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Title: Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster
Author: Jonathan Auxier Publisher: Puffin Books (September 25, 2018) ISBN: 978-1419731402 Genre: Historical Fiction Recommended Age Level: 9-15 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: Nan Sparrow, an eleven-year-old orphan, is the best chimney climber out of the kids that are indentured to Wilkie Crudd, their heartless and cruel chimney sweep master. He provides food and a place for them to sleep in exchange for long days of extremely dirty and dangerous work. For five years her skills and wit have gotten her out of many tight situations, but she meets her match when she gets stuck in a flue with a chimney fire roaring beneath her. The next thing she knows, she is safe, waking up in the attic of the building, but with a small creature made of ash and coal next to her. Together, Nan and this creature (which she later discovers is a Golem), create a new life, away from the cruel and abusive master, who thinks she died in the fire. Nan raises and cares for the Golem, and as she allows herself to love and be vulnerable in a world that has always been cruel and indifferent to her, she comes to realize that she just might be able to change their corner of the world for the better, with the help of her new friend and “monster”. Professional Reviews: “A stunning historical fantasy novel about the power of friendship, our potential for courage, and the beauty of remembering loved ones, set in Victorian England.” – Amy McInerney, School Library Journal “Auxier wipes away the grime from a bleak chapter in history where children were forced to work dangerous jobs that claimed many lives. He questions what makes one a monster and applauds helping others, activism, education, earthly marvels, and the possibility of magic.” – Julia Smith, Booklist Personal Insights: The part that most amazed me about the story was reading through the author’s notes at the end and realizing just how much research went into this book to make it so historically accurate (fantastical “monsters’ aside). Auxier is able to describe the setting so well that you can’t help but feel transported in time. He gives such a stark look at the harsh realities of life in that day while also weaving an intricate and glowing story that leaves the readers feeling as if they are holding their own, little piece of warm char. Notable Quotes: “Am I a monster?” Nan hesitated a long moment before answering. She thought about Crudd and Trundle and the cruel indifference of every person in the city who didn’t care if she lived or died. “I’ve met monsters before,” she said, resting her head atop his. “And you are not one of them.” “That’s what it is to care for a person,” Toby said. There was not even a hint of mocking in his voice. “If you’re not afraid, you’re not doing it right.” “That’s how it works, doesn’t it? We are saved by saving others.” Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (2007): Orphan, clock keeper, and thief, Hugo lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where his survival depends on secrets and anonymity. But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric, bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth in the station, Hugo's undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A cryptic drawing, a treasured notebook, a stolen key, a mechanical man, and a hidden message from Hugo's dead father form the backbone of this intricate, tender, and spellbinding mystery. Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell (2013): Everyone thinks that Sophie is an orphan. True, there were no other recorded female survivors from the shipwreck which left baby Sophie floating in the English Channel in a cello case, but Sophie remembers seeing her mother wave for help. Her guardian tells her it is almost impossible that her mother is still alive, but that means still possible. You should never ignore a possible. So when the Welfare Agency writes to her guardian threatening to send Sophie to an orphanage, she takes matters into her own hands and flees to Paris to look for her mother, starting with the only clue she has - the address of the cello maker. Evading the French authorities, she meets Matteo and his network of rooftoppers - urchins who live in the sky. Together they scour the city for Sophie's mother before she is caught and sent back to London, and most importantly before she loses hope. Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk (2016): Growing up in the shadows cast by two world wars, Annabelle has lived a mostly quiet, steady life in her small Pennsylvania town. Until the day new student Betty Glengarry walks into her class. Betty quickly reveals herself to be cruel and manipulative, and while her bullying seems isolated at first, things quickly escalate, and reclusive World War I veteran Toby becomes a target of her attacks. While others have always seen Toby’s strangeness, Annabelle knows only kindness. She will soon need to find the courage to stand as a lone voice of justice as tensions mount.
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Title: Zoey and Sassafras (#1): Dragons and Marshmallows
Author: Asia Citro Pictures: Marion Lindsay Publisher: The Innovation Press (March 14, 2017) ISBN: 9781943147090 Genre: Fantasy Topics: STEM, Animals, Science, Mystery, Adventure Recommended Age Level: 6-10 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: Zoey and her sidekick Sassafras, the cat, discover that her mother has been caring for and rehabilitating magical creatures since she was a little girl. When Zoey’s mom needs to leave on a business trip, this responsibility falls to Zoey to care for any creatures who may come while she is away. No one else can see them, not even her father, so it is up to Zoey to use problem solving, the scientific method, and her knowledge of regular animals to help save these creatures in need of help. Professional Reviews: “Concepts are explained concisely and clearly, and a short glossary provides valuable vocabulary building. The slightly larger font makes the text inviting for emerging readers, and the illustrations blend perfectly into the story. This book is a natural fit for STEM collections and deserves a place in all libraries serving young readers.” – Sarah Wetheren, School Library Journal 2017 Personal Insights: There are two main elements that make this story (and series) rise to the top of quality literature for this reading level. The first being a strong sense of connection to STEM and introduces problem solving and the scientific method to the young readers of this book in an engaging way at their reading level. The second being the cast of diverse characters portrayed, and illustrated, in this book: Zoey is an intelligent and science-minded girl of color who uses her own ingenuity and determination to save the day. Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) March of the Mini Beasts (The DATA Set #1) by Ada Hopper and Sam Ricks (Illustrator) (2016): Gabe, Laura, and Cesar live on a quiet cul-de-sac. They are the whiz kids of Newtonburg Elementary and each specializes in their own subject. In fact, everyone in town lovingly refers to them as the Data Set. However, their quiet days of learning take a sudden turn for the exciting when they meet Dr. Gustav Bunsen—a mad scientist who throws the kids into a wild spiral of adventures. When Dr. Bunsen’s latest invention, a growth ray, hits several tiny animal toys, the mini beasts don’t just grow, they come to life! The DATA Set love their new tiny pets…until they continue to grow. Now there’s an actual elephant in the room—not to mention a chimp, a giraffe, and a dinosaur. When the beasts wander off, it’s up to the DATA Set to track them down. But will they catch the mini beasts before they grow big enough to start trouble in town? Frankie Sparks and the Class Pet by Megan Frazer Blakemore and Nadja Sarell (Illustrator) (2019): The best thing EVER is happening in Frankie Sparks’s third grade class: They are getting a class pet! Their teacher, Miss Cupid, tells them they will vote on their pet, but it has to meet some “parameters.” Their pet must: 1. Fit in aquarium. 2. Cost less than $50. 3. Be easily portable. 4. Be able to be left alone for the weekend. Frankie thinks that a rat—just like the rats in her beloved Aunt Gina’s lab—would be the perfect fit. But her best friend, Maya, doesn’t think a rat would be great at all. They are kind of gross and not as cool as a hermit crab, which is Maya’s top choice. Using her special workshop, can Frankie find a way to convince her teacher and her best friend that Team Rat is the way to go? Mighty Meg and the Magical Ring (Mighty Meg #1) by Sammy Griffin and Micah Player (Illustrator) (2019): Eight-year-old Meg's life is turned upside-down when the ring she received from her Aunt Nikki, an archaeologist, gives her superpowers, but can she find the courage to be the superhero her town needs? Title: Peter & Ernesto (#1): A Tale of Two Sloths
Author: Graham Annable Publisher: First Second (April 10. 2018) ISBN13: 9781626725614 Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel Topics/Themes: Friendship, Courage, Overcoming Fear, Adventure, Value of Home Recommended Age Level: 6-10 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: Peter and Ernesto, two sloth besties, enjoy their lazy life of snacking on hibiscus leaves and watching cloud atop their tree home. One day Ernesto decides he wants to see ALL of the sky and promptly sets off on an adventure without giving much more thought. Peter, on the other hand, is terrified by the idea of leaving the safety of their tree home and is left behind when he is overwhelmed by fear and indecision. Eventually Peter leaves to go after Ernesto in order to convince him to come back, but Ernesto is already on the adventure of his life. Will the two B.F.F.’s ever see each other again, and if they do, can they ever be as close as they once were? Professional Reviews: “Annable’s gift for caricature and zippy dialogue shines through, as he celebrates his characters’ contrasting temperaments without a hint of snark.” – Publishers Weekly 2018 “Recommended for beginning reader shelves and elementary graphic novel collections.” – Jennifer Costa, School Library Journal 2018 Personal Insights: This books is all sorts of silly and quirky and Peter and Ernesto make me think of some goofy hybrid of Sid the Sloth from the film “Ice Age” and the sloth bank teller from Zootopia. This is a great introduction to the graphic novel format due to its simple and straightforward layout, and would be a great pick for reluctant readers! Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea (Narwhal and Jelly #1) by Ben Clanton (2016): Narwhal is a happy-go-lucky narwhal. Jelly is a no-nonsense jellyfish. The two might not have a lot in common, but they do they love waffles, parties and adventures. Join Narwhal and Jelly as they discover the whole wide ocean together. CatStronauts (#1): Mission Moon by Drew Brickington (2017): When the world is thrust into darkness due to a global energy shortage, the World's Best Scientist comes up with a bold plan to set up a solar power plant on the moon. But someone has to go up there to set it up, and that adventure falls to the CatStronauts, the best space cats on the planet! Meet the fearless commander Major Meowser, brave-but-hungry pilot Waffles, genius technician and inventor Blanket, and quick thinking science officer Pom Pom on their most important mission yet! Hippopotamister by John Patrick Green (2016): The zoo isn't what it used to be. It's run down, and Hippo hardly ever gets any visitors. So he decides to set off for the outside with his friend Red Panda. To make it in the human world, Hippo will have to become a Hippopotamister: he'll have to act like a human, get a job, and wear a hat as a disguise. He's a good employee, whether he's a construction worker, a hair stylist, or a sous chef. But what he really needs is a job where he can be himself.
Below is the official book trailer!
Title: The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle
Author: Leslie Connor Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (January 23, 2018) ISBN: 9780062491497 Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery Topics: Grief, Learning Disability, Friendship, Family Recommended Age Level: 10-15 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: 12-year-old Mason Buttle has lived in a “crumbledown” house at the family orchard with his Grandmother and Uncle Drum ever since his mother died when he was little. Not only does Mason struggle with school, specifically with letters and words that never stay in the right order, but he is the self-proclaimed biggest and sweatiest boy at school, and constantly picked on and bullied. Things used to be better when he had his best friend, Benny, with him, but Benny died in an accident 15 months ago in their family orchard. Mason, being the last person to see Benny alive, is hounded by the lieutenant about what happened, and can’t understand why the lieutenant doesn’t seem to believe the story that Mason has told him. The one bright spot in his life is his new friend, Calvin, who genuinely enjoys spending time with Mason. But when Calvin goes missing, Mason is once again under the crosshairs and is pushed to his limits in order to help figure out what happened to his friend, and in the process, uncovers more details about what happened to Benny. Professional Reviews: “Throughout this realistic problem novel, Connor’s portrayal of Mason is spot-on, and the seventh-grader’s honesty shines through as his greatest attribute. Laced throughout the story, and evident at the end, is hope for a brighter future, both for the entire family and the community. Connor’s novel provides a thoughtful look at human nature, resilience, and love.” – J.B. Petty, Booklist 2017 “Using Mason's conversations with the detective and his voice-to-text storytelling, the author weaves the back story into a narrative of redemption chronicling his growing friendships. Connor's gift for creating complex characters extends to the supporting characters and makes this a compelling read.” – Kirkus Reviews 2017 Personal Insights: From bullying to learning disabilities, from depression to grief, this story gives a very realistic look at the ways these things can impact a young boy’s life. But Connor also masterfully shows how love, friendship, and family can come together to overcome these incredibly difficult things that life can throw at someone in a moving tale and gripping mystery that doesn’t come across as cheesy or heavy-handed. Notable Quotes: “Got me thinking. I know what I love too. Family and friends. All the ones here and all ones gone. I love my dog, and this orchard, and a crumbledown house. Funny thing. The way that feels. It's not dark, unlucky, or stupid. Tell you what. Stupid can go sit on the head of a pin somewhere. Knowing what you love is smart." Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) Lost in the Sun by Lisa Graff (2015): Everyone says that middle school is awful, but Trent knows nothing could be worse than the year he had in fifth grade, when a freak accident on Cedar Lake left one kid dead, and Trent with a brain full of terrible thoughts he can't get rid of. Trent’s pretty positive the entire disaster was his fault, so for him middle school feels like a fresh start, a chance to prove to everyone that he's not the horrible screw-up they seem to think he is. If only Trent could make that fresh start happen. It isn’t until Trent gets caught up in the whirlwind that is Fallon Little—the girl with the mysterious scar across her face—that things begin to change. Because fresh starts aren’t always easy. Even in baseball, when a fly ball gets lost in the sun, you have to remember to shift your position to find it. Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly (2017) (2018 Newberry Medal Winner): In one day, four lives weave together in unexpected ways. Virgil Salinas is shy and kindhearted and feels out of place in his loud and boisterous family. Valencia Somerset, who is deaf, is smart, brave, and secretly lonely, and loves everything about nature. Kaori Tanaka is a self-proclaimed psychic, whose little sister Gen is always following her around. And Chet Bullens wishes the weird kids would just act normal so that he can concentrate on basketball. They aren’t friends -- at least not until Chet pulls a prank that traps Virgil and his pet guinea pig at the bottom of a well. This disaster leads Kaori, Gen, and Valencia on an epic quest to find the missing Virgil. Through luck, smarts, bravery, and a little help from the universe, a rescue is performed, a bully is put in his place, and friendship blooms. Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks, Gita Varadarajan (2016): Joe and Ravi might be from very different places, but they're both stuck in the same place: SCHOOL. Joe's lived in the same town all his life, and was doing just fine until his best friends moved away and left him on his own. Ravi's family just moved to America from India, and he's finding it pretty hard to figure out where he fits in. Joe and Ravi don't think they have anything in common -- but soon enough they have a common enemy (the biggest bully in their class) and a common mission: to take control of their lives over the course of a single crazy week.
Below is a clip of the author, Leslie Connor, reading an excerpt of the book
2/4/2020 0 Comments Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Title: Scythe
Author: Neal Shusterman Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (November 22, 2016) ISBN: 978-1442472426 Genre: Science Fiction Recommended Age Level: YA 13-18 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: In the future, humans have conquered death. No more dying, no more disease, no more crime, all thanks to the Thunderhead, an omniscient evolution of AI and "the cloud". Humans have handed the reigns for control and leadership of just about every facet of life over to the Thunderhead, from government to entertainment, from jobs to healthcare, and in exchange the Thunderhead has created a utopia, a literal heaven on earth, where humans can live out their lives in blissful paradise for as long as they please. In a world where people live indefinitely, overpopulation is the only concern, and the only facet of life that the Thunderhead does not control. Enter the Scythes, an organization of people feared, yet treated like celebrities, whose sole job is to "glean" people to keep the population in check. When someone is gleaned that is the only permanent and irreversible death that a human faces. When two teens, Citra and Rowan, are each paid a visit from a well-known Scythe, the last thing they expect and the last thing either of them wants, is to be offered an apprenticeship to become Scythes themselves. They are immediately thrown into a vastly different world, both competing against each other and having to rely on each other as they are trained to become masters of death. Their morals are tested as they come to find that the world of Scythes is far more complicated, and far more corrupt, than anyone on the outside can imagine. Citra and Rowan find themselves in the middle of a growing schism between two factions, and their training and apprenticeship end up becoming a major tipping point in the outcome of this play for power. Neal Shusterman, in this award-winning series opener, pushes boundaries and forces the reader to confront some deep philosophical questions about the roots of our own humanity. "In a world without death, what becomes of life? Instead of exploring the ways in which men are monsters, this book deals in what happens to men when there are no monsters. When our reach does not exceed our grasp, when comfort is more easily obtained than struggle, when our essential humanity doesn’t burn out but becomes slowly irrelevant, what becomes of us?" (Reagan, 2016) Reagan, M. (2016, November 22). Where Lives Are Long and Death Is Gone: Neal Shusterman’s SCYTHE. Booklist. Retrieved from https://www.booklistreader.com/2016/11/22/books-and-authors/where-lives-are-long-and-death-is-gone-neal-shustermans-scythe/ Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) Unwind by Neal Shusterman (2007): The Second Civil War was fought over reproductive rights. The chilling resolution: Life is inviolable from the moment of conception until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, however, parents can have their child "unwound," whereby all of the child's organs are transplanted into different donors, so life doesn't technically end. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control. Risa, a ward of the state, is not enough to be kept alive. And Lev is a tithe, a child conceived and raised to be unwound. Together, they may have a chance to escape and to survive. Illuminae by Amie Kaufman (2015): Kady thought breaking up with Ezra was the worst thing she'd ever been through. That was before her planet was invaded. Now, with enemy fire raining down on them, Kady and Ezra are forced to fight their way onto one of the evacuating craft, with an enemy warship in hot pursuit. But the warship could be the least of their problems. A deadly plague has broken out and is mutating, with terrifying results; the fleet's AI, which should be protecting them, may actually be their biggest threat; and nobody in charge will say what's really going on. As Kady plunges into a web of data hacking to get to the truth, it's clear only one person can help her bring it all to light: Ezra. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt (1975): Doomed to - or blessed with - eternal life after drinking from a magic spring, the Tuck family wanders about trying to live as inconspicuously and comfortably as they can. When ten-year-old Winnie Foster stumbles on their secret, the Tucks take her home and explain why living forever at one age is less a blessing that it might seem. Complications arise when Winnie is followed by a stranger who wants to market the spring water for a fortune.
2/4/2020 0 Comments Red Rising by Pierce Brown
Title: Red Rising
Author: Pierce Brown Publisher: Del Rey (January 28, 2014) ISBN: 978-0345539809 Genre: Science Fiction Recommended Age Level: YA/New Adult 14+ Awards / Recognitions: Goodreads Choice Awards: Best Debut Goodreads Author Personal Rating: 5 / 5 Summary: 16-year-old Darrow is a Red, the lowest caste of civilization. He and his people live under the surface of Mars in slavish and hellish conditions in order to mine and harvest the precious element, helium-3, that is needed to terraform the surface of Mars and make it habitable and livable for the rest of humanity. He and his people have been told for generations that they are the pioneers of the planet Mars, and that due to their efforts, they will pave the way for civilization to one day be able to exist on Mars. Hard work and loyalty are rewarded while resistance and rebellion are swiftly and harshly punished. When Darrow’s wife is executed for a mild rebellious act, Darrow decides to exact vengeance on the ruling class, the Golds. He is recruited by a rebel group and quickly learns that his meager existence has all been a cleverly constructed lie in order to keep the Reds passive and complicit. In reality, the Reds are slaves to the large civilizations already on the fully terraformed surface of Mars that has been there for centuries. Sparked by a renewed hatred for the Gold and the structure of the society in which he is now aware of, Darrow is chosen to infiltrate the upper echelon of society in order to overthrow the repressive government. He is genetically and physically augmented in order to look like a Gold, and is admitted into Mars’ most prestigious school. At that point, he is on his own, and must navigate the brutal and ruthless world of the Golds as he and his other “classmates” are put to the ultimate test: a brutal war game that determines the fate of the young people in the top tier of the Golds. Determined to lead his people to a better life, Darrow will stop at nothing to not only survive this competition, but to come out on top to ensure his mission will succeed. Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (2008): In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before - and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card (1985): Andrew "Ender" Wiggin thinks he is playing computer simulated war games; he is, in fact, engaged in something far more desperate. The result of genetic experimentation, Ender may be the military genius Earth desperately needs in a war against an alien enemy seeking to destroy all human life. The only way to find out is to throw Ender into ever harsher training, to chip away and find the diamond inside, or destroy him utterly. Ender Wiggin is six years old when it begins. He will grow up fast. But Ender is not the only result of the experiment. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway almost as long. Ender's two older siblings, Peter and Valentine, are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. While Peter was too uncontrollably violent, Valentine very nearly lacks the capability for violence altogether. Neither was found suitable for the military's purpose. But they are driven by their jealousy of Ender, and by their inbred drive for power. Peter seeks to control the political process, to become a ruler. Valentine's abilities turn more toward the subtle control of the beliefs of commoner and elite alike, through powerfully convincing essays. Hiding their youth and identities behind the anonymity of the computer networks, these two begin working together to shape the destiny of Earth-an Earth that has no future at all if their brother Ender fails. Skyward by Brandon Sanderson (2018): Defeated, crushed, and driven almost to extinction, the remnants of the human race are trapped on a planet that is constantly attacked by mysterious alien starfighters. Spensa, a teenage girl living among them, longs to be a pilot. When she discovers the wreckage of an ancient ship, she realizes this dream might be possible—assuming she can repair the ship, navigate flight school, and (perhaps most importantly) persuade the strange machine to help her. Because this ship, uniquely, appears to have a soul. 2/4/2020 1 Comment The Line Tender by Kate AllenTitle: The Line Tender
Author: Kate Allen Publisher: Penguin Random House (April 16, 2019) ISBN: 978-0735231603 Genre: Realistic Fiction Recommended Age Level: 9-13 Awards / Recognitions:
Summary: Twelve-year-old Lucy Everhart and her rescue-diver father have been figuring out life together in their New England coastal town since the death of Lucy’s mother, Helen, 5 years ago. Her mother was a brilliant marine biologist who devoted most of her research to studying sharks. Lucy spends most of her free time with her best friend and neighbor, Fred, who she has known all her life. This summer, they are working on an extra credit wildlife project for school, where Fred’s love of science can blend perfectly with Lucy’s love of drawing and art. When news arrives of a great white shark that has been caught by a local fisherman and family friend, the two friends race off to add this specimen to their wildlife project. This sparks the emotional and pivotal beginning to a summer where Lucy and Fred begin to develop feelings for each other, Lucy discovers and grows interest in her mother’s work, and a tragic swimming accident plunges the entire town into grief, which hits all too close to home for Lucy and her father. “Lucy is a grounded, relatable character and the way she processes her grief is believable. Allen skillfully tackles the difficult issues without becoming too didactic or morose. The inclusion of women scientists, including Lucy's mother and, later, one of Lucy's mother's colleagues, is welcome as is Lucy's own budding interest in marine biology.” – School Library Journal Giunta, L. J. (2019, March 1). The Line Tender. School Library Journal, 65(2). Retrieved from https://www.slj.com/?reviewDetail=the-line-tender Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) Lemons by Melissa Savage (2017): Ten-year old Lemonade Liberty Witt doesn’t know the answer to that question, except what her mom taught her. When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. But what if those lemons are so big that you forget how? How do you make lemonade out of having to leave everything you know in San Francisco to move to the small town of Willow Creek, California and live with a grandfather you’ve never even met? In a town that smells like grass and mud and bugs. With tall pines instead of skyscrapers and dirt instead of sidewalks. Not to mention one woolly beast lurking in the woods. That’s right, Bigfoot. A ginormous wooden statue of the ugly thing stands right at the center of town like he’s someone real important, like the mayor or something. And the people here actually believe he’s real and hiding somewhere out in the pine filled forests. How can anyone possibly be expected to make lemonade out those rotten lemons? Everything is different and Lem just wants to go back home. And then she meets Tobin Sky, the CEO of Bigfoot Detectives, Inc. and sole investigator for the town. He invites her to be his Assistant for the summer and she reluctantly agrees. At least until she can figure out her escape plan. Together, Lem and Tobin try to capture a shot of the elusive beast on film and end up finding more than they ever could have even imagined. Finding Esme by Suzanne Carlisle Crowley (2018): After her grandfather died from a heart attack while driving his tractor, Esme has avoided returning to the spot where he lost his life. But when she follows her little brother, Bo, up the hill while chasing fireflies, she makes an incredible discovery—dinosaur bones peeking out from underneath the abandoned tractor. Esme sees the bones as a message from her grandfather; a connection beyond the grave. But when word gets out that Peach Hollow Farm is hiding something valuable, reporters, researchers, and neighbors arrive in droves. Esme must find a way to understand who has her best interests at heart—especially as the memories of her grandfather begin to slip away. The Things About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin (2015): After her best friend dies in a drowning accident, Suzy is convinced that the true cause of the tragedy must have been a rare jellyfish sting--things don't just happen for no reason. Retreating into a silent world of imagination, she crafts a plan to prove her theory--even if it means traveling the globe, alone. Suzy's achingly heartfelt journey explores life, death, the astonishing wonder of the universe...and the potential for love and hope right next door. Title: The Beast Player
Author: Nahoko Uehashi (Translated by Cathy Hirano) Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) (March 26, 2019) ISBN: 978-1250307460 Genre: Fantasy Recommended Age Level: YA 13+ Awards / Recognitions:
Professional Summary and Review: Kirkus Reviews, January 15, 2019 “Can humans bridge the gulf that separates them from beasts ? Is it love that binds all sentient life—or fear? In this translation of the first entry in international-award-winning Japanese author Uehashi's ( Moribito, 2014, etc.) hit series, 10-year-old Elin idolizes her mother, a skilled beast doctor for Toda, fearsome battle serpents. When some Toda die mysteriously, Elin's mother is sentenced to death. Elin escapes and finds a kind beekeeper in the mountains who raises her as his own. As she grows into adulthood, she discovers her love for all living creatures and a unique gift for communicating with the magical Royal Beasts . But the nation's political structure is fragile. Soon Elin is thrust into deadly civil conflict and must decide whether to use her beloved animal friends as tools of war. The author creates complex societies and fantastical creatures with imaginative, immersive detail. In a refreshing change for Western readers, the central issue hinges on neither individual power nor romantic love but kindness balanced against responsibility, and the narrative jumps among the perspectives of numerous characters in a more digressive style than they may be accustomed to. It's lovely to watch Elin blossom from a quiet, curious child into a compassionate, thoughtful young woman with a steadfast moral compass—even if that compass sometimes leads her astray. A richly detailed coming-of-age fantasy epic that rewards the patient and contemplative reader.” Personal Review: The above Kirkus Review is a fantastic summary and review of this book in my opinion. It is hard to summarize just how rich and complex the world is that Uehashi has created in this book, but the last line of the Kirkus review is right: this is not your stereotypical YA fantasy novel. While there are high energy action scenes, what gives this book its clout is the precarious cultural and political climate that is so masterfully painted. It is a refreshingly original tale with fantastical creatures to match, that will leave a lasting impression on any lover of fantasy stories. Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McPhillip (1974): Sixteen when a baby is brought to her to raise, Sybel has grown up on Eld Mountain. Her only playmates are the creatures of a fantastic menagerie called there by wizardry. Sybel has cared nothing for humans, until the baby awakens emotions previously unknown to her. And when Coren--the man who brought this child--returns, Sybel's world is again turned upside down. Tess of the Road by Rachel Hartman (2018): In the medieval kingdom of Goredd, women are expected to be ladies, men are their protectors, and dragons get to be whomever they want. Tess, stubbornly, is a troublemaker. You can’t make a scene at your sister’s wedding and break a relative’s nose with one punch (no matter how pompous he is) and not suffer the consequences. As her family plans to send her to a nunnery, Tess yanks on her boots and sets out on a journey across the Southlands, alone and pretending to be a boy. Where Tess is headed is a mystery, even to her. So when she runs into an old friend, it’s a stroke of luck. This friend is a quigutl—a subspecies of dragon—who gives her both a purpose and protection on the road. But Tess is guarding a troubling secret. Her tumultuous past is a heavy burden to carry, and the memories she’s tried to forget threaten to expose her to the world in more ways than one. Eragon by Christopher Paolini (2003): When Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon soon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself. Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of destiny, magic, and power. With only an ancient sword and the advice of an old storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a king whose evil knows no bounds. Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands. 2/4/2020 0 Comments Wonder by R. J. Palacio
Title: Wonder
Author: R.J. Palacio Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf (Penguin Random House) (February 2012) ISBN: 978-0375869020 Genre: Realistic Fiction Recommended Age Level: 8-12 Awards / Recognitions:
Professional Summary and Review: Kirkus Reviews, December 15, 2011 After being homeschooled for years, Auggie Pullman is about to start fifth grade, but he's worried: How will he fit into middle-school life when he looks so different from everyone else? Auggie has had 27 surgeries to correct facial anomalies he was born with, but he still has a face that has earned him such cruel nicknames as Freak, Freddy Krueger, Gross-out and Lizard face. Though "his features look like they've been melted, like the drippings on a candle" and he's used to people averting their eyes when they see him, he's an engaging boy who feels pretty ordinary inside. He's smart, funny, kind and brave, but his father says that having Auggie attend Beecher Prep would be like sending "a lamb to the slaughter." Palacio divides the novel into eight parts, interspersing Auggie's first-person narrative with the voices of family members and classmates, wisely expanding the story beyond Auggie's viewpoint and demonstrating that Auggie's arrival at school doesn't test only him, it affects everyone in the community. Auggie may be finding his place in the world, but that world must find a way to make room for him, too. A memorable story of kindness, courage and wonder. Personal Review: The true power in a book like this is its ability to teach kids meaningful life lessons. In this book specifically, readers will see first-hand how painful words and actions can be, even those that aren’t intended to cause harm. Wonder offers kids a lesson in empathy, challenging the idea of what is normal, and encouraging them to be kind in all situations. Even though I’m much older than the target demographic, I was easily swept up in the compelling story of Auggie and his struggles with starting middle school with kids his own age for the first time. As a librarian, I would feel confident recommending this to elementary-aged readers because, not only is it well-written and a good story, it has a lot of lessons to teach them. Books like this one are important as we strive to broaden children’s world view and expose them to narratives unlike their own everyday experiences. Wonder successfully navigates a story very dissimilar to most kids’ stories and does so with humor, love and nuance. Readalikes: (Summaries from GoodReads) Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper (2010): Melody is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk, but she has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She is smarter than most of the adults who try to diagnose her and smarter than her classmates in her integrated classroom - the very same classmates who dismiss her as mentally challenged because she cannot tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by cerebral palsy. And she's determined to let everyone know it - somehow. A Monster Like Me by Wendy S. Swore (2019): Sophie is a monster expert. Thanks to her Big Book of Monsters and her vivid imagination, Sophie can identify the monsters in her school and neighborhood. Clearly, the bullies are trolls and goblins. Her nice neighbor must be a good witch, and Sophie’s new best friend is obviously a fairy. But what about Sophie? She’s convinced she is definitely a monster because of the “monster mark” on her face. At least that’s what she calls it. The doctors call it a blood tumor. Sophie tries to hide it but it covers almost half her face. And if she’s a monster on the outside, then she must be a monster on the inside, too. Being the new kid at school is hard. Being called a monster is even harder. Sophie knows that it’s only a matter of time before the other kids, the doctors, and even her mom figure it out. And then her mom will probably leave — just like her dad did. Because who would want to live with a real monster? Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine (2010): In Caitlin’s world, everything is black or white. Things are good or bad. Anything in between is confusing. That’s the stuff Caitlin’s older brother, Devon, has always explained. But now Devon’s dead and Dad is no help at all. Caitlin wants to get over it, but as an eleven-year-old girl with Asperger’s, she doesn’t know how. When she reads the definition of closure, she realizes that is what she needs. In her search for it, Caitlin discovers that not everything is black and white—the world is full of colors—messy and beautiful.
Below is the official trailer to the 2017 movie, which is a fairly faithful retelling of the original book.
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