The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman written by Gennifer Choldenko, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Hank Hooperman, an eleven-year-old boy, faces a heart-wrenching challenge when his mother goes missing (as in walks away from her kids and apartment). Left to care for his three-year-old sister, Boo, Hank struggles to provide for them as their food supply dwindles and eviction looms. With no other options, he reaches out to Lou Ann, an old friend of his deceased grandmother, who reluctantly takes them in. As they navigate their new reality, Hank grapples with feelings of abandonment, fear, and the desire to protect Boo at all costs. He must confront the difficult truths about his mother’s past while forming new friendships and adjusting to a new school. Through Hank's eyes, readers explore the complexities of family dynamics, the impact of parental absence, and the importance of community support. Choldenko crafts a narrative that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, illustrating how resilience can emerge even in the darkest circumstances. As Hank learns to trust those around him, he discovers that asking for help can lead to transformative experiences. The bond between Hank and Boo is particularly poignant, showcasing the deep love and responsibility that exists between siblings. This moving tale ultimately highlights the power of second chances and the strength found in unexpected relationships. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: School librarians can create themed reading programs centered around family dynamics, resilience, and the importance of community. Engaging students in discussions about the characters' challenges can foster empathy and understanding of complex social issues such as homelessness, mental health, and the foster care system. Librarians might host book clubs or reading circles, encouraging students to share their thoughts and feelings about Hank's experiences. Additionally, they can develop creative projects, such as character diaries or alternative endings, allowing students to explore different perspectives and outcomes. As an adult, this was a fairly quick read, but very emotional.  As a mother, it is hard for me to imagine the circumstances one would leave their children to fend for themselves.  I think this book delves into tragic circumstances, but I think that a takeaway can certainly be about the love of family, found family and the friendships that are important to the human experience.  While this book does not address the details of addiction, I think that there is enough for middle grade readers to understand the complexity of the disease. Highly recommended for school and classroom libraries.

The Myth of Monsters: #1 Medusa written by Katherine Marsh, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Medusa, a reintrepertation of Greek mythology by Katherine Marsh. The story follows Ava Baldwin, a girl attending a boarding school, Accademia del Forte, in Venice, designed for the descendants of Greek monsters. Ava has always tried to manage her emotions, but an incident with her classmate Owen King leads to her being sent to the mysterious school where she uncovers a dangerous secret that could alter their understanding of history and mythology. As Ava and her brother, Jax, navigate their new environment, they learn about their heritage and the importance of controlling their powers. The plot is filled with twists and turns, making it an engaging read for middle-grade students. I think some if a reader has more background of Greek mythology, some things will make more sense.  The book provides a strong emphasis on friendship and the empowerment of young girls, appealing to those seeking relatable and inspiring stories. With its imaginative concept and captivating twists, Medusa is a thrilling read that encourages young readers to explore their identities and the power of community. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Though Medusa promises an exciting adventure, some readers may find its overt feminist themes and messages distracting from the story.  I originally thought it would be great for Percy Jackson fans, but I think it is definitely geared more towards girls.  This book serves as a great entry point for students to explore ancient myths while connecting them to contemporary issues of identity and empowerment. Librarians can create reading lists that include other mythological retellings, facilitating comparisons and deeper understanding. Additionally, hosting book clubs or storytelling sessions around Medusa can spark discussions about character motivations and the significance of emotions in personal growth. The theme of women being oppressed by the male gods is pretty forceful.  Some reviewers are loving the flipped script and some think it went too far.  I enjoyed it and would read the rest of the series.  It's unique in that more of the spotlight is on the "monsters" in Greek mythology than on the major Gods and Goddesses.  I like the fantasy of going to a private boarding school in Venice.

The First State of Being written by Erin Entrada Kelly, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Twelve-year-old Michael Rosario experiences a life-altering encounter when he meets Ridge, a mysterious boy from the future. Set in August 1999, Michael navigates the anxieties of impending Y2K and his infatuation with his babysitter, Gibby. His ordinary life takes a thrilling turn when Ridge, who claims to be the world’s first time traveler, appears. Ridge's carefree and bold demeanor contrasts sharply with Michael's insecurities, and he quickly becomes fascinated by Ridge’s knowledge of the future. As Ridge explores the wonders of 1999—microwaves, basketballs, and malls—Michael's curiosity intensifies when he learns that Ridge possesses a book detailing the future. This revelation ignites a fierce desire in Michael to obtain the book, believing it will prepare him for the future. Throughout this journey, Michael learns valuable lessons about living in the moment, the importance of relationships, and the weight of his fears, the love of his family and friendships. The story eloquently captures the essence of childhood wonder and the complexities of growing up, reminding readers to embrace the present. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Librarians can utilize "The First State of Being" in various educational contexts. First, it provides an excellent opportunity to engage students in discussions about the themes of time travel, the importance of living in the present, and the impact of technology on society. Librarians can organize book clubs or reading sessions where students can share their thoughts on Michael's character development and Ridge's influence on his perspective. Additionally, this book serves as a springboard for interdisciplinary activities. Librarians can collaborate with teachers to create lessons that explore the historical context of the late 1990s, including discussions about Y2K and its societal implications. Students could research the cultural phenomena of that era, such as music, fashion, and technology, allowing them to connect literature with real-world events. Overall, this book can enrich library programs by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a love for reading in young learners.  I really enjoyed the book.  While the target audience will not remember 1999.  Any adults reading it will remember and anxiety surrounding Y2K.  A great addition to a middle grade school or classroom library.

Above the Black: #1 Sky's End written by Marc J. Gregson, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Sky's End by Marc J Gregson is making a big impression on the book buzz world and awards chatter. This book plunges readers into a gripping world of competition, revenge, and survival. In this fast-paced narrative, we follow sixteen-year-old Conrad, an exiled youth living under the oppressive Meritocracy. Refusing to become the heir to his uncle, who has a notorious reputation for murder, Conrad's life takes a tragic turn when colossal sky serpents invade Holmstead, devouring his ailing mother. In a desperate bid to save his sister, he enters the Selection of the Twelve Trades. Conrad's journey leads him into Hunter, the most dangerous trade, where he faces rigorous training and the brutal Gauntlet, all while grappling with manipulative peers and the haunting memories of his past. As he navigates through this dystopian landscape filled with political intrigue and social commentary, Conrad uncovers whispers of rebellion and the harsh realities of his world. While the book offers a riveting adventure reminiscent of Enders Game, it presents a critique of societal hierarchies and the struggles of the underprivileged. The characters, however, have received mixed reviews; some readers feel they lack depth and complexity. Despite this, Conrad emerges as a relatable protagonist, showcasing growth amidst adversity. The action-packed sequences, combined with a unique blend of fantastical and scientific elements, create a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Sky's End is a captivating start to the Above the Black trilogy, making it a perfect addition to any young adult library collection. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Sky's End offers opportunities for discussions on themes such as revenge, resilience, and social inequality, prompting students to reflect on the societal structures within their own lives. Additionally, the book can serve as a springboard for exploring genres like dystopian fiction and fantasy, encouraging students to engage with similar titles and analyze their narrative structures and themes. Librarians can organize book clubs or reading groups, utilizing Sky's End to promote critical thinking and collaborative discussions among students. This book can also inspire creative writing projects, where students can develop their own characters and worlds, fostering their imagination and storytelling skills. There are some violent scenes in this book, but not unusual for dystopian books with aggressive dragon-like creatures.  I like the emphasis on the loyalty and love to family.  It has good examples of the bonds of friendship and how it can be strenghtened through a shared experience (like a quest). A great addition to a high school library collection.

Cancelled written by Farrah Penn reviewed by Klaudia Janek

This book is a witty and fearless exploration of high school culture, with humor and commentary on misogyny and social dynamics. The story follows Brynn Whittaker, a high-achieving senior who seems to have it all—good looks, excellent grades, and a successful side hustle as a "flirt coach." She is a scholarship student at an expensive private school. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when a viral video mistakenly implicates her in a scandal involving her ex-best friend's boyfriend, thrusting her into a school-wide scandal. As Brynn navigates the fallout, she faces the harsh realities of cyberbullying, slut-shaming, and the unfair double standards of how girls are treated compared to boys. Rallying her friends, including Cadence, a teen mom, Brynn ignites a #femolution to challenge the misogynistic culture at their school. 

There are themes of the struggles of adolescence but also emphasizes the power of friendship and resilience. I think it can be a platform for discussions on critical social issues such as bullying, cyber-bulling, misogyny, and the impact of social media. I do think being "cancelled" is a theme worth exploring and there are definitely socio-economic inequalities and having to grow up too fast.  Brynn deals with an alcolohic brother, which adds another layer to her already complicated life.  I think this book is engaging, fast paced and focuses on love within family, friendships and relationships.  As I was reading this through an adult lens, I kept thinking that the author tried to include ALL the diversity.  It's almost too much to keep up with (maybe it's a publishing expectation?).  I think the focus on girl power will make the book appeal to a mostly female audience.  I think it has a place for older high school readers and can be a good purchase for a school or classroom library.

Akim Aliu: Dreamer written by Akim Aliu and Greg Anderson Elysée illustrated by Karen De La Vega, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary:"Dreamer" is a poignant graphic memoir by Akim Aliu that offers an honest portrayal of systemic racism within the world of hockey. Raised in Ukraine by a white mother and a Nigerian father, Akim experiences the challenges of cultural identity and racial discrimination from an early age. When he moved to Nigeria, he also faced discrimination along with his mother. His first language is Russian. Akim's parents decide that the best opportunity for their two children will be in Canada. There Akim discovers his passion for hockey, but his journey is marred by hazing, racism, and bullying throughout his career. Despite these obstacles, Akim's talent leads him to be drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks, and he eventually co-founds the Hockey Diversity Alliance in 2020. This graphic novel is not only a personal narrative but also a call to action, urging readers to acknowledge and combat racism in sports and society. The book effectively exposes the harsh realities of the hockey world and the difficulty of racially mixed marriages both in the Ukraine and in Nigeria.  The artwork is expressive, sporty and the narrative voice shifts a few times. So, it has some literary and artistic elements to analyze. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book is an essential read for ages 13 and up, providing valuable insights into the experiences of Black athletes and the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion in sports. The graphic novel's engaging visual storytelling can attract reluctant readers, making it an excellent addition to book clubs or reading circles. A guided reading session could analyze themes of racism, resilience, and the importance of representation, encouraging students to share their thoughts and experiences related to these issues. Additionally, the book can be paired with social studies lessons on immigration, cultural identity, and the history of sports in Canada. Activities could include research projects on the Hockey Diversity Alliance and its impact on the sport, as well as creative writing assignments where students reflect on their own dreams and challenges. After I finished reading the book, I had to look up the news stories about the people mentioned to see a more detailed account of how things went down.  The moments of joy are found in the friends and families that took Akim in while he was playing travel hockey and lifted him up.  The love of Aliu's parents and brother really stand out. The brutality that Steve Downie and Coach Bill Peters unleashed on Akim really calls them out for what they did to a fellow human being.  There is partial justice in getting this story out into the world.  But also sadness for a hockey career cut short because of the abuse of power by a few people at the top of an organization.  This book is also particularly timely because of the conflict in Ukraine.  This story will show a bit of history as to what it was like to live there in the 1980s.  This book will keep you thinking long after you finish reading it.  Powerful and highly recommended for any middle/high school library.

Link to news article

Impossible Creatures #1: Impossible Creatures written by Katherine Rundell, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In "Impossible Creatures," Christopher rescues a drowning baby griffin, an act that leads him to the Archipelago, a hidden realm filled with magical beings. There, he meets Mal, a scrappy orphan in desperate need of help. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure across various islands, uncovering the mystery of the fading magic and the dying creatures. Their quest involves consulting sphinxes, battling kraken, and negotiating with dragons, leading them to realize that saving the Archipelago is their  responsibility. The narrative weaves together themes of sacrifice, loss, and resilience, as Christopher and Mal confront the harsh realities of their world. With engaging characters, the story highlights the power of friendship and courage in the face of adversity. Katherine Rundell's lyrical writing style transports readers to a fantastical world reminiscent of the classics, while also addressing complex themes that resonate with young readers. "Impossible Creatures" is a tale of adventure, heart, and the importance of standing up for what is right. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  I loved how this story promoted themes of friendship, bravery, and environmental stewardship. Librarians can host thematic reading groups where students discuss the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, fostering critical thinking and empathy. The book can also be paired with lessons on mythology, allowing students to explore the various magical creatures within the story. Or recommended to mythology buffs. This book has won numerous awards that are well deserved.  Some negative reviews seem to forget that this is a fantasy book with world building that is intended for middle grade readers.  It might be the first fantasy or magical realism book for many readers. While the story does not center on religious narratives, it does encourage reflections on courage, ethics, and the interconnectedness of all living beings, which are concepts that can align with various spiritual beliefs.  I also love how the theme of love and joy was woven throughout the story.  The love the characters had between themselves and the love of the world the various creatures had.  The quest, the adventure and the relationships stand out in this story.  I would recommend reading the physical book as I read the ebook and feel like I missed out on the maps and the illustrations throughout the pages.  I think this is a great addition to your school library.  Highly recommended!

The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science written by Kate McKinnon, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This funny and whimsical adventure follows three sisters—Gertrude, Eugenia, and Dee-Dee Porch—who feel out of place in their snooty town of Antiquarium, where strict etiquette rules reign. After being expelled from multiple etiquette schools, the sisters receive an unexpected invitation to study under the notorious mad scientist Millicent Quibb. At 231 Mysterium Way, the girls encounter a world filled with bizarre delights, such as pizza that can be fatal and a bus powered by gerbils. As they learn the ropes of mad science, they discover their unique talents and the importance of embracing their differences. When a sinister group of mad scientists threatens their town, the Porch sisters must band together and use their newfound skills to save the day. This story is filled with humor, eccentric characters, the love of sisters, and a message of belonging, making it an engaging read for young audiences. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: As an adult, I loved this book!  It was laugh out loud funny.  There are a lot of words that will increase the vocabulary of anyone who reads it. One of my favorite parts what that Kate McKinnon was writting the book as Edwina Candlestank!  The thrid sentence in the book was "Man, do I hate the viola."  As a viola player, I took offence and laughed at the same time.  A lot of the names integrated funny takes on the German, French and Dutch languages.  There are elements of magical realism and adventure in this book. The dialogue is just funny and you can see a lot of the authors humor coming out.  This book can be paired with lessons on individuality, acceptance, and the importance of science in everyday life. Librarians can host book clubs where students explore themes of belonging and courage, encouraging them to share personal experiences related to feeling different or misunderstood. Additionally, hands-on science experiments inspired by the mad science elements in the book can be introduced to make learning interactive and fun. The illustrations and humor in the book also lend themselves well to art projects, where students can create their own quirky characters or scenes from the story. By creating a multi-faceted approach, librarians can enhance students' reading experiences while fostering a love for literature and science.  It is definitely geared towards middle school students, but I can see a lot of other readers enjoying it.  I also LOVED that the book was set up like an old Victorian era book: they typography, the hardcover and the deckled edges.  Super fun and highly recommended for a school library.

Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Infographics written by Steve Jenkins, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Animals by the Numbers: A Book on Animal Infographics" by Steve Jenkins is an engaging illustrated nonfiction book that combines captivating visuals with fascinating zoological facts. The book explores numerous questions about animals, such as their species diversity, collective weight, and travel distances. Using his distinctive cut-paper illustrations and computer graphics, Jenkins presents an array of statistical data in an accessible format, making complex information easy to understand for older children. The book covers various aspects of animal life, including weight comparisons, speed, extinction rates, and migration distances, illustrating the significance of numbers in understanding biology and zoology. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is a great non-fiction book. This exposure encourages independent reading and enhances students' comfort with diverse texts. Additionally, librarians can collaborate with teachers to use the book as a reference for animal research projects. Students can select an animal to study and present their findings using data and infographics similar to those in Jenkins' book. This approach not only enriches their research skills but also incorporates math and science concepts through graphical representation. By providing students with engaging resources like this book, librarians can foster a deeper interest in animals and data interpretation while supporting interdisciplinary learning.

Crimebiters! #2: It's a Doggy Dog World written by Tommy Greenwald illustrated by Adam Stower, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Jimmy loves his dog, Abby, despite the damage she does to his Mom's shoes and his family's yard. His Mom and Dad tell him he must take her to obedience school. Jimmy agrees only to save her from being returned to the shelter where they got her. The lead of the class is from the dog shelter and he has goals of tricks and commands for this course. Abby takes a liking to a St. Bernard in the class as they are both rambunctious and silly. Jimmy is frustrated by the changes he sees in Abby after a short time and worries her crime solving skills will be lost as she appears more docile and calm. The obedience class is not the only thing distracting Jimmy. His friend in his group (who was not a friend in the last book) plays lacrosse and convinces Jimmy to join the team. Surprisingly Jimmy is a good goalie and begins to have conflicts with his group over time spent at practice and games. When Jimmy approaches the club members about the weird accidents at his lacrosse practices and games, the group bands together to solve yet another mystery. This story is definitely relationship driven and the characters are believable throughout the book. I found myself laughing and connected to the characters and loved the way Greenwald closes with an Epilogue for the characters. I believe my students will appreciate that as well. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: If your school does mystery studies, this is a nice addition. My district has many schools with school dogs and they have requested more books with dogs as characters. This is as much a book about getting along with others in life as about the mysteries Abby and her owner, Jimmy Bishop, have solved with his friends in the group they named Crime Biters! I will add this series to the elementary schools in my district.

Spirit Animals: Fall of the Beasts #4: The Burning Tide written by Jonathan Auxier, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: The wyrm that has been dormant under Erdas is awakening and the kids, Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan, our heroes from different places, are trying to find a way to stop it. Alliances must be made to save the world as they know it and stop the Wyrm that has control over so many as it awakens. The Wyrm has separated some from their Spirit Animals and it is hard to determine how to trust. From separate parts of this world the heroes must work to solve a puzzle that may allow them to save the world and all that are controlled by this Wyrm. This adventure is as intriguing as the danger is ominous. These characters will hang in your head for a long time! Recommended to those who like complex adventurous fantasy plot lines. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This 4th book in the series is easy to hop into even if the series is read out of order. (I have not read all of the series, but did read book 1 a few years ago.) This book is fine in an elementary school, but also great for middle schools. I remember when these came out at our Scholastic Book Fairs. The game was as popular as the books. I see Erin Hunter's Warriors fans loving this series as well.

Slacker #2: Level 13 written by Gordon Korman reviewed by Amanda Davies

Summary: Cameron Boxer has decided to take his love of video games into the streaming world. When Cameron discovers that the local beaver loves watching him play, his stream takes off. Cam's obsession with streaming causes complications with his friends and classmates, though. Will Cameron be able to maintain his friendships, the Positive Action Group he founded, and the video game stream? 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Gordan Korman's books are super appealing, especially for middle school boys looking for humor and somewhat ridiculous situations. Librarians looking to expand their humor sections should buy most of what Gordan Korman writes, and the Slacker books (this one and the first one, Slacker) are no exception. While it's the second book in the Slacker series, it can also stand alone without prior context.

Coyote Sunrise #2 Coyote Lost and Found written by Dan Gemeinhart reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This book is a standalone companion to the beloved "The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise." This heartfelt story follows Coyote and her father, Rodeo, as they embark on a cross-country road trip to fulfill an important promise. After nearly a year of settling into a small Oregon town and coping with the loss of Coyote's mother and sisters, Coyote discovers a box containing her mother's ashes, which spurs her to find her mother’s chosen resting place. The challenge? The location is hidden in a book that Coyote accidentally sold. With her father unaware of the book's loss, Coyote sets out on an adventure filled with nostalgia, friendships, and self-discovery. Along the way, they reconnect with familiar faces and meet new friends, all while navigating the complexities of grief and healing. "Coyote Lost and Found" is a story about love, loss, and the importance of family connections, leaving readers with a sense of hope and joy. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I have to say that I really enjoyed this book.  The characters are lovably weird, but they make it a point to live radiating kindness.  Every reader who remembers schools shutting down before break for COVID, might twitch a little at the memory. The excitement of getting an extra two weeks of break, to an unrecognizable, shut down world that lasted a lot longer than it should have. There are themes of grief, family, and friendship. There was a lot of love shared between Coyote and her dad and then also between friends. The book can serve as a springboard for discussions about loss, coping mechanisms, and the significance of cherished memories. Librarians can create reading circles where students share their thoughts and feelings about the characters' journeys, fostering empathy and understanding. Additionally, activities such as art projects inspired by the narrative or reflective writing assignments can help students express their interpretations of the story. Hosting book clubs or author study sessions can further deepen students' engagement. By connecting the book's themes to relevant subjects like social-emotional learning and literature, librarians can enhance students' understanding and appreciation of the narrative while promoting a supportive school environment.