marylannireads's reviews
49 reviews

Who Ate Steve? by Susannah Lloyd

adventurous funny fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

It is time to learn about size, and Marcel the bird and Steve the worm have offered to assist. Unfortunately, just as the story gets going, Marcel decides to do as birds do and catch Steve up in his mouth. Much to the dismay of the narrator, the story cannot continue until Marcel decides to give Steve up for good. But even with Steve back, the momentum of the story has altogether changed, giving readers a taste of the unexpected. This clever story is ideally suited to be read aloud to a group of young children. Not only are the children themselves referenced directly within the narrative, but the interactive elements of the book are especially pleasing in a group setting. Fans of Mo Willems will find similar structures and design in this book, and an unexpected ending is a surprise for everyone. Large, dynamic fonts are used throughout the book, presenting the narrator's thoughts in a way that keeps readers engaged. The colorful, expressive illustrations tell their own story beside the written words, and children will love observing what is happening on the page especially as it contradicts their expectations. Built with a sturdy binding and thick pages, this book is designed to be enjoyed a multitude of times. This is an excellent addition to read aloud and Storytime collections, particularly those intended for preschool aged readers.

 

The Hero's Equinox by Antoine Bandele

adventurous emotional funny mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Despite his best efforts, TJ Young is still hard pressed to be a normal sixteen-year-old. Because of the unusually powerful magic he possesses, TJ is often summoned to help solve problems that arise between the mortal realm and that of the gods. But now, TJ is being accused of a crime he did not commit, and gods from across the pantheon of global deities are being held prisoner. Together with a collection of complementary companions, TJ must attempt to rebalance the divine forces without becoming a prisoner himself. This third in the TJ Young and the Orishas series begins shortly after the second book ends, connecting readers to the next challenge standing in TJ’s way. Familiar characters and situations appear quickly within the narrative, and readers will appreciate the character development that occurs even as the plot unfolds. Strong writing and an engaging premise make this book appealing to readers who enjoy magic realism, and the complexity of the plot and TJ’s responsibilities are commensurate with his age. While the West African pantheon is a primary focus of TJ’s adventures, this installment involves a wider collection of deities from around the globe, offering a unique and compelling take on how these otherwise disparate mythologies may be connected. Some strong language, light romance, and high intensity make this book best suited to mature readers. Fast-paced and action-packed, this book fits well into the TJ Young series, and it is primed for a sequel. 

Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Maskwa's Tipi Tales by Sita MacMillan

emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

For most of the year, Sarah Ponakey lives in the city far away from her Cree community. But during the summer, Sarah gets to spend time back home with her friends, family, and her beloved Kôhkom. Unfortunately, Sarah feels like she straddles her two worlds, existing in both but belonging to neither one as fully as she would prefer. While this divide is not always easy to navigate, Sarah does her best to find a place for herself while embracing her culture and heritage. This brief story is designed to be accessible to newer middle grade readers who appreciate storytelling that addresses familiar issues without diving in too deep. Illustrations are interspersed throughout the novel, and frequent dialogue helps to keep the momentum of the novel flowing. Readers would benefit from being familiar with previous stories in the series to better understand Sarah’s background in this novel. Told from Sarah's perspective, the narrative offers readers a glimpse into Sarah’s thoughts and feelings as she interacts with the people around her. Cree words are incorporated into the text, as well, using context and English definitions to ensure the reader’s understanding. Children who are raised in communities different from those of their heritage cultures will find points of connection in Sarah's story, and this book also serves as a window to readers unfamiliar with Sarah's Cree background. This is a positive addition to library collections for newer middle grade readers. 

Build a Girlfriend by Elba Luz

funny lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

 All the women in the Hernandez family appear to be cursed to never be able to hold down a stable, long-term relationship. Amelia feels she suffers from the curse worst of all as one partner after another snuffs out the flame she thought they were burning together. In order to assuage her latest breakup pains, Amelia's Titis come together with a plan to make her into the perfect girlfriend in order to break the curse once and for all. But instead of being able to follow their advice, Amelia fails catastrophically, which might be exactly what she needs, after all.

This quirky rom-com is cute and sweet, focusing on the love the Hernandez family has for one another even when romantic partnerships fizzle. Dynamic characters from several generations make the house into a bustling hive of activity, but love is always at its center. The writing of the book is adequate, and the plot is sufficiently interesting despite its predictability. Amelia stands out as a pansexual protagonist, though her primary focus is on a male partner for the majority of the narrative. Fans of enemies to lovers romance stories will appreciate the delivery of this book, as will readers who enjoy watching as a clumsy hatchling becomes a beautiful swan on her own terms. 

Radiant by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

 Secretly, Cooper Dale wishes she were white. Maybe then her otherwise white fifth grade classmates would treat her like everyone else. But growing up Black in 1960s America is not easy at the best of times, and Cooper does whatever she can to avoid standing out. Despite the difficulties she faces, however, Cooper knows she can be radiant, even though accomplishing this goal is more challenging than she expects. And when she begins learning more about an unkind classmate’s life, Cooper finds that there is more than one way to shine bright. This middle grade novel in verse is told from Cooper’s perspective through brief but profound passages of text. The limited word choice and ample white space make the book highly accessible to a wide range of readers, and the poetry within the text makes the emotions Cooper feels remarkably palpable. From historical moments like the assassination of President John F. Kennedy to the daily microaggressions Cooper encounters at school, the narrative feels both honest and tangible for readers of all backgrounds. Cooper’s tenacity stands out throughout the novel, and the book serves as both a window and a mirror for readers depending on their own backgrounds and life experiences. Poignant and memorable, this is a positive addition to library collections for middle grade readers. 

Breath of the Dragon by Shannon Lee, Fonda Lee

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

In the divided land of Longhan, being born Breathmarked is a gift of great importance. But when it comes time for Li Jun’s Breathmarked twin brother Sai to progress on his life’s path, Jun makes a terrible mistake, resulting in the exile of himself and his father to the unknown lands in the West. Despite a challenging childhood, however, now sixteen-year-old Jun finds a place for himself in the Iron Core martial arts school, where his prowess and skill are praised and appreciated. It is nearly time for the next Guardian to be chosen and, against his father’s wishes, Jun stows away in order to compete on the national stage. But along the way, Jun discovers more about his world and the people in it than he ever expected.

This immersive fantasy story introduces readers to a land where the Dragon reigns supreme and martial arts causes fear and pride in equal measure. Full of rich descriptions and believable characters, the narrative flows smoothly and reveals new information with excellent pacing. Though loosely based on Eastern cultures and customs, the world of Longhan is entirely its own and blends the recognizable human emotions of adolescence with large-scale human conflict. The dynamics of the storytelling are gripping and memorable, and readers will connect with Jun and his tale from the very beginning.

Once the plot gets going, there is a good amount of detail that can be predicted by the reader if they are familiar with other stories of this type. However, arriving at the ultimate destination is engaging and enjoyable, especially thanks to the quantity of additional details included within the book. Best for young adult readers due to the use of occasional strong language, light romance, and both physical and emotional battles, this book is one that will appeal to mature readers who enjoy romantasy stories with rich worldbuilding. Primed for a sequel, this book will keep readers engaged until the very end, and they will eagerly await future installments. This is an excellent addition to library fantasy collections for young adult readers. 

Octopus Moon by Bobbie Pyron

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

For ten-year-old Pearl, the summer before fifth grade is supposed to be excellent, leading up to an even better school year ahead. Unfortunately, things do not go exactly as planned, and Pearl can not help but notice that everything around her is beginning to change. When the school year starts and even more change surrounds her, Pearl tries leaning into running to clear her heart and her mind. But soon, everything that used to make Pearl happy no longer holds her interest, and it takes a network of support for Pearl to navigate her way through the darkness that surrounds her. This middle grade novel in verse is told in the first person from Pearl’s perspective, giving readers a direct look inside of Pearl’s mind. Short phrases and brief chapters define the pacing of the story, and even though Pearl often wants to retreat from the world, a relentless forward motion is always present in the narrative. The hopelessness Pearl feels is palpable to the reader, especially when Pearl actively notices the reactions of those around her yet is unable to find her way back to the person she once was. Though this novel is intended for a middle grade audience, adult caregivers will also appreciate the way in which Pearl is pulled into and through the depths of her depression. This is a thought provoking exploration of the onset of depression in one’s youth, and it is an important addition to library and classroom collections for middle grade readers.

 

The Drowners by

dark emotional funny reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

Fifteen year old Aaron Anderson is at a crossroads in his young life. Attending a new school means meeting new people, and even though many factors in Aaron’s life have remained the same, Aaron himself feels different. One fateful day, Aaron discovers a rich friendship with a boy called Robbie, which brings important questions and realizations to the surface. As Aaron attempts to come to terms with the divide between his growing feelings for Robbie compared with the heavy expectations Aaron’s parents have for him, a series of intense experiences are required to help Aaron finally accept himself and embrace his true identity. 

This coming-of-age young adult novel is set in the dynamic locale of Dublin, Ireland and incorporates a multitude of pop culture references and regional slang. Told in the first person from Aaron’s perspective, the narrative alternates between a stream of consciousness-style delivery of Aaron’s thoughts and ample dialogue among Aaron and the many people in his life. True to the complexities of adolescence, the plot holds substantial weight and incorporates mentions of sexuality, racial tensions, drug and alcohol use, and mental health conditions. While many specific details are not included in the book, the involvement of these heavy topics lends the novel an authenticity that will resonate with many young people who are transitioning into adulthood. Best suited to mature readers, this narrative investigates some of the more complicated elements of adolescence in a unique way, and the novel will appeal to readers who appreciate an unapologetic investigation of the complexities of the human experience. 

 

Please Pay Attention by Jamie Sumner

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

Life has not been easy for eighth-grader Bea Coughlin. Born too early and living with cerebral palsy, Bea knows all too well the challenges that life can bring. But when an armed gunman invades her school one fateful day, Bea’s life becomes even harder. Though unable to protect herself from danger during the tragic event, Bea ultimately rolls away sporting invisible wounds that give each new day an undercurrent of fear. With support from friends and loved ones, however, Bea begins to find ways to heal while embracing the fighter she is inside. This compelling novel in verse depicts in gut wrenching detail the events and aftermath of a school shooting in Bea’s community. Based loosely on events from the author’s own experience, the narrative contains a feeling of veracity and depth that is palpable for readers. Bea lives in a wheelchair, but she is not a person to let her limitations define her. As Bea and her community work through the events at Bea’s school, Bea faces each day with an admirable level of tenacity and perseverance. A diverse cast of characters surrounds Bea in her life, and these figures enhance the universal appeal of a book that bravely explores an event that has become all too common in American life. Heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, this novel is accessible to middle grade and older readers, and it calls upon everyone to do what they can to make school the safe space it is intended to be.

 

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Child death, Death, Gun violence, Grief, Mass/school shootings, Death of parent, Murder

The Super Spy: The Fabulous Cakes of Zinnia Jakes by Brenda Gurr

adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced

4.0

 

Zoe Jones appears to be a typical, third grade student. But behind the scenes, she is Zinnia Jakes, the top secret pastry chef. Zoe is excited to learn that her school has approved a sleepover for all the third grade students on the upcoming weekend, and she is even more thrilled when Zinnia is asked to make a cake for the parent soiree happening on the same evening. Zoe/Zinnia is faced with the challenge to make and deliver a spy-themed cake–in secret–before the deadline, and doing so will not be as easy as she thinks. This third in the Fabulous Cakes of Zinnia Jakes series describes one of Zinnia’s grand adventures as a secret pastry chef. Though there are no pictures, the narrative moves swiftly and the chapters are brief enough to keep middle grade readers engaged from one scene to the next. Zinnia is lucky to have a close friend and an aunt who support her every step of the way, and even her globe-trotting father sends his aid from afar. Middle grade readers who appreciate succinct, series-style fiction will find this book to be an enjoyable adventure. Readers need not have read the first two books in the series for this installment to make sense, although some background can be helpful in understanding how Zinnia became who she is in this novel. At the end, readers will find a recipe to follow if they wish to replicate Zinnia’s famous spy cake themselves. This book is a fun addition to home and library collections for middle grade readers.