Category: Book News

Happy October! I hope the beginning of the fall season is treating you right. There are a LOT of books releasing this week. Here are some of the ones that caught my eye:

Books for Kids

Builder Brothers: Big Plans – The Property Brothers now have a picture book!
Eliza: The Story of Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton – A picture book biography about Eliza Hamilton. There are several books about Eliza releasing this fall. Be sure to check them out. Her story is fascinating.
I Am Human – A celebration of the possibilities in life and being our best selves and caring for others. With illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds.
Jane Goodall AND L. M. Montgomery (Little People, Big Dreams) – The latest picture book biographies from the Little People, Big Dreams series. I love the illustrations for this series. I’d especially like to read these two new books.
Max and the Superheroes – Max and his friends love superheroes. Max’s favorite is Megapower, but his friends aren’t sure a girl superhero could really be that super. Max knows she is because Megapower is his mom. This one is on my list.
Octopus Escapes – Security guard vs Octopus escapee. This looks adorable!
Pete the Cat Checks Out the Library – 8×8 paperback book starring Pete the Cat
Potato Pants – From the fabulous author of Arnie the Doughnut and The Scrambled States of America comes this book about a potato, his eggplant nemesis and a sale on pants. I HAVE to read this one and get the scoop on this crazy story!
The Wall in the Middle of the Book – A knight is certain that his side of the wall in the middle of the book is the safest.
I Lost My Tooth – The first book in the Unlimited Squirrels series by Mo Willems. A squirrel loses a tooth and his friends try to help him find it.
Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters – The fantastic picture book series by Andrea Beaty has expanded into an early chapter book series called The Questioneers! There is a lot of positive buzz about this book online. I can’t wait to read it for myself.
Start Now!: You Can Make a Difference – A book just for early chapter book readers on activism and making a difference in the world.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

9 From the Nine Worlds – More stories starring the cast of the Magnus Chase series by Rick Riordan.
The Battle of the Labyrinth (Graphic Novel) – Book 4 in the fabulous original Percy Jackson series gets the graphic novel treatment. My teen and I have enjoyed the graphic novel versions of this terrific series!
The Bookshop Girl – The Jones family has won a humongous bookshop in a contest, but the former owner seems to be hiding something. I am so looking forward to reading this one!
Clash of Beasts – Book 3 in the Going Wild series from the author of the Unwanteds series. Three kids are trying to stop a villain who wants to turn all of humanity into monstrous beasts.
Definitely Daphne – To cope with their recent move and her mom’s upcoming deployment, Annabelle agrees to vlog as a way to step out of her comfort zone. When she’s onscreen as Daphne, she can say how she really feels. I’ll be reviewing this one next week – it was terrific!
Dog Days in the City – Sequel to The Unlikely Story of a Pig in the City. I have both of these on my TBR list. This time Josie is trying to find homes for 7 puppies.
Harry Potter Creatures – A laser-cut pop up book.
Lando’s Luck (Star Wars) – An original story starring Lando Calrissian (and the Millennium Falcon)
Misfits – A spin off from the Fairy Tale Reform School series by Jen Calonita. This series focuses on the Royal Academy and a princess trying to find her place in Enchantasia. I’ve already requested this one from the library.
The Reckless Club – The Breakfast Club meets The Golden Girls. Five teens who made questionable choices at the end of 8th grade find themselves spending the last Saturday of their summer “volunteering” at an old folks home for their punishment. I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow – I loved it!
The Right Hook of Devin Velma – From the author of last year’s spectacular Greetings from Witness Protection comes this story about a boy who longs to be internet famous so he can pay for his dad’s medical treatment and his best friend who prefers the background but ends up in the limelight instead. I already pre-ordered this one based on how much I adored Greetings last year.
Search for Atlantis (DC Super Hero Girls Graphic Novel) – The kids at DC Super Hero High are back in this adventure where they are looking for the stolen underwater city of Atlantis. I will be reviewing this later this year, but I’ll tell you now that I loved this one. I think this series gets better and better with each book. The addition of Raven and Mera in this story line was fantastic.
Spy School Goes South – Book 6 in the Spy School series. When a captured spy offers intelligence that can help the CIA take down SPYDER, Ben is pretty sure the plan is too good to be true. And he’s absolutely right. This is a series I haven’t read but have on my TBR list.
Squint – Flint, nicknamed”Squint,” is a kid losing his eyesight who loves to draw comics. McKell is the new girl at school who wonders if Flint could be the friend who sees her for who she really is. I’ve requested this one from the library, too.
The Tornado Twins (The Flash) – Book 3 in the Flash series based on the CW series, but without Flashpoint. I enjoyed the first book in this series – this will be a hit with kids who love the TV show or kids who love superhero stories.
The Truth About Martians – A kid and his friends investigate the crash of a space ship near the boy’s Roswell, New Mexico home. I’m looking forward to reading this one.
Who Is Bono? AND Who Is Judy Blume?
Be More Vader: Assertive Thinking from the Dark Side AND Be More Yoda: Mindful Thinking from a Galaxy Far Far Away – Hilarious small gift books that answer the question “What would Darth Vader or Yoda do?” These work for teens and adults. From the samples I have seen, these could be great for graduation gifts. I want to buy these for someone for Christmas just so I can read them, too.
Damsel – It’s always been this way – the king dies and his son heads off to slay a dragon and rescue a damsel. But when Ama, the damsel in question, wakes up after her rescue, she feels like things aren’t exactly as the old stories would have everyone believe. I’ve requested this one from the library, too.
Dry – From the author of the excellent Scythe series. A young woman finds herself alone and desperate to protect herself and her brother when the latest California drought hits catastrophic levels and the taps run dry. This sounds fascinating!
The Geography of Lost Things – When a girl inherits a classic car from her estranged father, she just wants to sell it so she can save her childhood home. But she’ll need her ex to drive it for her (it’s a manual transmission) which means she’s in for an awkward road trip. Yes! This sounds great.
The Infinite Pieces of Us – When a girl’s family hides out in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico to avoid her past, her new friends help her hit the road to pursue the truth. Another road trip book – and I am here for both of them!
The Perfect Candidate – A Capital Hill intern finds himself in the “perfect” position to help the FBI investigate the murder of a fellow staffer. Yes, please!
Swing – Two teens are trying to find their place in both school and their community. The plot for this one is pretty intricate. I’m eager to read this one.
What They Don’t Know – Told through journal entries, this is the story of two girls, one who withdraws after an “unspeakable act” and the other who longs to save her. I’ll be looking for this one, too.
(Don’t) Call Me Crazy – Thirty-three entries (essays, lists, comics, etc) to start a conversation about mental health. I’d like to check this one out, too.

Books for Adults

Alaskan Holiday (small-sized hardcover)- This year’s Christmas book from Debbie Macomber heads to Alaska where a Seattle sous-chef takes a summer gig but gets stuck in Alaska as winter sets in. I know my local library has already got this one on order.
Dead Air (e-book – October 3) – Serial Box is a new service that offers an e-book/audio book combo for stories that are released like a TV series, with one episode a week for a certain number of weeks. Dead Air is one of their newest stories, and the whole thing is now available in one chunk. This one is about a college radio show host who looks into a cold case murder. I haven’t taken the plunge to try Serial Box yet, but this particular story really grabbed my attention. I’ll be reading this one for sure.
An Easy Death (Hardcover) – Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse, Aurora Teagarden) kicks off a new series starring a gunslinger named Rose in an alternate United States after the assassination of FDR where magic is real but mistrusted. I requested this one from the library weeks ago, so I should be reading it soon!
End of Days (Trade Paperback) – Book 5 in the Chronicles of Brothers series. The series starts with three archangels – Michael, Gabriel and Lucifer – and the fall of one. By book 3 the focus shifts to three brothers and events on earth that are leading to the End of Days. I’d read a series like this; I enjoy Christian fantasy.
The Kennedy Debutante (Hardcover) – London, 1938. Oft forgotten Kennedy daughter, Kathleen, or “Kick,” is swept off her feet by the Duke of Devonshire, but their love is forbidden as she is Catholic and he is Protestant. The whole idea of this fascinates me. I’m putting this one on my list.
Kill the Queen (Trade Paperback) – First in the Crown of Shards series. When the queen is killed and the royal family is attacked, Evie (17th in line for the throne) survives because of a secret she is keeping. She goes into hiding, training with a group of gladiators, waiting to make her move on the cousin who tried to kill her. This looks and sounds amazing. I already requested this one from the library, too. The question is which book I will read first, this one or An Easy Death?
The Pint of No Return (Hardcover) – Book 2 in the Sloan Krause mystery series from the author of the Bakeshop Mysteries. Local brewmaster Sloan investigates the death of a movie star in Leavenworth, Washington. I haven’t read the first book in this series, but I did read a teaser the author wrote where Sloan meets the main character of the Bakeshop series.
Anne Frank’s Diary (Graphic Novel – Hardcover) –  A graphic novel adaptation of the classic.
It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Moving Forward One Day at a Time (Hardcover) – This book from Sheila Walsh focuses on picking up the pieces and accepting ourselves as we are.
Preach to Yourself: When Your Inner Critic Comes Calling, Talk Back with Truth (Trade Paperback) – Renew your mind to renew your life – less “try harder” and more “believe better.” This could be powerful!
The Prodigal Prophet: Jonah and the Mystery of God’s Mercy (Hardcover) – A look at the life of Jonah from the Bible. I’m fascinated by the story of Jonah – especially the ending which is left out of most children’s versions of the story. This is on my list.
Remember God (Paperback) – There are already over 200 reviews of this book on Amazon – apparently there was a free audio book offered for those who pre-ordered – and almost every one is five-stars! I’ve not read a book from Annie F. Downs yet, but I have heard her speak and I really like her work. This book, which focuses on the goodness and kindness of God, is on my list.
The Sparkle Effect: Step into the Radiance of Your True Identity (Paperback) – Another book on finding your identity in Christ. I love books like this – such an important topic.
Woke Church: An Urgent Call for Christians in America to Confront Racism and Injustice (Hardcover) – A challenge to the Church to Be Aware, Be Redemptive and Be Active. I will be buying this one for certain.

September is coming to a close. One more Tuesday release day for this month – and it is chock full of reading goodness! Take a look at some of the books releasing this week.

Books for Kids

This Little Scientist (Board Book) – Board book highlighting scientists like Isaac Newton and Jane Goodall. This looks delightful.
An Inconvenient Alphabet: Ben Franklin & Noah Webster’s Spelling Revolution – A history of language and spelling in America. I’ve seen a few sample pages of this, but I’d love to read the whole story. It’s fascinating!
Benji, the Bad Day and Me – A boy and his autistic younger brother are both having a bad day. This looks sweet. I can’t wait to read the whole thing!
Giraffe Problems – Along the lines of its predecessor, Penguin Problems, comes this book about a giraffe who is self-conscious about his long neck.
King Alice – A girl writes a story when her family is snowed in for the day. Adorable!
Quiet Wyatt – A shy and quiet boy is paired with a loud know-it-all for the school field trip. This looks terrific.
The Sun Is Kind of a Big Deal – A fun and factual book about the sun. Looks like a great resource for space-loving kids and for classroom use.
Take Your Octopus to School Day – From the author of Is Your Buffalo Ready For Kindergarten? (which I loved) comes this story of a kid who wants to “win” Show and Tell. I can’t wait to read this one!
What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan – This picture book biography would be fantastic for middle school history classrooms (and upper elementary ones) as well as school libraries.
Eleanor Roosevelt’s in my Garage – Book 2 in the History Pals series for readers ready for chapter books. This series looks SO fun, and I love anything about the Roosevelts.
The Princess in Black in the Science Fair Scare – The Princess in Black gets a little help battling a monster at the science fair. I love this series!
Shine of the Silver Dragon – Book 11 in the BRANCHES Dragon Masters series
Tornado Hits! – Book 5 in the BRANCHES series Hilde Cracks the Case. I thought the third book was great. I’m happy to see the series continue!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

I Survived the Attack of the Grizzlies, 1967 – Book 17 in this terrific series.
It’s the End When I Say It’s the End – The 7th and final book in the Timmy Failure series that looks like the Wimpy Kid books, but this series focuses on Timmy and his polar bear partner in crime-solving.
Little Red Rodent Hood – Book 6 in the fun Hamster Princess series of fractured fairy tales.
A Perilous Journey of Danger and Mayhem: A Dastardly Plot – A new alternate history series (about an Inventor’s Guild in 1883) by Christopher Healy, author of the terrific Hero’s Guide series. I’m excited about this one!
The Second Story – Magic Misfits book 2 by Neil Patrick Harris. I enjoyed book one and I’m looking forward to reading the second one.
Trapped! – Book 3 in the fantastic mystery series by James Ponti. This time, Florian and Margaret are trying to clear their FBI handler of a crime. Part of this one takes place at the Library of Congress. I am SO excited to read this! This is at the top of my list for this week.
Two Cats and a Baby – Book 4 in the Stick Cat series, by the same author as the Stick Dog books. Cute series that looks like Wimpy Kid in style. In this book, the cats are trying to watch the baby when the sitter gets stuck in the bathroom.
The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden – Book 2 in the Vanderbeekers series which has received RAVE reviews. In this book, the kids decide to build a garden to help their neighbor. I have book one on my wishlist for the library.
You Don’t Know Everything Jilly P! – Jilly P learns that life is different for her Black friends and her Deaf friends. I’m curious to read this one because it sounds like Jilly stumbles through her interactions like I’m always afraid I will. I think I can learn some things from Jilly – and kids can learn from her, too.
500 Words or Less – To salvage her reputation at school, a high school senior starts writing college admissions essays for her peers. I’m eager to read this one.
A Blade So Black – An urban fantasy version of Alice in Wonderland. In general, I don’t like Alice in Wonderland. And I’ve not had a ton of luck with retellings of the story either. But that cover has been taunting me all summer long. I think I will try this one from the library and see if it can redeem the Alice story for me.
Olympian Heritage (ebook – Sept. 29) – Sequel to the terrific Olympian Challenger. In this book Hope is on a quest for the gods to find the Fountain of Youth. I felt like the first book was a teen version of Percy Jackson with some elements of The Hunger Games thrown in. I am looking forward to reading this one!
Unstoppable Moses – A prank gone horribly wrong leaves Moses with one chance to have his record expunged by volunteering as a camp counselor. I am curious to read this and find out just what Moses did and if he is able to redeem himself.
The War Outside – In 1944 a German teen and a Japanese teen find themselves in a family internment camp in Texas, wondering what the future holds for them and who they can trust. Sounds like a fascinating premise for fans of historical fiction!
The Lego Architecture Idea Book: 1001 Ideas for Brickwork, Siding, Windows, Columns, Roofing, and Much, Much More – The latest Lego building book for Master Builders.

Books for Adults

An Absolutely Remarkable Thing (Hardcover) – The fiction debut of Hank Green (brother of John Green) focuses on huge Transformer-like statues in samurai armor that appear overnight around the world. This has been getting a lot of buzz since it was first announced.
The Amish Christmas Letters (Trade Paperback) – A collection of three Amish Christmas stories. This is the time of year when I get in the mood for Christmas fiction. There are several new books out this week that are on my Christmas reading wish list.
Assault and Beadery (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Cora Crafts mystery series about a craft retreat business and the woman who runs it. This time, Cora  is trying to prove her friend innocent of the murder of the local theater director.
A Catered Cat Wedding (Hardcover) – Book 14 in this mystery series with recipes. This time the crime is focused around a wedding for a pair of cats. This premise is unusual enough to get me to jump into a series in the middle just to find out what happens.
Christmas by Accident (small Hardcover) – A car accident throws together an insurance adjuster who doesn’t like Christmas and a bookseller who loves it in this book that sounds like the premise for a Hallmark Christmas movie.
Christmas Cake Murder (Hardcover) – Book 23 in the Hannah Swensen mystery series.
The Christmas Sisters (Trade Paperback) – Three adopted daughters head home for Christmas, each carrying her own burdens and secrets. I’m looking forward to this one.
Death of a Neighborhood Scrooge (Hardcover) – Book 16 in the Jaine Austen mystery series about a freelance writer. I might have read book one when it first came out, but it’s been so long I’m just not sure. This sounds like a series I would enjoy.
Final Roasting Place (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 2 in the Cook Off Mystery series. This time a TV personality is killed just after Sherry wins their cooking contest. I haven’t read the first one, but this one sounds terrific! This is on my list!
Forever Fudge! (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 6 in the Candy-Coated mystery series. This time there’s a murder while a film crew is in town filming a new TV mystery pilot.
Just in Time (Trade Paperback) – Book 4 in the Dodie O’Dell mystery series. You can read my review of book one here. In this book,  the theater is putting on their first musical – Bye Bye Birdie – when their accompanist is murdered.
One in a Million (Trade Paperback) – Annie accepts a challenge to make a stranger Instagram-famous in just thirty days, but her subject is a social media-hating historian. Annie has her hands full. A contemporary take on My Fair Lady. I love stories like this!
The Peppermint Mocha Murder (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 5 in the Chocolate Whisperer mystery series. I am several books behind on this series, but I love the premise. This is on my TBR list.
Premeditated Peppermint (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 3 in the Amish Candy Shop mystery series by Amanda Flower. I have loved both of the previous books and pre-ordered this one back in March. Looking forward to reading it. Can’t go wrong with a peppermint-themed mystery!
Sadie (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 3 in the Amish Fairytale Retellings series by Sarah Price. I’ll be reviewing this one next week, but I’ll say right now that it is just as fantastic as the first two!
Vengeful (Hardcover) – Sequel to Villains by V.E. Schwab. I am waiting for book one from the library right now. This superhero fantasy series sounds right up my alley!
The Walking Bread (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 3 in the Bread Shop mystery series about a Mexican bakery. I’m looking forward to reading this one, but I know it will make me hungry!
Jesus Calling for Christmas (small Hardcover) – 50 holiday season devotions from Jesus Calling  by Sarah Young.
This Is the Day: Reclaim Your Dream. Ignite Your Passion. Live Your Purpose. (Hardcover) –  The latest from Tim Tebow focuses on inspiration and encouragement for those feeling “stuck” in their lives.

How is it that we are already half-way through September?! The official start of Fall is upon us. Happy Pumpkin Spice season to one and all. Here are some of the books releasing this week.

Books for Kids

Crash, Splash, or Moo! – A new picture book from the author of Ballet Cat. It’s a game show where readers guess if the action stunt will end in a “crash,” “splash,” or “moo.” I can not wait to read this one!
Pete the Cat’s 12 Groovy Days of Christmas – A Christmas picture book starring Pete the Cat.
Beatrice Zinker: Incognito – Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker is back in her second chapter book which is a continuation of Operation Upside.
Go Mo Go: Monster Mountain Chase AND Dinosaur Dash – Go Mo Go is a new transitional chapter book series about a group of kids who run everywhere, even running into Bigfoot and running backwards into the past. A third book is also out this week – Seaside Sprint.
Ra the Mighty Cat Detective – Pharaoh’s beloved cat and a scarab beetle investigate a missing amulet. I am so excited to read this series starter!
Snazzy Cat Capers – A famous cat burglar is sent to steal a diamond, but her new partner is a little fishy. This looks adorable! This is on my list for the week.
Spy Penguins – Two penguins long to join the FBI – The Frosty Bureau of Investigation. Yep, I’ll be reading this one, too.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

The Eleventh Trade – A boy trying to recover something precious stolen from his grandfather wonders if he can trade enough things to get the money he needs. This looks really interesting.
Friday Night Stage Lights – A ballet-loving girl finds herself in football-loving Texas, trying to figure out where she fits in. I have already pre-ordered this one. I LOVE books in the MIX line from Aladdin.
A Nancy Drew Christmas – Book 18 in the latest Nancy Drew series finds Nancy at a Montana ski resort where she breaks her leg while a series of accidents takes place.
Property of the Rebel Librarian – A girl’s parents decide one of her school library books is inappropriate and they decide to take action. I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow, so be sure to come back!
The Storm Runner – Book one in a new series from the Rick Riordan imprint of mythology stories, this time a Latin American story. A boy’s destiny is tied to a Mayan god imprisoned in a volcano.
Thundercluck! – A Norse mythology series kicks off with this book about a superhero chicken. No, I’m not kidding. I have to read this one!
Time Castaways: The Mona Lisa Key – The author of the awesome Fairly True Tales series (Rump, Red, Jack, Grump) kicks off a new series about three kids who get on the wrong subway car and end up on a ship in 1911. I’m really looking forward to this new series!
The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler – A new nonfiction book for older middle grade readers (middle school) focuses on the life of Bonhoeffer, a German pastor in World War II. I’m eager to read this one!
Our Place in Space (GN) – The latest Science Comic
Where Is Area 51? AND Where Is the Tower of London? – The latest from the Who Was series.
The Deepest Roots – Girls born in a Kansas town all have a special Talent, but they don’t always help in ways the girls really need – or help at all. I am fascinated by the whole idea of this. This is on my list.
Here to Stay – A Middle Eastern student wants to be recognized for who he really is and his gifts, not to be the target of Islamophobic bullies in his school. A timely story.
Pride – Pride and Prejudice gets a fresh twist with characters of color. I’m not a fan of the original but I might give this one a shot.
Unclaimed Baggage – Three teens spend their summer working at a store where they catalog and sell the contents of unclaimed luggage. I love the unusual setting for this one. I’m looking forward to reading this!
Wildcard – The sequel to Warcross where Emika has a bounty on her head after the events of book one.
Coffee Shop Devos: Daily Devotional Pick-Me-Ups for Teen Girls

Books for Adults

The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle (Hardcover) – Aiden has eight days to discover Evelyn’s killer, and eight suspects to inhabit over those eight days to figure it out. What a clever concept!! I have to check this one out.
I Know You Know (Trade Paperback) – A man whose two childhood friends were murdered starts a podcast to record his findings as he digs into the twenty-year-old case. This sounds SO twisty!
Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds (Hardcover)- A novella collection from Brandon Sanderson. Stephen Leeds is a genius, but in order to manage all of the information in his brain, he creates hallucinatory personalities or “aspects.” It looks like maybe the first two stories were previously published and the third is new. They are all new to me, and I’d like to try this one out.
A Willing Murder (Hardcover) – Romance author Jude Deveraux releases her first mystery about a retired romance author and her niece and a boarder who team up to solve a mystery no one else in town seems to want solved. I would absolutely try this one out!
The Cookie Book: Decadent Bites for Every Occasion 
Eliza Hamilton: The Extraordinary Life and Times of the Wife of Alexander Hamilton (Hardcover)- I’m a little disappointed in the subtitle which might leave readers feeling like Eliza is only worth reading about because of her husband, but otherwise I am eager to check this one out. As I’ve mentioned before, the Hamilton musical has left me curious to know more about Eliza.
Leadership: In Turbulent Times (Hardcover) – A Pulitzer Prize-winning author looks at the development of leadership through the lives of four presidents (Lincoln, Truman and both Roosevelts). I’m curious about this one, too. I love reading about the Roosevelts.
Math with Bad Drawings: Illuminating the Ideas that Shape Our Reality (Hardcover) – A celebration of math for everyone. I really want to see this one in person.
This Book Changed Everything: The Bible’s Amazing Impact on Our World (Hardcover) – Looking forward to this one.
Women Who Write Are Dangerous (Hardcover) – A celebration of women writers and the impact they have had.

It’s a week of remembrance as we honor Patriot Day tomorrow. September 11th, 2001 is a day that changed our nation forever. We will never forget.

Here are the books releasing this week:

Books for Kids

Delores Thesaurus – A picture book celebrating language
Douglas, You’re a Genius! – The second Douglas book after Douglas, You Need Glasses! These look adorable.
I Am Neil Armstrong – The 16th book in this outstanding picture book biography series.
Interrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise – Sequel to the fantastic Interrupting Chicken. Can not wait to read this one!
Paul Writes (a Letter) – A picture book that looks at the writings of the Apostle Paul. I am so excited to see this one.
Judy Moody and the Right Royal Tea Party – Book 14 in the Judy Moody chapter book series where Judy is convinced she is related to the Queen of England. I’ll be reviewing this one later this fall.
Spirit – Book 50 in the Puppy Place series.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Dactyl Hill Squad – First in a new series about an alternate history where there are still dinosaurs in the days of the Civil War. I have an ARC of this one and I can’t wait to dig into it!
The Golden Tower – Book 5 in the Magisterium series (final book). A pawn in a magical battle faces the end of his training. I really enjoyed the first book, but didn’t keep up with the series. Now that they are all out, I could push through the whole series at once.
Mascot – A boy who was paralyzed in a car accident that killed his father struggles with his new reality. This is on my list.
Merci Suárez Changes Gears – Things at home and at school are changing for Merci and she struggles to find her way through the challenges. This sounds great!
The Monster Detector – Book 2 in the Big Foot and Little Foot series about a boy and a Sasquatch. In this book, the Sasquatch is using a Monster Detector and finds something and the boy decides he wants to go to Sasquatch school. This sounds cute.
Naomis Too – A sequel to Two Naomis. The two Naomis are now step-sisters, and they are dealing with the ups and downs of middle school while adjusting to things at home. I have to go back and read the first book; I missed that one.
No Fixed Address – A boy and his mom are living in their van, and he can’t tell anyone or he could end up in foster care. These stories always break my heart (Crenshaw!!), but I also love reading them. This is on my list for this week.
Saving Winslow – A boy who is missing his older brother who is in the military takes on the care of sickly baby donkey. Yep, this is on my list, too.
Upside Down Magic: Weather or Not – Book 5 in the fun Upside Down Magic series. I have been with this one since the beginning, and I love it. I ordered my copy of this from a Scholastic order back in August. I am eager to see what happens next.
Imposters – Scott Westerfeld returns to the world of Uglies and Pretties with a new story about a teen and her killer body double.
Rule – Another teen royalty book, and I am absolutely here for it. I LOVE books like this! In this one, three girls discover they are the illegitimate daughters of a dying king with no other living heir. I have already requested this one from the library!
We Are Not Yet Equal: Understanding Our Racial Divide – A YA adaptation of the author’s book White Rage: The Unspoken Truth of Our Racial Divide. I’ve requested the adult version from the library. The author releases an adult book this week called One Person, No Vote.

Books for Adults

A Borrowing of Bones (Hardcover) – First in a new series. A former soldier and her dead fiancé’s bomb-sniffing dog are trying to recover from their wounds and losses when the dog sniffs out explosives and they find an abandoned baby. I already have this one on hold from the library!
Hitting the Books (Hardcover) – Book 9 in the Library Lover’s Mystery series. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week!
If the Coffin Fits (Hardcover) – Book 2 in the Funeral Parlor Mystery series. I LOVED the first book, so this is high on my list for this week! Desiree’s investigation of a recent death puts her business at risk. I’ve already requested this one from the library.
In Cold Chocolate (Hardcover) – Book 3 in the Southern Chocolate Shop Mystery series. Charity tries to defend the person who has threatened to ruin her business. I’ve missed out on this series since it started in hardcover – I can lose track of those in the wait for them to transition to paperback. I’d like to try out the first book which is under $2 for Kindle at the time of this writing.
In Want of a Knife (Hardcover) – Book 3 in the Little Library Mystery series. Jenny is looking into a death and a missing girl when new neighbors move in from Chicago with lots of money to spend. I’ve yet to try one of these either.
Star Trek: A Cultural History (Sept. 15) (Hardcover) – Explores the Star Trek franchise in light of its place in history and culture. I’d love to check this one out when the price comes down some more.

Happy Labor Day for those of you in the United States. I hope you are finding some rest from your labors today, even if you had to go in to work. To help with that rest, check out the books releasing this week. Maybe you’ll find just the thing for your next long weekend.

Books for Kids

But Not the Armadillo – The long-awaited board book sequel to Sandra Boynton’s classic But Not the Hippopotamus. I am entirely too excited about this book for a person who does not have board book readers in the house!
Buffy the Vampire Slayer – Part of the Pop Classics series of picture books, perfect for fans of the TV show.
Cookiesaurus Christmas – September kicks off the season of Christmas books and there are two Christmas picture books on the list today. This first one features the star of Cookiesaurus Rex who wants to be the only cookie on Santa’s plate this year, but he may not make the cut. This looks darling! I’m looking forward to reading both the original and the sequel.
Lyric McKerrigan, Secret Librarian – A librarian superhero story? YES, PLEASE! This has been in my Amazon cart for months. Can’t wait to read this one!
Me, Myselfie, & I: A Cautionary Tale – The family gets Mom a new cell phone and pretty soon she’s obsessed with self-documentation. I’ve enjoyed Jamie Lee Curtis’ previous picture books.
No Peacocks! – Inspired by the real-life birds at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Devine, this story is about a of a trio of peacocks who want a chance to try a famous mac and cheese recipe. This looks adorable and I love peacocks, so this is on my list!
Professor Astro Cat’s Space Rockets – A nonfiction picture book about rockets. This looks fantastic!
Santa Bruce – Santa Bruce, book 4 in the Bruce series by Ryan T. Higgins is at the top of my wish list for this week!
T. Rex Time Machine – Two T. Rexs come to the future and find so many treats, they’ll never want to leave. Adorable!
Eliza Hamilton, Founding Mother – Ever since I first heard the soundtrack for Hamilton, I have been intrigued by the story of Eliza Hamilton and the things she did after her husband died. I am looking forward to reading this Early Reader to see how they cover her story.
The Missing Donut (Big Words, Small Stories) – A collection of stories about a boy and his cat with a side plot about a fairy who sprinkles one big word into each story. This is a fun idea; I’m looking forward to seeing how it works in person.
A Fall for Friendship – The third Orchard Novel by Megan Atwood about four friends and a New England apple orchard. In this book, one of the kids is out to prove that ghosts don’t exist. This looks like a cute transitional chapter book series.
The Race to Chimney Rock – Book one in a new choose-your-own-adventure chapter book series focused on history.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

12 Before 13 – Book 2 in the Friendship List series. Two middle school girls have a list of 12 goals to reach before they turn 13.
24 Hours In Nowhere – Four kids hunt for treasure in the desert to pay off a bully. The latest book from the author of Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus, a book that has received rave reviews. I have both books on my library wish list.
After Zero – A girl tracks the number of words she says each day. A zero word day is the best because that means she didn’t say something silly in class or something embarrassing to another student. I’ll be reviewing this one next week.
The Bands of Bravery – Book 1 in the Knights Club choose-your-own-adventure graphic novel series. This is a clever idea but the execution has received mixed reviews. I’ll be reviewing this one later this fall.
Cats vs. Robots: This Is War – Book 1 in a new series about two warring planets that bring their disagreement to Earth. I’m reading this one now and will be reviewing it later this fall.
The Hotel Between – A couple of kids and a magic hotel with doors that lead all over the world are at the center of this new novel.
Isle of the Lost Graphic Novel – A graphic novel adaptation of the book by the same name starring the characters from the Disney movie Descendants about the kids of famous Disney villains.
Planet Grief – A moving story about a group of kids at a weekend grief workshop. I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow.
Sabotage Stage Left – Book 3 in the Howard Wallace PI series. I loved book one and book 2 just came out in paperback, so I scooped that one up for my TBR shelves. In book 3, Howard and Ivy work a case at the school theater.
The Third Mushroom – Sequel to the fantastic The Fourteenth Goldfish about a science-minded girl and her grandfather who has made himself a teenager again through a science experiment. This time they are testing the influence of a special axolotl on other organisms with surprising results.  I’ll be reviewing this later this fall, but I’ll tell you now that I loved it just as much as the first one!
Unbelievably Boring Bart – The latest from James Patterson stars a kid who secretly created an amazing new app. Now, he can either use it against the bullies or tell everyone he’s the creator and be super popular.
Wedgie and Gizmo vs the Great Outdoors – Book three in the excellent Wedgie and Gizmo series. I thoroughly enjoy the humor in this series, and I think it works for both a transitional chapter book AND a middle grade book depending on the reader. In book 3,  the family is going on a camping trip and Wedgie and Gizmo get to go along. If this lives up to the first two books in the series, this will be fantastic! This is on my wish list for this week.
First Generation – Middle grade nonfiction focused on trailblazing immigrants and refugees.
Lego Star Wars Ideas Book – Lego is publishing a lot of idea books this fall. These are terrific if you have a Lego lover in your home who has a large collection of bricks that can be used for any sort of building project.
Start with a Dot – September 15th is International Dot day, inspired by the book by Peter H. Reynolds. It’s one of my favorites about creativity. In this guided journal for kids, teens and adults, users are invited to “make their mark and see where it takes them.” I am excited about this one! This could make a great Christmas gift.
Ignite the Stars – A notorious outlaw is actually a 17 year old girl. When she is captured by the Commonwealth, they force her to work for them to show that no one can resist them. I’m looking forward to this one!
Part of Your World – The latest Twisted Tale from Liz Braswell focuses on the story of the Little Mermaid and asks the question what if Ursula had won? Yep, this is absolutely on my list!
People Kill People – One gun, six teenagers. Who will be the one to pull the trigger? This is the second book in as many weeks (last week’s That’s Not What Happened)  to look at mass shootings and our gun culture. This is on my library list.
Ten After Closing – Two teens stuck at a cafe after closing find themselves taken hostage. This sounds fascinating. Definitely on my list for this week.
Two Dark Reigns – Book three in the stunning Three Dark Crowns series about triplet queens who compete to see who can survive long enough to be crowned. The first two books, and the two novellas, have been terrific. And I got to read the prologue for this book online last week and it was amazing. I requested the book from the library months ago and I am first on the hold list for tomorrow. I skimmed back through all the previous books from the library last week so I am completely ready for whatever Two Dark Reigns holds!
Uncharted – A teen who feels responsible for her mother’s death travels with her father to a mysterious estate where he goes missing. Yep, this is on the library list for this week. Sounds good and suspenseful.
Steal this Country: A Handbook for Resistance, Persistence, and Fixing Almost Everything  – The latest in a collection of activism books for teens.

Books for Adults

An Act of Villainy (Hardcover) – Book 5 in the Amory Ames mystery series about an actress who receives death threats and a cast full of people who despise her. I’ve never read any of the books in this series, but I’m eager to give them a try.
The Cats Came Back (Hardcover) – Book 10 in the Magical Cats series about a crime solving librarian and her cats, this time involving a murder around a music festival. I have several of these on my TBR shelves. I love librarian stories.
Die Me a River (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 2 in the Welcome Back to Scumble River series starring school psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd who is wrapping up her maternity leave after the birth of her twins when an explosion rocks Scumble River and a body is found. I read several of the books in the original series, but I haven’t picked up the new one yet.
Light of Kahless (Star Trek Discovery)(Paperback graphic novel) – Based on Star Trek Discovery, part of CBS’s streaming service, set a decade before the original series. This graphic novel focuses on the Klingon Empire, one of my favorite races in the Star Trek Universe.
Wuthering Kites (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 3 in the Kite Shop Mystery series about a kite shop owner who investigates a murder in Rock Point. This is another series I have on my TBR shelves.
Book Girl: A Journey through the Treasures and Transforming Power of a Reading Life (Trade paperback) – The first of two books about reading on this week’s list. This one advocates the development of a reading lifestyle and includes book lists. I will be looking for this one in person.
The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure (Hardcover) – College campuses are experiencing a more volatile tone and higher levels of mental health needs. The authors focus on three ideas they feel have led to this problem we are seeing in our young adults. I will absolutely be reading this one!
Copycat Cooking with Six Sisters’ Stuff: 100+ Popular Restaurant Meals You Can Make at Home (Large format Paperback) – I love the whole idea of this, but I’m curious to see how fussy the recipes are. If they are too intricate, I’d rather just let the experts make them. Includes appetizers, main dishes, desserts and drinks.
Didn’t See It Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects and Everyone Experiences (Hardcover) –  Tackle the issues of cynicism, compromise, irrelevance, pride, burnout and two other challenges with help from this Christian self-help book.
I’d Rather Be Reading: The Delights and Dilemmas of the Reading Life (Hardcover) – This second book about reading is by Anne Bogel, Christian author and podcaster (What Should I Read Next?), and includes thoughts for book lovers. This one is high on my list!
Keep Christianity Weird: Embracing the Disciple of Being Different (Paperback) – Encourages Christians to become more comfortable with the idea of standing out rather than being shaped by the culture around us.
Live Long and …: What I Learned Along the Way (Hardcover) – The latest memoir from William Shatner inspired by a health scare he had in 2016.
The Man I Never Met – A memoir from ESPN personality Adam Schefter about marrying a woman who lost her husband on 9/11 and how they live life day after day and year after year. My husband was the first one to tell me about this one. I know we will be buying this book this week.
The Message Devotional Bible (Hardcover and Paperback) – Includes commentary, reflection questions and 52 meditations.
Pure: Inside the Evangelical Movement that Shamed a Generation of Young Women and How I Broke Free (Hardcover) – I was in college and newly married when the purity culture took root, so I missed a lot of this, but I’m familiar with it from the outside. I am curious about this one and would like to read it and hear for myself what the author took away from this time in her life.
Slave Stealers: True Accounts of Slave Rescues Then and Now (Hardcover) – Two stories of rescued slaves – one from the 1800s and one from 2009. This will be fascinating and hopefully inspiring!