Category: Book Reviews

So Many Questions

So Many QuestionsSo Many Questions: A Picture Book about Family, Immigration, and the US Citizenship Test for Kids (Ages 4-8) by Belen Medina, Heidi Moreno
ISBN: 0063258951
Genres: Cultural / Latin America, Family Life, Immigrants
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Sandwiched between 128 practice questions and their answers is Belen Medina’s sweet story of a girl who helps her abuela study for the US citizenship test and ultimately become a citizen. Anita is always ready to help her abuela, whether at home, in the neighborhood, at the market, or even at the bakery. Wherever they go, she peppers her grandmother with practice questions for the US citizenship test – and Abuela answers every single one correctly. These are the same questions that readers can pore over in the endpapers of the book, which opens with 128 real USCIS practice questions for the citizenship test, and concludes with the corresponding answers. Finally, Abuela is ready to take the test, going in to the interview alone. Here Medina (Emilia Wishing, 2026) includes the lightest of indications that the process of becoming a US citizen is not always quite as straightforward and fair as answering test questions correctly, as Anita worries that Abuela’s accent will be scrutinized by her interviewer. “’Speak English please,’ others often instruct Abuela.”

But today fairness and persistence prevail! Abuela passes, and the glistening tears in her eyes effectively show the emotional weight of this moment. Heidi Moreno’s gentle rounded illustrations created from guache, colored pencils, and wax crayon underscore the sweetness of Anita and Abuela’s bond and the warmth of this major milestone. The author’s note and dedication reveal that the story is inspired by Medina’s grandmother, who became a US citizen after living in the states for 50 years. Spanish words are scattered throughout, indicating that the family is Latine. A warm hug celebrating persistence, family, and citizenship. A fantastic pairing with Leo’s First Vote by Christina Soontornvat and Some of Us by Rajani Larocca.

Reviewed by Carolyn Gallmeyer, Lithgow Public Library, Augusta

four-stars

Sage and the Snowshoe Express

Sage and the Snowshoe ExpressSage and the Snowshoe Express by Louise Bradford, Maya McKibbin
ISBN: 1525312960
Genres: Cultural / First Nations, Cultural / Indigenous, Family, Historical Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

Sage and the Snowshoe Express by Louise Bradford, member of the Batchewana First Nation, is a picture book that honors the author’s ancestor, an Indigenous mail carrier. In a time when there were few threads binding together disparate villages of northern Canada, mail carriers didn’t just deliver letters and packages; they kept families and loved ones connected, even in the darkness of northern winters. When her father leaves a package behind on his mail run, young Sage races into the woods after him to deliver it. By the time she catches up, a storm is threatening and she cannot go back. Sage must brave the dark and dangerous journey alongside her father and beloved sled dog Nimoosh.

Illustrations by Maya McKibbin are warm and engaging, deftly toggling comic moments with dangerous ones. Sage and her father feel like the kinds of people you might meet anywhere, yet they demonstrate the kind of wisdom and determination that feels extraordinary.

Recommended for school and public libraries, and a delightful addition to any unit dealing with Canada, northern climates, First Nations and Indigenous Peoples, community, or the bond between fathers and daughters.

Reviewed by Beth Almquist, Lewiston Public Library

four-stars

Buried Feelings

Buried FeelingsBuried Feelings by Kit Rosewater
Published by Delacorte Romance on July 7, 2026
ISBN: 9798217033027
Pages: 342
Genres: LGBTQ+, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Format: Young Adult
Goodreads
two-stars

Kit Rosewater’s Buried Feelings follows high school junior and self-identified lesbian Ivy as she wields development of the school yearbook for her own personal portfolio and ropes her yearbook crew into completing a childhood treasure hunt sooner than her former best friend/rival/fellow “queer royalty” and maybe crush Cam, all while ignoring her romantic feelings for Cam, who is a trans boy. 

The most entertaining part is easily the treasure hunt, which takes Ivy and co. all over San Francisco as they discover hidden landmarks and lesser-known LGBTQ+ history, yet the hunt itself sometimes feels like a complicated pretext for the history lessons. The writing is often clumsy and peppered with overly didactic lectures on privilege or nuggets of pop culture that surely will not date well, while its reliance on millennial nostalgia for the film National Treasure stretches plausibility. As to the romance, Cam spends most of the first two-thirds of the story off-screen (or as an annoyance in Ivy’s mind), despite their supposedly sharing leadership of the school’s GSA, and when he finally does turn up for the treasure hunt, the romance feels forced and, frankly, a bit toxic. Ivy lacks character development, her “redemption” at the end feels rushed, and her happy ending undeserved. Its heart in the right place, this book tries to dig deep but never hits pay dirt.

Reviewed by Emily Ender, Oxford Hills Middle School Library, South Paris

two-stars

Raven, Rising

Raven, RisingRaven, Rising by Christine Hartman Derr
Published by Heartdrum on July 7, 2026
ISBN: 0063432838
Genres: Cultural / Indigenous, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

From cupcakes to kittens, Raven, Rising is a heartwarming story of a girl overcoming grief and injustice by discovering her own power (literally and figuratively). The main character, Raven, faces many new challenges while moving to a new town after the death of her parents: bullies, a strict dress-code, and guilt. She is able to overcome it all by finding strength in new friendships, reconnecting with her Cherokee heritage, and baking! 

Through first-person narration and emotionally evocative language, the reader will empathize with Raven’s grief and frustration, but be comforted by the unconditional love given by her family and friends–and many sweet treats. This story balances real-world issues with fantastical elements. The revelation that the main characters are capable of magic does not feel out of place by the end of the story, despite it reading similar to a typical realistic fiction narrative. While the tone is lighthearted, the story does deal with some heavy topics that may be uncomfortable for some readers, such as body policing and objectification by a school administrator, bullying, death and mourning, and disconnection with Indigenous identity. 

Fun elements include a Cherokee Glossary at the end of the book to help readers with pronunciation and translations of Cherokee words used in text. Additionally, there is a list of Raven’s favorite books that were either mentioned within the story or inspired it, which works as an intriguing reference guide for readers to expand their literacy journey. Be aware that there are a couple cuss words sprinkled throughout the story, but they are mild. I would recommend this book for children between grades 4 through 8 because of the relatability of the tween characters. 

Reviewed by Jada Gastia, Williams Elementary School (RSU #18) 

four-stars

Camp Frenemies: Bunkmates for Never

Camp Frenemies: Bunkmates for NeverBunkmates for Never (Camp Frenemies #2) by Liz Montague
ISBN: 0593806263
Genres: Humor, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads
three-stars

A lot has changed in a year, and Bea is no exception. She thinks nothing of it until she arrives at summer camp to find that her two friends, Virginia and Roxy, have changed as well. As camp progresses, these changes put strain on the friendship until it reaches a breaking point. Now the three work to rectify their relationship before camp ends and they part ways again, but is it worth saving their friendship if they’ve all changed so much?

Award-winning author Liz Montague sends readers back to Camp Chordata in the second installment of the Camp Frenemies series. Bea, Virginia, and Roxy face a whole new set of problems that are all too relatable for the upper elementary and middle school audience. In the 21st century, more and more children have to face issues such as divorce, toxic friendships, and changing bodies. Rather than putting them in a sink-or-swim situation, readers learn to tread the waters at Camp Chordata. It is a fine line to draw between an impactful and depressing tone when creating a book filled with difficult topics. But the bright imagery and silly facial expressions lighten the heavy load. 

Montague’s skill as a New Yorker illustrator can be appealing to reluctant readers. At first glance, the book’s illustrations are primarily negative space. A simple trick of the eye that can appeal to reluctant readers. The same white space that could have easily overwhelmed the story helps guide readers, creating a natural flow that mimics the story’s. Emphasis on important moments and emotions is illustrated through exaggerated facial expressions. The humorous style helps maintain the lighthearted tone while providing clear context for the reader to pick up on. 

Protagonists Bea, Virginia, Roxy, and the reader all learn a valuable lesson about navigating personal problems and tricky friendships. Montague’s artistic style is easy to digest while keeping the attention of reluctant readers. This series would be a good recommendation for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or The Dork Diaries for its similar illustration style and realistic message for young readers.

Reviewed by Antyna Gilbert, Medomak Middle School.

three-stars

No Place on Earth

No Place on EarthNo Place on Earth by Andrea Beatriz Arango
Published by Random House on August 25, 2026
ISBN: 9798217119431
Genres: Family, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship, Mental Health
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

So much is different for Gustavo when he moves with his mom and sister from Puerto Rico to Yellowstone.  His school is much smaller, the weather is a lot colder, and he has to share a room with his older sister.  He misses his friends and can’t even game with them because his Internet is unstable at his new house in the park.  Even his dreams are different.  The nightmares that plagued him in Puerto Rico still occur, but now they include a boy from school. Gustavo and Kordell share a connection through their shared dreams and also because of their mental illness.  Gustavo experiences anxiety, though he is just starting to use that label, and Kordell has depression and is isolated from the other kids at school.  Gustavo slowly adjusts and starts to form friendships, with Kordell, and with other kids at school.  When Kordell is in trouble, only Gustavo and the mystical dream connection they share can save him.

This novel would be a great addition for libraries serving middle school students.  Gustavo learns to face his anxiety and its stigma, especially from his father who is initially resistant to Gustavo going to therapy.  Gustavo’s self-awareness develops throughout this book, as does his relationship with his sister.  Readers who like character driven stories will enjoy this book and there is enough action, especially at the end, to keep readers engaged.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

five-stars

Free to Fly

Free to FlyFree to Fly: A Tender Picture Book about Native Resilience, Grandparent Love, and Dreams That Span Generations by Karina Iceberg, Steph Littlebird
Published by HarperCollinsChildren’sBooks on 2026
ISBN: 0063254905
Genres: Cultural / Native American, Family, History
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

Free to Fly is a picture book that conveys the lasting trauma that Indian boarding schools had on the Alutiit people, who live on the coast of what is now called Alaska. A child, Qal, visits her Apaa (grandfather) who is a survivor of the schools. He is spending time in his treehouse–where he goes to recover when he is feeling the heaviness of the past. As he tells his story, he uses ravens, eagles, cages, and flight as metaphors for identity, oppression, forced assimilation, and freedom. Apaa imagines a safe nest within him that allows him to heal, have dreams, and hope again, despite the suffering of the past. He dreams of a future where he has a grandchild, just like Qal. The watercolor artwork is structured with bold lines that bring both the dreaminess of memories and the present day together. Younger readers would benefit from an adult to help guide a discussion and answer questions. This would be a fantastic book for upper elementary and middle grade readers to get a window into Alutiit culture, and to begin to understand the history of the colonization of North America. The Author’s Note at the end gives more detailed historical context and there is an Alutiiq (the language) glossary and pronunciation guide at the end of the book. This is a five-star, cream of the crop nominee. 

Reviewed by Antona Briley, Librarian, Dora Small School, South Portland

five-stars

A Room With a View

Published by Harper on May 26, 2026
Pages: 40
Genres: Adventure, Emotions & Feelings, Humor, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
four-stars

Young Oliver is reluctantly pulled into yet another camping trip because Mama’s decided it’s time for their next big outdoor adventure. Oliver is determined not to enjoy this trip and to make this adventure his last. But he begins reflecting on the moments he does enjoy, especially spending time with his mom. Mesquita’s strikingly colored illustrations with fun details depict the hiking/camping adventure in the unnamed southwest national park. Oliver and Mama are brown-haired and tan-skinned. There is an Author’s Note about national parks and a list of National Parks by state in the back of the book along with “Oliver’s tips for adventuring like a pro.” Recommended for ages 4-8.

Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library

four-stars

Van Gogh’s Dog

Van Gogh’s DogPublished by Random House Studio on April 28, 2026
Pages: 39
Genres: Adventure, Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
four-stars

Vincent van Gogh feels artistically stifled until a small dog steals his paint brush and shows him the beauty he’s overlooked in this fictionalized story. The naughty pup leads Van Gogh on a chase through the places found in his artworks, such as bright yellow sunflowers and the famed  Night Café. After the dog’s antics necessitate a rescue from the river under a starry night sky, Van Gogh returns home bursting with ideas. Altogether, the adventurous duo introduces nine different paintings, reproduced as a mini art gallery on the last page. Although there is no  note mentioning if Vincent actually owned a dog, readers will fall in love with this speckled pup named Sunny. The illustrator replicates Van Gogh’s style using dabbed lines, swirls, and spirals. This would be a fun book for children to read prior to visiting an art museum. It could be paired with Cat Nap by Brian Lies. Younger children will enjoy the dog’s antics but older ones who are familiar with Van Gogh’s paintings will more fully appreciate the book.

Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library

four-stars

Pizzasaurus

PizzasaurusPublished by Doubleday Books for Young Readers on March 3, 2026
Pages: 32
Genres: dinosaurs, Humor
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
four-stars

The book begins with the narrator stating, “You look like someone who knows a lot about dinosaurs.” While admittingly you know a lot about the more famous dinosaurs, the Pizzasaurus  dinosaur “really delivers.” .The other dinosaurs are  resentful of the newcomer until he shares his  pizza with everyone. Though this dinosaur book is light on plot, it’s heavy on humor with its pizza-themed puns and wordplay. Beckett’s bright, comical illustrations featuring dinosaurs add to the fun. Children 4-7 will enjoy this zany read-aloud. Pair it with Dinosaurs Love Underpants for a rollicking story time.

Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library

four-stars