. One night Minni's brother witnesses illegible operations by the water mafia and is spotted. He is no longer safe and must retreat to the country to lay-low for a while. Meanwhile, Mom is tired and ill. She cannot continue to care for the family and travels to her sister's house to rest and recuperate. Could it be cancer? Now Minni is left to care for the household and her father. To make matters worse, she must cover her mother's job working as a maid for a rich family until Mom returns. Minni is lonely, makes a terrible maid, and is performing badly at school. If she doesn't pass her tests, she will be forced to drop out. When all seems lost, help comes from unexpected places and Minni learns to fight for what is important to her.

I foolishly thought that this was a science fiction book set in the future where the planet was running out of water. To my surprise, it turned out to be a realistic contemporary story set in our current world. As Bajaj points out in an author's note at the end of the book, one in ten people on the planet live without access to clean water. It was an eye-opener to me (as it will be to young readers) that this is still a problem in 2022. Readers will identify with Minni, who is a typical young girl, yet must rise to very real challenges. She finds solace in her friendships and mentors, working through her problems with the help of community. Minni also has some ethical dilemmas to figure out, which she does successfully. Readers will walk away with a greater appreciation of basic resources that we take for granted, such as safety, water, food and education. Bajaj fully realizes the Mumbai setting and the struggles of daily life. A wonderful window for American kids into another area of the world of which they may not be familiar.

A Secret Princess

A Secret Princess

Margaret Stohl & Melissa De La Cruz

Putnam, 2022

389 pages

Historical Fiction

Grades 6-Up

Sara Crewe is sent to boarding school from the Philippines to learn to be a proper English lady and to continue her education. As a young woman of means, she is given the best of everything and is the target of spite and envy. Her only friend is loner and misfit, Mary Lennox, who arrived from India and also struggles to make friends among their peers. Their trio is completed by Cedric Erroll, who is confined to a wheelchair and has struggles of his own. The three friends mange to get in and out of trouble, all while writing plays, escaping the school for adventures in the dead of night, and generally finding fun within the confines of the bleak environment. When tragedy strikes Sara--and then Mary, all seems lost. They decide to run away together, only to find troubles and financially difficulties on the road. Eventually, Cedric reveals a secret identity and offers a place of sanctuary for the group of friends. It is here that romance blossoms, as a magical garden is discovered and healing finally can begin for all of the players.

This new book is a mashup of the three most famous books of Frances Hodgson Burnett: The Secret Garden, A Little Princess, and Little Lord Fauntleroy by the authors of the popular Jo & Laurie. I was very excited to crack into this title, being a fan of the originals author since childhood. The story takes many liberties and sets the novel when the young people are teenagers together in a horrible boarding school (presumably based on the school of A Little Princess). The characters felt younger to me than teenagers, so once they run away and the romance starts, it felt a little confusing. The Cedric character was also a little confusing. He was meant to be Little Lord Fauntleroy, yet fell into the role of Collin from The Secret Garden. Dicken also shows up and offers a romance of his own. I like that the authors put a bit of diversity into the very white stories and their love of the characters and their worlds clearly shows through. The voice is clearly set in the 1800's of the original books and the story is firmly set in the past, yet with the sensibilities of the present. This is the stuff of imaginings and dreaming about what could come next for some of our favorite characters and may inspire young readers to try their hands at some fan-fiction.

Yonder

Yonder

Ali Standish

HarperCollins, 2022

348 pages

Grades 5-8

Historical Fiction/Mystery

Danny has reached a crossroads in his Appalachian childhood. His beloved father is off fighting in WWII, his mother is working at Dad's job at the paper while preparing to have an unexpected baby, he's fighting with his best friend, and dodging the town bullies. The brightest spot in his life is his friendship with older boy, Jack. Though a town hero for rescuing drowning twins, Jack lives with an abusive father, who is living with PSD from WWI. Jack often talk about "Yonder", a mythical place that his late mother would tell stories about when life with Dad became too hard. After Jack goes missing and no one in town seems too concerned, Danny takes it upon himself to find his lost friend. Alternating chapters relate the present search for Jack and the past, leading up to the current events. Eventually the truth behind Jack's disappearance is revealed, as Danny learns other secrets concerning respected residents of his community and the true horrors of war. Life becomes less black and white as he must take on more responsibilities at home and find the courage to do the right thing.

Veteran author, Standish, offers a great piece of historical fiction that is really much more. The alternating time periods slowly reveal the past and create suspense as the author leaves chapters at critical places and makes the readers wait to see what happens next. The search and truth behind Jack, as well as the bullies, brings the book into the territory of mystery and I was surprised at the outcome. Standish also raises awareness about the horrors of war, the truth about the Holocaust (and how many folks ion the Homefront didn't know it was happening), the importance of loyalty and standing up for what is right, and that bullying begins at home. The chapters set in the past are in a different font and printed on shaded pages, letting readers in on the switch in timeline. We grow up right alongside Danny, as he slowly realizes certain realities about his world, that he was too immature to previously see, and takes responsibility for his decisions and family. Extensive backmatter includes an author's note, historical information, and a discussion guide.

Cinder & Glass

Cinder & Glass

Melissa De La Cruz

Putnam, 2022

316 pages

Grades 7-12

Fairy Tale Retelling

Cendrillon moves from the French countryside with her father to the court of Louis XIV to learn to be a royal lady. The pageantry and rules of court life are confusing and exacting, made more tedious by unfriendly girls and the rude young prince/future king. Her only friends are servants, a boy of the court named Auguste, and her Godmother-who she hopes will become her stepmother. Those hopes are dashed as Father marries a strange woman he has just met, leaving her with a cold stepmother and mean-girl stepsisters. Cendrillon's father dies, practically out of the blue, leaving her to the stepmother's mercy, virtually turned into a servant. When a ball is announced, honoring the young future king and launching his search for a bride, Cendrillon is anxious to attend. The problem is, she has nothing suitable to wear and a host of uncompleted chores. Miraculously, her Godmother appears after a year-long hiatus to save the night where she catches the eye of the young prince. Suddenly, Cendrillon finds herself in a contest to become the bride of the future king of France. Will her stepmother stand in her way? Can she tap down the growing feelings that she is developing for Auguste? Most of all, if Cendrillon were to win the contest, does she really want to be the queen and does she have a choice?

Best selling author, De La Cruz, offers a retelling of perhaps the most famous fairy tale in the world, setting it in it's most traditional and well-known time and place. Though entrenched firmly in this world of French aristocracy, it is a realistic retelling with contemporary sensibilities. There is no magic--all of the elements of the traditional tale are explained by actual events. The stepmother is even more devious than in the child's tale, based on a figure from actual events, as explained in the author's note. Young readers will enjoy the obvious connections to "The Bachelor" (reminding me of The Selection) and the plot will quickly become comforting and of high interest. The cover is alluring and I found the book to read quickly, despite it's somewhat long length. Although romantic in nature, the plot remains "PG", making this choice appropriate for younger teens. Cendrillon has a dilemma deciding whether to follow her heart or go for security and readers will hold their breath waiting for her decision. Everything is satisfactory wrapped up by books end-with no sequels to wade through. This is the stuff of perfect beach reads for teens who need a bit of an innocent escape.

Omar Rising

Omar Rising

Aisha Saeed

Nancy Paulsen/Penguin, 2022

212 pages

Grades 5-8

Realistic Fiction

Omar becomes the hero of his small village when he receives a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school: Ghalib Academy. He is very poor with limited opportunities, so this education could change the course of his small family. Omar is particularly excited about the activities and sports offered by the school and looks forward to making new friends. A surprise awaits Omar and the other scholarship students: They have to do chores to earn their keep at the school, an A+ average is required to stay, and they are not allowed to participate in any of the offered activities their first year. It is impossible! Omar is already behind, having an inferior early elementary education, and even studying day and night he cannot manage the unrealistic grade requirement. To make matters worse, the stern headmaster is his English teacher and seems out to get him. Do Omar and his friends have any course to beat the system and stay in the school? Does anyone else seem to care about this injustice? Omar learns to find his confidence and his voice and to fight for himself in this contemporary novel set in Pakistan.

A companion to Saeed's award winning Amal Unbound, the author turns her attention to Amal's friend, young Omar. Omar is smart, determined, and a hard worker. He must find his way through the discrimination facing the lower classes in order to get the education most of his classmates take for granted. Though it is set in Pakistan, many American students of different races and socio-economic backgrounds may relate to the struggles and prejudices he experiences. Omar is a likable character and readers will applaud his struggles and victories. American students may come to appreciate the free education that we tend to take for granted, though there are still more opportunities in better funded districts and private schools. A great choice for schools and book discussion, the plot is fairly linear and straight forward with topics to discuss. The chapters are short and the book reads quickly, making it a good choice for reluctant readers. Students will see a culture beyond their own, all while connecting to some of the conflicts Omar faces.