Set/Series Name

Series Volume Number

Author/Artist

Total Full Text Reviews

A dangerous path

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864147

Booklist (August 2004 (Vol. 100, No. 22)) Gr. 6-9. The saga continues in the fifth book in the Warriors series as the cat Fireheart, now deputy leader of Thunderclan, finds himself taking on even more responsibility because clan-leader Bluestar is both physically and mentally ill. Add to that the dangerous machinations of treacherous Tigarstar, the head of Shadowclan, and a pack of renegade dogs. Bluestar becomes certain that all the members of her clan, including Fireheart, have betrayed her; the ancestral Starclan cats have abandoned her; and Windclan is hunting in Thunderclan's territory. After Bluestar declares war, it's up to Fireheart to find a way to avoid the battle. Hunter maintains the established characterizations of his sentient cats, who still retain their feline natures. With compelling intrigue and fast-paced actions, this is one of the most exciting books in the series--and, happily, there's another volume to come.

Horn Book Guide (Fall 2004) Fireheart, new deputy of the ThunderClan cats, faces great trials as the tribe's elderly leader, Bluestar, descends into paranoia. The ThunderClan cats flee a forest fire and face a pack of ferocious dogs while dealing with traitorous Tigerclaw. The fourth and fifth entries in the series continue the development of the complex, dynamic characters. [Review covers these Warriors titles: A Dangerous Path and Rising Storm.]

A horse named Sky

Voice of the Wilderness

Parry, Rosanne

Upper Elementary

9798368736655

School Library Journal Xpress (October 13, 2023) Gr 3-7-Sky isn't a big horse, but he is fast. Readers meet him as a newborn, experiencing the world from his eyes, and are treated to his wonderment, as well as the challenges of living in the wild. There are big expectations of even the youngest horses. Because Sky is a foal, he knows he will one day have to either fight his father or leave his family, since there can only be one male horse in a family band. A drought makes that day come sooner than he'd like, and he sets out on his own so he is not draining limited water, leaving behind his band and best friend Storm. He's overjoyed to find that Storm has left the band to join him, but the two are soon captured and groomed to become horses on the Pony Express. Perry has created an entirely convincing setting in which humans are secondary to animals. Imaginative descriptions keep readers guessing the horse interpretation of human vocabulary. Sky's puzzlement over human behavior is sometimes poignant, and sometimes humorous. He's stunned to learn they can speak, and is advised not to try to confuse them, as their capacity to understand is limited. Perry's portrayal of the dynamics between domesticated horses and wild horses is compelling. Those born in captivity believe themselves to be superior to those born in the wild. Despite plentiful water and food, Sky never loses his determination to escape. This standalone companion to A Wolf Called Wander and A Whale in the Wild offers readers a unique perspective of the development of the American West. Frequent soft black-and-white illustrations enhance Perry's poetic prose. VERDICT This compelling novel has wide appeal and readers need not be horse or animal lovers to appreciate its heartfelt message of family and freedom.-Juliet Morefield © Copyright 2023. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (November/December, 2023) Sky is a wild mustang, at home in the Virginia Range of western Nevada. From his earliest days, Sky learns to live as part of a herd. During a time of drought when Sky must leave his band to search for water, he is captured by humans. He is used by the Pony Express and then is captured by silver miners. There, faced with horses and donkeys who are suffering from poisoned air and water, Sky leads a rebellion to free the captured animals. Sky's first-person narration of his adventures is engrossing and fast-paced. His vocabulary is appropriate to a wild horse; human hands are grabbers, corrals are traps, and mountain lions are claw beasts. Parry weaves historical and environmental information smoothly into the narrative. Sky's life depends on water and the healthy plants and animals in his surroundings, so readers finish the book with a strong sense of the impact of human choices on animal and plant life. As she did with A Wolf Called Wander and A Whale in the Wild (rev. 1/21), Parry writes a convincing fictionalized life of one wild animal while addressing issues of community, survival, and care for our environment. Fagan's realistic black-and-white illustrations convey the windswept mountain terrain and the movement of the horses. Extensive back matter includes detailed information about the historical and environmental context of the story. Maeve Visser Knoth November/December 2023 p.87

Kirkus Reviews (August 1, 2023) In mid-19th-century Nevada, a colt named Sky grows up to lead his band of wild horses. Parry’s moving story follows the pattern of her recent animal tales, A Wolf Called Wander (2019) and A Whale of the Wild (2020), chronicling a wild animal’s life in the first person, imagining its point of view, and detailing and appreciating the natural world it inhabits. As Sky grows from wobbly newborn to leader of his family, he faces more than the usual challenges for colts who must fight their stallions or leave their herds when they are grown up. Fagan’s appealing black-and-white illustrations help readers envision this survival story. Sky’s adventures include forced service with the Pony Express; being befriended by an enslaved Paiute boy; escaping to find his now-captured band; and helping them escape the silver miners who’d destroyed their world. Animal lovers will applaud his ingenuity and stubbornness. Although Sky’s band has suffered serious injuries (his mother is blind), he and Storm, a mare who was his childhood companion, lead them toward safety in a new wilderness. The writer’s admiration for these wild horses and her concerns about human destruction of their environment come through even more clearly in a series of concluding expository essays discussing the wild horses, the Indigenous Americans, the natural history of the Great Basin, silver mining, and the Pony Express. A feel-good tale of a clever and determined stallion set against a well-developed landscape. (author’s note, resources) (Fiction. 7-10)

A whale of the wild

Voice of the Wilderness

Parry, Rosanne

Upper Elementary

9781668839041

School Library Journal (September 1, 2020) Gr 3-7-Vega is a young orca whale being trained by her mother to one day be the group's Wayfinder-the whale who navigates their extended family toward food and away from danger. Vega is reckless and impulsive, but when she and her young cousin are separated from the pod by an earthquake and the resulting tsunami, Vega must use her wayfinding skills to reunite them with their elders. In the style of A Wolf Called Wander, Parry tells the story through the animal voices of both Vega and Deneb, weaving a great deal of information about orcas and their habits (and the negative effects that both humans and climate change are having on the orca population) into the narrative. The back matter contains resources for those interested in learning more. VERDICT Purchase where animal adventure stories are in demand.-Elizabeth Friend, Wester M.S., TX © Copyright 2020. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (January/February, 2021) The whale of the title could apply to either of two narrators. Vega, a late-adolescent orca whale, is just coming into her own as a wayfinder. The alternating voice is that of her younger and impulsive brother Deneb. Their family is part of the Southern Resident Killer Whale Community that lives in the Salish Sea, an area of stunning ecological richness and diversity in the Pacific Northwest. The community is threatened by water pollution, noise pollution, climate change, and reduced populations of Chinook salmon. When there's an earthquake with its resulting tsunami, Vega and Deneb become separated from their pod. Parry (A Wolf Called Wander) presents orca life convincingly, using fresh language. Tides are Push and Pull. Directions are warmward and coldward. Echolocation is click-stream. Connection between family members is maintained by the repeated reassurance, "I'm beside you," a refrain that becomes increasingly heartbreaking as the characters try to deal with the fracturing of their world. The story contains gracefully integrated information on such varied topics as the eel ("all teeth and patience") and the poison taste of an oil spill, without ever losing narrative momentum or emotional drive. Back matter gives clear explanations of terms (krill are "pink, opaque, and the size and weight of a paper clip"), suggestions for further reading, and practical tips for young readers on how to help save this precious environment. Detailed black-and-white illustrations beautifully support a powerful portrait of nature under threat. Sarah Ellis January/February 2021 p.113

Booklist starred (August 2020 (Vol. 116, No. 22)) Grades 3-5. Just as she did with A Wolf Called Wander (2019), Parry creates a spellbinding, heart-stopping adventure for middle-grade readers—this time about a pod of orca whales and their plight in today’s Salish Sea. The hungry pod travels toward the mouth of a river awaiting the salmon, but this year, the fish are late. Readers are instantly plunged into the close-knit pod as its members work together and share stories and knowledge with younger generations. Vega, the future “wayfinder” of her pod, and her younger brother, Deneb, must remember all the lessons they can after a powerful earthquake and tsunami separate the young orcas from their pod. Vega and Deneb alternate the tale’s narration, giving first-person accounts of their harrowing journey to find their family and their encounters (some frightening, others encouraging) with other sea creatures and humans. Parry’s thorough research, observation, and creative writing combine to share the marvelous matriarchal familial world of orcas, the negative impacts of ocean and noise pollution, and threats posed by ships and humans. Her descriptive narrative rises in intensity to match each new danger and resolves with a bittersweet yet hopeful finish. Vega’s tenacious spirit and intelligence will turn readers into steadfast companions on her unforgettable journey. Black-and-white illustrations and informative back matter on orcas and their environment enhance an already excellent book.

A Wolf Called Fire --A Voice of the Wilderness Novel

Voice of the Wilderness

Parry, Rosanne

Upper Elementary

9798318930294

School Library Journal (January 1, 2025) Gr 4-6-Warm, the smallest and most nurturing member of a wolf pack, is forced to flee with his younger siblings when a rival pack attacks, killing their mother and father. Unaccustomed to being in charge, he discovers that his unique blend of talents make him aptly fit for a leadership role. But when Warm learns that other members of his pack have been assimilated by the enemy wolves, he embarks on a quest to rescue them. In doing so he discovers unexpected allies and important truths about himself. Middle schoolers will instantly identify with Warm. He gets pushed around a lot, is always hungry, and worries about finding his place. The book is notable in that it builds positive boy culture: rather than addressing the old trope of boys having a "nurturing side," it identifies nurturing (warmth) as a value in and of itself, a virtue to be celebrated. Though this is billed as a stand-alone novel, it offers an additional perspective on the events that take place in A Wolf Called Wander, as well as a refreshing approach to leadership, and reaches depths that book only probed. VERDICT This wolf tale presents a diversity of ideologies and perspectives, all of which are sure to help readers reflect on where and how they fit into the world. Highly recommended.-Benjamin Ludwig © Copyright 2025. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (March/April, 2025) This companion volume to A Wolf Called Wander gives Warm, the beloved wolf brother of Swift, his own voice and tale. Warm is small and gentle, a watcher by nature and an unlikely hero for a survival story, but, as his wise mother maintains, "Big is not the only good thing for a wolf to be." In the opening chapters we follow Warm in his first year, and Parry sticks closely to realistic wolf behavior and biology, creating a plain and rhythmical language that balances the familiar and the strange. Warm says of his siblings in the den, "I know them all by sound and smell and their lifebeats are always near me." When the family is attacked by a hostile wolf pack and Warm must learn to rely on his own resources, the tone of the narrative changes, becoming more fablelike, a story in which our own human dilemmas are all too familiar. Warm's pack has all the usual family squabbles, but they survive by cooperation. The hostile pack is strictly hierarchical, with pack leaders maintaining their positions through intimidation and cruelty. A suspenseful, dramatic plot spins above the big grounding question of how we can survive and live with one another with respect and consideration. Dynamic illustrations along with extensive back matter (including essays on wolf biology, animal tracks, forest ecology, and youth climate activism) make for an appealing presentation. Sarah Ellis March/April 2025 p.79

Booklist (February 1, 2025 (Vol. 121, No. 11)) Grades 3-6. From the start, Warm struggles to find his place in his wolf pack. A runt with siblings who seem stronger and more adept, he is watchful and hesitant. That is, until he is thrust into the role of caretaker of the pack’s pups after enemy wolves drive his family in separate directions while attempting to take over their territory. Can he keep these little furballs safe as he works to return them to their home? During this tale of self-discovery and growth, readers will root for this underdog who proves his mettle, leading in his own unique way. Based on an actual wolf, this stand-alone companion to A Wolf Called Wander (2019) is a worthy addition to Parry's Voice of the Wilderness novels. Her use of first-person dialogue shows Warm as a relatable hero, as well as convincingly shares the perils of the pack, each member being uniquely presented. Armiño’s detailed black-and-white illustrations are charming, full of realism and personality, making this a winsome package for young readers who love wildlife adventures. Another winner from a proven author.

All is Nat lost

Nat Enough

Scrivan, Maria

Upper Elementary

9781516076970

At the edge of lost

Brockenbrough, Martha

Middle School

9781546125020

School Library Journal starred (October 1, 2025) Gr 4-7-Brockenbrough's second middle grade title delivers an emotionally charged survival tale centered on family, resilience, and an unbreakable human-animal bond between a teen and his beloved dog. Caleb wants nothing more than stability after years of moving for his parents' State Department postings. Staying with his grandfather Poppy in a senior living community with his best friend (and dog) Ronan, is comfortable if nontraditional-until a virulent avian flu outbreak upends everything. When Poppy falls ill, and Caleb is whisked into quarantine, circumstances require Ronan be left behind. Ronan will not be separated from Caleb in his time of need and escapes to find his boy, navigating a world full of human and natural hazards. Told in alternating perspectives-Caleb's anxious, determined voice and Ronan's soulful, perceptive one-the narrative explores loss, loyalty, and survival against a backdrop of isolation and uncertainty. The author's portrayal of pandemic anxiety feels authentic and timely without overwhelming the story's heart. Caleb has already lived through a pandemic and understands the threats are real. However, the dog's point of view is a standout feature, offering emotional immediacy and a poignant counterbalance to Caleb's turmoil. Themes of love, responsibility, and hope resonate deeply, making this an ideal pick for readers drawn to stories of animal loyalty or classics like White Fang. VERDICT A timely, heartfelt, and emotive adventure for fans of survival or dog narratives using a quick pace to grip readers.-Jessica Bushore © Copyright 2025. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (November/December, 2025) Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, Caleb has been averse to change. So when his parents, who work for the State Department, get a new posting in Vietnam, Caleb successfully lobbies to stay in Seattle with his grandfather, Poppy, rather than be separated from his friends and, most essentially, his aging Irish wolfhound, Ronan. When a new strain of avian flu breaks out and Poppy gets sick, Caleb is sent to Bainbridge Island to live with a prickly great-aunt, who hates dogs. Consequently, Ronan is left alone to await Caleb's mom's imminent return -- but not for long. Desperate to reunite with Caleb, Ronan escapes, only to become injured and stranded in the woods. As a massive storm bears down, Caleb grows increasingly fearful about Ronan's whereabouts and takes matters into his own hands. Brockenbrough's (To Catch a Thief, rev. 5/23) latest is an adventure story with a big heart, told in two first-person voices: Caleb's (complete with text threads from his group chat) and Ronan's, which is both lyrical and wise: "To love as a dog is to let go of the small things, the false things, so that there is nothing left but the truth of you." The fast-paced narrative successfully weaves numerous strands about forgiveness, growth, and change -- but the overarching message is one of a love fierce enough to fight for. Animal lovers won't want to miss this canine-centered tale of loyalty and determination. Norah Piehl November/December 2025 p.62

Baby-sitters little sister. 11,Karen's ghost

Baby-Sitters Little Sister

Upper Elementary

9798368749655

Bible infographics for kids. Volume 2.

Lower Elementary

9780736976329

Kirkus Reviews (March 15, 2019) This book of Christian-themed infographics is anchored by the theme of light versus darkness. Infographics are a hot ticket, utilizing eye-popping graphic design to present charts, graphs, and other informational text in a visually appealing way. Harvest House uses high-contrast colors with bold sans-serif type to grab their viewers. Spreads contrast light with dark and battles between good and evil. Heroes (Esther, Deborah, John the Baptist, Paul) and villains (Cain, Delilah, Herod, Saul before he became Paul) are identified, as are good rulers and bad rulers, God’s power, and human fallibility—though often lacking the nuance present in the source material. Though a “find the hidden objects” game seems targeted to younger readers, the majority of the information presented is best suited to older children with well-established religious vocabularies. The text tackles some difficult theological discussions, including the doctrine of the Trinity. Even with kid-friendly illustrations and simplified language, the concept of “modalism” may be over the heads of many. Still, the book demonstrates an admirable respect in introducing the terminology and addressing the ways many Sunday school analogies fall short in capturing this particular mystery of Christian faith. Some design flaws, such as text in the gutter and confusing charts, further mar an inconsistent introduction to Bible history and doctrine. The decrial of polytheism makes this a less-than-inclusive introduction to Christian principles for non-Christian readers. A commendable if imperfect effort; caregivers should be ready for questions. (Nonfiction. 8-14)

Christmas in the barn

Brown, Margaret Wise

Lower Elementary

9780062379863

School Library Journal (October 1, 2016) PreS-Gr 2-Originally published in 1952, with expertly crafted woodcuts by Barbara Cooney, then reissued in 2004 in a larger, full-color edition featuring bunny-strewn ink and watercolor art by Diane Goode, Brown's tender, lyrical account of the Nativity has been reissued once again, this time with illustrations by the late Dewdney of "Llama, Llama" fame. Using oil paint, pastel, pencil, and marker, the artist discards the two previous wintry depictions, providing a truer sense of place with appropriately spare flora set in a vast desert. The earthy pigments of the scenery and the animals are offset by a richly bright blue sky and colorful garments worn by Mary and the wise men. The animals are rendered with childlike accuracy and just a hint of cartoonish whimsy. The humans are a bit more realistic and in varying skin tones, leaving the ethnicity of the holy family open to interpretation. Multiple tableaus offer myriad details but are never too busy. They expand the succinct text, giving a quiet sense of grandeur while at the same time making readers feel a part of the events. VERDICT A lovely book for a new generation of readers.-Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist (October 1, 2004 (Vol. 101, No. 3)) PreS-Gr. 2. In the 1952 edition of this Christmas picture book, illustrated by Barbara Cooney, color spreads alternate with black-and-white ones. Here Goode provides all new illustrations in full color. The text, in verse, relates a simple, rustic version of the nativity story, telling of an unnamed man and woman who find shelter among the farm animals in a barn, where their baby is born. Goode sets the action in snowy New England with a big red barn for shelter, and depicts the local shepherds as wise men. The warmth and grace of the understated verse are reflected in the moving ink drawings, glowing with gentle color washes. A pleasing new interpretation that brings the story closer to its young audience.

Kirkus Reviews starred (September 1, 2016) Brown’s Nativity story, first published in 1952, is updated with new art from the illustrator of the popular Llama Llama series.The poetic, simple text follows Joseph and Mary as they are shown into the barn, where the animals wait. After the baby is born, the shepherds and wise men arrive, and an overhead perspective shows the whole cast of characters surrounding the newborn, “all safe and warm.” Dewdney’s striking, mixed-media paintings have a loose, post-impressionistic flavor, with some areas showing her brush strokes or the texture of the canvas surface. She employs a variety of perspectives and sometimes shows characters as dark, incomplete silhouettes. The faces of the animal characters have the most personality, while the faces of the humans are less distinct and sometimes even blurry. Two of the wise men have dark skin; the other people have light skin. Brown’s short, rhyming text is accessible and satisfying, with clever inclusions of well-known phrases from traditional Christmas carols, and her characteristic mastery of rhyme, rhythm, and repetition is on full display. Not all of her word pairs are exact rhymes, but they work nonetheless. One page includes the rhyming word pair grass/ass, which may require some explanation, as well as the unfamiliar word “kine,” an archaic plural for cows. Despite these minor quibbles, a new edition of any of Brown’s work is a gift worth celebrating. (Picture book/religion. 2-6)

Miller, Kayla

Upper Elementary

9781668888735

School Library Journal Xpress (September 2, 2022) Gr 3 Up-Olive Branche is a sixth grader who likes to keep busy. But as her list of activities starts growing out of control (student council, guitar lessons, making a short film, Berry Scouts), her life gets more difficult to manage. While Olive is excited to get involved in so many projects, she makes the mistake of trying to give everything her all. Soon, she is struggling to keep up. She gets stressed, falls behind on her projects, and loses sleep. She does have several major accomplishments during this time, from organizing a fashion show to trying to reform the school dress code to creating a short film with friends for a film festival. But when she realizes that she can't keep up with everything, she learns that she must prioritize-and that she can't say yes to everything. Along the way, Olive is supported by friends, teachers, and family (including Aunt Molly, the cool librarian!). Miller's artwork is clear and colorful, filled with humor and energy. There are several resources at the end of this book that will benefit readers, including a guide on creating a to-do list and an overview of stop-motion animation. This graphic novel is part of the "Click" series, but it isn't necessary to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this one. VERDICT Recommended for kids who enjoy graphic novels, realistic fiction, school stories, and narratives about stress and self-care.-Andrea Lipinski © Copyright 2022. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Diary of a spider

Cronin, Doreen

Lower Elementary

9781428735460

School Library Journal (June 1, 2006) PreS-Gr 3-Told in the first person (or is that "first spider?), this is a clever peek into the life of an adolescent spider. Doreen Cronin's book (HarperCollins, 2005) offers an engaging protagonist who just happens to have eight legs. Through his diary we learn about spider school, molting, friendship travails, and important life lessons. There's a generous helping of wit here, and a lot of kid appeal. Harry Bliss not only created the hilarious watercolor illustrations, but also provides the narration for this production. He reads everything, including the back cover and the end papers, with tongue-in-cheek humor and excellent pacing. Occasional sound effects and music enhance the text. This is a delightful book that will charm listeners in this auditory format.-Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

Horn Book Magazine (November/December, 2005) Worm's good friend Spider (introduced in Diary of a Worm, rev. 11/03) here writes his own diary, showing our world from the arachnid point of view. Cronin spins a story with threads from the everyday world of a schoolchild (sleepovers, a trip to the park) woven into the physiology of a spider -- as when he brings his old molted skin for show-and-tell. In its own form of multiculturalism, this creepy-crawly world allows worms, spiders, and flies to be friends, but the relationships are not without their tensions -- Fly's mother, for example, doesn't like it when Fly gets stuck in Spider's web ("From now on, we have to play at Fly's house"). With warm, soft colors and playful expressions on each character, Bliss creates a landscape where even an old soda can ("Spider's Clubhouse") appears cozy and welcoming. Visual jokes abound, as when Spider and his sister visit the park. Both the seesaw and the tire swing "didn't work" (the pictures show the two tiny creatures unable to budge the gigantic equipment), but the huge web they spin on the water fountain did ("Eeeeek!" screams the girl who gets stuck in it). Kid humor and spider humor (not to mention worm humor) seem remarkably similar, so expect this second Diary to be just as popular as the first.

Kirkus Reviews starred (July 1, 2005) The wriggly narrator of Diary of a Worm (2003) puts in occasional appearances, but it's his arachnid buddy who takes center stage here, with terse, tongue-in-cheek comments on his likes (his close friend Fly, Charlotte's Web), his dislikes (vacuums, people with big feet), nervous encounters with a huge Daddy Longlegs, his extended family-which includes a Grandpa more than willing to share hard-won wisdom (The secret to a long, happy life: "Never fall asleep in a shoe.")-and mishaps both at spider school and on the human playground. Bliss endows his garden-dwellers with faces and the odd hat or other accessory, and creates cozy webs or burrows colorfully decorated with corks, scraps, plastic toys and other human detritus. Spider closes with the notion that we could all get along, "just like me and Fly," if we but got to know one another. Once again, brilliantly hilarious. (Picture book. 6-8)

Diary of a worm

Cronin, Doreen

Lower Elementary

9781428735477

School Library Journal (October 1, 2003) PreS-Gr 3-A baseball-capped crawler gives readers an episodic glimpse into the vicissitudes of his life in these hilarious diary entries. Difficulties such as having no arms, having a head that looks a lot like your rear end, and facing the dangers imposed by people digging for bait are balanced by a loving family and good friends. The young protagonist describes playing with his friend Spider, engaging in a variety of activities at school, and interacting with his parents and sister. Packed into these droll slice-of-worm-life vignettes are a few facts about earthworms and their behavior, all rendered with a dry sense of humor. The full-color watercolor-and-ink illustrations sprawl across the pages in lush earth tones. Bliss's cartoons give the worms lots of personality without overly anthropomorphizing them. The use of multiple perspectives will have children eagerly looking at the pictures to identify objects and locales. Primary-grade youngsters will especially appreciate the classroom scenes. This quirky worm's-eye view of the world makes these ubiquitous invertebrates a little more understandable and a lot more fun.-Marge Loch-Wouters, Menasha's Public Library, WI Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Horn Book Magazine (November/December, 2003) He wears a red baseball cap, likes to tease his sister, and sometimes gets in trouble at school. Oh, and he's also a worm. Pithy diary entries ("April 4. Fishing season started today. We all dug deeper") record the ups and downs of this worm's life at home, in the classroom, and hanging out with his pal Spider. Cronin (Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type, rev. 3/00) places her protagonist in situations that every kid can relate to ("I forgot my lunch today"), then adds a humorous twist specific to worms ("I got so hungry that I ate my homework"). So when the students do the hokey pokey at a school dance, they quickly discover that, after putting your head in and taking your head out, there isn't much else a worm can do. And how does a worm insult his older sister? "I told her that no matter how much time she spends looking in the mirror, her face will always look just like her rear end." Bliss's whimsical cartoonish illustrations depict events from a worm's-eye view: objects above the ground -- including a shovel, a dog, and a girl playing hopscotch -- dwarf the protagonist, who uses a bottle cap for a chair and a toadstool for a desk. The endpapers, which resemble scrapbook pages containing snapshots of the worm family on vacation (at Compost Island) and a report card (our hero gets an A in tunneling and "works well with others"), add to the fun. The book also includes the gentlest of ecological messages. Noting that tunneling worms help the earth breathe, the narrator concludes that, although people may not pay much attention to worms, "the earth never forgets we're here."

Booklist (October 1, 2003 (Vol. 100, No. 3)) PreS-Gr. 1. The verbal puns and the wry, colorful cartoons create a funny worm's-eye view of the world in this playful picture book. There's no sustained story here, as there was in Cronin's wonderful Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type (2000), but the hilarious vignettes of the worm-child with his family, friends, and enemies show the absurd in humans as much as in the wriggling creatures in the earth. When the worm forgets his lunch, he eats his homework, and he loves telling his older sister that her face will always look like her rear end. One advantage of being a worm is that he never has to go to the dentist: no cavities. "No teeth, either," says Dr. D. Kay. The pictures are both silly and affectionate, whether the worm holds a pencil or hugs his favorite pile of dirt. And there's always the elemental child appeal of how it feels to be tiny in a world of giants.

Emma on thin icing

Cupcake Diaries (Simon Spotlight)

Simon, Coco

Upper Elementary

9780329890742

Extreme animal rumble

Pallotta, Jerry

Lower Elementary

9781338745306

Fire and ice

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864116

School Library Journal (September 1, 2003) Gr 5 Up-After having left his life as a kittypet, apprentice Firepaw of the ThunderClan has been given his warrior name of Fireheart and his first mission-to find the WindClan and assist them back to their traditional hunting grounds. While he and his friend Graystripe are successful in their quest, Fireheart knows that trouble is brewing, and he isn't sure that the ThunderClan's deputy can be trusted. As events escalate, a warrior from RiverClan is accidentally killed, an apprentice is injured, and Fireheart brings into the Clan a kittypet kitten-his nephew-without thinking of the consequences. Finally, he must decide who to trust and who to fight. Readers not familiar with the first book may find this one hard to follow. Hunter provides a directory that tells which cats are in which clans, but it is cumbersome to flip back and forth. The characterizations of the animals are somewhat flat, although it is possible to tell them apart, and the plot's twists and turns seem mapped out and predictable. Librarians with a readership for Into the Wild (HarperCollins, 2003) will probably want this volume; others can pass.-Lisa Prolman, Greenfield Public Library, MA Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Booklist (September 1, 2003 (Vol. 100, No. 1)) Gr. 6-9. Firepaw, the former kittypet who became a ThunderClan warrior in Into the Wild [BKL F 15 03], faces danger and treachery within and without his clan as he struggles with his identity. Because some clan members refuse to accept him, he feels like an outsider. Also, it appears that ShadowClan and RiverClan are forming an alliance to usurp land belonging to the displaced WindClan. ThunderClan's leader sends Firepaw and his friend Graystripe to lead WindClan back to its home, but intrigue among the clans and among individuals within them spells trouble for Firepaw. Characters remain true to their feline natures, adding to the plausibility of events in this tension-filled story. Readers will be happy to learn that another episode is in the works.

Kirkus Reviews (May 15, 2003) Hunter ratchets up the tension in the return of the house pet turned feral warrior. Renamed Fireheart, the brave feline has little time to revel in his acceptance by Thunderclan before he and his best friend Graystripe must retrieve the refugee WindClan cats. But success leads to tragedy as Graystripe inadvertently kills a RiverClan warrior. Bad feelings are exacerbated by rumors of poaching in rival territories. Clan discord has private echoes as Graystripe falls for a RiverClan warrior, while Fireheart is torn between duty to his Clan and affection for his "kittypet" kin. Beneath this swirl of clashing loyalties runs the dark thread of Fireheart's continuing suspicions of ThunderClan's ambitious deputy leader. Hunter's world keeps getting more finely drawn, and her characters more complex. While the focus is upon inner turmoil and inter-Clan intrigue, Fireheart still appreciates the pleasures of the hunt and the fury of battle, although readers may share his disappointment that combat fails to resolve his conflicting responsibilities. With enough backstory for newcomers to find their way, established fans will be on edge for the next title. (chart of allegiances) (Fantasy. 11+)

Forest of secrets

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864123

School Library Journal (October 1, 2003) Gr 5 Up-As this third book in this series begins, Fireheart, former house pet turned warrior cat, continues to be torn between his allegiance to his Thunderclan and his suspicions that Tigerclaw is planning to take over as its leader. When Fireheart gets proof of his deceit and presents his findings to the clan's wise and compassionate leader, she refuses to believe him. Tensions are already running high between the clans because the cats are getting sick from fish from the polluted rivers, flooding is widespread, and they must invade each other's territory for food. The tragic death of Graystripe's mate as she's giving birth and his betrayal of the clan by loving a cat from an enemy clan bring the simmering tensions to a boil as both groups claim rights to the kits. Other secrets come to light as Tigerclaw, exiled in disgrace, vows revenge and Fireheart becomes the new deputy. This exciting book is not for the faint of heart as it is often violent. It is reminiscent of Greek drama, with its huge cast of characters (a chart of allegiances is included), intrigues, divided loyalties, star-crossed lovers, and parents murdering their offspring. Fans of the series will lap it up while impatiently awaiting the next entry.-Sharon Rawlins, Piscataway Public Library, NJ Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Booklist (September 15, 2003 (Vol. 100, No. 2)) Gr. 6-9. Following Fire and Ice [BKL Ag 03], this third book in the Warriors series finds the cat Firepaw still suspicious of Tigerclaw, the deputy to the leader of ThunderClan. For his part, Tigerclaw continues to have it in for Firepaw, and as Firepaw investigates the death of ThunderClan warrior Redtail, a number of secrets are revealed--to the dismay of many clan members. Hunter adds to the mix a devastating flood, shifting alliances between clans, treachery within and without ThunderClan, and attempted murder--a combination that makes for another dynamic episode sure to please series fans.

Publishers Weekly (November 24, 2003) Warriors: Forest of Secrets by Erin Hunter is the third title in the series about warring clans of feral cats. Food is scarce, so tensions escalate between the four clans of the forest, and young Fireheart suspects the loyalty of his own ThunderClan deputy, Tigerclaw. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Forget me Nat

Nat Enough

Scrivan, Maria

Upper Elementary

9781544451206

Booklist (September 1, 2020 (Vol. 117, No. 1)) Grades 3-6. In this sequel to the New York Times best-selling Nat Enough (2020), readers connect again with middle school student Natalie and her friends Zoe and Flo. This time around, Nat is excited and nervous about a possible romance. She has a crush on her friend Derek, who also loves comic books and is fun to be around, but once she starts changing herself to align with Derek’s preferences, Nat’s pals start feeling like they’re losing their best friend. When she starts breaking promises and canceling plans, Zoe lets Nat know that she’s feeling disrespected and angry at Nat’s thoughtlessness. After some embarrassing encounters and a dance that doesn’t go as Nat hoped, she realizes that she wasn’t being a great friend and vows to regain her true identity. As with the first volume, Scrivan’s cartoony artwork is bubbly and colorful, making for another fun and thoughtful middle-grade graphic novel for fans of Shannon Hale’s Real Friends (2017) or Lucy Knisley’s Stepping Stones (2020).

Holy Bible for kids : English Standard Version.

Upper Elementary

9781433550973

Into the wild

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864109

School Library Journal (May 1, 2003) Gr 5 Up-Rusty, a young "kittypet" (house cat), yearns for adventure. When he's offered the chance to join the ThunderClan, one of the gangs of feral cats in the area, he doesn't hesitate. Renamed Firepaw, he becomes an apprentice and begins to train as a warrior. After rescuing Yellowfang, ex-medicine cat for the ShadowClan who has fled for her life, Firepaw and the other ThunderClan members find themselves in the middle of a turf war against the rival gang, led by the nefarious Brokenstar. There's a traitor in their midst, though, and Firepaw must learn more than just hunting and fighting to survive. The author has created an intriguing world with an intricate structure and mythology, and an engaging young hero. The supporting cast of players is large and a little confusing, but there are standouts who give dimension to the tale. The difficult life of a feral cat is described in some detail, and a fair amount of violence is included. The ending is left ambiguous-there is definitely more to come. This is not as elegantly written as Brian Jacques's "Redwall" series (Philomel), but it's another option for fans of animal adventure/fantasy stories.-Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Booklist (February 15, 2003 (Vol. 99, No. 12)) Gr. 6-9. For generations, four clans of wild cats have shared the forest according to laws laid down by powerful ancestral clans. But now things are changing: ShadowClan has banished WindClan and is threatening RiverClan and ThunderClan by insisting on hunting rights within their territories. What's more, each year the TwoLegs encroach further into the forest, and prey is becoming scarce. A prophecy reveals, "Fire alone can save [the] Clan." Into this dangerous situation wanders a "kittypet," a young, bright orange tomcat whose courage earns him, despite objections by some, a place as an apprentice ThunderClan warrior and the new name of Firepaw. In this first spine-tingling episode in the planned Warriors series, Firepaw learns the ways of the wild life, facing many dangers and treachery both within and without his new clan. Intelligence notwithstanding, the cat characters are true to their feline nature, making this sure to appeal to fans of Clare Bell's long-popular Ratha's Creature (1983) and its sequels and also to followers of Brian Jacques' ongoing Redwall series.

Kirkus Reviews (January 1, 2003) Hunter debuts with a suspenseful animal adventure that will leave readers eyeing Puss a bit nervously. House kitten Rusty is restless, bored with his safe, bland existence; no wonder he jumps at an invitation to join the feral cats in the woods. Now called Firepaw, he relishes his lessons in fighting, hunting wild prey, and above all becoming one with the close-knit, ferociously loyal ThunderClan. Although some scorn his "kittypet" origins, he gains the friendship of the other apprentice kittens, approval from the wise leader Bluestar, and a peculiar bond with the battered, bad-tempered loner Yellowfang. ThunderClan maintains an uneasy truce with the three other packs in the woods until militant ShadowClan lays claim to hunting rights in all territories, a demand they swiftly back up with murderous force. Such a threat serves the dangerously ambitious ThunderClan warrior Tigerclaw well-until Tigerclaw notices young Firepaw standing in his way. This is no charming tale of sweet moggies; despite a touch of mysticism, Hunter ruthlessly rejects any hint of sentimentality. Snapping bones, flowing blood, and sudden death abundantly demonstrate how these cats walk on the thin edge of survival. But Hunter also clearly conveys the exhilaration of freedom, the stimulation of the hunt, and the strength and comfort that comes from the clan's mutual loyalty. Teen readers will readily identify with Firepaw's strenuous efforts to fit into the group, applaud his courage to follow his own convictions, cheer his eventual recognition by ThunderClan, and rejoice at the promised sequel. (Fantasy. 11+)

Katie and the cupcake cure

Cupcake Diaries (Simon Spotlight)

Simon, Coco

Upper Elementary

9780329858797

Booklist (May 1, 2011 (Vol. 107, No. 17)) Grades 4-6. Katie spends the summer before middle school blissfully unconcerned about the impending transition. Her first school day delivers a jolt when she realizes that her best friend has abandoned her for the newly formed Popular Girls Club, but Katie quickly befriends Mia, Emma, and Alexis. The four girls bond over lunch and soon form the Cupcake Club. After a bake sale and her first dance, Katie finds that she may enjoy middle school after all. Katie makes an appealing figure as she navigates the difficulties of finding her way, literally and figuratively, in her new school. She and her supportive (if somewhat overprotective) single mother are recognizable, believable characters, and Katie’s middle school will seem like familiar territory to many readers. Though Katie narrates the first volume in the Cupcake Diaries, evidently Mia will narrate the next book in the series. The ease with which troubles are overcome makes this a light, pleasant choice for tweens.

Horn Book Guide (Spring 2014) In these lighthearted episodes, BFFs Katie, Mia, Emma, and Alexis--the Cupcake Club--narrate their own stories. The books revolve around their baking business, but friendship, family, and middle-school challenges are explored. The girls' range of backgrounds and family situations allows more opportunity for readers to find a protagonist with whom they most identify in this sweet, accessible series. [Review covers these Cupcake Diaries titles: Alexis and the Missing Ingredient, Emma Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice, Katie and the Cupcake Cure, and Mia in the Mix.]

Katie batter up!

Cupcake Diaries (Simon Spotlight)

Simon, Coco

Upper Elementary

9780329907006

Mia in the mix

Cupcake Diaries (Simon Spotlight)

Simon, Coco

Upper Elementary

9780329858803

Horn Book Guide (Spring 2014) In these lighthearted episodes, BFFs Katie, Mia, Emma, and Alexis--the Cupcake Club--narrate their own stories. The books revolve around their baking business, but friendship, family, and middle-school challenges are explored. The girls' range of backgrounds and family situations allows more opportunity for readers to find a protagonist with whom they most identify in this sweet, accessible series. [Review covers these Cupcake Diaries titles: Alexis and the Missing Ingredient, Emma Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice, Katie and the Cupcake Cure, and Mia in the Mix.]

My survival : a girl on Schindler's list

Finder, Rena

Middle School

9781668837566

School Library Journal (December 1, 2019) Gr 5-8-Rena Finder, a 90-year-old Holocaust survivor, challenges readers to "stand up for the innocent" in her remarkable memoir. The beloved daughter of a medical supply salesman in Poland, Rena spent her early years surrounded by her close-knit extended family. In 1939, the German army invaded Poland. Conditions for Rena and her family quickly deteriorated as the Nazis placed increasing restrictions on members of the Jewish community, eventually sending them to the Krakow ghetto. Finder credits her wartime survival to Oskar Schindler, a businessman and member of the Nazi party, who was later immortalized in Steven Spielberg's Schindler's List. Despite his political affiliation, Schindler went to great lengths to protect Jewish workers at his factories. Finder openly depicts the horror of genocide: her grandparents being shot by the Nazis, the chilling murder of children at a Krakow orphanage, and the reality of the gas chambers at Auschwitz. The book is a quick read and has a significant amount of action. It will be an easy sell to reluctant readers, particularly because of the slim size. Family photographs unearthed from Finder's childhood attic at the end of the war are included in the book. VERDICT A good purchase for all libraries. An important reminder about the Holocaust, especially for reluctant readers or children with an interest in World War II literature.-Jennifer Knight, North Olympic Library System, Port Angeles, WA © Copyright 2019. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus Reviews (October 1, 2019) A straightforward and accessible Holocaust survivor’s memoir shows Oskar Schindler through the eyes of a young person he saved.Before the Nazi invasion, Rena’s Jewish family members are patriotic Poles; her uncle had been a decorated war hero. After the occupation, the everyday anti-Semitism 10-year-old Rena has faced all her life is replaced with something terrifyingly worse. The anti-Jewish laws start small: curfews, forbidding bank accounts, requiring hard-to-obtain work permits, deportations. The local non-Jewish Poles ignore the horrible treatment of their neighbors, looking away during mass arrests. The Nazis’ crimes escalate until the Jews are locked in the Krakow ghetto, then eventually deported to concentration or death camps. Rena is nearly murdered as well—in fact, she is briefly taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau—but she manages to get herself and her mother on Oskar Schindler’s list. Rena credits the quiet heroism of Emilie and Oskar Schindler with saving herself and nearly 1,200 Jews from Nazi atrocities. She recounts that Oskar’s original goal in obtaining imprisoned Jewish workers for his munitions factory was saving money, but he and Emilie risked their lives and spent their fortune protecting their workers. Rena, now 90, is a Holocaust educator, and her matter-of-fact narration reflects this. She urges readers, “when you see a bully, do something. Go get help.”A vital look at one complicated man’s unwillingness to be complicit. (photos) (Memoir. 11-14)

Nat a chance

Nat Enough

Scrivan, Maria

Upper Elementary

9798368749693

School Library Journal starred (May 1, 2025) Gr 3-7-In this latest book in the "Nat Enough" series, readers find the awkward heroine moving into a new phase in life. When her best friend Zoe quits the volleyball team and wants Natalie to join her on the school's triathlon squad, Nat is extremely hesitant as she lacks confidence in any strenuous physical sports. She regularly gets picked last for team games in gym class and is known for her clumsiness. With the help of Coach Rennie, and the support of her friends and family, Natalie will learn that swimming, biking, and running are more than just sports. They are a way to gain self-confidence, learn how to overcome obstacles, and not allow fear and doubt to deter you from doing anything. Readers will find characters and situations to relate to, which might just make coping with the trials of middle school more attainable. VERDICT Readers will continue to delight in this series, which excels at communicating positive lessons with humor. © Copyright 2025. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Nat for nothing

Nat Enough

Scrivan, Maria

Upper Elementary

9781668875698

Nightbooks

Nightbooks

Middle School

9781725427235

School Library Journal (March 1, 2018) Gr 4-6-A spine-tingling dark fantasy about the power of facing down fears and choosing your own fate. Alex loves horror stories, but the night he sets out to destroy his beloved "nightbooks"-notebooks full of his original tales-he finds himself trapped by a witch in an enchanted apartment. Natacha, the capricious witch, requires Alex to tell her one of his horror stories each night, or else. As Alex runs out of stories, he enlists the help of the apartment's other trapped occupants, a cautious girl named Yasmin and the witch's begrudging cat, Lenore, to find a way to escape. White has crafted a chilling fractured fairy tale mash-up of "Hansel and Gretel" and "One Thousand and OneáNights." The book is full of horror tropes such as bone keys, disappearing rooms, an unhinged but sympathetic villain, and a child-eating witch. But it's more than just a grisly fairy tale. Alex and Yasmin are never reduced to caricatures, and they react to their imprisonment in believable and nuanced ways. At its heart, it is a coming-of-age story about kindness and friendship and the importance of choosing to use one's own power for the good of others. VERDICT Fans of gloomyáfare such as Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events," Adam Gidwitz's "Grimm" books, or Neil Gaiman's Coraline will find an equally twisting and terrifying tale here. An excellent addition to any middle grade collection.-Bridgid Gallagher-Sauter, The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist (May 1, 2018 (Vol. 114, No. 17)) Grades 5-8. White leaves the dangerous forest of his Thickety series for an unassuming but equally perilous setting in his newest endeavor. Horror-buff Alex has always been kept at arm’s length by his peers, and late one night, he decides he’s through with not fitting in. To kick off his campaign for normalcy, he sneaks out of his apartment to burn his “nightbooks,” journals where he writes nightmarish short stories. On his way to the furnace, Alex is inexplicably drawn to another apartment, where he becomes magically imprisoned by the witch Natacha. Assured that escape is impossible and surviving is far from guaranteed, Alex buys time by reading to story-hungry Natacha from his nightbooks each evening. A tense and creepy atmosphere shrouds this intriguing blend of Baba Yaga and Shahrazad, but intrepid readers will revel in the enchanted apartment’s secrets and whimsical touches, such as Natacha’s grumpy feline familiar. As Alex plots escape, he bonds with fellow prisoner Yasmin, permitting kindness, self-confidence, and bravery to sprout in their dangerous confines. Readers who prefer their magic dark will be spellbound.

Kirkus Reviews (June 15, 2018) Imprisoned by a real-life witch, horror addict Alex’s only hope for survival lies in his ability to spin his own nightly tales of terror. Alex Mosher knows that there is something wrong with him. Normal kids don’t obsess over creepy things, and they certainly don’t keep “nightbooks” full of their own scary stories. In an attempt to lose the label “weirdo,” Alex sneaks out of his own apartment in the middle of the night, down the elevator to the basement boiler in order to destroy his work. But when the elevator stops on the fourth floor, Alex is beckoned into a bespelled apartment and trapped by the witch Natacha. Aided by fellow prisoner Yasmin, Alex is given the task of storyteller, reading nightly from his nightbooks for the witch’s pleasure. He spends his days exploring the apartment and planning an escape even as he begrudgingly finds that he enjoys having an appreciative audience. When Alex discovers that his stories serve to appease an ancient evil that even Natacha fears, escape becomes even more urgent. White (the Thickety series) presents an engrossing and creepy tale that blends elements of “Hansel and Gretel” and The 1,001 Arabian Nights, explores the storytelling craft, and addresses perceptions of normalcy. Interwoven tales will thrill middle-grade horror fans. Alex is white, and clues indicate that Yasmin is Arab-American, while Natacha is depicted as having dark skin and spiky hair. A thrilling tale of magic that is just scary enough. (Horror. 9-12)

Partypooper

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Kinney, Jeff

Middle School

9798368781082

Kirkus Reviews (November 1, 2025) Reflections on past birthday ups and downs lead to a belated party for Greg that, unsurprisingly, takes a few loopy turns. Knowing that he only gets a few more kid birthdays before the gifts start turning from cool stuff into things like dress shirts and nose-hair trimmers, Greg is determined to make his upcoming celebration something special. Unfortunately, due to a household mishap, his mom forgot to mark his birthday on the family calendar—and his dad “depends on Mom to remind him about stuff, just like the rest of us.” This incident is neither the first nor the last time that Greg’s narrative will have readers wincing and laughing at the same time—and the do-over bash Mom remorsefully agrees to organize winds up collapsing in chaos. Still, what cloud doesn’t have its silver lining? So notorious does the party become that requests from other parents to plan similar celebrations for their kids pour in, and Greg, seeing big bucks in his future, closes not with sour grapes but a philosophical shrug: “Sometimes you just gotta roll with it.” Subplots skewer social media and the mania for trading cards. Kinney dishes up a rich mixture of deadpan monologue and cartoons laden with gags and punchlines for this 20th series entry. His dot-eyed, rubbery-nosed figures are the color of the paper. A festive frolic—even if the frosting on the birthday cake does turn out to be mayonnaise. (Graphic/fiction hybrid. 8-12)

Paws for a cause

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781725487260

Pocket Bear

Applegate, Katherine

Upper Elementary

9781250904362

School Library Journal Xpress starred (September 19, 2025) Gr 4-6-Readers will fall in love with their childhood teddy bear all over again in Applegate's new heartwarming novel. Feline Zephyrina (also known as Corporal Z) is a kleptocat; sole supplier for the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured. In this home for forgotten stuffed animals, there is one leader-a handmade miniature soldier bear named Pocket. Pocket is a devoted sergeant who spent time in WWI; he is always caring for the toys in his charge and his beloved human family Dasha and Elizaveta, refugees from Ukraine. When Corporal Z finds an old stuffed bear in the trash behind an Italian restaurant, she knows exactly where to take him for his second chance. As Pocket and his family care for their new recruit, a wartime secret begs to burst to the surface. Who is this bear? And can he help the family of Second Chances just as much as they've helped him? Applegate's latest strikes at the heart, addressing the vitality of empathy, the long-lasting effects of war, and the power of found family. Readers follow the plot through Zephyrina's perspective and journey from a tough street cat to a loving pet. One can either let their past harden them or let it soften them to the world around them, and the characters of Applegate's book strive for empathy and softness. VERDICT This tender story about empathy, war, and family is a must-buy for libraries with readers who already love Applegate's dynamic repertoire.-Ashton Conley © Copyright 2025. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (November/December, 2025) Narrator Zephyrina, a crafty cat (she prefers "tiger trapped in a kitty costume"), goes out at night looking for abandoned toys to deliver to the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured, operated by a girl named Dasha. Zephyrina sees herself as the "Robin Hood of felines" and brings her findings to her best friend, Pocket Bear, who provides order and emotional support to the newly rescued toys, which come to life at midnight. One evening Zephyrina finds a bear in a trash can, but Berwon is no ordinary toy. His background makes him a target of an unscrupulous toy dealer, and it takes every ounce of Zephyrina's cunning to keep him safe. Although the story's setting is contemporary, the characters' manner of speaking and the featured toys' connections to the past also give this novel a historical feel. Middle-grade veteran Applegate (most recently The One and Only Family, rev. 7/24) effortlessly weaves a believable animal fantasy while providing a fair amount of information about war: Pocket Bear was created to comfort an American soldier on the battlefield in WWI, while Berwon belonged to a soldier from Germany; Dasha's dad died in the war in Ukraine, and her leg "was badly injured when a bomb hit her house." An author's note explains the novel's origins and more about the toys that inspired Pocket Bear and Berwon. Marva Anne Hinton November/December 2025 p.60

Booklist starred (August 2025 (Vol. 121, No. 22)) Grades 3-6. Zephyrina (a cat) considers herself an honorable thief, rescuing cast-off and lost items and bringing them to the humans she has adopted. However, plush toys go straight to her friend Pocket Bear, who evaluates each one before the humans (Elizaveta and her daughter, Dasha) clean them up and add them to the secondhand toy shop they’ve set up in their home. Zephyrina’s latest heist causes a stir when she delivers a very old stuffed bear to diminutive Pocket, who stands “three and a half inches max, nose to toes.” Sewn as a mascot bear that a WWI soldier could tuck into his uniform, Pocket recognizes a kindred spirit in this new bear. Elizaveta and Dasha also see something special in him, naming him Berwon and suspecting he might be the very first teddy bear ever created—a discovery that leads to underhanded dealings and Zephyrina’s biggest job yet. On its surface, this Toy Story–esque tale is a gentle fantasy-adventure with a dash of mystery, but Applegate adds layers that give the story meaningful depth. The history of teddy bears is deftly stitched into the narrative, and the echoes of war quietly reverberate through the tale in unexpected ways. Soft graphite chapter illustrations reflect the story’s sweetness in charming detail, while Zephyrina’s narration adds a memorable and comic touch to this salute to friendship and second chances.High-Demand Backstory: Applegate's books are reliably wonderful—see her Newbery Medal and best-seller status—and Pocket Bear's large first-print run reflects the expectation that this will be another popular title.

Pug blasts off

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781725430693

Kirkus Reviews (August 1, 2019) A cuddly, squishy pug’s puggy-wuggy diary. Equipped with both #pugunicorn and #pughotdog outfits, pug Baron von Bubbles (aka Bub) is the kind of dog that always dresses to impress. Bub also makes lots of memorable faces, such as the “Hey, you’re not the boss of me!” expression aimed at Duchess, the snooty pink house cat. Some of Bub’s favorite things include skateboarding, a favorite teddy, and eating peanut butter. Bub also loves Bella, who adopted Bub from a fair—it was “love at first sniff.” Together, Bub and Bella do a lot of arts and crafts. Their latest project: entering Bella’s school’s inventor challenge by making a super-duper awesome rocket. But, when the pesky neighborhood squirrel, Nutz, makes off with Bub’s bear, Bub accidentally ruins their project. How will they win the contest? More importantly, how will Bella ever forgive him? May’s cutesy, full-color cartoon art sets the tone for this pug-tastic romp for the new-to–chapter-books crowd. Emojilike faces accentuate Bub’s already expressive character design. Bub’s infectious first-person narration pushes the silly factor off the charts. In addition to creating the look and feel of a diary, the lined paper helps readers follow the eight-chapter story. Most pages have fewer than five sentences, often broken into smaller sections. Additional text appears in color-coded speech bubbles. Bella presents white. Totes adorbs. (Fiction. 5-7)

Pug's road trip

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781668837634

Pug's sleepover

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781668804841

Pug's snow day

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781725461079

School Library Journal (December 1, 2019) K-Gr 2-May's next title in the "Diary of a Pug" series is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of a dog's first snow. When Bella tells Bub that she is wishing for a snow day this winter, Bub has no idea what she means. Bella gets her wish, and the pair venture out into the snow for the first time where new experiences abound. Suddenly, monstrous sounds can be heard across the fence. Bella and Bub have to confront their fear of the unknown to find out the cause-a moving truck and new friends! The pair learn that being brave and confronting your fears can have great rewards. Extremely attractive color illustrations will grab readers from the beginning. Animal lovers will delight in following Bub's thoughts throughout the story. The diary entry format is a creative way of engaging early chapter book readers. The comprehension questions at the end are a wonderful addition to enhance engagement. VERDICT Readers new to chapter books will love the unique diary format and vibrant illustrations. Perfect for early learners who love animals, and a wonderful wintry choice for any elementary school library.-Elizabeth Pelayo, St. Charles East High School, IL © Copyright 2019. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus Reviews (November 1, 2019) Bub the anxious pug tackles snow days and new neighbors in his second outing. Bub, acclaimed by some as “the cutest pug on the planet,” at first shares the enthusiasm owner Bella expresses about snow days even though he doesn’t know what they are. Then Duchess the cat (mildly antagonistic, in typical feline fashion) rains on Bub’s parade by pointing out that snow is water—and Bub’s no fan of rain or baths. After a comedic and disastrous first attempt, Bub learns how to properly dress for snow and enjoy it. The outdoor fun’s cut short by mysterious noises coming from the new neighbor, which frighten Bella into thinking there’s a monster. Bub puts on a Sherlock Holmes get-up to investigate but becomes afraid himself of the new neighbor’s large dog. Finally, Bella meets Jack, who’s been working on a tree fort, and his dog, Luna, who is enthusiastically friendly. The story ends on a positive note, as they all happily work together on the fort. The full-color cartoon illustrations, especially of Bub, are adorably expressive and certain to please the age group. The generous font and format—short, diary-entry paragraphs and speech-bubble conversations—create a quick pace. Bub’s stylized emoji bubbles return and are most hilarious when used to express his nervous flatulence. Bella and Jack both present white. A strong, accessible diary story for readers seeking an adorable animal tale. (Fantasy. 5-7)

Rising storm

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864130

Booklist (January 1, 2004 (Vol. 100, No. 9)) Gr. 6-9. The cat Fireheart and his fellow ThunderClan members are back in the fourth installment of the Warriors series. In this episode,Fireheart has been deputized to replace the ousted rogue cat Tigerclaw, but his new job is made harder by the lingering apathy of the clan's leader. Fireheart must overcome doubts about his ability, struggles with his apprentice, a deadly fire that threatens to finish off the clan, a potential new love, and an enemy that returns from his past. Hunter once again tells a good, suspenseful adventure story that urges readers onward, and teens may find their own journey toward adulthood echoed in the protagonist's struggles and self-doubts. Although background from earlier books may be useful, this can be read on its own; a handy list of characters at the beginning of the book will help readers keep track of Hunter's large cast.

Horn Book Guide (Fall 2004) Fireheart, new deputy of the ThunderClan cats, faces great trials as the tribe's elderly leader, Bluestar, descends into paranoia. The ThunderClan cats flee a forest fire and face a pack of ferocious dogs while dealing with traitorous Tigerclaw. The fourth and fifth entries in the series continue the development of the complex, dynamic characters. [Review covers these Warriors titles: A Dangerous Path and Rising Storm.]

Running in flip-flops from the end of the world

Reynolds, Justin A

Upper Elementary

9781338815160

School Library Journal Xpress (April 26, 2024) Gr 3-7-In the sequel to It's The End of the World and I'm In My Bathing Suit, 12-year-old Eddie and his friends are still trying to enjoy the fun, liberating freedom of being the only people around since their families disappeared at the Beach Bash. Eddie talks directly to readers in the opening pages, welcoming them back and addressing some of their concerns about the previous cliffhanger. Eddie and his friends are determined to get back to the beach where it all started, hoping that it might give them some clues as to what happened and why. But anytime they try, something happens, such as bees magically appearing inside their car, preventing them from entering. Between the jokes and bonding among friends, quieter moments of reflection about the apocalypse come through. This is why one of Eddie's friends suggests they keep a video diary, transcribed as "Keep it Reel," so they can look back and process their experiences once it's over. Eddie wants to pretend everything is okay-he even tries to make a human-sized ice-cream sundae in a pool for his friends, but everyone is still dealing with the events differently. Readers will enjoy the fast-paced and humorous first-person narrative. Another cliffhanger will leave fans of the series eager for the next installment. VERDICT This book will be most enjoyed by those who read the first book, and is recommended for collections where the previous one circulates.-Marissa Lieberman © Copyright 2024. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus Reviews (March 15, 2024) Five Black tweens try to unravel a major mystery in this sequel to It’s the End of the World and I’m in My Bathing Suit (2022). The book opens with Eddie Holloway reminding readers that in the previous adventure, none of the citizens of Carterville, Ohio, returned following the annual summer Beach Bash. Now, the little group of kids who were left behind are banding together, but when every attempt they make to get to the beach and search for answers is ruined, the story turns toward their individual efforts to cope with the catastrophe. Xavier is concerned that there are people in need of help, Sonia turns to stockpiling supplies in case another disaster strikes, Trey focuses on keeping his athletic regimen in place, and Sage plots ways to reach the beach. After they’re rattled by ghostly radio messages, the tone of the story turns more reflective. Readers hear more from the other characters via the Carterville Keep It Reels, short video confessionals from each kid. Although the mood is humorous and light throughout most of the book, uneasiness rises to the surface every time the kids stop and look around at the emptiness of their neighborhood or observe how unnaturally quiet everything is without other people. This element pulls in readers, who become invested in the characters’ well-being, hoping that with every page turned, they’ll be closer to solving the mystery and being OK. A reflective, well-paced follow-up. (Fiction. 8-12)

Scaredy pug

Branches: Diary Of A Pug

Lower Elementary

9781713770961

Sideways stories from Wayside School

Wayside School

Sachar, Louis

Upper Elementary

9780688160869

Horn Book Guide (September, 1990) A collection of absurd but too-stupid-to-be-funny stories about the students on the thirtieth floor of the Wayside School, which was accidentally built sideways. Pedestrian writing and forced, contrived humor mark this chapter book.

Upper Elementary

9798368748092

Kirkus Reviews (June 15, 2025) An affectionate dog’s positive attitude is challenged by prejudice. Smiley, an American Staffordshire terrier—a type of pit bull—begins her life at a high-end Boston kennel. The breeder socializes Smiley and her littermates, exposing them to all kinds of people and a variety of objects and experiences, including vacuum cleaners, skateboards, swimming, and even the zoo (which may surprise readers who are aware that zoos generally ban pets who aren’t service animals). Smiley is so happy that she smiles not only “with her butt” but also with her big, goofy mouth. When she’s adopted by the Menino-Rosado family, Smiley uses her highly empathic nature to support Carlito, a small, nervous Puerto Rican tween from an affordable housing development in Boston’s South End. He’s about to enter seventh grade at prestigious Boston Classical Academy, where he has a scholarship. Carlito becomes the crew team’s coxswain, but when he’s too light for the required minimum, Smiley joins him in the boat, serving as an unorthodox yet effective deadweight. When a classmate’s well-intentioned but poorly socialized pit bull exhibits apparently aggressive behavior at a boat race, Carlito’s wealthy classmate’s father labels Smiley a menace, too, and she suffers a crisis of confidence. Ross thoughtfully explores snobbery, socioeconomic inequity, and racial bias in a strongly developed Boston setting. As in Ross’ Nugly (2023), the story serves as a treatise on canine behavior and care interwoven with layered, deliberately paced storytelling. Insightful and purposeful, with strong appeal for animal lovers. (Fiction. 9-13)

Super slugger : a novel

Cal Ripken Jr.'s All Stars

Ripken, Cal

Upper Elementary

9780329964849

School Library Journal (August 1, 2012) Gr 4-7-Middle-schooler Cody, new in Baltimore, loves all sports, particularly baseball, and he's good at them despite the fact that he's a bit overweight (he prefers the term "burly"). He uses humor to make people like him, which works for the most part but not with bully Dante, who loses his third-base starting position to Cody. There's a mystery to solve and plenty of exciting baseball action as the team plays for an undefeated season and the championship. The various elements work well together to create a fast-moving story, and the characterizations of the parents and coach are great. These adults are supportive and helpful, giving good advice and practical lessons. The coach really has no ego. His philosophy: "Please don't let me screw this up." Another well-developed character is Jessica, Cody's athletic neighbor, who becomes his good friend and defender. She is smart and can hold her own against the boys in a baseball story. Ripkin and Cowherd have created a definite winner for anyone with the slightest interest in baseball, sports in general, those adjusting to a new city or school, being overweight in middle school, or just wanting to be entertained by a good story.-Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Publishers Weekly (May 28, 2012) When Cody Parker arrives at a new school, he needs to prove that his burly body is good for more than just mocking. To that end, he joins the baseball team-but his plan may be working to well. His spectacular performances start to show up the team's bully. Mixing issues of self-image, bullying, and sports, Ripken and Cowherd provide an enjoyable and exciting story that narrator Stephen Hoye masterfully executes, deftly handling both the young protagonist's internal life and exciting play on the baseball field. Hoye's deep, powerful voice may seem like an odd choice for a young adult novel, but he perfectly captures the emotions and angst of young Cody. But where Hoye really excels is his narration of Cody's baseball games. The authors craft baseball scenes with great dramatic flair, and Hoye executes the play-by-play with the skill of any professional announcer. Ages 9-up. A Hyperion hardcover. (Mar.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Horn Book Guide (Fall 2012) With Kevin Cowherd. Eighth-grader Cody Parker, heavy but an excellent baseball player, moves to Baltimore, where he beats out a bully to win the third-baseman spot on his school team. Then Cody's accused of stealing cell phones, and things get tense. Short chapters, constructive handling of bullying, and the sports/mystery combination make this a good choice for sports fans.

The angry elf

Branches: Pixie Tricks

West, Tracey

Lower Elementary

9781338627916

The Baby-sitters Club. 10,Kristy and the snobs

Baby-Sitters Club

Chau, Chan

Upper Elementary

9781713770763

The Baby-sitters Club. 17,Mallory and the trouble with twins

Baby-Sitters Club

Nopra, Arley

Upper Elementary

9798368749662

The Baby-sitters Club. 18,Jessi Ramsey, pet-sitter

Baby-Sitters Club

Crenshaw, Ellen T

Upper Elementary

9798368784069

The darkest hour

Warriors: The Prophecies Begin

Hunter, Erin

Middle School

9781489864154

Horn Book Guide (Spring 2005) In the sixth book in the series, Firestar, new leader of Thunderclan, must lead the clans into a battle for the entire forest. The sheer number of cats in this book, and the complexity of their clans, can be confusing at times, but the story is compelling. Black-and-white illustrations head each chapter.

The girl in the lake

Brown, India Hill

Upper Elementary

9781668894217

Kirkus Reviews (November 1, 2021) While spending a week with their grandparents, cousins are haunted by a ghost. Celeste did poorly in her last swimming lesson, so she is dreading the summer trip to her grandparents’ lake house. Mom insists that Grandad Jim can teach Celeste how to swim—loving the water and learning how to swim are very important to their Black family—but this doesn’t assuage her fear, and she has nightmares about falling into a body of water. As Celeste starts to settle in, strange things begin happening—a flickering light, the sound of footsteps in the attic at night, and strange events that family members attribute to Celeste even when she insists it wasn’t her. And then Celeste sees someone in the bathroom mirror—a girl who looks exactly like her. Celeste confronts her grandparents with her suspicion that the house is haunted, and Grandma Judy reveals that her sister, Ellie, whom Celeste uncannily resembles, drowned in the lake after being barred from Whites-only lessons at the local swimming pool. Although Grandma Judy insists that Ellie would never hurt any of them, the cousins are not convinced and race to discover the truth before someone really gets hurt. The pacing is strong, and Celeste is a character who will resonate with readers. Brown expertly reminds readers that the truth is scarier than fiction especially when it comes to historical truths and lived realities whose impacts echo through the generations. A gripping scary story weaving in the history of segregation. (Paranormal. 8-12)

The girl in the locked room : a ghost story

Hahn, Mary Downing

Upper Elementary

9781725457669

School Library Journal (June 1, 2018) Gr 4-6-Jules Aldridge has just moved with her mom and dad from Ohio to Virginia. Now a seventh grader, she can't count how many times she's moved; her Dad makes a living restoring old homes, which means the family often moves after each job. His latest task is restoring the spookiest house Jules has ever seen, Oak Hill. Almost immediately, Jules spies a strange shadow in the top floor window, as if someone is looking out at her. This cannot be possible; no one has a key to that room. When Jules experiences strange visions of a long-ago family that no one else can see, she knows Oak Hill must be haunted. Jules is fearful about discovering Oak Hill's secrets until she meets a new friend at the library, Maisie Sullivan. With Maisie's help, Jules uncovers the terrible secret of what happened many years ago. The house is haunted by a 10-year-old girl, Lily Bennett, who was left behind in 1889 when her parents were brutally murdered by thieves. Jules and Maisie must figure out a solution to Lily's horrible ghostly dilemma. Told in alternating chapters by Jules and Lily, the narrative is fast paced and engaging. The resolution is achieved quickly, but it will satisfy young readers. VERDICT An enthralling ghostly tale with a neat and tidy conclusion; a good choice for middle grade shelves.--Julie Shatterly, W. A. Bess Elementary School, Gastonia, NC © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (September/October, 2018) The story opens with a girl locked in an attic room. She doesn�t know who she is, why she�s there, or how long she has occupied the house. Time marches on, and the girl becomes a fainter and fainter presence, until twelve-year-old Jules moves in to the house with her family. Jules is, once again, the new kid in town, and once again longing for some kind of permanence. But this new setting proves unsettling as Jules (and at first only Jules) begins seeing the girl and visions of the past. Through alternating chapters, readers discover that the girl is a ghost and that she�s been hiding for one hundred and fifty years. Jules gets glimpses of the girl�s post�Civil War life, of her loving family, and of the danger they faced in their own time. Ever the librarian, author Hahn weaves a little reader�s advisory into her tale, linking the girls� task with Diana Wynne Jones�s Chrestomanci series. Less sophisticated and suspenseful than Hahn�s last novel (One for Sorrow, rev. 5/17), this ghost story is successful in exploring its dual plots: one of a young girl who wants to stay where she is, and the other of a girl who wants to move on. betty carter

Booklist (August 2018 (Vol. 114, No. 22)) Grades 3-6. Sixth-grader Jules is used to moving into old houses so her dad, who specializes in historical renovation, can restore them to their former glory. This time, she’s worried their new old house, a crumbling Virginia mansion, is haunted. Though she’s staying in a modern addition, she has visions of the past from the point of view of a girl named Lily. Nightly, Jules hears a ghostly reenactment of angry men storming the home and Lily barricading herself in a third-floor room, a room still blocked in the present day. In alternate chapters, a lonely unnamed ghost girl watches Jules from a third-floor window and longs for escape. With the help of a new neighborhood friend and the local library, Jules learns what happened to Lily and concocts a plan to help her move on, involving an underdeveloped but suitable alternate-worlds premise. With little conflict, an emphasis on friendship, and a happy ending for all, this gentle paranormal mystery is perfect for young readers who aren’t ready for a scary ghost story.

The greedy gremlin

Branches: Pixie Tricks

West, Tracey

Lower Elementary

9781713735021

The One and Only Family

One and Only

Applegate, Katherine

Upper Elementary

9798318911002

School Library Journal Xpress starred (May 24, 2024) Gr 4-6-Ivan, the beloved western lowland gorilla, moves back into the spotlight in this fourth and final entry in the series. Still living in Wildwood Zoological Park & Sanctuary, Ivan and mate Kinyani learn they're going to become parents of twins. Kinyani, the more pragmatic of the two, reacts with quiet joy; pensive Ivan frets. Helping him adjust are the friends he has made since his years at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade: Julie, Ruby, Bitsy, and, of course, Bob, who nicknames the expectant father "Big Daddy." The twins' birth evokes memories of Ivan's African childhood, all that he has lost and all that remains. Ivan's journey towards maturity and contentment is the heart of the novel and is complete when he fulfills his role as leader and protector of not only his immediate family, but of all the gorillas in the sanctuary. His epiphany comes with the understanding, "You can't cage hope." Castelao's spot art continues to add spark to the characters. Applegate's writing, stellar as ever, provides enough backstory for the novel to stand on its own and encourage new readers to pick up the first three novels. Her author's note is deeply personal and reveals intriguing insights into her work. VERDICT A cherished character enjoys the heartfelt and uplifting closure he, and his fans, richly deserve. An essential purchase.-Marybeth Kozikowski © Copyright 2024. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Horn Book Magazine (July/August, 2024) After Bob and Ruby have taken turns narrating the past couple of books, it's only fitting that Ivan (The One and Only Ivan, rev. 1/12) returns as the narrator for the fourth and final volume of the quartet. The gorilla protagonist now lives a good life in the wildlife park, far removed from his traumatic past filled with abuse and neglect at Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. He is surrounded by close friends, both human and animal, who sustain him and understand him, many having gone through trauma themselves. Now Ivan and his mate are about to be parents and must grapple with what this means: "'But it's my job to protect them from the world,' I said. 'It's our job to prepare them for the world,' Kinyani responded, arms crossed over her chest." Offspring aren't the only means of extending Ivan's legacy: he is the subject of a forthcoming documentary. Tragedy almost strikes at the premiere when the filmmaker's son finds himself in the gorilla enclosure with an enraged silverback bearing down on him. Ivan rises to the challenge, both as a father and as a leader. This volume doesn't stand alone as well as the others, and that's okay. It's a wonderful farewell tour for these endearing characters and the themes that they have come to embody so well: adversity, resilience, and hope. Jonathan Hunt July/August 2024 p.121

Booklist starred (May 1, 2024 (Vol. 120, No. 17)) Grades 3-7. This final book in Applegate's quartet finds beloved silverback gorilla Ivan faced with yet another life-changing challenge: parenthood. This unexpected (to Ivan) turn of events stirs up complicated memories of his birth family, causing him to wonder if he can be a good parent and troop leader. How much of this does Ivan want to remember and how much of his past should he share with his friends and present family? Following him and his anxieties is a filmmaker documenting every momentous juncture along the way, which serves only to amplify Ivan's worries. With the support of friends Bob and Ruby and his pragmatic partner, Kinyani, he accepts the mantel of fatherhood, navigating birth, babyhood, and even terrifying toddler tantrums! Additionally, at its core, this story continues to raise the question of how humans can preserve the natural world and be worthy conservators for the future. In this lovingly crafted finale, Applegate deftly delivers with spare, shining prose that juxtaposes playfulness with soul-stirring revelations, allowing the book to be accessible for young readers and a page-turner for all ages. This is a satisfying send off, and readers will want to reread the whole series to share the laughs and the tears surrounding this memorable band of buddies one more time. A must-read celebration of family, natural and found. High-Demand Backstory: Applegate's Newbery Medal–winning The One and Only Ivan (2012) is a kidlit classic, and fans of the titular gorilla will be eager for his story's conclusion.

The one and only Ruby

One and Only

Applegate, Katherine

Upper Elementary

9798368778440

Horn Book Magazine (July/August, 2023) After The One and Only Ivan (rev. 1/12) and The One and Only Bob (rev. 7/20), it's now young elephant Ruby's turn to tell her story. Having relocated to a new wildlife park in Florida (with Ivan, the silverback gorilla; and Bob, the wisecracking dog), Ruby has been adopted into a new elephant herd. Tuskday (the "traditional celebration after the arrival of a young elephant's tusks") is fast approaching, and she is exceptionally anxious about the rite of passage. Ruby gets an unexpected visitor one day when Jabori, who cared for her in an elephant orphanage in Africa, comes to visit. This joyful reunion provides the impetus for her to share the full story of her traumatic past, beginning with her mother being hunted and killed for her tusks. A conversation with the wise matriarch of the wildlife park's herd gives Ruby the courage to proceed with the Tuskday celebration. The book features Applegate's trademark verse-prose; appealing spot illustrations; and the hallmark themes of the series: adversity, trauma, friendship, resilience, and hope. An author's note discusses the plight of elephants in captivity and the continuing devastation of the ivory trade in the wild. Jonathan Hunt July/August 2023 p.104

Booklist starred (April 15, 2023 (Vol. 119, No. 16)) Grades 3-6. In this latest from Applegate, the elephant introduced in The One and Only Ivan (2012) gets to tell her life story to friends at the Wildworld Zoological Park and Sanctuary. Ruby, aka Duni (her African keeper's name for her) aka Nya (her birth name), hates her new nickname, Tusky. It signals her tusks are emerging and that she will soon have her Tuskday, which is "like a birthday party, only without the fun." There is a deeper reason, though, why everything about her tusks bothers her, and when Ruby is visited by the keeper who helped save her when her mother was killed by hunters, it stirs memories that she relates to her friends Ivan, the silverback gorilla; Bob, the dog; and the leader of her present herd, Aunt Akello. In the guise of a growing-up tale, the story leads readers to ponder the ecological devastation of the ivory trade, the difficulties of being torn from your homeland at an early age, and the horrors of many circuses and zoos. But countering that is also the joy of friendship, humans' kindness toward animals, and the joy of just being a kid, as described in Ruby's descriptions of the fun she has during "pondplay," "mudfun," and her "floppy-run." For fans of Ivan as well as animals in general, this is a special sequel.

Kirkus Reviews (April 1, 2023) In this follow-up to 2020’s The One and Only Bob, Ruby the elephant is still living at Wildworld Zoological Park and Sanctuary. She’s apprehensive about her Tuskday, a rite of passage for young elephants when she’ll give a speech in front of the rest of the herd. Luckily, she can confide in her Uncle Ivan, who is next door in Gorilla World, and Uncle Bob, the dog who lives nearby with human friend Julia. Ruby was born in an unspecified part of Africa, later ending up on display in the mall, where she met Ivan, Bob, and Julia. The unexpected arrival of someone from Ruby’s past life on the savanna revives memories both warmly nostalgic and deeply traumatic. An elephant glossary and Castelao’s charming, illustrated guide to elephant body language help immerse readers in Ruby’s world. Goofy, playful, and mischievous Ruby is fully dimensional, as she has shown her bravery during the many hardships of her young life. Applegate deftly tempers themes of grief and loss with compassion and humor as Ruby finds her place in the herd. The author’s note touches on climate change, the illegal ivory trade, and conservation efforts, but the highly emotive framing of the story through the memories of a bewildered baby elephant emphasizes the impact of lines such as “ ‘in Africa,’ I say softly, ‘there were bad people,’ ” without offering readers a nuanced understanding of the broader context that drives poaching. Certain to steal hearts. (Fiction. 8-12)

The pet store sprite

Branches: Pixie Tricks

West, Tracey

Lower Elementary

9781713757931

The reptile room

Series of Unfortunate Events

Snicket, Lemony

Middle School

9781428773967

Booklist (Vol. 96, No. 7 (December 1, 1999)) Gr. 4-7. Alas, the poor Beaudelaire children! Violet, Klaus, and baby sister Sunny suffer all sorts of misfortunes, beginning when their parents die in a fire and they become wards of a distant cousin, evil Count Olaf. Author "Lemony Snicket" (a pseudonym, perhaps?) points out in an opening note, "It is my sad duty to write down these unpleasant tales, but there is nothing stopping you from putting this book down at once and reading something happy, if you prefer that sort of thing," and then proceeds to recount the story with relish aplenty. In The Reptile Room, it momentarily seems like the children might have a chance for happiness when they go to live with a kind reptile expert. Needless to say, Count Olaf makes certain their happiness doesn't last. The droll humor, reminiscent of Edwin Gorey's, will be lost on some children; others may not enjoy the old-fashioned storytelling style that frequently addresses the reader directly and includes many definitions of terms. But plenty of children will laugh at the over-the-top satire; hiss at the creepy, nefarious villains; and root for the intelligent, courageous, unfortunate Beaudelaire orphans.

Warriors graphic novel. The prophecies begin.1

Warriors Graphic Novel: The Prophecies Begin

Riess, Natalie

Middle School

9798368711034

School Library Journal starred (December 1, 2024) Gr 4 Up- Adapting the first two books in Erin Hunter's "Warriors" series, Into the Wild and Fire and Ice, we see the beginning of the journey of Fireheart, once a house cat for humans named Rusty, now a proud warrior of Thunderclan. This adventure is epic in scale and takes a child's love for cats and teaches the strong lessons of perseverance, teamwork, family, and courage. This new graphic novel series will be extremely popular, not only for readers of the original series but also for a new generation who can experience the adventure for the first time. VERDICT The Prophecies truly begin again in this phenomenal graphic novel adaptation of the "Warriors" series. The compelling story will make cat lovers of all readers. © Copyright 2024. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus Reviews (May 15, 2024) In this graphic adaptation of the original series’ first two episodes, kittypet Rusty joins the feral cats of Thunderclan and earns a warrior’s name. Making the switch from print to this tale that’s told through dialogue and visual sequences containing very little exposition may relegate the complex dreams and visions to wordless montages and make it even harder to keep track of who’s who in the large, furry cast, but the art really brings out the savagery that has distinguished Hunter’s work and perhaps accounted for its enduring appeal. Here, as snarling cats flash cruelly sharp teeth and claws, pounce on prey with a crunching of bones, and engage in bloody melees with cats of rival clans (and even, once, with a swarm of vicious rats), the feline protagonist, an orange tabby more distinguishable than most due to an unusual mark on his forehead, displays heroic qualities aplenty. He serves an apprenticeship under his new name, Firepaw, but is at last named Fireheart, decisively turning from the easy, domesticated life to embrace a harder (but far more glorious) role as a warrior of Thunderclan. Along with a helpful aerial map of the clan’s territory, the creators include an illustrated afterword in which they cast themselves as cute kitties to demonstrate their work process. The vivid colors, dramatic action sequences, and appealingly expressive feline faces will grab readers’ attention. Skillfully catches the feral tone and spirit of the original. (alternate covers, character designs) (Graphic animal fantasy. 11-13)

Warriors graphic novel. The prophecies begin.2

Warriors Graphic Novel: The Prophecies Begin

Riess, Natalie

Middle School

9798368747095

School Library Journal (May 1, 2025) Gr 3-7-Fireheart has led Thunderclan to victory and a time of peace and rebuilding has settled in. With Bluestar now on her final life, and suspicion of treachery placed on Tigerclaw, the wild warrior cats and their clans have much to prepare for. Some rise in ranks, their bravery proving they are ready to be hunters, while others prepare to face fallout from their decisions. What lies in the immediate future for these clans is unclear, and readers will enjoy finding out. Fans will delight in seeing their favorite characters and early series plotlines shown in such unique and vibrant colors. VERDICT Graphic novels of this long-running series will help bring these stories to a new audience. © Copyright 2025. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus Reviews (February 15, 2025) Fireheart struggles with new responsibilities as treachery and natural disasters threaten ThunderClan in this second volume of the graphic recasting of the initial Warriors series. Encompassing events from middle volumes Forest of Secrets (2003) and Rising Storm (2004), this episode features flood, fire, learning opportunities, and a treacherous coup attempt as Fireheart advances up ThunderClan’s hierarchy while taking his kittypet sister Princess’s first born, Cloudkit, away from the Twolegplace to train as a warrior. Fireheart is easy enough to pick out in the illustrations because he has a distinctive mark on his brow, but even readers who’ve read and reread the original novels may have trouble keeping the rest of the characters in the teeming feline cast apart—particularly since the illustrators admit to adding a few extras to fill out crowd scenes. Still, the switch to a graphic format from the original prose allows the wordless training and action sequences to speed the plot along. The artwork also offers vivid visual renditions of pouncing on crunchy fresh-kill and gory, savage battles with other cats that underscore the feral violence of life in the wild—not to mention packing cats, cats, and more cats into the panels. The fetching interplay between irrepressible Cloudkit and his patient, serious mentor stands out, as does the heroic protagonist’s progress toward coming into his own. The expert, artful transition of the classic series to a new format continues. (map, character sheets, alternate cover sketches) (Graphic animal fantasy. 11-13)

Warriors graphic novel. The prophecies begin.3

Warriors Graphic Novel: The Prophecies Begin

Riess, Natalie

Middle School

9798368789521

Kirkus Reviews (October 1, 2025) Rising tensions culminate in a savage battle even as Tigerstar’s bid for dominance over all the forest Clans fulfills the prophecy that “Lion and tiger will meet in battle…and blood will rule the forest.” In this graphic novel, which adapts the events of the fifth and sixth novels in the Prophecies Begin series, Fireheart becomes Firestar, leader of ThunderClan, after Bluestar is killed while fighting off a pack of wild dogs. He then goes on to unite the Clans against threats from both within and without. The switch in format doesn’t help readers much in keeping track of the teeming cast; there’s no visual key, and so many of the cats differ so slightly in individual markings that even confirmed series fans may struggle to keep track of who’s who. Name changes are another issue: Following an attack in which she has an eye torn out, Brightpaw is renamed Lostface, and finally Brightheart, and she spends much of the tale with medicinal leaves covering the healing wound, which at least makes her easy to identify. The art allows wordless montages to speed the plot along and also gives the artists license to depict tender moments of head bumping and anthropomorphic smiles and other expressions—not to mention lots of hideously vicious claws and teeth, and savage fights. Concept and character sketches at the end offer insights into the artists’ process. Unwieldy as ever cast-wise, but the visual format suits the violent, dramatic storylines. (Graphic animal fantasy. 11-13)

Where the wild things are

Sendak, Maurice

Lower Elementary

9780758700285

Booklist starred (November 1, 2007 (Vol. 104, No. 5)) Preschool-Grade 2. This simply written but subtle book became a classic not only because it legitimized children’s angry feelings—and their ability to use their imaginations to deal with those feelings—but also because it showed punishment and love coexisting in a parent-child relationship. When mischievous Max, wearing his wolf suit, romps around the house and drives his mother to distraction, she calls him “Wild Thing” and sends him to bed without his supper. But in the quiet of his room, a forest grows, where claw-footed monsters with horns, Wild Things just like Max, lurk and leap. Max joins their “wild rumpus” and is made “king of all wild things,” but still he misses his home. When he finally returns, he discovers his supper waiting, and it is still hot. Where the Wild Things Are, which was awarded the Caldecott Medal in 1964, has never gone out of print and is now available in several editions including paperback and a twenty-fifth anniversary remastered version. The year 2008 is sure to bring even more attention to this beloved children’s book: Dave Eggers will publish an adult novel based on the 338-word story at the same time that a combination live-action and animatronic movie, scripted by Eggers and directed by Spike Jonze, is released. How Jonze will translate Sendak’s exceptional crossed-hatched-watercolor artwork to the screen remains to be seen.

Horn Book Guide starred (Fall 2003) This fortieth-anniversary edition of the beloved Caldecott-medal-winning book is a reissue of the 1988 edition, which was reprinted from new engravings made from the original art.

Wings of fire. The graphic novel.Book five,The brightest night

Wings Of Fire

Deutsch, Barry

Upper Elementary

9781544461809

Wings of fire. The graphic novel.Book three,The hidden kingdom

Wings Of Fire

Deutsch, Barry

Upper Elementary

9781725430914

Inside the NFL

Set of 32 books

Tales from a not-so-glam TV star

Dork Diaries

Russell, Rachel Renee

Upper Elementary

School Library Journal (September 1, 2014) Gr 4-8-Nikki Maxwell is back. Her band is recording their hit song, "Dorks Rule," and the producer decides to give Nikki her own reality TV show! Between filming the show, band practice, voice lessons, dance rehearsals, studying, and homework, Nikki is barely able to squeeze in time with her crush, Brandon. But when he asks for her help with an important scholarship project, Nikki has to decide which is more important, stardom or her friends. Narrator Jenni Barber uses the perfect mix of OMGs and SQUEEEEs to bring Nikki and her BFFs to life. Although the narration is spot-on, readers may still wish to follow along with the book so they don't miss out on Nikki's expressive diary illustrations. Overall, this is a seamless fit with the rest of the series and will be popular with fans of the previous books.- Anne Bozievich, Friendship Elementary School, Glen Rock, PA (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Talons of Power

Wings Of Fire

Sutherland, Tui T

Upper Elementary

The copper gauntlet

Magisterium

Black, Holly

Middle School

School Library Journal (January 1, 2016) Gr 4-7-Beginning their second year at the Magisterium (a school for mages), best friends Callum, Tamara, and Adam continue the adventures that began in The Iron Trial (Scholastic, 2014), setting out on a quest to rid their world of the Enemy of Death. There's nothing playful about the magic in this universe, where Elementals (similar to the Titans in Greek mythology) have been imprisoned underground for ages, that is, until an ancient metal monster is released to attack Call and his friends. Paul Boehmer's narration is deep-voiced and expressive but clearly differentiates among characters: high-pitched and breathless for Celia, the girl who knows everything, but throaty and threatening for mage Master Rufus. VERDICT Familiar fantasy elements set in a complex world will appeal to young fans of action and adventure in the struggle between good and evil. ["Fans of the previous volume will relish the continuing adventures of Call and his friends": SLJ 10/15 review of the Scholastic book.]-Toby -Rajput, National Louis University, Skokie, IL © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist (September 1, 2015 (Vol. 112, No. 1)) Grades 5-8. Callum Hunt is ready to go back for his second year at the Magisterium, and not just because his dad might be trying to kill him. Call is (secretly) the magical reincarnation of mage Constantine Madden, by all accounts a pretty bad guy, but he is trying really hard not to be evil. He has got a mental checklist of the things an Evil Overlord wouldn’t do as he heads to school. But all is not well there, either: an artifact that can split Chaos mages, like Call’s friend Aaron, from their magic has been stolen, possibly by Call’s dad. Call worries his true identity will be discovered, but he is more concerned about Aaron, so the boys and their friend Tamara—plus one rival—set out into an increasingly dangerous world to try to save the day. This second installment in the Magisterium series is much more effective than its predecessor (The Iron Trial, 2014): the plot is tighter, the stakes are higher, and Call’s struggle with whether or not he is destined for evil adds to the tension. Shades of Harry Potter still linger, but this has a personality of its own. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Enthusiasm hasn’t flagged for these two best-selling authors, and this stronger volume will just fan the fire.

Kirkus Reviews (July 15, 2015) Book 2 in the middle-grade Magisterium fantasy series delves deeper into its protagonist's connection with the Enemy of Death. Picking up where The Iron Trial (2014) left off, almost-13-year-old Callum Hunt, along with his Chaos-ridden pet wolf, Havoc, is back home from his first year at the Magisterium (a school for mages) for summer vacation. But his father is acting strangely, and Callum suspects that his father knows what Call himself had just found out (in Book 1): that he, Callum, apparently has the soul of Constantine Madden--the evil Enemy of Death. When Havoc goes missing, and Call, searching for him, discovers him chained in their basement in a cell-like room that also contains information in his father's handwriting about the Alkahest--a powerful weapon for killing mages--he concludes that his father plans to kill him, so he and Havoc run away. Returning to the Magisterium for his second year, Call keeps both the true nature of his soul and his father's behavior a secret, even from best friends and fellow apprentices Tamara and Aaron, afraid they will turn against him. This tightly plotted story shines with imaginative twists and settings, sparks of humor, and a rich portrayal of friendship in the face of doubt. The co-authors successfully probe the themes of good and evil even as they craft an entertainingly fast-paced read. Both a successful addition to the middle-grade magic school genre and a satisfying sequel. (Fantasy. 9-13)

The golden tower

Magisterium

Black, Holly

Middle School

The iron trial

Magisterium

Black, Holly

Middle School

School Library Journal (September 1, 2014) Gr 5-8-All his life Callum Hunt has been warned by his father that practicing magic is a guaranteed death sentence, the only certain way to make sure he doesn't reach his 18th birthday. When Call is summoned to attend the entrance exams for The Magisterium, a more-sinister version of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, he promises his father he will deliberately fail the test to avoid the dangerous lure of magic school. Unfortunately, magic is in Call's blood, and though his permanent limp and sarcastic attitude do not appear to serve him well during testing, he is selected with two other "Iron Years" to be a pupil of the greatest mage of all, Master Rufus. Black and Clare have created a unique world in The Magisterium, adroitly sidestepping reader fatigue with the many post-Harry Potter "magical academy" fiction series. The underground school's labyrinthine tunnels, mysterious caverns, and strange rivers are an alternately wondrous and creepy setting for this hero's quest. The diverse main trio's multidimensional portrayals leave aside easy characterizations in favor of complex motivations which add depth to each character. Best of all, a late-stage reveal of the novel's true hero and villain neatly turn fantasy tropes on their heads.- Elisabeth Gattullo Marrocolla, Darien Library, CT (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist (August 2014 (Vol. 110, No. 22)) Grades 5-8. It’s a tall order in this day and age to write a book about a young boy in magic school without being held to the Harry Potter standard, but that’s exactly what Black and Clare attempt in their first collaboration (and Clare’s first middle-grade offering). The premise is simple: 12-year-old Callum Hunt has been warned about the dangers of magic for as long as he can remember by his father, a former mage, who blames the Magisterium, a magic academy, for the death of his wife. Despite Cal’s best attempts to fail the entrance exam into that academy, his inherent magical ability gets him accepted, and he begins the first of five years of his training. Occasional comparisons to Harry Potter are inevitable, but Cal isn’t the Boy Who Lived—although his friend Aaron might be—and the Magisterium isn’t Hogwarts. Expectations are bound to be high for this powerhouse duo’s first cowritten effort, and although it doesn’t quite live up to the authors’ respective works (Black’s Doll Bones was a 2014 Newbery Honor Book), and there are several missed opportunities, the end offers a few intriguing twists and perspectives that hint at what’s to come in the next installments. And with four Magisterium volumes still in the works, Black and Clare have ample time to hit their stride as a team. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: The six-figure initial print run may still be shy of the demand from the fans of these two wildly popular authors.

Kirkus Reviews (August 1, 2014) Book 1 in the five-book fantasy series introduces the Magisterium, a training school for young mages that is located in underground caverns in Virginia. Admittance is by invitational tryouts. Twelve-year-old Callum Hunt has mage potential, but his father, Alastair--a mage and a graduate of the Magisterium--tells his son to deliberately fail. He has brought Callum up to believe that the Magisterium is evil and he must never attend. But Callum, small, skinny and partially lame from a serious leg injury incurred when he was an infant, is picked anyway, and this kickoff entry details Callum's first year of training under Master Rufus. Harry Potter similarities pop up repeatedly, from the magic-training-school premise to Callum's fellow apprentices and soon-to-be best friends, Tamara and Aaron, and these similarities are distracting at first. But then the twist occurs, and it is a doozy. By the book's end, readers will be chomping at the bit to get into the sequel. Collaborators Black and Clare describe an intoxicating underground setting and give their mostly male characters refreshingly nuanced friendships. The third-person narration, filtered through Callum's delightfully insecure-and-overcompensating-with-snarky-bravado perspective, carries a tone that will likely have readers chortling in recognition. A promising beginning to a complex exploration of good and evil, as well as friendship's loyalty. (Fantasy. 9-13)

Difficult riddles for smart kids

Prefontaine, M

Upper Elementary

Dreams come to life

Bendy and the Ink Machine

Kress, Adrienne

Young Adult

School Library Journal Xpress (October 25, 2019) Gr 7 Up-Seventeen-year-old Buddy thinks it's a dream come true when he's hired by Joey Drew Studios as a gopher and an apprentice artist in post-World War II New York. Although people at the studio are strange, he finds a friend in Dot, and Buddy's family (including his artist grandfather, newly liberated from a concentration camp) can use the money. Of course, things are not what they seem at the studio, as a series of events, from strange noises and creeping shadows to monstrous plots and mysterious disappearances, goes from frightening to downright deadly. Now that it's too late, Buddy must find a way to send his cautionary tale out into the world-and possibly save his friend Dot before she too falls victim to the living ink. Fans of the online game Bendy and the Ink Machine will enjoy this noir backstory to the puzzle/horror game, which unashamedly leaves itself wide open for a sequel and probably a series. Unusual for a marketing tie-in, readers come to care about Buddy, and although the characterizations of the secondary characters are rather thin, it's possible they may be more fully realized in subsequent volumes. This is for a very different audience than the author's tween series "The Explorers" and is not suitable for ES readers. That said, even teens who don't play the game will be drawn in by the creepy cover art. VERDICT Considering its built-in audience, this one is sure to be in demand.-Elizabeth Friend, Wester Middle School, TX © Copyright 2019. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist (October 15, 2019 (Vol. 116, No. 4)) Grades 9-12. From an unspecified time in the future, Buddy writes his musings of what really happened at Joey Drew Studios in 1946. As a 16-year-old high-school dropout, he works to help support his single mother and Polish grandfather, who speaks very little English. He’s excited when he makes a delivery to Mr. Drew, the creator of the famous Bendy cartoons, who offers him a job as an office gofer and potential animation apprentice. What appears to be a “dream come true,” however, soon turns into a nightmare as Buddy investigates what happened to the person who occupied his desk before him, and a coworker, Sam, grows increasingly obsessed with a special kind of ink—to the point where he may be consuming it. A likable character, Buddy makes it clear from the beginning that his memory of the events are not 100 percent accurate. This well-written, diverse horror novel will primarily appeal to fans of the Bendy and the Ink Machine video game franchise.

Kirkus Reviews (July 15, 2019) Kress (The Quest for the Kid, 2019, etc.) creates a hair-raising tale based on the popular survival horror video game “Bendy and the Ink Machine.” She capitalizes on its survivalist plot and creepy ambience by setting her story—like the video game—largely on the premises of Joey Drew Studios, a New York City–based production house dedicated to creating “Bendy” cartoons. Emulating the shifting perspective of this genre, in which players have less control than in a typical action video game, the 16-year-old Jewish protagonist, Daniel “Buddy” Lewek, begins his story by ominously looking back to the summer of 1946, warning readers that while dreams may come true, nightmares do as well. Though somewhat cagey as a narrator, Buddy is an extremely likable character, having dropped out of school to help support his recently widowed mother. He’s now dealing with the unannounced arrival to their Lower East Side tenement of his Polish grandfather, who speaks little English, is pale and shockingly thin, and has strange numbers tattooed on his arm. Buddy thinks his dreams of financial solvency and becoming an artist are about to become a reality when Mister Drew hires him to be an errand boy and art apprentice, but he soon discovers something as dark as the ink that animates the Bendy figures lurks in the Drew Studios halls, forcing him to reexamine his entire worldview. Sinister and twisted, this Faustian page-turner enlightens as it frightens. (Horror. 12-18)

Raid of no return

Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales

Hale, Nathan

Upper Elementary

School Library Journal Xpress (February 1, 2018) Gr 3-7-Presented in the author's instantly recognizable artistic and storytelling style, this new series installment centers on the Doolittle air raid over Japan during World War II. The book starts with a brief explanation of events pre-Pearl Harbor (and an even briefer, information-packed history of Japanese military history); soon after, the action begins with a literal bang. Hale describes the bombing of Pearl Harbor from Japanese and American points of view. In response, the U.S. military set up a supersecret counterattack organized by stunt pilot Jimmy Doolittle. Pilots and crew manning 16 planes trained to bomb targets over Japan. Their fate after the attack is harrowing and no detail is left out. While small, the panels are readable, and the graphic novel's small size makes it portable. Though works of history might not fly off the shelves, Hale's tendency to incorporate character commentary, infographics, and fun facts will draw readers. VERDICT Purchase for all libraries, and give this title to readers interested in action-packed graphic novels, especially patrons aging out of the "Magic Treehouse" books.-Morgan Brickey, Arlington Public Library, TX © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.