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.

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.

Freedom Swimmer written by Wai Chim, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary: Ming lives in a coastal village in China during the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s. He is an orphan after watching his mother die of hunger during the Great Leap Forward. His father had drowned years before after trying to swim to freedom in Hong Kong (a “freedom swimmer”). As part of the Communist re-education program, a number of city boys are sent to villages to learn the work and share their knowledge, including Li, who Ming quickly befriends. The two boys have little in common, but bond over evening swims and their shared labor in the fields. As life becomes increasingly difficult, and suspicions about Li’s family at home arise, the boys begin to ponder a better life elsewhere. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This novel, based heavily on the lived experience of the author’s father, paints a picture of a historical time period that is not often represented in YA literature. The concept of “freedom swimmers” is both interesting and compelling and could be a strong addition to collections featuring historical fiction or international history. The prose is stark and spare, a fitting tone for a story that features so much loss, lack, and difficulty. This may make the book feel slow to some, but an astute reader will feel the tension and intensity that fuels these characters’ lives. Curricular applications abound in social studies as topics studied in government, world history, and connections to current events like refugeeism and global politics are included throughout the narrative. Freedom Swimmer is a quick read with two sympathetic main characters that will provide plenty of conversation for a bright, engaged teenager.

Crow Mountain written by Lucy Inglis, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary: Hope is visiting Montana while her mother does research on a ranch with a particularly undisturbed ecosystem. While there, Hope meets Cal Crow, ranch hand and son of the owner. Despite an immediate attraction, they maintain a friendly relationship while Cal takes Hope under his wing and teaches her about ranch life. Hope finds an old, abandoned journal at the ranch and begins reading it, which kicks off the second narrative of another British girl in Montana, Emily, who is rescued in a time of crisis by a horse-trader named Nate. The story moves back and forth between Hope and Emily as each explores her new environment, finds herself in dark and dangerous moments, and is forced to engage in a partnership with a local liaison. When Hope and Cal are stranded in similar fashion to Emily and Nate, the parallels to the stories become increasingly strong and Hope begins to make connections between Emily’s life in the past, and the Crow family in the present. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: What a pleasant surprise! Both of the narratives encompassed in this book are equally engaging. The characters are fully-fleshed out, complete with complicated back stories and significant flaws, but I was rooting hard for all of them. This book has all of the longing and tension that romance readers are looking for times two, but the relationships are developed reasonably and realistically without the incorporation of insta-love, a common plot device of YA romance. The inclusion of nature and ecology in Montana might allow for a science connection. Emily and Nate’s story offers a lens into early frontier days in 1867, offering a history curriculum connection as well. Both story lines include plot elements that highlight the tense relationships between Native people in Montana and those who eventually settled the land that was stolen from them. Nate, in particular, is able to offer significant insight without crossing the line into cultural appropriation as he is a young white man whose mother married a Blackfoot man, allowing him to live amongst the tribe and have Blackfoot half-siblings, without forcing him into an identity that he cannot rightfully assume. Both Hope and Emily, by the end of their respective stories, have grown incredibly in self-reliance and self-confidence, making them not only excellent characters to follow, but fantastic role models for young women today.

A Beautiful and Terrible Murder written by Claire M. Andrews, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Set in Victorian-era Oxford, "A Beautiful and Terrible Murder" follows Irene Adler as she navigates a world of gender roles and power while disguised as Isaac Holland to study at the prestigious All Souls College. As a series of gruesome murders unfolds, Irene and her brilliant classmate Sherlock Holmes team up to uncover the identity of the killer.  The story weaves classic characters like Watson and Moriarty into a fresh narrative, blending mystery and intrigue with a touch of romance. Irene Adler is Dean Moriarty's illegitmate daughter and her half-brother is James Moriarty. Irene's dual identity adds complexity, emphasizing themes of identity and perseverance in a male-dominated society. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This engaging reimagining of the Sherlock Holmes universe places Irene Adler at the forefront, offering a fresh perspective on beloved characters. The plot's fast pace and witty dialogue make for fun read. I love the setting, the mystery, the dialogue and the cover! The setting provides a rich backdrop for discussions on historical context, while the mystery offers opportunities for critical thinking and analysis. The story really paints the picture of a rough and tumble Victorian society, where the wealthy were trying to keep control over many aspects of society. Recommended for young adult readers seeking a blend of mystery, history, and character-driven storytelling.  There are descriptions of the murdered bodies, so I would keep this in the hands of high school readers and recommend Enola Holmes to middle grade readers.  There is also a hint of romance, which makes the book even more fun.  I loved it and am happy to recommend to any high school students looking for a good mystery.

Anya #1: Anya and the Dragon written by Sofiya Pasternack and reviewed by Rebecca Lowe

Summary: Anya is a Jewish girl growing up in a non-Jewish medieval Russian-inspired fantasy village where magic is banned but citizens quietly use it anyway, When a family with Fool magic authorized by the tsar arrives, Anya learns that the mayor is planning on evicting her family from their land for the new family but that she has an opportunity to earn the money to save her home by working with the newcomers to hunt the last remaining dragon. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Those with a deep love of fairytales from around the world will enjoy seeing familiar fairytale faces like the rusalka, Baba Yaga, and the Bukavac. That said, readers new to Russian mythology may find the beginning of the story heavy with Russian terminology and vocabulary more difficult to enter than other fantasy stories. Once past the beginning, the story quickly settles into an easier flow with engaging characters and an immersive story that is more accessible for the average middle school reader. More knowledgeable reviewers also have pointed out that there are some minor historical inaccuracies (for example, while Jewish men in medieval Russia would likely be able to read at least some Hebrew, it is unlikely that Anya would have been taught). Teachers could use this book to talk about world mythology, history of Russia, the expectations of children through history (ie child labor), or discussing how the depictions of dragons in stories have shifted over time. While the fairytale of Baba Yaga plays only a minor role in this story, the current resurgence in interest in Baba Yaga may spark interest in this story for some students.

Our Castle by the Sea written by Lucy Strange and reviewed by Rebecca Lowe

Summary: 11-year-old Petra, called Pet, is growing up living in a lighthouse on the coasts of England at the start of World War II and must gather her courage to survive the challenges ahead. The daughter of a German immigrant mother, Petra must deal with changing attitudes from her neighbors due to her heritage, her mother being sent away as an "enemy alien," a tragedy in her family related to the war, a saboteur in her small village, the threat of being evacuated from her beloved home with or without her sister, and the dangers of enemy aircraft. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Fans of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley's The War That Saved My Life will enjoy this story, By turns, the story feels like a spooky gothic story or a girl detective novel. Educators should know that the main character faces the threat of the loss of both of her parents (her mother faces the threat of execution) and that her father does die in combat, leaving Pet as a functioning orphan for awhile. Educators should also know that this book discusses specifically the battle of Dunkirk, as well as the internment in England of those from enemy countries--which could pair with learning about the Japanese internment in the United States during WWII.

Rebellion 1776 written by Laurie Halse Anderson and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: From bestselling author Laurie Halse Anderson comes a engaging middle-grade historical fiction novel, "Rebellion 1776." Set during the chaotic spring of 1776, the story follows thirteen-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper, who finds herself alone and struggling after her father goes missing amidst the Siege of Boston. As the city grapples with the tumult of the Revolutionary War and the devastating smallpox epidemic, Elsbeth must navigate her new reality while seeking employment to avoid an orphanage. Having survived smallpox as a child, Elsbeth takes a job caring for a wealthy family awaiting inoculation. The narrative beautifully intertwines her personal challenges with the historical context of the time, showcasing the public’s fear of inoculation and the fight for survival against an invisible enemy. Elsbeth’s resourcefulness and humor shine through as she develops relationships with those around her, including the conflicted Hannah Sparhawk. Anderson’s attention to detail in depicting the era and the struggles faced by her characters offers readers a poignant look at resilience and courage during a time of upheaval. "Rebellion 1776" is a powerful story that connects historical events with the personal journeys of young individuals. 

Straignt Talk for Librarians: This is a great new release for book discussions or reading circles to encourage students to explore the Revolutionary War and the smallpox epidemic. Lots of  interactive programming options can be implemented, such as history-themed escape rooms or project-based learning activities where students research and present on topics related to the book. Incorporating primary source documents, such as letters from the era, can deepen students' understanding of the time period. Additionally, hosting author study sessions focused on Laurie Halse Anderson's works can inspire students to engage with historical fiction. 

I loved this book!  I put off reading it for a little bit because I knew it was going to be an emotional rollercoaster. When I started, I could not put it down!  I really loved the perspective from just an average person.  Elsbeth was just focused on surviving the day and not really invested in politics.  Boston was not filled with freedom zealots like a lot of stories portray.  There were people who would be affected by war in many different ways.  War is hard and dangerous.  Lots of men died fighting for one side or the other.  Disease took men, women and children.  I imagine it was a pretty wild time to be alive.  I appreciate how the author wrote the story to focus on hope and resilance, despite the dire circumstances.  This is a perfect book for any middle school library.  I would even say that it will find a lot of readers at the high school level, especially if there are a lot of historical fiction and Laurie Halse Anderson fans.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy.  This book is out April 1, 2025!!!

Botticelli's Apprentice written and illustrated by Ursula Murray Husted, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Botticelli’s Apprentice" by Ursula Murray Husted is a historical graphic novel set in 1400s Florence, Italy. The story follows Mella, a young girl whose family works for the renowned painter Sandro Botticelli. Mella dreams of becoming Botticelli's apprentice, though the odds seem stacked against her. She is known as the Chicken Girl and she takes care of the chickens and other non-glamourous jobs like washing the paint brushes. The plot thickens with the introduction of Datus, Botticelli's official apprentice, who struggles with his artistic skills. As an apprentice, Datus is responsible for making the canvas, mixing paints and plaster and other odd jobs. Botticelli is not really teaching him anything at this point. Datus steals one of Mella’s drawings and claims it as one of his own. Mella is mad, but she knows no one would believe her if she said it was hers. Eventually, Datus apologizes for what he did and their tense relationship blossoms into a heartwarming friendship, showcasing themes of empowerment, collaboration, and the art-making process. Husted's vibrant illustrations echo Botticelli’s style, immersing readers in the world of Renaissance art. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Librarians can suggest this book to art teachers and they will love the biography and art history in the book. . This graphic novel serves as an excellent entry point for discussions about the Renaissance, highlighting the social dynamics and challenges faced by women artists during that time. Librarians can organize themed book clubs or reading circles where students engage in discussions about Mella’s journey and the importance of creativity. This book went into a lot of detail about some of the techniques and materials used during this time. I really liked the description of how lapis lazuli was made into paint and used by artists. While the lapis lazuli material is not a reality in school, librarians and teachers could still set up art workshops inspired by the techniques mentioned in the book, such as how to make tempera paints or canvas panels. This hands-on approach encourages students to explore their own artistic talents while learning about historical art processes. The author provides some great classroom activities on her website, along with some technique videos that are mentioned in the book. The glossary at the front of the book is an ideal place for it and defines the more unfamiliar terms before actually getting to them in the text. I also enjoyed the author notes at the end to put part of the fiction and non-fiction into context.  This book would also be a great lead into a information/media literacy lesson on copyright. This book is a highly recommended choice for upper elementary to middle school students. A wonderful addition to any school library.  

Thank you to HarperCollins and Quill Tree Books for a ARC on #NetGalley

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.

Into the Dim #2: Sparks of Light written by Janet Taylor, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Sparks of Light" is the second installment in Janet B. Taylor's "Into the Dim" series. The story continues with Hope Walton, a young Viator with newfound friendships and a possible romantic interest, as she navigates the complexities of time travel. After the events of the first book, Hope and her family return to 21st-century Scotland only to discover a new threat: a rival group, the Timeslippers, seeks to steal a dangerous device from inventor Nikola Tesla in 1895 New York City. As they embark on a time-traveling mission to thwart this plan, Hope's eidetic memory proves invaluable when the group faces various challenges. The narrative intertwines themes of high society, racism, and historical injustices, creating a rich backdrop for the characters' adventures. Although packed with engaging ideas and historical elements, the story sometimes suffers from an overload of plotlines, making it challenging for readers to stay fully invested. Nevertheless, the book offers a thrilling experience that emphasizes Hope's growth and the complexities of time travel, leaving readers eager for the next installment. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: School librarians can effectively integrate "Sparks of Light" into the curriculum by using it as a resource for exploring themes of history, social justice, and literature. The book’s setting in the Gilded Age provides a unique opportunity to discuss the socio-economic divides of the past, prompting students to analyze historical events and their impact on contemporary society. Librarians can organize reading groups or book clubs, encouraging discussions on character development and the ethical implications of time travel. Additionally, incorporating creative projects, such as writing alternate endings or exploring the historical figures mentioned in the story (e.g., Nikola Tesla), can engage students in critical thinking. The book also serves as a springboard to discuss mental health issues and their historical treatment, fostering empathy and understanding. By linking the novel’s themes to current events and historical context, librarians can enhance students’ comprehension and appreciation of both literature and history while promoting a love for reading.

Project 1065 written by Alan Gratz, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Projekt 1065" by Alan Gratz is an engaging World War II novel set in 1943, featuring Michael O'Shaunessey, the son of the Irish ambassador to Germany. Living in Berlin, Michael is a fluent German speaker and initially joins the Hitler Youth to blend in with his peers and gather intelligence for his parents, who are undercover spies for the Allies. Despite his outward loyalty to the Nazi regime, Michael despises what they represent. His covert activities intensify when he learns about the Nazi's ambitious Projekt 1065, aimed at developing a revolutionary jet plane. As he navigates the dangerous world of espionage, Michael faces moral dilemmas, including the choice between personal safety and the greater good. The story highlights the tension of living under a totalitarian regime and the constant fear of betrayal, while also shedding light on the lesser-known roles played by neutral countries during the war. With its fast-paced plot and rich historical context, "Projekt 1065" captivates readers, offering both action and insight into the complexities of war. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: School librarians can effectively integrate "Projekt 1065" into the curriculum by creating interdisciplinary lessons that explore themes such as espionage, moral dilemmas, and the impact of propaganda during World War II. For history classes, discussions can focus on the role of neutral countries in wartime intelligence efforts and the significance of youth involvement in political movements. Librarians can also facilitate book clubs or reading groups where students analyze character motivations and the ethical challenges faced by Michael, encouraging critical thinking. Additionally, pairing the novel with primary source materials from World War II can enhance understanding and provide a real-world context. Incorporating multimedia resources, such as documentaries or interviews with historians, can enrich the learning experience. Engaging students through creative projects, like diary entries from Michael's perspective or designing alternative story endings, can further deepen their connection to the historical context of the novel.

Sixteen Scandals, written by Sophie Jordan, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This is the first YA historical romance that I have read by Sophie Jordan and it is really good! The story starts with Primrose Ainsworth waking up on her 16th birthday with high hopes of celebrating a major birthday and coming out in society. Unfortunately, her family barely acknowledges her birthday and they are just focused on her older sister’s wedding. Prim decides to go across the street to her best friend, Olympia’s, house. The receives a warm reception there and is treated to Gunter’s for shaved ice. While she is sitting there, she sees a super cute boy. That boy, Jacob, stops by their table because he knows Olympia’s famous mother. He wishes her a happy birthday and she is smitten. But she know that was just a one time sighting and she really doesn’t have any expectations. That night Primrose and Olympia hatch a plan to sneak out to Vauxhall Gardens. They have heard stories of fun and scandal about Vauxhall Gardens. The night unfolds in unexpected ways and Primrose and Olympia get separated, pickpockets abound and trysts are happening in the bushes. Primrose runs into Jacob as she finds herself alone and looking for Olympia. Jacob joins Primrose on her Vauxhall adventures. They get to know each other over the course of the night, but then as chaos once again ensues, they get separated and Primrose heads home. Things do not get better for Primrose as she is facing an unimaginable fate. Will a mysterious invitation to Primrose and her family turn things around for her and give her and readers the Happily Ever After? 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This was such a fast and fun read. I am a huge fan of historical romance and of the author, but never realized she wrote YA historical romances. I think this is a perfect entry point for YA readers who are looking for romance and are open to historical fiction. The role of women, the city of London, the clothes and descriptions of family life are authentic to the time. Readers will be introduced to the ton, the Vauxhall Gardens, to carriages, Almacks and to the privilege that Duke’s bring to the table. This book will get future fans into the genre of historical romance. There are some historical connections that can be made for those students interested. However, I see this book as more of a fun, free choice book in the school library. The title is catchy, the cover is beautifully designed and there is just enough mystery and intrigue to keep a reader hooked. I also really enjoyed the quotes from an etiquette guide being crossed out at the beginning of each chapter and the beautiful lace incorporated on the pages. It adds a lot to the reading aesthetic. There is nothing inappropriate to be concerned about for a school library. If you don’t already have this in your high school library, you should get it!

Molly and the Machine, written by Erik Jon Slangerup, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary:  Summer is starting and Molly McQuirter and her brother Wally are at home with an absent father.  Their mom abandoned them and dad spends his days watching tv and letting the house and kids be neglected.  Molly runs into a few classmates at the beginning of the story, but they are not the friends she would prefer to have.  She kind of starts to accept that it will be a lonely summer until her brother mysteriously disappears.  Molly is determined to find her brother and sets off after some clues on her bike, Pink Lightning. Molly begins to suspect that the giant robot roaming the Ohio woods might have something to do with Wally’s disappearance and some other disappearances.  Molly and her pets risk their lives chasing the robot.  Molly is a problem solver and she is determined to solve the mystery and make things right in her town.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  This book was so fun to read!  It’s hard to know how to classify it.  It is realistic fiction, but it can also be considered historical fiction as it is set in the 1980s.  It’s also got a bit of a science fiction twist, along with some action and mystery.  Molly is the main female character who defies stereotypes as she likes to tinker and fix things.  Most of the rest of the characters are boys, so I do think it will appeal to a wide range of readers.  This book could be integrated into a STEM program because of all the inventing and tinkering.  Those readers who grew up in the 80’s (!) will find lots of nostalgia and remember a time when we were not all connected to our phones at all hours of the day.  The setting is southern-ish Ohio, so that local connection is fun.  I think the giant robot that acquires a mind of its own is relevant to our AI conversations in society and the implications it might have.  If you happen to be in an IB school - the Learner Profile attributes of being a risk-taker and a thinker stand out about Molly.  It might also be a good recommendation to math and science teachers so they can push some science-related fiction.  It’s a great pick for any middle grade school library and book 2 is already out. If you happen to be a school librarian in Michigan and are going to be at the MASL conference - READ THIS BOOK! So you can be prepared for our Author Breakfast event ;)
 

The Parker Inheritance, written by Varian Johnson, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary:  Candice and her mom have moved from Washington DC to a small town in South Caroline.  Candice meets Brandon and they become fast friends.  Candice finds an old letter that was from her grandmother with a mystery in it.  Her Grandmother had tried to solve the mystery but the town just thought she was crazy.  There is supposed to be a treasure at the end of the mystery puzzle, so Candice and Brandon decide to attempt to piece together what had really happened during an illegal tennis match played in 1957.  The match was between the white Wallace School and the African American Perkins School.  As they get closer to solving the mystery the deeply rooted racism starts to become very visible.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  This book is a good mix of historical fiction, realistic fiction, and mystery.  There is lots of action and suspense.  Readers will begin to see that racial equity is still an unresolved problem.  What happened in the past, can still be spilling over into today.  The pages that take place in the present are white pages, and the pages that take place in the 1950s are shaded gray. There are some pages set in 2007 that are black with white text, showing the words of the grandmother.  I really enjoyed the visual effect of different time periods were in a different color.  I think this is a great middle-grade book.  It could be used in an ELA classroom, a history classroom, or just for fun reading.  Some elements for discussion could include how schools were segregated, how some students were able to “pass as white”  I am a big fan of Varian Johnson and this book will not disappoint readers.  Get this for your middle school library or classroom.

I Survived the Hindenburg Disaster, 1937: I Survived #13, written by Lauren Tarshis, reviewed by Amanda Davies

 

Summary:  Hugo and his family are passengers on the famous Hindenburg Zeppelin, traveling from Germany to the United States to get medical help for his sister. While aboard, Hugo learns that the politics of the day weren't left on the ground; Nazis have joined them on the flight, looking for a spy who has stolen important information about secret Nazis living in the United States. Hugo will have to decide how brave he is as the action involves more than just the impending crash.

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is a quick piece of historical fiction that acurately retells the story of the Hindenburg from the perspective of a young person. For students who love historical fiction and want something without any fluff, this is just the thing. Tarshis also provides historical notes and answers questions at the end.

Prairie Lotus, written by Linda Sue Park, reviewed by Amanda Davies

 

Summary:  Hanna and her father have been on the road for years, looking for a place to settle down in the 1880s. Since her mother died, they haven't been able to stay in one place. They continually face anger and discrimination because Hanna is half Chinese. When they settle in LaForge in the Dakota territory, the situation is no different but the two are determined to stick it out to see if they can overcome the threats and racism. Hanna's drive to go to school causes additional tensions in the community, which eventually come to a head amidst stories of survival on the prairie.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  This beautiful and stinging book belongs in every school library, K-12. Hanna's story evokes many school librarian's favorite childhood books, Little House on the Prairie. Except here, the realities of what it means to be different extend far beyond the differences between Laura and Nelly. And unlike the blind eye (or worse) that Ingalls Wilder turned to the experiences of Native Americans and immigrants of color, Park embraces these stories and fleshes them out in fully formed historical detail.

Journey of Little Charlie, written by Christopher Paul Curtis, reviewed by Amanda Davies

Summary: Charlie feels lost. In South Carolina in 1858. His father has passed away and Charlie doesn't know what to do. His father owed money to a powerful overseer, Cap'n Buck, who wants Charlie to pay the debt by hunting down men that he claims stole from him. But Charlie soon discovers that Cap'n Buck is lying; he's actually searching for people who were enslaved and escaped. Charlie, who is White, has to decide whether to entrap the runaways or risk angering Cap'n Buck. Charlie travels North, facing difficult obstacles, none more complex than figuring out what the right thing to do is. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  The lyric writing, dialect, and constant action of the story make it a fast-paced and engaging read. On its own, it seems strange to tell the story of the impact of enslavement on White people. Paired with Curtis' novels Elijah of Buxton and The Madman of Piney Woods (all part of the Buxton Chronicles), however, this book provides insight into the ways that enslavement impacted all aspects of society. Curtis uses the offensive term "darkie," although it is accurate for the setting.