Category: Book Reviews

Love & Other Natural Disasters

Love & Other Natural DisastersLove & Other Natural Disasters by Misa Sugiura
Published by HarperTeen on June 8, 2021
ISBN: 006299123X
Pages: 352
Genres: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Nozomi, a seventeen-year-old queer, Japanese American is riddled with self-doubt about relationships as she and her older brother Max fly out to San Francisco to internships that their Uncles have secured for them at a private art museum.  Being gay is not a concern, but building up potential rom-com situations in her head get her into trouble when she throws herself into a “fake dating” situation with a new girl she is infatuated with.  The pressure to keep this social media created relationship going adds complications to her real life situations which include recently divorced parents, the homophobia of her grandmother with dementia who is resisting assistance from her family and the potential “real” romance with an installation artist at the museum.  Sugiura creates the right balance between calling out issues of body image, homophobia, Asian stereotyping, and racial profiling while keeping the romantic storyline lighthearted.  Some parts are extremely heart felt that will make the reader pause and reflect while other parts of the story are true to the flighty romantic vibe with unbelievable triteness.  Suggested for readers in high school.

Reviewed by Sheila Dube, Youth Services Librarian, Springvale Public Library

four-stars

Graceling: The Graphic Novel

Graceling: The Graphic NovelGraceling (Graphic Novel) by Gareth Hinds, Kristin Cashore
Published by Etch/Clarion Books on November 16, 2021
ISBN: 0358250471
Pages: 272
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads
four-stars

In “Graceling: The Graphic Novel,” Gareth Hinds adapts Kristin Cashore’s first novel in the Graceling Realm series. Retelling the broad strokes of the story, we meet Katsa, a young woman with special powers called a “grace.” Those who have graces have two differently colored eyes. Katsa’s grace seems to be the power to kill easily, so she is the perfect royal assassin. After meeting another graced fighter from another kingdom, Katsa rebels against her uncle and leaves to seek out the true kidnappers of a neighboring royal.

Themes of power and corruption as well as acceptance of oneself and friendship are shown throughout the novel, with those in power typically abusing it and Katsa coming to accept herself, setting her own boundaries, and allowing herself to befriend and love others. The artwork is simple and colorful and it is very easy to follow the story. You can tell that Hinds really loved Cashore’s original novel (which you’ll find out if you read the afterword about how the graphic novel came to be).

This book should appeal to both those who read the book back in 2008 as well as new readers who discover the series through this graphic novel. Recommended for teens and young adults, this graphic novel is a must buy for your YA collection.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook.

four-stars

Once Upon a Quinceañera

Once Upon a QuinceañeraOnce Upon a Quinceañera by Monica Gomez-Hira
Published by HarperTeen on March 2, 2021
ISBN: 0062996835
Pages: 432
Genres: Romance
Format: Fiction
Goodreads
two-stars

Filling the need for more Latinx representation in YA fiction, Once Upon a Quinceañera features the story of one teen’s challenges and triumphs. 

Carmen is attempting to finish a work-study program required by her high school so she can graduate and move on with her life, although she’s not really sure what that might look like. Her best friend gets her a spot working as a party princess, and the boss is elated when the company is hired for a quinceañera. Carmen’s own quinceañera was canceled last-minute three years earlier because of a mishap with her cousin and aunt, after which the family members stopped speaking to one another. Readers can imagine her emotions when it turns out that the party she is hired to perform at is for none other than the cousin. 

There are subplots of romance, being true to who you are, family relationships, and coming of age, as well as drama – lots of drama. Readers that enjoy romance may get pulled into the need to find out how the story ends. 

This book has a place on YA library shelves for two important reasons: it gives a voice to members of the Latinx community and it might just be the type of light book readers are looking for when real life feels more heavy. 

Reviewed by Kristi Favaloro, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta

two-stars

Disability Visibility: 17 First-Person Stories For Today, adapted for young adults

Disability Visibility: 17 First-Person Stories For Today, adapted for young adultsDisability Visibility (Adapted for Young Adults): 17 First-Person Stories for Today by Alice Wong
Published by Delacorte Press on October 26, 2021
ISBN: 059338167X
Pages: 160
Genres: Biography/Autobiography, Non-Fiction, Short Stories
Format: Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

This is an important collection of essays written by people with a variety of disabilities. The authors span a range of experiences, including folks with mobility challenges, vision and hearing loss, mental health diagnoses, and much more. 

Each story has a different purpose. Some are meant to celebrate the diversity of humanity. Others aim to shed light on the ways our society could be more inclusive and supportive of everyone. Many are a blend of both. As humans we experience both joy and pain, but the variations of those experiences are stories that need to be shared. 

Recommended for young adults, this is an excellent collection of mini-memoirs.

Reviewed by Kristi Favaloro, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta

four-stars

The League of Picky Eaters

The League of Picky EatersThe League of Picky Eaters by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic
Published by Clarion Books on November 2, 2021
ISBN: 0358379865
Pages: 304
Genres: Humor, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars

The town of Muffuletta was founded by chef and food writers, subsequently, the importance of trying new and inventive foods become a hallmark in every aspect of daily life.  In sixth grader Minerva’s school, the St. Julia Child Middle School, eating is a curriculum requirement.  Minerva is sensitive to certain lingering flavors and that “talent” lands her in the remedial (RETCH) eating tract.  What seems like the worst fate to Minerva actual reveals how she has allowed herself to be bullied by her so called friends over the years.  She comes to realize and appreciate the non-judgmental way her new friends in the remedial class treat each other.  Lucianovic has whipped up an eye rolling, humorous world for foodie lovers. Not all readers will “sink their teeth” into the world of Muffelatta, but those who do will find a solid story of true friendship and interesting facts about loving food in the process.  Suggested reading interests is 4-8 grades.

Reviewed by Sheila Dube, Youth Services Librarian, Springvale Public Library

 

five-stars

Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma

Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo MaPlaying at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma by Joanna Ho, Teresa Martínez
Published by HarperCollins on September 28, 2021
ISBN: 0062994549
Pages: 40
Genres: Non-Fiction
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Playing at the Boarder is a biography of Yo-Yo Ma which reveals  his musical training and  community projects.  As a world-renowned cellists Ma has shared his music with all ages and received a multitude of awards.   This book highlights his educational tour entitled the “Bach Project”.  Young children may not have previous knowledge of Yo-Yo Ma or grasp an understanding of his project but they will gravitate to the enlightening text and lively illustrations. Martinez has provided illustrations that bend and sway with the musical notes dancing across the pages.  This reader loves the large eyes drawn on each character as they listen with rapture.  The major emphasis of the book surrounds a concert Ma preformed on the edge of the Rio Grands for the benefit of people living on both sides.  His message that we need to build community not walls is timely and appreciated.

A great early biography for primary school assignments and good reading for music lovers of all ages.  Recommended purchase for primary and intermediate media center libraries.

The paper weight is questionable as each page is wavy to the touch giving the impression that the book has been wet.   This book was provided by the publisher and shelved in a temperature controlled library.

Recommended by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

 

four-stars

Always by My Side: A Stuffie Story

Always by My Side: A Stuffie StoryAlways By My Side: A Stuffie Story by Jennifer Black Reinhardt
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on March 16, 2021
ISBN: 0593173821
Pages: 40
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

A deep-felt relationship exists between a child and his dinosaur stuffie, one that grows as it changes. Reinhardt introduces readers to a typical little boy who needs his stuffie when he is scared, shy and alone.   As narrator the dinosaur speaks of places he goes and introduces us to new friends. This storyline is typical of many child/stuffed animal relationships.   Adult readers will recognize their own child or perhaps themselves in the text. The story will be comforting to youngsters who need their stuffie.

Although the illustrations are detailed and uncluttered the faces are not very appealing.  Dinosaur is the most strongest character as he responds to his human friend.   Add to public library storybook collections.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

four-stars

Sometimes Cake

Sometimes CakeSometimes Cake by Edwina Wyatt, Tamsin Ainslie
Published by Candlewick Press on January 4, 2022
ISBN: 1536217816
Pages: 32
Genres: Animals, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars

This sweet picture book not only applies to birthday celebrations but it relates to the need for some daily celebrations in current life.  Audrey joins her friend Lion who celebrates a birthday, a color, or a day of the week.  The storyline continues with daily interactions were Lion is doing his best to celebrate and Audrey is his perfect companion.  Their friendship is based on understanding and affection so naturally the sweet girl child wants to cheer lion up when he has nothing to celebrate.

This storyline exposes just how lethargic we have all become during the pandemic and our need for friends and celebrations.   The illustrations done on slightly yellow background are uplifting and cheerful.  Ainslie’s use of color and texture add to the appeal of this storybook.  Sometimes Cake is a perfect selection for youngsters and their adult readers who are suffering from pandemic blues.  Add to primary school media centers and to public libraries.  Gift to preschool children who enjoy stories and creating their own art.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

Suggested for Cream of the Crop

five-stars

All These Warriors

All These WarriorsAll These Warriors (Monsters, #2) by Amy Tintera
Published by Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt on July 13, 2021
ISBN: 0358012414
Pages: 336
Genres: Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

In this sequel to All Those Monsters, Clara and team seven seek some respite from fighting scabs.   Their belief that the scabs were trained and planted by the government develops into a search for truth.  Some characters are well developed but it is Clara’s ex-boyfriend who dominated several scenes as Clara provides the narrative.  As a sequel this story does pick up where the previous storyline stopped but it cannot stand alone.  Not enough backstory is provided to hold the interest of readers who have not already digested All These Monsters.

The level of violence may distract some readers as well as the physical proximity of casual relationships.

These two books are suggested for high school readers who enjoy fantasy and mystery in unlikely situations.  While the text may not be believable it surely presents some relief from the current social and political problems of current times.    Librarians who have purchased All These Monsters will want to add this sequel to their collections.  Gift only as a 2 book set to teens.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired librarian in Scarborough, ME

four-stars

Across the Rainbow Bridge

Across the Rainbow BridgeAcross the Rainbow Bridge: Stories of Norse Gods and Humans by Jeffrey Alan Love, Kevin Crossley-Holland
Published by Candlewick Studio on October 26, 2021
ISBN: 1536217719
Pages: 96
Genres: Folklore
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
five-stars

This book is a great choice for fans of folklore, Norse Gods, and maybe even the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Kevin Crossley-Holland and Jeffrey Love teamed up before to create Norse Myths: Tales of Odin, Thor, and Loki and this shorter book is a companion to it, focusing less on the Gods and more on the interactions between Gods and humans. They’re both very, very good. Get them for your library or your school or your kids. The writing is clear and accessible and the illustrations are as stark and beautiful as Scandinavian landscapes are. These are a perfect addition to any myth/folktales collection.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library, Bath

five-stars