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Kidsreads.com Newsletter - March 2019
Always a Kidsreader at Heart
Writing this opener is not easy --- and not just because I have spring fever (though that's definitely true). This is a particularly tough update because this will be my last Kidsreads newsletter!
Change is hard, but I’m happy to share that I'm leaving Kidsreads because I accepted a job offer from an adult publisher, W. W. Norton & Company --- you grown-up readers may recognize this name from the ever-popular Norton anthologies we all lugged around freshman year of college --- to join their project editing team. Of course, leaving Kidsreads.com (and Teenreads.com) is not easy.
As I (tearfully) write this, I can’t help but think of everything I’ve done here in the past few years: first and foremost, I learned a ton about middle grade books and read some fabulous standalones and series titles along the way. I met terrific authors, publishing professionals, librarians and educators who all tirelessly dedicate themselves to championing middle grade literature. I even got to work with a fabulous group of adult reviewers, who always impress and surprise me with their thoughtful reviews each month.
What meant the most was the opportunity to share these experiences --- and more, including hundreds of reviews --- with readers like you! Thanks for reading along every month and forgiving my terrible puns, especially around Halloween and Valentine's Day --- boy, I'll miss writing these newsletters on a sugar high.
I'm putting the tissues away now, because there is still so much great Kidsreads news to share with you this month! If you're a longtime reader of this newsletter, you know that I am obsessed with Rick Riordan and his mythology-fueled imprint that kicked off last year with ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME by Roshani Chokshi. This month brings us the latest book from Rick Riordan Presents, SAL AND GABI BREAK THE UNIVERSE by Carlos Hernandez, which asks the pertinent question, How did a raw chicken get inside Yasmany's locker? How can you not add this book to your TBR with an opening line like that?
In SAL AND GABI BREAK THE UNIVERSE, aspiring magician Sal and student council president Gabi are brought together when a raw chicken appears inside fellow student Yasmany's locker. Sal swears he did not do it, but Gabi is determined to prove it was him. But when she discovers that Sal does, in fact, have a secret talent for conjuring items, the two pair up for some serious hijinks. There's just one small problem: all of their manipulations with time and space might...oh, I don't know...break the universe.
If you're in the mood for an old-school classic, I have some great news: the publisher Random House recently announced that they will be publishing a brand new book by Dr. Seuss. DR. SEUSS'S HORSE MUSEUM launches this fall and will be a celebration of art and the creative process. The manuscript and sketches for the book were discovered in Seuss' home in 2012 and feature a horse leading a group of students on a tour of an art museum.
Looking ahead to the rest of March and April, we have some upcoming books on screen, so don't forget to add these to your TBR before you hit the theater --- and whether you're reading or watching, definitely don't forget the popcorn:
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Dumbo, releasing March 29th
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Shazam!, releasing April 5th
Finally, I wanted to share a quick update with you about voting for the Children's Choice Book Awards, which are the only national book awards where the winners are chosen by kids; so if you are a kid, get voting, and if you are an adult, be sure to share this with any kids you might know! The finalists have been selected in all categories, and the Children's Book Council/Every Child a Reader is now asking kids everywhere to make the final call by voting for the winner. Click here to see the finalists and cast your vote --- it's definitely not an easy choice this year in any category!
Read on for some new reviews and this month's series update, where we've added titles to 17 series, including The School for Good and Evil, The Backstagers, Emily Windsnap and Samantha Spinner.
So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye,
--- Rebecca Munro (rebecca@bookreporter.com)
APOCALYPSE TACO by Nathan Hale (Graphic Novel)
Sid, Axl and Ivan volunteer to make a late-night fast-food run for the high school theater crew, and when they return, they find copies of themselves onstage. As they look closer, they begin to realize that the world around them isn’t quite right. Turns out, when they went to the taco place across town, they actually crossed into an alien dimension that’s eerily similar to their world. Now the group will have to use their wits, their truck and even their windshield scraper to escape! But they may be too late. They may now be copies themselves... Reviewed by Brianna Robinson.
SAL AND GABI BREAK THE UNIVERSE by Carlos Hernandez (A Sal and Gabi Novel, Book 1) (Science Fiction)
Gabi is determined to prove that somehow, Sal planted a raw chicken in Yasmany's locker. Sal prides himself on being an excellent magician, but for this sleight of hand, he relied on a talent no one would guess...except maybe Gabi, whose sharp eyes never miss a trick. When Gabi learns that he's capable of conjuring things much bigger than a chicken --- including his dead mother --- and she takes it all in stride, Sal knows that she is someone he can work with. There's only one slight problem: their manipulation of time and space could put the entire universe at risk. Reviewed by Maya Gittelman.
DEAR AMERICA: The Story of an Undocumented Citizen (Young Readers’ Edition) by Jose Antonio Vargas (Memoir)
Jose Antonio Vargas was only 12-years-old when he was brought to the United States from the Philippines. He didn’t know it, but he was sent to the U.S. illegally. When he applied for a learner’s permit, he learned the truth. Hiding in plain sight, he was writing for some of the most prestigious news organizations in the country. Only after publicly admitting his undocumented status --- risking his career and personal safety --- was Vargas able to live his truth. By telling his personal story, Jose Antonio Vargas sheds light on an issue that couldn’t be more relevant. Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin.
THE DAY THE UNIVERSE EXPLODED MY HEAD: Poems to Take You into Space and Back Again written by Allan Wolf with illustrations by Anna Raff (Poetry)
Ever wonder what the sun has to say about being the closest star to Earth? Or what Pluto has gotten up to since being demoted to a dwarf planet? Listen closely, because maybe, just maybe, your head will explode, too. With poetry that is equal parts accurate and entertaining --- and illustrations that are positively out of this world --- this book will enthrall amateur stargazers and budding astrophysicists as it reveals many of the wonders our universe holds. Space travelers in search of more information will find notes about the poems, a glossary and a list of resources at the end. Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin.
100 YEARS OF CHILDREN'S BOOK WEEK POSTERS by Leonard S. Marcus (Art)
Featuring work from early luminaries such as N. C. Wyeth and Marcia Brown to more contemporary illustrators like David Wiesner, Mary GrandPré, Christian Robinson and Jillian Tamaki, this beautiful collection showcases the conceptual and iconic images that have defined children's books for generations of young readers. While the posters within these pages are linked in their resounding advocacy for young people's literacy, they are distinguished by the styles and mediums of their creators and by the historical, social, and cultural influences of their times. Renowned historian Leonard S. Marcus traces these developments in the children's book field with incisive descriptions to accompany each poster. Reviewed by Kathleen M. Purcell.
KATT VS. DOG written by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein with illustrations by Anuki Lopez (Humor)
Oscar is a happy dogg, but he knows that snobby katts are good for nothing but chasing up trees. Molly is a clever katt who just knows she's destined for fame and fortune as an actress. She comes from a family of well-bred katts who despise drooly, disgusting doggs! For their whole lives, Oscar and Molly have been told that katts and dogs hate each other. When they each get hopelessly lost in the woods, those lifelong prejudices flare up when they cross paths. Slowly, they realize that the only way to survive and find their way home is to...work together?! Yeah, that's not going to happen! Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin.
STRAW INTO GOLD: Fairy Tales Re-spun written by Hilary McKay with illustrations by Sarah Gibb (Fantasy)
Imagine Hansel and Gretel’s story from their teacher’s point of view, when Gretel submits her report of, “What I Did in the Holidays, and Why Hansel’s Jacket Is So Tight.” Find out what was really underneath all those mattresses the unlucky princess had to sleep on in “The Prince and the Problem.” Award-winning author Hilary McKay brings a modern sensibility and inventive quirkiness to this beautiful collection of 10 classic fairy tales, reimagining them with emotional depth and lighthearted humor. Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin.
PINK HAIR AND OTHER TERRIBLE IDEAS by Andrea Pyros (Contemporary Fiction)
Josephine has a lot on her plate --- best friend issues, first crush issues, divorced parent issues, twin brother issues...and then her mom hits her with news that shakes her to her core: a breast cancer diagnosis. Josephine doesn’t want anyone to know. Unfortunately for Josephine, her twin brother, Chance, doesn’t feel the same way. And when Chance dyes his hair pink to support his mom, the cat is out of the bag. Suddenly Josephine has to rethink her priorities. Does getting an invite to the party of the year matter when your mom is sick? And what if it does matter? Does that make her a monster? Reviewed by Kat Baumgartner.
ROTTEN!: Vultures, Beetles, Slime, and Nature’s Other Decomposers written by Anita Sanchez with illustrations by Gilbert Ford (Science)
What’s that terrible smell? It’s the revolting scent of rot. But being rotten isn’t necessarily bad. If nothing ever rotted, nothing new could live. Decomposition may seem like the last stop on the food chain, but it’s just the beginning. When dead plants and animals decay, they give life to a host of other creatures, and each one helps ecosystems thrive. Decomposition happens everywhere --- even in your stomach and between your teeth! From vultures and sharks to bacteria, maggots, mushrooms and more, discover the dirty rotten truth about one of nature’s most fascinating processes. Reviewed by Aimee Rogers.
NEVER CAUGHT, THE STORY OF ONA JUDGE: George and Martha Washington's Courageous Slave Who Dared to Run Away (Young Readers Edition) by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve (Biography)
In this incredible narrative, Erica Armstrong Dunbar reveals a fascinating and heartbreaking behind-the-scenes look at the Washingtons’ when they were the First Family --- and an in-depth look at their slave, Ona Judge, who dared to escape from one of the nation’s Founding Fathers. Born into a life of slavery, Ona Judge eventually grew up to be George and Martha Washington’s “favored” dower slave. When she was told that she was going to be given as a wedding gift to Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Ona made the bold and brave decision to flee to the north, where she would be a fugitive. Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin.
New Series Books for March
At Kidsreads.com, we know that a lot of you are all about series. Once you find characters, topics or a fictional world you love, you don't want to leave! That's why we add new books to our series features every month. Read below to see this month's updates, and click here to visit our Series page!
The Backstagers, Book 2
THE BACKSTAGERS AND THE THEATER OF THE ANCIENTS written by Andy Mientus and illustrated by Rian Sygh
Bat, Book 3 --- Final Book in the Series
BAT AND THE END OF EVERYTHING written by Elana K. Arnold with illustrations by Charles Santoso
Beetle Boy, Book 3
BATTLE OF THE BEETLES by M. G. Leonard
The Boxcar Children Mysteries, Book 150
THE HUNDRED-YEAR MYSTERY by Gertrude Chandler Warner
Cilla Lee-Jenkins, Book 3
CILLA LEE-JENKINS: The Epic Story by written by Susan Tan with illustrations by Dana Wulfekotte
Elementals, Book 2
ELEMENTALS: Scorch Dragons by Amie Kaufman
An Ellen & Ned Book, Book 2
SADDLES & SECRETS (An Ellen & Ned Book) by Jane Smiley
Emily Windsnap, Book 8
EMILY WINDSNAP AND THE PIRATE PRINCE written by Liz Kessler with illustrations by Erin Farley
The Making of America, Book 4
SUSAN B. ANTHONY by Teri Kanefield
Riders of the Realm, Book 2
RIDERS OF THE REALM #2: Through the Untamed Sky by Jennifer Lynn Alvarez
Samantha Spinner, Book 2
SAMANTHA SPINNER AND THE SPECTACULAR SPECS by Russell Ginns
Sarai, Book 4
SARAI AND THE AROUND THE WORLD FAIR by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown
The School for Good and Evil, Book 5
A CRYSTAL OF TIME by Soman Chainani
Soldier Dogs, Book 3
SOLDIER DOGS #3: Secret Mission: Guam written by Marcus Sutter with illustrations by Andie Tong Wai Lum
Star Wars: Jedi Academy, Book 7
REVENGE OF THE SIS written by Jarrett J. Krosoczka and Amy Ignatow
The Treehouse Books, Book 8
THE 104-STORY TREEHOUSE: Dental Dramas & Jokes Galore! written by Andy Griffiths with illustrations by Terry Denton
Tyme, Book 3
TRANSFORMED: The Perils of the Frog Prince by Megan Morrison
New Books for Readers Ages 8-12
Fiction
THE AFTERWARDS written by A. F. Harrold with illustrations by Emily Gravett (Fantasy)
Ember and Ness are best friends, completely inseparable. Ember can't imagine what life would be without Ness. Until Ness dies, in a most sudden and unexpected way. Ember feels completely empty. How can this even be real? Then Ember finds a way into the afterworld-a place where the recently dead reside. She knows there must be a way to bring Ness back, so she decides to find it. Because that's what friends do: rescue each other. But the afterworld holds its own dangers. How far will Ember go to make things the way they were again?
A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: The Poetry of Mister Rogers written by Fred Rogers with illustrations by Luke Flowers (Poetry)
For the first time ever, 75 beloved songs from "Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood" and "The Children's Corner" are collected in this charmingly illustrated treasury, sure to be cherished by generations of children as well as the millions of adults who grew up with Mister Rogers. From funny to sweet, silly to sincere, the lyrics of Mister Rogers explore such universal topics as feelings, new siblings, everyday life imagination, and more. Perfect for bedtime, sing-along, or quiet time alone, this beautiful book of meaningful poetry is for every child --- including the child inside of every one of us.
BECAUSE OF THE RABBIT by Cynthia Lord (Contemporary Fiction)
On the last night of summer, Emma tags along with her game warden father on a routine call. They're supposed to rescue a wild rabbit from a picket fence, but instead they find a little bunny. Emma convinces her father to bring him home for the night. The next day, Emma starts public school for the very first time after years of being homeschooled. On the first day of school, she's paired with a boy named Jack for a project. Emma and Jack bond over her rescue rabbit. But will their new friendship keep Emma from finding the new best friend she's meant to have?
THE BOOK OF UNWYSE MAGIC by Claire Fayers (Fantasy)
Years before, Ava’s family left the town of Wyse in a shroud of mystery --- some scandal to do with magical mirrors. Now returning as indentured servants, 12-year-old Ava and her brother, Matthew, suspect their new master, Lord Skinner, is up to no good. Ava is determined to discover the truth --- about what happened to her family, and about the connection between the human and fairy worlds. Along the way, she meets friends and foes and faces real danger. Will she survive and solve the mystery?
DRAGONFELL by Sarah Prineas (Fantasy)
Rafi Bywater is unlike anyone else. The people in his village don’t trust him because he spends too much time in an abandoned dragon lair. When a stranger, Mister Flitch, accuses Rafi of being “dragon-touched,” Rafi sets off to discover the truth about dragons --- and about himself. On his journey, Rafi befriends a brilliant scientist, Maud, who has secrets of her own. Together they search for dragons while escaping from a dangerous dragon hunter, engaging in a steam-engine car chase, and figuring out what Mister Flitch really wants with Rafi. And, oh yes, they do find the dragons.
FAR AWAY by Lisa Graff (Contemporary Fiction)
CJ's Aunt Nic is a psychic medium who tours the country speaking to spirits from Far Away, passing on messages from the dearly departed. Aunt Nic's Gift is the only way CJ can talk to her mom, who died just hours after she was born. So when CJ learns that she won't be able to speak to her mother anymore, even with Aunt Nic's help, she's determined to find a work-around. She sets off on road trip with her new friend Jax to locate the one object that she believes will tether her mother's spirit back to Earth...but what she finds along the way challenges every truth she's ever known. Ultimately, CJ has to sort out the reality from the lies.
FRIENDROID by M.M. Vaughan (Science Fiction)
Eric is an android, but he doesn’t know. Danny Lazio doesn’t have any friends, but he doesn’t care. Even if his classmates don’t accept him, he still has Land X, the online role play game that he’s actually really good at. But then Eric takes an interest in Land X, and suddenly Danny thinks he might have found a real friend…if he can figure out the mystery behind Eric’s sudden disappearances and strange lifestyle. But uncovering the secret behind Eric’s identity is an act that might cost them both as powerful forces soon move in around them.
FOCUSED by Alyson Gerber (Contemporary Fiction)
Clea can't control her thoughts. She knows she has to do her homework. She knows she can't just say whatever thought comes into her head. She know she needs to focus. It's starting to be a problem. When Clea fails one too many tests, her parents take her to be tested, and she finds out that she has ADHD, which means her attention is all over the place instead of where it needs to be. Clea knows life can't continue the way it's been going. She's just not sure how you can fix a problem that's all in your head. But that's what she's going to have to do, to find a way to focus.
A GOOD KIND OF TROUBLE by Lisa Moore Ramée (Contemporary Fiction)
All 12-year-old Shayla wants to do is to follow the rules. But in junior high, it’s like all the rules have changed. Now she’s suddenly questioning who her best friends are and some people at school are saying she’s not black enough. After experiencing a powerful protest, Shay decides some rules are worth breaking. She starts wearing an armband to school in support of the Black Lives movement. Soon everyone is taking sides. Shay is scared to do the wrong thing (and even more scared to do the right thing), but if she doesn't face her fear, she'll be forever tripping over the next hurdle.
THE GREAT JEFF by Tony Abbott (Companion to FIREGIRL) (Contemporary Fiction)
Life hasn't been great for Jeff Hicks. After years at his beloved St. Catherine's, he's forced to spend eighth grade in the public middle school, which he hates. He's no longer speaking to his former best friend, Tom Bender, because of "that burned girl" Jessica Feeney. But worst of all, his family is changing, and it's not for the better. When his mom comes home announcing that she's lost her job, Jeff begins to worry about things far beyond his years: How will they pay the rent? Will his absentee dad step up and save the day? Is his mom drinking too much? And ultimately, where will they live?
THE GRIFFINS OF CASTLE CARY by Heather Shumaker (Horror)
Siblings Meg, Will and Ariel Griffin are off on an adventure! They can’t wait to spend a week visiting their eccentric aunt and her giant Newfoundland dog in England. But when they finally arrive, they’re faced with a few local secrets that stir up more than a little trouble. Add in some very peculiar lights, strange new friends, a police chase and some stampeding sheep, and the Griffin kids are in over their heads --- literally. Apparently this town has a ghost problem and the three children must race to solve the mystery before the ghosts take something that doesn’t belong to them.
HOW HIGH THE MOON by Karyn Parsons (Historical Fiction)
In South Carolina in 1944, 12-year-old Ella spends her days fishing and running around with her best friend Henry and cousin Myrna. But Ella gets bullied for her light skin tone and her mother is away pursuing a jazz singer dream in Boston. Ella is ecstatic when her mother invites her to visit for Christmas. After a life-changing month, she returns South and is shocked by the news that her schoolmate George has been arrested for the murder of two local white girls. HOW HIGH THE MOON is a timeless novel about a girl finding herself in a world all but determined to hold her down.
LITTLE APOCALYPSE by Katherine Sparrow (Horror)
When a sudden earthquake strands Celia’s parents out of town, she finds herself on her own in a shaken city. She tries to reach out to other kids around her apartment building. Some of them, like the sad boy named Demetri, seem wary of letting her too close. The others call themselves Hunters. They claim the earthquake was caused by monsters only kids can see. And they think Celia is destined to save the city. Celia doesn’t feel destined to save anything --- but for the first time, she feels like maybe she’s seeing things as they really are….
MAYBE A MERMAID by Josephine Cameron (Adventure)
Anthoni is not the kind of kid who believes in fairies, unicorns or even the word “maybe.” She’s more of a comic-books girl. So when her mom brings her to Thunder Lake for a summer at the Showboat Resort, she doesn’t believe the local rumors about the Boulay Mermaid. But she’s always wanted a True Blue Friend and Anthoni has a plan --- a foolproof checklist for making lifelong friends! But as she grows entangled in local gossip, and her mother stretches the truth, Anthoni must decide if she’ll “stick to the plan” or dive into a summer full of extraordinary possibilities.
THE MIGHTY HEART OF SUNNY ST. JAMES by Ashley Herring Blake (Contemporary Fiction)
When Sunny St. James receives a new heart, she decides to set off on a "New Life Plan": 1) do awesome amazing things she could never do before; 2) find a new best friend; and 3) kiss a boy for the first time. Her "New Life Plan" seems to be racing forward, but when she meets her new best friend Quinn, Sunny questions whether she really wants to kiss a boy at all. With the reemergence of her mother, Sunny begins a journey to becoming the new Sunny St. James. This sweet, tender novel dares readers to find the might in their own hearts.
THE MISSING PIECE OF CHARLIE O'REILLY by Rebecca K.S. Ansari (Fantasy)
Charlie O’Reilly is an only child. Which is why it makes everyone uncomfortable when he talks about his brother, Liam. His kid brother, who, up until a year ago, slept in the bunk above, took pride in being as annoying and could make Charlie laugh until it hurt. Then came the morning when the bunk, and Liam, disappeared forever. Then Charlie receives a mysterious note from Liam, leading Charlie and his best friend Ana to make some profound discoveries about a magic they didn’t know existed, and they soon realize that if they're going to save Liam, they may need to risk being forgotten themselves, forever.
MOSTLY THE HONEST TRUTH by Jody J. Little (Contemporary Fiction)
After Pop is sent back to rehab, Jane Pengilly arrives at her newest foster home determined to stick to the straight and narrow and get back to her beloved dad as soon as she can. It’s not the first time they’ve been apart, but Jane’s determined it will be the last. Twelve days out in the boonies of Three Boulders makes Jane miss Pop more than ever. But as the days go by, she realizes that family is more than who you’re related to --- and that a home can be found in the unlikeliest of places.
ONE SPECK OF TRUTH by Caela Carter (Contemporary Fiction)
Alma has everything she needs, except answers to her questions. Her mother won’t tell her why her beloved stepfather, Adam, is suddenly gone. Or about Portugal, where her parents met. Not even about her father, who Alma cannot find, no matter how many graveyards she searches. Then Alma’s mother shocks her by moving them both to Lisbon so Alma can fall in love with the vibrant city where her father grew up. She hopes Portugal holds the answers she’s been desperately searching for, but it turns out finding the truth may be more complicated than she, or her mother, bargained for.
OVER THE MOON by Natalie Lloyd (Mystery)
Mallie knows better than to dream. In Coal Top, boys toil in the mines and girls work as servants. Mallie can't bear the idea, but her family is counting on her wages. Before the Dust came, the people of Coal Top could weave starlight into cloth. When Mallie is chosen for a dangerous competition in which daring (and ideally, orphaned) children train flying horses, she jumps at the chance. Maybe she'll change her story. But the situation proves even more dangerous when Mallie uncovers a sinister mystery at the heart of Coal Top's struggles --- a mystery some powerful people will do anything to protect.
POISON IN THE COLONY: James Town 1622 by Elisa Carbone (Companion to BLOOD ON THE RIVER: James Town 1607) (Historical Fiction)
Virginia Laydon, an infant at the end of BLOOD ON THE RIVER, has now grown up in a colony that is teetering dangerously on the precipice of conflict with the native Algonquins. Virginia has the gift, or the curse, of the knowing --- an ability that could help save the colony, and is equally likely to land her at the burning stake as an accused witch. When accusations and danger threaten, Virginia learns that she is on her own; her mother must protect her young sisters rather than stand up for her. So begins a journey of self-realization and increasing strength, as Virginia goes from being a self-protective young girl to someone who knows she must live her own truth even if it will be the end of her.
THE RAMBLING by Jimmy Cajoleas (Fantasy)
Buddy is headed to river country, hoping his luck might change. He’ll be better off with his daddy, a wandering soul and a local legend for his skills at Parsnit, a mysterious card game of magic, chance and storytelling. But Pop’s old enemies arrive to take him away. Boss Authority is ready to collect on an old debt Buddy’s father owes. Now Buddy must set out on a dangerous rescue mission, learning to play Parsnit with the best of them as he goes. In this game, you’re only as strong as the story you tell.
THE RESTLESS GIRLS written by Jessie Burton with illustrations by Angela Barrett (Fantasy)
For the 12 daughters of King Alberto, Queen Laurelia's death is a disaster beyond losing a mother. The king decides his daughters must be kept safe at all costs, and for the girls, those costs include their lessons, their possessions and most importantly, their freedom. But the sisters, especially the eldest, Princess Frida, will not bend to this fate. She still has one possession her father cannot take: the power of her imagination. And so, with little but wits and ingenuity to rely on, Frida and her sisters begin their fight to be allowed to live on their own terms.
THE SPACE BETWEEN BEFORE AND AFTER by Sue Stauffacher (Fiction)
One morning 10-year-old Thomas's mother tells him about a dream she had about taking a trip by herself --- which is odd because lately his mother has been too depressed to even leave the house. But when Thomas gets home from school, she's gone. The police search everywhere, and although they find her car, they can't find her. Thomas's neighbor helps him cope with his anxiety by having him think up a fantasy about where she might have gone. As time passes, Thomas takes charge of the story sending his mother on a quest in the astral plane. With the help of this narrative journey, his family and his friends, Thomas begins to realize that even if his mother never comes back, he can still hold a place for her in his heart and mind.
SWEEPING UP THE HEART by Kevin Henkes (Fiction)
Amelia Albright dreams about going to Florida for spring break like everyone else in her class, but her father has decided Florida is too much adventure. Now Amelia is stuck at home with him and her babysitter, the beloved Mrs. O’Brien. The week ahead promises to be boring, until Amelia meets Casey at her neighborhood art studio. Amelia has never been friends with a boy before, and the experience is both fraught and thrilling. When Casey claims to see the spirit of Amelia’s mother (who died 10 years before), the pair embarks on an altogether different journey in their attempt to find her.
TIN by Pádraig Kenny (Science Fiction)
In an alternative England of the 1930s where the laws of mechanics govern even the most talented engineers, a mismatched group of mechanicals want nothing more than to feel human. Under the guardianship of the devious and unlicensed Gregory Absalom, an engineer who creates mechanical children, they have no choice but to help him in his unlawful practice. When the story's protagonist, Christopher, discovers a devastating secret about himself, it's up to his friends to find him. What they'll discover is the secret about the dark experiment that ended in disaster many years before...
TITO THE BONECRUSHER by Melissa Thomson (Fiction)
Oliver "Spaghetti-O" Jones's dad is about to be jailed for a crime he didn't commit, and Oliver believes the only way to save him is with the help of his favorite lucha-libre wrestler turned action star, Tito the Bonecrusher. Together with his best friend, Brianna (a.k.a. "Brain") and their new ally Paul "Popcorn" Robards, Oliver devises a madcap plan to spring his dad from a Florida correctional facility. Heartwarming and hilarious, this book looks at what it takes to be a hero...and what happens when you realize that saving the day might not always be possible.
THE TRAGICAL TALE OF BIRDIE BLOOM by Temre Beltz (Fantasy)
In the fairy-tale kingdom of Wanderly, everyone has a role. Birdie Bloom is a Tragical --- an orphan doomed to an unhappy ending. Agnes Prunella Crunch is a witch. The wicked kind. In Wanderly, a meeting between a witch and a Tragical can only end one way: tragically. But with the help of some mysterious Winds, a few wayward letters and a very unusual book, the two might just form the kingdom’s unlikeliest friendship --- and together, rewrite their story into one that isn’t very Tragical at all.
TREE OF DREAMS by Laura Resau (Adventure)
Prepare for a journey into a world filled with what so many crave --- the sweet savoring of a chocolate drop. A drop that can melt even the most troubled realities. But in this nuanced, heartrending story, before good can emerge, there is destruction, the bombarding of a people, their culture, heritage, sacred beliefs and the very soul that drives their traditions. This urgent novel explores the ugly realities that surround the destruction of the Amazon rain forest and its people, and it shows us that love is more powerful than hatred, and that by working together, hope can be magically restored, root and branch.
WE'RE NOT FROM HERE by Geoff Rodkey (Science Fiction)
The first time I heard about Planet Choom, we'd been on Mars for almost a year. But life on the Mars station was grim, and since Earth was no longer an option (we may have blown it up), it was time to find a new home. That's how we ended up on Choom with the Zhuri. There's a lot that the Zhuri don't like: singing (just ask my sister, Ila), comedy (one joke got me sent to the principal's office), or any kind of emotion. The biggest problem, though? The Zhuri don't like us. And if humankind is going to survive, it's up to my family to change their minds. No pressure.
Nonfiction
CAN YOU CRACK THE CODE?: A Fascinating History of Ciphers and Cryptography written by Ella Schwartz with illustrations by Lily Williams (Science)
Codes can carry big secrets! Throughout history, lots of good guys and lots of bad guys have used codes to keep their messages under wraps. This fun and flippable nonfiction features stories of hidden treasures, war-time maneuverings and contemporary hacking as well as explaining the mechanics behind the codes in accessible and kid friendly forms. Sidebars call out activities that invite the reader to try their own hand at cracking and crafting their own secret messages.
GUTS: Revised Edition by Seymour Simon (Science)
Ever wonder how food like pizza or spaghetti moves through our body? It all happens in our digestive system, otherwise known as our guts. Working 24 hours a day, it makes sure the food we eat turns into energy, nutrients and waste. Readers will learn all about digestion, from the moment you chew your food to when it moves throughout your major organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and how waste is eventually eliminated. Most importantly, he explains how something that happens inside everyone, every day, is such an essential part of our human body.
SMILE: How Young Charlie Chaplin Taught the World to Laugh (and Cry) written by Gary Golio with illustrations by Ed Young (Biography)
His dad long gone and his actress mother ailing, five-year-old Charlie found himself onstage one day taking his mum’s place, singing and drawing laughs amid a shower of coins. When Charlie described a wobbly old man he saw in baggy clothes, with turned-out feet and a crooked cane, his mother found it sad, but Charlie knew that funny and sad go hand in hand. Gary Golio and Ed Young interpret Charlie Chaplin’s path from his childhood through his beginnings in silent film and the creation of his iconic Little Tramp.
NEW Series
ESCAPE THIS BOOK! Titanic written by Bill Doyle with illustrations by Sarah Sax (Escape This Book, Book 1) (Game Book)
Reader, beware! Once you open this book, there is no turning back. You will have three chances to survive the Titanic's fateful voyage. In the Escape This Book! series, YOU are the star of history! Doodle your way through adventures as you decide the best path for survival. Don't be afraid to rip or fold a page....Your escape may depend on it!
THE NORTH STAR by Kat Shepherd (The Gemini Mysteries, Book 1) (Fantasy)
Twins Zach and Evie Mamuya and their friend Vishal Desai make up the Gemini Detective Agency, which is mainly an excuse to get pizza together or hit the go-kart track. But when a priceless diamond necklace known as the North Star is stolen before an auction, the kids tag along with the twins' crime reporter mom and find a few clues that make them think this was no ordinary robbery! With the help of their classmate Sophia Boyd, the Gemini Detective Agency is on the case! Will they be able to sort through the clues and solve the mystery in time?
THE MONSTER CATCHERS: A Bailey Buckleby Story by George Brewington (The Monster Catchers, Book 1) (Horror)
If there's something strange in the neighborhood, who you gonna call? Buckleby and Son!
Whether it's a goblin in the garden or a fairy in the attic, Bailey Buckleby and his dad can rid your home of whatever monster is troubling you. But when Bailey discovers that his dad has been lying --- their pet troll Henry is actually a kidnapped baby sea giant --- he begins to question the family business. With everyone and everything he loves in peril, it's up to Bailey to save his family and set things right in this funny, fantastical adventure.
THE REVENGE OF MAGIC by James Riley (The Revenge of Magic, Book 1) (Fantasy)
Thirteen years ago, books of magic were discovered in various sites around the world alongside the bones of dragons. Only those born after “Discovery Day” have the power to use the magic. Now, on a vacation to Washington, DC, Fort’s father is lost when a giant creature bursts through the earth, attacking the city. Six months later, when a man named Dr. Opps invites Fort to the Oppenheimer School to learn magic from those same books. f Fort doesn’t find out what’s hiding within the Oppenheimer School, more attacks will come, and this time, nothing will stop them!
ROCKET TO THE MOON by Don Brown (Big Ideas That Changed the World, Book 1) (Nonfiction)
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong took “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” when the Apollo 11 landed on the moon. ROCKET TO THE MOON! explores the people and technology that made the moon landing possible. Instead of examining one person’s life, it focuses on the moon landing itself, showing the events leading up to it and how it changed the world. The book takes readers through the history of rocket building: from ancient Chinese rockets, to “bombs bursting in air” during the War of 1812, to Russia’s Sputnik program, to the moon landing.
THE SECRET OF ZOONE by Lee Edward Fodi (Zoone, Book 1) (Fantasy)
When a bright blue winged tiger appears on his aunt’s sofa, Ozzie can tell he’s in for an adventure. He’s thrilled to follow Tug --- a skyger --- through a secret door in the basement and into Zoone, the bustling Grand Central Station of the universe, where a thousand doors act as portals to strange and wonderful worlds. When the portal back to Earth explodes behind him, Ozzie gets more adventure than he bargained for. In a station full of wizards, creepy-crawlies and the occasional cursed princess, Ozzie has to find a way to repair his door...and possibly save the multiverse in the process.
TANGLED IN TIME: The Portal by Kathryn Lasky (Tangled in Time, Book 1) (Historical Fantasy)
When Rose's mother dies, Rose is sent away to live with a grandmother she hardly knows. The only place Rose finds refuge is in her grandmother’s greenhouse. But one night she sees a strange light glowing from within it. She goes to investigate...and finds herself transported back 500 years to Hatfield Palace, where she becomes servant and confidant of the banished princess Elizabeth, daughter of King Henry VIII. Rose soon discovers something else amazing: a locket with two mysterious images inside it, both clues to her own past. Could the greenhouse portal offer answers to the mysteries of her family...and their secrets?
WINGS OF OLYMPUS written by Kallie George with illustrations by Fiona Hsieh (Wings of Olympus, Book 1)
Once every hundred years, the gods and goddesses descend to the mortal realm to choose jockeys for their winged horse race --- and Pippa is one of the lucky children chosen to ride. With her undersized, impetuous winged steed, Zephyr, by her side, Pippa has to confront the greatest challenge of her life: achieving victory in a race across the sky. If Pippa and Zephyr don’t find a way to win, the gods will separate them --- forever. In a race filled with petty, jealous gods and goddesses and a host of ruthless riders, Pippa must prove that love is greater than might.
YOUNG CAPTAIN NEMO by Jason Henderson (Young Captain Nemo, Book 1) (Science Fiction)
A descendant of the famous Captain Nemo, 12-year-old Gabriel Nemo spent the first years of his life living in obscurity, isolated in his parents’ underwater research lab. But with his older sister off following in their ancestor’s footsteps, Gabriel decides it’s time to forge his own path, and use his Nemotech legacy for good. Armed only with his wits, his friends and his Nemotech submarine, Gabriel embarks on a series of daring rescues and exciting undersea battles. But when Gabriel’s sister suddenly appears with proof of previously undiscovered sea creatures, Gabriel and his new friends must face their biggest and most dangerous mission ever!
New Books for Readers Ages 10-14
Fiction
THE ASTONISHING MAYBE by Shaunta Grimes (Contemporary Fiction)
Gideon hates the idea of moving to Nevada from the East Coast. It's so empty and hot in his new neighborhood. Only one person his age lives nearby: the girl next door, Roona. Gid notices right away that Roona is...different. She wears roller skates and a blanket as a cape when she needs to feel strong. What he doesn't bargain for, however, is how far outside his comfort zone Roona will take him as she enlists his help in finding her long-gone father. For a kid who's not allowed to ride his bike more than a few blocks from home, this will be an adventure of a lifetime.
NIKKI ON THE LINE by Barbara Carroll Roberts (Contemporary Fiction)
Nikki's dreams of becoming a basketball great feel within reach when she's selected to play on an elite-level club team. Among taller, stronger and faster girls, Nikki suddenly isn't the best point guard. Plus, Nikki's best friend spends more and more time with another teammate and her science teacher assigns a family tree project that will be impossible to complete unless Nikki reveals her most embarrassing secret. As the stakes rise on the basketball court, at school and at home, Nikki's confidence plummets. Can she learn to compete at this new, higher level? And how hard is she willing to work to find out?
STAND ON THE SKY by Erin Bow (Contemporary Fiction)
It goes against all tradition for Aisulu to train an eagle, for among the Kazakh nomads, only men can fly them. But everything changes when Aisulu discovers that her brother, Serik, has been concealing a bad limp that risks not just his future as the family's leader, but his life too. When her parents leave to seek a cure for Serik, Aisulu finds herself living with her intimidating uncle and strange auntie --- and secretly caring for an orphaned baby eagle. To save her brother and keep her family from having to leave their nomadic life behind forever, Aisulu must earn her eagle’s trust and fight for her right to soar.
A STORM OF STRAWBERRIES by Jo Cotterill (Contemporary Fiction)
Darby is 12-years-old and has Down syndrome. Her favorite things are music, chocolate and her big sister Kaydee. It's time for their annual chocolate hunt. But this year Kaydee's friend is staying over and she seems to be stealing Kaydee's attention. Then, the strawberry farm is hit by a tornado. Although the family is prepared for the tornado, they aren't prepared for the storm of emotions that surface when a truth is brought to light. With tension rising, can Darby mend what's been broken when it seems like no one is listening to her?
THE TRUE HISTORY OF LYNDIE B. HAWKINS by Gail Shepherd (Historical Fiction)
Lyndie B. Hawkins loves history, research and getting to the truth no matter what. But when it comes to her family, her knowledge is full of holes. Determined to mold recalcitrant Lyndie into a nice Southern girl even if it kills her, her fusspot grandmother starts with lesson number one: Family=Loyalty=keeping quiet about family secrets. Especially when it comes to Lyndie's daddy. Then DB, a boy from the local juvenile detention center comes to stay with Lyndie's best friend, Dawn. But it puts Lyndie in direct opposition to her grandmother who'd rather keep up appearances than get her son the help he needs.
THE YEAR I DIDN'T EAT by Samuel Pollen (Contemporary Fiction)
Max doesn't like to eat, and the only one he can confess his true feelings to is Ana --- his eating disorder, anorexia. As Max's eating disorder intensifies, his family unit fractures. Max thought he could handle his anorexia, but as time goes on, he feels himself losing any semblance of control. Will anorexia continue to rule Max's life, or will he be able to find a way to live around his eating disorder? THE YEAR I DIDN'T EAT is an unforgettable novel that is haunting, moving and inspiring.
Nonfiction
DENIED, DETAINED, DEPORTED (Updated): Stories from the Dark Side of American Immigration by Ann Bausum (History)
Ten years after its initial publication, award-winning author Ann Bausum writes a new introduction and afterword that reflects on how our past has influenced modern events and current views on the ever-relevant conversations about immigration in the United States. Award-winning author Ann Bausum makes the history of immigration in America come alive for young people. The story of America has always been shaped by people from all corners of the Earth who came in search of a better life. Immigration remains one of the critical topics in 21st century America, and how our children learn the lessons of the past will shape all our futures.
FLY GIRLS: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History (Young Readers’ Edition) by Keith O'Brien (History)
In the years between World War I and World War II, airplane racing was one of the most popular sports in America. Women who flew planes were often ridiculed by the press, and initially they weren’t invited to race. Yet a group of women were determined to take to the sky --- no matter what. FLY GIRLS follows the stories of five remarkable women: Florence Klingensmith, Ruth Elder, Amelia Earhart, Ruth Nichols and Louise Thaden. Together, they fought for the chance to race against the men --- and in 1936 one of them would triumph in the toughest race of all.
RISING WATER: The Story of the Thai Cave Rescue by Marc Aronson (Current Events)
On June 23, 2018, 12 members of the Wild Boars soccer team and their coach were exploring the Tham Luang cave complex in northern Thailand when disaster struck. The boys and their coach were eventually rescued in an international operation that took three days. Award-winning author Marc Aronson brings us the backstory behind how this astounding rescue took place. From the brave Thai Navy SEAL who lost his life while placing oxygen tanks along the passageways of the cave, to the British divers that ultimately swam the boys to safety, to the bravery of the boys and their coach, RISING WATER is the breathtaking rescue that captivated the entire world.
NEW Series
RONAN BOYLE AND THE BRIDGE OF RIDDLES written by Thomas Lennon and illustrated by John Hendrix (Ronan Boyle, Book 1) (Fantasy)
Ronan is the youngest and lowliest recruit to the secret Garda, an Irish police force that handles the misdeeds of numerous magical creatures. Ronan’s parents are in jail, but Ronan is convinced that they were framed by the wee people. So, despite his small size, poor eyesight and social awkwardness, he’s determined to learn all he can in the Garda in order to prove his parents’ innocence. To show he’s got what it takes, he’ll have to confront a fiery leprechaun, a sinister harpy and a whole world of monsters hidden in plain sight next to real-life Ireland.
Graphic Novels for Ages 8-12
APOCALYPSE TACO by Nathan Hale (Science Fiction)
Sid, Axl and Ivan volunteer to make a late-night fast-food run for the high school theater crew, and when they return, they find copies of themselves onstage. As they look closer, they begin to realize that the world around them isn’t quite right. Turns out, when they went to the taco place across town, they actually crossed into an alien dimension that’s eerily similar to their world. Now the group will have to use their wits, their truck and even their windshield scraper to escape! But they may be too late. They may now be copies themselves...
THE BREAKAWAYS by Cathy Johnson (Fiction)
Quiet, sensitive Faith starts middle school already worrying about how she will fit in. To her surprise, Amanda, a popular eighth grader, convinces her to join the school soccer team, the Bloodhounds. Having never played soccer in her life, Faith ends up on the C team, a ragtag group that’s way better at drama than at teamwork. Although they are awful at soccer, Faith and her teammates soon form a bond both on and off the soccer field that challenges their notions of loyalty, identity, friendship and unity.
GREAT WHITE SHARK ADVENTURE written by Fabien Cousteau and James O. Fraioli with illustrations by Joe St.Pierre (Fabien Cousteau Expeditions, Book 1) (Action & Adventure)
Junior explorers Bella and Marcus join famed explorer Fabien Cousteau and his research team as they embark on an ocean journey off the coast of South Africa, where the world’s largest concentrations of great white sharks are found. Their mission is to investigate a sighting of a massive white shark, and tag it so they can track and protect it. Dramatic, graphic illustrations and a compelling story help young readers discover tons of facts about sharks and other marine creatures. Children will also learn the many damaging myths about sharks, why they are so misunderstood and what is being done to protect them from further exploitation and possible extinction.
HICOTEA: A Nightlights Story by Lorena Alvarez (Nightlights, Book 2) (Fantasy)
On a school field trip to the river, Sandy wanders away from her classmates and discovers an empty turtle shell. Peeking through the dark hole, she suddenly finds herself within a magical realm. Filled with sculptures, paintings and books, the turtle's shell is a museum of the natural world. But one painting is incomplete, and the turtle needs Sandy's help to finish it.
IT'S ME. by Jim Benton (Catwad, Book 1) (Humor)
From New York Times bestselling author Jim Benton, meet Catwad! He's blue, he's a bit of a grouch, and his best friend is a dim-witted cat named Blurmp who can see the bright side of anything. From pizza and computers, to love and happiness, this crabby tabby has a funny take on just about everything, and he's not afraid to share it. This collection of short comic stories will make even the grumpiest of grouches crack up and is not to be missed!
Contests on Our Other Book Report Network Websites for Our Adult Readers
Bookreporter.com:
Spring Preview 2019: Spring is in the air! We’ve caught the fever --- and it’s being fueled by some wonderful new and upcoming releases. Our eighth annual Spring Preview Contests and Feature spotlights many of these picks, which we know people will be talking about over the next few months. We are hosting a series of 24-hour contests for these titles on select days through April 26th. You will need to check the site to see the featured book and enter to win. We also are sending a special newsletter to announce each title, which you can sign up for here.
Special Contest: LOST ROSES by Martha Hall Kelly: The runaway bestseller LILAC GIRLS introduced the real-life heroine Caroline Ferriday. LOST ROSES, set a generation earlier and also inspired by true events, features Caroline's mother, Eliza, and follows three equally indomitable women from St. Petersburg to Paris under the shadow of World War I. We have 25 advance copies of Martha Hall Kelly's upcoming novel to give away to readers who would like to preview the book, which releases on April 9th, and share their comments on it. The deadline for entries is Thursday, March 21st at noon ET.
Sounding Off on Audio: Tell us about the audiobooks you’ve finished listening to with your comments and a rating of 1 to 5 stars for both the performance and the content. During the contest period from March 1st to April 1st at noon ET, two lucky readers each will be randomly chosen to win the audio versions of Greg Iles’ CEMETERY ROAD, read by Scott Brick, and James Rollins’ CRUCIBLE, read by Christian Baskous.
Word of Mouth: Tell us about the books you’ve finished reading with your comments and a rating of 1 to 5 stars. During the contest period from March 15th to March 29th at noon ET, three lucky readers each will be randomly chosen to win a copy of BLOOD OATH by Linda Fairstein and RUN AWAY by Harlan Coben.
ReadingGroupGuides.com:
Win 12 Copies of SOLD ON A MONDAY by Kristina McMorris for Your Group: Each month, we ask book groups to share the titles they are reading that month and rate them. From all entries, three winners will be selected, and each will win 12 copies of that month’s prize book for their group. Note: To be eligible to win, let us know the title of the book that YOUR book group is CURRENTLY reading, NOT the title we are giving away. Our latest prize book is SOLD ON A MONDAY, Kristina McMorris' New York Times bestseller about a Depression-era reporter who snaps a photo of two children being sold on a farmhouse porch, leading to his big break --- and devastating repercussions for everyone involved. To enter, please fill out the form below by Wednesday, April 3rd at noon ET.
Win the Audiobook Edition of THE MOMENT OF LIFT by Melinda Gates and Share Your Comments on It: ReadingGroupGuides.com is proud to host a very special audiobook contest for THE MOMENT OF LIFT: How Empowering Women Changes the World, a timely and necessary call to action for women's empowerment. Ten book groups will win six digital copies of the audiobook, which is read by the author, Melinda Gates, and releases on April 23rd. Additionally, we will be giving 40 listeners a physical copy of the audiobook. The deadline for your entries is Wednesday, April 3rd at noon ET.
Win 12 Copies of THE HUNTRESS by Kate Quinn for Your Group: Kate Quinn follows up her 2017 bestseller, THE ALICE NETWORK, with another fascinating historical novel about a battle-haunted English journalist and a Russian female bomber pilot who join forces to track the Huntress, a Nazi war criminal gone to ground in America. We are celebrating the release of THE HUNTRESS with a special contest that will give three groups the chance to win 12 copies of the book. The deadline for your entries is Wednesday, April 3rd at noon ET.
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