Month: April 2020

FBI Files: Catching a Russian Spy

FBI Files: Catching a Russian SpyCatching a Russian Spy: Agent Leslie G. Wiser Jr. and the Case of Aldrich Ames by Bryan Denson
Published by Roaring Brook Press on January 21, 2020
ISBN: 1250199174
Pages: 176
Genres: Non-Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

This is the second in the FBI Files series chronicling some of the agency’s most notorious cases. This book follows the investigation and eventual capture of long-time CIA agent turned Russian spy, Aldrich H. “Rick” Ames. Ames was a high-level CIA agent when he began working for the KGB, and he betrayed the identities of dozens of undercover CIA agents resulting in the death of ten of those agents.

This book was extremely interesting. Denson gives enough detail without overwhelming or getting bogged down in minutiae. This writing is smooth, easy to follow, and flows well. The hardest part of this story is keeping track of all the players. Thankfully, a list of key characters is included at the beginning of the book for quick and easy reference. At the end of the book, there is a timeline of events, a glossary of spy terms, and further reading on the subject. This is a good middle grade nonfiction book recommended for 5th grade and up.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children

Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill ChildrenMother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children by Jonah Winter, Nancy Carpenter
Published by Schwartz & Wade Books on February 25, 2020
ISBN: 044981291X
Pages: 40
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Mother Jones noticed children working long, hard hours in mills for little pay, and this made her MAD! She harnessed her anger, and led many kids on a 14 day march to protest the unfair treatment of these child laborers. This crusade led to labor law reform and better treatment for workers.

Though this book looks like a picture book, it is definitely for older readers — probably 3rd grade and up. The descriptions of the working conditions for the children describe injuries and imply death at times. The story is well written and gives enough detail to teach children about this revolutionary and to excite budding activists. The illustrations vary from black and white to muted colors to depict the time period. They also give the sense of the dirt and grime experienced by the children working in the mills. This book would be best as a one-on-one share or for an older child to read; a recommended purchase for libraries where biographies are popular or in need of rejuvenation.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

Bones in the White House

Bones in the White House: Thomas Jefferson's Mammoth by Candice Ransom, Jamey Christoph
ISBN: 0525646078
Genres: Non-Fiction
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Thomas Jefferson was the 3rd President of the United States. He was also an avid fossil collector. This picture book sheds light on this often unknown side of Jefferson. Once he learned of large fossils present in the US, he was determined to collect as many bones as possible and to learn as much as possible about the mammals that once (or hopefully still) roamed our country.

This book was very interesting, and will be well received by budding scientists. The text is detailed but not so much as to bog down readers with too much information. The illustrations are colorful and fit well with the time period depicted in the book. There is additional information at the end of the book about Jefferson as well as about the fossils and includes suggestions for further reading. This book is best for 2nd grade and older readers. A recommended purchase for libraries where nonfiction picture books circulate well.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

Black is a Rainbow Color

Black is a Rainbow ColorBlack Is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy, Ekua Holmes
Published by Roaring Brook Press on January 14, 2020
ISBN: 1626726310
Pages: 40
Genres: Historical Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

An ode to Black culture, this book celebrates things that are black all around us. It begins with “…my color is black, and there’s no black in rainbows,” and continues to highlight so many things in life that are black. Black is a color. Black is a culture.

This book is a wonderful window into Black culture with many significant people and events mentioned despite the minimal text. The rhyming nature of the text will appeal to younger readers as will the colorful and expressive collage-style illustrations. Recommended for K-2 grade, this would be a great read aloud. It could be used with older students followed by a discussion about Black history and culture. A recommended purchase.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

The Runaway Princess

The Runaway PrincessThe Runaway Princess by Johan Troïanowski
Published by Random House Graphic on January 21, 2020
ISBN: 0593118405
Pages: 272
Genres: Adventure
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads
three-stars

A graphic novel in three stories. This is a collection of three adventures of Princess Robin involving kidnappers, witches, and pirates. She simply cannot resist adventure, much to her parents chagrin. This is a very quirky story with lots of twists, turns, and humor. The reader is also asked to participate by solving a puzzle, turning the book, etc. The heavily colored, high contrast illustrations are busy and detailed, and add additional context to the story. This book is best for 3rd-5th grade readers who enjoy adventure that isn’t too scary and that has a bit of wit and humor.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

three-stars

The Luckiest Snowball

The Luckiest SnowballThe Luckiest Snowball by Elliot Kreloff
Published by Holiday House on September 10, 2019
ISBN: 0823441059
Pages: 40
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Izzy meets Larry sounds like a preteen romance.  Actually, Izzy is a rambunctious child enjoying a winter day in the snow who makes friends with a snowball.  The storyline is very unique but it works in this four-season concept book for early graders.  Larry the snowball spends a total of one year in the family freezer however he takes day trips out to greet the arrival of each season.  Readers will not miss Larry’s many expressions as well as his cries for help.

The illustrations are cute and very detailed.  Readers will notice the dog’s jacket in winter, flowers in spring, ocean animals in summer, and the fall leaves.  It just might be that the fruits and veggies, pops and turkey inside the refrigerator are more interesting but it all speaks to the change of seasons.  Early education professionals will want this book in primary school media centers as it has STEM and literacy sections in the back. Teachers would love a copy in their pre K – grade 1 classrooms    Public libraries who collect concept books should consider the purchase.  The Luckiest Snowball is also good for nursery schools where playing in the snow is a winter activity.

four-stars

Forever; I Love You Forever

Forever; I Love You ForeverForever by Emma Dodd
Published by Templar Books on September 3, 2019
ISBN: 1536208124
Pages: 22
Genres: Animals
Format: Board Book
Goodreads
four-stars

Forever, I love you forever.

This specific Emma Dodd book is prefect for the current time in history as the world deals with the covid 19 epidemic.   Dodd offers short statements of loving and reassuring  truths that are intended to sooth bear cubs and little humans regardless of their concern or fear.   Like all her previous animal books, the illustrations are lovely in their simplicity and the colors are surprising, especially in the night sky.  Though we do not know if this is a male or female adult bear the loving assurance of a parent is clear.

The entire collection of Dobb’s work is perfect as baby shower gifts, and early birthday gifts.  All humans need to hear they are loved and that their parents are available.  I only wish it was true for all little ones.  Grandparents find this series especially fetching.

Add this to public libraries, allow the corners to be chewed and the covers  drooled upon.

four-stars

Dibs

DibsDibs! by Laura Gehl, Marcin Piwowarski
Published by Carolrhoda Books (R) on May 7, 2019
ISBN: 1512465321
Pages: 32
Genres: Humor
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
three-stars

It is true that brothers do not always share well but “Dibs” brings new meaning to sibling rivalry.  Julian seems determined to not allow his baby brother any leeway;  while Clancy is learning the meaning of “dibs” and the associated behavior.   This book is silly enough to make adults dispense with reality in order to get into the mood.   While little brother manages to get 100% of his way and leaves the earth big brother realizes his loss.

The illustrations are eye catching and seem to represent Washington DC.  Colors are an attractive blend of light and dark surrounded by ample white space for little brother readers.  Early reader l big brothers will appreciate the large font and simple text.  Gift this to families with a new addition and consider for public libraries to encourage sharing.

three-stars

Christmas Cheer for The Grouchy Ladybug

Christmas Cheer for The Grouchy LadybugChristmas Cheer for The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
Published by HarperCollins on September 17, 2019
ISBN: 0062932268
Pages: 32
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Eric Carle has blended characters and illustrations from previous works making this a special Christmas book.   The art work is consistent with his lifelong collection of illustrations;  it is colorful, bold and identifiable.   Having recently learned of Carle’s death I will treasure this book and purchase a copy for my soon to be born grandchild.

An excellent gift book for Christian families with preschool age children.   Kindergarten teachers will welcome a copy in their class collections as the print is large and perfect for early learners.  Public libraries will want to add this to their Eric Carle storybook shelf.

four-stars

A Castle in the Clouds

A Castle in the CloudsA Castle in the Clouds by Kerstin Gier, Romy Fursland
Published by Henry Holt & Company on January 28, 2020
ISBN: 1250300193
Pages: 336
Genres: Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Mystery, theft, romance, kidnapping — what’s not to like? Sophie Sparks is an intern at a hotel in the Swiss Alps with a long history and lots of traditions. Between babysitting the children of the wealthy guests, determining if the dreamy guy who just arrived is really who he says he is, and keeping an eye out for a serial kidnapper, there’s never a dull moment for Sophie.

Through the large cast of characters, this book has it a lot to offer. It’s an entertaining read with interesting characters and an engaging plot. Recommended for 9th grade and up.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars