Category: Book News

BOOK NEWS: August 8, 2017

BOOK NEWS: August 8, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

This August is a great time for book lovers! Lots of great books coming this month, including these releases for this week:

Books for Kids

Alice the Amber Fairy – I love the illustrations in this fairy series. I think they are eye-catching and a big hit with young readers.
Here Comes Teacher Cat – Fifth book in this collection of sparsely worded stories about a mischievous cat who this time finds himself serving as a substitute teacher. This is at the top of my list for this week. I have loved all of the previous books in this fun collection.
I Can Love Like Jesus – Lovely picture book looks at the ways Jesus showed love to others and encourages readers to do the same. I’d love to see this one in person, too.
Little Red Riding Sheep – Arnold the sheep is SO excited to star in his first book. Surely the author won’t mind a few suggestions. This is right up my alley. It reminds me a little of Don’t Read this Book which is a lot of fun to share with a class of students.
When a Wolf Is Hungry – A hungry wolf is mistaken for a helpful neighbor. I’d love to read this one. Sounds great.
You Must Bring a Hat – A boy meets an unusual collection of animals as they try to get into a party with a lot of rules. Looks darling!
Jigsaw Jones: The Case from Outer Space AND The Case of the Smelly Sneaker – Some of the first chapter books my teen read were the Jigsaw Jones mysteries. I LOVE that they are producing some new books in the series for today’s readers. Great mystery series for elementary readers.
Secret of of the Hidden Scrolls: The Beginning AND Race to the Ark – Two new Christian books for kids about a mysterious scroll that transports kids to Bible times. Sounds like a Christian version of Magic Tree House or a Bible-based Imagination Station. I’m curious to see these in person and see how they hold up both as an engaging story and in their ties to the Bible.
The Good Fight – A look at the Revolutionary War era for kids

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

    

Forever Court – Book 2 in the Knights of the Borrowed Dark series about an ancient order of knights that keep monsters at bay. Sounds like a great fantasy series.
Just Sayin’ – Kids in an almost-blended family try to figure out why their parents have broken up.  Looking forward to this Christian book for kids.
The Real Us – A pretty and perfect middle-schooler experiences her first pimple right before the big dance, and everything she thought she knew about herself, her friends, and her place in the social order starts to fall apart. I’ll be reviewing this book this week.
Wilder Boys – The latest MAX book from Aladdin, this is a reprint of an older title, and first in a series about two boys who discover a secret about their mother’s boyfriend and head off across the country on their own to find their father. Sounds like a great outdoors, survival sort of adventure story.
World’s Greatest Adventure Machine – Four lucky kids get to try out a new roller coaster adventure. Sounds like a fun adventure.
Who Are Venus and Serena Williams?
Who Is Pope Francis?
Who Was Andrew Jackson?
Bakersville Dozen – After a video goes viral, one by one the girls involved go missing and the police have no clue what happened to them. When one of the girls gets an invitation to a scavenger hunt, she thinks it’s a cute surprise from her boyfriend, but it is something much more sinister as she starts to find the bodies of the missing girls. Sounds like an edge-of-your-seat, read-in-one-sitting kind of story!
In Some Other Life – A girl chooses her crush over her future, but when her crush betrays her she gets a chance to see what her life might have been like if she made a different choice. I LOVE stories like this where characters get to see the “other path.” Definitely on my list!
League of American Traitors – A teen discovers he is the last surviving descendant of Benedict Arnold, noted Revolutionary War spy. He also learns that the war between heroes and traitors has continued to the present day, and his only hope to avoid a duel to the death is to finish his father’s research and clear Benedict Arnold’s name.  Sounds like a terrific historical adventure!
Reunited – Book 3 in the Reawakened series tied to Egyptian mythology. Our family enjoyed the Rick Riordan Egyptian series so we might have to give this one a try.
This Is Not the End – Resurrection technology exists. After a fatal accident, a teen has the chance to save one person. Does she choose her best friend or her boyfriend? This sounds fantastic!

Books for Adults

 

Any Dream Will Do – A young woman and a widowed pastor are both looking for a fresh start. And they may have found that in each other. But secrets from the past might destroy their second chance. Sounds like a great story just like you would expect from Debbie Macomber.
Emma in the Night – Two sisters go missing, but only one returns. A psychologist tries to get at the truth of what really happened to the girls. Sounds like a great psychological thriller.
Hollywood Homicide – First book in the Detective by Day mystery series about an actress who investigates the fatal hit-and-run she witnesses. This one is definitely on my list!
The Paris Spy – Book 7 in the Maggie Hope mystery series set in World War II. I’ve read one book in the series, but I have the rest on my TBR. Looking forward to getting to this one.
Star Wars: Heroes of the Force – Includes interviews from the cast. This will be a hugely popular book in my house as we are all big Star Wars fans, looking forward to the new movie this December. Best of articles from Star Wars Insider.
Identity Matters: Discovering Who You Are in Christ – Identity in Christ is a theme I have been working on this year, so this book is definitely on my list.
Of Mess and Moxie: Wrangling Delight Out of this Wild and Glorious Life – Latest from Jen Hatmaker, includes essays and humor about day to day life. I enjoy Jen’s essays as well as her social media posts. I am hoping to get a special edition from Barnes and Noble this week when the book releases.
She’s Still There: Rescuing the Girl in You – Christian Living title for women about rediscovering the life you’re meant to live. There’s going to be an online group going through this one, so I have already pre-ordered this. Looking forward to reading it.
The Wellness Revelation: Lose What Weighs You Down So You Can Love God, Yourself and Others – An eight week journey to health and fitness including Bible study and small group questions. I have this one on my list.
The Writing Revolution – A writing strategy for schools that could be used across the curriculum. I might check this one out for use at home for my teen who could use help in growing as a writer.

BOOK NEWS: August 1, 2017

BOOK NEWS: August 1, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Welcome to the first post of new books coming this August. There are tons of things to get excited about this week including new Star Wars books for kids, new graphic novels, a Spider-Man book for teens, and several new Christian Living titles. Here they are:

Books for Kids

     

Confiscated – When two brothers keep fighting, Mama keeps taking things away until they have nothing left.
Dogosaurus Rex – This sounds a lot like Silly Doggy and Naughty Kitty, except this time the pet not quite behaving is a dinosaur instead of a dog.
Little Red Ruthie: A Hanukkah Tale – A new take on a classic favorite, Red Ridinghood gets a Hanukkah spin.
Ace!/Jumpa!/Krypto!/Streaky! – This series for young readers focuses on the pets of super heroes like Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman and Supergirl.
The Boy Who Cried Vampire/The Lion, The Mouse and the Invaders from Zurg/Robo Battle of Mega Tortoise vs. Hazard Hare/The Ugly Dino Hatching – Four new graphic novels in the Far Out Fabels series. I adore these fractured fairy tales! I bought some of the Far Out Fairy Tales series for the library when I was teaching, and my students loved them.
Secret Ninja Force – Early Reader focused on the story of the LEGO Ninjago Movie.
SW Forces of Destiny: Meet the Heroes – This Early Reader looks at the many female heroes of Star Wars.
SW Forces of Destiny, Volume 1 – Looks at the stories of Sabine, Rey and Padmé in this Early Reader format. Volume 2, out in October, will look at Jyn, Ahsoka and Leia.
Amazo and the Planetary Reboot – New addition to the Justice League series.
A Big Day for Baseball – Book 29 in the Magic Tree House series. Looks like Magic Tree House might be spinning off the Merlin Mission stories and picking up the regular series again with #29. This time Jack and Annie will get to be bat boys in 1947.
Bright Lights Big Kitty – Book 4 in the Animal Inn series for young readers about an animal spa.
Catwoman’s Purrfect Plot – A new Batman and Robin adventure.
Fishin’: Impossible – Book 8 in the Shark School series
Hooray! My Butt Left the Bench! – Book 10 in the Here’s Hank series, a younger reader’s version of the Hank Zipzer books.
The Missing Mola Lisa – New mystery series about 2nd grade crime solvers.
Baseball Fact Tracker – Nonfiction companion to the latest Magic Tree House book, A Big Day for Baseball.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

  

The Catacombs of Chaos/The Eagle of Rome – These are the first two books in the Lottie Lipton Adventures series. Lottie is an investigator who lives at the British Museum. I’ll be reviewing The Eagle of Rome next week here on the blog.
Confessions from the Principal’s Kid – During school she is an outsider because her mom is the principal, but after school she is part of the in-crowd of students whose parents are teachers. But what Allie really wants is to be on the popular math team so she can feel like an insider during the school day, too. As a former teacher, and a former teacher’s kid, I am looking forward to this one!
The Countdown Conspiracy – Six kids are chosen for a mission to Mars. When one of them starts receiving threats, the whole mission might be scrapped.
The Danger Gang and the Pirates of Borneo – A kid who longs for adventure may just get his wish when his parents are kidnapped, and he bands together with his butler, his nemesis, and his pet cobra to save the day.
Dinosaur Empire – Book 1 in the Earth Before Us graphic novel series about a girl who travels back in time to learn about the dinosaurs before her big test.
Friday Barnes No Rules – Book 4 in the fantastic Friday Barnes mystery series. In this story, Friday is looking for a prankster who fired all the teachers. I’ve already pre-ordered this one, and I’m excited to dive in as soon as it gets here.
The Loser’s Club – The latest book from Andrew Clements focuses on a boy who starts a club at school so he has time to read without getting hassled. He expects to be the only club member, but he is in for a surprise. I have adored Clements’ earlier books like No Talking and Frindle. This one is near the top of my wish list for this week.
Royal Crush – Book 3 in the From the Notebooks of a Middle School Princess series by Meg Cabot. This is a Princess Diaries series for younger readers. I loved the first two books in this series, and I’m excited to see what happens next for Princess Olivia (half-sister of Princess Mia).
Surfside Girls: Secret of Danger Point – Graphic novel – first in a new series – about a girl who starts seeing strange things after swimming through an underwater cave.
Tiny Tim – Book 11 in the Dog Diaries series
Zinnia and the Bees – A young girl’s older brother/best friend has disappeared and a hive of bees have found a home in her hair. What else could possibly happen? This book has been getting a lot of positive buzz (pardon the pun) online all summer. I’m looking forward to reading this.
A Kid’s Guide to the Names of God – A kid’s study resource or maybe devotional, looking into the names of God from the Bible.
Genius: The Con – Sequel to Genius: The Game. I will review this one later this week.
Just Friends – Two kids fool the whole school into believing that they have been best friends for years. But the ones they might be lying to the most are themselves. This sounds terrific.
Miles Morales, Spider-Man – Latest in an exciting series of original YA stories about various superheroes (Black Widow, Iron Man, with Wonder Woman and Batman coming later this year). In this story, Miles is starting to wonder if he should even be Spider-Man any more when he discovers a plot that puts his friends and his neighborhood at risk. I’m not much of a Spider-Man fan – although I loved the Spider-Man: Homecoming movie this summer – but this story sounds intriguing, and I want to give it a try.
The Secret History of Us – A young girl has lost four years of her memory after a car accident. I’ve noticed more of this memory-loss books lately. They are a great way of exploring identity.
Solo – A young man on the brink of finishing high school and starting college finds his world crumbling around him, leading him to Ghana, Africa to find himself. I reviewed this one last week.
Truthers – A teen is drawn into the world of conspiracy theorists who believe 9/11 was part of a government conspiracy.
#Truth: 365 Devotions for Teens Connecting Life and Faith – Each month has a different emphasis, from the TRUTH that God exists to the TRUTH about Christ’s return. Looks like a great resource for teens looking for a daily devotional.

Books for Adults

The Assault – Book 2 in the Harbringer series which pulls together 4 renowned Christian authors writing about a group of strangers drawn together to fight a dark force. Book one was a bit much for me, but readers who like their fiction a little spookier might enjoy this series.
Cat About Town – First in the Cat Cafe mystery series about a town newcomer who finds a stray cat who in turn finds a dead body. Sounds like a fun start to a series.
Chime and Punishment – Book 3 in the Clock Shop mystery series. I have book 1 on my TBR shelves.
Dressed to Confess – Book 3 in the Costume Shop mystery series about a crime-solving costume shop owner. I’ve not read any of these, but the description of this story (murder at a board game-themed festival) makes me want to run out and grab book 1, A Disguise to Die For, to get caught up!
Gone Gull – Book 21 in the fabulous Meg Langslow mystery series. This is one of my favorite cozy mysteries. I absolutely adore the main character and her family. I’ve had this one on hold from the library for weeks already.
On Her Majesty’s Frightfully Secret Service – Book 11 in the Royal Spyness mystery series. I read the early books in this series and really enjoyed them. In this book, Lady Georgiana is on a spy mission for the queen while she checks in on a pregnant friend.
A Tangled Yarn – Book 5 in the Yarn Retreat mystery series about a baker running a crafting retreat.
All in All Journaling Devotional: Loving God Wherever You Are – 100 devotions with journaling prompts. This sounds great.
Discovering Hope in the Psalms: A Creative Bible Study Experience – A creative study of 10 Psalms of Hope. I’m eager to see this in person.
The Gospel Centered Mom:The Freeing Truth about what Your Kids Really Need – This one is on my list, too! This will join a pile of other books on my TBR about recognizing that you don’t have to be everything  because Christ is enough.
He’s Not Lazy: Empowering Your Son to Believe in Himself – Your “lazy” teen boy may actually be conflicted and afraid to fail. I’m eager to read this one.

BOOK NEWS: July 25, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Final week of the month means LOTS of new books. Here are some of the books that caught my eye for this week:

Books for Kids

     

I Am Truly – Princess Truly celebrates that she can be anything!
Pug and Pig Trick-or-Treat – New book about Pug and Pig, this time with a Halloween theme.  This looks darling!
Ninja in the Kitchen – Early reader about a ninja who makes pizza.
Ariel Makes Waves – A new early chapter book series starring a young Ariel, the Little Mermaid.
Ella and Owen – The Evil Pumpkin Pie Fight – Book 4 in this series about two dragons, this time with a Halloween theme with pumpkin kings and witches.
Rider Woofsen – The Big Bad Wolf – Book 8 in this fun detective series for new chapter book readers.
Secret Agents Jack and Max Stalwart – Former spy Jack Stalwart and his older brother hunt down thieves while on family vacation. In book 2 they are looking for a missing scientist. My son read the original Jack Stalwart books when he was in elementary school and we loved them. The vocabulary was challenging while the story was perfect for his age. Great series. I’m eager to see what this new iteration is like.
Stick Dog Craves Candy – Book 7 in the Stick Dog series, this time with a focus on Halloween.
Hero Dogs! – True stories of animal heroes!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Almost Paradise – When Ruby ‘s mother is wrongly jailed for assisting in a robbery, Ruby and her pet pig have to move in with her estranged aunt (who happens to be a nun).
Darkness of Dragons – Book 10 in the Wings of Fire series. I have had this book pre-ordered for months! This is the culmination of the latest 5 book set of this series. Qibli may be Pyrrhia’s last chance to defeat a powerful animus dragon who wants to destroy those who hoped to control him. For me, this is a “drop everything” book. When this hits my mailbox, I will drop everything to dive in!
The Force Oversleeps – Book 5 in the Jedi Academy series (the first three books were done by Jeffrey Brown and this new set is done by Jarrett Krosoczka). Victor is struggling to get to class on time, there are rumors that his sister is a Sith, and he didn’t get the part in the school musical that he wanted. This is a fun series that combines typical school things with a great Star Wars setting. The format resembles a Diary of a Wimpy Kid style with both text and illustrations that seem to be hand drawn by the character.
Ghost of a Chance – Book 2 in the 100 Dresses series about an enchanted castle and a closet of dresses that make the perfect disguise for a girl named Darling. This sounds like a fun series!
Refugee – Three kids from different times (1930s, 1994, 2015) and places (Nazi Germany, Cuba, Syria) are searching for safety and refuge. This book is getting a LOT of positive buzz already. Timely story.
Five Elements – The Shadow City – Book 2 in this series about four kids who are magically connected to the elements who are trying to destroy a parallel dimension. This series sounds perfect for kids who love mystical fantasy stories!
Wandmaker’s Apprentice – Book 2 in the Wandmaker’s series about a boy descended from wandmakers who inherits magical powers. In this book, Henry hopes to to be chosen as the Wand Master’s apprentice.
16 Ways to Break a Heart – A couple gets together with extreme chemistry and witty banter. Their break up is just as feisty. Then Natalie leaves Dan 16 letters, hidden in places only he would find, that  detail their relationship and break up in ways he never expected.
Everything All At Once – When Lottie’s Aunt Helen, famous mystery writer – dies, she leaves Lottie a series of letters and tasks to get her to a take a risk. Not an unusual premise, but I love the writing/literary piece in this one, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
First We Were IV – A quartet of teens forms a secret society to right wrongs and pay back debts, but things start to spiral out of control. Sounds like a suspenseful thriller!
In 27 Days – Death offers a teen the chance to go back 27 days in time to try to prevent the suicide of a classmate. I am so looking forward to reading this one!
The Inevitable Collision of Birdie & Bash – Two teens make a connection but a tragedy threatens to pull them apart. This sounds like a pretty basic teen story, but the description of the characters and their “nerdy banter” makes it a high priority on my TBR list.
Lucky in Love – A girl wins the lottery and watches everything around her change – and not all for the better. This reminds me of the book Windfall, except the main character in this book is the winner instead of an outside observer.
Solo – A new novel in verse (and music lyrics) by Kwame Alexander about musician Blade and his search for himself both at home and in Africa. I’ll be reviewing this book later this week. (Some sources have this releasing on August 1)
Grades, Girls and God: How to Survive and Thrive in High School as a Christian Man (July 28) – Really looking forward to reading this book that talks to high school boys about becoming and staying men of God in high school. As I have a teen, I am hoping this is a great resource for him.

Books for Adults

A Toast to Murder – Book 5 in the Mack’s Bar mystery series about a group of “barstool detectives.” I’ve read positive reviews for this series. Book one, Murder on the Rocks, is on my TBR list.
Come Helen High Water – Book 4 in the River Road Mystery series about sleuth Helen Evans who searches for the missing head of the Historical Society. I loved Susan McBride’s Debutante Dropout series, but I haven’t had a chance to check out this series yet, but it is on my list!
Deadfall – Book 19 in the Alexandra Cooper series about an Assistant DA  and two NYPD detectives who hunt for an assassin.
Gather the Daughters – A dystopian story about a community that colonized on an island after a national disaster. The children run wild while the men run the island and the women serve as wives and mothers until they die. When one of the children sees something horrifying, one of the teen girls who is resisting her future decides to investigate the mysteries of the island. I am fascinated by this concept and can’t wait to read the book.
Knot What You Think – Book 5 in the Quilting Mystery series about a quilting circle that looks into local mysteries. I’ve read the first book in the series, and I enjoyed it.
Muffin to Fear – Book 5 in the Merry Muffin Mystery series about a muffin baker who inherits a castle. In this particular book, a ghost-hunting TV crew comes to investigate the castle.
Murder at Chateau sur Mer – Book 5 in the Guilded Newport Mystery series about a society report in the 19th century in Rhode Island. I’m not familiar with this series, but I’d like to read book 1, Murder at the Breakers.
Wrong Side of the Paw – Book 6 in the Bookmobile Cat mystery series. I love this series about a librarian who runs a bookmobile to the remote areas of her community and her charming cat, Eddie.
Star Trek: Boldly Go, Vol 1 – Graphic novel collecting issues 1-6 of the comic Boldy Go. I have been collecting this comic since the first issue, and I love it! If I didn’t already have the comics, I would be getting this collection so I could have these issues all together.
Sacred Mundane: How to Find Freedom, Purpose and Joy – Finding God in the everyday spaces of life. I’m looking forward to reading this one.

BOOK NEWS: July 18, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

This summer is zooming by! Here are some of the new books releasing this week:

Books for Kids

    

Hot Pursuit – The Joker and Lex Luthor team up against the DC Super Friends. Great for the super hero lovers in your life.
Marigold Bakes a Cake – Marigold the cat bakes cakes on Mondays, but today things get a little out of hand.
Stay: A Girl, A Dog, A Bucket List – A girl makes a bucket list for her aging dog so they can spend quality time together
Whobert Whover Owl Detective – I think this is one of the most adorable book covers I’ve seen in a long time! I can’t wait to read this picture book mystery about an owl detective who tries to find out what happened to Perry the possum.
Wow!: The Good News in Four Words – A child-friendly presentation of the Gospel. I’d love to take a look at this in person – sounds great.
You Should Meet Katherine Johnson – New early reader about one of the women at the center of the movie, Hidden Figures. Great way to introduce younger readers to this figure in American History.
The Dragonsitter – Trick or Treat? – Book 7 in the Dragonsitter series told entirely in emails. Cute series for new chapter book readers.
Next Best Junior Chef – Lights, Camera, Cook – First book in a series about tweens in a TV cooking competition.  This sounds great for budding chefs in your life or classroom. Also for fans of  books like  All Four Stars or World’s Greatest Chocolate Covered Pork Chops.
Once Upon a Twist – Rosabella and the Three Bears – Book 3 in this Ever After High series for new chapter book readers about fairy tale characters who find themselves in the wrong stories.
The Secret Rescuers – The Baby Firebird – Book 3 in this transitional chapter book series about animal rescuers

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

 

Princesses, Inc. – New book in the MIX line by Aladdin about a group of girls who open up a service of princesses and pirates to babysit neighborhood kids.  I’ll be reviewing this this week.
The Ends of the World – Book 3 in the Conspiracy of Us series. I enjoyed book 1 of this series about ancient secrets and conspiracies. I’m hoping to catch up with this series soon.
No Good Deed – A new twist on the Robin Hood tale centered on an Olympic archer who travels back in time to medieval England. This is on my list as well.
Wesley James Ruined My Life – When ex-friend Wesley James comes to town and gets a job at the same restaurant as Quinn, she will have to decide how much she wants revenge – or if she even still wants it at all. I have this one on my list – sounds great!

Books for Adults

Collared – Book 15 in my new favorite mystery series starring Andy Carpenter. This time, Andy and his team are investigating a missing child case. I will be reviewing this later this week.
Killer Party – Book 9 in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. I’ve read the first couple books in this series and I enjoyed them. The series focuses on a coffee-and-book-store owner and the murders she stumbles across.
Planting the Heavens: Releasing the Authority of the Heavens Through your Words, Prayers and Declarations – Learn to pray with authority, confidence and expectation.

BOOK NEWS: July 11, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

I’m having a hard time believing that summer vacation is almost over. A month from now we will be back in school! Thankfully, there are still plenty of carefree summer days to do lots of reading! Here are some new books coming out this week:

Books for Kids

 

Black Belt Bunny – A bunny who is a pro at martial arts has to make… a salad. This sounds so quirky, I have to read it. Might be a great story for the kids in your life who love martial arts.
Murphy’s Ticket (July 15) – A picture book story of the Cubs curse and their World Series win in 2016.
Mitzi Tulane, Preschool Detective in The Secret Ingredient – Two preschoolers investigate their muffins for “dodgy” ingredients. How can anyone NOT want to read this book? A preschool detective!! The book blurb uses the word “dodgy.” I have to read this book! Second book in the series.
There Is No Dragon in this Story (July 13) – I cannot wait to read this book about a dragon who can’t find a story that will take him.
Brave Batgirl – This early reader shares the backstory of one of my favorite heroes, Batgirl. For older readers, look into the Scholastic DC Backstories series. They have a Batgirl book that was well done.
Living in Egypt – An early reader about living in Egypt. Part of a series which has already covered India, Australia, China and other countries.
Disney Princess Dot-to-Dot – I’ve noticed that intricate dot-to-dot books are starting to join adult coloring books in stores.
Star Wars Dot-to-Dot

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

A Dash of Dragon – A teen chef tries to find her way with a new restaurant, a lone shark, magic creatures, and a snooty rival chef. This sounds like the perfect blend of fantasy and cooking story.
It All Comes Down to This – The new girl in a mostly -white neighborhood – and a black girl at that – Sophie just wants to do her usual thing. She wants to write and hang out with her friends. But in 1965 Los Angeles, during the Watts riots, her life is more complicated than that. This sounds like a great addition to stories for kids that look honestly at race in America.
Kid Normal (July 13) – A normal kid is mistakenly enrolled in a school for superheroes. This sounds right up my alley – sign me up!
Land of Stories Worlds Collide – The sixth and final book in the wildly popular Land of Stories series by actor Chris Colfer about a brother and sister who fall into a fairy tale world. I read the first book in this series – The Wishing Spell – ages ago, but I think I’d like to read it again and see how the whole series comes together.
Multiple Mayhem – Book 3 in the Gabby Duran series about a girl who babysits for aliens. This sounds like a cute series. Book one is Gabby Duran and the Unsittables.
Pennybaker School Is Headed for Disaster – A beloved statue goes missing from the Pennybaker School, and Thomas is everyone’s prime suspect. I’ll be reviewing this book tomorrow.
Queen Red Riding Hood’s Guide to Royalty – Tie-in material for the Land of Stories series.
The Sands of Shark Island – Book 2 in the School Ship Tobermory series by acclaimed author, Alexander McCall Smith. The stories focus on a pair of twins who go to school on the ship, Tobermory, to learn to be sailors and about life on the sea. This action/adventure mystery sounds like a great series to share with kids!
The Wild Bunch – Three boys head off on a wilderness adventure to find a local Bigfoot-like legendary creature. Part of the MAX line from Aladdin publishing. I have read (and loved) several books from the MIX line, which focuses on female characters. I have several MAX books on my TBR list right now – including this one.
You May Already Be a Winner – A girl tries to hold things together on her own – watching her little sister, writing letters to her absent father, looking for things to do in their trailer park for entertainment – but it’s a lot for one 12-year-old to manage. This is definitely on my list for this week!
Learn to Draw Star Wars – Learn to Draw books make great gifts and terrific additions to school and classroom libraries. My students couldn’t get enough of these.
Ash and Quill – Book 3 in the Great Library series about the Library of Alexandria in an alternate reality where the Library, and those who control it, wield power over books and information. I have book one, Ink and Bone, on my library wish list.
The Carnelian Crow – Book 4 in the Stoker (as in Bram Stoker, Dracula) and Holmes (Sherlock) series about Stoker’s sister and Holmes’ niece who team up to hunt vampires and solve mysteries. I’m not much of a vampire fan, but I might have to check out book one in this series, The Clockwork Scarab, to see if the story and characters click for me. This sounds like a fun team up!
I See London, I See France – Author of the middle grade Whatever After series publishes a YA novel this week about two teens traveling through Europe and negotiating exes and romance and family drama. I’m looking forward to this one, too!
The Lake Effect – Rising college freshman is spending the summer at Lake Michigan, working as a personal assistant. And nothing goes the way he expected. This is on my list for sure!
Waste of Space – A reality show where the teens are shot into space and have to survive. Sounds great, except it is all fake. I’ll be posting a review of this one later this week.
What to Say Next – Two unexpected friends join forces to try and figure out what killed Kit’s father.

Books for Adults

 

30 Second Death – Book 2 in the Tobi Tobias mystery series about a woman who starts her own advertising agency and tends to stumble across dead bodies. This time, she has to find out who killed the diva before her friend goes to jail.
Hello, Sunshine – Culinary star gets hacked and the world discovers everything is a lie. Now she has to retreat and reconstruct her life.
Ten Dead Comedians – Like Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, a group of comedians gathers on a remote island where one by one they start to die. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week.
The Writing Desk – Two women, decades apart, share a writing desk and the stories of their lives. I requested this from the library a month ago! I can’t wait to read it.
The Darkening Web – Looks at the power and dangers of cyberspace.
I Need a Lifeguard Everywhere but the Pool – Another collection of funny and true stories from this mother and daughter team. I have yet to read any of their books, but I would like to check this one out.
Reading with Patrick – The author shares her story of working with Patrick – first as a mentor and teacher to the teenager and then a few years later as he sits in a cell awaiting trial for murder. Sounds like a powerful memoir.
Remarkable Faith – Tells the story of the people with remarkable faith that claimed Jesus’ notice. Sounds like this could be a good book for group study.
Star Trek: The Klingon Empire – A travel guide to the Klingon Empire
The Strength Switch – Advocates for a parenting model based on drawing out the strengths of your children. Sounds great. Might work in a classroom setting as well as for parents.

 

So, what’s going on your TBR this week?

BOOK NEWS: July 4, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Happy July and happy almost-Independence day! A holiday weekend is a great time to get in some extra reading.

Oh, who am I kidding? I don’t need an excuse to get in some extra reading – how about you?

This is a BUSY week for new books. Here are the books releasing this week that are on my radar:

Books for Kids

  

The Birthday Invitation (July 3) – Ella accidentally loses one of her birthday invitations. She’ll never expect who finds it!
Doris the Bookasaurus (July 3) – A book-loving big sister shows her little brothers how fun books can be. This is top of my list this week!
Goodnight Lab – A scientific take on bedtime stories that looks really familiar.
How to Get Your Teacher Ready – It’s up to the kids to get their teacher ready for all the important parts of the school year, from holiday celebrations to the 100th day of school. Looks like a great addition to the world of school-related picture books.
LMNO Pea-quel – A new picture book starring the LMNO peas.
What George Forgot – While George is pretty good at remembering things, this morning he feels like he has forgotten something important. I love the illustrations of Richard Byrne, so the cover of this one immediately caught my attention. I have to read this picture book to know what George forgot!
The Founding Fathers Were Spies! – New Early Reader in a series called Secrets of American History. This looks terrific and I am excited to read it.
Secret Agents! Sharks! Ghost Armies! – Another book in the Secrets of American History series, this time looking at World War II.
Comics Squad: Detention – Book 3 in this graphic novel series that collects the work of a variety of authors in one place. Great introduction for kids who are looking for new graphic novels for their reading enjoyment.
Cosmic Commandos – New graphic novel from the illustrator for the Ordinary People Change the World picture book biography series. In this book, twin brothers who are different as day and night have to work together when one of their video games comes to life. This is a must-read book on my list this week.
Dino-Riders: How to Hog-tie a T-Rex – Book 3 in the Dino-riders series where the wild west meets dinosaurs. This sounds excellent! Dinosaurs are so  popular with the early elementary school crowd. Great to give them chapter books with their favorite critters!
Heartwood Hotel: A True Home/The Greatest Gift – A woodland hotel for forest critters is a haven to a little mouse who works there as a maid. She may have finally found a home at the Heartwood Hotel. These are the first two books in the series. These look sweet and perfect for the early-reading crowd
Lola Levine and Halloween Scream – Book 6 in the Lola Levine series, this time Halloween is the theme.
Princess Lessons – Book 4 in the Tales of Sasha early chapter book series about Sasha who has discovered she is a princess of the flying horses. Put this series in front of your kids who love horses!
Storm Chasing – The second book in the Cars Origins series is a chapter book backstory of one of the characters from the Cars 3 movie, Storm.
Super Turbo vs the Pencil Pointer – Book 3 in the Super Turbo series about a class pet hamster. This looks like a fun series for elementary students starting to explore and enjoy chapter books.
Survivor Diaries: Overboard – An adventure story about kids tossed overboard during a whale-watching expedition. Includes Coast Guard approved cold-water survival tips.
American Girl Character Encyclopedia – Fans of American Girl can now see all the different characters in one large book. The pictures I’ve seen are lovely. If I had an AG fan in my life, this would definitely be on my list of gift ideas for the holidays.
Journey through the Ark Encounter – Take a look at the Ark Encounter, located in Kentucky. I’ve never been and would be interested to take a look at this book and see what it is like.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

  

Katana at Super Hero High – Book 4 in the Super Hero High series. I have enjoyed all of the previous books (you can read my review of Batgirl here), and I already have book 5, Harley Quinn, on  my wish list for 2018.
Lights, Camera, Middle School – Babymouse is growing up! Popular star of 19 pink-tinted graphic novels has a new middle-school based series. I can NOT wait to get this one! My students devoured the original series. I know this new version will be hugely popular.
Molly’s Story (July 3) – A new Dog’s Purpose novel for kids about a dog named Molly whose person, CJ, is hiding Molly in a closet from her mother who doesn’t want her to have a dog.
Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls – A girl discovers her boarding school is actually a spy school and her missing mother is one of their best agents. This sounds like a younger version of the Gallagher Girls. Sign me up for this one!
Our Story Begins – Twenty-six amazing children’s authors/illustrators like Jarrett Krosoczka, Candace Fleming and Kwame Alexander share some of the stories and art that they created as kids. This would be terrific for a school library, reading and writing classrooms, and in home libraries of creative kids! Inspiring!
Unicorn in the Barn – The local legend of a mysterious white deer is actually even more amazing – it’s a unicorn! This sounds terrific.
Walking with Miss Millie – A young white girl befriends an elderly African American woman in the South in the 1960s. This sounds lovely, and early reviews are extremely positive.
Who Was Andrew Jackson? – The Who Was series looks at the 7th president of the United States.
The Silence – Book 3 in the Six series about teens with physical issues and illnesses who trade their declining bodies for an existence in machines in order to defend humanity from a rogue artificial intelligence. I have book one, The Six, on my TBR shelf.
Infographic Guide to College – Everything you need to know for surviving college, from doing laundry to saving money and avoiding the Freshman Fifteen. I adore infographics, so books like this are an immediate draw for me. I’d love to take a look at this one! Could be a great post-graduation gift.

Books for Adults

Dead Storage – Book 3 in the Maggie McDonald mystery series about a professional organizer. This is a new series to me but it sounds great.
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My – Book 6 in the Devereaux’s Dime Store mystery series. I haven’t read any of the books in this series, but I enjoyed the author’s Scumble River series for years. I’d like to try this one.
Mayoral Affairs – First in the Vixen Investigations series about an investigative journalist-turned private investigator. This sounds like a fun mystery.
Murder at the Male Revue (July 8) – Book 3 in the Bucket List mystery series starting some 70-something year old sleuths. I have book one in this series on my TBR shelves.
Over Maya Dead Body – Book 3 in the Serena Jones mystery series about an FBI agent who investigates art-related crimes. This series sounds terrific. I’m putting book one, A Fool and His Monet, on my list
Sowed to Death – Book 2 in the Farmer’s Daughter mystery series about a lifestyle blogger who solves mysteries.
Fearless Parenting – The fact that this comes from the work of George Barna is what draws me to this one. It offers Christian parents a plan for raising healthy children. I am eager to read this one!
Ten Reminders for the Single Christian Woman (July 6) – The author contacted me and asked to have her new book included in book news. If you are a single Christian woman, or you do ministry with this group, you might check this one out.

What are you looking forward to reading this week? 

BOOK NEWS: June 27, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Our last Tuesday of June is chock full of great new books! Check them out:

Books for Kids

 

Dear Dinosaur (July 1) – A boy gets a dinosaur pen pal. This would be so much fun to read!
Monkey Brother – This sibling rivalry story looks fun. And since my son had a pretend monkey brother when he was a little guy, this will be a must read for me.
A New School Year – Six kids from Kindergarten through 5th grade share the story of the new school year. This looks like a great story for teachers to use when talking about perspective or maybe even voice.
Pig the Winner – Book 3 in the Pig the Pug series. This time, Pig’s competitive nature gets the best of him.
Super Saurus Saves Kindergarten – A dinosaur hopes to conquer kindergarten in this darling-looking book!
Best in Class – The latest in the Puppy Pirates series for new chapter book readers.
Friendship Fairies series – The latest set of books in the Fairies series by Daisy Meadows is the Friendship Fairies – Kindness, Sharing, Laughter, and Caring fairies. These were my go-to recommendation when I had a young reader who could handle the vocabulary of a 4th or 5th grade book but who wanted something shorter or lighter than some middle grade stories.
March of the Vanderpants – Notebook of Doom, book 12. This is a fun, light “monster” series in the Branches line for kids exploring chapter books.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

    

Escape from the Great Earthquake – Book 6 in the awesome time-traveling series about a search and rescue dog, Ranger. I have described these books as Magic Tree House with a dog. Super fun to read; kids love them.
The Golden Lion – Book 4 in the graphic novel series Cleopatra in Space, a mash up of an historic figure and space-faring science fiction with adventure galore. I enjoyed book one and am looking forward to getting caught up on the series.
Hamstersaurus Rex vs Squirrel Kong – Book 2 in the Hamstersaurus Rex series. This time, a giant squirrel is wreaking havoc, and Hammie Rex is taking the blame. Can Sam prove Hammie’s innocence? This has been compared to Stick Dog or Dog Man. This is one I can’t wait to check out!
In the Shadow of the Sun – A girl and her brother try to escape North Korea with pictures of slave-labor camps when their father is arrested as a spy. Sounds perfect for fans of books like A Night Divided.
Ship of Secrets – Geronimo Stilton Kingdom of Fantasy book 10. My students loved this series, checking them out of the library until the books literally fell apart.
The Someday Suitcase – A story of best friends trying to beat the odds when one gets sick. This sounds like a fantastic, moving story.
Summer Olympics – Full color graphic novel of the kids from Super Hero High. This story has been teased in a comic for Free Comic Book Day and another for Wonder Woman Day. In the story, Wonder Woman heads to Olympus for summer vacation. I’ve read the comic teasers and I’m looking forward to reading the whole book!
Two Truths and a Lie: It’s Alive! – Crazy but true stories about our world. Terrific idea for kids non-fiction!
What Was the Holocaust? – Kids want to know more about this period in world history, and I trust the folks with the Who Was series to handle it with honesty at a kid-friendly level.
Generation One – First in a new series set in the world of I Am Number Four, full of aliens and super powers. I didn’t read the original series, but this sounds fantastic.
Now I Rise – Sequel to And I Darken, a series compared to Game of Thrones. Looks like I need to check out the first book!

Books for Adults

Booked 4 Murder – First book in a new mystery series starring Sophie Kimball, an account clerk at the local police department called to her mother’s home to investigate a “cursed” book. This looks like a great new series!
A Crime of Passion Fruit – Book 6 in the Bakeshop Mystery series, one of my favorite cozy series. In this book, Jules returns to the cruise ship where her estranged husband works and, of course, finds a body.
Death of a Bachelorette – Book 15 in the Jaine Austen mystery series about a freelance writer. I’d love to dig into this series some time!
Enforcing the Paw – Book 6 in the Paw Enforcement series about a police dog and her handler. While the author’s other series didn’t click with me, I have high hopes for this one. I have several of the books on my TBR shelves, waiting for my attention.
Grace to the Finish – Book 8 in the Manor House mystery series about a curator at Marshfield Manor. I have the first book in this series on my TBR shelves.
Murder at the Puppy Fest – Book 20 in the Melanie Travis series about dogs. In this book, Melanie is helping at a dog rescue charity event when someone is killed.
The Separatists – Book 3 in the Newsmakers series, a Christian mystery series about a reporter and political intrigue. I have the first two books in the series on my TBR pile. Hopefully I’ll get to dig into them this summer.
Star Trek Deep Space Nine: Enigma Tales – Elim Garak was one of the most fascinating characters on Deep Space Nine. This book picks up his story on Cardassia where secrets and lies are still business as usual.
The Tell-Tale Tarte – Book 4 in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series, this one with an Edgar Allan Poe theme. Includes recipes.
A Fierce Love – A husband’s affair and request for divorce sends the author on a journey into 1 Corinthians 13 to see what God asks of us when He calls us to love. This sounds emotional and powerful!
Cultivate – A Bible-based exploration of personal development from a gardening perspective. Looks at striving and perfection and living a less-pressured life. Sounds a little like Nothing to Prove which I adored. I am putting this one on my list, too!
Writing to Awaken (July 1) – Self discovery through writing. I am a firm believer in journalling for personal growth and health. I will be picking this one up for certain.

BOOK NEWS: June 20, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

This week marks the official start of summer. I don’t know where you live, but where I am we have already had several hot and humid days, so it already feels like summer has been here for awhile. Thankfully, those days make me want to stay in the air conditioning and enjoy a good book!

Here are some of the books releasing this week:

 

A Place to Read – While the plot is familiar – a reader looks for a great place to read – the illustration work of the author, Leigh Hodgkinson, is what draws me to this one. I have loved her other work (especially Goldilocks and Just One Bear) and will be searching for this one this week for certain!
Chicken in School – A farm chicken turns the barn into a school and acts as teacher for everyone in the barnyard. Sequel to Chicken in Space. These books sound so fun!
Claymates – A fun picture book about friends made from clay. Perfect inspiration for summer art and sculpture fun!
Twindergarten – Twins about to start kindergarten – in different classes – share their anxiety and excitement.
Class Pet Mess – The kids from My Weird School are now in early readers! This is the third book in this format for kids who are growing in their reading skills (preschool to second grade range, depending on the reader).
Mrs. Master Is a Disaster – Book 8 in the My Weirdest School series which focuses on Grandparents day and a grandma who makes weird inventions. When I was teaching, my students loved these! It’s a fun, silly series with relatively short books at a 3rd or 4th grade reading level.
King Flashypants and the Evil Emperor – A boy king lives next door to an emperor who is up to no good. This looks like a fun new series for kids starting to explore chapter books.
My Weird School Fast Facts: Space, Humans and Farts – Weird but true science facts from the author of the My Weird School series. This series is a great way to engage kids with nonfiction!
Ever After High: Class of Classics – Full color graphic novel collecting 6 fairy tale stories tied to the Ever After High series. My students loved the books in this series, and I’m sure a graphic novel will be a hit with kids as well.
I Love You, Michael Collins – A girl writes to astronaut Michael Collins, the one who stays with the ship during the first moon landing. As her family wanders off, one by one, thinking someone else is watching her, the girl finds herself alone, wondering if in real life anyone actually “stays with the ship.” This sounds amazing. I loved the author’s Sisters 8 series and I can’t wait to read this!
Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth – A boy who has just entered foster care meets an alien (who looks like a dog to everyone else) who is trying to save the Earth from destruction. This sounds fantastic!
The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library – A bug who loves to read saves the school library! Looks cute!
Rocket Raccoon: Grounded – Graphic novel collecting issues 1-5. Rocket, one of the Guardians of the Galaxy, is trapped on Earth. Fans of the Guardians movies might enjoy this comic book collection.
Teen Titans: Damian Knows Best (Rebirth) – Graphic novel collecting issues 1-6. Damian Wayne is Robin, son of Batman and commander of the Teen Titans. In this reboot for Teen Titans, the team faces off against Damian’s grandfather, Ra’s al Ghul. I am intrigued by this series. I’m a huge fan of the TV series Young Justice and I’d like to see if this would be similar in tone and storytelling.

 

It’s a small week for new releases, so hopefully that will help me catch up a little on my TBR list! What are you reading this summer?

BOOK NEWS: June 13, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Are you and/or your kids on summer break yet? We are entering our third week off, still trying to get into a good summer groove of projects that we put off all year as well as plenty of rest and relaxation after a good but busy school year. My favorite part, of course, is the rest and relaxation that includes plenty of reading time! Here are some new books releasing this week:

Books for Kids

 

A Cat Is Better – A cat tries to convince its new owner – and maybe itself – that cats are better than dogs. Looks adorable!
Littles: And How They Grow – An ode to babies. Sounds like a lovely gift for new parents!
Owl Bat Bat Owl – A wordless picture book about an owl family and a bat family sharing a home in a tree. I can’t wait to see this one in person!!
Swish and Squeak’s Noisy Day – Sibling mice notice the sounds of their day. The cover of this one is gorgeous and was really what grabbed my attention. I’d love to see this one in person and check out the illustrations by the author.
I Am Sacagawea – The latest biography in the Ordinary People Change the World series. These books are outstanding! I love that they focus on the character qualities of the subject rather than on the things they did (although those are in there, too). My students loved reading these. If you are looking for quality nonfiction for your classroom or home library, I highly recommend this whole series.
Fergus and Zeke – A new early reader by Kate Messner (one of my favorite authors for kids) about a classroom pet who stows away for a field trip to the museum.
The Great Art Caper – Book 2 in the Pets on the Loose series. It’s hamsters verses mice as the class pets battle at the school art show. Book one, The Great Pet Escape, was darling. This looks like it will be terrific.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

14 Hollow Road – A tornado destroys the home of a middle schooler so she has to share space with her crush at a neighbor’s house while their community puts things back together. Isn’t that cover gorgeous?! I’d pick this one up based on the cover alone.
A Dog Like Daisy – Here is another story told from the perspective of a dog being trained as a service animal. There are several books out that use this concept really well. There’s a military theme in this one, where Daisy is trying to learn to help a colonel with PTSD. This sounds excellent.
Keeper of Myths – Sequel to The Secrets of Valhalla. Buzz and Mary have to find the Keeper of the Myths in order to rescue their friend Sam from the gods. This series sounds great for fans of mythology (in this case, Norse mythology) and books like Percy Jackson or the Kane Chronicles.
Let’s Pretend We Never Met – When Mattie moves over winter break, she’s afraid she’ll have a hard time making friends. But she makes one right away in her neighbor, Agnes. But when school starts, Mattie discovers that Agnes isn’t very popular at school. Is this really the person she wants to befriend when she’s getting established in a new place?
Quest to the Uncharted Lands – Book 3 in the World of Solace series. Stella stows away on an airship headed to the Uncharted Lands. She doesn’t expect to discover another stowaway – and a plot to ensure that no one ever makes it to the Uncharted Lands.
The Shadow Queen – Legendtopia, book 2. Kara and Prince Fred set off on an adventure to save their parents. The story reminds me of some of my favorite series for kids – The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom or The Wide-Awake Princess. I’m going to be looking for book one, The Battle for Urth, and checking this series out.
The Silver Moon of Summer – Book 3 in the Silver Sisters series. I have ADORED the first two books (You can check out my review of book one, The Forget-Me-Not Summer, tomorrow) and have already requested this one from the library!
Obsidian and Stars – Book 2 in the Ivory and Bone series set in the Stone Age about rival factions, love and betrayal. I have book one, Ivory and Bone, on my library wish list.
Roar – While Aurora is set to be queen by birth, without any magic of her own, she may have to marry a prince who has something to hide. Can she instead take the magic she needs for her kingdom and her future? This sounds like a fascinating magical world where people are born with – or try to steal – storm power.
Summer Unscripted – Girl meets boy who seems to understand her. He must be her destiny. Then girl meets another boy who has a complicated past that grabs her attention. One girl, two boys, plenty of drama.

Books for Adults

A Just Clause – Book 11 in the Booktown Mystery series starring the owner of a mystery bookstore. I have several books in this series on my TBR shelves.
Bad Housekeeping – Book one in a new series about a young woman and her eccentric great aunt who find themselves at the top of the suspect list for murder.
All Good Things: A Next Generation Companion – An informational book including interviews and behind the scenes information for all seven seasons of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

BOOK NEWS: June 6, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

Happy June! It’s the first full week in June which means LOTS of new releases tomorrow. Let’s check them out!

Books for Kids

Don’t Blink – A picture book staring contest!
Garcia and Colette Go Exploring – Two friends want to go exploring, but they have different ideas of where they should go
There, There – A bear tries to teach a grumpy rabbit to appreciate what he has
World Pizza – A wish for world peace plus a sneeze leads to World Pizza!
Shark Lady – Picture book biography of Eugenie Clark.
Aleca Zamm Is a Wonder/Is Ahead of Her Time – New early chapter book series about a girl who can stop time.
Tales of Rapunzel: Secrets Unlocked/Opposites Attract – The first two chapter books connected to Disney’s new Tangled series. Includes two episodes from the show in each book.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Broken Pride – First book in the new Bravelands series by Erin Hunter, author of the Warriors series, about a lion, elephant and baboon.
Doctor Strange – Novelization of the Marvel movie about Doctor Strange.
Exit Strategy – A kid tries to find the scientific formula for “funny” to make  friends at a new school. Part of the MAX line from Aladdin.
Holly Farb and the Princess of the Galaxy – Holly is kidnapped by alien pirates who think she is the Princess of the Galaxy.
Middle School Mayhem – Max Crumbly, book 2 from the authors of the Dork Diaries series.
Princess Juniper of Torr – Book 3 in the Princess Juniper series. I have read – and loved – the first two books. You can read my reviews here. I’ve already got this one on hold from the library!
Rogue World – Book 3 in the Dark Gravity series about a world-wide catastrophe (starting with a new ice age in book one, The Arctic Code) and the kids who are trying to save the day. I have book one on my shelves, but haven’t read it yet.
Spider-Man Homecoming Junior Novel – Junior novel for the new Spider-Man movie releasing in July.
Tournament of Champions – Book 3 in the Rip and Red series for middle grade readers. I really enjoyed the first book and would love to get caught up with this series about two friends (one on the autism spectrum) who love basketball.
What Was the Holocaust? – The latest additions to the Who Was/What Was series.
Who Was Bob Marley?
Who Was Pete Seger?
And Then There Were Four – Five teens seem to be the target of their parents’ murderous plotting. Sounds like a great mystery.
Dividing Eden – From the author of The Testing, this is about a set of twins pitted against each other for control of their kingdom. This is absolutely at the top of my list for this week.
Dramatically Ever After – Sequel to Bookishly Ever After. I just finished this and it was fun.  I’ll be reviewing it later this month. This story focuses on two of the secondary characters from book one – the dramatic Em who is on the hunt for a college scholarship to pursue her dream and her “nemesis,” Kris.
Endgame: Complete Fugitive Archives – Companion to the Endgame series. I have book one in my TBR pile right now. This is a collection of prequel stories.
Here Lies Daniel Tate – Daniel Tate went missing at age 10. Six years later he has returned – except this boy isn’t really Daniel Tate. He’s a con artist who has found the perfect scam. But what if someone knows what really happened to Daniel?
Liberty: The Spy who (Kind of) Liked Me – Spy novel about a teen given the chance to go undercover and maybe find out what happened to her parents. This sounds terrific!
Once and for All – The latest story from Sarah Dessen, ultra-popular Teen/YA author, about a wedding planner with a second chance at love.
Unlikelies – Five teens decide to be Good Samaritans and help right local wrongs.
What I Lost – Teen novel about a girl in an eating disorders treatment program.
Wildman – A stranded young man gets a chance to re-invent himself and discover who he is at the same time.
Words in Deep Blue – A grieving teen works with her former crush and wonders if second chances are possible.

Books for Adults

Before We Were Yours – Historical fiction about orphaned siblings from 1939 and a contemporary young woman who discovers some family secrets. This sounds excellent.
Black Cat Sees His Shadow – Book 3 in the Bad Luck Cat mystery series. I am eager to check out this series from the beginning.
Camino Island – The latest novel by John Grisham about a heist from Princeton University and rare books. This one is on my list!
The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes – Dr. John Watson Jr. joins forces with Sherlock Holmes’ secret daughter, Joanna Blalock. This sounds awesome!
French Fried – Book 2 in the Ethnic Eats mystery series with a French spin this time, celebrating the anniversary of the Statue of Liberty
Love Story – A Baxter Family story from Karen Kingsbury. I’ve only read one book about the Baxter family. Long-time fans will be excited to read this one with the love story of John and Elizabeth.
Once Upon a Spine – Book 11 in the Bibliophile series. I have several books from this series on my TBR shelves.
Only Skein Deep – Book 15 in the Knitting series. Even though I don’t knit, I have enjoyed several of the books in this series.
Patterned After Death – Book 12 in the Southern Sewing Circle mystery series. I am woefully behind in this series, but I enjoyed the first one.
Road to Paradise – The first  Vintage National Parks novel about Mount Rainer in 1927. I’m not much for historical fiction, but the emphasis on our National Parks sounds awesome. Christian mystery/romance.
Treble at the Jam Fest – Book 4 in the Food Lovers’ Village mystery series. I loved book one and would like to get caught up with this series.
Doctor Who: A Brief History of Time Lords – A history of the Time Lords and Gallifrey. Looks like a great resource for Doctor Who fans.
Seed to Vision: How God-Inspired Ideas Become Reality (June 5) – Eight tools you can use to turn your idea into reality. The author’s story sounds inspiring.
Ultimate Exodus: Finding Freedom from What Enslaves You – Looks at the Biblical story of the Exodus and how it relates to freeing all of us from the things that enslave us.

 

So, what books are you adding to your TBR list this week?