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BOOK NEWS: August 27, 2019

BOOK NEWS: August 27, 2019

Posted on by Jaymie

August has zoomed by and here we are – the last week. Here are some of the books releasing this week to close out the month.

Books for Kids

  

Once Upon a Goat – A king and queen ask their fairy godmother for a “kid” to start their family. And that is precisely what they get. This reminds me of the delightful book, The Princess and the Pig. I can’t wait to read this new one!
Oscar the Octopus: A Book About the Months of the Year – This picture book with flaps introduces preschoolers to the months of the year as well as marine life.
Spencer’s New Pet – Looks like this is a wordless picture book about a boy and his “dog.” This looks darling!
This Book of Mine – A celebration of books and readers. I can’t wait to see this one in person.
You Should Meet Ruth Bader Ginsburg – Get to know this Supreme Court Justice.
Arnold and Louise: Happy Fell – Book 3 in the Arnold and Louise series of early chapter books. When two friends have different ideas of how to spend a perfect fall day, what can they do?

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

The Battle – Book 2 in the Gauntlet steam-punk series. Ahmad is battling the evil Architect once again when a new virtual reality game causes time in New York City to stop. I didn’t get to read the first book, but these sound fun. I’ll have to add them to my list.
Beauty and the Dreaded Sea Beast AND Private Eye Princess and the Emerald Pea AND Rapunzel vs. Frankenstein AND Thumbelina, Wrestling Champ (September 1 – Graphic Novels) – When I was a librarian I discovered a line of graphic novels from Capstone/Stone Arch books called Far Out Fairy Tales. I loved them and so did my students. Four new books in the series release this week.
Best Friends (Graphic Novel) – Book 2 in the Real Friends series. If you have a reader who can’t get enough of Raina Telgemeier’s books (Smile, Sisters, etc.), and they need something to keep them busy until her new book releases in September, steer them toward Shannon Hale’s graphic novels. The first was terrific, and I’m excited to dig into this new one. I already have it on hold at the library.
Count Me In (Older Middle Grade) – I have been hearing rave reviews all summer about this book! An Indian-American girl and her grandfather are targeted in an assault. While her grandfather recovers, the girl uses her social media accounts to bring attention to the attack. I am eager to read this one. This is one of a subset of middle grade books that are written for kids in the older, 10-14 age range.
The Good Thieves – A middle grade heist novel about a girl determined to right the wrongs done to her grandfather when he is conned out of his home and possessions.
Gryffindor – A small gift book celebrating Gryffindor House with pictures from the Harry Potter movies. There is a companion book for Slytherin.
Hoax for Hire – The latest from Laura Martin. A boy’s family members are legendary hoaxers – people who fake Bigfoot sightings and the like. When two members of his family go missing right when they are supposed to be pulling their biggest job, the boy and his brother have to save the day.
Last Meeting of the Gorilla Club (Older Middle Grade) – A boy starting at a new school tries to escape the imaginary friend he had at his last school – the one his parents say he is far too old for. But Big Brother is back – and a kid at the new school seems to see one of Big Brother’s friends. This is an unusual sounding story – an older take on the delightful Crenshaw. I am curious about this one. Another book for older middle grade readers (10-14).
My Life as an Ice Cream Sandwich (Older Middle Grade) – A girl raised by her grandfather – the first black engineer at NASA – in Huntsville spends time with her father in Harlem, not sure if she could ever fit in there. I am eager to read this one, too. I have it on hold at the library. This is also for readers 10-14.
Taming of the Shoe – Book 3 in a second-generation fairy tale series. Araminta is stuck at a new school, and she’s staying with her mother’s step-sisters (you know, the awful ones from Cinderella) while her parents travel for work. All she wants are some new friends and a ticket to Theo Downy’s concert. I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow.
Code This! – Puzzles, games and coding challenges for kids.
Pumpkin Heads – A graphic novel for teens from Rainbow Rowell. Deja and Josiah are friends only when they work together in the fall at the pumpkin patch. Now that they are seniors, they are eager to wrap up their last season, and their last shift together, with a bang. I’m curious about this one. If my library hold list wasn’t already full, I’d have this one on hold.

Books for Adults

The Bakeshop at Pumpkin and Spice (Trade Paperback) – The cover of this screams FALL!!! I’m ready for the coziness of the next few months. Includes three short romances set around a Halloween Parade.
The Blacksmith Queen (Trade Paperback) – A prophecy about a rising queen to replace the recently dead king angers his sons who want no part of anything that would force them to give up the throne. When it looks like the new queen will be her younger sister, a blacksmith gathers supporters to help her defend her family. I have requested this one from the library!
Crypt Suzette (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 6 in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series about a hit-and-run that kills a guest at the new bookstore in town.
Death by Cafe Mocha (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 7 in the Bookstore Cafe Mystery series. The main characters leave their usual setting and head to a convention of coffee lovers where someone is murdered. I’d love to dig into this series. Book one is Death by Coffee.
Death by Jack-o’-Lantern (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 2 in the Abby McCree Mystery series about the murder of a pumpkin farmer. It is officially fall in publishing circles!
Decades: Marvel in the 10s – Legends and Legacy (Paperback Graphic Novel) – A celebration of Marvel comics in this decade.
Flour in the Attic (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Bread Shop Mystery series. This one focuses on the death of a local whose body washes up on the beach.
Jealousy Filled Donuts (Trade Paperback) – Book 3 in the Deputy Donut Mystery series. A firecracker hidden in a stack of donuts kills someone at the Fourth of July picnic.
Molded 4 Murder (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 5 in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series. When a retiree in Sun City West Arizona is found dead with Phee’s mother’s name on a paper in his hand, she is investigating once again to be sure her mom hasn’t been targeted by a murderer.
Mulberry Mischief (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Berry Basket Mystery series, another fall title for this week centered around a health fair, an eccentric woman, and a murder.
Sidelined (Trade Paperback) – From the author of Trouble Brewing (which connects with this novel, although the series hasn’t been given a name that I can find). When a woman is chosen as the new high school football coach, she and the offensive coordinator clash as he expected to get the job. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Year-Round Christmas Mystery series. Merry is hosting a reunion of her mother’s college friends when murder strikes. I love stories that include reunions, so I might have to check this one out!
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge: Black Spire (Hardcover) – A book designed to give backstory to Disney’s new Star Wars expansion at the parks – the planet Batuu. A rebellion spy is on Batuu looking for resources when the First Order arrives looking for her. I’ll certainly be giving this one a try!
Tilling the Truth (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 2 in the Garden Squad Mystery series starring a group of spunky retirees who investigate the murder of a local who kept thwarting the sale of a piece of beachside property.
Wishful Thinking (Trade Paperback) – First in the new How to Be the Best Damn Faery Godmother in the World (or Die Trying) series. This urban fantasy stars a fairy who gets her big chance to join the fairy godpersons, but discovers there are more problems in the department than anyone wants to say. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week, too.
Wonton Terror (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Noodle Shop Mystery series. I have the first book on my TBR shelves, waiting. This time, murder strikes during the Asian Night Market when a food truck run by friends of Lana’s parents explodes during the festival.
How to Have Your Life Not Suck: Becoming Today Who You Want to Be Tomorrow (Trade Paperback) – Bianca Juarez Olthoff is one of my favorite Christian speakers from the collection of women who have spoken at If: Gathering events. Her new book looks at steps to becoming the person you want to be. The book centers around the Biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. This one is on my list. (Her first book, Play with Fire, is available right now on Kindle Unlimited)
Live Big Love Bigger: Getting Real with BBQ, Sweet Tea and a Whole Lotta Jesus (August 30 – Trade Paperback) – Christian blogger and mom of 6, the author writes about embracing imperfection with examples from her life and from a week-long road trip she took with her family. This is on my list, too.
See Jane Win: The Inspiring Story of the Women Changing American Politics (Hardcover) – The story of women, inspired by the 2016 election, who decided to run for political office, focusing specifically on 4 candidates through the whole process from decision to Election Day. This is on my list, too.
Sex and the Enneagram: A Guide to Passionate Relationships for the 9 Personality Types (Trade Paperback) – From the author of The Enneagram and Eating. This book focuses on the 9 Enneagram types and their most intimate relationships. I’m holding off on this one until I read some more reviews.
Write on, Sisters!: Voice, Courage, and Claiming Your Place at the Table (Trade Paperback) – An examination of the trials women face in publishing circles today and support to overcome them.

BOOK NEWS: March 6, 2018

BOOK NEWS: March 6, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

It’s the first week of March which means LOTS of new books to explore. Here are some of the ones I’m excited about for the week:

Books for Kids

Anybody’s Game: The Story of the First Girl to Play Little League Baseball – A picture book biography of a girl who pretended to be a boy to get around a rule that wouldn’t allow her to try out for Little League as herself. If I was still teaching, this is a book I definitely would have put into the library.
The Backup Bunny – We had a backup critter for my son’s favorite toy, so this title really grabbed my attention. I’m looking forward to reading this one.
A Busy Creature’s Day Eating – An alphabet book from Mo Willems about a critter who will eat just about anything
I Am Enough – A book with the important message of loving who you are
Part-Time Mermaid – Girl by day, mermaid by night.  I had Part-Time Princess when I was teaching, and it was a fun and popular story.
The Petes Go Marching – The Ants Go Marching song, with a Pete the Cat twist
Selfie Sebastien – A handsome fox goes on a quest for the perfect selfie. This is just the sort of picture book I love. Can’t wait to read this one.
Up in the Leaves: The True Story of the Central Park Treehouses – I have not heard about the treehouses in Central Park so I am eager to get my hands on this book to get the full scoop!
Nora and the Growing Tree AND Violet and the Buzzing Bees – Two books starring the characters from the Owlegories videos.
The Super Awful Superheroes of Classroom 13 – Book 4 in this wacky early chapter book about a group of school kids who get superpowers when they are zapped with purple lightning
The Super Life as Ben Braver – Book one in a new early chapter book series about an average kid who hears a call for help and tries to save the day. I’m curious to see this one in person. The art work sounds great.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

2 Fuzzy 2 Furious – Book 2 in the Squirrel Girl series by the fabulous Shannon Hale. I have not read the first book, yet, but I have bumped it into my TBR stack for this month.
The Night Diary – In 1947, when India is divided into India and Pakistan, a half-Muslim, half-Hindu girl tries to figure out where she fits in. Told in letters. This has been getting a lot of positive press lately. Great for fans of historical fiction.
The Science of Unbreakable Things – A girl hopes to use the scientific method and prize money from a contest to help her mother who is suffering from depression.
Stick Dog Crashes a Party – Book 8 in this fun series that might appeal to fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Timmy Failure. I have enjoyed the previous books I have tried from this series.
Switched – Book 4 in the Fairy Tale Reform School series. You can read my review of book three here. I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow, so come back and check that out.
Wizard for Hire – When his parents are kidnapped, Ozzy calls a wizard for hire to help. This sounds (and looks) fantastic! This is at the top of my list for the week.
Wizardmatch – A girl must compete with her family members to see who will gain her grandfather’s title (Prime Wizard), castle and powers. This looks terrific, too. I’m adding this one to my list as well.
What Is the World Cup?
What Was the Titanic?
The Case for Jamie – Book 3 in the Charlotte Holmes series. In this book, Jamie and Charlotte are on the outs after the events of book 2, but someone is pushing them back into eachother’s orbits. But for what purpose? Here is my review for book one.
In Search of Us – A girl who grows up thinking her father is dead starts to wonder if that is true and sets off to get the real story once and for all. This sounds like one I would enjoy.
More Than We Can Tell – A second book in the world of Letters to the Lost, this one focuses on Declan’s best friend Rev and a girl named Emma. I’m going to review this one on Thursday this week. I loved it!
Olivia Twist – A re-imagining of Oliver Twist. A girl, living on the streets, hides her identity, but when she is rescued, she struggles to reconcile her new, debutante life with her old life in the slums.
The Poet X – A frustrated teen pours her emotions into her poetry. This has been getting a lot of buzz lately, too. I’d love to read this one.
Teen Titans Vol 2: Rise of Aqualad – Sequel to Damian Knows Best focusing on the Teen Titans of DC Comics. I have had this in my Amazon cart for weeks. When I have the money, I plan to pick this one up! I can’t wait to read it.
What She Does Next Will Astound You – One of three books set in the world of the Doctor Who spin-off, Class. Students are obsessed with attempting the dares posted on a strange new website. But when kids start disappearing, one girl decides she is going to figure out what really is going on, no matter what. We haven’t tried Class yet, but this storyline sounds like something I would enjoy.

Books for Adults

Dipped to Death – Book 3 in the Olive Grove Mystery series. I enjoyed the first book in this series, and I’d like to get caught up with the next two books starring a sleuth on her family’s olive plantation
The Escape Artist – A woman who is supposed to be dead is on the run and an Army conspiracy involving Harry Houdini is involved. This sounds convoluted – and awesome! Looking forward to this one.
Good Guys – The people working for the Foundation have magic at their disposal, but that’s okay because The Foundation are the good guys. Right? I have already requested this from the library. It looks like a mystery from the cover, but the fantasy angle really appeals to me. Looking forward to trying this one.
Marinating in Murder – Book 3 in the Dinner Club mystery series. The dinner club is helping one of their own who is suspected of murder in this book. This sounds like I series I would enjoy. I need to track down book one and get it on my list!
Who Moved My Goat Cheese? – First in the new Farm-to-Fork mystery series by Lynn Cahoon. I love checking out a new mystery series, so this is on my list for this week as well.
Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others – A new book by Barbara Brown Taylor explores things she learned through her journey of faith and her teaching of college students.
Raising Passionate Jesus Followers: The Power of Intentional Parenting – A resource for parents in any stage of rearing children/teens/young adults
Survive Like a Spy: Real CIA Operatives Reveal How They Stay Safe in a Dangerous World and How You Can Too – I think that title speaks for itself. Sounds like a fascinating book.

SATURDAY SMORGASBORD: Early Readers and Transitional Chapter Books

SATURDAY SMORGASBORD: Early Readers and Transitional Chapter Books

Posted on by Jaymie

I had the pleasure of serving on an award committee for the 2017 Cybil Awards recognizing great children’s and young adult literature. My committee focused on books for the kids who are just starting to read on their own – Early Readers/Easy Readers and Early/Transitional Chapter Books.

While the committee was working, I couldn’t review or post about the things I was reading. But now that the awards are posted, I wanted to highlight some of the treasures I read for the process, as well as a few personal favorites I had read last year before I was on the committee. If you work with children in lower elementary school (Kindergarten to 3rd grade, depending on reading level and interest) or if you have some kids that age in your life, check out these books for their reading enjoyment!

Early Readers/Easy Readers

Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy – This is book two in a picture book-shaped Early Reader series. This one is a sweet story about a couple of kids and their grandfather. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of this book with limited word count and vocabulary. I would love to see a middle-elementary teacher read this one aloud and see what the students infer from the story.

 

 

My Kite Is Stuck! And Other Stories – This was surprisingly fun! There were some laugh-out-loud moments in this book that I wasn’t expecting. Give this to readers who enjoy Piggie and Gerald or Ballet Cat.

 

 

 

There’s a Pest in the Garden! – This was another one that had me laughing aloud. For this age group, I think funny books are the key to getting kids excited about reading on their own. This is another one that would work for Piggie and Gerald fans.

 

 

 

We Need More Nuts! – This was my favorite book in this category. It’s a counting book, but it’s so much more. Another hilarious book for this age group. I discovered there is a sequel, and I have it in my online cart so I can check it out.

 

 

 

King & Kayla and the Case of the Secret Code – This was the award winner for this category. It’s a fun, clever story – told by the dog, which always amuses me – about secret codes. I enjoyed this one and would recommend checking out the entire series!

 

 

 

Early Chapter Books/Transitional Chapter Books

Heartwood Hotel: A True Story – This was a sweet animal story that I thoroughly enjoyed last year. I may yet post a full review of the first two books in this series. They were terrific.

 

 

 

Heartwood Hotel: The Greatest Gift – This is book 2 in the series, and I enjoyed this book even more than I enjoyed the first.

 

 

 

Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows – I adored this story of a science-minded girl and her pet cat who discover fantasy creatures come to their home for medical care. I loved the combination of science and fantasy in one story. The illustrations are darling. I also love that this series stars an African-American girl in a story that has nothing to do with her race. When I was teaching, I would have put this entire series in the library!

 

 

Survivor Diaries: Overboard! – This reminded me a lot of the uber-popular I Survived series that appeals to middle to upper elementary students. This story is shorter, but the suspense and tension was still present. This would have been a hit with my students!

 

 

 

The Princess in Black Takes a Vacation – I am a huge Shannon Hale fan, and I was thrilled that a Princess in Black book made it into the mix for the early chapter book award. This is a fantastic series that I highly recommend. 

 

 

 

Wedgie & Gizmo – I was THRILLED when this book was chosen as the best of the year for early/transitional chapter books for the Cybils. I LOVED this funny book about an evil genius guinea pig and his nemesis (who has no clue), a Corgi. The animals tell their own stories which adds to the fun. The voice in this is outstanding! I can’t recommend this highly enough. There will be a sequel later this spring. I may post a full review of this book later this year, too.

BOOK NEWS: October 17, 2017

BOOK NEWS: October 17, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

We’re half way through October, and the holiday season is quickly approaching. I’m feeling ready for sweatshirt weather, soup, and crunchy leaves! Here are some new books releasing this week to enjoy as the season turns colder.

Books for Kids

Doctor Tenth: Christmas Surprise! – A Christmas story about Donna and the Tenth Doctor. I have yet to see this line in person, but I think the idea is adorable.
Malala’s Magic Pencil – Activist, Malala Yousafzai releases her story in picture book format to reach younger readers. This is going to be a powerful story! This would work in classroom settings, libraries and at home.
Merry Christmas, Peanut! – One of the things I love about this time of year is that Christmas books start releasing. In this book, a peanut has a yummy-looking adventure on his way to visit family for the holidays. The illustrations in these books are fantastic and clever. This is sure to be a hit!
Thanksgiving in the Woods – Based on the true story of a family who hosted their Thanksgiving celebration in the woods. As a teacher, I had a hard time finding great Thanksgiving stories to read in November. I would add this one to my repertoire if I was still teaching.
The Doctors Time and Space Collection – A collection of the first 8 books in this line (Includes Doctors 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12). Includes a poster. This is a great gift idea for Doctor Who fans who are also kids at heart!
Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Tales of Hope & Courage – Maz Kanata’s journal records the stories of 6 heroines of the Star Wars Saga.
Miss Tracy Is Spacey! – Book 9 in the My Weirdest School series by Dan Gutman. My students loved these short chapter books about a group of elementary school kids and their wacky school staff.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Secret Crush Catastrophe – Book 12 in this super popular middle grade series with a diary format. This time, Nikki has a dilemma when a new boy has a crush on her.
Frank Einstein and the Bio-Action Gizmo – Book 5 in this great science fiction series starring fun, smart kids and quirky robots.
Harry Potter: A Journey through the History of Magic – Based on the new exhibition at the British Library. I can’t wait to see this one in person!
Kid Sherlock – Graphic novel about new kid, John Watson (who happens to be a dog) and Sherlock Holmes. This looks adorable!
The Legend of Shadow High – The kids of Monster High meet the ones from Ever After High in this new book by Shannon Hale. I’ll be reviewing this one on Thursday this week.
Open If You Dare – Three friends find a box labeled “Open if you dare” and now they are solving a forty-year-old mystery. This sounds right up my alley.
Paper Chains – Two friends from very different family situations work their way through strains at home and in their friendship. This sounds absolutely lovely. It is at the top of my wish list for this week!
The Phantom of the Opera (Muppets) – The Muppets put their special spin on the classic story, The Phantom of the Opera. I’d love to see this in person to see what the Muppet influence is on the story.
The Summer of Owen Todd – Owen and Sean have been best friends for ages, so it’s no surprise when Sean opens up to Owen about things going on with the new babysitter Sean’s mom hired to look after him for the summer.  The question becomes what Owen should do – does he stay quiet like Sean asks him to? Or is this too big to keep to himself? This sounds like a younger kids version of A List of Cages (which is one of my favorite books of 2017). This is going to be a difficult but important book to read. This is also at the top of my list for this week.
The Magic Storm – Book 6 in the Phoebe and her Unicorn series. I LOVE this quirky comic series about a girl and her unicorn best friend. I pre-ordered this MONTHS ago, and I will be stalking the mail carrier on Tuesday, waiting for my copy.
Who Is Ralph Lauren? – Latest in the Who Was series of biographies
36 Questions That Changed My Mind About You – Two kids join a psychology study at their university to see if love can be engineered. Told in IMs, sketches and texts, this sounds like a fun read for teens and young adults. This is on my wish list for the library.
Dear Martin – A young African American journals to Dr. King, wondering if his teachings still hold up today when the young man is caught in an altercation with a white police officer. This is a timely story which has received a LOT of positive buzz leading up to the release. This is on my library list, too.
What Was That All About? – A 20-year look at the Duncan family from the Zits comic strip. As the mom of a teenager, I adore this comic. I have this book on my Christmas list!

Books for Adults

Cold as Ice – Book 6 in the Country Club Murders series about an amateur sleuth socialite. The covers for this series are appealing to me, so I have this whole series on my library list.
Planet Hulk – Prose novel based on the comic series about the Incredible Hulk on the planet Sakaar where he is sold into slavery. The Hulk is one of my favorite Marvel characters, so this is on my Christmas list.
Thor Ragnarok Prelude – Graphic novel prelude to the movie releasing in November. Collects Prelude 1-4, Thor (1966) 361, and Hulk (2000) 95.
30 Days to Joy – A one month creative journal including quotes and prompts. Could be a great gift idea, or something to structure my desire to be crafty when I don’t know what I want to do.
Capital Gaines: Smart Things I Learned Doing Stupid Stuff – For fans of the show Fixer Upper comes this book by Chip Gaines about some of the antics and ideas he has pursued and the things he has learned along the way.
Chasing Light – As a visual person, I am a sucker for a fantastic photograph. When our family toured the White House several years ago, I was struck by the gorgeous pictures that lined the walls. This looks like a lovely collection of photos of one of our First Ladies.
Fast Food Genocide: How Processed Food Is Killing Us and What We Can Do About It – If you are trying to make more healthy choices in your diet, this book could be a resource to motivate you, looking at the impact of processed food on our health. This is on my library list.
Seeing the Unseen – A 90-day devotional by Randy Alcorn with a focus on eternity. Includes scripture references as well as quotes from Christian leaders.
Why the Vote Wasn’t Enough for Selma – Examines the impact of the right to vote on African Americans in the south, specifically in Selma, with regard to economic justice and true “citizenship.”

BOOK NEWS: May 2, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

The first Tuesday of a new month is always chock full of new books! And this month is no exception. There’s something for everyone this week. Plenty of new additions to favorite series as well as all sorts of new stories to enjoy. Time travel. Star Wars. Mysteries. Superheroes. So many great options this week. Let’s take a look:

Books for Kids

The Case of the Stinky Stench – Picture book mystery with Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast.
Dragons Love Tacos 2 – What’s not to love about dragons and tacos?! The first book was great, and I am eager to see how the story continues.
Elephant and Piggie Biggie – This is NOT a new Elephant and Piggie book (so sad), but instead this combines 5 of their books into one volume. This would make an excellent gift for a mom of preschoolers (Mother’s Day is next week!) or for any Piggie and Gerald fan who doesn’t already have these books in their collection. Two of my favorites – Can I Play Too? and Let’s Go for a Drive – are included in this collection.
Go Sleep in Your Own Bed – This looks like a classic bedtime book in the making. A series of farm animals find other animals sleeping in their places. I love Candace Fleming’s books, and I imagine this one will be no exception.
The Good for Nothing Button – Book 3 in the Elephant and Piggie Like Reading series. While these are not new Piggie and Gerald books (still sad…), they are in that sort of style.
Naptastrophe – Jarrett J. Krosoczka is one of my favorite people in the children’s lit world. If he writes it, I will read it. He’s the author of the Lunch Lady graphic novels and the awesome Platypus Police Squad middle grade series. Naptastrophe is definitely on my list!.
Pete with No Pants – This book is getting rave reviews! I have to check this one out – it looks hilarious.
Peterrific – Pinkalicious’ little brother, Peter, gets his own story.
The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do – Terrific story about perseverance from one of my favorite illustrators, Ashley Spires. I’ll be reviewing this book here tomorrow.
Pete the Cat and the Tip Top Tree House – New Early Reader starring Pete the Cat
Wonder Woman: Meet the Heroes – Early Reader tie in for the Wonder Woman movie
The Genie’s Curse – Little Legends, book 3. Fun, fractured fairy tale early chapter book series
Goldie Blox and the Three Dares/Rules the School – Early chapter books based on the Goldie Blox building toys
Super Narwhal and Jelly Jolt – Book 2 in the Narwhal and Jelly graphic novel series
100 Galactic Devotions – Devotional for kids (releases today)
Lego DC The Awesome Guide – Colorful guide to the Lego DC universe with exclusive Wonder Woman mini-figure.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

   

Camp Half-Blood Confidential – Percy Jackson and friends add their commentary to Apollo’s guidebook for Camp Half-Blood. Fun for fans of the original Percy Jackson series!
Dark Prophecy – Book 2 in the Rick Riordan Trials of Apollo series about the god, Apollo, who has been turned into a normal teenager and sent to earth to figure out what has happened to the Oracles and set things right. Includes the characters Leo and Calypso from the Heroes of Olympus series.
Fairy Tale Detectives (10th Anniversary Edition) – I don’t usually post about re-releases in Book News, but this series is worth a special mention. I loved the series when it first came out. The author has been able to retool a few things for the re-release. Plus those new covers! I like to let folks know if something is truly new or just a re-packaging. This is a great re-package with some updates. If you have never tried this series, give it a go! I plan to enjoy each and every book in the series as they re-release.
How to Be a Supervillain – Victor is not living up to the family legacy of villainy. As a last-ditch effort to live up to his family expectations, Victor gets a supervillain mentor. I love a good superhero/villain story! This looks terrific.
Invisible Emmie – A middle school story in graphic novel form. Looks perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier (see post about Real Friends) or Jennifer Holm (Babymouse, Sunny Side Up).
Lemons – This is a lovely story. Lem has lost her mother and her home. She moves in with a grandfather she doesn’t know in a community where people think Bigfoot is real. I’ll be reviewing this one next week – you should check it out!
Marty Pants: Do Not Open – On the surface this looks like a book in the style of Wimpy Kid or Timmy Failure or Big Nate. The story, though, of a secret take-over-the-world plot sounds like my favorite mystery stories. I will definitely be checking this one out!
Posted – This is one of the books I am most looking forward to reading this summer. It should be showing up at my house tomorrow and I can hardly wait. The author’s last book, Ms. Bixby’s Last Day, was amazing. I think this one will be as well!
Real Friends – Graphic novel/memoir from fantastic author, Shannon Hale (Princess in Black, Princess Academy, Ever After High, Squirrel Girl, etc.). I’m really looking forward to this. It looks perfect for fans of similar books by Raina Telgemeier.
The Secret Diary of Apple White (Ever After High) – Second book in the latest series centered on the characters from Ever After High.
Supernormal Sleuthing Service: Lost Legacy – Book 1 in a new series about a stolen artifact and a hotel full of monsters.
Star Wars: Guardians of the Whills (Star Wars Rogue One) – A story for middle grade readers centered on popular Rogue One characters Baze and Chirrut. Since Rogue One just released on DVD, this is perfect timing. Consider this for your Star Wars fan for summer reading!
Time Stoppers: Quest for the Golden Arrow – Book 2 in the Time Stoppers series about time travel and fantasy creatures. This sounds like a series I would love.
Always and Forever, Lara Jean – The third and final book in the Lara Jean trilogy. I read the first book, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, but I didn’t get to book 2. I’m curious to see how things wrap up for Lara Jean.
And We’re Off – A young artist is offered a trip to Europe to paint. Her mother isn’t very excited about the trip, but at the last minute she decides to go along. This sounds like a perfect summer read!
Avenged – Book 2 in the Ruined series. I have book 1 in my TBR pile but haven’t gotten to it yet. Maybe this summer!
Cold Summer – A time traveler with PTSD wonders if it is his destiny to die in World War II.
Court of Wings and Ruin – Book 3 in the Court of Thorns and Roses series. I haven’t tried this yet, but the covers are absolutely gorgeous and make me want to run out and buy them.
Four Weeks, Five People – Five teens struggling with various mental and personality disorders share four weeks in wilderness therapy. I have been enjoying the surge of teen (and middle grade) books that look at mental illness. I’m eager to check this one out.
Lois Lane Triple Threat – Book 3 in this fun Lois Lane series. I just read book one and thought it was fantastic. I’ll be reviewing it here on the blog later this week. Book 2 and 3 are definitely on my TBR list!
Star Wars: Rebel Rising – An original story that fills in the gaps from Star Wars Rogue One about Jyn Erso’s childhood.
Textrovert – A girl accidentally swaps phones with an arrogant football player on his way to football camp. They will have to field each other’s messages until he gets back. This sounds awesome.
Windfall – This book from a favorite author tells the story of a girl who buys a winning lottery ticket for her best friend/secret crush. Looking forward to reading this one!

Books for Adults

Alien Education – Book 15 in the Katherine “Kitty” Katt/Aliens series. These are among my most favorite books ever. I am especially eager to read this one because several plot threads were wrapped up at the end of the last book, so I think we might be heading into some fun, new territory in this book. And the kids in the series are getting older and far more involved in things, which I love. I think they could play a major role in this story. I will be staking out our mailbox all day Tuesday waiting for my pre-order to arrive.
Dead and Berried – Book 3 in the Cranberry Cove mystery series about all things cranberry.
Death in Dark Blue – Book 2 in the Writer’s Apprentice Mystery series. I LOVED book one, A Dark and Stormy Murder! This one is a top pick for me.
Ghostal Living – Book 3 in the Hamptons Home and Garden Mystery series about an interior designer
Killer Characters – Book 8 in the Books by the Bay Mystery series
Love and Death in Burgundy – First in a new series that takes place in France. Sounds lovely!
Murderous Mayhem at Honeychurch Hill – Book 4 in the Honeychurch Hill Mystery series about an antique dealer and her widowed mother. The story for this particular book – a missing manuscript – sounds really interesting to me.
Nightshade for Warning – Book 2 of the Enchanted Garden Mystery series about a perfume shop and garden.
A Purely Private Matter – Book 2 in the Rosalind Thorne Mystery series. I adored book one – A Useful Woman. Can’t wait to read this sequel!
Threads of Suspicion – Book 2 in the Evie Blackwell Cold Case series about a police investigator.
Your Killin’ Heart – First in the Nashville Mystery series about a travel agent in the world of country music stars.
Release My Grip – Interactive book for parents getting ready to launch their high school students to wherever life takes them next. A great gift idea for the parents of graduates or soon-to-be-graduates! Includes reflection questions, scripture, and journaling space.
Rewrite Your Life – The redemptive process of writing fiction. I have read the author’s fiction books before, and I can’t wait to get my hands on this one! I enjoyed her TED talk about how writing fiction helped her heal after the death of her husband.
Topography of Tears – Microscopic look at tears shed in different circumstances by men, women, adults and children. This sounds fascinating! I hope my local bookstore or library orders this one because I am fascinated by this whole idea.
Truth – Devotional from Christian author, Randy Alcorn. I love his work – both fiction and nonfiction. This one is on my list for sure. (releases today)

BOOK NEWS: February 7, 2017

Posted on by Jaymie

February is here! I choose to believe Staton Island Chuck who said spring is  right around the corner rather than Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of six more weeks of winter! So, my fingers are crossed for spring, spring, spring!

Here are some books to help you fill the time until the temperatures rise and the sun makes a more regular appearance.

Books for Kids

Bunny’s Book Club – A bunny who misses outdoor storytime when the weather gets cold, decides to go into the library through the book drop. I have been looking forward to reading this book for months! I hope it is as fun as it looks.
Duck, Duck, Dinosaur and the Noise at Night – A dinosaur and his two duck friends hear a scary noise in the night. This looks adorable. I can’t wait to see it in person.
Fancy Nancy and the Missing Easter Bunny – Nibbles the bunny goes missing in this new story with stickers starring Fancy Nancy.
Little House Book of Wisdom – An illustrated collection of thoughts from the books of Laura Ingalls Wilder
Mr. Lincoln’s Way – The latest book by Patrica Polacco about school principal, Mr. Lincoln and a student struggling with racism.
Samson the Piranha Who Went to Dinner – Samson longs to try out the three new fancy restaurants in his neighborhood, but piranha can be kind of scary….
Alexander Hamilton – With the popularity of the musical Hamilton, I expect we will be seeing lots of new books about this Founding Father this year. Our family loves the musical, and I am eager to see what parts of Hamilton’s life are covered in this early reader.
What’s Your Favorite Favorite? – Book 3  in this hilarious series staring Ballet Cat. I can’t wait to read this one!! Book 1, The Totally Secret Secret, is one of my all time favorite books for kids.
Light in the Lion’s Den – Book 19 of this Christian series that is a lot like Magic Tree House. In this book the kids head back in time to the Biblical events of Daniel being thrown in the lion’s den.
Mae and June and the Wonder Wheel – Early chapter book about new friends and the adventures they have each day based on the spin of their Wonder Wheel. This looks darling!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

  

Blueberry Pancakes Forever – Book 3 in the Tuesday McGillycuddy series (Finding Serendipity). I loved the first two books in this series about a girl who can enter the world of written stories.
Castle in the Mist – A magical fantasy set in the English countryside
Dragon Captives – A new story arc begins in the world of The Unwanteds. I started the original series but never finished it. I might have to go back and take another run at it!
Jasper and the Riddle of Riley’s Mine – Two brothers set off for Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush
Pinch of Powder – Book one in the new “Pulvology” series. This book sounds fun – two kids helping out a neighbor who is a “pulvologist” and makes special powders in her lab. I can only imagine the trouble that can start with some of those special powders!
Squirrel Meets World – This new Squirrel Girl book from the fabulous Shannon Hale is at the TOP of my wish list this week!
Who Is Sonia Sotomayor? – Biography of Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor
Who Was Cesar Chavez? – Biography of activist Cesar Chavez
Who Was Lucille Ball? – Biography of entertainer Lucille Ball
King’s Cage – Book 3 in the Red Queen series. This is one of the most highly anticipated books of 2017.
Romeo and What’s Her Name – The unprepared understudy has to go on stage – with her crush – in Romeo and Juliet
Wanted – Book 2 in the fairy tale Spelled series. The description of this one makes me want to dig book one off my shelves and start reading right away!

Books for Adults

Blown Away – First in the new Kite Shop Mystery series
Bookman Dead Style – Book 2 in the Dangerous Type Mystery series
A Measure of Murder – Book 2 in the Sally Solari Mystery series
Mission Impawsible – Book 4 in the Paws and Claws Mystery series
Snowed in with Murder – Book 3 in the Otter Lake Mystery series
War and Peach – Book 3 in the Georgia Peach Mystery series
Wee Homicice in the Hotel – Book 3 in the ScotShop Mystery series
Comfort Detox: Finding Freedom from Habits that Bind You –  Christian Living book about pushing beyond the habits you use to keep you comfortable and finding true comfort in Christ.

BOOK NEWS: November 8, 2022

BOOK NEWS: November 8, 2022

Posted on by Jaymie

Here are some of the new books releasing this week!

Books for Kids

Jasper and the Yeti – Jasper is on the search for the Yeti when he looses his glasses. The pictures I have seen are DARLING! I can’t wait to check this one out in person.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Daisy Woodworm Changes the World (Older Middle Grade) – For a class assignment to “change the world,” Daisy decides to help her older brother who has Down syndrome become a fashion celebrity online even though her parents have forbidden her brother from having social media for his own safety. I will be reviewing this one soon.
Diana and Nubia Princesses of the Amazons (Graphic Novel) – Diana, Princess of the Amazons is back, and this time she has a friend. But while their families insist the girls have always known each other, the girls know something mysterious has happened. I am super excited to read this one!
Gleanings – Neal Shusterman returns to his Arc of a Scythe series with a collection of short stories set in that world.
Whiteout – From the team who wrote Blackout! Twelve teens work together to help a friend make an epic apology – if the blizzard conditions don’t foul up their plans.

Books for Adults

Better Than Fiction (Trade Paperback) – Something new from Alexa Martin. A book hater inherits a bookstore where a meddling book club and a bestselling author try to change her perspective on books. This one is on my library list.
Expire of Exiles (Trade Paperback) – Book 1 in the Books of the Usurper series. An empire recovering from a coup attempt is in danger once again, and an apprentice scribe, a young mage, an archivist, and a detective are the only ones who might be able to set things right. I ordered this weeks ago and can’t wait to dive in!
Never Rescue a Rogue (Trade Paperback) – Book 2 in the Merriwell Sisters series after Never Fall for Your Fiancée. Diana and Giles must set aside their constant bickering to help him secure his place in society – and her tenacity and investigative skills are just what he needs. I adored the first book and cannot wait to dig into this one!
Super Plum Spies (ebook) – Book 2 in the Section 47 series by the fantastic Jennifer Estep. Two spies spend their holiday season sniffing out a dangerous enemy. I haven’t read book one yet, but I already have book 2 on order so I can read them back-to-back.
Viviana Valentine Gets Her Man (Hardcover) – First in the Girl Friday Mystery series. Viviana is the “Girl Friday” for a top investigator in 1950 New York when the investigator goes missing at the start of a new case, and she finds a dead body in their office. When the police decide the investigator must be the killer, Viviana will start her own investigation. This is on my library list.
Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are (Hardcover) – The latest from Lysa TerKeurst looks at boundaries.

 

REVIEW: Diana and the Island of No Return by Aisha Saeed

REVIEW: Diana and the Island of No Return by Aisha Saeed

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Random House Books for Young Readers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Diana has been looking forward to an event where women leaders from around the world travel to Themyscira to share art and wisdom and weaponry with one another. It’s the one time Diana’s best friend, Princess Sakina, comes to visit. They get to spend one thrilling week together exploring the festival.

But instead of getting a week with her best friend, Diana finds a boy on the island – something that is NOT allowed. Augustus manipulates Diana into trusting him while he lies to her about Sakina’s family. But the truth is even worse. He’s been sent to the island by a demon who holds all of Augustus’ people hostage. Either Augustus brings Diana back, or all of his people die.

Diana and Sakina are on their own to decide how to deal with the threat as all of the woman on the island are in an enchanted sleep. What can three pre-teens do against a deadly demon?

Review

Young Wonder Woman is getting a lot of attention lately in the world of books. Young readers will be fascinated by Diana before she gains and understands her full powers. The various books that have come out lately – Diana, Princess of the Amazons; Wonder Woman Warbringer; and the many iterations of the DC Super Hero Girls – don’t seem to be connected to one another, but they all explore this idea of a young Diana figuring out who she is. (This is NOT a graphic novel, but a traditional middle grade novel.)

I enjoyed the team up with Sakina in this book. Sakina had the background knowledge they needed while Diana had the tactical knowledge, physical skills, and determination. The story is very suspenseful. There’s one challenge after another after another, even before they confront the demon. It made for a stressful yet compelling reading experience. I think kids will love it!

My review copy included a two chapter teaser for book 2 – Diana and the Underworld Odyssey. I was hooked after those two chapters and now I have to read the sequel! Hand this to Rick Riordan/mythology fans because I think the challenges here will appeal to them. Wonder Woman fans shouldn’t miss this one either!

Rating: ♥♥♥♥

REVIEW: Shadow of the Batgirl by Sarah Kuhn

REVIEW: Shadow of the Batgirl by Sarah Kuhn

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and DC Entertainment in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Cassandra Cain was a trained assassin with no friends, no language and many questions about her past.

When her latest target pleads for his daughter, the word catches Cassandra’s attention and she runs. She finds refuge in a noodle shop and then at the library.

A red-headed young woman in a wheelchair named Barbara leads sessions at the library with some kids, talking about Batgirl and what she meant to the city. Her stories grab Cassandra’s attention. As her literacy skills grow, she starts to seek out the woman’s lessons, reading what she can from articles about Batgirl. She also starts to see her early life in a whole new light. The question is what does she do with this new insight – and her shame over the things she has done?

Review

This was fantastic!! The art style isn’t my favorite – it’s beautiful, but not a style that I gravitate towards – which distracted me at first. But I was obsessed with watching this furtive, skittish girl warm up to the two women in this story who could help her so much if she gave them a chance. And of course I loved the library setting for this!

I did some research on the history of Cassandra Cain in DC Comics. (I’m more familiar with the Barbara Gordon version of the character of Batgirl.) I like the choices made in this with her language development and the relationship with Barbara and Jackie. The developing friendship between the three of them was one of my favorite parts of the story.

There’s a small romantic storyline in this and tons of identity exploration. Who is Barbara now if she is not Batgirl? What is Erick going to choose for his life – will he be the man he wants to be or the one his parents expect him to become? Can Cassandra choose to be something other than the assassin she was created to be? I was here for every one of those questions. It was all amazing.

DC continues to impress me with their non-comic graphic novels for kids and teens. You can read my thoughts about the DC book universe here. You can also read some of my recent DC reviews – Black Canary Ignite, Diana Princess of the Amazons, Teen Titans: Raven, Wonder Woman Warbringer, Mera:Tidebreaker. And there will be more this spring – I can’t wait to tell you about them! But this one just might be my favorite of all of them. I hope you will check it out! (Some language)

DC Entertainment graciously shared some of the interior art work with me so I could show you what’s in store for you with this terrific story!

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

SATURDAY SMORGASBORD: Books from Marvel Publishing

SATURDAY SMORGASBORD: Books from Marvel Publishing

Posted on by Jaymie

Last month we looked at books from DC Comics and DC Publishing. This month I want to do the same for Marvel. I don’t get the same feel from the Marvel collection as I do from DC. Surprisingly, I prefer DC’s books to Marvel’s, which is the opposite of how I feel about their movies. Let’s take a look at what Marvel has for us in the world of publishing (not including graphic novel collections of comic books).

Board Books/Picture Books

Marvel Alpha Block is an alphabet board book with die cut pages. As the Marvel movies have exploded in popularity, Marvel has published a number of picture books, including Little Golden Books for most of the main characters. Baby Groot makes a great character for picture books. I especially loved Spider-Man Swings Through Europe which debuted this summer as the latest Spider-Man movie was released. (Rating: ♥♥♥♥ ) There are also inspirational books and collections that show multiple characters and tells readers about them.

Leveled Readers and Early Chapter Books

Most of the Marvel movies have released along side leveled readers for kids. There’s usually a “Meet the Team” title that introduces the characters as well as some that include adventures based on the movies. There have also been some early chapter books like these from the Super Hero Adventures line. I couldn’t find any recent releases in these categories.

Middle Grade Novels

Marvel usually publishes a “Junior Novel” for all of the movies (like the one for Thor Ragnarok pictured above – I couldn’t find one for Spider-Man Far From Home). These usually mirror the beginnings of the movies, but stop before giving the whole movie plot away. They have also published novelizations of the movies. You can now get the whole “First Ten Years” collection in a box set. Otherwise, their middle grade books play close to the movies but usually more by filling-in-backstory or with a sideways shift.

In Black Panther: Young Prince, we get a childhood story for T’Challa. (♥♥♥♥) In the Cosmic Quest duology, the Collector and the Grand Master square off in a bit of sibling rivalry as they also retell the stories of the Infinity Stones. Peter and Ned’s Ultimate Travel Journal is styled like a pass-around journal for the characters from Spider-Man Far from Home. The Pirate Angel, the Talking Tree, and Captain Rabbit stars Thor, Groot and Rocket as they head to Nidavellir in Endgame, and Groot reads Rocket’s journal about a previous adventure. Marvel released two Unbeatable Squirrel Girl books in 2017 and 2018. You can read my review of Squirrel Meets World here. (♥♥♥♥♥) Starforce on the Rise tells the story of Captain Marvel when she was fighting with the Kree in Starforce before her adventures in the 2019 movie.

 

Teen and Young Adult Novels

While DC has been actively cultivating their Teen/YA market, Marvel hasn’t done as well there. There were two books in the Black Widow series (published in 2015 and 2016). I enjoyed the first one, Forever Red (♥♥♥♥), but didn’t read the second. Higher, Further, Faster tells the story of Carol Danvers before she ever meets the Kree. (♥♥♥♥½) The Gauntlet is an Iron Man story from 2016 for the middle grade/middle school crowd that seems to stand in a timeline outside the MCU. (♥♥♥½) Loki: Where Mischief Lies just released this fall. You can read my full review here. (♥♥♥½). Jason Reynolds gave us a Miles Morales story before the animated Into the Spiderverse released last year to critical acclaim. You can read my review here. (♥♥♥♥) Thanos: Titan Consumed is an original novel telling the origin story of Thanos.

Adult Novels and Other Books

Marvel has done a far better job than DC on novels for adults. They have a line of novelizations of some of their top comic/graphic novel story lines that are a lot of fun for prose readers. Avengers: Everybody Wants to Rule the World is a novel about many Marvel characters but doesn’t tie specifically into the MCU or a specific comic book series. Avengers: Infinty is a Thanos story, but separate from the one in the MCU.  Captain Marvel: Liberation Run is an original Marvel story starring Captain Marvel. Civil War is a novelization of the comic series as is Planet Hulk. You can read my Planet Hulk review here. (♥♥♥♥♥) Spider-Man Hostile Takeover is actually a prequel to the Spider-Man PS4 game. Thanos: Death Sentence is an original Marvel novel. X-Men: The Dark Phoenix Saga is a novelization of the comics storyline. Marvel also does a fantastic job with their Art of books for each movie in the MCU.

Coming Soon from Marvel

While DC has been shouting from the rooftops about their publishing plans for kids and teens for the next year, Marvel has a much quieter list. These are the ones I was able to find. Black Widow gets to star in a Little Golden Book. (January 2020) Captain Marvel will star in a Flerken story for middle grade readers. (March 2020) Shuri will kick off an upper middle grade series (May 2020). The as-yet untitled Unstoppable Wasp book for teens (staring Nadia Van Dyne from the Unstoppable Wasp comic series) will release in May as well. And I found reference to a book called Orientation which will be the first in an illustrated middle grade series called Avengers Assembly, which is currently scheduled to release in August of 2020.