Source: MSL Book Review

The Kite Collector

The Kite CollectorThe Kite Collector by Zoey Abbott
Published by Kids Can Press ISBN: 1525312529
Genres: Babies/Infants, Emotions & Feelings, Family, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

James loves kites. He has a collection of them in his closet, and after earning enough money from walking his neighbors’ dogs, he goes to the store and buys another one to add to his collection. His baby sister GG discovers the closet of pristine, unused kites and has other ideas of how they should be played with. After a moment of panic and anger, James remembers that his sister is learning all kinds of new things and repairs their relationship. As a gift, James buys GG her very own pirate kite. He panics again when she asks to fly it. It could be tangled! Torn! Lost in the wind! But after watching his new octopus kite flutter a bit in the wind, he chooses to be courageous enough to open his mind.

Together, James and GG enjoy an afternoon in the park, flying GG’s pirate kite and James learns to be brave. This one’s a special story about sibling bonding and repair, and how to navigate a new baby in the house.

Review by Gia Charles, Patten Free Library, Bath

 

four-stars

Sloth and Squirrel on Vacation (Sloth and Squirrel, 2)

Sloth and Squirrel on Vacation (Sloth and Squirrel, 2)Sloth and Squirrel on Vacation (Sloth and Squirrel, 2) by Cathy Ballou Mealey, Kelly Collier
Published by Kids Can Press ISBN: 1525312561
Genres: Adventure, Animals, Emotions & Feelings, Humor
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

In the second in a series of Sloth and Squirrel, the friends are now boarding up their pickle stand and deciding to take a much needed vacation. After much deliberation, they decide to book a trip to Paradise Park Resort where there is, “something for everyone.”

Sloth wants to relax, whereas Squirrel wants to try every single activity they offer. Squirrel’s attention is humorously derailed at every turn. He starts by rock-climbing and then spies people on kayaks. “OOH Paragliding!” he exclaims. While Sloth is napping on the beach, Squirrel remembers to find his friend. Although they are different, they share a treat together on the beach and remember why they love spending time together. A great read for kids who are learning how to navigate friendship. Great for fans of Duck and Goose and the like.

Ages 4-7

Review by Gia Charles, Patten Free Library, Bath

four-stars

Dear Manny

Dear MannyDear Manny by Nic Stone
Series: Dear Martin #3
Published by Penguin Random House on 2025
ISBN: 9780593308011
Pages: 199
Format: Young Adult
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

Dear Manny is the third installment in the Dear Martin series, following Yale student Jared Peter Christiansen as he reckons with his privilege as a wealthy, white, male running for Junior Council President on a platform of equity and inclusion.

The minute Jared encounters John Preston LePlante IV, a multi-generation legacy student who “doesn’t believe in DEI because they didn’t earn it”, Jared knows he must run against him for Council President to better represent the whole student body. When a surprise third candidate enters the race ready to question how committed Jared is to his beliefs (while simultaneously stealing his heart), Jared starts to worry. Though he considers himself quite socially aware after LOTS of unlearning, he is increasingly unsettled by how similar his background and outward appearance are to John Preston. To cope, Jared starts to write letters to his deceased best friend Manny (a black boy killed by an off duty white cop) but only more questions arise: What’s the best way to bring about change? How do you get ahead while acknowledging you have a significant head start?

Of the three books in the Dear Martin series, I think this is one that would appeal best to Maine student demographics. It examines privileges that some students may take for granted with real time counterarguments, while also showing that there can still be love and growth in our current political climate. The writing style will also have high appeal with its multiple formats (texts, play-style conversations, etc.), short chapters and humor sprinkled amidst the hard conversations. I’d recommend this to 9th graders and up, especially in classes where current events and lively discussions are encouraged.

Reviewed by Hannah Doktor, Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta

five-stars

Sweet Valley Twins Sneaking Out

Sweet Valley Twins Sneaking OutSweet Valley Twins: Sneaking Out: (A Graphic Novel) by Claudia Aguirre, Francine Pascal, Nicole Andelfinger
ISBN: 0593807219
Genres: Emotions & Feelings, Family, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship, Realistic Fiction
Format: Graphic Novel
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
three-stars

The twins are back! In this latest graphic novel, one of the hottest bands is coming to Sweet Valley. It seems as though everyone is going to see the concert, except for Elizabeth and Jessica (whose parents won’t let them go). But Jess is determined to go to the concert anyway. Throughout this story Jess goes to extraordinary lengths to: 1) come up with the money (she hates dogs, but that doesn’t mean she can’t dog-sit, right?), 2) get to the concert (a well-timed sleep over with a friend who is going should do the trick), and 3) have the perfect outfit so that Johnny Buck notices her at the show (her sister wouldn’t mind letting her borrow that new dress, right?). In all of her scrambling to make it come together, Jess neglects her relationships and her responsibilities. Can she make it up to everyone that she hurts along the way? This story was full of good lessons about following through with your promises – though reading it was a little like watching a train wreck. The illustrations were colorful, fun, and accurately depicted the emotions of the characters/drama of the story. Overall, it was a quick read that’s sure to circulate with younger graphic novel readers. Recommended for ages 8 to 10 (Grades 3 to 5).

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

three-stars

Outspoken Paul Robeson Ahead of His Time: A One-Man Show by Carole Boston Weatherford & Eric Velasquez

Outspoken Paul Robeson Ahead of His Time: A One-Man Show by Carole Boston Weatherford & Eric VelasquezOutspoken: Paul Robeson, Ahead of His Time: A One-Man Show by Carole Boston Weatherford, Eric Velásquez
Published by Candlewick Press on 2024
ISBN: 1536212970
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

In this first person narration, biographical, picture book in verse, Newbery Honor Winner Carole Boston Weatherford steps into the shoes of the multitalented Paul Robeson.  Those talents expand to All-American Football, baseball, and basketball player, valedictorian of Rutger class of 1919, Columbian Law Degree recipient, actor, singer, and activist.  His impact reached far and wide as he traveled around the world, using his amazing voice and strong influence to, “…speak out against the injustices against the Negro people of this land… fighting for the rights of my people, who are still second-class sitizens in this United States.”  There are so many things to say about this remarkable man, but you just have to read the book to learn more.  

While this is a “picture book,” it is written for a middle grade and older audience.  The verse is layered with lyrics from spirituals and folk songs.  The illustrations by Eric Valasquez are exquisite and add a lot to understanding the wonderful and tragic events of Robeson’s life.  The back of the book contains a timeline of Robeson’s life as well as a bibliography for further reading.

Reviewed by Heidi Kopishke, Camden Hills Regional High School, Rockport, ME.

five-stars

Lonely Bird’s Dream by Ruth Whiting

Lonely Bird’s Dream by Ruth WhitingLonely Bird's Dream by Ruth Whiting
Published by Candlewick Press on 2024
ISBN: 153622619X
Genres: Juvenile Fiction / Action & Adventure / General
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

Lonely Bird’s dream is to fly.  Yet, Lonely Bird is a hand sketched, nearly wingless, paper bird.  Through research, imagination, experimentation, and trial and error, she creates a usable airplane.  Her dream of flight is a success, but landing is not.  After her flight is unpredictably cut short, she gets some help from a very clever spider who helps her find a way back home in flight using dandelion seeds, riding the wind. 

This is Whiting’s follow up to her book Lonely Bird.  The story is so well told through the artwork, that the simplistic prose is almost unnecessary.  Her amazing artistry is on display with layered paintings that make the eye believe the 2D Lonely Bird is living her best life in a 3D miniature world.  This book will appeal to ages four through nine.  

Reviewed by Heidi Kopishke, Camden Hills Regional High School, Rockport, ME.

five-stars

A Day at the Beach

A Day at the BeachA Day at the Beach by Gary D. Schmidt, Ron Koertge
Published by Clarion Books on April 1, 2025
ISBN: 0063380927
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
three-stars

A Day at the Beach is a snapshot of one summer day at a Jersey Shore beach.  Each chapter introduces readers to a new character or group of characters, all middle school age youth.  These kids are dealing with things readers will no doubt relate to: self-esteem, strained family relationships, and obsession with devices, to name a few.  While the connection for these characters is their presence at this particular beach on this particular day, there is no major plot line that brings them together, though occasionally there is some overlap of characters.  Instead, the message is to be present on this summer day, have fun, be creative, and don’t worry about pressures you may face.  Middle grade readers who are plot driven and like a lot of action won’t be drawn to this book, but readers who like getting to know new characters and who crave a summer read will enjoy this book.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

three-stars

A Pinecone!

A Pinecone!A Pinecone! by Helen Yoon
Published by Candlewick Press on 2024
ISBN: 1536226262
Genres: Adventure, Family, Humor
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

In this picture book, Yoon brings back the parent-child relationship from her book Off-Limits.  In this story, the father and daughter go out for a walk.  The father is very distracted as his daughter becomes gripped with the exciting task of collecting pinecones.  Her great enthusiasm is portrayed mostly through the comedic artwork and few words.  The text is bold and easy to read as well as cleverly placed on the page to create whimsey.  The father’s response is to encourage his daughter’s imagination and not lose his temper.  This book is a perfect read aloud to young children, yet entertaining for readers of all ages.    

Reviewed by Heidi Kopishke, Camden Hills Regional High School, Rockport, ME.

five-stars

Yippee! Rabbit

Yippee! RabbitYippee! Rabbit (Jo Ham's Rabbit) by Jo Ham
Published by Candlewick Studio on 01/25
ISBN: 1536241334
Genres: Animals, board book
Format: Board Book
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

A board book adapted from Ham’s picture book of the same title. High contrast black and turquoise designs on a white background. Simple text, one or two words per page, follow the antics of an adventurous rabbit. Delightful, simple and engaging. Toddlers will love this, and their readers will be likewise charmed.

Highly recommend.

5 stars, cream

Reviewed by Jenny Martinez Nocito, Maine State Library, Augusta

five-stars

True Life in Uncanny Valley

True Life in Uncanny ValleyTrue Life in Uncanny Valley by Deb Caletti
Published by Labyrinth Road on March 18, 2025
ISBN: 059370861X
Pages: 401
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Young Adult
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
five-stars

Sixteen-year-old Eleanor and her older sister Ros were raised by a single mom. Their father, billionaire tech genius Hugo Harrison, lives in the same city but a world apart, and they have no contact with him. Despite this, or maybe because of it, Eleanor finds herself drawn to his glittery, famous, wealthy world. Accidentally (sort of) she bumps into Aurora, the young, gorgeous social media influencer stepmother she’s never met – and finds herself being offered the position of live-in nanny for her two-year-old half-brother. Eleanor provides a false last name and finds herself catapulted into a summer of secrets: not telling her mother or sister who she’s really working for, and not telling her father’s family who she really is.

As the weeks progress, one thing becomes clear: nothing in this family is as it seems from outside. The idyllic life portrayed on social media and followed by millions isn’t real. As Eleanor digs deeper into the secret of what Hugo Harrison is developing – his next huge, world changing tech reveal – she is horrified to discover both what it is, and how her young half-brother has been being used in the development of it. The titular “Uncanny Valley” is a reference to the instinctual revulsion that humans feel when faced with lifelike AI beings that are undefinably “off” – and ultimately it’s that confrontation that that will define Eleanor’s summer, by challenging the very idea of how humans connect to one another, and what the role of family – most especially parents – really is.

This is a great novel on many levels; Eleanor is a realistic and sympathetic character trying to find her place in a confusing world as a teenager, navigating family drama, a budding romance, and a (one sided) experience of trying to connect with father’s family. It is also a searing look at tech, social media, and AI – both the good, and the bad. Caletti looks hard at tech: both the way new advances are touted publicly, but also the impact on a personal level, and she does this in a highly readable, hard-to-put-down way. Secondary characters are thought out and three dimensional, adding substance and grounded reality to the story.

Highly recommend! Widespread appeal given multiple themes of tech, family dynamics, teenage coming-of-age themes and light romance.

5 stars/cream

Reviewed by Jenny Martinez Nocito, Maine State Library, Augusta

five-stars