The League of Dangerous Young Ladies written by J.A. Morgenstein and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: The League of Dangerous Young Ladies by J. A. Morgenstein is a thrilling YA fantasy adventure that blends mystery, supernatural elements, and found family themes. Set in 1909, the story follows Rose Moriarty, the teenage daughter of Sherlock Holmes' greatest enemy, who leads a group of exceptional young women—each descended from famous literary villains. When Rose learns that her beloved headmistress is dying, she reunites with her found family to embark on a dangerous adventure. Alongside the mysterious Count Christoph, his ward Clara, and other allies, Rose must solve multiple mysteries, hunt supernatural threats, and navigate her complicated past. The novel weaves together elements of classic literature with modern storytelling, featuring witty banter, high-stakes heists, emotional depth, and surprising plot twists. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: YA readers will enjoy this book for several reasons. The protagonist, Rose Moriarty, is a smart, capable female lead who earns respect through determination rather than being handed authority, a journey that resonates with teen readers navigating their own paths. The cast of diverse, lovable characters forms a found family dynamic that feels authentic and heartwarming, with each girl bringing unique abilities and personalities that complement one another. The clever literary references and name-dropping of iconic characters from classic literature (Sherlock Holmes, Dracula, Frankenstein, Dr. Moreau) create a delightful Easter egg hunt for readers familiar with these works, while remaining accessible to those encountering them for the first time. The fast-paced, engaging plot balances humor with genuine emotional stakes; grief, trauma, and loss are handled with maturity and sensitivity. Romance elements are present but not overwhelming, allowing the focus to remain on friendship and adventure. This book is an excellent addition to high school library collections and can be used for independent reading, paired with classic literature units (Sherlock Holmes, Frankenstein, Dracula) to introduce students to how contemporary authors reimagine and reinterpret canonical works. It could also be a good book club choice. The character development, themes of legacy and agency, and plot twists provide  discussion opportunities. I enjoyed this book and found myself saying "what is happening?" a few times.  The bug men are wild, but they somehow work.  I was not expecting the twist at the ending.  Mind blown.  This book crosses a lot of genres and is a fun read from a debut author.  I should also add that I really liked the cover.  It definitely drew me in.

Flirting with Murder written by Amanda Sellet and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Flirting with Murder is a unique YA mystery-romance that blends amateur sleuthing with romantic tension. High school junior Virginia Tillis spends her summer at her grandmother's quirky Florida condo, Castle Claude, where a group of retired theater actors stage elaborate murder mystery games called "Killing Me Softly." When a real death disrupts their community and a body is discovered, Virginia teams up with Felix, grandson to one of the other condo residents, to solve the mystery. As they investigate, their competitive banter evolves into genuine chemistry. The story balances humor, heart, and intrigue, featuring witty dialogue, endearing secondary characters, and a unique setting that grounds the mystery in warmth and personality. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  Readers will connect with the authentic romantic tension between Virginia and Felix, whose banter captures the awkwardness and humor of first crushes. The story explores relatable teen themes, navigating family dynamics, aging grandparents, and fitting in, all while celebrating intergenerational friendships. The premise is genuinely fun: a retirement community that stages murder mysteries provides endless humor and personality. Virginia's voice is playful and self-aware, making readers feel like they're in on the joke. The mystery keeps pages turning without requiring dark or complex plotting, making it perfect for readers who enjoy lighter, character-driven stories over high-stakes suspense. This title could work well for reluctant readers and those bridging juvenile and adult fiction, offering an accessible entry point into mystery and romance genres. It pairs naturally with Thursday Murder Club for book clubs or genre studies. It is appropriate for diverse age groups within a high school setting. Librarians can recommend it to students seeking cozy mysteries, romantic comedies, or stories celebrating found family and community. Its humor and charm make it an excellent choice for summer reading programs and for promoting genre diversity in YA fiction.

Fancy Dogs written and illustrated by Tini Malina and translated by Tammi Reichel, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

 

Summary: Fancy Dogs is a fun and funny rhyming picture book celebrating dogs in all their glory—fancy and silly alike. The striking (mostly) three-color illustrations are beautifully stylized and reinforce the playful text, captivating young readers with a retro vibe.  The story starts by showing and writing how the main character dog is fancy.  Then it goes on to show how the dog still has to be an everyday dog.  

Straight Talk for Librarians: In the classroom, teachers can use it to explore IB PYP themes of identity and community, discussing how we appreciate others despite their quirks. The rich vocabulary—including words like taboo, gnaw, and prance—sparks meaningful language conversations. With its perfect blend of visual appeal, clever rhyming structure, and sophisticated word choices, Fancy Dogs will make for a good read aloud.This German translation deserves a place in elementary school libraries for its engaging rhythm, perfect for echo reading and early literacy development. It also made my 11 year old laugh out loud at a few page spreads, so it might even be a hit with slightly older readers.

Thanks to NetGalley, NorthSouth books for an ARC of this book.  It will be available for purchase on October 6, 2026.

Dinosaurs Roar: Lift-the-Flap and Discover written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins reviewed by Klaudia Janek

 

Summary: Chomp into Steve Jenkins’s lively board book: bright cut-paper illustrations, bold action verbs, lift-the-flaps, and simple nonfiction facts introduce toddlers to dinosaurs and their lives long ago in an engaging, sturdy format. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book fits well in an elementary library program as a hands-on read-aloud for preschool and primary classes, supporting storytime, dinosaur-themed units, and early nonfiction skills; keep near picture-book displays and pair with related nonfiction titles.

Use this book as an inquiry starter for early PYP units on sharing the planet or how things change. Its vivid images and lift-the-flaps invite wonder and provocation: ask “What do we notice?” and “How do we find out more?” Use it during transdisciplinary read-alouds to model stakeholder voices (curiosity of young learners), and to spark formative questions for research lines (e.g., How do scientists learn about the past?). A dinosaur lover will enjoy this book because its bright, realistic cut-paper illustrations bring each species to life, the bold action words invite roaring and movement.  Fun times for all ages!

Lizzy Longlegs written by Kai Lüftner, translated by Tim Mohr and illustrated by Wiebke Rauers, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Lizzy Longlegs comes from a stern musical family that insists on playing every note the same way, without smiles or dancing. Lizzy, a punk-spirited little spider, longs to feel music in her body and to improvise and move. Tired of rote performances, she secretly organizes a lively music festival that fills her family home with diverse instruments, dancing, and joy. At first her relatives are shocked, but the contagious energy of the festival opens their hearts. By the end they loosen up and discover that music can be both precise and full of feeling. The story, told in playful rhyming verse and quirky illustrations, celebrates individuality, creativity, and the many ways people can experience music. 

I loved this book as a reader and a musician! Lizzy’s yearning to improvise and to feel the beat resonates with anyone who’s wanted to move beyond strict interpretation. The festival scene captures the transformative power of communal music-making and shows how diverse musical approaches can coexist and enrich one another. In a school library setting this book supports IB PYP transdisciplinary inquiry by connecting who we are (identity, creativity), how we express ourselves (arts), and how we organize ourselves (community events). It prompts open-ended questions and opportunities for student-led investigations into cultural music practices, improvisation, and performance etiquette. Music teachers can use the book to launch units on improvisation and listening by comparing strict vs. expressive performances. They can facilitate ensemble activities where students experiment with style, tempo, and movement. All teachers can encourage interdisciplinary projects—designing a class “music festival” that integrates art, language, and social studies. Promote social-emotional learning: empathy, respect for different musical tastes, and collaboration. The illustrations blend vintage, Regency-inspired settings with a playful punk aesthetic, using bold colors and quirky details that give each insect character clear personality. The lively, textured artwork enhances the book’s humor and emotional beats, inviting readers to linger on expressive faces and inventive costume choices.  I think most readers will enjoy this book!  A great choice for any library serving elementary aged readers.

Mayhem at the Museum written and illustrated by Hannah Brückner translated by Laura Watkinson and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: During a museum visit, Yuri is startled by a parakeet and accidentally knocks down a giant dinosaur skeleton. At first Yuri feels humiliated and sure the damage is a catastrophe. He calms himself by taking deep breaths and then asks for help. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds—children, adults, tall, short, and people with different abilities—come together to sort the bones, follow a careful plan, and rebuild the dinosaur. The community’s teamwork turns embarrassment into a surprising, magnificent result that delights everyone. It has a beautiful 4 page pull out spread of the completed dinosaur.

Straight Talk for Librarians: Children should read this book because it models healthy emotional regulation and the power of asking for help. Yuri’s simple strategy—pause, breathe, and seek support—shows kids a practical way to manage fear and shame. I like that some of the rhymes were able to stay in the translation.  The playful language and detailed illustrations invite close looking, build observational skills, and spark curiosity about museums and science. In a school library, this book supports social-emotional learning and cooperative play. It pairs well with a display on community helpers or museum visits and can prompt group activities where students practice calm breathing and collaborative problem-solving. Yuri feels what he did was a major life catastrophe, but after a while the author reassures the reader that the catastrophe was not as bad as it first seemed. The book aligns well with the IB Learner Profile trait “Communicator,” as characters share ideas, listen, and work together to rebuild what was broken.  It's a lovely book for any school or public library.  Perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts!  Highly Recommended.

Winterborne Home for Mayhem and Mystery written by Ally Carter and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: April is back with her four fellow orphans—Sadie, Violet, Colin, and Tim.  It's a few weeks after the first book and they are living at the sprawling Winterborne House under the care of reclusive billionaire Gabriel Winterborne. Secretly, Gabriel is the Sentinel, a sword-wielding vigilante whose hidden chamber and legacy of crime-fighting fascinate the children. When caretakers leave and a social worker arrives, supervision unravels; Gabriel’s sudden disappearance leaves the household vulnerable. A masked intruder in Sentinel costume attacks, secrets surface, and April leads the squad on a dangerous hunt to find Gabriel and protect their found family. Along the way, April confronts unsettling truths about her birth parents and wrestles with deep fears of abandonment. The group navigates break-ins, chases, injuries, and betrayals while piecing together decades-old mysteries tied to the Winterborne legacy. Tension escalates through twists, revelations, and emotional reckoning as April discovers that loyalty, chosen family, and courage may matter more than blood. Action-packed and emotionally charged, the sequel deepens character relationships while expanding the series’ mysteries.

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is a series where you definitely have to read the first book.  As soon as I finished the first one, I dove into this one.  There were so many twists and turns in this continuation, along with a few new characters.  The characters are quirky -- Gabriel's grumpiness will make readers laugh out loud.  There are quite a few dangerous situations, which will get your heart pumping.  The kids work to unravel the Winterborne family mystery.  April learns about her birth parents (crazy twists) and the bonds between this found family keeps growing.  It does not seem like there is a 3rd book in this series.  I think the ending is resolved, but with some possibility for a future book???

This title supports curricular and social-emotional goals: it encourages critical thinking (solving clues), ethical reflection (right vs. wrong in vigilantism), and empathy for children in care. Its accessible middle-grade voice and fast pacing engage reluctant readers and foster sustained reading stamina. The book connects to several IB Learner Profile attributes: Inquirers: characters investigate mysteries and ask questions. Thinkers: the children analyze clues and plan rescues. Caring: the found-family theme models compassion and responsibility for others.  I think it's a great choice for middle school library collections.  There are some content notes about themes of abandonment, injury and depictions of violence so we can guide some sensitive readers.  Overall, super fun!

Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor #1 written by Ally Carter and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Twelve-year-old April is a scrappy foster kid who was left as an infant with an ornate key and a promise her mother would return. When she recognizes the key’s crest at a new Winterborne family museum, her attempt to investigate starts a fire that lands her in the hospital—and ultimately at Winterborne House. There she joins four other parentless children: Violet, a shy artist; Tim, her protective foster brother with a troubled past; Sadie, an inventive genius; and Colin, a clever London-born con artist. The sprawling cliffside mansion once belonged to the Winterborne family; its missing heir, Gabriel, vanished a decade earlier after tragedy struck his household. As the children settle in, strange things happen: a masked Sentinel prowls the night, April’s key is stolen, and secret passages hide someone watching from the shadows. There are family secrets, a greedy uncle, and the fate of the estate hangs in the balance. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Fast-paced, page-turning mystery with short chapters and cliffhangers that engage both reluctant and avid readers. Features a diverse ensemble of resourceful kids—each with distinct skills and personalities—offering multiple entry points for young readers to connect. Combines puzzle-solving, secret passages, and daring action with humor and emotional moments about belonging and loyalty. Stakes are age-appropriate: suspense and danger without gratuitous detail. Strong appeal for fans of mystery, ensemble adventures, and found-family stories; good for circulation and readers’ advisory. I really enjoyed this book and once I started, I could not put it down.

The Fandom #1: The Fandom written by Anna Day and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Seventeen-year-old Violet and her friends—bestie Alice, skeptical Katie, and Violet’s younger brother Nate—head to Comic-Con in full cosplay to meet the star of their favorite YA franchise, The Gallows Dance. After a freak accident they’re suddenly inside the book’s dystopian London, and Violet learns she has to step into the heroine’s role to keep the plot moving and get everyone home. The story zips between pop-culture jokes and tense, darker moments as Violet tries to follow the canon: spark a doomed romance, nudge a rebellion, and survive a ticking-clock fate. Friendships fray, loyalties shift, and the world’s cruel divisions force the group to face hard choices. The pace stays brisk, the fandom details land, and the ending feels emotional and unsettled—definitely not a simple happy-ever-after. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Teens will be drawn to the fangirl fantasy of actually living inside a favorite book, the quick-moving plot, and the familiar mix of romance, satire, and dystopia. Violet and the gang act like real friends—funny, messy, and fiercely loyal—so readers who love character drama will stay hooked. The book also sparks great conversations about media, power, and how stories shape us, so it’s a solid pick for a school library: it gets reluctant readers reading and gives classes a relatable way into bigger questions about identity, privilege, and the choices we make.

My Friend the Paintbrush: The Colorful World of Marcus Pfister written and illustrated by Marcus Pfister , Translated by David Henry Wilson, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary: My Friend, the Paintbrush is a sweet, rhyming book that describes the possibilities and opportunities when creating art with a paintbrush. The pages include images of many different animals, and showcase many textures that can be achieved with different shapes and sizes of brushes. A few pages include information and images about additional forms that can be created with paintbrush, including calligraphy and cubist designs. An author’s note at the end of the book captures Pfister’s love of creating with a paintbrush, and explains that most of the animals featured in the book have appeared in his other published books, including, most notably, The Rainbow Fish. Four pages of detailed back matter showcase one image each from the author’s other books, along with the title of the book, the medium(s) that he used to create the art in each book, a few short notes about those mediums and techniques he used to apply them, and a short summary of the book itself. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: My Friend, the Paintbrush shares a love of art, specifically painting, is an accessible and fun way. The rhyming text and the colorful images make this a delightful book for a read aloud for younger students in early elementary. The information shared about art techniques could make this a nice instructional or anticipatory book for slightly older elementary students as they begin a painting project, or start learning about texture in art. These components would lend themselves nicely to a collaboration between the school library and the art teacher. Young readers will be delighted to see characters that they know from other books, including The Rainbow Fish books and the Milo series, which may encourage further reading as they reminisce. The writing style, which breaks the fourth wall a bit as the reader speaks directly to the audience, is unique and may appeal to kids who have not read a book with a similar style in the past. My Friend, the Paintbrush would make a charming addition to any elementary school library, especially one where collaboration with the art department is strong or where Pfister’s other books are popular.

A Deathly Compendium of Poisonous Plants: Wicked Weeds and Sinister Seeds by Rebecca E. Hirsch, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "A Deathly Compendium of Poisonous Plants: Wicked Weeds and Sinister Seeds" by Rebecca Hirsch is an interesting exploration of toxic plants and their role in history, science, and crime. The book delves into how these plants evolved their dangerous properties to deter predators, only to become predators themselves. With chapters on 25 different plants, including Belladonna, Hemlock, and Opium, the book is filled with scientific details, historical anecdotes, and true crime stories. Beautiful illustrations accompany the text, making complex topics accessible to readers. Hirsch's writing is both humorous and informative, ensuring readers are entertained while learning about the natural world's most sinister flora. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I did not picture myself enjoying a non-fiction botany book as much as I did.  I read it in 2 evenings and it was really engaging. It's a great blend of science, history, and intrigue.  The author's writing style, combined with vivid illustrations, makes learning about complex scientific concepts fun. The true crime elements add an exciting twist, making the book feel like a real-life mystery. This book not only educates but also inspires a sense of wonder about the natural world, making it a perfect fit for inquisitive young minds. This book is a valuable addition to any school library, offering rich interdisciplinary content. I think it would also work for an art teacher because the plant illustrations are beautiful. There is an authors note reminding readers that this information is not there to learn how to poison people, but to understand and be aware of some of the harmful plants.  It did remind me of a Poison Garden I visited on some castle grounds in Ireland.  This would have been a perfect guidebook. The author listed a few gardens that are available in the US to visit to see some of the plants in person.  A great purchase for a middle or high school library.

My Roman Summer written by Bruna De Luca, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Livia in Rome" is a heartwarming coming-of-age romance set against the vibrant backdrop of Rome. Sixteen-year-old Livia, a Scottish-Italian teen, feels out of place as she spends the summer helping at her grandmother’s bar. Navigating the city’s sun-soaked streets, Livia confronts her dual heritage and struggles with her identity. She clashes with Giulio, a local boy working at the bar, who quickly becomes a rival...until he becomes a love interest. As family secrets unfold and friendships blossom, Livia discovers new facets of herself and the importance of family and belonging. The story beautifully captures the essence of Rome, complete with Vespa rides, gelato, and the warmth of its people. Through her journey, Livia learns about self-acceptance and the complexities of growing up in a third culture. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  Teen readers will appreciate "Livia in Rome" for its relatable exploration of identity and belonging.  Livia’s authentic voice and experiences as a third-culture kid provide a genuine connection for those who feel caught between different worlds. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic with Giulio adds an exciting tension, making the romance engaging and irresistible. The vibrant setting of Rome, filled with vivid descriptions of food, culture, and the bustling city, offers an enticing escape. Teens will enjoy the mix of humor, drama, and heart, finding both entertainment and reflection in Livia’s story.  "Livia in Rome" is a great addition to a school library, offering insights into multicultural experiences and themes of identity and acceptance. If you happen to be in a MYP or DP library, the book aligns with the IB learner profile, particularly in promoting open-mindedness and being reflective. Livia’s journey encourages empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives, reflecting the IB's emphasis on global awareness. I really enjoyed this book!  I think some of the reviews are harsh in going after the enemies to something more trope...(not really lovers)....but for a middle/high school reader, this might be the first time they are experiencing this trope.  It is age appropriate and has a happy for now ending.  It will make you want to travel to Italy, learn Italian and make some new new friends in Rome.  I really wish I had the physical copy of this book so I can have the scratch and sniff, with sprayed edges edition!!!! (not fair)  

I read it as an ARC through #NetGalley, Scholastic and Chicken House. (Thank you!)  It's officially out in the US on June 2, 2026.  You'll love it and your students will love it!

Recipe for Disaster written by Aimee Lucido, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Recipe for Disaster" by Aimee Lucido is a unique middle-grade novel that blends prose, poetry, and recipes to narrate the story of Hannah Malfa-Adler. Hannah has always felt somewhat Jewish, but her identity is complicated by her family's inter-faith religious backgrounds. When her best friend celebrates a Bat Mitzvah, Hannah's envy motivates her to explore her Jewish heritage, despite her mother's opposition. With the support of her Grandma Mimi and Aunt Yael, Hannah embarks on a journey to organize her own Bat Mitzvah, confronting family secrets and prejudice along the way. The novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and self-discovery, as Hannah learns that being Jewish is about more than ceremonies—it's about personal understanding and connection. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I really enjoyed this book! Hannah's journey of self-discovery is filled with humor, heart, and the universal challenges of growing up. The inclusion of recipes adds a unique and interactive element, encouraging readers to connect with the story through cooking. Readers will appreciate Hannah's search for her religious identity and an authentic portrayal of friendships and family dynamics. Any IB MYP school librarians will find this novel aligns well with the IB Learner Profile, particularly in fostering the attributes of being reflective and open-minded. Hannah's exploration of her faith and identity encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs and embrace diverse perspectives. Teachers can use the book to facilitate discussions on self-identity and cultural heritage, prompting students to consider how their backgrounds shape their understanding of the world. I think any school librarian can bring attention to the many recipes included throughout this story and encourage an event to explore Jewish inspired treats.  It really is a great book for readers looking to learn more about the Jewish faith.  There are excerpts from Leviticus as Hannah is trying to learn those for her Bat Mitzvah.  The author shared a alphabet card to help readers (and Hannah) learn the Hebrew alphabet.  The author does emphasize the many issues that can be present in an inter-faith marriage and the loss of faith.  There are a lot of dimensions to this story, but very readable and understandable to a middle school reader.  I do think that a high school student could enjoy this book and learn a lot, if they are ok with being seen with the cover.  Older readers might really identify with Sam who wants to go to culinary school, but his dad is not ok with anything but a business/finance degree from a university.  I'm labeling this book as a COVID book because it was released in 2021 and probably didn't get the fanfare and attention it deserves.