R+ Star Recommend
R
Recommended
A Add per need
M
Marginal
NC Not recommended
Joan Enders, Review Chair
Robert A. Long High School
2903 Nichols Blvd
Longview, WA 98632
jenders@longview.k12.wa.us
TITLE: It’s our garden, from seeds to harvest
in a school garden
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780763653927
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 1-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 45
This is a look at a school garden in New Mexico in a year-round manner. It starts with the people who have an idea of all of the lessons that can be
learned in a school garden. Next comes the process beginning with choosing and planting seeds in the spring, weeding in the summer, harvesting in
the fall and preparing the garden for the cold of winter. Along the way the process of composting, water collection, creature “help” and celebrations
are visited. This is the story of how a garden teaches so many lessons for students from science to art and community to celebrating. The text is
accompanied by beautiful full color photos of each of the activities. This is an invaluable look at a school garden that so many students can learn
from and relate to. I would highly recommend it.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Ancona, George
Anderson, Tanya
TITLE: Tillie Pierce, Teen Eyewitness to the Battle of Gettysburg
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Twenty-First Century Books, 2013
PRICE: $25.95
ISBN: 9781467706926
INTEREST LEVEL: 8th-Up
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 87
I found this book to be a fascinating read. It includes a creative combination of the author setting the scene and direct quotes from Tilly Pierce’s eye
witness account of the Battle of Gettysburg. As you are led through the three days of the battle, the vivid descriptions of sights and sounds are both
amazing and appalling. I am unsure of the age limits for the book; I think it can be enjoyed and appreciated from middle school to adults. The
language structure and verbiage are too difficult for elementary students; however I do appreciate the frequent definitions of unusual and archaic
expressions and words. Actual photographs from the time period add interest and clarity to the story. I also enjoyed the section at the very back of the
book which gives great instructions for a Google Earth walking tour of the sight. Very well done!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Austin, Mike
TITLE: Monsters Love Colors
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 978062125941
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-K
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 32
This is very fun color book mixed with great vocabulary for movement. I would love to see this book added to song. This is a great read aloud for
young children. If you are a preschool teacher you need this book.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Baker-Smith, Grahame
TITLE: FarTHER
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Templar Books, 2010
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780763663704
INT. LEV: ??
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: <31>
I believe this story to be one that is placed on display and just the right persons choose to read it. It is a prize. A beautiful
story of a son watching his father dream of flying leads to the son catching the dream and making it happen. The dream
is intertwined with life and love. The illustrations are fabulous artwork and the font enhances the words. This book
would be a fabulous Father’s Day gift.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
1
Bates, Katharine Lee
TITLE: America the Beautiful: Together We Stand
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Orchard Books, New York 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780545492072
INTEREST LEVEL: K-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Collection of Illustrators
PAGES: 26
This is a beautiful American tapestry. The first verse of America the Beautiful is the premise for each page, with a quote from a U.S. President
complimenting each selection and picture. Each picture is different as they are all from a different illustrator. It adds a lot of variety to the book while
visually driving home the fact that America is a rich melting pot with so much to celebrate and so much diversity. This book could be used in a
variety of ways as there are so many different components to it. The entire poem is included in the back, as well as, a brief history of Bates who
penned the poem in 1893. Also included is an explanation of our democracy, national landmarks and symbols.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Bauman, Beth Ann
TITLE: Jersey Angel
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Wendy Lamb Books, 2012
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780385740203
INTEREST LEVEL: 10-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 199
Angel Cassonetti is the consummate, and consummated, sexually liberated teen. She’s beautiful, lives on the Jersey shore, and has nearly unlimited
freedom. She gets to pick and choose her sexual partners, and, in her benevolence, sometimes initiates the uninitiated into the mysteries of sex. Her
casual encounters with her best friend’s boyfriend, and her attempts to fill the hole left by her on-again/off-again relationship with her ex-boyfriend.
Angel rides the ragged edge of promiscuity with enough of an attitude that she narrowly misses being labeled a slut. Angel is, in many ways, the
adult in her family relationship. The story starts in the summer of her senior year, and ends in the winter. The emphasis in this story is on the
development of Angel’s character, although savvy readers will wonder when Angel will finally figure out that sex without love is just, well, sex. It is
that cavalier attitude and more explicit descriptions of Angel’s encounters that will garner scandalized giggles and a few book challenges. The
writing is well done, and the characters of Angel, her family, her friends, and her “partners” are well developed, even if the plot does not have a great
deal of depth. This is a book that garnered the approval of YALSA and will have a following of readers who want to vicariously experience Angel’s
power over the opposite sex.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
TITLE: Let’s Meet a Librarian
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Millbrook Press, 2013
PRICE: $17.95
ISBN: 9780761390275
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Myer, Ed
PAGES: 24
This community helpers book focuses on the duties of a librarian. The students follow their school librarian to find out what his job entails. There are
many different important aspects, from being an information expert to a technology wizard. The illustrations are colorful and appealing to the reader.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Bellisario, Gina
TITLE: Strike Three, You’re Dead
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780375870088
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 250
Lenny & the Mikes book 1. Middle schoolers Lenny, Mike and Other Mike have been friends for a long time and are excited when the Phillies host
an armchair announcer contest. The winner gets to announce an inning at a Phillies baseball game. With help from the Mikes, Lenny wins the
contest. When the big night arrives, Lenny is just getting started when the pitcher collapses on the field and is later pronounced dead. The trio knows
something foul has happened and set out to find the pitcher’s murderer. This engaging and humorous story will widely appeal to middle school boys
who’d like a mix of mystery and baseball.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Berk, Josh
Berne, Jennifer
TITLE: On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Chronicle Books, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780811872355
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: Vladimir Radunsky
PAGES: UNP
This book would be a great introduction to Albert Einstein, one of the greatest thinkers of all time. It could be used as a simple biography of him or
even an introduction into ideas and how those ideas become inventions. I loved the simple facts that were put into the story such as he did not speak
until he was three years old and then only a little. The illustrations done in pen and ink add to the simplicity of the story along with some of the
words written in red. There is also an author’s note at the back that would be of use for a teaching situation.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
2
Bickle, Laura
TITLE: The Hallowed Ones
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton, Mifflin Harcourt, 2012
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 9780547859262
INTEREST LVL: 9 -12 gr.
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 311
Amish and Vampires – hmm – a strange combination, even more strange is to think of a nice, slightly rebellious Amish girl becoming a Vampire
Slayer, but that’s the basic line of this novel. To say that it was a surprise would be a mild understatement. Told in the first person we learn about
Katie’s Amish world, her beliefs and customs, and her hopes to go on Rusmspringa with Elijah and then marry him. Then something terrible
happens to the Outside. A life flight helicopter crashes on the farm and before it bursts into flames Katie gets a glimpse of something with glowing
red eyes. Later, two brothers who were caught selling homemade goods at a nearby town never return. When Katie sneaks off, against the Elder’s
orders, to get more information, she discovers dismembered bodies and more monsters lurking in the dark. Managing to escape them, she then
discovers an injured Outsider; she nurses to health and falls in love with him. Between his information and that of an Outsider woman taking refuge
at her home, Katie learns that a plague has caused vampires to roam the world, except for Holy Places. The three of them and the Hexmeister are the
only ones who believe in them and have the courage and know-how to fight them when someone invites the monsters into the Amish community.
Are they also the only hope for the Outside until the scientists and military can contain the contagion? What is she willing to sacrifice? If the reader
can get around the idea of Katie, the Amish Vampire Slayer, then this will be an exciting book, full of surprises and then look forward to the sequels
to find out if there is success.
Reviewer: Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School, Castle Rock, Washington
Bliss, Harry
TITLE: Bailey at the Museum
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic Press, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780545233453
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 30
Bailey is back and his class is going on a field trip to the Natural History Museum. While Bailey is for the most part a very good dog he can’t help
having a little snack on the T-Rex bones. The illustrations are very well done and the book is a great introduction to what you might be able to see at
the Natural History Museum. I find the bubble caption to be a little challenging for a read aloud with children that still cannot read, but it is clear and
if children can read along it is very engaging. I could use this book in my library.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Blundell, Judy
TITLE: A City Tossed and Broken
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic , 2013
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780545310222
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-7th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 218
I have read many books in the Dear America series of historical fiction books and always find them enjoyable. A City Tossed and Broken is no
exception. The deadly earthquake that struck San Francisco in 1906 is told in the Diary of Minnie Bonner. The back story of Minnie and her reasons
for being in San Francisco keep the reader turning the pages to find out what happens next. In the midst of death and disaster Minnie learns to make
choices that reflect the type of person she wants to become. Definitely a recommend on my list!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Bole, Philana Marie
TITLE: Glitz
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2011
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780670012046
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 263
“Some people will do anything to get famous” (1). If ever there were a cautionary tale about choosing one’s friends wisely, Glitz is it. That sentence
introduces readers to both Ann Michelle and Raquel Marissa Diaz, or Raq. Raq is everything Ann Michelle thinks she wants to be. Raq is confident
and makes her own rules, so for one wild night Ann Michelle becomes Glitz and gets to rub shoulders with the up and coming hip hop artist Piper.
She ignores her Gramma’s calls, and decides to join Raq on a little adventure that takes her out of her sheltered small-town life into the world of
gunshots and gangsters. Along the way she discovers that Raq isn’t nearly as loyal as Glitz would have hoped. The persona Raq adopts to get her way
can be just as easily used to benefit or hurt Glitz, and suddenly the comforts of home look a lot more appealing. Although some of Raq’s bravado and
ability to manipulate those around her may seem a little far-fetched, the scenarios created by Bole could easily spiral into the kind of borderline
exciting crazy that is described—and it is, after all, fiction. Glitz provides a little urban flavor without some of the profane aftertaste, so it’s a good
addition to a collection that is lacking the hip hop perspective.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Boudreau, Helene
TITLE: I dare you not to Yawn
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick 2013
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780763650704
INTEREST LEVEL: Pkdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Serge Bloch
PAGES: UNP
The little boy begs the reader not to yawn otherwise the reader might end up in bed and wonder how he got there. Yawning is not a subject usually
found in picture books. It would be fun to google yawning and find out the physical reasons why many mammals yawn. I have truly grown to
appreciate the simplicity of Serge Bloch’s illustration as well as his obvious talents.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
3
Boyne, John
TITLE: The Terrible Thing that Happened to Barnaby Brockert
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knoft, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780307977625
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 12th
ILLUSTRATOR: Oliver Jeffers
PAGES: 277
What happens to a normal family when their third child is born and he floats! Barnaby Brocket defies gravity! His parents are embarrassed to take
him anywhere, they have to put mattresses on the ceiling so he doesn’t hurt himself, his mother goes for a walk and puts Barnaby on a leash, so he is
floating along behind her. As Barnaby gets older he has to wear a backpack with sand bags to be able to stay on the ground. The parents can not
adjust to having a floating child so they decide to let Barnaby go. The mother asks Barnaby to go for a walk and then slices the sand bags open. As
Barnaby floats higher and higher, his mother makes a feeble effort to grab him, so poor Barnaby thinks it was his fault he floats away. Imagine being
8 years old and floating away from your mother. Barnaby has several adventures and meets people of all ages including two elderly women that are
hinted to be a couple, an art critic with a severely burned face to name a couple. This is a story of self-discovery and character building while making
the reading ask, what is normal? Reading this book made you laugh, almost cry and feel the despair that Barnaby felt about his parents. An excellent
book to read.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
TITLE: Trinity’s Book
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Yearling, 2013
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9780375865763
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Burden, Andrea
PAGES: 213
Trinity learns she is a Fairy Godmother in Training and goes on a journey to the fairy realm to rescue a future queen. This sixth Fairy Godmother
Academy coming of age story is rich with description that makes you feel like you are actually in the fairy realm. With a family history from New
Zealand, Trinity is familiar with the Maori cultural stories and customs which lend a real depth and flavor to the story. In this adventure, Trinity
needs to put aside her natural logic and scientific thinking, and allow herself to believe in magic and her own gifts and power. This is a great series
that helps nurture young girls self-esteem!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Bozarth, Jan
Bransford, Nathan
TITLE: Jacob Wonderbar and the Interstellar Time Warp
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 97803737037
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: C.S. Jennings
PAGES: 263
This book is the third in a series about Jacob Wonderbar, a twelve-year-old boy who had enough adventures just in his first book to make you look
twice. But by the beginning of this book, Jacob has just returned after two weeks in space running for president of the universe and saving the planet
Earth. When he returns home his mother sends him on a mission to find his father and bring him home, but neither Jacob nor his mother know where
to even begin looking. With the help of his friends and even a rival named Mick Cracken, Jacob zips through space (both good and bad) as he gets
clues as to where to find his father. This book, like the first one I read, is full of space adventure and races from one place to another with lots of
slapstick and humor throughout. I liked the first book and this is even better. But now I guess I better locate a copy of book two so I can fill in the
crazy missing adventures. I think boys will especially think this book is a fun read!
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Brett, Jan
TITLE: Mossy
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780399257827
INTEREST LEVEL: GR k-3
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 30
Mossy is a turtle with a beautiful garden on her back who lives in Lilypad Pond. Scoot sees Mossy and decides she is the most beautiful turtle he has
ever seen just about the time that someone picks up Mossy and put her into a basket. Mossy is carried off to be the main exhibit in a museum by Dr.
Carolina and her niece Tory. Many visitors come to see the turtle with the garden on her back, but Tory realizes that Mossy is not happy and
convinces her aunt to take Mossy back to Lilypad Pond. Scoot and Mossy are reunited and live happily. This will most surly be a favorite of young
readers for its endearing characters and vibrant, colorfully detailed illustrations in perfect Jan Brett style. I most certainly will put this in my
elementary library.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary Library
Britton, Tamara L.
TITLE: Bull terriers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO Publishing Company, 2013
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781617835896
INT. LEV:
ILLUSTRATOR: photos
PAGES: 24
As expected this Checkerboard book delivers good information and quality photos for kids to learn about informational
text. Inclusive are information features; contents, photos, captions, headings, bolded print, glossary, web sites, and
an index. Bull terriers are a mix of bulldogs and terriers and recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Known to be clown dogs they love human attention. Short haired, yet they still shed and come in white or colored.
I really enjoyed reading about these dogs and I learned a lot. I will continue to buy this series.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
4
Bromley, Nick
TITLE: Open very carefully, a book with bite
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Nosy Crow, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780763661632
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Nicola O’Byrne
PAGES: <28>
Such a fun book to read aloud!! The narrator tries to tell Ugtly Duckling story but a crocodile gets into the picture.
Be careful, he might eat the characters, but no, he eats the letters out of the words on the page. To stop him, the ducks
rock the crocodile to sleep and decorate him with a crayon. When he wakes up he tries to escape but it is difficult
to get out of a book. Thus, he eats a hole in the page to run away. Enjoyable story with a ‘wow’ ending.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Bromley, Nick
TITLE: Open very carefully, a book with bite
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Nosy Crow, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780763661632
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Nicola O’Byrne
PAGES: <28>
Such a fun book to read aloud!! The narrator tries to tell Ugtly Duckling story but a crocodile gets into the picture.
Be careful, he might eat the characters, but no, he eats the letters out of the words on the page. To stop him, the ducks
rock the crocodile to sleep and decorate him with a crayon. When he wakes up he tries to escape but it is difficult
to get out of a book. Thus, he eats a hole in the page to run away. Enjoyable story with a ‘wow’ ending.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Brown, Monica
TITLE: Tito Puente Mambo King
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: HarperCollins 2013
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780706122837
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Rafael Lopez
PAGES: UNP
This brief vibrant picture book biography of Ernest Anthony Puente Jr. sparkles with charm as you can almost hear the music jump of the page
through Rafael Lopez’s illustrations. The bilingual text makes this book even more valuable. I am going to give this book to our elementary school
music teacher. I know her classes will enjoy learning Tito Puente.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Browne, Anthony
TITLE: One Gorilla A Counting Book
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780763663520
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 24
This is a beautiful book of illustrations. The counting is simple to ten with illustrations of primates and their names. What an amazing book! Please
take a look details and the artistry. The writer/illustrator shows the primate as part of the human family and part of himself.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Bruel, Nick
TITLE: Bad Kitty School Daze
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Roaring Book Press, 2013
PRICE: $13.99
ISBN: 9781596436701
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Bruel, Nick
PAGES: 158
Bad Kitty is at it once again! He goes to school to learn how to behave. Students will find humor is Bad Kitty’s misadventures, while subtly being
exposed to many life lessons. The teacher, Miss Dee, works with her wide variety of students in a firm, but fair and loving way. She handles her
students with patience, and a touch of humor. Students can learn a lot from Bad Kitty and the other students. The illustrations are fun, and just add to
the humor factor of the book. Pure entertainment with some good messages, as well!
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Burleigh, Robert
TITLE: Flight of the last dragon
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399252006
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 1-4
ILLUSTRATOR: Mary GrandPre
PAGES: 32
Ultimon was once the kind of the dragons, but they are all gone now except for Ultimon who lives in the sewers to hide away. One night he is called
to fly once again, and so he does. He flies into the night sky until his muscles ache and his lungs burn, up to the place where he is meant to be.
Written in poetic verse, this is the story of how Draco the Dragon came to be in the night sky. The afterword gives the reader a glimpse of what a
constellation is and may peak an interest in the nighttime sky. The dark but beautiful illustrations give the reader a place to experience nighttime and
this mysterious story. This would make a nice jumping off point for a constellation study or a research project.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Burnie, David
TITLE: Sharks
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic 2013
PRICE: 12.99
ISBN: 9780545495615
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
Photographs: Many Contributors
PAGES: 80
There can never be enough shark books on an elementary school library shelf. Students are fascinated by these wonders of nature. The author states
in the book that some sharks have to swim all the time or they will drown. Students will look forward to clarification. This book will encourage
boys and girls to discover more information about sharks. Photos and text are most carefully presented on each page in a way that is pleasing to the
eye. More exciting information is available in the back of the book like an interview with a marine biologist. Font size is excellent for elementary
school students.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
5
TITLE: Story’s End
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062020543
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 355
The King has disappeared and his story is all but forgotten. A most evil one is ready to rewrite Story and even more will be lost if he succeeds. Una
Fairchild, a twelve-year-old girl, with the help of her friends, Peter and Indy, is the key to stopping him. This sequel to Storybound picks up where
the first story left off and I felt that it completed the plot and character development and had the right level of adventure for this age group. This
book definitely needs to be read after Storybound; otherwise there will be too many gaps and confusion for the reader. This is a great fantasy read
but it still reminds me of Inkspell.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Burt, Marissa
Buyea, Rob
TITLE: Mr. Terupt Falls Again
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Delacorte Press, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780385742054
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 356
Sequel to Because of Mr. Terupt. Told in chapters from seven students’ points of view, this follows Mr. Terupt’s fifth grade class as he rolls up with
them to become their sixth grader teacher. After a tragic and trying fifth grade year, the students are anxious and excited to have Mr. Terupt as their
teacher for their last year in elementary school. Each of the seven students are vastly different from each other, yet are friends because of their school
relationship with Mr. Terupt. This touching story will empower students as they make the change from elementary to middle school/junior high.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Byng, Georgia
TITLE: Molly Moon & the Monster Music
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780061661631
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 311
Molly Moon book 6. Molly Moon has many abilities. She can hypnotize people, stop time, travel through time, morph into other beings and read
minds. She is awaiting plans to return with her brother to England, when she becomes captivated by her coin. Molly’s and her brothers meet a boy
band from Japan and Molly quickly adds playing musical instruments superbly to her list of accomplishments. With the coin’s help, Molly’s
personality begins to change and she quickly becomes a world-wide musical sensation. Her brothers don’t know what’s come over her and don’t
know what to do. Only with the help of her time traveling grandfather is Molly able to overcome the power of the coin and return to normal.
Having not read others in this series, it took a bit for me to catch up with all of Molly’s overly amazing abilities. I was also surprised that a book
targeted toward ages 8-12 (listed inside dust jacket) would have characters drink vodka in a bar and use low level curse words such as “damn” &
“hell.”
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Byun, You
TITLE: Dream Friends
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Nancy Paulsen Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399257391
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Byun, You
PAGES: 32
Melody is a little girl who loves to dream at night. She has a special friend in her dreams, and they have amazing adventures together. On the
playground, Melody wishes her dream friend would join her because she is shy and lonely. One day, she closes her eyes and begins to dance around
imagining her dream friend is with her. It is in that moment that she starts a new friendship with another little girl. The illustrations use paintbrushes
and ink on watercolor paper and are then digitally enhanced. The color scheme reminds me of a sunset and conveys hope.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Callery, Sean
TITLE: World War II
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780545479752
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 12th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 105
There are so many pictures, timelines, and information on World War II in this book that history buffs will love it. The photos are great, visuals of
the inner workings of a tank and submarine will have the reader hooked. World War II is charted from the rise of Nazism to the end of Hitler with
first hand accounts. This book contains a wealth of information and eyewitness accounts that will help the reader experience the war years.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
6
Carman, Patrick
TITLE: Pulse
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062085764
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 371
Pulse trilogy book 1. This futuristic dystopian novel is set in 2051. The world is greatly different due to climate change/rising oceans and now the
world is broken into large, eco-friendly States. Faith and her friends are some of the last “outsiders” those families choosing to live outside a State.
But as the States expand, their time living independently is coming to an end. This high tech world is paperless and everything, even school, is
conveyed across tablets. Faith is flattered by the attention that a new boy, Wade, gives her until she figures out that Wade gave her a digital drug on
their date. She worries about what happened as she only has brief memories of that night. Faith’s world gets even smaller when her best friend’s
family decides to leave. Liz didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye. Another boy at school, Dylan, shows her that she has special powers, a pulse,
and helps her learn how to control it. Dylan’s job is to get Faith ready to help in the upcoming battle. Faith is taken to meet the leader of the Drifters,
a resistance group with whom her parents live. She is shocked to discover they were recently killed (at her date with Wade). After Wade’s twin sister
kills Liz, while making it appear like a freak accident while the twins were participating the Field Games, Faith goes after Clara. Dylan comes to her
aide and while Faith is injured, all survive to prepare for the real battle. While many of the ideas in this story are fresh, the story takes a long time to
get going and the reader is left wondering about the “sides” preparing for “battle” and what exactly are they fighting for. After reading the summary
other authors’ comments in the dust jacket I thought I’d love this, but I didn’t.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Cass, Kiera
TITLE: The Elite
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper Teen, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062059963
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 336
With great anticipation and a little skepticism I awaited the release of The Elite. America Singer has made the cut to the Elite—the top six girls in the
competition for Prince Maxon’s attention. In The Selection it was clear that America was Maxon’s favorite, and in the sequel he declares his
affection. A series of events—including the caning of America’s best friend after she was caught in a relationship with one of the guards—is the
catalyst for a very public breakup. As with the first book, there is not a lot of originality, but Cass has managed to create characters that—in spite of
their predictability—are imminently likable. America’s transformation from a lowly Level 5 to potential princess material is gradual, but natural.
Cass also creates the very natural ambivalence of a young woman who is somewhat insecure about who she is and whether or not she is actually
worthy of love. Cass also takes us back to the nostalgic ideas of a young man approaching a young woman’s father for permission to date her, and a
young woman who actually takes comfort in her father’s counsel. The sum total is a book that is clean enough for middle school, and entertaining
enough for adults. Libraries that have already commit to the first book need to make two more spots on their shelves—one for The Elite and one for
the last in the trilogy.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Chapman, Elsie
TITLE: Dualed
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780307931542
INTEREST LEVEL: 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 290
Chapman’s world is not a kind or gentle place. In Kersh when a family wants to have children, two couples go and have two identically genetically
engineered embryos made. Each embryo is implanted in the respective mothers’ wombs, and the Alternates are born. Like any other country, Kersh
has limited resources. The solution is the “assignment.” When Alternates are activated, they must fight to the death. The “Alt” who lives is the one
that is worthy to take his or her place in society. It’s brutal, since an assignment can be activated between the ages of 10 and 20. West Grayer is the
last of her family. She has watched as parents or siblings have been killed in unavoidable accidents or as collateral damage in the completion of other
assignments. The pain is sufficient to inspire West to become a striker—an assassin. It is a profession that is shunned, since it alters the natural
selection process. West completes her assignments with moderate efficiency, but ultimately is successful. All that changes when she is activated, and
she must alternately hunt while and be hunted. Readers who enjoyed Ross’s Divergent series will appreciate the character of West, her strength, and
the challenge of whether or not to fight for her survival or allow herself to be killed. West’s relationship with Chord is the requisite love interest.
Given the popularity of other dystopic books, this will be a series that is bound to capture readers’ interest. It will tend to appeal more to young
women, but has sufficient interaction between West and Chord that it can have a universal appeal.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Chen, Wei Dong
TITLE: Three Kingdoms, Volume 1: Heroes and Chaos
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Jr. Comics, 2013
PRICE: N/A
ISBN: 9788994208909
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: Xiao Long Liang
PAGES: 171
This hardcover, full color graphic novel tells the historic tale of the Three Kingdoms. China was once made of warring provinces and battles
frequently occurred as provinces battled for control. Rebellion from the provinces came and three men Bei Lie, Cao Cao and Ce Sun battle and divide
China into three separate kingdoms. Told from alternating characters and varying time periods this story is richly illustrated. While I found the story
a bit difficult to keep straight, boys will love the detailed battle scenes.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
7
TITLE: But I’ve used all of my Pocket Change
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2011
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780803737280
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 30
Charlie and Lola are going to the zoo. What happens if you are not a saver? Lola is not a saver…she uses what she wants when she wants it and
when the time for lunch comes her sandwich is all gone because she already ate it. When it comes time to go to the zoo’s store and buy the seal that
she wants she has no money because she spent it through out the day. Although Charlie is always there to help Lola out, but he has to walk away
with out his book. This is the turning point in Lola’s life when she learns that saving is sometimes better than instant gratification. The illustrations
are very much in step with the cartoon. They grab kids attention. This is a great lesson on saving for later…a must read for little ones!
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Child, Lauren
Chorao, Kay
TITLE: Bad Boy, Good Boy
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Abrams 2013
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9781419705205
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Kay Chorao
PAGES: 32
Beautiful illustrations make this book somewhat desirable. However, I cannot appreciate all the bad boy references. Sam gets into troubles as any
young child does. He makes a mess with grandpa in the kitchen. He doesn’t tell his family when he is going outside. There are no consequences
when he gets into a paint fight with his classmates. Instead of bad perhaps a word like mischievous could be introduced. Students love to learn new
words. Mischievous Boy, Good Boy! I think that might work.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Clayton, Dallas
TITLE: An awesome book of love
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
ISBN: 9780062116666
ILLUSTRATOR: same
The whole book is a love poem with rhyming words and colorful pictures.
I believe children will enjoy the presentation of the smaller size book and bright illustrations.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
RATING: A
PRICE: $16.99
INT. LEV: Gr2
PAGES: <49>
Cleary, Brian P.
TITLE: Breezier, Cheesier, Newest and Bluest
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Millbrook Press 2013
PRICE: 16.95
ISBN: 9780761353621
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Brian Gable
PAGES: 32
This series of books about grammar, figures of speech and parts of speech has grown and grown. I count 12 listed on the back cover. Comparatives
and superlatives are discussed here with Brian Gable’s fun characters. I see this series as a teaching tool and not as a library book that students are
going to check out. I think classroom teachers, grades 3-6, should have a set of all 12 books.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Cochrane, Mick
TITLE: Fitz: A Father, a Son and a Gun.
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780375856839
INTEREST LVL: 9 -12 gr.
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 175
Fitz is angry and he’s on a mission. Fitz is 15, and his anger has caused him to buy an illegal gun and his mission is to finally take action and get
what he feels he has been cheated out of for his whole life and that is a father. Oh, he has a great mother and she’s told him a little about the man
who fathered him, but then he discovers the man’s name. This leads him to stalk him and then one fateful day kidnap him at gunpoint. This story is
about this day of discovery, how things are not always what they seem and how relationships are not always easy, and can’t always be forced, but if
given the chance, they can develop. Along the way, doing the things he felt he missed out on, such as visiting the zoo, going back to a diner for
burgers and sharing music, he learns the man’s side of the story and how he wasn’t abandoned. This is a quick read that will appeal to reluctant
readers, mostly boys, who are either in similar situations in their own lives or having the same angry feelings of being disconnected. The pace
seemed a bit slow at first, but I think that readers will be satisfied if they stick with it.
Reviewer: Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School, Castle Rock, Washington
Collomore, Anna
TITLE: The Ruining
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Penguin Group, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9781595144706
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr 7-9
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 313
Annie Phillips could not be more excited to leave her drab life for her shiny new one on amazing Belvedere Island. With little she’s leaving behind
and a seemingly perfect family to work for; Annie sets off on her adventure. Little did she know that this new life would not be all laughter and
butterflies. Annie immediately falls in love with her new family…especially the young daughter, Zoe. As Annie feels more and more at home on
Belvedere Island, she begins making connections. A great friend of the mother, Libby, and even a romantic interest in the boy next door. Annie soon
begins getting blamed for things that she does not recall doing and spirals into a deep hole of despair. This book was interesting in that it covered in
first person, the rabbit hole feeling of mental illness. Also though, this book was rather “blah” in its style. To switch back and forth between points of
view would have been more interesting and maybe even raised the reading level. I would recommend this book to a middle school or lower level high
school reader. This book was very good in that it was suspenseful, but it got boring after a while when the action seemed to get stuck. It seemed like
it took too long to end the book. However, I will be looking for more Collomore books in the future.
Reviewer: Brooklen Ferrell, Robert A. Long High School, Library Science Student
Vetted by: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
8
Colman, Michelle Sinclair
TITLE: Not That Tutu!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Robin Corey Books, 2013
PRICE: $7.99
ISBN: 9780307976987
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Hiroe Nakata
PAGES: 18
When you have something that you love sometimes you love it too much. “Not That Tutu!” Is a story about a little girl who loves her tutu until…one
day she gets some pretty cute bunny slippers. This cute board book is well done and very girly.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Cooper, Rose
TITLE: Secrets from the Sleeping Bag
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Delacorte Press, 2012
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780385742467
INTEREST LEVEL: 5th-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Cooper, Rose
PAGES: 200
Sophia convinces her best friend, Nona, to attend summer camp when Sophia’s parents insist she go. Having Nona along will make everything better.
Disappointment begins right off the bat when the two friends discover they are not even in the same cabin. Both form new friendships in their cabins,
yet maintain their own special bond. Sophia has big plans for camp, but not all come to fruition. There are food fights, cabin members pranking other
cabins and sweet romance. Sophia even has her first kiss which is very innocent. This was a fun book with lots of positives. It is the 3 rd book
published in the style of Sophia’s research journal for the blog she maintains. The first two books are Gossip in the Girls’ Room and Rumors in the
Boys’ Room respectively.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Coughlin, T. Glen
TITLE: One Shot Away: A Wrestling Story
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper Teen, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062083234
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 336
It’s difficult to find books written for young men that can capture the attention of reluctant readers. This book is two for two. The Molly Pitcher High
School wrestling team has more than its fair share of drama. Trevor Crow is Native American, and it’s a heritage that both fills him with pride and
makes him a target for teasing. The passing of Trevor’s father in a freak car accident has thrown his family into turmoil. His mother is being courted
by their sleazy landlord, and Trevor and his mom wind up moving to a motel to manage it for Harry. Jimmy is a good kid and a solid wrestler. His
wrestling season is complicated by a father who requires Jimmy to participate in his nocturnal scavenging of construction sites. The ongoing criminal
investigation is enough to throw off anyone’s game. Even worse, Jimmy is shocked and frustrated when he learns that a teammate has taken revenge
to a whole new, unacceptable level. Diggy is that friend. Diggy is a half-hearted wrestler. He isn’t nearly as brilliant in his wrestling as his older
brother wealthy home and gets to hear that message repeated by his father whose obnoxious attendance at every match is enough to kill the passion
for the sport. He loses himself in the arms of Jane the Stain, the team manager with the rocking body but the flawed face. Coughlin does an excellent
job of developing the internal and external conflicts experienced by his three main characters. Their stories are compelling and then young men in my
classes have been drawn to Coughlin’s ability to accurately capture the inherent drama within the situation. From the rising action to the falling
action, we have a satisfying—if heart rending—story. It is the resolution that left us all feeling rather flat. Perhaps it was Coughlin’s intent to allow
readers to write their own endings for Trevor, Jimmy, and Diggy, but it’s hard to invest so heavily in characters only to have the story abruptly end at
their entrance, or in Diggy’s case, lack thereof, to the final wrestling banquet. The caveats include language and some description of sexuality—and
the precipitous ending.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Cousins, Lucy
TITLE: Maisy Learns to Swim
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780763664800
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 25
Maisy goes to a swim lesson. This is a great book for young swimmers that maybe a little afraid of a swim lesson or even those that love to swim.
Maisy is such a recognized character that children feel very comfortable with type of book. While the story lacks any depth it is a depiction of what a
child could expect at a swim lesson. The illustrations are very consistent with other Lucy Cousins’ book.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Coy, John
TITLE: Hoop genius: How a Desperate Teacher and a Rowdy
Gym class Invented Basketball
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9780761366171
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 7-11
ILLUSTRATOR: Joe Morse
PAGES: UNP
This is a picture book that is the true story of how James Naismith invented basketball in 1891 at a school in Springfield, Massachusetts. Naismith
was given a gym class that had forced two teachers to already quit. He tried indoor football, indoor soccer and lacrosse but the boys were too rough.
So with thinking he came up with the idea of using a soccer ball and two old peach baskets. He taught the boys how to play and a year later the girls.
The sport spread and by 1936 it became an Olympic sport. I love the illustrations which range in bluish/brownish colors and remind one of the old
photographs. There is an Author’s Note which gives a bit more about Naismith’s life. This would be an interesting book to read aloud and talk about
how sports have developed.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
9
Cronin, Doreen
TITLE: Diary of a spider
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Joanna Cotler Books, 2005
PRICE: $9.99
ISBN: 9780062233004 (paper over board)
INT. LEV: gr2
ILLUSTRATOR: Harry Bliss
PAGES: <32>
This copy is a reprint of paper over board construction. It is a story in diary form about the life a spider and his leaning about
what a spider is, does, and eats. This spider goes to school and learns more about his life. There are many dangers as a spider,
such as big feet, falling asleep in a shoe, vacuums, and Daddy Longlegs.
Very clever story about spiders’ lives and introducing spiders to kids in a humorous way this story makes us all chuckle.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
D’Amico, Carmela & Steven
TITLE: Suki & Mirabella
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Dial 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780803737402
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Carmela & Steven D’Amico
PAGES: UNP
Suki loves playing games in the burrow with her rabbit friends. Mirabella, cousin to Suki, appears for the entire summer. Suki is not happy because
Mirabella takes her friends away to play. Suki is alone. It is not until Mirabella and Suki get stuck in a bush that Suki realizes that Mirabella is all
right. Not an over-the-top original plot but it still has value for its sweetness and delightful illustrations.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
De Bonneval, Gwen
TITLE: William and the Lost Spirit
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Graphic Universe, 2013
PRICE: $13.99
ISBN: 9780761385677
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 7th – 9th
ILLUSTRATOR: Matthieu Bonhomme
PAGES: 151
This is a graphic novel placed in the middle ages with knights and magic that was written and published in France. The art work is well done, but
shows to much bloodshed and violence. William’s father has died and the mother is remarrying. Will’s sister feels that her father’s spirit is still alive
and needs help. She feels him calling to her so she takes off on her own. Soon knights, commoners and her family are out searching the surrounding
areas. The woods are full of danger for a young woman travelling alone. As most stories go, a knight helps William find his sister and reunites with
their mother.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
DiCamillo, Kate & Alison McGhee
TITLE: Bink & Golly: Best Friends Forever
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780763634971
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: Tony Fucile
PAGES: 80
Another endearing story about two friends, Bink and Golly. There are three separate stories in this collection ranging from Golly thinking she is of
royal descendants to Bink trying a Stretch-o-matic machine to become taller to the last which is both girls trying to decide what they should collect to
get their book in the World Records. I love the dialogue between the two and the illustrations make the reader become part of it all. This is a great
“tweener reader” for those readers who want to feel they are reading a big chapter book.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
TITLE: Adele: Soul Music’s Magical Voice
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Twenty-First Century Books, 2013
PRICE: N/A
ISBN: 9781467708081
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 6-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 112
This hardcover, full color biography tells the life story of singer Adele. From her humble beginnings to her current fame, this easy to read text
provides insight into what made Adele into the person she is today. The engaging text is surrounded by relevant photographs and other relevant
information. Includes timelines, references, and index. Middle & high school students interested in Adele will surely enjoy this biography.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Dominguez, Angela
TITLE: Let’s Go, Hugo!
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780803738645
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Dominguez, Angela
PAGES: 34
A cute story about overcoming your greatest fears, all with a little encouragement from friends, is what this book is all about. Hugo loves the Eiffel
Tower, and does things a little differently from other birds. When Lulu comes along and sees Hugo’s Eiffel Tower masterpiece, she tries to convince
him to see it from the air. Hugo is afraid to fly, but rather than admit that, he tries to distract Lulu with activities that keep them on the ground.
Eventually, he is encouraged to take the risk with the help of a wise old owl, Bernard, and of course, Lulu. The illustrations are fun and the French
flavor enjoyable.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Dunrea, Olivier
TITLE: Little Cub
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399242359
INT. LEV: gr2
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: <28>
Little Cub is all alone and lonely in the forest wishing he had someone to teach him to fish and keep him company. Old
Bear, too is lonely and wishes for companionship. When they meet they get together to be friends and learn from each other.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Doeden, Matt
10
Emerson, Kevin
TITLE: The Fellowship for Alien Detection
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Walden Pond Press, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062071859
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 8th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 428
Haley and Dodger are brought together when they are awarded a grant to study extraterrestrial activity. Haley is from Connecticut, her family loves
her and this award will look great on her college applications. Dodger is from Washington, never gets his dad’s approval and hears strange radio
voices in his head. In the course of studying about aliens, they hear about missing people, untraceable radio signals and a time warp in certain parts
of the United States. The company that awarded the grants has a gentleman, Alto, who is assigned to protect Haley and Dodger and help them with
their study. It soon becomes apparent that there is a global conspiracy by aliens and if the aliens aren’t stopped, Earth is doomed! The mystery is
intriguing and puts this book above other alien stories. I believe teens with like reading this book.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
Enersen, Adele
TITLE: When my baby dreams of fairy tales
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: ABDO @ 2013
PRICE:
ISBN: 9781617835582
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 32
This baby princess of a book would make an outstanding baby gift. Adele Enersen’s has gone over-the-moon and back again with the text and
photographs. Her daughter, Mila, represents many fairy tales as she is placed in awesome backgrounds. The backgrounds provide the landscape for
each fairy tale depicted. No stress for baby Mila! She sleeps through it all. I hope Ms. Enersen continues to compile a book for Hispanic babies,
African-American babies and Asian babies.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Foley, Greg
TITLE: Make a Wish Bear
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2012
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780670012398
INTEREST LEVEL: toddler-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 20
Find out what makes wishes come true in this beautifully illustrated book. Bear sits and wishes on a star while his friends directed him on how to
make his wish come true. It is a very sweet book and the reinforced binding is very nice.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Folgueira, Rodrigo
TITLE: Ribbit
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf 2013
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9780307981462
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Poly Bernatene
PAGES: UNP
If little pink pig in this book looks deceptively like Priscilla in The Princess and the Pig, then you win first prize for cleverness. Poly Bernatene is the
talented illustrator for both. She and her Argentinian friend collaborated on this charming book about friendship. Pink pig mysteriously arrives on a
rock in a frog pond. Not only that but pink pig can belt out “ribbit”. The frogs are totally astonished and perplexed by this event until wise beetle
straightens everyone out. It would be fun if this really was Priscilla. I think she would be much happier in the frog pond with forest animal friends
than in a castle with a human prince.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Foreman, Michael
TITLE: Oh, If Only…
RATING: M
PUBLISHER: Anderson Press 2013
PRICE: 15.99
ISBN: 9781467712132
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Michael Foreman
PAGES: UNP
British author and illustrator Michael Foreman has created what looks like a winner at first glance. Awesome illustrations and readable font are there
for the primary student. I had to put Oh, If Only…down after reading four pages to a group of second graders and begin another book from my story
book pile. This is not Margery Cuyler of Laura Numeroff as I thought when I first began. Instead of the words flowing from one thought to another
they stumble over each other to get to the end.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
French, Jackie
TITLE: Christmas Wombat
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt  2011 PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780547868721
INTEREST LEVEL: GRPreK – 1st
ILLUSTRATORS: Bruce Whatley
PAGES: UNP
With very few words and cuddly, expressive illustrations, every young listener will fall in love with the little wombat who stares down ‘strange
creatures’ (Santa’s reindeer) who he feels are trying to steal what he deems ‘my carrots’. By the end of the story he’s made friends with the strange
creatures who find carrots everywhere. He arrives back home after a night of hitchhiking on Santa’s sleigh not hungry at all – for some odd reason.
This is another winner in French & Whatley’s Wombat series of picture books.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Friedman, Laurie
TITLE: Mallory and Mary Ann Take New York
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Darby Creek, 2013
PRICE: $15.95
ISBN: 9780761360742
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Kalis, Jennifer
PAGES: 159
Mallory and Mary Ann are best friends and do everything together. But when Mallory wins a TV contest and gets to take a trip to New York City, it
might just ruin their friendship forever. Told in the first person, number 19 in the Mallory series brings the joy and enthusiasm we have come to love.
In this selection Mallory learns about the importance of friendship and sometimes the sacrifices needed to be a good friend. This series is great as a
beginning chapter book for our emerging readers. It is high interest and has thoughtful role models.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
11
Gerber, Carole
TITLE: Seeds, Bees, Butterflies and More! Stories for two voices
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Henry Holt 2013
PRICE: 17.99
ISBN: 97807805092110
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Eugene Yelchin
PAGES: UNP
Mary Ann Hoberman has done this type of partner poetry reading successfully. I am delighted that poets like Carole Gerber are willing and able to
continue this valuable pairing. In this version children sing the praises of spring through plant and insect poetry. Eugene Yelchin’s illustrations are
over-the-top gorgeous. The illustrations charm the reader into the text as students take turns reading the lines. Eugene Yelchin won a Newbery
honor for Breaking Stalin’s Nose.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Gerstein, Mordicai
TITLE: How to bicycle to the moon to plant sunflowers:
a simple but brilliant plan in twenty-four easy steps
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Roaring Book Press, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9781596435124
INT LEV: gr2
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: <38>
The boy writes a plan in 24 steps how to ride a bicycle to the moon. First he starts with 2000 inner tubes tied to trees making
a giant slingshot. With a ship anchor and 238,900 miles of garden hose he created a tight rope to the moon. Packing a lunch
he pedaled on the hose to the moon. Planting the seeds and heading home, which takes much less time, he views his work
on the moon from his telescope.
I enjoyed this clever story of creativity and “out of the box” thinking. A wonderful story to read aloud and use as a story
writing activity.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Giff, Patricia Reilly
TITLE: Zigzag zoom
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Wendy Lamb Books, 2013
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9780385742757
INT. LEV:g3
ILLUSTRATOR: Alasdair Bright
PAGES: 64
The Zigzag School Zebras are challenged to a race by the Timpanzi School Tigers. But the Zebras need a ride to the race
and so they try to raise money by having a bake sale making pretzels and cookies. But it didn’t work. So they had to walk
to the race. Running the race it was a tie and all received a blue ribbon.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Gomi, Taro
TITLE: Mommy! Mommy!
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Chronicle Books, 2013
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9781452108346
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 20
Moommm?! Where are you? The dreaded time when you have lost a child in the grocery store or the time you lost your mommy. This cute board
book is illustrated with little chicks that have lost their mommy. Don’t worry they find her!
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Gould, Sasha
TITLE: Heart of Glass
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Delacorte, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780385741521
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 326
Laura’s story continues a few months after she solved her sister’s murder and witnesses the horrific burning death of her acquired nemesis, Carina.
But during her first mission for the secret society of Segreta, she discovers her fiancé, Prince Roberto, with a dead woman body, in his apartment. At
the same time a suave Turkish prince arrives in Venice for treaty negotiations that go terribly awry. Entangling alliances, deception, horrific suitors,
revenge interweave in this sixteenth century soap opera. Some second sequels are a disappointment as they are merely a segue to the third in the
series, but this was engaging and entertaining in its intrigue and horror. I look forward to the third novel.
Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Graff, Lisa
TITLE: A Tangle of Knots
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Philomel 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780399255175
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: None
PAGES: 230
A powder blue suitcase brings together an unlikely crew of characters who may or may not be related. In a world where everyone has a Talent of
specific attributes I think Molly who is the orphanage manager is the most sympathetic. Her Talent is being able to pick just the right family for each
orphan so there are hardly ever any orphans around. Cady, whose Talent is cake baking, has stayed the longest. Deciding who is evil and who is
good is tricky. Not only is this a tangle of knots it is a tangle of plots. A cheat sheet of who is who would be helpful along with each of their Talents.
The cake recipes are definitely for the motivated baker but are definitely a nice addition.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
12
Graff, Lisa
TITLE: Double Dog Dare
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399255168
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 290
In Media Club, a fresh news anchor needs to be selected. Francine has been waiting patiently behind the camera for her turn to be in front, when
along comes new boy, Kansas Bloom. Kansas doesn’t want to be news anchor, but when he is nominated by another student and subsequently drawn
in with the challenge of a dare war, he goes all out. Francine and Kansas have more in common than they originally think, and not everyone in their
class is what they seem. Francine and Kansas spend much of the story disliking each other before they are forced to come together as a team and
discover their source of dislike is merely misplaced blame. Both of these characters are dealing with divorce. Their situations are different, but they
can sympathize with the other. There are a lot of additional issues dealt with in this book that our kids can relate to as well. The one criticism I have
about this book is that I didn’t appreciate the instances where God and Jesus’ names are used in vain. It is unnecessary and unacceptable.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Grant, Michael
TITLE: Light
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen Books, 2013
PRICE: $18.99
ISBN: 9780061449185
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 411
Light marks the end of the Gone series saga. Fear ended with the birth of Diana and Caine’s daughter and the dome of the FAYZ becoming
transparent. The heinous deeds done in the name of survival are now open for the world to see and judge, and this is a complication that makes the
battle between the humans and the gaiaphage—now embodied in the rapidly growing Caine/Diana daughter—even more challenging. The world and
its news cameras can now witness a child rip the arm of an unwitting adult who fell into the FAYZ and eat it. Gaia, the gaiaphage, recognizes the
weakness of her body but also her need to keep certain of the humans alive so that she can use their powers as her own. Little Pete, Astrid’s autistic
brother, continues to be Gaia’s nemesis. Her goal must be to destroy all of the humans before Little Pete, or Nemesis, can find a host body that will
enable him to destroy her. The battle will be played out before an audience of parents, relatives, and spectators. As an aside, the general populace
must decide how it will reintegrate all of these damaged, broken children from the FAYZ. The ultimate battle takes the most time, as Grant paints a
grisly visual picture that leads up to the final battle between relative good and absolute evil. Multiple cultures are integrated as naturally as they have
been introduced over time and sexuality between the young, lead characters continues. In this case, children under the age of 17 have taken on adult
roles and relationships, and the removal of the dome makes it impossible for them to go back to society’s traditional conceptualizations of adolescent
roles. While it is impossible to characterize the series as great literature, it is definitely an engaging series that will keep young adults hooked right up
until the very end.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Green, Tim
TITLE: Force Out
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062089595
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 282
Sixth graders Joey and Zach are a well oiled baseball machine. They both plan on making the all-star team and spend the summer together playing
travel ball. However, Zach’s grades are poor and an extra-credit science field trip is on the same day as their Little League championship game,
meaning that Zach will miss it. That is until the boys sabotage the teacher’s car and the group misses the train and the field trip is cancelled. This eats
as Joey, especially since his mother is the police officer that his teacher talks to about the incident. As school comes to an end, Joey gets his first
crush and there is speculation about the all-star team. The boys are told that there is only room for one of them and this puts stress on their friendship.
In the end, Joey makes the team and Zach comes clean about the sabotage. Joey and Zach remain friends. This story was a bit anti-climatic and
predictable, but the middle school boys in my school gobble up everything that this author writes. They absolutely love him!
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Griffin, Bethany
TITLE: Masque of the Red Death
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062107794
INTEREST LVL: 9th-12th gr
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 319
Some place, somewhere, somehow a terrible tragedy has occurred and the city and country has been besieged by a terrible disease. There are a few
pockets where people can survive by isolating themselves, or hope that the plague won’t affect them. However, if one has enough prestige or money
special personalized masks can be made that can protect them. Araby’s father invented the masks, and now that gives them the protection of the
Prince and affords them the comforts of the wealthy. Araby and her friends party at the Debauchery club where she meets Will, the doorman, and
begins a relationship with him. He introduces her, to not only his younger siblings, but also to how those without masks survive and he saves her
more than once from dangerous attacks. However, the club’s owner, Elliot, also has his eye on her and pulls her into his intrigue to overthrow his
uncle, the Prince, who has a stranglehold on the country. This is an exciting storyline of conflict, love, secrets, who to trust, loyalty and deciding
right from wrong. Based loosely on Edgar Allen Poe’s short story by the same name, teens will find it fast paced, full of twist and turns and
adventure. Of course, while the story is satisfying, there is a cliffhanger ending that beckons a sequel.
Reviewer: Linda Solberg, Castle Rock High School, Castle Rock, Washington
Haas, Jessie
TITLE: Bramble and Maggie: Give and Take
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Chronicle Books, 2013
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN: 9780763650216
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 6-9
ILLUSTRATOR: Alison Friend
PAGES: 52
This is a perfect horse meets girl meets “tweener reader” book. Bramble the horse is starting her life with her new person, Maggie. There’s a bit of a
power struggle between the two but eventually things mellow out. But when Maggie and her family are gone all day, poor Bramble gets a bit bored
and eventually become best friends with a neighbor’s hen. The illustrations are darling and will give the young readers clue as they gobble up their
“chapter” book. This book will be loved by horse lovers!.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
13
Haber, Tiffany Strelitz
TITLE: Ollie and Claire
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Philomel Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399256035
INT. LEV: gr2
ILLUSTRATOR: Matthew Cordell
PAGES: <30>
This book reminds me of the Jimmy Buffet song, ‘If you like Pina Coladas.” Ollie and Claire are best friends and like
to do everything together. Yet it is always the same. So Claire decides she needs a change and sees a sign from someone
looking for a travelling companion. She gets ready and who do you suppose is the other person but her good friend, Ollie.
I love this story. Kids will enjoy the surprise.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Hamilton, John
TITLE: Leaders & Generals of the American Revolution
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO Publishing, 2013
PRICE: $18.95
ISBN: 9781617836817
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Various Illustrators
PAGES: 32
A great history book is what you’ll find in this volume. It covers British leaders, Patriot leaders, Patriot military leaders, British military leaders, and
women that helped in the Revolutionary War. Great pictures and important information is shared in a very succinct and meaningful way. I
appreciated the fact that George Washington was a section unto himself which emphasizes his importance in this monumental endeavor. This is part
of the American Revolution series.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Hamlisch, Marvin
TITLE: Marvin makes music
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780803737303
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 1-3
ILLUSTRATOR: Jim Madsen
PAGES: 32
This is the story of Marvin Hamlisch as a young child and how he loved to play the music that he heard in his head. His parents, particularly his
father, wanted him to learn how to play the piano better so that Marvin could someday play his music for everyone around the world. Marvin’s
father knew that if Marvin practiced the classics then that would lead to Marvin’s dream. Marvin hated practicing though and found numerous
excuses for not practicing those songs by composers with funny names. In picture book format this story will give readers a glimpse of the childhood
of a world-renowned composer. The illustrations are the perfect mix of color and contrast to mirror the style in Marvin Hamlisch’s compositions. If
an elementary library needs more stories of people who have worked hard for their success this would be the perfect book to fit that bill.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Harper, Charise Mericla
TITLE: Wedgieman to the Rescue
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House 2013
PRICE: 3.99
ISBN: 978030793729
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Bob Shea
PAGES: 48
Reluctant readers! Here is the answer to your book prayers and the price is right at $3.99. In this easy reader episode, Wedgieman has to deal with
Bad Dude. Bad Dude has diabolical plans for the children with his “Make Things Disappear Machine”. The humor abounds page after page. Read
this book to discover why Wedgieman has a “V” on his chest instead of a”W”. Digitally created illustrations add to the fun.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Hart, Caryl
TITLE: The Princess and the Peas
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Nosy Crow, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780763665326
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Sarah Warburton
PAGES: 29
If your daughter won’t eat her peas, she could be a princess. This funny story about a young girl that will not eat peas is told by the doctor that she
must be a princess and allergic to peas. So she is rushed to the castle. Although she does not like it there very much, the things that she must do are
quite a chore. I loved the rhyming singsong of this book and if you have a picking eater get this book. The illustrations are very well done. I
thoroughly enjoyed this book.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Heide, Florence Parry
TITLE: Mystery at Blue Ridge Cemetery
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman 2013
PRICE: 14.99
ISBN: 9780763663964
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Sophie Escabasse
PAGES: 116
Sadly to say this mother daughter duo of writers both passed away within a year of each other. Mrs. Parry at 92 years of age in 2011 and Mrs.
Roxanne Heide Pierce in 2012 at the age of 64. This is a good little mystery about three kids who solve mysteries through the creation of the
Spotlight club. In this case Cindy, Jay and Dexter are trying to solve the mystery of the locket. The cemetery holds the key both literally and
figuratively. I don’t think it is necessary to buy the hardback for $14.99. Purchase the paperback unless your library budget is outstanding.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Henkes, Kevin
TITLE: Penny and her Marble
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 2013
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780062082046
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 48
This Kevin Henkes book is an early reader chapter book. This book is about Penny and a marble. The text has a moral lesson and the writing is
appropriate for early readers. The illustrations are very similar to Kevin’s other works and would be very recognizable to young children. I would
have this book on my library shelf.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
14
Hicks, Betty
TITLE: The Worm Whisperer
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Roaring Brook Press 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 97815964434905
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd -5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Ben Hatke
PAGES: 185
Fourth grade Ellis Coffey, is an industrious intelligent boy who worries about his disabled dad and over-worked mom. Ellis would love to win first
place in the Woolly Worm Race. The $1000 prize money would pay the deductible on his father’s insurance. Then Ellis’ dad could have the back
surgery he so desperately needs. Tink, the woolly worm, seem to respond to Ellis’ thoughts. Triumphs and failures abound before the satisfactory
ending. The cover illustration is excellent. Covers do matter to kids.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
TITLE: Secrets of Shakespeare’s Grave
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin  2012
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780547840345
INTEREST LEVEL: GR4th – 6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Mark Edward Geyer
PAGES: 273
Young Colophone Letterford, with the help of her older and usually annoying brother, Case, realizes they must find the person or persons behind all
the weird and strange calamities befalling their father. Their father has recently taken over the family book publishing business and even more
recently bizarre occurrences have been happening that is making the extended family question his leadership. When Colophone begins finding clues
and making connections, she and Case travel cross-country to Stratford-Upon-Avon to Shakespeare’s hometown to connect all the pieces and save
her Dad’s rightful place as head of the family company. With lots of unique and interesting characters, this first edition in ‘The Letterford Mysteries’
ends leaving readers hanging and eagerly anticipating the next installment.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Higgins, Nadia
TITLE: Justin Bieber
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publishing Group, Inc.  2013
PRICE: $ NA
ISBN: 9781467702942
INTEREST LEVEL: GR3rd – 5th
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Various
PAGES: 32
This is a lower reading level biography about Justin Bieber that covers his early life and how he got his start in music. There are word description
boxes on many pages giving definitions of music industry words, and also larger boxes that have short stories/likes & dislikes/etc. listed in them. At
the back is a ‘Source Notes’, ‘More Justin Info’, and an ‘Index’. Scattered throughout are numerous full-color photos.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Hood, Ann
TITLE: Prince of Air
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Grosset & Dunlap, 2012
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9780448454702
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 184
In number 4 of the Treasure Chest series the twins, Felix and Maisie, travel in time again and meet Harry Houdini. This time, Great Uncle Thorne
and Great Aunt Maisie travel with them. The story has many admirable aspects: the twins trying to come to grips with their parents’ divorce, the
Great Aunt and Uncle’s difficult and unpredictable personalities, and of course, learning more about the rules of time travel. The book is an
adventure, but much more. The characters are likable and have their own individual perspective, which gives them depth. I have not read the first
three books in this series, yet had no difficulty following the story. Definitely a good addition to our shelves!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Horacek, Petr
TITLE: Puffin Peter
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780763665722
INTEREST LEVEL: Pkdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Petr Horacek
PAGES: UNP
The mixed media illustrations by author Petr Horacek make this book a winner. Obviously, Mr. Horacek is very talented. Unlike Are You My
Mother? Peter Puffin does not lose his mother but his best friend, Paul Puffin. A large blue whale tries to help but none of the birds the whale finds
is a puffin. The satisfying end will be enjoyed by the children. This book will give students the desire to learn more about birds.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Huneke, Amanda
TITLE: A Monster in the Park
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Magic Wagon 2013
PRICE: NP
ISBN: 978161649325
INTEREST LEVEL: PKdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Richard Cowdrey
PAGES: UNP
The simplicity of this book allows the suspense and surprise ending to shine. Amanda Huneke does not shy away from alliteration but she also does
not overwhelm the reader with it. The girl is in the park on a rainy day. She follows clues that lead her to think there is truly a monster in the park.
Glossary in the back is effective and valuable. Illustrations depict the text well.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Hunter, Erin
TITLE: Warriors: The Sun Trail
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: HarperCollins, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062063465
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 9th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 313
The cats have lived at the top of the mountain for many years, but now prey is getting scarce and the weather is cold. The cats are getting weaker and
weaker. One of the leaders has a vision of a land with plenty of good and water so encourages those that are able to try to reach this new land of
hope. The younger cats set off to find a better home and chance of surviving. There are lots of dangers encountered from dangerous animals and the
new cats need to find a way to live side by side with the others. If they can’t, there could be many fights and deaths. As usual, Hunter has left the
reading waiting for the next book.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
Hicks, Deron R.
15
Hutchins, Hazel
TITLE: What the Snakes Wrote
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Annick Press, 2013
PRICE: $9.95
ISBN: 9781554514724
INTEREST LEVEL: PreK-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Holdcroft, Tina
PAGES: 32
This was a cute story about a group of snakes using their bodies to try and write a message for Dog. Dog can tell something strange is happening, but
since he can’t read, he has no idea what message the snakes are trying to send. He decides he needs Farmers help, but Farmer is busy getting ready to
fill a dangerous hole. Dog tries many things, and eventually runs off with Farmer’s shovel. This gets Farmer in the right position to read the snakes’
message and discover that he was about to fill in their home. There is additional non-fiction information about snakes at the back of the book.
Students enjoy this cute story about snakes that write, and their new friend, Dog, who saves the day. The illustrations are cheerful! However, I did
feel that this was an expensive paperback.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Idle, Molly
TITLE: Tea Rex
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780670014309
INT. LEV: gr1
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: <31>
Cordelia and her little brother invite T Rex to tea. Each page has instructions of how to greet him at the door, seat him,
and offer friendly chatter. With each step of the tea the T Rex causes some havoc.
Tea Rex is a cute story that kids will giggle about.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Iggulden, Conn
TITLE: Tollins 2 Dynamite Tales
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2011
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780061731013
INTEREST LEVEL: Pre-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Duncan, Lizzy
PAGES: 192
A sequel to The Dangerous Book for Boys, this tongue-in-cheek fantasy gives further adventures of the Tollins, a fairy-like creature. The humor and
calamity permeates each of the three stories: Romeo and Beryl, Radio, and Bones. The characters are unpredictable and loveable, giving an over-all
effect of a “new classic” fairy tale for kids. The world is rich in detail and is assisted by illustrations that show the humor while giving a
contemporary feel to the book.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Jacob Johnston
TITLE: The Journey Back
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Penguin Group
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780525423621
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: na
PAGES: 243
I really enjoyed reading this book. It caught my attention from the beginning and never let it go. At the beginning of the book Digger is in juvenile
correction center and plans on escaping. He eventually escapes and while he is on the run he steals a tractor trailer, a bicycle, and a canoe. He hides at
a campground then meets people that offer him a job rescuing horses. I thought the choice of grammar the author used was easy to read. I have
already recommended this book to a friend.
Jacob Johnston Robert. A. Long High School, Library Science Student
Vetted by: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com (This is the sequel to Red Kayak).
Jenks, Andrew
TITLE: Andrew Jenks My Adventures as a Young Filmmaker
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Scholastic Inc.
PRICE: $19.99
ISBN: 9780545417273
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 8 & UP
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 224
Andrew Jenks is a young filmmaker whose clever outtake on life creates a humorous and yet meaningful portrayal of his journey through life.
Entertaining from the front cover to the back this book will keep its readers riveted to its pages. While many young people will recognize him from
his MTV series The World of Jenks what they may not know about are his other accomplishments and how he has made a place for himself in the
world of filmmaking. From a small boy living in Nepal to his experiences as a college freshman at NYU to his experiences as an MTV filmmaker
Jenks provides insightful and funny commentary along with his photo-biography. Not the average MTV on-screen personality Jenks seems
determined to make a difference in how people, young and old alike, view their world, thus entering The World of Jenks. In truth, very few books of
this kind are written in a manner geared toward young people, it is guaranteed that Andrew Jenks My Adventures as a Young Filmmaker is one of the
few that will maintain the interest of young readers.
REVEIWER: Jodi McLean, Cascade Middle School
Jinks, Catherine
TITLE: The Paradise Trap
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Egmont USA
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9781606842737
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 4 & UP
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 344
What a surprise! The first couple of chapters were bland and somewhat difficult to trudge through. It seemed as though this was yet another book
doomed for disappointment. Then it happened! All of a sudden, it is unclear exactly when, this novel became difficult to put down! The main
character, Marcus, and his mom have decided to go on vacation to the beach. It just so happens that they are headed for the same beach his mom,
Holly, vacationed at when she was young. When they get there they realize that time has not treated their dream destination well. The beach is dirty,
littered and filled with an overwhelming amount of people. Then Marcus and his new friend, Edison, find a hidden staircase in Marcus’ travel trailer.
The events following such a momentous discovery send Marcus, Edison and their families into unknown worlds. The plot twists and turns in this
novel from the author of Evil Genius will keep even reluctant readers entertained, if they can trudge through the first couple of unexciting chapters.
This book was a pleasant surprise and definitely belongs in any middle school or upper elementary school library.
REVEIWER: Jodi McLean, Cascade Middle School
16
Johnson-Shelton, Nils
TITLE: The Seven Swords
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: HarperCollins, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062070944
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 8th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 355
Artie Kingfisher, also known as the new King Arthur, has the fate of the world in his hands. The second book in the Otherworld Chronicles, Artie
spends the summer going through portals, fighting dragons, and saving wizards while tracking down the seven legendary swords that will help save
the world. Getting all of the swords would help Artie combine their powers and defeat the Otherworld. This is a mix of Arthurian tales with
elements of witches, fairies, bear soldiers and other fantasy characters. A new approach to Arthurian lore which I enjoyed reading.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
Jones, Gareth P.
TITLE: The Clan of the Scorpion
RATING: RPUBLISHER: Square Fish, 2011
PRICE: $5.99
ISBN: 9781250016645
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Finlayson, Luke
PAGES: 105
With shades of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the first book in the Ninja Meerkats series is a fun ride. The book begins by introducing our main
characters. The names sound somewhat familiar. When you jump into the story you realize that the book is jammed with puns, quips, innuendoes and
outright jokes. I think I laughed on every page. The Meerkats go on an adventure to save the world from an evil villain, Ringmaster, and his
henchmen clowns. They have to travel to Hong Kong to find a missing white tiger with magic powers. Naturally the bad guys are using the tiger to
take over the world. It’s hysterical!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Jones, Gareth P.
TITLE: The Eye of the Monkey
RATING: RPUBLISHER: Square Fish, 2011
PRICE: $5.99
ISBN: 9781250016652
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Finlayson, Luke
PAGES: 106
In book two of the Ninja Meerkats series, our heroes are in Old Delhi on a mission which takes them to the Delhi Llama (yes, a llama from Delhi). Of
course, they have to save the world again from the evil villain, Ringmaster. The laughs keep coming at every turn of their adventure. If this series
isn’t already a cartoon, it should be. Our students are going to love it!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Jordan-Fenton, Christy
Pokiak-Fenton, Margaret
TITLE: Fatty Legs
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Annick Press, 2010
PRICE: $12.95
ISBN: 9781554512461
INT. LEV: gr5
ILLUSTRATOR: Artwork by Liz Amini-Holmes
PAGES: 102
Fatty Legs was the name the girls at the ‘outsiders’ school gave Margaret when she was told to wear the red stockings to
cover her large legs. A true story about a young Inuit girl who lived in the High Arctic and who wanted to go to the school
to learn to read. Begging her father to let her go she finally left at 10. Finding unlike the wonderful place she imagined
she was put to work cleaning at the hospital and they cut her long dark hair. The time for learning reading was minimal,
must different than she expected. There was an evil nun, Sister Agnes who was mean to Margaret. She was mistreated.
Luckily, there was one siste
believed in her and helped her to return home. After returning home Margaret became
very aware of her wonderful world and appreciated all of it.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Kallen, Stuart A.
TITLE: The Race to Discover the AIDS Virus
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Twenty-First Century Books
PRICE: $33.27
ISBN: 9780761354901
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 7 & UP
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 64
This book should be counted as a must read by anyone even mildly interested in the medical world. During the late 1970;s and early 1980;s AIDS,
then called by various other terms, was quickly becoming an epidemic and causing widespread panic throughout the world. Doctors and researchers
Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo spent years trying to discover the cause of this mysterious and fatal disease. These two men did not know it at first
but they were competing in a race to find a way to test for, and treat, AIDS. They each led a team to battle science for the answers to the complex
questions the AIDS virus posed to the medical community. With the discovery of the cause of AIDS and a test to detect it would come a lot of
recognition, great amounts of money, the coveted Nobel Prize and hope for millions around the world. Each man claimed to have led the team that
found the virus and began a new battle, one fought in courtrooms, medical journals and even on the political sphere. This is a tale of a scientific
rivalry that spanned a decade. While there is a lot of medical terminology used, Kallen has done a good job explaining, or defining, possible
unknown words, phrases or procedures, making what would be a very difficult read for a middle school student into an interesting account from
scientific history for anyone interested in medicine or science.
REVIEWER: Jodi McLean, Cascade Middle School
Kann, Victoria
TITLE: Emeraldalicious
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 978006178127
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 26
The Princess of Pink goes Green! She cleans up her world with her magic wand and when she loses her wand her makes the biggest realization that
she has everything she needs to make the world Emeraldalicious. The illustrations are bright and pretty. The cover work has a great draw. This is a
great addition to the Pink books. Pink with a message.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
17
Karr, Julia
TITLE: XIV
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Speak, 2011
PRICE: $8.99
ISBN: 9780142417713
INTEREST LEVEL: 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 325
The premise and ideas for XIV have strong potential, but when compared to some of the other good dystopic writing that is available, they fall a little
flat. Still, for the price and the thematic discussions, XIV is a book that is worth addition to the collection. Nina Oberon is about to turn sixteen in a
version of Chicago that is dangerous for girls like her. The world has become a caste system, and she and her family are on one of the lowest rungs.
For many young women in her situation, joining FELS—a group that trains lower-tier girls to become liaisons—is a way out of poverty. It is how
Nina’s best friend, Sandy, is looking at escaping her station. Nina is presumably in a good position to help her friend, since Nina’s mother is dating a
violent man who is one of the government officials who selects girls for the program. Nina, on the other hand, is hoping to become a Creative. Her
entire world threatens to collapse when her mother is brutally attacked and killed. With her dying breath, Nina’s mother let’s Nina know that her
FELS contract has been bought out and makes Nina promise to keep her little sister, Dee, away from Dee’s erstwhile father. All of this intrigue is set
against the backdrop of a society that tattoos girls with the mark of XIV—a signal that they are officially “sexteens” and are legally now prey for
whoever wishes to take advantage of them—and nonstop commercial messages. The writing contains several clichés, and the book’s appeal is hit or
miss. Young ladies whom I would have predicted would love it, passed it by without further glance. Others who I would not have thought would find
it appealing were enthralled from the outset and highly recommended its companion, Truth.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Kelly, David A.
TITLE: The Wrigley Riddle
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, New York, 2013
PRICE: $4.99
ISBN: 9780307977762
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Meyers, Mark
PAGES: 105
Another book in the already popular Ballpark Mysteries series, this tome features one of America’s oldest professional baseball venues: Wrigley
Field. Cousins Kate and Mike stumble upon a mystery in this beloved ballpark while experiencing some of its heritage. The ivy is being cut away as
if someone is searching for fabled lost treasure. Kate and Mike not only figure out who is behind this crime, but also the riddle that was left behind by
a longtime ballhawker. I love how Kelly utilizes the back of the book to explain in more detail the many items referenced throughout his story in a
factual manner. This is a series for every library’s shelves!
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Kenny, Karen Latchana
TITLE: David Karp: The Mastermind Behind Tumblr
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner, 2013
PRICE: N/A
ISBN: 9781467712859
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 48
This hardcover, full color biography tells the life story of David Karp, the person who invented Tumblr. (Tumblr is a “short-form blog” larger than a
tweet, but much less than Facebook.) The text tells how David’s life was transformed after doing a summer internship at Frederator Studios. He loved
programming and decided to be homeschooled in order to devote more time to it and a few years later Tumblr was born. Includes important dates,
references and index. Middle school students interested in pop culture will be interested in this book.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Kessler, David A., M.D.
TITLE: Your Food is Fooling You
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Roaring Brook Press
PRICE: $9.99
ISBN: 9781596438316
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr 8 & UP
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 183
Adapted for young readers from his New York Times bestseller The End of Overeating Dr. Kessler’s no nonsense way of explaining what happens to
our food before it gets to our plates is fascinating. Separated into parts, each part tells a different story. Part one begins with an explanation of the
sugar, fat and salt contained within, or added to, food products. The next section of the book is labeled “How the food industry targets you” and
details the process food production companies use to attract their customers. Part three describes overeating and how people can become trapped in a
cycle of eating too much. The last section, of course, lets the reader know that there is a way to break the cycle and avoid the foods containing an
overload of sugar, fat and salt. This book was fascinating from the beginning. While there is some scientific information that could become difficult
for young people to understand Dr. Kessler does a great job of making sure the language is accessible to middle and high school students.
REVEIWER: Jodi McLean, Cascade Middle School
Kimmelman, Leslie
TITLE: Sam and Charlie (and Sam, too)
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman 2013
PRICE: 17.99
ISBN: 9780807572139
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Stefano Tambellini
PAGES: 37
This book would be more valuable in a Jewish community as hamentashcen, Purim and Yom Kippur are discussed. A brief explanation of these
words at the back of the book would be helpful. Otherwise this is about Sam and Charlie and the ups and downs of friendship as told through five
brief chapters. I truly want to know the title of the book Sam reads to Charlie when she is sick. Illustrations depict the text well.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
18
Kincaid, S. J.
TITLE: Insignia
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen Books, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062092991
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 446
Fourteen year old Tom Raines is a video game prodigy, and that tie to electronics will appeal to the same group of teens that Card’s Ender’s Game
appealed to several years ago. Like Ender Wiggins, Tom Raines must save the world as he knows it via gaming. Kincaid extends the idea by
incorporating a chip that is implanted into cadets’ brains. Wars in this brave new world are fought via video console and by proxy for the faces of the
stars who ostensibly fight the battles. Tom’s participation in the program significantly improves his life—with the exception of the chip that has the
potential for making Tom crazy. Tom is surrounded by evil corporate henchmen and classmates who are varied in gender and ability. The secrets go
all the way up to the top, and Tom is determined to get to the bottom of them. Tom’s dalliance with Medusa, the Chinese operative, complicates the
plot further. Themes include evaluations of value, beauty, loyalty, and capitalism. This was a story that made it to the Top 100 of YALSA’s Best
Fiction list. The formulaic writing is augmented by a detailed storyline and fast pace. For readers who liked The Paladin and similar titles, this will
be a must-read.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Kinsey-Warnock, Natalie
TITLE: True colors
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2012
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780375860997
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 3-7
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 242
Hannah finds a baby on her doorstep, names her Blue and raises her as her own on her 1950s Vermont farm. Blue is content living in the little
community, doing the endless chores that are required on a farm and spending her summers with her friend Nadine who vacations in the Vermont
town. There are, however, always the nagging questions about her mother, how she came to be on the doorstep of Hannah’s house, and whether or
not her real mother ever thinks of her. Then, one summer Blue begins asking questions of community members, looking into old newspapers, and
determines that she is going to find out the truth. The truth, in the end, is certainly surprising if not shocking. This is a gripping story of a girl and
her quest toward self-discovery. I would highly recommend it for upper elementary or middle school students. It’s a great read.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Kirk, Daniel
TITLE: Ten Things I Love About You
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Nancy Paulsen Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399252884
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Kirk, Daniel
PAGES: 32
Well-known Library Mouse author and illustrator, Daniel Kirk, pleases again with this story. Rabbit and Pig are great friends and Rabbit is creating a
list stating ten reasons he loves Pig. He builds the list over a period of several hours in which he keeps going back to Pig’s house and stumbling upon
one more reason he loves Pig. He soon finds out that Pig had the same idea and created a list for him. This would be a great springboard for having
students reflect on what they appreciate about another person. The illustrations are enjoyable and cause Rabbit and Pig to come alive as two very
lovable characters for the reader.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Kittredge, Caitlin
TITLE: The Mirrored Shard
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Delacorte Press, 2013
PRICE: $1
ISBN: 9780385738330
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 295
The Iron Codex book 3. Teen Aoife is desperate to get to the Deadlands so that she can find her boyfriend, Dean, and bring him back to life. Aofie
believes her Fae mother will help her and stays in Thorn to learn how to reach Dean. She makes a deal with a Fae prisoner, Draven, and helps him
escape through a Gate. Aofie returns to her human family’s estate to discover that evil has been creeping through the land and invading people’s
dreams. Her ghoul friend, Cal, rejoices at her return although her father is ill and her brother is less than thrilled to see her. Aoife and Cal head
toward San Francisco to find Dr. Crawford who is believed to know how to get to the Deadlands. They are captured by the Protectors and with the
unexpected help of Cal, they escape. Eventually they find Dr. Crawford, but he is too incapacitated to help them. His assistant helps Aofie get to the
Deadlands where she does indeed find Dean and bring him back to life. The Old Ones continue to threaten, but Aofie refuses to help them. They
insist they’ll return. This fantasy adventure will appeal to upper middle and high school girls.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Kladstrup, Kristin
TITLE: Garden Princess
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press. 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780763656850
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 6-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 261
Princess Adela’s stepmother doesn’t quite know what to do with this unconventional princess. She loves to work in the garden and wants to travel the
world collecting them. When their gardener, Garth, gets invited to the infamous Lady Hortensia’s garden party, she jumps at the chance to go too.
When the group arrives at the party, Adela notices the coaches have been sent back and looses track of the other guests by exploring the garden. To
her horror she see her travel companion turn into a real flower by Lady Hortensia seems to have Garth under a spell. Adela gets help from a talking
magpie to try to bring down Lady Hortensia but is caught and turned into a flower herself! The magpie then convinces Garth to finish the job and
Lady Hortensia is destroyed and Adela is restored. The magpie turns into himself, a thief determined to restore his name. Adela falls in love with him
and when he returns to her kingdom, after returning the jewelry that Lady Hortensia had stolen from the guests, they plan a journey to travel the
world collecting plants. This is an engaging fantasy with twists and turns that keep the reader’s interest. A fun fantasy for middle schoolers.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
19
Klimo, Kate
TITLE: Buddy: Dog Diaries
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, New York, 2013
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9780307979049
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Jessell, Tim
PAGES: 144
Part of the Dog Diaries series, this book is based on a true story. It follows Kiss (who would later become known as Buddy) from her early days in
Switzerland to a new life in the U.S.A. Buddy would become the cornerstone of The Seeing Eye school that her new master, Morris Frank, founded
in the United States with the backing of Mrs. Eustis, aka Lady Boss. Eustis trained dogs at her kennel in Fortunate Fields for all lines of work. Frank
and Buddy were matched up there and spent a bit of time training together before Frank and Buddy traveled home to the US to prove and establish
their cause in this country. The illustrations are pen and ink and help one to visualize the situation. There are also actual photographs in the back and
a bit more of an explanation regarding training service dogs.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Kline, Suzy
TITLE: Horrible Harry and the Stolen Cookie
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Viking, 2013
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN: 9780670014255
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRAROE: Wummer, Amy
PAGES: 70
Doug notices that his best friend Harry is sad and upset, and learns that his baker grandmother’s stove is broken, causing the family serious financial
problems. Harry confides that he plans to ‘take’ half of the money he earns for charity and keep it for his grandmother. Doug knows that this is
stealing and comes up with a scheme to help Harry do the right thing. The lesson is well told, and will illicit compassion and concern for the
characters. Written in a low level for emerging readers embarking on their first chapter book, Horrible Harry is definitely a thumbs up!
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Kralovansky, Susan
TITLE: What would you do with a Thesaurus?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO Publishing Company, 2013
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781617836053
INT LEV: gr3
ILLUSTRATOR: photos
PAGES: 32
This reference book is a good way to show kids who to use a thesaurus to help them write. It begins with writing a letter home
from camp to parents and how to add more interesting words to describe their time at camp. Explaining that a thesaurus is in
alphabetical order it is easy to find words. Emphasizing words in a thesaurus are antonyms and synonyms and it is different
than a dictionary it can be very helpful in making writing more exciting.
I like this style of presentation and I hope to find the other titles in the series, ‘Library Resources.”
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Krosocska, Jarrett J.
TITLE: Lunch Lady and the Video Game Villain
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2013
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9780307980793
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 8-11
ILLUSTRATOR: Mark Fearing
PAGES: UNP
This is a new book in the graphic-novel series called Lunch Lady. In this story techno gadgets are being snatched and the lunch lady is ready to
figure out the culprit. The story is done with slapstick humor and both boys and girls seem to enjoy this series. My only complaint is that it is not
library bound and the paperbacks just don’t last that long. But it has been a series in our school library to get some boys into reading.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
LaFevers, Robin
TITLE: Dark Triumph
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Houghton Mifflin, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780547628387
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 385
I was immediately drawn to Grave Mercy, the question in my mind was whether any of LeFevers’ future books could live up to the high bar she set
with her initial work. Dark Triumph is, in a ironically prophetic way, a triumph. The character of Sybella is introduced in Grave Mercy as seriously
mentally ill and traumatized. At first, the cool calculation of the Sybella in this book seems like she could not believably be the same character, but
LaFevers once again creates an intricate web of story around her character that, in the end, renders the story completely plausible. LaFevers lets her
readers know that she has taken some license with historical events of the time in this book, but it is a license most will gleefully grant in exchange
for a character that is as damaged as she is deadly. The interconnectedness between this book and the last is in the crisis of faith and the spiritual
renewal that the characters of Ismae and Sybella both find. This is in spite of the machinations of the abbess, who has her own agenda. Sybella’s is a
story of survival and a remarkable capacity for love, and it is a story that has the quality to transcend its young adult designation. Like many of my
favorites, these are stories I will likely return to again and again—just for the fun of it. Readers who appreciate the Graceling series will find these a
little more edgy, but a lot less jaded.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Lane, Andrew
TITLE: Rebel Fire
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Farrar Straus Giroux, 2011
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780374387686
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th-12th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 343
This is the second book about fourteen year old Sherlock Holmes and his adventures. In 1868 Sherlock’s American tutor, Amyus Crowe, is very
secretative but Sherlock finds out Amyus is involved in investigating John Wilkes Booth. The notorious killer is supposed to be dead, but is alive
and residing in England. Crowe is somehow involved in finding Booth and Sherlock decides to help out which only gets his best friend kidnapped.
Now Sherlock must confess his involvement to his brother and tutor and they realize Sherlock is going to have to help with the investigation. The
case takes Sherlock from England to America with lots of mystery, danger, and adventures along the way. This is a page turn, especially if you enjoy
mystery and adventure.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
20
LaRochelle, David
TITLE: How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780803737662
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 4-7
ILLUSTRATOR: Mark Fearing
PAGES: UNP
A young girl does not like green beans in any shape or form. But when her parents are kidnapped by a gang of big, mean green beans she decides
that she needs her parents more than she needs anything else. So with the courage inside her and telling them that she will eat them if the green beans
don’t give her parents back, she rescues her parents and they never have green beans for dinner again. But the surprise ending will make all readers
laugh! This is a perfect book for any kids who do not like to eat veggies whether it’s green beans or not. The illustrations are fun and the illustrator
lives in Portland.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Larson, Jennifer S.
TITLE: Meaty Main Dishes
RATING : R
PUBLISHER: Millbrook Press 2013
PRICE: NP
ISBN: 9780761366348
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
Photographer: Brie Cohen
PAGES: 32
Students love to eat but do not always love to read. A cookbook is a pleasing way to wed cooking and reading together. From a fiesta of colors on
the cover to each and every recipe students will find something to enjoy. There are ten remarkable meaty recipes. Each recipe includes all the
ingredients and equipment the young chef will need. Step by step direction are presented with drawing and photos. Safety tips, measuring
techniques and cooking tools are discussed. Bold-faced word are scattered throughout the pages for their importance to the recipe. There are five
other books in the “You’re the Chef” series.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Lean, Sarah
TITLE: A Dog Named Homeless
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins  2012
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780062122209
INTEREST LEVEL: GR3rd – 5th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 202
Cally decides after her mother’s death to stop talking – no one was truly listening to her anyway. Especially when she announced she could see her
mom. She notices that a huge wolfhound is always near when she sees her mother and one day it has a sign around its neck reading ‘Homeless’.
Cally feels a little like Homeless looks, raggedy and gangly. She’s searching for some positive roots, after being uprooted by her father after her
mother’s death and an understanding dog who doesn’t ask questions is a comfortable place to start. This is a touching story of a family struggling to
put the pieces back together after a devastating tragedy.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Lennon, Tom
TITLE: When Love Comes to Town
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780807589168
INT LEVEL: Gr. 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 288
In When Love Comes to Town, Neil Byrne finally decides to let go and be himself. He tells his friend Becky that he is gay. They went to the only gay
bar in town so Neil could meet some other gay people and maybe make some friends. Even though Becky knew his secret, Neil couldn’t bring
himself to tell his family or his friends about him because he was so scared they wouldn’t love him anymore. Over the summer Neil keeps going to
the gay bar and keeping it a secret from his family and friends, then one night as he is leaving the gay bar he gets jumped. After he gets jumped Neil
decides to tell his parents the truth about him being gay. His parents don’t accept him anymore; they shun him. Neil goes down a downward spiral
and the only thing that will save him is his parents love. Will they come around in time? I think that the gay community will really love this book.
This book could be useful in diversity classes when you talk about the sexuality and homophobic people. This book is an eye opener for people that
don’t know about the gay community.
Reviewer: Ciara Hering, RAL High School, Library Science Student
Vetted by: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Lewis, J. Patrick
TITLE: If you were a chocolate mustache
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Word Song
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781590789278
INT. LEV: gr3
ILLUSTRATOR: Matthew Cordell
PAGES: 157
A collection of poems put together in this book by Lewis with black drawings by Cordell are entertaining. Similar to
Shel Silverstein style of one poem, one humorous picture Lewis appeals to the silliness of kids.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Lidell, Alex
TITLE: The Cadet of Tildor
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books. 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780803736818
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 408
Teen Cadet Renee de Winter is determined to keep her spot at the Academy of Tildor. Her father forbids it, but she returns to the academy anyway to
pursue her dream of becoming an elite soldier. Being a female is a disadvantage as the boys are bigger and stronger. When the top Servant
Commander, Savoy, is called to teach at the Academy he teaches Renee that she will have to learn how to outsmart those who are more powerful
than herself. Renee’s vigorous extra training pays off when Savoy is taken prisoner to fight in an underground crime ring. With the help of her friend
and fellow cadent, Alex, Renee helps to free Savoy and earns the respect of the Academy and the King. This is a great fantasy adventure that will
surely appeal to middle & high school teens looking for a strong female. Fans of the Hunger Games will surely love this as well.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
21
Look, Lenore
TITLE: Alvin Ho: allergic to babies, burglars, and other bumps
in the night
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Schwartz & Wade Books, 2013
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9780375870330
INT. LEV: 4
ILLUSTRATOR: LeUyen Pham
PAGES: 183
Alvin Ho is another humorous book kids love to read. Alvin is scared of everything. His mom is having a baby and Alvin
says he is allergic to babies. He thinks his is having a baby because he is fat. His mom tells him it is sympathetic pregnancy
for her. He carries his PDK (Personal Disaster Kit) with him because of a news report of a burglar in the area. In the end
Alvin gets the good news that there is no baby in “sympathetic pregnancy;”
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Lupica, Mike
TITLE: Game Changers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 97880545381826
INTEREST LVL: Gr 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 207
Ben is a phenomenal football player and can play in any position he is needed. He is always making amazing plays. The book shows how teamwork
is much more important than an individual shining. It shows how the coach’s son is a great quarterback but is struggling and the main character, Ben,
has to make a big decision: does he want to help the team or shine like a star? I would recommend this book to anyone who is a sports book reader.
Reviewer: Adam Harris, Robert A. Long High School, Library Science Student
Vetted by: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Lusted, Marcia Amidon
TITLE: Spain
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: ABDO Publishing, 2013
PRICE: $32.00
ISBN: 9781617836374
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 6th – 12th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 135
Students will find the facts of Spain quickly in this easy to read book. Information is at your finger tips about the politics, geography, history, people,
culture, maps, and animals and nature of Spain. Colorful pictures are included in each chapter, along with a timeline, facts at your fingertips,
glossary, and additional resources at the back of the book. Reading this book will help compare the similarities of different countries.
REVIEWER: Vicki White, Cascade Middle School
TITLE: Hope’s Gift
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399160011
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Tate, Don
PAGES: 32
What a heartfelt and beautiful story of the value of freedom. Hope’s father is leaving the family and fleeing to the north with the promise of returning
as a free man. He goes to fight in the Civil War. Before he leaves, Papa gives Hope a conch shell and her brother, Henry, some homemade marbles.
During the course of the war, Hope listens to the conch shell and is comforted by its sound and the memory of her father’s words, “Nothing can keep
freedom from coming. Nothing.” This book shows the struggles families went through to gain their freedom, but also evokes empathy when Hope
says she knows how the Master’s daughter feels when Master goes off to war. He is fighting against her father, but Hope can relate. The illustrations
are warm and hopeful just as the storyline conveys.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Lyons, Kelly Starling
TITLE: Nora’s chicks
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780763647537
INT LEV: Gr2
ILLUSTRATOR: Kathryn Brown
PAGES: <32>
Nora and her family moved a long way from her trees and hills in Russia to America. She had no friends and just family
to talk to until she meets Susannah from down the road. Yet Nora felt she wanted something of her very own. Her father
gave her some chicks and two geese. She named them and they followed her everywhere including to church.
Nora’s chicks is a lovely story of friendship and life changes.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
MacLachlan, Patricia
Madormo, John
TITLE: Charlie Collier: The Camp Phoenix Caper
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Philomel 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780399255441
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: None
PAGES: 260
A brief look at the table of contents for this novel might make the reader think of Donald Sobol’s Encyclopedia Jones. The chapter titles highlight
meaningful Sal Solomon detective cases. I must say I was put off in the beginning by Henry and Scarlett. Their squabbling was getting tiresome.
Overweight Charlie shines through as a fine serious detective. His voice throughout the book is very much enjoyed by this adult. I don’t even know
why Henry and Scarlett have to be part of the story except maybe for Henry’s brainteasers. Grandma and hearse-owner Uncle Eugene are adult
characters who encourage and help Charlie. Charlie is trying to find Josh, Sherman’s older teenage activist brother, who disappeared three weeks
ago. Police are not willing to get involved because Josh has been arrested for his tough environmental concerns. Robberies are also a fear in the
community. And how about the boot camp for troubled teenagers! Charlie is ready to take a huge risk to get the answers. Awesome cover!
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
22
TITLE: Albert’s Amazing Snail
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: The Kane Press  2012
PRICE: $ NA
ISBN: 9781575654485
INTEREST LEVEL: GR1st – 2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Deborah Melmon
PAGES: 32
Albert is SO excited when he finds a snail in the yard. He decides to make him his pet and calls him Flash. Albert spends the whole day teaching
Flash tricks, but Flash just watches and never moves. When Albert is called in for the evening, he tells Flash to practice all the tricks he’s seen.
Imagine Albert’s disappointment when he runs outside in the morning to find Flash in the exact spot Albert left him the evening before. But Albert’s
big sister Wanda notices a slime trail. When they follow it they realize that Flash did in fact, do all the tricks Albert taught him – just not in the exact
same way. This book is part of the Mouse Math series and this title focuses on position words. A letter to parents/educators explaining the series is at
the front and a Fun Activities page is at the back.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
May, Eleanor
TITLE: Albert’s Bigger Than Big Idea
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: The Kane Press, New York, 2013
PRICE: $22.60
ISBN: 9781575655215
INTEREST LEVEL: PreK-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Melmon, Deborah
PAGES: 32
Albert, his sister Wanda and cousin Pete go on several missions to the human’s fruit bowl. Albert is given the smallest bag because he is the smallest,
but he’s not too excited about that. He makes a bigger bag for himself because he spotted a plum in the bowl, but it wouldn’t fit in his small bag.
However, when he returns for the plum, he instead decides he wants a peach. The cause and effect element are at work here because now he needs a
bigger bag. The last bag he creates is for a watermelon, but you’ll have to read the book to find out why it never gets used to bring a watermelon
home. The illustrations are friendly and cute.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
May, Eleanor
McAlpine, Gordon
TITLE: The Misadventures of Edgar & Allan Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking 2013
PRICE: 6.99
ISBN: 9780670784912
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Sam Zuppardi
PAGES: 178
Mr. Gordon McAlpine has taken our distinguished and somewhat beloved poet Edgar Allan Poe and made his namesakes twin geniuses. Edgar and
Allan Poe are off-the-charts smart. It is not astonishing that they do not fit into the structure of middle school system. They totally annoy the
principal who does not want the boys back for the rest of 7 th grade or even longer. Edgar and Allan’s parents are lost in space. The brothers are
living with an aunt and uncle. Aunt Judith provides a room for homeschooling. Edgar and Allan’s beloved cat, Roderick, goes missing and a trip to
Kansas is required to fetch him. The twins are assured Roderick will be at the Wizard of Oz entertainment center. Is this a trap? The reader is
suspicious. With more heroics and daredevil escapades than a three-ring circus, students will be turning the pages speedily to discover what happens
next. York, England illustrator Sam Zuppardi’s drawings, letters and announcement add to the nonstop mayhem.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
McBratney, Sam
TITLE: I love you when you smile
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2005
PRICE: $ 9.99
ISBN: 9780062221339
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Charles Fuge
PAGES: <24>
Little Roo is in a grumpy mood and doesn’t want to smile. His mother tries tickling and tossing but he still did not
smile. So mother kangaroo put him in her pouch and hopped down the hill to get some food. She hopped wrong and
landed in a mud hole. Both Little Roo and mother were wet and covered in mud. Roo smiled!
This is a reprint for trade sales.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
McBratney, Sam
TITLE: I love you when you smile
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2005
PRICE: $ 9.99
ISBN: 9780062221339
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Charles Fuge
PAGES: <24>
Little Roo is in a grumpy mood and doesn’t want to smile. His mother tries tickling and tossing but he still did not
smile. So mother kangaroo put him in her pouch and hopped down the hill to get some food. She hopped wrong and
landed in a mud hole. Both Little Roo and mother were wet and covered in mud. Roo smiled!
This is a reprint for trade sales.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
McCook, Ben
TITLE: Captain America: the Korvac saga, the traveler RATING: A
PUBLISHER: ABDO Publishing, 2012
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9781614790211
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 3-5
ILLUSTRATOR: Craig Rousseau
PAGES: 22
Captain American is once again thrust into the future, but not the future he has been trying to get used to, he is sent to the 31st century. Here he is
teamed with Nikki and Firelord to try to stop Korvac the time traveler from obliterating the human race. They are dragged into the Taa II, a galactic
ship so huge that it has planets orbiting it. Nikki and Captain America travel into the Taa to find the ultimate nullifier while Firelord keeps Korvac at
bay. They quickly encounter alien monsters and are trying to fight them off when Korvac appears just after Nikki falls off of a cliff. From here the
story is to be continued. Much like a typical super hero comic the action moves along quickly, the illustrations are vibrantly colored and this story
line brings the reader to the next. This would be a nice addition to graphic collection.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
23
McDonald, Megan
TITLE: Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780763663889
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: Peter H. Reynolds
PAGES: 102
This is a new format of a 2005 edition of Stink. James Moody is the shortest kids in the second grade. His nickname is Stink and his older sister,
Judy, doesn’t help the situation of feeling inadequate. His favorite President is James Madison because he was the shortest. My favorite chapter is
still when Judy and he are cleaning the newt bowl and it goes down the drain. I am glad to get a new copy of this book. The one in our school
library has seen better days!
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
McElligott, Matthew
TITLE: Benjamin Franklinstein Meets Thomas Deadison
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Penguin 2013
PRICE: 12.99
ISBN: 9780399254819
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd -6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Matthew McElligot
PAGES: 145
Listen up, readers! Emperor Napoleon has been kept alive by use of the Leyden casket. His body is in Philadelphia and has been brought back to life
through a complicated process. He is taking over the city of Brotherly Love by use of light bulbs and by the hilarious insanity of two extremely
clever authors Matthew McElligott and Larry Tuxbury. The good guys are Scott, Scott’s father, Skip, and Victor. They are endeavoring to save
Philadelphia from the hypnotizing light bulbs that are turning the city’s population into zombies. The diagrams in the book add to the humor as well
as facts like Skip wears a bikini to present the television weather. There are two other books in the series with more to come I am sure. Matthew
McElligot has some claim to fame already with his hit picture book Even Monsters Need Haircuts.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
McGuirk, Leslie
TITLE: The Moogees Move House
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2012
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN: 9780763655587
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 26
If you are looking for a new home or you are about to move, you need to look for a book that can help your child adjust to the change. This might be
the book that will help them. At first I thought that it was a bit to silly, however my 6 year old thought it was the greatest book. He read it over and
over. The best part is the chant that the babies use “waa waa moogee doogee wee wee low lum!” I know you are thinking how is that the best part. I
don’t know it is just the way it is. Be careful though you read this book and it gets in you kids heads and they will sing “waa waa moogee doogee
wee wee low lum!”
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
McKay, Hilary
TITLE: Lulu and the dog from the sea
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman 2013
PRICE: 13.99
ISBN: 9780807548202
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st -3rd
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 108
Seven-year-old cousins Lulu and Mellie live only five minutes from each other. Lulu’s parents take Mellie each summer on vacation while Mellie’s
parents care for Lulu’s menagerie of pets. At the seaside cottage they rent for the week the cottage owner warns about a nasty stray dog. In this early
reader chapter book from a British author. Everyone will be pleased to that the natural flow of words easily keep the reader interested from beginning
to end. This is a second in a series. The illustrator is not mentioned on the dust jacket. She does deserve praise. I hope leaving out illustrator
information is not a trend.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Messenger, Norman
TITLE: The land of everbelieve
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780763660215
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 3-7
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 28
The Land of Everbelieve presents to the reader an adventure like they’ve never had before. This is an island packed with unusual and magical
creatures, plants and happenings that will get up and walk away without warning. From the pasta tree where one can harvest and cook up a great
Italian meal, to the rope tree where the wildlife loves to play, to the happy forest clearing where the Alphabet tree produces letters which the
inhabitants use to teach their children to read, to Book Mountain that, at nighttime, begins to softly read stories, this island is full of curiosities that
will intrigue every reader for hours at a time. Be careful though, the island has the habit of growing legs and walking away without warning. This
book is full imagination and colorful, intricate illistrations that perfectly enhance the whimsical text. I would highly recommend this book for any
elementary library.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
24
Meyer, Kai
TITLE: Arcadia Awakens
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Balzer and Bray, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062006066
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 451
It’s impossible not to be drawn to a main character who carries around a stapler for protection. The fact that she is an inveterate thief also has its
appeal, since she appears to steal for nothing more than the pleasure it brings her and the dismay it brings those who treat her poorly. In this way
readers are introduced to Rosa Alcantara, daughter of a powerful Sicilian Mafia family that is run—atypically—by a strong woman, Rosa’s aunt. In
this first book, Rosa is moving from her life in New York to a new life with her aunt and sister in Sicily. The initial plane ride is her first exposure to
Alessandro Carnevare. What she doesn’t know is that Alessandro is forbidden fruit, and they are both Arcadians. I have just about exhausted my
appreciation of the paranormal genre, so this shape-shifter entry was a pleasant departure from the normal fare. Rosa is strong and principalled—
despite her criminal tendencies. The plot incorporates the ruthless culture of the Mafia, the stunningly beautiful backdrop of Italy, and the mystery of
Rosa discovering her identity and carving out a life and a love of her own. The cover with its dark background, beautiful woman, and prominently
displayed reptile will fascinate potential readers, the story will hook them. This German import is bound to build a following.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Meyer, Kai
TITLE: Arcadia Burns
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Balzer and Bray, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780062006080
INTEREST LEVEL: 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 424
Arcadia Burns is the surprisingly stunning sequel to Arcadia Awakens. At the end of Arcadia Awakens, Rosa and Alessandro are pursuing a
relationship in the environment of the modern-day equivalent of the Montagues and Capulets. At the end of the first novel, both Rosa and Alessandro
have had to assume the leadership of their families. They have also been introduced to the organization of TABULA, an organization that is
dedicated to the eradication of the shape shifters known as Arcadians. Readers get some of the backstory of the gang rape Rosa survived and sought
to escape in the first book. As evidence surfaces of the Carnevare family involvement in the tragedy, Rosa must determine the nature and duration of
her relationship with Alessandro. She must also come to terms with her family’s past and the future she wants to pursue. This sequel stands on its
own, but is definitely a more satisfying read when it accompanies the first book. Its fast pace and strong female character should make it a great draw
for teen readers and adults alike. It maintains the relatively fast pace of the first novel in a very different way. The characters of Rosa and Alessandro
continue to be developed as powerful individuals who must make difficult choices that have life and death consequences. Fans of the series will be
waiting for the third with bated breath, and maybe a scale or a claw.
REVIEWER: Jodi Kruse, R. A. Long High School, http://krusereviews.wordpress.com
Monroe, Chris
TITLE: Cookie the Walker
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9780761356172
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 4-8
ILLUSTRATOR: Chris Monroe
PAGES: UNP
A young dog named Cookie finds that by walking only on her back legs she can do more things. She also finds that she can become famous on TV
and in the circus. But she is reminded by her friend, Kevin, that to end it all she just needs to step down. She finally decides that maybe there is
more to life that treats and fame. The water and ink illustrations along with the dialogue pages and blurbs are a fun way to read through the story. I
think young readers will find Cookie funny although maybe not too smart. Maybe the grass isn’t greener on the other side???
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Montgomery, Lewis B.
TITLE: The Case of the Superstar Scam
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: The Kane Press, 2013
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9781575655185
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Wummer, Amy
PAGES: 111
In number 10 of the Milo & Jazz Mysteries, the kids’ favorite TV show comes to town. A mysterious letter is delivered to the members of the Starr
Silveira fan club. It promises to feature the fan in the show if they leave their silver guitar pick for Starr to sign. Milo and Jazz unravel the scam and
use a Venn diagram to uncover the culprit. This was a quick, fun to read little mystery. The characters are likeable with individual personalities. The
illustrations have a humorous flair and also facilitate the idea of the diagrams.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Mould, Chris
TITLE: Pip and the Twilight Seekers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman 2013
PRICE: 12.99
ISBN: 9780807565537
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 170
The children of Hangman’s Hollow are in dire straits. Evil old man Jarvis want to eliminate every child he can find. In the Pied Piper of Hamelin the
Piper charms the children away with his flute. In this chapter book Jarvis holds no charm because he is able to whisk children away without
conscience. He delights in every success. Pip is determined to save the children through quick action and careful strategies. Time is of the essence.
Mr. Mould’s over-the-top drawings significantly add to the suspense.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
25
Murphy, Jim and Alison Blank
TITLE: Invincible Microbe: Tuberculosis and the never-ending search for a cure
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Clarion, 202
PRICE: $18.99
ISBN: 9780399256929
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: na
PAGES: 149
The goal: try to find a way to cure the patient of their tuberculosis without killing him. Certainly tuberculosis did a fine job of that, wiping out a
large section of the population, since, by 1850, up to eighty percent of all people on earth carried the germ, and twenty percent of those people died
from it. All the Bronte siblings passed away young. The epidemic was exponentially spread due to overcrowding, unsanitary conditions. The
sanitarium movement in the United States took hold after Dr Edward Trudeau cured himself in the Adirondacks, and then established his sanatorium
there. The development of INH introduced an easy treatment that made a difference in so many lives, including mine. Murphy discusses worldwide
statistics, includes excellent photographs, posters. He exposes the practices of prejudice in care and the guarding of our borders against disease. I
was impressed by those too poor for sanatorium treatment who built their own cure porches on top of apartment buildings or on their back stoops.
An excellent fiction tie-in would be Queen of Hearts by Martha Brooks in which a young girl recounts her experiences in a Canadian sanatorium
during the 1904s. A newer novel, Breathing Room, tells the story of Evvy at a Minnesota sanatorium, also in 1940. With the likely spread of TB
through a mere jet ride and the resistance to some treatments, the international health community remain vigilant. This is a thorough and readable
addition to any school library.
Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Murray, Elizabeth A.
TITLE: Forensic Identification
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Twnty-First Century, 2013
PRICE: $30.60
ISBN: 9780761366966
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr.7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 72
Murray creates a fascinating description of forensic identification, with numbered case file “folders” and their case resolutions divulged a few pages
later. Some grisly photographs of victims of the Japanese tsunami, excellent x-ray images, and photographs of well-preserved ancient bodies will
provide the page-turning for readers. Clues using evidences on the skin, skeleton and cells and molecules are discusses. A selected bibliography and
further reading endnotes will help interested researchers. An index is included. The only downfall of this book, is the extraordinary high price for a
72 page book.
Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
TITLE: Let’s Make a Bar Graph
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publications Com., 2013
PRICE: Unknown
ISBN: 9780761389729
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Todd Strand (photo)
PAGES: 23
Please make more of this type of mathematical book for young readers. My preschool library could use more books that take mathematical concepts
and break them down for young children. The photos were also the best choice for this book. The only thing that I could say about publishing was
that I could use a little bit bigger book for a circle time read. However, I put it on an overhead reader and it works great.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Nylunc, Eric
TITLE: Titan Base
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Yearling, 2013
PRICE: $6.99
ISBN: 9780307978547
INTEREST LEVEL: 2rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 277
Aliens, mind control, super cool personalized flying ships, and detailed and imaginative battle scenes make up this third science fiction book in the
Resisters series. Having not read the first two, I had no difficulty following the storyline and entering this fantasy world. Our main character, Ethan,
struggles with the weight of command as well as his own personal questions as he leads his team on a mission to find a new hideout for the Resisters
group. It is well written, the characters have depth and the plot is exciting. I will definitely look for the first two books in this series, as well as the
upcoming fourth.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Nelson, Robin
O’Connor, Jane
TITLE: Fancy Nancy storybook treasury
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $11.99
ISBN: 9780062119780
INT. LEV: gr. 2
ILLUSTRATOR: Robin Preiss Glasser
PAGES: 190
6 stories are in this collection. In Fancy Nancy and the late, late, late night, she stays up too late looking at a scrapbook and is
exhausted the next day. She learns even fancy people need a good night sleep. In the story, Fancy Nancy: Pajama Day, Nancy
chooses to wear her elegant nightgown and not be twins with Bree in pink, she feels left out as Bree and Clara are dressed alike.
Fancy Nancy sees star is about a class trip to the Planetarium that is cancelled due to a road closure. Nancy’s parents set up a
star show in their yard. After Nancy bakes cupcakes for the class bake sale in the story, Fancy Nancy and the delectable
cupcakes, her dog, Frenchy eats them and she has to remake them. Nancy is assigned Lionel as a partner to perform in the
talent show. They put on a circus act, Lady LuluBelle and the main eating lion in Fancy Nancy: the show must go on.
Fancy Nancy: the dazzling book report, is a story about Nancy working hard on the cover of her book report and runs out
of time to do the writing. Her teacher allows her to tell about the story of Sacajawea.
Fancy Nancy always learns a lesson about listening and following directions in her stories. All the stories are hits with kids.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
26
O’Connor, Jane
TITLE: Fancy Nancy storybook treasury
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $11.99
ISBN: 9780062119780
INT. LEV: gr. 2
ILLUSTRATOR: Robin Preiss Glasser
PAGES: 190
6 stories are in this collection. In Fancy Nancy and the late, late, late night, she stays up too late looking at a scrapbook and is
exhausted the next day. She learns even fancy people need a good night sleep. In the story, Fancy Nancy: Pajama Day, Nancy
chooses to wear her elegant nightgown and not be twins with Bree in pink, she feels left out as Bree and Clara are dressed alike.
Fancy Nancy sees star is about a class trip to the Planetarium that is cancelled due to a road closure. Nancy’s parents set up a
star show in their yard. After Nancy bakes cupcakes for the class bake sale in the story, Fancy Nancy and the delectable
cupcakes, her dog, Frenchy eats them and she has to remake them. Nancy is assigned Lionel as a partner to perform in the
talent show. They put on a circus act, Lady LuluBelle and the main eating lion in Fancy Nancy: the show must go on.
Fancy Nancy: the dazzling book report, is a story about Nancy working hard on the cover of her book report and runs out
of time to do the writing. Her teacher allows her to tell about the story of Sacajawea.
Fancy Nancy always learns a lesson about listening and following directions in her stories. All the stories are hits with kids.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
O’Connor, Jane
TITLE: Nancy Clancy secret admirer
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Harper, 2013
PRICE: $9.99
ISBN: 9780062082954
INT. LEV:gr 3
ILLUSTRATOR: Robin Preiss Glasser
PAGES:112
Nancy Clancy is a beginning chapter book with ‘Fancy Nancy’ as she grows up. Her best friend is still Bree. They are
learning about the heart. Nancy’s guitar teacher, Andy just broke up with his girlfriend. Nancy’s baby sitter, Annie just
broke up with her boyfriend. Nancy and Bree set up Andy and Annie on Valentine’s Day.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
O’Hair, Margaret
TITLE: Sweet Baby Feet
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Farrar Straus Giroux, 2012
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN: 9780374373481
INTEREST LEVEL: infant-pre-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Tracy Dockray
PAGES: 26
This book is captured in the sweetness of Tracy’s baby feet. There are footprints in the beginning of the book, and the pages next to the title page are
the pudgiest cutest toes that you have ever seen. The illustrations are soft and sweet without borders. The text is a great companion to these
illustrations. The rhyming poem type text is easy to read and is just perfect balance-words per page.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Oliver, Lauren
TITLE: requiem
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Twenty-First Century, 2013
PRICE: $18.99
ISBN: 978062014535
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr.9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 391
Welcome to the dramatic conclusion of the Delirium Trilogy. Unlike the previous books, this is a joint narrative shared by Lena and Hana. And
unlike other dual narrator novels, I LIKED this one! It made total sense to contrast the polar-opposite lives of these former BFFs. Both lead lives of
desperation and must reconcile themselves to their current status or make a drastic change. For Lena, that involves committing herself totally to the
liberation of Portland, and for Hana, that involves committing herself totally to her liberation from Fred. Unlike some apocalyptic novels, this one
ends with the roar of hope. Even the love triangle made sense and was not contrived. Only the short story of Alex’s experiences disappointed me. It
was too fast a narration to cover all his experiences. YA readers are fortunate to look forward to a long writing career of Lauren Oliver!
Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Orgill, Roxane
TITLE: Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2013
PRICE: $4.99
ISBN: 9780763664589
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Quals, Sean
PAGES: 39
This picture book biography of Ella Fitzgerald is written with such imagery in word choice that it not only transports you to the culture and climate of
the time, but makes your feet want to get up and dance. It follows Ella through her difficult childhood as she loses her mother, ends up in an
orphanage and finally lives on the street singing and dancing for survival. It’s told with compassion, all the while following the theme of movement
and music in her life. The illustrations reflect the joy that she had for music as well as her struggles. There isn’t much that I don’t like about this
book. I will be looking to order it in hardback form so that it will last longer on our shelves.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
Orr, Wendy
TITLE: A Beagle Called Bella
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Henry Holt and Co., 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780805095050
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: Patricia Castelao
PAGES: 115
This is the sixth book in a series called Rainbow Street Shelter. I have other books of this series in our library and the young readers love them. In
this particular story, a young couple decides to get a dog which turns out to be very lovable but definitely has too much energy while they work all
day. This little beagle is a sniffer and eventually the couple decide that they are not the right fit for Bella. But the Rainbow Street Shelter promises
to find just the right spot for Bella which they do. Timmy and his family, including their old beagle Sherlock, visit the shelter one day and find the
perfect trainable sniffer dog. It’s a happy ending story but I really liked how the story explained that not all people are the best fit for their chosen
dog. Maybe both sides need a second chance?
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
27
TITLE: Taffy Saltwater’s yummy summer day
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Random House, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780375971313
INT. LEV: gr1
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: <32>
Taffy and her friends head to the beach to build a spectacular sand castle. Yet they are interrupted when their beach ball
is blown away. So after chasing it they find a better place to build a castle.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Paraskevas, Michael
Parish, Herman
TITLE: Amelia Bedelia hits the trail
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062095275
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Lynne Avril
PAGES: 32
Amelia Bedelia’s class is headed out for a hike. The teacher announces they are “hitting the trail” and down goes Amelia on
her face. She states that next time she will hit the trail with a stick and not her face. Amelia becomes confused by the
multiple meanings of words such as bank, where they have lunch and there is no money. She brings a caterpillar back
to class for the nature table which was a hit since it metamorphosed into a butterfly.
Amelia Bedelia provides chuckles for the readers as they discover her misunderstandings of vocabulary.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Parish, Herman
TITLE: Amelia Bedelia hits the trail
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780062095275
INT. LEV: Gr. 1
ILLUSTRATOR: Lynne Avril
PAGES: 32
Amelia Bedelia’s class is headed out for a hike. The teacher announces they are “hitting the trail” and down goes Amelia on
her face. She states that next time she will hit the trail with a stick and not her face. Amelia becomes confused by the
multiple meanings of words such as bank, where they have lunch and there is no money. She brings a caterpillar back
to class for the nature table which was a hit since it metamorphosed into a butterfly.
Amelia Bedelia provides chuckles for the readers as they discover her misunderstandings of vocabulary.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Parish, Herman
TITLE: Amelia Bedelia means business
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 2013
PRICE: $15.99
ISBN: 9780062094971
INT. LEV: gr3
ILLUSTRATOR: Lynne Avril
PAGES: 149
Amelia decides she wants a new bike, yet her parents tell her she has to pay for it. Getting a job at a diner as a waitress
Amelia makes all kinds of errors with orders. She is confused by the phrases and gets let go. Next, she tries a lemonade
stand or is it sit? But a lemonade stand in front of a car dealership was not acceptable. Causing havoc at the town
parade entertains the Mayor and winds up winning a new bike for her individuality. This story is a debacle of language
and so fun to read realize Amelia Bedelia’s perception of the world.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Parish, Peggy
TITLE: Amelia Bedelia
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Greenwillow Books, 1963, 2013
PRICE: $14.99
ISBN:9780062209696
INT. LEV: gr2
ILLUSTRATOR: Fritz Siebel
PAGES: <27>
Such a pleasure to read humor with a twist on words such as Amelia Bedelia stories. She gets everything backwards, yet it
all turns out good. She dusts the furniture with powder and draws the drapes on paper. Amelia Bedelia is a great cook and
wows her customers with her lemon meringue pie. As the original story is so simple the stories that followed have been
loved by children for years learning the twists of words and their meanings. Forty years of Amelia Bedelia for children
to love and laugh about.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Pastis, Stephan
TITLE: Timmy Failure Mistakes Were Made
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Candlewick @ 2013
PRICE: 14.99
ISBN: 9780763660505
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 294
Reminiscent of Calvin and Hobbes, Timothy and his polar bear must fight the evil forces at school, home and in the community. Humor abounds as
Tim must deal with his genius friend Rollo, his admirer Molly Mosner and his nemesis Corinna Corinna. Thank goodness Timmy has an
understanding mother and a new teacher. You will be amazed at how Timothy fills out his multiple choice test. Illustrations are spot on. Move over
Jeff Kenney for 15 minutes to make room for Stephan Pastis.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Pinkney, Jerry
TITLE: Puss in Boots
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780803716421
INT LEV: gr.2
ILLUSTRATOR: Jerry Pinkney
PAGES: <30>
Jerry Pinkney’s version follows in the tradition of Charles Perrault’s writing. But with the added beauty of his artwork
the story is entrancing and enjoyable to share with listeners. Note there is a fold out page.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
28
Pinkney, Jerry
TITLE: Puss in Boots
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780803716421
INT LEV: gr.2
ILLUSTRATOR: Jerry Pinkney
PAGES: <30>
Jerry Pinkney’s version follows in the tradition of Charles Perrault’s writing. But with the added beauty of his artwork
the story is entrancing and enjoyable to share with listeners. Note there is a fold out page.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Rennert, Laura Joy
TITLE: Dragon dreams
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780803737501
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 2-4
ILLUSTRATOR: Melanie Florian
PAGES: 103
This is the story of a princess but not your typical princess. Emma doesn’t like frilly pink dresses or being proper or dancing but loves soccer and
dreams of being a dragon rider, a behavior frowned upon by regular princesses. Emma discovers that the dragons in the region are not healthy and
sparkly anymore. Instead of waiting around for some adult to figure out what the problem is, Emma sets out to solve the mystery herself. With the
help of her best friend, Rapunzel, and an unexpected gnome friend, Justin, Emma discovers the cause of the illness and of course, saves the day.
Even young princesses can make a huge difference. The text is accompanied by black and white drawing the compliment the story nicely. This book
is so much fun and will never be on a library shelf. I expect a waiting list of readers.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Reynolds, Mattie
TITLE: Kids Making Money: An Introduction to Financial Literacy RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Red Chair Press, 2013
PRICE: $17.95
ISBN: 9781937529413
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 24
This is a great introduction to young students about jobs and earning money. It discusses the how and why, and provides youngsters with avenues to
pursue. It suggests that money can be used for what people need and want, but it also introduces the practice of donating to charity. I thought this was
a great point to share with students at such a young age. It can help them develop a care for others and expand their citizenship education. Lots of
illustrations help the young reader be able to relate to the content.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Richards, Elizabeth
TITLE: Black City
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: G.P Putnam’s Sons, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780399159435
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr. 9-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 374
When Natalie Buchanan, the emissary’s daughter, and Ash Fisher, a half-blood darkling, fall in love the two sixteen year-olds do all that they can not
to draw attention their way. In a city divided by war, humans and darklings remain strictly segregated within boundaries drawn by a towering defense
wall. The two teenagers have to go about in secrecy allowing no one to know of their forbidden love. If revealed, the young couple would be
sentenced to execution for being race traders. In one scene, a Nordic darkling and a human boy are tied to wooden crosses and set on fire as an
example of what happens when race trading couples are caught. Black City is a phenomenal read for high school students who enjoy forbidden love
tales, and just a touch of action. This book has a great climax that launches the reader into suspense of what will happen next. The story really leaves
the reader wanting more, and thankfully its debut author has a sequel set to release June 4, 2013.
Reviewer: Cortney White, Library Science student, Robert A. Long High School
Vetted by: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Sage,Angie
TITLE: Septimus Heap: Fyre
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Katherine Tegan Books, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780061242458
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: Mark Zug
PAGES: 702
This is the seventh book in the Septimus Heap series. Septimus, Jenna, and Beetle have now assumed larger roles in their Magykal world. But
Septimus is still battling the remnants of the Darke Domaine. In order to destroy the evil Two-Faced ring, the ancient Alchemie Fyre must be relit.
Septimus journeys back to test his skills and his loyalties and this book weaves together every character from the series. He continues to discover
who he is. The grand finale surrounds when the Fyre is kindles and when the Time Is Right, anything is possible. Love this series!
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Salisbury, Graham
TITLE: Calvin Coconut: Extra Famous
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Wendy Lamb Books, 2013
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780385742207
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 6-10
ILLUSTRATOR: Jacqueline Rogers
PAGES: 168
This is another great book in the series about Calvin Coconut, a fourth grader who lives in Hawaii. As in all the other books about Calvin, something
special always happens and this book is no exception. Calvin and his friends are cast in a zombie movie being filmed on a nearby beach. This is his
chance to earn some extra money so he can buy himself a new bike. The episodes of the filming are going to be loved by those zombie/monster
readers. This book is not at all scary but the descriptions are fun and most readers will be hooked. Calvin even ends up helping out someone who
seems to have no friends and an old man. This is a great collection for any school library.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
29
Saunders, Kate
TITLE: The Whiz Pop Chocolate Shop
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Delacorte 2013
PRICE: 16.99
ISBN: 9780385743013
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: None
PAGES: 293
The Spotford family decides to move to the magical London house they have inherited. The ground floor is a boarded-up chocolate shop. But if the
reader thinks this is a sweet story, she is in for as much as a surprise as twins Oz and Lily. The magical house has a tragic past as legend states that
one brother triplet murders his two brother triplets over a chocolate recipe that makes the eater immortal. This is only the beginning of all the twisted
plots. Oz and Lily join an organization that deal with the intrigue. There is an invisible cat, a smoking rat and a ghost elephant. Besides a break
neck last minute effort to save a baby’s life! Seems to me that opening the chocolate shop on the ground floor would have been less stressful. The
charming cover is deceiving but will make the girl readers most definitely want to give it a try.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Schaefer, Carole Lexa
TITLE: Monkey and Elephant Get Better
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Candlewick 2013
PRICE: 14.99
ISBN: 978076364811
INTEREST LEVEL: Kdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 42
Elephant and Monkey are best friends. They prove this when each becomes sick. This is an easy reader for primary students to begin their reading
experience. I would not call this a must-have for your library shelf.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Schindler, S.D.
TITLE: Spike & Ike Take a Hike
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Nancy Paulsen Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780399244957
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 4-7
ILLUSTRATOR: S.D. Schindler
PAGES: UNP
This is a fun word play book that continues to grow from one page to the next with the addition of adjectives and nouns. There are two parts on each
page: basic word list on the bottom of each page and a dialogue shown in the major section of each page which encompasses the words below. It
would be a great way to teach how words can be used and put into dialogue. I also like the use of different types of animals in the illustrations which
are out of the ordinary; a hedgehog and coatimundi. I think any early education teacher could tie this book into more stories with their class.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Scotton, Rob
TITLE: Splat the Cat: Storybook Collection
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: HarperCollins 2013
PRICE: 11.99
ISBN: 9780062133830
INTEREST LEVEL: Pkdg- 3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Rob Scotton
PAGES: 190
What an awesome idea to compile six Splat stories into a collection! Rob Scotton continues to share his signature outstanding Splat illustrations. I
am assuming to save money and time Mr. Scotton only writes one of the stories. Chris Strathearn, Laura Bergen, Natalie Engel, Annie Auerbach and
Amy Hsu Lin are the other five authors. I want to name them all because these authors held true to the spirit of Splat. Their efforts are a tribute to
what Mr. Scotton started. Sleepover, singing, eye glasses, cake making are some of the hilarious story topics. This would be a great $11.99 gift for a
child
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Sepetys, Ruta
TITLE: Out of the Easy
RATING: R+
PUBLISHER: Philomel, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780399256929
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr.10-adult
ILLUSTRATOR: na
PAGES: 346
Josie wants out of New Orleans. It seems the entire town knows that her mother is an air-headed, brothel prostitute and many assume that she will
enter the business. Nothing could be further from her excellent mind. She wants out, and it cannot happen soon enough. Her savings from cleaning
the brothel and working in Patrick’s bookstore is bigger every day. A perky co-ed visiting the bookstore bonds with Josie and insists she must apply
to her exclusive university. But at the girl’s glittering party, Josie discovers that even the higher class has a cankered underbelly. A murder in the
Quarter sucks Josie into an investigation that could incarcerate her mother and her mother’s dangerous man. All the while, the tough madam of the
brothel, more like a real mother in many ways over Josie and the Quarter, faces her own challenges. If there is a treatise the amount of gray in our
world, rather than black or white, this novel provides that insight. Teachers would be missing a great opportunity for discussion and writing and
Socratic seminars by ignoring this book. Keep them coming Ruta Sepetys!
Reviewer: Joan Enders, Robert A. Long High School http://bookbevy.wordpress.com
Seven, John
TITLE: A Year with Friends
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Abrams, 2012
PRICE: $14.95
ISBN: 9781419704437
INTEREST LEVEL: per-K-K
ILLUSTRATOR: Jana Christy
PAGES: 26
There are books that can make learning fun. This has that perfect balance for young children learning the months of the year. Each month has a
simple sentence to describe the activities that month is known for, but the illustrations are the main storyteller. It is a great book for teaching the
months of the year and coupling that with how to be a good friend.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
30
TITLE: Lincoln’s Grave Robbers
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Scholastic Press, 2012
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780545405720
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 4-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 214
This non-fiction text tells the story of the plot to steal President Lincoln’s body from its resting place. Told in chapter book format, the story begins
with the tale of some famous counterfeiters of their day, Benjamin Boyd and James Kennally. The newly formed Secret Service was hot on the
counterfeiter’s trail and Kennally wanted to raise some cash. He created a plan to steal President Lincoln’s body for ransom. His well crafted plan
was thwarted by Agent Patrick Tyrrell who stayed on the plot to steal the body when others in the Secret Service thought the attempt was just a folly.
This interesting read includes black and white photos, glossary, references and index. This will appeal to students interested in President Lincoln or
other historical events.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Sheinkin, Steve
Shelton, Dave
TITLE: A Boy and a Bear in a Boat
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: David Flickling 2013
PRICE: 5.99
ISBN: 97807385752480
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-8th
ILLUSTRATOR: Dave Shelton
PAGES: 288
British author and illustrator Dave Shelton creates an exceptionally original master piece of understatement as bear tries to row the across the water.
The reader at first might have trouble getting into the book because it is so different. I had at least two false starts. Eventually the reader is hooked by
the humor and the obviously good-natured bear that retains a sort of Jeeves to the boy’s Wooster. Other examples of this type of coupling appear in
Calvin and Hobbes, Timmy and his polar bear in the recent popular book by Stephan Patis or even Christopher Robbins and Winnie the Pooh. The
illustrations magically sustain this amiable tale.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Shickman, Allan Richard
TITLE: Dael and the Painted People
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Earthshaker Books, 2011
PRICE: $9.95
ISBN: 9780979035760
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 8-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 155
Zan-Gah book 3. Dael leaves his clan and a girl, Sparrow, accompanies him. Dael doesn’t have a destination in mind and Sparrow, who has a speech
impediment, refuses to travel further until she knows where they’re going. They travel to the land of the red painted people who welcome them into
their tribe. Dael is still tormented, but seems to be healing and Sparrow grows socially as she learns this new language that is affected by her
impediment. The tribe marries them before Sparrow’s baby is born and Dael relaxes when the baby is born healthy. Dael is seen by the painted
people as having mystic powers as he has two pet wolves and tames the wild crows. The tribe’s shaman is envious of the attention Dael receives and
seeks to have him ousted but his many attempts fail. Dael decides it’s time for them to return to the Beautiful Country and Sparrow reluctantly gets
ready to go with him. The shaman is later found dead and Dael is blamed until the shaman’s wife comes forward and tells that she had a role in his
death. Dael stops by Lissa-Na’s grave on their journey home and believes that he’s finally found peace. In this last installment Dael finds his long
sought healing. It is a stretch to believe that prehistoric man could have had such complex society and tools or that Rydl could have invented all of
the things he did. Still, it is an interesting adventure.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Shickman, Allan Richard
TITLE: Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Earthshaker Books, 2009
PRICE: $9.95
ISBN: 9780979035715
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 151
Zan-Gah book 2. Dael continues to be a tortured soul and tips over the edge when his wife and child die in childbirth. Dael’s bent on revenge to those
who held him captive and Zan-Gah reluctantly agrees to accompany him on his journey (mostly to keep him safe.). A small group also joins them.
Dael’s mood swings wildly and he is dangerous to himself and others. When they arrive at the land of the wasp people, they discover that an evil
spirit (illness) has killed all but one of the wasp people. Dael later kills the elderly survivor. The rest of the group respectfully burns the homes and
bodies, and they think that this beautiful land would be a great improvement to where their current clan lives. After returning home, they are able to
convince the clan to move into this new land. The move is difficult but worth the effort. Dael is still tormented and peace is short lived. Dael creates
trouble with the Noi and the clan is threatened. Dael is mistaken for dying in battle and all are shocked when it turns out he’s alive. After his
recovery Dael decides he can no longer live with the clan. Readers who enjoyed the first installment will surely enjoy this one too.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Shickman, Allan Richard
TITLE: Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Earthshaker Books, 2007
PRICE: $9.95
ISBN: 9780979035708
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 7-12
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 148
Zan-Gah book 1. Prehistoric boy, Zan earns prestige in his tribe when on a clan lion hunt he is the one that end up killing the lioness when she
charges him and his spear pieces her skull. He is given the a new name of power, Zan-Gah. Zan-Gah grows restless and seeks to find his missing twin
brother, Dael. Zan-Gah sets off to follow the river, where he believes his brother was last seen. Zan-Gah himself is captured by the wasp people and
traded to the Noi people, where he finds his brother. Dael is greatly changed. Having been abused and tortured, Dael is an angry shell and the happy
childhood boy is long gone. With the help of a Noi woman, Lissa-Na, the brothers escape and Lissa-Na joins them. The trio is welcomed back into
the clan, but Dael is angry and withdrawn. The wasp people attack and are defeated. Dael marries Lissa-Na. This is an engaging, action adventure
that will appeal to middle and high school boys.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
31
TITLE: Children’s Book-a-Day Almanac
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Roaring Book Press, New York, 2012
PRICE: $19.99
ISBN: 9781596437081
INTEREST LEVEL: 4th-Adult
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 388
What a neat book! It takes you through the year and shares something new for each day. The items relate to books for young children up through
teenagers. The book stems from the website childrensbookalmanac.com and compiles information on books, authors, illustrators and various
holidays. What a great reference! I’m excited to learn about the website also!
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Silvey, Anita
Skead, Robert
TITLE: Something to Prove: The Great Satchel Paige vs..DiMaggio RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9780761366195
INTEREST LEVEL: 1st-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Cooper, Floyd
PAGES: 34
In 1936, two future greats in the sport of baseball would face each other. Satchel Paige and Joe DiMaggio were an unlikely pair since Paige was
African American and DiMaggio was Caucasian. Paige was known as the best, but wasn’t given the chance to play in the majors because of the color
of his skin. Yankee’s manager Ed Barrow and scout, Bill Essick, however, asked him to pitch in a game against a young DiMaggio and many other
major leaguers. They wanted to test DiMaggio. The battle was fierce with each player learning respect for the other. Paige did end up in the majors,
but it came several years after this 1936 historic game. The illustrations are speckled in texture and use hues of brown, blue, gray and red. I love the
feel of the cover and the dust jacket; it’s not your standard covering.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Skogen, J.M.
TITLE: Mavericks: On the Hardwood
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publications, 2013
PRICE: $20.95
ISBN: 9781615705139
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Various Photographers
PAGES: 48
Part of the “On the Hardwood” series, this book focuses on the Dallas Mavericks. From its inception during the 1980-81 season through their ultra
successful 2011 season, we learn of key moments in the team’s history. Lots of color pictures feature these key moments and players. Things really
seemed to turn around for the Mavericks when Mark Cuban purchased the team and poured loads of his own money into benefiting the team and its
fans.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
Smith, Owen & Anne
TITLE: Safari Survivor
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Graphic Universe/Lerner Publishing Group  2012 PRICE: $ NA
ISBN: 9780761367277
INTEREST LEVEL: GR3rd – 5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Rubine
PAGES: 112
Book #21 in the Twisted Journeys graphic novel series is set in Africa. Readers will have a great time deciding the course of the story, by choosing
which page to turn to at key points during the story. With choices like climbing a volcano, going on a ride-along with a wildlife officer or touring the
Serengeti, readers get to make the story all their own. And with so many varying pages to turn to throughout each reading, every time the reader
opens the cover the story will read differently!
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Smith, Sherwood
TITLE: The Spy Princess
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Viking/Penguin Group  2012
PRICE: $ 17.99
ISBN: 9780670063413
INTEREST LEVEL: GR4th – 6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Same
PAGES: 386
Lady Lilah is bored. Sneaking out of the palace in disguise to mingle with the town folk is just what she thinks she needs to alleviate her boredom.
But when she overhears that a revolution is at hand she is intrigued, as her Uncle the ruler, is not a ruler for the people, but for his own gain. When
she finds out her older brother, Pieter, is part of the overthrow plan, she casts her support in with the revolutionary group – but more or less incognito
as to save her own head from the chopping block. When the fighting begins before the group has their plans finalized, Lilah and her friends, old and
new, must decide their allegiance and help however they can, most times skirting extremely dangerous territory.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Sparkes, Ali
TITLE: Spider Stampede
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Darby Creek, 2013
PRICE: $20.95
ISBN: 9780761391999
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Collins, Ross
PAGES: 99
When 8 year old twins, Danny and Josh, follow their dog into the crazy neighbor lady’s shed, they find a secret laboratory and are accidently
transformed into spiders. This humorous fantasy novel follows the brothers’ adventure as spiders and sets the scene for the S.W.I.T.C.H. (Serum
Which Initiates Total Cellular Hijack) series. It is written for lower emerging readers and will have high interest as a fantasy. Aside from some
unnecessary bathroom humor (which I feel is becoming alarmingly common) it is quick paced and fun to read.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
32
Stille, Darlene R.
TITLE: Jackie Robinson, amazing athlete and activist
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Magic Wagon, 2013
PRICE: $np
ISBN: 9781616419400
INT. LEV: Gr3
ILLUSTRATOR: Richard Stergulz
PAGES: 32
Jackie Robinson was known as one of the greatest athletes ever. He was born in 1919 and as a young boy his father left.
Jackie’s mom raised him to believe racism was wrong and to be proud of who he was in a turbulent time of unrest in our
country. Jackie was a quarterback in High School and went onto to UCLA to play football, baseball, track, and tennis.
In the Army he did not like the black and white segregation and got into trouble over issues. When Jackie signed to play
baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers he was the first African American player. Crowds were tough on him never the less
he still set good records. He married and raised 3 kids. Robinson worked for the NCAACP delivering speeches for
fairness and self-respect. I liked this beginning biography.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
TITLE: Who says women can’t be doctors? The story of
Elizabeth Blackwell
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Henry Holt, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780805090482
INT. LEV: gr3
ILLUSTRATOR: Marjorie Priceman
PAGES: <30>
In the 1800s women were allowed to be mothers, wives, teachers, or seamstresses, but not doctors. But that all changed with
Elizabeth Blackwell, who dreamed of being a doctor and knew she could and should do this. She applied to all medical
schools which all replied, “NO.” Until one day Geneva Medical School in New York said, “Yes.” She graduated much
to the chagrin of the men in the classes. She was top of the class. Although the community was not so supportive and many
hoped she would be the last. We all know she was not the last and with her courage and determination now over half of medical
students are women.
This story is an inviting biography to grasp a young reader and find more information about Blackwell.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
Stone, Tanya Lee
Stout, Shawn K.
TITLE: Penelope Crumb Never Forgets
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Philomel 2013
PRICE: 8.99
ISBN: 9780399257292
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Valeria Docampo
PAGES: 181
Too old to be Junie B. Jones and too young to be Amelia Bedelia, fourth grader Penelope Crumb selects choices that place her somewhere in the
middle. Penelope does not make connections or understand about cause and effect. She is not unlike the girl in 11 Experiments that Failed. This
second in the series starts with her class going to a local museum. Never quiet Penelope causes a commotion because she wants to spend more time
in the museum than in the gift shop. Her teacher, Miss Stunkel, ever ready to find fault with Penelope, sends her back to the field trip bus for the rest
of the afternoon. Vera, Patsy and Penelope have a troubled relationship because it seems as though Patsy is trying to dump Penelope. It reminds me
of Rosemary Wells’ recent chapter book about Ivy. Docampo’s illustrations depict the seriousness of the situation. I think the adults in the book
need to be reminded that Penelope is trying to deal with her father’s death. Too bad the grown-ups haven’t made appointments for Penelope to see a
grief counselor. Docampo is not mentioned on the jacket. I am surprised.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Taylor, Sean
TITLE: Robomop
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 97808034111
INTEREST LEVEL: Ages 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: Edel Rodriguez
PAGES: UNP
This story reminded me of the advertisement for Swiffer where the lady of the house decides she doesn’t need the old mop anymore and discards it.
In this story a robomop is very good at washing, sloshing and scrubbing a basement restroom and secretly wishes to see the outside world. But he
finds out that once he is discarded life just isn’t what he thought it would be. But one day he is rescued by a friend and finds out that he can again be
helping out. The illustrations are a good addition to the story and I can see a class continuing the story from where it ends. And they lived happily
ever after???
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Telchin, Eric
TITLE: See a heart share a heart
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2012
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780803738942
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 1-5
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 38
Hearts can be found almost anywhere if one will only look and see, and according to Eric Talchin hearts bring love. This is a book of finding,
warming, losing, keeping and seeing hearts among so many other ways of experiencing hearts and therefore, love. The very simple text compliments
the beautiful photos that have been captured to reveal the hearts within. This is a beautiful book that will, hopefully, encourage seeing for all who
experience it. I love it!
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
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Thomas, Shelley Moore
TITLE: The Seven Tales of Trinket
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Farrar Straus Giroux  2012
PRICE: $ 16.99
ISBN: 9780374367459
INTEREST LEVEL: GR4th – 6th
ILLUSTRATOR: Dan Craig
PAGES: 369
When young Trinket loses her mother she decides to journey out to find the mystery of what happened to her father. He was a traveling bard who
disappeared 5 years prior. She, like him, has the storyteller blood running through her veins. Her travels have her meeting some very interesting
characters and journeying over mysterious lands. As a born storyteller, each one of these instances becomes part of her repertoire. Soon her
reputation begins preceding her arrival. But will she ever be able to solve the mystery of her disappearing father, and add that tale to her stock of
stories as well? This is a great medieval times read from a young travelers viewpoint.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
TITLE: Rancho Rabbit and the Coyote: A Migrant’s Tale
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2013
PRICE: $16.95
ISBN: 9781419705830
INTEREST LEVEL: Gr.1-Gr. 4
ILLUSTRATOR: Duncan Tonatiuh
PAGES: UNP
When Papa Rabbit does not return home as expected from many seasons of working in the great carrot and lettuce fields of El Norte, his son Pancho
sets out on a dangerous trek to find him, guided by a coyote. This story is based on a story of how families are smuggled into the U.S. by a coyote,
which is slang for a person who smuggles people between the U.S. and Mexican border. It reveals the worry that a Mexican family may face when a
family member is working illegally in the United States. The author has a wonderful author’s note at the back which gives amazing information
about the life of migrant workers. There is also a glossary which gives the English definition for the Spanish words used in the story. The difference
in the hand drawn illustrations and the collage is also a nice touch of differences. This would be a great discussion book in the study of migrant
workers in our country.
REVIEWER: Ginny Flegel, Beacon Hill Elementary
Van Zeveren, Michel
TITLE: That’s Mine
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Geccko 2013
PRICE: 17.95
ISBN: 9781877579271
INTEREST LEVEL: Pkdg-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Michel Van Zeveren
PAGES: Unpaged
The jungle animals all want to believe the egg they find is theirs. When the egg gets knocked into the air, it lands on elephant’s head giving him a
lump. The frightened animals, not wanting to face elephant’s anger, decide the egg belongs to frog. The surprise ending is sure to be a hit. The
illustrations by the Belgium Mr. Van Zeveren are a pleasant reminder of Leo Lionni and Paul Galdone.
Reviewer: Carol Steen, Columbia Valley Gardens Elementary
Tonatiuh, Duncan
Vernon, Ursula
TITLE: Dragonbreath, when fairies go bad
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Dial Books, 2012
PRICE: $12.99
ISBN: 9780803736788
INTEREST LEVEL: GR 3-7
ILLUSTRATOR:
PAGES: 201
Danny Dragonbreath is in many ways an ordinary dragon, but he finds himself in extraordinary circumstances. His mother disappears after a
mysterious ring of glowing mushrooms appears in their backyard while his father is away on business. Danny must rescue his mother the fairies. He
calls upon his very good friends, Wendall and Christiana, to help solve the mystery of the disappearing mom, and along with some great advice from
his grandfather, they travel into the land of the fairies where the rules are drastically different than those of our own. When Fairies Go Bad is a fun
read that will appeal to those readers that like graphic novels as well as those that like quirky reads. I would highly recommend this book for any
elementary library.
Reviewer: Angie Boyer-Blum, Carrolls Elementary School
Walker, Sally M.
TITLE: Studying Soil
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publications Company, 2013
PRICE: $20.95
ISBN: 9781467700238
INTEREST LEVEL: 3rd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: NA
PAGES: 40
You’ll receive a complex look at all aspects of soil in this book. Learning what it is, how it forms and what it looks like, while also discovering the
various layers and how to take care of it are all covered. There are several labeled pictures and diagrams which help when one is learning about this
topic.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
TITLE: Mike’s Mystery
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Albert Whitman & Company  1960 & 1988
PRICE: $ 5.99
ISBN: 9780807551417
INTEREST LEVEL: GR2nd – 4th
ILLUSTRATOR: Dirk Gringhuis
PAGES: 128
When the Alden children go to visit their Aunt Jane on Mystery Ranch, they find a mystery right away! Their friend Mike is being accused of setting
a fire that resulted in his family’s house burning down. While the children are helping their friend’s family relocate and start up a pie business to get
back on their feet financially, they are hard at work looking for clues and answers to the fire and other mysterious happenings out at the local
uranium mine. This is a re-covering of the original 1960 publication, so while the cover looks updated, the illustrations inside are the original line
drawings, which might be surprising to a reader who picks up the book by looking at the cover alone. The story is still engaging, though some of the
wording and phrasing are old-fashioned.
REVIEWER: Jill Buccola, Olympic Elementary School
Warner, Gertrude Chandler
34
TITLE: Harlem’s Little Blackbird
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Random House, 2012
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780375969737
INTEREST LEVEL: K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: Christian Robinson
PAGES: 30
What a blessing a single voice can be, however when that voice is combined with a sea of voices calling out it can be very powerful. This story is of
a single voice of Florence Mills. Florence Mills was an African-American jazz singer that lived in New York where she preformed until her death in
1927. She was a powerful voice in her community giving to those that were poor or less fortunate and also lending to her voice to the causes in her
community such as civil rights. While she has never been recorded she is known for her amazing voice and is called the “Harlem Jazz Queen.” The
illustrations are very colorful and bright. Young children really enjoy this type of biography.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Watson, Renee
Whitley, David
TITLE: The Canticle of Whispers
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Roaring Brook Press, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9781596436152
INTEREST LEVEL: Grades 5-8
ILLUSTRATOR: N/A
PAGES: 387
The Agora Trilogy book 3. Mark and Lily have been separated and after her father’s death, Lily descends the stairs under the Cathedral of the Lost
and finds herself in the underground caverns of the land of Naru. Naru is very different than life above ground and she learns that the all-knowing
Oracle resides there and the people of Naru are her caretakers. Meanwhile, Mark has found his way back to the almshouse inside Agora and finds
that Agora is on the brink of civil war and needs to locate Lily. Lily’s joy turns to sorrow when she learns that the Oracle is her long lost mother and
no longer truly remembers her. Eventually Lily and Mark learn that their whole society was an experiment that appears to have been abandoned by
its creators and that they truly do have the power to recreate their home. This conclusion to the trilogy pulled the overall story together, but was filled
with lots of “telling” about the past and what had happened to create their society, rather than the characters actually experiencing it. Readers of the
first two installments will want to read its conclusion.
REVIEWER: Debby Iverson, Coweeman Middle School
Winter, Jonah
TITLE: You never heard of Willie Mays?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Schwartz & Wade Books, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780375868443
INT. LEV: gr. 3
PAGES: <32>
Willie Mays play baseball on his dad’s mill team at age 14 and was the better player. At fifteen he played pro ball with the
Negro Leagues for the Birmingham Black Barons. In 1951 at age 20 he signed with the NY Giants and was named Rookie
of the Year and later reported to be 2nd in RBI’s only to Hank Aaron. He was known for his strong throwing arm putting
out an all-time record of 7095 players in his career. He was ranked first in Gold Gloves and first in 24 all-star games. He
is in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. The illustrations are acrylic, but the eye-catching holographic cover with
Mays swinging the bat is grabbing.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
TITLE: You never heard of Willie Mays?
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Schwartz & Wade Books, 2013
PRICE: $17.99
ISBN: 9780375868443
INT. LEV: gr. 3
PAGES: <32>
Willie Mays play baseball on his dad’s mill team at age 14 and was the better player. At fifteen he played pro ball with the
Negro Leagues for the Birmingham Black Barons. In 1951 at age 20 he signed with the NY Giants and was named Rookie
of the Year and later reported to be 2nd in RBI’s only to Hank Aaron. He was known for his strong throwing arm putting
out an all-time record of 7095 players in his career. He was ranked first in Gold Gloves and first in 24 all-star games. He
is in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. The illustrations are acrylic, but the eye-catching holographic cover with
Mays swinging the bat is grabbing.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
ILLUSTRATOR: Terry Wide
Winter, Jonah
Worth, Valerie
TITLE: Pug and other animal poems
PUBLISHER: Margaret Ferguson Books, 2013
ISBN: 9780374350246
ILLUSTRATOR: Steve Jenkins
Short poems about animals with fantastic illustrations in graphic form fill this great book.
REVIEWER: Debbie Johnson, Wallace Elementary School, Kelso, WA
ILLUSTRATOR: Terry Wide
RATING: R
PRICE: $16.99
INT. LEV:gr2
PAGES:<36>
Wyeth, Sharon Dennis
TITLE: The Granddaughter Necklace
RATING: RPUBLISHER: Arthur A. Levine Books, 2013
PRICE: $
ISBN: 9780545081252
INTEREST LEVEL: 2nd-5th
ILLUSTRATOR: Ibatoulline, Bagram
PAGES: 27
The Granddaughter Necklace is a lovely story based on a family tradition of handing down a crystal necklace from mother to daughter. The story
starts in the present day and follows the necklace back through many generations and tells not only the story of why the gift was given, but the story
of the family as well. I enjoyed this very much. The stories of bravery and kindness are inspiring. Told simply for even younger students to
understand, it makes me want to start a tradition of my own.
Reviewer: Rhonda Lowe, Castle Rock Elementary
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Yaccarino, Dan
TITLE: Doug Unplugged
RATING: R
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2013
PRICE: $16.99
ISBN: 9780375966439
INTEREST LEVEL: pre-K-2nd
ILLUSTRATOR: same
PAGES: 31
Doug is a robot that goes to school by plugging in and downloading information. However, can you really understand the world by plugging in?
Doug sees something that catches his eye and he decides to unplug. Doug unplugs and travels the city until he finds a little boy that reminds him that
a hug means that you love someone and he rushes home to show his love. The illustrations are colorful but sparse with a very computer feel to the
story which enforces the computer robot them.
REVIEWER: Tyra K~Smith, LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP
Zemlicka, Shannon
TITLE: From Iron to Car
RATING: A
PUBLISHER: Lerner Publications, 2013
PRICE: $17.95
ISBN: 9780761391821
INTEREST LEVEL: K-3rd
ILLUSTRATOR: Various Photographers
PAGES: 24
Using a simple dual reader approach, this book tells the step-by-step process of iron ore becoming a car using bold sentences on each page.
Additional information is given underneath the bolded section which helps the reader to understand the process at a deeper level. Pictures
compliment each stage of this production.
Reviewer: Nikki Williams, Castle Rock Elementary
36