Kissing Cowboys written by Meg Cabot and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Meg Cabot returns to young adult fiction with Kissing Cowboys, a charming rom-com that follows sixteen-year-old Winn Riley, a fashion-loving New York City girl whose life is turned upside down when her family relocates to rural Montana. Winn's mother has taken a teaching position at an unusual institution: a working-farm boarding school for intellectually gifted but troubled boys. As the only female student on campus, Winn finds herself navigating an entirely unfamiliar world of cattle ranching, high level private school classes, and an unexpected abundance of attractive cowboys. The story unfolds through Winn's witty, sarcastic diary entries as she grapples with culture shock, homesickness, and the complications of suddenly being the center of attention among her male classmates. Two boys in particular—the mysterious Zack and the charming Teddy—capture her interest, pulling her into a romantic entanglement she never anticipated. Set against the backdrop of Montana's sprawling landscapes and ranch life, Kissing Cowboys captures Winn's journey of self-discovery as she learns to embrace her new surroundings while navigating the messy, complicated reality of teenage romance and belonging.

Straight Talk for Librarians: Winn an instantly likable and relatable protagonist. Her sarcastic inner monologue and clever observations about her surreal new life keep the pages turning, and readers will find themselves smiling at her candid reflections on everything from fashion mishaps to romantic confusion. The fish-out-of-water premise is inherently entertaining; watching a city girl adapt to ranch life creates natural comedy and genuine moments of growth that feel earned rather than forced. The Montana dude-ranch setting is pretty unique, offering escapism and visual appeal that transports readers far from their everyday lives. Cabot's diary-style narrative format, complete with playful chapter headings and list-making, brings nostalgic energy reminiscent of her beloved earlier works while feeling thoroughly contemporary. As a librarian in a IB school library I tend to make books displays with some attributes of the IB Learner Profile.  The two traits that stood out to me included Thinkers - Winn's analytical mind (referencing The Art of War and psychology) and her habit of making lists reflect critical thinking. The love triangle invites readers to weigh competing perspectives and make thoughtful judgments about relationships and choices. Communicators - Winn's diary format models reflective communication. Her interactions with peers from vastly different backgrounds highlight the importance of clear, empathetic dialogue across differences.

Thanks to Harper Collins for an ARC of this book.

Building 903 written by Lois Lowry and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In Building 903, Lois Lowry returns to the dystopian themes that defined The Giver with a story about a world where books, and the imagination they unlock, have been erased from society. Twins Tessa and Theo live in a carefully controlled future where citizens enjoy long, predictable lives but are stripped of creative thought and storytelling. When Theo mysteriously disappears, no one dares to speak of him. Then Miriam, their elderly neighbor bound for a retirement community, slips Tessa a key that leads to a hidden room filled with illegal books. As Tessa discovers these forbidden objects, she begins to understand that books are far more than objects, they are portals to imagination and humanity itself. Determined to find her brother and unlock the truth about his disappearance, Tessa embarks on a journey that challenges everything her society has taught her. Through her search, she learns that imagination is not a luxury but a revolutionary force, and that stories have the power to transform both individuals and entire worlds. Lowry crafts a narrative that feels both timely and timeless, asking what we lose when we sacrifice freedom for comfort and order. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Building 903 speaks to anyone who has ever felt the transformative power of reading. The premise itself is quietly haunting: a world where stories have been forgotten, and the act of reading becomes an act of rebellion. Lowry captures what makes books essential to our humanity, not as entertainment, but as vessels of memory, identity, and resistance. The novel's exploration of censorship and control feels urgently relevant without ever becoming preachy. Lowry presents a society that is orderly, safe, and comfortable, making the trade-off between freedom and ease deeply unsettling. Readers will find themselves questioning the quiet ways we accept limitations on thought and creativity in our own world. The book also celebrates the power of imagination in a way that feels genuine and earned, honoring how stories shape who we become. The novel doesn't offer easy answers; instead, it leaves readers with lingering questions that encourage reflection long after the final page. There are a lot of mixed reviews on this, but I do think comparing this book to The Giver is not fair. There is a lot to think about as we enter a post-literate society and an unprecedented era of book banning.

The Intergalactics written by Erik Jon Slangerup and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: The Intergalactics follows Brinx, a gene-spliced, lab-grown mutant who has spent his entire life on Base Lab 9 undergoing survival tests. Created by the HyperHelix corporation, Brinx is a Featherbone, a hybrid designed with webbed hands and the ability to jump abnormally high and far. His existence has been defined by a single goal: completing one thousand survival challenges to earn the right to travel to Havenport, the mysterious Graduation Center. Living in poor conditions with constant fear of death, Brinx's only source of hope is his best friend Jang, an older-generation Featherbone who has helped him survive. When both boys finally complete their thousand challenges and board an armored transport vessel bound for Havenport, disaster strikes. A meteor shower destroys the ship, crash-landing Brinx and the other survivors in the Driftlands, an uncharted, hostile region teeming with monstrous flora and fauna designed to kill. Separated from Jang during the crash, Brinx must band together with other survivors, including Goz, a skilled Griplock warrior, and Rigel, a vulnerable Allseer whose ability to read situations proves invaluable. As the group fights through relentless predators and deadly plants, they discover a hidden base that transforms their understanding of their world and their possible fate.

Straight Talk for Librarians: Fans of dystopian sci-fi adventures will love The Intergalactics.  The non-stop action keeps thrill-seekers on the edge of their seats, barely giving readers a chance to catch their breath before the next danger arrives. Bloodthirsty giant vines, relentless scavengers, and terrifying Shankwyrms create an atmosphere of constant peril that makes survival feel genuinely uncertain.What sets this novel apart is its richly imagined universe populated by diverse hybrids, each with unique characteristics and abilities. Notably, the characters cooperate rather than infight, a refreshing departure from many dystopian adventures where internal conflict undermines the group's chances.The worldbuilding is imaginative and distinctive, featuring a universe unlike Earth where genetic material from around the cosmos creates a myriad of colors, shapes, and abilities. Young readers seeking fresh, exciting sci-fi adventures with themes of friendship, teamwork, and belonging will find exactly what they're looking for in The Intergalactics.  I was not expecting so many characters to die, or the plot twists!  It was definitely a roller-coaster ride and I had to finish the book in one sitting.  I think this would make for a good book club book and it would be a fun addition to a "Mutants & Hybrids" book display.

Left on Read written by Marissa Eller and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Left on Read by Marissa Eller is a rivals-to-lovers romance about Nova Carter, an overachieving high school senior in an early college program. Nova's goal is valedictorian, but Hayes Collins—equally brilliant and her academic rival—threatens her plans. When they're paired for a project on student mental health, Nova discovers Hayes understands her burnout and pressure in ways few others do. Their rivalry gradually transforms into friendship and romance as Nova learns she doesn't have to carry her burdens alone. The novel emphasizes mental health, perfectionism, and vulnerability. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Readers love this book because it authentically tackles the struggles high-achieving students face today. Nova's journey toward recognizing her limits and prioritizing mental health feels earned and relatable. The rivals-to-lovers dynamic works because their competition is genuine, making their shift toward collaboration feel organic rather than forced. Readers will witness Hayes's growing as a character. From recognizing his immaturity, apologizing sincerely, and demonstrating growth. Their romance resonates because both are anxious, high-achieving students who finally find someone who truly understands. There is portrayal of anxiety, migraines, and autistic-coded representation that could be important to some readers. Ultimately, Left on Read delivers an uplifting message: you are more than your achievements, and asking for help is wisdom, not weakness.

It Came from the Creek written by Amy Sarig King and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Set in 1980, the story follows Katy and her best friend, Joel, as they investigate a mysterious and troubling problem in their hometown, Lorane Creek has become contaminated. The water smells terrible, looks strange, and is making people sick. Joel can't stop getting sick, Katy's eyes burn, and the toxic backup is even making her grandmother's home unsafe. As Katy and Joel document the strangeness and discover a sinister man deliberately dumping pollutants into the water, they realize the problem mirrors the bullying they face at school. The bullies, both the man polluting the creek and their classmates, operate because they believe they can get away with their actions. As the contamination threatens to ruin the creek and the community, Katy, Joel, and their neighbors must find the courage to stand up to these bullies before it's too late. Woven throughout are excerpts from a school assignment Katy is working on that describe a future readers will recognize as contemporary, drawing connections between past, present, and future. The author layers multiple important themes: environmental justice, classism, corruption, sexism, and upstanding, into a narrative that feels both nostalgic and empowering.

Straight Talk for Librarians: King has a remarkable gift for tackling tough, real-world topics in ways that feel age-appropriate and authentic for middle grade and young adult readers. The dual storylines, the environmental mystery at the creek and the social conflicts at school keep readers engaged and curious about what will happen next. The characters of Katy and Joel are sympathetic and relatable; they're independent young people who also maintain supportive relationships with their parents and teachers, making them feel genuine and grounded. The 1980s setting provides rich historical texture, from references to the Phillies' historic World Series run to period-specific details woven throughout, giving the story nostalgic charm while remaining relevant to contemporary readers. There are a lot of themes here: environmental protection, consent, patriarchy, and social responsibility. I really thought it was just going to be about environmentalism and pollution.  Adding all the extra social justice issues is a lot for a middle grade reader.  The mystery itself is engaging, with genuine suspense that builds throughout, and the emphasis on friendship and collective action offers an affirming message about the power of standing together. Readers will find themselves invested in whether Katy and Joel can reclaim their creek, their homes, and their place in their community.

Huda #4: Huda F Would Love You? written by Huda Fahmy and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This fourth and final graphic novel in the beloved Huda F series by Huda Fahmy. Set during the summer after Huda's high school graduation, the story follows her as she begins community college and pursues her mission to find a husband. Armed with a plan to charm the aunties into setting her up with eligible sons and supported by a new squad of girl-power friends, Huda navigates the complexities of Muslim courtship and modern romance. However, as she encounters a seemingly perfect boy in her English literature class and stumbles through unspoken cultural rules and expectations, she discovers that finding her "happily ever after" requires more than external validation. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: At 256 pages, this coming-of-age story balances rom-com lightness with meaningful character growth, exploring marriage readiness, self-awareness, and the role of community in a young Muslim woman's life. Readers will connect will connect with this story because it authentically captures the confusion and excitement of navigating romance and identity during young adulthood. For Muslim teens, especially hijabi girls, the book offers rare and unapologetic representation that feels genuinely seen and understood. Readers consistently report that Huda's experiences mirror their own—from the awkwardness of gender separation in their communities to the constant pressure and judgment from aunties and uncles. The humor throughout makes serious topics feel accessible rather than preachy, allowing teens to laugh while processing real challenges.The graphic novel format keeps the story engaging and visually entertaining.  The book handles mature themes like grooming, passive-aggressive behavior, and misogynistic attitudes in age-appropriate ways that spark important conversations. The inclusion of strong historical and contemporary Muslim women as role models—like Khadijah and Fatima Al-Fihriyyah—provides positive cultural anchors. Additionally, the relationship red flags guide at the end empowers young readers with practical wisdom about recognizing unhealthy dynamics. The story also celebrates platonic love, familial bonds, and self-love, resonating with teens of all backgrounds who are learning to accept themselves. Fahmy's witty, self-aware voice and the genuine character development make this book feel like advice from a trusted older sister rather than adult instruction. This book enriches school libraries by offering teens a mirror, a window, and a map for navigating their own journeys toward authenticity and self-love.

Ghosted: A Funny and Heartwarming Story About Seventh Grade Friendship for Children written by Michael Fry and reviewed by Rebecca Lowe

Summary: Main character Larry has been best friends with Grimm since fourth grade. Now in seventh grade, Grimm dies after being struck by lightning. But Larry discovers that friendship doesn't die that easily, as Grimm continues to haunt Larry! Larry is determined to help his friend cross over and believes the answer lies in their bucket list. Together Larry and Grimm embark on a series of wild misadventures in their pursuit of helping Grimm move on. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Ghosted holds much in common with the beloved Diary of a Wimpy Kid series -- wild hijinks and the same illustrated text format. While the story at first is lighthearted and silly, seriousness creeps in as secondary characters express concern for Larry and acknowledge his grief. Larry also meets with a psychologist and has a conversation about how people talk to the dead all the time, how that can feel quite real, and also guilt. The reader becomes aware that Grimm was, in fact, not always a nice person, and Larry is struggling with how to make amends to some of the people Grimm hurt. The over-the-top escapades keep the story light hearted and funny even while dealing with serious topics like grief, guilt, and bullying. In the drawings, Larry is white and Grimm is black.

My Animalitos: A Frida Kahlo Story written by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: In a lovely tribute to Frida Kahlo in spirit and in connection to animals, this board book will appeal to animal loving children and their parents. This would be a perfect gift for a schoolteacher, especially an art teacher. An ode to a famous painter with a menagerie of animals that she loved dearly. This is a brightly colored board book with a feeling of warmth, love, and compassion for animals and the qualities they share with us. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Each animal is introduced with poetic comparison of the animal and the character trait Frida gains from that animal. It reads powerfully with Frida depicted with the animals much like Kahlo did in her own art. In very few words, this book manages to both honor a celebrated Mexican artist and the child that is reading or being read the words. These statements are bold declarations of spirit, connection, and acceptance. It is lovely.

Grow written by Theodore Henry ; illustrated by Hsulynn Pang and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: I love the bright colors in this ode to a growing child. The book begins with a mother during pregnancy. The children in these glorious illustrations are diverse races. The poem is a lovely tribute to family. The comparison to a garden is lovely. There are pull tabs that make a lovely garden off the top of the book if all pulled out at once. I expect young children will love the smiling faces of the humans as much as the beautiful flora on each page. The poem is written in cursive and visually appealing as much as lyrical to read. Children are a wonder and I bet any new parent would love to share that wonder with their children. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I was very impressed with the quality of this board book. It feels sturdy throughout and since there are pull up sections, that is a huge deal for me. I will be recommending my friends in need of baby shower gifts to see this book, for sure.

Digital Red: A Modern Fairy-Tale Series written by Kimberly Delude, illustrated by Jan Dolby and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Digital Red is the third book in the Modern Fairy-Tale series, offering a clever, contemporary twist on the classic Little Red Riding Hood story. Instead of a red cloak, Digital Red is obsessed with her red phone, constantly texting, taking selfies, and posting on social media. When Fairy Godmother asks her to deliver healing soup to Granny's house, Digital Red can't resist sharing her plans online. A mysterious new "friend," @TBBW (The Big Bad Wolf), begins messaging her with seemingly helpful suggestions about where to go. However, this online interaction takes a dangerous turn when Red realizes she's shared too much personal information. Through witty dialogue and vibrant illustrations, this fractured fairy tale teaches an important lesson about online safety and the risks of communicating with strangers on the internet. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Digital Red is an excellent addition to school libraries, offering both entertainment and educational value. The story addresses the critical topic of digital citizenship in an age-appropriate, engaging format that resonates with young readers. The book includes discussion questions that spark meaningful conversations about internet safety, critical thinking, and decision-making. Teachers and librarians can use this resource to facilitate lessons on online safety, stranger danger in digital spaces, and responsible technology use. The snappy dialogue and vibrant illustrations make it engaging for read-alouds, while the important messaging makes it suitable for both classroom instruction and independent reading. If you happen to be in an IB PYP library you can easily connect this to the Learner Profile, particularly the attributes of being "principled" and "knowledgeable." The story encourages students to think critically about digital citizenship, make ethical choices online, and understand the consequences of sharing personal information. Through this fractured fairy tale, students develop awareness of global issues in our technology-driven world.

Curriculum on author's website!

The Oregon Trail #1: The Race to Chimney Rock written by Jesse Wiley and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This Choose Your Own Adventure in the Oregon Trail series took me right back to the early 90's and playing this game with students in public schools where I was a substitute teacher. (The game had everything and I wanted to know how this book series could capture that excitement, dread, wonder, and risk taking.) Jesse Wiley must have played the game, as well as this book has it all! Backmatter guides you to how to problem solve issues that affected Westward settlers. (A foreword reminds readers to read the backmatter before making their first decision.) There are short sections/chapters of only a few pages and then you face a choice. Choose right and your journey continues. Choose wrong and you may die or be lost or be without supplies including that wagon that is your chance for a better future. I chose well for a bit, but then there was an impossible choice that I did not like at all and I did die. I went back to where I had chosen wrong and made a new choice. This time I finished the journey and ended at Chimney Rock. I did go back and read more with different choices to see what would have happened. In short, this is a fun book and I think my students will like it. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Note to teachers- If your district requires Westward Expansion knowledge, read on! I have never been a fan of Choose Your Own Adventure books, but this series was a connection for me to my younger years in teaching. If my students do like this series, I will add more for them. I like the connections to history, geography, and life skills (fixing wagons, managing money and supplies, caring for the ill or injured, and hierarchy of the wagon train) for the characters that students may gain more insight from. I played both Oregon Trail and Amazon Trail with my students and their knowledge of locations and animals were directly boosted by these games. I also discovered at my local library that the Oregon Trail game is available on a couple of different game systems. (My library had it!)

The Oregon Trail #7: Gold Rush! written by Jesse Wiley and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This series that replicates the subject of a game I taught my earliest classes to allow us to better understand the problem solving needed during Westward Expansion was quite the hit. I hope this series will do the same for my current students. Each book in the series explains where the wagon train is at, the dangers of the next section of the trail, as well as some tips for avoiding those dangers. The path has a divide to reckon with: head to California or to Oregon. There are friendships to be made, hard decisions to be made, and animals to hunt or care for in order to move your wagons safely on that trail. Some may be trustworthy that you meet on the trail, but others have no good intentions. Reading the notes in the backmatter allows you the best chance to complete this story with success. Some endings will be loss of oxen to pull your wagons, loss of other humans, or your own life. Sickness is prevalent along the trail and you have to have your wits about you to stay well. This series and this book are a lot of fun. I hope my students will also have fun with the rest books. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I think this series is worth book talks as historical fiction is studied in my schools and the short chapters may engage my less motivated readers. Westward expansion is part of the curriculum and the issues of the 1800's might be fascinating for today's generation.

The Oregon Trail #8: The Oregon Trail: Calamity in the Cold written by Jesse Wiley and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Moving from Florida to Oregon is no easy feat in 1845. Unusual weather also makes the trail more difficult. Many hazards await. Will teaming up with a Cherokee family you meet along the way increase your chance of success? I made more mistakes in this book than in The Race to Chimney Rock. I realize that the game I used to play with students early in my career allowed me not to walk away. I saw the words The End, returned to my choice and continued the story. When I finally reached Oregon City, I felt that same rush. This book did not have to be read specifically before or after the last. It stands alone with its own challenges. I look forward to sharing this with students next year. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some students like short chapters and a Choose your adventure book may be just what engages them. I will have to book talk these to explain how to check the back of the book notes, Guide to the Trail, before beginning the story. I will allow students to think about how to manage an early death due to the dangers on the Oregon Trail. I will likely also prep them that there used to be an enormously popular game that engaged students in Westward Expansion in wonderful ways. Though I don't think many of my students will find this series on their own, they may respond well to it once I talk about it.