The Introvert's Guide to Kissing in Europe written by Brenda Janowitz and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Emily Tannenbaum has her life perfectly mapped out—graduate as valedictorian, get into Dartmouth, play it safe. 📚✈️ But when her grandmother, a former member of the legendary Flower Sisters music duo, suggests Emily take a gap year to retrace the band's 1966 European tour, Emily impulsively says yes. Armed with her late sister's journal and a desire to finally embrace the unexpected, Emily sets off across Spain, France, Italy, and Sweden. Along the way, she befriends Penny, a travel influencer, and a colorful cast of fellow travelers. As Emily dances through European cities, navigates new friendships, and experiences heartbreak, she discovers that growing up isn't about having everything figured out, it's about giving yourself permission to go with the flow. 🌍

Straight Talk for Librarians: 💕YA readers will connect with Emily's journey of self-discovery and her struggle to break free from the "good girl" persona she's built since her sister's death. The book captures the thrill of independence, new friendships, and the messy reality of stepping outside your comfort zone. Fans of travel-centered stories will be drawn to the vivid European settings and the dual timeline that weaves Emily's adventures with her grandmother's experiences from decades past. The found-family dynamic between Emily and her traveling companions, especially her friendship with Penny, feels authentic and heartwarming. 🤔This book tried to be a lot of things, a coming-of-age story, a romance, a tribute to travel, a meditation on grief and Jewish identity. It's an ambitious mix, and while it doesn't nail everything perfectly, it's an enjoyable read overall. The descriptions of European cities are lovely and will make you want to book your own trip immediately. 🗺️ The romance elements, despite the title, aren't really the heart of the story, it's more about Emily learning who she is and honoring her sister's memory. Final Verdict: A fun, heartfelt read that captures the magic of travel and self-discovery. Perfect for dreamers and adventure seekers. 🌸

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.

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.

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.

Alice Jones: The Impossible Clue written by Sarah Rubin and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This is a fabulous mystery for elementary or middle schools where the genre is needed. The main character is teased by a classmate and another classmate fawns on her and neither are classmates she wants to hang with, but the mystery requires it. (The way that becomes clear is itself fascinating.) Her father is a news writer and allows her to work through a missing person in their town (as long as he gets the scoop, of course). The danger is real, the money involved in the scandal of a missing scientist is massive, and the loyalty of the sleuth to her classmates is palpable. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Mystery genre is a big one in my elementary schools. I have trouble finding mysteries that my students will engage with enough for the unit taught. I now will be checking out all of Sarah Rubin's mysteries as this one worked so very well. Alice Jones is a likeable character with very real feelings about middle school and her classmates. She loves to solve mysteries. She does not have time in her life for nonsense, including spit balls thrown by others at her. Alice is a twin, but her twin lives with their Mom while Alice lives with their Dad. Her twin is an actress and they butt heads whenever they are together. Since her twin is there for the summer, Alice is feeling all her feelings. It does not take long for Alice to recognize that the villain in this mystery may not be the person who kidnapped the scientist. Uncovering the information puts Alice and her family and friends in grave danger. I especially liked that the conclusion is not perfectly orchestrated as solutions to big problems rarely are neat. I could not put this one down.

Ten: A Soccer Story written by Flint Shamini and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Maya is 11 years old and obsessed by soccer. In Malaysia where she lives, soccer is for boys. Maya is not okay with that. She knows the national teams. She watches all the games, not just the World Cup games. She has a favorite player. Yes, Zico, her favorite player does not make a penalty shot that could have kept his team playing, but she still thinks he is the best. Maya and her brother Rajiv know something is amiss at home with their parents. They are terribly sad when it becomes clear they were right. So, Maya now has to create a girls soccer team, get them the support they need for uniforms and field time, and save her family. 

 

Straight Talk for Librarians: First up is the soccer fanaticism which will appeal to many students since we just had another World Cup in 2026. Secondly the race/cultural issue: Maya lives in Malaysia in a very small town. Her town is very patriarchal, she goes to a religious school where she stands out, her parents are a mixed race/culture marriage, and her grandmother is always going on how the kids and that marriage embarrasses her. Books including many races and cultures can be quite appealing to students wanting to understand others around them. Finally teen angst: both Maya and Rajiv have feelings of duty to their families, but Maya also has a strong frustration with her place in society. She does not want to stay quiet and meek as her grandmother seems to want her to be. She wants to be a soccer player, though she has only watched it on TV. She wants to learn to speak up for her dream, encourage others to join her, and find a way to be taken seriously. That is very much the thinking process in middle grade books. How can kids be true to themselves despite family, school, and society norms? Maya finds herself in this story and it is lovely to join her on this ride.

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.

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.

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.

Lovely, Dark, and Deep written by Justina Chen, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary: Viola Chen has her entire life planned out. After graduating high school she will attend an acclaimed journalism program in Abu Dhabi where she will become a foreign correspondent in order to help draw attention to the causes about which she feels passionate. She spends her free time organizing bake sales for a cause, in which she peddles her delicious homemade treats along with information about the cause that will benefit from the sale. She meets handsome Josh at one of these bake sales just as she begins to feel faint. He helps get her medical attention which leads to a lengthy diagnosis of an extreme form of photosensitivity (solar urticaria with polymorphous light eruption) that has no cure. Viola’s parents, both crisis managers by trade, swoop in to help her manage her new health development through SPF protectant clothing, limitations on outdoor activities and a decrease in blue light exposure. Viola finds herself facing difficulties with a potential new relationship with Josh and the future life she has worked so hard for just as her health is making her feel more vulnerable and less capable than ever. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Books featuring realistic depictions of teens dealing with disabilities and medical conditions are still dramatically under-represented which makes Lovely, Dark and Deep a really exciting find. Despite the extremely rare nature of Viola’s condition, watching her realize that she cannot continue moving through the world in the same way will feel very familiar to any reader who has experienced a major life change, health-related or otherwise. This book shines in its highlighting of a newly diagnosed health condition, the confusion and stigma it brings, and the message that the diagnosis doesn't have to be as limiting as it may originally feel. We see Viola go through the phases of grief over her old life, moving into a place of acceptance and even optimism as she begins to realize that she can still strive for her dreams. Viola’s relationship with Josh, while often frustrating to the reader, was a realistic depiction of teen feelings and the often confusing communication that comes with those feelings. Though Viola has greater problem-solving skills than most teens I know, the powerful and uplifting message of this novel is that even difficult situations can be overcome with creativity, a positive attitude and a strong support system. Recommended for all high schools.

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.

Codebreakers #1: The Wish Ring Cipher written by Alexandra Ott, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This story follows Emma Avery, a newly diagnosed autistic girl, as she transitions from her comfortable and small school, Sterling, to Afton Academy, a new environment with more tailored support programs and a lot more students. At Afton, Emma meets Nate, a popular classmate who shares her love for codes. Together, they join the Codebreakers, a group focused on deciphering mysterious codes in a nearby ghost town that lead to magical objects. As they race against rivals to find a wish-granting artifact, Emma faces challenges of trust and friendship. This captivating middle-grade novel blends mystery, magic, and the journey of self-discovery. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book is rich story that intertwines themes of friendship, autism, and code-breaking. Emma's transition from Sterling to Afton Academy highlights the importance of supportive educational environments for neurodiverse students. It is a good book to discuss neurodiversity, encouraging empathy and understanding among students. The detailed exploration of ciphers can also be an engaging way to introduce problem-solving and critical thinking exercises in the classroom. While some may find the pace slow, the depth of character development and the intriguing plot make it a worthwhile read. The author is neurodivergent and she wrote it in a way that would have appealed to her in middle school.  A lot of reviewers are not liking the detailed explanations of the code breaking strategies, but I think will appeal to those students who are really into it.  I like that Emma found some friends that did not judge her because she was expecting to be judged and labeled as soon as she got to her new school.

The Secret Astronomers: a Novel in Notes written by Walker, Jessica, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In "The Secret Astronomers," two high school students, Copernicus and Kepler, forge an unexpected friendship through an 1888 astrophysics textbook found in the library of Green Bank High School, West Virginia. Copernicus, grieving her mother's recent death, moves from San Francisco to live with her grandparents. Struggling to fit in and find solace, she begins writing letters to her deceased mother on the pages of the oldest textbook in the library. To her surprise, she receives a response in the form of a sticky note from Kepler, a fellow student known for her academic excellence and aspirations to be the first in her family to attend college. As the girls exchange notes and drawings, they uncover a shared mystery linked to Copernicus's mother and strange events that occurred in the late 1980s. Their correspondence reveals hidden secrets and helps them confront personal challenges while bringing them closer together. The story is enriched by the illustrations meticulously crafted by debut author Jessica Walker, turning the textbook's pages into a canvas for their evolving relationship. This novel not only explores themes of friendship and family but also highlights life in Appalachia, the absence of modern technology, and the power of human connection. The unique format and compelling narrative invite readers into a world where two seemingly different lives intersect through creativity and curiosity, ultimately bridging the gap between them. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  This book is such a fun take on young adult fiction with its engaging mix of narrative post-it notes and art. The book's style allows readers to delve into the characters' thoughts and emotions, making their connection feel authentic. Teachers can use this novel to explore themes of grief, friendship, and identity with students. The intriguing mystery and artistic elements provide opportunities for creative projects, such as students creating their own mixed-media stories or junk journaling. The book also encourages discussions on the impact of family and community, making it a valuable addition to any classroom. Overall, it's a captivating read for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.  It's a very unique book that I really enjoyed reading. It will be a great addition to our school library.

The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze written by Derrick Barnes, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: In "The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze," Derrick Barnes crafts a compelling narrative centered on Henson Blayze, a 13-year-old African American football prodigy in Great Mountain, Mississippi. As Henson rises to local fame, his friend Menkah suffers a brutal attack by state troopers. Henson's decision to prioritize justice over football reveals the town's underlying racism and tokenism. The story explores themes of identity, community, and the pressures of being a young Black athlete. With elements of magical realism, Barnes highlights the complexities of racial dynamics and the strength of family and friendship. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book had that magical realism twist to it that I was not expecting.  The author uses it to address significant social issues. The narrative challenges readers to reflect on racial injustice, the commodification of Black athletes, and the courage to stand up for what's right. I would argue that there are some strong religious overtones through messianic symbolism because Henson is viewed as a savior by his town before facing a betrayl and a metaphorical crucifixion.  The story frames the obsession with Black athleticism as a "god-like" idolization.  Henson's father is named Deacon Blayze and the work he does helping people reflects his name.  There is some healing in the story and a bit of magic.  A few of the reviews I read said the story has themes and symbolism reminiscent of the Old Testament. The narrative uses biblical allusions to explore themes of sacrifice, justice, and leadership. It leaves a lot open for discussion.  I don't know if middle school readers would make this deeper connection, but they would definitely pick up on the themes of racism and social justice.

Dispatches from Parts Unknown written by Bryan Bliss, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: 18-year-old Julie navigates the complexities of grief and healing following her father's sudden death three years ago. With the imaginary voice of her dad's favorite wrestler, the Masked Man, offering a lively commentary on her life, Julie finds herself reluctantly joining the prom committee. As she interacts with new friends like Briar and Leg, and leans on her best friend Max, Julie begins to heal. Her journey is filled with humorous and poignant moments, exploring themes of loss, friendship, and self-discovery. The novel handles grief with empathy and humor, making it an engaging read for teens. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book was such a surprise! With its unique blend of wrestling culture and teen life, the novel provides an engaging narrative that resonates with readers. I'm glad there was a wrestling glossary included with the book. The depiction of a platonic male-female friendship offers a refreshing perspective in YA literature. Julie's interactions with the Masked Man add a layer of humor that balances the emotional depth of the story. Librarians and school counselors can use this book to explore themes of loss and resilience with students. Its relatable characters and authentic voice make it suitable for discussions around coping mechanisms and friendship dynamics. It's such a unique book that it's hard to compare it to others.  The author is a priest and a theologian.  The book is not overtly religious, but connecting grief to a spiritual journey makes sense.  If you have ever visited the Mall of America, you'll find some familiar settings.  I'm glad this book was recommended to me and it will make a great addition to our school library.