IT WASN'T ME by Dana Alison Levy

 

School isn't Theo's favorite place, so when someone vandalizes his photography project, he is convinced everyone hates him. The next day someone opens the darkroom door even though he had posted signs telling people not to open it. That action ruins more photos he was developing. Everyone is definitely out to get him.

There are five suspects the principal believes might be guilty. She is ready suspend them all until Ms Lewiston steps up and suggests something called Justice Circle. The plan is for Theo and the five suspects to give up their upcoming week vacation to come to school and work out what really happened. 

Ms Lewiston may be Theo's favorite teacher, but the activities she has the six of them doing are simply put - uncomfortable. Will all this talking really end up with someone confessing to ruining Theo's art? Will the group thinking change? Will they become friends in the end?

A YEAR TO THE DAY by Robin Benway

 

The accident was a year ago. Leo and her parents have been missing Nina for one year, although it seems like more.

Nina, her boyfriend East, and Leo went to a party. On the way home they were hit by a drunk driver. Nina didn't survive. Now Leo tries to take care of her mother, stay close to her father and his new wife, as she confides in East since he's the only one who truly understands.

Author Robin Benway tells the story in reverse order beginning one year after the accident and retracing events and moments experienced by Leo and Nina's loved ones. Focused on love and loss, A YEAR TO THE DAY illustrates what's necessary to navigate a tragedy.

RISE OF THE SPIDER by Michael P. Spradlin

 

Rolf never knew his mother. She died right after his birth. He lives with his father and his older brother Romer. The first World War is over, but now there are threats of more unrest. Rolf tries to stay out of the conflict, but when he sees his brother getting involved, it becomes harder by the day.

When representatives of the Hitler Youth arrive in Heroldsberg, Rolf and his friend Ansel are curious, but they watch from a distance. Rolf knows it would be dangerous to get too close. Unfortunately, his brother Romer claims he is ready for adventure, and he sees the group as a way to get away from the small town ways. Rolf watches as his father and brother argue about which path he should follow.

The membership of the Hitler Youth increases and what follows is violence toward innocent townspeople. Rolf is worried about his brother, his neighbors, and even his father whose business may be threatened.

Michael P. Spradlin has written numerous historical fiction novels for middle grade readers. His research and creative writing bring history alive for readers. RISE OF THE SPIDER is book #1 in a new series titled The Web of the Spider. I look forward to reading more.