A Walk in the Sun written by Michelle Zink, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Rose Darrow, a high school senior whose dreams of leaving her small-town life are shattered by her mother's death. Tasked with caring for her grieving father and managing the family farm, Rose's plans are put on hold. When Bodhi Lowell, a free-spirited young farmhand, arrives for the summer, their connection sparks amidst their shared struggles with grief. As their relationship develops slowly and authentically, Rose faces a choice between loyalty to her family and the pursuit of her own happiness. This contemporary tale explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, making it a compelling read for teens. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Librarians can incorporate themes of grief and resilience into book talks or displays with this book. Readers will appreciate the relatable characters and the sweet, slow-burn romance, making it a great addition to contemporary fiction collections. It's an appropriate choice for high school libraries. Perfect for those readers looking for an escape into a happy for now story. It would also be a good book to feature on a summer themed display at the end of the school year.

The Way Back to You written by Michelle Andreani and Mindi Scott, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In this poignant novel, two teens, Cloudy and Kyle, embark on a spontaneous road trip across the Southwest to connect with the recipients of their late friend Ashlyn's donated organs. Following Ashlyn's tragic death in a bike accident, Cloudy and Kyle struggle with their grief while navigating a complex relationship filled with unspoken feelings. As they visit the organ recipients, they confront their shared loss and slowly begin to heal. Through alternating chapters, the story beautifully captures their emotional journey, exploring themes of love, loss, and renewal. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some programming ideas can be created to focus on themes of grief, empathy, and the significance of organ donation. Book discussions can encourage students to reflect on personal experiences with loss and the importance of connection. Collaborating with health educators to discuss organ donation and its impact can further enhance students' understanding of the subject matter, fostering a compassionate school community. The road trip aspect adds an element of adventure, allowing readers to experience different places and meet new people through the characters' interactions.  It's an emotional book, so there might be some tears.

The Taking: #3 The Countdown written by Kimberly Derting, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "The Countdown" is the thrilling conclusion to The Taking trilogy, blending action, suspense, and teenage romance with a sci-fi twist. Kyra, on the run with her father and Tyler, grapples with a mysterious countdown in her mind. After being kidnapped, her friends must locate her, uncovering alien conspiracies and superhuman abilities along the way. The narrative alternates perspectives, adding depth to the characters’ struggles while exploring themes of identity and belonging. As tensions rise, the resolution of relationships and crises keeps readers on the edge of their seats, culminating in a thought-provoking and satisfying finale. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: There are lots of science fiction themes, such as identity, alien life, and superhuman abilities to discuss. Hosting a book club focused on this trilogy can encourage critical thinking and dialogue about character development and plot twists. Romance books are having a moment right now with YA readers and this would be a good trilogy for a high school library. Overall, "The Countdown" combines elements of adventure, romance, and self-discovery, making it an engaging read for teens. A perfect choice for fun reading.

Bridget Wilder #2 Spy to the Rescue written by Jonathan Bernstein, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In this second installment of the Bridget Wilder series, Bridget finds herself in a whirlwind of chaos when her long-lost father, a supposed super-spy, turns out to be less than she expected. Instead of exciting spy training, he focuses on mundane activities. However, when Bridget is framed for a crime and her father goes missing, she must step up and embrace her spy instincts. With her best friend and a high-tech nano-marble sidekick, Bridget navigates the world of espionage to save her father and prevent disaster, proving that girl power and humor go hand in hand. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This story is filled with thrilling moments like Bridget's kidnapping by cheerleaders and high-tech gadgetry, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Bridget's struggles with family dynamics, friendships, and crushes resonate with middle schoolers, making her a relatable protagonist. Parts of the book are pretty funny, making it enjoyable and accessible, ensuring readers are entertained while following Bridget's escapades. School librarians can incorporate "Bridget Wilder: Spy to the Rescue" into programming by organizing mystery-themed events or spy-related activities, encouraging students to engage with the themes of teamwork and problem-solving. It would be a fun book club book where students discuss the importance of character development and plot twists, fostering critical thinking. STEM projects could be inspired by the imaginative gadgets in the story, allowing students to learn about coding or robotics.

Everything Awesome About Space and Other Galactic Facts! written by Mike Lowery, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: If your students like facts about space, jokes about space, and learning in a very visual way this book is for them. Each brightly colored page with a comic book feel offers all of the above items. Teachers will still have the non-fiction book parts of Table of Contents and Fact Boxes to showcase, but the delivery in this book is geared toward the readers in a delightfully appealing way that is like none other in my collection. Lowery also includes drawing guides as one of his chapters. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This series is so visually appealing that many of my students want to read them all. (I have not bought them all yet, but I will!) From reading this series I have added some graphic novels by Mike Lowery to my library collection. I have added Everything Awesome about Sharks already and plan to add Everything Awesome about Dinosaurs in both of my elementary schools.

Oh Look, a Cake! written by J.C. McKee, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Sloth and Lemur find a cake and discuss who should be invited to a party to share in the cake. As they each suggest animals, the other responds with what would happen if that animal came the art suggests something is about to happen. The illustrations are hilarious and will result in much giggling from your listeners! Even with the dark humor in the story this book will be loved by students. (Though that last image may not feel to them like the post credit bonus scenes in movies as I laughingly did.) 

Straight Talk for Librarians: It is suggested that the Tiger eats Sloth and Lemur after they have eaten his cake. Nonetheless, I believe my students will find it hysterical and I will guess they will request this book for personal check out often.

Tiger Time written by Kama Einhorn, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Tiger Time is about an American rescue program for large cats in Colorado. Kama Einhorn continues her True Tales of Rescue series with one that is so heartfelt and fascinating as it connects to the problems for big cats around the world. Most are dwindling in numbers and that is due to the human race and how we choose to treat these magnificent beings. Well, Einhorn will take us from the rescue, to rehab, to recovery and finally to release in a more managed way than her other books. Most of these cats can no longer live wild, again. So, the Colorado rescue Hope and Haven finds a way to give them as close to natural habitat as they can with the help of community, rescuers, veterinarians, and educators they do everything possible to help the cats learn to be wild cats. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some of my students struggle with non-fiction, but finding this series has helped them so much. They feel and look like a chapter book. There are wonderful photos throughout. The backmatter needed in non-fiction is all there including tips for understanding how humans can help wild animals without touching them. How to help them find safe places to live that are not likely to involve humans at all. Also, how to find a local rescue, if help is needed for a wild animal. Knowing about licenses and laws needed for rehabilitation of wild animals is important for all of us!

Raccoon Rescue written by Kama Einhorn, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Einhorn has stolen my heart with this one as raccoons are so very misunderstood and so often harmed with poisons and traps set by people who don't understand the needs of raccoons or don't care that they exist at all. First Kama tells about a northern California rescue and rehabilitation facility that focuses on returning rehabbed raccoons to the wild. (They also help other wild animals and try to release all of them back to the wild, if it is at all possible.) Then Einhorn takes us through the phases of Rescue, Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Release. So many wonderful details and adorable photos keep the reader engaged and learning throughout the book. These True Tales of Rescue are WONDERFUL! 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some of my students struggle with non-fiction, but finding this series has helped them so much. They feel and look like a chapter book. There are wonderful photos throughout. The backmatter needed in non-fiction is all there including tips for understanding how humans can help wild animals without touching them. How to help them find safe places to live that are not likely to involve humans at all. Also, how to find a local rescue, if help is needed for a wild animal. Knowing about licenses and laws needed for rehabilitation of wild animals is important for all of us!

I Will!: A Book of Promises written by Juana Medina, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This vibrantly colored picture book reminds me of some of my favorite Todd Parr books that grab readers on the cover and carry them through the simple text with outstanding illustrations. I will is a testament, a pledge, for the reader to always be kind, find their own space, help others, try things even if they are hard, like telling the truth, and to persevere through life's little challenges with your head up and your heart full. Juana Medina seems on a mission to make our world better, more colorful, and more joyous! Kudos to her! This is a must have picture book for any collection for young children! 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I felt like the first page that asks students to make a pledge to try as best they can to do these things is so very powerful! (Of course, I hope no one writes on the name line in this book.) I Will! A Book of Promises is powerful, stunningly illustrated and colored with vibrant colors and a diverse community of people, so that all readers will feel seen. WOW! I could not love it more!

Didi The Picky Puppy written by Kate Maher reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Didi is giving her owner a run for her money as she refuses to eat repeatedly the same thing. She wants change all the time. So, the owner changes the bowls, the delivery, and the type of food until she finally goes to consult her veterinarian. Of course, the vet points out that the food is important for her diet and returns her to kibble for her main source of food. The story in a rhyming text may appeal to younger readers, especially those with designer dogs like the one pictured in this story. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: The illustrations by Chiara Civati are adorable. My students choose their books by cute illustrations, a lot. In that way, this book is a cute purchase. I do love that the vet author is using the proceeds to support a veterinarian group that helps animals. The book is simple, yet may find an audience with elementary school students.

Brownstone written by Samuel Teer and illustrated by Mar Julia, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Brownstone" is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel centered around fourteen-year-old Almudena, who embarks on a transformative summer journey with her estranged Guatemalan father, Xavier. After her white mother leaves for a dance tour, Almudena is left with her father, whom she has never met, in a Brooklyn neighborhood that is predominantly Spanish speaking (Almudena does not speak any Spanish). The story unfolds as Almudena grapples with a language barrier, cultural identity, and her father's expectations to renovate a dilapidated brownstone. As they work together, Almudena not only learns about her father and their heritage but also discovers her place within the community and her own identity. The vibrant illustrations capture both the challenges and warmth of urban life, showcasing the complexities of family, belonging, and the impact of gentrification. The narrative is rich with humor, heart, and relatable moments, making it a meaningful exploration of the ties that bind us beyond blood relations. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: School librarians can effectively incorporate "Brownstone" into library lessons and programming by focusing on themes of identity, family, and community. Organizing book discussions can encourage students to share their perspectives on Almudena's journey and relate it to their own experiences. Additionally, librarians can create activities that explore cultural heritage, such as art projects inspired by the graphic novel's illustrations or writing prompts that ask students to reflect on their family stories and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, librarians can host a graphic novel workshop where students learn about the elements of graphic storytelling, using "Brownstone" as a case study to analyze character development, visual storytelling, and the importance of representation in literature. I thought it was a really engaging book.  It was a quick read with lots of layers.  Lots of different ways to look at love through friendships, family, past romances and current relationships.  It would be a good addition to any high school library.

The Myth of Monsters: #2 The Gods' Revenge written by Katherine Marsh, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In this engaging sequel, Ava returns for her second year at the Accademia del Forte, eager to prove that her ancestry is misunderstood and that her friends are not the monsters the gods portray them to be. However, the arrival of the new headmaster, Perseus, complicates matters as he enforces unfair rules that favor male students. Ava's friend Layla, who has mastered her Empusa powers, becomes the center of attention, stirring feelings of insecurity in Ava as she grapples with her own identity as a Gorgon. When Layla is mysteriously banished, Ava and her friends embark on a mission to rescue her, uncovering the truth about the original Empusa along the way. The narrative is rich with themes of empowerment and friendship, showcasing the girls' determination to confront the biases of the gods. As the characters navigate challenges, readers are treated to a blend of adventure, suspense, and girl power. With a strong emphasis on the importance of revealing hidden truths, this book captivates young readers while providing a fresh perspective on Greek mythology. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I admit, I liked this second book a bit more than the first.  It's a little less "all men are bad" and more the male gods have treated the female goddesses, queens and demi-gods, poorly - let's rewrite their stories!  I love that approach. Marsh portrays Medusa as a goddess who protected women and girls and was later punished for it.  The Empusa in the story is a shape shifting vampire loyal to Hecate.  I was also amused on the names word play.  Mr. Pankovych was Pan and Mr. Heff is Hephaestus. This series would make for a fun mythology-themed book club for middle-grade students. Discussions about the book can focus on the themes of empowerment and the portrayal of women in mythology, encouraging students to explore how these themes relate to contemporary society. Additionally, librarians can host creative writing workshops where students can rewrite their favorite myths from the perspective of the traditionally marginalized characters, fostering critical thinking and creativity. I think this book will be a hit with Percy Jackson fans, as it's a different perspective. I like that the reader is following Ava from 7th to 8th grade and that she has a good relationship with her brother now.  I am looking forward to a third book in this series???  It's been a fun read so far and I'd recommend it for any middle school classroom or school library.

Thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.  Expected publishing date is April 22, 2025.

Freshman Year written and illustrated by Sarah Mai, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: A graphic memoir that captures the unique mixture of excitement, anxiety, and self-discovery that comes with transitioning to college life. Sarah, a recent high school graduate from suburban Wisconsin, embarks on her freshman journey at a Minnesota college, filled with aspirations to impress her professors, meet new friends, and grow as an artist. However, her optimistic outlook is quickly challenged by the realities of college life, including the pressure from her high-achieving roommate, the end of her summer romance, and the overwhelming sense of freedom and isolation in this new environment. Drawing inspiration from her personal college journals, Mai expertly illustrates the struggles and triumphs of an 18-year-old navigating the complexities of her first year away from home. The narrative unfolds without conventional chapters, instead using brief narrative markers to denote the passage of time and significant events like midterms and finals. This structure mirrors the chaotic nature of college life and emphasizes Sarah's emotional journey. With its blend of humor, heart, and honesty, Freshman Year resonates with anyone who has faced the daunting yet exhilarating challenge of stepping into adulthood. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: A great choice for any reader who is becoming curious about the college experience and the challenges of transitioning from high school to college. The graphic novel's relatable themes of self-doubt, friendship, and personal growth can serve as a springboard for workshops that explore emotional well-being and resilience in students preparing for higher education. This could be a great choice for a book club, encouraging students to share their thoughts and feelings about their own experiences or anxieties regarding college. The graphic format can also appeal to reluctant readers, making it a valuable resource for promoting literacy. By connecting this book to broader themes of identity and change, librarians can foster a supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their aspirations and concerns about the future.  I would say this book is a happy for now book because the story is not over.  While there was a breakup, the main character definitely explores her love for her family, her friends and gets tingly feelings about new guys she meets at school :)