Category: Book Reviews

Smash or Pass

Smash or PassSmash or Pass by Birdie Schae
on May 12, 2026
Pages: 249
Genres: LGBTQ+, Mental Health, Romance
Format: Young Adult
Goodreads
four-stars

Smash or Pass is a YA realistic fiction novel about a girl named Ellie who’s been feeling like she needs to change who she is to be more palatable for others. Her twin, Noah, has been trying to convince her for years to abandon her “rules”-the guidelines she came up with to figure out how to mask her autism and be popular among her peers-but Ellie was so set on following them that she distanced herself from Noah instead. When her relationship with her boyfriend, Daniel, crashes and burns, Ellie thinks she has to do whatever it takes to get Daniel back over the summer so that no one will see the real her. However, when she attends Smash!, a volleyball camp, she discovers that there are more people than just Noah who like Ellie for who she really is.

This own-voices novel unmasks some of the struggles autistic people face, while also creating dynamic, relatable characters who aren’t any one thing: Schae even has Ellie make the point that if you’ve met one autistic person, you’ve met one autistic person. There’s also strong LGBTQIA+ representation with characters who are non-binary, questioning, trans, queer, and even demi-romantic. Schae’s wide representation of mental health and sexuality in these teen characters is a standout feature in this novel and one that makes it a strong addition to any library serving teens in grades 9-12. Patrons who like coming-of-age, realistic fiction, diverse characters, quick reads, and romance will scoop this one up quickly. This was a four-star read for me. Reviewed by Katy Jones, Gardiner Area High School Library, Gardiner

four-stars

Encore!

Encore!Encore! by Miles Toriko Burks
on June 2, 2026
ISBN: 0063282453
Genres: LGBTQ+
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads
five-stars

Encore! is a YA graphic novel about two teens, Clay and Aron, who were best friends when they were younger but then had a falling out in middle school. Forced back together in a theater class, they have to reconcile their differences. As they become partners on a theater project and spend more time together, they start to wonder where it all went wrong, if it’s too late to fix their friendship, and if what they’re feeling might be more than just friends.

This is Burk’s debut, and you’d never know it! The characters are dynamic and well developed; even side characters have flaws and redeeming qualities and distinct personalities. The illustrations are beautiful and engaging, especially the characters’ facial expressions, which are detailed and make such an impression on the reader.

There were two standout features in this text: One was the conversations around sexuality. There were characters who were gay, lesbian, trans, questioning, bisexual, and more. Each one was approached with nuance rather than stereotype and as part of a character rather than the entire character. One of the main characters discovers that he’s bisexual and pushes back on his friends and teammates making jokes about it, which is important representation for change in our culture. The second standout feature was the conversations around friendship. Throughout the book, each character has moments of being a good friend and a bad friend, and these are discussed amongst each other. Readers will appreciate the examples of navigating difficult moments with friends and learning what it means to be a good friend. This would be a strong addition to any library serving teen readers, especially those who like graphic novels, theater, and popular reads like Heartstopper. This was a five-star read for me. Reviewed by Katy Jones, Gardiner Area High School Library, Gardiner

five-stars

Someday Perfect

Someday PerfectSomeday Perfect by Kat Schneider
on April 21, 2026
ISBN: 0593809629
Pages: 288
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads
three-stars

Someday Perfect is a graphic novel by Kat Schneider about a girl named Meg whose father is a pastor and who is spending the summer at a Christian sleepaway camp. Meg’s friends at camp start bending the rules and she starts crushing on a boy, named Danny, and suddenly she’s not sure what to believe: the teachings of her father and her church or what her friends and her heart want her to do.

The illustrations were eye-catching, engaging, and help the reader move back and forth in time as she reflects on her previous school year at her first non-denominational school and her present-day experiences at camp; the illustrations from the previous year are always in blue, unlike the scenes that take place in the present day. When Meg’s mind wanders during meetings or sermons, the illustrations blur the words so they fall into the background for the reader as well.

Some aspects of this book could be triggering for some readers, especially those who might struggle to read about sexism or religious trauma. For example, we see how much the camp leaders focus on the girls being modest, criticize their choices, make them serve the males at the camp, and shame them for any perceived mistakes or immodesty. The tension between the teachings of the camp and Meg and the other girls’ inner voices is the main conflict in the book. While it’s published as about a summer crush, a lot of the book is really about the damage these religious teachings can do; several of the girls demonstrate struggles with their mental health. This would be a good fit for readers who appreciate graphic novels, want a window into someone else’s experience, or those who liked Gaytheist. Readers who are already struggling with their mental health or beliefs might be better served by a read that reinforces their worth and value; while Schneider presents some potentially harmful beliefs, this isn’t balanced by any of the characters affirming their self-worth. This was a three-star read for me. Reviewed by Katy Jones, Gardiner Area High School Library, Gardiner

three-stars

Felix Powell, Boy Squirrel

Felix Powell, Boy SquirrelFelix Powell, Boy Squirrel: A Funny Chapter Book about Friendship, Family, and Animals for Kids (Ages 6-10) by Erin Entrada Kelly
ISBN: 0063337266
Genres: Emotions & Feelings, Juvenile Fiction / Action & Adventure / General, Juvenile Fiction / Animals / Horses, Magical Realism, Nature
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

Felix Powell talks to animals, and wants to be a zoologist one day. He also knows magic when he sees it, which leads him to buying his favorite blanket at the thrift store for $1 (there was just something special about it). One sunny afternoon he goes outside with his dog, Mary Puppins, and his blanket to play. A strange thing happens, and Felix wakes up as a squirrel. His squirrel instincts kick in – sending him right up a tree at lightning speed. Fortunately, he runs into Reginald (another squirrel), who recognizes him as the boy who has previously talked to him. Felix desperately wants to retrieve his favorite blanket, which has wound up stuck high in the branches of another tree. Reginald is terrified to leave his nest after a previous encounter with a predator, but is also madly in love with the squirrel who resides in an adjacent tree. Can Felix and Reginald work together to overcome their fears, retrieve the beloved blanket, and meet the squirrel next door? Will Felix be able to change back into a boy by dinnertime?

This short chapter book is an easy and delightful read for all ages. There are black and white illustrations throughout that bring life to the pages. The story is also packed full of fun facts about squirrels and other animals, and includes puns and characters that will leave any reader chuckling. Felix lives with his Nan (or grandma), who takes care of him, showcasing a diverse family structure. Second in a series, but also a great stand-alone read. A wonderful addition to any early chapter book collection. Recommended for ages 7 to 10 (2nd to 5th Grade). Nominated for Cream of the Crop.

Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell

five-stars

Yeti is not Ready for Game Over

Yeti is not Ready for Game OverYeti Is Not Ready for Game Over by Leigh Anne Carter
ISBN: 059380810X
Genres: Emotions & Feelings, Family, Fantasy
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

Yeti is SO CLOSE to winning the snow cone chef game that she’s been playing on her tablet. She just can’t find the right flavor to please a picky snowman. She keeps getting interrupted for daily tasks (like eating meals and doing chores) – and then it’s GAME OVER and she loses! With some encouragement from her dad, she takes a break from the game and plays outside with her friend, Mira. During the time spent with her friend, Yeti finds the inspiration she needs to go back and win the game she was playing. After a while on her tablet, she also gets to enjoy some screen free time with her dad (he even puts down his phone!). Next time, when it’s “game over,” Yeti will be ready. This fun picture book is ready to meet kids and parents where they are at – acknowledging that screens and games are often a daily part of life, but showing that it can also be great to take a break once in a while. The digital illustrations are colorful and reminiscent of a video game. Recommended for ages 4 to 7 (Pre-K to 2nd Grade).

Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell

four-stars

Duck & Goose: Honk! Quack! Boo!

Duck & Goose: Honk! Quack! Boo!Duck & Goose, Honk! Quack! Boo!: A Halloween Story with Fun Stickers by Tad Hills
Genres: Animals, Picture book/animals
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

Duck and Goose are back – and learning all about trick or treating! Goose hardly recognizes Duck dressed up as a ghost. Their friend, Thistle, keeps her costume a secret, but advises to watch out for the swamp monster. When Duck and Goose head out trick or treating, a friendly Owl says that the swamp monster is looking for them! Will they hide from the swamp monster, bravely scare the swamp monster away, or learn that the swamp monster is actually a friend in disguise? This sweet Halloween story includes colorful illustrations and beloved characters. Originally published in 2017. Recommended for ages 4 to 7 (Pre-K to 2nd Grade).

Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell

four-stars

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