INTO THE RAPIDS by Ann Braden

 

INTO THE RAPIDS by Ann Braden is a fast-paced, survival story perfect for Hatchet fans. Addy lives in a remote cabin with her mother. Her father died years ago when Addy was so young she hardly remembers him. She and her mother keep to themselves most of the time. Addy goes to the local school, but she doesn't really have friends. Her mother has battled depression and panic attacks since the death of Addy's father.

Addy has one goal - to attend survivor camp and pass all the tests to become certified. The camp is where her parents met, and Addy thinks if she can survive the difficult tests, she will make her parents proud.

Just days before she leaves for camp, a huge superstorm hits the area. The bridge she needs to cross to get to camp is washed out and who knows if it will be repaired in time. Addy heads up the mountain to find a cell phone signal. Her mother has fallen into depression, and Addy hopes to contact her mother's therapist for advice.

Caleb, a neighbor, has a similar idea to find cell phone reception. The two begin to talk. When Caleb hears about Addy's concerns about not getting to survivor camp, he comes up with a way to organize a series of rides to get Addy there on time. When Caleb's plan begins to fall apart, Addy takes matters into her own hands and embarks on a dangerous downriver trip to the camp.

Author Ann Braden takes readers on the adventure with Addy. They will learn about loss, friendship, and the importance of asking for help even when you don't think you need it.

THE GIRL IN THE WALLS by Meg Eden Kuyatt

V has been sent to Grandma Jojo's for the summer. She's glad to get away, but she would rather go somewhere else. Grandma Jojo is always critical of V - her clothes (this time it's her socks), her behavior, and her personality. V is what she likes to call neurodivergent, but that's something Grandma Jojo doesn't believe in.

Everything at Jojo's is neat and tidy. Neatness isn't one of V's better skills so she's sure this will be the worst summer ever. 

As V tries to get settled, she begins hearing voices and noises in the walls. She can't talk with Jojo about it because according to her grandma, there's no such thing as ghosts. The more she hears the noises, the more determined she is to find out what's going on. A trip to the attic reveals a girl who might just be a ghost. The ghost convinces V that they should play tricks on Grandma Jojo.

If you are fascinated by secrets and family drama, THE GIRL IN THE WALLS by Meg Eden Kyuatt is the middle grade book for you.

RENEGADE GIRLS by Nora Neus, art by Julie Robine

 

Helena "Nell" Cusack is used to leaving Chicago each summer to visit her aunt and uncle in New York City. This summer promises to be different in several ways. One, the adults in her life believe this is the summer Nell should be looking for a fine young man to marry, but that's not what Nell wants. Two, with the recommendation of her uncle and aunt, Nell will be working this summer. It's not a huge job, but it should be interesting. Three, Nell comes to recognize things about herself that she has long kept hidden.

Nell will be writing a society column for the New York Chronicle. She doesn't think her articles are very important. She wants to be more of a journalist. Nell sets her sights on being a stunt-girl reporter uncovering topics that will make a change in the world.

For her first article she goes undercover in a garment factory to reveal the horrible working conditions, child labor, and low pay. The article begins to convince those in the middle and upper classes that things like the making of their clothes is taking a toll on the underprivileged working class. As Nell continues to write her articles, she invites a new friend to act as photographer to add proof to the stories. 

In her graphic novel author Nora Neus highlights the history of the real-life stunt girl Nell Nelson and photographer Alice Austen. Set in the 1800s, this book reveals a piece of history most readers will find fascinating.

WHEN WE GO MISSING by April Henry

 

Willow has been volunteering at Finding Home, an animal shelter. for quite a while. She enjoys helping Mrs. P the elderly woman who created and runs the place. It also gives Willow a chance to get away from her ailing mother and her domineering stepfather. 

Dare is a new volunteer at Finding Home. His hours are required by the court after an incident involving his father's car. He would have gone to jail if it wasn't for his lawyer mother and a forgiving victim. Dare isn't fond of animals, so he's nervous and a bit stand-offish when he first arrives.

Eventually, Willow begins to warm up to Dare. He is willing to walk the dogs and take them to a nearby dog park which leaves Willow free to do other chores. As the days pass, the two begin to revamp the shelter's website with suggestions from Dare. The changes result in more adoptions than before he arrived.

When Willow stumbles across a camera memory card, she realizes she has discovered a mystery. When she opens the card on her computer, she is shocking to find hundreds of pictures of young girls. Some seem posed, others caught by surprise, and some look terrified. When the police appear to be doing nothing, Willow enlists Dare's help to unravel the mystery.

WHEN WE GO MISSING by April Henry will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Each character has a secret they are reluctant to share. The suspense Henry creates is typical of her many mystery novels for teens. 

THE SCOTT FENWICK DIARIES by Kristin Nilsen

 

First, thank you to Media Masters Publicity for the advanced copy of THE SCOTT FENWICK DIARIES, and the opportunity to review this adorable book.

After years of worshipping singer Rory Calhoun posters in her bedroom, seventh grade Millie finally has a crush IRL. Is it her imagination, or is Scott Fenwick glancing her way from time to time in social studies? Her best friend Shauna seems to think Scott likes Millie, and she's suggesting ways to let him know she's into him, too.

Now begins the note passing, texting, waving back and forth in the hall at school and even while shopping at Target. Turns out they have a lot in common, however, sometimes communication gets lost in translation.

Author Kristin Nilsen combines middle school love life with hilarious viewpoints, quirky family members, loveable pets, and life questions in this laugh-out-loud new novel. With a release date in July, THE SCOTT FENWICK DIARIES is sure to delight readers.

ONCE FOR YES by Allie Millington

 

ONCE FOR YES is by Allie Millington, the author of OLIVETTI. Once again Millington focuses on an inanimate object as her main character. This time a four story, brick apartment building named Odenburgh shares its story. 

News travels fast that the Odenburgh has been sold and will be torn down to build a newer, more modern living community. The Odenburgh is a proud, old building. Even though it's a bit run down, and the tenants have many complaints, there's a loyalty to the old structure.

One girl in particular, Prue Laroe, is devastated to hear the news. She lives in the Odenburgh with her parents and older sister. It is the last place she saw and talked to her other sister Lina. Soon eleven-year-old Prue will be as old as Lina was when she left.

Prue meets Lewis, who lives in the apartment building across the street. Together, they try to come up with a plan to save the Odenburgh. It turns out Lewis was friends with Lina. He doesn't want to lose his last contact with her either.

ONCE FOR YES is told by the Odenburgh. The building lends a hand whenever possible to create reasons it should be saved. Along with the building and Prue and Lewis, readers will meet other unique tenants, each with their own quirks and personalities. 

This reader strongly suggests finding a copy of ONCE FOR YES. It is a wonderful story you won't soon forget.

FITTING INDIAN by Jyoti Chand, art by Tara Anand

 

First, thank you to Media Masters Publicity for providing a review copy of FITTING INDIAN. It tells a powerful story.

Nitasha wishes her parents were not so strict. They want her to be the perfect Indian daughter, but they don't understand the pressures she faces at school to earn top grades and fit in with friends who are white and able to do whatever they want. Nitasha also lives in the shadow of her brother and his successful career as a doctor.

Feeling abandoned by her best friend, Nitasha has turned to alcohol and cutting to relieve the pressure. She has a crush on Henry, but he doesn't seem serious about her, plus she knows dating is frowned on in her culture. When a video of her trying to impress Henry goes viral, shame leads to Nitasha deciding suicide is the only answer.

Fortunately, her brother finds her in time, and she wakes up in the hospital. After a 72-hour psychiatric hold, Nitasha goes home to an over-vigilant mother and a father who refuses to talk to her. Talking to a therapist reveals that the Indian culture doesn't acknowledge mental health issues as worthy of discussion or even treatment in some cases. With the help of a childhood friend, Nitasha opens up and decides therapy is just what she needs. 

Author Jyoti Chand uses her own personal experiences to create Nitasha. Direct, straightforward dialogue reveals the difficulties in addressing mental health issues and the problems that causes in families. The graphic novel format makes FITTING INDIAN relatable for any reader.

DISTRESS SIGNAL by Mary E. Lambert

 

DISTRESS SIGNAL by Mary E. Lambert will keep you on the edge of your seat. A class field trip into the desert has four students running for their lives.

Lavender has been looking forward to the science field trip, but things aren't working out how she planned. She thought she would be sitting on the bus next her BFF Marisol, but Marisol is hanging out with someone else. Rachelle has never been Lavender's favorite person. Why is Marisol so interested in her?

As they board the bus, Lavender ends up sitting with John and watching as Marisol and Rachelle laugh and carry on all the way to the desert. Lavender has a plan to get even with the girls, unfortunately, a flash flood warning has her desperately rethinking her plans.

Lavender attempts to warn the girls, but the flash flood ends up separating Lavender, Marisol, Rachelle, and John from the rest of their class. They manage to survive the flood only to face a dwindling water supply, little food, cold nights, and even a bear. 

Author Mary E. Lambert takes readers on a survival adventure in the mountainous desert. Her characters learn to depend on each other as they discover what true friendship means. DISTRESS SIGNAL is perfect for middle grade classrooms and libraries.

GHOST BOOK by Remy Lai

 

July Chen is being visited by what she thinks is a ghost. Actually, it's a boy named William who claims he isn't a ghost, in fact, he isn't really even dead. He tells July that he is stuck between the living and the dead.

July's father seems to be convinced that ghosts don't exist, so she must pretend that she doesn't believe in them either. She befriends William and agrees to help him continue his journey from living to dead. He is in great danger because it is Hungry Ghost Month. He is being threatened by a Hungry Ghost. Little does July know that if she helps William, it could mean her own death.

GHOST BOOK is a graphic novel by Remy Lai. The colorful graphics will take readers into this ghost story as they travel with July as she tries to rescue William.

THE TROUBLE WITH HEROES by Kate Messner

 

Failing seventh grade isn't the only thing filling Finn Connelly with anger. He needs to make up 14 days of gym class, and he needs to complete a poetry project for his ELA teacher. The theme of the project is heroes. That really stokes Finn's anger since his father was supposedly a real, true hero. Unfortunately, his father worked every day to rescue people from burning buildings, accidents, and even the 9/11 World Trade Center disaster, but to Finn, it seemed like everyone else was more important than his own family.

One day his father headed off to his rescue job and never came back. His death has left an unbelievable hole. Finn's mother has tried to explain things to him, but he doesn't really believe the story she's telling. A trip to the cemetery to visit his father's grave turns into a real mess. Finn kicks over the wrong gravestone and ends up charged with destruction of property. Maybe his anger is getting out of control.

When he appears in court, the daughter of the woman whose grave marker he damaged, declares that she wants reparations. Finn can "fix" things if he promises to hike the 46 peaks of the Adirondacks over the summer. The woman buried in the grave was known for hiking the peaks and encouraging others to do the same over the years. Well, hiking seems better than being sent to juvie and paying for the grave marker which he and his mother can't afford.

Author Kate Messner takes readers on an incredible journey with Finn. THE TROUBLE WITH HEROES is written in verse and highlights the famous 46 peaks. Finn learns about the wilderness, the lives of those who have hiked in the past and present, and the true meaning of hero and what it meant to his father. This is an awesome read for teens and adults. 

WHALE EYES by James Robinson

 

WHALE EYES is a memoir about seeing and being seen by Jame Robinson. Born with misaligned eyes, James had two failed surgeries before he even started school. The condition known as strabismus causes the eyes to work independently which means focus constantly jumps from one eye to the other. Observers notice the condition when they aren't sure which eye is focused where.

James began truly struggling when he started school. By the end of 1st grade, he had given up on the idea of reading. Teachers tried everything in their toolboxes, but most didn't have any experience with James's condition. It wasn't until his mother began to take control of education for James and his brother who was dyslexic, that they began to find coping strategies that made reading easier.

In WHALE EYES, James details the difficulties he faces. Many people try to describe what James has as "lazy eye," and sometimes it is easier to just agree with that. With the help of illustrations and exercises, James tries to help readers understand his rare condition.

WHALE EYES is the perfect book for readers looking for inspiration in overcoming a disability or better understanding those who are dealing with a disability.

THE BEAT I DRUM by Dusti Bowling

 

One of my all-time favorite books is INSIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF A CACTUS by Dusti Bowling. When I learned about her new book THE BEAT I DRUM, I preordered it right away. It came! I read it! It was great!!!

THE BEAT I DRUM highlights Connor from the first Cactus book. He has recently moved to the other side of the city. His mother has a new job, and he will be going to a new school. 

Leaving his friends behind has not been easy. Connor has Tourette syndrome so making new friends who understand his tics and can look past them is a challenge. He does find Rory, Amanda, and Keanu. Rory is especially awesome. He is also introduced to an amazing teacher who shows him the magic of drumming.

In addition to adjusting to a new home and school, Connor is dealing with the return of his father. Connor didn't know moving would mean his estranged father would come back into the picture. The man almost destroyed Connor, making him feel like he was the cause of his parents' divorce. Is it possible for someone to change? Is it possible that Connor can forgive him?

Author Dusti Bowling deftly details life with Tourette syndrome, the challenges of forming new friendships, and the rocky road to repairing relationships. If you haven't explored this series, I highly recommend you give it a whirl.

AT HOME IN A FARAWAY PLACE by Lynne Rae Perkins

 

Lissie and her father and grandmother are going on an adventure to Guatemala. She has never traveled that far. She sees volcanoes, Mayan pyramids, unusual wildlife, and open-air markets. Lissie has questions everywhere she goes.

When she asks her father if she can learn Spanish while they are there, he reminds her they will only be there two weeks. Meeting new people and seeing new things, has Lissie learning new words all the time. She surprises everyone by learning much more than they expected.

Returning home has Lissie vowing to come back some day. It was a great adventure.

As author Lynn Rae Perkins tells Lissie's story, she includes Spanish vocabulary for the readers and sketches to help readers picture Lissie's trip. AT HOME IN A FARAWAY PLACE is an illustrated novel for early readers or anyone wanting to travel along with Lissie.

A DAY AT THE BEACH by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge

 

Authors Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge have teamed up to bring this interesting view of beach life. It begins before the lifeguards have climbed to their viewing platforms, before the beach is even open. Just two lone runners, Jackie and Simon, can be seen up the stretch of sand and water.

As the day unfolds, beach goers arrive and do what all beach visitors usually do. Some are building sandcastles, some are under beach umbrellas reading, some are trying to catch the waves, and some are having family picnics. Each chapter features a different perspective of what folks do when they declare the day a beach day.

Two brothers scour the sand with metal detectors hoping to outdo each other with the treasures they find. Frisbees fly, as a young boy questions everyone about the awesome phone he has managed to lose. He is pretty certain his life will be over if his father finds out about the lost phone.

As the day winds down, parents gather their children along with blankets, umbrellas, and coolers as they head home after a fun day at the beach. The two runners return as the day ends.

OCTOPUS MOON by Bobbie Pyron

 

Pearl loves hanging out at the Gulfarium where her mother works. Her first love is the loggerhead sea turtles, but lately she has been fascinated by octopus facts. She has learned that octopi are sensitive and can feel everything. That's how Pearl has been feeling recently, too.

It is getting harder and harder to get out of bed in the morning. At first, she thinks it is because starting fifth grade has her worried and nervous. It's more than that though. Hanging out with her two best friends is becoming more difficult, too. She has always been shy and quiet, but now when her friends suggest activities, Pearl is sure she would rather be home in her darkened bedroom.

At parent/teacher conferences, Pearl's parents learn that her grades have been slipping, she isn't turning in homework, and her mind seems to be somewhere else. This concern has her parents making an appointment for her with a therapist. Now Pearl is worried and nervous about that.

Diagnosed with depression, Pearl finds herself facing her feelings and learning new ways to cope with them. As she learns more, she recognizes the same symptoms in her grandfather and also learns that depression can hereditary.

OCTOPUS MOON by author Bobbie Pyron is perfect for middle grade readers needing to understand a condition that effects so many people today. Pyron describes Pearl's situation well and will help readers understand what it is like to deal with depression both personally and as a family member or friend.

EVERYTHING IS TUBERCULOSIS by John Green

 

John Green, author of Looking for Alaska, The Fault in Our Stars, and many other YA books, has written a non-fiction book. EVERYTHING IS TUBERCULOSIS explores the history of the world's most infectious disease.

Green became fascinated by tuberculosis while on a trip to Sierra Leone. He visited a hospital there and met a patient named Henry. He learned of Henry's life-long fight with the disease; and then began to do his own research into the history, treatment, and the continuing battle with the disease.

Readers will learn that in earlier times TB was referred to as consumption. When many of its victims were artists, authors, and poets, it was romanticized and thought to contribute to the creativity of these individuals. As time passed, contracting TB was thought to be because of poor lifestyle, poverty, and abuse of alcohol or gluttony.

Green details the advancement of detection and treatment. He describes that availability of medicines, compliance with treatment, and drug resistance all contribute to the loss of life in third world countries. He explains his own health issues and his feelings about relying on medication which helped him to understand how some TB patients suffer.

As I read this book, I was constantly thinking about the recent cuts made in the United States support for health in poor countries. It is a great concern that this highly contagious disease could once again surge due to lack of treatment.

I LOVE YOU, MICHAEL COLLINS by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

 

I remember the moon landing of Apollo 11. I was 13 and excited to stay up late to watch men walking on the moon. I LOVE YOU, MICHAEL COLLINS by Lauren Baratz-Logsted brought many memories.

Mamie is ten years old. Her older sister Eleanor has moved into an apartment. Her other sister Bess is busy with high school and her boyfriend Vinny. Next door is her best friend, Buster. 

As the school year comes to a close, Mamie listens to all the other girls and boys who marvel at Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. No one ever mentions Michael Collins, but Mamie thinks he is the one to admire because without him circling the moon, the other two won't have a way to get back to earth. 

Mamie begins writing letters to Michael Collins. As she does, her own family begins to unravel. Talking with him through her letters helps her deal with the real-life upheaval when everyone else seems to be abandoning her.

I'd classify this as historical fiction with a twist, and highly recommend it for middle grade readers.

BANNED TOGETHER: Our Fight for Readers' Rights edited by Ashley Hope Perez

 

The increase in book bans in recent years has some authors fired up (and many readers, as well). BANNED TOGETHER is a collection of awesome children's and young adult authors who have shared their feelings about this uptick in the attempt to restrict what kids read.

Filled with essays, short stories, personal accounts, graphic narratives, and more, BANNED TOGETHER reveals what many feel is a trend dangerous to free speech and literature today. This collection is perfect for sharing with others concerned about censorship in today's society.

WHEN WE RIDE by Rex Ogle

 

WHEN WE RIDE is Rex Ogle's first YA novel. Written in verse, it chronicles the friendship of two teens. Diego and Lawson have been friends for ten years. Hanging together is what they do, but lately, Diego hasn't been feeling all that comfortable with Lawson.

Diego works hard in school and at his job. He plans to earn good grades and save his paychecks so he can go to college. Lawson, on the other hand, isn't keen on school, and his job isn't exactly legal. He has been selling weed to high school friends and college students. Recently, he has added some harder stuff to his inventory.

Lawson constantly asks Diego to drive him around. Diego is worried that one of these days they will be pulled over and both of them will end up in jail. Lawson promises he won't let Diego go down for whatever he is carrying, but the reassurances don't make Diego comfortable.

What does it take to maintain a friendship when two friends have different goals? Can Diego step away from 10 years of friendship to protect himself, or does he feel too protective of Lawson? WHEN WE RIDE will keep you on the edge of your seat.

TEAR THIS DOWN by Barbara Dee

 

TEAR THIS DOWN by Barbara Dee is another great pick for National Women's History Month. The recommended audience is middle grade readers, but it's perfect for anyone interested in history and women's rights.

Freya Stillman has barely started seventh grade. Her history teacher has already assigned a research project. One day into her research, Freya learns that Benjamin Wellstone, the man whose name appears on buildings, a statue, and even her school's name, is not the man everyone believes him to be. Yes, he worked with President Lincoln to defeat slavery, but he also believed that women should only work in the home, should not be educated, and should not be allowed to vote or participate in government.

Freya can't believe this man gets so much respect in her community. Her immediate reaction is to begin a campaign to have his statue removed and have all the things, including the town, renamed. As her opinions gain ground, some people in town are not thrilled by Freya's opinions. She doesn't really care what others think. Instead, she works to get some friends involved in promoting a message that perhaps the historical suffragists from the town deserve more of their support.

Author Barbara Dee takes current topics and brings them front and center in this novel about a young activist and her passion for making people aware of important facts about her town. Full of discussion opportunities, TEAR THIS DOWN should be in every classroom and library.

ONE STEP FORWARD by Marcie Flinchum Atkins

 

ONE STEP FORWARD is the perfect book for Women's History Month and our current turbulent times. It addresses the fight for the women's vote during the early 1900s.

Readers are introduced to Matilda Young. History says she was the youngest suffragist to actively fight for women's rights. She was one of a family of four sisters and one brother. Her older sisters became part of the protests in Washington, D.C., by the National Women's Party. As Matilda watched, she saw the importance of the movement and began picketing with the women in front of the Whitehouse.

Matilda's parents worried about their young teenage daughter as she put her own safety on the line to fight for change. She didn't picket at first. She helped organize the picketing schedule, prepared the banners the women carried as they walked and stood in front of the White House, and offered them food and drink when their shifts were over.

Matilda eventually joined the women on the front lines of the protest. She was hired by NWP to answer phones and other communication. She was arrested numerous times and joined a hunger strike in jail that threatened her life. 

Author Marcie Flinchum Atkins uses verse to chronicle the years of picketing and protest that eventually led to the successful adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment. It was a hard-fought battle, and Matilda Young was in the thick of it.

EVERY STAR THAT FALLS by Michael Thomas Ford

 

Thanks to a student in my college Adolescent Lit class, I learned about this sequel to SUICIDE NOTES. The story continues after Jeff's 45 days in a psychiatric ward.

Being back home is good, but it is also confusing. He knows his parents are worried about a repeat of his suicide attempt, so he is trying his best to keep them happy. His sister, Amanda, seems to understand him better than anyone else.

Going back to school causes some anxiety, but Jeff insists that he doesn't want to change schools even though his mother pushes that option. He knows there will be gossip, but he is relying on his best friend Allie to help him cross those bridges when the time comes.

Dr. K recommends a Friday evening support group. It is uncomfortable at first, but Jeff meets Chrys and eventually Goldie. They may be just the people to add happiness back into his life.

EVERY STAR THAT FALLS by Michael Thomas Ford is the perfect sequel. It offers answers for readers' questions about what happens next and offers a positive outlook for anyone trying to find themselves amid the chaos and trauma of teenage life.

REZ BALL by Byron Graves

 

Tre Brun is dedicating his time to improving his basketball skills. He has hopes of using basketball as his ticket off the Red Lake Indian Reservation. He is playing JV but hopes to move up to varsity and play like his father and brother before him. Both had goals to win the state championship. His father didn't succeed, and a tragic car accident ended Tre's older brother's life before he could achieve the goal.

 Tryouts Tre's sophomore year don't go as planned. He was sure he played well and would make the varsity team. He is stuck on the JV team, but vows to play hard and make varsity next year. When a couple of varsity players are suspended, the coach moves Tre up. Can he fit in and prove his worth? If he can play like his brother and father, maybe they have a chance to win at the state level this year.

Author Byron Graves's book REZ BALL has edge-of-your-seat basketball action. Memories of Tre's brother keep emotions uneasy in the family as Tre's playing promises to match that of his idol. This debut will have readers eagerly waiting for this author's next book.

RHINO'S RUN by Robert Lipsyte

 

Ronnie Rhinehart's focus is on football. He's captain of the team and plans to play Division I in college. If all goes well, that will allow him to get out of his dying town.

Home life is full of up and down emotions. His parents are usually focused on whatever is happening in their jobs. Rhino only gets attention when he does something wrong or slacks off in his training.

When Rhino lashes out during a school assembly and punches a popular kid, he finds himself suspended and required to attend the Group for counseling. Meeting with the Group does help him feel better. There's also the added benefit of meeting some new people with problems of their own. However, when one of the Group members brings a gun, and Rhino learns he was the target of the attack, his values begin to shift.

Author Robert Lipsyte has written twelve novels for young adults. I was excited to see his latest RHINO'S RUN. It is very relevant in today's very divided culture. The story will have a definite impact on reader's and get them thinking about what is most important in life.

IT'S ALL OR NOTHING, VALE by Andrea Beatriz Arango

What happens when the thing that you most identify with might be taken away? Are you still you, or do you have to remake yourself?

Vale is recovering from a devastating accident that severely injured her leg. She has gone through surgeries and therapy, but she isn't sure she is well enough to resume her one love - fencing. She has been given permission to start returning slowly. As she reenters the gym and picks up her training, she knows that things are not the same. She is used to being in first place and winning every match, however, that isn't where she is anymore.

Vale fears she may have been replaced by a new girl just as skilled as she used to be. What is difficult is that despite her jealousy, she also really likes this girl, perhaps more than she's willing to admit. 

Author Andrea Beatriz Arango uses verse to tell Vale's story. A supportive family, a coach who wants to see her back in competitive form, and a new friendship all combine to lend a hand in Vale's recovery. Will fencing still be the best thing in Vale's life, or will she learn other things are just as rewarding?

 

STRONGER AT THE SEAMS by Shannon Stocker

 

Twyla loves playing field hockey. She is determined to improve her skills to impress the coach and make it to varsity next year. Unfortunately, Twyla has been feeling nauseous lately. She has even vomited several times. Maybe she's dehydrated or needs to get more sleep.

When the coach notices Twyla's performance on the field has been slipping, she threatens that Twyla won't be able to play. Twyla's friends are also noticing the physical changes like weight loss and the constant complaints about her stomach. She even vomits at a sleepover which requires a call to her father.

A trip to the ER and later to her doctor, end with Twyla being told she is constipated, but she is convinced that's not the problem. The medicine she is prescribed only increases her stomach discomfort, so she begins hiding the dose every morning, so her father doesn't know she's not taking it.

Twyla begins wondering what exactly caused the accident that killed her mother five years ago. Is it possible her mother had some illness that Twyla also has? She can't bring up the subject with her father, and her friends seem to be pulling away from her instead of being there for her. How can she find out what is wrong when no one will take her seriously?

Author Shannon Stocker's STRONGER AT THE SEAMS shows how physical illness can cause not only discomfort but also stress in family and friend relationships. We must be careful not to get caught up in our own personal issues when we should be listening to others and offering help when they need it.

BAT AND THE BUSINESS OF FERRETS by Elana K. Arnold

 

As a fan of the BAT series, I'm thrilled to review #4 BAT AND THE BUSINESS OF FERRETS. Bat is starting 4th grade. He isn't thrilled to have a new teacher and even less excited to find out his new teacher has students sitting and small groups instead of individual seats. He's also extremely disappointed to learn there is no class pet.

When Bat's mother stops off at her vet office one day after school, Bat wishes she would just go straight home. She tells him there's a surprise, so he feels a bit better about the stop. What he discovers inside is amazing! There are 4 baby ferrets in a box. Bat has never seen ferrets in person, but he does know that a group of ferrets is called a business.

One of the ferrets is pure white and according to his mother's assistant, it is deaf. Bat immediately thinks it would be a great classroom pet since it wouldn't be bothered by a noisy classroom. Bat and his friend Israel begin planning how they will get their teacher to change his mind about having a class pet.

Author Elana K. Arnold shows readers Bat's difficulties in interpreting people's emotions and feelings. As a person on the autism spectrum, Bat needs reminders to think about how he should interact with others. Bat has plenty to teach all of us when it comes to being caring to both people and animals.

AWAY by Megan E. Freeman

 

If you read ALONE by Megan E. Freeman, you will want to check out her newly released book AWAY. She listened to all her fans wanting to know what happened to the people who left the area in the evacuations that left Maddie behind, alone. Now you can read about those others and what happened to them.

An imminent threat warning pulls folks from their beds with a call to evacuate immediately. Four young people, Ashanti, Teddy, Grandin, and Harmony, pack bags as their families join the evacuees. They end up in a relocation camp who knows how many miles away from their Colorado homes.

Ashanti has dreams of becoming a doctor like her mother. Teddy lives with his theater loving grandmother who encourages his love of film and movies. Grandin's life has been centered on a ranch where he helps his father with the livestock. Harmony's mother is a preacher for a small congregation.

When they meet in the relocation camp, they discover they are all curious about the exact nature of the imminent danger threat that has gotten them here.

Harmony, with a goal to become a journalist, immediately starts keeping a notebook about the happenings around the camp. Teddy is ever attentive with his camera, filming this new group of friends and anything else of interest. Ashanti pays close attention to the folks who visit her mother for medical care, and Grandin plots his escape ever since his father snuck away from the compound.

The more the kids notice about their surroundings and the behavior of the adults in charge, the more they become suspicious. There seems to be evidence that their former homes have not been contaminated by a life-threatening substance, but who can they trust and how can they prove their theories?

AWAY is written in a combination of verse, news articles, and film scripts to give it a truly adventurous flair. If you've read ALONE, you'll definitely want to get ahold of a copy of this one soon.

WILL'S RACE FOR HOME by Jewell Parker Rhodes

 

Will lives with his parents and his grandfather. The Civil War is over, and they are living as free former slaves. However, as sharecroppers, it doesn't seem like they are free. Working on land that isn't theirs for money they end up turning over to the landowners, makes it seem like they are still slaves.

News of the Oklahoma land rush gives Will's father the hope of owning his own land and being truly free. Leaving his mother and grandfather behind, Will and his father set off to travel by wagon in hopes of getting to Oklahoma by the April 22 deadline. On that day the land rush is on to claim a piece of the two million acres open for settlement. If they are successful, they can claim 160 acres. If they work the land for five years, it will become theirs.

Will is excited to be traveling with his father, but he doesn't understand how difficult it will be. There is rough terrain, snakes and other wild animals, and towns with criminal elements out to take advantage of naive travelers. In one town they are rescued by a former Union soldier who agrees to help them along on their journey. This partnership makes life a bit easier, especially when they must cross the dangerous Red River. 

Can they make it by the deadline? If they do, can they claim the land that will change their lives? Author Jewell Parker Rhodes brings to life an exciting time in history readers will remember long after they turn the last page.

THE BIG BOOK OF BARF by Vicky Lorencen

 

THE BIG BOOK OF BARF: A Spewnami of Sick Science, Hurled History, and Body Oddities by Vicky Lorencen is an awesome new book the kids you know will love! At a recent author event Lorencen explained the book started as a mere pamphlet of information but then took on a life of its own, ending in this volume of barf knowledge that could be shelved among encyclopedias.

Three quirky characters take readers on a tour of everything vomit. Chuck (UpChuck), Queezy, and Professor Anita Puke provide definitions, explanations, history, funny stories, jokes, and even recipes and crafts centered around barf.

Organized in what they call Ralphabetical order, THE BIG BOOK OF BARF can be read in just about any order. Being a creature of habit, I started at page one and read it from start to finish, however, readers looking for adventure can open to any page or search for any letter in the ralphabet to find something fun to read and learn. 

Filled with fun and colorful illustrations by Remy Simard, this book begs to be read and reread and showed off to anyone you want to gross out with vomit related information.

POPCORN by Rob Harrell

 

POPCORN by Rob Harrell is inspired by Harrell's own struggles with anxiety. It should definitely be part of every middle school collection. It will help countless kids better understand their own feelings and emotions, as well as those of others.

Andrew is having one of the worst days ever. He has always struggled with overwhelming feelings of panic and what is no doubt OCD. His mother is busy trying to make ends meet and trying her best to help Andrew, but it seems that help usually falls short. 

It's picture day at school. Andrew is proud of the brand-new shirt his mother got him. Brand-new isn't usually something she can afford. Things begin to go wrong almost immediately. On the bus, in homeroom, in math, in language arts, in science, in art, and in gym class. It's one tragic event after another. His best friend Jonesy even seems to abandon him when he needs her the most. To top things off, Andrew's grandmother has wandered off who knows where.

Thanks to his art teacher and the school nurse Andrew ends up dealing with his anxiety and learns some coping skills that he hopes will help in the future.

TRUE GRETCH: Young Adult Edition by Gretchen Whitmer

 

The cover states, "Lessons for anyone who wants to make a difference." This young adult edition of TRUE GRETCH does convey Gretchen Whitmer's desire to make a difference in the lives of others, especially for those who live in her beloved state of Michigan.

Governor Whitmer relates stories about her childhood, her grandmother and grandfather, her parents, and her siblings. Experiences and lessons learned early on have stayed with this honest, straightforward leader of the state of Michigan. 

Readers will be treated to Whitmer's ever-present sense of humor even as she tells of the difficult times in her personal and political life. Whitmer tells about her frustrations during the COVID pandemic and the decisions she made to hopefully keep the residents of Michigan as safe as possible. She shares her fears, especially for her family, when threatened by people violently disagreeing with her decisions. Whitmer also tells stories about her campaigns and the team she credits with her successes.

TRUE GRETCH (young adult edition) is perfect for high school readers interested in learning more about a current female politician and her path to success.

KAREEEM BETWEEN by Shifa Saltagi Safadi

 

 A huge Chicago Bears fan, Kareem would love to play on the seventh grade football team. Unfortunately, his name doesn't show up on the final roster after tryouts. There might be a second chance though, when the popular coach's son tells Kareem he might be able to get him another tryout. The only catch is he expects Kareem to do his homework for him. 

Kareem's life seems to bounce from one mess to another. He tries to welcome a new Syrian kid with a heavy Syrian accent, but that just acts as a reminder to everyone that Kareem is Syrian-American. He gives up finding a table in the cafeteria, so he heads to the library most days. It's easier for his daily prayers there anyway.

Things at home become complicated when Kareem's mother must return to Syria to help his grandparents escape from the war-torn country and come to the United States. His grandfather is sick and needs the care he can get here in the states. Just after his mother arrives in Syria to help them, President Trump declares a Muslim ban that restricts people from certain countries from entering the U.S. Will Kareem's family ever be together again?

In KAREEM BETWEEN author Shifa Saltagi Safadi brilliantly portrays an example of living in the U.S. as a Syrian-American during the first Trump administration. Kareem experiences the fear of having his mother kept from the family as she attempts to bring her own parents to safety. Kareem describes the protests at the airport in Chicago where thousands marched against the Muslim ban.

SAME PAGE by Elly Swartz

 

As the school year begins, all Bess wants is to be elected class president. She has some awesome ideas that will help make Nettles Middle School a great place. 

Bess is successful, plus her friend June is elected vice-president. The first change they make is to get a book vending machine. With the help of the PTO, they get the machine and books to stock it. Everyone seems excited until just weeks later someone complains about some of the books, and they are removed. Bess can't believe someone would think books are inappropriate. They had selected the books with the help of the school librarian. These were books she thought kids should get a chance to read.

When Bess discovers the person who complained is June's mother, she confronts her friend who refuses to make any excuses for her mother. Now the fight is on to get these books back into the vending machine and into the hands of kids who need them. Bess can't believe someone she thought she knew and cared for could be so different. 

Author Elly Swartz tackles the topic of book bans in SAME PAGE. This relevant topic provides a platform for younger readers to learn about the challenges and how to take a stand to protect their rights. Just as Bess learns, it isn't easy when disagreements happen that pit one friend against another.

THE ONE AND ONLY FAMILY by Katherine Applegate

 

The tale of the One and Only Ivan comes to a close in THE ONE AND ONLY FAMILY by Katherine Applegate. Fans of the series will be pleased as the story concludes.

Ivan now lives in a proper zoo along with his mate Kinyani and his friends Ruby and Bob. The gorilla habitat has recently been enlarged making room for some other gorillas and a huge surprise - Kinyani is pregnant.

Ivan never really thought about being a dad, but now it's all he thinks about. As the resident silverback, he is the protector of his new troop of gorillas, and that will soon include a little one of his own. 

As the zoo vet and keepers carefully follow Kinyani's pregnancy, it is discovered that she is expecting twins. Ivan couldn't be more excited but also more nervous than ever.

Applegate weaves another wonderful tale as she describes Ivan's excitement and concerns and the reactions of all his friends. Ruby's helpful advice and Bob's annoying predictions give readers plenty of humor and thoughtfulness just like the other books before it. Ivan's fans will surely find this final book to be a perfect ending they will want to read and reread for years.

SAIL ME AWAY HOME by Ann Clare LeZotte

 

SAIL ME AWAY HOME by Ann Clare LeZotte follows the story of Mary Lambert, a deaf girl living on Martha's Vineyard. Mary was born deaf as many on this island community. The hereditary deafness of many on Martha's Vineyard resulted in the development of a unique sign language that allowed the residents, whether hearing or deaf to communicate.

Mary is the local schoolteacher. She is proud of her ability to educate the numerous deaf children that many normally dismiss as unable to learn. She dreams of visiting a well-known deaf school in Paris to learn even more about education. When a group of missionaries offers to let her travel with them to Europe, she is thrilled that her dream may come true.

After much convincing, Mary gets her parents to agree to this distant voyage. A two-month journey by ship ends in Mary's arrival in England where she visits a school there. Their welcome isn't exactly warm and generous, but Mary does see how another educational program works.

When she arrives in Paris, she is more warmly welcomed at the school there. Although, there are uncertain times and a fear that the missionaries will be forcing her to stay with them on their journey on to Asia, Mary is able to connect with people who help her fulfill her dream of learning more about deaf education.

Ann Clare LeZotte's other books are SHOW ME A SIGN and SET ME FREE.

SLOUCH by Christina Wyman

 

If you are looking for a book packed with great discussion topics, SLOUCH by Christina Wyman is for you. Aimed at a middle grade audience (but could be used for high school as well), SLOUCH takes on multiple topics top of mind for many teens and even their parents and teachers.

Stevie Crumb is the tallest in her class. She's taller than the girls and also the boys. Everyone expects her to play sports, especially basketball, but she's not interested at all. Her brother Ryan is a basketball player with dreams of playing in college with a full scholarship. Their parents are also hoping for that since it will be the only chance he'll have to go to college.

Money is always tight, but Stevie notices that Ryan has whatever he needs for basketball - new shoes, new shorts, whatever he needs. At the same time, Stevie must wear Ryan's hand-me-downs if she wants pants that aren't too short or too tight. She's growing, but when she points this out to her mother, she is told she'll have to wait until there is some extra cash in a few weeks.

Stevie stumbles across a meeting of the school's debate team. She is immediately interested in joining the group. Maybe her parents will like the fact that she is competing in something, even if it isn't a sport. 

Staying after school for debate practice means taking the train home later than usual and often without her best friend. Stevie becomes uncomfortable when older boys and even men start making comments about her physical appearance. Several of them even touch her as they pass her to leave the train. Keeping this information to herself doesn't feel right, but her parents are so focused on Ryan's basketball and their money problems, she can't find the right time to bring it up.

SLOUCH is full of Stevie's problems - bullying, family dynamics, social media issues, best friend dilemmas, and scary threats to her physical safety. Readers will take an instant liking for Stevie and root for her to find all the answers she needs.

THE ART OF BEING NORMAL by Lisa Williamson

 

David has spent most of his life wishing he was a girl. When he is home alone, he tries out being who he wants to be by dressing up and practicing the YouTube make-up video tips he watches. At school he tries to be normal, but only his two best friends treat him kindly.

Leo is starting at his new school. He hopes no one knows what happened at his old school. If they find out, he definitely won't be able to pretend to act normal. When he meets Alicia, the most popular girl in school, he can't believe she likes him. As their relationship becomes more serious, Alicia pushes things physically. That's when everything falls apart. 

David and Leo are both trans. David wants to come out to his parents as Kate, but he isn't sure how they will react. Leo is already out to his mother and siblings. They haven't thought of him as Megan for quite some time. The person he wants to tell is his father who left long ago. Searching for him has been challenging, but Leo has made a breakthrough. He hopes his father will welcome a son instead of a daughter.

Author Lisa Williamson tackles a difficult subject bravely and deftly. David and Leo are confronting what can often be a cruel world. Through their stories, Williamson offers trans teens an inspiring approach with hope for a positive future.

NOT NOTHING by Gayle Forman

 

Alex is twelve years old. He is trying to adjust to the new normal of living with his aunt and uncle. He isn't sure if he will see his mother again or not.

Josey is 107 years old. He lives in Shady Glen, an assisted living facility. He doesn't speak because he doesn't see any reason to communicate anymore.

Alex and Josey meet when Alex is assigned volunteer work at Shady Glen. Alex is under court supervision because of a terrible thing he did. He doesn't want to be around these old people, but it's either that or the judge will send him to a juvenile detention facility.

This is not the way Alex wanted to spend his summer, and it gets even worse when he meets Maya-Jade. She also volunteers at Shady Glen, and it turns out she is Alex's boss. She has him washing everything with bleach and helping with activities for the old people Alex describes as zombies. It isn't until he is sent on an errand to Josey's room that he begins to see the value of his time with the elderly.

Author Gayle Forman's new middle grade novel is a book that should be read by everyone. The parallel stories of Alex and Josey are sure to touch hearts and convince all readers that everyone has something to contribute to the world. NOT NOTHING will stay with readers long after the last page is turned.