Format: Chapter Book Fiction

Sneaks

SneaksSneaks by Catherine Egan
Published by Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers on January 18, 2022
ISBN: 0593306406
Pages: 336
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

 

What starts as a family and relationship story soon goes way beyond when aliens are introduced as Sneaks.   A friendship developed between three somewhat reserved student when a classroom assignment tosses them together.  Egan focuses on the strong points and weakness of each character as she challenges their relationships and loyalties while they try to save the earth.   Someone that hovers above the ground, a man who is summoned from a tree and watches that run in the hall are only some of the minor events that take place during this riveting middle grade reader.

Readers should be prepared for unexplained action and be open to the power of forgiveness.     Librarians in grades 3-6 and 6-9 schools should look at this fun filled joy ride.  Public youth services librarians will enjoy putting this book into the hands of many mystery and fantasy middle grade readers.

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

four-stars

Why Not You?

Why Not You?Why Not You? by Ciara ., Ciara Wilson, JaNay Brown-Wood, Jessica Gibson, Russell Wilson
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on March 1, 2022
ISBN: 0593374401
Pages: 32
Genres: Fiction in Verse/Poetry
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

All grade k-3 children will benefit from reading Why Not You? as it promotes self-esteem and tells them to dream big.  The simple rhyming text is complimented by cute technology produced art work that is appealing and inclusive.    Adults are always asking children what they want to be when they grow up but not everyone listens, supports those dreams, and encourages the children to keep trying.  Readers  will at first be attracted to the colorful illustrations but the realization that they can achieve a goal may well leave a lasting impression.  Children of all nationalities, abilities and disabilities are equally encouraged and recognized

This accomplished duel can now add author to their personal achievements which goes to show that everyone has dreams.  Add this book to primary school media center collections and to public library shelves for all children to access.

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

four-stars

White Smoke

White SmokeWhite Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson
Published by Katherine Tegen Books on September 14, 2021
ISBN: 006302909X
Pages: 384
Genres: Psychological thriller, Horror
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Terror, ghost, haunting and teen mental health issues abound in this new novel by Jackson.  A teen struggling with past addiction and a newly blended family is challenged when that family moves to a haunted house in a strange town.  Mari is a HS student who is trying to keep her anxiety at bay.  Her internal fears and external behavior reflect how the past has formed her and to what extent the noise and visions within the new house affect her very soul.  Readers will feel fear, as their hearts beat faster with each page turned.  Mari’s brother Sam is well defined but her step sister is somewhat of a mystery.

As a psychological thriller this book will appeal to many high school readers and may find a place among adults who appreciate horror books.  Jackson has provided another good read that is sure to satisfy.  Add to HS media centers and to YA collections in public libraries.

four-stars

Barakah Beats

Barakah BeatsBarakah Beats by Maleeha Siddiqui
Published by Scholastic Press on October 19, 2021
ISBN: 1338702068
Pages: 288
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars

A tender story about a Muslin girl who starts attending her local public school after years of religious education.  Any middle school student suffers the typical emotional ups and downs and Nimra is no exception.  She struggles with making right decisions relating to her faith and family expectations while trying to fit in.  The existence of an eight-grade band adds dimension and challenges the character.  This is a story about a strong girl who knows herself and finds a way to demonstrate her values.

Readers will be drawn to well defined characters and to the inclusion of music in the storyline.  The use of some technology adds realism without making the story dependent on emails.  Barakah Beats provides an old-fashioned approach to friendships.  Add to intermediate and middle grade media centers and to juvenile collections in public libraries.

five-stars

Frankie and Amelia

Frankie and AmeliaMcGovern Mid Grade #3 by Cammie McGovern
Published by HarperCollins on September 7, 2021
ISBN: 0062463349
Pages: 304
Genres: Animals, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
three-stars

Maine Coon Cat Franklin, accidentally separated from his humans, is in need of a new home. With the help of a friendly therapy dog, Gus, (who readers may recognize from McGovern’s Chester and Gus), Franklin becomes the pet of Chester’s classmate Amelia, who struggles with anxiety and social relationships. Franklin bonds with Amelia as he sees some of their commonalities, and they develop a sort of psychic connection which he uses to help her work through her problems at school and home.

This is a sweet story featuring neurodivergence, friendship, family, and the partnerships between humans and animals.

Grades 3-6

Kerrie Lattari, York Middle School, York

three-stars

Thornlight

ThornlightThornlight (Foxheart, #2) by Claire Legrand
Published by Greenwillow Books on April 20, 2021
ISBN: 0062696661
Pages: 464
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Claire Legrande continues her Foxheart series with book #2, “Thornelight”. In its pages, we meet twin sisters Briar and Thorne Skystone who could not be more different. Both siblings work for the kingdom of the Vale, province of Westlin. Briar, the hero of the kingdom, harvests lightning astride her unicorn Norro. Soft-hearted and mousey, Thorne works as a gutter cleaner. She wishes that she could be as brave and strong as Briar until it becomes necessary for Thorne to masquerade as Briar.  Laying aside her own safety, Thorne joins forces with a magical cast of characters to save the ones she loves. Compelling and heartfelt, readers will connect emotionally with at least one if not multiple characters.

The virtues found in the pages of this fantasy novel outweigh the violence and trauma that are presented. That being said, “Thornlight” would be best suited for 5th grade and up.

Reviewed by Liz Davis, Children’s Librarian, Waterville Public Library

 

four-stars

Stowaway

StowawayStowaway by John David Anderson
Published by Walden Pond Press on August 3, 2021
ISBN: 0062985949
Pages: 384
Genres: Adventure, Science Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
three-stars

Scientists discovered a rare, mysterious, and very useful mineral deep beneath the Earth’s surface. It doesn’t take long for an alien race to appear looking to utilize this newly discovered resource. Despite the promise of a coalition, things never go quite as planned, and the human race finds itself leaving Earth and looking for a newer, safer place to call home. During this search, Leo’s father (a valuable scientist) is captured, and Leo’s only chance at survival is stowing away on a pirate ship heading into the unknown. Leo’s begging the pirates to help him while also trying to stay alive and still searching for answers surrounding his father’s capture.

This is a fast-paced read that will enthrall scifi and adventure story lovers. The story feels a bit forced at times, though, and some of the character development is lacking. Hand this to fans of Brandon Sanderson and Terry Pratchett.

Recommended for readers 4th grade and up. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

three-stars

Yusuf Azeem is Not a Hero

Yusuf Azeem is Not a HeroYusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero by Saadia Faruqi
Published by Quill Tree Books on October 14, 2021
ISBN: 0062943251
Pages: 368
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Yusuf Azeem has lived in Frey, TX his entire life. He’s always been into robotics, and he’s super excited to finally be old enough to participate in the regional competition. It’s the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, and when some people in town begin hateful speech and attempts to scare Yusuf and his community from town, the robotics competition (and the friends he’s made there) seem to be even more important and a bit of a parallel to the tension within their community.

This is a well-written story of finding oneself, friendship, family, and community. Yusuf has many of the same struggles as loads of kids his age, but he’s also grappling with anti-Muslim hatred and bullying. The book tackles these difficult topics with grace and at an age-appropiate depth.

Recommended for readers 4th grade and up. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

Wind Riders: Rescue on Turtle Beach

Wind Riders: Rescue on Turtle BeachRescue on Turtle Beach (Wind Riders #1) by Izzy Burton, Jen Marlin
Published by HarperCollins on October 19, 2021
ISBN: 0063029251
Pages: 128
Genres: Adventure
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Max and Sofia are just having a normal day on Starry Beach when they follow a gull into the forest. The gull leads them to a mysterious shipwreck that magically comes to life and takes them to Hawaii! When they get there, they find baby sea turtles in need of help and a young Hawaiian girl willing to help them all. Light pollution is confusing the turtles, so the three kids devise a plan to guide the turtles safely to the ocean.

This is the first book in a new early chapter series focusing on magic, adventure, and some science. It’s easy to read, well-paced, and engaging. The text is large for newly emerging readers, and the story is peppered with pictures to really bring the story to life.

Recommended for readers 2nd grade and up. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars

An Occasionally Happy Family

An Occasionally Happy FamilyAn Occasionally Happy Family by Cliff Burke
Published by Clarion Books on May 18, 2021
ISBN: 0358325676
Pages: 224
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Theo Ripley is not at all interested in a camping trip to Big Bend National Park, but his dad has turned nature-obsessed ever since Theo’s mom died. Once they arrive, it’s clear Theo’s dad has more planned than a family camping trip—he’s introducing Theo and his sister to his new girlfriend. Theo feels unprepared for this as he is still processing his grief over his mother’s death.

Though this book deals with some heavy topics, it is also full of humor and lightheartedness. Theo is witty and snarky, and depicts an accurate representation of kids and their relationships with their parents. This book is a fun read and recommended for any fans of realistic fiction and is a good book for advanced young readers.

Recommended for readers 3rd grade and up. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

four-stars