A companion novel to Life After Life, this one, which focuses on Teddy, Ursula Todd's younger brother and bomber pilot during WII. It's just as good aA companion novel to Life After Life, this one, which focuses on Teddy, Ursula Todd's younger brother and bomber pilot during WII. It's just as good as the previous one since it features cameos from various members of the Todd family as well as the next two generations. There is quite a lot of description of his flying missions and his fondness for nature. In some ways, Teddy is quite extraordinary and even a hero, but in others he will remind readers of themselves and some of their own family members. Most notably, as happens so often, Teddy's life doesn't turn out the way he might have hoped and expected. It's so clear that he and everyone else, no matter how privileged or without privilege, has dreams and ambitions, but what happens when those dreams evaporate or seem out of reach through no fault of one's own? So much happened during the twentieth century, and the author has given readers a window seat into one ordinary man's journey through the decades. As I read this one, I felt incredibly sad about Teddy's relationship with his daughter, Viola, who never really bonded with him or her own two children, but I also felt grateful that Teddy had a strong relationship with her offspring. The book contains so many well developed, interesting characters that it's likely some readers will feel bereft when they reach those final pages. ...more
Ah, Andrew Clements, how many wonderful stories have you given us, most notably and unforgettably, Frindle? I don't want to say too much about this seAh, Andrew Clements, how many wonderful stories have you given us, most notably and unforgettably, Frindle? I don't want to say too much about this sequel for fear of spoiling it for other readers, but suffice it to say that in its own way it's just as satisfying as its predecessor. The protagonist, Josh Willet loves all things tech and is a serious gamer. He doesn't understand why homework in this ELA class must be handwritten or why word choice is so important. When he stumbles upon a secret about Mr. N, his teacher, the game and the hunt are on. But who's hunting whom? Fans of Strunk and White's The Elements of Style will sigh over every word. Those of us who love writing will nod knowingly at the importance of language, learning to express oneself clearly and precisely, and critical thinking. With pen-and-ink drawings from the always spot-on Brian Selznick, this one is sure to be a classic and have just as much appeal as Frindle. I'd suggest reading that one first, though, to get the full emotional impact of both books. ...more
This futuristic novel might appeal to teen or middle grade readers who think they don't like science fiction. As other reviewers have said, reading itThis futuristic novel might appeal to teen or middle grade readers who think they don't like science fiction. As other reviewers have said, reading it really is downright scary since the events described in it due to climate change or global warming and the poor stewardship of humans seem increasingly likely. Don't be fooled by the book's title. The story is nothing like what most folks will have read before. Tasmania, where the story is set, is in bad shape. The narration shifts between two girls who have never met but have quite a lot in common. Both are about to be displaced, one due to impending ecological disaster and the other one due to bullying and the need to start fresh. Readers won't realize at first that the girls are separated by decades: It's 2093 in Nyx's story, and 2023 in Bea's vows, When Nyx pours out her anguish about the future on a scrap of paper that she hides in a tall pine tree near her home, her words are read by Bea, who responds through a notebook. Improbably, a friendship forms between the two girls, and Bea is determined to somehow help Nyx even though she knows that others will doubt her and make fun of her. For such a short book, this one packs quite an emotional wallop and will make many readers think how close this sort of a future may be. I liked it much more than I expected to....more
While the romantics among us already know it, even cynics will believe that love can happen anywhere, even in a library in an internment camp during WWhile the romantics among us already know it, even cynics will believe that love can happen anywhere, even in a library in an internment camp during WWII, after reading this picture book. Based on true events and the author's own grandparents' experiences in Minidoka, the book describes the conditions at the camp and the slow blossoming of a relationship between Tama, who worked at the library there, and George, who patronized it, checking out book after book. But while literacy and getting lost in the stories was Tama's motivation for reading, George had other motives. Tama made note of George's constancy and his many positive attributes, and they fell in love and eventually married despite the bleakness of the camp and the unfairness of their situation. This beautifully written, tender story of hope amid despair and injustice unfolds slowly like a fresh spring blossom. These lines are particularly moving: "To fall in love is already a gift. But to fall in love in a place like Minidoka, a place built to make people feel like they weren't human--that was miraculous. That was humans doing what humans did best" (unpaged). If readers can keep in mind the optimistic attitude that this couple had that things would get better and that there is always hope, what a better world this would be. The gouache and watercolor illustrations depicting the camp are exquisite, filled with detail and somber colors offset by bright touches such as the plaid in George's shirt or the pink blush that spreads across Tama's face. I appreciate how the text and illustrations don't romanticize the camp conditions or make excuses for how the Japanese-Americans were treated during this time, raising important questions for readers who may see similarities between then and now. This is an excellent addition to a classroom library about racism, prejudices or American history. ...more
While this attractive picture book's topic might be familiar [facing things that are new and somewhat frightening], its approach with an affirming manWhile this attractive picture book's topic might be familiar [facing things that are new and somewhat frightening], its approach with an affirming mantra and its unusual, striking artwork makes it refreshingly different. The use of tissue paper that has been collaged in Photoshop adds movement, texture, and interest to the illustrations of youngsters facing the typical fears. such as going on stage, taking a test, diving into deep water, getting a shot, even volunteering an answer in class. And throughout the text, readers keep seeing that comforting mantra, "YOU'VE GOT THIS" (unpaged), three words that have the power to motivate them and keep them going. Lest readers think that trying will always lead to success, an attitude that seems so prevalent these days, the final two pages assure them that even when they don't succeed, their loved ones have their back and still love them. Books such as this one encourage risk taking and facing fears head on, teaching resilience. ...more
As Banned Book Week begins once again, this middle-grade novel [3.5 for me1!] set in Shipton, Massachusetts couldn't be more appropriate as a read aloAs Banned Book Week begins once again, this middle-grade novel [3.5 for me1!] set in Shipton, Massachusetts couldn't be more appropriate as a read aloud or part of that celebration of the Right to Read. Eighth grade Molly Claremont and some of her friends have found a safe space in an extracurricular book club at school that is run by Ms. Lewiston. But a complaint causes the book club to be put on hiatus and Ms. Lewiston to face possible reprisals. Molly wants to push back, but she becomes obsessed about learning who complained about the books the club has been reading. She also reaches out to the author of the gay-themed book that was questioned, but the response is disappointing. Eventually, the group starts an online Read Or Die Stupid account that garners attention, and Molly faces and ethical dilemma after stumbling on some evidence that reveals who complained about the club. I enjoyed this one a lot, even though at times Molly was a bit misguided as was Ms. Lewiston, which makes the story all the more realistic. Because it is the students themselves that take things in their own hands rather than adults solving their problems, it was refreshing to see such empowered, enlightened, and aware middle graders. ...more
With the conflict in Gaza and unrest in Palestine continuing after months of attempts at peace talks, this picture book couldn't be timelier. And for With the conflict in Gaza and unrest in Palestine continuing after months of attempts at peace talks, this picture book couldn't be timelier. And for those individuals who see no relevance in that particular conflict, this story speaks to the healing power of community, resilience, and the importance of planting seeds of hope. After learning about all that olive trees give to her grandfather and his neighbors, the narrator is excited to plant olive seeds and watch for a tree to grow. Of course, this takes time, and she becomes disheartened. When small bits of green become visible, she nurtures it carefully and is devastated when soldiers march through the land and crush its tender leaves. Understanding her grief, her grandfather reaches out to their neighbors who have a surprise for the girl the next day. A message of resilience and strength in the face of adversity is included on the last page as the girl and elderly man embrace among all that greenery. The brief Author's Note reinforces this notion. Rendered in Procreate, the digital illustrations consist of muted tones of brown and olive as well as blacks, greens, and touches of blush pink in a variety of pages, some full-page images, some panels, some spot art, and even a few impressive double-page spreads with paths winding across them. The way the soldiers are depicted with only the lower parts of their bodies and no faces, just military attire, guns, and thick-soled boots supports the notion that there's an anonymity to war and a lack of regard for its consequences. This is an impressive, moving debut that may make readers reflect deeply about conflict, war, peace, and the future. Surely, aggression and violence are not the only way forward. ...more
So many youngsters need to read this encouraging picture book [3.5 for me!] with its positive and practical message. Despite our best efforts, there sSo many youngsters need to read this encouraging picture book [3.5 for me!] with its positive and practical message. Despite our best efforts, there simply are going to be times when we fall or fail. The illustrations, created with gouache and colored pencils, follow a bear cub who watches as an older bear mounts a tree and munches on some delicious purple plums. As much as the cub longs for that fruit, it has fears of falling from the tree branches. There's a double-page spread consisting solely of the cub's neck and head leaning upward, but not able to try yet. The cub's mother reassures her baby that all of those expressed concerns might happen, but they won't matter in the end. Finally, the cub climbs the tree, scoots along a branch in order to reach a plum even though the branch looks fragile and probably won't hold its weight. Next thing it knows, it has fallen to the ground, but the cub is still okay despite the fall, and picks itself back up, climbs again, and enjoys a snack right alongside its mother. Yes, there was risk involved but not so much that anything too bad could happen, and look at what the cub's reward was. This might be a good read aloud choice that would prompt a rather fruitful discussion about risk-taking. ...more
Interesting graphic images of various hues complement a little-known story about freedom of speech and expression. While many individuals think about Interesting graphic images of various hues complement a little-known story about freedom of speech and expression. While many individuals think about book, movies or art when they consider censorship or First Amendment issues, music and even the name of a band can also stir controversy. As Banned Books Week approaches and many of us contemplate what the Right to Read or the ability to honor multiple points of view means, this might be a good picture book [3.5 for me!] to share with students to prompt discussion of the topic and what it means to try to reclaim certain words that have been used in a disparaging way in the past. Aware of the way some racists used a phrase such as "slanted eyes" to demean Asians, Simon Tam forms a band, names them The Slants, but isn't allowed to register the name because the United States Patent and Trademark Office considered it be racist. Simon decides to fight the decision, leading to an eight-year battle that goes all the way to the Supreme Court, which eventually ruled in his favor. I had never heard of this case or this band, but the story was intriguing and inspiring. Lyrics from "From the Heart," the band's response to the band's fight for their name are included in the back matter and inserted throughout the main narrative. ...more
Sadie and her grandmother have a shared love for art and an appreciation for Jewish culture, two areas about which Grandma teaches her granddaughter. Sadie and her grandmother have a shared love for art and an appreciation for Jewish culture, two areas about which Grandma teaches her granddaughter. She has listened intently and taken in what her grandmother shared about chai and the number 18, and as time for her grandmother to graduate from college nears, Sadie wants to give her a meaningful gift. She makes several attempts, first using a lilac stem as a stamp to paint designs on a paper, then pressing dandelions, and using buttons as parts of flowers, but none of them quite right or special enough for a gift for Grandma. Inspiration strikes when she hears her grandmother remark about the variety of flowers while at a wedding celebration. Finally, Sadie knows what to do, and she comes up with quite a bouquet of 18 flowers that use all of her art supplies. The mixed media illustrations support this charming story about the connection between generations, the importance of one's culture and traditions, and the joy of creative expression. For some, the story may seem a bit too long, but the length allows readers to watch Sadie struggle with what she's going to give to her grandmother, not being successful on the first or even second attempt, which is certainly a good example for many youngsters....more
Drama between the scions of the Carver Nuts and Dark Delights Chocolate factories is at the heart of this amusing and somewhat empowering picture bookDrama between the scions of the Carver Nuts and Dark Delights Chocolate factories is at the heart of this amusing and somewhat empowering picture book that resembles a comic book. Benjamin Carver III (also known as Mr. Smarty Pants), a genius who is allergic to peanuts, has used his ingenuity to invent devices that help him cope with that problem. But the two rivals clash when Dark Midnight (also known as Deon) steals his special factory book, and Mr. Smarty Pants calls for help from his friends. We need more Black and Brown protagonists who are intelligent and determined like this one, but some of the humor falls flat, some of the character motivation lacking, and the artwork detracted from my appreciation of the story, leaving it a 2.5 for me. Still, youngsters will see themselves in this character and even the peanut allergies as well as finding the book a quick read, which makes me happy to see it published. This one is a 2.5 for me....more
This one is a 3.5 for me. Eighteen-year-old Gita Desai has big plans for her future, and going premed at Stanford is just the start of reaching her goThis one is a 3.5 for me. Eighteen-year-old Gita Desai has big plans for her future, and going premed at Stanford is just the start of reaching her goals. Although she loves her Gujarati-Indian parents, she has resisted their efforts to broker an arranged marriage, and she embraces the freedom college offers. A hard-working, efficient student, she and her older brother Sai have been taught to chup-re [shut up], not argue, and fade into the background. For somewhat vague reasons other than shared musical tastes on the part of Jane, who lives across the hall in the dorm, Jane and Marisol, a model, take her under their wings. Gita finds herself drinking, hung over, having casual sex, and emotionally distracted. While there's nothing inherently wrong with having multiple sex partners, she doesn't always know their names or consent to the activity, somehow unable to say, "No" or to ask them to stop. As she stumbles from one bad experience after another, her performance at the lab where she works suffers as do her grades--at least temporarily. She also experiences flashbacks to similar instances when she was just a child, but since her Pinky Aunty is no longer in California, she isn't sure what they mean, other than that she has been taught to respect and never say no to adults. With support from various friends, including Jane, Marisol, and Sora, who works in the same lab, Gita finally finds her voice and stands up for herself. Despite/Because of this book's subject matter, reading it is an intense experience, not for the faint of heart. Even with possible cultural differences and the time period [1992, complete with the appropriate musical references], this is a story in which many of us will be able to see ourselves, quiet, compliant girls whose silence poses a danger to their well-being. There is much to like about this book, especially the development of Gita as a character and how she grows, and her wonderfully supportive brother, but I wondered how she possibly managed to make A's in her courses, including Organic Chemistry, with all her extracurricular activities, and all that partying and those hangovers. I also wondered how Gita's story might have been different or stayed the same had the book been set in 2024. How much have things changed? This one is definitely worth a read. ...more
Rooted in Mexican folklore, this middle grade novel is filled with heart as well as important reflections on love, loss, and grief. I don't want to saRooted in Mexican folklore, this middle grade novel is filled with heart as well as important reflections on love, loss, and grief. I don't want to say too much for fear of spoiling it for others, but I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the narrator's world as well as Floresta, the magical realm where she journeys in order to save her brother, Alex, and her own world. The author hints at the origin of all the sickness in ten-year-old Lola's world as various plants and even Alex are growing sicker by the hour and becoming gray, but it's only late in the book that readers actually realize the truth. It's typical for families and young people to refer to traumatic events in euphemistic words or phrases. For Lola, it is The Thing That Happened, and her brother has never been the same since that time. When an oracle tells her what the cure might be, she follows one of the chaneques through a portal in her closet that leads to another land. The parallels between what's happening in both worlds is interesting since Lola finds it almost impossible to accept what she needs to do in order for Alex to get well. The world building here is astonishingly detailed, filled with magical flora and fauna and all sorts of transformations that will make some readers wish that they, too, could visit Floresta. For many, the passages about letting go vs. holding on and acknowledging the death doesn't mean the end may be eye-opening and comforting. There's a dreamlike, almost hypnotic quality to the prose here that makes readers homesick for the magical land where Lola traveled. The book contains several black and white sketches, some I liked more than others. ...more
When Little Wolf's siblings tease her about her meager howl that sounds like a whistle, she's embarrassed and leaves the pack, determined to show themWhen Little Wolf's siblings tease her about her meager howl that sounds like a whistle, she's embarrassed and leaves the pack, determined to show them just how fierce she is. After all, she doesn't consider being called cute a compliment. Following a butterfly leads her into unfamiliar territory, and she ends up completely lost. She tries to rely on her mother's advice about what to do when she gets lost, but she gets some conflicting advice from other animals along the way. A whale, a goose, a bear, and an owl offer assistance in different ways. Using everything she learned from Whale, Goose, and Bear, she harkens to her mother's howl and howls right back until she's right where she belongs, safe in the bosom of her family, having found her voice and proved to herself that she can survive on her own. The rich colors in the artwork pay tribute to the land where the wolves and other animals live as well as showcasing Little Wolf's personality and the friendly, kind animals who offer assistance to her. ...more
The elegant, lyrical text in this picture book biography about an influential picture book illustrator soars above present-day circumstances, somehow The elegant, lyrical text in this picture book biography about an influential picture book illustrator soars above present-day circumstances, somehow lifting readers' spirits as they consider life's possibilities and the importance of leaving the world more beautiful. In today's tumultuous, fractured times, what could be more important? How wonderful to have such a visually stunning homage to this talented storyteller and winner of two of the early Caldecott [1959, 1980] prizes! I wish the students in my previous years' Children's Literature courses could have had this tribute to hard work, respect for all living things, and being true to oneself, even in one's artistic endeavors. Interestingly, as with Frida Kahlo, it is when she is ill and bedridden that some inspiration comes. The biography also functions as a brief glimpse into the history of picture books and publishing since it was only when she was creating the images for Chanticleer and the Fox that she is allowed to use five different colors for her work. It's noteworthy just how stunning those images are, even compared with modern printing techniques and liberal use of color. The author often refers to her love for color even while describing how necessity forces her to "scratch away in black and white" (unpaged) and uses evocative phrases such as "a landscape that looks like a lullaby" (unpaged) to describe what she sees when she travels to faraway places. And oh, that sumptuous, beautiful double-page spread filled with blues, purples, and greens as water and land meet as she looks on! Preceded as it is by those powerful lines on the previous page, it takes on even more emotional power, leaving readers to contemplate their own brief times on earth: "A life is more than a timeline, dates set down in black and white. There are harsh winters and soft springs, tides that follow the moon, rivers that flow to the sea.... Books close, then open again. We do not always know the next story" (unpaged). The illustrations in this particular book, created with gouache and brimming with nature's beauty, capture her love for art, light, and color. This is an impressive and essential collection for any collection devoted to artists or storytellers. ...more
It has been acknowledged that life is filled with little adventures and small moments that add up to grand experiences and take on significance over tIt has been acknowledged that life is filled with little adventures and small moments that add up to grand experiences and take on significance over time, and this picture book [3.5 for me!] is a good example of that. With carefully chosen words and illustrations that almost need no words, author/illustrator Peter Carnavas tells the oh, so relatable story of six explorers who mount an expedition during the summer heat on August 20. The specificity of their mission--to deliver a parcel--contrasts with the fact that many youngsters like these spend their summer days in a similar fashion. Led by Robert, each member has a responsibility, even Floyd, the dog. Things start off well; the crew has water and a map, and they are eager and fresh to travel. But one by one, members drop off for various reasons, leaving only two explorers to complete their journey. The illustrations are priceless, especially the double-page spread in which the survivors survey the terrain over which they've just passed. It surely took them a long time to travel such a short distance. This picture book needs to be read whenever someone needs a pick-me-up. It left me with a grin on my face at just how well Carnavas knows youngsters. ...more
Almost thirty years after the events described in this particular book, the narrator reflects on the year [1972] she spent in Ashiya, Japan, while herAlmost thirty years after the events described in this particular book, the narrator reflects on the year [1972] she spent in Ashiya, Japan, while her mother works and studies back home in Tokyo. Twelve-year-old Tomoko, the narrator, is impressed by her new dwelling place--a mansion with many rooms--and a pygmy hippopotamus named Pochiko, the beloved pet of her cousin, Mina, once part of a local zoo with a train that transported passengers throughout the area. Mina has asthma and often becomes sick, and the girls become quite close, sharing secrets, dreaming, and weaving stories. Mina collects matchboxes with unique artwork on the cover, from which she draws inspiration for unique stories. Tomoko envies her in many respects as she is far more intellectual, philosophical, and well read than she is but also much less worldly. The author includes many details about the family's simple pleasures and their unique personalities, and over the months, Tomoko starts to wonder about her handsome uncle's frequent absences and her aunt's obsession with finding errors in text, including the coverage of the 1972 Olympics. The girls are preoccupied by volleyball, a sport neither one can play, and root for the Japanese team to take the gold medal. It's interesting to note that while much of what I've described seems rather commonplace, there's a mesmerizing quality to this author's writing and so many abundant details that readers feel immersed in this place and time, coming to care about these girls and their family, even while noting hints of unease and a looming sense that all is not as well as it might seem. Other reviewers have called this a "jewel box of a story," and I would agree since it presents various tiny treasures for readers' senses, nestled in small velvet partitions of their own, some more delectable than others. Certain objects from our past--a hair ribbon, a photo, a note--may have little significance to others, but to us, as we sift through them from the perspective of time passed--remind us of what once was and who we ourselves once were, a concept captured beautifully here. Minutes, hours, days, and years pass, and as this story demonstrates, nothing stays the same, no matter how much we may wish that to be so, and no matter how hard we try to make it so. To say much more would only spoil readers' appreciation for this book, whose pleasures deserve to be discovered on their own. ...more
Adele's plans for winter break are interrupted when she has her first menstrual period, and along with it comes the ability to see ghosts. As it turnsAdele's plans for winter break are interrupted when she has her first menstrual period, and along with it comes the ability to see ghosts. As it turns out, her family has kept this a secret, and now she's the latest medium in a long time of them. While her grandmother wants nothing to do with this particular ability, Adele starts to see its value, becoming immersed in community activism and trying to stop efforts to buy up properties and make it impossible for locals to afford housing in the neighborhood. There's a sweet budding romance between Helen, Adele's older sister, and another character, and the artwork captures the essence of Montreal with its icy streets, snow, and cafes. Fans of the Witches of Brooklyn series will probably enjoy this one as well since it features a medium and a snarky, self-confident protagonist in Adele while also saddling her with worries about her facial breakouts, just like any other middle-grader or adolescent. Part of the plot is over the top, but most readers won't mind. ...more
I'm certainly not the only reader who finds books written by this author to be just as addictive as Lay's Potato Chips. Just as with someone's inabiliI'm certainly not the only reader who finds books written by this author to be just as addictive as Lay's Potato Chips. Just as with someone's inability to stop at just one of these salty, greasy chips, it's hard to stop at the end of a chapter or two or three in this book, and before much time has passed, I find myself halfway through, thoroughly hooked and invested in the story and the characters. Although this one is a mystery of sorts, and it does contain some deaths, it's a departure from her usual fare since it focuses on a jewelry heist. Tidbits about the two narrators' lives are revealed gradually, allowing readers to get to know them slowly while also wondering just how trustworthy they are. Kat, who is savvy and quick to think on her feet, has been reared by her mother, Jamie, who works as a jewel thief and is ready to go straight after one more job. The other narrator, Liam, is fed up with Luke, his father, and how he takes advantage of women. Kat and Liam haven't had contact with each other since the quicky wedding between their parents, and their paths cross unexpectedly prior to Jamie's planned theft of an expensive ruby necklace, to be replaced by an imitation. Readers are unlikely to guess the outcome of all this plotting and conniving, and the conclusion will surprise most of them. There are several nifty twists and turns, and even a love connection between Liam and a member of the wealthy family at whose home the heist is supposed to occur. Parts of this book don't bear up to close examination, but reading it surely is fun. And most of us have met one or two of those "charming liars" over the course of our own lives, which makes it satisfying to watch them get put in their places. Fans of the Gallagher Girls series will enjoy this one. ...more
Returning to two characters first introduced in Liar's Beach--childhood friends Michael Linden and Holiday Proctor--this mystery set at prestigious HaReturning to two characters first introduced in Liar's Beach--childhood friends Michael Linden and Holiday Proctor--this mystery set at prestigious Harvard highlights the lengths some individuals will go to make the grade, often sacrificing the best in themselves and destroying others in the process. The writing is snappy, and some of the characters are untrustworthy, leading readers to point the finger of suspicion for the death of Bri, roommate of Greer, Linden's former and future girlfriend. The author plants subtle clues about what's going on, but they are easy to miss when distracted by other aspects of the story. While this one might not be as pleasing as its predecessor, it still provides a good read as well as contemplative passages about class privilege and fitting in. This one is a fast read too. ...more
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